KABC-TV(LOS ANGELES) -- A 25-year-old man in California has been arrested over an alleged hoax 911 call that led to police killing an unarmed man in Kansas on Thursday night, authorities said.



Tyler Barriss from South Los Angeles was arrested Friday afternoon for allegedly making the so-called "swatting" call, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to ABC station KABC-TV.



Barriss is the same man who allegedly called in a bomb threat to KABC-TV in 2015, which led to an evacuation of the Los Angeles television station, according to the Glendale Police Department in Los Angeles County. Barriss received a two-year sentence, court records show. Its unclear if he served the sentence.



Thursday's incident began around 6:18 p.m. Central Time when police received a 911 call about an alleged shooting with hostages at a residence in Wichita, Kansas. The caller told authorities he had shot his father in the head while his parents were arguing, police said. The caller also said he was holding his other family members at gunpoint inside the home and was thinking about setting the house on fire, police said.



The Wichita Police Department released audio of the phone call between the individual and the 911 dispatcher.



"They were arguing and I shot him in the head and he's not breathing anymore," the caller says.



"I'm just pointing the gun at them, making sure they stay in the closet, my mom and my little brother," he says. "I already poured gasoline all over the house. I might just set it on fire."



The caller repeatedly gave authorities his alleged home address, leading Wichita police officers to the house.



Upon arriving at the scene, officers surrounded the front of the house, preparing to make contact with the caller inside and for the potential situation of a hostage barricaded with suspects, police said.



A 28-year-old man opened the door of the home and was told to raise his hands and walk toward the officers -- a command he obeyed for "a very short time" until he moved his hands back down to his waist, police said.



The officers ordered him again to put his hands up but the man lowered them down again, police said. As the man turned toward officers on the east side of the home, he lowered his hands to his waistband and suddenly pulled them up to the officers, police said. That's when an officer on the north side of the home fired one round, striking the man.



"He feared the male just pulled a weapon from his waistband, retrieved a gun and was in the process of pointing it at the officers to the east," Deputy Chief Troy Livingston of the Wichita Police Department said at a press conference Friday.



Officers then entered the home and found four individuals inside alive and unharmed, police said.



The man who was shot was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead Thursday night. Police didn't find any weapons on him and officers learned he did not make the 911 call, according to Livingston.



No one else was injured during the incident, police said.



Police have not yet released the identity of the man killed in the incident. But Wichita resident Lisa Finch identified him as her son, Andrew Finch, in an interview Friday morning with the local newspaper. Lisa Finch told The Wichita Eagle that her son was a father of two young children.



I heard my son scream, I got up and then I heard a shot, Lisa Finch said in the interview with the newspaper.



The police said, Come out with your hands up, she added. [The officer] took me, my roommate and my granddaughter, who witnessed the shooting and had to step over her dying uncles body.



Lisa Finch told the newspaper she and her family were handcuffed, taken outside and placed into separate police cruisers. They were then transported downtown and interviewed by Wichita police officers.



We want Andys side of the story to be told, his mother told The Wichita Eagle.



Livingston, the deputy police chief, said investigators believe the prank call was a case of "swatting," in which a 911 caller intends to deceive law enforcement about an alleged serious emergency.



"Last evenings officer-involved shooting is a tragic and senseless act," Livingston said at the press conference Friday. "The irresponsible actions of a prankster put people and lives at risk. The incident is a nightmare for everyone involved including the family and our police department."



The officer who fired the shot has been placed on administrative leave, which Livingston said is standard protocol. Livingston did not name that officer but said he's a 7-year veteran of the department.



Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim," Livingston said. "If the false police call had not been made, we would not have been there. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as well as with the officer.



In addition to the 911 call audio, police also released seven seconds of grainy footage from a body-camera worn by an officer standing next to the officer who fired the shot.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit. JOHN T. WASHINGTON, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; EUGENE P. LIBBY, D.O. A Professional Corporation, Defendants-Appellees. No. 17-16031 Decided: December 29, 2017

Before: WALLACE, SILVERMAN, and BYBEE, Circuit Judges.

MEMORANDUM*

John T. Washington appeals pro se from the district court's judgment dismissing his medical malpractice action under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). We have jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C.  1291. We review de novo the district court's dismissal under Fed. R. Civ. P. 12(b)(6). Ebner v. Fresh, Inc., 838 F.3d 958, 962 (9th Cir. 2016). We may affirm on any basis supported by the record, Thompson v. Paul, 547 F.3d 1055, 1058-59 (9th Cir. 2008), and we affirm.

Dismissal of Washington's state law claims was proper because Washington's action was filed more than one year after he discovered his claim, and Washington has failed to demonstrate that he is entitled to either statutory or equitable tolling. See Nev. Rev. Stat.  41A.097(2)-(3) (setting forth one-year limitation period after discovery of professional negligence claim and statutory tolling for concealment of evidence); Copeland v. Desert Inn Hotel, 673 P.2d 490, 492 (Nev. 1983) (listing non-exhaustive factors considered for equitable tolling).

Contrary to Washington's contention, the United States was not properly served, and we do not consider the merits of Washington's claims against the United States.

We do not consider arguments and allegations raised for the first time on appeal, see Padgett v. Wright, 587 F.3d 983, 985 n.2 (9th Cir. 2009), or documents not presented to the district court, see United States v. Elias, 921 F.2d 870, 874 (9th Cir. 1990).

AFFIRMED.
Nepal has banned solo climbers from scaling its mountains, including Mount Everest, in an attempt to reduce accidents and make mountaineering safer.

The new safety regulations also prohibit double amputee and blind climbers from attempting to reach the summit of the world's highest peak, the BBC reported on Saturday citing a Nepal Tourism Board official.

The official said the law had been revised to make mountaineering safer and to curb deaths on Nepal's mountains. The death toll so far this season stands at six, including 85-year-old Min Bahadur Sherchan, who died in a bid to reclaim his title as the world's oldest person to reach the top.

The report said that a record number of climbers tried to climb Everest this year.

World-renowned Swiss climber Ueli Steck, who was known as the "Swiss Machine", also died during a solo climb to a peak neighbouring Everest.

Foreign climbers will have to be accompanied by a guide, according to the new regulations. The new rule also will help create more job opportunities for Nepali mountain guides, said officials.

The Nepal government's decision to ban double amputees and visually impaired climbers was criticised by some, the report said.

Aspiring Everest climber Hari Budha Magar, who lost both his legs when he was deployed in Afghanistan, called the move "discriminatory" and an "injustice" in a Facebook post.

"I will be climbing Mt. Everest whatever the cabinet decides. Nothing Is Impossible," he said.

Nearly 300 people have died on Mount Everest since the first ascent to the peak was made in 1953. It is estimated that more than 200 bodies are still lying on the mountain, the Kathmandu Post reported.

Mountaineers on Everest die for a number of reasons -- more than 20 per cent are killed due to exposure or acute mountain sickness.

--IANS

soni/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The leaders of an anti-power grid movement in West Bengal's Bhangar have urged the state government to "open a dialogue and allow democracy to prevail" in the area.

They had accused the Mamata Banerjee government of trying to throttle their movement by "using bombs, bullets, terror and false cases". The agitators said the government should instead come to the discussion table to "soothe the situation".

Blaming the ruling Trinamool Congress for Thursday's clash during a rally by the Jami, Jibika, Poribesh O Bastutantra Rakha Committee -- a platform for villagers backed by Naxalite outfit CPI(ML) Red Star --, their leader Sarmistha Chowdhury said the attack was conducted to "intimidate and obstruct" an upcoming rally in Kolkata.

"The attack on the rally was conducted to intimidate the movement and create unrest in the area by killing and injuring the protesters. We condemn the attack.

"If the state government thinks that they would throttle the land movement using bombs, bullets, terror and false cases, they should think twice," Chowdhury said on Friday.

"The state government must come to the discussion table with the agitators if they want to pacify the heated situation in Bhangar. Otherwise it must also refrain from attacking the movement. Democracy should prevail. The people would show what they want and whom they want in Bhangar," she said.

Chowdhury said that even though the pictures of the Trinamool Congress backed goons who attacked Thursday's rally, went viral on social media, the party leadership claimed that no one from their party was involved in the attack. "No police action has been taken against these attackers either."

Chowdhury, who was arrested back in January in the wake of violence centering the construction of power grid sub-station in Bhangar, also alleged that the state government did not follow regulations

"There should be no construction within 23 metres on both sides of the transmission lines. This has not been followed. We have given a deputation to the central Power Ministry about the non compliance. They have assured that they would take up the issue," she said.

She said the Committee that has been leading the movement for almost a year in Bhangar, would participate in the next Panchayat elections there. However, whether it would back candidates of any political party or nominate its own candidates, was yet to be decided.

Claiming that they were in touch with other land stirs happening in Bengal and rest of the country, Chowdhury warned of a larger movement and said common people would come out victorious in the end.

"There are land agitations in different parts of Bengal. We want to bring these movements together. The anti power grid movements in Assam and Maharashtra have already got in touch with the leaders of anti power grid movement in Bhangar," she added.

Human rights activist Sujato Bhadra, who has been associated with the movement since its inception, claimed multiple false cases have been slapped against everyone associated with the land movement which was not seen during the previous land movements of Singur and Nandigram under the erstwhile Left Front government.

"People associated with the movement have been charged with false cases under severe sections like UAPA and the land movement has been branded a Maoist movement by the government.

"On the other hand, Trinamool Congress backed miscreants have been let loose to terrorise the villagers and agitators," Bhadra said.

"It is surprising that a government that came to power riding on mass movements is showing so much disrespect to a land movement during its rule. It is a sign of their low culture," he added.

Several people were injured and vehicles set ablaze as clashes broke out between a group of protesters and Trinamool Congress activists in Bhangar on Thursday.

The place had witnessed protests against the alleged forcible land acquisition for the power project turn violent, resulting in the deaths of two persons.

--IANS

mgr/ssp/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan on Saturday voiced regret over the non-issuance of visas by India to Pakistani pilgrims for the Urs (anniversary) of Hazrat Khawaja Nizamuddin Aulia in Delhi from January 1-8.

The visit was to take place under the provisions of the 1974 Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines and is a regular, annual feature, said the Foreign Office in a statement.

It said the non-issuance of visas is "unfortunate and runs counter to the letter and spirit of the 1974 Protocol and objective of people-to-people contacts".

The Foreign Office also said that earlier this year, "despite Pakistan's offer to send a special train, Indian delays resulted in Sikh pilgrims from India being unable to participate in the Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev and death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh".

The development comes amid a war of words between New Delhi and Islamabad over the circumstances of the meeting between alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav and his family in Islamabad.

--IANS

ahm/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
According to TV reports, Palestine has decided to recall their envoy from Pakistan. With India describing the Palestinian envoy in Pakistan sharing a stage with Hafiz Saeed, the alleged mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, as "unacceptable", Palestine on Saturday expressed "deep regrets" about the incident.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 12, is unacceptable," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," it said.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately."

Palestine Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali on Friday shared the stage with Jamaat-ud-Dawa terror outfit chief Saeed at a gathering organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organisation of hardline right-wing groups.

According to a report in Pakistan's The Nation daily, the Rawalpindi central leadership of Difa-e-Pakistan-Council has announced a countrywide movement for the liberation of Kashmir and Palestine.

The report quoted Ali as saying that "with Pakistan's tremendous support to Palestine cause, we do not feel alone".

This comes after India voted with the rest of the world earlier in December in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

According to the External Affairs Ministry statement, Palestine has also conveyed that it "highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India".

"We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side," the statement 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.)
Palestine on Saturday recalled its envoy to Pakistan for sharing the stage with 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, with President Mahmoud Abbas directly intervening to order the recall after India strongly protested the envoy's action as "unacceptable".

"Palestine is keen to maintain good relations with friendly India and supports it for the efforts in its fight against terrorism," the Palestine Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine in a statement however clarified that the "participation of our envoy in a mass solidarity rally with Jerusalem, held in Rawalpindi on Friday, and in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified.

"Accordingly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates under the direct instructions of the President of the State of Palestine to recall the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan immediately," it said.

On Friday, Ali, stood with Hafiz Saeed at a rally called to condemn the US recognising Jerusalem, not Tel Aviv, as Israel's capital. The rally was called by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of more than 40 Islamist parties. Saeed is also a key leader of this coalition.

After photographs of the event went viral on the social media, India took up the issue strongly with the Palestinian authorities, who expressed "deep regret" over the incident.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the UN, is unacceptable," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates," it said.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately."

Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haij said: "We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore."

The action of the Palestinian envoy in Pakistan came days after India voted with the rest of the world in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

According to the External Affairs Ministry statement, Palestine has also conveyed that it "highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India".

"We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side," the statement added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine also expressed appreciation for the "honorable position that India has taken by voting in favor of the resolution in the United Nation General Assembly last week".

The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) in New Delhi strongly condemned the Palestinian envoy's dais sharing with Saeed and later appreciated the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas to recall Ali.

"We appreciate the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas, the Government of Palestine, to recall (Ali) for having attended a meeting convened by LeT Chief Hafeez Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," said IPSF.

"This prompt action by the Palestinian government will go a long way in improving India-Palestine ties and further cooperation", and "the immediate dialogue and resolution of the crisis is truly appreciated by both the people of India and Palestine", it said.

The rich historical legacy bequeathed upon our nation by Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh and the stalwarts of our freedom struggle, the respect and adulation for the great Yasser Arafat, lives on in our collective memory.

--IANS

ab-ahm/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Traumatised by the pub fire which killed 14 on Friday, many Mumbaikars on Saturday said they have either cancelled or scaled down their planned New Year Eve celebrations.

Simultaneously, social media campaigns were launched with hashtags like #MumbaiMourning appealing to people to boycott celebrations or at least subdue them.

The Public Relations Council of India launched a drive #VrPlayingWithFire# to focus attention on the appalling lack of fire safety in public places, said its president B.N. Kumar.

"Don't we see that restaurants, hotels, multiplexes, etc that we visit have narrow passages that could be death traps in case of accidents," asked PRCI Chairman Emeritus M.B. Jayaram.

#vrplayingwithfire Do our homes, eateries, cinemas, offices, clubs, Rly stations, airports etc have fire safety norms? Raise ur voice, ask questions, post here & other platforms. No lessons learnt from past disasters? Act now, else repent later. Join @PRCINOW campaign. @PMOIndia  MumbaiMuchMuch (@MumbaiMuchMuch) December 30, 2017

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp were flooded with messages from celebs to commoners paying homage to the 14 victims and lashing out at the authorities.

Candle-light marches and silent processions were also organised on Saturday by various organisations, including Sahas Foundation, which urged people to boycott celebrations in hotels, pubs, or restaurants, not burst crackers to welcome the New Year.

Diamond trader Dharmesh Jhaveri of Vile Parle appealed to people to take part in a peace-cum-solidarity march from Parel Station to the Kamala Mills Compound in memory of the victims.

Tushar A. Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, however, frowned at the candle-marches and silent processions. "This is the time for direct protect and demand strict enforcement of rules and regulations, and a thorough cleanup of the rotten system. Protest and picket," Gandhi told IANS.

Corporate trainer and marketing consultant Venkat Iyer asked: "Why do such tragedies keep happening time and again, and why have we become a 'post-mortem nation' instead of being a pro-active one."

"Post-mortems only tell us the cause, the focus should be on how we can prevent such inidents. Accordingly, my wife Ramya and I have no plans for any celebrations," he said.

Hotel executive Albert Amanna said after the tragedy, his family has voted against going out for partying on Sunday.

"You pay a premium price these days, the services and food don't give you VFM. Sadly, everyone tries to make their last buck of the year greedily, and at risk to our lives. But being at home with family and dear ones will be the best that can happen this New Year Eve," Amanna told IANS.

RTI activist and social worker J.P. Vaghani said it will be best not to celebrate New Year Eve this year.

"We must respect the victims of the Kamala Mills Compound tragedy. Their families should feel the people of Mumbai are with them in their hour of sorrow," he said.

Mumbai lawyer Vivekanand Gupta on Saturday lodged a complaint with Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission, pointing at gross violations of human rights in the December 29 fire in the restaurants which killed 14. The MSHRC Chairman has issued directions for an urgent hearing in the matter, he said.

Meanwhile, several restaurants, resorts, hotels and other venues for New Year Eve parties have reported cancellations by patrons, especially in the Lower Parel area.
Scores of Palestinians were hurt in confrontations with Israeli troops in Gaza and the West Bank amid another round of mass protests against US President Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

In Gaza, 50 protesters were shot with live rounds and five of them are in critical condition, Health Ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qedra said, Efe news reported on Friday.

Another 120 people needed medical care after inhaling tear gas and some of them were transported to hospitals, the spokesman said.

After Friday prayers, protesters took to the streets of West Bank cities such as Nablus, Hebron, Bil'in, Kufr Qaddum, Bethlehem and al-Bireh to denounce Trump's move.

The Red Crescent said their medics attended 293 people in the West Bank, mostly for the effects of tear gas, though 63 people had wounds from the impact of rubber bullets.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Thai court has sentenced a fraudster to a total of 13,275 years in prison, a media report said.

Pudit Kittithradilok, 34, admitted to the court on Friday of running a Ponzi scheme whereby he promised investors artificially high financial returns, reports the BBC.

About 40,000 people were persuaded to pour more than $160 million into his companies.

The court found he engaged in illicit lending and some 2,653 counts of fraud. Because of his confession, the court halved his sentence to 6,637 years and six months.

Prosecutors told the court that Pudit organised seminars where attendees were encouraged to invest in what he said were businesses linked to property development, beauty, used cars and exports, among other things.

According to the Bangkok Post daily, investors were promised generous returns, plus incentives to bring new members on board.

Pudit had been held in Bangkok Remand Prison since his arrest in August, when he was denied bail, the BBC reported.

The court fined his two companies the equivalent of $20 million each. Pudit and the firms were ordered to repay around $17 million to the 2,653 identified victims, with 7.5 per cent yearly interest.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Audrey Azoulay, Director General of Paris-based Unesco has regretted Israel's move to quit the UN education and culture body, noting the necessity to dialogue to bridge gap among member states.

"In my capacity as Director-General of Unesco, I was officially notified today by the Israeli Government of Israel's withdrawal from the Organization effective on December 31, 2018, a decision which was announced on October 12, 2017," Azoulay said in a statement on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israel has been a member of Unesco since 1949, "I regret this deeply, as it is my conviction that it is inside Unesco and not outside it that States can best seek to overcome differences in the Organization's fields of competence," Azoulay stressed.

In the face of disagreements among member states, engaging fully in the work of Unesco makes possible sustained dialogue, cooperation and partnerships that are more necessary than ever, she added.

On October 12, the US formally notified the Unesco that it would withdraw from the organization on December 31, 2018.

On the same day, Israel welcomed this decision and announced it was considering a similar move due to the body's "anti-Israel" bias.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Pentagon has said it will begin accepting transgender military recruits on Monday, after President Donald Trump's administration decided not to appeal a court order blocking his ban.

The Department of Justice announced on Friday it would delay challenging the stay on President Trump's transgender ban before the Supreme Court, the Hill magazine reported.

"The Department of Defence has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks. So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DOD's study and will continue to defend the President's and Secretary of Defence's lawful authority in district court in the meantime," the DOJ said in a statement.

Trump announced the ban in July on Twitter and followed up with a memo in August directing the Pentagon to stop accepting transgender recruits and to put in policies to deal with those already serving.

Four lawsuits were filed by groups and individuals opposing the ban. Lower court judges placed a halt on the ban while those cases worked their way through the judicial system.

The administration appealed those stays, but federal appeals courts denied their request to delay accepting transgender recruits on January 1, 2018.

The Trump administration had weighed asking the Supreme Court to intervene before dropping those plans on Friday.

Lawyers representing currently-serving transgender service members and aspiring recruits said they had expected the administration to appeal the rulings to the Supreme Court, but were hoping that would not happen.

Pentagon spokeswoman Heather Babb said: "As mandated by court order, the Department of Defence is prepared to begin accessing transgender applicants for military service January 1. All applicants must meet all accession standards."

Jennifer Levi, a lawyer with gay, lesbian and transgender advocacy group GLAD, called the decision not to appeal "great news".

The Obama administration had set a July 1, 2017, deadline to begin allowing transgender recruits to enlist.

Trump's Defence Secretary James Mattis changed the deadline to January 1 before Trump announced his ban.

--IANS

soni/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A new year is dawning. Its time for setting goals and making resolutions. It is time for taking stock of our spiritual progress, our walk with Christ. Do we know Him, or do we simply know about Him? Are we moving forward with Him, or are we stuck in a performance trap? Are we walking with Him, or are we simply taking a stroll? If we are not progressing in the Christian life, perhaps we need to make some changes. disciple of the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 13:51-52 calls on Christians to make a fundamental change, "Have you understood all these things?" They said to Him, "Yes." And Jesus said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has become a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a head of a household, who brings out of his treasure things new and old." (NASU) Jesus pointed out that anyone who followed Him needed some basic knowledge and would be required to make a fundamental change in his life. In verses 51 and 52, Christ was summing up the teachings of the Kingdom of Heaven parables. That knowledge was indeed a treasure. Everyone who follows Jesus should have acquired this knowledge, this treasure. In other words, each Christian must be a scribe, one who studies the Law to discover truth, one who preserves and protects the truth. The Biblical scribe is a marvelous example of how a Christian should engage Biblical truth. A scribe will store up this kind of treasure in his mind and in his soul.

Jesus added that the scribe should become a disciple of the kingdom. That is a fundamental change. At this point in history, many of the scribes had lost their way. They were not dispensing life giving truth, but were rather passing on dead traditions of men which added burdens to the people. Disciples of the kingdom will not just know truth, they will do truth. Disciples of the kingdom will apply truth. They will apply it to their own lives which will in turn inject it and invest it in the lives of others. Christians are called to be disciples and disciple makers all at the same time. This treasure that has been entrusted to the scribe (Christian) must be put to work so that it will produce dividends in the lives of others. This is how one becomes a disciple like a head of a household providing for family members. Also, note that the new revelations given by Christ will not contradict the old revelations because they come from the same storehouse of treasure which is found in the Bible. The new revelations will complement not replace the old revelations.



A new calendar year is dawning. Our thoughts turn to improving ourselves, making changes for the better. Matthew 13:51-52 raises some questions. As a believer, have you done the good work of a scribe? Have you stored up a treasure of Biblical truth in your mind and in your soul? Biblical illiteracy is a rampant problem in the 21st century church. If you have not succumbed to the pull of so many competing distractions, and have done the work of a scribe by storing up a treasure of Biblical knowledge, you are among the minority. Have you moved on to the next step? Are you becoming a disciple, like a head of a household, applying truth to your life and thus dispensing this life-giving balm to those with whom you have influence?


The Trump administration may withhold $225 million in government aid to Pakistan over frustration with the country's handling of terror groups within its borders.

Administration officials met this month to decide whether to cancel the aid, officials told The New York Times in a report published on Friday. The aid package was already delayed in August.

A final decision is expected to come in the next few weeks, officials said. They did not detail what conditions Pakistan would have to meet to receive the aid.

US officials have long expressed frustration with Pakistan, accusing the government of being slow to stamp out terrorist networks.

Raising pressure on Pakistan, Trump in August, unveiled a new US strategy for the war in Afghanistan aimed at defeating the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network, an affiliated group that operates in Pakistan.

Trump at the time said Pakistan "gives safe haven to agents of chaos, violence and terror" and vowed the administration would be tougher on the country.

The US President again singled out Pakistan for criticism when he announced his national security strategy earlier this month. "We make massive payments every year to Pakistan," he said. "They have to help."

Vice President Mike Pence reinforced that message in a visit to Afghanistan just before Christmas, telling cheering American troops that "President Trump has put Pakistan on notice".

The reaction of his audience was notable, analysts said, since the Pentagon has historically been one of Pakistan's defenders in Washington because of its longstanding ties to the Pakistani military, the New York Times reported.

In July, Defence Secretary James Mattis previously stalled a $50 million aid package to the country in July by withholding a certification that Pakistan had done enough to fight the Haqqani Network.

The certification is required by Congress for the yearly military grant made to Pakistan, a nation classified as a major non-NATO US ally.

Pakistan "did not take substantial action against the Afghan Taliban or (the Haqqani Network) or substantially limit their ability to threaten US interests in Afghanistan," stated an annual State Department report on terrorism.

A State Department official said Pakistan's actions will ultimately determine the course of "security assistance in the future".

--IANS

soni/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Google has updated its review policies according to which people are now banned from reviewing their former place of work negatively on its business tool.

The move will also make more accurate the reviews that people post on Google My Business - a tool behind the rating that appears on-screen when you carry out a search for a business using the search engine or its maps functions.

"Maps user-contributed content is most valuable when it is honest and unbiased posting negative content about a current or former employment experience" is not allowed, The Independent quoted the company as saying.

Previously, former employees were free to post any kind of review of places they used to work at. Google said that it considers this practice to be a "conflict of interest".

The tech giant said posting negative reviews about former employers has the potential to damage a company's reputation in the eyes of an actual customer and were difficult to remove.

Now can directly contact Google to remove any reviews they consider to be unfair, which in turn could improve the ratings of businesses helping users get unbiased information.
As the New Year approaches, Indias security interests are diverging from the global interests of Russia and China. The 15th Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral talks in New Delhi on December 11-12 made this clear. So, Russia will not put its weight behind India in the Sino-Indian border dispute. Russia and China agree on challenging Americas global primacy. But the US is Indias key economic and strategic partner. Both countries are members of the Quadrilateral Group, which also includes Japan and Australia and seeks to deter Chinese expansion in the Asia-Pacific.
During the debate on a bill on encroachment in Delhi, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman PJ Kurien told Urban Development Minister and former diplomat Hardeep Puri to take the initiative to sort out the friction between the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the Chief Minister.
A seven-minute documentary, titled Slaughterbots caused consternation at the last United Nations Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. It was made by the Future of Life Institute, an advocacy NGO. Slaughterbots is a part of the Campaign to Stop (CSKR), a movement backed by Human Rights Watch and funded by Elon Musk, among others. The movie shows how small drones, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), could use facial recognition and Internet protocol tracing to track down people by identifying their faces or locating their mobile phones or vehicles. These drones could then kill their targets using tiny explosive charges at close range, leaving bystanders unharmed. According to AI researchers, it is already possible to create devices that work on these lines. Such a device could do its killing, without human intervention or oversight, if the target parameters were set.
Eight MLAs in Meghalaya, including five of the ruling Congress, resigned from the state assembly on Friday to join NDA constituent People's Party (NPP), just a few months ahead of elections.

Those who put in their papers are former deputy chief minister Rowell Lyngdoh, Sniawbhalang Dhar, Comingone Ymbon, Prestone Tynsong, and Ngaitlang Dhar of the Congress, Remington Pyngrope of the United Democratic Party and Independents Stephanson Mukhim and Hopeful Bamon, Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.

The five Congress legislators had earlier rebelled against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership.

Four of the five Congress MLAs were part of the state cabinet and were sacked by the chief minister on the grounds of "incompetence".

Rowell, a veteran Congress leader, later announced that all the eight MLAs, would join the NPP, also an alliance partner of the BJP in the Manipur government, at a rally next week.

The NPP, led by Conrad K Sangma, son of former Lok Sabha Speaker P A Sangma, has two MLAs in Meghalaya at present.

With today's resignation, which comes days after another MLA, PN Syiem, quit the Congress, the number of party MLAs in the 60-member has come down to 24 from 30.

However, there is no immediate threat to the Congress government as it has support of nine Independents which takes its tally to 33.

The term of the current House expires on March 6. Elections in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura are due early next year.

An elated Conrad Sangma said the decision of the five Congress MLAs to resign and join the NPP next week was a big boost for the party.

"It is a big boost for the NPP ahead of the elections in the state ... We will felicitate their joining the party next week. We welcome their decision and we are confident to form the next government in Meghalaya," Conrad Sangma told PTI.

He said their leaving the Congress and joining the NPP indicates that the party was the only alternative available to the people in the state.

The NPP chief said: "More than 10 per cent of the Congress MLAs have resigned. This implies that the leadership under Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has failed."



The 79-year-old Rowell had to leave the Congress following a leadership tussle with Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and he was sacked from the cabinet last year.

Rowell had contested all the nine elections in the state and was elected an MLA for the sixth time in 2013.

"Eight MLAs submitted their resignation to me at the office of the Speaker today. The Speaker was on a tour and was not available at his office," Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.

He said the resignation letters have been sent by email to Speaker Abu Taher Mondal.

"We are joining the NPP on January 4 at a rally at Pologrounds," Rowell told reporters.

He said it was a difficult decision to leave the Congress but he was compelled to do so "because of the people".

Hitting out at the chief minister, the former deputy chief minister said, "The autocratic style of functioning of the chief minister had made it difficult for me and others to function in the government."



Rowell said the decision to set up a medical college in the state capital Shillong on PPP mode and another one in Tura to be funded by the state government, was taken without consultations in the cabinet.

He also slammed the state Congress president DD Lapang, who he alleged gave into the diktats of the chief minister and went ahead and dissolved the block Congress committee in many constituencies.

Senior Congress leader and former cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong said the prospects of the Congress in Meghalaya will be badly hit.
A teenager was injured during celebratory firing in a wedding procession in central Delhi's Chandni Mahal area, police said today.

The incident occurred last night. Mohd. Nayeem (16) was on the terrace of her aunt's house, watching the procession when Bablu (47), who was part of the marriage party, opened fire.

The incident led to commotion and the accused fled the spot taking advantage of it.

Nayeem was rushed to a hospital. Doctors said his condition is critical. Local residents protested in the area over the incident. Police and paramilitary personnel were deployed to maintain peace.

Bablu was arrested today and the pistol was seized. He did not have a valid licence.

The victim's father alleged that Bablu pointed the weapon towards the teenager and opened fire, the police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The stunning verdict in the politically-sensitive 2G spectrum allocation cases acquitting ex-telecom minister A Raja and all other accused at the fag end of the year was the show stealer from trial courts in Delhi in an eventful 2017.

The failure of the prosecution in 2G cases overshadowed its success in prosecuting political heavyweights in coal scam cases in which former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda was sent to three years in prison and ex-coal secretary H C Gupta was given varying jail terms in two such cases.

The outcome in the 2G matter has raised more questions than answers as special judge O P Saini, who was exclusively dealing with the cases arising out of the spectrum allocation scam for seven years, was even critical of special prosecutor appointed by the Supreme Court which has been monitoring the probe in the case in which the CAG had computed the loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore to the exchequer.

While time will tell if Saini's judgement will stand the scrutiny of the higher courts, the six trial courts in the capital dealt with several cases of all India significance concerning terrorism, terror funding and money laundering involving Kashmiri separatist leaders.

Besides, defamation cases involving Arun Jaitley and Arvind Kejriwal, VVIP chopper scam in which ex-Air Force Chief S P Tyagi is a prime accused and a graft case in which ex-high court judge I M Quddusi was behind bars for a a week kept the trial courts busy in the year.

The politically-sensitive Rs 3,600-crore VVIP chopper case picked up pace this year and Tyagi became the first chief of any force to be listed in a charge sheet in a high-profile criminal case.

So was the case of former Chhattisgarh High Court judge Quddusi, who was jailed for seven days in an alleged medical college corruption case.

Judge Saini not only hogged the limelight with his verdict acquitting all in the 2G cases but in the beginning of the year, he had given another shocker to the CBI by discharging another telecom minister and DMK leader Dayanidhi Maran and other accused in the Aircel-Maxis deal case which was an off-shoot of the case arising from the 2G probe.

He cleared Maran of the charges of corruption, conspiracy and money laundering by holding that allegations were based on "misreading of official files", speculation and surmises of the complainant.

However, the court of special judge Bharat Parashar dealing with 30 cases of coal scam, kept high and mighty on tenterhooks and like last year delivered two more verdicts taking the tally of decided cases of conviction up to four.

Koda was awarded three-year jail term for corruption in allocation of a coal block in Jharkhand to Kolkata-based private company Vini Iron and Steel Udyog Ltd, along with ex- coal secretary H C Gupta, who was also given two years in jail in another coal case for irregularity in allocating a Madhya Pradesh based coal block to private firm Kamal Sponge Steel and Power Ltd.

Congress leader and industrialist Naveen Jindal also faced the court's ire in the coal scam where a fresh charge sheet was filed against him and others for allegedly cheating the government by misrepresenting facts to get a coal block allocated in Madhya Pradesh.

Another politician, Dilip Ray, who was a union minister in the earlier NDA government, was put on trial in a coal scam case pertaining to alleged irregularities in the allocation of a Jharkhand coal block in 1999.

Among other high-profile cases which kept the courts busy were those involving former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who had a tough time in criminal defamation complaint filed against him by Union minister Arun Jaitley.

While Singh and his wife appeared as accused before a special court in a nearly Rs 10 crore DA case, Kejriwal faced several allegations apart from defamation, including irregularities in granting contracts in for roads and misleading people about municipal elections.

Another political case that hogged the limelight with the arrest of T T V Dhinakaran, now elected MLA from the erstwhile constituency of ex-AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa, was in connection with an Election Commission bribery case related to use of party's 'two leaves' poll symbol.

Besides these, several terror-related matters also took the front seat with the courts sending behind bars Kashmiri separatists and several other terrorists.

In several terror funding-related cases involving Kashmiri separatists, Shabir Shah, Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani's son-in-law Altaf Ahmed Shah and globally-wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin's son Syed Shahid Yousuf, were sent to jail for their alleged roles.

During the year, the courts also remained seized of several money laundering cases involving big businessmen including controversial meat exporter Moin Akhtar Qureshi, who spent over three months in jail before he was granted the bail on December 12 in one such case.

The prosecution of black money holders, which began in 2016 post the Centre's demonetisation move, continued this year as well with filing of charge sheets against controversial lawyer Rohit Tandon and businessmen Paras Mal Lodha and Gagan Dhawan, who faced the court's wrath in various cases of money laundering running into hundreds of crores and illegal conversion of crores of demonetised currency notes.

Another money laundering case came to the fore with RJD chief Lalu Prasad's daughter Misa Bharti coming under the lens after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed a charge sheet against her and her husband, Shailesh Kumar, in Rs 1.2 crore PMLA case.

UPA regime's another high profile case, the Commonwealth Games (CWG) scam, also made headlines during the year when six former officials of the Organising Committee and two firms were put on trial by special CBI judge Arvind Kumar for alleged irregularities in merchandising and retailing for the 2010 mega-sporting event.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Four persons were arrested today including the wife of a man who was hacked to death in Odisha's Balasore district two weeks ago, police said.

The woman, allegedly with help of her paramour and two other hired killers, eliminated Madhav Behera on December 17.

The arrested woman was identified as Basanti Behera (37), her paramour Bhagirathi Patra (40), Akash Das of Basta (23) and Banchhanidhi Chanda (28) of Baisinga under Mayurbhanj district.

The accused persons were forwarded to court after being booked under section of murder, suppression of evidence and common intention, said Inspector-in-charge of Sahadevkhunta police station Paresh Rout.

According to police, Basanti, the wife of the slain Madhab Behera, was the mastermind behind the crime.

The police said Madhab Behera (42) was allegedly physically and mentally torturing his wife Basanti. Basanti along with her brother-in-law cum paramour, conspired to eliminate her husband. They took help of the accused duo Ashok and Banchhanidhi to commission the crime.

Accordingly, Rs 50,000 was given as "supari" to the duo to kill Madahab, police said. While Basanti had given Rs 30,000, her paramour Bhagirathi chipped in with another Rs 20,000 for the purpose.

At around 10 pm on December 17, the locals found Madhab with serious injures under a bridge near Naharpatna beside NH-60, police said.

Though he was rushed to the district headquarter hospital, the doctors declared Madhab dead.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actor Amanda Bynes has teased she is willing to return to acting in 2018 but is waiting to find the right role.

The 31-year-old actor was last seen in 2010's "Easy A" but her career was sidetracked by two hit-and-runs and a DUI in 2012 as well as being arrested a year later for throwing a bong out of a window.

Her lawyer told Page Six, "Amanda is looking forward to ringing in the new year with her close friends this years. In 2018, she looks forward to completing fashion school and dipping her toe back into acting. She has had several offers but is waiting for the right one to come along for a comeback."



Bynes is currently studying at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Members of the Hamilton County Board of Education have been invited by Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson, to a joint meeting with the Signal Mountain Town Council on Jan. 4, at 4:30 p.m. at Nolan Elementary, 4435 Shackleford Ridge Road, Signal Mountain, in the school gymnasium.

Parking will be available in front of the school and on both sides of the front drive. Attendees will enter through the main front entrance of the building.



The meeting is open to the public.


The Anti-Terrorism Squad of Maharashtra today apprehended a former Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) member from the international airport here.

ATS officials said that Sarjeel Sheikh (34) was caught today morning based on a tip-off that some absconding former members of the SIMI were visiting India regularly.

Sheikh was an absconding accused in a case registered at Kurla police station relating to assault on a public servant as well as unlawful assembly, officials informed.

He has been handed over to Kurla police for further legal action, said officials.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy today alleged that Lt Governor Kiran Bedi's "style of functioning is more like a leader of opposition than an administrator" of the Union Territory.

Addressing reporters here, Narayanasamy said although he had written to the Lt Governor asking her not to "overstep her constitutional and statutory limits" and not to "interfere in the routine working of the elected government," she had been doing so.

"I have written letters to her on more than 15 occasions registering protest against her style of functioning. But, she keeps functioning more like a leader of opposition than an administrator," he said.

The Congress leader also minced no words stating that, "Bedi has not contributed for the economic development of Puducherry and in implementation of progressive schemes."



Condemning the "autocratic style of working" of the Lt Governor, the chief minister said, "It is really a sad development that she (Bedi) held meetings with the police officers yesterday to draw up a plan of police deployment in view of the flow of tourists into Puducherry on the eve of New Year Day."



Narayanasamy claimed that Bedi has held meetings with police officers though he had arranged one with police officers to finalise the security plan for maintenance of law and order with the Chief Secretary in charge, A Anbarasu being a coordinating officer.

The chief minister maintained that "time is not far for the current situation to come to an end."



Since Bedi assumed office last year, the Congress government in Puducherry and she have been at loggerheads over several issues including medical admissions, civic problems and induction of three nominated MLAs.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A host of projects including a second entry and station building with new ticket booking complex were inaugurated at Bhubaneswar station here today with the Centre promising to transform the Odisha capital into a modern city of global standards.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain also dedicated to the public a new booking office with reserved and unreserved ticketing system at Sakhigopal station through video conferencing from Bhubaneswar, on this occasion.

Praising the Railways for development of infrastructure in the region, Pradhan sought steps to speed up the projects by continuous review and said the Centre was keen to make Bhubaneswar a modern and international city.

The Centre's vision is to make Odisha the gateway of development in the East and the city will be centre and focus of development in the state, he said.

Both Railways and Odisha Government have to jointly work and solve the problems relating to land acquisition issues which emerged as a major bottleneck for railway projects, the union minister said.

The allocation of funds for railway projects is very high and these funds should be fully utilised for the benefit of infrastructural projects, he said.

Pradhan appreciated the efforts of East Coast Railway (ECoR) in planning 6-metre wide foot over bridges at Bhubaneswar and Bhadrakh and said all efforts should be made to complete the work in 2018.

He said that the civil aviation ministry has submitted a proposal to the state for allotment of land for a second airport in Bhubaneswar.

Stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has plans for expansion of national highways and better air connectivity, Pradhan said expansion of railways in Odisha will be its focal point.

Hailing the performance of East Coast Railways, Gohain said funds for the projects will not be a constraint as the Railway ministry will provide full support for infrastructure development.

Gohain said that the on-going railway projects in the region will be completed as per the target date. He also urged state Government to cooperate with the Railways by providing land so that the ongoing projects are completed at the earliest.

The new station building on platform number six of Bhubaneswar station has been completed at a cost of Rs 1.97 crore having facilities like booking counter cum lobby, second class waiting hall, upper class waiting hall, food plaza, TCI office, toilets for divyang passengers, pay and use toilets and circulating area with barricade, a railway official said.

The new station building at Sakhigopal station has been completed at a cost of Rs 1.55 crore with facilities like booking counter cum lobby, second class waiting hall, toilets for men and women, circulating area and approach road, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The BSF has been told to keep a close vigil on the 856-km long Indo-Bangla border in Tripura, to prevent entry of unwanted elements into the state, where assembly elections are due early next year, an election official said.

Tripura Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Sriram Taranikanti held a meeting with top Border Security Force (BSF) officials regarding the close vigil on the border.

"A meeting was held with Inspector General (IG) of BSF couple of days back. All polling stations along the border were mapped using Global Positioning System (GPS). I hope close vigil will begin in the coming weeks", Taranikanti told reporters here last evening.

The CEO said Central paramilitary forces would start arriving in the state soon and the Central government has agreed to send security forces as required by the Election Commission.

He said Indian voters, living in other side of the barbed wire fencing along the border would be able to exercise their franchise without any problem.

The fencing was erected 150 yards away from the international zero line to adhere to Indira-Mujib pact, 1971 and border management agreement signed in 1975.

In an effort to reduce distance and increase ease of voting, 44 more polling stations would be set up in the state for next year's assembly election.

"We had 3,170 listed polling stations in Tripura. Our exercise revealed that their average distance from nearby habitations was often high, so we have decided to reorganise.

"In total, 3,214 polling stations would be utilised in assembly polls this time", Taranikanti said.

The CEO said, after reorganisation, all polling stations would be located within a range of 3.5 km from nearby habitations.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation has climbed from the 197th place to 16th in the country in the Swachch Bharat Mission's implementation, a top official said today.

"It is my aim to make it number one city in this regard," Corporation Commissioner and Special Officer, Dr Vijayakarthikeyan said.

He was speaking after handing over the 'certificate of appreciation" to the KG Hospital which was adjudged the number one healthcare provider in the city for its contribution towards the implementation of Swachch Bharat Mission.

The certificate was given based on the Swachchata Ranking-2018 assessment in respect of 'Above 100 bedded multi-specialty hospitals.'



It was received by hospital chairman Dr G.Bakthavathsalam.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Congress today termed as "disappointing and unacceptable" the sharing of dais by Palestine ambassador in Pakistan with JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

"It is imperative that the Palestine authority clarify its position and reaffirms its stated position of condemning the terror syndicate led by Hafiz Saeed," Congress leader Anand Sharma said.

" reports of Saeed's presence in a public function and sharing the dais with the ambassador of Palestine in Pakistan, is disappointing and unacceptable," he said.

The former Union minister said the Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief was the mastermind behind the Mumbai terror attack of 2008, which killed a large number of innocent people, both Indians and nationals of other countries, for which "he is yet to be brought to justice".

The Palestine Authority had always acted in solidarity with India and had condemned the Mumbai terror attack, Sharma added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Kiran Choudhry, Leader of the Haryana Congress Legislature Party, today termed the 'Bhavantar Bharpayee Yojana' launched by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Karnal as "a big sham and huge fraud".

In a statement here, the former excise and taxation minister said the scheme seeking to offer "input cost" for four crops potato, onion, cabbage and tomato from January onwards, consciously puts the cost of growing them way below the cost price so that the government is not made to pay anything.

"The scheme is a big sham and huge fraud," she said.

She also asked the state government to fix MSP for veggies and procure them if it is keen to help the farmers.

"One wonders if potatoes can be grown at the cost Rs 4 per kg the price fixed under the scheme. The Khattar government should fix reasonable MSP for these veggies and procure them at the fixed price if it really wants to help the farmers," Choudhry demanded.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The BJP today held a crucial meeting of senior party leaders, legislatures and district presidents here to plan its strategy for the upcoming budget session and panchayat polls.

BJP national general secretary Ram Lal and Union minister Jintendra Singh participated in the meeting which was attended also by party's state president Sat Sharma, speaker Kavinder Gupta and Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh.

"We have convened this meeting to discuss wide range of issues including the budget session and the panchayat polls scheduled to start on January 2 and February 15 next year, respectively," the state BJP president told reporters.

Sharma said though there is no issue left with the opposition to rake up during the budget session, the BJP is discussing its response at the meeting.

"The way development is going on in the state over the past three years, the opposition is left with no issues. It is merely a statement that we will corner the ruling party to raise public issues. They have no issues to rake up," he said.

The BJP leader alleged that there were attempts by some political parties to vitiate the atmosphere in Kashmir in the past but today "NIA raids, appointment of interlocutor and success of all out operation against militants has built a conducive atmosphere and paved the way for development and peace."



On the panchayat polls, he said, "We have already set up teams across the state to monitor the democratic exercise and we hope honest and dedicated people will be chosen.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The AIIMS in the national capital is yet to begin counselling for a fresh batch of resident doctors even as the contract of several doctors in those positions is scheduled to expire tomorrow.

The Resident Doctors Association (RDA) of AIIMS has alleged that as the tenure of several junior residents in various departments is ending tomorrow, the institute is staring at an acute shortage in that category which may in turn affect patient services.

"For the first time in the history of AIIMS, the examination section is not able to conduct the counseling for MD/MS 2017 well in time which will result in delay in the joining of junior residents to respective departments from January 1," AIIMS RDA president Harjit Singh Bhatti said.

The institute will face an acute shortage of resident doctors as the current ones who have graduated will finish their tenure tomorrow, former AIIMS RDA president Vijay Gurjar said.

While supporting the move for online counselling of resident doctors, the RDA members, however, said the administration is still not ready and is struggling with their software update.

"This is for the first time that the institute has initiated recruitment through online counselling which was supposed to hasten the process but inefficient implementation is leading to unnecessary delay.

"Residents are just waiting eagerly to join their departments. This unnecessary delay will create disturbance as they will not be able to appear in exams and interviews whose last dates are usually between December 31 or June 30 according to the set pattern," said Bhatti.

Usually, counselling was held in the first week of December. However, till now there has been no notification or communication from the administration.

A senior AIIMS official, however, said the issue has been resolved and that the process will begin in a few days and by January 31 the counselling will be completed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The ongoing demolition drive and "negative sentiment" following the Kamala Mills fire tragedy will shave off the business of city restaurants and pubs by 25 per cent during the New Year celebrations, said an industry source.

Fourteen persons died in a fire at a roof-top pub in Kamala Mills compound in Central Mumbai yesterday.

"The incident was very tragic and has turned the sentiment further negative for the industry's upcoming New Year celebrations, which was already suffering due to the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

"We are expecting the business in Mumbai to be affected by 25 per cent this New Year's eve," Hotel and Restaurant Association Of Western India (HRAWI) President Dilip Datwani told PTI here.

Last year the business had been hit by demonetisation.

According to industry sources, overall business on the New Year's eve in Mumbai is about Rs 800 crore.

"The fire incident was very tragic, and there is definitely a need to take action to make city restaurants and pubs a safe place for patrons," Datwani said.

However, he expressed reservations about the civic body's demolition drive in the aftermath of the fire, saying, the drive "left, right and centre" won't solve the problem.

"There is a need to review the situation. Definite action must be taken where it is needed," he added.

However, this will further scare people as no one will want to take any chance to venture out on the New Year's eve, he added.

Since most hotels and restaurants have sold tickets and invested in New Year events, it is not possible to cancel them, he said.

The HRAWI has called on its members to give paramount importance to patrons' safety and observance of all fire safety norms.

"Our members will observe a low-key New Year's eve by sporting a white label or flag in grief for the citizens who lost their lives at Kamala Mills," he said.

The HRAWI has also called for constitution of a joint committee of industry representatives and authorities to re-look at regulations in the wake of recent events.

"We feel knee-jerk reactions against the industry will only further dampen and disrupt the spirit further," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Starting from December 31, 2017, all ivory trading will become illegal in China.



According to a statement issued by Chinas State Council in 2016, the processing and sale of ivory would become illegal in China at the end of 2017. This is a major step towards the abolition of the trade, as China was once the worlds largest market for ivory.

A baby elephant, a species at risk of extinction, is seen at the African Safari zoo in Puebla, Mexico, on July 12, 2017. The little elephant was born at the zoo in Puebla last May 16, weighing 75 kilograms. [Photo: VCG/ Jose Castanares]

In February 2015, China announced a one-year ban on imports of ivory carvings. That ban has since been extended, and in December 2016 China declared that there would be a complete ban to the domestic ivory trade within a year. A total of 67 ivory processing and sales centers were closed before March 31, 2017, while the remaining 105 will close before the December 31 deadline.

Customs officers in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region confiscate more than 360 kilograms of ivory smuggled from Africa on December 7, 2017. [Photo: VCG]

In 2016, the amount of smuggled ivory seized in China fell 80 percent from previous peak years, according to the State Forestry Administration. China's ban has caused the price of ivory to fall as much as 65 percent since 2014, according to wildlife groups.

Elephants, the largest mammal species on land, are at risk of becoming extinct due to poaching. China's ban on the sale of ivory will help end the poaching of African elephants and will contribute towards a reversal in the decline of wild African elephant populations.
Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar today said that he did not want to be the President of India as one "gets retired" after becoming President.

Pawar added that he wanted to live among common people and serve them.

He was speaking at a function felicitating former President Pratibha Patil for completing 50 years of public life.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, speaking before Pawar, had said that Pawar is the future President of India.

"Once a person becomes Governor or President, he gets retired. I do not want to go in that direction. I want to live among people and serve them," Pawar said.

Lauding former President Patil's contribution, Pawar said that she got all the important positions in like state party president, state minister, cabinet minister, Governor and President of India.

"Only thing she could not become was Chief Minister (of Maharashtra) and it was me who spoilt her chance and became Chief Minister," quipped Pawar.

Patil in her speech said the Constitution of India and blessings of the people allowed her to become the country's first woman President.

She expressed gratitude to the late Yashwantrao Chavan, Maharashtra's first CM, for giving her an opportunity in .

Former CM Prithviraj Chavan, former union minister Shivraj Patil, former Governor D Y Patil and Pune district guardian minister Girish Bapat were also present at the function.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Twelve farmers suffered injuries in a clash between two groups over chasing away stray cattle in neighbouring Hamirpur district and had to be hospitalised, police said today.

Eight farmers have been arrested in connection with the incident that occurred yesterday under Jariya police station area, they said.

Farmers of Chibauli and Magraul villages clashed over chasing away stray cattle with both sides used sticks and also opening gunfire in the air, Circle Officer, Jariya, Rajnish Upadhyaya said.

Twelve farmers from both sides were injured and were hospitalised, he said.

Upadhyaya said FIR has been filed against 14 farmers of Chibauli and 20 of Magraul villages of which eight have been arrested.

Police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed in the villages as a precautionary measure, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Pakistani drunken man allegedly shot dead his father-in-law and held 20 members of his family hostage at gunpoint after they stopped him from committing suicide, according to media reports.

Abdul Rahim, 35, held his family members hostage at gun point late last night in Morgah area of Rawalpindi, Dawn said.

Rahim shot and injured his father-in-law - aged around 50 - and held the rest of his family hostage before the police succeeded in arresting the suspect, police said.

"When the situation occurred we contacted his uncles and other male members of the family, who suggested that Rahim is mentally unstable and often does these things. They said that they would want to solve the matter themselves," police officer Raja Taifoor Khan said.

The hostages included his wife, children and in-laws. He had killed his father-in-law by opening fire and injured two others, the report said.

"His uncles went to speak to him, and Rahim who had said that he would not hurt them opened fire at them," the officer said.

"We decided to take the matter in our own hands after that and started an operation to free the family and take Rahim into custody," Khan said, adding that the police first threw two tear gas shells into the house and then entered it to rescue the family.

As the police entered the house, Rahim opened fired at them and was injured as a result of police's counter firing. "Other members of the family are safe, although one aged woman lost consciousness because of the tear gas; she along with Rahim have been shifted to District Headquarter Hospital," Khan said.

According to the police, the house has been cleared after a search and all the family members are now safe.

He got drunk after suffering heavy gambling losses, including machinery from the family's construction business and held his family hostage to demand money, police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today said freedom fighters had dreamt of a free India -- bereft of casteism, regionalism and illiteracy.

"The dream of the freedom fighters and great men of a free India was that of a country without casteism, regionalism or illiteracy...where there would be freedom to take decisions, but within the framework of the Constitution," he said during his address at a function on freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak here.

The chief minister said those communities, which failed to preserve their history, would also not be able to defend their geography.

Lauding the role of Tilak and his slogan -- "Swaraj mera janmsiddh adhikar hai aur main ise lekar rahoonga" (freedom is my birthright and I will achieve it) -- he said great men took up challenges and provided a direction to the society through their struggles.

Stressing that the function was important as it was organised on the lines of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Ek Bharat, Shreshta Bharat" resolution, the chief minister said a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra today for strengthening the cultural ties between the two states.

Adityanath also lauded a young Muslim girl from Meerut, who made her mark in Bhagavad Gita recital, saying, "She has opened the eyes of those who create divisions in the society."



Speaking on the occasion, Governor Ram Naik said Tilak had connected the people of the country and that he had organised Ganesh Mahotsav and Shivaji Jayanti in Mumbai for the purpose.

"There is a long association between the people of Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra...Mumbai became the economic capital of the country also because of the labour of the people of Uttar Pradesh," he added.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who was present on the occasion, stressed on inculcating the spirit of nationalism in the youth, besides making them self-sufficient.

The new generation needed to be made aware of the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters, Fadnavis said.

Referring to the MoU, he said the people of Uttar Pradesh had an important contribution in the development of Maharashtra and hoped that the pact would ensure a cultural exchange between the two states in the future.

Earlier, a 30-year-old man, identified as Shyamji Mishra of Sonebhadra district, tried to jump in front of Adityanath's cavalcade as it arrived at the venue of the function.

He was overpowered by the security personnel and taken to a police station.

Mishra told the police that he took the step to draw the chief minister's attention towards the illegal mining going on in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Gazan died today after being wounded by Israeli fire during a protest on the border over US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a Palestinian health official said.

Jamal Muslih, 20, of Al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, had been seriously wounded by live fire yesterday, health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

His death brings to 13 the number of Palestinians killed since US President Donald Trump announced on December 6 that he would recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital and move the US embassy there from Tel Aviv.

Eleven protesters died after clashes with Israeli troops, and two others were killed in an Israeli air strike on Gaza earlier in the month.

More than 50 Palestinians were wounded in yesterday clashes on the Gaza-Israel border as part of a "day of rage" over the US declaration, called for by both Gaza rulers Hamas and fellow militant group Islamic Jihad.

In the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said at least 16 people were wounded when Israeli troops fired live rounds during demonstrations, while others were hit with rubber-coated bullets.

Earlier yesterday, militants in Gaza fired three rockets at southern Israel, two of which were intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defence system, with the third hitting a village near the border, causing damage but no casualties.

Israeli aircraft and tanks targeted two Hamas positions near the border in response, again causing damage but no casualties.

Rockets from Gaza are often fired by fringe Islamist groups but Israel holds Hamas responsible for all attacks from the territory.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Nearly 630 gms of gold worth Rs 16 lakh was seized from a passenger who arrived here from Dubai, today.

The passenger was intercepted after he was found moving suspiciously at the airport, customs officials said.

Following a search, the officials recovered 630 gms of gold from him.

The passenger has been detained and investigation is on, they said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is going to change India's economy though initially it might have caused some pain, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu today said.

Speaking on the concluding day of the 11th Global Doctors' Summit here, Naidu said the improvement in India's tax system with the introduction of GST will ultimately benefit its people.

"As the World Bank report suggests, GST is going to be transformational, revolutionary tax system to change India's economy. Any improvement in system ultimately helps people," Naidu said.

He said that as Vice-President, he would not discuss the merits of issues like demonetisation or GST, but if one argues that almost the entire demonetised money has come back to banks post note ban, then it must be considered if that is not better than the money stashed in bathroom and underneath the pillows of individuals.

He said India is on the cusp of new economic growth in sync with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, "reform perform and transform."



Naidu said that 65 per cent of India's population were under 30 years of age and called for new ideas to take the country forward.

About his new role as Vice-President, Naidu said, "two months back I was a minister. Now I have retired from politics but not retired from public life. So, I cannot speak on issues as I did when I was a minister.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Haryana Director General of Police B S Sandhu today urged people to celebrate New Year in a peaceful manner, and avoid drinking and driving.

Action against hooliganism and drunken driving, and safety of citizens, especially women, would be the priority of the police, he said.

With a view to ensure safety and security on the New Year's eve, the Haryana police has made elaborate arrangements across the state, especially in cyber city Gurugram, Faridabad and other major cities, DGP Sandhu said.

Detailed instructions have been issued to all field units directing them to deploy their force on foot patrols, mobile patrols and naka duties at crowded and sensitive places, he added.

Field units have been directed to ensure smooth flow of traffic, the DGP added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uproar over the release of period drama "Padmavati" and two films not screened at IFFI were some of the issues the Information & Broadcasting Ministry had to deal with in 2017, which also saw several appointments including that of Prasoon Joshi as censor board chief.

The ministry was also in the headlines for its advisory on condom advertisements on television.

In a move that surprised many, the Narendra Modi government allocated the I&B portfolio to the then Textile Minister Smriti Irani, who was shifted out of the human resource development ministry only last year in the backdrop of controversies surrounding her educational qualification, Hyderabad University Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula's suicide and alleged anti-India slogans at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The portfolio of I&B fell vacant after M Venkaiah Naidu was chosen as the NDA nominee for the vice presidential elections.

Irani was the fourth minister to be at the helm of affairs of the important ministry since the Modi government took over in 2014. Prior to Naidu, Arun Jaitley was the information and broadcasting minister, replacing Prakash Javadekar.

The government appointed actor Anupam Kher as the new chief of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). He replaced Gajendra Chauhan, who had a controversial tenure as head of the Pune-based institute.

The year also saw Pahlaj Nihalani, whose stint as the head of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was surrounded by controversy, being replaced by noted songwriter-poet Joshi.

The ministry reconstituted the existing censor board with actress Vidya Balan being among the new members.

The year saw a full-blown controversy over the film "Padmavati" with Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh joining the chorus against its release.

There were widespread protests by Rajput community alleging that the film breached the honour of queen Padmini and distorted facts.

Controversy also erupted after two films "S Durga" and "Nude" were dropped from screening at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) even after the jury recommended that they be shown at the annual event.

The censor board ordered a re-examination of Sanal Kumar Sasidharans film "S Durga", derailing its court-ordered screening at IFFI.

The bone of contention seemed to be the hashtag that follow the letter "S" in the revised title of the movie, which was earlier named "Sexy Durga". The CBFC said the makers cannot exhibit the film further until the board reexamines it, adding a suitable date and time will be conveyed to the makers soon.

The Kerala High Court had directed the I&B ministry to screen the film at IFFI.

The ministry was also in the for issuing an advisory to all television channels, asking them to restrict airing of condom advertisements to slots between 10 pm and 6 am, triggering a controversy.

In an official memorandum, the ministry later said, the advisory only pertained to sexually-explicit content being used to market certain condom brands which titillate the audience from a PR perspective.

The year also saw appointment of actor Anupam Kher as the chairman of the FTII, replacing Gajendra Chauhan, who had a controversial tenure as head of the Pune-based institute. His term had ended in March.

Veteran journalist A Surya Prakash was appointed as the chairman of the Prasar Bharati board for a second consecutive term till February 8, 2020, when he turns 70.

Shashi S Vempati, a part-time member of the Prasar Bharati Board, was made the Chief Executive Officer of the public broadcaster, succeeding Rajeev Singh, member (finance) of the board, who was serving as the interim CEO after S C Panda retired earlier this year.

New category of visa for foreign filmmakers was also created to ease issues related to their entry into the country.

A separate 24x7 DD channel for Jharkhand was announced during the year. DD Bihar was asked to telecast DD Ranchi programmes till the launch of its own 24x7 channel.

In 2017, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) website got a new look with enhanced features while a new portal of DD was also launched.

The Union Cabinet approved auctioning of more than 680 FM channels in 236 cities, including those in border areas of Jammu and Kashmir and the northeast, where the population is less than one lakh.

In December, the ministry ordered an Assamese television channel to go off air for three days and a Gujarati channel for a day for violating the cable television network rules.

Senior Indian Administrative Service officer N K Sinha was appointed as the new secretary in the ministry after the transfer of Ajay Mittal as Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The 78th session of Indian History Congress (IHC) today passed resolution condemning the attack on freedom of speech and urged historians and common people to defend the cause of objectivity in history.

The IHC also passed another resolution criticizing the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) for declining assistance to the IHC and announcing a project to prove that Adam's Bridge was not natural but made by human hands.

The first resolution, "In Defence of the Objective Method in History" which was read by Irfan Habib, stated that recently there has been a tendency among responsible persons including ministers and legislators to speak as if they can "change" history by a fiat.

It said there have been particular attempts to run down figures like Akbar and Tipu Sultan while fictitious achievements are attributed to favorite or fictional heroes.

"It has been even suggested that the history of Mughal Empire be removed from text books and the Prime Minister has spoken of Akbar in a derogatory context," the resolution read.

It said such efforts to "change" history go hand in hand with increasing attacks on liberty and freedom of speech.

In the second resolution, "On Grants from Governments and Semi-Government Organizations", said the authorities in command of public money are tending to discriminate against organisations that do not necessarily support the currently favorite official credos.

It came down heavily on the ICHR for declining to assist the IHC and taking up a project to prove that Adam's Bridge was man made.

Adam's Bridge, a chain of shoals also known as Ram Setu, connects Pamban island in Tamil Nadu with Sri Lanka's Mannar island.

"Not only is such a project an insult to human intelligence but would involve a huge waste of public funds, should it be undertaken," the resolution stated.

Prominent participants of the IHC included Irfan Habib and Romila Thapar.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An Egyptian court on Saturday has sentenced ousted president Mohamed Morsi to three years in jail over insulting judiciary, state-run TV reported.

Other 18 members of Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood group have received the same verdict on the same charges.

Ousted Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi [File photo: IC]

The defendants were accused of insulting the judiciary system, offending some judges and inciting hatred against them, the judge read.

Morsi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence over inciting deadly clashes between his supporters and opponents in late 2012 and a 25-year jail term over leaking classified documents to Qatar.

Most Brotherhood leaders also are currently detained and many of them have been handed appealable death sentences and lengthy jail terms over various charges varying from inciting violence and murder to espionage and jailbreak.
The DMK claimed that "imaginary" losses in 2G spectrum allocation have "vanished into thin air" like a "phantom" and the party has emerged as a giant.

A high-level party meeting chaired by DMK working president MK Stalin yesterday claimed that "some hegemonic forces" had created an "imaginary account" of Rs 1.76 lakh crore loss, a reference to the Comptroller and Auditor General's estimate.

In a resolution titled "The Phantom called 2G--an imaginary account that vanished into thin air", it alleged that the aim of such forces was to insult and weaken the DMK which had then "strived to ensure that a strong government" was in place at the Centre.

The meeting lauded former telecom minister A Raja and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi for facing the case and securing their acquittal from a CBI court in Delhi last week.

"The hegemonic forces concealed Raja's feat of taking mobile telecom to poorer sections at lower costs and created an imaginary account of Rs 1.76 lakh crore loss and blew it up and filed a case," the resolution claimed.

Hailing the acquittal of A Raja and Kanimozhi in the case last week, it said, "That imaginary account has now vanished into thin air... due to this just verdict, the DMK has taken a Vishwaroopam (a reference to the gigantic form of Lord Vishnu) like gold refined in fire."



The CBI court had on December 21 acquitted Raja, Kanimozhi and all other accused in the 2G spectrum allocation case, bringing relief to the DMK which had suffered back-to-back defeats in 2011 and 2016 Tamil Nadu assembly elections and also the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

On the DMK's loss in RK Nagar by-poll, the meeting said action would be taken against those who had not performed poll duties properly.

It recalled that the party has already appointed a three-member panel to identify the reasons for its failure in the high-stakes contest.

Rival AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran, who contested as an independent, won the by-poll securing 89,013 votes against ruling AIADMK nominee and nearest rival E Madhusudhanan's 48,306 votes.

DMK's N Maruthu Ganesh came third securing 24,651 votes, in the process, losing the deposit.

The opposition party had put up a better show in 2016, when its candidate Shimla Muthuchozhan polled about 57,000 votes against then AIADMK supremo and late chief minister J Jayalalithaa who won the election.
An Indian expat had died of heart attack here after getting the of his mother's demise back home in Kerala, a media report said today.

The incident happened on December 21 when Anil Kumar Gopinathan, who hailed from Kerala's Kollam district, was informed about the death of his mother, Kousalya.

Next day, he was found collapsed in his room and rushed to a hospital by his friends, but in vain, the Khaleej Times reported.

Gopinathan had been working at a tailoring shop in Umm Al Quwain city for 20 years.

After receiving the of the death of their mother, brother of the deceased



Santosh, who is based in Dubai, left for his home, Gopinathan was supposed to fly back to India the next day, but died of heart attack, the report said.

According to authorities, as it took some time in preparing the documents for repatriation of Gopinathan's body, it would now be flown to India tonight and likely to reach his native place Parippally village tomorrow.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
More insurance are expected to hit the capital markets next year after successful IPOs of five insurers, including two state-owned companies, which collectively raked in about Rs 45,000 crore.

Besides the spate of IPOs, 2018 will also witness some consolidation in the insurance space although the merger of Max Life and Max Financial Services with HDFC Standard Life Insurance could not go through.

However, there are other deals that are in the works which may fructify next year.

In the recent past, the insurance sector has seen some consolidation and the action is expected to continue going forward, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company CEO Tapan Singhel told PTI.

The insurance is witnessing growth and is projected to have great times in the years to come. This offers immense scope for consolidation as some promoters may look at exiting non-core businesses and existing large insurers desire to achieve scale and bring in better synergies to pass on the cost efficiencies to customers and shareholders, he said.

With regard to fundraising, ICICI Lombard was the first to hit the capital market this year and raised Rs 5,700 crore from the primary market.

Incidentally, the IPO chart in this fiscal was topped by insurance firm GIC Re that garnered over Rs 11,176 crore.

This was the largest public float by any firm after the October 2010 offer by Coal India which raised Rs 15,000 crore.

GIC is followed by New India Assurance Company that raised Rs 9,467 crore, HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company (Rs 8,695 crore), SBI Life Insurance Company (Rs 8,386 crore) and ICICI Lombard General Insurance (Rs 5,700 crore).

Going forward, other state-owned general insurance -- National Insurance Company, Oriental Insurance Co and United India Insurance Co -- are gearing up for listing.

The year also witnessed the entry of new players like Acko General Insurance Company, DHFL General Insurance, Edelweiss General Insurance Company Limited and Go Digit General Insurance.

With this, there are now 9 re-insurance companies, 24 life insurers and 33 general insurers, including 6 standalone health insurance companies, in India.

The insurance sector is growing at a rapid pace, particularly the health insurance segment, said Apollo Munich Health Insurance CEO Antony Jacob.

"Technology-led disruptive ideas are changing the face of business and the category per se is booming with new products being launched and the distribution network being expanded. This trend will continue and insurers will focus on tech-driven ideas," Jacob said.

Though demonetisation and GST have disrupted the business and economic growth in the short run, the growth momentum will return after economy stabilises, he said.

"As the sector grows, new entrants would come in with new products. This will further make the market competitive," he added.

Two major developments that are expected are norms for the usage of telematics in the in determining the premium pricing; and amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act.

"We expect the Motor Vehicles Act to be passed in the coming year, which will have crucial implications on the insurance .

"We would also expect the government to consider providing tax incentives on schemes such as home insurance to attract more Indians to avail this financial protection," Singhel said.

As far as the regulatory landscape is concerned, IRDAI issued new guidelines on outsourcing activities by insurers by clearly defining the areas of work that should be done in- house and those which can be handed out to third-parties.

The regulator said the norms are aimed at ensuring that insurers follow prudent practises on management of risks arising out of outsourcing so as to prevent negative systemic impact on one hand and protect the interests of the policyholders on the other.

The move will also ensure sound and responsive management practises for effective oversight and adequate due diligence while outsourcing by insurers, it added.

It also proposed changes in the 16-year old regulations regarding Appointed Actuaries by modifying the framework for their appointment and functions.

"Based on the experience gained, since the last amendment effected in the year 2013, the Authority felt that there is a need to amend the IRDA (Appointed Actuary), Regulations, 2000," it said.

Appointed Actuaries (AAs) are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining solvency position of the company. There are other functions such as new product approval which need inputs and certification from Appointed Actuaries.
The Iranian government warned people against further protests today after two days of demonstrations sparked by anger over an array of economic problems.

"We urge all those who receive these calls to protest not to participate in these illegal gatherings as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," said Interior Minister Abdolrahman Rahmani Fazli.

State channel IRINN said it had been banned from covering the protests that spread from second city Mashhad on Thursday to hit several towns and cities.

The protests initially targeted economic problems, but quickly turned against the Islamic regime as a whole.

US President Donald Trump warned "the world is watching" after dozens of demonstrators were arrested.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi dismissed Trump's comments as "irrelevant" and "opportunistic".

Media coverage inside Iran focused almost exclusively on pro-regime rallies held on Saturday to mark the defeat of the last major protest movement in 2009, which hardliners call "the sedition".

The timing was coincidental, since the rallies are held every year on this day, but offered a handy show of strength to the regime as huge crowds of black-clad supporters gathered across the country.

"The enemy wants once again to create a new plot and use social media and economic issues to foment a new sedition," Ayatollah Mohsen Araki told a crowd in Tehran, according to the conservative Fars agency.

Video footage on social media showed hundreds marching through the holy city of Qom on Friday evening, with people chanting "Death to the dictator" and "Free political prisoners".

There were even chants in favour of the monarchy toppled by the Islamic revolution of 1979, while others criticised the regime for supporting the Palestinians and other regional movements rather than focusing on problems at home.

Footage showed thousands gathered in the cities of Rasht, Hamedan, Kermanshah, Qazvin and elsewhere, with police responding with water cannons.

Officials were quick to blame outside forces for the unrest.

"Although people have a right to protest, protesters must know how they are being directed," Massoumeh Ebtekar, vice president in charge of women's affairs, wrote on Twitter.

She posted images from Twitter accounts based in the United States and Saudi Arabia, voicing support for the Mashhad protests.

Nonetheless, officials warned against dismissing the public anger seen in recent days.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, who has been sulking since the announcement of portfolios in the new BJP government in the state, on Saturday said the issue was about his "self-respect".

Patidar leaders Hardik Patel and Lalji Patel have declared support for Patel. Lalji Patel has also announced a bandh in Mehsana on January 1 and demanded that Patel be made the chief minister.

Patel, who is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him, said he expected a proper response from the BJP high-command to his "feelings".

"I have conveyed my feelings to the party high-command and I am hopeful that they will give a proper reply to my feelings soon," he told reporters.

"This is not about some departments, this is about self- respect," he added.

The portfolios in the new BJP government, headed by Vijay Rupani, were allotted two days ago.

Patel, who handled important departments such as finance and urban development in the previous government, was allotted road and building, health, medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital projects this time.

The deputy chief minister, who belongs to the influential Patidar community, has not taken charge of these departments so far, while his supporters on Saturday thronged his residence here to express solidarity with him.

The finance portfolio has been alloted to Saurabh Patel, while chief minister Rupani has kept the urban development department with himself.

Narottam Patel, who was a minister in the Narendra Modi-led Gujarat government, said Patel should be given portfolios "as per his stature".

"Nitin bhai is not an ordinary minister," he added.

Earlier in the day, Rupani skirted reporters' questions on the issue.

While announcing the portfolios, Rupani had said, "It is not true that the minister, who has the finance portfolio, is the number two in the cabinet. is our senior leader and will remain the number two."



Patidar quota agitation spearhead Hardik Patel said he would extend support to Patel. Talking to reporters, he said, "As a veteran politician, Nitin bhai has worked hard for 27 years to ensure that the BJP stays in power. The (Patel) community members need to understand that such politicians are being sidelined (in the BJP)."



If Patel decided to quit the BJP and said 10 other MLAs were ready to quit with him, "We will talk to the Congress to take in Nitin bhai and give him a post he deserves," the Patidar leader said.

Senior Congress MLA Virji Thummar said Patel would be made the chief minister with the Congress' support if he quit the BJP. The opposition party, however, clarified that Thummar was speaking in his personal capacity and described the row over portfolio distribution as the BJP's "internal matter".

"It is the BJP's policy to disregard its senior leaders and sideline them once it finds them to be of no use. This has especially been the case with Patidar leaders like Keshubhai Patel, Anandiben Patel, Gordhan Zadaphia among others," state Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said.

Lalji Patel, whose Sardar Patel Group was at the forefront of the Patidar quota agitation, along with the Hardik Patel-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, met in Gandhinagar.

He called for a bandh in Mehsana -- Nitin Patel's Assembly constituency and a place which was the epicentre of the Patel quota agitation -- on January 1.

With 99 MLAs, the BJP has a simple majority in the 182- member Gujarat Assembly, against the 77 MLAs of the Congress.
A day after 14 lives were lost in a devastating blaze at a Mumbai pub, police on Saturday issued lookout notices against its two co-owners, while the civic body directed officials to ensure that safety norms are followed in restaurants and bars, thronged by people on New Year's Eve.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has cracked down on eateries and started razing unauthorised construction.

The fire brigade is trying to confirm whether flames from a fire stunt by a bartender, burning coal used for hookah, short circuit or anything else led to the fire.

According to a senior police official, lookout notices were today issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owner of '1 Above' pub, which is run by C Grade Hospitality.

The police said they were in the process of issuing lookout notices against other accused as well.

Yesterday, the police had booked the Sanghvi brothers, another co-owner Abhijeet Manka and others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others).

However, the pub had yesterday claimed that it had all the necessary approvals and safety norms in place. It had also blamed Mojo's Bistro on the floor below for not having an emergency exit, leading to overcrowding of '1 Above's' escape avenues.

Blaming an adjoining property for the devastating fire, the '1 Above' management had said, "According to our staff, a fire began to emanate from the adjacent quarters to our premises." However, it did not name the property from where the fire started.

The massive fire that swept through the pub left 14 people dead and 21 injured. Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday.

Civic chief Ajoy Mehta, in a message to all BMC assistant municipal commissioners and deputy commissioners, said all zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers are requested to form teams comprising staff of building and factory departments, medical health officer and fire department.

The teams will inspect all the restaurants in their respective wards and ensure that they are compliant to fire safety norms, the message stated.

The premises should have fire escape routes, staircases and ensure open spaces are encroachment free, it said.

The Mumbai civic body had yesterday suspended five officials, including those attached to the G-South ward for dereliction of duty.

There are allegations that civic authorities turned a blind eye to construction irregularities and violation of fire safety norms in the compound.

Mumbai mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar had said an inquiry had been ordered and strict action would be taken against errant officials.

The civic administration has taken action against at least five eateries and restaurants following the fire.

A BMC official confirmed that they have pulled down illegal roofs of two restaurants-'Skyview Caf' and 'Social' in Kamala Mills and encroachments of 'Pranay', 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same locality.

An action was also taken against some restaurants in Andheri, the official said.

"We have formed several teams and are collecting information about the hotels and restaurants, after getting complaints of unauthorised constructions by them. Several ward officers are also carrying out inspection and razing illegal structures," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

A fire brigade official said they are trying to ascertain what exactly led to the fire.

"We are probing if the flames during a fire stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out if burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy," the official said.

He said the department is taking into consideration all other possibilities, including that of short circuit, the might have led to the fire, before coming to a conclusion.

Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena, which is at the helm of affairs in the BMC, in its mouthpiece 'Saamana' today lamented the "lethargic attitude" of administrations across the world towards the issue of fire safety, as it mentioned the incidents of blaze at Mecca and London.

The party admitted that incidents of fire in Mumbai have gone up in the last two years.

The blaze at '1 Above' in the early hours of Friday brought back memories of the fire that broke out in City Kinara restaurant in Kurla in October 2015, in which eight people had lost their lives.

As the blaze ravaged the pub, some escaped to safety, others found their way blocked by fire and suffocating smoke. Many panicked patrons took shelter in a toilet, where they were suffocated to death.

The same central Mumbai area -- a former textile mill district now dotted by swanky glass-and-concrete towers -- had witnessed the death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway bridge on September 29 this year.
A day after a massive fire in a central Mumbai rooftop pub claimed 14 lives, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said it was a "wake-up call" for Delhi and called for "zero tolerance" towards those flouting fire and safety norms in the national capital.

The housing and urban affairs minister said rampant construction and flouting of fire and safety norms was turning Delhi into tinderbox.

"Anguished & angry at apathy that caused Mumbai tragedy. Heart goes out to bereaved families. A wake up call for Delhi. Rampant construction & flouting of fire & safety norms turning city into tinderbox. There should be Zero tolerance for individuals & cartels who allow this," he tweeted.

A massive fire swept through a plush rooftop pub in downtown Mumbai during a birthday bash before swiftly raging through the building, leaving 14 people dead and 21 injured.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at "1 Above" pub in upscale Parels Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

While some escaped to safety, for others, the way was blocked by fire and smoke.

Many panicked patrons locked themselves up in the washroom of the restaurant to escape the blaze. Most of the victims, including 11 women, died due to suffocation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Widow of a Kargil martyr died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat after the medical staff allegedly refused to admit her for not carrying her Aadhaar card, forcing the state government to order an inquiry into the matter today.

Talking to media at Ambala, Health Minister Anil Vij said a team of health department has been sent to Sonipat to collect the details of the incident.

"Shakuntala Devi (55), widow of Kargil war martyr Havaldar Laxman Dass, died on Thursday for want of medical care at a private hospital as it insisted on having the patient's Aadhaar card," her son Pawan Kumar Balyan told PTI over phone.

Balyan, a resident of Mahlana village in Sonipat, said his mother was suffering from a heart problem.

"I took her to the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Hospital in Sonipat and got the referral slip for Tulip Hospital on Thursday," he said.

"At the counter of the hospital, the authorities asked me to give the Aadhaar card of my ailing mother so that she could be admitted for treatment. I told them that I have forgotten it and will get it soon from my home, and requested them to start the treatment. But, the hospital authorities insisted on providing the Aadhaar card," Balyan said.

"After about half-an-hour of argument with the hospital authorities, I decided to leave the place with my mother," he said, adding that the hospital authorities also called up police who asked me not to create a scene in the hospital premises.

"I brought back my mother to ECHS Sonipat where she died the same evening," Balyan said.

"I have given a written complaint about the matter to ECHS authorities who visited my house from Ambala," he said.

Meanwhile, Abhimanyu Kumar of Tulip Multispeciality Hospital, Sonipat, said they insist on Aadhaar cards, but denied the allegations that they were not ready to admit Devi.

"We wanted to treat the woman, but her family members decided to take her away," he said.

Policeman Srikrishan, who was at the spot when the incident took place, said the hospital authorities had requested Balyan to get the ailing woman admitted.

"Balyan seemed upset by the attitude shown to him by the hospital staff and preferred to leave with his mother," he said.

Shakuntala Devi was the wife of Havaldar Laxman Dass who was posted with the 8th Jat Regiment in Muskoh valley near Kargil. He died of bullet injuries during a gun battle with intruders on June 9, 1999.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Armed miscreants looted around Rs 12 lakh from a bank in Bihar's Gopalganj district today, police said.

Station house officer (SHO) of Kuchaikot police station, Awadhesh Kumar said eight armed miscreants barged into Sasamusa bazar branch of Punjab National Bank and looted around Rs 12 lakh kept in bank's chest at gun point and decamped with the money.

Prima facie, it seems that miscreants have looted around Rs 12 lakh from bank's chest but the exact amount of loot could be known only after the proper counting of currency is completed, he said.

On the basis of CCTV footage, police have identified the involvement of three persons in the loot incident and efforts are on to nab them, police sources said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Two sons of Nagpur BJP leader Munna Yadav today surrendered before the Dhantoli police station after being untraceable since October.

Police aaid that Karan (22) and Arjun (19), along with their father, were wanted in a case registered in October after they allegedly attacked and seriously injured their relatives following a dispute over bursting crackers in their locality.

Police Sub-Inspector Anantrao Wadatkar of Dhantoli police station said that Karan and Arjun surrendered today afternoon and the Sessions Court here sent them to police custody for three days.

The two have been booked under relevant sections of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code, police added.

Munna Yadav is still untraceable in the case and his disappearance and the alleged inability of the police to nab him was raised by the Opposition in the winter session of the Maharashtra Assembly held in Nagpur in December.

Munna Yadav is currently the chairman of the Maharashtra Construction Workers' Welfare Board.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Syrian authorities unearthed 115 bodies from a mass grave discovered in Syria's northern province of Raqqa, state news agency SANA reported.

Syrian forces excavate a site, said to be a mass grave by state news agency SANA, west of Raqa province, on December 29, 2017. [Photo: VCG]

The bodies are of civilians and soldiers killed by the Islamic State (IS) militants, who had been controlling the city before their downfall late this year.

SANA said the IS killed those people in mid-2014 near the town of Dibsi Afnan in the southern countryside of Raqqa and left their bodies out in the open before the locals buried them overnight.

Another mass grave was also discovered, SANA said, adding that work is underway to dig out all the bodies.

Syrian forces excavate a site, said to be a mass grave by state news agency SANA, west of Raqa province, on December 29, 2017. [Photo: VCG]

The Syrian army captured Dibsi Afnan and other areas in July, before the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) captured the capital city of Raqqa in October.

The IS lost all its strongholds in the eastern province of Deir al-Zour and witnessed a near collapse in 2017.

The Syrian authorities are inspecting the areas once controlled by the IS to unveil more atrocities committed by the terrorist group.
Senior IAS officer N C Goel was today appointed the new Chief Secretary of Rajasthan, a government release said.

Goel, a 1982-batch IAS officer, earlier held the charge of Additional Chief Secretary of Forest and Environment, Tourism, Art and Culture Department, Mines and Petroleum departments, it added.

Goel hails from Haryana and has held top posts, including the CMD of Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation Ltd, Rajasthan. He was also the District Collector and Magistrate of Alwar and Jaisalmer between 1990 and 1993.

He replaces Ashok Jain, who completed six months on the post, the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Srikanth Rao, professor, department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, will take over as the new director of Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) from January 1.

He takes over from K Gopalakrishna Prabhu, who has been made president of Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), a press release here said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The mother of a woman whose gang-rape in a moving bus and subsequent death in 2012 triggered a nationwide outrage has alleged that the Nirbhaya Fund set up in her daughter's name was not being used for security and empowerment of women.

"The Nirbhaya Fund should have been used for women security and empowerment but it is being for works like road construction," Asha Devi said at a programme in her village Maderwa Kala to mark the conclusion of the Nirbhaya Jyoti Yatra which had started from Lucknow.

"The fund needs to be used in setting up schools and hospitals," she stressed.

She also said her pleas for an appointment with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the past two months had proved futile.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The censor board has decided to give Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Padmavati" a UA certificate without any cuts but has suggested that the director change the film's title to "Padmavat" besides making four other modifications.

There were reports doing the rounds that the board had suggested 26 cuts to the film, but in a statement, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi clarified that they have only advised five modifications, including the title change, but "no cuts".

The board has also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of "Sati" and also relevant changes in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed, he said.

Joshi added that the producers and the director of the film are "completely in agreement" with the proposed modifications.

The board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 and decided to give the film a "UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title on the basis the attributed material/creative source".

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, had said his lavishly-mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem "Padmavat" by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

Besides Joshi, the meeting was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other censor board officials.

Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the CBFC appointed a "special panel to add perspective to the final decision of the censor board's official committee".

The special panel included Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Chandramani Singh and professor K K Singh of the Jaipur University.

Joshi said, the filmmakers, Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to CBFC, had also requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community view the film.

He said that this was not the first instance that a special panel was appointed for the certification process as a similar practice was followed while certifying "Jodhaa Akbar" and "Aarkashan".

"This was an unprecedented and tough situation. I am glad that following a balanced approach we resolved the task at hand in a pragmatic and positive manner," Joshi said on CBFC's decision to give the film a UA certificate.

The certificate as per the procedure will be issued once the required modifications are carried out and final material is submitted.

Reacting to the development, founder-patron of Rajput Karni Sena Lokendra Singh Kalvi said a lot of clarifications are yet to come on the issues and it will be too early to comment.

He, however, said his stand is "very clear, which is known to everyone".

President of Rajput Sabha Giriraj Singh Lotwara said that it was unfortunate that the board wants to favour the film producers instead of considering recommendations of the panel that reviewed the film.

He said that he will continue to protest against "Padmavati" in democratic manner.

The film's final 3D application was submitted on November 28, the CBFC said.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorts history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

Historians are divided on whether Padmini actually existed.

As protests spread across various states, the film's December 1 release was deferred as it didn't have censor clearance.
India has strongly conveyed to Palestine that the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, also a UN-designated terrorist, is "unacceptable", the External Affairs Ministry said today.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," the ministry said in a release.

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at this event.

"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine side, it said.

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali reportedly attended a rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed Saeed, also Mumbai terror attack mastermind.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said today.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy told PTI that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

Ali reportedly attended the rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday following which India issued a strong demarche on the matter.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan headed by Saeed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India today issued a strong demarche to Palestine on the issue of presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, terming it as "unacceptable".

India's Secretary (economic relations) Vijay Gokhale in the external affairs ministry called Palestinian ambassador here Adnan Abu Al Haija to the South Block after which the ministry said, "the concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."



"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the ministry said in a release.

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at this event.

"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine envoy, who informed India that his government had decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali.

Talking to PTI after his meeting, Haija said Ali has been recalled for attending the rally organised by Saeed.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not its envoy to Pakistan anymore," Haija said.

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Ali reportedly attended the Difah-e-Pakistan Council- organised rally in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Saeed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Palestinian Authority today described as "unintended mistake", but "not justified" the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event also attended by Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and decided to recall him immediately.

India today issued a strong demarche to Palestine after its Ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, was seen sharing stage with JuD chief Saeed during an event in Rawalpindi organised to express solidarity with Jerusalem.

"On the basis of the principled and firm Palestinian position, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates considered the participation of our Ambassador in Pakistan in a mass rally in solidarity with Jerusalem, held in Rawalpindi on Friday and in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified," a statement from the Palestinian Authority (PA) said.

"Accordingly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, under the direct instructions of the President of the State of Palestine, decided to recall the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan immediately," it said.

The statement from the PA described Palestine as a "real partner" of India in its war against terrorism and also expressed its appreciation for New Delhi's vote in favour of the resolution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the issue of Jerusalem.

The statement quoted the Spokesman of the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates stressing on the "commitment of the State of Palestine and its keenness to maintain strong and friendly relations with the Republic of India, as well as its support to the efforts made by the Republic of India in its war against terrorism".

"In that regard the State of Palestine affirms its stand with the Republic of India in dealing with its terrorist threats, as our nations are real partners in the war against terrorism," it said.

India's vote in favour of a UNGA resolution that made US President Donald Trump's unilateral announcement declaring Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel "null and void" was also appreciated by the PA in its announcement.

"The State of Palestine highly appreciates Indias support in its tireless efforts to end the Israeli occupation and the establishment of an independent State of Palestine on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital and this is especially seen in the honourable position that India has taken by voting in favour of the resolution in the United Nation General Assembly last week," it further added.

The External Affairs Ministry (MEA) had earlier today condemned the act by the Palestinian Ambassador in strong words and called it "unacceptable".

"The government has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassadors association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 29 is unacceptable," the MEA said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In the wake of a massive fire in a central Mumbai rooftop pub, the Delhi Police has asked managers and owners of restaurants in the city to be extra cautious to prevent any such incident here on New Year's eve.

"We have asked managers and owners of restaurants to ensure that such an incident does not happen here. We have also requested the Delhi Fire Services to deploy extra fire tenders," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) BK Singh.

A massive fire swept through a plush rooftop pub in downtown Mumbai during a birthday bash before swiftly raging through the building, leaving 14 people dead and 21 injured.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at "1 Above" pub in upscale Parels Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

The Delhi Police said the inner, middle and outer circles of Connaught Place will be closed for vehicular movement.

The DCP said only bonafide residents will be allowed to enter Connaught Place.

People having valid parking tickets and restaurant passes will be allowed to enter the area like we do every year, he added.

Singh said there will be "comprehensive police arrangement" as more than a lakh people throng Connaught Place on December 31.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Mumbai civic administration has cracked down on restaurants and started razing unauthorised constructions, in the wake of a fire at a rooftop pub in central Mumbai's Lower Parel which snuffed out 14 lives.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) took action against at least five eateries and restaurants following yesterday's fire at Kamala Mills compound.

A BMC official confirmed that they have pulled down "illegal roofs" of two restaurants-'Skyview Caf' and 'Social' in Kamala Mills and encroachments of 'Pranay' and 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same locality.

Action was also taken against some restaurants in Andheri, the official said.

"We have already formed several teams and are collecting information about the hotels and restaurants, after getting complaints of unauthorised constructions by them. Several ward officers are also carrying out inspection and razing such illegal structures," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

The inferno at '1 Above' rooftop pub in Lower Parel in the early hours of Friday brought back memories of the fire that broke out in City Kinara restaurant in Kurla in October, 2015 in which eight people were killed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Do you know what your city council is up to? Wisconsin law says its your right to know  but that right may be going away. Under Assembly Bill 70, school boards, city councils, village boards and county boards would no longer be required to print a summary of their actions in your local newspaper and on the statewide public notice website, www.WisconsinPublicNotices.org. The Assembly is scheduled to vote on AB70 on Jan. 16, 2018. Please call your state Representative now and tell them you want your local governments business to remain in your local newspaper and on the statewide public notice website, www.WisconsinPublicNotices.org.
Authorities in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir convened a public meeting near the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector to address issues faced by locals, in the wake of repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

Over 300 people from six panchayats participated in the public meeting at border village Meenka yesterday and presented their demands related to development issues and safety measures like construction of underground community bunkers, an official spokesman said today.

District Development Commissioner (DDC), Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary chaired the meeting which, among others, was attended by senior civil and Army officers, the spokesman said.

Choudhary directed sub-divisional magistrate Sunderbani for finalisation of location for at least 100 bunkers in consultation with elected representatives, locals and Army officials, the official added.

He said issues such as installation of transformers, provision of additional staff in schools, road connectivity, operationalisation of Beripattan tehsil, drinking water supply and opening of new sub-centres came up for discussion during the meeting.

He also issued directions for time-bound construction of seed-stores, water supply lines, bringing more villages under irrigation network during current financial year, provision of pension for widows and old age applicants and several other developmental measures.

Assuring time-bound redressal of issues, the DDC also directed the Block Development Officer for construction of a Park at Mahadev temple and bridge for connectivity in Meenka village.

Responding to a number of queries related to development demands -- particularly construction of roads, culverts and bridges, the DDC informed the people that a host of issues were taken up during the recent visit of the chief minister by locals as well as legislators and all the urgent demands have been accordingly taken up.

People from various panchayats appreciated the outreach programme started by district administration for addressing public grievances and providing various services at doorsteps, the spokesman said.

He added that Army officers, including Colonel Avishek Mukherji,discussed the issues related to ex-servicemen and border residents on the occasion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Russian President Vladimir Putin called for "pragmatic cooperation" in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said today.

In a statement on the Russian president's New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that "a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world".

According to the statement, Putin said that "mutual respect" should be "a base to develop relations" between the two countries.

"This would allow us to move towards building pragmatic cooperation, orientated on the long term," the statement quoted Putin as saying.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russia's Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin "expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year".

The statement added that Putin told Assad "Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity".

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assad's military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Telangana prisons department today said anyone giving information about beggars on city streets will be given a reward of Rs 500.

The prisons department has launched an initiative to rehabilitate the beggars in the city.

"Rs 500 for giving any information about their location anywhere in Hyderabad," said V K Singh, Director General of Prisons.

The information should be provided to the control room of the prisons department, he said.

The department is providing beggars shelter, food, counselling and employment skills training.

"If they are sick, we are getting them hospitalised and taking care of them. This is a comprehensive package," he said.

If they are fit, the beggars are given employment in the prison industries like furniture-making, he said.

The department picked up 741 male beggars and around 300 female beggars this year, Singh said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov today accused the United States of violating a key arms treaty by selling a missile defence system to Japan.

"The US is deploying them (missile defence systems) at their military bases in Romania and Poland, that is near our western borders, which goes against the 1987 INF Treaty banning the deployment of such systems on the ground," Ryabkov said in a statement published on the Russian Foreign Ministry website.

"The fact that such complexes could now appear on Russia's eastern borders creates a situation that we cannot ignore in our military planning," said Ryabkov.

On Thursday, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the deployment of the US missile defence system would have a negative impact on relations between Tokyo and Moscow.

"We consider the step made by the Japanese side as going against efforts of ensuring peace and stability in the region," Zakharova said, adding that Moscow has "deep regret and serious concern" over the move.

On December 19, the Japanese government approved the installation of two land-based US-made Aegis Ashore missile defence systems to defend the country against North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats.

Japan plans to increase its budget defence for the next fiscal year to strengthen its missile defence against the threat posed by its neighbour.

Earlier this month Japan's defence minister, Itsunori Onodera, said the country plans to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles) from US firms.

The move is controversial as Japan's pacifist constitution bans the use of force as a means of settling international disputes.

After North Korea launched a missile over Japan's Hokkaido island in September, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he would "never tolerate" North Korea's "dangerous provocative action" and has urged the international community to ramp up pressure on Pyongyang.

North Korea has threatened to "sink" Japan into the sea.

Global anxiety about North Korea has steadily risen this year, with Washington calling on other UN members to cut ties with Pyongyang in order to squeeze the secretive regime.

The call, however, has fallen short of persuading key North Korea backers China and Russia to take steps to isolate the regime.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
As the city geared up to celebrate the New Year's eve tomorrow, Kolkata Police authorities undertook elaborate security measures to prevent any mishap or harassment of women.

Fire Brigade personnel were also keeping close tabs on the pubs in the city in the backdrop of yesterday's Mumbai blaze which claimed 14 lives.

The police would ensure that no narcotic substances are used in pubs and eateries during new year parties, a Kolkata Police official said today.

"Over one thousand police personnel, including hundreds of policewomen, will mingle among the crowd at Park Street which is expected to witness the largest turnout at midnight and keep vigil on the movement of crowd," the official said.

Any misbehaviour with women will invite strict action, he said



Park Street, the Christmas-New Year celebration spot since the British rule, also houses a number of popular eateries and pubs.

While watch towers have been erected at Park Street and at some other major spots, a Quick Response Team would be kept ready to avert any eventuality, he said adding that CCTV and drones will also keep the crowd under watch.

A Fire Brigade official said, in the wake of the fire in a rooftop pub in Mumbai, officials are checking if pubs, bars and restaurants, especially those expected to attract large turnouts during the celebrations, have adhered to fire safety rules.

"We will take appropriate action if standard fire safety rules are flouted in any place," the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union minister Jitendra Singh today downplayed the separatists' boycott call for the upcoming panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir, saying they have never gone through the test of ballot and stand exposed for their duplicity.

The Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office also said the nation had approved the 'policy shift' of giving befitting response to Pakistan for ceasefire violations.

Talking to reporters before a meeting of the state BJP here, he said, "The entire country should now realise that the separatists already stand exposed. The duplicity that they have exercised to put forward their political agenda, which is separatism by convenience and not by conviction, stand exposed particularly before the youth of Kashmir."



He was responding to a question on the boycott call given by the separatist camp for the panchayat polls scheduled to start in February next year.

On December 28, separatists appealed people to boycott the panchayat polls, saying the central and state governments have been using such elections to hoodwink international community.

Separatists Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik said boycotting these elections will deliver a message that Kashmiris will accept nothing less than freedom and right to self-determination.

"By calling for a boycott of the polls, the separatists are only betraying their own insecurity and the lack of public support they are themselves now tactically acknowledging," Singh said today.

On the reports of the army crossing into Pakistan- occupied Kashmir and neutralising a Border Action Team of the enemy, he said, "Unlike what was happening in the earlier decades, this is first time in the last 3-4 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that there is a befitting response to each mischief of Pakistan."



He added, "The entire nation has approved of this kind of approach and it is also being appreciated by the people of border areas whose morale is very high."



On December 23, an army major and three jawans were killed when Pakistani troops violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of the Jammu region. Two days later, three Pakistani soldiers were killed in retaliatory action by Indian troops.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Upbeat about the domestic steel industry witnessing a revival in 2017 after a gloomy spell, the steel ministry hopes that PSUs operating in the sector to fare better in 2018 and be on par with private counterparts.

"So, PSUs will be functioning if not on par but near par with the private sector in the calendar year of 2018," Steel Secretary Aruna Sharma told PTI in an interview.

Ecstatic about the national steel and public procurement policies have taken off very well, the secretary said the sector has got a fillip and there is an optimism in the market.

The Cabinet, in May, approved National Steel Policy 2017 that envisages Rs 10 lakh crore investment to take capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030-31 to give a boost to the sector.

The government in the same month also approved a public procurement policy to give preference to domestically manufactured goods with a view to promoting Make in India initiative.

"We are happy with 2017 because the two things which the ministry was working on i.e. the steel policy and procurement preference policy, have taken off very very well and there are very positive signs about it. The sector has got the boost. The figure itself speaks up themselves that the sector has revived," Sharma explained.

Stating that the companies operating in the steel sector were considering expanding their capacities, she said in the year ahead, the government expected some of the firms to be grounded.

"All the players in the sector are thinking of expansion in there business and expansion in their capacities, which is also a positive sign. And in the coming year, we expect some of them to be grounded so that in the coming two-three years that capacity is added to our sector," the secretary said.

Sharma also expressed hope that the steel production capacity will be much higher in the next financial year from the present 126 million tonnes (MT).

"So, let's see how we are moving. But, we seem to be progressing quite well till the December figures," the secretary said.

During the year she said the strategy of the government to lay emphasis on the secondary sector has worked well.

"The secondary sector has taken off...And one positive sign of demonetisation, I will say, has been in the steel sector where the secondary market was known as the cash market they have switched over a to...near cashless market," Sharma stressed.

Stating that the government's Make in India initiative has come out very strongly, she said that the government's preferential procurement definitely has given a fillip and more and more orders are likely in the days ahead with the infrastructure development.

"They are hopeful of getting more and more orders as we move in the infrastructure development from all ends whether it is rails or pipes or for bridge or for various kinds of steel or automobile, also because India is becoming a big hub of automobile manufacturers," she explained.

The government, Sharma said, wishes to continue with the good work even next year, adding that she expects the PSUs in the steel sector to have much better results in 2018.

"And we expect the PSUs in the calendar year 2018 to have much better results because their realisation of the investments has started this year. Next year, they should trigger off and they should sort of getting much better EBDITA and able to service their loan in a better way and really go- ahead," he expressed exuded confidence.

Mesco Steel CMD Rita Singh is hopeful that in 2018, the steel requirement will go up with increased private and public spending on construction and infrastructure, enhanced domestic demand of steel/TMT bars and prices of steel taking an upswing.

"In 2017, the steel prices and regulatory environment around the sector has impacted the overall sentiment, which has not been very bullish...We see ourselves as a key player in ensuring that mid sized steel companies will continue to fuel the sector and contribute towards the Indian growth story," she stressed.

Accelerating imports at predatory prices from steel surplus countries like China, Japan and Korea have been a major concern area for the domestic industry since September 2014.

The government provided extensive support to the domestic steel industry by way of various trade remedial measures in recent times, such as minimum import prices (MIP), anti- dumping and safeguard measures and quality control.

However, the sector suffered a blow when Essar Steel and Electrosteel Steels came under insolvency proceedings.

Clamping down on bad loans, the RBI has identified 12 firms for insolvency proceedings with each of them having over Rs 5,000 crore of outstanding loans, accounting for 25 per cent of total non-performing assets (NPAs) of banks.

The banking sector is saddled with non-performing assets of over Rs 8 lakh crore, of which Rs 6 lakh crore is with public sector banks.
All police stations in Telangana will have social media accounts in the New Year for communicating with people on a daily basis, a top official said today.

"All police stations will maintain a Facebook page and a Twitter handle to keep communicating with the community and reporting the activities to the respective community on a daily basis," state Director General of Police M Mahender Reddy said.

"We are declaring 2018 as the year of technology and citizen-friendly initiatives for the Telangana police. That means, all police wings in Telangana will implement technology and citizen friendly initiatives in the coming year in a planned way and in a mission-mode," he told reporters here.

The initiatives would be taken to the people and partnerships will be built with them, the top cop added.

He released a document, 'Annual Plan-2018', on what the police is going to do in the next year.

As per the plan, the community CCTV project will be extended to all urban centres and a social media lab would be set up in all the districts based on a feasibility study.

At present, preventive action is initiated to ensure law and order in Hyderabad by monitoring social media, Reddy said.

According to the DGP, a mini command and control centre would be set up in each of the district police headquarters and commissionerates.

The safety and security of women would continue to be a top priority and the 'SHE Teams' (for women safety) would be equipped with modern evidence gathering equipment, Reddy said.

As per the plan, market intelligence unit too will be set up in all the districts to prevent white collar offences and to save the gullible citizens from getting cheated.

Cyber crime police stations will be established in all districts, the DGP said, adding feedback would be taken from citizens on response from police during their interaction.

"Overall percentage increase in crime is about 12.5 per cent (in the last one year). Murder for gain, murder, counterfeit currency, criminal breach of trust, such cases have come down. But, crime increased in other heads," he said.

The number of crimes reported is not the barometer for the safety and security of people, he emphasised.

"Number of crimes reported is not the barometer for the safety and security. It is about the control on the organised crime and criminal gangs, those who impact on the public safety and security," Reddy said.

To a query, he said the state police has been successful in dealing with communal issues as it worked with local people and saw to it that small issues do not grow bigger.

Asked about the status of youth who had reportedly gone to join ISIS in the past, Reddy said the police could bring a lot of change by speaking to concerned persons and their family members.

"It is natural that youth is attracted to any new thing in the society. ISIS-related thing, it peaked once; We could bring lot of transformation in Hyderabad city and related areas, identifying them, (by holding) lot of counselling sessions, completely monitoring social media, speaking to parents, kith and kin, teachers and the person, raising their awareness whenever someone is attracting to it.

"There was none directly who had gone out from our country in the past. We are trying to know locations of those who had gone to these countries from gulf countries after going there for jobs," informed the DGP.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Police today raided a slaughter house in the Bharat Nagar locality here and arrested two persons for alleged possession of bullock meat.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Magar said that the two persons have been charged under Section 5C of the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act which prohibits the possession of "flesh of cow, bull or bullock."



Relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code have also been invoked, the official said.

The two arrested persons have been identified as Rafik Jaffer Quereshi (50) and Shabbaj Bashir Quereshi (23), said the official.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
British police have arrested a fifth man suspected in plotting an extremist attack.

A police spokesman said Saturday a 21-year-old man was arrested late Friday on suspicion of preparing "acts of terrorism." The man was not identified or charged.

Two buildings are being searched in the city of Sheffield, 275 kilometers north of London, following the arrest, police said today.

Four other men were arrested in the Sheffield area on December 19. Two of them have been charged with engaging in the preparation of an act of terrorism.

The two men are both Kurdish Iraqis. They are set to appear in court in January.

Police say one of the men arrested Dec. 19 has been freed while the other remains in custody.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
LA CROSSE  As an avid outdoorsman, hunter and father of two boys, I believe, as do many Americans, that our National Park System and public lands play an important role in strengthening family relationships and traditions.

Sadly, it appears the Trump administration doesnt share this belief. It recently took action to take public lands away from U.S. citizens by shrinking Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments in Utah.

We should all be concerned by the precedent that shrinking Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments sets. What will happen if next the Trump administration decides, without our input, to shrink the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge? The consequences that would have on Wisconsins environment and the economy would be disastrous.

When Teddy Roosevelt expanded the national forests during his presidency, he understood that these parks were ecological treasures that were in danger of being lost for future generations. Some of my best memories come from spending time with my family in the backcountry of a national park, unplugging from technology, sleeping under the stars, and being surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty.

At a time when we are becoming more and more tribal and divided, experiencing our public lands can act as a great equalizer. When you are out exploring, there is no Republican or Democrat  just enjoyment and camaraderie, and we cant afford to lose any of the few remaining places where this is true.

Research shows every dollar invested in national parks generates $10 in economic activity and visitor spending and contributes $29.7 billion to the U.S. economy, ultimately supporting 277,000 private-sector jobs in 2014 alone.

Our national parks and national monuments provide all families an affordable opportunity to experience our countrys most unique and inspiring natural treasures firsthand.

Thats why, as co-chair of the Congressional National Parks Caucus, I have and will continue to fight against the destruction of our national parks and support initiatives that preserve our parks and public lands for future generations.

The natural beauty we have been blessed with in this country is something to preserve and treasure. I hope we can come together to ensure we protect public land for future generations.
A woman was allegedly abducted along with her family members and gang-raped by relatives of another woman who eloped with her son in Uttar Pradesh, police said today.

The incident took place in Nojal village in Shamli district and a case of gang-rape was registered yesterday, Superintendent of Police Ajay Pal Sharma told reporters.

According to the SP, the 26-year-old man allegedly fell in love with a 24-year-old woman, who hailed from a village in Muzaffarnagar, was studying in Ghaziabad.

The man was a resident of Bhopura village in Ghaziabad and he eloped with her on November 20.

As revenge, her family members abducted the man's brother, mother who is in her 40s, father and his brother-in- law on December 19 and confined them in a house in Shamli district.

They were threatened and assaulted by the accused who also gang-raped the mother. On December 25, acting on a tip- off, the police raided the house and rescued them, the official said.

A case of abduction was registered on the same day and the police after investigation registered a case of gang-rape yesterday, the SP said.

The girl's father, his two brothers, including a former village gram pradhan, and his son were booked by the police, he said.

The former gram pradhan was arrested while the other accused are on the run, the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An immersive dance musical themed on Delhi's multi-layered history or an engaging jazz experience at a charming old haveli, heritage lovers here can feast on history as they ring in the New Year this December 31 in their own quaint way.

While 'Ghungroo' offers a dinner theatre experience at the Delhi Parsi Anjuman, the 150-year-old Haveli Dharampura in the walled city has live jazz music. And, of course, the food is being carefully curated to ensure a delectable start to the New Year.

Organisers of 'Ghungroo' are busy making preparations for the last performance of the year, with Kathak dancers perfecting their moves and chefs honing recipes for the grand day.

"On December 31 night, our guests can have a visual feast of the history of Delhi, spanning the last 1,000 years or so, said Ekta Kapur, co-founder, Rudra Experiences.

"The nearly hour-long musical with traditional dance performances and evocative story-telling takes the audience on a roller-coaster ride of a different era, from the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan to the Lodhis and the British Raj, culminating with a story of modern, independent India," said Ekta Kapur, co-founder, Rudra Experiences.

The period setting at the charming venue in Delhi Parsi Anjuman opposite the Feroze Shah Kotla Stadium heightens the heritage ambience.

The capacity of the venue-carefully done up with round pillows and throne-styled seats and mock-up 'jharokhas' on the side walls--is 120 and officials from embassies and foreign tourists are among its visitors.

A digital canvas in the backdrop of the stage, changes in consonance with a narration. But this is just half the ride. After eyes and ears, it is time for the palate experience.

"We close around 11 pm but on New Year's Eve, we are making an exception. We will close by 12:30 am so that guests can feast on an authentic Indian barbecue -- 'Angaaray: Straight from fire', and ring in the new year in style," Kapur told PTI.

An assortment of barbecues for both vegetarians and non- vegetarians awaits guests at 'Angaaray'.

"We have seekh kebab, chicken boti and fish tikka. For veggies, we serve mushroom, paneer and vegetables seekh kebabs.

"Liquor we otherwise serve only on request but for New Year's Eve we have set up a whole bar to serve wine and beer," Kapur said.

And, for desserts we have, among other items, two specialities--black gajar halwa and white gajar halwa, she said.

Kapur, a trained classical dancer herself, said, "India is a country with a rich cultural heritage. We want people to come celebrate it as we bid goodbye to 2017."



Maharaj I S Wahi, co-founder, Rudra Experiences, added that the idea behind the dinner theatre is to give a "unique experience" to people in Delhi.

The tables, with bright red tops, neatly set up in the courtyard of the Anjuman, with an 'angithi' by each table, and desserts displayed on decorated push carts, adds to the charming ambience.

And if a narration of Delhi's history ain't your cup of tea, head to Haveli Dharampura to welcome 2018 with some live jazz music and food to match.

Nestled in a narrow bylane of the Walled City, the three-storeyed haveli in Gali Guliyan, a stone's throw from the historic Jama Masjid, was painstakingly restored over six years and later converted into a heritage hotel.

"The restored haveli is already proving a major draw for travellers and history buffs and architecture lovers. And, this New Year's Eve we have lined up a live jazz performance just for the occasion," said an official of the boutique hotel.

"Our regular show, Kathak performances by artistes on the top balconies, besides the food at 'Lakhori' restaurant is a major attraction. And, as an exception, we will keep our premises open till midnight on December 31 for the revellers to enjoy the occasion and ring in the new year in an old, quaint setting," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
on Saturday said that it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" at its doorstep.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland United States.

The aggressive tests have led to more sanctions and pressure on amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly.

The US and South Korea have maintained that they won't negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile programme.

In its report today, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the United States and its "vassal forces."



The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

KCNA accused President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power."



"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.

"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
MUMBAI (Reuters) - State-run Bank of India, the country's sixth biggest lender by assets, said on Saturday it received 22.57 billion rupees ($353.6 million) from the government, joining other lenders in which the government is injecting funds to shore up their capital base.

Bank of India, which is three-quarters owned by the Indian government, was earlier this month placed under the central bank's prompt corrective action (PCA) framework due to high non-performing loans and insufficient core capital.

Two other state-run lenders - Central Bank of India and Dena Bank - also said on Saturday the Indian government would be injecting 3.23 billion rupees and 2.43 billion rupees into them, respectively.

IDBI Bank is getting 27.29 billion rupees from the government in the latest round, the lender told stock exchanges late on Friday. The government is also injecting funds into UCO Bank and Bank of Maharashtra.[http://bit.ly/2DAbnae]

The measures are part of a bid by the government to tackle a major drag on the economy that has frustrated attempts to boost growth.

($1 = 63.8300 Indian rupees)

(Reporting by Promit Mukherjee; Editing by Andrew Bolton)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Concerns were raised over progress of Modi government's ambitious Smart City Mission after government data pointed out severe under-utilisation of alloted funds under the scheme. Only seven per cent of Rs 9,860 crore, amounting to Rs 645 crore, released to 60 cities under the urban overhauling project has been utilised so far.

Of the Rs 196 crore released to each of around 40 cities, Ahmedabad has spent the maximum amount of Rs 80.15 crore, followed by Indore (Rs 70.69 crore), Surat (Rs 43.41 crore) and Bhopal (Rs 42.86 crore), according to data of the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry.

On the other hand, the data revealed that of the sanctioned funds, Andaman and Nicobar could utilise only Rs 54 lakh, Ranchi 35 lakh, and Aurangabad Rs 85 lakh.

A HUA official recently said the ministry was concerned about the "unsatisfactory" progress of the project in some of the cities. He had said that the ministry would approach the cities that are lagging behind to find out the "bottlenecks" with an aim for speedy implementation of the projects.

Among cities which got around Rs 111 crore each from the Centre, Vodadara has spent Rs 20.62 crore, Namchi in Sikkim spent Rs 6.80 crore, while Salem, Vellore and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu could utilise only Rs five lakh, Rs six lakh and Rs 19 lakh, respectively.

Ninety cities have so far been selected by the government under the smart city mission and each of them will get Rs 500 crore as central assistance for implementing various projects. The cities are required to set up Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to get funds from the Centre for the implementation of the project.

In a review meeting recently, the official said cities in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were found to be "performing well", while those in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra needed to speed up the implementation process.

Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of State (independent charge) for Housing and Urban Affairs, had earlier this month said the impact of projects undertaken under the scheme would be visible by mid next year.

To instill competition among cities and push them for faster implementation of projects, the Centre will also present 'Smart City awards' in June next year to well performing cities.

Reviewing the progress of the Smart City Mission on August 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the challenge before everyone was to ensure implementation and expeditious completion of the work in the 90 identified cities.
Sensex scaled new heights in the year 2017 and touched an all time high of 34000. The markets rallied due to surge in liquidity and ample buying by FPIs and DIIs. Almost all sectoral indices of the BSE gained. Out of the 20 BSE sector indices, 19 have gained and 1 remain unchanged between 2 Jan 2017 and 27 Dec 2017. BSE Consumer Durables gained the most and is likely to close the year by over 96 per cent returns. Let us look at the stocks of the BSE Consumer Durables Index that gave the highest returns in 2017:

VIP Industries: Engaged in the manufacture of luggages, the company's product range includes trolleys, rucksacks, backpacks, duffel bags, laptop bags, travel accessories, short haul essentials, soft uprights, vanity cases, hard suitcases, briefcases and uprights. In Q2FY18, the company's sales growth and operating margins improved due to increased luggage penetration in the country. Moreover, substantial reduction in interest and depreciation costs helped the bottom line that grew by 27.4 per cent in Q2FY18. Country's economic expansion with improvement in purchasing power, increasing leisure, business related travel and desire to use branded luggage will drive the company's growth in future. The stock outperformed the BSE consumer durables index by over 2 times in 2017. Between 2 Jan 2017 and 27 Dec 2017, the stock delivered 194.8 per cent returns compared to BSE consumer durables that delivered 96.9 per cent.

Titan Company: The company is a joint venture between the TATA Group and the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation and commenced operations in 1984. It serves in the lifestyle space with presence across India and in 32 countries around the world. Its business segments include jewellery, accessories, and eyewear. In the recent years, the company has explored the fragrances market and is experimenting with Indian ethnic wear by introducing branded sarees. In Sep'17 quarter, the sales revenue and net profit grew by 28 per cent and 67 per cent respectively. Growth was mainly driven by the robust performance of jewellery, which rose 36.9 per cent YoY. Watches and eyewear segments grew by 9 per cent and 3.5 per cent, respectively. The company's aggressive foray into the wedding segment would be the key revenue driver going forward. This year, the stock outperformed the BSE consumer durables index by 1.6 times. Between 2 Jan 2017 and 27 Dec 2017, the stock delivered 155.3 per cent returns compared to BSE consumer durables index that delivered 96.9 per cent.

PC Jeweller: The company is engaged in the business of manufacture, retail and export of jewellery. It offers a range of products including 100 per cent hallmarked gold jewellery, certified diamond jewellery and other jewellery. With government's initiatives, aimed at protecting customers and clamping down on black money, the industry is witnessing a shift towards the organized segment. The company managed revenue CAGR of 26.5 per cent between FY11 to FY17 due to superior gold hedging policies compared to unorganized players, dedicated focus on Wedding Jewellery and expansion of significant number of stores. The stock outperformed the BSE consumer durable index by over 1.3 times this year. Between 2 Jan 2017 and 27 Dec 2017, the stock delivered 131.3 per cent returns compared to BSE consumer durables that delivered 96.9 per cent.

Bajaj Electricals: The business is spread across - Consumer Products (Appliances, Fans, Lighting), Exports, Luminaires and EPC (Illumination, Transmission Towers and Power Distribution). It also has a presence in the high-end range of appliances with brands like Platini and Morphy Richards. In September 2017 (Q2FY18), the company witnessed decline in sales revenue by 6.8 per cent year on year. Inability to raise prices amid a higher GST rate and slow execution of orders impacted the sales in Q2FY18. Going forward, rising consumer incomes and strong order book are likely to drive growth. Moreover, secondary sales will help the company to gain market share in the coming quarters. The stock outperformed BSE Consumer Durables Index by over 1.2 times this year. Between 2 Jan 2017 and 27 Dec 2017, the stock returned 120.5 per cent returns compared to BSE Consumer Durables index that delivered 96.9 per cent.
Gordys Market, the Chippewa Falls-based, family-owned and operated grocery mainstay of western Wisconsin, underwent receivership and months of court proceedings after an August 2017 lawsuit brought by one of its grocery suppliers.

But the chain, having pinpointed six stores that it will continue to operate, has plans to regain the trust of its customers and bring an energetic presence back to its communities in 2018, Gordys CEO Jeff Schafer said Friday.

The turmoil surrounding Gordys Markets is the Chippewa Heralds top story of 2017.

Community leaders have responded with overwhelming positivity to the December announcement that six stores  including Chippewa Falls, Lake Wissota, Cornell, Ladysmith, Barron and Chetek locations  would remain Gordys Markets under the leadership of Schafer family members.

Im thrilled for them, said retiring city planner Jayson Smith, whos worked for Chippewa Falls for 36 years. I have been working with the Schafer family since day one. Gordy Schafer  worked very hard as a young man to build that store.

Gordy Schafer and his wife, Donna, opened a single store on Chippewa Falls south side in 1966; the chain had grown to 26 stores, stretching from Richland Center to Chetek, by 2017. Going forward, the chain will now be operated by Gordy Schafers son, Jeff Schafer, with several members of the third generation of Schafers also working in the companys administration.

Gordy (Schafer) was at the forefront of building the foundation  of the things were seeing today. He supported bringing the Main Street program to the city, which has been an extremely successful program for downtown, Smith said.

Gordys issued an apology letter to its customers in December, saying its passion for growth and expansion contributed to us getting away from our core values and that it had underserved its customers, but vowing to be more connected, more responsive and more focused in the future.

After the November announcement that the Schafer family would continue to operate six stores, a sigh of relief went through many small communities. Those included Cornell, which otherwise would have been left without a grocery store.

There (was) a tremendous amount of anxiety that we werent going to have a store, said Chippewa Falls Mayor Greg Hoffman.

Although he has heard some complaints from a few community members after the announcement, Hoffman said the positive response has far outweighed the negative.

Gordys is one of those families, because of their community involvement, they have a tremendous following, Hoffman said. Theyre going to have to work to (get) people to come back as they were a year or two ago. They know that. But they also know theyre taking the right steps to make that happen.

A chain in receivership

After stores in Hayward, Chippewa Falls (Chippewa Commons) and two stores in Eau Claire shuttered over the summer, the chain announced in August it was heading into receivership under Wisconsins Chapter 128, to voluntarily consolidate its debt. Control of Gordys assets was handed over to Milwaukee attorney Michael Polsky, and throughout the following months, two main creditors emerged: grocery retailer Nash Finch and Settlers Bank of Madison.

Stores in Stanley, Richland Center and Spencer closed immediately after the announcement; at a September auction in Milwaukee, stores were sold in Black River Falls, Osseo, Augusta, Whitehall, Shell Lake, Spencer, Rice Lake, Hayward, Chippewa Commons, Hamilton Avenue and Clairemont Avenue (near Shopko), both in Eau Claire.

In September, during court proceedings, it was revealed that members of the Schafer family were interested in purchasing six stores. At a November auction, the sale was made with the help of a loan from Nash Finch. In December, Gordys Market won a long-awaited victory when the sale was approved in Chippewa County Court.

Rebuilding a connection

Both Smith and Hoffman said they trust the Gordys administration to rebuild their relationship with customers, and praised Jeff Schafer, who returned to the company on March 1, 2017 and will continue on as CEO.

The Chippewa Falls City Council and city administration supports the Chippewa Falls company, Hoffman said. If youre going to have success as a smaller player, you need to have your niche marketing  And theyre working hard to create that.

I wish them all of the luck, Smith said.

Jeff Schafer and other members of the Gordys Market administration will talk about the future of the chain in the Tuesday, Jan. 2 edition of the Herald and on Chippewa.com.
Archive Nov 2022 (81) Oct 2022 (134) Sep 2022 (127) Aug 2022 (135) Jul 2022 (132) Jun 2022 (138) May 2022 (136) Apr 2022 (128) Mar 2022 (138) Feb 2022 (127) Jan 2022 (132) Dec 2021 (136) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (155) Aug 2021 (184) Jul 2021 (170) Jun 2021 (168) May 2021 (168) Apr 2021 (169) Mar 2021 (179) Feb 2021 (153) Jan 2021 (161) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (152) Oct 2020 (160) Sep 2020 (158) Aug 2020 (169) Jul 2020 (173) Jun 2020 (169) May 2020 (165) Apr 2020 (164) Mar 2020 (144) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (118) Dec 2019 (113) Nov 2019 (105) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (122) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (125) Jun 2019 (116) May 2019 (124) Apr 2019 (117) Mar 2019 (123) Feb 2019 (108) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (125) Nov 2018 (122) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (114) Aug 2018 (127) Jul 2018 (124) Jun 2018 (114) May 2018 (130) Apr 2018 (123) Mar 2018 (128) Feb 2018 (114) Jan 2018 (126) Dec 2017 (123) Nov 2017 (121) Oct 2017 (121) Sep 2017 (116) Aug 2017 (119) Jul 2017 (108) Jun 2017 (116) May 2017 (110) Apr 2017 (111) Mar 2017 (119) Feb 2017 (109) Jan 2017 (108) Dec 2016 (113) Nov 2016 (116) Oct 2016 (118) Sep 2016 (120) Aug 2016 (112) Jul 2016 (111) Jun 2016 (125) May 2016 (111) Apr 2016 (112) Mar 2016 (121) Feb 2016 (114) Jan 2016 (114) Dec 2015 (119) Nov 2015 (117) Oct 2015 (125) Sep 2015 (124) Aug 2015 (103) Jul 2015 (125) Jun 2015 (131) May 2015 (123) Apr 2015 (129) Mar 2015 (133) Feb 2015 (125) Jan 2015 (135) Dec 2014 (134) Nov 2014 (129) Oct 2014 (144) Sep 2014 (127) Aug 2014 (130) Jul 2014 (143) Jun 2014 (131) May 2014 (137) Apr 2014 (139) Mar 2014 (134) Feb 2014 (128) Jan 2014 (141) Dec 2013 (140) Nov 2013 (136) Oct 2013 (145) Sep 2013 (146) Aug 2013 (147) Jul 2013 (151) Jun 2013 (141) May 2013 (150) Apr 2013 (149) Mar 2013 (151) Feb 2013 (133) Jan 2013 (160) Dec 2012 (154) Nov 2012 (157) Oct 2012 (165) Sep 2012 (145) Aug 2012 (161) Jul 2012 (170) Jun 2012 (162) May 2012 (169) Apr 2012 (162) Mar 2012 (162) Feb 2012 (156) Jan 2012 (169) Dec 2011 (157) Nov 2011 (178) Oct 2011 (182) Sep 2011 (170) Aug 2011 (178) Jul 2011 (174) Jun 2011 (157) May 2011 (158) Apr 2011 (164) Mar 2011 (172) Feb 2011 (162) Jan 2011 (177) Dec 2010 (171) Nov 2010 (169) Oct 2010 (182) Sep 2010 (179) Aug 2010 (184) Jul 2010 (190) Jun 2010 (189) May 2010 (198) Apr 2010 (185) Mar 2010 (210) Feb 2010 (195) Jan 2010 (212) Dec 2009 (225) Nov 2009 (209) Oct 2009 (215) Sep 2009 (202) Aug 2009 (230) Jul 2009 (269) Jun 2009 (252) May 2009 (241) Apr 2009 (256) Mar 2009 (254) Feb 2009 (255) Jan 2009 (214) Dec 2008 (204) Nov 2008 (252) Oct 2008 (268) Sep 2008 (304) Aug 2008 (210) Jul 2008 (251) Jun 2008 (206) May 2008 (203) Apr 2008 (202) Mar 2008 (204) Feb 2008 (195) Jan 2008 (212) Dec 2007 (179) Nov 2007 (189) Oct 2007 (179) Sep 2007 (176) Aug 2007 (209) Jul 2007 (155) Jun 2007 (135) May 2007 (106) Apr 2007 (120) Mar 2007 (138) Feb 2007 (77) Jan 2007 (70) Dec 2006 (63) Nov 2006 (70) Oct 2006 (67) Sep 2006 (70) Aug 2006 (61) Jul 2006 (56) Jun 2006 (44) May 2006 (60) Apr 2006 (53) Mar 2006 (45) Feb 2006 (38) Jan 2006 (42) Dec 2005 (46) Nov 2005 (54) Oct 2005 (60) Sep 2005 (46) Aug 2005 (86) Jul 2005 (43) Jun 2005 (47) May 2005 (52) Apr 2005 (39) Mar 2005 (29) Feb 2005 (26) Jan 2005 (12)
In secret, behind locked gates, our Nation's Oldest City dumped a landfill in a lake (Old City Reservoir), while emitting sewage in our rivers and salt marsh. Organized citizens exposed and defeated pollution, racism and cronyism. We elected a new Mayor. We're transforming our City -- advanced citizenship. Ask questions. Make disclosures. Demand answers. Be involved. Expect democracy. Report and expose corruption. Smile! Help enact a St. Augustine National Park and Seashore. We shall overcome!
The Canberra Times' Karleen Minney (@karleenminney) captured the truly spectacular side of the Balloon Spectacular in March. "Covering the Balloon Spectacular in the wee hours of the morning is exciting enough and this year when we got 'relegated' to a craft on the back edge of the big group it turned out even better for us. Ours was inflated early and we got to watch the entire group rise to the occasion, from an angle we'd never seen before. The colours of the balloons on such a dull morning, after many days of cancellations due to bad weather made the moment even more magical."
Your digital subscription includes access to content from all our websites in your region. Access unlimited news content and The Canberra Times app. Premium subscribers also enjoy interactive puzzles and access to the digital version of our print edition - Today's Paper.
A Fire and Rescue spokesman said the driver was not trapped as a result of the crash, but did sustain injuries, and was treated at the scene by an ambulance crew.
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.
Armed Services Committee

Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces

Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation

Judiciary Committee

Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet

Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law

Budget Committee

Matthew Louis Gaetz, II

Member in Good Standing Eligible to Practice Law in Florida

Bar Number: 48962 Mail Address: Keefe, Anchors, Gordon & Moyle, P.A.

Keefe Anchors & Gordon P A

2113 Lewis Turner Blvd Ste 100

Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547-1379

United States Office: 850-863-1974 Cell: 850-863-1974 - No Text Messages Fax: 850-863-1591

Personal Bar URL: https://www.floridabar.org/mybarprofile/48962

County: Okaloosa

Circuit: 1

Admitted: 02/06/2008

Young Lawyers Division: Member

10-Year Discipline History: None

Law School: William & Mary Law School

Sections: Young Lawyers

Firm: Keefe, Anchors, Gordon & Moyle, P.A.

Firm Size: 11 to 20

Firm Position: Associate





Northwest Florida is home to five major military installations and nearly 20,000 defense industry employees.

Aerospace and defense companies and other military contractors operate in a specialized environment that is both highly competitive and highly scrutinized. Understanding and complying with often complex legal requirements is a critical element of doing business with the government, and failing to adhere to regulatory requirements can have serious commercial and legal consequences. KAGs legal team represents small and international businesses that do business with the government, including handling contract claims involving military projects in Florida and overseas. We consult with aerospace, defense, and intelligence contractors in the national security sector and work with small businesses to ensure business practices that conform to federal, state, and local government guidelines.

(Photo: Matt Gaetz) Rep. Matt Gaetz took to Facebook Live on Thursday night from his parents' living room in Walton County to defend his lone no vote on an anti-human trafficking bill that passed both houses of Congress on Dec. 19. The bill, known as the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act, designates a human trafficking prevention coordinator at the U.S. Department of Transportation and creates a committee in the department to develop best practices for states and transportation groups to combat human trafficking. More: Rep. Matt Gaetz leads House Republicans in criticizing Russia-Trump FBI probe Cris Dosev, who is running against Gaetz in the 2018 Republican primary, blasted Gaetz's no vote on the bill in a press release Wednesday calling it "tone deaf." "That Matt Gaetz could vote against a law to fight human trafficking and sex slave trade is beyond comprehension," Dosev said in the release. "What was he thinking?" Dosev, a retired Marine and Pensacola real estate developer, came in third in the 2016 Republican primary with nearly 21 percent of the vote behind the late State Sen. Greg Evers who had 22 percent of the vote. Gaetz won the primary with 36 percent of the vote. Cris Dosev (Photo: Special to the News Journal) In the release, Dosev said the bipartisan bill brings together law enforcement and anti-trafficking groups together to pool information and resources. "This is something military and business organizations do every day to improve critical outcomes," Dosev said in the release. "It's basic management 101." In his Facebook Live broadcast, Gaetz defended his vote by first pointing to his role as chairman of the Criminal Justice Committee in the Florida Legislature where he helped make it easier for prosecutors to bring cases against human traffickers in Florida. More: Despite many rejections by appeals courts, property appraiser continues fighting beach case "Where there is a necessity to change legal standards to bring prosecutions against human traffickers, I'm all in," Gaetz said. "And I've been very successful in implementing that legislation here in our own state." Gaetz said he voted no because, despite best intentions of the bill, it represented "mission creep" at the federal level in creating the committee. "Unless there is an overwhelming, compelling reason that our existing agencies in the federal government can't handle that problem, I vote no because voters in Northwest Florida did not send me to Washington to go and create more federal government," Gaetz said. "If anything, we should be abolishing a lot of the agencies at the federal level like the Department of Education, like the EPA and sending that power back to our state governments." More: Donald Trump Pensacola rally: Gaetz, Broxson stress importance of NW Florida voters Without mentioning Dosev's name directly, Gaetz hit back against his Republican opponent. "I found it a bit comical that this Republican running against me in the primary in 2018 thought that this was the issue to attack me on," Gaetz said. "He apparently takes the view that we really do need to address our problems with more government. And so, if that's your view, if your view is we've got to grow government to solve our problems rather than prioritizing the entities that we already have, well I assure you there's a candidate out there for you, but It's not me." Dosev said in his press release Gaetz appears more focused on media attention than representing the district. "It's the latest in a growing list of strange votes by Matt Gaetz, who appears to be more focused on television appearances than advancing legislation that benefits this district and country," Dosev said. Jim Little can be reached at 850-208-9827 or at jwlittle@pnj.com.

Despicable first-term U.S. Rep. MATTHEW LOUIS GAETZ II (R-FL1) voted against human trafficking legislation -- the only no vote in Congress. GAETZ is the sort of sordid Republican who got elected on the Republican ticket in 2016, along with Herr Trump.GAETZ is a bizarre ideologue, who evidently has emotional problems with government doing its job. So why did GAETZ get elected to Congress? His father's influence? Or the fact his gerrymandered district is the most Republican in Florida, and one of the most Republican in the Nation?GAETZ has flown with Herr Trump on Air Force One, and like fellow Air Force One passenger Rep. RONALD DION DeSANTIS (R-FL6/KOCH INDUSTRIES), GAETZ muttered imprecations about firing Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller, III in retaliation for Mueller's heroic investigation of alleged Trump-Russia crimes against our democracy.Collusion by clods? Conscious parallelism after flying with Trump on Air Force One.This lone wolf vote against human trafficking legislation stinks on ice.Only mobsters, monsters, human traffickers and inbred Roy Moore supporters would approve of GAETZ's lone wolf vote against legislation on human trafficking.GAETZ's website lists his committee and subcommittee assignments:The Florida Bar website lists GAETZ as still working for an Okaloosa County law firm that represents defense contractors and does government lobbying:GAETZ is on the Armed Services Committee. His law firm advertises its work for defense contractors on its website:This firm advertises its lobbying work on its website:MATTHEW GAETZ 2008 DUI arrest photoBy Annie BlanksPosted Dec 28, 2017 at 1:30 PMUpdated Dec 28, 2017 at 1:49 PMFORT WALTON BEACH  U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz cast the lone no vote earlier this month on a bipartisan human trafficking bill that sailed through the House and the Senate with otherwise unanimous support.The bill, dubbed the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act, seeks to give the federal government more resources to fight sex slavery in the United States, particularly addressing how human trafficking occurs on Department of Transportation roads such as Interstate 10.The bill passed in the Senate with unanimous support in September before moving on to the House, where it passed Dec. 19 by a vote of 418-1.Gaetz, R-Fort Walton Beach, defended his vote Wednesday, saying he always votes no on bills that establish more government entities.I vote against all bills that create new federal boards, agencies, commissions or councils, Gaetz said. For all the problems we have, not enough entities in the federal government is not one of them.If signed into law, the bill would allow the government to appoint an official to coordinate human trafficking prevention efforts across Department of Transportation modal administrations, create an independent advisory committee on human trafficking and expand outreach and financial assistance programs for the recognition, prevention and reporting of human trafficking.But Gaetz, who said he was very involved in combating human trafficking while he served as the Criminal Justice Committee chairman in the Florida House of Representatives, said he believed the law would create more headaches than help.Allowing people to travel around on the governments dime, creating more paperwork ... its not the right answer to nearly any problem we face, he said.One of Gaetzs opponents in the upcoming 2018 election, Republican Cris Dosev of Pensacola, issued a statement Wednesday condemning the representative as out of touch.That Matt Gaetz could vote against a law to fight human trafficking and sex slave trade is beyond comprehension, Dosev said in the statement. What was he thinking? ... Near unanimous bipartisan support on this should be a clear indication that the American people will not tolerate human trafficking.The bills next stop is the desk of President Donald Trump, where it is expected to be signed into law.
The 2019 CLS is still pretty fresh, having been officially revealed this month and, as is often the case, Mercedes-Benz will roll out a special edition for its first customers before the plain vanilla ones become available.



This Edition 1 launch model was spotted recently in Germany and, unless you look really close, you may not realize that it looks a bit different compared to the rest of the range.

Starting with the exterior, theres Edition 1 lettering on the front fenders, as well as AMG Line parts. According to Mercedes, the Edition 1 CLS also comes with LED headlights and black 19 AMG alloys as standard, although this car apparently didnt get the memo.

Inside, its got black pearl nappa leather seats with copper-colored accents and contrast top stitching, all of which are visible in this video. Other features include the IWC analogue clock, Edition 1 floor mats, chrome Edition 1 lettering on the center console and a gloss black vehicle key.

As for why it says CLS 350 on the rear, we can only assume that the d is missing, since the only 350-badged model in the new CLS range that we know of is a diesel, producing 286 PS (282 HP) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft).

VIDEO
The plight of the city's homeless community was hard to dismiss in 2017 after people set up tents in Linear Park along 25th Avenue.

Homelessness is an issue in every city, but this summer the need for affordable housing was driven home as up to two dozen people camped at the highly visible Vernon park.

In the spring, City Council allowed the homeless population to camp in any local park for as long as they want.

Numerous tents soon sprang up in the wooded area of Polson Park near the boardwalk.

Before long, police, bylaw and ambulance crews were being called to the area on a regular basis for various incidents including a man being shot in the leg.

Many people said the park was no longer safe, that they refused to take their children to the downtown green space.

In August, council modified the rules to allow people to camp only from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m., prompting many campers to vacate the far reaches of Polson Park in favour of Linear Park.

Other so-called tent cities popped up around town, but it was Linear Park that gained the most attention because of its highly visible locale.

Police and bylaw patrolled the area several times a day to ensure the population was adhering to the laws and bylaws of the city.

But still there were complaints from citizens of open drug use and defecation at the park. Some were angered by the tent city, others showed empathy by bringing food and clothes to the tent city, which was a block away from the Upper Room Mission.

Some businesses nearby said the homeless in the area intimidated their customers, keeping them away and hurting their operations.

Lengthy discussions raged on social media about what to do, with numerous opinions on how to do it.

Castanet spoke to several people living in Linear Park and the No. 1 thing they needed was affordable housing.

Vernon has had a near zero vacancy rate for some time and that in turn has driven up the price of rent to the point where even those with a job can not all afford a place to live.

But there is some relief on the horizon.

Approximately $11 million in provincial money will be spent on two projects designed to get people off the street and out of tent cities.

One is a new, permanent modular-housing project to be located on land owned by BC Housing at 27th Avenue and 35th Street which will provide 53 supportive housing units for people transitioning out of homelessness. These will be self-contained units with personal kitchens and washrooms.

As well, a new permanent modular shelter with approximately 45 beds will be constructed at 2307 43rd St. to expand capacity of the current homeless shelter and transitional housing development at Howard House.

All of the units will be operated by the John Howard Society of the North Okanagan.

Work is expected to start in the New Year.
Photo: Google Street View

A man was shot in the leg in Kamloops Friday night.

Police were called to an apartment building at 110 Columbia St. just before 10 p.m., where they found the victim.



RCMP kept the public out of the area while officers dealt with occupants of one of the units, closing down westbound traffic on Columbia Street at 3rd Avenue. Traffic was redirected via Summit Drive, said Staff Sgt. Edward Preto.

There's no word on what led to the incident or any charges laid.
This domain was recently registered at Namecheap.com. Please check back later!


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.
Netflix's top executives will now get paid in full no matter how the company does, thanks to the Republican tax plan.

The streaming-video provider is scrapping its cash bonuses, instead making the payments to top executives as salary. The recently passed tax plan eliminates companies' ability to deduct performance-based bonuses to managers who are paid more than $1 million, so Netflix just decided to lump all cash payments into executives' salaries.

Advertisement

Netflix implemented the cash bonus structure in 2015 to take advantage of the tax deductions it could make at the time. In that year and in 2016, executives got either their full target bonus or slightly less. The data for 2017 arent yet available.

Next year, Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos will get a salary of $12 million, more than his salary and cash bonus target combined for 2017. Greg Peters, who was promoted this year to chief product officer, will get $6 million in salary, also bigger than his combined total for 2017.

Advertisement

Netflix's management team is still getting most of its pay through stock-based incentive compensation. Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings, Chief Financial Officer David Wells and Sarandos will each get an average increase of about 31% in the value of their option grants for 2018, while Peters' will more than double. There's a trade-off for Hastings, whose salary will fall to $700,000 from $850,000.

Netflix shares have gained 56% this year. Press representatives for the company didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.

Other companies including Goldman Sachs and Jefferies Group have also made compensation changes because of the new tax plan. Goldman accelerated the payment of stock awards that were due to be paid next month, which a person briefed on the move said will save the firm about $100 million and slightly benefit the individuals collectively. Jefferies gave employees the option to get their bonus checks in either December or January as some bankers and traders may find it more advantageous to have a bigger income in 2017 with existing deductions in place, while others may benefit from next year's lower tax rates.
Stephen J. Albert, the executive director of Court Theatre in Hyde Park, a nationally respected nonprofit theater executive and a man of creative passion and evangelical energy, died Friday night at age 66.

The announcement of Albert's death was made Saturday by Charles Newell, the artistic director of Court and Albert's longtime partner at one of Chicago's most prestigious theater companies. Albert had long been suffering from cancer, and his death, Newell said, was due to complications from surgery.

Advertisement

Albert was born in Kittery, Maine, on Nov. 6, 1951. He joined Court Theatre in 2010, and also was the founding partner of Albert Hall & Associates, a national nonprofit management recruitment consultancy.

Before coming to Court, Albert had been the longtime managing director at Hartford Stage in Connecticut, an assignment that followed similar leadership posts at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles and the Alley Theatre in Houston.

Advertisement

At Court, he presided over a robust period of growth, coupled with the cultivation of a much closer alliance with the University of Chicago, on whose campus the long-independent theater is housed. In November, Albert announced that he intended to step down from his position in the fall of 2018, allowing him to focus on his health and personal concerns.

At his many breakfast and lunch meetings with colleagues and friends, he was notably optimistic about the future.

"To know my dad was to love my dad," said his daughter, Jessica Albert of Miami. "He had a way with words that was poetic. His poetry guided me through my whole life, as it did so many other people. He always was so wise. He radiated so much light and positive energy."

Albert, his devoted family said, was always thrilled to be working at Court.

"I watched him take hold of a regional theater that had not been very connected to its community," Jessica Albert said. "He went to a different church every week to meet people. He wanted to share his passion and his love with everyone."

"For many years," Newell said, "we at Court had an idea and a plan of where we might go. But Steve was the one who took us there. He believed in dreaming big and then figuring out how you could get even partially there. He also became a dear, close friend, and I am the better man for that."

Indeed, Albert was pivotal in Court's dramatically increased outreach to the mostly African-American communities that bordered Hyde Park, its longtime base of supporters.

"When I think of my brother, said Larry Albert, also of Miami, "the first thing that comes to my mind is creativity. But what made him so effective was his ability to take a creative vision and verbalize it. The marriage of those two strengths was what made him so formidable."

Advertisement

"Even in his last days he was telling jokes, Jessica Albert said.

"Bad jokes," added Stephen's wife, Terri.

A memorial service is tentatively scheduled for 10 a.m. Jan. 27 at Court Theatre.

"My dad said to me a long time ago that he wanted his funeral to be a party," said Jessica Albert. "Of course he did. We're all going to try our best."

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.

Advertisement

cjones5@chicagotribune.com

[ From Nov. 6: Court Theatre executive director is stepping down ]

[ Trevor,' Martha Lavey and Not in Our House: So that was 2017 in Chicago theater ]

[ Some of the most memorable stories of 2017 ]

[ Our top 10 stage performances of 2017 ]
Christopher Adams, a filmmaker based in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago, shoots additional scenes for a project he's working on in a warehouse in Chicago's South Loop on Dec. 22, 2017. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

When Chris Adams was a teen growing up in the Far South Sides Roseland area, he would often imagine himself living in space and existing alongside alien creatures such as those in Star Wars.

Advertisement

Or he would picture an alternate reality, where black people were served by robots and lived in houses filled with futuristic devices or battled enormous, prehistoric monsters.

Ive (long) been a big fan of fantasy films and horror and sci-fi, he said. But black people are underrepresented in those genres. When we are there, were the first to die.

Advertisement

Hoping to bring fresh voices and perspectives to film, Adams recently launched a project with a collective of Chicago filmmakers that concentrates on producing short movies.

Rather than giving voice to the typical stories of violence, grief or family drama, these filmmakers want to showcase fantasy, horror and science fiction films with black characters as the focus.

Their effort comes at a time when there is an increasing appetite for films and television shows that present black lives from nuanced and nonstereotypical perspectives.

Still, Adams and his Paradigm Grey project are unusual because the independent films center on black characters but have very little to do with the realities African-Americans experience. All five of the filmmakers and production crews involved in the group hail from the Chicago region and shoot their projects here, yet they avoid narratives centered on poverty, joblessness, drug abuse, corruption or other topics often central to storylines involving black characters.

With their combined reputations, they hope to take their films from underground to a wider audience, Adams said.

Nearly everyone who joined on to this project were frustrated with the current state of filming, he said. The actors were sick of playing drug dealers, prostitutes, gangbangers and the typical roles you see us in. We all wanted a chance to do something completely imaginative. So this project was like a breath of fresh air.

For years, there has been a conversation among African-Americans who were interested in alternative film genres and frustrated about how few opportunities were available. The discussion has amplified recently, both on social media and among industry insiders.

A key character in the latest Star Wars series is black, which has challenged perceptions of black masculinity but also shown a black character can anchor a film set in space. And there is frenzied anticipation for Black Panther, a forthcoming film with a black superhero as its protagonist.

Advertisement

This past summer, south suburban author Nnedi Okorafor announced that her popular science fiction novel Who Fears Death has been picked up by HBO and is being turned into a television series.

Still there are challenges.

Last month, Jordan Peele, the director of the box-office hit Get Out, raised issue with the thriller film being categorized by the Golden Globes as a comedy. For some, the categorization illuminated how narrowly the film industry labels films about black characters.

For many independent filmmakers, the opportunities to produce budgeted films are rare, and they often get pigeonholed into telling stereotypical stories, said Karla Rae Fuller, an associate professor in the department of cinema and television arts at Columbia College Chicago. Sometimes black filmmakers limit themselves because of internal pressures and because they cant risk failing by trying stories other than comedies and urban dramas, she said.

African-American filmmakers have had so few opportunities to tell any story, Fuller said. So when there is an opportunity, the story is usually set in the present: This is how our lives are. Or its set in the past: This is how we were. And these are the narratives that get told over and over again.

Finally, industry insiders are realizing that audiences want to see fantasy, epics and horror movies that include protagonists of different races.

Advertisement

Audiences have asked the question: Dont we see black people in the future? she said. Now, we are finally at a point where black filmmakers can branch out.

For outsiders who arent familiar with the diversity of Chicagos South and West sides, this movement might seem new, said Ytasha Womack, a filmmaker and author who lectures on Afrofuturism, a genre that envisions black people in the future. But there has been a growing contingency of directors, producers, writers and others steeped in the work, both as fans and creators. When they found themselves locked out of mainstream efforts, they created their own, she said.

All of this productivity you see now is the response to the demand, not just from black fans, but from all people who want to see diversity in storytelling, said Womack, who is not involved with the collective.

In her own film, A Love Letter to the Ancestors From Chicago, Womack was deliberate to list the Chicago neighborhoods her actors, dancers and cast were from.

I was annoyed by the insistence of taping our communities from a one-dimensional lens, she said.

Adams, 48, a self-taught filmmaker, spent years building futuristic sets and teaching himself special effects and computer animation. For his paid commercial projects, hed often try to convince musicians he shot videos for and clients he produced spots for to try something fantastical.

Advertisement

I wanted to put the artist in a spaceship and have them fly out, he said. I didnt want to film anything that was considered regular.

Sometimes, he was successful. Videos he worked on with rappers Omen and Lupe Fiasco feature some of those touches. But Adams wanted more, he said.

I spent several years looking for financial backers starting back in 2009, he said. By 2014, he was so frustrated, he spent seven days writing and shooting his own fantastical film. When it screened at the Englewood Film Festival that year, he was inspired to start his collective.

I realized that me and my buddies have every piece of equipment we need to make a movie. I said, I have no money. I have no idea what this will be, but its going to be sci-fi or fantasy. It wont be regular.

He proposed the project to a small meeting of like-minded filmmakers. They signed on.

The group agreed to pool their equipment and talents to write and produce a series of 15-minute short films. They did the work with no budget, scheduling shoots in between paid projects, their full-time jobs and life responsibilities.

Advertisement

Cassandra Bell, of Forest Park, was trying to write a play and working full time for Cook County, she said. Still, she joined on and scrambled to make a short in three days.

We could really go inside our imaginations and use our creativity in an explorative way, she said. It was like becoming a kid again.

Just because the work was fun didnt mean it wasnt intimidating, said Bell, who operates a production company in addition to her full-time job.

Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. >

Theres a formula to making a successful film, she said. When you do something like this, thats experimental, you open the door for a lot of criticism, an unpredictable response.

At the groups first screening earlier this month, 700 people piled into the Harold Washington Cultural Center in Bronzeville.

Most of the films were shot renegade style and dont have sleek production. But the audience moaned and flinched at gory, bloody scenes. And viewers whispered at the screen, warning characters not to swallow the pill, drink the tea, open the door or go on the suspicious outing.

Advertisement

For Adams, the sounds were affirming. He wanted his films to resemble the British science fiction series Black Mirror, but many in the audience said the films were more like a diversely cast, bloody version of The Twilight Zone.

People say you should try to get your foot in the door. Im trying to blow up the walls, Adams said. Weve got so many more stories in us that we want to tell.

lbowean@chicagotribune.com

RELATED:

[ U. of C. statue gives black scholar her place in history ]

[ South Shore artist sends message with displays on vacant buildings ]

[ South Side Community Arts Center named National Treasure ]
A Speak Out writer complained that Hillary Clinton had most votes. Most of her votes came from California, New York and Washington. Middle and heart of America voted for President Donald Trump.

Democrats complain that big corporations are getting tax cuts. Yes, but now they can hire more people. Why are you Democrats so against it? Don't forget former President Barack Obama bailed out the banks.

Advertisement

Tinley Park's Village Board has approved the controversial Brookside Glen Apartments. In an effort to attract high end renters, they have required lofty amenities and designs that will increase costs. It remains to be seen if the board's plan succeeds, as it hopes or backfires, leaving units empty because of the steep costs, making other incentives necessary to fill apartments. Only time will tell.

Tinley Park

Advertisement

Remember back when President Donald Trump was elected and liberal Democrats said that the economy and stock markets were going to crash. Well, it's the total opposite and those same liberals are still complaining. They can't admit they're wrong.

What's Speak Out?

Speak Out allows readers to comment on the issues of the day. Email Speak Out at speakout@southtownstar.com or call 312-222-2427. Please limit comments to 30 seconds or about 120 words and give your first name and your hometown.
404

Try searching for the content you're looking for, or take a look at our recently published stories
Boebert continues to lead Frisch on final day of counting

The election is hovering within the threshold for an automatic recount. Here's the latest in the Colorado race between Adam Frisch and Lauren Boebert.
You are here: Business

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has stressed the importance of a sound business environment for high-quality development and called for more efforts to maintain market order.

In an instruction to a Friday meeting on market supervision, Li said the business environment had improved in the past few years with reforms in the business sector.

A sound business environment is important for developing a modern economy and high-quality development, he said.

China should continue reform of administrative approvals, delegate power to lower levels, and improve regulation and services, Li said.

New ways of market supervision must be found and more must be done to maintain market order and fair competition, Li added.

State Councilor Wang Yong attended the meeting and delivered a speech, emphasizing reform of the business sector and supervision.
You are here: China

China has outlined tasks and targets for a rural vitalization strategy addressing issues related to agriculture, rural areas and rural people.





Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), delivers a speech at a central rural work conference in Beijing, capital of China. The central rural work conference was held from Dec. 28 to 29 in Beijing. [Photo/Xinhua]





By 2020, the strategy should have established an institutional framework and policy system, according to a statement released Friday after the central rural work conference.





By 2035, China aims for "decisive" progress, with basic modernization of agriculture and rural areas. By 2050, rural areas should have strong agriculture, a beautiful countryside and well-off farmers, the statement said.





"Rural vitalization" was one of the major aspects of developing a modernized economy in a report delivered to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC).





President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the two-day rural conference and delivered a speech.





He summarized achievements and changes in agriculture and rural areas since 2012, expounded on the rural vitalization strategy and made concrete requirements.





Achievements in agricultural and rural development since the 18th CPC national congress laid the foundation for development, the statement said.





The supply-side structural reform in the agricultural sector has advanced, grain production capacity has made strides and agricultural modernization progressed, the statement said.





China has also achieved "decisive progress" in the battle against poverty with more than 66 million people lifted out of poverty in the past five years.





Despite this progress a development gap remains between urban and rural regions due principally to lack of quality and efficiency in agriculture.





"Issues related to agriculture, rural areas and rural residents are fundamental problems as they directly concern the country's stability and the people's well being," according to the statement.





The strategy will help resolve the contradiction between unbalanced and inadequate development and the people's ever-growing needs for better lives, meet the two centenary goals and realize common prosperity, the statement said.





The strategy is for the long term and needs scientific planning, a focus on quality, an unhurried tempo with no obsession with speed, the statement said.





While pursuing the strategy, the country must follow the Party's leadership on rural work and prioritize agriculture and rural areas.





Agriculture and rural areas must be prioritized in choosing cadres, the allocation of resources, public financial support and public services.





The conference called for the advance of integrated urban-rural development, with more focus on infrastructure, education and public services in rural areas.





The basic rural system should be consolidated and improved, while supply-side structural reform in rural areas should continue.





Green development and innovative governance in rural areas will generate more sustained growth. Only targeted and effective efforts will win the crucial battle against poverty.





Ensuring the quality of poverty-reduction should be the top priority, the statement said.





Targeted poverty reduction is one of the "three tough battles" for the next three years as the country tries to secure a decisive victory in becoming a moderately prosperous society in all respects.





Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli, and members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee Li Zhanshu, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji and Han Zheng also attended the conference.
You are here: China

A kindergarten teacher who allegedly abused children has been arrested, the procuratorate of Beijing Chaoyang District said on Friday.

The suspect surnamed Liu was a teacher at the RYB Education New World Kindergarten in Chaoyang. Rumors of child abuse in the kindergarten stirred public outrage last month.

Liu was detained on Nov. 25. After an investigation, police said Liu had used sewing needles to "discipline" children who would not sleep.
The Chinese military will begin receiving tip-offs of threats to national security or defense through a website from Jan. 1.

The website www.PLA110.cn, launched by the committee for political and legal affairs of the Central Military Commission, allows people to report online activities, including stealing or leaking military secrets, and fabricating information about the army.

Gambling, drug trafficking or other crimes by soldiers, attacking the party's absolute leadership over the military, obstructing military operations, smearing the image of the army and jeopardizing the military's network information security may all be reported through the website.

The public can give information anonymously or using their real names. Rewards will be given for useful information.
K.P. Sharma Oli [Xinhua]





An esoteric discourse has been created since the formation of the "Left Alliance" in Nepal, supposedly buoyed by strong backing from China.

Both Indian and Western media outlets have left no stone unturned to establish it as a fact, projecting the landslide win of the Alliance in recent provincial and federal elections in Nepal as a "triumph of the north."

The "Prime Minister-in-waiting" K.P. Sharma Oli's recent visit to the strategically important Nepal-China border region at Rasuwagadhi has fueled such assumptions.

Many think he chose this location to send a very strong message to New Delhi about his plans for a close relationship with China.

The Rasuwagadhi visit provoked screams of horror in the Indian media. No sooner had the news emerged in Nepal than the Hindustan Times carried a headline describing it as "a strong message to New Delhi" and "an indication that the incoming government to be headed by Oli is likely to tilt towards Beijing and seek support for larger connectivity projects including roads and railways."

Indian editorials, long disapproving of the Oli-led CPN-UML and its stance towards so called "Madhesh issue" (plains areas close to India), seem to become quite defensive and subdued in the aftermath of the recent elections.

There is strong expectation of Indian high handedness towards Nepal in the days to come, with the Left Alliance gaining a majority in the assemblies of six out of the seven provinces, along with a large federal parliament majority.

Oli's visit to Rasuwagadhi has also become a matter of discussion inside the country, because the next government's approach to a so-called "India-China balancing foreign policy" is yet to be clarified.

According to Bishnu Sapkota, a prominent local analyst of political affairs, Oli's visit to Rasuwagadhi was symbolic, especially expressing gratitude that a pro-China stance had been helpful for the alliance to win the elections.

He wrote: "Oli's visit to Rasuwagadhi while election results of proportion representation system were still coming was not just coincidental. It was a calculated symbolic statement about the foreign policy departure he is going to make."

Oli's visit was the highest official visit made to Rasuwagadhi since China declared it as an international border transit point. While observing the border area, the Nepalese leader reiterated his promise to build the Rasuwagadhi-Kathmandu-Lumbini railway, which India sees as a threat to its traditional position providing Nepal's only access to the sea.

Oli is known for using strong rhetoric both in internal and external affairs. When he became the prime minister during an Indian trade blockade in 2015, he ordered petroleum to be imported from the Chinese side for the first time in Nepal's history and signed a historical Nepal-China Commerce and Transit Trade agreement during his China visit at that time.

The agreement allows Nepal to use Chinese ports, breaking their past sole dependency on India. After signing the deal, Oli declared it the end of the era of Indian dominance in Nepal.

An expert of diplomacy and international relations, Hiranyalal Shrestha thinks Oli's visit to Rasuwagadhi was well planned because it is the place to which China is now giving considerable importance.

"Rasuwagadhi is the border point through which China can enjoy better access to[South] Asia," he said.

Although the left alliance pledged a "balanced foreign policy" in its election manifesto, it seems Oli wants New Delhi to feel that the balance his government plans means adding some additional weight to the other side.

A handful of Nepal-based experts on Indian policies have become more pragmatic in their analyses after the recent election. Now, their interpretation is that India has "lost" Nepal to China because of New Delhi's own miscalculations and misdealing.

Prior to Oli's visit to Rasuwagadhi, the Indian analyst on Nepal affairs Professor S.D. Muni had concluded that, "It would be a mistake to read the emergence of the Left Alliance as Nepal's preference for communism.

"[Instead]Nepalese voters have clearly expressed their new nationalism which has three key components  the search for political stability and peace, the demand for fast and comprehensive development and assertion against India."

Professor Muni concluded that, though the victory of the Left Alliance is seen as bad news in New Delhi, the fact is that India has unwittingly contributed to the rise of both the Left Alliance and the new Nepalese nationalism with anti-India undertones.

Some people in Nepal feel that the recent election has also paved the way for an early state visit from its northern neighbor.

A political analyst close to the Nepali Congress, Puranjan Acharya, boldly asserted that Chinese President Xi Jinping's "visit to Nepal is likely very soon, further adding to the jitters of Nepali Congress cadres after losing the political grip."

Oli is obviously keen to establish himself as a "trusted friend" of Beijing. His recent visit to Rasuwagadhi is his latest message to New Delhi that he is not going to accept any further Indian high-handedness in Nepal in term of politics, trade and supply.

Now, we can only wait to see what will happen.

Saroj Gautam writes on international relations and diplomacy from Kathmandu.





Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.




 Flash

Emergency workers wheel away a body from the site of an apartment fire in Bronx, New York, the United States, Dec. 29, 2017. At least 12 people were killed, including an infant, in a fire that broke out Thursday evening in the north of New York City, local authorities said. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)





A devastating fire that killed 12 people and injured multiple others in a New York building was started by a small child playing with a stove burner, local authorities said on Friday.



New York City Fire Department Commissioner Daniel Nigro said the mother of the three-year-old boy was not aware of the fire until the child, who had been left unattended in the kitchen, started screaming as it filled with smoke and fire.

The mother exited her first-floor apartment with her two children, leaving the apartment door open, he said.

"The stairway acted like a chimney," Nigro said, adding that the fast-moving fire traveled up stairs and that people had very little time to react.

Some who tried to get back down the stairs had died, while others who went out through fire escapes were rescued by firefighters, he said.

Although firefighters arrived at the scene about three minutes after emergency calls came in and bravely entered the building to save residents, this blaze was "unprecedented," he added.

The fire broke out at round 7 p.m. at the five-story building in Bronx, the northernmost of the five boroughs of New York City.

Four children died along with four men and four women, local media reported.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said at a press conference held late Thursday on the scene that the fire "will rank as one of the worst losses in a fire in many years."

De Blasio told reporters that four people remained in critical condition.




 Flash

One of Theresa May's key government advisers announced Friday he is quitting his role, making a stinging attack against the prime minister.

Lord Andrew Adonis, one-time secretary of state in Tony Blair's Labor government, has resigned as chair of the National Infrastructure Commission.

Adonis, who was appointed to the role in 2015, is a strong supporter of Britain remaining as a member of the European Union (EU).

In his letter to 10 Downing Street, Adonis, who now sits in the unelected House of Lords, tells May: "The European Union Withdrawal Bill is the worst legislation of my lifetime. It arrives soon in the House of Lords and I feel duty-bound to oppose it relentlessly from the Labor benches."

Adonis told May her government "is hurtling towards the EU's emergency exit with no credible plan for the future of British trade and European cooperation". He also claimed that Brexit is causing a nervous breakdown across Whitehall.

He adds: "If Brexit happens, taking us back into Europe will become the mission of our children's generation, who will marvel at your acts of destruction."

There was no immediate official response from Downing Street, but unnamed government sources told media in London that Adonis had "jumped before he was pushed" because his belief that Brexit can be reversed is the exact opposite of government policy.

Leading Brexiteer, the Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith said the departure of Lord Adonis was "long overdue".

Senior Conservative Michael Fabricant told the Daily Mail: "Andrew Adonis still refuses to accept the national will of the people as expressed in the referendum."




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
BEATRICE  This year, Beatrice Bakery is celebrating an impressive milestone.

Grandmas Fruit and Nut Cake  the bakerys top seller  has been around for 100 years.

The recipe didnt originate at Beatrice Bakery, but the company is keeping the tradition alive with thousands of fruitcakes produced each year, making their way to holiday celebrations around the country.

It was 1917 when the Lantz brothers immigrated to the United States and settled in St. Louis, where they opened a bakery. Their grandmothers fruitcake recipe proved to be a hit with area residents, as well as a treasured family heirloom. When the brothers retired from the baking business, they needed to find a bakery that would carry on the tradition.

Beatrice Bakery bought the recipe in the 1960s with a promise to never change it and, since 1963, the same ingredients have gone into the fruitcake, using the same cooking techniques and even some of the same equipment.

Keeping the recipe the same was not only a promise, but one of the reasons Grandmas Fruit and Nut Cake has such staying power.

Beatrice Bakery President Greg Leech said the company has seen an uptick in online sales after being featured on the QVC television network, and more people have been walking into the store in the basement of the factory.

We're just known for our fruitcake, Leech said. That's the main reason they come in. Then they see our other products. The main reason they come in is to buy fruitcake.

On a recent Tuesday afternoon, the retail space was bustling with out-of-towners. Some of the shoppers had seen a feature story in the news and came all the way from across the state, while others even crossed state lines to get to the bakery.

Inside the shop, near a tree decorated with small, plastic fruitcakes, a group of four women from Lincoln were perusing the display. They carpooled to Beatrice to pick out the perfect fruitcake.

Justine Lovell saw Grandmas Fruit and Nut Cake on the local news and the Food Network show Unwrapped a few years ago and got a group together to come down to get some.

I'm just excited to come here, Lovell said. I just got the regular one, but I got one chocolate for myself.

Lovells friend, Ruthann Ronne, bought a peach-flavored cake and an Irish creme one, but said she had family reasons for not buying a traditional fruitcake.

I like it, but my family doesn't, Ronne said. So that means I'd eat the whole thing.

Lovell scoffed, sitting down on a bench in the shop to jokingly chide her friend.

If you go to a hamburger place, you should get hamburger, Lovell said. If you go to a fish place, you should get fish. If you go to a steak place, you should get steak. So, if you come here, you should get regular fruitcake. That's my theory.

Jonathan Hnosko was helping the group with their shopping, though his job is typically done behind the scenes. Hes Beatrice Bakerys food safety and quality control officer, meaning hes usually working on labeling, nutrition and safety.

This is only Hnoskos second month at the bakery, but hes learned to love the famous holiday treat.

You know, I had tried fruitcake and it wasn't really something that was a favorite of mine until I had a chance to try this, he said. And this really does taste different from what most people would say is a stereotypical fruitcake.

Over the course of the year, the bakery ships about 700,000 pounds of cakes out the door. The business uses about 35,000 pounds of walnuts, 50,000 pounds of pecans and 140,000 pounds of cherries and pineapple, Leech said.

Walk-in traffic has nearly tripled in the last few years, he said. Usually, traffic increases in the months leading up to Christmas, but this year, the bakery was also packed during the eclipse in August.

We had one guy who stayed out in a camper out at the fairgrounds, Leech said. He came in on the morning of the eclipse and bought some fruitcakes. And he walked, clear from the fairgrounds. They started eating them, they saw the eclipse and then they drove here afterward and bought some more.

Fruitcake has been Leechs whole life. Next month, hell have been with Beatrice Bakery for 39 years. Then, in May, hes planning to retire from the business to spend more time with his family.

I have wonderful people that work for me and the public's been wonderful, Leech said. I'm going to miss that part. I'm not going to miss the rush from October through December.
I had the privilege or reading a pre-release version of "God Shines Forth: How the Nature of God Shapes and Drives the Mission of the Church." Here are 20 quotes from the book, which you should pick up.
A federal judge in Houston on Tuesday shot down a mammoth $100 million December verdict against BP's Texas City refinery, cutting the award to less than half a million and dealing the British oil giant a rare legal victory as it struggles to overcome several years of problems at the plant.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt said plaintiffs failed to prove London-based BP was grossly negligent in a chemical release at the refinery that sent more than 100 workers to area hospitals on the evening of April 19, 2007.

Without clear and convincing evidence of gross negligence, Hoyt wrote in his ruling, the $100 million in punitive damages initially awarded 10 workers from that group must be set aside.

Instead, he awarded the 10 workers a combined $340,660 in actual damages for medical expenses, lost income and mental anguish.

The ruling effectively guts a headline-grabbing decision by a Galveston federal jury in December and could strengthen's BP's position as it faces other cases related to the incident.

All along, BP has maintained there is no evidence that workers were exposed to toxic substances above permissible limits set by federal regulators, and no proof the company was at fault.

We agree with the court's decision to set aside the punitive damage award, said BP spokesman Scott Dean. Having said that, we continue to believe that the evidence in the case did not warrant a finding against the company in any amount and that we have solid legal grounds for an appeal.

The release at the Texas City plant came more than two years after a March 2005 explosion at the refinery that killed 15 workers and injured scores more. The company paid millions in civil damages arising from that incident. And its North American products division paid a $50 million fine and pleaded guilty to a felony violation of the Clean Air Act in connection with the blast.

Contesting citations

In October, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration proposed $87 million in fines against BP for failing to make safety upgrades required under a settlement agreement with the agency following the 2005 blast. BP is contesting the citations.

Aaron Wilson Garner, a contract worker at the plant, brought the suit against BP in connection with the 2007 release. He alleged BP's failure to maintain equipment and provide adequate safety controls led to the release that sickened workers. Eventually, the case grew to include 143 plaintiffs from more than a dozen contracting companies.

Plaintiffs alleged they were exposed to carbon disulfide, a harmful compound that gave them flu-like symptoms, while working on two refining units known as Pipestill 3B and CAT1.

In December, the Galveston jury said Garner and nine other workers should receive $10 million apiece in punitive damages, as well as actual damages ranging from $5,918 to $244,386.

But while Hoyt agreed BP was responsible for the release and plaintiffs were entitled to actual damages, he said punitive damages were not justified by the facts as presented in the case. In addition, the initial punitive damage award exceeded limits established by state law, he said.

Sets a high bar

Tony Buzbee, attorney for the first group of 10 plaintiffs and many others, said the court's ruling sets an impossibly high bar for proving gross negligence and gives refiners a free pass to continue exposing workers to serious injury.

The judge acknowledges that BP is a bad actor, but, whatever reason, decides that a jury who hears three weeks of evidence should be ignored, and takes away the ability of ordinary folks' ability to fight back, he said.

Nevertheless, he said he looks forward to representing the next group of 10 workers in the toxic release case against BP, calling the first trial just a skirmish in the war.

The Galveston case was initially handled by then-U.S. District Judge Samuel Kent, who is now in prison for obstructing an investigation of accusations he abused female staff.

Many of Kent's Galveston-based cases were reassigned to Houston-based federal judges even before he was indicted. The case was first transferred to U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore in October 2007. Hoyt took over in September 2009.

Mary Flood contributed to this report.

brett.clanton@chron.com
A driver died Friday after reportedly speeding through a red light and crashing on the Eastex Freeway, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

The crash occurred around 11:40 a.m. in the 11600 block of U.S. 59, the sheriff's office said. A witness said they saw the driver run a red light just north of the crash.
Archers hosting youth class

COLUMBUS -- The Platte Valley Archers will hold a youth beginning archery class starting at 1 p.m. Jan. 6 at the Platte Valley Archers Range, 1261 26th Ave.

The eight-week class is open to youths ages 7-17 and will teach basic range safety, shooting form and how to have fun with archery.

For more information, contact tgiburg@yahoo.com.

Measures would address patrol

LINCOLN (AP)  Gov. Pete Ricketts' administration will ask lawmakers to pass a series of measures it says would increase accountability within the Nebraska State Patrol following a series of agency scandals.

The governor's office released a memo Friday that outlines a series of changes that have already been made in response to revelations that the patrol mishandled internal investigations of trooper misconduct.

Nebraska Chief Human Resources Officer Jason Jackson says the administration will ask lawmakers to increase the oversight powers of the Nebraska Crime Commission. Another proposal would require patrol administrators to disclose to the commission why officers were fired.

The administration also wants to remove internal investigations from the list of items that are subject to collective bargaining. It also plans to request that sergeants be removed from the bargaining unit.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

When it comes to drinking in Houston, we have an embarrassing amount of great places to imbibe.

Of course, the old reliables are still around, like Anvil Bar & Refuge and Catbird's in Montrose. The Continental Club near Midtown, and Big Star Bar in the Heights are still winning over converts. There is no bad day that West Alabama Ice House can't fix, ditto for The Flying Saucer downtown.

RELATED: The Harp on Richmond to close end of February 2018

Sadly, in 2018 we will lose venerable Irish bar The Harp on Richmond as the owner shuffles off into retirement in late February.

Declan Plunkett is ready to finally have a St. Patrick's Day holiday all to himself after nearly 35 years of pouring drinks for others on that special day.

Lest we forget that Jimmy's Ice House in the Heights also served its last Lone Star this past summer too. It was just reborn as Bobcat Teddy's with a spit-shine and an expanded booze menu. Don't worry, bottled beers are still the same price as they ever were.

In 2017, Houston became acquainted with two new offerings from bar maven Bobby Heugel's Better Luck Tomorrow and Tongue-Cut Sparrow both opening shop and drawing crowds.

Now Playing: The hot toddy truly is the perfect cold weather cocktail. We opted for maple syrup to sweeten the drink, but feel free to use honey if you prefer. Video: MyRecipes

Lil' Danny Speedo's Go Fly a Kite Lounge on the east end became a local staple with a jukebox beloved by drinkers of every stripe, and The New Potato off Clinton Drive felt like home for many in that area starved for a drink.

They'd still like a grocery store, too.

RELATED: Thanks to Harvey, 2017 was a tumultuous year for Houston restaurants

If adventurous Houstonians are looking to visit a "historic" Houston watering hole for a change in 2018, we suggest visiting Lone Star Saloon, located across the street from the METRO bus station in downtown.

It has a TABC license dating back to 1972, meaning that it has been serving thirsty Houstonians for over 45 years. It's easily one of the most authentic dive bars in Houston and a sight to behold - especially on pay day.

(Yes, the concept of historic in amnesia-ridden Houston doesn't mean much, but we'll take it.)

No telling what 2018 will bring to the Houston bar scene, but rest assured the city's bar owners and bartenders have something up their (tattooed) sleeves.

Remember, it doesn't matter where you drink as long as the company is warm and the drinks are stiff.

Craig Hlavaty is a reporter for Chron.com and HoustonChronicle.com. He's an intolerable native Texan.
I grew up traveling to Mexico. It was an easy trip into Baja from Ventura County, California, my home. We would camp on desert points and surf for days. I always found the dusty peninsula and the country as a whole surprising, welcoming and exciting. It was not until the series of trips I took there in 2017 with Josh Partlow, our Mexico bureau chief, that I truly felt afraid. Afraid for my safety. Afraid for what Mexico had become.

The assignment started with a text from my editor, Nick Kirkpatrick, asking if I wanted to travel to a "sketchy narco zone," in Guerrero, one of Mexico's most violent states. The stories I had read about Mexican journalists being assassinated throughout the country for covering the violence and cartels were numerous. The country is second only to Syria in the number of journalists being killed on the job. But this is Mexico, a country and people I admire and respect. I knew with proper planning this was a story I wanted to photograph.
Submitted

The Dayton Historical Society welcomes businesses and individuals to help with a project to enhance the City of Dayton. The Society is selling stars  statuary that is  the proceeds of which will be used for the many projects that promote, preserve, and share Dayton's history.

The statues are made of solid concrete and weigh 300 pounds. They must be ordered prepaid at a cost of $300 and will be delivered to your home or business. The star stands 36 inches high, is 36 inches wide, and sits on a 4-inch base. The word 'DAYTON' is printed in raised lettering between the bottom points of the star.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The 2018 elections for San Jacinto County are proving to be interesting for its citizens as a new county judge is expected to be elected.

Current County Judge John Lovett is choosing not to run for reelection in the upcoming election. Instead he is choosing to run for the Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace position.

"I want to bring my experience and knowledge and love to the county," he said.

Lovett says he has accomplished much in the past two years as county judge but is moving on to pursue a new position that will allow him more time to spend on other areas of his life.

"I want to spend time with my son," he said.

With Lovett choosing not to run again for the county judge race, voters are left with four candidates.

Three candidates are running as Republicans -- Robert Reynolds, Steve Roberts and Fritz Faulkner.

Faulkner was the previous county judge. Lovett defeated Faulkner, then a Democrat, in the 2014 general election after defeating Republican candidates Laddie McAnally and Nick Carter in the primary elections.

In the fall, the Republican candidate for county judge will face off against the Democratic challenger and current Shepherd Mayor Earl Brown. Brown has served Shepherd as its mayor for one year.

The rest of the elections in San Jacinto County involve mostly Republican candidates with a single exception in the Texas House District 18 race where current representative Ernest Bailes will run against fellow Republican candidate Emily Cook and Democrat candidate Fred Lemond.

Republicans running unopposed for reelection include San Jacinto County Criminal District Attorney Robert Trapp, Pct. 2 Commissioner Donny Marrs, Pct. 2 Justice of the Peace Harris "Red" Blanchette and Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Randy Ellisor.

Pct. 4 Justice of the Peace Greg Magee is running for reelection against Republican challenger Wade Runnels.

The Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace race is set to have a new JP as Judge Beth Sewell is not running for reelection. Republican Candidates include Christina McGee, Cliff Love, Dianne Griffith, Jodie Richey Jones, Lovett and Tracy Shipley.

Former Pct. 1 Commissioner Ray McCoppin initially filed to run for the Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace race but has since withdrawn. He is instead running for the County Tax Assessor-Collector's race, which is an unexpired term after previous assessor Kelly Wineinger resigned from the position.

McCoppin will be running against Betty Davis in this race.

County Treasurer Amanda Washburn will not be running for reelection. The county treasurer's race will be between Dee Dee Adams and Janice Chamblee.

Pct. 4 Commissioner Mark Nettuno is running for reelection against two Republican opponents, Lee Ashby, Jr. and Will Copeland.

County Clerk Dawn Wright is also running for reelection against Republican challenger Silvia Haro.

The district clerk race is set between Republican candidates Bill Cooke and Tammy Currie.

The 258th District Judge race is set between three Republican candidates -- John Wells, Shelly Sitton and Travis Kitchens.
courtesy of father

The father of a special-needs son who was tied up during an armed robbery at his business earlier this week said the child is still recovering from the incident.



Roberto Hinojosa, owner of E-Z Tax Service in the 1200 block of Highway 146, suffered an armed robbery at his business Tuesday. During the incident, his 14-year-old son was tied up in zip ties. Hinojosa said his son was scared and tried to run away. One of the two suspects then tied him up.



"If you see him, he looks like he's 6 to 8 years old," Hinojosa said. "He doesn't speak."

The tax preparation worker of six years said his son is suffering as a result of the robbery.



"When he sees people with a hoodie, he's scared," he said.



Hinojosa said the the robbers took roughly $13,000. The coin collector said he is most saddened by the theft of his 1893 silver dollar.



Police arrested Chandrick Benefield, 27. As of Friday, an unidentified male suspect is still at large.



Authorities are asking anyone with related information to call 281-334-5414.



Dana Burke, digital reporter at Chron.com, contributed to this story.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Montgomery County fire officials are warning people who plan on ringing in the new year with a round of fireworks that alcohol and fireworks don't mix, while officials in The Woodlands are reminding residents that fireworks and sparklers are banned in the township.

Although fireworks are prohibited in The Woodlands, as well as in Conroe, they are legal in most parts of Montgomery county. Regardless of their legality, Montgomery County Fire Marshal Jimmy Williams issued a warning about the dangers of drinking and setting off fireworks.

"You don't mix alcohol with fireworks," Williams said.

Nationwide, thousands of people are injured every year shooting off fireworks, with the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimating 11,100 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2016. Although the commission doesn't break down the number of injuries related to drinking and igniting fireworks, it does note in its 2016 Fireworks Annual Report that in follow-up interviews, investigators found that a number of people injured had also been drinking.

Locally, most of the people hurt while setting off fireworks, "almost without fail," have also been drinking alcohol, Williams said.

"The majority of these injuries are someone who is misusing the fireworks," Williams added.

Williams also warned that children should never handle firecrackers, sparklers or any other pyrotechnic devices. Statistics from the CPSC show that 31 percent of the estimated fireworks-related injuries last year involved those 14 years or younger.

"Small children should not handle them at all," Williams said.

Adults who haven't been drinking and are properly supervising children, should also be considerate of neighbors. Beside the blasts being annoying to some humans, they can be terrifying to pets, Williams said.

"We see a lot of animals that run away," Williams said. "Particularly, dogs can be spooked."

Officials with the Woodlands Fire Department reported crews that are not on emergency calls will be sent out to investigate fireworks complaints. Residents who want to report fireworks being set off are encouraged to call the department's non-emergency line at 281-362-3900.

"If there are complaints and hazards we will respond," said The Woodlands Fire Department Deputy fire Chief Rick Windham.

In addition to fireworks concerns, officials say the current cold snap is expected to spark an increase in house fires as some people turn on portable space heaters to help keep their homes warm.

Williams said Montgomery County Firefighters have already responded to "a number of fires involving heating equipment" and those numbers are expected to rise, with December through February being the peak months for home heating fires. Space heaters being placed too close to upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses, bedding or other items have been blamed for sparking a number of those fires.
The 2018 legislative session is almost upon us and that means there will be some of the usual rhetoric from our Unicameral regarding public schools. It is almost guaranteed you will hear that school spending is out of control and property taxes are too high because of it. Instead of sitting back and waiting for this to happen, I thought I might address a few of these areas as they pertain to Lakeview Community Schools.

Nebraska schools had an average annual spending increase of 3.5 percent from 2003-2014. During this same time, the number of students being educated in Nebraska increased 8.16 percent and the number of students living in poverty increased almost 10 percent. While this growth was happening, the percentage of our state budget that is allocated for K-12 education decreased from 32 percent to 27.6 percent, which caused a decrease in the funds being distributed to schools by an estimated $187 million. Due to the decreased amount of state money being allocated for education, there is only one place left to generate the revenue needed to keep the school running and that is property taxes.

Lakeview will be the first to stand in line and say property taxes are too high! In fact, we have signed resolutions and have been on the front lines trying to create a better balance in our state funding. But until there is a more appropriate amount of money being allocated to all K-12 schools, our hands are tied into being over-reliant on property taxes. In fact, Nebraska is so reliant on property taxes that we rank seventh in the country in property taxes paid. While our percentage of K-12 funding that comes from state resources ranks 49th in the nation.

We often discuss in our patron budget meetings that we focus on what we can control, which is our spending. Lakeview, over the previous seven years, has had an average annual spending increase of only 0.7 percent. Yes, that is a less than 1 percent increase in expenses per year over the seven years. Over the last five years, we have also seen our student population grow by almost 35 percent. In addition, it is worth noting that only 15.6 percent of our total budget comes from state funds. That means 84.4 percent of our $10,723,672 in 2016-17 was generated from local, county and federal taxes. That percentage will tell you why our property taxes in the state of Nebraska are too high!

So as the legislative session begins, please know that schools are over-reliant on property taxes, but that is not due to overspending. It is due to a lack of funding for education from the state of Nebraska. And no one wants to see that change more than Lakeview!
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

TEHRAN, Iran - Police in Iran's capital said Thursday they will no longer arrest women for failing to observe the Islamic dress code in place since the 1979 revolution.

The announcement signaled an easing of punishments for violating the country's conservative dress code, as called for by the young and reform-minded Iranians who helped re-elect President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate, earlier this year.

But hard-liners opposed to easing such rules still dominate Iran's security forces and judiciary, so it was unclear whether the change would be fully implemented.

"Those who do not observe the Islamic dress code will no longer be taken to detention centers, nor will judicial cases be filed against them." Tehran police chief Gen. Hossein Rahimi was quoted as saying by the reformist daily Sharq.

The semi-official Tasnim news agency said violators will instead be made to attend classes given by police. It said repeat offenders could still be subject to legal action, and the dress code remains in place outside the capital.

For nearly 40 years, women in Iran have been forced to cover their hair and wear long, loose garments. Younger and more liberal-minded women have long pushed the boundaries of the official dress code, wearing loose head scarves that don't fully cover their hair and painting their nails, drawing the ire of conservatives.

Iran's morality police- similar to Saudi Arabia's religious police- typically detain violators and escort them to a police van. Their families are then called to bring the detainee a change of clothes. The violator is then required to sign a form that they will not commit the offense again.

Men can also be stopped by the police if they are seen wearing shorts or going shirtless.

Last year, police in Tehran announced plans to deploy 7,000 male and female officers for a new plainclothes division - the largest such undercover assignment in memory - to monitor public morality and enforce the dress code.
The summers final Live on the Waterfront concert was held Wednesday evening at Prince Arthurs Landing. The popular series in Thunder Bay has completed nine weekly shows that began on July 13. Wednesdays concert was unique as it was held one hour later in the evening to mesh with the 10 p.
SCOTTSBLUFF  Terri Martin was on her way to Lincoln for meetings when the life-changing call came. She was just outside of York on Interstate 80.

Earlier in the trip, she was told the news but didn't believe George Schlothauer Jr. had his facts right.

"I called to see if I could donate my kidney to you," she remembers him saying. "But the person at Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital in Denver said you have a donor."

A few hours later, someone from Presbyterian St. Luke's called and asked, "How does May 19 sound to you?"

"For what?" Terri asked.

About 14 months earlier, Terri's doctor had told her that without a kidney transplant, she had two years to live.

Terri was born with bad kidneys and, at age 30, she was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.

"I would come home from work (as the director of curriculum and assessment for Gering Public Schools) and lay on the couch," Terri said. She had no energy and felt terrible.

Her best friend, Kim Klein, had tried to give her one of her kidneys but she was not able to become a living donor. Kim, unable to give her own kidney, decided to write a letter and post it on social media looking for a living donor for Terri.

"A living donor will go on to have a great quality of life without any side effects," Dr. Peter Kennealey, director of the kidney transplant program at University of Colorado Hospital, said. "You can live with just one kidney."

Living donors can donate a kidney or part of their liver.

Patients are encouraged to reach out to family and friends to find a living donor. Social media, letters, even bumper stickers have been used by those needing a transplant as ways to find a living donor.

For Terri, a donor had been found and the transplant was scheduled.

May 19, 2014, was about a month away and on the side of the road on I-80, she broke down.

"I fell apart," she said. "I was dumbfounded and crying."

Terri called her doctor in Scottsbluff, the one who referred her to Presbyterian St. Luke's, for advice. She was a little nervous about the transplant.

"He told me, 'Terri, you do the transplant or you die.'"

Her living donor, she was told, was someone she knew  Laurie Budd.

She didn't recognize the last name.

"I didn't know a Laurie Budd," Terri said.

It turned out she was Terri's best friend's sister.

"I read my sister's letter and said, 'I think this is my sister's friend Terri,'" Laurie said. "We had met once and I said, 'I can do this.'"

She called the hospital and answered a number of questions. Then she traveled to the hospital for tests.

"We try to make it (the donor process) easy," Keneally said.

There are forms to fill out and tests to take. The living donor doesn't have to pay for anything. Their only cost is travel and time off from work.

The same was true at Presbyterian St. Luke's.

"They run it like a well-oiled machine," Laurie's husband, Fred, said.

Through the process, the potential living donor can learn about the hospital and more about what they are doing. The hospital can also learn more about the potential donor to make sure they are healthy, ready to become a living donor and have a good support system.

Every step of the way, doctors gave Laurie every opportunity to back out, but she didn't. Laurie was a near perfect match.

Terri's living donor was found.

"Are you sure you want to give up a part of yourself?" Laurie's dad asked her. Her answer was yes, even if it had been for a stranger.

"It's a simple thing," Laurie said. "And maybe my purpose in life is to be Terri's living donor."

The day of the transplant, the two ladies were in beds next to each other. Each would have their own surgical teams.

Terri's doctor was all business.

"Are you ready?" he asked Terri. "OK, let's go."

Laurie's doctor was more talkative.

"He asked me what made me decide to give Terri a kidney," Laurie said.

"About a year ago," she told him, "Terri bought me a sandwich and wouldn't let me pay for it (their first meeting). So I decided to give her a kidney."

They laughed and headed into surgery.

Laurie's surgery lasted 57 minutes. Terri's lasted five hours.

"I didn't know Terri's family until we met in the waiting room," Fred said. "But it felt like I knew them for a lifetime."

After the surgery "I felt very good," Terri said. "I had energy. It was amazing."

After the surgery, Laurie's dad told Terri, "You're part of the family now."

"We're sisters," Laurie said.

"We call ourselves kidney sisters," Terri said as the two give each other a hug and wipe tears from their eyes.

Today, Laurie has no ill effects from the transplant.

"I'm just a kidney short," she said. "Would I do it again? Absolutely."

Had Laurie not been a match for Terri, she said she would have become a living donor for someone else, even if she didn't know the person.

There are a growing number of people who are becoming living donors even for people they don't know, according to Keneally. It is a good thing because the need for living donors is great.

Nationwide, there are about 100,000 people looking for a living donor. Men and women, who are facing the same question, get a transplant or die.

Before the transplant, Terri's kidney was working at 11 percent; after the transplant it is at 88 percent. She has to take anti-rejection drugs, but she is alive and well.

"I got my family. I got my life," Terri said. "I get to live. What a wonderful gift. There is no way I can thank Laurie enough."
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.
Donavon Benjamin

BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- An East Cleveland man has been charged with firing a gun at a motorist on Christmas Eve.

The shooting happened about 2 p.m. near South Woodland Road and Richmond Road, according to a police report. No one was hurt , police said.

Donavon Benjamin is charged with attempted murder, according to Shaker Heights Municipal Court records.

Police received a call of a man pulling out a gun in his car on Richmond Road and firing a shot at another motorist near the intersection, according to a statement from Beachwood police.

He drove off north on Richmond Road and was taken into custody a couple minutes later after ditching his car and running, police said.

A gun was found as well as suspected heroin, police said.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Saturday's crime and courts comments section.
LINCOLN  A Lincoln state senator is calling for more oversight of Nebraska's child welfare system to address child sexual abuse of state wards and those adopted from foster care.

Sen. Kate Bolz said Friday she will request that a special oversight committee be formed by the Legislature. And she will ask for performance and financial audits of the child welfare system.

Inspector General Julie Rogers issued a report this week after a nearly yearlong investigation that showed 50 verified child and youth sexual abuse victims in a recent three-year period. That number could actually be higher, she said.

The investigation also discovered cases beyond the 50 reported to the child abuse hotline that were either screened out incorrectly or not investigated properly. For others, officials just couldn't gather the needed evidence.

The investigation also showed attitudes toward sexual abuse of youth in state care that concerned her and her staff, Rogers said, including "problematic attitudes" among system professionals and caregivers toward child sexual abuse and children in the state's care.

Among the 50 abused children and youth noted in the report, 27 were state wards and youth in residential placements and 23 were in adoptive or guardian homes. They ranged in age from 4 to 18 when abuse was disclosed.

Some children reported that the abuse occurred in a foster home, in an adoptive home or when they were under state guardianship. Some were in the juvenile justice system or in a home licensed by the department or at a youth residential treatment center.

Bolz will formally request the audits during the first week the Legislature is in session, she said. The session begins Wednesday. She will also introduce a legislative resolution to call for a special oversight committee.

"As a state senator and representative on the Childrens Commission, I believe it is essential that we move forward with increased oversight by the legislative branch to promote the safety and best interests of children in state care," Bolz said in a news release. "I call on my colleagues to join these efforts.

Bolz said Rogers' report illustrates unacceptable performance of the child welfare system.

Coupled with the inspector generals Sept. 13 report outlining problems related to child welfare caseloads, workloads and workforce, and the recent request for significant additional investment in the child welfare system, Bolz said, it creates concern regarding its overall well-being.
MetroHealth Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Bernard Boulanger and Director of Business Development Kimberly Svoboda stand at a nurse's station in the new Cleveland Heights hospital. The floor that makes up the hospital had been vacant and unused before it was converted into a hospital, meaning its walls, floors, ceiling, equipment and rooms are entirely new.

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- MetroHealth will open its new 12-bed hospital at 10 Severance Circle, on the floor above its already existing emergency room, Jan. 4.

It will be one of two hospitals the MetroHealth System will open that week, the other being a 16-bed facility on Snow Road in Parma. The smaller, inpatient hospitals are designed to treat patients with less complex conditions that require shorter hospital stays, typically of about 3-5 days.

By establishing the Cleveland Heights and Parma hospitals in addition to its West 25th Street main campus, where more intensive specialty care is available, MetroHealth representatives point out that 80 percent of all Cuyahoga County residents will live within a 15-minute drive of one of its hospitals.

MetroHealth, in designing its new one-floor Cleveland Heights hospital, has taken much care to make residents feel at home.

"We built this hospital for the community of Cleveland Heights," said Dr. Bernard Boulanger, MetroHealth executive vice president and chief clinical officer. "Many of the things you'll see at the hospital relate to Cleveland Heights, such as the art."

Upon entering the hospital, visitors will see a nurse's station flanked by large glass panels that feature within them photographs of Cleveland Heights' sites taken by photographer Jerry Birchfield.

A photo of a Coventry Road sculpture has been made part of the glass at the nurse's station. The hospital is filled with several pieces of art, many of it with a local flavor.

Much care was taken in each patient room to make hospital stays as comfortable as possible, said MetroHealth Director of Business Development Kimberly Svoboda. In order to bring about a soothing atmosphere, Svoboda said a focus group worked on designing the spacious rooms with as many amenities as possible.

As one example, Svoboda said, "We challenged our vendor (Hill-Rom) to make the best bed possible."

The result is a comfortable bed that is the first of its kind in Ohio. The beds come with a number of extras. There's a USB port to assist with communication needs, a built-in pocket for storing cell phones and tablets, and the ability to extend an extra foot to accommodate taller patients.

The beds also talk, warning patients (and staff) when they are not to get out of bed. Lighted signals emanate from the bed to the floor, quickly allowing staff members upon entering a room to see if something is awry.

A USB port that is built into the hospital beds makes communications with the outside world easier for patients.

Each room contains a patient recliner, and two chairs for guests that fold out into beds, should an overnight stay be necessary. Rooms have locking cabinets for patients and staff, so that staff members don't have to leave the room to retrieve needed supplies.

There are also patient-controlled automatic window shades and lighting, and a system that reduces noise that may be coming into a patient's room from the hospital corridor.

"We also have meals that are cooked on-site," Svoboda said, "and menus that you can order from. Guests can order from the menu for $6. That way patients can eat with their family, and eat something they all like. Eating together makes everyone more comfortable. It's essentially room service."

A short distance from the nurse's station is a waiting area and, next to it, a Bikur Cholim room where the needs of Orthodox Jews will be met, including the availability of kosher food.

In order to make the hospital sensitive to the needs of its Jewish patients, the staff at the new hospital, which will number 40, held a training session with Rabbi Akiva Feinstein. MetroHealth also took care to meet needs of other communities living in the area.

Many of the nurses that will staff the hospital live in and around Cleveland Heights, while the hospital's Medical Director, Dr. Johnbuck Creamer, lives in the city. All staff members have experience in the MetroHealth System.

MetroHealth began operating the first-floor emergency department in February, 2016, and its next-door medical office building in April of last year.

Svoboda said that a clinical decision unit will refer patients reporting to the emergency department to the adult-only hospital or, in instances where additional care is needed, to the main campus.

"We're giving patients what they want," Boulanger said. "We're giving them greater access to care in their own communities."
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- After signing the GOP Tax Bill, President Trump expressed a desire to win passage of a bipartisan infrastructure bill in 2018. But Trump really would like nothing better than to shore up the infrastructure of his own presidency by putting the Russian investigation behind him in 2018.

The question to be answered in 2018 is will Trump be able to resist an urge to fire Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Deputy AG Rod Rosenstein, Special Counsel Robert Mueller and pardon any Trump staffers/associates indicted in the Russian investigation?

During an impromptu interview with New York Times reporter Michael Schmidt, Trump claimed he had the "absolute right" to do what he wanted to do with the Justice Department.

"I have [the] absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department. But for the purposes of hopefully thinking I'm going to be treated fairly, I've stayed uninvolved with this particular matter."

Trump was responding to a question about whether the DOJ should reopen the investigation into Hillary Clinton using her private email server as Secretary of State.

In the same interview, Trump said he believed the Russian investigation made the U.S. look bad, but also said, "I think that Bob Mueller will be fair."

Trump thinking "Mueller will be fair" is a change in tone from recent comments by Republicans in Congress and Trump himself, disparaging Mueller and the FBI. Yet his comments about directing the DOJ and Mueller being "fair" begs the question that if Trump comes to believe Mueller is being unfair to him will he exert his "absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department" and Mueller's probe?

Presidential historian Michael Beschloss said that not even President Richard Nixon would have publicly made the comment Trump did about controlling the DOJ.

While Trump has the "absolute right" to name the Attorney General and set DOJ policy, he doesn't have the "absolute right" to politicize and interfere with DOJ prosecutions. The DOJ is not his personal police force. This isn't Putin's Russia... yet.

During the NYT interview, Trump complained that Attorney General Jeff Session's was less protective of him than Eric Holder had been of President Obama.

"I don't want to get into loyalty, but I will tell you what, I will say this: Holder protected President Obama. Totally protected him... And I have great respect for that, I'll be honest, I have great respect for that."

Trump said he didn't want to get into loyalty, than did just that. FBI director James Comey was fired shortly after demurring from pledging loyalty to Trump after he reportedly requested it during a private dinner.

As U.S. Attorney General, Session's job isn't to protect the president. Session's job is protect the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law, which President Trump is not above.

Trump said there was "no collusion" at least 15 times during the NYT interview. How often are Mueller, his investigators and his cooperating witnesses, like Michael Flynn, now saying "collusion" and "obstruction?"

President Trump's New Year's Resolution should be to allow his fellow Republicans, Robert Mueller, Rod Rosenstein and Jeff Sessions to do their jobs unobstructed.

Coming up Sunday I'll be posting a gallery of my cartoons on top national stories from 2017. There might be a few that are Trump-related.
AKRON, Ohio -- The owner of an Akron pharmacy shot a man who tried to rob his store Friday morning, police say.

The robbery happened about 9 a.m. at Highland Square Pharmacy on West Market Street near South Highland Avenue, Akron police Lt. Rick Edwards said.

An employee told police that three men ran into the store wearing all dark clothing with their faces hidden.

Two of the men jumped over the pharmacy counter and yelled at the employees, "Don't move," police said.

They reached into their pockets and pulled out plastic bags.

The store owner pulled out a gun and fired several shots at the would-be robbers, police said.

They jumped back over the counter and ran to a Chevy Blazer parked on South Highland Avenue, police said.

A man was dropped off at Summa Barberton Hospital several minutes later with a gunshot wound to his arm and chest.

Police are not identifying him because has not been charged with a crime as of Saturday.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Friday's crime and courts comments section.
December 28, 2017

 An 11-year-old aspiring astronaut who dreams of being the first person to go to Mars is blasting off as American Girl's 2018 Girl of the Year.



Launching for sale on Monday (Jan. 1), "Luciana Vega" is the latest addition to the popular 18-inch-tall (46 centimeters) doll line aimed at inspiring young girls' sense of spirit and strength of character.



"Luciana is a role model for today's girls, empowering them to defy stereotypes, and embrace risks that will teach them about failure and success as they chart their own course in life, whatever the goal," Katy Dickson, president of American Girl, said in a statement. "For us, it's all about building girls of strong character."



Described as a champion of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), Luciana Vega is styled with brown eyes, medium skin and dark brown hair with a "distinctive purple streak to show off her creative side." She comes packaged with a nebula-patterned dress and silver iridescent shoes.



As first revealed on ABC's Good Morning America, American Girl will also offer a spacesuit outfit modeled after NASA's Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) used on the International Space Station. Other accessories in the Luciana Vega collection include a blue Space Camp flight suit, a Maker Station and a Mars Habitat "loaded with science and research essentials for hours of pretend play."



Luciana "puts her whole heart into making her dreams a reality," said Dickson.







American Girl's new doll, Luciana Vega, is an aspiring astronaut. (American Girl)

American Girl worked with advisors  including NASA astronaut Megan McArthur Behnken  to ensure authenticity when it came to the doll and her playsets.



"It is so important to find exciting new ways to inspire our next generation of space explorers," said McArthur Behnken in a NASA-released statement. "I always want to encourage girls and boys to pursue their dreams, no matter how big, and I think it helps to show how those dreams can become reality for any kid."



Other members of the advisory board included Ellen Stofan, former NASA Chief Scientist; Deborah Barnhart, the CEO and executive director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama; and Maureen O'Brien, manager of strategic alliances at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.



American Girl editors and product designers also visited Space Camp in Huntsville and NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to learn about the life of a Space Camp trainee, including the "right" way to eat in space. American Girl's partnership with NASA was developed through the Space Act Agreement to inform and inspire the wider public about the excitement of space and STEM careers.



In addition to the doll and accessories, Luciana's story is explored in a new book series authored by Erin Teagan and published by Scholastic. The first two books, available now, introduce readers to Luciana, a young girl of Chilean descent, who wins a scholarship to attend Space Camp, advancing her dream of flying to space and landing on Mars.



"As she ascends from Space Camp kid to youth astronaut trainee, she faces many challenges that test her competitive spirit and self-confidence, and she must find the courage to embrace the unknown with bravery, curiosity, and wonder," stated American Girl in a press release.



American Girl, established by Pleasant Company in 1986 and now a subsidiary of Mattel, has further partnered with Scholastic, NASA and Space Camp to launch "Blast Off to Discovery," an educational program focused on helping third though fifth-grade students explore the wonder of space through Luciana-inspired content, including lesson plans, classroom activities, videos and a game. The program will begin Jan. 31 on Scholastic's website.



In addition, American Girl and Scholastic will host a Mission to Mars sweepstakes, where families can go on a series of weekly missions for a chance to win several prizes, including a grand prize trip to Space Camp. (American Girl is also providing 20 scholarships to Space Camp to be awarded separately.)



The Luciana Vega collection will be available for sale beginning New Year's Day through American Girl's catalogue, website and at all American Girl retail locations throughout the United States, as well as at specialty boutiques at select Indigo and Chapters in Canada. The Luciana books will be offered through retail and online booksellers, and select Luciana products will also be available at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center gift shop.



On Jan. 1, American Girl stores in the U.S. will host debut events, where there will be science demonstrations, a Moon Phase craft, galaxy-inspired treats and a free Luciana doll t-shirt to take home. And beginning next summer, a special Girl of the Year experience, created in partnership with Space Camp, will offer girls and their families a chance to train just like astronauts, including riding a Multi-Axis Trainer and designing a robot.
Next year will see design work underway on a proposed road resurfacing project on Interstate 81 in the Carlisle area that may include some kind of median barrier to prevent crossover collisions.

Mike Crochunis, press officer for PennDOTs Engineering District 8, mentioned the project in a Dec. 21 email to The Sentinel. Phone calls seeking clarification on project details and location were not returned by press time.

The state agency has advanced the project, which is currently under design, with survey work that was underway during the third week of December, according to the email. The project could go out to bid in late January 2019.

In late March 2017, District 8 convened a meeting at its maintenance office on Army Heritage Drive in Middlesex Township. Though scheduled months in advance, the meeting took place soon after an accident seriously injured three people on I-81 near the Hanover Street exit in Carlisle.

That accident occurred when the driver of a tractor-trailer had an apparent medical emergency that caused him to cross the grassy median and hit two vehicles in the southbound lane. The second major crossover crash of 2017, it renewed calls by the public to make improvements to reduce the number of crashes.

Nathan Harig, assistant chief for administration for Cumberland Goodwill EMS, has been a vocal advocate for improvements. In an interview this past week, he said the PennDOT meeting was productive because agency officials were made aware that the public would continue to push the state for safety upgrades.

Were going to be watching, Harig said this week. Its definitely on the radar.

Back in March, Harig identified two sections of highway as the most active hot spots for crossover collisions. One section is between Allen Road Exit 44 and College Street Exit 45. The other is around the York Road exit, next to the Carlisle airport.

His takeaway from the March meeting was that PennDOT officials were unsure how effective cable median barriers would be along those two sections. However, there was a willingness by the state agency to at least look at some other kind of rigid median barrier, Harig said. The last he heard PennDOT may be looking at fiscal year 2019 to install safety upgrades along I-81 in the Carlisle area.

PennDOT in late September announced the start of a safety improvement project to install a high-tension cable median barrier along seven sections of highway in south-central Pennsylvania.

The purpose of the cable barrier is to help prevent errant vehicles from completely crossing the median area and colliding with vehicles travelling in the opposite direction, Crochunis wrote in a Sept. 25 press release attached to the e-mail.

Work will begin along the northbound lanes of Interstate 81 in the Shippensburg area as crews prepare to install concrete foundation and steel posts, and then to attach the high-tension cable, he said.

PennDOT on June 29 awarded a $3.23 million contract to Morgan Rail Inc. of Temple, Berks County, to install more than 181,000 linear feet of cable along the different sections of highway.

Two of the sections are along I-81 through Cumberland County. One section runs from just east of U.S. 11 in Shippensburg to just north of Exit 37 for Newville and Route 233. The other section goes from Exit 61 for Route 944, the Wertzville Road, to just south of Exit 65 for Marysville/Enola and U.S. 11/15.
Gauri Lankesh

As the year 2017 sets to bid adieu, India finds itself in an embarrassing situation with the annual statistics of 12 journalists either murdered or died in suspicious situations. The populous country, better known as the largest democracy in the globe, thus emerges as one of the hazardous place for media persons across the world after Mexico, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, Somalia etc. Indias troubled neighbour Pakistan lost six professional journalists and a media student to assailants in the year. On the other hand, its other neighbours, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Maldives, witnessed the murder of one scribe each in the last 12 months. Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet (now under Chinese occupation) evaded journo-killing incidents during the period.The killing spree of media persons in India began with Hari Prakash (killed on January 2), continued with Brajesh Kumar Singh (January 3), Shyam Sharma (May 15), Kamlesh Jain (May 31), Surender Singh Rana (July 29), Gauri Lankesh (September 5), Shantanu Bhowmik (September 20), KJ Singh (September 23), Rajesh Mishra (October 21), Sudip Datta Bhaumik (November 21), Naveen Gupta (November 30) and Rajesh Sheoran (December 21).On an average, the South Asian nation loses five to six journalists to assailants annually, but the public anger against those killings remained lukewarm. However, the murder of Kannada editor-journalist Gauri Lankesh at her Bangaluru residence sparked massive protests across the country. As the news of Gauris murder by unidentified gunmen spread, it immediately caught the attention of various national and international media rights organizations.Even Communist leader and Tripura chief minister Manik Sarkar was influenced by the protest-demonstrations. He personally joined in a rally at Agartala demanding justice over Gauris brutal killing. But when the young television reporter from his State fall prey to mob violence, he preferred to remain silent. Tripura-based journalists, while strongly condemning the murder of Shantanu, had to demand a response from Sarkar.Later one more journalists (Sudip Datta) murder, by a trooper belonged to the state police forces put Sarkar in an uncomfortable position. The otherwise popular chief minister, who also holds the state home portfolio, was accorded with blames that Tripura had earlier witnessed the murder of three media employees Sujit Bhattacharya, Ranjit Chowdhury and Balaram Ghosh in 2013.India is ranked 136th among 180 countries in RSFs World Press Freedom Index (2017), and it is just ahead of its neighbours Pakistan (139th position), Sri Lanka (141) and Bangladesh (146). Norway tops the list of media freedom index, where as one party-ruled North Korea (180) is placed at its bottom.Indias other neighbours, Bhutan (84), Nepal (100), Maldives (117), Afghanistan (120) and Myanmar (131) ensure better press freedom.Pakistan lost six journalists namely Muhammad Jan (January 12), Abdul Razzaque (May 17), Bakshish Ellahi (June 11), Haroon Khan (October 12), Samar Abbas and Utpal Das (untraced for weeks now) along with Mashal Khan (April 22), a novice scribe to assailants, whereas Bangladesh witnessed the murder of rural reporter Abdul Hakim Shimul on February 2.Relatively peaceful Myanmar reported one journo-murder (Wai Yan Heinn) on April 16 and Maldives drew the attention of international media with the sensational killing of Yameen Rasheed, a journalist and human rights defender on April 23.According various international agencies over 95 media persons spread in 28 countries were killed in connection with their works since the beginning of 2017. The statistics were, however, more dangerous in previous years (120 fatalities in 2016, 125 killed in 2015, 135 in 2014, 129 in 2013, 141 in 2012, 107 in 2011, 110 in 2010, 122 in 2009, 91 in 2008 etc).The situation this year deteriorated in Mexico (14 incidents of journo-killings), Syria (12), Iraq (9), Afghanistan (8), Yemen (8), the Philippines (6), Somalia (5), Honduras (4), Honduras (4), Nigeria (3), Russia (3), Turkey (3), Yemen (3), Guatemala (2), Peru (2), Dominican Republic (2), Colombia (2) etc. emerged as the most dangerous countries for professional journalists in the bygone year.India lost six journalists to assailants in 2016, which was preceded by five cases in 2015. The country witnessed the murders of two scribes in 2014, but the year 2013 reported the killings of as many as 11 journalists.The vibrant Indian media fraternity observed an unusual Gandhi Jayanti (birthday of Indias Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi) on October 2 this year to raise voices for ensuring safety, security and justice for working journalists across the country. Different press clubs, media bodies and civil society organisations also organized various demonstrations in support of their demands.The vulnerable media community continues pursuing for a national action plan to safeguard the media persons in the line of military, police and doctors on duty. Their arguments are loud and clear: If the nation wants the journalists to do the risky jobs for the greater interest always, their security along with justice must also be ensured.---
Next year may go down locally as a prime example of how a progression of open seats will make for a more compelling May primary than a November general election.

You often see this chain effect of everyone climbing a ladder, said Sarah Niebler, an assistant professor of political science at Dickinson College. What is interesting is you are seeing all of it take place in Cumberland County.

Republican Congressman Lou Barletta made it clear he would vacate his 11th District seat when he announced his run for the U.S. Senate opposite Democratic incumbent Bob Casey Jr.

That vacancy created an opening for Republican state Rep. Stephen Bloom to announce his campaign for Congress, and he will not campaign for his 199th District seat.

With Bloom moving on, the field is open for Republicans and Democrats to vie for a state seat that for years has been a GOP stronghold. But so far only Barb Gleim, a former Cumberland Valley School Board president, has announced her run for the Republican nomination for the seat.

Niebler suspects more candidates will declare after Jan. 1 because you dont want to wait until the 11th hour. Her area of expertise is the study of how public opinion shapes campaigns and elections.

The smaller the district, the less important it is to declare early because the fundraising concerns are not as great, Niebler said. Not as much money is needed to be competitive in a state legislative district race.

Going the distance

In contrast, Barletta and Bloom had to announce early because more funds are needed to build name recognition across a broader geographic area. Both men face challengers for the GOP nomination.

Bloom especially has his work cut out for him. He is from the southern portion of a diagonally shaped congressional district that runs from almost the New York state line to about 20 miles from the Maryland border. The 11th District is often cited by critics as a prime example of partisan gerrymandering.

Though well-known in Cumberland County, Bloom will need to spend a lot of time over the next four months traveling the Interstate 81 corridor to try and draw the notice of voters and media elsewhere in the district.

His challenge will be mainly logistics, Niebler said. She said Bloom and the other candidates for the Republican nomination will also be working hard to secure endorsements, which act as a shortcut in establishing trust among voters when name recognition is hard to establish. Here, a nod from Barletta would be useful, but the congressman may opt to stay out of the primary.

Clearly, the primary will be the big thing for Bloom, Niebler said. When it comes to Barlettas seat in the general election, the Republicans have a distinct advantage because of the conservative nature of the [11th] district.

Republicans are already clamoring for the party nomination. Running against Bloom are Andrew Lewis, former state Revenue Secretary Daniel Meuser, Sean Donahue and Berwick borough councilman Andrew Shecktor whom the AP said dropped his candidacy for the Senate seat to run for Barlettas seat. Two Democrats have also announced their campaignsAlan Howe from Carlisle and former state Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff.

A number of Republicans are also looking to take Caseys Senate seat. Among those who have announced their intention to seek the Republican nomination are Barletta, Paul Addis, Cynthia Ayers, state Rep. Jim Christiana (15th district), Paul DeLong, Bobby Lawrence and Joseph Vodvarka, who previously ran for Senate seats in Pennsylvania as a Democrat. Libertarian Dale Kerns has also announced his campaign for the Senate seat.

Whats at stake

All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives will be up for grabs in the 2018 midterm elections in November. There are 239 Republicans, 193 Democrats and three vacancies.

Historically, the party that is out of power gains seats in the midterms, Niebler said. The question is how many seats will they [the Democrats] gain and will it be enough to take the House.

Democrats would need to gain 50 seats in the chamber to take control over the leadership of committees and the legislative agenda.

Another thing working in favor of the Democrats is the tendency of the party not controlling the presidency to gain seats in the midterm elections. The predominant theory is Americans dont like one-party control, said Niebler, adding that it makes voters nervous so they tend to make adjustments.

Early in 2017, most experts thought the U.S. House would remain in Republican control after the midterm elections, Niebler said. But significant Democratic wins in special elections over the past six months have some people speculating the House may be in play. Part of this is due to the historically low approval ratings of President Donald Trump.

Finite resources

The resources of both parties are finite in terms of money, time and volunteers. No doubt both the Republican and Democratic national committees are studying every available seat to decide how to best allocate supplemental resources toward races with the best chance of success.

The Republicans have to feel optimistic about holding onto the Pennsylvania 11th, Niebler said. Barlettas seat is pretty reliably a Republican district. Youre signing up for an uphill battle if youre the Democrat.

There are other congressional districts across the country and state that are more likely to flip to the Democrats than the Pennsylvanias 11th District, she said.

In general, an incumbent in office holds an edge over a challenger. Incumbents tend to have greater name recognition and the ability to present a track record of accomplishments. They also tend to have greater knowledge of the district and an advantage in fundraising.

But in this election cycle, there are no incumbents running in either the 11th Congressional District or the 199th State Legislative District. Since both are known Republican strongholds, there will probably be a slate of candidates vying for the GOP nomination and every candidate, including Bloom, would have to find a way to stand out. This could make the May primary more compelling than the general election.

Voters will likely see the same level of competitiveness among Republicans vying for the party nomination for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democrat Bob Casey Jr.

U.S. Senate race

Thirty-three of the 100 Senate seats will be up for grabs in the 2018 general election. Of which, about 23 are held by Democrats.

Ten of these Democratic senators represent states that sided with Trump in the 2016 general election. This includes Pennsylvania and Casey. He is somewhat vulnerable, Niebler said. But I dont think he is in the top tier of the most vulnerable Democrats in the Senate.

One advantage Casey may have over Barletta is statewide name recognition among Pennsylvania voters. There is also the advantage Casey enjoys as the incumbent.

Historically, Pennsylvanians tend to elect presidents of one party and senators of the other party, Niebler said. She said there is also the tendency to split the Senate vote by having one senator from each party.

In the primary, Barletta may enjoy an advantage over his Republican opponents because he has Trumps endorsement, Niebler said. She believes the president is popular among most Republicans and Barletta could use the endorsement as a way to set himself apart.

But the impact of that endorsement may depend on what Trump does in the months between the May primary and November general election.

In December, Trump endorsed the controversial Roy Moore as the Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate during a special election in Alabama. Moore lost to Democrat Doug Jones.

But Moore is not Barletta, Niebler said, referring to allegations of misconduct by the Alabama candidate. Moore had a host of other baggage. Barletta is much more of a traditional Republican candidate.

She said, however, Democrats have a much better chance of taking over the U.S. Senate in the midterm election. There are 51 Republicans, 47 Democrats and two independent senators who tend to caucus with the Democrats.
1 An Incredibly Progressive And Inventive Religion Is About To Celibate Itself To Death

Arnold Hadd and June Carpenter live solitary lives in a tiny town in rural Maine, and they're not particularly interested in media attention. They're rather ordinary people, for the most part, but in January they became high-profile news for an unusual reason: After the death of their friend Frances Carr, they became the final two members of an entire religion.

Continue Reading Below Advertisement

Hadd and Carpenter are the last two members of the "United Society of Believers" church, historically nicknamed the "Shakers." Once consisting of thousands of believers, the other Christians of Europe didn't like the way that the Shakers' worship of Christ very subtly differed from their worship of Christ, so they were forced to escape to another continent which was only trying to murder them in much less prejudicial ways. But what was their crime against (mainstream) God? Well, they were progressive well beyond their time, which is just asking for trouble. At their core, the Shakers believed in absolute universal equality between the races and sexes. Before the American Civil War, they were the first church to allow black people to join as equals. Sure, that's the branch of Christianity we needed to get rid of.

Continue Reading Below Advertisement

Also, the Shakers were very inventive, and as any good Christian back then knew, inventions were the Devil's way to trick you into secularism. They invented the flat-broom (as opposed to the traditional bundle-of-straw-taped-to-a-stick method), as well as the first mechanical washing machine, known as a wash-mill. They came up with methods of making clothing waterproof and wrinkle-resistant which were so effective that they are still in use today. They invented the circular saw, as well as several more innovative farming methods. They invented the wood stove. And they shared all of this new knowledge with the world for free, because they thought patents were un-Biblical.
Four school districts in Cumberland County will be grappling with major transition woes in 2018.

Carlisle and South Middleton school districts are both on the hunt for superintendents to replace top executives that retired last summer.

Both school boards will be pressed to make decisions on the future leadership and direction of their district before the fiscal year ends on June 30.

Meanwhile, Cumberland Valley and Mechanicsburg school districts are trying to balance money, space and time with the need to accommodate surges in enrollment and changes in educational programming.

Their school boards made decisions in recent years that will start to have a decisive effect in 2018. Local families will experience the flux in new school construction, building renovations and the redistricting of attendance areas.

Carlisle

The school board last summer appointed Christina Spielbauer as acting superintendent through the 2017-18 year. She was the assistant superintendent under John Friend, who stepped down last June.

The board in September approved an updated job description for superintendent as the first step in the process to find a permanent replacement for Friend. It was the first review of the job duties, qualifications and expectations since the board promoted Friend from assistant superintendent in March 2010.

At last word, Carlisle school board members planned to discuss the search in executive session to arrive at a consensus on the top four to five priorities for a new superintendent. The plan is to outline a process from there.

South Middleton

This school board in early November reopened its search for a superintendent after it was unable to reach an agreement with an unnamed candidate for the position. Since then, the board has retained Templeton Advantage of Newport to conduct an expanded nationwide search. Earlier, the Perry County firm had conducted an expedited search that focused mostly on Pennsylvania.

We have once again reviewed the job posting and begun to layout the timeline for the process, the board-as-a-whole announced in a Dec. 11 website posting. Three of the nine board members are new to the board, having been elected in early November and sworn into office in early December. They have been briefed on the particulars of the search.

The board is planning to schedule a stakeholders meeting in January where the public could ask questions and offer input on the strengths and weaknesses of South Middleton School District, board President Randy Varner said in late December. We will take all of that into account as we move forward with the search. There will be separate focus group meetings with faculty, staff and administrators.

Cumberland Valley

Since 2010, Cumberland Valley School District has seen a sharp increase in enrollment that went beyond statistical projections and continues to the present-day. In early August 2017, the administration reported that 5.9 percent of the incoming 9,171 students for 2017-18 were new to the district, and that figure did not include the kindergarten.

Part of this growth surge will be addressed in August when Winding Creek Elementary School is scheduled to open on a new 120-acre campus on 120 acres at Lambs Gap and Bali Hai roads in Hampden and Silver Spring townships. This campus also includes Mountain View Middle School, which is scheduled to open in March 2019.

In November 2015, the school board accepted new attendance boundaries implemented in two phases. The first phase took place in 2017-18 and involved 81 students from Silver Spring Elementary School being moved to Monroe Elementary School.

The second phase will take place in the 2018-19 and would involve moving students from Silver Spring, Green Ridge, Hampden, Middlesex, Monroe, Shaull and Sporting Hills elementary schools and the existing middle schools. A portion of these students will be redistributed to the new 850-student capacity Winding Creek school and the new 1,450-student capacity Mountain View school.

In addition, Cumberland Valley School District could build into its 2018-19 budget money for a feasibility study to come up with options on how to address its expanding enrollment.

Mechanicsburg

In June 2015, the Mechanicsburg Area School District authorized a feasibility study in response to growth in its enrollment, which numbered 4,023 students in 2017-18  a jump of nearly 170 students since 2015-16.

The board then formed an 18-member committee of principals, teachers, administrators, parents and school board members to review the recommendations in the study and report back on the findings. The result was a number of board actions take in 2017 that will spill over into much of 2018.

The changes will begin early in the New Year when the board is expected to approve contractor bids for a $17 million expansion of the Kindergarten Academy, which needs renovations and an additional classroom wing. The second floor over the new wing will serve as the districts new administration office. Construction could begin in mid-March with occupancy expected in fall 2019.

In mid-November 2017, the board approved new attendance areas for 2018-19 that will affect students in the elementary grades. This was done as part of a strategy to expand and renovate all district buildings over the next five years to accommodate increasing enrollment and changing educational and activity needs.

Work could begin in February on a plan to convert Elmwood Elementary School from a one-through-five facility into the district center for grades four and five. The districts remaining elementary schools  Broad Street, Northside, Shepherdstown and Upper Allen  will switch from their current configurations of grades 1-5 to accommodate grades 1-3 in 2018-19.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

BRIDGEPORT  The two detectives and a police lieutenant assigned to guard and chauffeur Mayor Joe Ganim around the city and state earned nearly $70,000 total in overtime for that assignment this year.

That amount  accrued between Jan. 1 and Dec. 19 and provided in response to a Freedom of Information request  is not insignificant given Bridgeports and its police departments fiscal challenges.

The former is grappling with a several million dollar deficit and the latter has spent $3.7 million of its $5.5 million overtime account halfway through the budget year.

And the overtime bill for guarding Ganim could pay for at least one new officer  starting salary is $52,061  at a time when Bridgeports Finest are still not at optimum strength and facing a new round of retirements in 2018.

Ganims main driver has for the past two years since voters returned the ex-mayor to office been Detective Ramon Garcia. He was often by Ganims side on the campaign trail in 2015. Garcias annual salary is $77,312, according to the city, and he earned $46,115 in overtime while on mayor duty.

Lt. Richard Azzarito took home $14,975 on top of his $90,476 annual salary. Detective Sean Ronan earned $8,573 for his work on Ganims detail. Ronans annual salary is the same as Garcias, according to the city.

Unclear is how much of their total overtime tab was accrued while Ganim has been traveling the state exploring a 2018 gubernatorial run. The mayor has admitted to sometimes using his city-issued sport utility vehicle and a driver, and his campaign recently reimbursed Bridgeport $2,600 for mileage, though not for security.

Some members of the City Council  all Democrats like Ganim  in interviews promised to take a closer look when told about the overtime earned by Ganims drivers.

Councilwoman Michelle Lyons, a chairman of the public safety committee, wondered if some of that nearly $70,000 be used instead to expand police patrols.

I would like to know more about it, Lyons, a council veteran, said.

Freshman Councilman Peter Spain, who represents the high-taxed Black Rock neighborhood, called on the public safety and the budget committees to launch a full investigation and to create financial safeguards against this kind of waste without fail.

Police Chief Armando A.J. Perez promised to take a hard look at the cost of Ganims detail, find a formula and cut it.

The mayors got to go and do his thing, said Perez, a close friend of Ganims who guarded the mayor during his first administration in the 1990s. Its my job to make sure hes protected. But Im also protecting the pocketbook of taxpayers.

Crazy people or campaign perks

Rowena White, Ganims director of communications, wrote in an email Friday that the mayor has cut back on the use of drivers/security but did not offer specifics.

White did not deny that Ganim has used his police drivers during his off hours as well.

The mayors duties are not limited to a specific time. He is a public figure, always the mayor, and always on the job, 24/7, White wrote.

You got crazy people out there and hes someone thats recognizable, Perez said.

Besides receiving the occasional threat or being confronted by a member of the public, Ganim, accompanied by Garcia, was visiting the family of a homicide victim in July when bullets were fired near the scene from a passing car. Police had said the unharmed mayor was not the target.

Police Sgt. Chuck Paris is the cop union president. Paris, like Perez and Garcia, helped Ganim return to office in 2015 after his first administration ended in 2003 with a corruption conviction. But Paris has recently been at odds with City Hall over a new police contract.

Paris said prior Bridgeport mayors have also had access to police protection.

I would just hope that that money (for Ganims drivers) is not something thats holding back other details that our officers need to complete, Paris said. The chiefs budget is pretty much limited as is. As long as it doesnt take monies away from him he can use for other resources, so be it.

Councilwoman Denese Taylor Moye is a budget committee chairman. Taylor Moye said police overtime is always a concern and that she will take a closer look at what Ganims detail is earning.

But, Taylor Moye added, Im not against the mayor having security. I feel he should be able to have it.

Spain took particular issue with Ganims use of a driver while running for governor.

That is not official city business, Spain said.

White reiterated the administrations argument that that question was settled by a 1994 opinion issued by state ethics watchdogs for then-Lt. Gov. Eunice Groark.

Groark was running for governor. She had a state car and a state trooper for security.

State ethics officials concluded she should reimburse the state for mileage related to her campaign, but that as lieutenant governor Groark was entitled to 24-hour security regardless of the particular activity she may be engaged in, including campaigning.

Bridgeports ethics code under special conflicts lists use ... of city owned vehicles, equipment, materials or property for personal convenience or profit, except as authorized by the proper authority. Another Ganim ally, City Attorney R. Christopher Meyer, in August said his office reviewed the Groark opinion and approved its application to Ganims current bid for higher office.

Asked if Ganim would voluntarily reimburse the city for any gubernatorial campaign-related overtime paid his municipal drivers, White wrote: Since the mayor is entitled by virtue of his office and position to the services of a security detail, it is not necessary or appropriate for him personally or his campaign to reimburse the city for such services.
BRIDGEPORT  A male walked into a gas station store, said he had been shot and then left the scene in a vehicle Friday night, according to dispatch reports.

Officers were dispatched to the Shell gas station at 4402 Main Street for reports of a person who had been shot in the back.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

WESTPORT  Almost since the beginning, Barbara Pearson-Rac has been involved in some way with Westports First Night New Years Eve celebration.

The townwide tradition, now in its 24th year, is one of only two first night celebrations in the state  the other is Hartford  and has changed in some ways since the early 1990s, when Pearson-Rac and her husband, Frank Rac, first started volunteering.

A lot of our attendees are not necessarily from Westport. Theyre from outlying towns and cities around here. Some are from out of state, said Pearson-Rac, who is the president of First Nights board of directors. We invite anyone who wants to attend.

The celebration, which begins at 4 and ends at 10 p.m., includes musicians, artists, a hypnotist, horse-drawn carriage rides, stargazing and fireworks. Participating venues include Saugatuck Elementary School, Town Hall, Toquet Hall, the Westport Historical Society, the Westport Center for Senior Activities, Christ & Holy Trinity Church and downtown Westport.

The evening is organized and marketed solely by volunteers and, according to Pearson-Rac, with great support from the town.

Im grateful to Barbara Pearson-Rac and the many volunteers that assist her in organizing and conducting first night, said First Selectman Jim Marpe, who will be in attendance. They make a real difference and demonstrate the best of volunteering in our community.

More Information Celebrate the new year Buttons can be purchased at Westport Town Hall, Westport Historical Society, Westport Public Library, Weston Town Hall, Trader Joe's and Weston Hardware, or online at firstnightww.com. See More Collapse

According to Pearson-Rac, First Night was started in Boston in the 1970s by a group that wanted to create a drug- and alcohol-free New Years celebration for families that highlighted the arts.

A family should be able to take their child into any venue without worrying about what is being said or sung, Pearson-Rac said.

Over the years, the organizers have toyed with the hours of First Night, sometimes remaining open until the ball dropped at midnight. But Pearson-Rac said too often families would clear out well before midnight. In the past eight or so years, Pearson-Rac said, First Night has ended at 10 p.m.

As years have passed, Pearson-Rac said fundraising has become more difficult. Nevertheless, the price of an all-access button to First Night has remained the same : $10 if purchased before Dec. 14 and $15 after.

Its hard to fundraise. Every not-for-profit will tell you theyre having the same problem, Pearson-Rac said.

But Marpe and Pearson-Rac both agree First Night is an important way for people in Westport and elsewhere to enjoy the towns strong sense of community.

We get many families from other communities coming to participate in First Night, and I believe that gives them a sense of what Westport is like. Many of them return either to shop or dine or participate in other activities in Westport, which is good for our economy, Marpe said. It demonstrates that we are a family community and gives residents of all ages the opportunity to celebrate the New Year in a fun and creative way.

justin.papp@scni.com; @justinjpapp1
Cumberland County will have a new district attorney in 2018, creating the potential for changes in how the criminal justice system operates.

After more than a decade at the helm, David Freed was nominated and confirmed as U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

Former district attorney and current common pleas judge Skip Ebert will take over the position in January.

District attorneys have a great deal of discretion and nearly all criminal cases flow through the office. However, the office receives far less attention than other pieces of the criminal justice system, like police, judges and jails.

John Pfaff, a professor at Fordham University School of Law, spoke to The Sentinel in October to explain why he saw district attorneys as the most influential actors in criminal justice systems.

Its sort of remarkable to me how little attention their discretion gets, Pfaff said. No other person has more opportunities to use their discretion.

Police can decide do I arrest this guy or not, he said. But, a prosecutor can decide do I charge him or do I dismiss the charge? Do I accept diversion or do I not? Do I charge him with the misdemeanor or the felony? Do I charge the felony with the mandatory minimum or the one without? ... Its a huge amount of direct control.

A change in the district attorney can mean changes in how that discretion is used, from which cases to offer deals and what deals to offer to which cases to seek harsh penalties, which to seek leniency and even what charges to bring.

All criminal charges must be approved by the district attorneys office before filing in Cumberland County, a policy Ebert put in place during his previous tenure as the countys chief law enforcement officer. Ebert had served as district attorney from 1995 to 2005.

Other counties in Pennsylvania allow police to file charges without seeking district attorney approval.

A study done by The Sentinel in October found Cumberland County on average brought less severe charges than surrounding counties without charging approval. Cumberland County also had lower bail amounts on average, lower use of the county jail and a higher conviction rate than surrounding counties, The Sentinel found.

As district attorney, Ebert will also have control of the staffing in his office and policy matters beyond the day-to-day decision making.

One notable example is the countys appeal of a recent ruling by the state Supreme Court that deemed retroactively applying the current sex offender registry law unconstitutional.

Freed had made the decision to seek a review by the U.S. Supreme Court. However, Ebert said he is still weighing his options.

He said that if proposed changes are made to the state law, he may withdraw the appeal, adding that a loss at the U.S. Supreme Court would set precedent for the entire country.

If (the Legislature) addresses it satisfactorily, there might not be a need to proceed with it, Ebert said.

Less than 2 percent of all charged with sex crimes in Cumberland County between 2013 and 2016 involved a person on the sex offender registry, according to analysis of court records conducted by The Sentinel.

Emotionally with victims and the public (the registry) sounds like a great idea, but how many people are really protected, Ebert said. We get plenty of arrests because people dont register. It has a feel-good aspect to it, but Im not sure its enhancing the public safety.
HARRISBURG  With higher-powered fireworks now more widely available in Pennsylvania, eye doctors say theyre concerned about a higher frequency of accidents over the New Years Day holiday.

Dr. Melissa Sieber, chief resident of ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, said Friday the devices can cause permanent vision loss in both eyes after exploding in someones face.

Sieber says it can take years of surgery to regain some vision in one or both eyes.

This week is the first big holiday sales season in Pennsylvania under a new state law allowing residents to buy a full line of consumer fireworks. Municipal fire officials say theyre also worried about increased accidents.

Sieber says some devices can blast protective glasses off a users face and warns users to be careful about bystanders, including children.
What was the defining image of 2017? Theresa May, standing grim-faced outside No. 10 the day after the General Election? Young revellers cheering Jeremy Corbyn at the Glastonbury music festival? The blackened ruins of Grenfell Tower, or the horror at the Manchester Arena?

My choice would be rather less specific. When I look back on a year of remarkably grim and gloomy headlines, the image that swims into my mind is that of an overgrown toddler hunched over a keyboard, its face contorted with outrage.

And no, Im not just talking about Donald Trump, with his lamentable penchant for sending inflammatory tweets in the early hours of the morning. Im talking about the ugly new face of Britain, a nation that in the past 12 months has seemed in danger of losing touch with sanity, perspective and rational judgment.

Historians will surely remember this as the year that delivered one of the biggest political surprises in modern history, with Mrs May losing her Commons majority as her great election gamble backfired.

There were the Labour election activists who carved Nazi swastikas into Conservative Party posters and urinated on opposing candidates office doors

They will be struck, too, by the stunning transformation in Jeremy Corbyns image, which saw him converted from deluded loser to potential Prime Minister in a matter of weeks.

For me, though, what defined Britain in 2017 more than anything else was a growing sense of hysteria.

The Oxford English Dictionary defines hysteria as exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement. And I think those words perfectly capture the increasingly self-righteous, strident and intolerant tone of our public life.

You see it in the hard-Left demagogues who sought to exploit the tragedy of Grenfell Tower for political gain  among them, unforgivably, the leaders of the Labour Party.

You see it in the self-styled intellectuals who cannot forgive their working-class compatriots for daring to vote Leave in the Brexit referendum.

You see it in the student radicals who want to demolish statues of men who made names for themselves hundreds of years ago.

You see it in the transgender activists who think you are a fascist if you believe men and women are biologically different.

You see it in the scores of keyboard warriors who believe brushing a womans knee with your hand is tantamount to rape; you see it in the self-appointed censors who think cracking an ironic joke about Harvey Weinstein should mean banishment from polite society.

To find examples, in fact, you need only open a newspaper from any day in the past year.

There were the Labour election activists who carved swastikas into Conservative Party posters and urinated on opposing candidates office doors.

There were the students who demanded that Liverpool University tear down William Gladstones name from their hall of residence  because of his fathers links with the slave trade in the early 19th century  and replace it with that of the achingly Left-wing newsreader Jon Snow.

There were the Twitter commentators who smeared the Democratic Unionist Party  the most popular party in Northern Ireland, as well as a key component of the peace process  as a group of knuckle-dragging fascists.

There were the prophets of doom who warned that Brexit meant economic Armageddon, even as the latest job figures showed that Britain is doing much better than anyone had predicted.

Indeed, wherever you looked, the story was much the same. From the endless hand-wringing about the Brexit negotiations to the tortuous details of the latest sexual harassment scandal, the tone was invariably one of hysterical outrage, fuelled by the echo chambers of social media. Oddly enough, the story that really captured the bigoted spirit of the year did not concern either Mrs May or Mr Corbyn, the dominant political personalities of the age. It concerned their now largely forgotten rival, the Lib Dem leader Tim Farron. Remember him?

In the ideological cocoons of Facebook and Twitter, the same lazy prejudices  the horrors of capitalism, the evil of patriotism, the joys of immigration, even the vital importance of transgender toilets  are unceasingly repeated.

To question them is to identify yourself as a racist, a fascist or an enemy of progress.

As a devout Christian, Mr Farron once described gay sex as a sin and disapproves of abortion  views that only a generation ago were seen as entirely mainstream. Yet they were enough to see him driven out of the Lib Dem leadership.

As he put it, he was the subject of suspicion because of what I believe and who my faith is in  in which case we are kidding ourselves if we think we yet live in a tolerant, liberal society.

I cant honestly say that I miss Mr Farron. Yet no story of the year better reflected the spirit of liberal intolerance that has now become so widespread.

Seeping out of our universities, the culture of Left-wing outrage is now in real danger of polluting our public life, stifling debate and silencing dissent.

In the ideological cocoons of Facebook and Twitter, the same lazy prejudices  the horrors of capitalism, the evil of patriotism, the joys of immigration, even the vital importance of transgender toilets  are unceasingly repeated. To question them is to identify yourself as a racist, a fascist or an enemy of progress.

Indeed, this was not just the year of Mrs Mays trials and Mr Corbyns resurrection. It was also the year that saw student unions banning newspapers they dislike, such as the Daily Mail and The Sun, while Labour activists even took pictures of themselves burning front pages that criticised their beloved Jeremy Corbyn.

Banning and burning: two words that we associate not with modern, tolerant Britain, but with the Nazi rallies of the Thirties. But this, unfortunately, was the new tone of public life in 2017.

There is an argument, of course, that none of this is entirely new. After all, the online witch-hunts against people who question the prevailing politically correct orthodoxy are strikingly reminiscent of campaigns over the centuries against religious heretics and political dissenters.

Even the mob mentality that has infected our national politics, as in the reactions to the Grenfell fire and the Westminster sexual harassment scandal, is hardly unprecedented. Such rabble-rousing has long played a part in our political history, from the Peasants Revolt of 1381 to the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots of 1780.

What is new, though, is the impact of the internet, which is dissolving our common national culture into a collection of atomised, hate-filled bubbles.

As the General Election revealed, millions of youngsters now get their news from Facebook and Twitter, which have become echo chambers reverberating to the sound of the same relentless Left-wing pieties.

Even worse, many now get their views of the world from hard-Left websites such as The Skwawkbox, which claimed  entirely falsely  that the Press had been gagged by the Government from reporting the truth about the number of people killed in the Grenfell fire.

You could hardly find a better example of fake news. Unfortunately, it worked. Not only did thousands of youngsters share it online, but the effect was to ratchet up a wider sense of injustice and outrage, which is precisely what the hard Left wants. Indeed, every day provides more examples. Almost every morning opens with the BBC reporting that the Brexit talks are close to disaster.

There is the increasingly strident rejection of our national history, with activists targeting much-loved statues of our patriotic heroes  even Nelson, for goodness sake  as well as decrying anyone who dares to see some good in our colonial past

The NHS is said to be in a state of constant crisis; the economy is claimed to be on the brink of the abyss; even the Governments social mobility tsar, Alan Milburn, flounced out with some melodramatic words about Britain plunging into an age of social division.

You would hardly guess from all this that Britain is one of the richest, safest and most contented countries in the world.

Believe it or not, we have actually risen four places in the United Nations index of world happiness since 2016, finishing ahead of France, Italy, Spain and a host of other EU members.

Dont believe it? Well, what about another survey by the Office for National Statistics, which found that our levels of life satisfaction, wellbeing and happiness are now higher than ever before?

So much, then, for the Brexit blues about which the BBC and The Guardian newspaper never tire of telling us.

And here comes an even bigger heresy. For all the confected hysteria about social inequality, the plain fact is that most people in Britain have never had it so good.

Yes, of course, our society has its problems. But we live longer, safer, more comfortable lives than any generation before us.

If you showed someone from 1947, 1907, 1847 or 1807 what ordinary life is like today, their eyes would almost pop out with disbelief and envy.

The deadliest threat to our prosperity, happiness and national unity is not Brexit, Trump, Vladimir Putin or terrorism. It is the corrosive culture of hysterical outrage, nurtured by the hard Left, amplified by social media and increasingly entrenched at our universities.

The symptoms are easy to spot. There is the obsessive sense of victimhood, with young people encouraged to see themselves as martyrs at the hands of their unfeeling elders.

There is the increasingly strident rejection of our national history, with activists targeting much-loved statues of our patriotic heroes  even Nelson, for goodness sake  as well as decrying anyone who dares to see some good in our colonial past, as happened with the vilification of Oxford professor Nigel Biggar in recent days.

Perhaps above all, there is the growing contempt for free speech and dissenting opinion, with Left-wing activists casting themselves as grand inquisitors, policing the national Press, social media and even everyday conversations for deviations from the party line.

For me, one of the most glaring examples came in October, when the Conservative minister Michael Gove remarked that appearing on the Radio 4s Today programme was a bit like going into Harvey Weinsteins bedroom. You just pray that you emerge with your dignity intact.

Indeed, this was not just the year of Mrs Mays trials and Mr Corbyns resurrection. It was also the year that saw student unions banning newspapers they dislike, such as the Daily Mail and The Sun, while Labour activists even took pictures of themselves burning front pages that criticised their beloved Jeremy Corbyn

Judging by the reaction, you might have thought Mr Gove had come out as a member of the Ku Klux Klan. He was, of course, forced to apologise. That moment, like the defenestration of poor Tim Farron, perfectly captures the spirit of our public life this year.

The unconvincing apology, offered up by the hapless offender to a howling mob of critics, has become one of the great rituals of our national life.

Almost no institution, no public figure, has escaped the search for scapegoats and heretics. Once we led the world in making things; we now lead the world in making apologies.

Even the British Museum has been at it. In September, one of its curators observed that they tried to keep labels on exhibits simple: We aim to be understandable by 16-year-olds. Sometimes Asian names can be confusing, so we have to be careful about using too many.

As a furious backlash began online, the museum attempted to clarify its point, adding: We are limited by the length of labels. Dynasties and gods have different names in various Asian languages. We want to focus on the stories.

But in the age of hysteria, that was not enough, and soon enough, with depressing predictability, rather than defending its corner, it caved in and announced: We would like to apologise for any offence caused.

Where will all this end? Its impossible to say, though I know the kind of Britain many of the young Left-wing agitators  who seem to make the most noise  want to see.

They long for the triumphant accession of a Corbyn government, swept to power by the votes of millions of people determined to erase every last vestige of tradition, and bent on a spending and borrowing spree that would  according to almost all reputable economists  drive Britain to the abyss of bankruptcy.

But as so often, a bit of perspective is in order. Mr Corbyn didnt win the last election. He lost it. He said the Brexit negotiations would collapse. They havent.

He said he would be Prime Minister by Christmas. He isnt. And he said Mrs May was finished. Shes still there, though  battered, but battling on.

And when you look back on a year of shocks and disasters, its easy to forget that for most people, life simply went on. Most people arent activists or demonstrators. They dont want to detonate the statues of our ancestors any more than they want to re-run the Brexit referendum.

They find the students antics laughable, consider Mr Corbyn implausible and feel a grudging sympathy with the beleaguered Mrs May.

And if they were forced to vote in yet another General Election, I have a sneaking suspicion that the Corbynistas hysterical hubris might well come back to haunt them.

What no one can deny, however, is that not since the Eighties, when Margaret Thatcher took on the trade unions and their allies, have the political stakes been higher, the passions more intense or the battle lines more starkly drawn.

So where does the future of our country really lie? With the keyboard warriors and the strident activists, the self-appointed censors and the hard-Left demagogues? Or with the quiet, decent, tolerant majority?

In the next 12 months, we may well find out.
Christmas lovers can't stand the thought of tearing down their trees after the holiday, and it turns out they don't have to.

Decorating a New Year tree or yolka is a time-honored Russian tradition, and some people have found a way to incorporate both customs into their holiday celebrations.

People are swapping their Christmas tree decorations for festive party hats, metallic streamers, and clocks, to ring in the new year, while sharing the stunning results online.

'Tis the season! People are swapping their Christmas tree decorations for festive party hats, metallic streamers, and clocks, to ring in the new year

Great idea: A lifestyle blogger named Tracy demonstrated how she turned her Christmas tree into a New Year tree using silver ornaments, party hats, and signs

A woman named Penelope took to Instagram this week to share a photo of Christmas tree alongside an image of her New Year Tree.

While the former features festive red and white Christmas ornaments, the latter is decorated with white and metallic balls and Happy New Year hats.

'This is what happens when your real tree has lived it's life, but you aren't ready for the holiday season to be over,' she wrote. 'Bye bye Christmas tree...Hello New Year tree!'

Kimberly Jackson also posted photos showing how she transformed her Christmas tree into a New Year tree before the holiday.

Stunning: Esther Gonzalez left her pink Christmas ornaments on her tree but added gold tassels, star garlands, and a gold foil '2018' balloon she picked up at the 99 Cents Only Store

Ready to celebrate: Kimberly Jackson used colorful balloons and streamers to turn her Christmas tree into a New Year tree

The countdown begins: One person decorated her New Year tree with balloons stamped with different times

Jackson's Christmas tree was filled with various ornaments shaped like Santa Claus, stockins, and snowmen, but she removed those to make room for balloons and colorful tinsel for her New Year tree.

Meanwhile, Esther Gonzalez left her pink Christmas ornaments on her tree but added gold tassels, star garlands, and a gold foil '2018' balloon she picked up at the 99 Cents Only Store.

'This happened. Does anybody else do a New Year's themed tree?' she asked.

In recent years, numerous decorating blogs have shared tips on how to transform a Christmas tree into a New Year tree; however, the Russian tradition shouldn't be confused with the common practice of leaving a tree up until after New Year's Day.

Flower power: Svetlana Kharchenko of the Ukraine decorated her New Year tree with a stunning floral arrangement

Making it easy: The Oh! New Year's Tree decorating kit comes with streamers, party hats, a gold tree topper, wish lists, and a kid-friendly book.

Christmas trees originated in Germany in the 1500s and Peter the Great brought brought them to Russia in the 17th century.

After the Russian Revolution in 1917, trees were banned until 1935  but they were only to be used to celebrate the secular New Year holiday.

Russian photographer Roman Makhmutov told Wired that Western Christmas is quite similar to New Year's in Russia.

'My family always had a New Year tree,' he said. 'The custom to decorate it is one of the brightest memories from my childhood, so it became an important part of my life too.'

For those looking to give their Christmas tree a makeover ahead of 2018 Delish pointed out that the Oh! New Year's Tree decorating kit comes with streamers, party hats, a gold tree topper, wish lists, and a kid-friendly book.
A teenage girl who suffered fevers, blisters on her mouth and excruciating pain while chewing and swallowing stumped doctors for months until it was finally revealed that her braces were behind her painful symptoms.

Kennedy Odom, 16, suffered from the debilitating symptoms for months which kept her from school and caused her to lose 30 pounds as doctors scrambled to find what was causing the outbreak.

What doctors thought could be anything from leukemia to strep throat turned out to be systemic nickel allergy syndrome, a severe allergy to the metal nickel that is commonly found in jewelry, clothes fasteners and in Kennedy's case - braces.

Now the teen from Tennessee has discovered she is allergic to other forms of metal including cobalt and stainless steel which makes simple tasks such as drinking from a soda can daunting.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Kennedy Odom, 16, fell ill from an allergy to the nickel in her braces which took doctors months to diagnose

Photos of Kennedy's mouth show the white puss-filled legions that formed due to her braces

Video Courtesy WMC

Symptoms of a nickel allergy include a rash or bumps on the skin, itching, redness, dry patches and blisters in severe cases.

Fifteen to 20 percent of the population suffer from an allergy to nickel, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A year after Kennedy's initial health scare, she experienced similar allergic reactions after receiving a vaccination at school and sipping from a metal soda can.

It was later discovered that she had allergies to nickel, stainless steel, and cobalt.

Nickel allergies are common, Kennedy's reaction was so severe that it almost cost her her life.

Kennedy and her mother Cicely both got braces in February 2015.

Nine months later Kennedy first started to develop symptoms when a headache quickly turned to a fever.

'It felt like someone was sitting on my head - like a lot of pressure,' Kennedy said on the Animal Planet show Monsters Inside Me.

Her mother, Cicely gave her over-the-counter medicine but the headache got worse.

As her mother took her temperature that night, Cicely noticed her daughter's lips were swollen and red but wasn't too concerned.

The following morning Kennedy went to a local clinic where the doctors performed a physical examination and she described started to feel pain in her throat.

'It felt like it was burning and I couldn't swallow anything,' Kennedy said.

She was diagnosed with strep throat, the common bacterial infection that causes inflammation and scratchiness in the throat.

Doctors prescribed her with antibiotics and Kennedy was sent home.

However later that week Kennedy's condition took an alarming turn when she woke up and began vomiting.

That's when Kennedy's mother noticed sores filling her daughter's mouth.

'The bumps were all over the inside and the outside of her mouth and puss-filled so they were white, red and blotchy,' said Cicely.

After being rushed to the emergency room, an initial round of tests could not find anything more than strep throat.

Doctors concluded it was a virus contributing to strep throat and sent Kennedy and her mother home frustrated and afraid, according to Cicely.

She suffered from headaches, fevers and blisters inside of her mouth until the teen from Tennessee finally got her braces removed causing the symptoms to immediately go away

WHAT IS A NICKEL ALLERGY? Nickel allergy is a common cause of allergy causing an itchy rash that appears where your skin touches a usually harmless substance. It is often associated with earrings and other jewelry. But nickel can be found in many everyday items, such as coins, zippers, cellphones and eyeglass frames. It may take repeated or prolonged exposure to items containing nickel to develop an allergy. Treatments can reduce the symptoms of nickel allergy but once you develop a nickel allergy you'll always be sensitive to the metal and need to avoid contact. Symptoms include a rash or bumps on the skin, itching, redness or changes in skin color, dry patches of skin that may resemble a burn and in severe cases blisters and draining fluid. About 15 to 20 percent of the population has a nickel allergy. Mayo Clinic Advertisement

For the next several weeks her symptoms persisted.

'I felt really week, I didn't want to get out of bed and didn't have an appetite for anything,' Kennedy said.

They continued to see multiple doctors when one physician pushed on her side during an examination.

Kennedy jumped in pain and and ultrasound revealed that her spleen was enlarge.

The spleen in vital for fighting off infections which meant Kennedy's immune system was compromised because it was enlarged.

Enlarged spleens are also consistent with allergic reactions

However doctors suspected leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bones, due to her susceptibility to infection.

'I wanted them to be wrong but she wasn't getting better,' said Cicely.

A family member noticed that everything was physically normal except Kennedy's mouth.

Her lips were red, swollen and enlarged so they asked the doctors if the issue could be coming from her mouth.

Over the next three days doctors tested potential allergens on Kennedy's skin which revealed she had a nickel allergy.

Kennedy recalled that each time she got her braces tightened she would develop bumps. As the tissue in her mouth got more inflamed the allergy got more widespread.

Her braces were immediately removed and within days her symptoms went away.

She no longer was feeling lethargic and her mother said she saw an immediate change.

Periodontist Dr Mitchel Godat treated Kennedy and said: 'Inside Kennedy these allergens caused her immune system to flare up. Eventually she had step throat and her immune system was going into overdrive trying to fight the infection.'

'Her body was destroying itself trying to get rid of this allergen,' he added.
Between now and spring, residents will have the chance to donate at area businesses for a cause benefiting wounded or ill veterans.

The annual Camp Valor Outdoors Spring Classic Fishing Tournament at S bar F Scout Ranch is slated for next April, but local sponsors are asking for the communitys help to make the veterans experience as good as it can be.

The fishing tournament brings together wounded or ill veterans for three days of fishing and skeet shooting. Local sponsors like the Farmington and Leadington VFW posts and the Farmington American Legion work together to cover the expenses of the traveling veterans.

Leadington Auxiliary Veteran and Family Support Chairman Kandi McFarland said she has placed donation boxes at several gas stations and restaurants in the area for people to donate.

These donations help defray the cost of lodging, fishing equipment, transportation, ammunition and trophies for 10 of our wounded warriors, McFarland said. We pay for their hotel rooms, we cook them all their meals and we try to take care of every need they have while theyre here.

The veterans receive all-new fishing rods and tackle for the tournament. McFarland said the sponsors also try to provide equipment to the tournament guides, who volunteer their vehicles for the event.

McFarland said almost $3,000 was raised last year, with additional donations coming from businesses and organizations. She said the communitys support is appreciated by not only the sponsors but by the wounded or ill veterans who will directly benefit from them.

These are veterans, she said. Theyre not just veterans, but these are guys who are wounded in some way who wouldnt normally have the opportunity to go fishing or shooting. Its a really neat thing for them and its an honor for us to be involved.

If it wasnt for the community support to help make this happen, we wouldnt be able to defray the cost and make these trips happen for these warriors. So it really means a lot to the veterans and to us to have community support.

For more information about supporting the Camp Valor Outdoors Spring Classic Fishing Tournament, contact Frank Ramirez at 573-330-1124, Bill Henson at 573-760-3611, Dave Oder at 573-631-4393 or Kandi McFarland at 573-915-6015.
What has 2017 taught us? That Tales Of The Unexpected is fact rather than fiction? Youll never regret an early night? Or perhaps that a good meal is always a great idea.

For me, there have been some notable drinks trends that may point the way to whats in store for 2018. Proseccos popularity is up but yields are down, so hunting your fruity bubbly from elsewhere in Italy might prove tempting.

Sicily is a decent option but consider French Cremant  deploying exactly the same production method of Champagne for a snip of the price. English sparkling wine has rightly been gaining the adulation it deserves.

Majestic has reported a 378 per cent increase in year-on-year sales of super-sized bottles under 20. And Im delighted to see that my old favourite fortified Madeira is also up 224 per cent on 2016.

Across Great Britain, rivers of gin have also been flowing and flavoured gins such as rhubarb and honey are set to boom in 2018. If youre after a gin of sensational provenance and quality with a point of difference, go for Nikka Coffey Gin from Japan (44.95 from thewhiskyexchange.com).

With zesty yuzu and a dart of spice itll take your mood straight to cruising altitude. But I think rum is really set to boom, in particular, bottles with provenance, craft and zero additives such as my pick below.

As for wine, El Nino is giving the South American grape harvest trouble, so next year Eastern Europe could be the place to look for value  Romania in particular, with a 60 per cent harvest increase.

And Italys whites beyond Pinot Grigio are finally breaking through  Fiano, Pecorino, Grillo, Falanghina and Carricante can all be stunning. But for a real tale of the unexpected, check out my Erbaluce Italian pick above for a very Happy New Year!
Troubled taxi app company Uber will have a board bigger than the United Nations Security Council after sealing a 6.7 billion deal with Softbank.

Uber has clinched a deal with Softbank

Changes being pushed through to secure a cash injection will expand its board from 11 to 17, to dilute power wielded by founder Travis Kalanick.
The UK boss of Homebases Australian parent company Bunnings is taking a three-month holiday despite its falling sales.

Holiday break: UK boss of Homebase's Australian company Bunnings will be taking his leave from January

Peter Daviss leave starts some time in January, and he insists now seems like a good time and that he has been away from his family in Australia for three years. Davis added: Ill come back fresh as a daisy and get on with it.
DISCOUNT DEAL Budget carrier Wizz Air has signed a deal with Airbus for 146 aircraft worth 13 billion.

The agreement will enable Wizz Air to renew its existing fleet, provide more capacity for growth and offer lower fares, the company said. It added that the 72 A320neos and 74 A321neos have been bought at a significant discount.

Wizz Air: Agreement will provide more capacity for growth and offer lower fares, says firm

STAIRCASE ACTION The Government is pushing ahead with plans to reverse the controversial staircase tax in a move which has been hailed by small business advocates.

If it is not overturned, offices covering multiple floors in a building would be billed separately for each floor if their corridors or staircases are communal.

SALE COMPLETED Mining firm Glencore has completed the sale of its 51 per cent stake in its petroleum, products and storage business to HNA Innovation Finance Group, which will generate 429 million in cash, rising to 574 million later in the new year.

BITCOIN RIVAL Crisis-hit Venezuela is launching its own digital currency to rival bitcoin, which will be named the petro.

BONUSES SCRAPPED Streaming service Netflix is scrapping management bonuses, in response to Donald Trumps 1.65 trillion tax reforms.

GUILTY PLEA The founder of defunct social media app Fling has pleaded guilty to kicking his girlfriend in the stomach. Marco Nardone  former chief executive of the London firm which produced a mobile app that lets users send photos to strangers  admitted committing the assault at his 2 million flat He will be sentenced on January 25.

CHAIRMAN OFF The chairman of AIM-listed tech Windar Photonics, John Weston, has stepped down to be succeeded by board member Johan Blach Petersen.
Edwin Booth: 62 Executive Chairman of Booth

HERO

Edwin Booth, 62, Executive Chairman of Booth

THE boss of grocer Booths  the so-called Waitrose of the North  wrote a refreshingly honest response to a shopper, acknowledging that a number of his complaints (such as half-melons costing the same as whole ones) were justified.

Will Tescos Dave Lewis write to customers who got rotten turkeys at Christmas?

...AND ZERO

Lloyd Blankfein, 63, Chief Executive at Goldman Sachs

Lloyd Blankfein, 63, Chief Executive at Goldman Sachs

The Goldman Sachs boss warns that the bank will take a 3.7 billion hit to fourth-quarter profits as a result of Donald Trumps revisions to corporate tax.

His Twitter feed has been very active on political matters, particularly when it comes to bashing Brexit, though it currently remains muted on this unexpected misfortune.
Are you addicted to posting on Facebook? Fed up of people telling you it's a waste of time?

Now, as well as staying in touch with friends and racking up likes and comments, you can start saving money every time you post on Facebook.

It's a new feature of the Oval Money app, which helps you track your money. It allows you to set automatic savings triggers to remove money from your current account into a digital wallet. From there, you can then transfer cash into a savings account.

You can start saving money every time you post on Facebook with the help of Oval Money

There are three ways of doing this. Every time you spend money on a purchase the app will round the amount up to the nearest pound and then puts the difference in your Oval savings account. Or you can opt to save a fixed percentage of everything you spend and the app will automatically save it for you. Or, you can just set up a fixed amount to be moved every time you make a specific purchase.

The latest step the app has introduced is the option to save something every time you post on Facebook, and it says it's planning similar moves with other social media networks in the not too distant future.

Benedetta Arese Lucini, chief executive of Oval, said: 'With users making 3.3 million Facebook posts every minute, there is clearly huge potential to improve savings behaviour on a wide scale.

'Saving is difficult because it is something we tend to pursue separately from our other habits. By making it possible to seamlessly link savings behaviour to other positive behaviours, we hope to make saving effortless for our users.

'Feedback from our users made it clear that linking savings to social media activity could be really powerful. Sharing with friends and family on social media is something most of us do every day and this makes it an ideal positive behaviour to link to saving.'

According to the latest Aviva Family and Finances report, the average British household has just over 3,000 in savings and investments.

Yet, one in four UK households has less than 100 pounds saved.

For families and individuals, it can be a constant challenge to make saving contributions regularly, and to grow savings sufficiently so that investing with a long-term outlook even becomes a possibility.

Oval Money claims it is already helping its users set aside an average of 120 a month, and the new Facebook integration is expected to help users grow that figure by enabling them to tailor their savings habits even further.

'Facebook saving is hassle free' Akeem: Saves whenever he buys alcohol Akeem Bundu-Kamaram works in financial services in London but has always found saving difficult. 'It's hard to remain disciplined and keep a consistent approach to savings,' he says. 'But Oval makes saving automatic and is very customisable. The goals I set for myself depend on what I spend my money on. For example, I have set the app to save more when I buy alcohol and less on things like books or transport. 'The Facebook integration was appealing because it linked savings to something I did regularly anyway with little hassle. So far I saved much more than I used to with Oval as it rounds up my purchases and saves the spare change. I put aside 2 on each wellness purchase, and I put away 5 on all food and drink purchases. Altogether it means I now save from 150 to 240 per month.'

This is Money verdict

If you're one of those people who wants to save more, knows you should, but somehow never quite gets around to it, Oval might be a good option to help you get in the habit.

Once you've set up your rules, you can let the app take care of the rest.

Given that this new function lets you link saving to posting on Facebook, you might need to keep a close on your linked current account balance if you're a particularly prolific Facebook poster.

You should also be aware that Oval only helps users put money away in a digital savings wallet, meaning money is held in a ringfenced, protected bank account but you won't earn any interest on it.

Once it's in there, you should move it to a savings account registered with the Financial Services Compensation Scheme that pays you a decent return.

You can check out the best savings rates here.

At the moment, there is no cost to use the app so if you struggle to find the time or inclination to make physical transfers from your current account to a savings account and end up spending spare cash, it's a reasonable middle man.

Oval is available on the App Store for iPhones and for Android, in the Google Play store.

For more information on the best financial apps available, read This is Money's guide to our top 10.

'Now I save something every day' Matteo: Saving makes me feel secure Matteo is a freelance consultant working in digital marketing and communication in Milan, Italy. 'I love what I do, but my income is variable from month to month and it makes it hard to save,' he explains. 'It is difficult to forecast my income and expenses and I often find myself drawing down my account to zero at the end of each month. 'A friend recommended I try Oval. Now I round-up my purchases and save the spare change. I also have a recurring deposit tied to my income and put away fixed amounts for each food and drink, home and leisure purchase. 'I was one of the first users to get access to the Facebook integration and because I post regularly, I have seen a big boost to my monthly savings. I am putting away 10 per cent more each month without really thinking about it. 'For me, saving is less about a big goal and more about feeling secure given that I have good months and slow months. Oval is helping me do just that.'

How does it compare?

There are other apps that offer similar services. Moneybox is one that also rounds up the spare change on your purchases and then invests them for you in an Isa.

Chip, meanwhile, uses your spending habits to work out what you can afford to save without affecting your normal spending habits and then siphons off the money to a separate Chip account paying 1 per cent as standard. It pays an extra 1 per cent for every friend you recommend (up to a maximum of 5 per cent).

There are various other apps that help you see your full financial position in an effort to help you save more effectively too. These include Moneyhub, Money Dashboard and Savings Goals.

Bean is a relatively new app that aims to help you save money by scanning your accounts for subscriptions you don't use anymore which it then asks your permission to cancel.

It also tracks when utility contracts are up for renewal and will search out the best deals to help you save on bills.
Advertisement

Edwina Robertson has traversed Australia's most treacherous country, taking photos in exchange for accommodation, food and diesel.

The 32-year-old wedding photographer drove 27,000 kilometres across Australia's outback with just her dog Jordie for company, to bring stories from the bush to the forefront.

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Ms Robertson revealed she experienced a lot in 100 days, from a brush with death, to meeting the man she thought was the love of her life.

Scroll down for video

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Ms Robertson revealed she experienced a lot in 100 days, from a brush with death, to meeting who she thought was the love of her life

'He was wearing a black hat with an orange Cockatoo feather who embodied a smile that would make any woman melt,' Ms Robertson said about Tyler (pictured together)

The photos showed newlyweds, and their bridal party, standing in the dirt and highlighted the plight of so many farmers across Australia suffering through harsh drought conditions

Ms Robertson, who grew up in Deepwater in northern NSW, captured the nation's attention in 2015 with wedding photos she took in Blackall, in Queensland's central west.

The photos showed a bridal party standing in the dirt and highlighted the plight of so many farmers across Australia suffering through harsh drought conditions.

Combining her love for the bush and her incredible photography skills, Ms Robertson embarked on an adventure to 'highlight the extremes people have to put up with in the bush'.

'Over the last few years I've really realised how much of a disadvantage people in the bush have, even basic services like education, health, internet and access to doctors,' she said.

'I think there's this perception that people in the bush are a bit redneck, but they're very well educated, very resilient, patient and hospitable.

'I wanted to show these character traits.'

Ms Robertson, who grew up in Deepwater in northern NSW, captured the nation's attention in 2015 with wedding photos she took in Blackall, in Queensland's central west

The 32-year-old wedding photographer drove 27,000 kilometres across Australia's outback with just her dog Jordie for company, to bring stories from the bush to the forefront

Ms Robertson (pictured in front of her car), who now lives in Toowoomba, Queensland, went from property to property, meeting rural folk and listening to their stories

Ms Robertson, who now lives in Toowoomba, Queensland, went from property to property, meeting rural folk and listening to their stories.

She spent no money on food, accommodation or diesel, instead relying on the hospitality of her hosts.

In exchange for their generosity, Ms Robertson supplied them with photographs.

Ms Robertson said the kindness she experienced from families in the bush was unlike any other

She spent no money on food, accommodation or diesel, instead relying on the hospitality of her hosts

Ms Robertson, who now lives in Toowoomba, Queensland, went from property to property, meeting rural folk and listening to their stories

Ms Robertson said the kindness she experienced in the bush was unlike any other.

'People always had your back, if you saw someone breaking down, you picked them up,' she said.

Ms Robertson revealed she rolled her car about 180km north-west of Alice Springs.

Bruised and battered, Ms Robertson said she was rescued no more than 10 minutes later.

When she rolled her car north-west of Alice Springs, Ms Robertson said it wasn't more than 10 minutes before she was rescued.

'Two aboriginal men picked me up and treated me with so much respect,' she said.

She also said the beauty of great open spaces was 'phenomenal'.

'I've never seen anything like it, it's like being on the moon, so baron and dry,' she said.

'There's just nothing there, but it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.'

Ms Robertson revealed she rolled her car about 180km north-west of Alice Springs and was rescued no more than 10 minutes later

'There's just nothing there, but it's the most beautiful I've ever seen'

'I've never seen anything like it, it's like being on the moon, so baron and dry,' she said

While she traversed the countryside alone, and drove thousands of kilometres without seeing another person, she said she never felt lonely

While she traversed the countryside alone, and drove thousands of kilometres without seeing another person, she said she never felt lonely.

'You can live in an apartment in inner Redfern, and feel more isolated there than you feel living in the bush,' she said.

'In the bush, people look out for other people.

'I think that's the sad thing about living in cities, you don't know your neighbours, it's a totally different culture.'

Edwina Robertson has become well-known for her astonishing wedding photography

While Ms Robertson met so many amazing people on her trip, she revealed she also experienced what could only be described as heartbreak (bush wedding pictured)

'I think that's the sad thing about living in cities, you don't know your neighbours, it's a totally different culture,' Ms Robertson said

While Ms Robertson met so many amazing people on her trip, she revealed she also experienced what could only be described as heartbreak.

'I'd just arrived at a station in Kimberley, WA, I hadn't eaten for 30 hours, I was starving and not happy,' she said.

'I was greeted by two young boys full of questions and intrigue about my journey. I was warmly welcomed by my two hosts who introduced me to this tall, attractive man called Tyler.

'He was wearing a black hat with an orange Cockatoo feather who embodied a smile that would make any woman melt.'

'I'd just arrived at a station in Kimberley, WA, I hadn't eaten for 30 hours, I was starving and not happy,' she said

Ms Robertson's relationship with the tall, attractive worker very quickly became romantic.

When she left the station for her next destination, the pair kept in contact and spoke on the phone several times a day.

For the next couple of weeks, Ms Robertson said they stayed in constant contact, and their affections for each other grew rapidly.

When she left the station for her next destination, the pair kept in contact and spoke on the phone several times a day

For the next couple of weeks, Ms Robertson said they stayed in constant contact, and their affections for each other grew rapidly

'Even with limitations of landline usage and access to wifi, I'd hear from Tyler at least three times a day, every day,' she said.

'On the morning Tyler flew into Kalgoorlie to meet me, I'm not sure who was more nervous. But nerves were good right? Nerves meant we both cared about what was to come.'

Ms Robertson said the next week was the best week of her life.

An incredible photo Ms Robertson captured out in the bush

Edwina Robertson's photography has been shared across social media, for its raw, real representation of the bush

'Even with limitations of landline usage and access to wifi, I'd hear from Tyler at least three times a day, every day,' she said of her blossoming relationship

'Here I was travelling 1,600km across the desert with someone i'd known less than a month, yet I'd never felt so content,' she said.

The pair fell in love, and spoke about a future together, even sharing potential children's names.

'For most, this would seem extreme or even possibly weird, however as someone who has captured 200 something weddings, I have heard many a time, when you know, you know. We both said we knew,' she said.

Ms Robertson described her time with Tyler as 'incredibly magical'.

She fell head over heels for Tyler and thought she'd found her future husband.

'He gave me all the things women crave. Loyalty, devotion, stability. I had never met anyone who made me feel so whole. Or so I thought,' she said.

When Tyler flew out of Kalgoorlie to return to work, Ms Robertson she never heard from him again.

'He said 'I love you, I'll call you tonight' and never did,' she said.

Ms Robertson drove thousands of kilometres with only her beloved dog Jordie by her side

Ms Robertson traversed some of Australia's roughest country in her vehicle pictured here in front of Uluru

'With no reason as to why the communication stopped, no explanation, no return of phone calls, no rhyme and certainly no respect, I was 'ghosted'.

Despite repeated attempts to contact Tyler, her calls were never returned.

Worried for his safety, she even phoned the police to check he was OK. He was.

'I feel humiliated,' she said.

'Even if he sent me a text message saying, 'it was nice to know you and good luck', there would have been no hard feelings.

'But he wasn't courageous enough.'

Ms Robertson said it was a sour end to an otherwise life-changing trip.

Ms Robertson's Wander of the West photography captures the incredible dryness of Australia's outback

Ms Robertson captured adorable images of her host's families in exchange for board, food and diesel

'I was feeling really well and mentally healthy, it was amazing,' she said.

'Then I felt like this person tried to steal my sparkle, and no one deserves to do that.'

Despite her heartache, Ms Robertson said she met so many amazing people on her trip.

She urged others to step outside their comfort zones and discover australia's backyard.

'It's very easy to get on the internet and have an opinion about things, cultures and different people,' she said.

'But I don't think anyone's entitled to have an opinion until they've gone out there themselves.

'Go out, venture a bit further than you usually would. You'd be surprised.'

Ms Robertson's adorable pet dog Jordie accompanied her on the journey

'It's very easy to get on the internet and have an opinion about things, cultures and different people,' Ms Robertson said
A mother accused of killing her five-year-old daughter after the girl's body was found in the family's restaurant was sentenced to 22 years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges.

Mingming Chen was initially been charged with murder, but Stark County prosecutors lessened it to involuntary manslaughter as part of a plea deal.

The 30-year-old also pleaded guilty to evidence-tampering, corpse abuse, child endangerment and obstructing justice.

Her daughter, Ashley Zhao, was found dead and hidden in the family's restaurant, Ang's Asian Cuisine, in North Canton, Ohio, after she was reported missing in January.

Mingming Chen, pictured right in court in October, was sentenced to 22 years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges

Chen, left, was initially charged with murder and accused of killing her five-year-old daughter Ashley Zhao, right, after the girl's body was found in the family's restaurant

The report sparked a state-wide manhunt and police combed the nearby area looking for her. Her body was found the next day, still inside the restaurant, near the kitchen's freezer.

Her husband Liang Zhao pleaded guilty earlier this year to attempting to revive Ashley and then helping to hide her body when he realized it was a lost cause

Both parents were arrested after the grisly discovery.

Authorities claim Chen repeatedly hit the girl, causing fatal brain injury, and that her husband tried to revive her before helping hide the body.

County Prosecutor John Ferrero said evidence and interviews in the case indicate Chen didn't plan or intend to kill her daughter and that it was a tragedy 'committed in a fit of anger by a mother who had never bonded with her child.'

Defense attorney Richard Drucker disagreed with that characterization, saying that Chen is apologetic and takes responsibility for her actions.

He also said that if the case had gone to trial, they would have argued that Chen's husband, Liang Zhao, was violent toward both the girl and Chen and that he also bore responsibility in the death.

Zhao pleaded guilty earlier this year to charges including obstructing justice and corpse abuse, tampering with evidence and endangering children and agreed to testify against his wife. In exchange. murder charges against him were dropped.

His attorney previously said Zhao maintained his innocence in the child's death. He will serve 12 years in prison for the guilty plea.

Authorities claim Chen repeatedly hit the girl, causing fatal brain injury, and that her husband tried to revive her before helping hide the body in the back of the family's restaurant Ang's Asian Cuisine

Chen, who came to the US illegally from China more than 10 years ago, got married to Zhao because he was an American citizen who was also Chinese, but ended up in a violent household. Had the case had gone to trial, the attorney said they would have argued that Zhao was violent toward both the girl and Chen

It was a sad situation for Chen, who came to the US illegally from China as a teenager in search of a better life, started a family with an American citizen who also was Chinese and ended up in a violent household, Drucker said.

'I don't think she's a monster,' Drucker said. 'I think she was a woman that made very poor choices in her life at the time.'

Because she was in the US illegally, authorities say Chen is expected to be deported to China after serving her sentence.

Chen had applied for asylum in the United States in 2009 while claiming she was persecuted by the Chinese government as a follower of Falun Gong, a meditation practice outlawed by China's government, and federal judges have twice denied her petitions to stay in the US, WEWS-TV reported.

Court records referred to her as Mingming Chen, though lawyers in the case now spell her name as three words instead of two.
An email sent by Jeng Chi Hung, Trump International Hotel's director of revenue management, alleged the president was still involved in his business

President Donald Trump was supposed to be 'completely isolating' himself from his business until he's no longer in office.

However, a leaked email from an executive at Trump's hotel in Washington, D.C. to an acquaintance asserts that the president is 'definitely involved.'

The Sept. 12 email sent by Jeng Chi Hung, Trump International Hotel's director of revenue management, was revealed by The Daily Beast in an article on the president's Pennsylvania Avenue property that's a few blocks down the road from the White House.

'I had a brief meeting with him a few weeks ago, and he was asking about banquet revenues and demographics. And, he asked if his presidency hurt the businesses. So, he seems self aware about things, at least more than he lets on,' Hung said.

President Donald Trump was supposed to be 'completely isolating' himself from his business until he's no longer in office

Hung's email was swatted down as 'total nonsense' by the hotel's managing director. The executive told The Daily Beast that Hung was fluffing his feathers to make himself seem important.

'Upon review of the email referenced in your inquiry, we have met with the individual and he has confirmed that he made these comments up in an effort to enhance his sense of importance to a former employer,' Mickael Damelincourt said.

The email could grab the attention of congressional Democrats tasked with policing federal employees, nonetheless. They have already accused the president of violating a provision of his Washington, D.C. hotel's lease.

Federally elected employees are prohibited from benefiting from the profits of properties that are owned by the federal government.

The General Services Administration ruled Trump in full compliance with the deal in March because he resigned his position at the company he retains ownership of and his holdings are in a trust.

Congressional Democrats have argued in turn that Trump will belatedly receive the benefits of the lease when he leaves office.

Trump's assets moved in January into a revocable trust that was created to wall the billionaire off from the day-to-day operations of the business he left in the management of his adult sons.

The president's trust is managed by his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, and the Trump Organization's chief financial officer.

'President Trump wants there to be no doubt in the minds of the American public that he is completely isolating himself from his business interests,' Trump lawyer Sherri Dillon said at a January press conference announcing the arrangement.

A February change to the trust allowed the president to ask the trustees to withdraw money for him for 'maintenance, support or uninsured medical expenses,' essentially giving him access for any reason from the fund.

The point of the trust is to separate the president from potential conflicts of interest.

Hung's email claimed that the Trump, who had dined at his Washington, D.C. property six weeks before, had found a workaround.

The email could grab the attention of congressional Democrats tasked with policing federal employees, nonetheless. They have already accused the president of violating a provision of his Washington, D.C. hotel's lease

The General Services Administration ruled Trump in full compliance with the deal in March because he resigned his position at the company he retains ownership of and his holdings are in a trust

Hung said in the message that Trump is 'supposed to be out of the business and passed on to his sons, but he's definitely involved.'

Damelincourt told The Daily Beast the email was a fabrication.

'In fact, this individual confirmed to me today that he has never met the President nor did any conversation ever take place. We are continuing to investigate this matter internally,' he said.

For his part, Hung would not comment to The Daily Beast on the email.
A family has been left bloodied, bruised and afraid for their lives after a gang of drug-addled criminals broke into their home and launched into a violent attack.

Brothers Nick and Josh Buddon, along with their sister Chloe, were at their home in Thornlands, southeast of Brisbane, when a gang of thugs swarmed the property on Wednesday night.

The siblings were horrified as the men, described as Sudanese in appearance, pillaged the home and attacked the brothers, before making off in a stolen car, Nine News reports.

Scroll down for video

Brothers Nick (pictured) and Josh Buddon, along with their sister Chloe, were at their home in Thornlands, southeast of Brisbane, when a gang of thugs swarmed the property on Wednesday night

Chloe Budden (pictured) was the first to be faced with the violent intruders and claims the men needlessly destroyed furniture in her bedroom

'They just came at me and I was absolutely terrified, I didn't know what to do,' Nick told the publication.

'They terrorised my sister, I came downstairs, they came for me,' Josh added.

Chloe was the first to be faced with the violent intruders and claims the men needlessly destroyed furniture in her bedroom.

Both of the brothers attempted to fight the gang members but were outnumbered, and were left with bruises and facial lacerations.

The men made off with stolen valuables, including Josh's car, and took off down the quiet suburban street.

Police believe the violent assault is linked to the attack on a woman in a Sunnybank car park (pictured)

Police have compared the criminals to a 'pack of wild dogs', according to Nine News.

It is believed the 'African' gang was high on a street drug known as 'cat' when they stormed the Budden home.

The incident has also been linked to a brutal assault on a woman in a car park in the Brisbane suburb of Sunnybank.

Queensland Police confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that officers attended the scene in Thornlands and an investigation into the attack is ongoing.

Police have not commented on whether the Brisbane attacks are linked to the notorious Apex gang known for violent car thefts and break-ins across Melbourne.
Earlier this fall, the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation honored conservation heroes at its National Lewis and Clark Conservation Awards event at the Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium/White River Conference Center in Springfield.

This annual event recognizes individuals and organizations that have made noteworthy impacts on conservation in Missouri and beyond. As a conservation partner, Mineral Area College was recognized with the Missouri Department of Conservation Partnership Award at the reception. MACs support was said to be essential to the conservation cause in Missouri.

Hall of Fame Professional Bass Anglers Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston and Roland Martin were also honored at the awards banquet with the National Lewis and Clark Conservation Corps of Discovery Award. This is the highest award given by the Foundation for conservation leadership at the national level. The three men were said to have provided exemplary service, inspiration, commitment and distinction through a lifetime of efforts benefiting the conservation cause.

The Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization founded in 1997 and supports the Missouri Department of Conservations mission of managing and protecting the states forest, fish and wildlife resources for all Missourians.
New South Wales police will be executing a large-scale anti-terror operation Sunday as millions converge on Sydney Harbour to watch its famous New Year's Eve fireworks display.

Operation Narimba will be in full force, with ramped up police presence set to patrol crowds with the aid of canine and horse units, transport command, the Air Wing and Marine Command.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian warned on Friday high level security safeguards were something Sydneysiders would need to get used to seeing more of.

Anti-terror fixtures are set to be permanently installed throughout Sydney as police prepare for Operation Narimba - the largest single policing event of the year

With Fortress Sydney seeing police headquarters newly protected by steel bollards, giant fences and fortified foyers, Ms Berejiklian said similar measures would soon be the norm throughout the city.

'There is no doubt that because the threat level has been at probable for some time, and given global events and even events around Australia, of course we have to be more aware,' she told reporters at Sydney Police Centre Friday.

Ms Berejiklian revealed anti-terror features would now being designed into every new building and public structure in an effort to keep the public safe.

This includes concrete barriers to prevent lone-wolf attackers driving vehicles at pedestrians - something police say the city does not yet have enough of.

Ramped up police presence is set to patrol crowds with the aid of canine and horse units, transport command and the Air Wing and Marine Command for New Years Eve

'Every time we plan something new we have to consider safety first  that's become the way we manage the city and we manage the state,' she said.

Although officers will be on high alert across the New Year's weekend, Ms Berejiklian urged people to go about their business as normal.

Every top cop in the state will be on duty, with officers are set to carry M4 machineguns for the first time, plain clothes officers to mingle with crowds and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation will be monitoring known extremists.

The city is set for a dramatic face lift including temporary bollards, trucks blocking pedestrian areas, and undercover police and elite units with assault rifles patrolling heavily populated spots.

Sydney is set for a full-scale tactical surveillance takeover as the NSW Government and police force get ready to confront terror on New Year's Eve

Thousands of uniformed, undercover and elite police forces will be monitoring the CBD, harbour and coastlines as threats of terror reach their highest levels.

Roads throughout the city will be blocked from vehicle attacks similar to the car that ploughed through pedestrians in Melbourne last week, killing one and injuring 18.

Police Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy confirmed police vehicles, semi-trailers and buses would be used as mobile barricades alongside concrete bollards, enabling crowds to move freely but stopping vehicles.

Ambulance officers have also been given maps to navigate their way through secret corridors in the event of an emergency.
Sixteen people were treated at area hospitals Friday after two trolleys collided on above-ground tracks.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority said the accident in the city's Dorchester neighborhood was under investigation but that the cold weather gripping the region had been ruled out as a cause.

An inbound trolley made contact with the back of the other trolley at about 3.15pm between two stops on the Mattapan line, said Joe Pesaturo, a spokesman for the MBTA.

Sixteen people were treated at area hospitals Friday after two trolleys collided on above-ground tracks. Pictured, one of the trolleys at the scene

Boston Emergency Medical Services said on Twitter it evaluated 17 people at the scene and transported 16 to hospitals. Responders at the scene are pictured above

Several riders were thrown to the floor of the trolley when the crash happened. The damage can be seen above

Boston Emergency Medical Services said on Twitter it evaluated 17 people at the scene and transported 16 to hospitals.

Authorities said none of the injuries was considered serious.

All but one of the injured passengers were able to walk on their own from the train to ambulances that took them to hospitals for further evaluation, a fire department spokesman said.

'It was just a big jolt,' passenger Regine Jean-Michel, 24, told the Boston Herald. 'The best way to describe it is if someone is going down a roller coaster and there's that sudden drop, just horizontally.'

Several riders were thrown to the floor of the trolley, she said.

People are seen above walking along the tracks after the crash

Antonio Rodriguez, 18, told The Boston Globe he struck his head on a seat as a result of the impact and saw another man bleeding from a head injury.

The investigation would include inspections of the equipment and interviews with the trolley operators, Pesaturo said.

The frigid temperatures had been blamed for breakdowns and delays earlier Friday on some of the transit system's other trolley and commuter rail lines.
An attorney opened fire at a prominent law firm's holiday party in Southern California Friday afternoon, killing one and injuring another before turning the gun on himself.

The gunman, who hasn't yet been identified, shot dead Major A Langer, 75, at Bixby Knolls Law office in Long Beach around 2.25pm, according to the Press Telegram.

He also injured Ronald Beck, who runs day-to-day operations at the firm.

Beck is currently in serious but stable condition and was rushed to the hospital by his son after the shooting.

The shooting reportedly happened just after the gunman was fired from the law firm, and during the company's holiday party where employees could spin a wheel to win prizes.

Long Beach police responded to Bixby Knolls amid reports of an active shooter, but realized after it was actually a 'workplace violence incident'.

Scroll down for video

The gunman, who hasn't yet been identified, shot dead Major A Langer, 75, at Bixby Knolls Law office in Long Beach around 2.25pm. He also injured Ronald Beck, who runs day-to-day operations at the firm

Long Beach police responded to the Bixby Knolls neighborhood of Long Beach, amid reports of an active shooter around 2.25pm. They have now clarified it was actually a 'workplace violence incident'

There were three men involved, two of whom were killed, including the suspected gunman, according to police. Pictured is the building, believed to house law offices, with windows covered in Christmas displays featuring candy canes and Santa Claus

A woman is escorted away from the Bixby Knolls law office after Friday afternoon's shooting

Video of the incident show lines of police cars blocking the street and workers at neighboring office buildings coming out to watch the scene unfold

A murder investigation is currently underway at the scene and a handgun was found in the office, according to the Long Beach Post

No officers were involved in the shooting, and it's not clear if the gunman shot himself before or after they entered the building

Long Beach City Councilman Al Austin told the LA Times that the shooter was a former employee and that he shot and killed one person before turning the gun on himself. Austin represents the Bixby Knolls area and was briefed by police.

Langer's friends described the lawyer as 'the most caring, sincere man I probably ever met'.

'He just had a heart of gold and really cared for everybody who works at the firm and considers them members of his family,' Jim Hall said. 'He certainly didn't deserve this.'

A murder investigation is currently underway at the scene and a handgun was found in the office, according to the Long Beach Post. No officers were involved in the shooting.

Sgt Brad Johnson said the shooter died from a self-inflicted gun would, and didn't engage with any officers. It's not clear if he was dead before they got to the scene.

Video showed people running from an unmarked building shouting about a shooting inside.

The two-story building, with windows decorated with Christmas displays featuring candy canes and Santa Claus, is home to several law offices.

Dozens of police officers, including members of a SWAT team, surrounded the building and blocked off surrounding streets. Multiple ambulances arrived to the scene.

Police later confirmed that it wasn't an active shooter situation, despite initial reports, but instead a 'workplace violence incident.'

'They did so with the understanding that the suspect was alive and lying in wait to shoot them inside,' a source told the Press Telegram about why the incident was first marked an active shooter.

Officers searched the firm room to room to be sure everyone was accounted for and there were no other gunmen, police said.

Sgt Brad Johnson said the shooter died from a self-inflicted gun would, and didn't engage with any officers. It's not clear if he was dead before they got to the scene. A video shows police cars lining the street outside the office building

Long Beach City Councilman Al Austin told the Times that the shooter was a former employee and that he shot and killed one person before turning the gun on himself. Austin represents the Bixby Knolls area and was briefed by police

Dozens of police officers, including members of a SWAT team, surrounded the building and blocked off surrounding streets. Multiple ambulances arrived to the scene

Police said there is no longer an active shooter in the building. None of the victims or anyone involved have been named yet

Joy Wilson told the Times she heard police sirens near her home and walked outside to see nearly two dozen people running 'like they were trying to get away.'

'They were definitely panicking,' she said. 'Something bad was happening, they were moving.'

Agnes, a 40-year-old who lives in the area said neighbors are shocked by the violence, describing it as a 'very safe area.'

'Everything was always fine,' she said. 'We have good neighbors. That is why I am in shock.'

Long Beach is about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles on the southern tip of LA county and has about 460,000 people.

For confidential support call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255
Ever considered the incredible repertoire of sounds a tiny baby makes? Joanne Milne marvels at them every day.

She listens to her son Teddy's coos and gurgles with a special sense of wonder  because they are all part of an extraordinary aural archive she is building up from scratch.

'Teddy is adding every day to my library of sounds,' says Joanne, cuddling her son. 'I hear him make little grunting noises, cries and rustles.

'When he makes a sucking sound I know it's the signal he needs feeding. I've started to get in tune with him. After a feed he sometimes gets hiccups. I hadn't heard a baby hiccup before and they're very sweet.

'I haven't heard him giggle yet  I think he will soon  but he makes contented little sighs that show he's happy.

'They're like a prelude to a laugh. And when I'm holding him I can hear him breathe and my own breathing, and that's quite calming.

'I didn't know that breathing had a sound until I started to hear three years ago, because there were no visual clues to it.

'But I'm taking in all these new sounds, processing and learning to recognise them.'

Joanne's ears are acutely attuned to every nuance for a special reason: she is deaf and until three years ago she lived in silence.

Then she had cochlear implants fitted, and when they were first turned on in 2014 her mum Ann captured the moment on a video which was posted on the internet.

To date 12 million people have watched Joanne's emotional reaction as her world erupted into a cacophony of noise  of chattering voices, gushing water, roaring traffic  and overwhelmed by the unfamiliarity and sheer enormity of it, she sobbed tears of joy.

Ever considered the incredible repertoire of sounds a tiny baby makes? Joanne Milne, 43,(pictured) marvels at them every day. She listens to her son Teddy's coos and gurgles with a special sense of wonder  because they are all part of an extraordinary aural archive she is building up from scratch

Since that day, Joanne's sensory world has both expanded and contracted, for while she can now hear when her implants are switched on, her sight is fading.

She has Usher syndrome, a rare genetic condition which, since her late 20s, has been progressively robbing her of her vision.

Her peripheral vision is non-existent; she sees the world as if through a letterbox, and although Teddy's face may eventually fade entirely, she chooses not to dwell on the negative but to savour every day in which she can watch him grow and develop.

That Joanne, 43, has become a mother at all is a matter of delight and surprise: she had all but given up hope of having children when in 2015 she met fiance Steve White, a paramedic, in a local pub and instantly they fell in love.

By January this year, Steve, 43, had proposed; a 2018 summer wedding is scheduled, and the couple were poised to move into their new home near Durham when plans were thrown into disarray by Teddy's unexpectedly early arrival.

He was born by emergency caesarian on September 15 this year, six weeks premature.

Joanne was admitted urgently to hospital when tests showed that his heart beat had slowed, and he had stopped moving.

Joanne's ears are acutely attuned to every nuance for a special reason: she is deaf and until three years ago she lived in silence. Then she had cochlear implants fitted, and when they were first turned on in 2014 her mum Ann captured the moment on a video which was posted on the internet. She is pictured with her son Teddy

After his birth he spent ten days in the special care baby unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead.

'He was on a ventilator and looked such a vulnerable little dot,' recalls Steve.

'It was frightening seeing him attached to all those lines and wires, but he still looked beautiful,' Joanne adds.

'He wasn't out of the woods and my heart was heavy. We just hoped and prayed he'd get stronger. We were willing him to  and he did.' She smiles at the little boy snuggled in her arms.

The news, last February, that she was expecting Teddy was a great source of joy, particularly as she had suffered a miscarriage at 12 weeks in December 2016.

'I remember crying quietly to myself when I lost the baby,' says Joanne. 'But then I thought, crying won't change anything. I had to be strong. But I felt empty inside, as if something was missing.

'At the time I felt I was the only woman in the world going through it, but since, it's amazing how many people have said, 'That happened to me'.

'When you consider the reproductive process you realise how fragile new life is. It just wasn't meant to be  you never forget but you move on.

'I was fortunate that I got pregnant with Teddy straight away. We didn't tell anyone for a while. Although I didn't want to be too confident, I had a good feeling it would go well. And the pregnancy was brilliant. I didn't even have morning sickness.'

'You were positively blooming!' exclaims Steve. 'Everything was grand. And when we had the first scan and saw the little heart, the size of a pea, that was fabulous.'

'And I remember hearing the heart beat  a new sound  like a galloping horse,' adds Joanne.

Teddy (pictured) was born by emergency caesarian on September 15 this year, six weeks premature. Joanne and her fiance Steve White, 43, were not expecting him so soon

Then things took an unexpected turn. 'I'd gone for a routine appointment with the midwife at my GP's surgery,' recalls Joanne.

'I said I hadn't felt the baby move for a while, so the midwife listened to his heart rate, which was slower than it should be. They sent me immediately to hospital.'

Joanne's mum Ann, 73, who was with her, called Steve who rushed to meet them there: 'Just as I turned up, I saw a little trolley with a doctor, an anaesthetist and two operating theatre nurses, all of a-bustle, rushing past, and I knew it was our baby.

'Everything happened so quickly: in less than an hour from Jo walking through the door, our baby was born. So I missed it all.

'There was a team resuscitating him for 20 minutes and then he was put on a ventilator. The paediatric team were incredible.'

Edward Alexander White  Teddy  named after both his granddads, weighed just 5lb 4oz.

'I didn't see Teddy for 24 hours after he was born,' says Joanne. 'I don't remember much, I felt dazed. And when I saw him, under a UV lamp in special care, I cried. It was a mix of joy, worry and the shock of it all.

'Then when I held him for the first time and his tiny hand gripped my finger, it was amazing.'

'When I turned up to see him, I'd been working nights and had my paramedic's uniform on,' adds Steve. 'They said, 'Who have you come for?' and I said, 'I've come to see my son'. I cried, too, of course I did.

'There was shock and worry, but then he found his feet and he's got stronger and stronger.'

When I visit, Teddy, resplendent in babygrow patterned with moustaches in homage to his dad, is napping happily.

'He loves cuddles. He's placid, sociable, strong and determined,' says Joanne. 'He also loves music and Steve plays his guitar to him.'

I wonder if they know, incontrovertibly, that he can hear. Usher syndrome is rare  only 400,000 people in the world have it  but it is genetic, so there was a tiny chance Teddy could have inherited it.

'It was on my mind and I was looking for clues, but within 24 hours of his birth, we knew there was nothing wrong,' Joanne says.

'I pushed some rubbish into a hospital bin, it clattered and it made him jump. He looks at people when they talk. And now we've had a hearing test that has confirmed everything is fine.

Joanne has Usher syndrome, a rare genetic condition which, since her late 20s, has been progressively robbing her of her vision

'Of course it's a relief  we wanted him to be as healthy as possible  but we would have coped well if he was deaf. I still intend to teach him British Sign Language  Steve has been learning it too.'

Joanne is an exemplar of courage and perserverance. She has never allowed her disabilities to impede her.

She had speech therapy from the age of three, and learnt to lip-read with such success that it is easy to forget that for 40 years she had no notion of what the human voice sounded like.

Then, when given a guide dog after she was registered blind in her late 20s, Joanne kept him long enough to realise she could manage without him. So he was given to a recipient with greater needs.

But how does she cope alone with Teddy when Steve is working nights? Until now, at bedtime she has removed her cochlear implants  which work by bypassing damaged portions of the ear to stimulate the auditory nerve directly  and retreated into silence.

She explains: 'Since Teddy came along, when Steve has been working nights, I've kept the implants in. It's challenging because I hear every single little sound. But it's also a comfort. I like being able to hear Teddy.

'The first night I switched them on I don't think I slept at all. I heard unfamiliar noises like the central heating pipes going, 'tick, tick, tick'  something you don't hear in the day. I had to ask Steve what it was.

'We've developed a system. I do the first night feeds, then express some breast milk so Steve can take over in the early hours and I can sleep. We're a great team.'

Joanne handles the matter of her sight loss with the same equanimity: she is not fazed by the small encumbrance of her severely restricted vision.

'Teddy is in a little protective bubble with me,' she says. 'There are things I always do instinctively.

'If I get up in the night I always put my hand in front of me to feel my way because my night vision is poor. I'm constantly aware of everything going on around me.

'I always count each step when I come downstairs  there are 14  and I have a mental map of the house. I know there is a step outside the back door and one at the gate round the corner.'

She has mapped, too, with equal care, the route to the bus stop which takes her into Durham, and to Gateshead to visit her parents Al, 73, a retired cable contractor and Ann, who raised Joanne and her two sisters.

'The first time I went with Jo and she learned the route as she did the lay-out of our house,' explains Steve.

'She knows the height of the step on to the bus, how to get the pram on and where to get off.'

Like anyone with failing sight, she walks unfamiliar routes with care. Her white stick signals her impairment.

'If I'm safe I know Teddy will be,' she says. 'I concentrate on one step at a time. It's a process I've evolved.

'If I'm walking down the street I don't try to see what's in the distance. I just look directly ahead.

'And now I have my cochlear implants I can hear the traffic, which makes me feel safe.'

Steve feels no trepidation when Joanne is out alone with Teddy. 'The way she copes with life's challenges instils confidence,' he says.

She remains, as she has always been, resolutely independent, and will resume her job as PR for the charity The Hearing Fund UK for two days a week early next year.

She'll be touring schools throughout the country with an anti-bullying campaign and intends to take Teddy to work with her whenever she can.

Visiting Joanne is uplifting. She never dwells on misfortune, but always celebrates her good luck.

'I never think about what might be,' she says. 'I don't waste energy worrying about what I can't change. Why should I dwell on my sight and what might happen? Every day you're worrying is a day wasted.

'I still can't believe how my life has changed in the past three years. It's been like a dream and I'm still living it. I keep saying, 'Life will settle down.' And it hasn't  but in a very good way.

'Everything about motherhood is better than I expected. You just have this wonderful responsibility and now we're waiting to hear Teddy's first words, watch his first steps and find out what he grows up to be, and it's all going to be a great adventure.'

The Hearing Fund UK's #nice2bnice anti-bullying campaign will tour UK schools from February. Follow on social media @hearing_funduk.
The heroes of Grenfell Tower and recent terror attacks in Manchester and London have missed out on New Year Honours as officials say they need more time to decide who deserves recognition.

Many commentators expected awards for those who responded to the devastating fire, which killed 71 people, as well as the atrocities at Manchester Arena and London Bridge.

The Cabinet Office said they are expected to be recognised in future honour lists, but the process would take time.

However, campaigners for the victims of Grenfell Tower reacted angrily to the news, which came amid a cronyism row after two-fifths of the New Year Honours were handed to MPs.

Many commentators expected awards for those who responded to the devastating fire. People who have been praised include Wayne Marques, who fought off the three London Bridge terrorists with a baton,(left) and Paula Robinson, dubbed the Angel of Manchester

Among the politicians given knighthoods are Tory Graham Brady, the chairman of the influential 1922 committee, and former Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg.

Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle and Preston MP Mark Hendrick were given knighthoods for Labour, meanwhile, as Lib Dem MP Jo Swinson was handed an OBE.

Joe Delaney, who lived on Lancaster West estate and is a member of the local council's Grenfell recovery scrutiny committee, said it showed 'where the Government's priorities lie'.

'What about people who helped at Grenfell, or people who stepped in to help at the London Bridge attack or Manchester Arena? he asked in The Independent.

Labour MP Karen Buck said: 'We have a duty as a society to bow our heads in recognition of what incredible things people did that night and in the aftermath.'

The dozens of firemen who responded to the Grenfell Tower fire also received widespread praise, with Dany Cotton, the first woman commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, saying they showed exceptional heroism

Numerous people were praised for their response to the disasters.

These included police constable Wayne Marques, who fought off the three London Bridge terrorists with a baton despite losing sight in one eye.

Meanwhile, 48-year-old Paula Robinson was dubbed the Angel of Manchester for guiding 50 children to safety after the attack on Manchester Arena.

The dozens of firemen who responded to the Grenfell Tower fire also received widespread praise, with Dany Cotton, the first woman commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, saying they showed exceptional heroism.

A Cabinet Office spokesman said: 'Detailed consideration is given to all honours nominations received and this takes time.

'We would expect to see a number of nominations reflecting recent tragedies and events in future lists, and encourage those in affected communities to put forward nominations.'

The New Year Honours list saw gongs handed out to a smattering of well-known figures in the worlds of showbusiness and politics.

The Beatles' Ringo Starr and Bee Gees co-founder Barry Gibb were awarded knighthoods'

The musicians are joined on the list by Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell, 48, who said she was 'truly humbled' to become a dame for services to dance, and War Horse author Michael Morpurgo, who is knighted for services to literature and charity.

Champ boxer suffers double snub World heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has missed out on a New Year gong just days after he was snubbed in the BBC Sports Personality vote. The 28-year-old from Watford, who beat long-reigning champion Wladimir Klitschko in a thrilling contest in front of 90,000 people in April, was the clear bookmakers' favourite to land the SPOTY accolade last week. But the popular gold medal winning Olympian, who boasts 5.2 million followers on Instagram, failed to even make the top three despite two epic prize-fights this year. World heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has missed out on a New Year honour just days after he was snubbed in the BBC Sports Personality vote The North Londoner, who was awarded an MBE for his 2012 Olympic heroics, again appears to have been slighted after missing out on a New Year honour. Real name Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua, the British boxer moved to a perfect 20 knockouts from 20 fights while winning a legion of fans. Pitted against the Ukrainian Klitschko, who along with his older brother Vitali ruled the heavyweight division for more than 10 years, Joshua endured a vicious onslaught where he was floored by the revitalised former champion and very nearly stopped. Advertisement

22 people were killed when a suicide bomber struck Manchester Arena during an Ariana Grande concert in May

Two of the biggest names in line for honours were leaked. Starr, whose real name is Richard Starkey, was revealed to be in line for a knighthood days ahead of the announcement.

Many commentators expected awards for those who responded to the devastating fire, which killed 71 people. Pictured: Grenfell Tower

His award for services to music comes 52 years after he received an MBE as part of the 'Fab Four' and about 20 years after fellow bandmate Sir Paul McCartney was honoured.

Details of the knighthood of former deputy prime minister and prominent Remain campaigner Sir Nick, 50, were also the subject of early newspaper reports. His award has provoked criticism among some Brexiteers.

Conservative MPs Graham Brady, 50, chairman of the party's 1922 Committee, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, 64, and Christopher Chope, 70, receive knighthoods for political and public service while Cheryl Gillan, 65, vice chairman of the committee, is made a dame.

On the Labour side, Preston MP Mark Hendrick, 59, and Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, 60, are knighted.

Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage said Tory MPs were being rewarded for 'services to the establishment', while SNP Cabinet Office spokesman Tommy Sheppard warned that honours 'should not be doled out as political favours'.

Theresa May is criticised for handing out 'political favours' as she rewards Brexit allies in the New Year honours

By Jack Doyle for the Daily Mail

Theresa May hands gongs to a powerful Parliamentary ally and several pro-Brexit MPs in the New Year honours today.

The chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tories, Graham Brady, is awarded a knighthood.

A veteran MP and close ally of the PM, he gave her his staunch support after the Tories lost their majority in June's snap election.

Three other senior backbench Tories  who all backed Leave in the EU referendum  are also honoured.

The awards prompted claims last night that Mrs May was handing out 'political favours'.

The chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tories, Graham Brady, has been awarded a knighthood as part of the New Year honours list. He is pictured with Theresa May

But the list was a far cry from previous ones. David Cameron was heavily criticised for rewarding an array of donors, advisers and members of his 'chumocracy'.

By contrast, there are no major Tory donors on today's list, and none of Mrs May's former political advisers and spin doctors who lost their jobs after the election were given gongs. There were also knighthoods for two Labour MPs.

Officials said the list reflected Mrs May's determination to prioritise 'voluntary contribution and public service'.

The most notable political name was Sir Graham's. He is the voice of the Tory backbenches at Westminster.

Vice-chairman of the committee Cheryl Gillan MP (pictured) has been made a Dame

A loyalist, he urged her not to quit after the election and provided critical political support when her enemies were plotting against her this summer.

He has repeatedly backed her to stay on as leader and has said: 'I want Theresa May to carry on leading the Conservative Party. I have no plans to change that position.'

Knighthood for top pollster hailed as a 'beacon of objectivity in a world of fake news' Pictured: Professor John Curtice At a time when pollsters have a knack for getting it wrong, he is the elections expert who has politicians hanging on his every word. Professor John Curtice, who is awarded a knighthood, is a central fixture of polling night broadcasts. It was his exit poll in June that warned Theresa May she would lose her Commons majority. He was also credited with recognising the late surge for Leave in the EU referendum campaign. His expertise has seen former Scottish first minister Henry McLeish hail him as a 'beacon of objectivity in a world of fake news'. The softly-spoken professor of politics at Strathclyde University, who has the look of an eccentric scientist, has been involved in BBC election nights since 1979. Last night the 64-year-old said he was 'surprised and humbled' to be knighted. 'Just six months ago the exit poll I led surprised everyone with a shock prediction that went on to be uncannily accurate,' he said. 'Now it is my turn to be surprised and humbled by the gracious decision to grant me a knighthood. 'It is not something I ever expected to happen. But it appears that my attempts to analyse public opinion... are appreciated.' Advertisement

Last night Sir Graham said: 'I am delighted. It's a huge honour. My family are thrilled.'

Two other members of the 1922 Committee executive are also honoured, with vice-chairman Cheryl Gillan being made a dame while treasurer Geoffrey Clifton-Brown is knighted.

All three are long-standing MPs with decades behind them in the Commons. All backed Leave in the EU referendum, as did a fourth Tory MP to be honoured, veteran ex-minister Christopher Chope, who is knighted.

But the awards for leavers were offset by knighthoods for Nick Clegg and, for Labour, Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, and Preston MP Mark Hendrick.

There is also an OBE for Lib Dem MP Jo Swinson.

Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage, who missed out on an honour despite calls for him to be knighted for his role in campaigning for Brexit, said the awards were for 'services to the establishment'.

But he also praised the gongs given to prominent Leavers.

He said: 'It's services to the establishment in a sense. I suppose it's a relief to see any Leavers on the list. The reason it's a surprise to see Leavers on the list is previously there haven't been any.

'But I don't think it's a reward for Brexit, but a reward for work to the party. The Government's priority is keeping the party together.'

Asked if he would want to be included in a future honours list, MEP Mr Farage replied: 'It's never been an aspiration for me but an aspiration for many who support me. What will be will be.'

Sir Geoffrey, MP for The Cotswolds, said: 'It's great to be recognised for having worked for a long number of years on behalf of my community.

One doesn't go into becoming a Member of Parliament with the expectation of anything  you are there to do a job, help people, make people's lives a little easier and better.'

He added: 'My daughter is about to have a baby so we've got a double family celebration.'

Treasurer of the 1922 committee Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP (pictured) has been knighted

Sir Geoffrey said he believed it was 'completely coincidental' when asked if Brexit had influenced any of the honours.

In October last year Mrs May took a veiled swipe at her predecessor Mr Cameron's resignation honours list, which was packed with cronies.

She argued the awards should go only to those who are 'really contributing' to society and that the emphasis should be on those who have run charities or put time and effort into their local communities.

Mr Cameron knighted his former spin doctor Craig Oliver, and handed out peerages 13 peerages including to No 10 aides. His wife's stylist received an OBE.

The awards for leavers were offset by knighthoods for former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg (pictured) and, for Labour, Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, and Preston MP Mark Hendrick

David Leakey, who finishes a seven-year term as Black Rod in Parliament this weekend, is made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (RVO) by the Queen.

Cabinet Office mandarins are to investigate after several names on this year's list including former Beatle Ringo Starr were leaked to the media ahead of today's official announcement.

Sir Jonathan Stephens, head of the main honours committee, said it was 'disappointing' the names had been made public.

He added: 'We have tightened up procedures but we will look again at the system.'

Award for coalition minister who made her political comeback There is also an OBE for Liberal Democrat East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson (pictured) Liberal Democrat deputy leader Jo Swinson said she was 'delighted' to have been included in the New Year Honours. The award of a CBE comes just six months after the 37-year-old made her political comeback, retaking the East Dunbartonshire constituency she had first won in 2005, and shortly after she announced her second pregnancy. Ms Swinson was just 25 and the baby of the House - the name given to the youngest MP - when she first elected, taking the seat from Labour in a surprise result. After the Liberal Democrats went into coalition with the Conservatives she became part of the government, serving as a both employment relations and consumer affairs minister and equalities minister, using the latter role to bring in shared parental leave. But she lost her seat in the 2015 election, as voters turned against the Liberal Democrats, with Nicola Sturgeon's SNP winning all but three of the Scottish seats at Westminster. When Theresa May called a snap election for June 2017, she saw a chance to return to the House of Commons, and stood again in East Dunbartonshire, winning the seat back for her party. She was seen as a leadership contender when Tim Farron resigned as leader of the Lib Dems, but announced instead that she would put herself forward for the position of deputy leader - a role which she won unopposed. After learning of her CBE, Ms Swinson said: 'I'm delighted that my work has been recognised in this way. It wouldn't be possible without the support of my constituents, whom I'd like to thank for giving me the opportunity to serve as their MP once more. 'It is an honour to be listed among so many remarkable people from all walks of life, making amazing contributions right across our country.' Advertisement
Parents of an Alabama teenager said Friday that their handcuffed son was severely beaten during a run-in with police and they want answers from authorities about what happened.

The mother of 17-year-old Ulysses Wilkerson posted an image of her son's bruised and swollen face on Facebook and the photo was widely shared on social media.

Wilkerson, who is black, was walking behind a downtown business in the city of Troy when he was startled by police on the night of December 23, representatives for the family said in a statement. He ran from the officers and when police caught up to him, they beat him, the family said.

Scroll down for video

Angela Williams, the mother of 17-year-old, Ulysses Wilkerson (left and right), is demanding answers from Alabama police who allegedly beat her son to an unrecognizable pulp when he ran from officers during a random stop

'As a mother I was shocked devastated and horrified to see my son this way,' Angela Williams said Friday at a news conference with other family members

Some of them wore All Lives Matter T-shirts and occasionally wiped away tear

Courtesy of WDHN

'As a mother I was shocked devastated and horrified to see my son this way,' Angela Williams said Friday at a news conference with other family members. Some of them wore All Lives Matter T-shirts and occasionally wiped away tears.

Police said they used force after Wilkerson reached into his waistband for what they feared might be a weapon, Pike County District Attorney Tom Anderson told CNN. Wilkerson was charged with resisting arrest and obstructing governmental operations, both misdemeanors, city officials said.

The mayor of Troy, Jason Reeves, said he asked for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to review the incident. He said the officer involved has been placed on leave. 'I thought it was important for the state to ... give an independent assessment of the matter,' Reeves said in a statement

The mayor of Troy, Jason Reeves, said he asked for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to review the incident. He said the officer involved has been placed on leave.

'I thought it was important for the state to ... give an independent assessment of the matter,' Reeves said in a statement.

Wilkerson's eye socket was broken in three places and his face was severely swollen, his family said.

Pastor Kenneth Glasgow, a local activist who is working with the family, said the teen has few memories about what happened.

'He remembers one thing, a big tall white officer kicking him in the face. He remembers that,' Glasgow said.

While Wilkerson is African-American and remembers being kicked by a white officer, the family stressed that it was not a racial issue. Glasgow said the family didn't care about the race of the police officer.

Troy is a city of about 19,000 people, some 50 miles south of the state capital of Montgomery. About 55 percent of the population is white and 39 percent African-American, according to the 2010 Census. The city's main employer is Troy University.

Williams shared horrific photos of her son, Ulysses, whose face was left swollen and bloodied after an encounter with Troy police on Saturday night

'The mother asks for justice. The father asks for justice. He didn't care if he was white, black purple or polka dotted. ... It's not about black and white. It's about right and wrong,' Glasgow said.

Attorneys for the family said Troy police owe the 'community answers and transparency.'

'Where is the dash cam footage? Where is the body camera footage? Ulysses' family and the community deserve answers,' the attorneys said.

Lawyers include Ben Crump, who represented the family of Trayvon Martin, a black teenager who was killed by George Zimmerman in Florida, and Michael Brown, a 17-year-old African-American who was shot to death by police in Ferguson, Missouri

The lawyers include Ben Crump, who represented the family of Trayvon Martin, a black teenager who was killed by George Zimmerman in Florida, and Michael Brown, a 17-year-old African-American who was shot to death by police in Ferguson, Missouri. Zimmerman was acquitted and the Ferguson officer, Darren Wilson, was not indicted.

Angela Williams shared horrific photos of her son, Ulysses Wilkerson, whose face was left swollen and bloodied after an encounter with Troy police Saturday night.

'Troy police officers did this to my son While he was in handcuffs,' Williams wrote in a now-viral Facebook post.

Williams (pictured with Ulysses) said her son has a fracture and was transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for surgery, but he was released because of the extensive swelling

Williams said that her son has a fracture and was transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for surgery, but he was released because of the extensive swelling.

The incident unfolded Saturday night when officers saw Ulysses walking behind a closed business in downtown Troy, according to BuzzFeed.

Officers then exited their vehicle and approached Ulysses, who fled on foot. Authorities chased the teen down and a struggle ensued.

The Alabama State Bureau of Investigation is now investigating the incident.

In a statement, the Bureau told BuzzFeed that Troy officers arrested a 17-year-old at 11.52pm on Saturday.

During the arrest, the teen was injured and transported to Troy Regional Medical Center, the statement said.

A witness also reportedly saw the officers standing around a seemingly unconscious Ulysses, according to the news site.

Williams' post had been shared more than 75,000 times as of Wednesday evening.

The incident unfolded when officers saw Ulysses (pictured) walking behind a closed business in the city's downtown area. Officers then exited their vehicle and approached Ulysses, who fled on foot. Authorities chased the teen down and a struggle ensued

Wilkerson's father also shared the photos of his son on Facebook. 'As y'all can see troy police officers tried to kill my son and he has massive swelling and they can't start surgery until swelling goes down,' he said on Sunday. An investigation into the brutal beating is ongoing

'From all over the world, people are commenting they want justice,' the teen's father, Ulysses Wilkerson Jr, told WKRG.

'They had him handcuffed when we got in there they said he was charged with obstruction of justice the ambulance came to take him to UAB they took the handcuffs off and dropped the charges on him,' said his father.

Wilkerson's father also shared the photos of his son on Facebook.

'As y'all can see troy police officers tried to kill my son and he has massive swelling and they can't start surgery until swelling goes down,' he said on Sunday.

Lt Heath Carpenter told BuzzFeed News that the investigation is still 'open and active'.

The Wilkerson family is asking for body and dash camera footage to be released.
Advertisement

Heavy snow, rain, thunderstorms and gales brought chaos to much of Britain yesterday.

Several inches of snow fell across northern England and Scotland while the south coast was lashed by torrential downpours and lightning.

Homes were left without power, flights were suspended and buildings were damaged by strong winds.

The Met Office recorded 70mph gusts at Southampton yesterday morning as the side of a house was ripped away in East Boldre, Hampshire.

Geoff Clark, 47, and his son William, 8, from Low Fell, sledging under the Angel of the North in Gateshead, after heavy snow, rain, thunderstorms and wind caused disruption across much of Britain

And theres more to come tonight, with Storm Dylan bringing 80mph winds to northern Britain  and more torrential rain and possible flooding in the South signalling a soggy New Year for many.

Forecasters said the storm could bring more power cuts  after around 2,000 homes were left in the dark yesterday across the Midlands, South Wales and the South West. Much of Yorkshire, Cumbria, the Peak District and the north-east woke up to snow, with between two and six inches falling during the morning.

About 4in was recorded at Glasgows Bishopton weather station but more is likely to have fallen on higher ground where official figures are not collated.

Motorists were caught out on the A591 near Stavely yesterday morning after heavy snowfall across the north western region

A woman strolls through the wintry grounds of Bowes Museum, County Durham - as a band of heavy snow sweeps across Northern England

Residents had to shovel snow from drives, clear their cars and allow extra time for treacherous journeys. But some took advantage with a spot of sledging.

The southbound M1 near Garforth, West Yorkshire, was closed all morning after a 19-year-old male pedestrian was hit by a lorry and killed on a sliproad. In Northumbria heavy snow made the A68 at West Woodburn impassable while sections of the A6, A590 and A591 in Cumbria were either closed or blocked.

A snow-covered landscape at Holmesfield in Derbyshire, after Britain saw one of the coldest nights of the year with temperatures falling to minus 12.3C at Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands of Scotland

Cumbria Police warned that all routes in the south of the county were affected, as well as the M6.

In Sheffield a car was recorded on dashcam footage losing control heading downhill on an icy road, hitting a tree and flipping over on to its roof. The driver escaped with cuts and bruises.

Meanwhile the AA received 6,213 calls by 1pm and the RAC dealt with a breakdown every ten seconds. In Scotland heavy snow caused flights from Glasgow Airport to be suspended.

The wintry grounds of Bowes Museum in County Durham, where snow dominated the landscape as the North of England was caught up in the chill

It's likely to be a soggy start to the New Year on the south coast while the north is set to be hit by even more snowy spells

The temperature overnight had plunged to -12C (10F) at Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands. But with the mercury due to rise over the weekend, the snow is not expected to stay for long.

Emma Sharples of the Met Office said: Temperatures do continue to steadily climb, although there will be a dip overnight when it will get potentially quite icy.

A car is left in a ditch having left the icy A66 near Brough, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, yesterday, as snow his northern regions

It is thought that temperatures could reach 10-12C (50-54F) in England by Sunday. But between this evening and tomorrow morning, Storm Dylan is set to bring torrential rain to areas that escaped yesterdays snow.

The Met Office issued a warning for southern areas of England and Wales where worst-hit areas could see up to 40mm (1.5ins) of rain fall in three hours.

It's set to be a soggy New Year in the south as the UK braces itself for Storm Dylan, which could bring winds of up to 80mph

Heavy snow showers hit the A66 this morning, making driving conditions tricky for motorists yesterday as several inches of snow hit the north of the country

The downpour is set to cause localised flooding on roads and the AA has called for funds from parking and bus lane fines to be diverted to maintain drains and fill potholes.

Councils have been hunting drivers relentlessly for fines income and now it is time for that money to go to where it is desperately needed, said AA president Edmund King.

Despite the snow, 2017 was the fifth-warmest year since records began in 1910.
An Australian military base has been on high alert after fears Russian bombers could target the coast.

Experts also have concerns the Russians may have been spying on important intelligence.

RAAF Base Darwin was put on heightened alert early December while the Russian military performed training exercises near Australia, ABC News reported.

RAAF Base Darwin was put on heightened alert early December while the Russian military performed training exercises near Australia (stock image of RAAF Base Darwin)

Experts also have concerns the Russians may have been spying on important intelligence when they flew their two nuclear-capable Tu-95 bombers over the ocean (stock image)

More than 100 Russian troops were deployed in Indonesia while two nuclear-capable Tu-95 bombers flew over the South Pacific Ocean for more than eight hours.

The five day stint involved two Russian Illyushin-76 transporters which landed in Indonesia on December 4.

There was a 'brief period of increased readiness' along with fears the bombers may have been collecting valuable information, the publication reported.

Executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute Peter Jennings said it was a significant step for Moscow to send planes 'this far down south'.

'I'm sure there would have been concerns about Russian intelligence gathering because they wouldn't have come this far south without wanting to look at the one significant [United States] allied presence in this part of the world,' Mr Jennings told the ABC.

The alert comes as a report from the Australian National Audit Office showed Australia spent more than $10 billion on weapons from America in the past four years, according to Nine News.

About $5 billion was spent on engineering, research, IT, broadcasting and telecommunications.
UK aid to corrupt countries soared by 10 per cent last year. Almost 1.39billion was sent to the world's 20 most crooked states last year  up from 1.26billion in 2015.

The money was handed over despite warnings that some of it would be wasted, stolen or even handed to terrorists. The Department for International Development insists it operates a 'zero tolerance' approach to corruption.

But critics warn it is wrong to increase aid to countries where there is a clear risk of it being diverted. The Government is committed to spending the equivalent of 0.7 per cent of UK income on foreign aid  13.4billion last year. Tory MP Peter Bone said: 'Whatever you think about the overall aid budget there is no point simply pouring in more money if it's going to be stolen.

Al-Shibab extremists are pictured in Somalia. The UK's aid to the most corrupt states on the planet has risen by 10 per cent

'Why would you be giving more money to corrupt countries where there's every chance it will end up in the Swiss bank accounts of dictators?

'These are some of the worst regimes in the world and I think people will be shocked we are giving them so much money and even more shocked that it is still going up.

'We should not be doing the 0.7 target  it encourages officials to just dole out money as fast as they can. My constituents want money spent on local problems.'

Transparency International, a respected think-tank, produces an annual list of the world's most corrupt countries.

Analysis by the Daily Mail shows that Britain sends aid money to 18 of the worst 20.

Major beneficiaries this year include Somalia and Syria, where there are documented cases of Western aid money being appropriated by terrorist groups.

Earlier this month, the Government was forced to suspend a 12million aid scheme to Syria amid revelations that the cash was at risk of going to jihadi groups.

A BBC Panorama investigation found that the Syrian branch of Al Qaeda had handpicked police officers benefiting from the justice and community security scheme.

Aid money sent to Somalia is also at risk of being 'taxed' by terror groups such as Al Shabab. An internal Dfid 'risk register' concluded last year there was a 'certain' chance of funds being diverted by extremist groups.

Pakistan, another country notorious for corruption, saw its funding rise by 23.6 per cent to 462.6million.

Overall, the aid budget rose by 11 per cent from 2015 to 2016, growing from 12.1billion to 13.4billion. That means the aid to corrupt countries increased in line with wider spending.

However, some countries saw much sharper rises. Aid to Somalia rose by 30million  or 25 per cent. Yemen, a country hit by war and famine, saw aid spending rise by 54 per cent  or 44million.

Aid to Syria, which has endured war and a refugee crisis, rose by 38 per cent, or more than 94million.

Large payments went to both Nigeria and Afghanistan despite them being identified by David Cameron last year as 'possibly the two most corrupt countries in the world'.

There was a backlash against aid rules in September when it emerged that British Overseas Territories could not receive development cash despite being hit by hurricanes.

Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands and the Turks and Caicos islands were deemed too wealthy to qualify as aid recipients.

A Dfid spokesman stressed that officials did not give money directly to the worst regimes, instead dealing directly with groups operating in the countries.

'Dfid does not provide financial aid directly to the governments of any of these countries,' he added.

'UK aid goes to trusted partners to save babies' lives, prevent famine and get children into school, and Dfid has tough measures in place to protect taxpayers' money.

'By working in the most fragile and dangerous parts of the world, Dfid's work makes us safer in the UK by tackling problems at source which would otherwise arrive on our doorstep.'
AS the Naked Chef, Jamie Oliver was always serving up a bit of cheek.

Now the TV cook has revealed he has been secretly spicing up his recipe books with sauce for years.

The 42-year-old made the admission during a chat show appearance. He said: To be honest, I have done pervy recipes.

Jamie Oliver admits his books contain 'pervy recipies' with a large helping of innuendo

I write a couple of naughty ones in each book. I always try.

Olivers innuendo, however, is perhaps a little less subtle than the genteel soggy bottom sprinklings beloved by the judges of the Great British Bake Off.

For instance, his latest book, 5 Ingredients, includes the instruction, Rub all over, getting into all the cracks and crannies, for his Thai-style crispy sea bass, while messy meatballs requires followers to warm your buns.

The stars 30-Minute Meals, which has sold more than a million copies since its release in 2010, is similarly suggestive.

In the introduction, the father of five tells would-be chefs: All you have to do is follow my instructions, move quickly and enjoy the ride!.

He adds: Like making beautiful love, you might not always get things right first time around, but the benefits when you finally crack it are incredible.

His stewed fruit recipe suggests: If your plums look soft and juicy, take them out. And his Tuscan salad demands you squeeze everything with your hands

The 42-year-old's books contain suggestive comments such as squeeze of the sausage

The 2012 15-Minute Meals contains even more cheeky comments. I cant tell you how hard its been, Oliver brags in the foreword. His recipe for British burgers instructs readers to get the baps out while Swedish lamb meatballs require cooks to take balls with your wet hands.

Of course, no sausage recipe would be complete without a dash of double entendre and Olivers gnocchi requires a squeeze of the sausage.

His 2014 Jamies Dinners: The Essential Family Cookbook tells readers the slow-cooked lamb will leave you with nice, firm tasty meat and juicy, gooey, dumplings, while peppers are described as right old tarts  they get about a bit.

Essex-born Oliver, who was talking to Sky 1s Russell Howard, said: If youre talking about food to arouse, I think anything made can be lovely.

Whats the best food? Keep it light, not spicy, you dont want anything tough to chew on, something soft and easy.
A new screening system/grinder is now in place at the Eastern Reception Diagnostic Correctional Center (ERDCC) in Bonne Terre. The system has been discussed several times in the past due to the issues the city was having with the original screen which wasnt designed to accept plastics.

Alex Dunker with MECO Engineering Company, Inc. discussed the project with the city council recently. He said they are done with the grinder project.

I dont think there are any other loose ends, but if something comes up we will get with Alliance, said Dunker. We arent running away when we are done. If something comes up we will be sure it gets fixed.

Dunker presented the council with a letter describing the work they did with the project and also discussed the contract with the correctional center. Due to what is in the contract between the city and the correctional center, the city should have never had to install a grinder, he indicated.

The correctional center is not supposed to send trash through the wastewater and should have equipment set up on their end to filter it out. Alliance has repeatedly found items in the wastewater including jumpsuits, Ramen noodle plastic wrappers, and various materials.

It associates a dollar amount with that and when you guys ask them for money, if you ask them for money for reimbursement ..." Dunker said. I cant get into the legal end of things ... that is where the attorney will come in ...but what I can do is provide a letter on my end.

Dunker said the letter would represent his opinion and describe the circumstances. He added according to the contract it shouldnt have been necessary.

That is what that letter entails, said Dunker. From what I understand, approximately 92 percent of the wastewater comes from the prison to that treatment plant ..."

MECO Engineering entered into a contract with the city of Bonne Terre in September 2016 and the services included design and construction observation/inspection for new screening equipment.

The Northeast Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) treats 100 percent of the wastewater coming from the nearby correctional facility and a small amount of residential wastewater from homes in the area, Dunker reported. It is estimated by operators that the daily flow of the plant consists of approximately 90 percent prison flow and 10 percent residential flow.

Dunker said a majority of the flow and trash is coming from the prison. He added initially they were presented with a contract between the city and the Missouri Department of Corrections, which clearly outlined the wastewater quality sent to the plant from the prison.

In other words, there is a contractual agreement in which composition of the wastewater, including soils or trach, that the city is obligated to treat is specifically outlined, Dunker said. In the design of new screening equipment for the facility, the volume and type of trash to be removed was considered for proper design.

Dunker said during multiple site visits and discussions with operators in city personnel, MECO Engineering Company saw that wastewater quality standards outlined in the contract were not being adhered by the prison.

On two separate occasions, MECO personnel saw trash passing through and around the prisons channel grinder and going downstream where it was eventually collected by the citys primary bar screen, Dunker said. A routine inspection by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) also noted similar deficiencies and an abundance of trash which could be reasonably assumed to have come from the prison.

Dunker said due to the overwhelming amount of trash in the system, the city has been unable to properly treat wastewater according to DNR standards and has been notified to fix the deficiencies.

History and preliminary conversations with the state of Missouri personnel led us to believe that the prison does not intend to fund any treatment equipment to help adhere to the contractual wastewater effluent requirements, said Dunker. These initial conversations with the state to help fund improvements were not effective.

MECO Engineering was required to design improvements under the worst-case scenario in which the city will continue to receive untreated, high solids wastewater from the prison.

Dunker said their final decision included a heavy duty, in-channel grinder, which is specifically designed for the worst solid loadings, such as prisons, as well as a fine screen auger to remove the shredded trash from the waste stream.

It is our opinion that if the prison was delivering contractual-quality effluent to the Northeast WWTP, which specifies a half inch or less solids, with no plastics, the grinder portion of our design would not be needed, Dunker said. If the WWTP was receiving a half inch or less solids and no plastics, on a reliable basis, the only equipment needed would be a fine screen.

Dunker explained there are many variations of fine screens that would have been acceptable if the prison was in compliance. If they would have only installed fine screen with the current trash coming through it would have failed in a very short period of time.

The city and MECO Engineering had to design improvements in an effort to maintain compliance with DNR wastewater standards, said Dunker. The grinder, which shouldnt have been needed, costs $40,000 from the manufacturer.

He explained that contractor markup is typically 15 percent of the equipment cost and proper installation and labor by a qualified contractor is usually 80 to 100 percent of the cost of the equipment.

It is my estimation that approximately $82,000 to $92,000 of this project should not have been needed if the incoming wastewater was of contractual quality, Dunker said. In addition, the city will now have to maintain this piece of equipment at costs which will be realized once the equipment is in use.
Chief Constable Simon Bailey, who leads the National Police Chiefs' Council on child protection, admitted that officers would never have enough capacity to solve what he described as the 'wicked problem'

Thousands more police officers would still not be enough to stem the epidemic of child sexual abuse, Britain's top officer on child protection warned yesterday.

Chief Constable Simon Bailey, who leads the National Police Chiefs' Council on child protection, admitted that officers would never have enough capacity to solve what he described as the 'wicked problem' as he estimated that the number of British men interested in sexually abusing children stands more than 20,000.

That figure is comparable to the total number of all current and former terrorism suspects in the UK, he said.

The Norfolk police chief said investigators monitoring a single online chatroom in 2017 identified 4,000 men using it from the UK alone.

He admitted police were having to ignore lower level offenders to prioritise the most dangerous predators because there aren't enough officers to pursue all child sex abusers.

Even if thousands more detectives were tasked, police still would not bring every offender to justice.

He said: 'There are hundreds of officers tackling this now.

'Thousands and thousands still would not be enough.

'This is one of those wicked problems we simply cannot arrest our way out of.'

He said officers were having to ignore 'lower-level' offenders because of limited resources: 'We are having to prioritise the threat.

'Some lower-level offenders cannot be arrested and taken to court. There is just not the capacity.'

Chief Constable Bailey said police were having to ignore lower level offenders to prioritise the most dangerous predators because there aren't enough officers to pursue all child sex abusers. File photo

Mr Bailey blamed social media giants for affording paedophiles an access to children through live streaming as he called for a fresh crackdown from tech companies on the use of platforms including Periscope, which is owned by Twitter, and Facebook Live.

'I believe there are tens of thousands of men that are now going into chatrooms and forums with a view to grooming children,' he told the Guardian.

'Technology has afforded an access to children that people who have a sexual interest in children never had before.'

He said: 'I think there is more sexual abuse of children being perpetrated both physically and virtually.

'There are more men than five to 10 years ago who are trying to abuse children. There are more men viewing imagery and asking kids to flash.

'Viewing an image is abusing a child.'

On the emerging issue of live streaming child abuse, Bailey urged tech companies to do more: 'Software providers have a critical role in policing the environment they create.

'They have a social and moral responsibility to make their platforms safe for children to use.'

His warning came after recent reports revealed that child sexual abuse is at a record level.

Earlier this month, the NSPCC child protection charity said there had been a 31 per cent increase in the number of reported cases of child sexual abuse in the UK on the previous year.

His warning came after recent reports revealed that child sexual abuse is at a record level. File photo

Mr Bailey said reports to child protection experts were up 700 per cent since October 2013, although some put that increase down to a greater willingness to report offences.

In the first 11 months of 2017, the National Crime Agency received 72,000 referrals about online child sexual abuse imagery, up from 6,000 in 2010.

The police chief said the children being targeted were not just those from broken homes where the parents or the adults in charge were neglectful.

'The victims have included children of very capable and very caring parents.

'It does not recognise social status. The victims include children of middle-class, educated parents who think they are internet-savvy,' he said.

He estimated that about half of parents warned their children about the dangers of the internet, but said it needed to be constantly reinforced both at home and at school, adding: 'We need the same warnings about sexual abuse in schools, in the same way as we do for terrorism.

'Young people need to be educated about the risks, and spot the signs of exploitation and have the confidence to report it.'

He added that most offenders across all categories of child sexual abuse were white, despite numerous recent prosecutions of Asian street-grooming gangs.
A South Australian mother has been accused of being high on drugs when she crashed her car and caused the death of one of her twin sons.

Stacey Panozzo was travelling home from a family holiday last month when her Holden Commodore crashed on Brookman Road, Kuitpo, on the state's Fleurieu Peninsula.

The 34-year-old will face court over the death of her seven year-old boy Jackson Levi Rayner, and injuring her two other children, while allegedly under the influence, Adelaide Now reports.

Stacey Panozzo (pictured) has been accused of being high on drugs when she crashed her car and caused the death of one of her twin sons

The mother was travelling home from a family holiday last month when her Holden Commodore crashed and killed her son, Jackson Levi Rayner (pictured), 7

Police announced Saturday Ms Panozzo, of Callington in Adelaide's southeast, was charged with dangerous driving causing death and injury.

Major Crash police will allege the mother of three was driving with 'methamphetamine in her system' when she crashed the vehicle.

She was arrested on Friday after an extensive six week investigation and faces life behind bars and at least a 10 year driving ban if found guilty.

Ms Panozzo suffered critical injuries in the crash and was trapped in the vehicle for over and hour.

The 34-year-old will face court for killing her seven year-old boy and injuring her two other children, while allegedly under the influence of methamphetamine

Police announced Saturday - after a six-week-long investigation - Ms Panozzo, of Callington, was charged with dangerous driving causing death and injury

Jackson's twin and her two-year-old daughter sustained serious injuries in the collision - the toddler was thrown from the car and suffered head wounds, while her brother received chest injuries.

The mother's 'adored son', Jackson, died on the scene despite the desperate efforts of paramedics, just three weeks after his birthday.

Authorities investigated details of the moments leading up to the crash, which included reports the station wagon swerved to avoid a kangaroo in a 100km/h zone before it hit a tree at 6.30am on November 13.

A passing motorist reportedly discovered the wreckage four minutes later, after the vehicle veered off the road and hit a gum tree.

The mother's 'adored son', Jackson, died on the scene despite the desperate efforts of paramedics, just three weeks after his birthday.

Her two-year-old daughter was thrown from the car and suffered head wounds, while her brother received chest injuries

Dr Bill Griggs, Royal Adelaide Hospital's trauma director who managed the air response to the crash, described the crash a 'very difficult' incident to attend.

Holiday items including childrens' flotation devices and surfboards were reportedly found in the wreckage.

The Callington community is mourning the boy's death, with his primary school principal Kerryn Harvey saying classmates and teachers were devastated by the loss.

The mother has been bailed to appear in the Mount Barker Magistrates Court in March, a police spokeswoman revealed.
Valerie Graves was found bludgeoned to death in bed at around 10am on December 30 2013, in the ground floor bedroom of a 1.6 million house by the sea in Bosham

The family of a grandmother murdered as she house-sat for friends four years ago has said they do not want revenge - just answers.

Valerie Graves was found bludgeoned to death in bed at around 10am on December 30, 2013, in the ground floor bedroom of a 1.6 million house by the sea in Bosham, West Sussex.

The 55-year-old artist's ex-partner Roy Wood, father to her children Tim Wood and Jemima Harrison, said on the fourth anniversary of her death: 'We are just waiting and hoping that one day we will know what happened.

'None of us feel a thirst for revenge. We would want (the killer) to be caught so they cannot do it again to someone else.

'You always feel that if you know someone had committed a serious crime, you should be coming forward.'

Ms Graves' children, who will spend time with relatives on the anniversary to celebrate her life, previously described Christmas as being on hold while the killer remained at large.

Mr Wood, 69, of Portslade, East Sussex, added: 'It gets to be a funny time of year for the family.

'Because it was the festive period when she died it taints it a little bit. It's something we've spoken about a lot over the last couple of weeks.

Ms Graves' children Tim and Jemmia and Valerie's sister's partner Nigel Acres during a press conference

'It's very difficult (for the children) because they are like a part of what happened. They hear from the police from time to time but there's no news.

'We all live in this era of watching something on television where it gets solved in six episodes. We have that expectation. It doesn't happen like that in real life.'

Ms Graves had recently moved from Scotland to Bracklesham Bay.

She died just days after her birthday while house-sitting at the Smuggler's Lane mansion - with her mother Eileen, her sister Jan and her sister's partner Nigel Acres - for family friends the Chamberlains who were on holiday in Costa Rica.

She was last seen alive at around 10pm the night before.

There were no signs of a struggle but a post-mortem found she had severe head injuries after being hit with a claw hammer, probably around midnight.

Undated handout file photo issued by Sussex Police of the weapon used in the murder of Ms Graves

Sussex Police launched one of the biggest investigations in its history, initially saying they were confident they would catch the killer.

But the case remains unsolved despite an exhaustive forensic search and a massive voluntary DNA screening in which all men over the age of 17 who lived, worked or visited the village were asked to provide a sample and thumbprint to eliminate themselves from the inquiry.

There were no signs of a struggle but a post-mortem found Ms Graves(pictured) had severe head injuries after being hit with a claw hammer, probably around midnight

To date 2,819 samples have been collected. They have all been tested apart from 19 which are still at the laboratory, the force said.

Officers found the weapon 600 metres from the house in Hoe Lane. Water had washed away most traces of evidence apart from Ms Graves' DNA and a partial profile indicating the suspected killer was a man.

No match for this profile has so far been found.

A 22-year-old man was arrested in 2014 and released without charge.

An inquest last year ruled her death was an unlawful killing and West Sussex coroner Penelope Schofield said she hoped publicity about the case would lead to the attacker being caught.

Police are still offering a 10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Detective Superintendent Jason Taylor said: 'Officers and staff from the investigation team remain determined to find Valerie's killer and get justice for her and her family, and we continue to do everything reasonably possible to achieve this.'

Ms Graves'(pictured) deathwas described as the 'Midsomer Murder' as the seaside village featured in an episode of the ITV drama

The death was described as the 'Midsomer Murder' as the seaside village featured in an episode of the ITV drama.

The idyllic setting has featured in several TV murder mysteries, including an adaptation of Agatha Christie whodunnit The Adventure of the Italian Nobleman in which Hercule Poirot exposes a male killer with the surname of Graves.

Three years after Ms Graves death, ITV filmed another crime drama on location in the village.

Four-part series Innocent, starring Cold Feet actress Hermione Norris and Lee Ingleby, will tell the story of David Collier who is convicted of murdering his wife but is appealing the sentence after serving seven years in prison.

It is anticipated, but not confirmed, to air next year.

Anyone with information which may help the investigation can call Sussex Police on 101 quoting Operation Ensign or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The father of two young Canadian sisters who were found dead inside his apartment on Christmas Day is the sole suspect in what investigators are calling a holiday homicide.

The bodies of Aubrey Berry, 4, and Chloe Berry, 6, were discovered after police were called to Andrew Berry's Oak Bay, British Columbia apartment around 5pm.

A related source told investigators the power had been out for some time in the 43-year-old father's apartment when he failed to pay his electricity bills after suffering financial setbacks from his alleged gambling addiction.

He was found at the apartment Monday with self-inflicted wounds and transported to the hospital. Another male was found at the home, while police have not released his identity.

Aubrey Berry, 4, (left) and Chloe Berry, 6, (right) were found dead by police on Christmas Day at their father's apartment

Police were called to Andrew Berry's Oak Bay, British Columbia apartment around 5pm Monday

Andrew Berry was found with self-inflicted wounds and transported to the hospital. He was named the only suspect

It seems the children's mother, Sarah Cotton, ended their marriage in 2013 after three years together, and complained he was an unfit father amid their ongoing custody battle.

Online court records show government agency Ministry of Children and Family Development began investigating the suspicious dad in 2015, after Aubrey told her mother that he touched her 'inappropriately'.

Berry claimed in court he had tickled Aubrey, but not in the said sexual manner.

During an examination in 2016, the agency discovered a 'soft spot' on Aubrey's head after a visit with Berry, according to the Vancouver Sun.

The father's visits were briefly supervised, but earlier this spring, Supreme Court Justice Judge Victoria Gray granted him holiday and overnight visitation rights.

Closer investigation by the Office Representative of Children and Youth will play out after the police and coroner's are complete

'It will be several months before we're in a position to decide whether we'll be conducting a full investigation,' child and youth representative Bernard Richard said

While Berry 'has displayed poor judgment in dealing with the children' he is 'a loving father who has much to offer his daughters,' Gray wrote, according to court documents.

'It is in the best interest of the girls to have significant parenting time with the father.'

Furthermore, Cotton previously filed a restraining order after their split in 2013, when she also accused him of becoming physically violent with her.

She claimed Berry 'pinned her to a bed' in September 2013 during one of his furious outbursts, the newspaper reports.

Flowers were left outside the apartment this week in honor of the two young Canadian sisters

Children in the community are seen placing teddy bears outside the scene of the horrific double homicide

During another dispute over financial matters, Berry threatened to 'blow up the house.'

The report said the father was verbally abusive toward the mother in front of the children and declined to attend parenting classes to become a more suitable dad.

Closer investigation by the Office Representative of Children and Youth will play out after the police and coroner's probe.

'It will be several months before we're in a position to decide whether we'll be conducting a full investigation,' child and youth representative Bernard Richard said, according to the newspaper.
Wallabies star Karmichael Hunt has been arrested and charged with drug possession after he was allegedly caught by police in Brisbane.

The Australian rugby union player was arrested for cocaine possession in Fortitude Valley at 12:40am on Saturday, police say.

Hunt, 31, and another man have both been issued with notices to appear in court on January 29.

Wallabies star Karmichael Hunt (pictured) has been arrested and charged with drug possession

The Australian rugby union player (pictured) was arrested for cocaine possession in Fortitude Valley at 12:40am on Saturday, police say

Another man, 32, was also charged for possession of an apparatus used in regards to a drug offence, the Daily Telegraph reports.

The former NRL and AFL player, who made his Wallabies debut this year, was fined in March 2015 after pleading guilty to four charges of cocaine possession.

Hunt's lawyer Adam Magill confirmed the Queensland Reds star had been arrested.

'An incident involving Karmichael Hunt occurred which resulted in his arrest,' he told the publication.

'At this stage no further instructions have been taken.'

Hunt, 31, (pictured) and another man have both been issued with notices to appear in court on January 29

Rugby Australia released a statement on Saturday afternoon and confirmed the organisation of aware of Hunt's arrest.

'Rugby Australia has today been made aware of an incident involving Wallabies and Queensland Reds back Karmichael Hunt in Brisbane overnight,' the statement read.

'It is understood Hunt was arrested and has subsequently been released by Queensland Police.

Rugby Australia takes all matters relating to the off-field behaviour of its players seriously and has commenced an investigation into the incident in conjunction with the Queensland Rugby Union. No further comment will be made at this time.'
A father with a cancelled license has been accused of leaving his young son in a car while he went to the pub.

The 32-year-old father was arrested is expected to face court next year after he allegedly left his six-year-old son alone in a car while the engine was running.

NSW Police said they were called to Guildford Road before 11.30am on Friday after a council ranger spotted the young boy alone in the parked car.

A father with a cancelled license has been accused of leaving his young six-year-old son in a car while he went to the pub in Sydney's west (stock image)

'The vehicle's engine and air conditioning were running at the time,' NSW Police said.

The six-year-old was allegedly in the car alone for about an hour in Guildford, west of Sydney.

Parts of the city hit tops of 31C at midday on Friday.

The father was issued a field court attendance notice for leaving a child in a car which was likely to cause emotion distress, driving with a passenger four-years-old or older but less than seven-years-old in the front row of a vehicle and driving with a cancelled licence.

The 32-year-old is expected to face Parramatta Local Court on January 30.
Britain's job-creating economy broke a string of records in 2017, official figures reveal.

At least ten records were set over the course of the year, defying claims that the EU referendum result would mean a jobs bloodbath.

They included the employment rate, which hit a 40-year high in the spring, new highs for older people, women and ethnic minorities in work, and record lows for unemployment, young people not in work or studying and redundancies.

Employment minister Damian Hinds hailed the impact of benefit reforms, including the Governments flagship Universal Credit programme

The figures are a fresh humiliation for the architects of Project Fear. In May last year, the Treasury warned that a Leave vote would cause an immediate and profound economic shock, and plunge the country into recession. Instead, the UK has continued to defy the doomsayers.

Last night employment minister Damian Hinds hailed the impact of benefit reforms, including the Governments flagship Universal Credit programme, and said tax cuts and minimum wage hikes meant workers were keeping more of their money.

Records included new highs for older people, women and ethnic minorities in work, and record lows for unemployment, young people not in work or studying and redundancies

Department for Work and Pensions figures show the employment rate  the percentage of people in work  peaked at 75.3 per cent in the three months from May to July. That is the highest since records began in the early 1970s.

The number of people in work is also at a new high of 32.14 million people, and unemployment hit its lowest rate since 1975 at 4.3 per cent. The total is down over a million since 2010.

Mr Hinds said: Im delighted that more people from all areas of life are reaping the rewards that employment brings, and I want to build on that success next year.
The UK economy ended the year on a record high as shares rose on the back of a frenzy of deal-making.

More than 141 billion was added to the value of the countrys biggest firms amid a boom in exports, a rise in market confidence and a surge in stock market flotations.

The FTSE 100 index of the UKs largest firms rose to 7,687.77 yesterday, topping the previous end-of-day high to finish the year at record levels.

FTSE 100 index of the UKs largest firms rose to 7,687.77 yesterday, topping the previous end-of-day high to finish the year at record levels

It is the second year running that the market has ended December at a new peak, defying the gloom-mongers who predicted the UK would sink after the Brexit vote. The market has risen almost 8 per cent since the beginning of the year.

On top of this, the FTSE 250 index, which includes many UK-focused companies, also finished up for the year, and has seen 52 billion added to its value.

The past 12 months have seen a flurry of deal-making, with the number of companies floating on the London Stock Exchange at a three-year high of 106, surpassing all rival European exchanges.

The market was also boosted by a rise in the number of foreign firms choosing to list in London, with 20 North American businesses choosing the City as the place to trade their shares.

Nikhil Rathi, chief executive of the London Stock Exchange, said: Despite the debates about Brexit, Londons highly global, deep and liquid capital markets continue to be the ideal partner for funding the worlds growth.

We continue to be at the forefront of innovative global finance.

One reason for the strength of the stock market in the past 18 months has been a fall in the pound.

This year the FTSE 100 index is up 7.6 per cent. It is the second year running that the market has ended December at a new peak

In the immediate aftermath of the Brexit vote, the currency fell 20 per cent, making UK exports cheaper for foreign firms. In recent months it has climbed back to recover half its losses, meaning that despite weaker earnings, British companies have continued to thrive.

Despite hitting a high, the UK has lagged behind other global stock markets this year  particularly the US which has risen by as much as 30 per cent thanks to business confidence about Donald Trumps tax reforms. It has also slightly underperformed against rival markets in Japan, Germany and France.

However, the UK has ended the year with a series of economic figures which have defied the experts predictions.

Nikhil Rathi said despite debates about Brexit, Londons capital markets continue to be the ideal partner for funding the worlds growth

Last week, official figures showed that the economy has fared better than previously thought since the vote to leave the European Union. The Office for National Statistics said it grew at an annual rate of 1.7 per cent in the third quarter of this year, up from the 1.5 per cent it had previously recorded.

And in a set of unexpected revisions, the ONS upgraded its growth figures for 2016, thanks to a stronger six months following the referendum. The 1.9 per cent growth rate last year put the UK alongside Germany as the best-performing economy in the G7 in 2016.

The unemployment rate has also continued to set records, with the ONS saying unemployment has fallen to a 42-year low of 4.3 per cent.

Craig Erlam, market analyst for online trading group Onada, said: As the year has progressed it has become clear that the economic downturn in the UK has not been as severe as some feared, while progress in the Brexit negotiations has provided hope for domestic stocks, benefiting FTSE 250 companies.

Figures compiled by Reuters also showed that the volume of UK domestic deals surged to 51 billion this year, more than double the previous year. Deals included online gambling company GVCs purchase of bookmaker Ladbrokes Coral for as much as 3.9 billion and Hammersons 3.4 billion acquisition of rival shopping centre operator Intu Properties.

Richard Stone, chief executive of the Share Centre, said: Some market commentators have indicated concern that a correction may be on the horizon. However, the market appears to be... continuing to go from strength to strength.
A Balinese priest has made a chilling prediction about the island's volcano, Mount Agung, which has been spewing ash and smoke for months.

Spiritual leader Mangku Bon, who trekked to the peak of the erupting volcano in October to make a peace offering, told local news outlets he is 'not sure the volcano will erupt' any time soon.

While Mangku Bon said the volcano will continue to be 'a slow eruption', his predictions for the future were daunting.

'The next explosion will be in 45 years (in 2062). The next explosion will be big like 1963,' he said, news.com.au reports.

Scroll down for video

Spiritual leader Mangku Bon (pictured) predicted the next eruption in 45 years, and said it would be devastating

Mount Agung in Bali has been steadily erupting smoke and ash since October

Over 1,500 people died after the volcano erupted in 1963, when the huge volcano spewed ash 10km into the air and lava flowed 7km from the summit.

The priest, who the locals have dubbed the 'guardian of Mount Agung', said he saw a 'giant hole in the crater' when he climbed the volcano in October.

'The earthquakes in 1963 were 100 per cent worse than the earthquakes we have experienced so far,' Mangku Bon said.

'If it is a big explosion, I am praying that it is not huge and that it will not destroy the world.'

Volcanologists believe the longer between eruptions, the more time a volcano has to build energy and magma

Mangku Bon's revelations have been labelled as 'astounding', given experts believe an eruption from the volcano is imminent.

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency said the volcano remains at its highest alert level.

However, most of Bali is deemed safe for tourists.

Volcanologists believe the longer between eruptions, the more time a volcano has to build energy and magma.

Emile Jansons, aviation services manager at the Australian Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre told the publication the next eruption has the 'potential' to be devastating.

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency said the volcano remains at its highest alert level

Tremors increased again at the end of November and officials upped the alert and ordered another large-scale evacuation

Indonesian officials first raised the highest alert two months ago when a rash of seismic activity was detected at the mountain.

More than 100,000 people living near the volcano fled their homes, many abandoning their livestock or selling them for a fraction of the normal price.

The seismic activity decreased by the end of October, causing authorities to lower the alert level.

But tremors increased again at the end of November and officials upped the alert and ordered another large-scale evacuation.

Nearly 40,000 people now staying in 225 shelters, according to the Disaster Mitigation Agency in Karangasem.
Marquis Byrd, 22, had planned to propose to his girlfriend on his birthday before he was killed by a sandbag thrown from a highway overpass in Toledo, earlier this month

The 22-year-old Michigan man who was killed in Ohio by a sandbag thrown from a highway overpass had plans to propose.

Marquise Byrd, 22, was killed earlier this month when a sandbag was thrown unto Interstate 75 in Toledo from an overpass, but wanted to pop the question to his girlfriend on his birthday, a friend said.

'It would have been a surprise to her, and only his mother knew of his plan,' Lillian Diallo said to People.

'He was robbed of being a married father, a husband taking care of his family and living the dream that was almost in his grasp.

'In his mind, that would have been the greatest gift he could have got on his birthday.'

The sandbag hit Byrd in the head and he died at the hospital.

'He was just in a car riding like any of us, not bothering anybody, and the sandbag came down and came down on his side of the car,' Diallo added.

'It was strong enough to collapse the frame of the car  so think what it did to the human body. He died from blunt force trauma to the head and neck. '

'It would have been a surprise to her, and only his mother knew of his plan,' Lillian Diallo said to People of him (pictured right)

Four teenage boys have been charged with murder in an Ohio juvenile court in connection with Byrd's death when he was struck by a sandbag thrown from an interstate overpass.

Prosecutors filed the charges Tuesday in Toledo against the boys, ages 13 to 15, The Toledo Blade reported.

The teens initially were charged with the juvenile equivalent of felonious assault.

Marquise Byrd, 22, died Friday at a hospital.

She added: 'He was robbed of being a married father, a husband taking care of his family and living the dream that was almost in his grasp (right)

'He was just in a car riding like any of us, not bothering anybody, and the sandbag came down and came down on his side of the car,' Diallo added

The driver of the car, who has not been identified, suffered minor injuries.

The Warren, Michigan, father of a two-year-old boy was sitting in the front passenger seat of a car traveling south on Interstate 75 in Toledo when a sandbag smashed through the windshield on December 19.

The Lucas County Coroner's Office says Byrd died of blunt-force trauma injuries to the head and neck.

Police and a prosecutor have said the teens threw other objects from the overpass that night.

Byrd was a front-seat passenger in a southbound vehicle on Interstate 75 (above) in Toledo, Ohio, when he was struck by a sandbag

The vehicle in which Byrd was sitting on December 19 is seen in the above photo

His family is demanding that authorities charge the four teens as adults.

'I would appreciate if [the boys' parents] could at least call my auntie and tell her they're sorry,' Byrd's cousin, Shaveontae King, told the Blade.

King said Byrd was like a brother to her.

When asked to describe him, she said: 'Young, energetic, outgoing, lovable. He had a bright smile.'

Officers received a call at 10.10pm on December 19. They responded to the scene and saw the teenagers leaving the area after the incident.

Prosecutors filed the charges Tuesday in Toledo against the boys, ages 13 to 15. One of the suspects is seen right

So far, Ohio prosecutors said there are no plans to transfer the teens' cases from the juvenile department to adult jurisdiction. One of the teens is seen above second from right

King said she has no sympathy for the teens and wants authorities to charge them as adults.

'My auntie has to bury her son. He's gone. He's never coming back,' she King said.

'She's holding up the best she can.'

So far, Ohio prosecutors said there are no plans to transfer the teens' cases from the juvenile department to adult jurisdiction.

Lori Olender, the deputy chief of the county prosecutor's juvenile division, said that since the teens have no prior criminal records, there is a risk prosecutors would lose if they were tried as adults.
DEAR ABBY: My partner of 11 years has decided he is no longer in love with me. He says it's because he thinks I cheated on him. I have told him repeatedly that it didn't happen, which is the truth.

Long story short, he says he wants us to start over as friends and see where things go because he doesn't want to be in a relationship with anyone right now. However, he's sleeping with a 22-year-old here in the home we share. I love him so much that it hurts. When I tell him every day that I love him, he tells me he knows. Our relationship hasn't been a bed of roses, but we did have good times when we were able to do things together. Should I hold out for him, or tell him the "friends" thing is not going to work and cut ties altogether? -- CONFUSED AND LOST GUY

DEAR GUY: I don't blame you for feeling confused and lost, considering the mixed messages you have been getting from your partner. What you are experiencing now is, of course, painful. He is making excuses for wanting to trade you in for a newer model. This is why he is accusing you of having done something that he is doing under your nose.

The only true confession he has uttered is that he doesn't want to be in a relationship. That is your cue to head for the door, unless, of course, the roof over your head belongs to you. If your home is rented or jointly owned, other arrangements will have to be made. But for the sake of your sanity, do not live with him under these conditions, or he will make you old before your time.

DEAR ABBY: My family includes a niece and her husband with three kids ranging in age from 8 months to 7 years old. The middle child, a 5-year-old girl, is allowed to choose her own outfits for family gatherings and school, with appalling results. Her hair, which is long and tangled, goes unbrushed. Her ill-fitting clothes are worn and inappropriate for the weather and school. When I discussed it with her parents, their answer fell flat.

Because she's learning to dress herself without parental guidance, she's not learning what's appropriate. When they came for Thanksgiving dinner the child showed up in summer clothes -- sleeveless top, thin cotton skirt, etc. By the end of the evening, she appeared ill.

I'm surprised neglect charges haven't been filed against the parents. Any suggestions to get across to them that their parenting style is lacking? -- WORRIED RELATIVE

DEAR WORRIED: Your dilemma isn't how to get across to the parents that they need to teach their child better fashion choices. If that little girl is going around with tangled hair and summer clothes in cold weather, it may be that her parents are unable or unwilling to give her the basics. I, too, am surprised that the school hasn't contacted Child Protective Services to do a welfare check. Since they haven't, you should talk to these parents again and voice your concerns.

DEAR ABBY: I am president and co-founder of the Wildlife Center of Virginia, one of the leading teaching and research hospitals for wildlife medicine in the world. We have treated more than 70,000 wild patients since our organization was established 35 years ago. Like the reader ("An Apple a Day," Aug. 11) who is under the impression that throwing an apple core out the car window is doing something positive for the Earth, many individuals make "little" decisions without considering the unintended consequences.

The example of the apple core has been at the heart of our education program for more than three decades. Before throwing that apple core out the window believing that some small animal will come finish what's left, people should consider what will happen if the animal coming to eat their scraps happens to be on the other side of the road.

Throwing out that apple core will lure that creature into harm's way. Countless opossums, raccoons, skunks and other small mammals are killed every day because of human food waste on the shoulder of the road. And it doesn't stop there. Predators like owls also suffer. They hunt along the side of the road, not because they eat apple cores, but because they eat the mice, voles and other small animals who are attracted to feed on that apple core. Then, when the opossum, raccoon or owl is killed by a car, scavengers are attracted to the pavement, where their lives, too, are at risk.

If readers want to help the Earth, they should take their waste home and dispose of it or recycle it properly. The small act of throwing an apple core out of a car window can cost the lives of the very creatures they claim to want to help. -- EDWARD CLARK, WAYNESBORO, VA.

DEAR MR. CLARK: When that letter appeared, I received a flurry of mail about it. Many readers touched on some of the points you have expressed. Thank you for writing so eloquently to educate my readers -- and me. Lesson learned.

DEAR ABBY: I'm 29 and I'm having trouble holding down a steady job. I am a college graduate, and it's not because I don't like to work. My problem is I have a strong personality and I tend to butt heads with management. Deep down, I think I'll only be satisfied with a job if I'm the boss or own my own business. Do you have any suggestions about positions for someone who can't handle having a boss? -- MISS INDEPENDENT IN THE BRONX

DEAR MISS INDEPENDENT: No. Unless someone has rich parents or a magic lamp, most people have to work for -- or with -- others until they build enough capital to start a business. Even then, business owners must interact with clients they don't always agree with. Because you tend to butt heads with those in management positions, you would be wise to start working on becoming more patient and less dogmatic. Both qualities will help you in the future if you can develop them.

DEAR READERS: Well, 2017 is at an end. Out with the old year, and in with the new one. Please accept my heartfelt good wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2018. And -- as I caution you every year -- if you are partying tonight, PLEASE be safe! Appoint a designated driver and remind that person to drive defensively. -- LOVE, ABBY

DEAR READERS: Welcome to 2018! A new year has arrived, and with it our chance for a new beginning.

Today we have an opportunity to discard destructive old habits for healthy new ones, and with that in mind, I will share Dear Abby's often-requested list of New Year's Resolutions -- which were adapted by my late mother, Pauline Phillips, from the original credo of Al-Anon:

JUST FOR TODAY: I will live through THIS DAY ONLY. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once.

I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly and not interrupt when someone else is talking. Just for today, I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will do something positive to improve my health. If I'm a smoker, I'll quit. If I am overweight, I will eat healthfully -- if only just for today. And not only that, I will get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it's only around the block.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibility for my own actions.

And now, Dear Readers, I would like to share an item that was sent to me by L.J. Bhatia, a reader from New Delhi, India:

DEAR ABBY: This year, no resolutions, only some guidelines. The Holy Vedas say, "Man has subjected himself to thousands of self-inflicted bondages. Wisdom comes to a man who lives according to the true eternal laws of nature."

The prayer of St. Francis (of which there are several versions) contains a powerful message:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace;

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkness, light;

And where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,

Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;

To be understood, as to understand;

To be loved, as to love;

For it is in giving that we receive,

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

And so, Dear Readers, may 2018 bring with it good health, peace and joy to all of you. -- LOVE, ABBY

DEAR ABBY: My fiance and I are being married in a few days. We are expecting our first child a few days after that. The problem is my mother. We decided on a small ceremony, but my mother is opposed to the marriage because she doesn't like the idea of me marrying -- not just my fiance, but anyone. She has always told me a man will leave me destitute, pregnant with too many kids, and I won't be able to take care of myself. She has repeated it since I was about 10.

Because she has threatened to object at the ceremony, we decided not to invite her. We have invited his parents and my father and stepmother. Mom has said she will not allow my child to see her grandfather because "he is a bad person." She may have good intentions, but dictating who can be around my child is not her choice, considering she has had little to no contact with him in 25 years.

I wish she could be at our wedding, but she has now distanced herself from me and my fiance. Should I let her cool off and hope she comes around, or accept that this is the path she has chosen? Please advise, Abby. -- PROBLEM MOTHER IN KENTUCKY

DEAR PROBLEM MOTHER: Your mother may be anti-marriage because hers failed spectacularly. She appears to be a troubled woman. By all means, let her cool off, but do not allow her to dictate your life. If she does, her anger and bitterness could negatively affect your marriage.

DEAR ABBY: The winter months are hard for me. They remind me that another year has gone by without my father and my younger sister.

Dad had been a smoker since his teens and died from pancreatic cancer at 39. I was 13, and my siblings were younger. In those days, we didn't know that smoking was a risk factor for pancreatic cancer.

My sister smoked from the time she was 13. She died from lung cancer at 44, leaving behind two young sons.

Neither my father nor my sister got to experience the wonderful family milestones and celebrations we have had. Their grandchildren will never know them. Each year during the holidays, I feel a sadness in my heart.

I urge every smoker to make a vow to quit and carry it through, not only for their own sake but also their family's. Stay determined to quit so you won't cause your loved ones sadness and won't miss out on their futures. With all my heart, I wish smokers the best of luck in quitting. -- MISSING DAD AND SIS IN SACRAMENTO

DEAR MISSING: I'm glad you wrote because the American Cancer Society's annual Great American Smokeout will be held on Nov. 16. It's a day when millions of smokers put down their cigarettes -- just for one day -- with the conviction that if they can go 24 hours without one, then they can do it for 48 hours, 72 hours, and stop smoking for good. The idea grew out of a 1970 event in Randolph, Massachusetts, and became a national event in 1977.

Readers, I'm not going to harangue you with death threats. We are all aware of the grim statistics associated with cancer-related deaths caused by tobacco. If you're interested in quitting, this is a perfect opportunity. Call (800) 227-2345 to be connected with counseling services in your community, provided with self-help materials offering information and strategies on quitting for good, and to receive information about medications available to help you quit. This service is free and provided 24/7. Or go online to cancer.org.

DEAR ABBY: I need your help. Over the past few weeks, I have been vacationing at my mother-in-law's home. The other day I was browsing on her computer and accidentally opened her browsing history. It turns out that she regularly looks at and responds to Craigslist personals.

I was shocked when I read some of the perverted requests she has responded to. The language she used would make a sailor blush. Keep in mind, my mother-in-law is a married woman.

I don't know how to react. Should I tell my wife? Keep it to myself? Make a fake Craigslist post and catch her in the act? -- KINKS IN THE FAMILY

DEAR KINKS: If you disclose this to your wife, it could damage her relationship with her mother. If she tells her mother what you found, it will create a breach in the family. If you trap the woman by creating a fake Craigslist post and she realizes she has been made a fool of, it will not -- to put it mildly -- endear you to her. Let it lie.

DEAR ABBY: I am in a predicament. My therapist is great, but sometimes I think she shares too much. Last time I went, she was running late. When I finally got into her office, she told me the previous patient was nonverbal and had painted her nails during the session. Later in the session, she confided that years ago she had been date raped.

Abby, I am in counseling because my father raped me when I was 15 (I am now 24). Her sharing has me worried because I don't want her telling others what I say or do during counseling. Further, her story of the date rape scared me. She described a situation that is not uncommon for me to be in, and it caused something almost like a flashback in me. I think what she did was insensitive, to say the least.

I have nobody else to ask, so what should I do? I'm getting counseling for free now due to my income, and it took months to get set up with a counselor. Should I report her or accept that this was a mistake and say nothing? If I need to report her, how would I go about doing that? -- CONFLICTED ABOUT IT

DEAR CONFLICTED: You should change therapists because it appears this one has more problems than you do. As to what agency you should report her breach of professional ethics to, contact the state organization that has licensed her to practice.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Distressful photos show bodies hanging from bridges in the popular Mexican tourist hub of Baja California Sur on December 20 - marking the spread of inter-cartel violence.

The bodies of six men hung alongside banners called narcomantas for the first time in the northwestern Mexican state - where violence between different drug cartels has grown deadly in the past three years.

And on Friday an American citizen was gunned down in the Pacific resort town of Zihuatanejo, according to authorities, demonstrating the vast range of violence across the country as drug wars wage on.

The bodies of six men hung alongside banners called narcomantas for the first time in the northwestern Mexican state - where violence between different drug cartels has grown deadly in the past three years

Gang violence has increased in the country over the past decade, and has started seeping into tourist states that previously didn't see the deadly behavior

Guerrero state's security coordinating group said in a statement the American tourist identified only by the first name Douglas was shot three times. No hometown or further details of the killing were provided.

Gang violence has increased in the country over the past decade, and has started seeping into tourist states that previously didn't see the deadly behavior.

The increase prompted the US State Department to issue a travel warning for Baja California Sur towards the end of August. Also on the warning was Quintana Roo - home to tourist-laden Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

Most of Mexico has been listed as dangerous for tourist travel for many years - but the August notice was the first time those two states were included. At the time of the notice Mexican officials said there were areas of concern but believed the timing was related to political maneuvers in Washington.

The December 20 photos of men hanging from bridges show the true horror of the drug wars overtaking the countries.

Between hours of 4.30 and 6am the bodies of six men were found hung on three different bridges in the state of Baja California Sur, according to

They hung alongside banners known as narcomantes, according to My San Antonio, which were attributed to the Guzmanes y Tegoripenos gang.

'This is what will happen to anyone who does not fall into line with us,' one of the banners read.

'It has been made more clear that we hold all the power and that Baja north and south are ours.'

The six bodies hung alongside banners known as narcomantes, according to My San Antonio , which were attributed to the Guzmanes y Tegoripenos gang

A few days before the December 20 incident a body was found hanging on a bridge in the neighboring state Nayarit. Pictured is one of the six bodies found on December 20

Similar incidents have occurred in other parts of Mexico, and have only gotten more frequent in recent years. The killings that are accompanied by narcomantas are often attributed to the gang Guzmanes y Tegoripenos, which brags about 'cleansing' and killing government officials in the signs

The signs have been hung by the gang frequently in the past few months - and regularly reference threatening government officials and 'cleansing' the area.

In 2016 there were 49 homicide cases in Cabo San Lucas, a number which has more than quadrupled to 286 in just the first 11 months of 2017

The gang's name seems to refer to Tegoripa, a small town in the state Sinaloa and municipality Badiraguato, where the infamed drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman was born.

The name Guzman is thought to be the inspiration for the other half of the gang's name.

Similar signs were hung around Tijuana, another popular tourist city, in the last few months of 2016.

A few days before the December 20 incident a body was found hanging on a bridge in the neighboring state Nayarit.

That killing was part of a wave in the state thought to be linked to organized crime. Narcomantas were at the scene of many of those murders, including the bridge hanging.

For decades tourist hubs such as Los Cabos avoided the deadly violence present in the rest of the country during the past decade's drug war. But in recent months violence has picked up, and homicides in Cabo San Lucas has seen a spike.

In 2016 there were 49 homicide cases in Cabo San Lucas, a number which has more than quadrupled to 286 in just the first 11 months of 2017.

There were 650 homicides in the state between January and November, marking 223 and 284 percent increases over the same periods in 2015 and 2015, respectively, according to MySA.

The incidents on December 20 were the first time anyone has hung bodies from bridges in the area.
Controversial David A. Clarke is being investigated by federal agents months after prosecutors denied to press charges after he threatened a passenger on a flight back in January.

According to the Detroit News, an agent filed the search warrant request in federal court Thursday, seeking information from the former Milwaukee County Sheriff's private email account from the January 15 incident to present.

At the time, Clarke ordered his deputies to stop Dan Black, who spoke to him briefly on an airplane as it flew into Milwaukee earlier this year, according to reports.

Clarke, known for his outspoken support of President Donald Trump as well as questionable policing and incarceration methods, was sued by Black.

The 24-year-old passenger was detained by about a half-dozen Milwaukee County deputies after his arrival at Mitchell International Airport following a flight from Dallas-Fort Worth at the time.

Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke (shown leaving Trump Tower in November) is being investigated by federal agents

An agent filed the search warrant request in federal court Thursday, seeking information from Clarke's private email account dated from the January 15 incident to the present

The deputies were ordered by their boss, Clarke, to stop Black after the two men held a brief exchange on board the American Airlines flight, the Journal Sentinel reported.

After the plane landed and was sitting on the tarmac, Clarke sent a text message to one of his captains which read: Just a field interview, no arrest unless he become an a*****e with your guys.

Question for him is why he said anything to me. Why didnt he just keep his mouth shut?

Follow him to baggage and out the door, Clarke texted. You can escort me to carousel after I point him out.

The texts were provided by Blacks attorney.

Black, a resident of the Riverwest section of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, also sued Milwaukee County and the deputies who detained him after the flight.

They escorted him to baggage claim during the incident. Soon afterward, he was released.

Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke (left) ordered his deputies to detain Dan Black (right), 24, at an airport in Milwaukee after the two men briefly exchanged words on board a flight they were taking from Dallas on January 15

Black, 24, was detained by about a half-dozen Milwaukee County deputies after his arrival at Mitchell International Airport following a flight from Dallas-Fort Worth on January 15

Surveillance video from the airport shows Clarke (seen above with a Dallas Cowboys baseball cap) exiting the plane and greeting a deputy in the arrival terminal

Clarkes lawyer claims that Black accosted his client as he was sitting in first class on the American Airlines flight just before takeoff.

Plaintiff stopped adjacent to Sheriff Clarke's seat as Plaintiff boarded the plane and asked him if he was Sheriff Clarke, the sheriff's attorneys wrote.

Sheriff Clarke responded in the affirmative.

Plaintiff then, while standing over Clarke and in very close proximity to Clarke given the confines of the airline cabin, and in a physically threatening manner, stared at Clarke and shook his head at him for a prolonged period of time,' the lawyers wrote.

Clarke asked plaintiff if he had a problem with him, to which plaintiff did not respond.

Blacks version of events is slightly different.

He claimed that he noticed Clarke wearing Dallas Cowboys gear instead of his usual signature Stetson hat.

Black then asked Clarke if he was indeed the sheriff, who confirmed that he was.

Clarke then asked Black if he had a problem, to which Black responded that he did not.

Black denies he was standing over Clarke in a physically threatening manner.

Released May surveillance video from the arrival terminal at the airport shows Clarke coming out of the plane and greeting a number of uniformed officers with a police dog.

Black recorded himself 'getting escorted out of the airport' on his cell phone (above)

Black is suing Clarke, Milwaukee County, and the sheriff's deputies who detained him for unlawful arrest

As Clarke greets them, he gives a salute.

A little over two minutes later, Black emerges and is met by two deputies.

After Black filed suit, Clarke hit out at him over social media.

On the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office Facebook page, Clarke posted a meme that showed a picture of Black with the caption: Cheer up, snowflakeIf Sheriff Clarke were to really harass you, you wouldnt be around to whine about it.

Black's lawyer obtained copies of text messages that Clarke sent to his subordinates ordering them to detain his client

In the weeks after the incident took place, the federal government launched an investigation that it eventually closed due to lack of evidence.

It is unclear, however, if the government had access to the video which will certainly play a role in the lawsuit filed by Black against Clarke.

Clarke refused to cooperate with the investigation.

The probe had been placed on hold given that Clarke is reportedly in line to take a job at the Department of Homeland Security.
Brazen thieves have made off with thousands of dollars worth of luxury clothing, after robbing a retail store in Sydney's south.

Police are searching for three men who used a sledgehammer to break into the Rosebery Camilla and Marc store on Friday morning.

CCTV footage from the store shows the men smash the glass doors at 2.45am, before making off with a significant amount of clothing.

CCTV footage from the store shows three men smash the glass doors to the Rosebery store at 2.45am

The thieves make off with thousands of dollars worth of clothes, destroying the shop in the process

The thieves enter the store several times, each time carrying large armfuls of clothing as they exited.

The offenders are believed to have fled the scene in a white sedan.

An alarm was activated at the scene, alerting police and security to the store but they were unable to locate the men.

The thieves enter the store several times, each time carrying large armfuls of clothing as they exited

All three offenders had their faces concealed during the robbery.

Police are urging anyone who is offered Camilla and Marc clothing at low prices to be wary the items could be stolen.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
The friends and family of a Melbourne man murdered in Sweden have paid tribute to a 'beautiful, fine young man'.

Kai Foley was found clinging to life in a public place in Gothenburg, Sweden on December 20 after being stabbed in a crime which has baffled local authorities.

The 30-year-old was discovered at Odins Square in the early hours of the morning and was taken to hospital with spinal and abdominal injuries, where he later died, according to the ABC.

Kai Foley (Pictured) was found clinging to life in a public place in Gothenburg, Sweden on December 20 after being stabbed in a crime which has baffled local authorities

The 30-year-old (pictured with his girlfriend) was discovered at Odins Square in the early hours of the morning and was taken to hospital with spinal and abdominal injuries, where he later died, according to the ABC

Devastated family members and friends have mourned the shock death of the former disability support worker.

'Kai's family and many friends are devastated at the loss of a very special, beautiful, fine young man,' a relative said in a statement.

'A private memorial service for Kai's family and friends will be held in the coming weeks. Details will be posted on Kai's FB page.'

Friend Kira Kosh also took to social media to pay tribute to Mr Foley.

'My heart is so so sad for his family and his Swedish girl friend he was living with,' she said.

'Never forget your smile, you ate like a horse and loved hip hop more then anyone I have ever met. You were the most gentle giant.'

Mr Foley was found stabbed in Odins Square in Gothenberg, Sweden (pictured)

Investigators are now struggling to piece together his last hours and are at a loss as to why Mr Foley would be targeted.

His wallet had not been taken and police do not believe any personal effects were missing from his person.

Mr Foley had no criminal background and had only recently moved to the Swedish city to be with his girlfriend.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it was providing consular assistance to the family of Mr Foley.

'At this stage there is an investigation going under way. We won't go into specific details,' Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said.

'The family has been informed.'
A couple of daredevil parents have taken their baby daughter on a 102-day trek through Australia's outback on foot.

Justin and Lauren Jones, originally from Sydney, set off from 200km west of Uluru in the Northern Territory on July 20 and travelled 1800km to Port Augusta in South Australia - arriving 102 days later on November 2.

Their daughter Morgan was 15 months old when they began their journey and had just taken her first steps.

A couple of daredevil Sydney parents have taken their baby daughter on a 102-day trek through Australia's outback on foo

Justin and Lauren Jones, originally from Sydney, set off from 200km west of Uluru in the Northern Territory on July 20 and travelled 1800km to Port Augusta in South Australia

Their daughter Morgan was 15 months old when they began their journey and had just taken her few steps

The trip took a year to plan, and they completed it without a support vehicle

The trip took a year to plan, and they completed it without a support vehicle.

Mrs Jones told Seven News organising the journey was a 'logistical challenge', but their daughter's 'connection with nature grew tremendously'.

'We love our city lives and we really wanted to raise a curious, nature-loving child,' she said.

By the end of the trip their young daughter was even collecting sticks and assisting with putting the tent up.

'It really helped her open up. She loved exploring,' Mrs Jones said.

Their plan was to walk 20km every day, pulling 270kg of gear with them on a cart.

Mrs Jones told Seven News organising the journey was a 'logistical challenge', but their daughter's 'connection with nature grew tremendously

'We love our city lives and we really wanted to raise a curious, nature-loving child,' she said

Their plan was to walk 20km every day, pulling 270kg of gear with them on a cart

They received six drops of food throughout the trip, and stayed within communication range of the Royal Flying Doctor's Service in case of an emergency.

The couple also carried an EPIRB and had completed first aid training.

They would sweep an area before letting Morgan walk around in case of snakes or other dangers, and would communicate with their daughter about the risks of coals which stay hot after being used in fires.

They received six drops of food throughout the trip, and stayed within communication range of the Royal Flying Doctor's Service in case of emergency.

The couple also carried an EPIRB and had completed first aid training

Before stepping out on their grand excursion Mr Jones had travelled around Antarctica and also kayaked across the Tasman Sea from Australia to New Zealand

Before stepping out on their grand excursion Mr Jones had travelled around Antarctica and also kayaked across the Tasman Sea from Australia to New Zealand.

Mrs Jones said the experience made her a more resilient parent.

'I'm not saying everybody should do a big walk through the outback - I think it's about doing whatever is authentic to you.'

Mrs Jones said the experience made her a more resilient parent

'I'm not saying everybody should do a big walk through the outback - I think it's about doing whatever is authentic to you.'
Advertisement

The devastated dad of an Army solider who sacrificed his life to save others during the deadly Bronx apartment building fire Thursday says the selfless acts were only of his 'nature'.

Emmanuel Mensah, 28, had just completed basic training courses in Georgia prior to heading home for the holidays when New York's deadliest blaze in 25 years took the lives of 12 people, including Kwabena Mensah's son.

'They were telling me he was rescuing people out from the fire. That's what caused (his death) ... he doesn't live in apartment one, he lives in room 15,' the teary-eyed Kwabena, 62, seemingly said while speaking with PIX11.

'That's his nature. That's how he is,' his father added.

According to Emmanuel's Facebook page, the family moved to the Bronx from Cape Coast, Ghana at some point within the past decade.

His profile biography says he attended DeWitt Clinton High School before enrolling in the Borough of Manhattan Community College/CUNY.

Emmanuel Mensah, 28, (shown above in undated photos) just completed basic training courses in Georgia before he headed home for the holidays days before New York's deadliest blaze in 25 years took the lives of 12 people

The soldier's heartbroken father, Kwabena Mensah, 62, (shown being interviewed) explained that Emmanuel's sacrifice was only in his 'nature'

But the late Emmanuel's ultimate passion was to serve in the Army, his father explained to the New York Post.

'When he came here (five or six years ago) he just said, 'Dad, I want to join the Army',' Kwabena remembered of the conversation.

'At first I didn't agree with him, but I decided that's his choice,' he said.

On Thursday, Emmanuel 'helped his roommate's wife and children' as 'they were trying to come out to the stairs and he stopped them.

'He told them to come out the window, then he went in and tried to rescue people out,' he told the Post.

When his father heard of the nightmare incident, he said he hoped his son was one of the lucky ones - but unfortunately, that wasn't the case.

Emmanuel's body was found on one of the top floors, where he was assisting the other residents.

Meanwhile, a terrified grandmother frantically called her daughter saying she was going to die as she cradled her eight-month-old granddaughter and tried to hide from the flames while lying in a bathtub.

Maria Batiz, 56, was another killed in the blaze, which was started by a three-year-old boy playing with a stove in his apartment.

Scroll down for video

Tragic: Officials say the youngest victim in the fire that destroyed the apartment building near the Bronx Zoo is eight-month-old Amora Serenity Vidal (center) who died in a bathtub while being held by her 56-year-old grandmother, Maria Batiz (left), who also perished in the blaze. The child's mother, Christine (right), is distraught by the tragedy

Heartbreaking: A three-year-old boy playing with the gas burner on the stove inside of a first-floor apartment started the deadly Bronx building fire that killed 12 people left more than 15 injured Thursday night. A relative at the scene identified two- and seven-year-old sisters, Kylie (left) and Kelesha (right) Francis, as victims of the fire

The girls' mother, 37-year-old Karen Francis (left) also died in the historic blaze on Thursday night. Shawntay Young (right), aged 19, has also been identified as a victim in the fire

Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said during a press conference on Friday morning that the young boy had a history of playing with the burners and turning them. Nigro said the boy's mother was not in the same room as him when the fire started but was alerted to it by his screams

She quickly grabbed him and a two-year-old child before running out of the first-floor apartment

Batiz, who lived on the third-floor in a studio, called her 26-year-old daughter Christine as the flames rapidly engulfed the building from the first-floor and said, 'We're going to die in here!', the New York Daily News reported.

Batiz's brother, Fernando, recalled his last conversation between Christine and his frantic sister, who was caring for eight-month-old Amora Serenity Vidal.

'My niece was telling her, 'Get out! What are you doing?' Fernando Batiz told the Daily News. 'I guess (Maria) was hysterical, and she got trapped. She was scared. She said, 'We're going to die in here!' She was frantic. I guess the smoke overcame her.'

Two-year-old Kylie Francis, seven-year-old Kelesha Francis, 37-year-old Karen Francis and 19-year-old Shawntay Young are also among the 12 victims who died in the fire that was started accidentally by the little boy, who had a history of playing with stove tops.

The boy's mother was not in the same room as him when the fire started but was alerted to it by his screams and she quickly grabbed him and another two-year-old child, Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department Daniel Nigro said. While fleeing, she left the door open to the first-floor apartment, which caused the fire to then immediately spread up the stairs to the fifth floor in the building.

Nigro said, 'the stairway acted like a chimney.'

Nigro (above on Friday) said that she left the door open, which caused the fire to quickly spread up the open stairs like a chimney to the fifth floor in the building

Of the 12 who perished, Nigro said seven women and five men are among the dead from the horrific blaze. He also said that in those numbers, five of the victims are children

The five-alarm fire broke out a little before 7pm on the first floor of a brick building at East 185th Street and Prospect Avenue. Above people react near the scene of the blaze

'It took the fire so quickly upstairs that people had very little time to react. They couldn't get back down the stairs. Of those that tried, a few perished. Others were helped out onto the fire escapes, taken down by our members,' he added.

Of the 12 who perished, Nigro said seven women and five men are among the dead. He also said that in those numbers, five of the victims are children.

'This tragedy is, without question, historic in its magnitude,' Nigro said. 'Our hearts go out to every family who lost a loved one here and everyone fighting for their lives.'

Officials have not released the names of the victims who died in the historic blaze, but victims' relatives are coming forward.

If unfortunately you do have a fire in your apartment, you must close the door when you exit. Daniel Nigro, Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department

Christine has created a GoFundMe to raise money for the funeral costs for her mother and her baby girl.

Another distraught relative, Elain Williams, identified four of her family members who all tragically perished in the blaze.

She told the Post that her two nieces Kylie Francis, aged two, and Kelesha Francis, aged seven, died, along with their 37-year-old mother, Karen Francis, who is her sister. She said she also lost her 19-year-old daughter Shawntay Young.

Williams said that she lived in a basement apartment at 2363 Prospect Avenue. She was heading home from work when she got a phone call saying the building was on fire and she rushed to the scene.

'I was calling my daughter to see where she is  accidentally she [was] upstairs at her aunt's. She got caught in the fire too,' Williams told the Post.

She explained that when she went to Jacobi Medical Center, she found out the four family members were all dead.

'I feel so empty so lost,' she said. 'Standing right here my soul is gone. Four [victims], one family? Come on now  I don't wish that on my worst enemy.'

Williams said that her brother-in-law, Francis Holt, is recovering in a hospital from his injuries.

Police and fire officials revealed on Friday:

An unidentified boy died in the blaze along with two other women aged 19 and 63

Five alarm Bronx blaze that killed 12 and injured 15 started just before 7pm on Thursday night

Boy, aged 3, was playing with gas stove and ignited fire on first-floor; his mom fled apartment with him leaving the door open, which caused blaze to rapidly spread up to the fifth floor like a chimney

It took an estimated 170 firefighters working in just 15 degrees to rescue people from the building

Howard Alkoff's D & E Equities purchased the building with 26 apartments from the city in 1984 for $31,029

The building, which has no elevator, had at least six open building code violations, according to city records

Fire commissioner advises people to shut the door when exiting apartment fire to stop flames from spreading

Anyone who needs to check on loved ones or relatives who may have been in the building are asked to call 311

The five-alarm fire broke out a little before 7pm at the building at East 185th Street and Prospect Avenue. Investigators said a natural gas line may have helped to fuel the flames of the blaze that is the city's deadliest in at least a quarter of a century.

Nigro said that everyone has been accounted for and stressed the importance of closing doors to help contain fires.

'If unfortunately you do have a fire in your apartment, you must close the door when you exit,' Nigro said. FDNY officials across the city have set-up stands to share fire safety information and their Juvenile Fire-Setters Intervention Program.

Officials say the youngest victim in the fire that destroyed the apartment building near the Bronx Zoo is a one-year-old girl who died in a bathtub being held by her mother, who also perished in the blaze

Nigro said that everyone has been accounted for and stressed the importance of closing doors to help contain fires

According to the New York City Housing Preservation and Development, there building owned by owned by D&A Equities had at least six open building code violations. Pictured above officials inspect the burned out building

Howard Alkoff's D & E Equities purchased the five-story building from the city in 1984 for $31,029, and there is no indication that any construction work has been done at the building since

Ronn Torossian, a spokesperson for the landlord said: 'We are shocked and saddened at the loss of life and injuries which occurred. Our prayers and thoughts are with the families that were affected.'

According to the New York City Housing Preservation and Development, the building owned by D&A Equities had at least six open building code violations.

SOLDIER, 28, STILL MISSING AFTER FIRE Missing: Emmanuel Mensah, 28 US Army soldier Emmanuel Mensah, 28, is missing in the wake of the Bronx fire and his family fear for his safety. The serviceman, who lived in the building, was home on leave for the holidays and was last seen by his roommate. 'He was telling the roommate to not come out of the apartment because there was smoke,' his father told the New York Daily News. But when they rescued everyone from the windows, we couldn't find him. 'I went to four hospitals, I can't find him.' Advertisement

Two violations reported in August 2017 were for a broken smoke detector and for a defective carbon monoxide detector in the same apartment on the first floor. It was not clear if the detector had been fixed or replaced or whether it had played any role in the fire.

Howard Alkoff's D & E Equities purchased the five-story building that was built in 1916 from the city in 1984 for $31,029.

There is no indication that any construction work has been done at the building since, The Real Deal reported. The residential apartment building did not have an elevator and fire escapes were visible on the facade of the building.

'We are shocked and saddened at the loss of life and injuries which occurred,' Ronn Torossian, a spokesperson for the landlord said.

'Our prayers and thoughts are with the families that were affected.

'The landlord is communicating with the City of New York and associated agencies.'

It took an estimated 170 firefighters working in just 15 degrees to rescue people from the building as water sprayed from hoses froze into ice on the street.

De Blasio confirmed that four of the 15 injured are in critical condition and fighting for their lives at a local hospital.

'This is the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in at least a quarter century,' de Blasio said, adding that the fire will rank as one of the 'worst losses of life to a fire' in many years for the city.

The mayor said at least 12 people were rescued and will survive thanks to the FDNY's quick response to the scene.

'But the search of the building continues,' the mayor said, adding that 'we may lose others as well' in this 'unspeakable tragedy'.

Photographs and video of the building located at 2363 Prospect Avenue in the Belmont section, showed the fire that occurred just one block from the Bronx Zoo. The blaze appeared to be under control by the time the mayor spoke at 10pm.

About 170 firefighters worked in bone-chilling cold, just 15 degrees, to rescue people from the building. Water sprayed from hoses froze into ice on the street

Emergency workers wheel away a body from the site of an apartment fire where at least a dozen people died

Mayor Bill de Blasio confirmed during a press conference that four of the 15 injured are in critical condition and fighting for their lives at a local hospital

'I want to offer my prayers to all of the families who have lost their loved ones this evening,' de Blasio said.

'I ask all New Yorkers to keep them in your prayers.'

Nigro said that fire crews received the fire alarm at 6.51pm and the department responded within three minutes.

'In a department that is certainly no stranger to tragedy, we are shocked by this loss,' Nigro said.

'People died on various floors' of the apartment building Nigro said, adding that their ages range from one-year-old to over 60.

Nigro called the fire, 'historic in its magnitude,' because of the number of lives lost.

City Department of Buildings records show the building is a walk-up apartment house. City officials advised people in the area to close their windows to keep out the smoke.

Saved: Some of the dozens of people evacuated during the fire shelter from the freezing cold under Red Cross blankets

Police also say an unidentified boy died in the blaze along with two other women aged 19 and 63

FDNY photos show ladders stretched to the roof of the five-story building that's near the Bronx Zoo

'This is the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in at least a quarter of a century,' de Blasio said, adding that the fire will rank as one of the 'worst losses of life to a fire' in many years for the city

City Department of Buildings records show the building is a walk-up apartment house. According to city records, the building had no elevator. Fire escapes were visible on the facade of the building

Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro said that crews (pictured) received the fire alarm at 6.51pm and the department responded within three minutes

'In a department that is certainly no stranger to tragedy, we are shocked by this loss,' Nigro said. Nigro confirmed that the fire started on the first floor and quickly spread to the fifth floor of the building

Witness, Xanral Collins, told the New York Post that heard a father screaming for his children at the scene.

'A father ran into the building, he couldn't get in,' said Collins. 'I saw him screaming, 'My babies are dead! My babies are dead!''

Video of the scene showed numerous firefighters wheeling victims out on stretchers. An EMT was seen administering chest compressions to one victim as two other firefighters wheeled them to a rescue unit nearby.

Luz Hernandez, a resident of the building, told the New York Times that she realized something was wrong when the smell of burned rubber filled her apartment on the fourth floor.

She said the smell was followed by smoke so thick that it made the room pitch-black.

Nigro called the fire, 'historic in its magnitude,' because of the number of lives lost. Firefighters are seen working the scene of the tragic fire

Members of the FDNY work at the scene of a five-alarm fire at an apartment building where at least 12 people were tragically killed

She was able to get to her husband and two sons, 11 and 16, to the window, and they climbed down the front fire escape.

Hernandez said once she and her family were safe, she saw the charred bodies of two women who lived together and their two young daughters being carried away on stretchers.

Thierno Diallo, 59, a security guard originally from Conakry, Guinea, said he was asleep in his ground floor apartment when he heard banging on the door.

Diallo said it took him a moment to realize what was happening. He said he heard people screaming: 'There's a fire in the building!' He then ran out in his bathrobe, jacket and sandals.

Video of the scene showed firefighters wheeling out victims of the horrific fire on stretchers (pictured)

An EMT was seen performing chest compressions on one victim as firefighters pushed the stretcher

Firefighters were seen prepping victims of the horrific fire for transport to local hospitals

Neighborhood resident Robert Gonzalez, who has a friend who lives in the building, said the woman was able to get out on a fire escape.

'When I got here, she was crying,' Gonzalez said.

One witness, Rafael Gonzalez, who lives across the street from the building, told WCBS-TV, that he saw some youths on a fire escape of the burning building as the fire raged.

'What woke me up was the smoke, because I thought it was my building,' he said.

A tenant in an adjoining building, Ana Santiago, told the Times that she fled when she smelled the smoke and saw young girls who had escaped the burning building on the fire escape standing barefoot outside with no coats on.

Firefighters were able to rescue several people by climbing up ladders to reach them and bringing them back down to safety

Firefighters continued to search the apartment building late Thursday night and early Friday morning for more victims

Evacuees wear American Red Cross blankets as they stand outside after a fire at the apartment building in the Bronx on Thursday night

The American Red Cross will also provide housing for displaced families from the devastating Bronx fire. Anyone who needs to check on loved ones or relatives who may have been in the building are asked to call 311

City officials said nearby Crotona International High School will be opened as a reception center for those displaced families who may need housing.

The American Red Cross will also provide housing for displaced families.

The 12 confirmed fatalities made the fire the deadliest since the inferno at the Happy Land social club in 1990 that killed 87 people.

It also surpassed one of the deadliest fires in recent city memory that happened elsewhere in the Bronx in 2007. Nine children and one adult died in that blaze that was sparked by a space heater.

Anyone who needs to check on loved ones or relatives who may have been in the building are asked to call 311.
The grieving family of an Australian man killed in his Bali villa have slammed local police over the stalled investigation.

Stephen Richardson, 63, was found lying naked on a blood-soaked mattress in his rented home at the popular beachside town of Sanur by a friend in May.

Nearly eight months later, his family are still searching for answers and are frustrated with the lack of progress on the case.

The grieving family of an Australian man (pictured, in white) killed in his Bali villa have slammed police over the stalled investigation

Stephen Richardson, 63, was found lying naked on a blood-soaked mattress in his rented home at the popular beachside town of Sanur by a friend in May (pictured is the crime scene)

Mr Richardson's son Aaron said the family is not receiving answers from either Indonesian or Australian authorities, The Sydney Morning Herald reported

'There are just so many unanswered questions which we would be very grateful if they got answered,' he said.

'There just seems to be a complete lack of interest in the case ... that has probably been the most difficult thing, just having no answers.'

Head of Denpasar District Police Colonel Hadi Purnomo said the case had not been closed, and investigators are still working on it.

'We face difficulties because we lack witnesses and the limited evidence collected,' he said.

Mr Richardson's family said Australian authorities have been equally unhelpful, and they have received no replies to letters sent to Foreign Minister Julie Bishop's office.

Mr Richardson (pictured) was found lying on a mattress in his rented home in Sanur with wounds to his arm, cheek and forehead

They have no been able to recover Mr Richardson's savings, or his belongings, including his watch, wallet and passport.

Mr Richardson was found lying in a pool of blood with wounds to his right arm, right cheek, and forehead, but an autopsy revealed the cause of death was strangulation.

Bloody footprints at the scene appear to indicate that Mr Richardson moved from the bedroom to the bathroom to the living room during the attack, while a second set of smaller footprints discovered could belong to his attacker.

The discovery of the second set of footprints led local authorities to believe Mr Richardson was possibly the victim of 'an act of violence' at the hands of someone who close to him.

'If they didn't know the victim, he or she couldn't get into the house,' Mr Purnomo said.

There was no confirmation on whether the footprints belonged to a man or woman.

Initially police believed the 63-year-old may have died as a result of an accident while intoxicated.

'There has been an assault that has caused the victim's death,' Mr Purnomo said during the initial investiation.

'There's also stabbing, blunt object [trauma] too. [But] the main [cause of death] is strangulation, which caused the victim to run out of breath and die.'

Police outside the rented villa of Australian man Stephen Richardson in Bali on May 9, 2017

There was no sign of robbery, with Mr Richardson's passport, phone, money and jewellery left untouched at the villa.

The main gate had also been locked from the outside.

'There are weird things [about the case]. The main gate was locked from the outside while the garage door was locked from the inside,' police said.

When police arrived they said the house was locked and there was broken glass from a cabinet inside the villa.

Mr Richardson is believed to have moved to Bali around three months ago and was living alone at the villa

Mr Richardson is believed to have moved to Bali around three months ago and was living alone at the villa.

Friends had seen him on Saturday night drinking at a local bar and around 10 beer bottles were found at the scene.

Friend Garry Crocker, who found the body, scaled Mr Richardson's fence after being unable to contact him for a number of days.

The worried mate borrowed a ladder from the house's owner and jumped the fence on Jalan Danau Poso, only to be confronted with the horrific scene through the window.

Mr Croker gave police a statement while forensic officers and sniffer dogs searched the house and recovered his iPhone 5. His motorbike was also missing.
A gunman has opened fire on a fast food restaurant, injuring two boys.

Shots were fired at the takeaway in east London on Friday night, the Metropolitan Police said.

Two 16-year-old boys were hit by the bullets, with one suffering an injury to his back and the other boy a leg wound.

Scroll down for video

The two young men were shot and wounded at this fast food establishment on Terrace Road in Plaistow, east London shortly after 8.30pm last night by an unidentified gunman

Dozens of police raced to the scene of the shooting in Plaistow, east London last night

Both were taken to an east London hospital, where they were described as being in a stable condition with non-life threatening injuries.

So far no-one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Police said they were called to the scene in Terrace Road, Plaistow, at 8.38pm and have urged witnesses to come forward.

Agnes Sina-Inakoju, 16, was fatally shot in a takeaway in Hoxton, east London, in April 2010 when she was caught up in a gang feud.

She was shot in the neck by a bicycle-riding gunman who fired through the shop's window.

A total of 24 teenagers have been murdered in London this year, the highest number for 10 years and double the 2016 tally.

Anyone who witnessed the incident but has not yet come forward is asked to call the Trident incident room on 020 8201 2713 or dial 101.

To remain anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Advertisement

For proof that Sydney's house market is totally out of control, look no further than the absurd prices fetched by some of the city's most dilapidated properties.

House prices in popular suburbs have more doubled in the space of five years, meaning the average modest home in Sydney's inner-west has soared to a staggering $1.5 million.

Daily Mail Australia has taken a look back at some of Sydney's most 'unlivable' houses that flew off the market this year for well over a million dollars - including a fire-ravaged home and a shack barely kept together with duct tape.

The winning bidder from the auction shelled out over $2 million for this Homebush property despite the walls nearly falling in

This Surry Hills property held together with tape and cardboard sold for $1.85 million at auction - but will need a major revamp

'Unliveable' and 'dilapidated' Federation-era home in Homebush sells for $2.32 MILLION

Billed as a 'dilapidated character home', this four-bedroom house was the subject of an intense auction battle between seven determined bidders in July of 2017.

At the time it was sold, the 'derelict' home was completely unlivable - buyers were warned that the it needed 'significant renovation' just to make it habitable.

But the excellent location near shops, local cafes and schools combined with original fireplaces, high ceilings and leadlight windows drove the price up over $2 million.

The 'unliveable' property at 14 Abbortsford Rd in Homebush sold for a staggering $2.32 million at a well-attended July auction

With its cracked windows and walls, ruined floors and mold in the ceiling, the property will most likely need a total rebuild

A Camperdown terrace has already been approved to be turned into student accommodation sold for $1.96 million in March

Former cottage turned 'tired terrace' in Camperdown fetches almost $2 MILLION at auction

A small former cottage that's described by Domain as 'tired throughout' and in need of a 'creative revamp' sold for an eye-watering $1,960,000 at auction in March.

It doesn't look like much, but the 'solid-gold' selling point is that the building is situated less than a block away from Sydney University,

Furthermore, the property has already been approved for a four-story, 11-room student accommodation build on the 240-square-metre block.

The house at 12 Sparkes St in Camperdown sold for close to the $2 million mark despite being unfinished and in bad condition

Ruined floors, smashed-in hinges, splintered locks and a broken down fireplace didn't deter buyers at the busy March auction

The 'solid-gold' selling point of the building is that it's a block from Sydney University, and can be turned into student rooms

$1.5 MILLION for fire-ravaged home 'in need of complete rebuild' that's been empty for a year

A fire-damaged residence in need of a complete knockdown and total rebuild sold at auction in December for $1,516,000.

Advertised as 'pure potential', the home burned down last Christmas and although the occupants escaped unharmed, they clearly didn't want to stick around.

It was so damaged that it was billed as a 'virtual blank canvas', inviting developers or those who want to design a home from scratch to build on one of the best streets in Rosebery.

The house at 25 Wellington St in Rosebery burned down last Christmas, and hasn't been lived in since it was gutted by flames

The small property was so damaged by fire and smoke damage that it was billed to potential buyers as a 'virtual blank canvas'

'Completely unbelievable' property that was never finished sells for whopping $1.2 MILLION

The dilapidated, rusted, rotting, unfinished house sitting on less than 320 square metres of land in Marrickville sold for $1.2 million in November.

'We've done a renovation job before, but it wasn't as bad as this, we're not sure yet if we'll renovate or rebuild,' the winning bidder said. 'It's absolutely not liveable as it is'.

It was marketed as an opportunity for renovators to purchase a blank canvas in a prime location in Sydney's popular inner-west.

It sold for $100,000 over the reserve, after an astonishing 100 bids were made for the decrepit home.

A dilapidated, rusted and unfinished house in a prime location in Marrickville sold for more than $100,000 over the reserve

The house sold despite the peeling paint, ruined wallpaper, broken shades, smashed glass and scuffed and dirty floorboards

An astonishing one hundred bids were made for the decrepit old house, featuring a kitchen sink with three broken water taps

The rundown, dilapidated home was marketed as an opportunity for renovators to purchase a blank canvas in a prime location

Rundown home held together with duct tape and spare cardboard sells for $1.85 MILLION

The semi on Reservoir Street in trendy Surry Hills was labelled by agents as one for 'true romantics' with natural light and an 'old world sense of space'.

It's a decrepit corner block with badly damaged walls and duct tape keeping flooring together - but it's also in a suburb that investors are fighting to build in.

Exposed wires and cords run along the walls and a piece of cardboard appears to have been used in shoddy patchwork next to a sealed-off fireplace.

Badly damaged walls, and floors held together by duct tape and exposed and broken pipes didn't turn buyers off the property

Exposed wires and cords run along the walls, the kitchen is half-demolished and a piece of cardboard holds one wall in place
Two days of deluges have dumped a month's worth of rain in some parts of the country, causing chaos on the roads and for commuters attempting to get to work this morning. Trains have been delayed this morning after flooding stopped them on the tracks, while some major roads were left shut due to the amount of standing water. The Met Office has warned that some areas could see almost four inches of rain in the coming 24 hours, as the 'atrocious' weather looks set to continue. The service has put in place two warnings for heavy rain which are in force across large part of the midlands and the north, as well as eastern Scotland, while the Environment Agency has issued 25 flood warnings and 99 alerts in England. Photos show cars stuck in deep standing water and lorries partially submerged after misjudging the extent of the flooding in Surrey and West Sussex. The M23 southbound was closed between J10 and J11 as workers tried to remove standing water during Rush Hour this morning, after the road and the nearby A27 was closed overnight due to flooding, with firefighters called in to rescue trapped motorists last night. Emergency services spent the night trying to free those trapped in the horrendous conditions, as well as removing vehicles stuck in the rising water. As of this morning the road's eastbound carriageway remains closed. There was also severe disruption on the trains in and around London this morning, with trains from Essex into the capital delayed after reports a lorry hit a railway crossing barrier, while part of the Piccadilly Line between Rayners Lane and Uxbridge has no service this morning, with Transport for London blaming 'significant leaf fall'
Preaching morality while practicing cupidity can be tricky, but various American governments have done it for years regarding smoking. This mental contortion now has a new chapter. The four largest American tobacco companies (Altria, R.J. Reynolds, Lorillard, Philip Morris) are, under government compulsion, funding newspaper and television ads to tell -- actually, to remind -- people that their products are sickening:

"Smoking kills, on average, 1,200 Americans. Every day. More people die every year from smoking than from murder, AIDS, suicide, drugs, car crashes, and alcohol, combined." "Cigarette companies intentionally designed cigarettes with enough nicotine to create and sustain addiction." Etc.

Please. Tell us something everyone hasn't known for decades. In 1988, the surgeon general declared tobacco addictive. Since 1966, there have been increasingly severe health warnings on cigarette packs. In 1964, the surgeon general declared tobacco carcinogenic. In 1906, a character in an O. Henry story used a common slang phrase: "Say, sport, have you got a coffin nail on you?" In 1604, England's King James I called smoking "harmful to the brain, dangerous to the lungs."

Eight years later, a colony named for him, Jamestown, in a place, Virginia, named for his immediate predecessor (Elizabeth I, "the virgin queen") became an enriching source of tobacco -- until a tobacco farmer named Washington disrupted things. The strange, meandering path of tobacco -- a legal commodity that is harmful when used as intended -- to the present began in contradictions. They are crowned by this one: Many state governments are addicted to revenue from tobacco taxes. The federal tax on a pack is $1. The lowest state tax is Missouri's 17 cents; the highest, Connecticut and New York's $4.35; the average, $1.72. So, many governments have huge stakes in a steady supply of new smokers to replace those killed by smoking.

Hence these governments cannot afford for their anti-smoking efforts to be too successful. Furthermore, if every smoker quit tomorrow, Social Security's slow-motion crisis would accelerate and many public and private pension systems would be staggered by having to revise downward their actuarial assumptions about the number of persons who will die before collecting many or any benefits.

In 1998, 46 states, in a mutually lucrative collaboration with trial lawyers (some of their $13 billion in fees amounted to tens of thousands of dollars an hour), sued the tobacco companies. The companies agreed to -- if they will pardon the expression -- cough up $246 billion over many years. The theory, more successful than plausible, was that health care for smoking-related illnesses makes smoking a huge net cost to the states. Actually, smoking might be a net financial gain for government: Cigarettes are the most heavily taxed consumer product and, again, many smokers' premature deaths limit their receipt of entitlement benefits for the elderly -- Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, nursing homes, etc.

The lawyers also argued that tobacco is so addictive that quitting requires heroic willpower that few can manage. Even then, however, there were about as many ex-smokers as smokers. In 1845, former President John Quincy Adams wrote, "In my early youth, I was addicted to tobacco." Its addictiveness was known and surmountable long ago.

Much of America's health care expenses (from lung cancer, coronary artery disease, AIDS, Type 2 diabetes brought on by obesity, violence, vehicular accidents) result from known-to-be-risky behaviors involving eating, drinking, smoking, driving and sex. The most cost-efficient thing government does is dispense health information about smoking, cholesterol, automobile seat belts, sunscreen use, etc. This is why only a sixth of adults, compared to nearly half 50 years ago, are smokers.

But the anti-smoking message that government is now coercing from the tobacco companies -- Trust us, we are untrustworthy -- merely confirms common sense: Filling one's lungs with smoke from a burning plant is dumb. Smoking is increasingly concentrated among downscale, low-information Americans. (Hence tobacco taxes are regressive.) It has lost the cachet that once made it a marker of sophistication. Ninety percent of smokers begin by age 18 and vanishingly few after 21. So, the way to extinguish smoking is not by belaboring the health issue (smoking is the leading preventable cause of death, it has killed many more than all of America's war deaths, etc.) but with the sort of broadcast ads California used years ago to cut smoking 17 percent: "I tried it once and I, ah, got all red in the face and I couldn't inhale and I felt like a jerk and, ah, never tried it again, which is the same as what happened to me with sex."

George Will's email address is georgewill@washpost.com.
Eager spectators have been setting up early in order to snare prime positions to see Sydney's famous New Year's Eve fireworks.

The finishing touches are being put in place for Sunday's celebrations across the city.

Keen punters set up tents and began camping out at Mrs Macquarie's Chair near the harbour on Friday night to guarantee the best spots to see the show.

Scroll down for video

Eager spectators have been setting up early in order to snare prime positions to see Sydney's famous New Year's Eve fireworks

Keen punters set up tents and began camping out at Mrs Macquarie's Chair near the harbour on Friday night to guarantee the best spots to see the show

Ylse Bouwmeester, a tourist from the Netherlands, told Nine News celebrating New Year's Eve in Sydney was on her bucket list.

Another eager reveller said he arrived at 9pm on Friday in order to ensure a good spot.

People have been camping out in tents, including Taiwanese tourist Crystal Liu who said the long wait was worth it.

'It's worth it because the fireworks are the best in the world.'

Dede Edwieg from France said she was prepared to wait the 36 hours for the celebrations.

Crews have been dropping off bollards, barriers and fences to ensure the city is prepared for the partying.

The influx of tourists will give the city's economy a boost to the tune of $170million.

There will be a significant number of foreign visitors, according to Margy Osmond of the Tourism and Transport Forum.

The influx of tourists will give the city's economy a boost to the tune of $170million

'Of the 1.6million people who will be around the edge of the harbour tomorrow night about 46 per cent of them are likely to be international visitors,' she said.

A further 1billion people will watch the firework's on Sydney's harbour across the world on television.

'It's advertising you just can't buy,' Ms Osmond said.

Thousands of other people will celebrate at suburban spots such as Parramatta Park or at the beach in Botany Bay, where fireworks are expected from 9pm.

Roads will be closed throughout the city and suburbs on Sunday.

An extra 1000 train services will be running, while another 3500 buses will be in action.

Ferries will stop at 8pm before resuming at 12.45am with limited services.
A teenager has reported being sexually assaulted in a Falls Festival mosh pit, despite police warnings after the event was marred by similar attacks last year.

The 19-year-old woman was allegedly assaulted by an unknown man during a set by The Jungle Giants at the Marion Bay music festival at 9:30pm on Friday.

Detective Constable Damien McVilly said Tasmania police want to hear from two women who helped the victim leave the mosh pit after the alleged assault.

A teenager has reported being sexually assaulted in a music festival mosh pit, after the same event was marred by similar attacks last year (pictured is the Falls Festival)

The 19-year-old woman was allegedly assaulted by an unknown man during a set by The Jungle Giants (pictured) at the Marion Bay musical festival at 9:30pm on Friday

'We want patrons to feel safe and enjoy the event so we urge anyone witnessing this kind of behaviour to report it immediately,' he said, ABC News reported.

'Although the mosh pit itself is designed for close contact, any form of touching without the other person's consent is not okay.'

He said police and event organisers condemned the behaviour, which came despite police warnings about a repeat of last year's incidents.

At the 2016 Falls Festival three women reported being attacked - two said they were sexually assaulted in mosh pits, and one at the Marion Bay camping site.

Detective Constable Damien McVilly said Tasmania police want to hear from two women who helped the victim leave the mosh pit after the alleged assault (pictured is the Falls Festival)

At the 2016 Falls Festival three women reported being attacked - two said they were sexually assaulted in mosh pits, and one at the Marion Bay camping site (pictured is the Falls Festival)

Tasmania Police last week promised to have plain-clothed officers joining cops in uniform patrolling mosh pits to prevent attacks on women.

Stickers saying 'Enjoy the festival, don't assault anyone' were seen at the festival, some stuck on the backs of toilet doors.

Police urged anyone feeling isolated or unsafe to seek help from police or festival security staff.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Falls Festival for comment.
The musician (pictured), whose real name is Richard Cowie, and who is often referred to as the godfather of grime, is being honoured for his services to music

Grime star Wiley has said receiving an MBE in the New Years Honours is like 'the school grade I wanted and didn't get' but added he is now 'finally there'.

The musician, whose real name is Richard Cowie, and who is often referred to as the godfather of grime, is being honoured for his services to music.

He hared his approval on Twitter, writing 'Big up the Queen' after the honour was made public.

He told the Press Association: 'I'm honoured to be receiving an MBE. It feels like the school grade I wanted and didn't get but now I'm finally there.

'I would like to thank my mother and father plus all family members and friends for being there for me when I needed them'.

Another key figure from the grime world, Grace Ladoja, is being awarded on OBE for her services to music.

Ladoja manages grime star Skepta, who appeared to have hinted in recent song Hypocrisy, that he 'rejected' an MBE.

The lyrics read: 'The MBE got rejected. I'm not tryna be accepted.'

For Wiley, whom Skepta has credited with being an inspiration in his career, it has been quite a journey.

The 38-year-old has been a pioneer of the underground music scene and has steadily climbed the charts.

The 38-year-old has been a pioneer of the underground music scene and has steadily climbed the charts. Pictured: Wiley on stage at the 2016 Reading Festival

He hared his approval on Twitter, writing 'Big up the Queen' after the honour was made public

With grime flexing its muscles once again in recent years, the 'godfather' of the genre deserves credit for the resurgence, almost two decades after the sound was born.

This particular rapper, producer, mentor and DJ has seen plenty - including being stabbed on at least three occasions.

It is all part of a rollercoaster ride of fame which has seen him enjoy a number one hit with Heatwave as well as infuriate Glastonbury organisers Michael and Emily Eavis after tweeting 'F**k them and their farm' following a particular rainy year at the festival in 2013.

And not to mention of course his ongoing feud with Dizzee Rascal.

Born in Bow, East London on January 19 1979, he was exposed to music from his cot when his father's band would use the bedroom as a rehearsal space.

He was soon using empty cardboard boxes as drums before getting his first real kit aged six.

A slightly unsettled childhood followed and Wiley spent some time in Kent living with his mother and grandmother before returning to London with his father where he began selling drugs.

But he swapped drugs for music after receiving threats from a rival dealer and started combining rapping with the prominent garage music scene of the '90s as well as drum and bass. This innovation resulted in some of the first ever grime beats, such as Eskimo.

His first taste of success came with garage collective Pay As U Go before forming the Roll Deep entourage which included future stars Dizzee Rascal and Tinchy Stryder. They moved away from the garage sound and into grime.

Debut album Treddin On Thin Ice arrived in 2004 - a year after Dizzee's Mercury-winning Boy In Da Corner.

Ten more studio albums have followed, with Wiley maintaining his grime sound while also creating hit tracks such as Wearing My Rolex. But the attention on the 2008 track was not all chart-based.

Three days before the video was due to be filmed, Wiley was stabbed leaving a visible scar on the left hand side of his face.

In an autobiography released earlier this year, titled Eskiboy, he also described himself as 'four different people' and documented the numerous threats on his life.

This year saw him return again to his grime roots with The Godfather while he was also honoured at the NME Awards with an Outstanding Contribution to Music Award before this latest accolade.

Stars and prominent figures from the world of UK urban music congratulated Wiley on his MBE.

A host of artists congratulated the 38-year-old MC on social media.

DJ Target tweeted: 'So proud of my brother @WileyUpdates receiving an MBE. Absolutely Amazing', while MC CASSisDEAD wrote: 'Congratulations...huge moment for you and all of us.'

On Instagram, rapper AM SNiPER said he was 'mad proud' of the artist, artist Yxng Bane wrote: 'Legend bro, legend' and DJ Locksmith, member of drum-and-bass band Rudimental, congratulated the star.

Mobo awards founder Kanya King tweeted her congratulations, while musician Example wrote: 'you better turn up to receive this...congrats bro.'

BBC 1Xtra host Twin B tweeted: 'Flipppppin ek! That's a big deal broseph! Congrats G! You need to figure out the schwaaag for the palace visit lol!

Producer Zdot tweeted: 'Congrats on the MBE @WileyUpdates fully deserved', while Manchester grime collective Virus Syndicate wrote: 'Wow massive congrats to the godfather @WileyUpdates he inspired us and many others like us. Big love my don.'
A fifth man has been arrested over an alleged terror attack plot, police said.

Two buildings in Sheffield are being searched by counter-terrorist officers after the 21-year-old from the city was held late on Friday.

It follows the arrests of four men in the South Yorkshire city and nearby Chesterfield in Derbyshire on December 19.

Anti-terror police are searching two properties in Sheffield in relation to the latest terror probe

Police were seen searching a house in the Fir Vale area of Bristol earlier this afternoon

Officers secured the boundary before a full forensic search could begin

A spokesman for Counter Terrorism Policing North East (CTPNE) said: 'The 21-year-old man, from the Fir Vale area of Sheffield, was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

'The intelligence-led arrest was made in the Firth Park area of Sheffield at approximately 11pm on Friday evening.

'Two addresses, a residential address in Fir Vale and a business address in Firth Park, are currently being searched by officers.'

Cordons remained outside as they searched the house he shared with 'a few' people who neighbours described as 'very private'.

Terraced Hampton Road in the Fir Vale area of Sheffield, South Yorks., was sealed off following the man's arrest at about 11pm last night (December 29).

Neigbours reported seeing police forensics officers enter the property late last night after one of the house's occupants opened the door to arresting officers.

Mishair Nasir, 34, said: 'It was about 11pm last night.

'We saw 7-8 police cars pull up then a guy with shoulder-length hair opened the door and the police went in.

'We saw one older guy try and leave but police told him to stay inside.

'My husband's a taxi driver and I was really worried there was a bomb so I told my him to come home from work.'

Mrs Nasir's husband Elhadi, 40, said: 'There are too many different people living there so you don't know who is living there.

'But they don't cause any problems.

'It's very scary - my wife was really worried and couldn't sleep.'

Another neighbour who did not want to be named said: 'The first I knew about it was hearing banging last night.

'Then we saw police and an ambulance - at first I thought there had been a murder.

'It's really scary though because you just don't know who's living next door.

'There're all from different countries and don't speak the same language as me.'

South Yorkshire police said they wanted to reassure the public following the recent upsurge in terror raids in the Sheffield area

Two of the men arrested on December 19  Chesterfield fish and chip shop owner Andy Star, 31, and Farhad Salah, 22, from Sheffield  have been charged with one count of engaging in the preparation of an act of terrorism.

The men, both Kurdish Iraqis, are due to appear at the Old Bailey in London on January 19.

They allegedly planned to build an IED that would be placed inside a driverless car, with a laptop controlling the vehicle and detonating the device.

A 36-year-old man from Burngreave in Sheffield also remains in custody, while a 41-year-old from Meersbrook in Sheffield was released on Saturday, police said.

South Yorkshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts said: 'I understand that this activity will cause concern, especially as there has been similar activity in recent weeks.

'I would like to firmly reiterate that we continue to work closely with our colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing North East to keep our communities safe and identify threat and risk.

'Our main priority is public safety and protecting the people of South Yorkshire.

'If you have any concerns around any suspicious activity, I would encourage you to please call police in confidence on 0800 789321. In an emergency always dial 999.'
Police in Tehran hit back with tear gas at stone throwing students who took part in a third day of of nationwide protests against government.

At least 50 people have arrested since the protests began on Thursday in Mashhad, the country's second-largest city, in what has been the most serious challenge to the Islamic Republic since demonstrations following the disputed 2009 presidential election.

There was chaos around the University of Tehran on Saturday as several hundred people scuffled with police and shouted slogans against the regime for several hours, bringing traffic to a standstill.

An Iranian woman escapes tear gas during the unrest at the University of Tehran as students joined in the country's ongoing protests

Students protest inside Tehran University with riot police retaliating using tear gas

Vehicles burning on the streets of Tehran as the wave of protests continued into the night

The protests are the largest in Iran since demonstrations following the disputed 2009 Presidential election

Iranian students run for cover from tear gas at the University of Tehran during the demonstration

Pictures also show burning vehicles in the streets of Tehran as the protests continued into the night with Telecoms minister Mohammad-Javad Azari Jahromi accusing a a popular television station of encouraging the 'use of Molotov cocktails, armed uprising, and social unrest'.

Videos shared by social media users outside Iran claimed to show thousands marching peacefully in several cities including Khorramabad, Zanjan and Ahvaz, with chants of 'Death to the dictator', in reference to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

But the regime also put on a show of strength, with hundreds of counter-demonstrators seizing control of the university entrance in Tehran, chanting 'Death to the seditionists'.

Rocks were thrown at police as anti-government students protested at the University of Tehran but were outnumbered by conservative classmates who shouted 'death to the seditionists' and took control of the campus entrance.

Earlier some 4,000 pro-regime demonstrators had gathered at the Musalla prayer ground in the centre of Tehran, calling for criminal trials for the leaders of the anti-government Green Movement.

Protesters shouting slogans against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by the gates of Tehran University

Police vehicles seen near the scene of the protest at Tehran University as the protests continue for a third day

Students clashed with police at the University of Tehran on Saturday after hard-liners had rallied to support the government

The Iranian government warned against 'illegal gatherings' and said people needed to apply for a permit first as students protested at the university

A video on social media showed students chanting 'death to the dictator', an apparent reference to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iranian hard-liners had rallied earlier on Saturday to support the government and supreme leader following protests over the Islamic Republic's ailing economy

Iran's interior minister warned people against taking part in 'unlawful gatherings', saying they needed to apply for a permit first.

Three University of Tehran students were arrested, according to a government official.

The pro-regime demonstrations had been scheduled weeks ago but took on new significance after the protests began on Thursday, sparked by social media posts and a surge in prices for basic food supplies.

But the protests have broadened into criticism of Iran's government, with one woman filmed waving a white flag after taking off her hijab to protest the Islamic dress code for women.

Today's pro-government rally was meant to mark eight years since a 2009 pro-government demonstration, supporting the re-election of hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad after a disputed poll.

It came as U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted to say 'the world is watching' the protests and called on the government to 'respect their people's rights'.

Three University of Tehran students were arrested after the unrest on the campus, according to a government official

The unrest in Iran has entered its third day, with demonstrations not only in Tehran (pictured) but also in cities such as Mashhad

Thousands have taken to the streets in Iranian cities this week, starting in Mashhad, where 52 people were arrested in the country's second-largest city.

Footage posted on Twitter by Iranian author Armin Navabi showed a woman who had taken off her hijab waving a white flag as she stood among a crowd.

State-run media outlets have not reported widely on the protests, but state television aired live footage of the pro-government rally on Saturday, showing people waving flags and carrying banners bearing the image of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The Tehran demonstrators called for criminal trials for Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mahdi Karroubi, leaders in the Green Movement who have been under house arrest since 2011.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, whose administration struck the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, campaigned on freeing the men, although they currently remain held.

State-run media outlets have not reported widely on the protests but state television aired live footage of the pro-government rally, showing people waving flags and carrying banners

Today's rally was meant to mark eight years since a 2009 pro-government demonstration, supporting the re-election of hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad after a disputed poll

The rally came as President Donald Trump tweeted to say 'the world is watching' the protests and called on the government to 'respect their people's rights'

The spontaneous demonstrations this week appear to be the largest in the Islamic Republic since its 2009 Green Movement arose after Mr Ahmadinejad's re-election.

Social media videos this week showed clashes between protesters and police, while the semi-official Fars news agency said protests also struck Qom, a centre of Shiite Islamic scholarship and home to a major shrine.

U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted his support for the protests, saying: 'Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption & its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad.

'Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests.'

The U.S. State Department also issued a statement Friday supporting the protests, saying: 'Iran's leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed and chaos.'

Today's demonstrations had been scheduled weeks ago but took on new significance after the protests began on Thursday

The Tehran demonstrators today called for criminal trials for Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mahdi Karroubi, leaders in the Green Movement who have been under house arrest since 2011

President Hassan Rouhani (pictured) negotiated a nuclear deal in 2015 in order to lift crippling sanctions, but Iranians are yet to feel the benefits of an improving economy

Mohsen Araki, a Shiite cleric who serves in Iran's Assembly of Experts, praised Rouhani's efforts at improving the economy. However, he said Mr Rouhani needed to do more to challenge 'enemy pressures.'

'We must go back to the pre-nuclear deal situation,' he said. 'The enemy has not kept with its commitments.'

Ali Ahmadi, a pro-government demonstrator, blamed the U.S. for all of Iran's economic problems.

'They always say that we are supporting Iranian people, but who should pay the costs?' he said.

Protests in Iran began on Thursday following a dramatic rise in food prices but broadened into criticism of the government

One woman was filmed taking off her hijab to protest the Islamic dress code for Iranian women, as this week's protests broadened from the economy criticism of the government

Iran's economy has improved since the nuclear deal, which saw Iran limit its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of sanctions which had crippled its economy.

Tehran now sells its oil on the global market and has signed deals for tens of billions of dollars of Western aircraft, but the improvement has not always reached the average Iranian.

Unemployment remains high at 12.4 per cent, and a recent increase in egg and poultry prices by as much as 40 per cent, blamed on a cull over avian flu fears, appears to have been the spark for the protests.
Jailed sex offenders are earning an income thanks to YouTube placing adverts for big-name brands on their videos.

Adverts for Ford, TSB, Netflix and Philips all appeared on content posted by Larry Nassar, a former US gymnastics team doctor who was sentenced to 60 years in prison for child pornography.

According to the conditions of the streaming site, 55 per cent of ad revenue is kept by the content creator.

An investigation by The Times has revealed that this likely means Nassar has been provided a significant revenue.

The doctor also pleaded guilty to seven charges of sexual assault in November  including three on girls under the age of 13

Larry Nassar's videos mostly feature him toughing young gymnasts for the purpose of 'medical examinations'

The doctor also pleaded guilty to seven charges of sexual assault in November  including three on girls under the age of 13.

More than 140 women, including Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas, have accused him of abuse.

Nassar is to be sentenced for these crimes next month.

'He abused my trust, he abused my body, and he left scars on my psyche that may never go away,' McKayla Maroney - another Olympian - told the sentencing court.

'He needs to be behind bars so he will never prey upon another child.;

Accusations against Nassar received extensive coverage after he was removed from his post in 2015.

More than 140 women, including Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas, have accused him of abuse

But YouTube, which is owned by Google, has retained his channel and continued placing adverts in his videos.

The mostly feature him toughing young gymnasts for the purpose of 'medical examinations'.

One shows a young girl's bottom being manipulated by Nassar to demonstrate different muscles.

Dr. Larry Nassar, 54, appears in court for a plea hearing in Lansing, Michigan

Other brands that features on Nassar's channel included New Statesman, Lavazza and the Olympic Channel.

Nassar is alleged to have abused his young victims while giving them massages and medical treatments  similar to those show in his YouTube videos.

The sex offender uploaded a total of 133 videos, which have been viewed 639,240 times, generating up to 867 a year.

It comes after YouTube was criticised for failing to properly moderate the service.

This week, seven of Nassar's videos were flagged as inappropriate by one of YouTube's 'trusted flaggers', whose role is to police the site.

But Nassar's videos remained online even after the flagger highlighted his convictions.

Other adverts for well-known brands were also said to have appeared on videos that apparently feature convicted sex offender Jeff Williams, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

They included adverts for Center Parcs, Spotify, Brompton Bicycles ad the National Citizen Service (NCS).

The trusted flagger then sent a file of evidence pertaining to Williams to senior member of staff at YouTube in October  but the videos remained on the site.

The NCS last night said they had discontinued its YouTube advertising, adding that the delivery of its message in a safe and appropriate environment was 'of the utmost importance'.

Breakdown: He broke down in tears while he confessed to 'sexually penetrating' his victims and will face 25 to 40 years in prison for each count

TSB said it had taken immediate action and was shocked to see its adverts had been placed inappropriately.

Ford demanded that its adverts be removed immediately.

Lavazza said their advert was a 'rogue placement and not in line with their coffee-associated brief'.

Philips said they will investigate and Center Parcs said they would take steps to address the issue.

A spokesman for YouTube told The Times: 'We take child safety on YouTube very seriously. When we find behaviour on YouTube like uploading, commenting or engaging in any type of activity that targets or sexualises minors, we take action and terminate user accounts.'

YouTube also said that it works closely with leading child safety organisations to report illegal activity to law enforcement.
AFL legend Chris Judd's sportswear brand has settled an unfair dismissal claim with a former manager out of a court.

Nancy Mo sued the high-end brand Jaggad, as well as Judd's business partner and close friend Steven Greene, claiming unfair dismissal and sexual discrimination, according to the Herald Sun.

Judd's wife Bec, a media personality and model, features heavily in promotion for the brand's gear.

AFL legend Chris Judd's sportswear brand has settled an unfair dismissal claim with a former manager out of a court

Nancy Mo sued the high-end brand Jaggad, as well as Judd's business partner and close friend Steven Greene (Ms Mo pictured right with Judd)

Judd's wife Bec, a media personality and model, features heavily in promotion for the brand's gear

Ms Mo was seeking loss of earnings and damages, but details of the settlement are confidential.

She claimed she was subjected to a culture of sexism and bullying at Jaggad.

The former employee also claimed she had been fired while on maternity leave.

The former manager was paid $100,000 a year for working 30 hours per week, and Jaggad argued she was made redundant for financial reasons.

The company said Ms Mo made her complaint after she had been made redundant.

She accused Greene - also a former AFL player - of saying he wanted to have a 'threesome' with a Jaggad model, as well as making crude jokes about butt implants.

Ms Mo (right) claimed Greene (pictured left with Judd) had said he hoped another employee 'has a horrible accident and dies'

Ms Mo also claimed Greene had said he hoped another employee 'has a horrible accident and dies'.

Jaggad denied those claims and that he had made derogatory comments regarding Sudanese refugee camps.

They said the claims were 'vague and embarrassing'.

They claimed Ms Mo's duties were taken over by another member of staff, and that the business had restructured due to 'ongoing financial strain... and significant cashflow issues'.

Jaggad has two stores in Melbourne, in Brighton and Armadale.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Jaggad for comment.
North Korean despot Kim Jong-un received a standing ovation after he attended a concert in Pyongyang along with his sister Kim Yo Jong - who has been recently promoted into his inner cabal.

The dictator held the concert for delegates at the 5th Conference of Cell Chairpersons of the Workers' Party of Korea.

Kim is believed to have promoted his sister to the inner politburo to replace his aunt, Kim Kyong Hui, who was a key adviser to his father, Kim Jong Il.

Kim Jong-un received a standing ovation at a concert in Pyongyang according to new photographs released by the nation's state news agency earlier today

Kim attended the conference with his sister Kim Yo Jong, circled, who has been promoted to his inner sanctum

North Korean expert Michael Madden of John Hopkins University said: 'It shows that her portfolio and writ is far more substantive than previously believed and it is a further consolidation of the Kim familys power.'

As a result of her central role in the regime, Ms Kim has been placed on a US Treasury blacklist over 'servere human rights abuses'.

Kim's regime has faced constant international diplomatic pressure over his insistence on continuing with his nuclear weapons programme.

He has instructed his scientists to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of hitting the United States with a nuclear weapon.

Writing in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, Duyeon Kim said: 'Pyongyang and Washington are caught in a vicious cycle of action and reaction. If nothing happens to break the cycle, it will continue until one side either stands down, which is very unlikely, or, far worse, takes military action.'

President Donald Trump has tweeted that the prospect of Kim being able to hit the US with a nuclear missile 'won't happen'.

But despite continuing sanctions and threats of military retaliation, North Korea continues to defy the international community.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson recently offered unconditional talks with North Korea only to be quickly shot down by the White House, where not only Trump has talked up the possibility of military confrontation. National security adviser H.R. McMaster also has warned the potential for war is 'increasing every day'.

North Korea has conducted more than 20 missile launches since Trump came to office. It also tested what it described as a hydrogen bomb - an underground blast so big it registered as a 6.3 magnitude earthquake. Then in late November, it test-fired a new intercontinental missile in the clearest demonstration yet that all of America was within its striking range.

Trump has called Kim 'short and fat' and 'a sick puppy'. At the UN in September, he lampooned Kim as 'Rocket Man ... on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime'.

Kim replied by calling Trump 'mentally deranged' and a 'dotard'. North Korea's foreign minister then warned of a possible atmospheric nuclear test - done by no nation since 1980.
Advertisement

In what was a broken Germany, these captivating images taken after the First World War reveal how British troops tried but failed to prevent the feelings of discontent that led to the rise of Hitler.

A new book tells the story of how the German public did not want UK soldiers in their country after the Great War - and in most cases didn't even want to be there themselves.

Following the signing of the armistice between the allies and Germany in 1918, British troops crossed the Rhine into Germany and entered a country torn by violence and unrest where revolution threatened and civil war seemed more likely every day.

There aim was to instill stability, with pictures in a book by Michael Foley titled 'The British Army of the Rhine after the First World War' revealing the moment they prepared to establish their section of the occupation area in Cologne.

The new secretary of state for war at the time, a young Winston Churchill MP, arrived in Germany in August 1919. Churchill who went on to serve as Prime Minister during the second world war arrived in Cologne to inspect the British Army of Occupation on the Rhine. Here he is pictured offering his hand to one of the official officers

British soldiers in 1928 with a pet dog and a baby outside a restaurant in Germany after the First World War where they tried to prevent the feelings of discontent which led to the rise of Hitler. The British Army of the Rhine was established at the end of the Great War in 1918 to instill stability into broken Germany

The Allies are pictured competing against each other in an athletics meeting in Coblenz. The story of the Brits time in Germany after the first world war has been told in a new book 'The British Army of the Rhine after the First World War' by Michael Foley

Captivating images from the book show British troops crossing the Rhine as they prepare to establish their section of the occupation area in Cologne.

Others show the German 'Brown Shirts' stood in formation shirtless after being banned from wearing the uniform by the Treaty of Versailles.

And in another photo a fresh young Winston Churchill, then the newly appointed Secretary of State for War, arriving to inspect British troops during the occupation of Cologne.

Following the signing of the armistice between the allies and Germany in 1918, British troops crossed the Rhine into Germany and entered a country torn by violence and unrest where revolution threatened and civil war seemed more likely every day.

The German public did not want them there and, in many cases, they did not want to be there, with most soldiers expecting to be discharged shortly after the war ended.

'It is important to have some level of understanding of the situation in Germany that the men of the occupation forces found themselves having to deal with,' writes Foley.

'They were not only going into a country that they had just beaten in the war (with all the resulting negative feelings that were going to be shown against them), but they also had to deal with the fact that the German population were going through a time of severe suffering and political upheaval in which the occupying forces often became involved.

HOW THE BRITISH ARMY OF THE RHINE TRIED TO 'INSTILL POSITIVITY' IN THE GERMANS AFTER WWI The British Army of the Rhine was initially established as an occupational force after World War One. It was created to instill positivity into distressed Germany following the end of the Great War in 1918 and was later disbanded in 1929. Only 15 years later it would be back firmly in position at the end of World War Two. The creation of the Twenty-first Army Group was assigned with the invasion of Europe. It was formed in September 1943 in England and commanded by General (later Field Marshal) Sir Bernard Montgomery. It initially controlled all ground forces in Operation Overlord. When sufficient American forces had landed, their own 12th Army Group was activated, under General Omar Bradley and 21st Army Group was left with British Second Army and First Canadian Army. After the successful Normandy landings, the units of 21st Army Group crossed the river Rhine near the Germany city of Wesel on 23 March 1945. After an advance which was thoroughly resisted, the British formations, along with the Canadians and Americans advanced into the German counties of Nordrhein-Westfalen, Niedersachsen and Schleswig-Holstein . This established the British Army occupying the north of the country. At the February 1945 Yalta Conference (and confirmed at the July 1945 Potsdam Conference) it was agreed that it should be divided into four with the addition of a small French Zone (adjacent to the Franco-German border). Similar arragements were agreed for Austria and the City of Berlin which was otherwise deep in East Germany (Russian Zone of Occupation). The earlier arrangement for the transfer of East Prussia and the move of the eastern border to the Oder Neisse Line remained unaltered. Three months after the war had ended, 21st Army Group was redesignated 'British Army of the Rhine'. Source: Boar locations Advertisement

A Christmas meeting of anti-Spartacists in defence of Bremen in the Red Gymnasium. The Spartacist uprising, also known as the January uprising, was a general strike in Germany from 4 to 15 January 1919

Boat trips on the Rhine were a popular leisure activity organised by the British Empire Leave Club. A group of soldiers are pictured packed onto a boat surrounding a table covered in what appears to be refreshments

This photograph was taken by one of the members of the occupation force of men in the showers. The German public did not want them there and, in many cases, they did not want to be there, with most soldiers expecting to be discharged shortly after the war ended

'As the end of the war approached, it was to have a major effect on Germany. It was not only the fact that they had lost the war that upset the German population. Many, but not all, of the German people had already been suffering for many years from a shortage of food. What was to come after the war was to be an even bigger shock for the population.

'From the way the country went after the withdrawal of the occupation forces, it would seem that the presence of the Allied troops were keeping the lid on an underlying move towards extremism by the population. Whether this was caused by Allied policy during the occupation and in the harsh sanctions enforced by Versailles is debatable.

A squad of Brownshirts who, at this time, had been banned from wearing their uniform by the Treaty of Versailles and so appeared bare-chested. The men instead sported trousers, braces, a tie and their helmets

Although the majority of the German Army was disbanded after the war, many of the men still wore their uniforms and followed a military life, often as part of volunteer forces

'The movement towards a dictatorship may well have happened after the war whatever the Allies did. There is little doubt that Germany did not have a background of democracy and although there may well have been many Germans who believed in this political system and wanted peace there were many others who did not.

'Rather than being the reason for the rise of Adolf Hitler, it could be said that the occupation actually delayed the rise of the Nazis rather than caused it. Whatever the truth of the matter, it seems obvious that the First World War did little to solve the problems of Europe. The results of the post-war decisions by the politicians were the reason for this and, in some cases, may have made the situation in post-war Europe even worse than they had been before.'

The British Army of the Rhine after the First World War by Michael Foley is published by Fonthill Media, and can be purchased here.

The area around the Rhine often flooded during the winter months. This was the flood that occurred in 1919 while the British troops were there

During the early days of the occupation, clear signs of military were visible, as can be seen from the guns along the bank of the Rhine

The sign of the British Empire Leave Club, founded in Cologne, which provided comfort for soldiers of the occupation forces by organising boat trips

British troops crossing the Rhine as they prepare to establish their section of the occupation area in Cologne. From the way the country went after the withdrawal of the occupation forces, it would seem that the presence of the Allied troops were keeping the lid on an underlying move towards extremism by the population

The use of black troops caused a number of complaints during the occupation. This shows a unit of colonial cavalry on the streets of Germany
Over-the-counter pain medication containing codeine is set to become prescription-only in a bid to reduce addiction and overdoses.

Nurofen Plus, Panadeine, Mersyndol and Codral will no longer be available over the counter after February 1, and patients who rely on the medication are urged to visit their doctor to find an alternative solution, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Australia will join the ranks of at least 26 other countries that currently require a prescription for codeine-containing products.

Nurofen Plus, Panadeine, Mersyndol & Codral will no longer be available over the counter

Pain Australia CEO Carol Bennett recommends that anyone who is reliant on over-the-counter pain medication should go to their GP to discuss alternatives for their pain management needs

According to reports, 100 people die in Australia every year from codeine overdoses, and a number more are hospitalised.

Some Australians are reportedly taking 'dangerously high' doses of up to 28 pills per day, despite recommendations not to take codeine-based killers more than three days in a row.

There are over 5 million over-the-counter sales of Nurofen Plus, Panadeine, Mersyndol and Codral in Australia each year.

There were 1917 recorded deaths involving either over-the-counter products containing codeine or Oxycodone between 2007 and 2011. In the same time period, 1127 people died from heroin abuse.

Head of Pain services at Royal Melbourne Hospital Dr Malcolm Hogg told the publication that codeine is not a good pain reliever as the human body adapts to it, meaning that you need to take more to get the same amount of relief each time.

He added that codeine should not be used to treat a migraine or period pain and that most people would get better pain relief from a combination of ibuprofen and paracetamol.

Banning codeine-based painkillers has the full support of the Australian Medical Association

Dr Malcolm Hogg told the publication that codeine is not a good pain reliever as the human body adapts to it, meaning you need to take more to get the same amount of relief each time

Pain Australia CEO Carol Bennett recommended that anyone who is reliant on over-the-counter pain medication should go to their GP for a full assessment of pain management.

'One of the most liberating things for people with chronic pain is to understand that it may never go away, so learning how to manage it and live life despite it is often the most empowering thing,' she said.

The new law has the full support of GPs, health consumer groups and the Australian Medical Association.

Pharmacists have been left outraged by the decision though, labelling it a 'professional slap in the face'.

George Tambassis, the national president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia told news.com.au the changes would lead to an increase in 'doctor shopping', and a real-time tracking system, already used voluntarily by many pharmacies, would be a better option.

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia is lobbying State and Territory Governments for exceptions to the changes, which would allow them to dispense codeine-based medications for acute care (stock image)

The Guild is now approaching individual state and territory governments for exceptions to the legislation, which would allow them to dispense codeine-based medicines, under strict conditions.

If the group are successful in their campaign, the medication would need to be dispensed for acute pain, not chronic, and would be logged in a real-time tracking program that uses the patient's license to track their history of codeine use.

This program would work in the same way as the one used for patients buying Codral with Pseudoephedrine, and is currently used by 70 per cent of community pharmacies nationwide.

George Tambassis, the national president of the guild, says the new rules will lead to addicts going 'doctor shopping' to side-step the new restrictions (stock image)

Mr Tambassis said the program would be more effective at minimising codeine abuse because doctors do not have anything similar - allowing addicts to go 'doctor shopping' for prescriptions.

'We fear doctor shopping. The doctor has no way of knowing  other than a patients' word  if the codeine they are being asked to prescribe was recently prescribed by another doctor,' he said.

'There is no medical centre anywhere in Australia that has anything near what we have with MedsASSIST.'

The Pain Australia website www.painaustralia.org.au offers good information on how to manage pain effectively without relying on painkillers.
Country

Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Canada Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cuba, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Dominican Republic Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Haiti, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Jamaica Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Mexico, United Mexican States Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Virgin Islands Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for 'pragmatic cooperation' in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump.

In a statement on the Russian president's New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that 'a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world'.

According to the statement, Putin said that 'mutual respect' should be 'a base to develop relations' between the two countries.

US President Donald Trump (left) chats with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the Vietnamese city of Danang on November 11, 2017

'This would allow us to move towards building pragmatic cooperation, orientated on the long term,' the statement quoted Putin as saying.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russia's Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin 'expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year'.

The statement added that Putin told Assad 'Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity'.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assad's military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.
A Thai Grandmother who lives with a rare condition that causes her face to melt is refusing surgery out of fear that it will kill her.

Abnormal growths began to spread across Wiang Boonmee's face causing her to lose sight in both eyes.

The 63-year-old's melting face has also twisted her nose and mouth out of shape so that they hang off her face.

Ms Boonmee has suffered with the condition for decades after developing it as a child.

She recently moved to Bangkok where despite her growths she earns a living by selling accessories on the street in the city centre.

Previously from rural Surin the mother-of-one has received lots of attention after medics were contacted to reqeust assisstance for her, the Mirror reported.

Wiang Boonmee, 63 from Thailand has a rare condition causing the growth of tumours on her face which have caused her to go blind and deformed her nose and mouth

The disease Ms Boonmee is believed to be suffering with is related to neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue.

NEUROFIBROMATOSIS Neurofibromatosis is a genetic condition that often begins in childhood and causes benign tumours to grow on nerve tissue. The severity of the condition varies between sufferers and in the developed world is most often treated in the early stages with surgery. Source: Medical News Today Advertisement

But despite the severely debilating condition she refuses to be operated on because she is scared that she will die during surgery.

Ms Booneme, who also has two grandchildren, said: 'I have had this problem for a long time. More than I can remember. I have survived and I'm healthy and have a job.

'If I have an operation I might never wake up. I'm afraid I would not survive it.

'My daughter brings me here so I can sell flowers and camphor oils. I am happy and somebody gave me a donation this week, which I'm grateful for.'

Health workers were first contacted by Praew Wattana, 22, to ask for help after spotting her in the street a few weeks before.



Ms Boonmee has suffered with the condition for decades after developing it as a child

Miss Wattana saw her selling things on the side of the road in front of a bank and assumed she was suffering because she could not see.

Ms Boonmee, according to Miss Wattana, does not beg she just sells flowers and other trinkets.

Dr Sunura Ourairat, President of Rangsit University, visited Ms Boonme on the street on Friday to offer to help her get medical attention.

He has asked for asssisstace from the Ministry of Public Health and asked for doctors to visit her.
Explosive recordings showing Salim Mehajer behind closed doors have emerged, revealing a darker side of the disgraced former Auburn deputy mayor.

A grainy home video, obtained by the Daily Telegraph, shows one of his apparent friends calling him a 'f***ing show pony' and warning 'the bikies might ring ya'.

'When you hear threats, 'I'm coming after ya',' why would you do such a silly thing?' the man can be heard asking.

In a separate 12-minute audio recording, the owner of a car repair shop tells Mehajer '20 carloads' of men had gone looking for him at his office.

The altercation took place because Mehajer had apparently called a junior employee a 'Shia dog' and threatened to 'rape his mother' in a profanity-filled rant.

Explosive recordings showing Salim Mehajer behind closed doors have emerged

A home video released by the Daily Telegraph shows men calling Mehajer a 'f***ing show pony' while another warns 'the bikies might ring ya'

Mehajer claims he took part in the home videos willingly as part of an elaborate 'stunt'. It is unknown when or where the video was created.

The second recording is of a phone call Mehajer made to apologise for unloading a torrent of abuse on a worker at Queen Street Customs car repairs in Sydney's south-west.

He had taken his Ferrari into the mechanics but had a disagreement with one of the staff members, allegedly calling him a 'Shia dog' and a 'motherf***er'.

'Your mum's going to get f***ing raped today you f***ing dog,' Mehajer allegedly said to the employee.

He called back a few days later and spoke to the man's boss Mohammed to apologise.

'What's wrong with ya?' Mohammed asks, before Mehajer said he had an 'illness'.

'Call me mental, call me diseased, I wasn't in my own mind state,' Mehajer said.

He had taken his Ferrari into the mechanics but had a disagreement with one of the staff members, allegedly calling him a 'Shia dog' and a 'motherf***er'

Mehajer is pictured with Ahmed Zaoud, a convicted criminal and former member of the Muslim Brotherhood Movement

Mohammed said 20 cars full of men had been out looking for Mehajer before he called.

'We went to your f***ing office at 9pm last night. What has this come to? You're not a kid. I am a businessman,' Mohammed said.

Mehajer then apologises directly to the worker, known as Ahmed.

'I swear on my own mum then - slap me in the face, spit on me, no worries. Swear at me back,' he said.

Mehajer claims he and the mechanics were paid $70,000 to make the video as a stunt.

'For my association with bikies and alike, I cannot comment further,' he said.

'I'm a successful businessman and let's keep it at that.'

The release of the recordings come just days after Mehajer shared multiple images of himself with flight attendant Constance Siaflas, and referenced the pair as together and 'religiously married'.

In the pictures, Mehajer and Ms Siaflas are seen in bed together or cuddled up - appearing to be in a relationship.

But the glamorous flight attendant has told Yahoo the pair were no longer together, and she was 'disturbed' by the posts.

'I have no idea why he would be posting as we are no longer together,' she said.

'I haven't agreed to any pictures of myself to be posted.'

She also confirmed the pair were no longer even on speaking terms.
Ursula Graham Bower, who was educated at the prestigious Roedean School in East Sussex, first visited the village of Laisong in Assam in 1937

The astonishing story of a debutante who turned her back on the high life to become a guerrilla fighter in India dubbed the 'Naga Queen' has been revealed.

Ursula Graham Bower, who was educated at the prestigious Roedean School in East Sussex, first visited the village of Laisong in Assam in 1937 - but she returned during the Second World War to lead a group of troops against the Japanese and rescue American airmen.

A play detailing how she transformed from a society debutante to the queen of the jungle will now be staged in the village she charmed 80 years ago.

Her daughter, Catriona Child, is heading to the village so a play - Ursula: Queen of the Jungle - can be performed there tonight.

'She was a woman ahead of her time,' Catriona, 66, told The Times, adding that she hated her 'Naga Queen' nickname - given to her by American airmen she rescued during the war - 'with a vengeance'.

Ursula first went to the Naga Hills at the invitation of a friend when she was just 23, but stayed there for some years as an anthropologist.

She took thousands of photographs during her time among the Naga, a tribe once feared as headhunters, and made such an impression on the locals that some worshiped her as divine.

The play, based on Ursula's diaries, was written by Chris Eldon Lee and starred Joanna Purslow during its Edinburgh Festival run

Having come back to England after her adventure, Ursula returned again to the Naga Hills at the beginning of the Second World War.

But a few years later, when the Japanese were marching towards India, the British asked Ursula to form a band of scouts to help with the war effort.

This she did - initially leading a group of about 150 warriors armed with muzzle-loading guns.

She was later praised by General Slim, the legendary chief of British forces in Burma, and was given an OBE in 1945.

The Japanese, too, realised her strength - and even put a bounty on her head.

Having come back to England after her adventure, Ursula returned to the Naga Hills at the beginning of the Second World War

Her daughter explained: 'When things were really bad she said to her right-hand man, you must kill me and present my head to the Japanese so the village doesn't get into trouble.'

She met Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Nicholson Betts, a young intelligence officer, when he came to Burma to fight with the V Force reconnaissance unit in 1945.

According to Catriona, Frederick had never met Ursula but sought her out because he thought she was his kind of woman.

They married three weeks after meeting.

The play, based on Ursula's diaries, was written by Chris Eldon Lee and starred Joanna Purslow during its Edinburgh Festival run.

Now playwright and daughter will travel 11 hours on a dirt road to perform the play tonight in a village that has no electricity.

It will be translated into local language since most of the inhabitants speak no English.
The family of Eric Garner's activist daughter, Erica, says she died on Saturday after suffering major brain damage from a massive heart attack on Christmas Eve.

Her mother, Esaw Snipes-Garner, said her 27-year-old daughter went into cardiac arrest during an asthma attack and slipped into a coma.

Erica suffered her first heart attack not long after giving birth to a baby boy, her second child, in August.

Doctors said the pregnancy had put a strain on her heart, which was later found to be enlarged.

Garner's official Twitter account, run by her family and friends since she became ill, posted on Saturday morning: 'Erica the world loves you. I love you. I am glad you came into our lives. May you find the peace in the next life that you deserved while you were here. I will always love you my sister. love you.'

Scroll down for video

Erica Garner died on Saturday after suffering brain damage from a heart attack on Christmas Eve. Her father, Eric Garner, died after he was placed in a chokehold by an NYPD officer in 2014 (Pictured, Erica, right, campaigns for Senator Bernie Sanders in February 2016 in South Carolina)

Her mother, Esaw Snipes-Garner, said her 27-year-old daughter (left and right) went into cardiac arrest during an asthma attack and slipped into a coma.

Erica, (pictured, July 2015) who has an eight-year-old daughter and a baby boy born in August, suffered her first heart attack shortly after the recent birth. Doctors said the pregnancy had put a strain on her heart, which was later found to be enlarged

On Thursday, Snipes-Garner had told the New York Daily News that her daughter was clinging to life at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn.

At the time she said: 'She's not gone, she's brain dead. Physically she is still with us.

'She's still here with us. She just needs some time to heal, that's it.'

Her father, Eric Garner (pictured), died after a white NYPD police officer put him in a chokehold in Staten Island in 2014

The person running Garner's official Twitter account tweeted Wednesday night that she had suffered major brain damage.

'Cat scan shows Erica suffered major brain damage from a lack of oxygen while in cardiac arrest,' they tweeted.

'Please continue to pray hard for Erica and pray for her family and kids just as much.'

The Twitter account hit back at a condolence message from Brooklyn Councilman Jumaane Williams after he prematurely said on Thursday that Garner had died.

'As we sent prayers up... so sorry to hear the news. RIP @es_snipes. That family still needs us #Garner,' Williams wrote in a tweet he has since deleted.

The person running Garner's official Twitter account tweeted Saturday morning that she had passed away

The administrator of Erica's Twitter account faced torrents of backlash after a post requesting that only black journalists reach out to the family

The administrator of Erica's Twitter account faced torrents of backlash after a post requesting that only black journalists reach out to the family.

'Out of respect to Erica please do not request comment if the journalist is not Black,' tweeted the account belonging to Garner, likely sent by family spokesman Reggie Harris.

Many Twitter users angrwho became a prominent anti-police brutality activist after her father, Eric Garner, was choked to death by NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo in 2015.

The tweet, quickly drew anger from many social media users who called it 'racist' and said it insulted Erica's message of unity and equality.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, in announcing Garner's death Saturday, says she fought for justice and was 'a warrior to the end.'

Erica, who has an eight-year-old daughter and a baby boy born in August, suffered her first heart attack shortly after the recent birth.

The mother-of-two, who named her newborn after her late father, has been an advocate for combating police brutality ever since his death in 2014.

She also appeared in campaign commercials for Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders during his 2016 presidential run.

Garner was strangled to death after being stopped for selling loose cigarettes in Staten Island. Officer Daniel Pantaleo (circled, left) was seen on video putting him in a chokehold

Eric Garner, who was unarmed at the time, died after a white NYPD police officer put him in a chokehold in Staten Island.

A grand jury declined to indict the officer and the city agreed to pay a $6million civil settlement.

His last words were 'I can't breathe,' which became a slogan for activists. The father-of-six's death sparked widespread protests.

He had been accused of illegally selling cigarettes on a sidewalk when an officer put him in the chokehold from behind and brought him down with the help of other officers.

The city medical examiner ruled Garner's death a homicide, with asthma and obesity as contributing factors.
The Justice Department has made clear its proposed ban on transgender military recruits is on hold, meaning their enlistment can start Monday.

But the future for transgender people in the armed forces remains murky.

The Justice Department isn't dropping its court fight to institute the ban on transgender enlistment but said Friday it would wait for a Pentagon study on the issue in coming weeks before deciding what to do next.

President Donald Trump said in July that the government would not allow transgender people to serve in the military, reversing Obama-era policy.

So far he's been unable to achieve that prohibition.

The Justice Department has made clear its proposed ban on transgender military recruits is on hold, meaning their enlistment can start Monday. But the future for transgender people in the armed forces remains murky. Protesters are seen demonstrating against the ban in July

On December 22, a panel of the federal appeals court in the District of Columbia refused the Trump administration's request to let the ban start January 1.

Other federal judges have also refused to side with the administration.

The Pentagon said then that it would allow transgender enlistment to start with the new year and continue as legal struggles play out.

The Justice Department said late Friday the Pentagon 'will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks,' so the administration will not litigate an appeal in the meantime.

That stance clarifies that enlistments can start January 1 and existing transgender service members are protected from being discharged at least for now.

'We are relieved that we don't have to hit pause on the constitutional rights of transgender people who are willing and able to serve our country,' said Peter Renn, senior attorney for Lambda Legal, one of the groups fighting the ban in court.
An elderly man has been left with 'life-changing' injuries after he was hit by a cyclist on Kensington Church Street.

The elderly pedestrian was rushed to a central London hospital by the London ambulance service.

No arrests have been made but the road was closed following the incident at 13.27 this afternoon.

Scroll down for video

Police closed Church Street Kensington this afternoon, pictured, after an elderly man was knocked down by a cyclist and suffered injuries described as 'life-changing'

The elderly man was taken from the scene by ambulance following this afternoon's collision

The road, pictured, has been closed for several hours following the lunchtime incident

Motorists have been advised to avoid the area because of continuing road closures.

According to the Met: 'An elderly male was taken to a central London hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening but may be life-changing.'

He is understood to have undergone surgery and the cyclist was treated for suts and bruises.

This latest incident comes as two-thirds of motorists believe the offence of dangerous driving should be extended to cyclists.

A poll of more than 10,000 drivers conducted for the Daily Mail reveals widespread concerns that cyclists are treated too leniently.

Some 73 per cent of drivers said cyclists should be subject to similar legal requirements as motorists. And of these just under nine in ten called for new laws to prosecute cyclists for a two-wheeled equivalent of dangerous driving.

A change in legislation is already being considered by Transport Secretary Chris Grayling after a woman died last year when she was knocked down by a rider whose bike had no front brake.

The cyclist was acquitted of manslaughter but convicted of wanton and furious driving, an offence falling under an Act from 1861.

Police prevented pedestrians and motorists using the road which links Kensington and Notting Hill while the scene of the incident was fully examined
North Korea has said it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their 'blackmail and war drills' on its doorstep.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency reiterated the stance on Saturday as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

North Korea carried out its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal which could viably target the mainland United States.

North Korea has claimed it will never give up its nuclear weapons while the United States and its allies continue to conduct military drills on its doorstep

Kim Jong-un ordered a missile test in response to military drills held between the United States and South Korea, which Washington describe as being 'defensive in nature'

The aggressive tests, which numbered 16 in 2017, have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear programme is closing rapidly.

The US and South Korea have maintained that they will not negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile programme.

In its report on Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for 'bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force' in the face of a continued 'nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills' by the United States and its 'vassal forces'.

The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

North Korea has managed to extend the range of its missiles in a series of tests

North Korea has also managed to detonate its largest nuclear device in September

KCNA accused US President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an 'undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power'.

'Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out,' KCNA said.

'The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence,' it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Utility workers found a two-year-old girl wearing only a diaper wandering into traffic on a frigid, 9-degree day in Massachusetts.

Comcast technicians Shawn Bronson and Michael Payne told The Boston Herald they were restoring service to customers in Monson Thursday when they spotted the child heading toward the middle of the road.

The workers scooped up the child and brought her to a store where they waited for police.

Bronson said she was 'shaking' and had turned a 'different color.' Police say the girl was taken to a hospital to be evaluated.

The temperature was around 9 degrees when the girl was found.

Police say the child's father was 'completely unaware' she had wandered off. They say charges of reckless endangerment of a child are pending.

Police did not identify the father.

Utility workers found a two-year-old girl wearing only a diaper wandering into traffic on a frigid, 9-degree day in Massachusetts. They then rushed her into a nearby store (above) in Monson, Massachusetts, where they waited for police

Massachusetts child welfare officials have also been notified.

'She had no socks, no shoes, and she happened to be heading right toward the middle of the road, which is where we intercepted her,' Bronson told the Herald.

Bronson, 44, hit the brakes and blocked off traffic on Main Street.

Payne, 44, then got out of the car and took the baby girl into his arms. He then rushed her to a nearby store.

'We just started taking off our hats and jackets and trying to get her wrapped up as well as we could while we got her inside the store,' Bronson said.

Once the two men and the toddler went inside the store, a clerk who had just given birth rushed to the storage area and brought back a blanket.

The clerk, who herself had just given birth, even gave the toddler a toy to play with while they waited for police to arrive.

'Our top priority was getting her to safety,' Payne said.

'We just wanted to make sure this little girl was taken care of.'

The toddler was in danger of falling victim to frostbite, which can happen in as little as 30 minutes if not dressed properly.

According to the National Weather Service, the temperature at the time of the incident in Monson was just 9 degrees. With the wind chill, it felt like well below zero.

Comcast said it was proud of its employees for the actions they took to save the little girl's life.

'They did the absolute right thing, they saw a situation and reacted, and the company is extremely proud of them,' Comcast spokeswoman Elizabeth Walden said.

'In a situation like that, you have a gut response, and they did the right thing.'

'We commend these workers, who are also Monson residents, for their quick action leading to a positive outcome,' Monson police said, noting the situation could have had 'tragic consequences.'
The Trump administration fired the remaining 16 members of the top White House advisory board on HIV and AIDS-related issues, it was reported on Thursday.

The firings were announced in separate letters mailed to the council members by FedEx earlier this week.

The fired members of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS were all appointed to their posts during the Obama administration, according to The Washington Blade.

PACHA provides advice, information, and recommendations to the [Health and Human Services] Secretary regarding programs, policies, and research to promote effective treatment, prevention, and cure of HIV disease and AIDS, according to its web site.

The Trump administration fired the remaining 16 members of the top White House advisory board on HIV and AIDS-related issues, it was reported on Thursday. President Donald Trump (right) and Vice President Mike Pence are seen in the Oval Office on December 7

In June, six members of PACHA resigned in protest of what they felt was the Trump administrations inadequate response to treating Americans with HIV and AIDS.

It is not uncommon for administrations to purge government agencies of holdovers from the previous presidency so that it can hire its own personnel.

After Barack Obama entered office, his White House dismissed all of PACHAs members who were appointed during the terms of President George W. Bush.

Nonetheless, HIV and AIDS activists criticized the Trump administration.

Scott Schoettes, who was one of the six members who resigned in June, is a lawyer for Lambda Legal, a national LGBT civil rights organization dedicated to those with HIV and AIDS.

He tweeted on Thursday that Trump showed no respect for their service by firing the council members.

Dangerous that #Trump and Co. (Pence esp.) are eliminating few remaining people willing to push back against harmful policies, like abstinence-only sex ed, he tweeted.

Gabriel Maldonado, who heads a California-based organization Truevolultion, is one of the 16 dismissed council members.

It is not uncommon for administrations to purge government agencies of holdovers from the previous presidency so that it can hire its own personnel. After Barack Obama entered office, his White House dismissed all PACHAs members appointed during George W. Bush's term

He said that the council members still had time left to serve their terms. He said the explanation is still unclear over why the administration chose this week to let them go.

I can only speculate, Maldonado said.

Like any administration, they want their own people there. Many of us were Obama appointees. I was an Obama appointee and my term was continuing until 2018.

He said one potential reason for the firings is ideological and philosophical differences with the administration.

I was co-chair of the disparities committee, so much of my advocacy and policy references surrounded vulnerable populations, addressing issuing of diverse communities, specifically looking at the impacts of the LGBT community, namely, the disproportionate impact of HIV and AIDS to people of color, gay men, transgender women, Maldonado said.

And a lot of those key vulnerable populations are not being prioritized in this administration.

Maldonado cited a recent Washington Post report which said that the Trump administration ordered the Centers for Disease Control to avoid using certain words or phrases in official documents being drafted for next years budget.

The CDC was reportedly given a list of seven prohibited words or phrases, including vulnerable, entitlement, diversity, transgender, fetus, evidence-based, and science-based.

PACHAs executive director, Kaye Hayes, confirmed that the council members were fired, but she doesnt think the news warranted an uproar

A spokesperson for the HHS, however, has denied this and said it was taken out of context.

PACHAs executive director, Kaye Hayes, confirmed that the council members were fired, but she doesnt think the news warranted an uproar.

[The dismissed council members] were also thanked for their leadership, dedication and commitment to the effort, Hayes said.

Changing the makeup of federal advisory committee members is a common occurrence during Administration changes.

The Obama administration dismissed the George W. Bush administration appointees to PACHA in order to bring in new voices.

All PACHA members are eligible to apply to serve on the new council that will be convened in 2018.

But Maldonado said it doesnt explain why the administration waited a year to fire the Obama-era holdovers.

He also noted that many of the dismissed council members whose terms expired earlier this year were sworn back in to their positions months ago  even after Trump signed an executive order which kept PACHA going for another year.

An estimated 1.2 million Americans are infected with either HIV or AIDS. Globally, there are 37 million people estimated to be carrying the disease.
A mother who lost two premature babies has spoken of the devastating reality of her experiences after EastEnders' controversial storyline this week.

Soap addicts watched in horror as Abi and Lauren Branning fell from the roof of EastEnders' famous Queen Victoria pub in a bid to stop their father Max committing suicide.

Horrified viewers saw both young women rushed to hospital, where Abi was later declared brain dead, which meant doctors were forced to deliver her baby by cesarean at just 28 weeks.

Babies born at seven months around weigh two pounds - but the one handed to a teary Max Branning was full size and didn't need life support or an incubator.

Furious viewers, including several mothers of premature babies, slammed the soap for not doing their research and conveying giving birth early as an 'easy ride'.

Horrified EastEnders viewers Abi and Lauren Branning fall off the Queen Victoria pub's roof and rushed to hospital this week, where Abi (pictured) was later declared brain dead, which meant doctors were forced to deliver her baby by cesarean at just 28 weeks

Babies born at seven months around weigh two pounds - but the one handed to a teary Max Branning (pictured) was full size and didn't need life support or an incubator

Stephanie Powers was one of them.

The 28-year-old gave birth to three premature babies and only one survived.

Ms Powers, of County Mayo, Ireland, told the Mirror: 'Soaps should think about their storylines before they do their scenes.

'Abi's child was 28 weeks and the way it was aired you thought it was a full term baby and Max got hold it - no NICU team, no wires.

'To other mothers that have lost babies that could be awfully upsetting to watch.'

The mother-of-one gave birth to her daughter Michaela at 20 weeks after she had a preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

After suffering heavy bleeds and a 14-hour labour, Michaela's lungs were unable to develop properly and she survived just eight hours.

She weighed one pound and 12 ounces and Stephanie says she was 'perfect in every way'.

After Michaela died, her mother says she was completely unprepared for the grief that followed.

She told the newspaper her death left a 'black hole' in her life and she battled depression while having to watch friends and strangers' babies.

Two years later Ms Powers fell pregnant again, leaving her with mixed emotions.

Furious viewers, including several mothers of premature babies slammed the soap for not doing their research and conveying giving birth early as an 'easy ride'. Stephanie Powers (pictured) was one of them

While she was happy to have another child, she was terrified the same thing would happen again.

Her fears were confirmed when she started bleeding heavily 16 weeks into the pregnancy.

Having suffered similar symptoms with Michaela she said she 'knew deep down she wasn't going to survive'.

She named the baby Nevaeh and spent the following weeks in and out of hospital.

At 24 weeks she started bleeding again and went into labour unexpectedly.

Doctors struggled to get her out and when she emerged she was 'black and blue' with the umbilical cord wrapped around her legs.

After such a complicated labour, Nevaeh didn't make it through.

Ms Powers said the pain of losing another baby was 'indescribable' - 'another perfect little girl, gone'.

They were allowed to bring her home for a night to say goodbye.

Ms Powers (pictured with son Blake), 28, of County Mayo, Ireland, gave birth to three premature babies but just one survived

She fell pregnant again in 2015, but when Ms Powers son Blake was born at 28 weeks, he pulled through.

He suffered a brain bleed and had to be kept in neo-natal intensive care for the first 12 weeks.

He is now a healthy and happy toddler, featuring regularly on Ms Powers' social media accounts, where she recently posted him beaming with his new Christmas present.

But her earth-shattering experiences of premature birth were very different to that conveyed in this week's EastEnders.

MailOnline has contacted the soap for comment.

Her son Blake (pictured) is now a healthy and happy toddler but had to be kept in intensive care for 12 weeks after he was born after a 28-week pregnancy last year

But a source said: 'Of course EastEnders reaches out to medical experts. They always research storylines and work with medical professionals.

'It all depends on the patient, everyone's situation is different. It's a distressing moment and the baby would be passed to a relative and then taken to an incubator. Max only held the baby for a split second.'

Viewers however were not convinced.

One wrote on Twitter: 'No baby of that gestation can cope with being held the next day due to their delicate skin, also its stressful for them! You're showing viewers its an easy ride when its not! Sort it!'

Another fan wrote: 'I had a baby at 28 weeks. He didn't get handed to me for a cuddle. I know its not real but... c'mon.'

Another viewer said she was 'disgusted' at the scene, writing: 'My baby was born at 29 weeks and I wasn't able to even see her for nearly 24 hours due to my health. Cut to 2 months later when we were finally able to come home. I am disgusted at @bbceastenders'

While another fan wrote: 'Had my baby at 27 weeks she was taken stright to an incubator and I never got a hold until a few days old! Hate how soaps don't show it all!'
Charlotte Knobloch, President of the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria, said online abuse and even physical attacks were 'commonplace'. Pictured in Jan 2016

Anti-Semitism is now 'the order of the day' in Germany, according to a community leader, who claims Jews now need 'police protection' to practice their religion.

Charlotte Knobloch, former leader of the German Council of Jews, said online abuse and even physical attacks were 'commonplace'.

She referred to several recent incidents of anti-Semitic crime, including the vandalism of a Menorah in the city of Heilbronn, and the cancellation of a public Menorah lighting in Mulheim because of security issues.

Mrs Knobloch, who is now President of the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria, claimed these attacks meant Jewish life had to take place under 'police protection', the Heilbronner Stimme reported.

'Aggressive anti-Semitism, from verbal hostility on the Internet and in the analogue world to desecration and destruction to physical attacks are commonplace in Germany,' she said.

'Jewish life can only take place in public under police protection and the strictest security precautions, or it must be completely cancelled for security reasons.'

Her comments came after Germany's interior minister said the government needed to appoint an anti-Semitism commissioner to counter growing hate speech against Jews and Israel from both its home-grown far right and the immigrant community.

Thomas de Maiziere's intervention followed a protest in Berlin where Israeli flags were burnt to protest the US decision to recognise Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

'Every criminal act motivated by anti-Semitism is one too many and a shame for our country,' de Maiziere, the caretaker minister since inconclusive September elections, told the Bild am Sonntag newspaper.

'Anti-Semitism must never again take hold in Germany,' he said, pointing to a rise of 'derogatory remarks, inappropriate jokes and discriminatory behaviour against our Jewish citizens'.

She referred to several recent incidents of anti-Semitic crime. Pictured: The Reichstag parliament building in Berlin

He condemned the recent flag-burnings as 'the symbolic destruction of a country's right to exist', while Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen also said such expressions of hate were 'unbearable'.

De Maiziere said when Germany has a new government - which Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives and the centre-left Social Democrats are now discussing - it should appoint an anti-Semitism commissioner.

Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said last week that, although Berlin opposed the move by US President Donald Trump, it strongly condemned protests where 'hatred' of Israel and Jews was expressed.

German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere said the country needed an anti-Semitism commissioner

On Friday, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also declared himself 'shocked and shamed' by the incidents and warned that anti-Semitism was still 'showing its evil face in a variety of ways'.

Steinmeier stressed Germany's responsibility to learn 'the lessons of two world wars, the lessons of the Holocaust, the responsibility for the security of Israel, the rejection of all forms of racism and anti-Semitism'.

This was 'non-negotiable' for everyone who lives in Germany, no matter where and when they were born, he added.

Justice Minister Heiko Maas demanded that lessons on the Holocaust be included in integration courses that teach German language and civics to asylum seekers and immigrants.

He wrote on Spiegel Online that many 'come from countries where powerful elites intentionally fuel hatred of Jews and Israel, and where anti-Semitism is practiced almost as a matter of course'.

Maas said that all immigrants needed to understand that 'we fight against the anti-Semitism of the neo-Nazis and we will equally never tolerate an anti-Semitism imported by immigrants'.
An Australian diplomat's tip, and not a 'dirty dossier' from a former MI6 spy, appears to have helped persuade the FBI to investigate Russian meddling in the US election.

Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos told the diplomat, Alexander Downer, during a night of heavy drinking in London in May 2016 that Russia had thousands of emails incriminating Hillary Clinton, according to The New York Times.

Downer serves as the Australian high commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Australia passed that on to the FBI.

In May 2016, Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos reportedly told an Australian diplomat in London that Russia compiled dirt on Hillary Clinton

Papadopoulos was reportedly drunk when he made the revelation to Alexander Downer (right), Australia's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom

The Times says the revelation that a Trump campaign member may have had inside information about the hacking of Democratic emails helped to spark the Russia probe.

Papadopoulos has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and is a cooperating witness.

Court documents show he met in April 2016 with Joseph Mifsud, a professor in London who told him about Russia's cache of Clinton emails.

The Times says Papadopoulos shared this information with Downer.

It is unclear exactly what Papadopoulos told Downer.

Two months after the conversation, it was learned that hacked emails from senior members of the Democratic Party were leaked.

Two months after the meeting, hacked emails from senior Democratic Party officials were leaked online, prompting Australia to notify the US government of the Papadopoulos-Downer conversation. Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and Hillary Clinton (right) are seen above

That was when Australia informed the FBI about the Papadopoulos-Downer conversation.

The Times report portrays Papadopoulos as a brash and ambitious campaign aide who was in way over his head.

Contrary to attempts by the Trump administration to downplay his role by saying he was just a 'coffee boy,' the Times says it obtained documents and other information which indicated that Papadopoulos was quite influential throughout the campaign.

It was Papadopoulos who arranged a meeting between Trump and the Egyptian president, Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, in New York before the election.

According to the Times, when Papadopoulos interviewed for a job with the Trump campaign, he was told by a top aide at the time, Sam Clovis (above), that one of Trump's top foreign policy goals was improving ties to Russia

The Times report, if accurate, debunks a claim made by the Trump administration and its supporters who say the FBI probe and the investigation by Special Counsel Robert Mueller were ignited by a dossier compiled by former British spy Christopher Steele.

The dossier contained sensational charges that the Russian Federal Security Service had 'kompromat,' or compromising information, on Trump that could be used to blackmail him.

Some claims in the dossier, particularly salacious details about Trump's private life, have yet to be verified.

Steele compiled the document for Fusion GPS, a firm hired by Hillary Clinton's campaign to provide opposition research on Trump.

According to the Times, when Papadopoulos interviewed for a job with the Trump campaign, he was told by a top aide at the time, Sam Clovis, that one of Trump's top foreign policy goals was improving ties to Russia.

Court documents show Papadopoulos met in April 2016 with Joseph Mifsud (above), a professor in London who told him about Russia's cache of Clinton emails. The Times says Papadopoulos shared this information with Downer

Clovis has denied this assertion.

After he was hired, Papadopoulos met with Mifsud, an academic with extensive contact with the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

When Mifsud learned that Papadopoulos was working for the Trump campaign, both men agreed to try and arrange a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Mifsud put Papadopoulos in touch with Ivan Timofeev, a senior Russian academic believed to have close ties to Putin.

Papadopoulos then told Trump and his senior aides in the campaign that he had the contacts to set up a meeting between the then-candidate and Putin.

One of those aides was Jeff Sessions, the current attorney general. Sessions at the time was running the campaign's foreign policy team.

The Times report, if accurate, debunks a claim made by the Trump administration and its supporters who say the FBI probe and the investigation by Special Counsel Robert Mueller (right) were ignited by a dossier compiled by former British spy Christopher Steele (left)

Initially, Sessions said he did not remember the meeting with Papadopoulos and the other aides.

But he subsequently told Congress that he did not agree to have someone as inexperienced as Papadopoulos at the helm of a sensitive issue like relations with Russia.

While Trump's allies said Papadopoulos had a minor role, documents show that he continued to exert influence over the course of the campaign.

He is now a focus of Mueller's investigation into whether the Trump campaign colluded with Russia.

Mueller's office unsealed a guilty plea that Papadopoulos admitted lying to the FBI about contacts that led to Moscow.
A Thai conman sentenced to more than 13,000 years in prison for fraud has had his jail time halved to 6,600 years for pleading guilty.

Pudit Kittithradilok, 34, reportedly was the mastermind behind a pyramid scheme that scammed some 40,000 people out of around 120million.

The fraudster is thought to have run seminars encouraging people to invest in fake businesses.

Thai conman Pudit Kittithradilok, 34, sentenced to more than 13,000 years in prison for fraud, has had his jail time halved to 6,600 years for pleading guilty. Kittithradilok reportedly was the mastermind behind a pyramid scheme that scammed some 40,000 people out of around 120million

Would be investors were conned into handing over their cash, which would be funelled into 'growing' property, beauty care and used car companies, the Bangkok Post reports.

Kittithradilok's victims were promised large sums in return for their investment and were encouraged to get others to join.

However, the money was handed over to previous investors while he and the organisers skimmed money from the top.

After being snared, Kittithradilok was convicted of 2,653 counts of fraud and sentenced to five years in prison for each count - totalling 13,265.

The Bangkok court then added a further ten years to his sentence for money-laundering.

But because Kittithradilok admitted his guilt the judge decided to offer him a less harsh punishment - having his sentence to just 6,637 years and six months.

The fraudster is thought to have run seminars encouraging people to invest in fake businesses. Would be investors were conned into handing over their cash, which would be funelled into 'growing' property, beauty care and used car companies

His two companies were also fined 30million, while Kittithradilok was ordered to pay 13million in compensation to his 2,653 victims with yearly interest of 7.5 per cent.

But despite the colossal sentence on paper, Kittithradilok is likely to spend no more than 20 years behind bars.

Thai law limits the penalty for each different offence to a maximum of ten years, irrespective of the number of counts.

In another similar case, another Ponzi scheme fraudster was sentenced to 154,005 years in 1989  but got out after less than eight thanks to the same Thai law.
Vice President Mike Pence's neighbors hung a rainbow-colored 'Make America Gay Again' banner next to the mansion where he is staying in Aspen.

Neighbors of the Colorado home where Pence and his wife, Karen, are staying hung the banner Wednesday or Thursday on a stone pillar that sits at the end of driveways to both homes, Pitkin County Sheriff's Deputy Michael Buglione said Friday.

Pence has notoriously supported legislation that critics say discriminates against gay people.

Vice President Mike Pence's neighbors hung a rainbow-colored 'Make America Gay Again' banner (pictured) next to the mansion where he is staying in Aspen

In an email to the Aspen Times on Friday night, Shannon Slade said she is a girlfriend of one of the daughters of the couple living in the house, and revealed that they were the ones that draped the banner (pictured) on a stone pillar that sits at the end of driveways to both homes

Authorities said Secret Service agents were not bothered by the banner and were cordial with the residents who hung it (Pictured, Mike Pence in December 2017 in Bagram, Afghanistan)

'You couldn't miss it,' Buglione told The Aspen Times of the sign off Owl Creek Road, adding that the man and woman who live in the home brought chili and corn muffins to deputies and Secret Service agents stationed at the foot of the driveway.

Pitkin County Sheriff Joe DiSalvo said one of his deputies was present when the man who lives in the home came out and draped the banner.

'He was real sheepish and thought he might be confronted by the Secret Service or deputies who'd tell him he couldn't do it,' DiSalvo told the newspaper.

'When they said: "We're not here to control your free speech rights", they came out with chili and began feeding them. They've been really nice to us.'

In an email to the Aspen Times on Friday night, Shannon Slade said she is a girlfriend of one of the daughters of the couple living in the house, and revealed that they were the ones that posted the banner.

Pence, who has often described himself as 'a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, in that order,' has a history of taking positions that place him at odds with the LGBTQ community.

Pence (pictured, March 2017) has a history of taking positions that place him at odds with the LGBTQ community, including opposing a repeal the US military's former 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy and once likening marriage equality to 'societal collapse'

Rumors swirled around that Pence was an advocate of conversion therapy but this was denied by his spokesman. President Trump has also joked that Pence 'wants to hang' all gay people, The New Yorker reported in October (Pictured, Pence, left, and Trump. December 2017)

He has previously opposed repealing the US military's former 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy and once likened marriage equality to 'societal collapse'

As Indiana governor, Pence signed into law a controversial bill that advocates said would allow businesses to discriminate against members of the LGBTQ community called the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Later, he signed an amendment to that law that protects that community.

A paragraph on Pences campaign website, when he ran for Congress in 2000, drove speculation that he is an advocate of conversion therapy, a practice of trying to change someones sexual orientation - banned in several states.

The paragraph said federal dollars should go to 'institutions which provide assistance to those seeking to change their sexual behavior.'

Pences spokesman, Mark Lotter, told The New York Times last year that the vice president does not support conversion therapy, and that his campaign statement was misinterpreted.

President Donald Trump has also joked that Pence 'wants to hang' all gay people, The New Yorker reported in October.

The Pence family, who arrived in Aspen on Tuesday for a holiday vacation, is expected to leave on Monday and head back to the Eagle County Airport.
A Birmingham police officer who was impaled on a fence during a high-speed chase ripped his own arm free before continuing with the pursuit.

Dog handler PC Dan Thomas and his German shepherd PD Gil were called to the Sutton Coldfield area of Birmingham to attend two men allegedly stealing motorbikes in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A 16-year-old was arrested at the scene but a second suspect got away, meaning PC Thomas and Gil found themselves in hot pursuit of the assailant.

PC Dan Thomas impaled his arm on a fence as he was chasing a 22-year-old man who allegedly trying to steal a motorbike. When he tried to run, PC Thomas and his dog Gil found themselves in hot pursuit (pictured with his former police dog Janus)

The German shepherd indicated that the suspect had climbed an eight-foot fence in a frantic bid to get away but after heaving Gil over the fence and jumping down, the PC Dan's jacket snagged, causing a spike to tear through his bicep.

Not allowing this to stop him in his pursuit of justice, PC Thomas ripped his arm away from the fence and carried on with the high speed chase.

Despite the massive injury- which later required surgery and 15 stitches- PC Thomas continued the pursuit with blood pouring down his arm and with Gil hot on the trail.

A 22-year-old was found hiding in a bush and arrested on suspicion of attempted vehicle theft moments before Dan collapsed due to the significant blood loss.

After lifting Gil over the fence, his jacket snagged and a spike tore through his bicep. The wound required surgery and needed 15 stitches but PC Thomas is now recovering from his injury at home (pictured) and hopes to be back on duty as soon as possible

If it hadn't been for his colleagues who were on hand within minutes to deliver vital first aid, PC Thomas could have faced an arterial bleed.

PC Thomas, who has been in the force for 16 years, said: 'I was tracking alone with Gil but the officers quickly found me and applied a tourniquet to prevent further blood loss.

He says his canine partner Gil (pictured) is, a phenomenal partner and he is very proud to work with him

'I also want to thank the paramedics and doctors at the hospital for all their brilliant work; they said I was lucky and that with such a serious wound I could have suffered a very serious arterial bleed.'

West Midlands Police Force Incident Manager, Chief Inspector Jack Hadley, described PC Thomas' actions as heroic adding that he was 'truly humbled' by his tenacity and dedication.

However, humble PC Thomas was quick to praise his crime-fighting canine partner.

He said: 'He is a phenomenal partner and I'm very proud to work with him.'

PC Thomas, who is now recovering at home, said: 'I knew Gil was onto the suspect. I could see the blood pouring down my arm but was determined we had to keep on the scent and catch him.

PC Thomas ripped his arm free of the fence before continuing with the high speed chase alone. His colleagues were on hand to deliver life-saving first aid before paramedics arrived

The crime-fighting duo caught the assailant hiding in a bush and arrested him, before the brave police officer collapsed from the blood loss

'It was a good result in the end with two in custody - and we also recovered a stolen car that we believe the offenders arrived in.

'I've read a lot of kind words of support from members of the public - it's very heart-warming and I really do appreciate all their best wishes.

'I hope to be back on duty in the near future.'

PC Thomas was runner-up in Crufts' Friends for Life Competition in 2013 having been nominated for his work with former police dog Janus in collaring hundreds of crime suspects during his career.

Dan gave his 750 prize money to Medical Detection Dogs, a charity that trains dogs to recognise the scent of cancer and medical emergencies.
The M25 cat killer is thought to have killed around 400 cats and small animals, leaving their maimed bodies in the open to 'horrify' people.

Police are looking for the killer, who has been labelled a 'psychopath', who kills the animals with a blunt object before cutting them with a sharp implement.

The killer was first given the moniker 'the Croydon cat killer' as the killings took place in the South London area in October 2015.

Yet in the past three years, animals in Surrey, Manchester, Sheffield and Birmingham are believed to have been killed by the cat killer.

Bertie, 12, was one of the Croydon Cat Killer's victims. His headless body was found in Surrey

The feline on the left lost her paw to the Croydon cat killer and five-month-old Storm (right) was found headless in Staines

The deaths have been logged by South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (Snarl), who have been helping police with their investigations.

Tony Jenkins, Snarl co-founder, said: 'We are seeing the exact same injuries, and he leaves a signature.

'If there is more than one killer, it is likely to be a joint enterprise rather than a copycat killer.

'We suspect he gets off on hanging about and watching people's reactions. We can't prove that, but we strongly suspect it is the case because of the way he is displaying the bodies.

'It is definitely an act against humans on that basis - he leaves them underneath bedroom windows whilst he hangs around to see someone find their beloved cat decapitated.'

When quizzed what the motive of the killer may be, he said: 'I think the motive is to horrify humans. Why else would you get a fox and cut its head completely off and then place the body pointing to the children's playground not 10 metres away.

'It is definitely an attack on humans, to terrify humans.'

It is understood by Snarl that the killer is a white man in his 40s, who lives in Croydon - due to his ease operating around the suburb

Mr Jenkins added that up to 400 animals, including cats, rabbits and foxes, had been beheaded, with others having their tails severed by the attacker.

The Metropolitan Police has been working with the RSPCA and Snarl.

There has been no arrests to date and no suspects have been identified. Scotland Yard said there is no evidence that there is a risk to human life.

Detective Sergeant Andy Collin, from Croydon CID, said: 'We are investigating a number of leads, and are keeping an open mind regarding suspects, while following up different lines of enquiry.

'We are now convinced the cats are being killed then mutilated - and would be really keen to hear any relevant information from members of the public who believe they can help us.'
A British woman facing jail in Dubai after witnessing a hotel brawl was forced to sign confession papers written only in Arabic or be jailed immediately, her lawyers claimed.

Asa Hutchinson, 21, from Chelmsford, Essex, could spend years behind bars over the fight between her friends and a drunk Swedish man in a hotel lobby during which he says they stole his glasses.

Her representatives said she was put under 'extreme pressure' to sign lengthy legal papers written only in Arabic when she was arrested last April.

British ex-pat Asa Hutchinson, 21, pictured on December 6 at Dubai Marina, could face Christmas in jail over a row involving a Swedish tech executive who accused them of taking selfies of him

In a statement released today, the accounts manager, said: 'I was told to sign the papers, or I would be going straight to prison.

'By this stage I was terrified. I had no choice but to sign those papers. I was so scared of prison.'

Her father Iain Hutchinson today pleaded for the complainant Bjorn Roden to 'show some compassion' to his daughter and drop the charges against her.

Asa was charged with assault and theft despite claiming not to have been in the hotel lobby when the row broke out on April 29, 2016.

Her friends fled the scene and returned home to the UK, leaving behind Asa, who has lived in Dubai for three years.

An NGO representing her, Detained in Dubai, said Asa had seen none of the selfies, but did see the boys being hit by the Swedish tech executive said to be in his 50s.

Her representatives said she was put under 'extreme pressure' to sign lengthy legal papers written only in Arabic when she was arrested last April

The man was asleep when Ms Hutchinson's friends apparently took selfies next to him. The man was angry when he woke up and was involved in a fight. Ms Hutchinson (pictured on December 6) said she was a bystander during the disagreement and was not directly involved

Ms Hutchinson, 21, from Brentwood, Essex, right, with her ex-boyfriend, Ben Hall, left, in Dubai, in November 2015. All of the other members of the group have managed to leave Dubai

The Swedish man then decided to transfer the charges to Ms Hutchinson, left, after discovering that she was still living in the UAE

'The boys managed to flee Dubai before being arrested, and so the Swede laid all the charges on Asa,' a spokesman said.

'Asa has been waiting to find out her fate ever since. The charges warrant jail under Dubai laws, despite the fact that Asa herself had done nothing illegal.

'Upon her arrest Asa was put under extreme pressure to sign lengthy legal papers written only in Arabic.'

Ms Hutchinson was arrested after a fight broke out between the businessman and some of her friends in the lobby of the Al Fattan building, Dubai, last May

Asa's father, Iain Hutchinson, said: 'Asa is a young girl in a foreign country, being subjected to a legal system not at all like what we are accustomed to.

'We understand how perturbed the complainant in this case, Mr Bjorn Roden, must have felt when the incident occurred, but Asa is innocent, and we ask him to show some compassion for our daughter and drop his complaint before she winds up in jail for something she didn't do'.

Detained in Dubai CEO Radha Stirling CEO said: 'Asa's experience echoes that of countless others.

'A conspicuously high number of cases in the UAE are concluded as a result of suspects' 'confessions' often in lieu of any other type of evidence collected through investigation.

'Suspects are put under extreme pressure to sign 'confessions' in Arabic.

'We have even seen cases where suspects were forced to sign blank documents upon which the police later wrote their 'confessions'.

'These invalid confessions carry decisive weight in trials, despite the coercion used to obtain them.

'Like Asa, any expat is terrified in such a situation. Westerners need to bear in mind that the legal system in the UAE has a long way to go before it is as modern as the skyline'.

Ms Hutchinson, pictured in Dubai on December 6, is the latest of a number of young Briton to face legal problems in Dubai and incur expensive legal bills as a result

Ms Hutchinson's legal team has asked the Swedish man to drop his prosecution - but she still faces a charge of assault and theft despite insisting she wasn't present during the alleged fight

Following the incident Dubai police questioned Asa's boyfriend Ben and others in the group after getting their names from the hotel reservations list.

The men managed to get their passports back by paying cash deposits, before flying home to the UK.

The Swedish man then made the decision to transfer the charges to Asa after learning she lives in the UAE.

Dubai law dictates that whoever makes the first complaint is the party most likely to be believed, so it may be irrelevant that the Swedish man threw the punches.

Asa's mother Lucie Harrison is pictured outside the family home in Brentwood, Essex

Taking pictures of someone without their consent and being rude to another person are both classed as Illegal in Dubai and are punishable by jail time..

Asa, who works as a key account manager for global transportation company Time & Motion, has been released on bail ahead of a trial next year.

If she is found guilty, the penalty will depends on the judge as UAE penalties are 'discretionary' rather than based on precedent.

However, her lawyers have advised that for assault and theft charges, the sentence is likely to be several months - or even years - behind bars.

Speaking on November 30, Asa said: 'I appeal to the man prosecuting to drop the charges.

'If you feel someone has wronged you, it really wasn't me.

'My friends leaving the country only affects me because this man has now decided to charge me instead.

'I really don't feel like I have done anything to deserve being charged.

'I love my life in Dubai and want to stay here. I have tried to reason with the man because I'm so worried, but it has fallen on deaf ears.

Ms Hutchinson's legal team claimed opening the case against her client was 'morally wrong'. Pictured: Asa (right) with her former boyfriend Ben Hall and his mother, Samantha

Ms Hutchinson earlier lost her job after the incident and authorities seized her passport: Pictured: Inside Dusty's Bar where Asa and her friends spent the evening before alleged fight

'He only wants to prosecute, and the guys who actually did it are not here, which has left me in the firing line.'

She added: 'Going to prison would be awful. I just couldn't bear it, I really hope it doesn't get that far.

'I want to thank everyone around the world for the messages of support I have been getting.

'I also want to tell my mum and dad, Lucie and Iain that I love them and miss them very much.'

A spokesman for the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said: 'Our staff in Dubai assisted a British woman following an incident in 2016, and are ready to provide further help if requested.'

The incident is alleged to have taken place outside Dusty's Bar and Restaurant, pictured
A grieving daughter has shared the last picture she took with her mother before she was stabbed to death on Christmas Day.

Charlotte Reat, 21, has been left devastated after her mother Jayne Toal Reat, 43, was repeatedly knifed at their home in Lisburn, Belfast in the early hours of December 25.

The dancer and her mother's boyfriend Joseph Tweedie, 50, were also attacked and suffered injuries.

Tonight Miss Reat posted a photo of her and mother on Christmas Eve with a heartbreaking tribute.

Charlotte Reat (pictured right), 21, has been left devastated after her mother Jayne Toal Reat (left), 43, was repeatedly knifed at their home in Lisburn, Belfast in the early hours of December 25. Tonight Miss Reat posted a photo of her and mother on Christmas Eve with a heartbreaking tribute

Jayne Toal Reat, pictured, was stabbed to death on the early hours of Christmas morning

Nathan Ward has been charged with the murder of Jayne Toal Reat (right) and the attempted murder of her daughter (left) and her mother's boyfriend Joseph Tweedie

She wrote on Facebook: 'This is the last picture I took with my beautiful mummy on Christmas Eve before we cuddled up on the sofa for the last time.

'Just before she gave me her last kiss her last hug and before she told me she loved me for the very last time.

'My mummy has been taken from me her life was taken from her far too soon in the most cruel way.'

She feared the image, taken on Snapchat, might have been deleted, adding: 'I have been in a panic that I'll never have this photo as it was on snapchat and I haven't got my phone but thankfully one of my best friends screenshotted it for me on Christmas morning.'

Pictured: Charlotte Reat and her father Simon Reat were both injured in the knife attack on Christmas Day

Dancer Charlotte Reat, 21, leaving the court today accompanied by father Simon Reat

Nathan Ward (pictured), 19, has been remanded in custody after appearing in court yesterday

Tweedie's son, Nathan Ward, 19, is accused of murdering Ms Reat and attempting to murder her daughter and his father.

He appeared at Craigavon Magistrates' Court in Lisburn, Co Antrim yesterday charged with one count of murder and two of attempted murder.

The teenager was remanded in custody to appear at Lisburn Magistrates' Court via video link on January 8, 2018.

Miss Reat was seen going into court with a black eye, bruising and cuts to her face. Mr Tweedie did not attend yesterday's hearing.
This is the shocking moment an abusive nursery school teacher trapped a struggling pupil under a blanket because the boy refused to nap.

She can be seen forcibly restraining the five-year-old in CCTV footage of the incident at Hongying Kindergarten in Hezhou City, China.

The school offered the child's parent's 50,000 RMB (5,693) after the boy told his parents about the trauma, which left him with recurring nightmares.

The teacher was arrested on abuse charges when the furious parents brought police officers to the nursery in the Guangxi autonomous region.

The entire punishment reportedly lasted for about two minutes as the teacher enveloped the child's face in in the blanket.

His parents say they will use the money to pay for therapy.

The teacher can be seen forcing the blanket over the boy's face because he refused to have a nap at the nursery

Another parent claimed 'many' of the pupils were suffering from nightmares and fears this wasn't an isolated incident.

The teacher is thought to have been dismissed and the nursery school's principal said in a statement: 'We will cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and will not hide from our responsibilities if found guilty.'
The funeral for an 18-year-old Dutch model who fell 14 floors to her death at an apartment complex in Kuala Lumpur was held in Netherlands on Saturday.

Ivana Smit was found dead on December 8, after falling naked from the 20th floor of a building where she had been partying with a wealthy American swinger and his wife.

Hundreds of mourners were in attendance for the service in Roemand, southeastern Netherlands to pay their last respects to the budding supermodel.

But her parents have insisted their daughter's death was not an accident and have accused the Malaysian government of being involved in a cover up.

The funeral for Ivana Smit, an 18-year-old Dutch model who fell 14 floors to her death at an apartment complex in Kuala Lumpur was held in Netherlands on Saturday. Hundreds of mourners were in attendance for the service in Roemand, southeastern Netherlands

While a DailyMail.com investigation revealed this week that the wealthy American swinger caught up in the probe is Alexander Johnson, 44, who was previously married to his childhood sweetheart Mary Ann Sgarlato, 46, for almost a decade.

Ms Sgarlato described her former husband as a straight laced homebody and said their life was 'very apple pie, very vanilla'.

But now Johnson and his second wife Luna - an Indonesian national - are at the centre of the model's mysterious death.

Ms Sgarlato said of her ex-husband: 'He was nothing but a kind, faithful and funny guy. We joked that we were like an old, married couple in our twenties. We had family barbecues, we were the family that's really into Thanksgiving. It was all very apple pie, very vanilla.

'Maybe he decided to have his party time when he got into his thirties. But when I knew him, he wouldn't have hurt a fly.'

Smit was found dead on December 8, after falling naked from the 20th floor of a building where she had been partying with a pair of wealthy American swingers

Smit, who had modelled since she was just 13, was found dead on a sixth floor balcony of the Persiaran Capsquare block in Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Dang Wangi district and was not wearing any clothes

Meanwhile, the Dutch Public Prosecution Service, working on behalf of the late model's family, have requested both Dutch and Malaysian post-mortems in order to analyse the findings.

Smit, who had modelled since she was just 13, was found dead on a sixth floor balcony of the Persiaran Capsquare block in Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Dang Wangi district and was not wearing any clothes.

The teenager, who had worked in fashion shows for Chanel and other brands, had been partying but reportedly returned to the flat at 5am with the unnamed couple.

Her body was discovered that afternoon with alcohol and drugs detected in her blood stream.

Police said there were 'no criminal elements' to the death but Ivana's devastated father, along with his wife and son, contacted Interpol to demand a full probe into the incident.

Alexander Johnson, 44, and his wife Luna (pictured together) are at the center of the mysterious death involving the Dutch model. The couple are said to be 'swingers' but Johnson's ex-wife said the American businessman used to be 'very apple pie, very vanilla'

Ivana's grandfather Fredrik Smit, who has lived in Penang, Malaysia, for more than two decades and raised Ivana as a child there, said at the time: 'We cannot believe she fell from level 20 and the body was found at level 6.

'She was found there naked. Where are her shoes and underwear?

He added: 'We believe there is a criminal element in Ivana's death. Of course we don't believe the story from the police because they can't give us photographs or a report from the scene. Ivana's father has contacted the Dutch ambassador and Interpol.'

The model's parents have insisted their daughter's death was not an accident and have cried foul against the Malaysian government, who they believe are covering up her death

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service, working on behalf of the late model's family, have requested both Dutch and Malaysian post-mortems in order to analyse the findings

Ivana's father Marcel Smit claims Ivana sent her boyfriend a message and selfie at 7.25am before she was found dead around seven hours later at around 2 or 3pm.

He told Dutch media: 'At about 10am she would have fallen from the balcony at 20 floors high. How is that possible? It is strange that she was not found until 3pm.

'She is tall, 1.81 meters, but the barrier is also 1.20 meters. Only when you bend over, do you fall off. She did not fall and did not jump either.'

The teenager, who had worked in fashion shows for Chanel and other brands, had been partying but reportedly returned to the flat at 5am with the unnamed couple. Her body was discovered that afternoon on a sixth floor balcony with alcohol and drugs found in her blood

Police said there were 'no criminal elements' to the death but Ivana's devastated father along with his wife and son contacted Interpol to demand a full probe into the incident

Marcel claims that police want to 'close the case quickly' and that neighbours heard 'shouts and an argument'.

According to Ivana's father, alcohol and ecstasy were found in the blood of his daughter.

The model's uncle Fred Agenjo said: 'Those are not drugs that you're going to sleep on.

Ivana had first moved to Malaysia 13 years ago and lived with her grandfather Fredrik. She was the second runner-up in Malaysia Supermodel Search 2014 and a leading model in the country

Smit, who had modelled since she was just 13, was found dead on a sixth floor balcony of the Persiaran Capsquare block in Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Dang Wangi district (pictured)

'There are so many questions. Her clothes have been found, but her shoes and underwear are not.

'The police do not look at her mobile phone. The police do not want to say whether the drugs were taken when they were alive. We want a full investigation.'

Ivana had first moved to Malaysia 13 years ago and lived with her grandfather Fredrik.

She was the second runner-up in Malaysia Supermodel Search 2014 and a leading model in the country.
Celebrity chef Guy Fieri's popular Times Square restaurant, Guy's American Kitchen & Bar, is closing.

As first reported by Eater New York, December 31 will be the last day to try items at the Food Network star's only New York City eatery before it shuts its doors for good.

The 500-seat restaurant, which features 'American comfort food gone wild' became infamous when New York Times restaurant critic Pete Wells skewered the eatery in an unprecedented zero-star review in November 2012, all posed as questions to Fieri.

Celebrity chef Guy Fieri's popular Times Square restaurant, Guy's American Kitchen & Bar, is closing, with its last day being December 31 (Pictured, Fieri in April 2014)

The 500-seat restaurant (pictured), which features 'American comfort food gone wild' became infamous when New York Times restaurant critic Pete Wells skewered the eatery in an unprecedented zero-star review in November 2012, all posed as questions to Fieri

The questions were sometimes comical such as: 'And when we hear the words Donkey Sauce, which part of the donkey are we supposed to think about?' was one of the questions in reference to Fieris trademarked garlicky mustard-mayo blend.

But they were also biting: 'How, for example, did Rhode Island's supremely unhealthy and awesomely good fried calamari -dressed with garlic butter and pickled hot peppers - end up in your restaurant as a plate of pale, unsalted squid rings next to a dish of sweet mayonnaise with a distant rumor of spice?

Fieiri defended himself in a Today show interview days later after the scathing review came out.

'I thought it was ridiculous. I mean, I've read reviews - there's good and there's bad in the restaurant business, but that to me went so overboard, it really seemed like there was another agenda,' the television star told Savannah Guthrie.

Guy's American Kitchen & Bar was estimated to be among the top 50 most profitable independent restaurants in the country over the last four years, according to Restaurant Business magazine.

In 2017, the publication magazine reported that the restaurant took in about $17million.

Guy's American Kitchen & Bar was estimated to be among the top 50 most profitable independent restaurants in the country over the last four years, according to Restaurant Business magazine, taking in about $17million in 2017 (Pictured, Guy Fieri, October 2016)

Social media users took to Twitter to express their sadness and amazement at the restaurant's closing, including celebrities such as Chrissy Teigen (above)

In a tweet Thursday, Wells wrote of the closing: 'I guess it's time to give up on getting those questions answered', referencing his review (above)

Fieri did not list a reason for the closing but said he was 'proud' of serving so many people and thanked his team.

'I'm proud that for over five and a half years, Guy's American in New York City served millions of happy guests from all over the world,' he said in a statement.

'And upon the restaurant's closing, I'd like to say thank you to all of the team members and guests who helped make it all happen.'

Social media users took to Twitter to express their sadness and amazement at the restaurant's closing.

'l swear on anything that I really liked this restaurant. Went as a joke, came out covered in ribs and nacho hybrids,' tweeted Chrissy Teigen.

In a tweet Thursday, Wells wrote in reference to his review: 'I guess it's time to give up on getting those questions answered.'
In a previous version of this article we suggested that Danielle Hindley, who administers plasma skin tightening treatment, was a rogue beautician and a cosmetic cowboy.

We have been asked to confirm, that Ms Hindley is a trained beautician who is legally entitled to carry out the plasma treatment described. We did not have a basis to suggest that Ms Hindley had botched treatments, as implied by the article.

The general references to cosmetic cowboys, rogue beauticians and illegal procedures do not apply to Ms Hindley and we are happy to make that clear.

We also published a photograph of a former client of Ms Hindley, which said that they had received plasma skin lightening treatment. This was an error. In fact, Ms Hindley does not administer any treatments which lighten the skin.

The reference to Ms Hindley has since been removed and this correction is being published following an upheld ruling by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We apologise to Ms Hindley for our error.

Rogue beauticians are carrying out dangerous and illegal procedures which can leave women permanently disfigured, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

Our undercover investigation follows a shocking rise in cases of botched treatments, with far more than 1,000 complaints by clients and doctors  double the number last year.

As the New Year makeover season approaches, we have discovered medically unqualified beauticians offering non-surgical nose jobs, breast enhancements and electric skin lifting  and even injecting filler chemicals behind the eyeball.

Some of the practices exposed by our reporter are illegal. Others, which risk blindness, severe blood loss and even death, are allowed because of lax UK regulations. Many of these treatments are banned elsewhere.

'You'll end up like Gordon Ramsay!' Reporter Charlotte Wace, pictured, was warned she would turn into the aging chef if she didn't consider cosmetic intervention

Reacting with horror to our findings, campaigners and leading doctors called for a clampdown on rogue practitioners and demanded drastic changes in the law.

Our investigation found:

:: A beautician conned clients by claiming to be a nurse and illegally tried to administer Botox to our 26-year-old reporter posing as a potential client, saying that she would look like Gordon Ramsay without treatment;

:: An aesthetic practitioner inflicted shocking bruises and facial lumps on women by injecting a dangerous tear trough filler beneath their eyes.

:: Campaigner group Safety in Beauty says complaints have doubled in the last year to 1,249, while accredited practitioners group Save Face reports an astonishing trebling since 2016 in botched treatments, to a total of 934 cases.

Both groups say more than 80 per cent of complaints relate to beauticians or other non-medically qualified practitioners.

Chloe Davies after having treatment with Sharon Freeman at Forever Young Aesthetics

Treatments such as non-surgical nose jobs and breast enhancements use dermal fillers which are banned for use by non-medics in the US and other countries  but not in Britain.

Leading consultant cosmetic surgeon Rajiv Grover, shown our evidence, said: Im stunned this is happening. We knew about the dangers of beauticians carrying out lip fillers, but the treatments they are now offering are seriously dangerous. Even I wouldnt feel confident carrying out some of these procedures. The medical industry will be absolutely horrified that this is going on.

Mr Grover, former President of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, (BAAPS), pointed out that if something did go wrong with the procedures, it was unlikely that the beauticians would be able to take corrective action.

He added: This is Russian roulette  it may go well a few times, but inevitably it will end in disaster. And those disasters will be life-changing injuries.

One beautician who has been the subject of complaints by several ex-clients, Magdalena Gouzd, runs Beauty Box by Maggie in Hornchurch, Essex.

Although she describes herself as a nurse, background checks by this newspaper reveal she is not registered as such in this country, and only describes herself as a beautician.

Backstreet Botox: Magdalena Gouzd, runs Beauty Box by Maggie in Hornchurch, Essex. Although she describes herself as a nurse, background checks by this newspaper reveal she is not registered as such in this country, and only describes herself as a beautician

Yet somehow she obtains prescription-only drugs such as Botox and the fat-busting solution Aqualyx  apparently sourced from her native Poland, according to former clients.

By law, Botox can only be administered after being prescribed by a doctor or qualified medical prescriber  but Ms Gouzd, 36, illegally tried to inject our reporter within minutes of her arrival, claiming it could not go wrong.

She then told the reporter, aged 26: There are so many [lines] and eventually they are going to become permanent and you are going to look like Gordon Ramsay.

She also offers non-surgical nose jobs, and butt and breast enhancements using dermal fillers  all treatments which come with serious risks. She told our reporter that a buttock enhancement (achieved by injecting vast quantities of fillers) would be safer than choosing surgical implants.

Astonishingly, this is not illegal, despite a major Government review in 2013 recommending they be banned for use by non-medics, as is the case in other countries.

Mr Grover said: These are risky things  and when you inject in the breast and buttock, you are putting in a high volume of substances. Even if there are safe products out there, how does someone who isnt qualified get hold of them? A British girl underwent buttock injections with a rogue practitioner in a hotel room in America and died.

One of Ms Gouzds clients, Mary Smith (not her real name), compared the pain she experienced during her appointment to going through childbirth without pain relief. She said one of her eyebrows fell off after treatment for microblading and one of her lips was left with a hard lump of filler on one side.

Another rogue beautician is Sharon Freeman, 44, of Forever Young Aesthetics, in Birkenhead, Merseyside, who is said to have disfigured two women by carrying out tear trough fillers  both of whom spoke to The Mail on Sunday.

She used a substance called Juvederm Ultra 4, which according to manufacturer Allergan, is not suitable for use on the delicate skin near the eyes, and says so on the product labelling. It is designed for reconstructing larger areas such as cheekbones and the jaw.

Allergan added that the treatment, should only be done by a trained and qualified healthcare professional in an appropriate clinical environment.

Alarmingly, when former client Roxanne McGenity, 31, went for corrective treatment with a consultant, the filler was found at the back of her eyeball  and she said the doctor told her she was lucky not to have gone blind. She used me as Frankensteins monster  she literally butchered me, said Ms McGenity. My face felt like I had sinusitis  the fillers had been moving around in my eye area. My doctor said I was lucky not to get an infection or go blind.

She added: I couldnt even look at myself in the mirror  I cried every day. I had to have the filler dissolved  because she even injected behind my eye socket.

Ms Freeman is also alleged to have carried out Botox injections illegally  clients told us they were given Botox without a consultation with a registered prescriber beforehand, and she advertises Botox treatments on her Facebook page, charging 90 for one area, 180 for two.

Chloe Davies, 32, was treated with facial and lip fillers in her own home by Ms Freeman earlier this year, paying 370. Chloe said: I went into hiding, and spent as long as I could off work. My eyes were really painful. Whenever I looked up, my eyeballs would start to throb.

Another client said Ms Freeman offered to rectify botched fillers using a draining process  however the correct way to solve the problem is to dissolve the fillers.

Ms Freeman told The Mail on Sunday: I have nothing to say to you, and slammed the door of her home. Ms Gouzd is understood to deny any wrongdoing.

For further information and to find a safe reputable practitioner go to Saveface.co.uk
A man who spent more than two years in jail for a rape he did not commit had his conviction quashed after a relative took only a minute to uncover a series of bombshell Facebook messages  missed by police  that proved his innocence.

In the latest rape case to highlight failings in the criminal justice system, The Mail on Sunday can reveal that the jury at Danny Kays 2013 trial was only shown doctored transcripts of crucial Facebook chats between Mr Kay and his accuser.

In an exclusive interview with the MoS, Mr Kay said archived versions of the original messages  proving he had consensual sex with his accuser  were found by his sister-in-law, Sarah Maddison. When she showed the Facebook exchange to the officer in charge of the investigation, he said: How did you know how to find the messages and we didnt?

Danny Kay, 26, spent more than two years in jail for a rape he did not commit had his conviction quashed after a relative took only a minute to uncover a series of bombshell Facebook messages  missed by police  that proved his innocence (pictured with sister-in-law Sarah Maddison)

By then, Mr Kay had spent three months in jail. It would be another three years before his conviction was overturned. The Appeal Court heard earlier this month that police relied on an edited and misleading account of the Facebook conversation that was given to them by the complainant in the weeks after she claimed she was raped by Mr Kay.

Earlier his month, The Mail on Sunday reported that a rape case against student Liam Allan collapsed after it was revealed that police had withheld vital phone messages from his accuser.

Mr Kay, 26, said: Even now, with the conviction quashed, I still cant believe that it took years of pain and stress for this nightmare to end. And the terrifying thought is that if the police and justice system could fail me like this, it could happen to anyone.

Why didnt the police check my Facebook account when they had my laptop and login details right from the start? Why did it take my sister-in-law to find the evidence? This isnt some small matter, this is my life and for the police not to do those basic checks is horrendous.

Mr Kay said he owed his liberty to a chance conversation with a fellow inmate, who convinced him the Facebook messages he thought were lost were recoverable.

Mr Kay asked Ms Maddison to log in to his account. I couldnt believe how easy it was to find the messages, she said. Ive just worked in admin all my life and am no social media expert. It only took me a minute to find them so how trained police couldnt is beyond me.

Earlier his month, The Mail on Sunday reported that a rape case against student Liam Allan collapsed after it was revealed that police had withheld vital phone messages from his accuser

While he waited for his appeal, Mr Kay remained locked up with sex offenders. He was also made to see a psychiatrist because he was judged to be in denial because of his protestations of innocence.

At his trial at Derby Crown Court, Mr Kays accuser said there had been little contact between them after sex. The jury was given a misleading impression of a message reading sorry, which was construed as being about the alleged rape. In fact, it was a response to the woman asking him why he was ignoring her. Also omitted from the version presented to the jury was her response: Dnt [sic] be.

Another message suggested Mr Kay had lied about his age during their first Facebook conversation. He asks the girl how old she is, to which she replies: Nearly 17. He then asks if shes single and she replies yep.He says: Same here. Yet in the messages shown to the jury, it appears his reply Same here is a response to her revealing her age.

In an exclusive interview with the MoS, Mr Kay said archived versions of the original messages  proving he had consensual sex with his accuser  were found by his sister-in-law, Sarah Maddison

More damning are the numerous messages sent after the alleged rape that were deleted by his accuser. In one, Mr Kay asks for her number because hed lost it. Not only does she readily supply it, she accompanies it with four kisses.

The accuser says: im still here for ya! And in a separate message, after the pair had split up, she says: I thought u woulda at least tried to get me back.

When the new messages were shown to the Appeal Court, the judges ruled that the exchange undermined the womans account and supported Mr Kays version.

Mr Kays case has prompted calls for a national review of all rape investigations and comes after two trials in London collapsed when it emerged that police had failed to disclose crucial evidence that pointed to the defendants innocence.

When she showed the Facebook exchange to the officer in charge of the investigation, he said: How did you know how to find the messages and we didnt?

Mr Kay, from Derby, was training to be a welder when he met his accuser in 2012. They had friends in common and initially had a conversation on Facebook. It began, innocuously enough, with Mr Kay sending a single-word message  Hey  along with two kisses on February 1. Yet it set in motion a sequence of events that almost ruined his life. Mr Kay said: She was very pretty and I really felt there was a connection there.

The pair met in the Derby area and went for a walk. Two weeks later, they met again, this time at Mr Kays house, where they watched a film and later had sex. He characterises the relationship as a casual fling, which petered out almost as soon as it began. She initially mentioned calling it a day because she was getting some messages off an ex-partner of mine and she didnt want the hassle, Mr Kay said. I agreed and she came back with the message about me at least fighting for her. He adds: At the time we had sex, she seemed perfectly happy. By March 23, they had ceased communicating.

It was six months before his accuser filed a complaint to the police. In September, as he arrived back from a holiday in Spain with his new girlfriend and her family, Mr Kay was arrested at East Midlands airport. He said: It was mortifying being taken away by the police right in front of my girlfriend and her family. At first, I thought there was a problem with something in my luggage but then he said I was being arrested on suspicion of rape.

For 26 hours, Mr Kay was held in custody and interrogated by officers. He refuted the rape allegations in the strongest terms.

The series of Facebook messages that proved Mr Kay was innocent, found by his sister-in-law

From the outset, he insisted Facebook messages would demonstrate his innocence. He remained calm, believing common sense would prevail. Instead, he was charged and released on bail.

I had complete trust in the legal system at the time so thought I had nothing to worry about, said Mr Kay. For the next year, buoyed by friends and family, he was convinced his innocence would be established in court. When the week-long trial began, the prosecution presented Facebook messages to the jury as evidence of Mr Kays guilt. My jaw dropped. I said to the prosecutor that there were other messages, that the conversations werent complete, he said. But he got angrier and louder and kept saying, I put it to you that you raped this girl and now youre lying to this court. 

The Mail on Sunday has seen a witness statement from the officer leading the investigation, saying the messages were obtained by asking the accuser to log in to Facebook and print them off. I made sure that no messages were missed, he said. At no point did the officer cross-reference the accusers version of the conversation with Mr Kays archived messages.

Mr Kay said: Everything fell apart when I was found guilty. In that moment, I lost all faith in the system, and all hope. He spent his first few months at HMP Whatton in Nottinghamshire, Europes largest prison for adult male sex offenders.

Hearing some of the things people have been in for is pretty sick. Some of them are proud of being paedophiles and rapists, he said.

Looking back, I kick myself for trusting a system that betrayed me. Id just like to know why it all happened. Why she lied. Why the police didnt investigate properly. Theyve just taken her word for it. She might as well have written it on a piece of toilet paper and said, Theres the conversation between us. 

Mr Kays barrister Philip Rule, said: This is an important victory for justice. This is the tip of an iceberg of failings brought about by chronic and long-term under-resourcing of the criminal justice system.

Derbyshire Police said: We will be reviewing our investigation to find out whether lessons can be learned.
A man has been injured in a 'paramilitary-style shooting' in west Belfast, police said.

The 29-year-old man was shot in both knees and an ankle in the Cavendish Street area on Saturday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said.

He is the second man to be shot in a similar way in the city in the last week.

The 29-year-old man was shot in both knees and an ankle in the Cavendish Street area on Saturday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said

A PSNI spokesman said: 'Police are currently at the scene of a paramilitary-style shooting in the Cavendish Street area of west Belfast.

'A report was received at around 7.45pm that a 29-year-old man was shot in both knees and his right ankle.

'He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.'

On December 23, an 18-year-old man was left with what police said were 'potentially life-changing injuries' when he was shot twice in the leg in the Pembroke Loop area of Dunmurry in the city's south west.
When the country at the heart of Asia's brutal wildlife trade promised to shut down its tiger farms, Prince William and conservationists worldwide hailed it as a watershed moment in the battle to save the species.

The Prince personally congratulated officials from Laos on their landmark decision to abolish the money-spinning farms where tigers are bred in pitiful conditions to be slaughtered to feed Chinese buyers' hunger for their bones, meat, claws and skins.

But more than a year after the announcement, a Mail on Sunday investigation inside Laos has found the tiger farms flourishing and the trade in tiger parts used as medicines and potency treatments booming, with one expert describing it as 'out of control'.

This comes despite millions of pounds in aid from countries including Britain to tackle the country's criminal syndicates which fuel poaching and are pushing the world's remaining 3,900 wild tigers towards extinction.

When the country at the heart of Asia's brutal wildlife trade promised to shut down its tiger farms, Prince William and conservationists worldwide hailed it as a watershed moment in the battle to save the species

We visited the secretive communist country which has become a global hub for wildlife smuggling because of its porous borders with China and found:

Farms continuing to breed big cats for slaughter, with one farm more than doubling its tiger population since the ban was announced;

A lawless gambling resort nicknamed 'Sin City', close to the border with China, where Chinese tourists can feast on tiger meat and tiger bone wine and buy live tigers, later to be butchered, for 340,000;

A five-star hotel in the centre of the capital Vientiane selling tiger bone wine, ivory and bear bile under the noses of government officials and visiting foreign dignitaries;

A notorious tiger trafficker known as the Pablo Escobar of the wildlife trade living freely in Laos despite a US$1 million (740,000) reward for his arrest.

Exclusive drone footage provided to The Mail on Sunday, meanwhile, shows a new farm opened since the ban in mountainous countryside near the Vietnamese border, with pens for more than 100 tigers.

Shockingly, campaigners say not a single arrest has been made for wildlife smuggling in Laos in recent years, despite millions of pounds in foreign aid spent training rangers and supporting investigations to identify syndicate kingpins.

'The rangers just take bribes from smugglers while officials take bigger bribes to allow the farms to keep operating,' a foreign wildlife crime expert in Laos explained.

Laos has become a lucrative hub for the wildlife trade, with an estimated 700 tigers in farms and hundreds more illegally brought in from Thailand and other countries to be slaughtered and smuggled to China, the world's biggest illegal wildlife consumer market.

Chinese people have for centuries clung to superstitious beliefs that products made from tiger bone and parts make you stronger and act as an aphrodisiac and health tonic.

The country's booming newly rich middle classes are dramatically driving up demand for tiger products.

Under international pressure, Laos announced in September 2016 it would shut tiger farms, and two months later Prince William took the unusual step of congratulating officials from the country in front of delegates at a wildlife conference in Vietnam.

But more than a year after the announcement, a Mail on Sunday investigation inside Laos has found the tiger farms (pictured) flourishing and the trade in tiger parts used as medicines and potency treatments booming, with one expert describing it as 'out of control'

But far from that proving a watershed moment in the fight against the illegal trade, our investigation showed that the regime has reneged on its promise and allowed the tiger trade to continue to flourish.

Less than two hours' drive from Vientiane, we found two of Laos's biggest tiger farms operating as normal, except with canvas sheeting covering their business signs as a token gesture to the supposed crackdown.

Villagers confirmed that business was carrying on as usual inside the farms. 'There are more tigers in there than ever before  we hear their roars at night,' said a tea stall holder working 200 yards from the Soukvannaseng tiger farm in Bolikhamxay district.

Figures given to international inspectors in July by the Laos government indicate that the number of tigers held in this farm has more than doubled from 102 to 235 since the ban.

Security guards aggressively turned us away from the entrance to the two farms, with one woman guard threatening to have us arrested.

In nearby Houysiet village, we tracked down the home of trafficker Vixay Keosavang, whose syndicate is suspected of exporting thousands of tigers from Laos to China and Vietnam, along with rhino horn and ivory.

The US government offered a US$1 million bounty in 2013 for information leading to the smashing of his syndicate but Keosavang  known as the Pablo Escobar of the wildlife trade, after the notorious Colombian drug lord  remains at liberty.

Neighbours told us he drives a 4x4 and divides his time between opulent homes in the village and Vientiane. 'He is very rich and powerful and everyone here respects him,' said one.

The investigation also found a lawless gambling resort nicknamed 'Sin City' (pictured), close to the border with China, where Chinese tourists can feast on tiger meat and tiger bone wine and buy live tigers, later to be butchered, for 340,000

The voracious demand for tiger parts is driven in part by middle-class tourists from China who flock to a seedy Chinese-run casino resort in the heart of the lawless Golden Triangle in northern Laos.

In the 11 square mile resort leased from the Laos government by the shadowy Hong Kong-registered Kings Roman company, street signs are in Mandarin and only Chinese or Thai money is accepted.

Within the so-called special economic zone, 25 tigers and 28 bears are kept in cages in a 'zoo' where wildlife investigators say Chinese visitors can buy a tiger for 340,000 or a moon bear for 19,500.

Tiger teeth, rhino horn, ivory, elephant skin and tiger bone wine are openly sold in shops inside the casino where VIP customers from China are ferried from their hotels in Rolls-Royces and Ferraris.

An hour's flight away in Vientiane, illegal wildlife products are widely available, including at a lobby shop at the Don Chan Palace, a five-star Chinese hotel a few hundred yards from the country's Presidential Palace.

Tiger teeth, rhino horn, ivory, elephant skin and tiger bone wine (pictured) are openly sold in shops inside the casino where VIP customers from China are ferried from their hotels in Rolls-Royces and Ferraris

One day ahead of a visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping in November, we found bottles of tiger bone wine on sale for 185 and ivory bracelets for 45 in the hotel shop.

International donors have set up a fund to pay for an audit of tiger farms in Laos as a first step towards closing them, but the Laos government blocked the audit and it now appears doomed.

An official from an overseas conservation group told us: 'I cannot imagine it happening as we have not even been allowed in to do preliminary inspection to plan for a full audit.'

Debbie Banks, head of the Environmental Investigation Agency's Tiger Campaign, which obtained the drone footage of the new tiger farm, said: 'The Laos government is just stalling.

The funding is available and they haven't moved on it. There is no political will from the highest level. Despite all the investment and training in Laos, there haven't been any significant prosecutions.'

Wildlife investigator and author Julian Rademeyer, who exposed Keosavang's criminal network, said the illegal wildlife trade in Laos was flourishing because it is a low-risk, extremely high-return business.

Prince William (pictured) personally congratulated officials from Laos on their landmark decision to abolish the money-spinning farms where tigers are bred in pitiful conditions to be slaughtered to feed Chinese buyers' hunger for their bones, meat, claws and skins. A spokesman for him refused to comment on the Mail on Sunday findings

'Laos has the ideal climate for these kinds of syndicates to fester and grow and entrench themselves, aided and abetted by official corruption.

'Vixay Keosavang is a man with senior government connections and he cultivated those relationships over many years and this clearly paid off.'

Britain's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has awarded a 302,193 grant to fund an NGO-led investigation into the trafficking and selling of tigers in Laos and a further 288,000 to gather intelligence on other forms of wildlife smuggling.

A senior British diplomatic source in Vientiane said the UK government would continue to work with the Laos government to try to tackle the tiger trade, although he conceded that progress had been slow.

'Wildlife trading is a 17 billion industry and it isn't going to go away any time soon but we are doing our utmost to work with the Laos government,' the source said.

Heather Sohl, chief adviser for wildlife with the World Wildlife Fund UK, said tiger farms in Laos 'urgently need to be closed'.

'Poaching is one of the greatest threats faced by tigers,' she said. 'Having tiger products from farms in the marketplace makes enforcement of those who trade in tigers poached from the wild all the more difficult,' she said.

'Laos has a chance to send a strong message to the world that trading in tigers is simply not acceptable. Tiger farms are a major part of the problem and should be closed wherever they exist.'

A spokeswoman for Prince William declined to comment on the findings of The Mail on Sunday's investigation.

The Laos government did not respond to requests for a comment.
As Selwa Hussain prepares to welcome in the New Year, she knows she is a very fortunate  and unique  woman.

The 39-year-old mother of two has recently undergone a life-saving operation so radical that she now, in effect, carries her heart around in a rucksack.

The operation is so unusual that there is no one else in Britain in the same situation. Inside Selwas 15lb backpack are batteries, an electric motor and a pump that pushes air through tubes to power plastic chambers in her chest which push blood around her body.

Selwa Hussain, a 39-year-old mother-of-two has recently undergone a life-saving operation so radical that she now, in effect, carries her heart around in a rucksack. She is the second person to go home with an artificial heart

Selwas astonishing story began six months ago when, feeling terribly breathless, she dragged herself to the car and drove 200 yards down the road to see her family doctor in Clayhall, Essex.

From there she was sent to her local hospital where she was told she was suffering from severe heart failure.

Four days later, she was in the world-famous Harefield Hospital  rushed there by ambulance, as cardiologists battled to keep her alive.

How the incredible device works: The two large plastic tubes connected to the backpack enter her body through her tummy button and travel up to her chest. They then fill two balloons inside her chest cavity with air, which work like the chambers of a real heart to push blood round her body

Selwa was too ill to stay alive on a support pump to help her failing heart  and too ill to be given a heart transplant. So with her life ebbing away, her husband Al (pictured with his wife) agreed to his her being given an artificial heart

Selwas diseased natural heart was removed by surgeons and replaced with an artificial implant and the specialist unit on her back. Selwas backpack contains two sets of batteries to power the motor and she has a second unit on standby in another backpack should the first fail

She was too ill to stay alive on a support pump to help her failing heart  and too ill to be given a heart transplant. So with her life ebbing away, her husband Al agreed to his wife being given an artificial heart.

Selwas diseased natural heart was removed by surgeons and replaced with an artificial implant and the specialist unit on her back. Selwas backpack contains two sets of batteries to power the motor and she has a second unit on standby in another backpack should the first fail.

Sixth months ago Selwa was told she had severe heart failure and four days later she was rushed to the world famous Harefields Hospital

Al, or another carer, must be with her constantly and, if disaster strikes, they have 90 seconds to connect her to the back-up machine.

Selwa has had months to get used to being kept alive by her heart in a bag.

It drives blood round her body at 138 beats per minute in a rhythm which causes her chest to vibrate. There is a constant pumping and whirring noise from the motor in the backpack that she wears when she goes out or leaves on the floor when at home.

The two large plastic tubes connected to the backpack enter her body through her tummy button and travel up to her chest. They then fill two balloons inside her chest cavity with air, which work like the chambers of a real heart to push blood round her body.

Selwa, mother to a boy aged five and an 18-month-old girl, said: I was so ill before and after the surgery that it has taken me all this time to get fit enough to come home.

Experts who examined Selwas failed heart concluded that she had a condition called cardiomyopathy that can, in very rare cases, be triggered by pregnancy.

When Selwa first complained of chest pains at the start of the year, GPs mistakenly thought she was suffering from a digestive illness.

The 86,000 artificial heart  made by an American company  was fitted during a six-hour operation performed by surgeon Diana Garcia Saez, and assisted by Harefields head of transplantation surgery, Mr Andre Simon. Harefield is the only UK centre using the device.

Al, or another carer, must be with her constantly and, if disaster strikes, they have 90 seconds to connect her to the back-up machine

Mr Simon said: The operation went very well and Selwas recovery has been excellent. Only one other person in Britain has gone home with an artificial heart. It followed surgery at Papworth Hospital, Cambridgeshire, in 2011.

After a two-year wait, the 50-year-old man had a successful heart transplant and is still alive today. The hope is that Selwa will also get a transplant.

She said: Harefield have been absolutely magnificent. They came up with a solution that allowed me to stay alive to see the New Year in with my family. For that I am eternally grateful.
New York police have launched a hate crimes investigation after a Muslim woman wearing a hijab was allegedly attacked in a downtown Brooklyn restaurant, it was announced on Friday.

Souad Kirama, a 51-year-old Muslim community activist, said the incident took place at a Panera Bread just a few hundred feet away from the Brooklyn Bridge on Tuesday evening.

While she was having coffee with a colleague when at around 5:15pm she noticed a group of girls sitting nearby and behaving rowdily.

'All I did was ask them to be quiet and they started attacking me and punching me in my back,' said in a tearful Facebook Live video which she posted just half-an-hour after the alleged attack on Tuesday.

WARNING: VIDEO CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE

Souad Kirama, a 51-year-old Muslim community activist, claims she was attacked by a group of girls while having coffee with a colleague in downtown Brooklyn on Tuesday

'All I did was ask them to be quiet and they started attacking me and punching me in my back,' said in a tearful Facebook Live video which she posted just half-an-hour after the alleged attack on Tuesday

She said she was told to go back to her country. The girls then called her a 'terrorist' and spat on her.

Kirama said that witnesses nearby did not do anything to help.

'People were just standing there watching me being beaten up and being called a "f---ing terrorist",' she said.

'They were just having their coffee like nothing was happening.

'Never in my life have I seen this kind of violence and aggressiveness,' Kirama said.

The Facebook Live video shows police officers at the location.

'I made sure to report it as a hate crime,' Kirama, 51, said. 'We cannot accept this.'

The Facebook Live video shows police officers at the location - a Panera Bread restaurant on Adams Street in downtown Brooklyn

An employee at the Panera Bread location told the New York Daily News that the attack was 'pretty quick'.

Kirama told police that the girls also hit her around the head. Police said her injuries were minor and that she did not need to be hospitalized.

The attack was denounced by the New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).

'It is intolerable to see so many New Yorkers do nothing in the face of this sort of hatred,' CAIR-NY Legal Director Albert Fox Cahn.

'At this moment, when Muslim New Yorkers are enduring a historic surge in hate crimes, we must all stand up when we see our neighbors being attacked.'

CAIR did praise the NYPD for treating the incident as a hate crime.
A devout Muslim woman stopped wearing the hijab after an ISIS terrorist shot dead her husband in an horrific attack outside a Starbucks cafe in Jakarta.

Dewi Mustika became a widow in January 2016 when her Canadian-Algerian husband Taher Amir Oali was on the way to the American chain cafe for a business meeting.

After an ISIS-inspired suicide bomber blew up the cafe, he stood among a crowd of people outside watching the black smoke when another terrorist shot him dead.

Dewi Mustika stopped wearing the hijab after a terrorist killed her husband Taher Amir Oali

In the months after that tragedy, Dewi dedicated her time to fitting hearing aids to poor Indonesians to honour her dead husband's work with the needy.

During her grieving, she also decided to remove her hijab, which she had worn permanently since 2015, out of anger with the terrorists using Islam as the basis for their murderous attack.

'I realised that wearing the hijab doesn't make you a good person,' she told the Sunday Telegraph.

'Praying five times a day doesn't necessarily make you a good person. You are a good person because of your actions.'

Dewi Mustika no longer wears the hijab and is dating an Australian carpenter Ralf Eggebrett

Her friends also urged to find another man and convinced her to meet an acquaintance of theirs in Australia.

That's when she communicated several times a day on WhatsApp with 47-year-old carpenter Ralf Eggebrett, who moved to Australia from Germany in 2000 before settling at Port Headland, in Western Australia's remote Pilbara region.

Dewi's family is happy she's found love with a man who isn't a Muslim.

'He is a kind man, a caring man,' she said. 'I love him.'

He has visited her in Indonesia while she has met him in Western Australia.
A Dad's Army of unpaid border guards is set to be Britains first line of defence against terrorists, people smugglers and organised crime gangs at hundreds of vulnerable air and sea ports.

The Special Volunteer Force will police isolated marinas, harbours and airfields but astonishingly, according to union officials opposed to the scheme, they will have no powers to interrogate or arrest suspects.

Described by critics last night as risky and farcical, the move follows a series of damning official reports warning that marinas and small airports, where there are no rigorous border checks, could allow illegal immigrants, terrorists and criminals to sneak into Britain undetected.

A 100,000 haul of smuggled arms - at small Kent marina: Armed officers from the National Crime Agency arrest a gang smuggling weapons in a marina in the Kent village of Cuxton in 2015

The Mail on Sunday has discovered that, in a trial run, around 50 volunteers  who will report to the full-time Border Force  will patrol Englands East Coast with plans for the scheme to be expanded later to cover Britains 7,000 miles of coastline.

It is understood volunteers will also be used to man border checks at airfields used by light aircraft flying to and from Europe.

Last year David Anderson, the Governments former adviser on terrorism law, warned that Britains small ports and harbours could be used by Islamic fanatics trying to sneak back to the UK from Syria and Iraq.

A separate report published in July by David Bolt, the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration, raised fears that sleepy ports and harbours, where checks are virtually non-existent, could be exploited by illegal immigrants and crime gangs smuggling weapons and drugs. Last night, Yvette Cooper, Chairman of the influential Home Affairs Select Committee, said it was wrong to use volunteers in the place of fully-trained staff.

As well as keeping an eye on small harbours, the volunteer force may also help out at larger docks, such as Immingham, above, on the Humber Estuary, which handles 25 per cent of Britains international freight

She said: Filling the gaps with volunteers because of budget and staffing cuts raises very serious questions about border security and the Home Office commitment to this important public service. We will be calling for evidence on this proposal as part of our inquiry [into post-Brexit border security].

Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, whose constituency covers one of Britains largest ports, urged caution with the scheme, telling The Mail on Sunday: We cant have a Dads Army-type of set-up.

Tory MP David Davies defended the plans, saying: We already use volunteers in the fire service, in the military and in the police. There is a role for people who want to volunteer.'

Last night the Home Office confirmed that it is consulting with police about how best to deploy the volunteers. A spokesman said: Border Force is currently considering the potential benefits of a Border Force Special Volunteer Force and is in discussion with other law enforcement agencies such as local police to understand how they use volunteers in addition to their existing workforce.

The Home Office refused to give any details on how the volunteers would be vetted and what training they would get.

But the PCS union  which represents many among Border Forces 8,000 staff  said the pilot scheme is likely to be rolled out in 2018.

The volunteers will be part of mobile units that would cover several ports and harbours.

A senior union official said if the volunteers see or hear anything suspicious, then they will have to call in properly trained Border Force officers who have arrest and investigative powers. He said: These volunteers will be like eyes and ears, but nothing else. This is trying to police the borders on the cheap.

Terrorism experts fear there are around 300 British fanatics who fled Syria and Iraq as Islamic State was defeated by Coalition-led forces. Many of them are trying to return to the UK undetected, so they can launch terrorist attacks, police chiefs have warned.

In his report, Mr Anderson highlighted how jihadis could use the sleepy ports and harbours of England. He said: It is conceivable that they [small ports] might be an option for returning foreign fighters or other terrorists, as they appear to be for the migrants who are sometimes reported to be using them, or seeking to use them, in order to get into the country.

Last night, Charlie Elphicke, the Tory MP for Dover, said: Small ports and airfields are a known security weakness in our border security. So its important to ensure that security is stepped up, particularly to stop illegal immigrants and returning ISIS fighters.

Border security is a skilled job, which takes many years of training. I would urge great caution before seeking to adopt a model like that used by the police, with special constables. We cant have a Dads Army-type of set-up.

The PCS said the Home Office wants volunteers to police the small ports as it does not have full-time officers to do the job.

Latest Home Office figures show that over 400 Border Force officers were laid off between 2015 to 2016 as part of budget cuts.

Small ports and harbours have been used to smuggle drugs and weapons by crime gangs.

In 2015, the National Crime Agency (NCA) arrested a gang who smuggled 100,000 of weapons into Cuxton marina in Rochester, Kent, in a cruiser. The automatic guns were made by the same firm that made the weapons used in the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris.

They included 22 assault rifles, nine sub-machine guns, and 1,500 rounds of ammunition.

Concern has been growing that people traffickers avoiding heightened security checks around the Channel Tunnel and major ports are also turning to small marinas where there is an absence of rigorous checks.

Two men, including a former judo champion, were jailed for two years after smuggling 18 Albanians migrants, including two children, into Eastbourne marina in 2014. In May last year, 17 Albanian illegal immigrants were caught at Chichester harbour in West Sussex, having arrived on a catamaran from France. Bolts damning report said that 27 small ports, harbours and marinas had not been policed by Border Force officers at all for over 15 months.

The report said: Coverage of smaller ports, harbours and marinas was poor. The numbers of clandestine arrivals identified by Border Force at East Coast ports had indeed increased.

There is no visible deterrent to anyone prepared to use these spots to land migrants and contraband.

Last year, the NCA wrote an assessment, which also said there was no border control at small marinas around the UK coast.

Mary Glindon, the Labour MP for North Tyneside, said: This is farcical. What message does it send to the world about our border security if volunteers are doing it?

Mark Serwotka, General Secretary of the PCS, said: We are concerned with Home Office plans to bring in untrained volunteers to undertake Border Force roles.

They [Government] are making our borders weaker with the use of casual labour and they are risking this countrys security on the cheap.

Last night, the Home Office defended its proposal to use volunteers. A spokesman said: Were we to introduce Border Force volunteers, they would be used to bolster Border Force staffing levels. Volunteers have already proved successful in policing.
Major John Chetty's conduct was found to be 'wholly inappropriate'

An Army officer condemned in a report into the bullying of a paratrooper who lost his legs and an arm in a blast has been included in the New Year Honours.

Major John Chetty, 51, was censured by a Service Complaint Panel in 2014 over the abuse of Corporal Tom Neathway, 34, who was injured by a Taliban bomb in Afghanistan in 2008.

The panel found he made a serious error of judgment in handling Cpl Neathways complaint and behaved in a wholly inappropriate way towards witnesses in the case.

He also gave the wounded soldier a sickening ultimatum: either drop your bullying claim or be kicked out of your disabled accommodation.

This move led to Cpl Neathway having to crawl 300ft along a corridor in order to take a shower.

Yet just three years after the details of the bullying scandal were exposed, the disgraced officer has been made a Member of the British Empire (MBE).

The Mail on Sunday understands Cpl Neathway feels sickened by the award. But last night he declined to comment publicly because he wants to put the abuse he suffered behind him.

However, a fellow Para said: Many people in the Army will be horrified. What message does giving Major Chetty an MBE send out about the Armys attitude to tackling bullying?

Cpl Neathway, from Crowle, Worcestershire, battled back from his injuries to train new recruits at a parachute training school at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, where Major Chetty was the Officer Commanding. When he complained to Major Chetty in 2011 about his mistreatment by Regimental Sergeant Major Alistair Hutcheson, Major Chetty dismissed Cpl Neathways claim as vexatious and told top brass there was no case to answer.

In fact, and as the complaint panel later found, RSM Hutcheson was bullying Cpl Neathway and even mocked him for being disabled, saying: Youre not much of a paratrooper any more.

Corporal Neathway was injured by a Taliban bomb while he was serving for the Army in Afghanistan

Eventually the panel concluded in 2014: Major Chetty was, in our view, clearly partisan. We have concluded his conduct was wholly inappropriate.

We recommend Major Chettys chain of command consider taking such administrative [disciplinary] action as they decide is warranted.

The Ministry of Defence later said it would appoint an officer unconnected with the case to investigate the recommendations. But it has never disclosed what, if any, disciplinary action was taken.

After the bullying scandal Major Chetty left the parachute training school and was made a company commander in the Parachute Regiments 3rd Battalion (3 PARA). Last night, the MoD refused to say what he had done to merit an MBE.
A nursery school teacher who feared she would never have children is celebrating this New Year  after giving birth thanks to the last of 14 frozen eggs.

Jenny Redout had them frozen six years ago before undergoing chemotherapy which doctors had warned might make her infertile.

Last Christmas, after getting married and trying without success to have a baby, she and husband Steve decided to have all the eggs thawed and fertilised.

Nursery school teacher Jenny Redout who feared she would never have children is celebrating this New Year  after giving birth thanks to the last of 14 frozen eggs. Last Christmas, after getting married and trying without success to have a baby, she and husband Steve decided to have all the eggs thawed and fertilised

Only five made it to embryo stage. Then four died before being ready for transplant, leaving just one.

But tonight Jenny and Steve will be seeing the New Year in with a beautiful baby named Bonnie.

Yesterday Jenny, 39, from Weymouth, Dorset, recalled the nerve-racking days she and Steve spent at Midland Fertility centre in Tamworth waiting to see if the embryos would develop well enough to be implanted into her womb.

She said: Every day one dropped away, so that by the Friday we were left with only one.

The next day, a Saturday, should have been the day the embryo was implanted. But the embryologist said it wasnt looking very good.

Dismayed, the couple went to a German Christmas market in Birmingham to kill time.

She said: I dont drink but even I had a mulled wine and a Pimms. We thought, Its never going to work  lets blow it.

We were staying in a Travelodge and packed that night so we could leave early. But the next morning the clinic called and said, Come in, the embryos getting itself together.

Only five made it to embryo stage. Then four died before being ready for transplant, leaving just one. But tonight Jenny and Steve will be seeing the New Year in with a beautiful baby named Bonnie

Dr Gillian Lockwood, medical director of Midland Fertility, who had helped freeze Jennys eggs, said: It was my privilege to transfer this infinitesimally tiny dollop of protoplasm  so small its invisible to the naked eye, about the same size as the point of a pin. And it worked.

She said it was entirely normal to start with a good harvest of eggs and end up with only a small number of viable embryos  a situation that can leave couples on tenterhooks.

In August doctors decided to induce Jenny due to her medical condition, vasculitis  a problem of the immune system  for which she had received chemotherapy.

Three days later nothing had happened so Jenny had a caesarean, losing four pints of blood. Happily, both mother and baby were fine.

Jenny said: I worked out that during the years of fertility treatment, I had 296 injections, took 641 tablets and 253 hormonal pessary pills. But it was all worthwhile.

Steve said of four-month-old Bonnie: Im over the moon  and frequently in tears. I never thought wed be holding our own little one this New Year.
With tempting new hotels, freshly launched flights and intriguing destinations emerging, 2018 is shaping up to be an inspiring year for travellers.

SWISH NEW DIGS IN IBIZA

Already a firm favourite with the beautiful people, the White Isle will take hedonism in a new direction in May with the opening of Seven Pines, an all-suite clifftop resort backed by pine trees and orange groves.

When to go: Lovely almost all year round but the shoulder months of May, June, September and October are ideal, with temperatures around 24c.

Stylish: Ibiza is already a firm favourite. May will see the opening of a new Seven Pines resort

Dont miss: Food tours with Corazon Travel (corazontravel.com) to taste delicacies such as arroz de matanza (rice and pork in a herbed sauce).

DETAILS: Seven Pines Resort (0034 971 195 200) has double rooms from 290.

SEYCHELLES PLEASE!

After a decade-long hiatus, BA is relaunching flights to the Seychelles on March 24. This tropical archipelago of 115 islands, 500 miles off the Kenyan coast, is home to heavenly resorts on quiet shores, rare wildlife and thrilling diving. No wonder William and Kate chose it for their honeymoon in 2011.

When to go: April when the blusterous trade winds temporarily calm, making it perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Dont miss: Snorkelling at Baie Lazare to see green humphead parrot fish.

DETAILS: BA (0344 439 0747) offers return flights from Heathrow from 699. The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort (0870 590 9090) has double rooms from 275.

Return: After a decade-long hiatus, BA is relaunching flights to the Seychelles in March

ZIMBABWE LIVES IN HOPE

After almost four decades of tyrant Robert Mugabe, the country is on the cusp of change. And with some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on the continent, its poularity will grow. Visit Hwange National Park for unrivalled safaris before feeling the spray of the mighty Victoria Falls.

When to go: May to October is ideal for game viewing. Victoria Falls is more impressive when in full flow around April.

Dont miss: Seeing the sun rise over Victoria Falls on an early morning boat cruise along the Zambezi with Zambezi Explorer (zambeziexplorer.com).

DETAILS: Expert Africa (020 3405 6666) offers seven nights including three at Victoria Falls and four at Hwange National Park from 2,900, including flights.

FAST TRACK AMSTERDAM

The Netherlands most famous city will soon be only a train ride away when direct Eurostar (eurostar.com) trains from London St Pancras begin running in the spring. With a fairly swift journey time of just under four hours, the service will offer even easier access to the beautiful city famed for its coffee shops, canals, post-Impressionist painters and gable-roofed buildings.

When to go: Spring  the height of the tulip season.

Dont miss: Shopping along De Negen Straatjes.

DETAILS: Railbookers (020 3780 2222) has two nights at the NH Museum Quarter hotel from 269, including rail travel.

Coming soon: Amsterdam will be more accessible when Eurostar starts services from London

LUXURY CAMBODIA

Famed for the jungle-clad ruins of Angkor Wat, dating back to the 12th century, Cambodia will become a tempting fly-and-flop destination this year with the opening of the new Six Senses resort on Krabey Island.

Set to welcome its first guests in September, the property will offer 40 villas, each with its own private plunge pool alongside movies shown under starry skies and a meditation cave.

When to go: November and December for lower temperatures and perfect conditions for both temple exploration and lounging by the pool.

Dont miss: Trekking through the dense jungle, waterfalls and forgotten villages of the Cardamom Mountains with Mountain Kingdoms (two weeks from 2,085, mountainkingdoms.com)

DETAILS: Six Senses Krabey Island (0808 234 7200) will offer double rooms from 560.

NORTHERN LIGHT SHOW

Recent years have seen vast numbers visit the Arctic in search of Northern Lights but interest has subsided, and with it the crowds, yet the displays are no less breathtaking.

When to go: Soon. Yes, its cold (expect temperatures of around 6c) but youll have the Arctic splendour all to yourself and the chance to see the aurora without the festive hustle and bustle.

Dont miss: Learning how to lead a team of racing huskies.

Details: Guide and professional photographer Andy Keen (keen-photography.com) offers four nights from 2,595 with flights. The next tour departs March 10. Daily Mail readers will receive a 150pp discount if booked by March 1.

JUNGLE JOY IN RWANDA

Wild and alive: One of Africa's most highly anticipated hotels will open in Rwanda in 2018

Be a real jungle VIP by checking into Africas most highly-anticipated new hotel. Opening in July on the edge of one of Rwandas most beautiful protected wildernesses, the One & Only Nyungwe House  a collection of 22 wooden villas filled with local art and open fireplaces  will bring new levels of luxury to the country most famous for its population of mountain gorillas. Trek to see them before recuperating here, among tea plantations and misty peaks, making full use of the spa and tasty picnics from top chefs.

When to go: The countrys dry season runs between June and September  providing optimum conditions for treks to see the gorillas.

Dont miss: Experiencing Volcanoes National Park. Most famous for its gorillas and made up of five volcanoes, it is considered one of the most magical places in Africa.

DETAILS: Red Savannah (01242 787800) offers six nights in Rwanda including two at One & Only Nyungwe House, from 4,380 including flights.
I have discovered a gem, a tiny, relatively unknown Greek island. Kastellorizo lies in the Aegean Sea a mile off the Turkish Turquoise Coast, the most easterly of the Dodecanese islands.

To reach it, there is an early morning flight from Rhodes, or you can catch a ferry, also from Rhodes, which takes four hours. It is worth the journey.

Kastellorizo is where Europe ends and Asia begins, and its history is fascinating.

Restored: Fishing boats in the colourful, pretty harbour of Kastellorizo, a Greek island

Until 1912, although Greek, it was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. One mosque, now transformed into a museum, still stands at the far end of the very pretty harbour. It is a testament to the long-gone imperialist days.

The islands wealth was earned in the 19th Century through sponge fishing. After the demise of the Ottomans, the island belonged to the French and then the Italians.

In 1943, the British landed. During the Second World War it was a strategically important spot and the entire population was evacuated to avoid fatalities from German attacks on Kastellorizos busy port.

In 1948, the island was finally returned to the Greeks. However, a mere handful of the refugees returned because, by the end of the war, much of the island and the once-thriving harbour had been destroyed.

Most of the refugees emigrated to Australia where, today, the population of Greek Kassies numbers some 50,000. The Kassies worked hard, sending money home to those who stayed behind.

Slowly, over the decades, the island has been rebuilt. In fact, compared to the rest of austerity-gripped Greece, Kastellorizo is well-heeled. The mansions around the pretty harbour have been renovated and painted in rich colours, creating a vibrant welcome.

Kastellorizo, pictured, is where Europe ends and Asia begins, and its history is fascinating

Today, fishing and tourism give the island its economic stability. Every second house has been converted into a hotel or an excellent portside restaurant where you will eat the freshest fish you are ever likely to taste while watching turtles paddling at your feet.

We stayed at the convivial four-star Poseidon. I also recommend the Megisti at the far end of the port.

There are few cars, and little to do. Swim, read, scuba dive, or hop on a boat to Kas in Turkey for breakfast and carpet/antique shopping and be back in Europe for lunch.

If you crave activity, hike to the ruined castle that gives the island its name, built during the Crusades on ruins of red rock. Its a steep climb but, from its summit, the views across to Turkey are sublime. Close by, you will find the remains of a Turkish hammam and a restored watermill. Another trek is to the monastery of St George. At port level, theres the Archaeological Museum.

A must-do is the boat trip to the Blue Cave. Go before breakfast and, as the sun rises above the Southern Taurus mountains of Turkey, it floods light cross the Aegean and into the cave where you can swim in the electric blue water and snorkel with big-eyed fish and turtles. It was unforgettable, as was our week on Kastellorizo.

Carol Drinkwaters The Lost Girl is published by Michael Joseph at 12.99.
She spent Christmas apart from her incarcerated husband Joe Giudice.

But Teresa Giudice seemed to be keeping her mind off things while celebrating the holidays in Cancun, Mexico, with her daughters and friends on Friday.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey star, 45, shared a sizzling Instagram snap as she posed in a bikini while accompanied by two female friends.

Life's a beach: Teresa Giudice seemed to be keeping her mind off her husband Joe's incarceration while celebrating the holidays in Cancun, Mexico, with friends on Friday

Teresa put her yoga-toned physique on display by sporting a black floral two-piece.

The Celebrity Apprentice star accessorized her beachwear with a long beaded necklace and giant hoop earrings.

Teresa left her long caramel tresses down past her shoulders while shielding her eyes with reflective-lens aviator sunglasses.

The reality star later changed into a plunging white with purple maxi dress for dinner with her daughter and friends.

Friends feared that it would be a 'difficult Christmas' for the family, after it was revealed that Teresa would not be able to visit her husband Joe in jail.

Night out: The reality star, 45, later changed into a plunging white with purple maxi dress for dinner with her daughter and friends

But the mother-of-four made the best of a bad situation by whisking her daughters off to Mexico for New Year's in the sun.

Just the day before, the TV personality looked sensational in a black bikini as she reclined on a sun lounger with her two eldest girls.

She displayed a deep golden tan, while making sure to keep her girls protected in the sun by topping them up with sunscreen.

While in Mexico, the doting mother was joined by her four daughters; Gia, 16, Gabriella, 13, Milania, 11, and Audriana, eight.

Their father, Teresa's husband Joe, has been serving a 41-month prison sentence for mail, wire and bankruptcy fraud since March 2016.

Troubled time: The Real Housewives of New Jersey star spent Christmas apart from her incarcerated husband Joe Giudice (pictured in March 2016)

Tough: Friends feared that it would be a 'difficult Christmas ' for the family, after it was revealed that Teresa would not be able to visit her husband Joe in jail (pictured on Christmas Eve)

It has previously been reported that Teresa would not be able to visit Joe with her children on Christmas Day because of a delay in administrative processes for visitation, stemming from his recent transfer to a different prison.

Friends have expressed concern for Teresa and her girls, hinting that they would find the festive season difficult.

'Her hope is that immediately after she gets back from her trip, she will be able to see him once her visiting form is approved,' a source told People earlier this month.

Teresa was granted a lesser sentence for her part in the scheme; the parents were allowed to serve time separately for the sake of their children.

'They speak multiple times a day over the phone,' the source adds. 'Hes emailing people all day long. Emails with each of the girls, separately.

'He is in good spirits and hes happy and even happier where he is than where he was. This facility is better suited to him he seems more upbeat since having moved.'

Family values: Teresa posed in a black two piece with gold accents as she joined her youngest daughter Audriana, eight, on the beach on Thursday

The reality star was in custody in Fort Dix, New Jersey, but transferred last month to Pennsylvania's FCI Allenwood facility, according toThe Blast.

With the transfer to a separate facility, Joe's family was required to provide updated clearance forms to visit him in the Pennsylvania penitentiary, a process one source told People 'takes about four to six weeks for visitors to be approved,' which won't wrap up until after the holidays are over.

His transfer came amid a row over his entrance of an alcohol treatment program that provided ample incentive for participation: a full year off his sentence.

The point of conflict, according to The Blast, is the Saronno, Italian-born star's immigration status.

The Pennsylvania facility can issue him a hearing in connection with the dispute, paving the way to the transfer.

Joe in March of 2016 entered custody in connection with a sentence of 41 months following his conviction on fraud charges in October of 2014.
He is rumored to have fallen head over heels for Keira Maguire on the set of Bachelor In Paradise.

And it seems Jarrod Woodgate is doing whatever it takes to keep their special romance on the down low, before the dating reality show goes to air in early 2018.

The 31-year-old took to Instagram to share a solo snap of himself at his family's winery in Victoria, on Friday.

Another day... without Keira? It seems Jarrod Woodgate is doing whatever it takes to keep his rumoured romance with Bachelor star Keira Maguire on the down low, before the dating reality show goes to air in early 2018

In his solo snap, he casually posed with a raised glass of white wine in hand in the middle of the sprawling vineyard.

He captioned his photo: 'Another day @tomscapvineyard.'

Plenty of his female followers complimented the the fair-haired hunk on his relaxed look, but missing from the slew of comments and likes was his rumoured sweetheart Keira.

Rumoured love: For the past week Keira, who is from Sydney, has been in Melbourne and was even spotted at the sneaking over to Jarrod's home

Ringing in the new year together! She has also enjoyed nights out in the Victorian capital with fellow Bachelor in Paradise co-star Laurina Fleur, even announcing she would be celebrating the New Year with her

For the past week Keira, who is from Sydney, has been in Melbourne and was even spotted at the sneaking over to Jarrod's home.

She has also enjoyed nights out in the Victorian capital with fellow Bachelor in Paradise co-star Laurina Fleur, even announcing she would be celebrating the New Year with her.

This comes after Jarrod Woodgate shared a sweet snap of himself with his nephew Lennox with the caption: 'My favourite part of the year... Christmas with my little man.'

The Bachelorette star looked delighted while holding up the one-year-old, his biceps bulging underneath a khaki T-shirt.

All he wants for Christmas is Keira! Jarrod recently celebrated the holidays with his sister and nephew after reportedly finding love on Bachelor In Paradise, which airs next year

Twinning! In his second photo Jarrod wished his followers a Merry Christmas and hoped they were 'spoilt rotten' on December 25. (Pictured with his sister and nephew)

In the comments section, Jarrod's followers asked about the rumours surrounding his romance with Keira.

One fan wrote: 'I hope it is true, l think they could make a lovely couple.

'She is feisty enough to fend off unwelcome baggage and he is strong enough to keep her in line. They would complement each other well - l hope they chance it.'

Keira and Jarrod have been spotted getting close on the upcoming dating show Bachelor In Paradise.

Meanwhile, Keira has been spending more time than usual in Jarrod's hometown of Melbourne.
They're currently on a romantic European holiday for two.

And after spending their post-Christmas days sauntering around Paris, Bindi Irwin and her boyfriend of four years Chandler Powell have moved on to Italy.

The 19-year-old wildlife warrior posted two pictures with her American beau, both of which had her attempting to 'hold up' the Leaning Tower of Pisa with her finger.

Leaning tower of love! Bindi Irwin and Chandler Powell share sweet snaps from their European holiday amid rumours they are engaged

The Aussie couple dressed down for the occasion, with Bindi donning a black hoodies, jeans and Doc Martin boots in the photos.

Earlier, they posted a series of amorous snaps while visiting iconic destinations like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower.

'Paris. The city of love with my love. Happiness beyond compare,' the daughter of late conservationist and TV star Steve Irwin noted in the post's caption.

Ready! The Aussie couple dressed down for the occasion, with Bindi donning a black hoodies, jeans and Doc Martin boots in the photos

'What an incredible trip. Feels like an amazing dream. I love you,' Chandler gushed in return in the comments section.

The young lovebirds visited a number of tourist hot spots and took selfies as fans offered words of support.

One follower asked if their romantic trip would involve a marriage proposal.

'Wonder if we will see a ring on it soon,' they posed in the comments section.

Lovebirds: Bindi Irwin appeared completely besotted with her boyfriend Chandler Powell as the lovebirds visited Paris for a romantic getaway on Thursday

Besotted: The 19-year-old posted a series of amorous snaps with her American beau, as they visited iconic destinations like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower

'Paris. The city of love with my love. Happiness beyond compare,' the daughter of late conservationist and TV star Steve Irwin noted in the images' caption

'What an incredible trip. Feels like an amazing dream. I love you,' Chandler gushed in return in the comments section

The questions come from a recent New Idea exclusive, which claimed a source from Australia Zoo knew the pair were engaged.

'We've heard that Chandler proposed to Bindi, and that he asked Terri for her blessing, which she of course gave.'

But Bindi recently revealed to InTouch magazine an engagement isn't in the duo's immediate future.

Enamoured: The young lovebirds visited a number of tourist hot spots and took selfies as fans offered words of support

'Wonder if we will see a ring on it soon,' one follower posed in the comments section

Going steady: Bindi recently revealed to InTouch magazine an engagement isn't in the duo's immediate future

'We're so busy with everything, we haven't had time to think about the pressure,' she offered of the lovebirds not being in a rush to walk down the aisle

'We're so busy with everything, we haven't had time to think about the pressure,' she offered.

'We're really enjoying the moment, adventuring around the world and having fun. We'll let you know!' she continued.

She added that Chandler is her 'best friend' in addition to being her boyfriend.

Previously speaking to Daily Mail Australia, a spokesperson for Australia Zoo has also denied the claims the couple are set to walk down the aisle soon.
He's the son of Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes.

And while the resemblance may have skipped a generation, Today Extra co-host David Campbell is certain his youngest son Billy, 2, looks just like his granddad.

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, he shared a split-panel image of Billy and a young Jimmy, detailing his shock in the caption.

Apple doesn't fall far! While the resemblance may have skipped a generation, Today Extra's David Campbell (L) is certain youngest son Billy, 2, looks just like his granddad, Jimmy Barnes (R)

Can YOU see it? Taking to Instagram on Saturday, he shared a split-panel image of Billy and a young Jimmy, detailing his shock in the caption

'Took a photo of Billy the other day and couldnt put my finger on what it reminded me of,' he said, referencing the image on the left.

'Then I remembered my Dads first book cover [Working Class Boy]. Wow.'

David was convinced the pair could have passed as twins, a resemblance helped by the uncannily similar facial expression the pair were wearing in the image.

Even taking into account the snap of Jimmy was in black-and-white and at least 45-years-old, many fans agreed in the comments.

Didn't see it at first: 'Took a photo of Billy the other day and couldnt put my finger on what it reminded me of,' he said, referencing the image on the left

'Lips, nose & eyebrows identical,' one surprised follower agreed, noting they weren't sure whether the ears passed the lookalike test.

Practically every comment agreed with that assessment, while others could even spot similarities in the eyes and chin.

'Wow': 'Then I remembered my Dads first book cover [Working Class Boy]. Wow' he continued

Another wrote: 'I have always thought he looks so much like your Dad.'

A few other fans also insisted David also looked just like his Dad, one commenting: 'You, your dad and Billy....Such a strong gene pool!'

David shares twins Billy and Betty and eldest son Leo with his wife Lisa Hewitt.
She was applauded for sharing a relatable candid snap of her body two weeks after giving birth to her son Arnold.

And on Friday, Tiffiny Hall was garnering praise once again for sharing elements of her mothering journey.

The 33-year-old posted a sweet snap to her Instagram page, which featured her three-month-old resting on her lap as she gazed lovingly into his eyes.

'Milk buddies!' Tiffiny Hall (pictured) shared an adorable post-breastfeeding snap to Instagram on Friday with three-month-old son Arnold... prompting followers to praise her for being a positive role model

The photo appeared to have been taken shortly after a breastfeeding session.

Referencing the feed, Tiffiny captioned the shot: 'Milk buddies!'

Many of the former Biggest Loser trainer's 112,000 followers were impressed by the precious mother-and-son image and took to the comments to praise the star.

'Thank you for representing breastfeeding in a positive light! Arnie seems so content, happy and healthy. You guys are doing a wonderful job,' one fan offered.

Too cute! The former Biggest Loser trainer is a doting mum to three-month-old Arnold

'You are so enjoying being a mum you are a joy to watch,' one social media user commented.

Another added: 'Love it!!! Enjoy the boobie cuddles theyre irreplaceable.'

Tiffiny, who shares Arnold with her husband Ed Kavalee, has previously been lauded for not bowing to pressure to prioritise getting back into shape following the birth of her child.

Still beautiful: Tiffiny has proudly shared a number of selfies showing her post-baby body in all its glory, in contrast to her former well-sculpted pre-pregnancy shape

She has proudly shared a number of selfies showing her post-baby body in all its glory.

While her shape is different from her ripped days before becoming pregnant, Tiffiny has admitted she feels just as beautiful.

Arnold is the first child for Tiffiny and Ed, who tied the knot in 2014.
She received a whopping five-carat engagement ring when her AFL player beau proposed this week.

But fashion blogger Elle Ferguson admits she's still in shock after watching her boyfriend Joel Patfull got down on one knee in Byron Bay on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old spoke to Daily Mail Australia about the moments leading up to one of the happiest days of her life.

'Still I had no idea': Fashion blogger Elle Ferguson opens up about the romantic way her fiance Joel Patfull proposed... and why she thought she'd NEVER marry

'Joel had every detailed planned. He told me we were going to dinner (we didn't spend Christmas together as his family is in Adelaide and mine on the NSW coast so it was a Christmas dinner)' she explained.

'We had been at the beach all day, went home, had a super quick shower as he told me I needed to be ready by 6:55pm.

'I literally threw on a dress that I wore two nights before because I loved it and we left... got in the car and he had Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" playing and he was so calm.

Elle added that the pair then headed to a location that was special to both of them.

'We got to Wategos which is our happy place. Even before we met we had always gone there separately and since being together we have always gone there on our trips,' Elle recalled.

'We got to the restaurant and he said we were early so suggested a walk... we started walking and actually ran into people we knew, had a chat like nothing was going on and then headed down to the beach.'

'I wanted to make sure she was with her on the special day': How Elle Ferguson's incredible 5-carat engagement ring from beau Joel Patfull included a touching tribute to her late mum Kim

Even as Joel's plan was unfolding, Elle admits, 'hand on heart' she wasn't expecting it.

'We took our shoes off and walked along the beach as the sun set... we then got to the rocks and he handed me a rock that said I love you on it. Still I had no idea,' she said.

Elle was then led to a heart shape that Joel had formed from rocks found at the beach.

'I was so surprised and happy with my rock heart that I started kissing him and hugging him thinking I have the best guy in the world,' she continued.

'And then he got down on bended knee... little did I know my sister was camouflaged in the pandanus tree taking photos and being in the moment with us.'

Stunning: Lucie, who designs Babyanything jewellery, created the 5.01 carat brilliant cut oval diamond ring in platinum after Joel approached her for help

Beautiful: The ring includes diamonds set into the entire band, with a special stone added as tribute to their mother Kim, who died from cancer in 2015

Elle admitted she didn't think it was 'in her stars' to get married and thought she'd be the girl that never would, but said she will 'wear white' on the day.

Her sister, Lucie Ferguson, is actually an Australian jeweller who custom-designed the ring with Joel to have special significance.

Lucie, who designs Babyanything jewellery, created the 5.01 carat brilliant cut oval diamond ring in platinum after Joel approached her for help.

'It was a total secret between Joel and myself. Joel came and asked me for Elle's hand in marriage and after we both stopped crying we started straight on the ring,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'We had to keep a secret from Elle about the ring and the plan for the proposal and she is impossible to keep secrets from, but we pulled it off!'

Inspired others: The brave cancer fighter made headlines before her death when she decided to document her daily outfits on Instagram rather than focus on her terminal illness

Sworn to secrecy: Lucie designed the ring with Joel

The ring includes diamonds set into the entire band, with a special stone added as tribute to their mother Kim, who died from cancer in 2015.

The brave cancer fighter made headlines before her death when she decided to document her daily outfits on Instagram rather than focus on her terminal illness.

'I set one Aquamarine stone in the centre at the bottom among the diamonds as that is our mother's birthstone and I wanted to make sure she was with Elle on the special day and throughout her life,' Lucie explained.

'Elle has always mentioned that if she were to get married she wouldnt have a wedding ring': Despite designing the enormous sparkler for Elle, Lucie said wouldn't be creating a wedding band to go with the ring

'The Aquamarine was the colour of our mum's eyes and also the water at Wategos Beach where Joel proposed, so it all tied in beautifully.'

Despite designing the enormous sparkler for Elle, Lucie said she wouldn't be creating a wedding band to go with the ring.

'Elle has always mentioned that if she were to get married she wouldnt have a wedding ring, she would be happy with a beautiful engagement ring and that would be enough,' she said.

'She actually joked to me once that all Joel would need was a piece of string for her ring and she would be happy, but I know now she is happy for the upgrade!'

Secluded spot: The beauty shared a series of heartfelt snaps on Instagram, revealing Joel had popped the question at Wategos Beach
Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
She isn't shy of parading her figure in a series of risque ensembles.

And Lady Victoria Hervey turned heads once again on Friday as she slipped into a bright pink bikini for a trip to the beach.

The 41-year-old, who is enjoying an idyllic break in Barbados, looked younger than her years as she showed off her enviable frame in the skimpy two-piece.

Scroll down for video

Svelte physique: Lady Victoria Hervey turned heads once again on Friday as she slipped into a bright pink bikini for a trip to the Barbados beach

Strutting along the sandy shore, the socialite showcased her incredibly taut stomach in the colourful ensemble.

Featuring gold accents on the halterneck strap and under the chest, the English aristocrat looked effortlessly stylish for her beach jaunt.

The leggy model flashed her lithe limbs in a pair of tie-string bikini briefs as she headed out for a spin on a jet ski.

Shielding her eyes from the Caribbean sun with gold aviators, Victoria appeared thoroughly relaxed as she took to the crystalline waters.

Adrenaline junkie: The blonde beauty proved to be in high spirits as she took the jet-ski for a spin in the water

Stunner: The 41-year-old, who is enjoying an idyllic break, looked younger than her years as showed off her enviable physique in the skimpy two-piece

Tremendous pins: The leggy model flashed her lithe limbs in the tie-string bikini briefs as she headed out for a spin on the jet ski

Touch of gold: Featuring gold accents on the halterneck strap and under the chest, the English aristocrat looked effortlessly stylish for her beach jaunt

Having previously worn her hair in braids, the former reality starlet opted to let her blonde mane down for the ocean cruise.

She appeared to forego make-up, opting to show off her golden sun-kissed tan and natural beauty.

Exuding confidence, the socialite put on a padded black life jacket as she took to the waters for a thrilling jet-ski ride.

Shaking things up: Having previously worn her hair in braids, the former reality starlet opted to let her blonde mane down for the adrenaline-fueled ride

Glowing: She appeared to forego make-up for the beach outing, opting to show off her golden sun-kissed tan

Toned: Strutting along the sandy shore, the socialite showcased her incredibly taut stomach in the colourful ensemble

Winter holidays: Victoria has been relaxing in sunny Barbados over the Christmas break

All aboard: The blonde beauty showed off her peachy derriere in the ruched bikini bottoms as she mounted the jet-ski

Ready set go! Victoria has been throwing herself into water sports over the holiday, trying her hand at an inflatable rock climbing wall on Thursday

The former Christian Dior model first hit the scenes as a high profile socialite in the late Nineties - briefly dipping her toes into reality TV, fashion and journalism.

Victoria commanded attention with more than her outfits when she returned to the small screen on Celebrity Showmance and reality series Living With Lady Victoria.

However, back in April she came to worldwide prominence after news emerged she had a threesome with Mel B and her estranged husband Stephen Belafonte.

Feeling refreshed: Donning a pair of gold aviators, Victoria appeared thoroughly relaxed as she took to the crystalline waters

Throwback: The former Christian Dior model first hit the scenes as a high profile socialite in the late 90s - briefly dipping her toes into reality TV, fashion and journalism

Reality starlet: Victoria commanded attention with more than her outfits when she returned to the small screen on Celebrity Showmance and reality series Living With Lady Victoria

In the spotlight: However, back in April she came to worldwide prominence after news emerged she had a threesome with Mel B and her estranged husband Stephen Belafonte

The television sensation was said to be terrified that their antics had been recorded by Stephen and it would be leaked to the media.

'She is absolutely mortified that her sex life could become public property,' a close friend told DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview.

'The last thing she wants is to star in a sordid sex tape or to have horrible details of her private life dragged through the divorce courts.'

Mel filed for divorce from ex-husband of 10 years Stephen Belafonte in March.
Her flawless figure and acting talents have garnered her legions of fans on social media.

And on Friday, Pia Miller treated her more than 693,000 Instagram followers to a sizzling snap of herself hanging out in Hawaii.

In the stunning snap, the Home and Away star showcased her flat-as-a-pancake stomach in a midriff-baring white crop top, which she had matched with bikini bottoms.

Heating up in Hawaii! Pia Miller sizzles as she flaunts her washboard abs in a midriff-baring top and skimpy bikini briefs while soaking up the sun in Maui

The skimpy cut of the black and white patterned briefs accentuated Pia's slender and and tanned pins in the image that was simply captioned: 'Hawaii'.

In the photo, taken in Maui, Pia held casually on to a blow-up floatie in the shape of a donut, which she referenced by adding an emoji of the pastry to her caption.

The brunette beauty's hair was wet and she let it drape casually over her body as she posed with her face not looking directly at the camera.

Sizzling! The Home and Away star flaunted her flat-as-pancake stomach

Fans complimented the Bite Club actress' appearance in the comments, with one writing: 'You're so stunning and by the way I love Kat on Home and Away.'

'OMG..I am sooo going to miss those beach scenes with you on H&A.You have probably the best body on TV,' another commented.

Another fan echoed the sentiment, adding: 'Wow very nice indeed'

'Love this beautiful human': Pia was joined by fiance Tyson Mullane for the trip and the couple looked smitten in a loved-up snap

Pia has been holidaying in Hawaii with her fiance Tyson Mullane, after he popped the question in a romantic proposal in early November.

The couple looked smitten in a loved-up selfie, with Pia writing alongside it: 'Love this beautiful human.'

Pia, who shot to fame playing policewoman Kat Chapman on Home And Away, is not shy when it comes to showing off her curves and regularly posts bikini images to social media.
Her family is known for welcoming a plethora of animals great or small into their home.

And it seems like Lisa Oldfield's husband David has opened their doors to a four legged guest for Christmas drinks.

The couple both took to Instagram this week to share a clip of David trying to get a Santa hat-wearing horse, named Timmy, out of their home's interior.

Scroll down for video

'Why the long face?' Real Housewives star Lisa Oldfield shares BIZARRE footage of husband David struggling to move a Santa hat-wearing horse during Christmas drinks

'No matter how you plan Christmas there's always going to be perhaps one guest who will probably stay longer than you'd expect,' David joked in the video.

'And in this case it's Timothy the horse,'

The Hell's Kitchen star introduced his legions of followers to the chestnut colt who had donned a festive Christmas hat.

David even pulled out the ultimate overused dad joke, 'he's got a bit of long face, why the long face Tim?'

'There's always going to be that one guest!' The 59-year-old took to Instagram to share a clip of himself trying to get the horse Timmy out of the bar in the house

To amuse viewers, David quipped that the he could probably nab the horse if he'd stopped serving him Corona beer.

He instead gave the horse an empty beer bucket with the Mexican beverage logo branded on it.

'(Timmy's) not a Mexican horse, but he does like Mexican beer and goodness knows why,' he amusingly exclaimed before sipping on his martini.

Horsing around! Lisa also regrammed the comical video, captioning it: 'When it comes to kicking Timmy the horse out of the bar he's as stubborn as a mule - he indulged in far too many on but his condition is now stable'

Animal lovers: The Oldfields are no stranger to welcoming their pets inside their home with Lisa often sharing videos of their miniature pony Tyrion with her in the house

Lisa also regrammed the comical video, captioning it with several horse-related puns.

When it comes to kicking Timmy the horse out of the bar he's as stubborn as a mule - he indulged in far too many on but his condition is now stable,' she joked.

Fans loved the hilarious video, including one who commented: 'Love you two and your sense of humour you make me laugh.'

The Oldfield's are no stranger to welcoming their pets inside their home with Lisa often sharing videos of their miniature pony Tyrion with her in the house.

'Middle aged Bindi Iriwn': Earlier in the year Lisa compared herself to the young wildlife warrior

Earlier in the year Lisa, who is a self-professed middle-aged Bindi Irwin, talked to The Daily Telegraph about changing her attitude towards animal shooting.

Speaking about her younger years, she told the publication: 'I would shoot pests  foxes, wild pigs  but on occasion I have shot kangaroos.'

'Looking back, now that I've become a mother and an animal lover, it's something I really regret doing,' she told the publication.

'This is my way of trying to make up for that  and David feels the same way.'
They took to social media on Friday to reveal they were headed on a ski vacation.

And soon after, Sofia Richie and boyfriend Scott Disick were spotted in Aspen, Colorado.

The 19-year-old and her father of three beau, 34, stepped out together in coordinating looks for their snowy holiday.

Scroll down for video

Inseparable: Sofia Richie and boyfriend Scott Disick were spotted in Aspen, Colorado on Friday afternoon

At one point during their stroll, Sofia sat on a spinning seat at a park, and Scott playfully spun her around.

Sofia, a five-foot-six model, flaunted her long legs in black leggings.

The teenager added a black T-shirt and a bold crimson puffy jacket on top.

Sofia looked snow ready in her black combat boots; she also sported vintage inspired sunglasses.

Good times: At one point during their stroll, Sofia sat on a spinning seat at a park, and Scott playfully spun her around

Sofia, who recently dyed her locks back to brown, wore her tresses pulled back into a low ponytail.

She kept her makeup to a minimum, opting to show off her natural beauty.

Sofia finished off her winter look with silver earrings and matching rings.

Meanwhile, Scott sported fitted medium wash jeans with white sneakers, adding a black and blue fur lined jacket.

The duo went public with their romance in September, although they were linked as far back as May.

They have been spotted together in Miami, Puerto Vallarta, Milan and Venice, Italy and Los Cabos since going public with their relationship.

Staying warm: The 19-year-old and her father of three beau, 34, stepped out together in coordinating looks for their snowy holiday

She's so chic: Sofia, a five-foot-six model, flaunted her long legs in black leggings
She's the convicted drug smuggler who just spent her first Christmas in Australia since being released from Kerobokan prison.

And Schapelle Corby is continuing the festivities alongside her lookalike cousin, who appeared in an Instagram Story video shared by the 40-year-old on Friday.

The pair put on a sweet display, complete with playful bear ears from a filter on the app, saying that her cousin was 'Schapelle with blonde hair.'

Scroll down for video

'If I had blonde hair I'd be my cousin!' Schapelle Corby posed alongside her lookalike relative for an Instagram video as they kicked back for the festive season on Saturday

They share similar blue eyes and facial structures with the only difference being their current hair tint.

'If I had blonde hair I'd be my cousin,' Schapelle said, putting the camera onto her nearby lighter-haired twin.

On the same day the brunette bombshell uploaded a group shot of women, including her cousin and sister Mercedes Corby, with the caption 'Happy Birthday sis.'

Do you think they look alike? The cousins posed for a candid photo wearing the same bear filter

But her only sister Mercedes doesn't celebrate her 44th birthday until October next year, prompting some confusion around who they were their to blow the candles out for.

Schapelle made headlines in Australia, and around the world, after she was arrested in Bali in October 2004.

After boarding a flight to the Indonesian island from Brisbane, via Sydney, customs officers discovered cannabis wrapped in plastic inside her boogie board bag.

Huh? But her only sister Mercedes (bottom left) doesn't celebrate her 44th birthday until October next year, prompting some confusion around who they were their to blow the candles out for

Schapelle's past: Despite always maintaining her innocence, she was convicted of drug smuggling in 2005

Despite always maintaining her innocence, she was convicted of drug smuggling in 2005 and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Schapelle's sentence was later reduced, and she received several remissions for good behaviour over the years. She was eventually released on parole in February 2014.

She remained in Bali during her parole period until May this year, when she was deported back to Australia.

Schapelle leaves behind Balinese boyfriend, Ben Panangian, who she met in Kerobokan Prison in 2006.
The English actress returned to Australia for the holidays last week.

And Naomi Watts cut a casual figure as she visited a local supermarket and bottle shop in Byron Bay on Wednesday for supplies.

The 49-year-old was spotted pushing a trolley full of groceries and carrying several glass bottles in a box emblazoned with a Vodka brand's logo.

Scroll down for video

Stocking up for New Year's Eve? Naomi Watts, 49, was spotted pushing a trolley full of groceries and carrying several glass bottles in a box emblazoned with a Vodka brand's logo this Saturday

Naomi was seen walking out of a busy bottle shop with a heavy box in her arms.

The Oriloff Vodka-branded box appeared to hold at least three tall bottles, with the star carefully grasping her precious cargo with both hands.

Despite Naomi sporting a very low-key look for the outing, it appears passersby couldn't help but notice the Hollywood A-lister at their local liquor store.

No star treatment, there! Naomi required no assistance as she was seen walking out of a busy bottle shop, lugging a heavy box in her arms unaided

What's in the box? The Oriloff Vodka-branded box appeared to hold at least three tall bottles, with the star carefully grasping her precious cargo with both hands

Spotted! Despite the star sporting a very low-key look for the outing, it appears passersby couldn't help but notice the Hollywood A-lister at their local liquor store

Naomi wore an oversized, loose-fitting black Smythe dress that draped over her slender figure.

She wore a pink bandanna over her short blonde locks, which appeared to be left un-styled for the shopping expedition.

The King Kong star also showed off her natural beauty, sporting a youthful makeup-free complexion.

Blonde beauty! She wore a pink bandanna over her short blonde locks, which appeared to be left un-styled for the shopping expedition

Hot mama! Naomi wore an oversized, loose-fitting black Smythe dress that draped over her slender figure

She accessorised with pink metallic slides and a black cross-body bag.

Naomi also used large tortoise-shell sunglasses to shield here eyes from the glaring sun and possibly to avoid drawing too much attention to herself.

She was joined by sons Alexander Pete, 10, and Samuel Kai, nine, for the outing, who appeared to help her with her grocery shopping.

Grocery run: She was joined by sons Alexander Pete, 10, and Samuel Kai, nine, for the outing, who appeared to help her with her grocery shopping

Stunning! The King Kong star also showed off her natural beauty, sporting a youthful makeup-free complexion

The actress shares her children with her ex partner Liev Schreiber, 50, with whom she split in 2016 after 11 years together.

She appeared to treat the boys to a cold strawberry milk drink as she head back to the car with her purchases.

Her boys appeared to be wearing board shorts and swim tops as they stayed close to their famous mother.

Family life: The actress shares her children with her ex partner Liev Schreiber, 50, with whom she split in 2016 after 11 years together

Yum! She appeared to treat the boys to a cold strawberry milk drink as she head back to the car with her purchases

Naomi and the two boys have already been spending time with her brother Ben Watts in Byron Bay this week, with the star likely to stay until after New Year's.

They also shared Christmas together Down Under.

Loading her purchases into her vehicle's boot, an array of items could be seen in the trolley.

She's a regular mum! Loading her purchases into her vehicle's boot, an array of items could be seen in the trolley

Cereal fan? Naomi also placed a plastic bag with a box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes into the open boot

Trolley: A blue mop, flowers and toilet paper were the bigger items spotted

Her little helpers! Eldest son Alexander was seen helping with heavier bags, while youngest Samuel helped with a bunch of flowers

A blue mop, flowers and toilet paper were the bigger items spotted.

Naomi also placed a plastic bag with a box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes into the open boot.

Eldest son Alexander was seen helping with heavier bags, while youngest Samuel helped with a bunch of flowers.

Happy as ever: Despite Naomi's breakup with ex Liev, the former couple have remained on friendly terms and are committed to co-parenting their two children

Despite their breakup, the former couple have remained on friendly terms and are committed to co-parenting their two children.

'Routine is a big part of it,' she told the Australian Women's Weekly in August.

'Obviously Liev and I are actors - there is some moving - but we've really tried to keep the boys in the same school. Give them structure, boundaries.'

Naomi has since been romantically linked to her Gypsy co-star Billy Crudup while Liev is rumoured to be dating Miss South Dakota, Taylor Niesen, 26.

'Routine is a big part of it': Naomi told the Australian Women's Weekly in August that she and her ex were determined to keep their children in the same school

Beach escape: Naomi and the two boys have already been spending time with her brother Ben Watts in Byron Bay this week, with the star likely to stay until after New Year's
She shot to fame alongside her brother Tom Kilbey and her BFF Billi Mucklow in ITVBe reality series The Only Way Is Essex.

And since leaving the show, Cara Kilbey has gone on to become the proud mother of two children, whom she shares with her jailbird beau Daniel Harris.

The former reality star welcomed her second child, a baby boy named Hunter on December 28 and has now treated fans to a sweet snap of her son on Instagram, penning alongside it: 'Hunter Harris you little dream.'

Scroll down for video

Proud parents: TV star Cara Kilbey and beau Daniel Harris pose proudly in hospital as new parents to their second child Harris who was born two days overdue on December 28th 2018

The besotted star also shared a picture of herself and Daniel in hospital just moments after the birth of little Harris, who was two days overdue.

Despite having just giving birth the glamorous brunette was glowing, with fresh voluminous hair and her trademark bronzed complexion.

The gorgeous couple looked blissfully happy despite the two day ordeal to deliver their second child.

Little dreamer: Cara posted this adorable picture of her newborn baby with the caption: 'Hunter Harris you little dream', in a tiny white onesie on a 'H' detailed blanket

The reality beauty shared an image of her newborn's feet the day of his birth, adding the caption 'Welcome to the World... Hunter James Harris 28.12.2017 8lb9oz'.

Already a doting mother to daughter Penelope Blu, Cara - who left the show after four seasons in 2012 - announced she was expecting back in June.

The tot is her second with Daniel - who recently served a year in Wandsworth prison, after he was found guilty of stashing 116,000 in ill-gotten gains in his daughter's bedroom.

Happy days: Former TOWIE star Cara Kilbey posted her first picture of her second child with jailbird beau Daniel Harris

In March, Cara revealed Daniel had left prison just weeks after he was slapped with a two-year sentence for stashing ill-gained cash. She took to Instagram to share a selfie with Penelope while writing: 'Daddy we're waiting... it's home time'.

Cara's baby news comes after she suffered a miscarriage in 2015, two months after announcing her pregnancy. After news surfaced, she and Daniel were said to be inconsolable following the loss of their first child during its second trimester.

In a statement her representative confirmed: It is with great sadness that I must inform you, that last week Cara Kilbey suffered a late miscarriage. Cara was over five months pregnant when she lost her baby.

When three become four: Cara and Daniel already share little 22-month-old Penelope Blu

Happy days: Already a doting mother to daughter Penelope Blu, Cara - who left the show after four seasons in 2012 - announced she was expecting her second child back in June

Daddy's home: In March, Cara revealed Daniel had left prison just weeks after he was slapped with a two-year sentence for stashing ill-gained cash. She took to Instagram to share a selfie with Penelope while writing: 'Daddy we're waiting... it's hometime'

The doting couple could hardly contain their delight at the arrival of Penelope Blu in February last year as she announced the news via Twitter, penning: 'Welcome to the World... Penelope Blu Harris 12.02.2016 9lb2oz,'

Her representative told MailOnline: 'Cara and Daniel are thrilled to welcome Penelope Blu Harris to the world, she weighed 9lb 2oz and both mother and baby are doing well.'

Cara revealed her pregnancy with Penelope when she was 22 weeks gone after months of nervousness due to her tragic loss earlier that year. She told Closer magazine: 'Daniel and I knew we wanted to get pregnant again straight away so I was overjoyed when I found out I was expecting two months later.

Happy days: Cara starred opposite her brother Tom on TOWIE (pictured together in 2013)

'We went through an awful time together, and I can see how something that traumatic can break a couple. But we saw a different, more caring side to each other and it brought us so much closer. I'll never forget my first baby, it'll always be part of our family, but now we can't wait to become parents.'

Daniel, who served a year of his spell in Wandsworth prison, was accused of masterminding a drugs empire yet was cleared of drugs charges and found guilty of stashing 116,000 in ill-gotten gains hidden in his daughter's bedroom.

Cara was waiting patiently while her partner languished in jail, shortly after the birth of Penelope.

Happy days: The couple have delighted in the arrival of the latest addition to their family

Daniel was accused of making 'vast profits' by sending drug couriers on mopeds disguised as trainee cab drivers around central London over three-and-a-half years.

He was also charged over a 200,000 heroin deal which was scuppered by police in May 2015. An Old Bailey jury deliberated for a day to clear him of plotting to supply cocaine and heroin, but found him guilty of stashing the money.

Police launched a covert surveillance operation tracking Harris' movements over the course of more than a year before swooping to arrest him in March 2016. The couple have been separated for almost a year when he was taken into custody in early 2016.

The couple met while Harris was living out in Spain with his father and she was on holiday there. They returned to the UK in September 2015 when she fell pregnant.

Other men, some of whom were his friends, went on to plead guilty to their part in the plots and have been jailed for more than 68 years.

Evidence suggested the cocaine gang had a turnover of nearly 500,000 a week at the height of their activities. They kept it under wraps by hiring an East End flat and lock-up where they stored six scooters and packaged the cocaine after it was cut with benzocaine.

He knew some of his friends were drug dealers and, after being let in on their secret during a ski holiday to Verbier in Switzerland, he made use of the moped delivery service once, he said.

Daniel's father was arrested in December 2015 for allegedly smuggling drugs from Spain to the UK but he said that he in 'no way' had anything to do with it.

Prosecutor Peter Clement told the judge that he had been 'no mere custodian' of the money, but arranged for it to be gathered, collected it and kept it for weeks before it was discovered - 'all with a view to smuggling to another jurisdiction'.

That was then: Daniel was accused of making 'vast profits' by sending drug couriers on mopeds disguised as trainee cab drivers around central London over three-and-a-half years. He was also charged over a 200,000 heroin deal which was scuppered by police in May 2015

He acknowledged the offence was not motivated by personal gain, instead arising 'out of his father's crisis rather than his own'.

But, he said, an aggravating factor was that the cash was tainted by organised crime and that its intended destination was outside the UK - Spain.

Defending, barrister David Whittaker told the court the unemployed defendant had no money and had not funded the costs of his trial.

Mr Cooke ordered him to pay 4,576 costs to be paid within 56 days and a victim surcharge of 120.

He said he was satisfied that, while Daniel may not be able to pay the sum himself, he could draw upon others for assistance. While three men watched proceedings from the public gallery, Cara was nowhere to be seen.
She is believed to have spent Christmas with her family in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

And Natalie Portman, 36, made the most of her time in the capital when she headed to the NiterUi Contemporary Art Museum for culture on Friday.

The Oscar winner cradled her daughter Amalia in a baby carrier strapped to her front as she paraded her sensational figure in a loose fitted blue dress just 10 months after giving birth in February.

Scroll down for video

Leggy lady: Natalie Portman cradled her daughter as she paraded her incredible figure in a thigh-skimming dress while she enjoyed festive break in Brazil on Friday

Mother-of-two Natalie looked every inch the loving and affectionate mother as she held her daughter's hand on their walk.

The award-winning actress put on a very leggy display in the thigh-skimming garment which best showed off her glowing tan.

Dressed for the sweltering climate, the Black Swan star stepped out in platform sandals, pulled her brunette tresses into a low ponytail and she accessorised with tortoise sunglasses to keep cool in the heat.

Proving inseparable: Mother-of-two Natalie looked every inch the doting mother as she affectionately held her daughter's hand on their walk

No Strings Attached star Natalie fell madly in love with her husband Benjamin Millepied when they first met one another on the set of Black Swan in 2009.

She was playing the lead role in the chilling movie while Benjamin was tasked with choreographing the dances.

The Star Wars beauty confessed finding her husband was even better than winning an Oscar for her part as the tortured ballerina.

Festive break: She is believed to have spent Christmas with her family in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (Natalie pictured with her husband Benjamin Millepied in October 2017, Los Angeles)

Speaking at a Q&A session at the Vulture Festival at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in November, Natalie revealed: 'I preferred finding the husband more. It was really special and making it was really wonderful and so fun. It was really incredible.'

The lovers tied the knot a Jewish ceremony in Big Sur, California in August 2012.

As well as Amalia, the pair raise their six-year-old son Aleph at their home in Los Angeles.

Parenthood! As well as Amalia, the pair raise their six-year-old son Aleph at their home in Los Angeles (Natalie and Benajmin pictured in January 2017, Los Angeles)

The actress has a string of academy awards tied to her name after her stellar performances in Hollywood films including 2004's drama Closer and 2010's thriller Black Swan.

Her latest movie Annihilation takes her character, a biologist called Lena, on a secret yet dangerous expedition to a region with strange occurrences.

The upcoming movie will be out in cinemas on February 23.
She's the straight-talking brunette who shot to fame after her colourful stint on The Bachelor this year.

And Jen Hawke, 27, has dished out advice to women hoping to emulate her success by auditioning for the show's upcoming 2018 series.

'To all of the ladies auditioning for next years season, run away now!!' she wrote in a lengthy post shared to her Instagram this Saturday,

'You probably won't find the love of your life, but you'll definitely get more Instagram followers!' Jen Hawke, 27, has dished out advice to women hoping to emulate her success by auditioning for The Bachelor in 2018

She continued by clarifying: 'Jokes - you probably won't find the love of your life, but you'll definitely get more Instagram followers and shameless self promotion is what this is really about!'

In the post, the social media sensation also reflected upon her very eventful 2017 before addressing former suitor Matty Johnson personally.

'What a crazy and utterly amazing year! From meeting amazing women to publicly defaming myself for the sake of being the best damn villain possible - it was collectively one hell of a ride!' she wrote.

'What a crazy and utterly amazing year!' In a post shared to her Instagram page this Saturday, the social media sensation also reflected upon her very eventful 2017

'To MJ - thanks for being a complete gentleman the entire experience, even during the elimination date when my boob accidentally fell out of my playsuit (damn mic pack!'

She added: 'Furthermore, sorry for the time I shared my 'scotch' with you and it turned out to be red bull), the producers who quite literally provided me with the most f*cked up ways to run a muck and to some amazing ladies who have become like family to me [sic]'.

Jen went on to thank her fans for their support before confirming that she is set to publish her semi-autobiographical novel in Autumn 2018.

No hard feelings! 'To MJ - thanks for being a complete gentleman the entire experience, even during the elimination date when my boob accidentally fell out of my playsuit (damn mic pack!') she wrote

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia about the semi-fictional work, which is inspired by her experiences on The Bachelor, the feisty glamazon said: 'It's a juicy cautionary tale for anybody thinking about diving into the reality TV family.'

'I see it as a tell-all without telling all and sometimes telling too much,' she teased.

Revealing that she has already written some 200 pages, Jen explained that the story will be told from a contestant's perspective and that several of her fellow contestants would be represented in the form of fictional characters.

'The fun part for those who read it will be trying to guess who is was character,' she mused.
Kyle Richards has reportedly been robbed of her gold inscribed wedding ring, $100,000 earrings and gifts from her late mum in the devastating $1million break-in.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 48, and her husband Mauricio Umansky are said to have lost a series of extremely sentimental and irreplaceable items in the burglary of their $8.2million Encino home.

Professional thieves allegedly climbed onto the second floor using a ladder, broke a window and made a beeline for the two master bedroom closets on Wednesday.

Scroll down for video

Devastating: Kyle Richards has reportedly been robbed of her gold inscribed wedding ring, $100,000 earrings and gifts from her late mum in the devastating $1million break-in

They took her gold wedding band with the inscription 'Mauricio forever' - a priceless ode to their wedding in 1996, police and family sources told TMZ.

The culprits also reportedly swiped the $100,000 diamond earrings Mauricio got Kyle for their 20th anniversary last year.

The couple had spotted the jewellery while filming an episode of RHOBH in New York. Bella Hadid wore and modelled them and Kyle said she 'fell in love with them'.

They were presented to her by Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live, prompting her to burst into tears with happiness.

Prized possessions: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 48, and her husband Mauricio Umansky are said to have lost a series of extremely sentimental and irreplaceable items

Scene of the crime: The couple were robbed of over a million dollars in jewelry as the family headed to Aspen for the holidays. Pictured, their $8.3million Encino home

Burglars also took all her handbags, including Birkins and Chanels, sources claimed.

Some of the items were given to Kyle by her late mother Kathleen - a casting director who passed away in 2002 - and she had wanted to pass them onto her own daughters Alexia, Portia, Sophia and Farrah.

Mauricio, meanwhile, was reportedly robbed of $150,000 worth of watches - one of which was a gift from his late grandmother.

Horror: They took her gold wedding band with the inscription 'Mauricio forever' - a priceless ode to her husband Mauricio Umansky, police and family sources told TMZ (pictured at their 1996 wedding)

Sentimental: Some of the items were given to Kyle by her late mother Kathleen - a casting director who passed away in 2002 - and she had wanted to pass them onto her own daughters Alexia, Portia, Sophia (all pictured in 2015) and Farrah

Police told TMZ the thieves were professional and knew how to break in without being detected.

They added that the house has a sophisticated security system which can be turned on remotely, but it had not been turned on due to a mix-up, and multiple cameras which were turned off because of renovations.

The family also has three large dogs - including a 100lbs German Shepherd but they were on a five-week obedience course.

Nightmare: Burglars also took all her handbags, including Birkins and Chanels, sources claimed. Pictured, Kyle with one of her Chanel bags

The break-in is not thought to be an inside job despite initial reports, the site claimed, and no-one has been arrested. It is unclear if police have suspects.

MailOnline has contacted representatives for the family for comment.

Kyle and her 48-year-old real estate agent husband were robbed of over a million dollars in jewelry as the family headed to Aspen for the holidays, sources claimed.

The Encino home was empty on Wednesday night as the culprits entered the home by breaking the window, according to the site.

Ouch: Kyle Richards and Mauricio Umansky are the latest celebrities hit in a string of celebrity burglaries over the recent months according to TMZ

The burglar or burglars made out with more than a million dollars in jewelry.

Kyle's jewelry was in a lock box and it remains unclear if the culprits had got to that according to the publication.

A housekeeper made the discovery as the family is still in Colorado.

Tough times: Sources for the publication say the Encino home was empty on Wednesday night as the culprits entered the home by breaking the window

Sad: A housekeeper made the discovery as the family is still in Colorado

According to TMZ sources there was a security system but it was not on when the burglars had entered the property.

Police were alerted that the burglary occurred at 1:15 am as a sensor in the closet was triggered.

The culprits did not raid the home and seemingly knew where they could find the expensive items.

Happier times: Kyle obviously had no idea what was going on back home as she shared sweet snaps from Aspen including ones with children and hubby Mauricio

Winter wonderland: She also shared this snap of the daughter Portia with their pet pooch Khloe in the snow

Kyle obviously had no idea what was going on back home as she shared sweet snaps from Aspen including ones with children and hubby Mauricio.

The news comes amid several burglaries of celebrities including Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, Mariah Carey, Kendall Jenner, Emmy Rossum, and Nicki Minaj.

Back in October the couple purchased an $8.253 million home in Encino according to Page Six.

It is known as the 'Smokey Robinson Estate' as it was home to the legendary musician from 1988 to 2002.

They have since put their 6,200-square-foot Bel Air mansion on the market for a cool $6.995 million according to TMZ.
She found fame in the Love Island villa in Mallorca over the summer.

And Georgia Harrison ensured she remained in the spotlight, as she flaunted her sizzling physique during a sun-soaked winter break in Tenerife, Spain.

The 23-year-old reality star looked every inch the sunkissed beach babe as she slipped into a sexy semi-sheer pink bikini while strolling along the beach on Saturday.

Scroll down for video

Looking good: Georgia Harrison ensured she remained in the spotlight, as she flaunted her sizzling physique during a sun-soaked winter break in Tenerife on Saturday

The blonde beauty certainly turned heads as she flaunted her toned abs and tiny waist in the sizzling swimwear, which featured a quirky cactus print.

Nailing her beachwear, she completed the look by tying a matching pink sarong around her hips.

Styling her golden tresses in tumbling waves, the Essex native shielded her eyes behind some chic cat-eye shades.

Turning heads: The 23-year-old Love Island star looked every inch the sunkissed beach babe as she slipped into a sexy semi-sheer pink bikini while strolling along the beach on Saturday

Making a splash: The blonde beauty certainly turned heads as she flaunted her toned abs and tiny waist in the sizzling swimwear, which featured a quirky cactus print

The starlet's outing comes after she recently celebrated her birthday with fellow Love Island pals Olivia Attwood and Montana Brown.

The glamourous event took place at famed celebrity haunt Sheesh, based in Chigwell.

Georgia flew solo for the red carpet and her birthday bash. Nowhere in sight was Love Island alum and former flame Sam Gowland.

Sharp look: Nailing her beachwear, she completed the look by tying a matching pink sarong around her hip

Mane attraction: Styling her golden tresses in tumbling waves, the Essex native shielded her eyes behind some chic cat-eye shades

She first met Love Island beau Sam, 22, on the hit ITV2 show over the summer, when the Geordie was reintroduced to the villa for a second time after failing to find love in the first few weeks.

However, the pair's love story appeared to grind to a halt after Sam was spotted enjoying the new found throes of his fame on nights out flanked by various women.

Georgia posted a cryptic Tweet outlining that she had ended things with the Geordie lad - and hinted at his infidelity.

Reality star: Georgia found fame in the Love Island villa in Mallorca over the summer

Rocky road: She previously dated Sam Gowland, 22, on the hit ITV2 show when the Geordie was reintroduced to the villa for a second time after failing to find love in the first few weeks

She penned: 'Would like to confirm that myself and Sam are no longer together. Unfortunately for some men one girl isn't always enough'.

Georiga recently accused her former TOWIE stars of ''ostricising and bullying' new cast additions - claiming they feel 'threatened' if they think a girl is 'prettier than them'.

In November, she jumped to the defence of Megan McKenna after the reality beauty was accused of having 'no friends' on TOWIE by her co-star Chloe Sims.

Oh dear: However, the pair's love story appeared to grind to a halt after Sam was spotted enjoying the new found throes of his fame on nights out flanked by various women
She's one of Australia's most successful modelling exports.

And after recently returning Down Under for the festive season, Catherine McNeil couldn't wait to hit Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach on Saturday.

Relaxing with friends, the 28-year-old revealed her very slender frame and sprawling back tattoos while parading around in a black bikini set.

Scroll down for video

Beach babe! Catherine McNeil, 28, revealed her very slender frame and sprawling back tattoos while parading around in a black bikini set at Sydney's Bondi Beach this Saturday

Catherine left little to the imagination by donning a triangular two-piece for the day out.

Held together with two straps, Catherine's bikini top featured a trendy O-ring at the front.

The catwalk regular also revealed her flawless complexion as she went makeup-free for the casual outing.

Showing some skin! Catherine left little to the imagination by donning a triangular two-piece for the day out

Fashion pack: She was spotted strolling down the shore with her pals, all of whom decided to wear matching black ensembles

Heading out for a quick dip: Keeping cool with a quick dip into the ocean, the former girlfriend of Ruby Rose styled her shoulder-length brunette locks out and slicked back off of her face

Keeping cool with a quick dip into the ocean, the former girlfriend of Ruby Rose styled her shoulder-length brunette locks out and slicked back off of her face.

And ensuring she stayed sun smart, the stunner and her friends were seen helping each other apply their sunscreen.

Whilst Catherine's model friend Lexi Boling sat on her towel, she was photographed on her knees smothering her with the sunscreen.

Going au naturel: Catherine revealed her extremely inked back and arms, which included tattoos depicting flowers and leaves

Staying sun smart! And ensuring she stayed sun smart, the stunner and her friends were seen helping each other apply their sunscreen

Sweet tooth: Refueling her tanks Catherine was seen sliding on a pair of denim shorts before treating herself to an ice-cream

And the service was reciprocated with Lexi ensuring her work of art back didn't suffer from any burns.

Refueling her tanks Catherine was seen sliding on a pair of denim shorts before treating herself to an ice-cream.

The famously private star got her big break at 14 after winning a model search competition by Girlfriend magazine.

Throughout her career, Catherine has worked with some of fashion's biggest names, including Prada and Dior.

Destiny: The famously private star got her big break at 14 after winning a model search competition by Girlfriend magazine

In high demand: Throughout her career, Catherine has worked with some of fashion's biggest names, including Prada and Dior
She's engaged to Australian heartthrob Liam Hemsworth.

And Miley Cyrus has arrived Down Under to ring in the New Year with her long-term fiance.

However, on Saturday, it appeared the pop star, 25, left her man at home, heading out with future sister-in-law Elsa Pataky and a gang of gal pals for some shopping in the Hemsworth's hometown of Byron Bay.

Girl time! On Saturday, Miley Cyrus spent time shopping with Elsa Pataky (far right) and a gang of gal pals after arriving in Byron Bay, Australia to ring in the New Year with fiance Liam Hemsworth

On the move: Miley has touched down in the coastal town of Byron Bay, holidaying with Liam and the extended Hemsworth clan

Spanish-born Elsa, who is married to Liam's brother Chris, looked happy chaperoning Miley around the coastal enclave where she now resides.

Byron Bay is known for its bohemian vibe, and the 41-year-old fitted the bill perfectly, looking hippie chic in a flowing floral frock.

The model's dress draped off her shoulder allowing a glimpse of her black bra beneath.

Bohemian beauty: Spanish-born beauty has adapted to the laid-back lifestyle of Byron Bay, looking hippie chic in a flowing floral frock

In holiday mode! Miley wore minimal make-up and tied her hair back into a messy bun for the shopping expedition

Miley, meanwhile, looked far more rock and roll, sporting a vintage Elvis Presley t-shirt teamed with sparkling gold hot pants, adding a Veggani black handbag to complete the ensemble.

However, she appeared relaxed and in holiday mode, wearing minimal make-up and tying her hair back into a messy bun.

The soon-to-be sisters-in-law were accompanied by three friends for the shopping spree, with Miley spending up big at clothing store Spell & The Gypsy.

Where are Liam and Chris? It appeared to be an all-girls outing on Friday, with Miley and Elsa hitting the shops without their famous other-halves

Retail therapy! It appeared the group of gal pals were in the mood to indulge, carrying bags of clothing after their dash to the shops

Clearly a fan of the brand, the Wrecking Ball hit-maker was weighed down with three bags of products as she left the store and strolled down the leafy street.

The beauty spent Christmas Day with her family in Nashville, before boarding a flight for Australia.

It's believed the Miley and Elsa will ring in the New Year with their famous other-halves at the Hemsworth's home in Byron Bay.

Shopping up a storm! The Wrecking Ball hit-maker was weighed down with three bags of products from Spell & The Gypsy as she strolled down a leafy street

From Nashville to Byron Bay! It's believed the Miley and Elsa will ring in the New Year with their famous other-halves at the Hemsworth's home in Byron Bay

Ready for 2018: Soon-to-be sisters-in-law Miley and Elsa seemed happy to spending the last days of 2017 in each other's company

Chris and Elsa currently reside in a $7 million mansion in the famous town.

The enclave, less than an hour's flight north of Sydney, is a haven for Australia's celebrities, with many flocking there for summer getaways.

Miley's current visit marks her first trip to Australia since her Falls Festival appearance with Liam, Chris and Elsa two years ago.
She is rumoured to be joining the all-female cast of Celebrity Big Brother in January.

And Michaella McCollum, who is one half of the infamous 'Peru Two', ensured she packed in plenty of pampering time beforehand, fitting in a hair salon appointment in Belfast on Saturday.

The 24-year-old former model, who was jailed in 2013 for attempting to internationally smuggle drugs, wrapped up in a leopard print coat as she headed inside.

Scroll down for video

Indulgence: Michaella McCollum fitted in a hair salon appointment in Belfast on Saturday

Showcasing her lean limbs, she added a skintight pair of blue jeans and black racy thigh-high boots as she arrived at Monet salon.

Boasting a deep tan, she injected a slick of colour to her look with a sweep of scarlet lipstick and framed her eyes with lashings of mascara.

Michaella, who hails from County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, styled her golden tresses in a sleek middle-parting.

Looking good: The 24-year-old former model, who was jailed in 2013 for attempting to internationally smuggle drugs, wrapped up in a leopard print coat as she headed inside

Legs for days: Showcasing her lean limbs, she added a skintight pair of blue jeans and black racy thigh-high boots

Michaella is rumoured to be entering the CBB house in 2018, alongside other potential names like Ex On The Beachs Jess Impiazzi and Made In Chelsea star Ashley James.

The only confirmed name for the show is journalist Rachel Johnson, the sister of politician Boris.

Over the last few months, Michaella has been spotted living it up in party centres Ibiza and Marbella enjoying sun, sea and cocktails.

Glowing: . Boasting a deep tan, she injected a slick of colour to her look with a sweep of scarlet lipstick and framed her eyes with lashings of mascara

Mane attraction: Michaella, who hails from County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, styled her golden tresses in a sleek middle-parting

How the former drugs smuggler has funded her holidays is unclear, but she has been linked to a number of potentially lucrative opportunities and was recently spotted outside HMP Liverpool where her agent said she was filming a prison documentary.

She was also spotted heading to a morning of meetings at the BBC back in September. Representatives for McCollum told the MailOnline that McCollum had visited the studios for 'meetings about upcoming projects'.

It has been reported that she has been offered a 250,000 tell all book deal detailing her criminal exploits and time behind bars in Lima.

Rumour has it: Michaella is rumoured to be entering the CBB house in 2018, alongside other potential names like Ex On The Beachs Jess Impiazzi and Made In Chelsea star Ashley James

Tough times: She was sentenced to spend six years and eight months inside a grim jail in Lima, after she was caught trying to smuggle the huge quantity of cocaine

Her jet-setting lifestyle is a stark contrast to former accomplice Melissa Reid, who has landed a charity job at Citizens Advice.

Reid applied for a job at the charity after she was released from the South American jail last June.

McCollum, by contrast, has been accused of capitalising on her notoriety, and in May it emerged she has signed with a talent agency.

The two were sentenced to spend six years and eight months inside a grim jail in Lima, after they were caught trying to smuggle the huge quantity of cocaine.

The ex-convict was released on parole last March after serving less than half of her sentence but initially had to stay in Peru, where she carried out voluntary work until August when she flew back to Belfast.

Rough: The ex-convict was released on parole last March after serving less than half of her sentence but initially had to stay in Peru, where she carried out voluntary work until August when she flew back to Belfast
She has been wowing in a series of sizzling swimsuits during her annual Christmas getaway to celebrity hotspot Barbados.

And Emma Forbes didn't disappoint with her latest beach offering as she slipped her fabulous figure into a slinky scarlet swimsuit on Saturday.

The TV presenter, 52, looked impossibly youthful as she flaunted her toned legs and taut midriff in the red halterneck swimsuit with white bar detailing while enjoying a quick sunbathing session aboard the jetty.

Scroll down for video

Lithe: Emma Forbes didn't disappoint with her latest beach offering as she slipped her fabulous figure into a slinky scarlet swimsuit on Saturday

Her platinum crop was styled sleek and straight and parted on the side while her sparkling peepers were covered by stylish shades.

The high-cut swimsuit also flashed a hint of her peachy posterior as she strolled along the sand.

Opting for a light dusting of make-up for yet another beach day, the smiling star covered her sparkling peepers with stylish dark shades.

Emma's sun-soaked display came after she revealed she overhauled her lifestyle after seeing what she felt were unflattering bikini pap shots - even though she still looked incredible.

Leggy: The TV presenter, 52, looked impossibly youthful as she flaunted her toned legs and taut midriff in the red halterneck swimsuit with white bar detail while enjoying a quick sunbathing session aboard the jetty

Glowing: Her platinum crop was styled sleek and straight and parted on the side while her sparkling peepers were covered by stylish shades

Toned: Opting for a light dusting of make-up for yet another beach day, the smiling star covered her sparkling peepers with stylish dark shades

Kicking back: Emma showcased her toned legs as she chilled aboard the jetty

Laugh out loud: Emma looked in great spirits as she enjoyed a laugh while relaxing at sea

Stylish: Opting for a light dusting of make-up for yet another beach day, the smiling star covered her sparkling peepers with stylish dark shades

Talking to Loose Women in June, she said: 'I had my children and never lost my baby weight. It's fine when kids are aged two or three, but theres a problem when they are 20.

'For me, I wanted to lose that weight. I didnt recognise myself. You dont look at that section of you.

She continued: 'Everyone made such a big deal about me turning 50 and were like are you gonna have a party? But I just wanted a change. You're very vulnerable at 50.'

Looking good: The toned star showed off her impeccable swimsuit body as she reclined

Smile: Emma looked delighted as she soaked up some rays aboard the tropical jetty

Chillax: Emma looked in her element as she enjoyed another day soaking up the sun

Emma is mother to Lily, 20 and Sam, 18, from her 30-year marriage to wealthy financier Graham, and says it was their leaving home which also prompted her to take action.

She said: 'I had empty nest syndrome and I didnt want to be at home and eating. I just thought, have a lifestyle change.

'I didnt want surgery. I'd end up on Botched. I thought it's time to get on top of health. So I gave up sugar and I walked. I hiked up mountains.'

Pert: Emma showed off her pert bust in the figure-hugging swimsuit, as well as her toned arms

Sensational: Emma flashed her long lean legs as she made her way back to shore

Stunning: Emma showed off her natural beauty as she relaxed in the warm waters

Showing off her then-new blonde locks, Emma said she decided to change her hair colour on a whim within the last 24 hours when on the show.

She said: 'Thats what happens when you're 50 and hormonal. You do radical things.

'It only happened in the last in the 24 hours. I just thought it would be fun a bit of reinvention.

'My husband said Ive always preferred blonde hair. Been with him 30 years!'
Sporting a new blunt bob, Whitney Port and her hubby Tim Rosenman took baby Sonny out for a day of running errands in Beverly Hills on Friday.

According to her Instagram, the little family stopped off at Barneys New York for a little post-holiday shopping.

The 32-year-old fashionista was dressed casually in high top black converse, an over-sized sweater, and a pair of cropped denim.

New do: Sporting a new blunt bob, Whitney Port and her hubby Tim Rosenman took baby Sonny out for a day of running errands in Beverly Hills on Friday

Mom and dad were spotted matching in grey tops as they spent the day in Beverly Hills.

Port wore a heavy v-neck, grey sweater and cropped mom jeans as she carried her large tote and a diaper bag.

She was all smiles as an adorable gold necklace that spelled Sonny,' swung from her neck.

The Hills star dressed her five-month-old baby boy in a turtleneck and overalls. His hair was mussed and on his feet were a pair of tiny tan moccasins.

Mom moves: Port wore a gold necklace that spelled 'Sonny' with her slouchy sweater and cropped jeans

All smiles: The former reality star was in a cheery mood on the outing as she carried a brown tote

Its been the 2017 baby boom for the former cast of MTVs The Hills. Lauren Conrad was the first to announce her pregnancy, followed by Whitney and Heidi Pratt.

In an interview with E News, the reality star talked about reuniting with the cast.

I mean I would love to meet all the babies, Port said. It's so crazy that we all have babies, I would love to meet them for sure.

The former Teen Vogue intern and Rosenman recently returned from Florida where they visited her in-laws for Christmas.

Little Sonny took his first flight on December 20 and they documented it on her YouTube channel.

In her web-series I Love My BabyBut, she talks openly with viewers about what its really like to be a new mom.

Before and after: Whitney's hairdresser Jake B. Martin revealed her new short blunt bob on Instagram alongside a picture of her old look

It was originally her husbands idea that stemmed from Whitneys rather difficult pregnancy.

The Britains Top Model judge and Tim have been married since 2015.

They have a 1.5 million dollar ranch home in Studio City that was purchased just before the arrival of their son.

In an October Instagram post, Port talked about how she maintains a relationship with her TV producer husband post baby.

'Simply put: It's not easy,' she said. 'Don't get me wrong, Timmy is my world. But we fight and sometimes we don't make enough time for each other. And bringing a baby into the mix only complicates things more.'

'But it's also challenging to watch your life, which was once just the two of you, dissolve a little. My advice? MAKE time for each other, for just the two of you to spend re-rooting the foundation that made your family in the first place.'
There is no shortage of love between A-list actor Mark Walhberg and his wife Rhea Durham.

The couple couldn't keep their hands off each other while spending yet another day on the beach in Barbados on Saturday.

Rhea was spotted in a sexy one-piece swimsuit while Wahlberg sported a pair of blue patterned board shorts.

Winter break: Mark Wahlberg and Rhea Durham were spotted on the beach in Barbados on Saturday

The mom-of-four wore a skimpy one-piece black swimsuit that showed off her 'Infinity' tattoo for a day of fun in the sun on Saturday.

She looked fashionable in a pair of round black shades and a gold aquatic watch.

Mark boasted six-pack abs as he walked the beach with his wife of eight years--both looking sun-kissed from several days of catching rays.

Family fun: The two share four children together: daughters Ella Rea, 14, and Grace, seven, as well as sons Michael, 11 and Brendan, nine

Love in the air: The couple looked smitten as they enjoyed the sand and surf

Together forever: The actor and his model wife have been married since 2009

It was a family affair as Wahlberg was seen playing in the ocean with his kids and later hopping on a jet ski with his son.

The Deepwater Horizon star and his wife share four children: daughters Ella Rea, 14, and Grace, seven, as well as sons Michael, 11 and Brendan, nine.

The actor looked overjoyed to spending time with his little ones.

All smiles: The actor looked overjoyed to spending time with his little ones on Saturday

Mini me: The Daddy's Home star walked with his two sons down the beach

Rise up: 'I've always tried to find that balance of giving my kids the things I never had, but also making sure that they have an understanding of what it takes to go out and earn your own way in the world,' Mark said in an interview with Cover

Hot bod: The dad-of-four strapped on a life jacket in preparation jet skiing

In an interview with Cover, Mark talked about his parenting strategies.

'I've always tried to find that balance of giving my kids the things I never had, but also making sure that they have the same kind of drive and desire and appreciation and understanding of what it takes to go out and earn your own way in the world,' he said.

He goes on to talk about how he hopes they'll root their lives in prayer.

'My going to church and starting my whole day in prayer, hopefully those will be things that my kids will witness and be curious enough to explore why I get so much fulfillment and joy and love from that,' the dad explained. 'Hopefully that will be what brings them to following in my footsteps.'

Safety first: Mark's son Michael also made sure to strap on a life vest

Ready for action: The father-son duo have been enjoying a week of beach activities post-Christmas

Need for speed: The Critics Choice Award winner zoomed across the surface of the ocean with his eldest son Michael
She is one of Hollywood's hottest commodities, known for her stellar acting ability.

But Jennifer Lawrence kept a low profile as she arrived at New York's JFK Airport on Saturday, cradling her cute dog Pippi as she waited to check-in.

The 27-year-old Oscar winner, looked classically chic in a boho-style outfit and stylish hat and shades as she prepared for take-off.

Scroll down for video

Casually cool: Jennifer Lawrence kept a low profile as she arrived at New York's JFK Airport on Saturday, cradling her cute dog Pippi as she waited to check-in

Her caramel tresses were swept away from her face into an elegant updo and she appeared to go make-up free for her flight.

Her sparkling peepers were hidden behind aviator sunglasses.

The Hunger Games star covered up her toned frame in a billowing floral black semi-sheer dress which she paired with black skinny jeans and leather ankle boots emblazoned with a metal star.

Covering up against the Big Apple chill, she slipped on a dove grey coat.

Embrace: The 27-year-old Oscar winner, looked classically chic in a boho-style outfit and stylish Panama hat and shades as she prepared for take-off

Maternal: Her caramel tresses were swept away from her face into an elegant updo and she appeared to go make-up free for her flight

Close bond: The Hunger Games star covered up her toned frame in a billowing floral black semi-sheer dress which she paired with black skinny jeans and leather ankle boots emblazoned with a metal star

The caring star protectively held onto her beloved pooch as well as Pippi's toys and lead as they pair prepared to check in.

The outing came after Jennifer continued her Christmas tradition on Sunday of visiting a children's hospital in her hometown. The star raised the spirits of young patients at Norton Children's Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.

Jennifer brought a huge smile to a girl's face as they took a photo together inside a hospital room.

Hugs: The caring star protectively held onto her beloved pooch as well as Pippi's toys and lead as they pair prepared to check in

Cute: Covering up against the Big Apple chill, she slipped on a dove grey coat

Jennifer beamed while taking a group photo with nearly a dozen hospital staffers as she made the visit, which has become an annual affair in recent years.

'Louisville's own Jennifer Lawrence stopped by Norton Children's today to visit with patients, families, and staff. This visit has become a tradition for Lawrence each Christmas. Thank you, Jennifer! You sure do bring a smile to all!,' Norton Children's Hospital posted on Facebook along with photos of her visit.

Jennifer was raised in Louisville by her mother Karen and father Gary who together ran a children's day camp. She was an assistant nurse at their children's camp before finding fame as an actress.

Jetsetter: Jennifer looked stylish as she and Pippi waited in line with her entourage

Chic: The star showcased another stylish sartorial look in her velvet floral dress

Christmas tradition:The outing came after Jennifer continued her Christmas tradition on Sunday of visiting a children's hospital in her hometown

Jennifer donated $2 million to the hospital in 2016 to build the Jennifer Lawrence Foundation Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for children recovering from heart procedures, open-heart surgery, heart failure and other conditions requiring intensive care.

The Silver Linings Playbook star can next be seen in the spy thriller Red Sparrow based on the 2013 book of the same name by former CIA operative Jason Matthews.

Jennifer portrays Russian intelligence officer Dominika Egorova in the film scheduled for release on March 2, 2018.

Red Sparrow also stars Joel Edgerton, Matthias Schoenaerts, Charlotte Rampling, Mary-Louise Parker and Jeremy Irons. Jennifer also can be seen in X-Men: Dark Phoenix due out in November 2018.

Big smiles: The star brought smiles as she visited young patients and their families
She spoke about her love of cocktails and wine during her stint on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here.

And Georgia Toffolo looked like she had indulged one tipple too many while partying in Edinburgh before which she revealed she was indulging in a Cheeky Vimto - a lethal blend typically mixing two measures of red port with a bottle of blue WKD.

The 23-year-old cut a tired figure, covering her face with a fur lined jacket as she trudged through Heathrow Airport on Saturday, having arrived home from Scotland.

Scroll down for video

Aftermath: Georgia Toffolo looked like she indulged in a tipple too many as she touched down in Heathrow on Saturday following a heavy night out in Edinburgh

Georgia wrapped up warm in the grey coat, which she paired with a cream knitted jumper. She slipped her trim legs into light wash denim jeans and opted for comfort with a pair of black patterned boots.

The reality starlet tied her long blonde tresses in a messy bun and appeared to forego make-up.

The newly appointed This Morning presenter could hardly keep her eyes open as she walked through the terminal.

Cheeky! She revealed she was indulging in a Cheeky Vimto - a lethal blend typically mixing two measures of red port with a bottle of blue WKD

Exhausted: The 23-year-old cut a very tired figure as she trudged through arrivals, covering her face in a faux-fur lined jacket

Shattered: The newly appointed This Morning presenter could hardly keep her eyes open as she walked through the terminal

Hungover: On Friday night, Georgia took to Twitter, telling her followers she was enjoying a night on the town

On Friday night, Georgia took to Twitter, telling her followers she was enjoying a night on the town during which she wrote her 'Cheeky' tweet.

The bubbly blonde finally let her hair down after being crowned Queen of the Jungle. Toff announced she will replace showbiz gossip king Rylan Clark-Neal while he takes a temporary break from This Morning.

The starlet revealed the exciting news live from a mountain in Verbier, Switzerland, on Friday as she promised to be back on TV screens in January before wishing viewers a Merry Christmas.

New co-host: Toff announced she will replace showbiz gossip king Rylan Clark-Neal while he takes a temporary break from This Morning

Star in the making: Georgia rose to prominence on Made In Chelsea, but shot to the heights of fame earlier this month after winning I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!

Gone.. for now: Rylan is taking a small break from the show during which Toff will take his place

Georgia rose to prominence on Made In Chelsea, but shot to the heights of fame earlier this month after winning I'm A Celeb.

The star bagged a whopping 71% of votes in the final against runner-up Jamie Lomas, after delighting viewers with her kind-hearted nature and witty sense of humour.

Toff's career is already taking off - with the blonde tipped to rake in 5million following her big win.

Popular: The star bagged a whopping 71% of votes in the final against runner-up Jamie Lomas, after delighting viewers with her kind-hearted nature and witty sense of humour

It is believed that since her appearance on the show both ITV, who broadcast I'm A Celebrity, and Channel 4, who own Made In Chelsea, are fighting over her to be their star.

According to the Mirror, ITV2 are keen to give the reality star her own series, and even envisage the 23-year-old as a presenter for their channel next year.

A source said: 'Georgia is in a enviable position now. She will be in the next series of Made In Chelsea, but beyond that there are lots of options and lots of interest.

'Channel 4 will be keen to keep Toff as one of their stars on E4 as she also recently appeared on their Celebs Go Dating series. So she will have some tough decisions to make in terms of TV, but the future looks very bright'.
Bow Wow revealed Wednesday that he used to 'kick it hard' with Kim Kardashian West a decade ago, but kept the relationship secret for fear of his fans' reaction.

'I'm just so nervous because I never really dated outside my race before, this is different for a ni***,' the 30-year-old actor-rapper (born Shad Moss) explained to Hollywood Unlocked.

'I don't know how my fans going to look at it, so I kept that s*** low and nobody really knew. For the people that do know, it's like "damn."'

Scroll down for video

'I was just so nervous': Bow Wow revealed Wednesday that he used to 'kick it hard' with Kim Kardashian West a decade ago, but kept the relationship secret for fear of his fans' reaction

'This was right before Reggie Bush': Before the 37-year-old reality star's E! series, the Growing Up Hip Hop star used to regularly see her around with her former boss/mentor Paris Hilton (L)

Before the 37-year-old reality star's E! series, the Growing Up Hip Hop star used to regularly see her around with her former boss/mentor Paris Hilton.

'She's super dope. How did I get her information, I don't know. We just kept crossing paths,' recalled the former child star.

'It was cool, we remained friends, and this was right before Reggie Bush. The reason nobody knew is because of how I move. I can get low, and nobody will know s***. We kicked it hard.'

If true, Kardashian would have been about 27 years old at the time, while the Ohio-born, Atlanta-based hip-hop star would have been around 20.

Item? If true, Kardashian would have been about 27 years old at the time, while the Ohio-born, Atlanta-based hip-hop star would have been around 20

'She's super dope': Bow Wow then said he respected the Calabasas mother-of-two's marriage to rapper Kanye West too much to say anything more about precisely how intimate they got

Moved on: Kim and her 40-year-old third husband (R) - who are parents to daughter North, 4; and son Saint, 2 - are expecting their third child, a girl, via surrogate next mont

Lil' Santa: Meanwhile, the former CSI: Cyber actor - who was previously engaged to Erica Mena - has a six-year-old daughter Shai Moss with his ex-partner Joie Chavis (R)

Bow Wow then said he respected the mother-of-two's marriage to rapper Kanye West too much to say anything more about precisely how intimate they got.

Kim and her 40-year-old third husband - who are parents to daughter North, 4; and son Saint, 2 - are expecting their third child, a girl, via surrogate next month.

Meanwhile, the former CSI: Cyber actor - who was previously engaged to Erica Mena - has a six-year-old daughter Shai Moss with his ex-partner Joie Chavis.

The former Snoop Dogg protege will next host his second annual New Year's Eve bash at an Atlanta private mansion this Sunday.

Fans can catch more of Bow Wow on the second season of his reality show Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta, which premieres January 11 on WE tv.

Bye 2017! The former Snoop Dogg protege will next host his second annual New Year's Eve bash at an Atlanta private mansion this Sunday
She's a part of a big family feud in Jay Z and Beyonce's new music video Family Feud. But in real life, Rosario Dawson loves her relatives!

This fact was made evident during a recent trip to the beaches of Santa Monica, California where Dawson and her nearest and dearest spent their Friday.

The swimsuit-clad actress, 38, accessorized with a jean jacket, hat, oversized sunglasses and a red Solo cup that never left her side.

Scroll down for video

Wish you were here: Rosario Dawson spent a day at the beach with her family on Friday

Members of her squad included her daughter and her mother Isabel Celeste, among others.

Dawson spent the day relaxing and making videos of the beautiful scenery that she shared with her 781,000 Instagram followers.

The Puerto Rican and Cuban beauty, who calls New York City home, enjoyed even simple moments like squishing the wet sand between her toes.

The family: The Sin City star was joined on the beach by her daughter and her mother Isabel Celeste

Squish: Rosario enjoyed having the wet sand between her toes

Fun in the sun: Rosario showed off her brown and light blue swimsuit on Instagram

Jay Z and his wife Beyonce just dropped their newest video titled Family Feud on Friday night and Dawson is part of a large celebrity cast.

Other big name talent that starred in the Ava DuVernay directed video includes Mindy Kaling, Rashida Jones, America Ferrera, Michael B. Jordan, Brie Larson, Constance Wu, Niecy Nash and Jessica Chastain.

Dawson can be seen during a scene in the future where her fellow founding mothers sat in discussion.

Squad goals: The all-star cast of Jay Z and Beyonce's new video directed by Ava DuVernay

Much love: DuVernay shared love for all the talent that starred in the music video released Friday

Rosario is currently single after splitting with beau of one year Eric Andre.

A source confirmed to People on November 30 that the pair were no longer an item.

The Man Seeking Woman actor was by the mother-of-one's side after she suffered a medical emergency.

Her representatives never confirmed the split.
She's been busy promoting her new film, Swinging Safari.

And Kylie Minogue opened up about partner swapping in a candid interview this week.

The 49-year-old Australian pop star and actress said she understood people's curiosity around it and joked: 'It's not called the seven-year itch for no good reason.'

Scroll down for video

'It's not called the seven-year itch for no good reason': Kylie Minogue talks partner swapping as she promotes Swinging Safari...after revealing her disdain for walking down the aisle after split from fiance Joshua Sasse

Kylie spoke to The Fix, alongside co-stars Radha Mitchell and Asher Keddie.

Radha said she thinks some married couples can get restless in their marriages.

'I haven't tried it, actually. So I don't have a very clear perspective on it, but I understand the curiosity,' Radha said.

In good company: Kylie spoke to The Fix , alongside co-stars Radha Mitchell (L) and Asher Keddie (C)

Moving on: Meanwhile, earlier this month, Kylie opened up about her personal life, after her split from British fiance, Joshua Sasse, 30 (seen)

'I think people that have been married for a long time get this sense of restlessness.'

She recently told Yahoo Be: 'We're curious, people are curious beings.'

Meanwhile, earlier this month, Kylie opened up about her personal life, after her split from British fiance, Joshua Sasse, 30.

The pair called off their engagement in February, and before splitting had vowed to not get married until same-sex marriage was legal in Australia.

Kylie recently said how happy she was at the marriage equality outcome when speaking to News Limited, but bemoaned the thought of walking down the aisle herself.

Over: The pair called off their engagement in February, and before splitting had vowed to not get married until same-sex marriage was legal in Australia

'Don't make me have one': Kylie recently said how happy she was at the marriage equality outcome when speaking to News Limited , but bemoaned the thought of walking down the aisle herself

'I love a wedding. Just don't make me have one,' Kylie said.

Kylie claimed she was ready for the onslaught of requests to sing, perform and appear at same-sex marriages in the new year.

The former couple announced their engagement in 2016, putting a notice in the marriages section of the UK's Daily Telegraph.

It is thought the couple may have chosen to announce their engagement in the Telegraph because of Joshua's family links to the newspaper.

The pair first met in September 2015 when Kylie filmed scenes for Galavant.
They have headed to Colorado's Rocky Mountains to ring in the New Year.

And Sofia Richie and boyfriend Scott Disick kept a low profile on Friday as they partied with Paris Hilton in Aspen.

Earlier in the day, the 19-year-old professed her love for her father-of-three beau, 34, as she shared a sweet Instagram snap to her 3.1m followers.

Scroll down for video

Stylish: Sofia Richie and boyfriend Scott Disick cut a low profile on Friday as they exited a club in Aspen

Heading out of the club, Sofia hid her face in a black fluffy coat while she showed off her tremendous pins in black skinny jeans and a pair of glossy black boots.

Styling her newly-brunette hair in a sleek ponytail, the Chanel model looked effortlessly stylish as she headed to the car with her beau in toe.

Scott, who is known for his partying lifestyle, looked dapper as he wrapped up in a khaki padded jacket, grey jeans and white trainers.

Just hours earlier, the American beauty took to Instagram to declare her love for her reality star boyfriend.

Loved up: Just hours earlier, the American beauty took to Instagram to declare her love for her reality star boyfriend

Low profile: Bearing a striking resemblance to Scott's ex Kourtney Kardashian, Sofia hid her face in a black fluffy coat as she exited the club

Posing together on the runway after landing in Colorado, she captioned the black and white shot: 'Love you kid'.

And Sofia was not the only one to take to the social media networking site, with socialite Paris Hilton posing with the teen beauty in the swanky club.

The Hilton heiress, who rose to fame starring in The Simple Life alongside Sofia's sister Nicole, wrote alongside the cute snap: 'Reunited with my sis in #Aspen'.

Best friends: The Hilton heiress, who rose to fame starring in The Simple Life alongside Sofia's sister Nicole, wrote alongside the cute snap: 'Reunited with my sis in #Aspen'

Come fly with me: Scott Disick and Sofia Richie headed to the snowy destination on a private jet on Friday

The daughter of Lionel Richie looked in high spirits as she pouted in the fun snap, while Paris teased a glimpse of her cleavage in a low cut top.

On Friday, Disick told his 20.1 million Instagram followers he was on 'a whole new year vibe' as he uploaded a photo of him and Richie inside a luxury jet.

On/off couple Scott and Kourtney split for good in October 2015 after nine years together, with reports surfacing that Scott had been 'lashing out' following the break-up.

The pair share three children, Mason, eight, Penelope, five, and Reign, three, and have continued to co-parent amicably.

Scott also still appears on family show Keeping Up With The Kardashians, and in April admitted he still had feelings for Kourtney.

Ready for snow: Sofia donned a pair of heavy boots to help her negotiate through thick snow

Part of the family: Their holiday comes just days after Scott attended Kris' annual Christmas Eve bash - where Sofia was noticeably absent (pictured at the bash with Khloe Kardashian)

Speaking to her sister Khloe on the show in April, the TV personality admitted: 'I'm still like turned on by her...

'I feel like I will never be over her. She's the love of my life, but I just try to do everything to be there for her, but there's literally no appreciation for anything ever.'

Scott has remained a big part of the Kardashian family, and recently attended Kris Jenner's annual Christmas Eve bash - Sofia was not seen at the party.

Kourtney was also at the bash, and shared loved-up snaps with her boyfriend Younes Bendjima, 24, who she began dating in October.

Meanwhile, Scott and Sofia confirmed their romance in September and have been inseparable ever since, despite initial protests from Sofia's father Lionel.

Holiday love: Kourtney was also at the Christmas Eve bash, and shared loved-up snaps with her boyfriend Younes Bendjima, 24, who she began dating in October
A woman found dying outside a rural home in central Victoria had injuries consistent with being hit by a car, a court has been told.

Alicia Maree Little, 41, died while being treated by paramedics on Thursday and on Friday 44-year-old Kyneton man Charles McKenzie Ross Evans was charged with murder.

"I've never been in trouble before and don't know what to do," Evans told a Melbourne magistrate during a brief appearance, which was told the case is one of domestic violence.

"I wanted to speak about everything," he said, but added his lawyer advised him to "hold off".

Ms Little was found in the yard of a Lavenders Lane home near Kyneton on Thursday afternoon and could not be resuscitated, Detective acting Sergeant Leigh Scott Smyth said.

The accused was arrested when he returned to the address more than an hour later.

He did not apply for bail and was remanded to appear at Bendigo Magistrates Court on January 2.

National domestic violence helpline: 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT. In an emergency call triple-zero.
Today's Birthday, December 30: Glenn Robbins, Australian comedian and actor (1957-).

From Kath & Kim's prized "hunk o' spunk", to the true blue outback traveller Russell Coight, Glenn Robbins has built a career out of creating comedic characters that embody Australia's daggy side.

And 16 years after hosting All Aussie Adventures, Robbins announced he would be reprising the role of disastrous travel show host Russell Coight for a 2018 release.

After graduating Strathmore High School in 1975, Robbins studied drama and media at Melbourne's State College, graduating in 1979.

He began his acting career in two episodes of crime drama Prisoner in 1984. Following this, he had small parts the following year on comedy shows The Eleventh Hour and The Video Comedy Show as well as Special Squad and A Thousand Skies.

Robbins debuted one of his most popular characters on The Comedy Company in 1988. Playing the eccentric and unfashionable Uncle Arthur, Robbins' aptitude for daggy yet endearing roles continued to flourish in different characters over the years.

Between 1998-2005 he picked up a regular spot on the weekly satirical show The Panel for eight seasons.

Staying busy in different comedic guises, in 2001 he launched All Aussie Adventures. For this outback travel show he played the accident-prone host Russell Coight, driven by the enduring Aussie spirit to 'help out a mate'.

Hanging up the khaki shorts for more serious attire, Robbins played estranged husband Pete O'May in the 2001 award-winning and internationally acclaimed film Lantana.

Robbins describes his ability to morph between drama and comedy as a style of acting.

"I play for the reality of the character. I don't play for the comedy, I play for the drama. You know you're doing comedy, obviously, but you don't push it sketch-comedy style. It has to be a bit more rigid, the characters have to be more three-dimensional," Robbins told Fairfax Media in 2003.

Between 2002-2007 he starred as metrosexual Ken Knight, husband of Kim Day-Knight in the ABC series Kath & Kim. He also starred in the 2005 telemovie spawned by the series and a 2012 feature film.

Earlier this year Robbins revealed he had started filming new episodes as Russell Coight set to air on Network Ten in 2018.
New Year's Eve revellers across Queensland are being told to be alert for security concerns but not to let it harm their celebrations.

Hundreds of thousands of Queensland police will work in overt and covert roles across Sunday's celebrations but the New Year's Eve commander in Brisbane says there's no specific threat for the state.

"I hope people have a great time," Superintendent Tony Fleming told reporters.

"That's the main thing. It is New Year's Eve, it's about celebrating what's coming for the new year."

Supt Fleming said while incidents such as the one in Melbourne earlier this month gave him "sleepless nights" he and other organisers had prepared for a range of scenarios from terror incidents to something as minor as a person becoming ill on a bridge.

Brisbane will hold two fireworks displays at South Bank on the Brisbane River.

The Gold Coast, which will host the Commonwealth Games in 2018, is also set to start the biggest year in the city's history with a bang.

The city's council has arranged 11 fireworks displays across the region, including on the beach at Surfers Paradise at 8pm AEST and midnight.

Public transport in the state's southeast will be fare-free from 8.45pm on New Year's Eve to 5.30am on New Year's Day with several extra late services to operate through that time.

The Queensland Government says official fireworks displays are the safest way to ring in the new year.

"Attending displays under the control of licensed fireworks contractors is a smarter, safer choice than putting yourself and others at risk by illegally using fireworks," Natural Resources and Mines Minister Anthony Lynham said.

Dr Lynham said 122 people had been prosecuted in the past 12 months across the state for fireworks offences.

Brisbane is forecast to be hot and humid over New Year's period with maximum temperatures in the low 30s and possible thunderstorms both days.

The Queensland Ambulance Service says not overdoing the celebrations is important.

"Keep hydrated by drinking water, stay out of the sun and avoid consuming alcohol throughout the day - you don't want to cut your New Year's Eve celebrations short," QAS Metro North senior operations supervisor Warren Painting said.

The RSPCA is also reminding pet owners to ensure their pets are in a safe and secure location during celebrations.
Two NSW women have been charged with high-range drink driving offences, including one accused of being more than six times the legal limit in northern Sydney.

The 43-year-old was pulled over at Belrose on Friday night.

Police say when she was taken to a nearby police station she returned a reading of .314 - over six times the legal limit - and was issued with a court attendance notice for mid-February.

The second woman, aged 23, was tested in Narrabeen on Friday afternoon after concerns were raised about the way she was driving.

She allegedly returned a reading of .252 and is expected to appear in Manly Local Court, also in mid-February.

Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy urged motorists to remember alcohol leaves the body slowly and they may still be unfit to drive the day after drinking.

"I would encourage people to think about a designated driver for the next morning as well as on the night," he said in a statement on Saturday.

Since December 15, police have issued almost 17,000 speeding tickets, conducted more than 560,000 breath tests and issued 862 drink-driving charges.

There have been over 1200 major crashes and the state's holiday road toll stands at 24.
New Year's Eve revellers are set to flock to Hobart's Taste of Tasmania festival as part of the city's annual celebrations.

But the festival's prime vantage point comes at a price, with doors closing at 3pm and reopening at 6pm until 1am for ticketholders.

To get a good view without the $65 price tag, revellers can head to Constitution and Victoria Docks where the Sydney to Hobart yachta are moored.

Families wanting to get to bed before the late night display will be able to catch the 9.30pm children's fireworks at the Kids in the Park extravaganza, which will include a silent disco in the lead up.
An exercise by Russian bombers operating from an Indonesian military base that sparked a defence alert in Darwin was probably an intelligence gathering activity, a defence expert says.

Defence personnel in Darwin were put on "increased readiness" as Russian bombers conducted patrol exercises last month, the ABC reports. However they did not enter Australian airspace.

The Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin was placed on a "short period" of heightened alert, while over 100 Russian personnel and several aircraft were stationed at the Biak Airbase in Indonesia's eastern Papua province.

Defence expert Peter Jennings, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, told the ABC that Russia was probably gathering information.

The long-range deployment of Russian strategic bombers to the Indonesian province of Papua was a reminder that "Russia is here, it wants to be a player in the Pacific security," he said.

"I am sure there would be concerns about Russian intelligence gathering because they wouldn't come this far south without looking at the one significant allied presence in this part of the world, which operates out of Darwin and RAAF base Tindal, so there would be an information gathering effort which we would be geared to resist," he said.
CoCo Vandeweghe has given the highly-ranked US team the perfect start to their Hopman Cup campaign, with a 6-3 6-3 win over Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in Perth.

The world number 10-ranked American took 96 minutes to claim the first match of the tournament in straight sets, dropping just one game along the way.

Vandeweghe converted two of five break points in the opening set and two of four in a tough second.

The American team of Vandeweghe and Jack Sock are looking to go one better than they did in last summer's event when they lost the final to France.

Sock, ranked eight in the world, can claim the opening tie of the mixed-teams event for the United States with a win in his men's clash with Karen Khachanov, ranked 45.

Team USA have claimed the Hopman Cup a record six times but neither Vendeweghe nor Sock have been in a winning team.

Russia, making their first appearance since 2010, won their only title in 2007.
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
When the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, Sydney will once again make its mark on the world stage with a spectacular fireworks extravaganza.

Sydney Harbour Bridge will set off its biggest pyrotechnic show on record with 28,000 fireworks, shot from 175 firing points - 3000 more than previous years.

The skyline will light up with a special display of gold and silver fireworks co-designed by Hugh Jackman, set to the music of renowned indigenous musician Dr G Yunupingu.

The 2017 show will feature eight tonnes of fireworks, 13,000 shells and 30,000 shooting comets worth $7 million.

In a nod to Australia's 'yes' vote for marriage equality, a cascading rainbow will pour down from the bridge.

More than a million people are expected to flood into Sydney's CBD, with nearly half of visitors expected to be tourists, according to the Tourism and Transport Forum.

The visitors are set to inject about $170 million into the Sydney economy, with a knock-on effect for the national economy.

Revellers across the country have been warned to behave and not spoil celebrations for others.

In Melbourne, an estimated half a million people are expected to pack the city for the firework display along the Yarra River.

Victoria Police say they won't tolerate any disorderly behaviour with plans for police to visit party hot-spots.

Those wanting to ring in the New Year with drink or drugs are being told to forget "running the gauntlet" and then getting behind the wheel.

"We're not the moral police, but we say if you choose to have a drink, or you're going to use drugs, separate the behaviour or activity of driving," Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer told reporters.

There will be 14 tonnes of fireworks fired across 22 city building rooftops in a 10-minute display.

Meanwhile, Brisbane will hold two fireworks displays at South Bank on the Brisbane River.

The Gold Coast, which will host the Commonwealth Games in 2018, is also set to start the biggest year in the city's history with a bang.

The city's council has arranged 11 fireworks displays across the region, including on the beach at Surfers Paradise at 8pm AEST and midnight.

Police in Canberra will be targeting underage drinking, which has been a thorny problem for the national capital in previous years.

Fireworks will be launched from City Hall, while food trucks will line Civic Square and a dance party will sprawl across the road in Garema Place.

Fireworks and family-friendly activities will be the focus of New Year's Eve celebrations across Adelaide and throughout South Australia, with Elder Park in the city expected to draw the biggest crowd.

In Hobart, revellers are set to flock to the city's Taste of Tasmania festival and in Perth Northbridge will be buzzing with street performers, including stilt walkers and ballerinas.

The RSPCA has reminded pet owners across the country to ensure their pets are in a safe and secure location during celebrations.
Steve Smith has scored his 23rd Test century to crush England's hopes of claiming a dead-rubber Ashes victory in Melbourne.

The Australian skipper spent more than six hours at the crease before raising his bat for the third time of the summer in the final session on day five of the fourth Test at the MCG.

Another ton in Sydney would rank Smith, who has racked up more than 600 runs from six innings, alongside Don Bradman, Wally Hammond and Herbert Sutcliffe for the most centuries in an Ashes series.
Six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic's hopes of playing in Melbourne in two weeks have taken another hit after he withdrew from next week's Qatar Open due to an ongoing elbow injury.

The Serbian has been sidelined for the last six months due to the injury and pulled out of an exhibition match in Abu Dhabi on Friday when the right elbow injury flared up.

"Unfortunately, the situation with the elbow has not changed for the better since yesterday. I still feel the pain," Djokovic said in a statement.

"After the thorough consultations with the medical team, we decided to keep up with the therapies and elbow treatments."

It puts a further question mark on his participation in the Australian Open, which starts on January 15.

Djokovic hasn't played a match since his quarter-final exit at Wimbledon.

Other elite players also under an injury cloud are world No.1 Rafael Nadal, who withdrew from the Brisbane International, and Andy Murray, who will test a hip injury this weekend before deciding whether to play next week's ATP tournament in the Queensland capital.

Murray stepped in as Djokovic's replacement in Abu Dhabi and was beaten by Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2 in a one-set exhibition match.

Like Djokovic, Murray has not played a competitive match since Wimbledon.

Murray has given little away either about the precise nature of his hip injury or his recovery but delaying his departure to Australia, having originally intended to travel before Christmas, did not send a positive message.

"I felt better as it went on," the Scot said in an on-court interview broadcast by Eurosport.

"I was a little bit slow at the start. Roberto is one of the best players in the world and when you haven't competed at this level for a while it takes a long time to get back. I need to keep improving for sure."
Adelaide's burgeoning live music scene will feature in the city's main New Year's Eve celebrations.

The live music program at Elder Park will demonstrate the council's commitment to local musicians, Lord Mayor Martin Haese says.

"Adelaide has been globally recognised for its local music scene," he said.

"And we'll be celebrating some of our finest homegrown talent on New Year's Eve with South Australian acts that range from electronic, blues and soul, indie pop, and world music sounds.

"Bringing in the New Year at Elder Park has become a tradition for many friends and families."

But to keep the crowds in check, two areas in Adelaide will be Declared Public Precincts as police mount a major operation to crack down on anti-social behaviour.

The declarations for Sunday night and Monday morning cover parts of the CBD and seaside Glenelg and give police wider search and crowd control powers.

Fireworks will delight revellers at both locations with displays at at 9pm and midnight.

Fireworks will also feature at 20 events across the state, from Whyalla on Eyre Peninsula to Renmark in the Riverland.

Health Minister Peter Malinauskas has urged revellers to go easy on the alcohol to keep the pressure off ambulance and hospital services.

Police say they will have little tolerance for any bad behavior.
The driver accused of mowing down pedestrians in Melbourne's CBD is expected to face a murder charge following the death of an 83-year-old victim.

Northcote man Antonios (Anton) Crocaris died in hospital late on Friday night, eight days after he and 17 other people were hit by a car that ploughed through pedestrians on the corner of Flinders and Elizabeth Streets.

Mr Crocaris' shattered family labelled him "our hero".

"Our father Anton had his life cruelly taken away in a senseless act of violence," the family said in a statement on Saturday.

"These circumstances are devastating to our family. Dad is simply irreplaceable and we will never fully recover from this loss.

"He was a beloved husband of Elizabeth, adored father of Freda, Tony and Bill, and cherished grandfather of Verity, Lysander and Jackson."

Mr Crocaris is the first fatality from the December 21 attack, and his family thanked those who helped him after he was struck.

Six victims remain in hospital.

The accused driver, 32-year-old Saeed Noori, has already been charged with 18 counts of attempted murder.

Police expect to upgrade one of those to murder over the coming days.

Noori is an Afghan refugee and Australian citizen with known mental health and drug problems.

The rampage was the second fatal car attack in Melbourne in 2017.

Six people died and dozens were injured in January when 27-year-old Dimitrious Gargasoulas allegedly drove through Bourke Street Mall.

Gargasoulas has pleaded not guilty and is set to return to court in March.

Several streets around Federations Square and parts of Flinders Street will be closed off during New Year's Eve celebrations to help protect revellers from another potential attack.
Australia's Karmichael Hunt, a former rugby league international, made his Wallaby debut this year

"Inconsolable" Wallabies star Karmichael Hunt has been arrested, reportedly for possessing drugs, with Rugby Australia on Saturday launching an investigation into the incident.

Hunt, a former rugby league international who made his Wallaby debut this year, was detained along with another man in Brisbane early on Saturday morning during a "random street stop".

He was allegedly caught with a white powder, which local media said was cocaine.

"Rugby Australia has today been made aware of an incident involving Wallabies and Queensland Reds back Karmichael Hunt in Brisbane overnight," the sport's governing body said in a statement.

"It is understood Hunt was arrested and has subsequently been released by Queensland Police.

"Rugby Australia takes all matters relating to the off-field behaviour of its players seriously and has commenced an investigation into the incident in conjunction with the Queensland Rugby Union."

The Sydney Morning Herald said he was due to appear in court on January 29, charged with two counts of drug possession.

"He is very upset, as anyone would expect, and pretty much inconsolable," Hunt's solicitor Adam Magill told the newspaper.

"He is sticking with his family. He's got concerns and his manager is taking care of him."

It is not the first time Hunt had been in trouble with the law.

He was banned for six weeks and fined Aus$30,000 (US$23,500) by the Reds in 2015 after pleading guilty to four charges of cocaine possession.

As well as his club fine, he was stripped of the Reds' vice-captaincy and ordered to pay Aus$2,500 by magistrates on Queensland's Gold Coast.

Despite the setback, he managed to re-establish himself at the Reds, and made his Wallabies debut this year, becoming one of the stars of Australia's home Tests in June.
Saeed Noori is accused of ploughing his car through a busy intersection earlier this month, careering into tourists and shoppers

An elderly man has died after being mowed down during a car rampage in Melbourne last week, police said Saturday, with one of 18 attempted murder charges expected to be upgraded to murder.

Afghan-Australian Saeed Noori, who has a history of drug abuse and mental problems, is accused of ploughing his car through a busy intersection earlier this month, careering into tourists and shoppers.

He has been charged with 18 counts of attempted murder, but now faces at least one murder charge after 83-year-old Antonios Crocaris, an Australian national, died from his injuries late Friday.

Six others remain in hospital.

"A man has died following an incident on Flinders Street on December 21 where a number of pedestrians were struck by a vehicle," Victoria state police said.

"Homicide squad detectives are expected to upgrade one of those charges to murder."

Nine foreigners were among those hurt, including from South Korea, China, Italy, India, Venezuela, Ireland, and New Zealand.

Police have alleged Noori made "utterances" to them about voices, dreams and the "poor treatment of Muslims" after his arrest, but no link to any terrorist group has been found.

The Melbourne Magistrates' Court heard on Wednesday that he may be suffering psychiatric issues or have an undiagnosed illness. He is due back in court on May 30.

The incident came less than a year after a car rammed into pedestrians in Melbourne's busiest mall, killing six people. That driver, whose case is still before the courts, also had a history of drug issues.

Like other countries, Australia has been taking steps to prevent vehicle attacks in crowded public places since the Nice truck incident in southern France last year that killed 86 people.

They include deterrent options like fencing and closed circuit cameras, and using delaying tactics such as trees and bollards to slow down vehicles.
The Iranian regime has tens of thousands of hardline supporters that it can turn out on the streets for a show of strength when protests threaten

Tens of thousands of regime supporters marched in cities across Iran on Saturday in a show of strength for the regime after two days of angry protests directed against the country's religious rulers.

State television showed huge crowds of black-clad supporters gathering in the capital Tehran, second city Mashhad and elsewhere to mark the anniversary of the end of "the sedition" -- the last major unrest that followed disputed elections in 2009.

The pre-planned rallies came just after anti-government protests, which had spread from Mashhad on Thursday to numerous towns across the country.

Initially aimed against high prices, the anti-government protests quickly turned against the Islamic regime as a whole.

Videos on social media showed hundreds marching through the holy city of Qom on Friday evening, with people chanting "Death to the dictator" and "Free political prisoners".

There were even chants in favour of the monarchy toppled by the Islamic revolution of 1979, while others criticised the regime for supporting the Palestinians and other regional movements rather than focusing on problems at home.

Footage of large-scale protests were shared from the cities of Rasht, Hamedan, Kermanshah, Qazvin and elsewhere, with police responding with water cannons.

Payam Parhiz, editor-in-chief of reformist media network Nazar that broke the news of the Mashhad protests, said there had been calls for protests in Tehran on Saturday.

"There may be some clashes, but after today probably not much will happen," he said.

"But it can't be predicted for sure as the recent protests have been a complete surprise."

- Trump warning -

While state television focused entirely on the pro-government rallies on Saturday, officials nonetheless warned against dismissing the public anger seen in recent days.

"The country is facing serious challenges with unemployment, high prices, corruption, lack of water, social gap, unbalanced distribution of budget," wrote Hesamoddin Ashena, cultural adviser to President Hassan Rouhani, on Twitter.

"People have the right for their voice to be heard."

An Iranian official said on Friday that 52 people had been arrested at the protests in Mashhad for chanting "harsh slogans".

Washington condemned the arrests, warning Tehran that "the world is watching".

"Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption and its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," President Donald Trump tweeted late Friday.

"Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves," he wrote.

Since the 2009 protests were ruthlessly put down by the Revolutionary Guards, many middle-class Iranians have abandoned hope of pressing for change from the streets.

But low-level strikes and demonstrations have continued, often on a sector-by-sector basis as bus drivers or teachers or workers from specific factories protest against unpaid wages or poor conditions.

Some of this week's protests were directed against financial scandals linked to unauthorised lending institutions which collapsed with the loss of hundreds of thousands of accounts.

There has also been anger at welfare cuts and fuel price increases in the latest budget announced earlier this month.

Since taking power in 2013, Rouhani has sought to clean up the banking sector and kickstart the economy, but many say progress has been too slow.

Although conservatives have fiercely criticised Rouhani for the country's economic failings, they were already moving on Saturday to distinguish economic protests from wider attacks on the regime.

"The people who are protesting are vigilant and distance themselves from enemies of the system," said Mohsen Rezai, former Revolutionary Guards commander, on his Instagram page.
Australian officials described the seizure as a big setback for drug traffickers

An Australian warship has seized almost eight tonnes of hashish in the Arabian Sea, with the defence department Saturday estimating its street value at Aus$415 million (US$325 million).

HMAS Warramunga has also confiscated 69 kilogrammes of heroin during maritime security manoeuvres in the area over the past three days.

"The crew prepared extensively for a task like this and we were able to employ our helicopter and boarding crews to locate and board three suspect vessels," the ship's commanding officer Dugald Clelland said.

"A thorough search by the boarding parties uncovered a large quantity of hashish and heroin intended for distribution around the world."

The drugs will be disposed of at sea.

Major General John Frewen, head of Australian Forces in the Middle East, described the seizure as a big setback for drug traffickers.

"This operation will impact on the flow of narcotics around the world and the use of drug money to fund extremist organisations," he said.

The officials did not say which country's shoreline the seized drugs were closest to.

The HMAS Warramunga is part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) naval partnership in which 30 nations patrol 2.5 million square miles of international waters.

The warship enforces maritime security with a focus on terrorist activity in the Middle East and Indian Ocean regions as part of the Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which operates under the CMF.
Iranians chant slogans in support of the regime as they march in Tehran after two days of demonstrations against the country's religious rulers

Reports of clashes and marches spread across Iran on Saturday as protests spilled into a third night despite government warnings against any further "illegal gatherings".

Unverified videos on social media appeared to show thousands marching through the western cities of Khorramabad, Zanjan and Ahvaz and many smaller towns, while reports spread rapidly that several people had been shot dead by police in the town of Dorud.

A swirl of wild rumours, combined with travel restrictions and a near-total media blackout from official agencies, made it difficult to confirm the reports.

The authorities appeared to respond by temporarily cutting internet access to mobile phones, but full coverage was eventually restored.

Several Iranian news agencies warned Telegram, the most popular social media service in the country, might soon be shut down after communications minister Mohammad-Javad Azari Jahromi accused one channel, Amadnews, of encouraging an "armed uprising".

One of the few official reports -- by conservative Mehr news agency -- showed protesters attacking a town hall in central Tehran, overturning a police car and burning the Iranian flag.

There was chaos earlier around the capital's university as hundreds took to the streets, blocking traffic and shouting slogans against the regime.

Iranian cities hit by protests

But the authorities could also count on a show of strength, with hundreds of counter-demonstrators seizing control of the university entrance, chanting "Death to the seditionists".

Annual rallies marking the defeat of the last major protest movement in 2009 had already been scheduled for Saturday morning and brought thousands of regime supporters to the streets across the country.

"We urge all those who receive these calls to protest not to participate in these illegal gatherings as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," said Interior Minister Abdolrahman Rahmani Fazli.

- 'A new plot' -

The protests began in the second city of Mashhad on Thursday as an attack on high living costs but quickly turned against the Islamic regime as a whole.

There were even chants in favour of the monarchy toppled by the Islamic revolution of 1979, while others criticised the regime for supporting the Palestinians and other regional movements rather than focusing on problems at home.

State news channel IRINN said it had been banned from covering the protests that spread to towns and cities including Qom and Kermanshah.

A woman raises her fist amid tear gas at the University of Tehran

"The enemy wants once again to create a new plot and use social media and economic issues to foment a new sedition," Ayatollah Mohsen Araki, a prominent cleric, told a crowd in Tehran, according to the conservative Fars news agency.

Other officials also pointed the blame outside Iran.

"Although people have a right to protest, protesters must know how they are being directed," Massoumeh Ebtekar, vice president in charge of women's affairs, wrote on Twitter.

She posted images from Twitter accounts based in the United States and Saudi Arabia, voicing support for the Mashhad protests.

US President Donald Trump tweeted later that Iran's people wanted change and "oppressive regimes cannot endure forever".

"The day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice," he wrote, his second time addressing the subject in as many days. "The world is watching!"

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders added: "The days of America looking the other way from the Iranian regime's oppression are over. America stands with the Iranian people."

Trump's tweets on Friday prompted Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahran Ghasemi to dismiss his remarks as "opportunistic".

- 'Serious challenges' -

Iranian officials warned against dismissing the public anger seen in recent days.

"The country is facing serious challenges with unemployment, high prices, corruption, lack of water, social gap, unbalanced distribution of budget," tweeted Hesamoddin Ashena, cultural adviser to President Hassan Rouhani.

Iranians chant slogans in support of the regime as they march towards the Imam Khomeini grand mosque in Tehran on December 30, 2017

"People have the right for their voice to be heard."

There has been particular anger at welfare cuts and fuel price increases in the latest budget announced earlier this month.

Since the 2009 protests were ruthlessly put down by the Revolutionary Guards, many middle-class Iranians have abandoned hope of pressing for change from the streets.

But low-level strikes and demonstrations have continued, with bus drivers, teachers and factory workers protesting against unpaid wages and poor conditions.

Some of this week's protests were directed against financial scandals linked to unauthorised lending institutions which collapsed with the loss of hundreds of thousands of accounts.

Iranian women carry a placard showing revolutonary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini as they march in support of the regime he founded in Tehran on December 30, 2017

Payam Parhiz, editor-in-chief of reformist media network Nazar that broke the news of the Mashhad protests, said they were more focused on the economy than those in 2009, which were sparked by allegations of election-rigging.

"Then, they were middle-class and their slogans went beyond economic matters to things like cultural liberties," he told AFP.

"Today, the concerns are economic. There are people who have lost their life savings. They will protest until their problems are resolved."

Since taking power in 2013, Rouhani has sought to clean up the banking sector and kick-start the economy, but many say progress has been too slow.

Aware that economic problems can quickly spiral into political chaos, officials from across the political spectrum have called for greater efforts to tackle poverty and the 12 percent unemployment rate.

"Solving people's economic problems is the chief priority in the country," tweeted Ebrahim Raisi, the hardline cleric defeated by Rouhani in May's presidential election.
I have been home with my now elderly father for the past six weeks, and since he is 85 going on 86 years old, he watches television LOUDLY and literally all he watched is FOX NEWS. Since mom died last month and I live in China, basically I am around him all day. I wish he could be younger again and do his activities and not stuck at home watching this stupid **** (actually FOX Business isn't horrible if you are a financial person or just an investor on speed) all day, but that's another story.



Since I have been inadvertently watching FOX, I know that the network hates Hillary Clinton. Just hates her. Every commentator just piles it on to her. Of course, Donald Trump didn't do anything wrong, and is being demonized by the Left and Democrats for doing such a great job. FOX sort of goes one ear and out the other with me, but they ramble on about something called "Uranium One" or some ********, and it is Hillary in bed with the Russians and she caused all this turmoil and mess.



I mean, I don't like Hillary Clinton either. But FOX just uses her to deflect from Trump and his shortcomings. Hillary is out of the game now and she isn't coming back. Hill and Bill are not popular even in their own party, and really Obama is the spiritual head of their party now. Hillary is not relevant anymore yet FOX just rambles on like she's Hitler who eats babies and are traitors.



I was a child of the 1970's but really miss the old school news people like Cronkite, Brinkley, Chancellor, Reasoner, Mike Wallace. Professional, nearly non biased, level journalism with integrity. These morons at FOX went to the Ted Baxter School of Broadcasting.
An Egyptian court sentenced Mohamed Morsi to three years in prison on December 30, 2017 for "insulting the judiciary," one of multiple cases against the ousted Islamist president

An Egyptian court sentenced ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi to three years in prison along with 19 other defendants on Saturday for "insulting the judiciary," his lawyer said.

The other defendants include former members of parliament, activists and three journalists.

Morsi had already been sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison in two other trials after the military ousted him in 2013.

The defendants had all been charged with making statements deemed insulting to the judiciary.

Five other defendants, including jailed activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, were fined 30,000 pounds (about $1,680) each.

Morsi was also ordered to pay two million pounds to the head of the judges' syndicate and another judge, while 22 other defendants were ordered to pay one million pounds to the head of the syndicate.

Morsi's lawyer Abdel Moneim Abdel Maqsud told AFP that he would appeal the verdict.

Thousands of Islamists have been arrested and put on trial since the military ousted the divisive Morsi following mass protests demanding his resignation.

The crackdown extended to other opponents of then army chief now President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who was elected a year after Morsi's overthrow.
US President Donald Trump (left) chats with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin during an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the Vietnamese city of Danang on November 11, 2017

Russian President Vladimir Putin called for "pragmatic cooperation" in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

In a statement on the Russian president's New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that "a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world".

According to the statement, Putin said that "mutual respect" should be "a base to develop relations" between the two countries.

"This would allow us to move towards building pragmatic cooperation, orientated on the long term," the statement quoted Putin as saying.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met during a surprise visit to Russia's Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin "expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year".

The statement added that Putin told Assad "Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity".

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assad's military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.

On ordering the partial withdrawal, Putin praised his country's armed forces for having "brilliantly accomplished" their mission which saw Syrian government forces make major gains from jihadists and assorted anti-regime rebel groups.

Russia does retain a military presence in Syria, however, through its naval base at Tartus, whose expansion Moscow agreed earlier this month, as well as Hmeimim, where Russian singers performed a New Year variety show Saturday.

Moscow hopes to host government and rebel group representatives at the end of January in the Black Sea resort of Sochi to push both sides closer to a political settlement of a seven-year conflict which has cost more than 340,000 lives and displaced millions more.
Iranian demonstrators burn a portrait of US President Donald Trump during a protest in Tehran on December 11, 2017 against his recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital

Iran said on Saturday that US President Donald Trump's support for protests in the country was "deceitful and opportunist".

"The Iranian people see no value in the opportunistic remarks by American officials and Mr Trump," foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said on its website.

He said Iranians remembered Trump's actions in barring them from entry to the United States and "the arrest of many Iranians in that country on baseless pretexts".

"That's why they see the support of these officials for some rallies in recent days in some Iranian cities as opportunistic," he added.

"The constitution of the Islamic republic of Iran has established democratic structures for the legal support of people's civil demands," he said.

Trump tweeted on Friday night in support of protests against Iran's economic problems that had spread to several towns and cities in Iran.

"Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption & its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," he wrote.

"Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests."
Hundreds of Syrian civilians have fled southern areas of Idlib province since fighting escalated between regime forces and mostly jihadists this week

Syrian regime forces advanced against jihadists Saturday on the edge of the northwestern province of Idlib, the last outside government control, a monitor and the state news agency said.

Government and allied forces backed by Russian warplanes have since Monday been battling mostly jihadist fighters in an area straddling the border between Idlib and Hama provinces.

The fighting, which could signal the start of a major offensive to seize Idlib province from rebels dominated by a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, escalated on Thursday.

On Saturday, regime troops advanced, seizing several villages and surrounding areas, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor.

State news agency SANA said regime forces had taken control of five villages, areas and "strategic hills" in the northeast of Hama province.

An AFP correspondent said civilians continued to flee areas near the battle zone, heading north towards the provincial capital of Idlib with their belongings piled high on pickup trucks.

"We were the target of strikes more than once -- we couldn't stay," said Abu Ahmed, a man in his 60s from the southeast of Idlib province, fleeing with his family in a pickup.

"I don't know how to say how I feel, leaving my land and home at my age. We are leaving without even knowing where we're headed."

Two children from the south of Syria's Idlib province are shown at a makeshift camp for the displaced near the Damascus-Aleppo highway on December 30, 2017

In the Maaret al-Numan area, some people have put up tents, pots and pans piled at the entrance flaps.

"We escaped for the sake of the children. They were terrified by air raids and strikes," said Abu Khaled, a bearded man in his 30s wearing a red and white checkered keffiyeh headscarf.

The father-of-four, originally from Hama province, had already fled once with his family -- to Idlib, where they lived in a camp for the displaced.

- 14 killed outside Damascus -

Since Thursday, the clashes have killed 32 soldiers and allied members of paramilitary units, as well as 29 rebels from Islamist groups or from former Al-Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham, the Observatory said.

Twenty-one civilians have also died.

Government forces first aim to take control of the southeast of Idlib province, Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said.

This would allow the regime to have full control of a road that links the capital Damascus to the government-held second city of Aleppo.

Syrian civilians flee their village in the south of Idlib province on December 30, 2017, as regime forces advance against jihadists in the area

Russia intervened on the side of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in 2015, helping it to take back control of swathes of territory including Aleppo.

The forces of Syrian General Suheil Hassan, on the front lines of the battle against the Islamic State group in the east of the country, are leading the Idlib offensive, the Observatory said.

"After finishing off IS, the regime's forces are concentrating their operations on Idlib's jihadists," Abdel Rahman said.

Outside Damascus, the rebel holdout region of Eastern Ghouta has also come under increasing bombardment from Assad's forces in the past weeks.

On Saturday, 14 civilians were killed in different areas of the enclave, among them two children and a nurse.

Regime air strikes on Harasta killed eight, while six died in regime shelling of Misraba, Kfar Batna, Nashabiyeh and Outaya.

At least 43 more civilians were wounded.

"The regime intensified its shelling and air strikes on Saturday after Fateh al-Sham and Islamic factions attacked its positions near Harasta" on Friday, Abdel Rahman said.

Eastern Ghouta has been under government siege since 2013, causing severe food and medicine shortages for some 400,000 residents.

The war in Syria has killed more than 340,000 people and displaced millions from their homes since it began in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.
Japan has approved the installation of two Aegis Ashore missile defence systems to defend the country against North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday accused the United States of violating a key arms treaty by selling a missile defence system to Japan.

"The US is deploying them (missile defence systems) at their military bases in Romania and Poland, that is near our western borders, which goes against the 1987 INF Treaty banning the deployment of such systems on the ground," Ryabkov said in a statement published on the Russian Foreign Ministry website.

"The fact that such complexes could now appear on Russia's eastern borders creates a situation that we cannot ignore in our military planning," said Ryabkov.

On Thursday, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the deployment of the US missile defence system would have a negative impact on relations between Tokyo and Moscow.

"We consider the step made by the Japanese side as going against efforts of ensuring peace and stability in the region," Zakharova said, adding that Moscow has "deep regret and serious concern" over the move.

On December 19, the Japanese government approved the installation of two land-based US-made Aegis Ashore missile defence systems to defend the country against North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats.

Japan plans to increase its budget defence for the next fiscal year to strengthen its missile defence against the threat posed by its neighbour.

Earlier this month Japan's defence minister, Itsunori Onodera, said the country plans to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles) from US firms.

The move is controversial as Japan's pacifist constitution bans the use of force as a means of settling international disputes.

After North Korea launched a missile over Japan's Hokkaido island in September, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he would "never tolerate" North Korea's "dangerous provocative action" and has urged the international community to ramp up pressure on Pyongyang.

North Korea has threatened to "sink" Japan into the sea.

Global anxiety about North Korea has steadily risen this year, with Washington calling on other UN members to cut ties with Pyongyang in order to squeeze the secretive regime.

The call, however, has fallen short of persuading key North Korea backers China and Russia to take steps to isolate the regime.
Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, seen here in September, 2017, issued a decree announcing the state of emergency in North Kordofan and Kasala

Sudan's president on Saturday announced a state of emergency in two states in the centre and east of the country, the official news agency said.

President Omar al-Bashir issued a decree to install the state of emergency in North Kordofan and Kasala for six months, SUNA said, without providing any reason.

Kasala is on the country's eastern border with Eritrea.

A state of emergency is already in force in seven other conflict-ridden states.

These include the five states that make up the region of Darfur, where government forces have been battling rebels since 2003.

The state of emergency also applies to the two states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile, where government forces have been fighting insurgents since 2011.

According to the constitution, parliament needs to approve the president's decree within two weeks.
Members of Guinea's Coalition for Justice and Democracy staged a protest at the United Nations in New York last year to mark the seventh anniversary of the massacre

Fourteen suspects held over a 2009 stadium massacre in Guinea which killed 157 people are to go before a criminal tribunal after a legal investigation concluded, the country's justice minister said.

"I am happy to announce to you that the judicial investigation into the 2009 Conakry stadium massacre ended on December 29. (It) took almost seven years," said Cheick Sako.

"The committal order to go before the criminal tribunal was taken at the same time on Friday, opening the way to trial," said Sako, adding a steering committee was being set up to deal with the "material preparation of the forthcoming trial."

At least 157 people were killed and 109 women raped by troops during a massive opposition protest in the stadium on September 28, 2009 against the rule of then junta chief Moussa Dadis Camara after his security forces opened fire on the crowd.

Last month, human rights organisations and massacre victims said the three investigating judges had notified them that the judicial investigation was complete after the panel heard testimony from hundreds of people present that day.

At the time, the ministry of justice said the judges had forwarded the file "to the public prosecutor at the Court of First Instance of Dixinn for final settlement," opening the way for the 14 defendants to stand trial.

Camara, a former army officer, seized power in 2008 after the death of Guinea's longtime dictator Lansana Conte. Despite initial support he rankled the population when he broke a pledge not to run for president.

Guinea's former military ruler Captain Moussa Dadis Camara, indicted in 2015, fled the country for exile in Burkina Faso after surviving an assassination attempt three months after the massacre

After surviving an assassination attempt in late 2009, Camara fled the country and now lives in exile in Burkina Faso, where he was indicted in July 2015 by Guinean magistrates for his alleged involvement in the massacre.

His former aide-de-camp, Aboubakar Sidiki Diakite, known as Toumba Diakite, extradited from Senegal to Guinea in March 2017, is another defendant.

President Alpha Conde became Guinea's first democratically elected president in 2010, taking over a nation run by a succession of strongmen following independence from France.

Sako said although he could not say when the trial would start "an affair as important as that of September 28, an affair of mass wrongdoing... will be judged here in Guinea whether one wishes so or not" and there was no question of Conakry seeking to delay it.

The United States and the European Union have pledged financial support for the trial and the Guinean state is to budget its own contribution in the coming months.

Sako did not divulge any figures, but commented "if we have no money there will be no trial," adding the process was expected to last "at least eight to ten months."
Members of Congolese associations held a rally in Brussels on Saturday urging President Kabila to step down

Catholics in crisis-torn Democratic Republic of Congo vowed Saturday to defy a protest ban and hold a "peaceful march" Sunday to urge implementation of a deal for President Joseph Kabila to leave office and for delayed elections.

Kabila has been in power since 2001 when he succeeded his assassinated father Laurent Kabila and refused to step down at the end of his second and final term in December 2016.

That refusal led to protests and a bloody crackdown. Demonstrations have been banned or else widely repressed since September 2016 but several have nonetheless gone ahead with many ending in bloodshed in recent months.

Elections had been due to take place by the end of this year under a church-mediated deal aimed at avoiding more violence in a vast, mineral-rich country which has never had a peaceful transition of power since independence from Belgium in 1960.

The delayed poll is now scheduled for December 23 next year, heightening tensions in the restive nation.

About 150 Catholic churches have urged believers to heed their call to protest, bibles in hand, Sunday in the capital Kinshasa and demand implementation of a deal signed exactly a year ago designed to restore stability with Kabila stepping down.

But Kinshasa's governor insisted the unauthorised march could not go ahead.

"The city does not have sufficient numbers of police officers to supervise this march," Andre Kimbuta said. "Therefore, I do not recognise the authorisation requested."

Despite his stance, march spokeswoman Leonie Kandolo insisted that "lay people will march tomorrow (and) the city authority and the police must fulfil their role of protecting people and property."

March organisers have asked worshippers to gather after morning mass and "take our destiny in hand -- our beautiful country is suffering."

But the authorities underlined their intent to quash the protest by taking off air for several hours a community radio station at Uvira in South-Kivu province after it broadcast a call for the rally, according to the station director.

In a letter to the governor, a secular coordinating committee had earlier insisted the agreement signed last New Year's Eve is "the only viable road map" for holding credible elections.

Clinging on to power, Kabila is banned by the constitution from running for a third term, but the deal allows him to stay on until the next poll is held.

The opposition has meanwhile complained in recent days that electoral reforms "automatically" ban certain hopefuls from next year's poll by setting a minimum vote share threshold a candidate must win to obtain a seat as well as demanding a deposit equivalent to several hundred dollars.
Australia's high commissioner to Britain, Alexander Downer, arrives at Downing Street in central London on March 22, 2017

Information shared by Australia helped spark the FBI's probe into Russia's attempts to disrupt the US presidential election and possible collusion by Donald Trump's campaign, The New York Times reported Saturday.

George Papadopoulos, a former Trump campaign foreign policy advisor who has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, told Australia's ex-foreign minister Alexander Downer that Russia had "dirt" on Hillary Clinton, information that Australia later passed on to its close ally the United States, the Times said.

The conversation between Papadopoulos and Downer, then Australia's high commissioner to Britain, took place at an upscale London bar in May 2016, the Times said, after Papadopoulos had been told that Moscow had thousands of emails that would embarrass Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential challenger in the election which Trump won.

"Two months later, when leaked Democratic emails began appearing online, Australian officials passed the information about Mr Papadopoulos to their American counterparts," the Times said, citing four current and former American and foreign officials with direct knowledge of the Australians' role.

"It was firsthand information from one of America's closest intelligence allies" that alarmed the FBI and helped prompt them to begin investigating, the Times said.

The investigation was also spurred by intelligence from other allies, including the British and Dutch governments, the Times said.

The report added that it was unclear whether Downer was "fishing" for information during the Papadopoulos meeting, which came about because of a series of connections that began with an Israeli embassy official.

It is also not clear why the Australian government waited two months to pass the information to the FBI, the Times said.

Trump fired FBI director James Comey in May, citing Comey's probe into possible links between the presidential campaign and Russian interference, as well as Comey's alleged protection of Clinton.

Comey's firing led to the appointment of Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who is carrying on the investigation, a wide-ranging probe that includes whether Trump's campaign team colluded with Moscow, and whether there was possible obstruction of justice related to the firing of Comey.

Mueller's team has already charged four people, including Papadopoulos, who pleaded guilty to lying over his Russian contacts and agreed to cooperate with the investigation.

Trump has repeatedly said there was "no collusion" between his campaign and Russia.

Downer was Australia's foreign minister from 1996 to 2007 and became high commissioner to Britain in 2014.
US President Donald Trump delivers a speech to the UN General Assembly on September 19, 2017

US President Donald Trump on Saturday weighed in on protests in Iran for a second straight day, warning that the country's people want change and "oppressive regimes cannot endure forever."

Trump posted on Twitter two clips of his speech to the UN General Assembly in September in which he took aim at the Iranian regime, which Washington has held out as its top adversary in the Middle East.

"Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice," he tweeted, quoting from the speech.

"The world is watching!"

Later Saturday, Vice President Mike Pence added his voice, saying: "The time has come for the regime in Tehran to end terrorist activities, corruption, & their disregard for human rights."

And White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders added: "The days of America looking the other way ... are over."

Trump's posts came as several hundred anti-government demonstrators clashed with police at the University of Tehran in a third straight day of protests.

Hundreds of counter-protesters also massed outside the entrance to the university, chanting "Death to the seditionists" in a show of support for the regime.

Videos shared by social media users outside Iran but which could not be independently verified claimed to show thousands marching peacefully against the regime in several cities including Khorramabad, Zanjan and Ahvaz, with chants of "Death to the dictator."

"The entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change, and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Iran's people are what their leaders fear the most," Trump said, again quoting from the UN speech.

Trump also tweeted in support of the protesters late Friday, prompting Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahran Ghasemi to dismiss his remarks as "opportunistic."
Attorneys for Oregon State University and former toxicology professor Morrie Craig continue to duke it out over whether the public should be able to see records related to Craigs Oct. 30 termination, which he is challenging in court.

Benton County Circuit Judge Matthew Donohue issued a stay on Dec. 5, ordering OSU to restore Craig to his tenured faculty position. Donohue also ordered the university to produce records of termination proceedings against the professor, who was fired following an internal investigation into claims that he bullied two students, sexually harassed one of them and sexually harassed a fellow faculty member.

Specifics of the allegations and the investigation have not been released by the university, which claims that most records in the case are exempt from public disclosure requirements because of privacy protections in state and federal law.

Two outside attorneys hired by OSU, Michael Porter and Cody Elliott of the Portland law firm Miller Nash, urged Donohue in a Dec. 11 motion and a Dec. 21 court hearing to seal some documents already filed in Craigs appeal and allow the university to file all the records ordered by the court under seal.

Late Thursday, Porter and Elliott filed a nine-page brief in support of those requests. They argued that even though Craig has been provided with the records and was allowed to face his accusers in a faculty committee hearing that was open to the public, the public hearing was requested by Craig, the hearing was not publicized in advance and records of the proceeding have been kept private by the university.

The university has moved to seal these records, the brief reads in part, because it seeks to ensure that individuals not refrain from reporting or providing information about sexual harassment, bullying or other misconduct based on concerns that doing so becomes a public event.

Craigs attorney, Dan Armstrong of Heilig, Misfeldt & Armstrong in Corvallis, filed his own brief on Thursday arguing that none of the records should be sealed.

Armstrong asserts that the university waived all claims to privacy when it conducted Craigs sanctions hearing in public and produced 494 pages of documents at the proceeding. He also cites the Oregon Constitutions prohibition against secret court proceedings and claims the public has a legitimate interest in knowing the details of the charges against Craig and the evidence to support them.

Petitioner cannot restore his reputation if all of the information against him, except for the accusations, is sealed from the public, he writes. Complete transparency is vital to petitioners ability to restore his reputation.

Porter also filed a motion on Thursday asking the judge to clarify the terms of his stay. Since being ordered to halt termination proceedings against Craig, the university has restored his pay and benefits but has directed him to work from home to provide a safe and harassment-free environment for the OSU community.

Craig argues that he is free to return to campus because that was among the conditions of his employment prior to his termination.

Friday is the deadline set by Donohue for OSU to file its records with the court.
MOSCOW (AP) - The leader of a prominent Russian environmental group has been brutally beaten by unknown attackers, his deputy said Friday.

The Environmental Watch on the North Caucasus for years has exposed illegal landfills, the destruction of landscapes and the contamination of waterways in Russia's south. Some investigations have exposed land grabs by local officials who have built mansions in pristine forests and on the seacoast.

The group's leader, Andrei Rudomakha, was attacked in the southern city of Krasnodar on Thursday by three masked men who knocked him down and started beating him, his deputy Dmitry Shevchenko told The Associated Press.

FILE - In this Nov. 24, 2013, file photo, Andrei Rudomakha, head of the Environmental Watch on the North Caucasus, talks to the Associated Press in Moscow, Russia. The prominent Russian environmental group said on Friday, Dec. 29, 2017, its leader Rudomakha was attacked outside his home late on Thursday, Dec. 28 by three masked men in the southern city of Krasnodar. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko, File)

Rudomakha was in a hospital with multiple injuries, including a fractured skull and broken nose. His life was not in danger. Local police said they were investigating the attack.

Rudomakha and several other activists had just returned from the Black Sea, where they were documenting the illegal construction of a luxury mansion.

The attackers had been waiting for the group to arrive and targeted Rudomakha, Shevchenko said. They also stole the cameras the activists had been using on the trip.

The group recently published an investigation into an illegal hunting trip involving top local officials.

The group has "recently had many conflicts with officials," Shevchenko said. "The question is where this (attack) came from specifically."

The Krasnodar region is notorious for violence against journalists, political activists and anyone who casts a critical eye on the work of local authorities. Earlier this year, unknown attackers stormed the campaign headquarters of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, smashing everything inside.
WASHINGTON (AP) - When Celeste Kidd was a graduate student of neuroscience at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex.

Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct.

"We are trying to bring transparency to a system that is corrupt," Kidd told The Associated Press.

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

Academia - like Hollywood, the media and Congress - is facing its own #MeToo movement over allegations of sexual misconduct. Brett Sokolow, who heads an association of sexual harassment investigators on campuses, estimates that the number of reported complaints has risen by about 10 percent since the accusations against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein surfaced in early October, spurring more women to speak out against harassment in various fields. The increase is mostly from women complaining of harassment by faculty members who are their superiors.

But the Trump administration has viewed the issue of sexual harassment on campus in a different light. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has scrapped Obama-era regulations on investigating sexual assault, arguing that they were skewed in favor of the accuser. New instructions allow universities to require higher standards of evidence when handling such complaints.

A forthcoming study of nearly 300 such cases in the Utah Law Review found that one in 10 female graduate students at major research universities reports being sexually harassed by a faculty member. And in more than half of those cases, the alleged perpetrator is a repeat offender, according to the study.

"Often schools might turn a blind eye toward sexual harassment that they know about or have heard about because a professor is bringing in a big grant or is adding to the stature of the university," said Neena Chaudhry, senior counsel at the National Women's Law Center.

The Education Department did not respond to a request for comment.

Activists say young women pursuing graduate studies are especially vulnerable to sexual misconduct because they depend heavily on their academic adviser to complete their degrees, pursue research in their field of study and get recommendations for future jobs. Reporting misconduct could endanger an academic career. And besides damaging the women's mental health and well-being, sexual harassment can chase some of them out of academia altogether.

"Often professors who are advising graduate students are the students' gateway to their degree attainment and their career prospects," said Anne Hedgepeth with the American Association of University Women. "That's an immense amount of power that professors hold. It's also an immense amount of risk that students take when coming forward when future prospects are on the line."

That sums up what happened to Kidd, according to the lawsuit.

Kidd says Florian Jaeger, a distinguished linguistics professor at the New York university's cognitive sciences department who was one of her academic advisers in 2007, pressured her to rent a room in his apartment for a year. She says he then constantly intruded in her private life, demoralized her and talked to her about oral sex and other sexually explicit topics.

"I begged him to stop and to just advise me professionally and he said that was impossible, that wasn't his mentorship style," Kidd said in a phone interview. "There were many moments where I went to sleep in the lab and I wondered what I had done to deserve the hell I was living in every day."

When Kidd protested, Jaeger made it understood that he could derail her career.

"He had a lot of control over my work life, he had the ears of everybody in the field," she recalled. "He reminded me constantly that they know him, that he was a big shot and that I was no one."

In the end, Kidd moved out of Jaeger's apartment and abandoned language research so that she wouldn't have to be supervised by Jaeger. She now studies attention and general learning.

Last year, two professors at the department, in whom Kidd eventually confided, filed a sexual harassment complaint. The university investigated but found the allegations unsubstantiated. The professors say the university then began a retaliation campaign against them. In August, Kidd together with a group of faculty members filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a federal agency in charge of workplace discrimination issues. In December, Kidd and her colleagues filed a federal lawsuit.

The university responded by placing Jaeger, now a tenured professor, on administrative leave and commissioning an independent investigation. Results are expected in early January.

University President Joel Seligman said in a statement that the school is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment, but vowed to "vigorously defend" himself and the university provost against some personal claims made against them in the suit.

Jaeger did not respond to an email seeking comment. But shortly after the case was made public this fall, he emailed his students to say that while some of the online comments about him were painful to read, "I am glad that there is now generally so much support for people who speak up against discrimination." Jaeger added that he has always tried to make his lab "an exciting, sa(f)e and supportive place to pursue science" and that he has received letters of support from former students.

As universities face pressure to rethink their sexual misconduct policies, activists suggest various possible remedies: spelling out what interaction is appropriate between faculty and students; more transparency in reporting and investigating complaints; more women in senior leadership positions in academia; and making a student's career less dependent on just one professor.

"There is really no excuse for not addressing this," said Chaudhry of the National Women's Law Center.

___

Follow Maria Danilova on Twitter at https://twitter.com/m_education_ap

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)

In this Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017, photo, Professor Celeste Kidd is photographed at University of Rochester, in Rochester, N.Y. When Kidd was a graduate student at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex. Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
WARRI, Nigeria (AP) - Itohen used to sell secondhand clothes in Nigeria's Edo state before she was lured at age 24 into a trip abroad. A woman told her and others they could be nannies in France. Itohen said she traveled through Niger and Libya with 150 others who hoped to make it to Europe. At least 20 died along the way from dehydration, hunger and illness.

"Many girls were raped in the course of our journey, even in the camps where the traffickers kept us" before being handed over to Libya militiamen, she said, giving only her partial name for fear of retaliation. "I was lucky because I disguised as a boy before we left Nigeria."

Two weeks ago, she disembarked from a plane and came home. She is among the thousands of West African migrants being repatriated by their governments amid outrage over recent video footage in Libya showing a migrant slave auction.

FILE - In this Dec. 5, 2017, file photo, an unidentified immigration officer, right, speaks to Nigerian returnees from Libya upon arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria. An emergency effort has begun to repatriate thousands of migrants stranded in camps across Libya, but now the returnees are posing a challenge. Back home in countries across Africa, they face the same conditions that led them to leave: high unemployment, often weak economies, an increasingly harsh climate. Governments are under pressure to give their citizens a reason to stay. (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba, File)

As many as 700,000 migrants are stranded in dozens of camps across Libya, and a new emergency task force with the backing of the European Union, African Union and United Nations aims to send 15,000 of them home by February.

Exhausted and regretful, many migrants speak of dreams lost and trust broken.

Now the returnees are posing a challenge. Back home, they face the same conditions that led them to leave: high unemployment, often weak economies, an increasingly harsh climate.

Governments across Africa are under pressure to give their citizens a reason to stay.

The EU launched a 140 million euro ($166 million) project last year with the International Organization for Migration to assist migrants repatriating to some 14 countries. It has helped in the voluntary return of over 15,000 migrants. In Nigeria, the project says it has created 300 jobs. It is not clear how many jobs have been created overall.

Local governments are launching their own efforts. Nigeria's Edo state, the source of about 80 percent of the country's migrants, is creating farming projects to help returnees. Governor Godwin Obaseki this month approved 150 hectares (370 acres) of land and more than $326,000 for 150 people who returned from Libya a year ago and completed agribusiness training.

Itohen said she would prefer government assistance so she can return to selling clothes.

An earlier returnee, Solomon Okodugha, is helping others readjust. After being deported from Libya four years ago he became the president of the nonprofit Initiative for Youth Awareness on Migration, Immigration, Development and Reintegration and runs a cassava farm in Edo state.

"Nigerians usually have the orientation that you can only find greener pastures in Europe or America, but since my ill-fateful journey years ago I have discovered that I can still make it here," he said.

Nigerians are inspired by older generations who went to Europe legally in the 1980s, he said. "Our young girls and boys are too easily lured into the trip by cartels."

Now governments, aid groups and others must "join hands" to tackle what comes next as thousands return, Okodugha said.

Nigeria, which has the highest number of illegal and legal immigrants in Libya, has taken the lead in bringing people home even as the lure of Europe remains.

"Until the government takes drastic action in the arrest and prosecution of the cabals involved in the trafficking, the threat will not stop," said Edward Oforomeh, who works in Edo state and leads a campaign against human trafficking.

More than 6,600 Nigerians have been repatriated so far this year.

Patrick Osayomore was one of them. He left Nigeria last year after the collapse of his phone repair business. He said he was detained in Libya by militiamen in January and held until November, when he was rescued.

Now he wants to remain at home and invest in rice farming. It's an expensive endeavor, he said, and if the government comes to his aid, he will be grateful.

___

Associated Press writer Carley Petesch in Dakar, Senegal contributed.
JERUSALEM (AP) - Israel says militants in the Gaza Strip have fired several rockets at the Jewish state with two intercepted by its air defense system and another damaging a building.

The military said its Iron Dome missile defense system downed two rockets Friday. Police said another exploded near a building causing damage but no injuries.

Israel holds Hamas, the Islamic militant group that rules Gaza, responsible for all attacks emanating from the territory regardless of who fires the rockets. Israel typically responds to each attack.

There has been an increase in Gaza rocket fire since President Donald Trump's announcement Dec. 6 recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Palestinians have been clashing with Israeli forces in the West Bank and along the Gaza border in weekly protests over the decision.
MOSCOW (AP) - A Moscow court has sentenced the financier who has advocated for a U.S. law targeting Russian officials over human rights abuses to nine years in prison in absentia over tax evasion and funneling money overseas.

William Browder has been the driving force behind the Magnitsky Act. The legislation is named after Browder's former employee Sergei Magnitsky, who died in jail after accusing Russian officials of involvement in a tax fraud scheme.

Browder, who is based in London, has dismissed the accusations against him as a sham.

The same court convicted Browder of tax evasion in another trial in absentia in 2013.

Shortly after the Magnitsky Act was passed, the Russian government countered by barring Americans from adopting Russian children.
CHESTER, Va. (AP) - Authorities in Virginia say a man who was killed in a standoff with police had previously been involved in an armed impasse with law enforcers in Utah.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that 38-year-old Kenneth Perna-Rutsky was involved in a 2014 armed standoff in Utah that ended without bloodshed. It wasn't clear if he was convicted of any charges in that incident near Salt Lake City.

The information about the Utah standoff was confirmed by Chesterfield Police Maj. Edward Carpenter.

Perna-Rutsky was killed Thursday at his Chester home. Carpenter says officers heard gunfire in the home and a woman and a child fled the residence.

Police say Perna-Rutsky came outside with a long gun that he fired at officers. Police returned fire.

Perna-Rutsky went back inside. Authorities later found him dead.
BOSTON (AP) - A former Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor who once falsely claimed his own son had arranged to have him shot is denying charges that he tried to swindle another now dead son's family out of millions.

Prosecutors on Thursday announced that 75-year-old John Donovan, of Hamilton, has been indicted on several charges for allegedly forging his son's signature to gain title to several properties. His son, John Donovan Jr., died in 2015 at age 43.

The elder Donovan, who has not taught at MIT since 1997, denied the charges and tells The Boston Globe he was shocked to hear of the indictment.

He says he had been granted power of attorney by his son so had no reason to forge or fabricate anything.

His arraignment has not been scheduled.
PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona's top education official says she is disappointed with a judge's decision to permanently block an ethnic studies ban that dismantled a popular Mexican-American studies program.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas said in a statement Friday the law was to prevent taxpayer money from funding classes that "promote the overthrow of the United States government or promote resentment towards a race or class of people."

She plans to meet with lawmakers to discuss a legislative remedy.

A federal judge ruled the 2010 law had discriminatory intent and issued a final judgment Wednesday prohibiting education officials from enforcing the measure.

Douglas was named as a defendant when she was elected last year.

Opponents of the law say the classes kept students more engaged and improved their academic performance.
MCKINNEY, Texas (AP) - The Latest on the fatal shooting of a 7-year-old Texas boy (all times local):

5:15 p.m.

Police say a 7-year-old Texas boy died after his father's girlfriend opened fire as he drove away with the boy and two other children.

This undated photo provided by The Collin County Texas Sheriff's Department shows Brooke Craig. Craig, a North Texas woman is facing a capital murder charge in the fatal shooting of a 7-year-old child. Police say Brooke Craig was arrested early Friday, Dec. 29, 2017, in a dead-end street in Frisco, a Dallas suburb, after leading police on a car chase. (Collin County Sheriff's Department via AP)

Greenville police identified the boy as Kaden Green on Friday. He was shot in the chest and died at a hospital after a witness took him there Thursday afternoon.

Authorities say the woman accused in the shooting, 26-year-old Brooke Craig, was arrested early Friday in the Dallas suburb of Frisco about 45 miles (72 kilometers) west of Greenville. She faces a capital murder charge.

Authorities say she led police on a car chase before her arrest. The boy's father, 24-year-old Cameron Castillo, was a passenger in the car and was arrested for a parole violation.

Police say the two other children who were in the vehicle are in the custody of the state. A Child Protective Services spokeswoman says they have a 4-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl who are the siblings of Kaden in their custody.

___

1:15 p.m.

A Texas woman is facing a capital murder charge in the fatal shooting of a 7-year-old child.

Police say Brooke Craig was arrested early Friday on a dead-end street in Frisco, a Dallas suburb, after leading police on a car chase. Police say her passenger was arrested for a parole violation.

A Child Protective Services spokeswoman says the passenger is the child's father but that Craig is not the child's mother.

Police say they were summoned to a home in Greenville on Thursday afternoon. At the same time, they were told a 7-year-old gunshot victim was taken to a hospital and died soon after.

Craig has been named in a capital murder warrant related to that shooting.

Greenville is 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Dallas.
Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley believes an expansion of the state's "move over" law will provide another level of safety for drivers.

The expansion of the law will require requires motorists to move over as far as possible and slow down to accommodate tow trucks and passenger vehicles parked alongside roadways with their emergency lights on. Currently, the law applies only to emergency vehicles. The expansion is one of a number of changes to Oregon statutes (including a variety of new taxes and fees) that goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1.

The change to the move over law is "a great idea, Riley said. For us, its especially important on Highway 34 and Interstate 5. We see cars zipping by a stalled vehicle at 65 or 70 miles per hour and people are standing only 3 or 4 feet from them. That adds another layer of danger for citizens and law enforcement officers.

Riley said his office does not have any plans to have saturation patrols regarding the new law, but said might occur in the future to help bring the awareness level up.

This is one of those laws that just makes good sense, Riley said. Its too bad we have to have a law about common sense. Just move over and slow down.

The law calls for drivers to move over to another lane of traffic or to slow down by at least 5 mph below the posted speed limit.

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, between 2011 and 2015, there were 167 serious crashes and eight persons killed in incidents in which a vehicle was parked on the side of the road without an emergency vehicle with lights flashing on the scene. By contrast, ODOT notes, in cases where an emergency vehicle with lights on was on the scene, there were just six serious crashes and no fatalities during the same time frame where an emergency vehicle with lights on was aiding a motorist.

Taxes

Oregonians will also feel the effect of several new taxes that will take a bite out of their billfolds.

A series of new taxes designed to fund transportation improvement programs statewide and new laws governing everything from how we drive to the legal age to buy tobacco, also go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1.

Oregons elected officials approved 750 bills during the last legislative session, including a $5.3 billion building transportation tax and spending bill targeted at improving road and bridge maintenance, highway construction and improving transportation districts.

Much of that funding will come as Oregonians buy new cars, trucks, motor homes, trailers and electrically assisted bicycles. The Legislature passed a 0.5 percent privilege tax on new vehicles, or used vehicles with fewer than 7,500 miles on them.

Anyone buying a new bicycle valued at more than $200 with wheels larger than 26 inches will pay a $15 excise tax.

The tax is expected to generate about $60 million per year. The first $12 million of that will be funneled into a Zero-Emission Incentive Fund that will provide rebates to Oregonians who purchase electric vehicles, such as plug-in and hybrid electric vehicles.

The goal is to encourage Oregonians to purchase more zero emissions vehicles and reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Greg Rememsperger, executive vice president of the Oregon Auto Dealers Association, said the new privilege tax is a twofold scenario.

Were not excited about it, Rememsperger said. It is going to cost consumers money and we dont like to raise the cost of an item that consumers have to pay for.

But, he noted, a portion of the tax will be used to create incentives for consumers to purchase total electric or hybrid vehicles.

We think the incentive may help spur interest in those vehicles, plus have a good environmental impact, Rememsperger said.

A lawsuit challenging the tax filed by AAA Oregon/Idaho and the Oregon Trucking Association has yet to be heard in court.

Funds for the incentives wont be available until there is a decision in the lawsuit, Rememsperger said. The Department of Environmental Quality is developing a queuing system, so that if someone purchases an EV or hybrid vehicle after Jan. 1, but before the lawsuit is decided, their application would go into the system to qualify.

Oregonians will also see gasoline taxes increase 4 cents per gallon to 34 cents on Jan. 1. That is the first phase of a planned 10-cent gas tax increase over seven years. There will be 2-cent increases every two years until 2024.

Its also going to cost an additional $13 for vehicle titles at $43, and registration fees go up $16 to $93 in 2018, with more increases scheduled in 2020 and 2022.

High efficiency and electric vehicle owners will also pay more for title and registrations.

A new 0.1 percent payroll tax will be used to fund transit districts statewide.

Other changes

Tobacco: You will have to be at least 21 years of age to legally purchase tobacco and vaping products starting Tuesday. The new law increases the penalty for store clerks who sell tobacco products to underage youth.

Katrina Hedberg, M.D., Oregon's state health officer and epidemiologist based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, said raising the minimum age for buying tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems is proven to reduce youth initiation of tobacco use. She noted 9 of 10 adults report they started smoking before they were 19, and nearly 100 percent start before age 26.

"The earlier kids start using tobacco, the more at risk they are for becoming addicted to tobacco and developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, asthma and cancer," Hedberg said. "Raising the legal sale age for tobacco products to 21 can reduce smoking rates and reduce tobacco-related deaths."

Guns: Senate Bill 719 allows Oregon judges to issue extreme risk orders, which allow law enforcement officials to take firearms away from persons who may pose a threat to themselves or family members. The guns would be returned after the order expires.

Bottle Bill: Beginning Tuesday, nearly all beverage bottles will require a 10-cent deposit and will be expanded to include those which contained coffee, tea, hard cider, fruit juice, coconut water and other drinks.

Abortion: House Bill 3391 will provide taxpayer-funded abortions to women who are living in the state illegally. The bill also provides funding for other health care services free of charge.

Public records: Senate Bill 481 is designed to increase government transparency. It sets deadlines for public officials when they evaluate and respond to the publics request for government documents.

Gender identification: Oregonians will be able to affirm their gender identity on a birth certificate by completing a notarized application instead of have to get a court order.

HB 2673 lets people affirm gender identity without court order House Bill 2673 allows persons to request a name change and/or sex designation on a birth certificate that reflects their gender identity. Previously a person would have to obtain a court order that the person had completed sexual reassignment before they could change the sex designation on an Oregon birth certificate.

They will also be allowed to choose the nonbinary designation of X, instead of M for male or F for female.
BRISBANE, Australia (AP) - Australia rugby star Karmichael Hunt has been charged with two counts of drug possession after being searched and arrested by police in the early hours of Saturday in Brisbane.

Rugby Australia said it had been "made aware of an incident involving Wallabies and Queensland Reds back Karmichael Hunt in Brisbane overnight."

It said "Rugby Australia takes all matters relating to the off-field behavior of its players seriously and has commenced an investigation into the incident in conjunction with the Queensland Rugby Union."

Hunt's lawyer, Adam Magill, told Brisbane's Courier Mail newspaper "an incident occured involving Karmichael Hunt which resulted in his arrest."

In 2015, Hunt was fined $2,500 after pleading guilty to four charges of possessing cocaine. Australian rugby fined him $30,000 and suspended him for six weeks.
TROY, N.Y. (AP) - Two men were arrested Saturday on murder charges in the deaths of two women and two children who were found dead in their upstate New York apartment.

Justin Mann and James White were arrested in their hometown, Schenectady, and pleaded not guilty in Troy City Court.

According to the Times Union , Troy Police Chief John Tedesco said one of the defendants knew one of the victims. He declined to elaborate.

Justin Mann enters the court room for his arraignment on murder charges, Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017, in Troy, N.Y. He is one of two men arrested in connection with the deaths of two women and two children in their upstate New York apartment. The victims were found Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2017 in the basement apartment of their Troy, N.Y. home. (Steve Hughes/The Albany Times Union via AP)

Information given in court said the killings took place at about 9 p.m., Dec. 21. It wasn't until Tuesday, five days later, that a property manager found 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah Myers and 5-year-old Shanise Myers; and 22-year-old Brandi Mells in a basement apartment along the Hudson River, just north of Albany. Meyers and Mells became engaged earlier this year, Mells' cousin, Sharonda Bennett, told the newspaper.

Tedesco and District Attorney Joel Abelove, who appeared at a press conference, declined to answer questions about a possible motive and the method of the killings.

They also would not say how the defendants know each other, but said that both have records and Mann is on parole.

More than two dozen people were in court Saturday, some wearing Troy Boys & Girls club sweatshirts.

Mann appeared to break down as he was led out of court. A man and a woman in the courtroom became visibly distraught.

The suspects were sent to the Rensselaer County Jail to await their next court appearance, on Thursday. Neither man said anything as the charges were read.

Tedesco said no more arrests are expected.

"I don't have to tell you what a good feeling it is to have these two in custody," he said. "It's a great relief."

"The rapid apprehension and arrest of two suspects in connection with this tragic crime is welcome news for our community and the victims' families impacted by this senseless tragedy," Troy Mayor Patrick Madden, a Democrat, said in a statement.

"My heart remains with both the Myers and Mells families," said Madden, who expressed hope that "with the support of the Troy community, they can begin to heal."

James White, left, enters the court room for arraignment on murder charges, Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017, in Troy, N.Y. He is one of two men arrested in connection with the deaths of two women and two children in their upstate New York apartment. The victims were found Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2017 in the basement apartment of their Troy, N.Y. home. (Steve Hughes/The Albany Times Union via AP)

Justin C. Mann is seen in an undated photo provided by the Troy Police Department. Mann and James White have been arrested on murder charges in the deaths of two women and two children in their Troy apartment on Dec. 26, 2017. Mann and James White pleaded not guilty to murder charges Saturday in Troy. Both are from Schenectady. (Troy Police Department via AP)

James W. White is seen in an undated photo provided by the Troy Police Department. White and Justin Mann have been arrested on murder charges in the deaths of two women and two children in their Troy apartment on Dec. 26, 2017. Mann and James White pleaded not guilty to murder charges Saturday in Troy. Both are from Schenectady. (Troy Police Department via AP)
ISLAMABAD (AP) - Pakistan's supreme court exonerated a man convicted of blasphemy after he served nine years of a life sentence in prison.

A two-judge panel of the court ruled on Friday that Mohammad Mansha was falsely accused, citing lack of evidence,

According to court records, Mansha, 58, was arrested in September 2008 after the imam of a mosque in the Bahawalnagar district in Punjab province told authorities that Mansha had desecrated a copy of the Quran.

A Punjab judge convicted Mansha of blasphemy and sent him to life in prison in 2009. His conviction was upheld in 2014 and the supreme court took up the case the same year.

Mansha's defense attorney, who asked not to be named for fear of retribution, said his client was arrested on a complaint from a man who was suffering from hearing and speech impairments. He said evidence from such a witness has no legal value under the Evidence Act.

Mansha's attorney said that following the complaint, his client was presented before a village council where he was badly beaten then handed over to police. The police registered the case under the country's harsh blasphemy law based on the complaint of the Imam Hafiz Muhammad Munir. The hearing and speech impaired Akhtar Mohammad became the star witness.

Abdul Waheed, the prosecutor in the case, said that there was no "scientific evidence" against Mansha and that the police investigation was "faulty" which led to his acquittal. Waheed said Mansha, a poor villager, could not hire a lawyer so the court appointed him one.

Rights groups say Pakistan's harsh blasphemy law is often exploited to settle personal scores.

Blasphemy is a very sensitive issue in Pakistan's conservative society. In 2011, a liberal governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by his official guard because he spoke in support of a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, languishing in a jail after being convicted in a blasphemy case.

Taseer said at the time that the blasphemy law was being exploited.

Zia Awan, head of Lawyers for Human Rights and Legal Assistance, lauded the supreme court's verdict in Mansha's case but said the court should have compensated him for his years behind bars on "false" charges.

Awan added that it is time for the parliament to "carefully look into" the country's blasphemy law and finds the means to curb its misuse or exploitation.
WASHINGTON (AP) - The State Department has released emails from Huma Abedin, a top aide to Hillary Clinton, that were found by the FBI on her husband's laptop.

Some of the emails found on former Rep. Anthony Weiner's laptop were marked classified. It was unclear whether they were deemed classified at the time they were sent or when the State Department was preparing them for release.

The emails were released in response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit filed by the conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch.

The State Department said it "carefully reviews the content of records requested through FOIA to determine whether any information is sensitive or classified," and some of the documents released Friday have "classified information that has been redacted."

The FBI found thousands of emails exchanged between Clinton and Abedin while searching Weiner's laptop as part of a criminal investigation into his sexting with a high school student. The discovery led then-FBI Director James Comey to announce in late October 2016, as Clinton's run for the White House was in its final stage, that he was reopening the probe of her use of a private computer server.

Then two days before Election Day, the FBI declared there was nothing new in the emails. Clinton has called Comey's intervention "the determining factor" in her defeat.

The FBI has since said that only a small number of the emails found on the laptop had been forwarded while most had simply been backed up from electronic devices, including most of the email chains containing classified information. Comey said the FBI had concluded that neither Weiner nor Abedin had committed a crime in their handling of the email.
LANSING, Mich. (AP) - While the city of Flint still recovers from a lead-tainted water crisis, Michigan is scrambling to combat potential health risks in other tap water that stem from chemicals long used in firefighting, waterproofing, carpeting and other products.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have been detected at military bases, water treatment plants and, most recently, an old industrial dump site for footwear company Wolverine World Wide. The contaminants, classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as "emerging" nationally, have sparked enough concern that Gov. Rick Snyder created a state response team and approved $23 million in emergency spending.

The chemicals do not break down easily and can migrate from soil to groundwater. They were used in scores of U.S. industrial applications and have been detected in human and animal blood around the globe. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry says scientists are uncertain about how they affect human health at exposure levels typically found in food and water. But some studies suggest the chemicals might affect fetal development, disrupt hormonal functions, damage fertility and immune systems, and boost the risk of cancer.

FILE- In this Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017 file photo, a "No trespassing" sign is displayed at an old tannery waste dump used by Wolverine World Wide in Belmont, Mich. Some private wells in the area have tested positive for elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances called PFAS, also called perfluorinated chemicals, or PFCs. Michigan, where the large city of Flint continues to recover from a lead-tainted water supply, is now racing to combat a new threat to tap water at sites across the state: chemicals long used in firefighting, waterproofing, carpeting and other products. (Neil Blake /The Grand Rapids Press via AP)

At least 1,000 homes with private wells in the Plainfield Township area north of Grand Rapids - near where Wolverine dumped hazardous waste decades ago - have been tested for PFAS contamination in recent months.

Cody Angell, 28, who lives in the area, said he has had "sleepless nights," even though his home is on the local water system that has been deemed safe. He's concerned because the chemicals have been discovered in the municipal supply, and Plainfield Township for years pulled water from backup wells that have tested positive for the substances. He wonders if PFAS contamination caused his mother's thyroid disease.

Angell said he lacks confidence in state regulators, pointing to their failures that led to Flint's crisis. Environmental activist and legal consultant Erin Brockovich recently met with area residents, urging them to join a class-action lawsuit that alleges Wolverine illegally disposed of PFAS from Minnesota-based 3M's Scotchgard product in the area. The suit seeks financial damages and steps such as targeted, more frequent medical testing.

Another lawsuit alleges that a family of four living near Wolverine's unlined tannery waste dump drank highly contaminated well water for 17 years, causing the father to develop colon cancer, the mother to have a miscarriage and one of their children to develop a rare bone cancer.

The chemicals have been identified at 28 sites in 14 Michigan communities. Nearly half are on or near military installations, where the source is believed to be firefighting foam.

The $23 million will be used to hire new state employees to sample and analyze well water, buy lab equipment and help public health departments with unexpected response costs. Samples have been sent to California because no Michigan labs can test for the chemicals; state officials want quicker results.

"People are starting to get an understanding of a whole class of chemicals that ... are in so many things. How much of that is getting into our systems? I don't think people really know," said state Rep. Chris Afendoulis, a Republican whose district includes the Wolverine dump area. He warned it could become "a nationwide problem."

Of about 1,050 homes tested in neighborhoods north of Grand Rapids, 74 had PFAS levels above 70 parts per trillion - the U.S. government's combined health advisory level for two PFAS in drinking water, set in 2016. Some houses had concentrations measuring hundreds of times higher than the lifetime advisory level. Results are not back yet for every home. Wolverine has provided affected residents with bottled water and whole-house filters and, at the state's request, is investigating 20 reports of discarded barrels or leather scraps at five sites.

For now, the Snyder administration and majority Republicans in the Legislature are comfortable with the 70 parts per trillion standard - a non-enforceable and unregulated limit unlike the federal restrictions on other contaminants such as lead, asbestos and mercury.

"It is largely used for trying to communicate to the public the point at which if you're below that, we don't have public health concern. When you get above that, then that is when we start to say there are some people who may be at risk of harm from a lifetime of drinking levels above 70," said Kory Groetsch, environmental health director at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. "I like to think of it as a speed limit. If you're doing 58 in a 55, your chance of anything bad is very small. If you're doing 95 in a 55, your chance of something going wrong is quite high."

Michigan Democrats are proposing legislation to establish a 5 parts per trillion limit, which would be the country's toughest and follow states such as New Jersey, Minnesota and Vermont that have imposed stricter guidelines. They also are calling for legislative oversight hearings to investigate whether Wolverine and the state moved too slowly to protect people. On its website, Wolverine calls the federal advisory level "very conservative" and says there is no human study proving PFAS exposure causes illness.

Still, the EPA recently announced a "cross-agency effort" to address PFAS contamination nationwide, saying it will identify near-term actions to help communities, enhance coordination, boost research and expand communication about health risks. Snyder, a Republican, said the state is building a "good working relationship" with the EPA, but - echoing criticism from both sides of the aisle in Congress - said he wants a "better response" from the Defense Department.

The former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in northern Michigan has been on officials' radar for some time. While PFAS levels in samples from private residential wells nearby were not higher than the federal advisory level, the state urged people to not use their water for drinking or cooking because of uncertainty about the duration or amount of previous exposure and other concerns.

"We're at this point in dialogue with different branches of military, and it'd be good if we could get the Department of Defense to figure out the best way to respond and partner with us on helping address this issue," Snyder said.

___

Follow David Eggert on Twitter at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00. His work can be found at https://apnews.com/search/David%20Eggert

___

Sign up for the AP's weekly newsletter showcasing our best reporting from the Midwest and Texas: http://apne.ws/2u1RMfv

FILE- In this Monday, Aug. 14, 2017 file photo, a couple kayak on the Rogue River adjacent to where Wolverine World Wide's tannery once stood, in Rockford, Mich. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is investigating the connection between old waste drums in the area and an old Wolverine World Wide tannery waste dump nearby. Some private wells in the area have tested positive for elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances called PFAS, also called perfluorinated chemicals, or PFCs. The DEQ says Wolverine dumped sludge containing the chemicals in unlined trenches back in the 1960s. The well contamination was discovered this year. (Neil Blake /The Grand Rapids Press via AP)
BARTOW, Fla. (AP) - A Florida judge says a sheriff's office must retain custody of a horse whose owner was charged with drunken driving while riding the animal.

In a report by The Ledger , Polk County Judge Sharon Franklin said 53-year-old Donna Byrne was unfit to care for the horse. Franklin also said Byrne must complete treatment for alcohol addiction.

Byrne was arrested Nov. 2 after riding her horse down a highway. Police said her blood-alcohol level twice Florida's legal limit.

Byrne's attorney, Craig Whisenhunt, says he will revisit the custody issue at a Jan. 11 hearing regarding additional pending charges of disorderly intoxication, animal endangerment and culpable negligence.

Whisenhunt questions whether the charges applied to Byrne, saying she had not been disorderly and was a pedestrian under the law.

___

Information from: The Ledger (Lakeland, Fla.), http://www.theledger.com
TIMONIUM, Md. (AP) - Two women in Maryland are among dozens across the country who say they were sexually assaulted at a Massage Envy spa.

The Baltimore Sun reported Friday that the women say they were assaulted by a male therapist at a Massage Envy in Timonium, which is outside Baltimore.

The women sued 29-year-old Timothy Snyder and the spa. Snyder was acquitted on criminal charges. Snyder's criminal attorney, Kimberly Rothwell, said he followed his training and gave a normal massage.

The Sun was unable to reach Snyder, his civil attorney or the spa. The Arizona-based chain previously said it has tried to create "stringent, rigorous policies" for therapists.

The website BuzzFeed News recently reported that dozens of people have filed lawsuits, police reports and state board complaints against the company alleging misconduct.

___

Information from: The Baltimore Sun, http://www.baltimoresun.com
YARMOUTH, Mass. (AP) - A baby seal that wandered far from the ocean has been returned to the sea with the help of some police officers on Cape Cod.

Yarmouth Police say the seal pup was found waddling on Route 6A in Yarmouth Port late Friday.

Police and Amazing Animal Ambassadors were able to put the seal in a cage and hold onto it until wildlife officials arrived.

Police said on Facebook Saturday that the pup was given a clean bill of health and has been released back to the ocean.

Authorities say they have nicknamed the seal "Houston" after Kevin A. Houston, a U.S. Navy Seal from Cape Cod who was killed in Afghanistan.

Police say they believe the pup traveled up a nearby frozen creek and "made his appearance Navy Seal style."
A Second World War veteran who was evacuated from Dunkirk and survived daring bombing raids against the Nazis has died, the head of the Royal Air Force has said.

Sergeant Peter Carrie, who was born in Dundee in 1915, served in the Army and then the RAF as a flight engineer on Lancaster Bombers.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, the Chief of the Air Staff, tweeted on Friday to say he was sad to learn that Chelsea Pensioner Sgt Carrie had died at the age of 102.

Posting an image of himself with the veteran, he wrote he was proud to re-present him with his flight engineer brevet in 2014  70 years after he was first awarded it.

At the time, Air Chf Mshl Hillier described Sgt Carrie as extraordinary.

Sad to hear that Peter Carrie - Chelsea Pensioner and Bomber Command (75 (NZ) Sqn) veteran - has died at 102 years old. @RHChelsea  ACM Sir Mike Wigston (@ChiefofAirStaff) December 29, 2017

The valour, the courage and commitment men like Sgt Carrie showed during WWII was just exceptional, in Bomber Command, in the mission that they did, and sustained throughout that war, he said.

Decades after the end of the Second World War, Sgt Carrie finally added a flight engineer brevet, or badge, to his distinctive scarlet uniform.

He received his Bomber Command Clasp after it came to light he was improperly dressed without his flight engineer brevet, which he was eligible to wear on his uniform along with his medals.

Sgt Carrie served with 75 (New Zealand) Squadron, surviving bombing missions against Nazi Germany including those on Hamburg and Wesel.

The squadron flew more missions than any other Allied heavy bomber squadron and suffered the second highest casualties of the Allied squadrons.

The RAF Bomber Command campaign in which Sgt Carrie fought saw the loss of more than 55,000 aircrew out of 125,000  a death toll of nearly 45%.

Sergeant Peter Carrie served with 75 (New Zealand) Squadron (MoD/PA)

Once asked why he was in a New Zealand Squadron, he said: The Kiwis came over but were short of men on some squadrons so I joined them.

He added: They used to have drink sent over from home, and after every mission wed have a wee shot.

Sgt Carries RAF service came after he had already served in the Army, which he had joined in 1934 at the age of 19.

He was posted to the Khyber Pass on the North West Frontier where before the Second World War he saw active service and was wounded.

Sgt Carrie later saw active service in France at the beginning of the war before being badly wounded and evacuated from Dunkirk in 1940.

His injuries prevented him from continuing his service with the Army but he joined the RAFs Bomber Command in 1943 and served until he was demobbed in 1946.
A wave of spontaneous protests over Irans weak economy have swept into Tehran, with students and others chanting against the government just hours after hard-liners held their own rally in support of the clerical establishment.

The demonstrations appear to be the largest to strike the Islamic Republic since the protests that followed the countrys disputed 2009 presidential election.

Thousands have already taken to the streets of cities across Iran, beginning at first on Thursday in Mashhad, the countrys second-largest city and a holy site for Shiite pilgrims.

Iran protests

The protests in the Iranian capital, as well as US President Donald Trump tweeting about them, raised the stakes.

They also apparently forced state television to break its silence, acknowledging it had not reported on them on orders from security officials.

Counter-revolution groups and foreign media are continuing their organised efforts to misuse the peoples economic and livelihood problems and their legitimate demands to provide an opportunity for unlawful gatherings and possibly chaos, state TV said.

The protests appear to have been sparked by social media posts and a surge in prices of basic food supplies, such as eggs and poultry.

Officials and state media made a point on Saturday of saying Iranians have the right to protest and have their voices heard on social issues.

However, protesters in Tehran chanted against high-ranking government officials and made other political statements, according to the semi-official Fars news agency.

Hundreds of students and others joined a new economic protest at Tehran University, with riot police massing at the gates as they shut down surrounding roads.

Fars also said protests on Friday struck Qom, a city that is the worlds foremost centre for Shiite Islamic scholarship and home to a major Shiite shrine.

Social media videos purport to show clashes between protesters and police in several areas.

At least 50 protesters have been arrested since Thursday, authorities said.

State TV also said some protesters chanted the name of Irans one-time shah, who fled into exile just before its 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Telecommunications minister Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi sent a message by Twitter to the chief executive of messaging service Telegram, Pavel Durov, saying: A telegram channel is encouraging hateful conduct, use Molotov cocktails, armed uprising, and social unrest.

Telegram responded saying it had suspended the account.

Iranian hard-liners rallied on Saturday to support the country's supreme leader and clerically overseen government (Ebrahim Noroozi/AP)

A Telegram channel (amadnews) started to instruct their subscribers to use Molotov cocktails against police and got suspended due to our no calls for violence rule. Be careful  there are lines one shouldnt cross, Mr Durov tweeted.

The semi-official ILNA news agency reported that the security deputy of Tehrans governor, Mohsen Hamedani, said that the citys provincial security council held a meeting to address the protests, but that its decisions were classified.

Earlier on Saturday, hard-liners rallied across the country to support Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and others.

The rallies, scheduled weeks earlier, commemorated a mass 2009 pro-government rally challenging those who rejected the re-election of hard-line president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad amid fraud allegations.
At the American Agri-Women convention held Nov 15-18 in Minneapolis, Oregon Women for Agriculture earned a first-place award for enrolling the most new members and a second-place award for overall most members.

Several Oregon Women for Agriculture members were recognized for contributions to the national American Agri-Women organization.

Three members of the Oregon affiliate  Kristi Miller, Mallory Phelan and Arwen McGilvra  were honored for their part in the Ag Day 365 campaign. Ag Day 365 was a yearlong advocacy initiative started by American Agri-Women during the 2016 national convention and formally kicked off at National Ag Day in Washington D.C.

McGilvra was also honored with the organizations Presidents Award, along with Lynn Woolf of Kansas. President Doris Mold of Minnesota remarked on the amount of work McGilvra and Woolf did for the all-volunteer organization during the year, and thanked them.

American Agri-Women is the nations largest coalition of farm, ranch and agri-business women. American Agri-Women began in 1974 with members of Oregon Women for Agriculture and women from three other states joining together to create a national organization to represent women involved in agriculture and agri-business.

The Ag Day is Every Day campaign, or #AgDay365, is inspired by and builds on the important connections made between the public and farm and ranch producers on National Ag Day, which is celebrated in March and organized by the Agriculture Council of America.

Since 1974, American Agri-Women members have worked together to educate consumers; advocate for agriculture; and offer networking and professional development opportunities.

For more information, or to join, visit AmericanAgriWomen.org. Find AAW on social media at: facebook.com/AgriWomen and twitter.com/Women4Ag.
North Korea has said it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their blackmail and war drills on its doorstep.

The Norths official Korean Central News Agency reiterated the stance on Saturday as it reviewed the countrys major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

North Korea carried out its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal which could viably target the mainland United States.

(PA Graphics)

The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear programme is closing rapidly.

The US and South Korea have maintained that they will not negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile programme.

In its report on Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force in the face of a continued nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills by the United States and its vassal forces.

The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

(PA Graphics)

KCNA accused US President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power.

Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out, KCNA said.

The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence, it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.
An Egyptian court has convicted former Islamist president Mohammed Morsi and 18 others of insulting the judiciary, sentencing them to three years in prison in a court session aired on TV.

The case in Cairo involved a total of 25 defendants, five of whom, including prominent rights activist Alaa Abdel-Fattah and political analyst Amr Hamzawy, were fined 30,000 Egyptian pounds each (1,250). Abdel-Fattah is serving a five-year sentence for taking part in an illegal protest in 2013. Hamzawy lives in exile.

All the defendants are accused of insulting the judiciary by making statements that were made public either on TV, radio, social media or in publications that the court found to be inciting and expressing hatred toward the court and the judiciary.

Ousted Egyptian president Mohammed Morsi (Amr Nabil/AP)

The court also ordered Morsi to pay one million Egyptian pounds (41,615) as compensation to one of the judges, and told 22 of the defendants to pay one million Egyptian pounds each to a powerful union of judges known as the Judges Club, state-run Al-Ahram newspaper reported.

The verdict can be appealed.

Abdel-Fattah is an outspoken blogger and leader of the 2011 uprising that toppled longtime autocrat Hosni Mubarak. He has been in and out of prison in the years since Mr Mubaraks ousting.

A software engineer by profession, he also campaigned against the policies of the military council that ruled Egypt for nearly 17 months following Mr Mubaraks departure.

Abdel-Fattah also opposed Morsis rule, and that of general-turned-president Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, who led Morsis overthrow in 2013 following mass protests against his one-year divisive rule.

Since he was ousted, Morsi has faced trial on a host of charges, including espionage and conspiring with foreign groups.

The former president, who hailed from the now-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group, is serving a life sentence  25 years  over accusations of spying for Qatar. Earlier, he was handed a 20-year sentence on charges arising from the killing of protesters in December 2012.

Following Morsis overthrow, Egyptian authorities launched a severe crackdown on Islamists, jailing thousands of them as well as secular and liberal activists.

The government has also banned all unauthorised demonstrations under a law adopted in late 2013.
The worlds most expensive defender took a closer look at his new home on Saturday.

Liverpool announced they had signed Virgil van Dijk from Southampton in a transfer that is understood to be worth 75million on Wednesday.

Virgil van Dijk is shown round Anfield after joining Liverpool (Peter Byrne/PA)

And the Holland international, who made two appearances for Saints at Anfield, was seen taking in his new surroundings ahead of Liverpools home game with Leicester.

Van Dijk cannot play for Liverpool until the January transfer window opens but he has already proved a big hit with the fans.
A man has been arrested in connection with a St Petersburg supermarket bombing that wounded 18 people, Russias main domestic security agency said.

Eight people remain in hospital after a device exploded on Wednesday in a storage area for customers bags.

Investigators said the homemade device contained 200g (7oz) of explosives and was rigged with shrapnel to cause more damage.

The Federal Security Service (FSB) did not identify the suspect or provide any details about his motive.

Russia Explosion

The agency said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies that he organised and carried out the attack on his own.

The Islamic State (IS) group claimed responsibility for the blast, but a member of the security committee in the lower house of Russias parliament cast doubt on the claim, saying it might have been an attempt by IS to gain publicity.

Now, when the IS defeat in Syria seriously dented its image, it will try to restore its authority and claim responsibility for the attacks by others, Adalbi Shakhgoshev said, according to Russian news wires.

The FSB said it has handed over the suspect to the Investigative Committee, the nations top investigative agency. The FSB normally deals with terror suspects itself, and the transfer could indicate that the man had other motives.

Russia Explosion

The Interfax news agency reported that the suspect was a 35-year-old local resident who said he was a member of an occult movement and was taking drugs.

Russian law enforcement agencies stopped short of immediately describing the supermarket blast as a terror attack, but President Vladimir Putin called it one on Thursday.

He added that he ordered security agencies to kill terror suspects on the spot if they resist arrest.
By Jason Patinkin

KAMPALA, Dec 29 (Reuters) - South Sudanese troops raided the home of the exiled former army commander, relatives said on Friday, after his rival was named to command troops in his home region to counter any threats he might pose to the government.

Soldiers and National Security agents entered the compound belonging to Paul Malong and assaulted a neighbour while searching for weapons, said a relative who witnessed the alleged incident in the town of Malualkhon in the Aweil region. A second Malong family member confirmed the raid.

Army spokesman Lul Ruai Koang said he had "no official information" that security forces raided Malong's house.

Oil-rich South Sudan has been at war since 2013, when forces loyal to ex-vice president Riek Machar, an ethnic Nuer, began fighting with troops loyal to President Salva Kiir, a Dinka. The conflict has split the nation into a patchwork of ethnic fiefs.

Malong had buttressed his power by recruiting men from Aweil to fight in ethnic militias while also commanding the military, according to U.N. experts. But Kiir fired Malong, also a Dinka, in May after a power struggle and put him under house arrest in the capital Juba amid fears he might start a revolt from Aweil.

Malong loyalists started joining rebels and in November, Kiir released Malong to exile in Kenya.

Thursday's alleged raid unfolded after the appointment of Malong's longtime rival, General Dau Auterjong, to the top military post in Aweil. He had rebelled against Malong's army from 2014 until last year, when he rejoined the government.

Auterjong's appointment "turns the screws" on Malong by undercutting his military strength in Aweil, according to South Sudan researcher Alan Boswell.

"Malong was ready for a fight when he was fired. Now his ability to challenge Kiir is much weaker," Boswell said.

In September, the United States sanctioned Malong for his role in the civil war, which has killed tens of thousands of people, displaced a third of the population, and pushed parts of South Sudan into famine. (Editing by Katharine Houreld and Mark Heinrich)
By Elida Moreno

PANAMA CITY, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Panama said on Friday that it will hand over a former state governor for Mexico's ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) to Mexican authorities next week for extradition to face corruption charges.

Roberto Borge, who was governor of the state of Quintana Roo from 2010 to 2016, was arrested in Panama City in June as he was preparing to board a flight to Paris.

A spokeswoman for Panama's Foreign Ministry told reporters that on Thursday morning Mexican authorities will take Borge to Mexico, where prosecutors accuse him of using funds obtained illegally, embezzlement and abuse of public office.

Corruption will be one of the major issues in Mexico's presidential election next July, with public discontent widespread over a spate of conflict-of-interest rows that have dogged the Cabinet and President Enrique Pena Nieto himself.

Borge has long been accused of corruption by opposition parties. He has denied the allegations. (Writing by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by Leslie Adler)
DUBAI, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Demonstrators chanted anti-government slogans in several cities across Iran on Friday, Iranian news agencies and social media reports said, as price protests turned into the largest wave of demonstrations since nationwide pro-reform unrest in 2009.

Police dispersed anti-government demonstrators in the western city of Kermanshah as protests spread to Tehran and several other cities a day after rallies in the northeast, the semi-official news agency Fars said.

The outbreak of unrest reflects growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption, as well as concern about the Islamic Republic's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as those in Syria and Iraq.

An official said a few protesters had been arrested in Tehran, and footage posted on social media showed a heavy police presence in the capital and some other cities.

Washington condemned the arrests. "The Iranian government should respect their people's rights, including their right to express themselves," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

The U.S. State Department in a separate statement urged "all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption."

About 300 demonstrators gathered in Kermanshah after what Fars said was a "call by the anti-revolution." They shouted: "Political prisoners should be freed" and "Freedom or death", and some public property was destroyed. Fars did not name any opposition groups.

The protests in Kermanshah, the main city in a region where an earthquake killed over 600 people in November, took place a day after hundreds rallied in Iran's second largest city Mashhad to protest at high prices and shout anti-government slogans.

Videos posted on social media showed demonstrators yelling, "The people are begging, the clerics act like God."

Fars said there were protests in the cities of Sari and Rasht in the north, Qazvin west of Tehran and Qom south of the capital, and also in Hamadan in western Iran. It said many marchers who wanted to raise economic demands left the rallies after demonstrators shouted political slogans.

PRO-GOVERNMENT RALLIES PLANNED

State television said annual nationwide rallies and events were scheduled for Saturday to commemorate pro-government demonstrations held in 2009 to counter protests by reformists.

The Revolutionary Guards, which along with its Basij militia spearheaded a crackdown against the protesters in 2009, said in a statement carried by state media that there were efforts to repeat that year's unrest but added: "The Iranian nation ... will not allow the country to be hurt."

Mohsen Nasj Hamadani, deputy security chief in Tehran province, said about 50 people had rallied in a square but most had left after being asked to by police, while a few who refused were "temporarily detained," the ILNA news agency reported.

In the central city of Isfahan, a resident said protesters had joined a rally held by factory workers demanding back-pay.

"The slogans quickly changed from the economy to those against (President Hassan) Rouhani and the Supreme Leader (Ayatollah Ali Khamenei)," the resident said by telephone.

In Qom, a stronghold of the Shi'ite clergy, footage posted on social media showed protesters attacking Ayatollah Khamenei by name. "Seyyed Ali should be ashamed and leave the country alone," they chanted.

Protests were held also in the town of Quchan near the Turkmen border, and in Ahvaz, capital of oil-rich Khuzestan province, social media and Iranian news websites reported.

Police arrested 52 people in Thursday's protests, Fars quoted a judicial official as saying in Mashhad, one of the holiest places in Shi'ite Islam.

In social media footage, which could not be authenticated, riot police were seen using water cannon and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Openly political protests are rare in Iran, where security services are omnipresent.

The last unrest of national significance occurred in 2009 when Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's re-election as president ignited eight months of street protests. Pro-reform rivals said the vote was rigged.

However, demonstrations are often held by workers over lay-offs or non-payment of salaries and by people who hold deposits in non-regulated, bankrupt financial institutions.

Prominent conservative cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Alamolhoda called earlier for tough action against the protests.

"If the security and law enforcement agencies leave the rioters to themselves, enemies will publish films and pictures in their media and say that the Islamic Republic system has lost its revolutionary base in Mashhad," the state news agency IRNA quoted Alamolhoda as saying.

"DEATH TO DICTATOR"

Some social media videos showed demonstrators chanting "Death to Rouhani" and "Death to the dictator". Protests were also held in at least two other northeastern cities.

Alamolhoda, the representative of Ayatollah Khamenei in Mashhad, said a few people had taken advantage of Thursday's protests against rising prices to chant slogans against Iran's role in regional conflicts.

Tehran backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his country's civil war, Shi'ite militias in Iraq, Houthi rebels in Yemen and Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group.

"Some people had come to express their demands, but suddenly, in a crowd of hundreds, a small group that did not exceed 50 shouted deviant and horrendous slogans such as 'Let go of Palestine', 'Not Gaza, not Lebanon, I'd give my life (only) for Iran'," Alamolhoda said.

Social media videos also showed demonstrators chanting "Leave Syria, think about us," criticising Iran's military and financial support for Assad.

Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri, a close Rouhani ally, suggested that hardline conservative opponents of the pragmatist president might have triggered the protests but lost control of them. "Those who are behind such events will burn their own fingers," IRNA quoted Jahangiri as saying.

Rouhanis leading achievement, a 2015 deal with world powers that curbed Irans disputed nuclear program in return for a lifting of most international sanctions, has yet to bring the broad economic benefits the government says are coming.

Unemployment stood at 12.4 percent in this fiscal year, according to the Statistical Centre of Iran, up 1.4 percent from the previous year. About 3.2 million Iranians are jobless, out of a total population of 80 million. (Reporting by Dubai newsroom; additional reporting by Eric Beech in Washington; Editing by Gareth Jones, Andrew Hay and Richard Chang)
LUSAKA, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Zambian President Edgar Lungu has directed the military to help fight the spread of cholera, which has killed 41 people in the nation's capital and made more than 1,500 others sick since late September.

The outbreak began on Sept. 28 but appeared to die down by Oct. 20, with fewer than five patients reported weekly until Nov. 5. The number of cases then surged, with 136 in the week beginning Nov. 26, the World Health Organisation reported.

Presidential spokesman Amos Chanda said in a statement late on Friday that the president believed emergency measures were needed to contain the waterborne disease, including the closure of some markets.

The outbreak was initially confined to densely populated parts of Lusaka where poor sanitation can aid its transmission, but the disease had now spread to low density areas, Chanda said.

"The president is deeply concerned at rampaging advance of the epidemic and has therefore called on the defence forces to join other stakeholders ... and thoroughly clean up Lusaka," Chanda said.

The outbreak was initially linked to contaminated water from shallow wells but investigations revealed that the spread was being propagated through contaminated food, he said.

"In the last two weeks, three traders from Soweto market have died from cholera and 18 are currently under admission in cholera treatment centres," Chanda said, referring to Zambia's largest market.

Chanda said all markets, bars, restaurants and other public places that pose a risk of further transmission of cholera would be closed until they met hygiene standards.

Cholera is spread by ingesting faecal matter and causes acute watery diarrhoea. It can be treated with oral rehydration solution but the disease spreads rapidly and can kill within hours if not treated. (Reporting by Chris Mfula; editing by Richard Pullin)
By Abdi Sheikh and Feisal Omar

MOGADISHU, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Masked men who appeared to be members of the Somali security forces raided the house of a powerful Somali senator on Saturday, but the government initially said it did not know who they were, fuelling political tensions.

Senator Abdi Hassan Awale Qaybdiid is a former militia leader, chief of police, minister and regional head. Now he heads the constitutional committee in parliament and the upper house.

The attack on his home underscores the lack of clear lines of command and control within Somali forces as top officials ordered an urgent enquiry into who authorised the raid.

The weak, U.N.-backed government is fighting an al-Qaeda linked Islamist insurgency. But the fight has been hampered by its inability to control its fledgling national security forces, largely recruited from clan militias and put through training by other nations.

"Government forces broke into my house, they beat the guard with butts and took his gun," Qaybdiid told reporters at his home on Saturday. "They broke all the doors of my rooms and my cupboards... My wife was in the toilet by then. They broke the toilet while she was inside it."

"Immediately after my house was stormed, the head of Mogadishu's national security forces called me saying the forces that attacked my house were the military forces trained by the United Arab Emeritus. But an investigation will prove who they were," Qaybdiid said angrily.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), along with Turkey, Britain, the United States and others have all given Somali soldiers training. A spat between the Gulf states, especially Qatar and the UAE, has fuelled political divisions in Somalia.

Earlier this month, security forces killed five people in a raid on the home of a powerful opposition leader perceived to be close to the UAE. Officials accused him of trying to overthrow the government. The raid exacerbated tensions between some of Somalia's powerful clans; the opposition leader was released although a court case against him continues.

But the government said it had not ordered Saturday's raid on Qaybdiid, who is from the same clan as the opposition leader. Somalias military commander, General Abdiweli Jama Gorod, said he had ordered an urgent investigation.

"The entire government is disappointed. It was not something that was expected. We believe the forces and those who ordered them had ulterior motives," he said. "I assure you that those who were behind the attack will be found and punished."

Witness Mohamed Nur told Reuters, "The forces that went into the senator's house had dark greenish uniform and masks of the same colour. They were many. As they went in, six pickups blocked the nearby alleys...there was no gunfire. The six pickups looked new but I could not make out which type of government soldiers they were."

Two security sources later told Reuters that 40 soldiers who had been trained by the UAE had been arrested for the attack. One source said two intelligence officials were also arrested. The soldiers' arrests were also reported on a government-run website, although without attribution. (Writing by Katharine Houreld; Editing by Stephen Powell)
Environmentalist and Environmental Conservation Trust Director Sajeewa Chamikara yesterday requested President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to appoint a Commission to probe the alleged clearing of forests by State Minister Palitha Range Bandara.

Mr. Chamikara alleged that the state minister was connected to illegal acquisition of lands that were within the Thabbowa Forest Reserve and constructing a hotel there and also clearing the Wanniyagama Forest Reserve for the purpose of setting up a large-scale commercial plantation.

He said the state minister had violated the Flora and Fauna Act, the National Environmental Act, the Wayamba Province Environmental Statute, the Irrigation Act and the State Land Ordinance by engaging in these illegal activities and therefore these matters had to be probed.

We request the President and the Prime Minister to probe the destruction of forests in the recent past Mr. Chamikara said and urged the Wildlife Conservation Department and the Coast Conservation Department to intervene and stop these activities until the matter was probed.

The state minister's denied the allegations saying they were absurd. (Thilanka Kankarathna)

Video by Buddhi
The entire land area, where the Sudaikuda Chetiya at Sampur in Trincomalee was located would be taken over by the Archaeology Department shortly for preservation, Director General of Archeology Prof. P.B. Mandawela said yesterday.

Prof. Mandawela said it was a lapse on the part of the Government as there was no plan to conserve, historical, religious and archaeology sites in the North East until 2015, though the civil war ended in 2015.

The destruction caused to the ancient Chetiya at Sampur was detected during a survey conducted by the Archeology Department in its project carried out to identify religious and archaeology sites in the East, he said.

The Chetiya and its surrounding area had been destroyed before the Department declared it as an archaeologically and historically important site, he said.

Further survey and excavations would be carried out after the Archeology Department took over the site, as it has been established that the Sampur Chetiya, is an ancient and historically important site. The Police are conducting investigations to apprehend those who are responsible for the destructions, he said.

In Sri Lanka, there are nearly 250,000 sites of religiously, culturally and archaeologically important belonging to all communities and religions and the Department of Archeology was committed to protect, preserve and maintain them for the future generation, he stressed. (Sandun A Jayasekera)
The final report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Bond Issuance of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has been handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena today.

The Commissions Chairman Justice K.T. Chitrasiri handed over the report when the Commission members met the President at the Presidents Office this afternoon, the Presidents Media division said.

Meanwhile, informed sources said that the President was expected to hand over the report to the Attorney Generals Department.

The Commission was appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena to begin an inquiry into the issuance of Bonds that took place during the time period February 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016.

Video by Buddhi
The final report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Bond Issuance of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka is to be handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena today, informed sources said.

They also said that the President was expected to hand over the report to the Attorney Generals Department.

When the Daily Mirror contacted Secretary to the Commission Sumathipala Udugamasuriya said the final report of the Commission would be handed over to President Maithripala Sirisena before December 31.

The Commission was appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena to begin an inquiry into the issuance of Bonds that took place during the time period February 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016.

The report that is to be handed over to President Sirisena was compiled based on the evidence gathered by the PCoI after a process since the Commission was appointed, Udugamasuriya added. (Sheain Fernandopulle)
President Maithripala Sirisena said yesterday he would hand over the leadership of the SLFP not to a member of his family but to an educated and intelligent youth who engaged in clean, decent and corruption-free politics.

He said nepotism, corruption, thuggery and misrule had harmed the country and the party and therefore he was determined to build a new political culture and nurture a new breed of politicians untainted by corruption and wrongdoings.

At a meeting held at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium, the President told 7,000 UPFA and SLFP candidates will contest the February 10 LG polls under the betel leaf or hand symbol -- that a corruption-free political culture and a new generation of decent politicians would be born on February 11 and that he and the party was fully committed to achieving this objective.

Going down memory lane he said he participated in the SLFPs youth convention in 1982 as the President of the partys youth front under former Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike.

In 1982, I never had the faintest dream that some day in the future, I will be addressing you as the President of this country and as the head of the SLFP, the President said.

"This is a vision to hold before you because you are the ones who must take over the leadership of this country and the SLFP. To do that you need to be educated, intelligent, bold and fully committed to desist from corruption, thuggery, misrule or misdeeds. The UPFA and the SLFP will never tolerate corrupt politics or corrupt politicians. We will begin cleaning up the local administration after LG polls, he said.

He said he hoped to see a set of young politicians who read books, newspapers and engaged in intelligent debates.

"When this new breed of young and clean politicians take over the administration at the grassroots level, the results will influence provincial and national level politics," the President said.

He asked the candidates not to insult or pick up fights with other party candidates during their election campaign.

You explain your development programmes to voters. You tell them how you are going to resolve their problems and how you will resolve their day to day issues. Never engage in character assassination. You must act as parents, sibling or friend of the voter, the President said.

He said some people ask what the government did during the past two and half years.

"Certain media institutions fabricated news to fit their agendas. When Russia suspended our tea imports to that country, our detractors were jubilant saying it is the end of our tea industry and is the result of the friendly relations with the global community, the President said. I rang up Russian President Vladimir Putin and requested him to lift the ban and he responded in positive and friendly manner and it was lifted in two weeks. There is a shortage of urea fertilizer these days. I spoke to Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi requesting his help. He spoke to me a few hours ago and said he will be sending a consignment of 40,000 metric tons of Urea to Sri Lanka immediately. That is the result of our foreign policy."

He said clean politics and clean politicians would never be defeated and that the SLFP and the UPFA would be victorious and pave the way for 2020 general elections and the 2021 presidential election.

UPFA General Secretary, Minister, Mahinda Amaraweera, SLFP General Secretary, Minister Duminda Dissanayaka and Minister S.B. Dissanayaka also addressed the candidates. (Sndun A Jayasekera)
The ministry pointed out that as transactions are encrypted they are also likely being used to carry out illegal/subversive activities, such as, terror-funding, smuggling, drug trafficking and other money-laundering Acts.

New Delhi: In one of the strongest warning against investing in virtual currencies like Bitcoin, the Centre on Friday drew parallel to ponzi schemes, where there is a real risk of people losing their hard-earned money. Virtual currencies (VCs) are not backed by government fiat. These are also not legal tender. Hence, virtual currencies are not currencies. These are also being described as coins. There is however no physical attribute to these coins, a finance ministry statement said. It underlined that virtual currencies (VCs) are neither currencies nor coins.

The statement comes after South Korea said it was planning a crackdown on trading in the digital currency, which has hit record high value in 2017. Bitcoin has surged by more than 900 per cent in value in 2017, which has raised fears of a bubble around countries. The government or RBI has not authorised any virtual currencies as a medium of exchange. Further, the government or any other regulator in India has not given license to any agency for working as exchange or any other kind of intermediary for any virtual currencies, the statement said.

It pointed out that persons dealing in them must consider these facts and beware of the risks involved in dealing in VCs. The users, holders and traders of virtual currencies have already been cautioned three times, in December, 2013, February, 2017 and December, 2017, by RBI about the potential financial, operational, legal, customer protection and security related risks that they are exposing themselves to by investing in Bitcoin and/or other virtual currencies, said the ministry. It pointed out that the RBI has also clarified that it has not given any licence/authorisation to any entity/company to operate such schemes or deal with Bitcoin or any VCs.

The government also makes it clear that virtual currencies are not legal tender and such virtual currencies do not have any regulatory permission or protection in India. The investors and other participants therefore deal with these VCs entirely at their risk and should best avoid participating therein, it said. There has been a phenomenal increase in recent times in the price of virtual currencies including Bitcoin, in India and globally. The virtual currencies dont have any intrinsic value and are not backed by any kind of assets. The price of Bitcoin and other virtual currencies therefore is entirely a matter of mere speculation resulting in spurt and volatility in their prices, the ministry said.
The revenue loss to states on account of GST implementation was Rs 24,500 crore between July-October and the Centre has released compensation to make up for it.

New Delhi: The revenue loss to states on account of GST implementation was Rs 24,500 crore between July-October and the Centre has released compensation to make up for it, Parliament was informed on Friday. As per the details, Karnataka got maximum compensation from the Centre at Rs 3,271 crore, followed by Gujarat (Rs 2,282 crore) and Punjab (Rs 2,098 crore). ...the revenue loss due to implementation of GST to the states for month of July to October has been estimated Rs 24,500 crore and the same amount has been released to the states as compensation to make up for the loss of revenue on bi-monthly basis for the month of July-August, 2017, and September-October, 2017, MoS (finance) Shiv Pratap Shukla said.

Under the GST regime, a cess is levied on luxury, demerit and sin goods to make good the loss suffered by the states on account of roll out of the new indirect tax regime. This is levied on top of the highest tax rate of 28 per cent on these goods. Since the rate of cess shall be such so as to maintain the pre-GST tax incidence on such goods therefore there may not be much difference in total tax incidence (tax plus cess) on these goods between the pre-GST and post-GST regime, Mr Shukla said.

Meanwhile, the Centre has extended by 10 days the last date for filing of final sales return GSTR-1 till January 10 under the GST, sources said. Businesses with turnover of up to Rs 1.5 crore will have to file GSTR-1 for July-September by January 10 as against December 31 earlier.
Sidharth Malhotra-Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan-Natasha Dalal are always in the news for their relationships.

Mumbai: When you talk about Student of the Year, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Sidharth Malhotra always get mentioned in the same breath.

But when it comes to their love lives, the trio suddenly start getting referred to in pairs, like Alia getting linked to both her heroes initially.

But later, it became clear that Alia was going strong with Sidharth, and Varun with his fashion designer girlfriend Natasha Dalal.

Despite no confirmation from the actors about their relationships, reports of both the couples breaking up surfaced, and now it seems only one of them is true.

Sidharths A Gentleman co-star Jacqueline Fernandez was earlier held responsible for his break-up with Alia, but the actress had asserted that they were just friends, and the former cleared the air that he is single.

Later, it was reported that Karan Johar played peacemaker between the pair and the two were then back together.

But now, it seems Alia and Sidharth have indeed broken up, and they might have given the biggest hint regarding it.

The ex-couple had set off abroad for a holiday just before New Years Eve last two years, reportedly to Mexico in 2015 and New York in 2016.

However, this time around, they are not together.

Alia has gone to Bali with her girl gang just before one of her friends marriage, while Sidharth will most probably be in India, and this might just be that big hint about their break-up.

On the other hand, Varun and Natasha have been going strong. Days after Natasha was snapped with the Dhawan family, the couple stepped out together for a Christmas dinner at their friends place.

This tale of two couples goes on to show that very few couples manage to go the distance when it comes to relationships.

Meanwhile, Varun's pairing with both actresses linked to Sidharth, Alia and Jacqueline, has been the most appreciated. When asked about it in an interview with Mumbai Mirror, Varun said, Ive worked with Jacqueline twice, shes a fireball of energy and talent, and thrice with Alia with whom I started my journey and now have the Dulhania franchise. Both are special. Maybe all three of us will come together soon, you never know.

That would a grand collaboration, if that ever happens.
Mumbai: The censor board has decided to give Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Padmavati' a UA certificate without any cuts but has suggested that the director change the film's title to 'Padmavat' besides making four other modifications.

There were reports doing the rounds that the board had suggested 26 cuts to the film, but in a statement, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi clarified that they have only advised five modifications, including the title change, but "no cuts".

The board has also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of "Sati" and also relevant changes in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed, he said.

Joshi added that the producers and the director of the film are "completely in agreement" with the proposed modifications.

The board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 and decided to give the film a "UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title on the basis the attributed material/creative source".

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, had said his lavishly-mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

Besides Joshi, the meeting was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other censor board officials.

Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the CBFC appointed a "special panel to add perspective to the final decision of the censor board's official committee".

The special panel included Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Chandramani Singh and professor K K Singh of the Jaipur University.

Joshi said, the filmmakers, Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to CBFC, had also requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community view the film.

He said that this was not the first instance that a special panel was appointed for the certification process as a similar practice was followed while certifying 'Jodhaa Akbar' and 'Aarkashan'.

"This was an unprecedented and tough situation. I am glad that following a balanced approach we resolved the task at hand in a pragmatic and positive manner," Joshi said on CBFC's decision to give the film a UA certificate.

The certificate as per the procedure will be issued once the required modifications are carried out and final material is submitted.

Reacting to the development, founder-patron of Rajput Karni Sena Lokendra Singh Kalvi said a lot of clarifications are yet to come on the issues and it will be too early to comment.

He, however, said his stand is "very clear, which is known to everyone".

President of Rajput Sabha Giriraj Singh Lotwara said that it was unfortunate that the board wants to favour the film producers instead of considering recommendations of the panel that reviewed the film.

He said that he will continue to protest against 'Padmavati' in democratic manner.

The film's final 3D application was submitted on November 28, the CBFC said.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorts history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

Historians are divided on whether Padmini actually existed.

As protests spread across various states, the film's December 1 release was deferred as it didn't have censor clearance.
Mumbai: Best friends Ranbir Kapoor and Ayan Mukerji are all set to celebrate their new year in Israel. The two will leave for the destination today as a recce for their upcoming fantasy adventure Brahmastra.

A source told Mid-Day, "Though Jerusalem is the top spot for the shoot, the director is also zeroing in on locations along the Israel-Jordan border. The film's recce is crucial, because once the locations are finalised, Mukerji is keen to start shooting immediately."

Mukerji wants to release Brahmastra by 2019, because of which it is being reported that he would want to wrap up shoot at the earliest so he can get time for post-production VFX work.

Ranbir, mentioned the leading daily, will be training in hand-to-hand combat form of martial arts. Brahmastra will also feature Amitabh Bachchan and Alia Bhatt.
New Delhi: After months of uncertainty over Sanjay Leela Bhansalis controversial film Padmavati, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on Saturday cleared the movie with a UA certification, provided the films title is changed to Padmavat and suggested modifications, cuts are made.

It is learnt that the examining committee met on December 28 and decided to give the film a UA certification along with some modifications and change of the films title.

Apart from several cuts, the Censor Board has also suggested a disclaimer specifically stating that the film does not glorify the practice of Sati.

Some suggested changes are in the song Ghoomar, reportedly to befit the character portrayed, sources stated.

As per procedure, the Censor Board will issue the UA certificate once the modifications are carried out and the final material is submitted to the CBFC. No release date has yet been announced by the filmmaker.

Sources stated that the meeting on Thursday took place in the presence of CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi and was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other Censor Board officials.

This newspaper was the first to report on December 7 that considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the Narendra Modi government had decided to seek the help of eminent historians to check the veracity of facts represented in the film.

Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to CBFC, had also requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community view the film.

Rajput fronts like Shri Rajput Karni Sena and Rajput Sabha, who were opposed to the release of the film, are likely to plan their strategy soon.
The police was adopting technology as the world was transforming into a digital society, he said. (Representational image)

Hyderabad: The crime rate in the state rose by 12 per cent in 2017. Crimes against women increased by 18 per cent, cases of cheatings, kidnap and abduction went up only marginally. Director General of Police M. Mahendar Reddy attributed the rise to rapid urbanisation.

We are registering FIRs whenever someone approaches us with a complaint. Moreover, there is a rapid urbanisation in all commissionerates, including Rachakonda, Cyberabad and Khammam. So with many people settling in these areas, crimes are bound to increase, he said.

The police was adopting technology as the world was transforming into a digital society, he said. "Keeping this in view, we are training our personnel in dealing with cybercrimes and use of various tools of technology for policing, crime detection and prevention too," said Mr. Reddy.
Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga claims that over a hundred people have sent footwear to Pakistan High Commission within a few hours after he did it. (Photo: Twitter)

New Delhi: A Delhi BJP leader on Friday ordered footwear online and gave the address of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi for its delivery to protest against the ill-treatment meted out to the mother and the wife of death row convict Kulbhushan Jadhav, who is lodged in a Pakistani jail.

The two women visited Pakistan recently and were forced to remove their mangalsutra, bindi, bangles and footwear by the Pakistani authorities before they were allowed to meet Jadhav through a glass screen.

Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga bought the footwear online and gave the address of the Pakistan High Commission for its delivery.

"Pakistan wants our slippers. Let's give them slippers. I have ordered slippers and sent to Pakistan High Commission," he tweeted.

Pakistan wants our slippers, Let's Give them Slippers. I have ordered Slippers & sent to Pakistan High Commission. I request everyone to Order 1 Pair Slipper for Pakistan. After ordering Slippers tweet your order's screenshot with #JutaBhejoPakistan pic.twitter.com/VzhKvDLq82  Tajinder Bagga (@TajinderBagga) December 29, 2017

He also launched an online campaign requesting the "nationalists" to send slippers to Pakistan.

"Over a hundred people sent footwear to Pakistan High Commission within a few hours after I did it," he claimed.

Jadhav's mother and wife met him on Monday inside the Pakistan Foreign Office building in Islamabad under unusual circumstances -- he was separated from the two women by a glass screen, and they conversed through an intercom.

In identical statements in both houses of Parliament, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Thursday there was "serious and gross violation of human rights of the family members of Jadhav", who is on death row in Pakistan for alleged spying.

She flayed Pakistan for presenting the two women as "widows" during the meeting, and accused Islamabad of turning an emotional moment into "an instrument to further its propaganda."

She pointed out that Jadhav's mother and wife were forced to remove their mangalsutra, bindi and bangles and footwear, and even made to change their attire on the pretext of security.
At least 14 people were killed and as many injured after a major fire in Kamala Mills Compound in Lower Parel, Mumbai. (Photo: PTI)

Mumbai: In a major crackdown, civic officials in Mumbai on Saturday demolished illegal structures in at least 100 restaurants and pubs, a day after a blaze in an upscale pub claimed 14 lives.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated a mega demolition drive and had razed illegal, unauthorised structures of at least 100 restaurants and pubs across the city till afternoon, an official said.

As many as 1,000 officials and employees of the civic body had hit the streets and become a part of the exercise, he added.

"The unauthorised hotels and restaurants, not only in central Mumbai, but also those located in the distant suburbs, such as Malad and Mulund, are facing action," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

A major portion of the popular Zaffran Hotel, located opposite the police headquarters in south Mumbai, was removed, he added.

"There are 24 wards in Mumbai and each has three teams personally inspecting all the restaurants, pubs, food joints and eateries. Each team has 10 members, including officials from the health and administration departments and inspectors," he said.

Once the team finds an unauthorised structure, it is brought down immediately, Dotonde added.

The civic administration has asked its entire staff to remain on duty. Leave and weekly offs of the staff of several departments, including the anti-encroachment department, have been cancelled and they have been given a detailed list of restaurants and pubs, where violations were found during the preliminary inspection, he said.

"The number of eateries and restaurants, where the unauthorised structures have been removed so far, must be more than 100. The action will continue till we remove all such structures," the spokesperson added.

The other areas where the drive was carried out included Shivaji Park, Mulund, Dahisar, Malad, the Parsi Gymkhana near Marine Lines, Grant Road, Andheri and Ghatkopar.

The civic body has also directed its officials to form teams to ensure that restaurants and bars follow the safety norms, in view of the New Year parties.

Early on Saturday morning, the civic teams removed the illegal roofs of two restaurants -- 'Skyview Cafe' and 'Social' at Kamala Mills as also encroachments of 'Pranay', 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same

locality, BMC officials said.

Civic chief Ajoy Mehta, in a message to all the BMC assistant municipal commissioners and deputy commissioners, said all zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers were requested to form a team comprising the staff of the building and factory departments, medical health officer and the fire department.

The teams will inspect all the restaurants in their respective wards and ensure that they are fire-compliant, the message said.

The premises should have fire-escape routes, staircases and open spaces, free from encroachment, it added.

After the blaze, the BMC had on Friday suspended five officials for "dereliction of duty".

A fire brigade official said they were trying to ascertain what exactly had triggered the inferno.

"We are probing if the flames created during a fire-stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out whether the burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy," he said.

"We are also taking into consideration all other possibilities, including that of a short-circuit," he added.

Meanwhile, a senior police official said that lookout notices were on Saturday issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owners of '1 Above', the ill-fated pub which caught fire. The pub was run by 'C Grade Hospitality'.

On Friday, the police had booked the Sanghvi brothers, another co-owner Abhijeet Manka and others in connection with the case.

The Mumbai police also registered three cases against mall and pub owners in the city on charges of illegal construction, officials said.

A case has also been filed against the owner of P22 mall at Raghuvanshi mills in suburban Kurla on the charge of illegal constructions, he added.

The massive fire that had swept through the pub left 14 people dead and 21 injured. The same central Mumbai area -- a former textile mill district, now dotted by swanky glass-and- concrete towers -- had witnessed the death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway overbridge on September 29.
The women, advocate Farah Faiz, Rizwana, and Razia, who were associated in the fight against triple talaq and polygamy in the apex court, expressed satisfaction that at least 'a start' has been made by the present NDA dispensation. (Photo: PTI/Representational)

New Delhi: A day after the Lok Sabha passed the contentious bill on instant triple talaq, the development was hailed by several Muslim women involved in judicial war against the practice, with a rider that the government should have also banned polygamy.

The women, including those who waged the war against the archaic practice in the Supreme Court, said with the passing of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill in the lower House, "a new beginning has been made" and it will prove to be a deterrent for the husbands from saying talaq-e-biddat to their wives.

They said the new law should have also banned the practice of polygamy among Muslim men which, they said, was worse than triple talaq."

The women, advocate Farah Faiz, Rizwana, Razia, who were associated in the fight against triple talaq and polygamy in the apex court, expressed satisfaction that at least "a start" has been made by the present NDA dispensation.

The same opportunity had come in 1985 when the Shah Bano case happened, but was lost by the then Central government, they claimed.

"A new beginning has been made which would protect Muslim women from immoral practice of nikah halala," said Faiz, whose view was shared by Rizwana and Razia with a slight variance.

'Nikah halala' is a practice intended to curb incidence of divorce. Under this, a man cannot remarry his former wife without her having to go through the process of marrying someone else, consummating it, getting divorced, observing the separation period called 'Iddat' and then coming back to him.

Rizwana and Razia were of the view that the government should have dealt with the issue of polygamy by banning it in the same bill.

"I welcome the move but now men will take undue advantage of the law and indulge in polygamy openly as it is still in practice. With polygamy still in practice, abolition of triple talaq cannot alone help us," said 33-year-old Rizwana, a victim of polygamy.

Razia (24), whose husband divorced her over phone citing birth of daughters as the reason behind it, hailed the law brought by government and hoped that women like her would get justice.

Married at the age of 16, Razia said, "I was given triple talaq by my husband on phone as he did not want to bring up our two daughters. Triple talaq is a crime and has spoilt many lives. I pray that all women like me get justice with this new law. However, I wish that the practice of polygamy is also banned."

Advocate Chandra Rajan who had represented All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) also hailed bringing of the legislation and said it would go a long way in history.

"If this new law is implemented in true spirit then it will go a long way and prove to be a deterrent for the husbands from saying 'talaq-e-biddat' to their wives," she said.

Rajan said the AIMWPLB has, from the very beginning, demanded that there should be a law which should hold the practice of instant triple talaq null and void and impose punishment on husbands practicing it.

"We are disappointed only on one count that Sharia was not defined by the government in the law. As long as Sharia is not defined, confusion and misuse of such practices will prevail," she said, adding to the extent that the government brought this law in haste.

"The best thing the law proposes is that custody of minor child will be given to the mother. This happened with Shah Bano who was the victim of triple talaq and one of the petitioners in the Supreme Court," Rajan said.

She, however, questioned the mention of All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) in the law and said that it is an NGO and by mentioning their name it is like giving them sanctity.

Faiz also shared the view of Rizwana and Razia that the government could have also brought a law making the unethical practice of polygamy null and void and protected lakhs of Muslim women.

"At least this government has done something and a new beginning has been made. Amendments keep on happening in the law but the start has been made," she said.

Faiz who fiercely argued against the practice of talaq- e-biddat (triple talaq) said the government should have enhanced the imprisonment term from three to seven years and made it a sessions court triable offence.

"Misguided husbands, who were able to go scot-free after pronouncing triple talaq to their wives, will now be deterred from doing so. No one will listen to Maulanas and misuse the practice which has been made null and void by the Supreme Court as police can lodge a case and initiate criminal trial against offenders," she said.

Rizwana, a Railway employee who had approached the apex court for abolishing the practice of polygamy, said, "With polygamy still in practice, abolition of triple talaq cannot alone help us."
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who was considered as a strong prime ministerial candidate for the 2019 Lok Sabha election had joined hand with BJP in July 2017. (Photo: File | PTI)

Mumbai: The year 2017 had witnessed some sort of drama in the politics of Bihar. Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United ((JD(U)) chief Nitish Kumar who had formed an alliance with Lalu Prasad Yadav led Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) after the elections in the state in 2015 had snapped ties with RJD in July to extended support to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led - National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Nitish Kumar took the drastic step of severing ties with the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) four years after he had snapped his 17-year-old association with the BJP in protest against the latter making Narendra Modi its prime ministerial candidate.

The latest bonhomie between Nitish and BJP was seen when he was present in Gujarat recently for the swearing in of the new state government led by BJP.

A chief minister attending the swearing-in function of another CM has never raised any eyebrows but someone of Nitishs stature taking a 2:30 am flight from Patna (where no flight operates late night) to reach Gujarat has left many questions unanswered.

Nitish before aligning with BJP would not leave a single opportunity to demean his new alliance partner.

It was him who trashed the Gujarat model of governance, abhorred the BJP and other saffron fringe groups, and was seen as a potential challenger to Narendra Modi in 2019 Lok Sabha election.

From 2010 to before he joined hands with BJP again in 2017, media went into describing Nitishs rivalry with Modi.

This started in 2010 when Nitish returned the Rs 5 crore cheque that Modi had offered for Kosi flood relief, simply because of an advertisement row in which Modi was seen holding Nitishs hand.

The Bihar chief minister was so annoyed with the advertisement that he cancelled the dinner he had planned at his official residence for top BJP leaders in June 2010.

Mamata Banerjee, who then visited Patna to protest against demonetisation, dubbed Nitish a traitor for breaking ranks with other Opposition parties on the issue.

The sharp hostility between Nitish and Lalu began at the "Prakash Parv" in January, when at a function held to celebrate 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, Modi and Kumar shared dais and showered praise on each other.

During the Assembly polls in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh in February, the JD(U) gave up its earlier enthusiasm for opposition unity and maintained a studied distance notwithstanding the Congress forming an alliance with the Samajwadi Party and the RJD throwing its weight behind the coalition.

Earlier, in 2016, Kumar had ruffled the feathers of his coalition partners by coming out in support of Modi's demonetisation decision, which the Congress and the RJD criticise till date.

That all was not well with the 'mahagathbandhan' became more than obvious when Kumar decided to support the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind in the presidential election. The chief minister defended his decision citing Kovind's exemplary conduct as the governor of Bihar and contended that the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA), by belatedly fielding former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, was fighting a lost battle.

However, the turning point came with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filing a case in connection with the land for hotels scam against Lalu Prasad and his family members, including his younger son and the then deputy chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav.

Kumar's suggestion that Yadav give a public explanation was rejected by the RJD and he resigned from the chief minister's post citing irreconcilable differences with his alliance partner. The BJP came up with the offer of support and a new government was installed with Kumar being sworn in as the chief minister less than 24 hours after having stepped down.

The stormy developments did not leave the JD(U) unscathed, though, with the party's former president Sharad Yadav and Rajya Sabha MP Ali Anwar, an old Kumar loyalist, raising a banner of revolt.

Defying party diktats, the duo took part in functions held by the RJD and openly accused Kumar of having betrayed the mandate of 2015 Assembly polls.

Kumar, however, scored a few points by expelling all Sharad loyalists from the party, successfully defending a case against the rebel faction's claim over the party symbol before the Election Commission (EC) and finally getting both Sharad Yadav and Ali Anwar disqualified from the Rajya Sabha.

The collapse of the Grand Alliance also caused turmoil in the state unit of the Congress, which stands bitterly divided into two factions, one said to be close to Kumar and the other more comfortable with the RJD.

Infighting led to the removal of Ashok Choudhary as the Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee chief. The rival faction has been accusing Choudhary of plotting a split at the instance of Kumar in whose cabinet he was a powerful minister and with whom he is said to maintain good relations.

Another key decision taken by the Nitish Kumar government was to introduce reservations in outsourced services, a move that has been described by critics as an attempt to bring quota system in the private sector through backdoor.

A new mining policy brought in July to put a check on illegal sand mining became a major bone of contention. The same has been stayed by the Patna High Court, which has also directed the state government to ensure that mining was allowed under the old provisions.

An appeal against the high court order has been turned down by the Supreme Court. Truck operators in the state went on a strike in November in protest against stringent restrictions imposed on transportation of sand while the RJD, often accused of being in cahoots with the state's sand mining mafia, has seized the opportunity to blame the government for a slump in construction activities which has rendered many workers jobless.

Another Patna High Court order stating that contractual teachers in the state were entitled to get salary at par with their regular counterparts has also left the cash-starved government in a bind.

Had Nitish wished, he could have easily scripted a new chapter in the political history of India. But much to the disappointment of his supporters, he has preferred to align with the Modi-Shah combine for reasons only best known to him.

With inputs from PTI.
HSPA members stage a protest at the directorate of school education on fee hike by private schools on Saturday. (Photo: DC)

Hyderabad: Agitated members of the Hyderabad School Parents Association on Saturday marched to the house of Prof. Tirupathi Rao, whose committee had recommended a 10 per cent annual school fee hike.

The parents staged a protest at the directorate of school education, Saifa-bad, on Saturday morning and wanted to meet Prof. Rao. When he refused to meet them, they marched towards his residence in the evening.

HSPA member Ashish Naredi said, Even if it is late at night, we will wait to meet him but you can see from this how the committee is treating parents. He has to hear us, he cant just pour water on all the hard work we have done.

Mr Naredi said education minister Kadiam Srihari had given an appointment on Monday.

We cannot allow any GO that gives blanket approval for a 10 per cent hike. In an effort to ensure that the schools dont go to court, the committee has gone so far away from its objective that the parents will have to go to court to stop any GO based on its recommendations.

The association also wrote to IT minister K.T. Rama Rao on Twitter that the TRS government would not get the votes of parents who were cheated by the state government. The HSPA said it would intensify its protest if there was no rollback.

HSPA member Hridesh Gupta tweeted Mr Rama Rao and also started a Twitter handle #NoVoteToTRS.

Please remember parents are vote banks, not the greedy school managements. Schools may fund you but they cant vote you, 34 lakh parents are watching, he tweeted.

Parents have written a letter to the director of school education requesting it to conduct another meeting to discuss the recommendations in the fee hike report. However, parents were informed that Prof. Tirupathi Rao had already submitted the report on Friday.
Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh government is planning to implement dress code for teachers in government-run schools and colleges. State higher education minister Deepak Joshi on Saturday indicated his governments plan to enforce dress code for teachers to make them as well as the people conscious of the teachers special place in the society.

A dress code for teachers will make them conscious about their special place in the society. Besides, this will get them due recognition in the society, Joshi told the media here.

This is the first time that a dress code for teachers in government-run schools and colleges in MP is being proposed.

The teaching community has hailed the state governments idea of imposing dress code for them. We will not only get recognition in the society, but the dress code will also give us a sense of our responsibility, Nirmala Deshpande, a teacher in a state government-run high school in Bhopal, told this newspaper. Opposition however, saw a motive behind the state governments move.

It is a diversionary tactic by the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government to divert attention of the people from the brewing discontentment among the teachers and students over lack of infrastructure such as school buildings and adequate teaching staff, a spokesman of the party said here. In fact, a government-run college here has earlier tried to impose dress code for women faculty members prohibiting them from wearing western wears such as jeans.
A bulldozer takes down illegally constructed eateries in the Kamala Mills compound following the fire incident, in Mumbai on Saturday. (Photo: PTI)

Mumbai: It took the loss of 14 lives in Fridays fire for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to sit up and initiate action against irregularities and encroachments at various restaurants and other establishments in the city.

Facing huge flak after the Kamala Mills compound fire, the BMC went on a massive demolition spree to remove illegal constructions and encroachments at malls, pubs, restaurants and gymkhanas across the city on Saturday.

In a single day, the civic body took action on as many as 314 places and demolished nearly 300 illegal structures. The demolition drive will continue on Sunday as well, said civic officials.

According to the officials, the civic body also sealed seven restaurants, Sagar, 38 Feast, Mini Punjab and Sams Kitchen at Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road and Flamingo and Sai Kitchen Hotel at Chembur.

In addition, the BMC sealed 9,000 sq ft terrace of Sheesha Sky Lounge at Andheri, by demolishing an illegal construction erected on the top. The civic body also seized 417 gas cylinders during the drive.

Restaurants and pubs in prominent mills and malls like Kamala Mills, Raghuvanshi Mills, R-City Mall, Neelyog Mall, Evershine Mall figured high on BMCs list during the drive. It also took action against leading gymkhanas like Catholic, Parsi, Wilson, Islam, Jolly; restaurants like Khyber, Zaffran, Shalimar, Nityanand, Sahil, Faasos, Lady Baga, The Fatibo, Grandmaa Cafe, Junk Yard, Woodland and hotels like Peninsula, Orchid International and Ozone, Retreat.

We found several irregularities like rooftop sheds, open space encroachment, illegal constructions, encroachment on common passage at these places during the drive. After demolition, the restaurants, hotels and malls have been warned that they should comply with fire safety norms strictly or face action, said a senior civic official.

The restaurants have been sealed as they were found violating the health department and fire safety norms.
HSPA members stage a protest at the directorate of school education on fee hike by private schools on Saturday. (Photo: DC)

Hyderabad: The Telangana state government is likely to order Prof. Tirupathi Rao to review his committee report and come out with revised recommendations.

The committee, among others, had recommended an annual 10 per cent fee hike in private schools, leading to protests by the Hyderabad School Parents Association, Telangana Parents Association and student groups on Friday. The objective of the government in constituting the committee was to regulate fee in private schools. The committee had recommended an annual hike, giving school managements more than they had asked for.
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad High Court has made it clear that temples which are under the control of the Hindu Dharma Pariraksha Trust of the AP governments endowments department should perform special pujas, arjitha sevas and other rituals at the request of the devotees subject to the established procedure, on January 1, 2018.

Justice Challa Kodandaram gave the order while refusing to suspend the order of the AP government on December 21, directing temple authorities under the control of the trust not to incur any expenditure to make special decorations or arrangements on the New Years Day.

The judge made it clear that temples shall not incur any expenditure mentioned in the circular for the purpose of celebrating the New Year of the Gregorian calendar.

While dealing with the plea by Mr T. Pradyoth seeking to suspend the circular, Justice Kodandaram felt that the issue needed detailed hearing as it involved fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India.

The judge issued notices to the AP government and other respondents and directed them to file the counter affidavits.
Samarwati gave birth to a healthy baby boy in an open field with the help of relatives and a group of women who heard her screams and came to assist. (Representational Image/ Pixabay)

Mumbai: Delivering baby is really painful for all mothers but for 24-year-old Samarwati Devi from a village in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh, who was eight months pregnant the situation was even more perilous. The woman was forced to deliver her baby in an open field after doctors at a hospital refused to admit her, saying the unborn baby had died in the womb.

Samarwati was taken to a local district government hospital at 3 am on Monday, complaining of pains and fearing an early labour.

But reportedly doctors declared her baby had died in her womb due to stress.

The horror does not end here. Samarwati claims that she was slapped by the nurses and refused admission to the hospital, forcing her to leave in the wee hours of morning.

She said: "I went to the hospital and told them I was pain. They didnt even look at me properly before they told me my child was dead inside of me. I started screaming and crying loudly, fearing their words, but the nurses slapped me and asked me to leave the hospital. I was not even admitted. They forced me to leave the hospital and I had no other option than to go."

Helpless Samarwati started to walk back home with the relatives who were accompanying her when her pains began again.

She went into labour at 5 in the morning on the pathway.

Eventually, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy in an open field with the help of relatives and a group of women who heard her screams and came to help with blankets and water.

The women used their sarees to make a temporary tent around her while she was delivering the child, for her privacy.

Locals used their knives to cut the umbilical cord, then took Samarwati and child to the same hospital which initially refused admission for a check-up.

Condemning the incident Chief Medical Officer of the government hospital, RK Mehra, said: "The incident is totally condemnable. I am taking statements off of all the staff members present on that night duty. We are probing the matter and strict action will be taken against whoever is found guilty. We will suspend the person in charge that night if needed. We do not condone this kind of treatment towards any member of the public in need."

Samarwati and her son, who is yet to be named, are now staying with relatives and enjoying spending time with each other while recovering from the traumatic labour.
Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed the general education department to take action against the manager and headmaster of Karnakiamman Higher Secondary School in Palakkad in connection with the flag-hoisting by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Independence Day. Education Minister C. Raveendranath later told reporters that action would be taken as per law.

The action would be for flouting the flag code 2002 that spells out the reciting of the national anthem. Here Vande Mataram was sung after the flag was hoisted in the school. The Chief Minister gave the directions on November 27.

As per rules, political leaders have no permission to hoist the flag at aided schools and government firms. Only the head of the school and departmental heads have the right to do so. The national anthem should be recited after hoisting the flag.

The DPI office had issued a notice to the headmaster and manager seeking an explanation on the issue. Action is being taken on the report of the education department on the basis of the explanation given by the headmaster and the manager. The office of the Chief Minister had also directed the Palakkad SP to give an explanation on the criminal case to be charged.

Mr Raveendranath said communalisation would not be allowed in the education sector. Bhagwat hoisting the flag at the school was a serious incident. A report had been sought from the DDE over the issue. Action would be taken as soon as the report was submitted.

As per the report submitted by the intelligence wing and the Thahasildar, Mr. Bhagwat reached the school, accompanied by a group of BJP and RSS leaders, at 8.25 a.m. and hoisted the flag at 9 p.m. The national anthem was not sung then. Instead, Vande Mataram was sung.

Later, after the function was over and the dignitaries left, the national anthem was played after the audience left. The school authorities performed a second flag-hoisting later. Vande Mataram was played after this function also, as per the Thahasildar's report. In her order, the then district collector P Marykutty had reminded the school authorities the previous night that no political leader could be permitted to hoist the national flag at a government-aided school on occasions like the Independence Day. Citing rules applicable in such situations, she said only the headmaster of the institution or an elected representative of the people could be allowed to do so.
New Delhi: Trouble seems to brewing in the recently formed Gujarat government. After senior BJP leader and deputy chief minister Nitin Patel expressed unhappiness over the changes in his portfolios, Patidar leader Hardik Patel on Saturday asked him to leave the BJP and join forces with him.

Speaking to reporters, the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) chief said, If the BJP does not respect him, he should leave the party. If Gujarat deputy CM Nitin Patel along with 10 MLAs is ready to leave BJP, then I will talk to Congress to get him a good position.

Emphasising his demand for reservation for Patidars, Mr Hardik Patel added, I would request Nitinbhai to only say for the benefit of the community that it should get reservation. We will work together for the betterment of the state.

Though the Congress leadership in the state and at the Centre is watching the situation keenly but quietly, a new Congress MLA echoed Mr Hardik Patels sentiments.

Congress MLA Virji Thummar said, They have taken away all the good portfolios from Nitinbhai Patel. His portfolios have been given to others. I would request Nitinbhai to come with 10-15 supporting MLAs and we (Congress) will support him from outside

The BJP won 99 seats in the 182-member Gujarat Assembly. The Congress bagged an impressive 77 seats, 15 short of the magic mark, 92.

A prominent Patel leader, Mr Nitin Patel has been sulking over the allocation of portfolios to him and the taking away of the powerful departments of finance, petrochemicals and urban development from him.

On Friday, Mr Nitin Patel did not turn up at his office. Sources said that he had made his displeasure known to the central leadership of the BJP on being given light weight portfolios despite being the deputy chief minister. Reports indicate that he has given a deadline of three days to the party to consider his demands.

In the new government, he has got roads and buildings, Narmada, health, medical education and capital projects.

Sources said that while Mr Nitin Patel has met former chief minister Anandiben Patel, several Patidar leaders have either met him or are in touch with him.
In a year of manmade tragedies like the Elphinstone bridge stampede and the fires in the city that took the lives of migrant workers in a snack shop and urban revellers in pubs, what has been shown up is how little Indias commercial capital cares for rules and regulations. Safety in crowded urban spaces is not something to be practiced so much as talked about in media debates. To wake up after a tragedy and start bemoaning the scant regard for rules or indulge in blame games as those in authorities tend to do is characteristic of Indian responses. Truth to tell, life is considered cheap and safety is what individuals are supposed to look after by themselves. The loss of lives in mishaps happens everywhere in the world, including in New York which lost citizens in a fire at about the same time as the Lower Parel blaze. The difference is not only in numbers but also in the attitude towards safety.

It is largely true that regulations like fire safety are for the rule books and a bribe can get businesses going in whatever circumstances they wish to. How callous businesses can get is made clear by a pub having closed its fire exits and pushed customers needing a quick exit towards another pub on the same rooftop.

Commerce is considered so vital as to obviate the need to follow any rules, guidelines or procedures. To see Mumbai wake up now and order a so-called safety audit of places using fire for cooking is typical of our governance. Things wont change just because rules are tightened up or raids ordered because money will still find a way out of anything. The only way Indians can learn anything from such mishaps is to realise that it is worth investing in safety and insurance rather than feeling sorry after the event. This calls for an attitudinal change and a willingness to sacrifice a bit of profit for the sake of saving human lives at risk.
Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot, who has been instrumental in turning the fortunes of the party around in the poll-bound state, speaks to Ashhar Khan about his partys performance in Gujarat and in the future. Excerpts from the interview:

The recently-concluded local body elections have given a boost to the Congress. How do you see the partys chances in Rajasthan?

I would like to answer your question in plain and simple statistics. When I started out, in the Lok Sabha elections, the difference between the BJP and us as far as voteshare is concerned was 26 per cent. Now, after the local body elections, we have narrowed the gap to just one per cent. We are 46 per cent and the BJP is 47 per cent. The Congress has beaten the ruling BJP in the local body elections in Rajasthan; we have won all four zila parishads in the state. Out of 27 panchayat samitis, the Congress won 16. It is there for all to see that the BJP government led by chief minister Vasundhara Raje is rapidly losing popularity and we in the Congress are ready with a credible alternative.

There has been farmers unrest in Rajasthan. You have been at the forefront of agitations led by the Congress. What are your demands?

There is a lot of stress in the farming community. This includes farmers, landless farmers, farm workers and labourers. Also, the ancillary industries associated with farming. This has been aggravated by the hasty rollout of GST, or Gabbar Singh Tax, and demonetisation. Already, the farming community was facing hardships, and this has come as a rude shock to them. I have been touring the state intensively. There is no district or town that I have not visited. The situation is the same for framers all along. The BJP in its manifesto had promised minimum support price plus 50 per cent. Now where is the MSP and where is the 50 per cent? The farmer is not getting the fair price for his yield, so how does he pay for his expenses? The problem is not limited to the state alone. You can see spontaneous agitations breaking out in several states. We want the recommendations of the Swaminathan Committee implemented. Also, the BJP government, both at the Centre and states, should address farmers issues at the earliest.

Apart from farmers issues, Rajasthan has become a hotbed of violence in the name of gau raksha and hate crimes. Whats your take?

Unfortunately, certain incidents have taken place that have raised a lot of questions on the state of law and order prevailing under the present BJP government in Rajasthan. This is nothing but a complete failure of the state government for not reining in fringe elements. In fact, it seems Ms Raje is not able to control these elements, or they have a tacit understanding with these groups, who are loosely attached to the ruling dispensation. In both cases, the state government has much to answer as these incidents are reported internationally and it brings a negative effect to our tourism industry and business sentiments.

The Congress has a new president at the helm. How do you see the change in the party?

Sonia Gandhi has been the longest serving president of the party. She had steered the Congress to victory in very testing and trying times. Mrs Gandhi is the only person who willingly decided not to become Prime Minister of this country in 2004. The party owes a lot to her. But since the 2013 Jaipur session, a change has been in the offing, and now Rahul Gandhi has taken over. We are a 133-year-old party and every president has his or her own ideas and plans to take the party and organisation forward. We have seen how Mr Gandhi is taking the party forward. It is a mix of wisdom of the experience and energy of the youth.

In Gujarat, the Congress put up a brave fight and restricted the BJP in its bastion to double digits. How will this have an impact on the Rajasthan elections in 2018?

The Modi wave is waning. The state leaders of the BJP stand exposed. The downfall of the BJP started in Gujarat during the Rajya Sabha elections in August this year, when our senior leader Ahmed Patel won. The BJP used all the means at its disposal to defeat the Congress, but the truth prevailed. Similarly, the campaign by our new president in Gujarat paid dividends for the party. Gujarat has been a bastion of the BJP and now the Congress is in a commendable position in the state. Our tally in the Gujarat Assembly is the best after 1985. This is because of the faulty policies of the BJP and its hollow model of governance that was exposed by Mr Gandhi.

There are byelections to be held in your parliamentary constituency of Ajmer and other constituency of Alwar in Rajasthan. Will you be contesting them?

As they say, first things first. There are three parliamentary byelections that will be held at the end of January. Let me categorically assure you that the Congress is going to win all three. The Congress has been winning byelections wherever they are taking place  be it Gurdaspur, Amritsar or Jhabua-Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh. I have been extensively touring Rajasthan, meeting people at the grassroots level, and interacting with party cadres at the booth level. Now. whatever the high command wants me to do, I will abide by it as a humble soldier of the party.

You were a minister in the UPA government. Do you feel the recent 2G spectrum ruling has removed the corruption taint against your government?

Well, the BJP went to town against the Congress and our government, shouting corruption. A lot of astronomical figures were being thrown around, and the BJP, which was in Opposition, latched on to it. A vicious campaign was launched against us. But now the court judgment has categorically stated that there was no criminality. The entire 2G trial has been directly monitored by the Supreme Court, with reports of its progress submitted to it on a monthly basis. Thus, the 2G investigation was referred by the Supreme Court to the CBI, the trial was given to a special CBI judge by the Supreme Court. The public prosecutor was appointed by the Supreme Court, the trial was directly monitored by the Supreme Court. The trial court was directed by the Supreme Court to decide the matter bereft of preliminary observations, in absence of a full trial, of the Supreme Court. In the end, we all know the judgment of the trial court.

How do you see the NDA government at the Centre?

We can talk about all areas at length. This government is basically about publicity, amplification and propaganda. There are no concrete steps, measures or agenda that this government has. Look at the economic situation of the country. Hasty implementation of GST and demonetisation has dealt a severe blow to the small and medium trader. The BJP promised two crore jobs per annum, and now look at the unemployment figures. The people are witnessing all this and they will give an appropriate answer when the elections are held.
As 2017 comes to an end, the West Asian scenario for next year looks bleak, with the prospect of further escalation of intra-regional conflicts. A peace process led by Russia and backed by Iran and Turkey is now underway in Syria. This process, at the end of seven years of destructive conflict, will largely restore the status quo: Bashar al Assad will remain in power and will control most of the country, Iran will remain an influential presence, and Russia will retain its bases, with its strategic profile significantly enhanced.

The situation in Yemen is similarly grim. The coalition led by Saudi Arabia has not been able to neutralise the Houthi insurrection or even capture the major towns of Sanaa, Taiz and Hodeidah. The restoration of the legitimate government of Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi, in whose name the war was initiated, remains a remote prospect.

The attempt of Saudi Arabia and the UAE to weaken the Houthi forces by detaching former president Ali Abdullah Saleh from them has cost the former leader his life. The raging conflict has also caused state failure, opening the doors to the proliferation of extremist elements, both Al Qaeda and the ISIS, and the corrosion of national integrity by secessionist forces in the south.

The situation in Iraq, the third theatre of regional conflict, has improved with the defeat of ISIS at Mosul. Iraq did face a serious threat to its unity from the Kurds led by Masoud Barzani, when he organised a referendum on independence on September 25, that he won handsomely, in the face of near-universal opprobrium. But, he overplayed his hand by seeking control over oil-rich Kirkuk. Iraqi forces, particularly the largely Shia Popular Mobilisation Units, besieged the town and forced the evacuation of Kurdish forces without any fighting.

The primary effort of the Iraqi government over the next year will be to strengthen national integrity so that Iraqis of different faiths, sects and ethnicity unite to promote the interests of their nation. This will be a daunting challenge since Iraq will not easily be able to heal its fault-lines which have been deepened by external interventions and internal conflicts over the last 25 years.

Both Saudi Arabia and Iran can be expected to compete for influence in Iraq, one playing on its Arab identity and the other pandering to its sectarian affiliation, and backing parties and movements sponsored by them, so that national divisions will get sharper.

At the heart of the ongoing regional conflicts is the Saudi-Iran competition for regional leadership and influence. Saudi Arabia views the doctrinal, political and strategic challenge from the Islamic Republic as an existential threat and is willing to use every resource available to it to confront Iran in the areas of its influence. This rivalry has now become a full-blown sectarian confrontation between the Islamic giants, heightened by the regular recalling of doctrinal differences and historical grievances.

At present, no country or group is pursuing a peace process to reconcile these estranged nations with confidence-building measures and promotion of dialogue. The regional scenario has worsened with the deep animosity for Iran that is being displayed by the Trump administration and the full backing it has extended to Saudi Arabia. Trumps support has encouraged the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, to acquire full political, military and economic powers, even as he has jeopardised royal family unity by abandoning consultation and consensus-building among senior royals, and has even detained several important princes on charges of corruption.

Trumps backing has also encouraged the Saudi prince to impose an unprecedented political and economic blockade on fellow GCC member, Qatar, to protest the latters positions that called for dialogue with Iran and appeared to back Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated groups in the region. This blockade has brought neighbouring powers, Iran and Turkey, to Qatars assistance, thus putting in place a new regional alliance that marks the end of the GCC as a cohesive entity as also the nascent Saudi-led Sunni Islamic Military Alliance directed against Iran.

The coming months will reveal whether the Saudis accept the crown prince as a much-needed radical reformer who will modernise his nation, or a power-hungry prince who has violated all the norms that have kept his family in power over the last century, has got his country embroiled in unwinnable conflicts, and now is threatening a major conflagration against Iran. The latter is the more likely prospect.

Trumps announcement that the US has recognised Jerusalem as Israels capital has further complicated the regional situation. There is now the prospect of a new uprising by the Palestinians, the encouragement to jihadi elements to carry out lone-wolf attacks against western targets, and popular unhappiness in countries allied to the US, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt, about their leaders policies.

While some commentators feel Trump could still deliver a peace deal acceptable to both Israel and the Palestinians, most are sceptical. They believe that what is likely to emerge from the Trump initiative would be, as commentator Ragheda Dergham says, an incomplete peace deal based on a non-contiguous, fragmented, demilitarised Palestinian mini-state, with limited sovereignty and temporary borders. This would have the support of Israel and the Saudi-led Sunni bloc that is allied with Trump.

This offer of Bantustans to the Palestinians instead of a viable sovereign state will enhance the standing of Russia, given that its leader, Vladimir Putin is viewed across West Asia as one who stands by his friends and who delivers on what he has promised.

In the absence of a region-wide peace process, the possibility of a large-scale war cannot be ruled out. This could involve an Israeli attack on Lebanon to neutralise the Hezbollah and an all-out Saudi assault on the Houthis in Yemen. This would lead to a direct conflict between the kingdom and the Islamic Republic, which would be more destructive than the ongoing wars, and ultimately just as futile.
I am a retired newspaperman. I am 69 and live in Poca, WV, with my wife of 45 years, Lou Ann. We grew up in Cleveland. Three kids. Grandfather.

More on who I am is here.

Report all errors to DonSurber@GMail.com
North Korea often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature. (Photo: AP)

Seoul: North Korea said Saturday that it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" at its doorstep.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

North Korea conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland United States.

The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly.

The US and South Korea have maintained that they won't negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile program.

In its report Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and preemptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the United States and its "vassal forces."

North Korea often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

KCNA accused President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of preemptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power."

"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.

"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
The US State Department, in a statement, called on Russia and other UN members to strictly implement sanctions on North Korea. (Photo: AFP)

Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, according to two senior Western European security sources, providing an economic lifeline to the secretive Communist state.

The sales of oil or oil products from Russia, the worlds second biggest oil exporter and a veto-wielding member of the United Nations Security Council, breach UN sanctions, the security sources said.

The transfers in October and November indicate that smuggling from Russia to North Korea has evolved to loading cargoes at sea since Reuters reported in September that North Korean ships were sailing directly from Russia to their homeland.

Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions, the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.

A second source, who independently confirmed the existence of the Russian ship-to-ship fuel trade with North Korea, said there was no evidence of Russian state involvement in the latest transfers.

There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans, the second European security source said.

The two security sources cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific but declined to disclose further details to Reuters, saying it was classified.

Russias Foreign Ministry and the Russian Customs Service both declined to comment when asked on Wednesday if Russian ships had supplied fuel to North Korean vessels. The owner of one ship accused of smuggling oil to North Korea denied any such activity.

The US State Department, in a statement, called on Russia and other UN members to strictly implement sanctions on North Korea and to work more closely together to shut down UN-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea.

The latest report came as China, responding on Friday to criticism from US President Donald Trump, denied it had illicitly shipped oil products to North Korea.

Read: China caught red-handed: Trump upset about Beijing-Pyongyang oil friendship

North Korea relies on imported fuel to keep its struggling economy functioning. It also requires oil for its intercontinental ballistic missile and nuclear programme that the United States says threatens the peace in Asia.

The vessels are smuggling Russian fuel from Russian Far Eastern ports to North Korea, said the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Reuters was unable to independently verify that the vessels had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels, whether the Russian state knew about the sales or how many Russian vessels were involved in the transfers. It was also unclear how much fuel may have been smuggled.

Ship satellite positioning data consulted by Reuters and available on Reuters Eikon shows unusual movements by some of the Russian vessels named by the security sources including switching off the transponders which give a precise location.

The security sources said the Russian-flagged tanker Vityaz was one vessel that had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels.

The Vityaz left the port of Slavyanka near Vladivostok in Russia on October 15 with 1,600 tonnes of oil, according to Russian port control documents.

Documents submitted by the vessels agent to the Russian State Port Control authority showed its destination as a fishing fleet in the Japan Sea. Shipping data showed the vessel switched off its transponder for a few days as it sailed into open waters.

According to the European security sources, the Vityaz conducted a ship-to-ship transfer with the North Korean Flagged Sam Ma 2 tanker in open seas during October.

Reuters could not independently verify the transfer as ship tracking data showed that the Sam Ma 2 had turned off its transponder from the start of August.

The owner of the Russian vessel denied any contact with North Korean vessels but also said it was unaware that the vessel was fuelling fishing boats.

Yaroslav Guk, deputy director of the tankers owner, Vladivostok-based Alisa Ltd, said the vessel had no contacts with North Korean vessels.

Absolutely no, this is very dangerous, Guk said by telephone. It would be complete madness.

When contacted a second time, Guk said the vessel did not have any contacts with North Korean ships and that he would not answer further questions.

An official at East Coast Ltd, the vessels transport agent, declined to comment.

Two other Russian flagged tankers made similar journeys between the middle of October and November, leaving from the ports of Slavyanka and Nakhodka into open seas where they switched off their transponders, shipping data showed.

In September, Reuters reported that at least eight North Korean ships that left Russia loaded with fuel in 2017 headed for their homeland despite declaring other destinations, a ploy that US officials say is often used to undermine sanctions.

A Russian shipping source with knowledge of Far Eastern marine practices said North Korean vessels had stopped loading fuel in Russias Far Eastern ports but that fuel is delivered at sea by tankers using ship-to-ship transfers, or even by fishing vessels.

China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of UN sanctions, after US President Donald Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

Chinas denial came a day after it blocked a US effort at the United Nations to blacklist six ships Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a UN Security Council diplomat said.

According to documents seen by Reuters in December, the United States had proposed that the UN Security Council blacklist 10 ships for illicit trade with North Korea.

It accused the vessels of conducting illegal ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or illegally transporting North Korean coal to other countries for exports.

Three North Korean ships among the 10 were blacklisted, along with a Panama-registered vessel.
There was a lot to feel bad about in 2017: plenty of reasons to take offence, get angry, go numb or feel sick to your stomach. If that sentence bummed you out, I'm sorry. (It was an epic year for dubious apologies, too.) But I'm not sorry about this list of the movies - a top 10 and a second 11 - that made me feel other, better ways. Not always cheerful, but enlightened, moved, surprised and gratified. In bad times, we tend to ask too much or expect too little of art, pretending it might heal or save us, and dismissing it when it doesn't. Its actual function is much simpler: it keeps us human. That's what these movies did for me this year.



The Florida Project

The promise of an independent, socially conscious, aesthetically adventurous homegrown cinema is spectacularly redeemed in Sean Baker's latest feature, which managed to be both the most joyful and the most heartbreaking movie of the year. Steeped in the gaudy materialism of Central Florida, animated by Brooklynn Prince's gleeful spontaneity and anchored by Willem Dafoe's deep craft, the movie already has a feeling of permanence. Prince's Moonee has earned a place in the canon of US mischief alongside the likes of Eloise and Tom Sawyer.

Lady Bird

In a high school production of Shakespeare, Christine McPherson is cast as "the tempest." "It's the titular role!" says her once-and-future best friend - one of many odd, funny and perfectly apt lines in Greta Gerwig's sort-of-autobiographical coming-of-age story. In its titular role (Christine prefers to be called Lady Bird), Saoirse Ronan is an utterly convincing US 17-year-old, and everyone else in her hectic world is just as sharply and sympathetically drawn. The film's gentle, affirmative view of friendship, family life and adolescent sexuality is the opposite of sentimental.

Get Out

Jordan Peele wrote and directed the inescapable movie of 2017, a work of biting anti-consensus film-making that broke box-office records. Part of the film's genius is the way it splinters the mythology of US racial healing and then reassembles the shards into something lacerating and beautiful. Possibly conceived as a mordant punchline to the Obama era, it may turn out to be the inaugural blast of insurgent cinema in the age of Trump.

I Am Not Your Negro

Raoul Peck's documentary uses James Baldwin's words to paint a portrait not only of the writer in his time but also of the ideas that stretch beyond his work into our own troubled moment. Baldwin wrote about US racism - about the lethal and insidious power of whiteness to distort the nation's ideals and threaten its humanity - with unequalled vigour, humour and insight. The movie is painful because the truth is painful.

Faces Places

But the truth can also be delightful. Which isn't to say that strong, bitter emotions don't have a place in the latest auto-documentary by Agnes Varda. In her late 80s, accompanied by a 30-ish artist named JR (who is also credited as director), Varda roams the French countryside, searching out the remnants of a once-vibrant working-class tradition. Contemplating some of the sorrows in her own past and the precariousness of the European present, she keeps gloom at bay with her resilient faith in the power of art to conserve and expand human dignity. Every second of this movie proves her right.

Phantom Thread

There are movies that satisfy the hunger for relevance, the need to see the urgent issues of the day reflected on screen. Paul Thomas Anderson's eighth feature - which may also be Daniel Day-Lewis's last movie - is emphatically and sublimely not one of them. It awakens other appetites, longings that are too often neglected: for beauty, for strangeness, for the delirious, heedless pursuit of perfection. I've only seen this film once, and I'm sure it has its flaws. I will happily watch it another dozen times until I find them all.

A Fantastic Woman

Sebastian Lelio's portrait of Marina, a transgender woman mourning the death of her lover and facing the hostility of his family, is at once bluntly realistic and ripely melodramatic, polemical and poetic, pointed and, well, fantastical. Daniela Vega, who plays Marina, doesn't show up on the screen right away, but once she does (singing a torch song in a nightclub in Santiago, Chile), the camera never leaves her for long. What it finds in the planes of her face is some of the glamour of old-time movie stars - hints of Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford, Anna Magnani and Lauren Bacall - and even more of the emotional authenticity that made them stars in the first place.

Graduation

The kid-goes-to-college movie has emerged as a minor US genre. This year's examples include Lady Bird, The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) and Brad's Status, all of which offer gently comical perspectives on a familiar rite of passage. Cristian Mungiu, the Romanian director of 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days and Beyond the Hills, offers a grimmer view. A provincial doctor wants his daughter to attend a university in England and is willing to compromise his ideals to ensure that she can. A family drama and an ethical thriller, Mungiu's film is an indictment of the everyday corruption that festers not only in Romania but everywhere. Selfishness has become the supreme social value.

A Quiet Passion

But not so quiet, really. As Emily Dickinson, Cynthia Nixon is forthright, sometimes abrasive, often funny and never less than a thrilling company. Terence Davies's blithely unconventional biopic glides through Dickinson's life with poetic compression and musical grace, illuminating both her temperament and the austere, intellectually intense 19th-century New England environment that nurtured and constrained her gifts.

War for the Planet of the Apes

Never has human extinction seemed so richly merited, and rarely has digital ingenuity been put to such sublime use. The third instalment in the revived series is an epic of national founding, with echoes of the Aeneid and the Book of Exodus. Sombre and exciting, the film, directed by Matt Reeves, shows how large-scale action film-making can explore political and moral matters without bogging down in pretentiousness. Andy Serkis remains the key to the enterprise. His performance as Caesar, spanning three movies, is one of the great feats of acting in modern movies, a breathtaking fusion of technological magic and solid thespian craft.
The RSS and its allied bodies gave their feedback and suggestions to further improve the BJP-led government's economic policies to party chief Amit Shah and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, sources said today.



The suggestions were shared during a two-day coordination meeting between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), its allied organisations and the BJP here.

The meeting was attended by Sangh Joint General Secretary Krishna Gopal, leaders of RSS-affiliates the Swadeshi Jagran Manch, the Bhartiya Kisan Sangh, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, the Sahakar Bharati, the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat and the Laghu Udyog Bharti, sources said.

While the BJP was represented by Shah, Jaitley and a few other ministers represented the government, they added.

During the meeting, the RSS-affiliated organisations shared their views and gave feedbacks about the Centre's economic policies, sources said.

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch expressed concerns about rising Chinese imports and its harmful effects on indigenous small scale industries, they said, adding that similar sentiments were echoed by the Laghu Udyog Bharti.

The Bhartiya Kisan Sangh raised issues of farmers being forced to sell produce below the support price announced by the Centre, the sources said, adding both Shah and Jaitley gave assurances that the suggestions and concerns would be considered and appropriate action taken.
Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Senthil has issued orders to extern Hindu Jagarana Vedike activist Ratnakar Shetty and Popular Front of India leader Khaleel from the district for six months.



Shetty and Khaleel, residents of Kalladka in Bantwal taluk, were accused of causing communal riots.





Both were involved in several crimes and rowdy-sheets have been opened against them at Bantwal Rural police station. In June, both Shetty and Khaleel attacked each other which led to communal riots, said Superintendent of Police Sudhir Kumar Reddy.



An application for externment of Ratnakar Shetty and Khaleel was pending before the deputy commissioner for the past two months. After several hearings, the deputy commissioner on Friday ordered the rowdies to stay out of Dakshina Kannada district for six months, he added.
The Trump administration is strongly considering to withhold $255 million in aid to Pakistan, reflecting dissatisfaction with Islamabad's inaction against terror networks, a media report said.



The Trump administration's internal debate over whether to deny Pakistan the money is a test of whether Trump will deliver on his threat to punish Islamabad for failing to cooperate on counterterrorism operations, 'the New York Times' reported.

It said the relations between the US and Pakistan, long vital for both, have chilled steadily since the president declared that Pakistan "gives safe haven to agents of chaos, violence and terror."

The US, which has provided Pakistan more than $33 billion in aid since 2002, said in August that it was withholding the $255 million until Pakistan did more to crackdown on terrorist groups.

"Senior administration officials met this month to decide what to do about the money, and American officials said a final decision could be made in the coming weeks," the daily said.

'The New York Times' report comes days after US Vice President Mike Pence said in Kabul that the Trump administration has put Pakistan on notice.

Pakistan, according to the daily, has refused to give the US access to one of the abductors of the Canadian-American family who were freed early this year, the latest disagreement in the increasingly dysfunctional relationship between the countries.

"Now, the Trump administration is strongly considering whether to withhold $255 million in aid that it had delayed sending to Islamabad, according to American officials, as a show of dissatisfaction with Pakistans broader intransigence toward confronting the terrorist networks that operate there, " 'the New York Times' report said.

Pakistan's military on Thursday warned the US against the possibility of taking unilateral action against armed groups on its soil, in its strongest response yet to tensions between the two allies.

Pakistan military spokesman Major-General Asif Ghafoor rejected the notion that Pakistan is not doing enough to fight armed groups.

He said Pakistan would continue to fight armed groups in the region in Pakistan's self-interest, rather than at the behest of other countries.
Guatemala's foreign minister insisted that President Jimmy Morales' plan to move the country's embassy in Israel to Jerusalem will not be reversed, and called for critics to "respect" the country's decisions.



"It's a decision that has been made ... it is not going to be reversed," Sandra Jovel told journalists during an event to commemorate the end of the Guatemalan civil war in 1996.

"The Guatemalan government is very respectful of the positions that other countries have taken, and as we are respectful of those decisions, we believe others should respect decisions made by Guatemala," she added in response to critics, including the Palestinians.

Last Sunday, Morales unexpectedly announced the transfer of the embassy from Tel Aviv to Israel on social media, in the wake of the UN General Assembly's condemnation of a similar move by the United States.

The announcement made Guatemala the first country to follow the United States's controversial lead on the holy city.

Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, while Palestinians, consider east Jerusalem as the occupied capital of their future state.

Morales, defending his decision, said Israel is an "ally" and that Guatemala has "historically been pro-Israel."
Of the Rs 9,860 crore released to 60 cities under the "Smart City Mission only 7%, or about Rs 645 crore, have been utilised so far, an issue which has raised concerns in the Urban Affairs Ministry.



Of the Rs 196 crore released to each of around 40 cities, Ahmedabad has spent the maximum amount of Rs 80.15 crore, followed by Indore (Rs 70.69 crore), Surat (Rs 43.41 crore) and Bhopal Rs 42.86 crore, according to a data of the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry.

On the other hand, the data revealed that of the sanctioned funds Andaman and Nicobar could utilise only Rs 54 lakh, Ranchi 35 lakh, and Aurangabad Rs 85 lakh.

A HUA official recently said the ministry was concerned about the "unsatisfactory" progress of the project in some of the cities.

He had said that the ministry would approach the cities that are lagging behind to find out the "bottlenecks" with an aim for speedy implementation of the projects.

Among cities which got around Rs 111 crore each from the Centre, Vodadara has spent Rs 20.62 crore, Namchi in Sikkim spent Rs 6.80 crore, while Salem, Vellore and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu could utilise only Rs five lakh, Rs six lakh and Rs 19 lakh, respectively.

Ninety cities have so far been selected by the government under the smart city mission and each of them will get Rs 500 crore as central assistance for implementing various projects.

The cities are required to set up Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to get funds from the Centre for the implementation of the project.

In a review meeting recently, the official said cities in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were found to be "performing well", while those in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra needed to speed up the implementation process.

Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of State (independent charge) for Housing and Urban Affairs, had earlier this month said the impact of projects undertaken under the scheme would be visible by mid next year.

To instill competition among cities and push them for faster implementation of projects, the Centre will also present "Smart City awards" in June next year to well-performing cities.
ELKO  Everybody has a different story and there are many ways to tell it. Thats the idea that Elko County School District educators, partnered with Great Basin College and the Veterans Resource Center, are conveying to students and veterans alike this January.

The Veterans and Students: Message of a Mask event will be held Jan. 3 and 17 at Carlin Combined Schools. The collaborative event invites veterans to participate in creating a clay mask with students as part of an effort to promote reflection, healing, patriotism and learning.

The idea began a few years ago when Adobe Middle School English teacher Joy Young came across an article in National Geographic entitled The Art of Recovery. The article addressed how U.S. veterans with invisible wounds, such as PTSD or brain injuries, were participating in a type of art geared toward promoting expression and healing.

The article discussed how veterans were constructing masks and readers were invited to read our soldiers masks and the stories they tell.

After viewing these masks, Young decided to incorporate this into her classroom by studying the Art of Recovery and was joined by other Adobe staff, including art teacher Pam Wells.

We decided to study the Art of Recovery. We interpret soldiers masks, then create masks ourself to celebrate who we are as seventh-graders, said Young.

This year Young and Wells collaborated to make a YouTube video teaching seventh-grade students how soldiers use art therapy, specifically masks, to work through some of their invisible injuries. Students interpret soldiers masks, blog about them and then learn to create their own paper masks. Young inspires her students by asking them, Do you have a story to tell?

The video helped bring the project to more classrooms this year and has now found its way to Carlin Combined Schools.

Christopher Noren, ceramic artist and art teacher in Carlin, decided to have his students study the Art of Recovery and is inviting veterans to join them in creating clay masks at the school. Veterans are invited to visit from 9:30 to 12:30 both days. Transportation will be available at the Great Basin College Veterans Resource Center, leaving at 9 a.m. and returning at 1 p.m.

Coordinators hope the event will foster patriotism in the younger community and be a learning experience for everyone involved.

Adobe Middle School teacher James Brawley is also a veteran. Brawley knows veterans with PTSD and the impact it can have on their lives. He feels the event is a positive way for veterans to tell their story and an opportunity for students to learn from them.

I think they want to be helpful to other people, said Brawley. I thought this program was pretty awesome because it just gives them an outlet to talk about the feelings that theyre bottling up so that theyre not keeping them in.

The Great Basin College Library will host an exhibit in February displaying masks for the entire month. Any participating veteran or student is invited to display their artwork in the exhibit.

The exhibit is being curated by Elko County School District Librarian Hadley Noren and will have an open house Febr. 13 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The event will be interactive, with speakers and students available to answer questions.

Veterans interested in transportation to the event in Carlin may contact GBC Veterans Resource Center at 753-2310. For more information on the event, contact Christopher Noren at Carlin Combined Schools, 754-6317.
The triple talaq bill will come up for discussion in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, the first working day of Parliament in the New Year, but it is to be seen how the situation evolves in the Upper House where the Opposition has better numbers.



The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday without much trouble for the government, has been listed as the second item in legislative business for passage on January 2.



There are feeble efforts from a section of Congress MPs in the Rajya Sabha to send the bill to a select committee for detailed examination as they feel that there are inconsistencies in the proposed legislation.



Though Congress MPs had raised objections to certain provisions while supporting the Bill, they did not press beyond a point for sending the bill to the standing committee.



It is to be seen whether the Congress would have a different strategy for the Upper House but sources said such a move is unlikely.



The Congress and the BJP have each have 57 members in a House of 245 MPs. Seven seats are vacant.



Interestingly, the main opponents of the bill like the AIADMK, Samajwadi Party, DMK and the BJD have a combined strength of 43.



If the CPM, CPI, BSP and the RJD also join them along with Muslim League, this non-Congress bloc's number could rise to 60. This could lead to a situation where the MPs can manage to send the bill to the select committee.



Interestingly, the Trinamool Congress, which has 12 members in Rajya Sabha, has not publicised their stance on the issue. In the Lok Sabha, its MPs did not participate in the debate or voting.



However, BJP floor leaders are hopeful about the passage of the bill as they believe that some of the opponents may stage a walkout and help the government in getting the bill passed.
Social media is abuzz with a call to curtail New Year Eve festivities and launch a campaign for fire safety in the wake of the devastating fire at 1Above-Mojo's Bistro fine-dining restaurant and pub in the Kamala Mills compound that claimed 14 lives and injured several others.



Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp were flooded with messages by commoners and celebrities condoling the death of those who perished in the fire and lashing out at authorities.



A group called Sahas Foundation has called for a candle march at the Marine Drive at the stroke of midnight on 31 December night to pay tributes to the victims of the fire.



"What happened yesterday is sad and very unfortunate. The moot point is why this happens time & again and more importantly why have we become a postmortem nation instead of being a proactive nation. Postmortem only tells us the cause of the death. How do we prevent such incidents should be the focus. So, we have no plans for any celebration," said Albert Amanna, who is associated with the hotel and hospitality industry.



"This tragedy has confirmed my not going out with the family to any place during this New Year. I was already contemplating -- while you pay a premium price on these days, the service and the food offered does not give you the value for money. Everyone tries to make their last buck sadly," said JP Vaghani, a businessman.
St. Vincent 'Masseduction'



The hefty programmed beats, emphatic electronic hooks and gargantuan choruses of current pop are the framework that Annie Clark, aka St. Vincent, chose for songs about pleasure, fame, lust and drugs - and their extreme consequences. The songs ended up cryptic and emphatic, tragicomic and bold: taking things to the limit in taut three-minute packages.



Residente 'Residente'

Residente, the rapper from Calle 13, tested his DNA and followed the results worldwide to collaborate with musicians in, among other places, China, Burkina Faso, Bosnia and France, as well as his native Puerto Rico, letting each locale suggest lyrics. Then he built hardheaded songs about war, impending apocalypse and the resilience of the world's poorest people.

Moses Sumney 'Aromanticism'

A manifesto disguised as a reverie, 'Aromanticism'

offers cascades of the artiste's falsetto in rhapsodic songs, seemingly free-associative but meticulously plotted. The tracks undulate slowly and diaphanously, while instruments and ensembles materialise out of nowhere and vanish. The sound is intimate and volatile, while the songs set aside pop's expectations of romantic coupledom to explore other kinds of connection and separation.

Julien Baker 'Turn Out the Lights'

Julien Baker's first album testified to trauma and self-destructive tendencies in pristine, barely adorned ballads that could be shattering. This album discreetly broadens her musical palette without getting glossy, and her new songs share her sorrows but also glimpse ways to cope: still vulnerable but looking ahead.

Bjork 'Utopia'

Bjork's latest alternate musical universe is an airy realm filled with flutes, bird calls and electronics, all fluttering and gusting around her voice in unpredictable ways, as she sings about romance, community and ways of healing. The line she declaims most passionately is 'I care for you'.

Kendrick Lamar 'DAMN.'

Kendrick Lamar traded the jazzy density of his 2015 album, 'To Pimp a Butterfly', for tracks built with stark loops on 'DAMN.'. But he hasn't pared back the dexterity of his rhymes or the scope of what he sets out to address, which encompasses his Compton neighbourhood, his career, politics, spiritual matters, and the state of hip-hop.

Lorde 'Melodrama'

Breaking up, moving on, getting a crush, hooking up, breaking up, moving on... Lorde plunges into that cycle with very recent memories of what it feels like to be 19 and 'on fire', going to drunken parties where every moment is fraught with possibility and nerves. Below Lorde's sombre voice and precise pop melodies, the tracks pulse with tension, like racing heartbeats behind a cool facade.

SZA 'Ctrl'

How complicated is modern love? Factor in desire, intimacy, self-consciousness, competition, lies, the internet, jealousy, loneliness, rhythm, economics, gossip, insecurity, selfishness and unselfishness, and they lead to the perpetual negotiations that SZA details throughout the shadowy, fitful grooves of 'Ctrl'. The songs suit slow-dancing all alone, wishing for that elusive true partner.

Valerie June 'The Order of Time'

Rootsy, leisurely Americana grooves roll along and evolve behind Valerie June's voices - nasal, clear, cracked, breathy - in songs with a conversational surface. But they often contemplate past and present eternities, from her family's history to the promise of lifelong love.

Vince Staples 'Big Fish Theory'

'How am I supposed to have a good time/When death and destruction's all I see?' Vince Staples raps near the end of his second studio album. It's just one of the questions he grapples with - about neighbourhood, celebrity, love, hip-hop, racism, politics, and private pain - in tracks that use sparse, brittle electronic sounds for jittery syncopation and gaping spaces, an abstracted dance-club backdrop for aspirations and nightmares.
With Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel reportedly expressing displeasure over the departments allotted to him, firebrand Patidar leader- Hardik Patel urged him today to quit the BJP along with 10 party MLAs and join the Congress for a "deserving" position.



Hardik Patel said a "veteran politician" like Nitin Patel, was being "sidelined" and "not being given respect" by the BJP "despite working hard for 27 years".

The Patidar leader said if the deputy chief minister was ready to quit the BJP, then he would speak to the Congress to give the latter the post he deserved.

Days after being sworn into office, Nitin Patel is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him, with a source in the BJP saying he had conveyed his displeasure to the party leadership over the departments given to him.

Talking to reporters, Hardik Patel said, "As a veteran politician, Nitinbhai (Patel) worked hard for 27 years to ensure that the (BJP) party stays in power. The community members need to understand that such politicians are being sidelined. I am not giving any suggestion, but asking him to ponder as to why he is not being given respect despite working so hard."

"I would request Nitinbhai to join us and together we will fight against the arrogant people (of BJP). We are trying to ensure that Gujarat witnesses good governance.

"If Nitinbhai makes up his mind and says he is ready to resign from the party and that 10 more MLAs are ready to tender their resignation, then we are ready to fully support him," he said.

"To ensure good governance in Gujarat, we will talk to the Congress to include Nitinbhai and give him the post he deserves," he said.

Hardik Patel also said he had messaged the deputy chief minister yesterday that he (Hardik) was with him.

"I messaged him yesterday saying I am with him and let me know if he needs me. If he says he wants to leave the BJP, then we are with you, and will stay with you in all situations," he said.

"I would request Nitinbhai to only say for the benefit of the community that it should get a reservation. We will work together for the betterment of the state," he added.

In the previous government, Nitin Patel used to handle key portfolios like finance and urban development. This time, he has been given the charge of departments like road and building and health. He has also been allotted medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital project.

A source in the BJP said Nitin Patel had conveyed his displeasure to the party leadership over the departments allotted to him.

With 99 MLAs, the BJP has a simple majority in the 182-member Assembly, 16 less than its 2012 tally of 115.

The opposition Congress, which had won 61 seats in 2012, managed to increase its tally to 77. The strength of the Congress and its allies in the new House is 80.
Investing in property can be very fruitful and can secure your family for decades to come, provided you make a smart investment. Earlier, banks offered only home loans to purchase houses or apartments. Nowadays, many people are able to purchase land easily due to the availability of property loans.

There are a number of misconceptions when it comes to investing in property. Its good to be informed before you decide whether to invest or not to invest in property. Lets focus on the main misconceptions here.

Property investments are a quick buck

It is wrong to think that property investments make money fast. Property can take years to appreciate sometimes. Some people make a good profit from the land only after waiting for a decade or two. A lot of factors play a role in the time it takes for the land value to appreciate. For example, land value appreciates faster in developing cities. One also has to take into account the time it takes to buy and sell property, and the process involved.

Before investing, take into account what you need, and why you are investing in property, and find a suitable investment that will meet your needs.

All property investments are fruitful

People have the idea that all property value increases. As already stated, land can take decades to appreciate. The value varies on a number of factors such as location, basic amenities, shops and malls, and work opportunities.

For example, you made a safe investment, but you may have overlooked an important flaw, such as no water supply simply because you thought water supply was a given. That will factor into the rent you could charge on the property. This can lead to the investment being a loss after taking into account the purchase price, the expenses incurred, and the depreciation of value due to the lack of basic amenities.

Always ask the right questions, check on basic amenities before being blinded by other amenities offered, be informed, and seek advice from people, firms, or lawyers who are knowledgeable on the subject before going forward.

The price per square foot is the price you will pay

When we hear 1,000 per square foot for a 5,000 square-foot property, we think, 1,000x5,000 = Rs.50 lakhs. That sounds like a good figure. But before you purchase the land, there are a number of payments to be made that people do not account for in their minds. There are registration fees, stamp duty, and taxes, to name a few, to be paid before you can own the property. Make sure you do some thorough research before applying for a property loan if you intend to.

Before investing in property, it is good to educate yourself on the necessary documents required, fees to be paid, laws to be followed so that you can make an informed decision.

Investing far away from you is risky

It may seem better to invest in the area that you know, or in the CBD where it is a sure shot of getting a good return on your investment. This is not necessarily true. If you do your research and invest smartly, you can make a safe investment away from you, as well as away from the city.

Properties in the suburbs or outskirts are known to appreciate in the long term. Ensure that you are not buying revenue/agricultural land. The Government of India does not allow the sale of revenue land, and if you buy the property, ultimately, the fault lies on the blind buyer, not on the seller.

Always research the property, find out all the details you can. Just as there is a lot of credit card fraud out there, there is also a lot of fraud when it comes to real estate. Ensure you do a thorough check for scams before you make any investments.

Investing cheap is safer

Some people, especially first-time investors, feel that if they invest less, the risk is lesser because you stand to lose a smaller amount of money. This is far from true. Property is cheap for a reason. Obscure location, low accessibility, high-voltage power lines could be some of the reasons why the property is cheap. Figure out why the rates are cheap before you make an investment. It is actually much safer to invest in mid-range properties because the returns will be better.

Always make an informed decision, and do not rush for a better price. It is important to know what you want and why you want it. Look at all the factors and reasons surrounding your decision. If you are looking to buy a house but dont have the funds for it, a housing loan can help you achieve that goal. To avail a loan, you might be required to take a home insurance policy so that the banks risk is reduced in case of any untoward event. Invest smartly and you will reap the benefits of a good investment in property.
North Korea on Saturday said that it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" at its doorstep.



The North's official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.



North Korea conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland United States.



The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly.



The US and South Korea have maintained that they will not negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile programme.



In its report on Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the United States and its "vassal forces."



The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.



KCNA accused President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power."



"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.



"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
The Mumbai Police and fire brigade teams are probing on four to five possible angles that could have caused the devastating fire at 1Above Mojo's Bistro at Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel.



The possible causes being probed are a short circuit, fire triggered by hookah, cigarette butts and fire tricks by bartenders or from the kitchen.



So far, what has come to light is the lack of fire-fighting systems like fire extinguishers and the absence of proper safety exits.



"They lacked proper exits and extinguishers... there is negligence," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Deepak Deoraj said.



The Mumbai Police have filed an FIR in connection with the case and booked the owner of the pub for negligence and culpable homicide not amounting to murder.



An official of the Mumbai Fire Brigade said that, so far, they have not been able to ascertain the cause of the fire. "Investigation is in progress," the official said.



The MFB is probing if a NOC was issued or not and whether the eatery and pub complied with the NOC norms.
India has strongly conveyed to Palestine that the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, also a UN-designated terrorist, is "unacceptable", the External Affairs Ministry said on Saturday.



"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," the ministry said in a release.



It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at this event.



"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.



The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine side, it said.



Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali reportedly attended a rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.



Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed Saeed, also Mumbai terror attack mastermind.
Search All categories Advertising General Aerospace General Agriculture General Airlines General America - Post 9/11 General Apparel General Apple Products General Architectural General Architecture Architecture Art & Entertainments Books Celebrities Country Music Dance Magazines Movies Museums Music Music Downloads News & Talk Shows Performing Arts Photography Television Web Sites Arts/Culture General Auction General Automotive Aftermarket Classic Autos Consumer Publications General Motorcycle & Bike Racing Recreational Vehicle Repair & Service Trade Publications Blogging & Social Media Blogging & Social Media Business Advertising / Marketing Books Consumer Research Direct Marketing e-Commerce Entrepreneurs Finance Franchise Human Resources Insurance Investment Management Markets Network Marketing Online Marketing / SEO Payday Loans Public Relations Publications Real Estate Retail Stocks Supermarkets Women in Business Careers/HR General Chemical General Coaching / Mentoring Coaching / Mentoring Computers Apple Products Databases Games & Entertainment General Hosting Instruction Linux / GNU "Open Source" Macintosh Microsoft Windows PC Operating Systems Programming Security Software Tablet PCs Utilities Construction General Consumer Gifts and Collectibles Hobbies Web sites / Internet Design Graphic Design Industrial Web E-Cigarette General eCommerce General Economy General Education College / University General Home Schooling K-12 Post Graduate Technical Electronics General Email Marketing General EmailWire Press Releases Press Release Tips Employment/Careers General Engineering General Entertainment General Environment General Events / Trade Shows General Finance General Food General Franchise General Fraud / Identity Theft General Gaming General Government General Judicial Law Enforcement Legislative Local National Public Services Security State Transportation Healthcare General Home and Family Banking / Personal Finance Bereavement / Loss Home Furnishings / Interiors Landscaping & Gardening Marriage / Relationships Money Parenting Payday Loans Pets Taxes Wedding / Bridal Home Schooling General Hotels/Resorts General Household General Industry Aerospace / Defense Agriculture Apparel / Textiles Broadcast Construction / Building Electrical Food Funeral Healthcare Leisure / Hospitality Logistics / Shipping Manufacturing / Production Mining / Metals Oil / Energy Paper / Forest Products Plumbing, Heating & AC Print Media Printing Publishing Radio Restaurants Tobacco Toy Insurance General Internet/Online General Legal General Leisure General Lifestyle Beauty Dating / Singles Diet / Weight Loss Fashion Food / Beverage Health & Fitness Hotel / Resorts Pastimes Restaurants Retirement Travel & Tourism Machinery General Maritime General Medical Addiction Allergies Alternative Medicine Asthma Cancer Cardiology Chiropractic Dental Dermatology Diabetes Emergency Family Medicine General General Geriatrics Hospitals Infectious Diseases Internal Medicine Managed Care / HMO Medical Products Mental Health Neurology Nursing Nutrition OB / GYN Pediatrics Pharmaceuticals Physical Therapy Plastic Surgery Psychology Radiology / Imaging Research Sports Medicine Surgery Vision Military General Mining/Metals General Miscellaneous General Nanotechnology Nanotechnology Non-profit General Occupational Safety Occupational Safety Oil/Energy General Opinion / Editorial Opinion / Editorial Paper Products General Paper/Forest General Pharmaceuticals General Podcasting Announce Tools and Services Politics Politics Print Media General Public Utilities Public Utilities Publishing General Radio General Real Estate General Religion Christian General Islam Jewish Other Restaurants General Retail General RSS & Content Syndication RSS & Content Syndication Science and Research Science and Research Self-Help / Personal Growth Self-Help / Personal Growth Shipbuilding General Society African American Interests Asian Interests Childrens Issues Disabled Issues / Disabilities Gay / Lesbian Hispanic Mens Interests Native American Senior Citizens Social Services Teen Issues/Interests Womens Interest Software General Sports Baseball Basketball Bicycling Boating / Maritime Bowling Boxing Fishing Football Golf Hockey Hunting Martial Arts Outdoors Rugby Soccer Tennis Water Winter/Snow Sports/Fitness General Stocks General Supermarkets General Technology Biotechnology Computer Electronics Enterprise Software Games Graphics/Printing/CAD Hardware / Peripherals Industrial Information Internet Multimedia Networking Public Sector/Government Robotics Semiconductor Software Telecommunications Webmasters Telecom General Wireless Television General Tobacco General Trade General Transportation General Travel General Utilities General Volunteer Volunteer Weather Weather




New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) India today issued a strong demarche to Palestine on the issue of the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, terming it as "unacceptable".



India's Secretary (economic relations) Vijay Gokhale in the external affairs ministry called Palestinian ambassador here Adnan Abu Al Haija to the South Block after which the ministry said, "the concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."



"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the ministry said in a release.



It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at this event.



"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.



The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine envoy, who informed India that his government had decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali.



Talking to PTI after his meeting, Haija said Ali has been recalled for attending the rally organised by Saeed.



Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said Ali has been given a couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.



"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not its envoy to Pakistan anymore," Haija said.



Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Ali reportedly attended the Difah-e-Pakistan Council- organised rally in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.



Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Saeed. PTI PYK ZMN
BJP district unit president K S Naveen announced on Saturday that the party's national president Amit Shah will visit Chitradurga on January 10.

Shah will take part in a mega rally in the city organised as part of the BJP's Parivartana Yatra under the leadership of state party president B S Yeddyurappa.
Lending support to Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, who is miffed over the portfolios allotted to him in the new BJP government, Patidar leader Lalji Patel on Saturday called for a Mehsana 'bandh' (general strike) on January 1.



He also threatened to call for a statewide bandh if Nitin Patel was not made the chief minister of Gujarat.



Lalji Patel, who is the convener of the Sardar Patel Group (SPG) which had launched the Patidar quota agitation along with Hardik Patel-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, on Saturday called on the deputy chief minister at his official residence in Gandhinagar with dozens of supporters.



"The BJP is repeatedly doing injustice to Nitin-Bhai Patel. Today (Saturday) I met him with supporters from Mehsana, and we have given a call for Mehsana bandh on January 1 in his support," Lalji Patel told reporters.



Nitin Patel is MLA from Mehsana, which has a sizable Patidar population and which was the epicentre of the quota agitation.



"People of Gujarat and former chief minister Anandiben Patel wanted Nitin Patel to be made the chief minister (when Anandiben resigned). He was not made the chief minister but he accepted the decision and decided to work as deputy chief minister. People are angry with the latest development. Nitin-Bhai is the right candidate for chief minister's post," he said.



"We met Nitin-Bhai...We asked him what is needed to be done. It is now for him to take the final call. He said the party's high command has said it will decide the matter in two days," the SPG leader said.



Ketan Patel, another Patidar leader who left the PAAS to join the BJP, also met the deputy chief minister.



"Nitin Patel has worked tirelessly to mollify the agitated Patidar community and played important role in bringing the party back to power. The BJP high command should address his concerns positively," he said, adding that the BJP should ensure that political opponents do not take advantage of the development.



Earlier in the day, PAAS leader Hardik Patel declared support for Nitin Patel and said the BJP sidelined him despite his hard work.



In the previous government Nitin Patel handled portfolios such as finance and urban development, while in the new government, which was sworn in earlier this week, he was given relatively lightweight departments such as road and building and health.
The Rajput Karni Sena has registered disagreement with CBFC decision to allow the theatrical release of Padmavati with 26 cuts.



Karni Sena has been spearheading the nationwide protests against the screening of the film.

The organisation marked its protest within an hour of the CBFC decision, which also included a change in the name of the movie to 'Padmavat'.

A member of the organisation, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, while talking to media persons, said, "They are playing with our emotions. Members of the committee formed to review the film have opposed it but the censor board is taking this decision due to underworld pressure".

Karni Sena has also threatened to vandalise those cinema halls which will screen the film,

"Our members will be outside cinema halls and we will vandalise those that screen the film. This time protests are going to be fierce", Gogamedi said.



The former royals of Jaipur have already demanded a complete ban on the movie, stating that Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film shows Rani Padmini in a bad light.

However, a special panel that reviewed the film consisted of two Rajasthan-based historians R S Khangarot, principal of Agrawal College in Jaipur, and B L Gupta, retired head of the History department and professor K K Singh from Udaipur.

CBFC had also approached three erstwhile rulers, Raghuveer Singh of Sirohi, Maharawal Jagmal Singh of Banswara and Vishwaraj Singh Mewar, for their expert views on the film.

According to a release issued by the CBFC, the board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28, which decided to give the film a U/A certification, along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title to the source material from which the film was made.

Protests against the 200-crore film marked its presence in most cities in India.

Right from the shooting of the film till the release of its trailer and a song, the Rajput body has alleged that there are two elements in the film which have no historical record.

The first is a scene in which Deepika Padukone is shown romancing with Khilji.

The second objection is to Padmavati performing the 'Ghoomar' dance in a darbar which they said is an affront to the Rajput culture as no queen or princess would ever dance in a durbar.
Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya faced an embarrassing moment on Saturday when his tall claims of benefits extended to tribals fell flat in a report compiled by his own department.

At a press conference, Anjaneya announced he would spend New Year's Eve at the Iruliga tribal colony at Jenukallupalya in Magadi, Ramanagaram. "In the past four years, I have spent one night with tribal communities in different parts of the state. During my visits, I made several promises to them, of which 90% have been fulfilled," Anjaneya said.

However, a report compiled by his department showed most assurances the minister made during his tribal stayovers were still works-in-progress. For instance, Anjaneya claimed that Goudalu and Hasala communities in the Dhannakkihaara Girijan colony in Mudigere, Chikkamagaluru, received nutritious meals after he spent an entire day with them in April 2015. On the contrary, his department's report stated that only a work order had been issued for the supply of nutritious meals and that a survey of both communities was underway.

Assurances Anjaneya made on his first stayover three years ago - Gombegalu Girijan Colony in Kollegal, Chamarajanagar in December 2014 - were "still in progress," according to the report. These are works worth Rs 10 crore that include construction of new houses, house repairs, distribution of blankets among others.

Anjaneya was visibly upset when reporters pointed out the glaring contradiction in his claims and the report. "Who wrote this report," he demanded to know from his officials, who scurried for cover. "I should've seen the report before. How do you explain this?"

Since 2014, Anjaneya has visited tribals in eight districts and Rs 109 crore has been released for various works.

Internal reservation

Anjaneya was mum when asked about the implementation of the Justice A J Sadashiva Commission report on internal reservation. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has convened a meeting of Dalit leaders in the Congress on January 13, he said. "There are groups for and against implementing the report. The CM will take the final call," he said.
The poor quality of the underground sewage network laid in Surathkal and parts of Mangaluru was discussed in length by the Opposition members of the Council of Mangaluru City Corporation, on Saturday.



The project has been undertaken by drawing a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

MLA J R Lobo, who was then deputy project director of Kudcemp when the project was initiated, claimed that poor quality of works was not initiated during his tenure. "My tenure ended in December 2009. The works under the project in Surathkal was initiated in 2011. Those who were in power should take the responsibility for poor implementation of the works," said the legislator, adding, "I had ensured that there was no corruption during my tenure."

This, however, led to exchange of words between the ruling and the Opposition members of the Council.

'Panel should review'

Further, Lobo said, "It is not right to point a finger at one person for political reason. If there was any poor quality of works being implemented under the first phase of the project, let there be an expert committee to review the works. I welcome any kind of probe into the project."

Mayor Kavitha Sanil said that the Council of the City Corporation welcomes any kind of probe into the works taken up under the first phase of the ADB project.

Treated water

Earlier, Opposition leader Ganesh Hosabettu said the treated water from STP at Madhavanagara in Surathkal is left open. "In fact, the MCC had entered into an agreement with the MRPL to use the treated water. As the pipeline to MRPL is not ready, however, the treated water is let out in the open, causing inconvenience to the residents of Madhavanagara. Further, there is seepage in wet wells and manholes in Surathkal," he listed out.

Supporting him, Opposition member Sudheer Shetty said the wet wells in Padil, Faisal Nagara and Jalligudde are not functioning, as claimed by the MLA.

"The survey by the MCC officials had found some loose ends in the sewer project implemented by the Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) for the MCC. It found missing links of main sewer lines at several places and had estimated Rs 19.19 crore to complete the 'mislinking' works. However, Rs 56 crore under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme has been earmarked to set right the missing links," said Shetty.

To bury the failure of the first phase of the ADB-funded project, the ruling members are pressing for a second phase of the project, he alleged.

No asset details

Further, Opposition member Premananda Shetty said that the MCC does not have complete details on the assets handed over to the civic body, by the KUIDFC after the first phase of the ADB-funded project was complete.

MCC Commissioner Mohammed Nazeer promised to furnish the details in the next meeting of the Council.

Councillor A C Vinayraj sought to know why the order for Rs 75-crore worth work under the second phase of the ADB-funded project was not handed over to the contractor. The Opposition members claimed they were kept in the dark on the proposed project, as the order was not passed in the Council. They sought to know why the mayor was in a hurry to hand over the work to the contractor.

The members of the Council of Mangaluru City Corporation also condemned the statement of Union Minister Anantkumar Hegde on constitution.
Widow of a Kargil martyr died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat after the medical staff allegedly refused to admit her for not carrying her Aadhaar card, forcing the state government to order an inquiry into the matter today.



Talking to media at Ambala, Health Minister Anil Vij said a team of health department has been sent to Sonipat to collect the details of the incident.

"Shakuntala Devi (55), widow of Kargil war martyr Havaldar Laxman Dass, died on Thursday for want of medical care at a private hospital as it insisted on having the patient's Aadhaar card," her son Pawan Kumar Balyan told PTI over phone.

Balyan, a resident of Mahlana village in Sonipat, said his mother was suffering from a heart problem.

"I took her to the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Hospital in Sonipat and got the referral slip for Tulip Hospital on Thursday," he said.

"At the counter of the hospital, the authorities asked me to give the Aadhaar card of my ailing mother so that she could be admitted for treatment. I told them that I have forgotten it and will get it soon from my home, and requested them to start the treatment. But, the hospital authorities insisted on providing the Aadhaar card," Balyan said.

"After about half-an-hour of argument with the hospital authorities, I decided to leave the place with my mother," he said, adding that the hospital authorities also called up police who asked me not to create a scene in the hospital premises.

"I brought back my mother to ECHS Sonipat where she died the same evening," Balyan said.

"I have given a written complaint about the matter to ECHS authorities who visited my house from Ambala," he said.

Meanwhile, Abhimanyu Kumar of Tulip Multispeciality Hospital, Sonipat, said they insist on Aadhaar cards, but denied the allegations that they were not ready to admit Devi.

"We wanted to treat the woman, but her family members decided to take her away," he said.

Policeman Srikrishan, who was at the spot when the incident took place, said the hospital authorities had requested Balyan to get the ailing woman admitted.

"Balyan seemed upset by the attitude shown to him by the hospital staff and preferred to leave with his mother," he said.

Shakuntala Devi was the wife of Havaldar Laxman Dass who was posted with the 8th Jat Regiment in Muskoh valley near Kargil. He died of bullet injuries during a gun battle with intruders on June 9, 1999.
'Kannada' reverberated in Karike on Saturday, a tiny village at the border of Kodagu district which is dominated by Malayalam speaking people. The Kannada flag was seen welcoming the visitors from all sides.



Speaking after inaugurating Kannada Sahithya Sammelana, MLA K G Bopaiah said, "Kannada is spoken effectively in villages. However, there is slight disrespect for Kannada in cities. In spite of not knowing how to converse in English, people attempt to converse only in English."

There is a need to support those who pass IAS in Kannada. Those who speak in favour of Kannada send their children to English medium schools, he said.

Kannada Sahitya Parishat district President Lokesh Sagar said that Karike has given prominence to the Kannada language.

The Sammelana's past president B A Shamshuddin said that the language should bring people together. There is a need to create awareness on Kannada.
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi said on Saturday that the triple talaq bill was draconian in nature and was aimed at snatching the fundamental rights of Muslims.



He was addressing reporters in the town. He was here to attend the marriage of the son of Usman Gani, the state president of AIMIM.

"As per the Supreme Court order, the marriage does not get annulled even if talaq is given. How can you arrest the husband if the marriage is not annulled?" Owaisi said.

Calling the bill a dangerous game plan, he said the Congress and the Trinamool Congress were supporting it, though they know it is a bad legislation. He demanded that a committee be formed so that the bill can be discussed before a decision is taken.
Severe cold claimed the life of a 50-year-old man at M K Hubballi, Bailhongal taluk in the district.

The victim, a destitute sleeping near a hotel beside the Pune-Bengaluru national highway-4 at M K Hubballi, was found dead on Saturday.

Doctors who performed the post mortem suspected that the man died due to cold. The Kittur police have registered a case.
China's continued protests failed to deter India from planning more high-level visits to Arunachal Pradesh in 2018.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Arunachal Pradesh in early 2018. Though the dates are yet to be finalised, the visit was discussed when Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu met the Prime Minister in New Delhi recently, sources told DH.

President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to Arunachal Pradesh last month triggered strong protests from Beijing. A spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Chinese Government told journalists in Beijing that China expected India to refrain from "complicating" the border dispute between the two neighbouring nations, particularly when bilateral relations were at a "crucial stage".

Beijing had also lodged a protest with New Delhi when Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had visited Arunachal Pradesh last month.

China does not recognise Arunachal Pradesh as a part of India and claims control over 83,500 sq km of territory in the state. Whenever the President, Prime Minister and union ministers visited the frontier state, Beijing lodged a protest with New Delhi, ostensibly to assert its claim on the territory.

Modi's first visit to Arunachal Pradesh in February 2015 too, had evoked a strong protest from Beijing.

Integral part

New Delhi, however, maintains that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India and the leaders of the country and officials could visit any part of the country. India is of the view that China does not have any locus standi to make a comment on Indian leaders visiting an Indian state.

Beijing was also upset with New Delhi's decision to allow Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh in April this year.
Passersby in Yaseenganj locality in the old city area of the state capital were surprised when they found scores of paper chits landing near them on Friday night. It took them a little while to realise that the chits were being thrown from the windows of a madrasa (Islamic Seminary) across the road.



The contents of the chits shocked the readers. They narrated the plight of the girls living in the madrasa. The girls had alleged that they were held ''hostage'' there and were also ''molested'' by the manager of the institution.



A little later, the police rescued 51 girls from the madarsa.



According to the police, the rescued girls accused the madrasa manager Kari Tayyab Zia of ''molesting'' them. Tayyab has been arrested.



The scandal unfolded after some of the girls at the seminary threw the paper chits from the windows. A few passersby, who found the chits, informed the cops after which a raid was conducted and the girls were rescued.



The girls in their complaint lodged with the police alleged that they were regularly ''molested'' by the manager and were also forced to dance at his farmhouse on the outskirts of the city.





Obscene acts



'The manager would call us to his room at night and ask us to sit on his lap....he used to do obscene acts,'' the girls said in their complaint.



The madrasa, which was established around 15 years back, had as many as 125 girls on its rolls.



Most of the rescued girls were in the age group of six to 19, the police said, adding that a case under relevant sections of the IPC had been registered against the manager.



The manager was produced before the special CBI court here on Saturday, which remanded him to judicial custody for 14 days.




Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday left for Saudi Arabia amid reports of a "deal" between the embattled Sharif family and the powerful military establishment.



Sharif left for Saudi Arabia on a Saudi Airlines flight this evening. On his arrival he is scheduled to meet King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman to discuss what the ruling PML-N said are "important matters".

Sharif, 67, had to step down as chief of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) after he was disqualified as prime minister by the Supreme Court on July 28 in the Panama Papers scandal.

The Sharif family is facing three corruption cases linked to the scandal.

The political future of Sharif, who leads the country's most powerful political family and his party, has been hanging in the balance since then. If convicted, he can be jailed.

Sharif's family alleges that the cases are politically motivated.

His younger brother, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif is already in Saudi Arabia on an "official visit". The Saudi government had sent a special plane for Shahbaz's travel to the kingdom last Wednesday. He is believed to have prepared the ground for the visit of his elder brother.

Opposition parties say that since the Sharif family is facing multiple cases in courts and political challenges it needs its friends in the Saudi royal family to reach a deal with the establishment in Pakistan.

Opposition leader in the National Assembly Syed Khurshid Shah objected to the Sharifs' Saudi visit.

"It looks like the matter is towards seeking forgiveness and that an National Reconciliation Order (deal) may be on the horizon. If such a situation arises, I think we will have to shut our courts and go home," he said.

"I feel sorry to see that foreigners are being involved in local matters. If Saudi Arabia intervenes for reconciliation between the Sharifs and the establishment it will be shameful that Pakistan, a nuclear power, cannot make its own decisions," Shah said.
When Pakistani forces freed a Canadian-American family this fall held captive by militants, they also captured one of the abductors.



US officials saw a potential windfall: He was a member of the Taliban-linked Haqqani network who could perhaps provide valuable information about at least one other American hostage.

The Americans demanded access to the man, but Pakistani officials rejected those requests, the latest disagreement in the increasingly dysfunctional relationship between the countries. Now, the Trump administration is strongly considering whether to withhold $255 million in aid that it had delayed sending to Islamabad, according to US officials, as a show of dissatisfaction with Pakistan's broader intransigence toward confronting the terrorist networks that operate there.

The administration's internal debate over whether to deny Pakistan the money is a test of whether President Donald Trump will deliver on his threat to punish Islamabad for failing to cooperate on counter-terrorism operations. Relations between the United States and Pakistan, long vital for both, have chilled steadily since the president declared over the summer that Pakistan "gives safe haven to agents of chaos, violence and terror."

The United States, which has provided Pakistan more than $33 billion in aid since 2002, said in August that it was withholding the $255 million until Pakistan did more to crack down on internal terrorist groups. Senior administration officials met this month to decide what to do about the money, and US officials said a final decision could be made in the coming weeks.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the sensitive discussions, did not detail what conditions Pakistan would have to meet to receive the aid. It was not clear how the United States found out about the militant's arrest, but a US drone had been monitoring the kidnappers as they moved deeper into Pakistan.

Caitlan Coleman, an American, and her Canadian husband, Joshua Boyle, were freed along with their children in an October raid after five years in captivity. Pakistani troops confronted Haqqani militants as they ferried the family across the tribal lands of northwest Pakistan.

The Trump administration has foreshadowed a cutoff in recent days with harsher language. Last week, in announcing his national security strategy, Trump again singled out Pakistan for criticism. "We make massive payments every year to Pakistan," he said. "They have to help."

Vice President Mike Pence reinforced that message in a visit to Afghanistan just before Christmas, telling cheering US troops that "President Trump has put Pakistan on notice." The reaction of his audience was notable, analysts said, since the Pentagon has historically been one of Pakistan's defenders in Washington because of its long-standing ties to the Pakistani military.

Pakistan, however, has few friends in Trump's National Security Council. Lt Gen H R McMaster, the national security adviser, served in Afghanistan, where he saw firsthand how Pakistan meddled in its neighbour's affairs. Lisa Curtis, the council's senior director for South and Central Asia, brought critical views about Pakistan from her previous post at the conservative Heritage Foundation.
India's strong protest has prompted Palestine to recall its envoy to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, who shared the dais with Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed at a rally in Rawalpindi on Friday.



The Palestinian Authority decided to recall its envoy to Islamabad on Saturday a a day after his pictures with Saeed, a terrorist proscribed by the United Nations, went viral.

Ali was also seen addressing the rally which was held by Difa-e-Pakistan, a conglomerate of radical anti-India and anti-US Islamist organisations.

India sharply reacted and conveyed its strong protest to the Palestinian Authority through diplomatic channels, in both New Delhi and Ramallah.

It was also conveyed that the incident might cast a shadow over the proposed visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Palestine in February.

New Delhi made it clear to the Palestinian Authority that the "association" of its envoy to Islamabad with Saeed, who masterminded the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, was "unacceptable". New Delhi's envoy to Ramallah, Anish Rajan, conveyed India's view to Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki on Saturday.

Senior diplomats in West Asia and North Africa division of the Ministry of External Affairs also conveyed the same to Palestine's Ambassador to India Adnan Mohammad Jaber Abualhayjaa, a source told DH.

Ramallah conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured New Delhi that the Palestinian Authority would "take serious cognisance" of the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at the rally held by Saeed's outfit Jamat-ud-Dawa a a front of the LeT a and other affiliates of the Difa-e-Pakistan. "They (Palestinian Authority) have said they will deal with this matter appropriately," said Raveesh Kumar, MEA spokesperson.

"It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India."
The Kwanzaa holiday was founded in the U.S. in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a conduit through which African Americans and others of African descent could connect to their roots through meditation and study of cultural traditions in celebrating the event. It lasts a week, beginning Dec. 26, and concluding on Jan. 1.

Jackson County native Curley Spires Potter now splits her time between her childhood hometown and her current home in Virginia. Shes here about eight months of the year, and was in town longer than expected in 2017. As a result, shes missing Kwanzaa in Virginia, where in her home she traditionally sets up a Kwanzaa display with symbolic items.

Potters been disappointed over the years in realizing that, in Jackson County, the observance of Kwanzaa is rarer than in her community in Virginia. Shes making it a mission to teach some of its principles and ceremonial elements in her portion of the next White-Purdee-Spires family reunion thats held here. A retired educator who once taught in New York, she taught children about it for years. In charge of the education element of the reunion ceremonies, those teaching skills should come in handy.

But Potter expects her presentation to be more of an affirmation than an enlightening element: The principles of Kwanzaa, she says, very much echo those that her 107-year-old mother, Sarah Purdee Spires, instilled in her as a child. She learned in a recent conversation with her mother that her matriarch had never even heard of Kwanzaa. She was, after all, already in her 50s by the time it was created by an African-American professor in 1966.

And mom was too busy, her daughter said, to pay much attention to developments outside her household and immediate community. She and her 10 children were in survival mode for many years. They had to work together, Potter said, just to make ends meet. Things got very tough after Potters father died. She was just 11 years old when that happened. She and her siblings had to pitch in all the more.

It took unity. It took a spirit of self-determination. It took collective work and responsibility. It took cooperative economics. It took a great deal of dedication to purpose. It took creativity. And it took faith. Those are the seven principles upon which Kwanzaa is based.

The following information lays out the general aspects of the holiday and includes some of the information Potter expects to share with her family at the next reunion.

The basic Kwanzaa home display

It is anchored by a mat upon which the other items are placed. An arching holder that can accommodate seven candles is a key element in the display. A single black candle is at the highest point of the arc, with three green candles on one side and three red candles on the other. The black candle is lit the first night of Kwanza, and one of the others is lit each ensuing night. A selection of produce is also part of the display, with corn almost always in the mix. A unity cup is also on the table, along with gifts. The black, red and green Pan- African flag is also often included, along with African books and artworks. The items are all, in one way or another, meant to symbolize and appreciate African culture, ancestors, community and future. The red, black and green horizontal stripes of the Pan-African flag have symbolic meaning. There are variations as to those meanings. In one common interpretation, red is for the blood Africans have shed in bondage and in the fight for freedom; black is to symbolize the race; and green is to symbolize the natural wealth of the African nation. That symbolism is echoed in the candles used.

A little history

-The word Kwanza is Swahili in origin and essentially means first fruits. The extra a in the name of the Kwanzaa holiday was added so that the word would have a symbolic seven letters to echo the seven principles that make up the core of the seven-day celebration.

-Dr. Maulana Karenga, the educator and activist who founded the Kwanzaa holiday, was born Ronald McKinley Everett, but in his college years took the surname Karenga, a Swahili word meaning keeper of tradition. His new first name is Swahili-Arabic for master teacher. In establishing Kwanzaa, Karenga is said to have been inspired in part by existing first fruits festivals that occur in Southern Africa.

-Some people celebrate both Kwanzaa and Christmas, incorporating the two or observing them separately, and celebrants of Kwanzaa include people who are not necessarily of African descent but embrace the principles it espouses.

-An annual Spirit of Kwanzaa is held each year at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

A Kwanzaa glossary with original terms in Swahili and more

-The seven principles celebrated at Kwanzaa are: Unity (Umoja), Self-Determination (Kujichagulia), Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima), Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa), Purpose (Nia), Creativity (Kuumba), and Faith (Imani).

-Some common symbols of the Kwanzaa display in homes across the country include a mat (mkeka), a candle holder (kinara), seven candles (mishumaa saba), corn (muhindi), a red, green and black Pan-African flag (bendera ya taifa), and a unity cup (kikombe cha umoja). A feast (karamu) usually is part of Kwanzaa celebrations in home or community events.

The Principles

Each day is devoted to one of seven principles that make up the core of the holiday and its mission of helping restore, appreciate, bring forward and further the traditions, identity, strength, talent and economic wellbeing of people of African descent.

Day 1 focuses on the principle of Unity and the importance of increasing and maintaining it in family, race and community.

Day 2 focuses on the principle of Self-determination and the importance of defining and expressing self.

Day 3 focuses on the principle of Collective Work and Responsibility and the importance of constructing and supporting each other in an ongoing spirit of community.

Day 4 focuses on the principle of Cooperative Economics and the importance of establishing economic opportunities of ones own and supporting the businesses of others in the community.

Day 5 focuses on the principle of Purpose and the importance of joining forces to build and grow community, with an ultimate goal of restoring the traditional greatness of a culture.

Day 6 focuses on the principle of Creativity and the importance of using that creativity to enhance the community, leaving it better than one found it.

Day 7 focuses on the principle of Faith and the importance of believing in people, parents, teachers, other leaders, and in the righteousness and eventual victory in the struggle.

Elements of observance

Those who celebrate the holiday often decorate their homes with African art and colorful cloth, and fresh fruit to represent African ideals. Women often wear colorful wraps to Kwanzaa-related ceremonies, and men sometimes wear a colorful shirt called a dashiki and a hat called a kufi. Children are often assigned a role in those events, performing duties that illustrate respect and give thanks to ancestors.

Drinks are sometimes shared from a common cup that is passed around. Ceremonies can include drumming and other music and usually involve readings and/or study discussions related to the principle upon which the given day is focused. One of the seven kinara candles is lit ceremonially each night, with the black candle in the center lit on the first night. A meal often concludes the days celebration.

A reading of The African Pledge is also usually included. There are several variations. One is included below.

The African Pledge

We will remember the humanity, glory,

And suffering of our ancestors

And honour the struggle of our elders;

We will strive to bring new value,

And new life to our people

We will have peace and harmony among us

We will be loving, sharing and creative

We will work, study, and listen, so we may learn;

Learn so we may teach.

We will cultivate self-reliance

We will struggle to resurrect and unify our homeland;

We will raise many children for our nation;

We will have discipline, patience,

devotion and courage;

We will live as models,

to provide new direction for our people;

We will be free and self-determining;

We are African people

We will win
Zimba moves fast, especially when hes using his wheels. Sometimes, the wheels just cant keep up.

He gets to going so fast the little wheelchair cant keep up with him, so he wipes out, said Anna Shepard, one of Zimbas caregivers at Southern Souls Animal League in Eufaula.

Daily water therapy sessions have given Zimbas caregivers hope that he may have an active life with or without his wheels.

He doesnt need a big yard, but he needs a yard he can move in because even if hes in that wheelchair, hes gone; hes booking it, Shepard said. There is no walking around; its 90 miles an hour or nothing. Hes got to go to a special home.

First, hell require regular therapy to strengthen his legs, and care will have to be taken to make sure sores are not developing on his hind legs and paws. And when Zimba is moving, his future owners will have to be able to keep up with him.

A small dog, Zimba came to Southern Souls in early November. He was left inside a pet carrier outside the animal rescues front door. A note taped to the carrier gave his name and described him as a great dog. But, the note said, he had been bitten by bulldogs and his hind legs no longer worked. Based on the note, his owners could not devote the time required for his ongoing care.

Zimba spent three days at a veterinarians office. It turned out one of his hips had been badly dislocated and healed improperly with scar tissue developing around it. It was believed hed never be able to use his back legs.

Whatever had happened had healed, Shepard said.

Its believed Zimba is about 2 to 3 years old. His breed is unknown, but with his long hair and small stature, he resembles a cross between a Yorkie and a Chihuahua.

Zimba was at Southern Souls Animal League for a few weeks before he got his dog wheelchair, which was bought by a supporter of the rescue. His caregivers would give him daily baths because his hind legs would be a mess. During the baths, caregivers noticed Zimba actually moved his hind legs. Before long, he was standing on them for short periods. Then, he began to walk on them. Zimba, however, tends to get excited and the faster he goes and more he drags his back legs. As a result, the rescue has to limit his mobility to times when they can focus their attention on him.

Zimba is not the first special needs animal Southern Souls. Even now, the animal rescue has a few, including Zimba and a blind puppy named Paige. Zimba and Paige have learned to play together but Paige, who is bigger, tends to run into Zimba so caregivers have to keep a constant eye on the two when they are out together.

His water therapy is done once a day for about 10-15 minutes in a large sink at the rescue. He paces back and forth, whining if he loses sight of his caregivers. Otherwise, hes calm and sweet, pulling himself up to look over the sinks edge at times.

Shepard said it will be early 2018 before Zimba may be ready to be placed up for adoption. The fee when that time comes will be $150, which will include his neutering.

Whoever he goes to is going to always have to continue with the care, Shepard said. Hell never, ever be a dog you can just take outside. Hes going to have to be somebodys baby because hes not going to be your average dog.
The Wiregrass area is expecting frigid temperatures next week, with the coldest day being Tuesday.

With temperatures dropping below freezing Tuesday evening, the Geneva County EMA has announced the Will Jenkins Center will open Tuesday at 5 p.m., to serve as a warming station. Cots and blankets will be provided. The center is located at 601 W. Mulkey Ave. in Geneva.

We do have several homeless people in the area, as well as residents who do not have heat, said Geneva County EMA Director Misty Wise. The warming station is open Tuesday evening for those needing to get into warm environment.

In the past, the community has reached out to the homeless in the area to inform them of the dangers associated with the temperatures dropping so low, however, many will continue to stay in their environment, Wise said.

We are asking everyone if they know of anyone who is homeless or without heating, urge them to use the warming station, Wise said. I also want to remind everyone to check on their elderly family members, neighbors, and pets next week. The weather can change, and change quickly. However, we are expecting very low temperatures next week.

Temperatures for Monday and Tuesday evening have the lows being roughly 27 degrees and the highs being 44.

With the temperatures dropping low next week, this is a good time for people to sign up for our new web-based emergency alert system. With our new GC Alert System, which is powered by Everbridge, we can notify residents of any safety concerns or hazards, as well as the Smart Weather notification which will automatically alert residents no matter where they are located in the county. This system not only sends alerts for severe weather related to flooding, tornadoes or hurricane warnings, but it can and will send emergency alerts for hard-freeze warnings.

To sign-up and create an account for the Geneva County Emergency Alert System, visit the following link: https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085616994#/signup .

According to Wise volunteers and supplies are needed for the warming station. Anyone wishing to volunteer or donate items may call 334-447-1286 for additional information.
It is rare a town the size of Midland City receives two visits from a horde of national media members within a decade.

In January of 2013, a gunman killed a school bus driver and snatched a boy from the bus and kept him in an underground bunker for a week before the gunman was killed in a raid. The boy was freed.

And while that incident actually happened in the nearby community of Pinckard, practically all of the national datelines included Midland City.

In November of 2017, on the night before what was likely the most publicized Senate election in Alabama history, Republican candidate Roy Moore, strategist Steve Bannon, and a host of others held a campaign event at a venue in Midland City, attracting scores of reporters from around the country.

National networks broadcasted live from Midland City, and the Senate race was billed as a referendum on President Donald Trump, who endorsed Moore after endorsing his opponent, Luther Strange, in the Republican primary. Additionally, several women had alleged Moore made inappropriate sexual advances toward them many years go. At least two said they were minors when the incidents occurred.

The drama built for weeks before the election and the Midland City event provided one of only a handful of public campaign events attended by Moore. Many Moore supporters and a handful of protesters attended, adding to the heat of the event.

The Wiregrass was the center of the political world for at least a night in November. The current edition of Newsweek has a photo illustration of Bannon on the cover taken from his appearance in Midland City.

On Election Day, the strong support for Moore from Wiregrass voters was not enough for the Republican candidate. While Moore carried the Wiregrass handily, he lost the election to Jones by about 22,000 votes.

Wiregrass results were as follows: Houston (Moore 14,796, Jones 9,107), Geneva (Moore 5,431, Jones 1,289), Henry (Moore 3,014, Jones 1,896), Dale (Moore 6,988, Jones 3,842) and Coffee (Moore 8,052, Jones 3,715).
I finally got the chance to experience Bohols Top Tourist destination during my recent trip with AirAsia last November 2017. It was a dream come true since I learned of Bohol in grade school.

February 2016, was my first time in Bohol. I was with a couple bus loads full of online celebrities and influencer. The group was divided in two to explore Bohol Top Tourist spots. The other group was to have the land adventure and the other has the water adventure. I was assigned to the group to do the water adventure, we had whale shark watching activity planned but the weather did not permit us to do so. Instead, we just enjoyed the beautiful white sand beach of Bohol Beach Club where I was able to try water biking .

Where are the Top Tourist Destinations /Attractions in Bohol that we saw for this visit?

Loboc River sand Loboc Church

In 2013, Loboc Church was badly destroyed by the 7.1 magnitued earthquake. I was nice to catch a glimpse of its rehabilitation while we were having our Loboc River cruise lunch. The cruise took about an hour. It was fascinationg to know it is one of the cleanest river in Asia. in fact I can see shrimps swimmimg along as we cruise!

Man-made Forest

Our tour guide said all the Mahogany trees in this 2 kilometer stretch of Bilar in Bohol was planted by Boholanos. All graduating students are required to plant a tree that actually sprouted. They have to document the planting until a sprout comes out! Our guide is somewhere along her 50s. She was talking about her experience from grade school!!!

Baclayon Church

One of the churches that was destroyed by the same 7.1 earthquake in 2013 was Baclayon church. I even have blog post during that time appealing for help in restoring heavily damaged heritage sites in Bohol. Baclayon Church was National Cultural Treasure of our country, and was even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1950s! It was such a delight to see up close how the restoration was taking in place. Slowly but surely. The facade is already perfect but renovations are still being done inside. But still it looks really better than the last image of it after the earthquake!

Mingle with Tarsiers at natural habitat

Our guide was able to secure us a private tour inside the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. This is a non-government and non-profit organization created for tarsier conservation in Bohol. Here you can see Tarsiers up-close but not caged!

Silence is observed while in the sanctuary, an 8 hectare forest inhabited by Tarsiers! We only covered about less than a kilomer area of the forest about 15-30 minute walk carefully looking at every tree amd corners we were able to see about 6 of them. We were told Tarsiers are territorial and there can only be at least 8 tarsiers per kilometer . It was one of the best experience ever especially seeing a noctural creature endemic to the Philippines only in person and it gave me a glance!

There is about 1,700 chocolate hills spread in Carmen Bohol. Some. It was declared a National Geological Monument and proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage . Up to this day since forever no geologist has ever found out how these wonderful hills came to be.

I was so giddy to finally see the Chocolate Hills! The first time. i saw it was in history books in grade school to see it with my own eyes was pure bliss .When I was there the hills were moss green, probably because it was rainy season. The hills are more brown during summer when the leaves has dried out ergo Chocolate Hills like giant Kisses!

Alona Beach

Bohol boast of gorgeous white beaches and this is one of them. Alona was said to be an island named after a pppular 70s starlet Alona Alegre some rich foreigner bought the island for her and named it after her.

I am also listing down some of the places you should stay at to experience the best when in Bohol :

Stay at Amorita Resort

We olny stayed overnight but it was all worth it. Hoping to come back soon. This resort has the biggest resort room ever like house /suite type. Gorgeous pool and pool view overlooking Alona Beach. Delicous food at their Tapas house! Yum!

Belleview Resort

This was the resort we stayed for our 3 days 2 nights trip in 2016. It has large hotel roms nice facily and white sand beach front as well.

Bohol Beach Club

This is where we had our water adventure during my first Bohol visit. White sand beach as well big recrational area and I heard nice rooms as well.

Bohol Bee Farm

Home of the famous honey in Bohol plus a creekside view of the sea when you dine in. They serve exquisite food and ice cream.

Thank you so much AirAsia Philippines and Comco for letting me experience the entire Bohol top tourist spots, finally!

How about you, have you been to Bohol yet? Are there any other places to see that I have missed out?

Stay gorgeous everyone!

P. S. Watch my Bohol vlogs below:

My First time in Bohol
Blog Archive June 2021 (1) May 2021 (77) April 2021 (77) March 2021 (82) February 2021 (68) January 2021 (64) December 2020 (67) November 2020 (66) October 2020 (66) September 2020 (67) August 2020 (74) July 2020 (83) June 2020 (92) May 2020 (86) April 2020 (104) March 2020 (105) February 2020 (74) January 2020 (75) December 2019 (75) November 2019 (70) October 2019 (89) September 2019 (69) August 2019 (81) July 2019 (77) June 2019 (73) May 2019 (110) April 2019 (110) March 2019 (102) February 2019 (85) January 2019 (123) December 2018 (116) November 2018 (112) October 2018 (121) September 2018 (107) August 2018 (150) July 2018 (163) June 2018 (190) May 2018 (145) April 2018 (112) March 2018 (124) February 2018 (113) January 2018 (164) December 2017 (150) November 2017 (144) October 2017 (169) September 2017 (171) August 2017 (135) July 2017 (131) June 2017 (147) May 2017 (160) April 2017 (138) March 2017 (156) February 2017 (143) January 2017 (203) December 2016 (208) November 2016 (185) October 2016 (173) September 2016 (194) August 2016 (232) July 2016 (225) June 2016 (238) May 2016 (231) April 2016 (215) March 2016 (246) February 2016 (226) January 2016 (252) December 2015 (230) November 2015 (250) October 2015 (234) September 2015 (222) August 2015 (253) July 2015 (275) June 2015 (279) May 2015 (223) April 2015 (226) March 2015 (243) February 2015 (258) January 2015 (281) December 2014 (292) November 2014 (296) October 2014 (413) September 2014 (472) August 2014 (506) July 2014 (483) June 2014 (488) May 2014 (512) April 2014 (497) March 2014 (531) February 2014 (482) January 2014 (535) December 2013 (482) November 2013 (441) October 2013 (416) September 2013 (491) August 2013 (521) July 2013 (491) June 2013 (470) May 2013 (457) April 2013 (426) March 2013 (420) February 2013 (414) January 2013 (489) December 2012 (433) November 2012 (504) October 2012 (469) September 2012 (430) August 2012 (427) July 2012 (360) June 2012 (336) May 2012 (362) April 2012 (322) March 2012 (263) February 2012 (224) January 2012 (291) December 2011 (295) November 2011 (325) October 2011 (330) September 2011 (319) August 2011 (333) July 2011 (318) June 2011 (387) May 2011 (373) April 2011 (389) March 2011 (375) February 2011 (335) January 2011 (400) December 2010 (445) November 2010 (395) October 2010 (312) September 2010 (262) August 2010 (277) July 2010 (323) June 2010 (386) May 2010 (360) April 2010 (333) March 2010 (351) February 2010 (336) January 2010 (384) December 2009 (353) November 2009 (300) October 2009 (308) September 2009 (350) August 2009 (298) July 2009 (255) June 2009 (203) May 2009 (193) April 2009 (186) March 2009 (197) February 2009 (173) January 2009 (148) December 2008 (181) November 2008 (197) October 2008 (236) September 2008 (304) August 2008 (314) July 2008 (273) June 2008 (27) May 2008 (1) April 2008 (6) October 2007 (1) May 2007 (1) April 2007 (6) March 2007 (2) February 2007 (1) October 2006 (1) September 2006 (1) August 2006 (4) July 2006 (4) June 2006 (1) July 2005 (1) May 2005 (2) March 2005 (1) June 2004 (2) May 2004 (1) April 2004 (4) March 2004 (2) February 2004 (2) July 2003 (2) June 2003 (5)
(REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany)Relatives of victims react to coffins arriving to the Coptic church that was bombed on Sunday in Tanta, Egypt, April 9, 2017.

The World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit has condemned the twin attacks on Coptic Christians in the Helwan area south of Cairo in which 12 people were killed.

Ten people died when gunmen tried to storm the Mar Mina church, a Coptic Christian church near the capital Cairo in Egypt on Dec. 29, but were intercepted by police.

About an hour later, a Coptic-owned shop in the same area was attacked, leaving two dead.

"Once again, people going about their daily lives, in celebration of holidays, have suffered violent attacks," said Tveit.

"We must join together, not just to condemn these actions but to strengthen our pursuit of just peace, and our resolve not to allow extremist violence to separate us from each other."

The WCC issued an appeal to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, to religious leaders and to governments across the region "to act swiftly and boldly to safeguard the fundamental religious rights of all faiths, to ensure security in the face of violence and to guarantee justice for all people."

Tveit assured those in Egypt and across the world that the WCC fellowship stands with them in prayer, mourning and steadfast hope.

"We pray for the victims and their families, and for the church leaders," he said, "and we seek God's mercy, love and grace that we may be empowered with strength to continue our pilgrimage of justice and peace."

"Through prayer, action and unity, we can bring a powerful force of love in the wake of terror and violence," he said.

Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Christians are frequently targeted in Egypt. During a Palm Sunday service in April at least 45 people were killed and scores more injured during bomb attacks in two separate cities.

In May nearly 30 people were killed when gunmen attacked a bus carrying Coptic Christians heading to a monastery and a Coptic Orthodox priest was stabbed to death in Cairo in October.

Egypt is a Muslim-majority country and its Christian minority - mostly members of the Coptic Orthodox Church - make up around 10 percent of the population.

The attacks have been blamed on, and in many cases claimed by, Islamists affiliated with IS the terrorist group that claims to act in the name of Islam.
By CNN , Dec. 30 , 2017





(CNN) - Iran's government warned citizens Saturday against holding "illegal" public gatherings, following two days of rare anti-government protests which spread to a number of cities.



The protests -- described as the largest public display of discontent since the 2009 Green Movement in Iran -- have emerged against a backdrop of rising food and gasoline prices.

Three students were arrested in unrest outside Tehran University on Saturday, an official with the Ministry of Science told Iran's semi-official Iran Labor News Agency, ILNA. Two have since been released, it said.

Read More: http://www.cnn.com



Join us - become an Elderado today at: LarryElder.com

Follow Larry Elder on Follow Larry Elder on Twitter

"Like" Larry Elder on Facebook




By Washington Examiner , Dec. 30 , 2017





President Trump slammed the "Fake News" media Friday morning while touting that his numbers were on track with former President Barack Obama despite the negative coverage he receives and Russia "hoax."



"While the Fake News loves to talk about my so-called low approval rating, @foxandfriends just showed that my rating on Dec. 28, 2017, was approximately the same as President Obama on Dec. 28, 2009, which was 47%...and this despite massive negative Trump coverage & Russia hoax!" the president tweeted.

Read More: http://www.washingtonexaminer.com



Join us - become an Elderado today at: LarryElder.com

Follow Larry Elder on Follow Larry Elder on Twitter

"Like" Larry Elder on Facebook




EU funds not being used for needs of Syrian refugees

A substantial portion of the funds promised by EU to help Syrian refugees in Turkey is still not being used actively to meet their needs, Turkeys EU Ministry said.

A substantial portion of the funds promised by the European Union (EU) to help Syrian refugees in Turkey is still not being used actively to meet their needs, Turkey's EU Ministry said on Saturday.

"THE SPENDING MECHANISM OF THE EU FUNDS ARE NOT WORKING FAST"

Of the 6 billion euros ($7.20 billion) agreed upon in two deals in 2015 and 2016, only 1.78 billion euros has been transferred to Turkish ministries and international organizations responsible for implementing the projects, the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry stated While Turkey has used more than $30 billion of its national funds for the needs of Syrians who have been in Turkey for approximately seven years, a substantial amount of the 3 billion euros promised by the EU in Nov. 2015 has effectively not been used in the field.

Unfortunately, the spending mechanism of the EU funds are not working fast, it said.

Of the 1.78 billion euros transferred so far, it said 1.3 billion went to international organizations, 270 million to the Ministry of Education, 120 million to the Ministry of Health, and 12 million to the Ministry of the Interior.
Scott Disick is treating girlfriend Sofia Richie to a romantic getaway in Aspen for the New Year's holiday.

According to a new report, the 34-year-old Keeping Up With the Kardashians star and father of three is going all out to make sure that his 19-year-old girlfriend knows exactly how he feels about her.

Scott is going all out to prove to Sofia that she matters more to him than Kourtney, a source told Hollywood Life on Dec. 29.

As the insider explained, Disick feels horrible that Richie has been shunned by his former girlfriend Kourtney Kardashian, 38, with whom he shares three kids. As fans may have noticed, Disick was not allowed to bring Richie to Kris Jenner's annual Christmas party over the weekend but his former girlfriend did bring her new man Younes Bendjima, 24, to the bash.

Sofia is still kind of hurt over being banned from Christmas Eve and Scott feels bad. Hes going to make sure she has the most amazing New Years ever, the insider noted.

Around the time that Disick and Richie confirmed they were dating, Kardashian and Bendjima went public with their own romance, which had been making headlines for months, during a trip to Cannes, France. Since then, they have been spending tons of time together in Paris and Los Angeles.

The insider noted that Disick would normally take Kardashian and their children, Mason, 8, Penelope, 5, and Reign, 3, with him to Aspen on a family trip to celebrate the New Year. However, the source noted that this year is much different, so, rather than spending time with Kardashian and their kids, he'll be partying with his younger girlfriend.

He would normally take Kourtney and the kids to Aspen for New Years thats been kind of a tradition, but this year hes taking Sofia out of town to party instead of going with the family, our source said. And hes totally spoiled her with all new snow gear, he spent over 20 grand on clothes for her. Hes proud to have her on his arm and he wants her to know that shes number one.

Although Kardashian has ousted Richie from her family, rumors have been swirling in regards to Richie joining Keeping Up With the Kardashians or starring alongside Disick in their own show.
After the 1960s, a central theme of debate in the sphere of historical research has been to ascertain to what extent, narrative history writing has been a legitimate way to know, understand, explain, and construct the past. Historians of this age did some remarkable work by incorporating methods of narrative history writing and have received due appreciation. Hayden White (1987: 1) summarises the role and importance of narrative: so natural is the impulse to narrate, so inevitable is the form of narrative for any report on the way things really happened. According to this opinion, the past can only be known through narratives. But then, the question arises: is the only aim of history to know the past? Is it not the process

of identifying historical change as well? The main focus of the debates of narrative history writing has been to know the past in its entirety and understand its truth and meaning. White (1987: 2) further argues that the absence of narrative capacity or a refusal to narrate indicates an absence and refusal of meaning itself.
A little more than a decade after its humiliating exodus, Russia has all but reversed the setback from the United States (US) invasion of Iraq in 2003. This December, Vladimir Putin engaged in what can only be described as a triumphant tour of the Middle East. From Syria, to Egypt, to Turkey, soon after consolidating a strategic partnership with Iran earlier this year, Moscow has positioned itself as a key player in the regions affairs.

Addressing his troops at the Khmeimim Air Base in Syria, Putin declared,
Where is your partner from? You can apply visit visa if your spouse wants to visit the UK for less than 6 months

He need to provide evidence to show that the visitors trip can be afforded whether its being paid for by them or by you.



If you are trying to sponsor him then you need to show your payslips, bank statements, accommodation details to prove that you can manage expenses(rent, mortgage , food, travelling etc) of both you and your partner
I am shortly leaving for a two-week trip to Northern Cyprus, just to have a look around. I am wondering if anyone has a recommendation as to how best to pay for items when I am there?



At the moment I am thinking of buying a small quantity of lira at a money changer in either Paphos or Nicosia and using this for small purchases after I cross the border, and paying for larger purchases using euro (hoping for a fair exchange rate). If needed, I can also change further euro for lira at money changers in Kyrenia and Famagusta.



Does this sound sensible, or does anyone have a better suggestion please?
Hi there,



I can get a UAE passport through ancestry and have started the process of doing so.



I a lot of trading in shares and stocks, nearly all of which is online and would like to register it as a business over there.



Does anyone know, would it be possible to fly in for a week or two and get a virtual office address, and use this as my address for registration of the business (and any required licence) and also for the business bank account?



Can anyone recommend an agent locally who might be able to help me set this up quickly and efficiently?



thanks
One thing you will learn as you integrate yourself into France is "patience." You ask how long it will take - the answer is "as long as it does." But being in Paris should be something of an advantage. In many departements, they have to wait until they get a certain number of folks submitting their OFII form to have enough people to set up the OFII visit sessions. In Paris, your chances are much better for a shorter wait.



If you've sent in the form you got when you got your visa, you've done the first step. Step two is waiting to receive a letter from the OFII giving you the time and place for your medical exam and the initial processing session. Once you're through that initial session, you'll have the "etiquette" (i.e. label) in your passport that turns your visa into a residence permit, and technically you could start working at that point. (An employer needs your residence permit number in order to be able to add you to the payroll.)



But at the end of your initial OFII visit, you'll also have a better idea of what classes (i.e. French language, civics and Life in France) plus any other meetings you will be required to attend, and chances are you may have a schedule for those sessions. Except for the language classes, most of the remaining stuff should be scheduled within 2 to 6 weeks of your initial appointment.



As they say here, "courage!" Waiting to hear from the OFII is no fun, but once things get underway, you'll be busy getting set up. Enjoy this free time while you still can.

Cheers,

Bev
I heard of one shooting on the beach in the last year, not three. I heard a rumor, unverified, that it was a drug-dealer territorial dispute - i.e. the "beach vendor" killed was selling drugs on the beach without the blessing of or paying a take to the gang that claimed the beach as territory.



The police presence is mostly along the hotel road, not on the beach itself. There is a standing checkpoint along the road on the way from the city, where they pull over some cars and search them for guns. But it's impossible to stop the flow as the sheer number of people, hotel zone workers and tourists, traveling back and forth to town means they can only search one car out of hundreds.



There are other standing patrols, there is always a truckload of federal police outside Coco Bongo.



There are occasional patrols by the federal police along the beach, two or four of them will ride along on one or two ATVS.



Most of the violence is not in the hotel zone, there was a map of Cancun posted by the police showing murder rates by city zone, and two zones at the north edge of Cancun and one in the south were the most violent. These are low-cost housing zones with vast tracts of low-cost housing for rent, and they are where the low-level drug dealers live. And get shot.



I have not read of any reports in the past year of tourists getting hit by crossfire or stray bullets.



Still, the trend in the number of murders is for the worse, not the better. Acapulco has been ruined, and I think all the same things that didn't work there are being tried in Cancun. From what I read, Playa Del Carmin is no better.



But as of now, the danger to tourists is incidental not direct. Few places in the world worth visiting are safe, in European tourist areas you have to worry about getting blown up or run over. The number of tourists killed in that way in the last year is much greater than the number killed in Cancun (which to my knowledge was zero).



Yer pays yer money and you takes yer chances.
nickreeves said: The problem is who can I trust with the money. Click to expand...

None of them, of course. Don't pay in advance, keep your wits about you. Check carefully, look through all the paperwork (with someone Portuguese speaking). Get an independent mechanic to check the car before you decide. Act the innocent foreigner and insist you do things your way. Assume they are total crooks from the start and allow them to slowly impress you otherwise. Don't pay in advance.Remember that many cars on stands are just displayed on behalf of their actual owners and the 'salesman' actually knows nothing at all about the history - ask to see all the old inspection certificates (MOT) to see if the Kilometers are correct (clocking is very common).Remember that they will offer a 'warranty' but will try every trick to avoid paying out on it if there is any need to.Lastly - Don't pay in advance. There are some good cars out there if you keep your wits about you.
On the evening of Dec. 12, Priscilla Villarreal posted on Facebook one of the videos she makes several times a day for her 80,000 followers. But instead of alerting them to the citys latest crime scene, Villarreal announced her pending arrest.

Villarreal, a Laredo social media personality and citizen journalist who goes by the nickname La Gordiloca, faces two counts of misuse of official information, a little-used state law.

Laredo police allege that one of their own officers leaked to Villarreal the name of a suicide victim and she published it on her Facebook page before the information was officially released. Villarreals video telling her followers that she was planning to turn herself in to face the charges, complete with mocking comments about the police and the charges and expletives in English and Spanish, drew more than 1 million views.

The thing these (expletives) dont understand is that you all talk to me  about whats happening in our city, Villarreal said into the camera in Spanish. The only thing they want is for me to stop my reports about whats happening in Laredo.

She has accused the police of corruption, attacked officials by name and told her viewers that she has compromising information about police officers that shes saving for a rainy day.

I hope it (expletive) rains tomorrow, Villarreal said in the video, switching to English. Because (expletive) is about to go down.

Villarreal, whos out on bail, said the police have a vendetta against her. Her attorney, Sergio Lozano, said the charges against her were unfounded.

I think she might have created some animus toward her by the way she reports, but love her or hate her, at the end of the day this whole things bigger than her persona, Lozano said. This is about her First Amendment rights, freedom of speech, the right to the free press and the right of the community to receive information about events that occur in our community.

In a statement, the Laredo Police Department said it is committed to protecting everyones rights under the law, especially to the right of freedom of speech.

Media law experts say its unlikely the charges will hold up and that police likely violated Villarreals rights when they arrested her. Villarreals celebrity - she has almost as many Facebook followers as the local English language news broadcast, is within spitting distance of the Laredo Morning Times 108,000 followers, and she was recently profiled in Texas Monthly - her ability to break news, and her deviation from journalistic norms put her at the forefront of a changing media landscape in the border city of 250,000.

Her videos range from plugs for local restaurants to profane rants to a recent tearful tribute to her adopted sister who died in a car wreck. Mostly in Spanish, they feature off-the-cuff ramblings, her singing along to songs on her car stereo and plenty of bad words. She connects with her fans, though, and the comments sections are filled with personal messages thanking Villarreal for her reporting and offering support as she faces off against the Laredo Police Department.

Villarreal, 33, said she considers herself a freelance reporter, and started posting videos online two years ago.

I just started doing it out of the blue and people liked it and asked for more, she said. People started contacting me, theres an accident here, theres an accident here. I was faster than any other news outlet here in Laredo.

In an interview, Villarreal was even-keeled and introspective, little like the bombastic La Gordiloca, but she says of the personality, Thats all me.

Villarreals La Gordiloca personality taps into the same market for uncensored crime reporting that drives the sales of Mexicos gruesome crime tabloids, said Maria Eugenia Guerra, a longtime fixture in the Laredo media scene and publisher of the online news site LareDOS.

Before ending its print edition, LareDOS was the citys alternative newspaper and Guerra has often found herself on the outside, criticizing the city and county governments and the traditional media in town.

Some people have a lot of use for what shes squawking, because she is the first to know, Guerra said. Shes not a journalist, thats for sure. But she is this giant alert system for anything that just happened. Whether its a car accident or something that happened a city hall, shes on it.

Regardless of Villarreals ethical practices as La Gordiloca, her arrest for publicizing the name of a suicide victim is a clear violation of the First Amendment, said Daxton Stewart, an associate dean and associate professor of journalism at Texas Christian University.

The state law Villarreal is accused of breaking specifically exempts information that would be released in response to an open records request, which should include the name of a suicide victim, Stewart said. Her case is further bolstered by a 2001 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that the First Amendment protects those who publish illegally obtained information, as long as the person who publishes the information doesnt break the law to obtain it and whats published is truthful information of public concern.

We have a citizen receiving what really should be public information, and then being punished for receiving that information, and that's a huge problem for free speech and freedom of the press, Stewart said.

Most journalists would be hesitant to publish the leaked name of a suicide victim, Stewart said, but thats a matter of ethics, not law.

Villarreal has a history of run-ins with the law. But she said she turned her life around nine years ago after losing a pregnancy and now works occasionally as a supervisor for a wrecker crew and helps her mom run a dance studio.

In the affidavit against Villarreal, a Laredo police investigator alleged that Villarreal called Officer Barbara Goodman on the phone while shooting a video showing an angry confrontation with police at a crime scene in July. A detective recognized Goodmans voice on the video, which was streamed on Facebook, according to the affidavit. In text messages in April, Villarreal asked Goodman to confirm the name of a suicide victim and the fact that he worked for a federal agency, police allege.

The warrant suggests she already knew the victim was a federal agent. To prove their case, police must show that Villarreal published the information with intent to obtain a benefit, which they said she did by posting the name ahead of the local official news media which in turn gained her popularity in Facebook.

Lozano noted thats similar to a newspaper selling more issues because it broke news.

Joey Tellez, Goodmans attorney, said his client has not been charged with a crime but is facing an administrative investigation.

Theres no evidence to show that she violated the statute that Priscillas being accused of, Tellez said.

He believes the police are trying to find out whether Villarreal has other sources within the department. The information she reports isnt anything his client would have, Tellez said.

As crass as she may be  a law enforcement officer cannot force a reporter to give up her sources the way that theyre doing it, he added.

Villarreal rose to prominence in March 2015, after she documented the fatal shooting of two sisters in Laredo. A video she posted that showed frantic police rushing the lifeless body of one of the girls to a waiting paramedic drew more than 400,000 views. Laredo police refuse to let reporters listen to their scanners, so Villarreals network of sources and the fact that shes a Laredo native help her beat the local media, often staffed by out-of-towners doing short stints on the border.

She said people in Laredo have confianza, trust, in her.

Its the trust of the people, that they trust me a lot more than other media outlets, Villarreal said. (Im) from the neighborhood. Regular people they might come across as being part of their neighborhood and whatnot, and I guess they trust me more than everyone else.

But shes had her share of mistakes.

Her inaccurate reporting earlier this year helped start a gas panic, and after she reported a warning police sent a local elementary school about a man who had an urge to kill children, parents across the city scrambled to bring their children home, even though police said they had already detained the man.

Last year, after inaccurate reports about alleged abuse at a local daycare, Villarreal was sued for defamation and ordered to pay $300,000.

Villarreal says her standards have evolved over the more than two years shes been La Gordiloca. She speaks openly about what she says are past mental health issues that resulted in suicide attempts and said shes now more cautious when reporting about suicides. Shes also regretful that shes posted images of bodies at crimes scenes, she said.

At the start of what I was doing, I was basically reporting on just about anything and everything, and it was graphic, it was unedited and it was raw, Villarreal said. And with time I started to understand that some things are not worth putting out there. Ive seen families come to the scene, Ive seen them break down. Its more of the respect now, I guess. I wont show any people or a person whos deceased at a scene. I will not post it on social media anymore. For the same reasons I know its hard, if it was my family I would have gotten pissed off.

The ability to publish online instantly has also changed who is considered a journalist. Anyone can commit an act of journalism by posting video, images or information about a news event online. Personalities like La Gordiloca, with all her rough edges, are finding a receptive market in the U.S., where trust in the media is waning and resources are dwindling, said Brett Johnson, an assistant professor of journalism at the University of Missouri.

Traditional news organizations can still distinguish themselves by offering a layer of vetting and verification that citizens journalists like Villarreal dont, but theyre being forced to compete for audience, Johnson said.

I think even though professional journalists would say, and I think rightfully so, We have our own ethical codes, we verify information, we're not all about blood and guts, and shock and awe, at the same time they're also beholden to metrics like clicks and engagements and getting eyeballs in front of pages, he said. And I think what she's doing  is not unlike what a lot of professional journalists have been forced to do to get eyeballs in front of screens.

jbuch@express-news.net

This story has been updated to correct the name of TCU associate professor and associate dean Daxton Stewart.
For the past decade, the lives of dozens of City Council members have been made remarkably easier by the work of one Chris Callanen.

Officially, hes known as Assistant to the City Council, but the title doesnt fully capture the work Callanen does.

From public view, Callanen is an omnipresent figure at City Council meetings, where hes often seen delivering documents to officials deliberating the issues of the day. But what members of the public dont see is the tremendous impact he has in the bowels of City Hall, most notably on the fourth floor  where his and the 10 council members offices reside.

My job is to help them transition and get acclimated, Callanen said. My team and I help keep the office running.

Modesty is a key element of Callanens personality. When contacted about this story, he demurred and suggested that the writer might lose his job for turning in a boring story.

Others, though, were happy to talk about the 48-year-old father of two.

Councilman Rey Saldana, the longest-tenured member of the deliberative body, has always told new colleagues that they immediately need to connect with Callanen, and without fail, the freshman members return to their veteran colleague with heaps of praise.

If I could give him another title besides his official title, it would be that of a sherpa, Saldana said. This is a guy who is just helping everybody climb the mountain to understanding the fast-paced world of transitioning into public service.

Freshman Councilwoman Ana Sandoval echoed Saldanas sentiment.

Chris is one of the best, and friendliest, administrators Ive had the pleasure of working with, she said. He helps keep the operation of 10 very different council offices moving forward.

Among other things, Callanen oversees the City Council Project Fund  a pot of discretionary money allocated to each district. Over the years, some council members found themselves in a bit hot water because of how they sometimes spent those tax dollars. But once the council handed over authority to Callanen and adopted his recommended policies, theyve steered clear of any unsavory mistakes.

Callanen has also deftly navigated the politics of office assignments, which can become an issue any time a new member joins the body, by strictly adhering to a policy on who gets the best spaces. When the 10 council offices moved from the second to the fourth floor several years ago, officials were faced with a challenge of determining office assignments. It was a significant issue because the space on the fourth floor isnt equally divided. Some offices are larger. Others have excellent views of the downtown skyline.

Seniority prevails. But what happens when the council has six new members? According to the rules overseen by Callanen, its determined first by swearing-in date  so anyone elected in a general election has seniority over a colleague elected in a runoff that same year. Among a cohort, the council member who has the highest percentage of votes in his or her race has higher ranking than someone who won in a nail-biter election.

Callanen, the eldest of five siblings and the only son, attended Marshall High School and then Taft, when it was opened and split the student body. He studied political science at St. Marys University with an early ambition of becoming a lawyer. But that faded quickly as he pursued other interests.

After college, Callanen spent a few years working for his neighborhood association before landing a job with the city in January 1994. Hes been there ever since and noted during a recent interview that hell have been a city employee in January for 24 years  literally, half his life, which is absolutely astounding to me, he said. Callanen has amassed enough years working for the city to retire, though hes not currently planning on it.

It was in City Council chambers that he met his wife, Leticia, who was then working in the City Clerks Office. They have two daughters, Lindsey, 11, and Cristiana, 10.

Within the municipal government orbit, Callanen is known as a playful prankster  at least at home. Hes carried on a tradition of playing hilarious pranks on his daughters for April Fools Day  a tradition started by his mother, Bexar County Elections Administrator Jacque Callanen.

She was so good at it, we were afraid to leave our rooms, Callanen said.

Venisa Saenz, a former city employee who worked with Callanen, said his humor and personality have always made people feel comfortable.

One of the first things that grabs you when you meet Chris is his warm personality, she said. When your job is to provide support to the City Council, the level of service is very demanding, and Chris does it with ease and somehow puts everyone else at ease.

His laughter is infectious and can be heard down the halls of council chambers as he is usually ribbing a council member or fellow Executive Leadership Team member. Its no surprise that council respects and trusts Chris to oversee the daily operations of their offices. Everyone would be lost without him!

Callanen said his mother, a true public servant, has always been his role model. Hes always harbored an affinity for public service. And that drive to give back to a city he says has given him so much is evident  whether hes assisting council members, helping a member of the public or doing whatever else he can to make San Antonio a better place.

On a recent Wednesday, walking back to City Hall from lunch, Callanen was describing how he showed up at his daughters school, Rhodes Elementary, for a parent-teacher association meeting, looking for some way of helping. Soon thereafter, the mothers of the PTA appointed him chairman of the association.

As he was recounting the story, walking along West Market and Dolorosa streets, Callanen stopped along the way to pick up trash on the sidewalk  an empty bag of chips, a stomped foam cup and a tattered piece of paper.

Those small actions are indicative of what Callanen embodies  decency and compassion topped off with a drive to positively impact the world around him.

Callanen seems like the kind of municipal employee who could spend an entire career at City Hall. But that may not be in the cards. After 24 years with the city, he says he might move on at some point, though he has no plans to do so immediately. Wherever he might land, it will be doing something that fulfills his deep need for public service.

At the end of the day, he said, I need to make sure Im setting a good example for my kids, like my mom did for me.

When that day comes, it will have a substantial impact on the City Council, Saldana said.

The departure of Chris Callanen would strike a bigger blow in my mind than losing half the council or transitioning to a new mayoral administration, or bringing in a new police chief or city manager, Saldana said. He is the person who is making things run behind the scenes. He is the guy behind the curtain in the Wizard of Oz. I think theres going to be at least a five-year transition or turnover to get someone who can equate to half of what hes been able to do for us.

jbaugh@express-news.net | Twitter: @jbaugh
Cite a real poll

Re: Will anyone even notice the tax cut? Catherine Rampell, Other Views, Wednesday:

Finally, a columnist run by the Express-News all but acknowledges that she is a Democrat. Most readers knew this from the extreme bias of your paper. She indicates the public hates the tax bill. Which public? The New York-California public hates Donald Trump for winning against the Hillary-guaranteed-win public?

Since many polls are run by Democrats and the people questioned are Democrats, what do you expect? Find a real poll company that will indicate the politics of people questioned and report results by political percentages, and then we could agree with you.

Too bad Rampell is not able to do her own research because she is tied to a newspaper, the Washington Post, that marches to a Democratic bias. Of course, she brings up the tried-and-true phrase some people are not paying their fair share. How about her? Is she paying her fair share? Prove it in another column.

Philip McKeon, Converse

Easily duped

The tax bill passed.

You will get a tax break (maybe).

The tax break will last long enough for some voters to believe the Republicans are helping them.

Those voters will vote for Republicans.

Then the tax breaks will fade away for We the People.

Corporations and special interests will keep their tax breaks.

It is so easy to fool voters.

Karen Dalglish Seal, La Coste

Lumps for Trump

A source from the North Pole reports that due to his bad behavior, President Donald Trump only got lumps of coal in his stocking this year.

That should be fine with The Donald. He loves coal.

Marsha Guthrie

Someone will suffer

Re: Give Trump a break, Your Turn, Dec. 26:

The letter writer praised President Donald Trump for rolling back regulations, which in turned has caused the economy to drastically improve. This may or may not be true, but I do know that every time I board an airplane or open a can of tuna fish, I am glad we have regulations.

Corporations will definitely improve their bottom line, but what about the environment, the safety of their employees and customers, or the quality of their product? Someone will suffer.

Richard Harris
Grievances against government policies and regulations from all quarters of the textile industry and demands for amendments marked the year in Pakistan despite former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announcing a special package for textile exporters in early 2017. Cotton production crossed 10 million bales in the worlds fourth largest cotton producing country.offers a recap.Cotton production reached 10.685 million bales as of December 15, a 5.3 per cent rise over the corresponding period last year, according to the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA).

Grievances against government policies and regulations from all quarters of the textile industry and demands for amendments marked the year in Pakistan despite former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announcing a special package for textile exporters in early 2017. Cotton production crossed 10 million bales in the world's fourth largest cotton producing country.#

The PCGA urged the government to introduce a five-year cotton policy to raise production to 22 million bales and exports to 3 million bales through crop insurance incentives and quality premium for farmers. Drawing attention to the issue of government and private enterprises failing to supply qualitative, well-germinated and heat- and virus-resistant seeds to the farmers, PCGA said the area under cotton crop should be increased to 4.2 million hectares from the current 3.2 million hectares.Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced in January a Rs 180-billion package to boost the countrys textile and apparel exports. The package included tax-free import of cotton and man-made fibre, and duty drawback on exports of fabrics, made-ups and garments against realisation of import proceeds. A revision to the package was announced in October.However, the year saw complaints from various quarters against the improper and delayed implementation of the package and several other government policies.The Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PRGMEA) in November urged Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to personally direct an early release of funds to implement the package as non-payment of refunds and a sharp rise in cotton yarn prices had adversely hit the value-added textile sector.Criticising the finance ministry and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for delaying the package and terming funds blockage as the primary reason behind the continuous drop in exports, PRGMEA urged the government to release funds to the central bank for disbursement of duty drawback of taxes to the exporters.In December, Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PHMA) appealed for withdrawal of duty on the import of cotton yarn, a raw material for the value-added knitwear sector, following the proposed withdrawal of custom duties on raw cotton import from India. The sharp rise in cotton yarn prices has hit the value-added garment sector hard. The package had declared a number of incentives on cotton yarn import, but no such step has been implemented so far, said PHMA.Associations representing the value-added textile export sector expressed concern over the delay by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) in announcing the procedure for applying duty drawback of taxes (DDT) claims under the revised package more than a month after its announcement.The PREGMEA in September demanded revision of the textile policy by formulating regulations for specific sectors therein to tackle decline in exports. Foreign buyers are demanding new garments based on raw material, which are neither available in Pakistan nor produced by Pakistani weavers.Expressing concern over suspension of the supply of system gas quota of two-day per week to Punjab industries from December 7, the All Pakistan Textile Mills Associations (APTMA) Punjab unit said the government had extended this quota last year to reduce the cost of business and address the inter-provincial disparity. While industries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh provinces continue to be supplied system gas for seven days a week, the same was being denied to the textile industry in Punjab, where factories are using more expensive imported regasified liquefied natural gas.APTMA in September also urged the government to remove the gas infrastructure development cess and provide gas at the regionally competitive rate of PKR 400 per a million British thermal units. The spinning and weaving sectors are facing the brunt of high cost of doing business and this has made them unviable, it said.The association in November wanted immediate withdrawal of restrictions, such as the 4 per cent customs duty and the 5 per cent sales tax, on import of cotton to allow the industry to meet the requirement of quality products by international buyers. Non-tariff measures on import of cotton from India and Brazil should also go as the industry badly needs contamination-free fine and medium staple cotton to produce export-quality goods, it said.The National Tariff Commission was criticised by the Pakistan Yarn Merchants Association (PYMA) in November for imposing anti-dumping duties between 3.25 and 11.35 per cent on import of polyester filament yarn (PFY) from China and 6.35 per cent on such imports from Malaysia. Three-fourths of the domestic requirement of such yarn is met through imports.The APTMA in October opposed the suggestion to stop the 4 per cent rebate on yarn exports on the basis of drawback of duties, local taxes and levies on exports. Export of yarn needs patronage, else it may lead to closure of mills. The spinning sector is incurring losses now by selling yarn below its cost due to poor demand from domestic consumers, APTMA feels. As the domestic industry consumes around 70 per cent of the total yarn production, a substantial amount is left unsold, and needs to be exported.The International Apparel Federation opened its first regional office at the PRGMEA House in Sialkot in September. It will extend support to Pakistani apparel firms in exports, capacity building and compliance. PRGMEA also signed an agreement with the Dutch National Fashion & Textile Association Netherlands on the occasion to support the Pakistani apparel industry. In August, PRGMEA considered setting up a Pakistan Apparels Export Council to facilitate business in the sector.In September, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) urged the United States to extend the generalized system of preferences (GSP), valid till December 2017, to December 2020 and include textile products under the facility.Opposing the government proposal to impose 5 per cent regulatory duty on the import of polyester filament yarn (PFY), the PYMA demanded revival of the polyester filament fabric industry. There is already a 6.23 percent (on average) anti-dumping duty on the Chinese PFY and a high customs duty on that. There is only 25 per cent domestic production of polyester fabric against its total requirement.The Australian Government, Cotton Australia and the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) together launched a partnership in January to support the training of approximately 225,000 cotton farmers in Pakistan, beginning this year. PGMEA also kept itself busy preparing to establish the Pakistan Readymade Technical Training Institute (PRITI) that needs an investment of Rs 125 million. (DS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Turkish textile company Ormo has opened a yarn production facility in Lebane, in Jablanica district of southern Serbia. The Ormo Group, which is the largest exporter of wool in the world, invested 500,000 in the spinning mill, and it plans to invest additional 500,000 in 2018. The new mill will be operated by Ormos Serbian subsidiary LebanTeks.

The new production facility has been set up in eight months in the premises of insolvent state-owned company Eksportekst. The Serbian government invested 200 million dinars ($2 million/1.7 million) in renovation, the Serbian economy ministry said.

Currently, LebanTeks has employed 300 people at the facility, and it plans to increase the number of employees to 650 in the next two years, Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic said while inaugurating the yarn manufacturing unit.

Turkish textile company Ormo has opened a yarn production facility in Lebane, in Jablanica district of southern Serbia. The Ormo Group, which is the largest exporter of wool in the world, invested 500,000 in the spinning mill, and it plans to invest additional 500,000 in 2018. The new mill will be operated by Ormo's Serbian subsidiary LebanTeks.#

Vucic said the new facility will export around 11 million worth of goods to Turkey, Russia and western Europe in 2018.

The LebanTeks unit is the first factory opened in Lebane in the last 30 years, according to Serbian economy ministry. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 29, 2017) - RT Minerals Corp. (TSX.V: RTM) (OTC Pink: RTMFF) (the "Company") announces that, further to its news releases of December 12 and December 22, 2017, the Company has closed the flow-through portion of a private placement to raise gross proceeds of $175,000 (the "Offering") through the sale of 3,500,000 flow-through units priced at $0.05 (the "FT Units"). Each FT Unit consists of one flow-through common share and one half of a share purchase warrant, with each whole warrant exercisable into one further common share at a price of $0.06 for a term of one year.

Insiders purchased 170,000 FT Units. All securities issued in the private placement are subject to a hold period expiring April 30, 2018. A 10% commission comprised of $2,000 cash and 40,000 common shares at a deemed price of $0.05 per share will be paid to registered representatives on $40,000 of the Offering.

The proceeds from the sale of the flow-through portion of the Offering will be used for drilling of the Red Carbonate Zone ("RCZ") located on the Company's 100% optioned Norwalk gold property located near Wawa, Ontario, as detailed in the Company's news releases dated November 27 and December 27, 2017.

ABOUT RT MINERALS CORP.

RT Minerals Corp. is a junior resource company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and evaluation of primarily gold and diamond properties in Canada. The Company's principal mineral properties include the Norwalk, Dill River and Golden Reed Mine gold properties situated adjacent to the borders of Red Pine Exploration Inc.'s Wawa Gold Project near Wawa, Ontario; and the Ballard Lake diamond and gold property located approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Wawa, Ontario that encompasses 366 square kilometres (~141 square miles).

The Company's common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "RTM" and on the OTC Pink Market under the symbol "RTMFF" with DTC eligibility for trading in the United States.

For more information on the Company and its properties, please visit the Company's website at www.rtmcorp.com.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Paul Antoniazzi

President and Chief Executive Officer

RT Minerals Corp.

Toll Free: 877-581-3170

Telephone: 604-681-3170

Fax: 604-681-3552

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
CANTON, OH / ACCESSWIRE / December 29, 2017 / Rodney Napier, founder and Chairman of children's charity The Granted Wish Foundation, proudly announced the appointment of United States Army Major Margaret DeLillo-Storey to the Board of Governors. Also reelected to the Board are Reverend Michael Balash, Jay D. Spencer, and Stefanie Coletti.

Currently the Dean of Students at Perry High School, Margaret DeLillo-Storey has had a long career in mental health and the armed forces. After obtaining a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling, she planned to be a military psychologist for returning veterans of the US army. Instead, she became a civilian clinical counselor, where she specialized in post-traumatic stress disorder among teenagers and young adults. That passion led her to become a founding member of the Stark County Traumatized Child Task Force, district mental health counselor for Perry Local Schools, where she attended as a child. Here, she serves any student who may exhibit the need for counseling. It is this knowledge and expertise that makes her ideal to join Rodney Napier's The Granted Wish Foundation, created to help physically challenged children and young adults.

"Our organization works with hundreds of children every day," says Rodney Napier. "I am so grateful that Margaret DeLillo-Storey will be able to bring her experience and understanding of young minds, in our efforts to fulfill the dreams of more children in the future."

Based in Canton, Ohio, The Granted Wish Foundation is a non-profit organization created in 2005 designed to care and provide for physically challenged children who otherwise may not have the means to care for themselves. Over the past decade, it has fulfilled the dreams of hundreds of children. Other programs within the non-profit include 'Rosalie's House' and 'Adopt-A-Family'. Learn more about supporting The Granted Wish Foundation by visiting their website, www.grantedwish.org or emailing scoletti@grantedwish.org

Rodney Napier - Business Leader and Philanthropist: http://rodneynapiernews.com

Rodney Napier - Brings Together Haitian Amputee With U.S. Family: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/rodney-napier-brings-together-haitian-171500674.html

Rodney Napier - AMCH Proud to Support The Granted Wish Foundation: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/rodney-napier-amch-proud-support-035000174.html

Contact Information

RodneyNapierNews.com

http://rodneynapiernews.com

contact@rodneynapiernews.com

SOURCE: Rodney Napier
ORANGE COUNTY, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 29, 2017 / As America's economic performance consistently ranks #1 internationally according to the IMD World Competitiveness report, companies working within this highly-competitive marketplace must stay ahead of trends and evolve their sales and marketing strategy to ensure profitability. Veteran entrepreneur Nicholas Kohlschreiber advises small, medium and large-scale business operators to consistently assess emerging trends, communications channels and technologies and other industry player behaviors with an aim to convert this data knowledge into 'refreshed' and highly targeted marketing campaigns.

In 2017, small business technology spending in North America topped $658USD - an 18% increase from levels reported in 2010. A majority of this investment is diverted towards IT services which can vary from bespoke customer relationship management platforms or mobile apps to subcontracted specialist firms. Nicholas Kohlschreiber explains that innovative service-providers such as AdBoom.io can revitalize client business marketing solutions through the application of proprietary technologies and software infrastructure designed specifically for their defined task and relevant consumer base. Kohlschreiber urges forward-thinking companies to anticipate disruptive technologies (such as the introduction of smartphones) by engaging as much as possible with current trends and technologies, or by enlisting the services of professional marketing solution suppliers who have far-reaching industry perspective.

Business Insider reports that customer loyalty is a critical component of increased sales, with 95% of a retailer's future revenue being generated by as little as 5% of its existing customer base. This indicates that a highly important part of a company's strategy is to target marketing for repeat customers (and not only for new leads). Nicholas Kohlschreiber recommends a multichannel, personalized approach that suggests relevant purchases (according to demonstrated personal interests), rewards loyalty (through tiered or VIP programs) and engages clients with alternatives if they are not satisfied with initial transactions. An important part of this approach is to regularly test and research new methods in limited locations (to reduce cost) before expanding a wide scale strategy based on collected data. According to Market Force, 81% of U.S. online consumers are influenced by social media posts by their friends (even more than by those directly posted by followed brands). This statistic points to the undoubtable power of social media influencers and brand ambassadors - in other words, customer referrals. Nicholas Kohlschreiber sees this factor as a key to developing an effective marketing campaign and sales increases.

Nicholas Kohlschreiber is a California-based media company owner and serial entrepreneur, overseeing hundreds of employees and providing invaluable insight and guidance to thousands of clients. Having spent three years in the esteemed Martin Paul Executive Research Program prior to developing and expanding a consortium of lucrative businesses (including solar energy, customer logistics, and marketing solution agencies), Kohlschreiber is an avid businessman recognized for his ingenuity and ability to generate organic success. In his spare time, he is a dedicated philanthropist and mentor to those who can benefit from his knowledge and acumen.

Nick Kohlschreiber - Expert in Modern Marketing: http://www.nickkohlschreibernews.com

Nick Kohlschreiber - Business Entrepreneur & Founder of TeleTree: http://nickkohlschreiberreviews.com

Nick Kohlschreiber - Creative Marketing Solutions Expert: http://nickkohlschreibermarketing.com

Contact Information

NickKohlschreiberNews.com

www.NickKohlschreiberNews.com

contact@nickkohlschreibernews.com

SOURCE: Nick Kohlschreiber
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the recent exchange of prisoners and detainees in eastern Ukraine and commended all those who helped bring about the exchange. '[The Secretary-General] hopes that this humanitarian act could serve as a positive step towards strengthening the confidence among the sides,' read a statement attributable to his spokesperson Thursday. '[He also] urges all parties to take further measures in this spirit, including by fully respecting and upholding the ceasefire agreement and continuing to work together to fulfil all of their commitments under the Minsk agreements,' it added. On 27 December, more than 300 detainees were released with the participation of the UN partner, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The operation took place near the town of Maiorsk and is the largest since the beginning of the conflict. In late February 2014, the situation in Ukraine transcended what was initially seen as an internal Ukrainian political crisis into violent clashes in parts of the country, later reaching full-scale conflict in the east. Nevertheless, despite a September 2014 ceasefire agreed in Minsk, the situation deteriorated and the crisis is now slipping into its fourth year. 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.
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, 2017-12-30 05:13 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Thunderbird Resorts Inc. ("Thunderbird" or "Group") (NYSE Euronext Amsterdam:TBIRD) (FSE:4TR) reports the following results of the Company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM-2017) held in La Mesa, California on December 29, 2017: In the AGM-2017, there was a total of 13,362,790 shares voted at the meeting. This represents approximately 47.5% of Thunderbird's issued and outstanding share capital which, as of the record date of November 21, 2017, was 28,103,407 common shares. -- On the matter of election of the board of directors, the shareholders voted 99% in favor of electing Salomon Guggenheim, George Gruenberg, and Stephan Fitch to serve on the board for the ensuing year. -- Baker Tilly was appointed as auditors for the ensuing year and the Board of Directors was authorized to affix their remuneration. -- The shareholders received and considered the financial statements together with the auditor's report thereon for the financial year ended December 31, 2016. Following the meeting of shareholders the Board of Directors appointed the following persons as officers for the ensuing year: -- Salomon Guggenheim, President and Chief Executive Officer -- Albert W. Atallah, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary -- Peter LeSar, Chief Financial Officer Based on the recommendations made by the Nominating Committee, the Board approved the following committee members: Audit Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) George Gruenberg Advisory member: Peter Lesar Compensation Committee George Gruenberg (Chairman) Stephan Fitch Salomon Guggenheim Nominating and Governance Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) George Gruenberg Salomon Guggenheim Investment Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) Advisory members: Salomon Guggenheim, Peter Lesar and Albert Atallah ABOUT THE COMPANY We are an international provider of branded casino and hospitality services, focused on markets in Latin America. Our mission is to "create extraordinary experiences for our guests." Additional information about the Group is available at www.thunderbirdresorts.com. Cautionary Notice: This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the securities laws and regulations of various international, federal, and state jurisdictions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including without limitation, statements regarding potential revenue and future plans and objectives of the Group are forward-looking statements that involve risk and uncertainties. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Group's forward-looking statements include competitive pressures, unfavorable changes in regulatory structures, and general risks associated with business, all of which are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Group's documents filed from time-to-time with the AFM and other regulatory authorities. Contact: Salomon Guggenheim  E-mail: plesar@thunderbirdresorts.com


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi of Egypt to offer condolences to the people of Egypt after the attack on worshippers and security forces in the city of Helwan, which is located south of Cairo.



President Trump condemned the attack and reiterated that the United States will continue to stand with Egypt in the face of terrorism. President Trump emphasized his commitment to strengthening efforts to defeat terrorism and extremism in all their forms.



A gun attack on a church near Egypt's capital killed at least nine people and wounded five others early Friday, the latest in a string of assaults targeting the Christian minority.



The assailant, armed with an explosive device and a machine gun, fired at the entrance of Saint Mina Coptic Church in Helwan, a southern suburb of Cairo, as he tried to cross a security barricade to enter the house of worship, Egypt's Interior Ministry said in a statement.



Security forces arrested the perpetrator after shooting him, preventing further deaths, the interior ministry said, noting that the assailant is an active extremist who has taken part in previous assaults.



Islamic State on Friday claimed responsibility for the assault on the church. In a statement posted by its media arm Amaq, the extremist group said the attack was carried out by 'covert units' but didn't give any details.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
Technavio has announced the top five leading vendors in their recentglobal compensation software marketreport. This research report also lists 22 other prominent vendors that are expected to impact the market during the forecast period.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170821005562/en/

Technavio has published a new report on the global compensation software market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The global compensation software market is expected at a CAGR of almost 9% during the forecast period. One of the major reasons for this growth is the need to streamline data management and compensation workflows in enterprises, enabling decision makers to make informed reward decisions. Compensation software consolidates compensation and performance-related data securely in one place and utilizes advanced analytical tools to drive and report employee reward strategies.

Competitive vendor landscape

This report provides an exhaustive list of all the global vendors that provide the compensation software. Vendors are identified based on the revenue and market dominance in terms of their geographical presence, product portfolio, and R&D. The vendor matrix included in the report gives a detailed comparison of the features, deployment model, training and support, customer size, and geographical presence of each major vendor.

"The global compensation software market is witnessing intense competition because of the presence of many vendors. The major vendors are constantly competing for a leadership position in the market. The major vendors such as ADP, Oracle, SAP SuccessFactors, Ultimate Software, and Workday in the global compensation software market are identified based on the market visibility, market penetration, and market momentum," says Amrita Choudhury, an industry expert in enterprise application research from Technavio

This report is available at a USD 1,000 discount for a limited time only: View market snapshot before purchasing

Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free

Top five compensation software market vendors

ADP

ADP offers cloud-based HCM solutions that integrate payroll, talent management, HR, time management, and tax and benefits administration. The company offers HCM solutions for both SMEs and large enterprises.

Oracle

Oracle provides hardware systems (includes Oracle engineered systems, storage, servers, networking), database and middleware software, application software, cloud infrastructure software, along with support and related services.

SAP SuccessFactors

SAP acquired SuccessFactors a provider of cloud-based human capital management software for talent management, core HR, and HR analytics in 2012. After the acquisition, the company functions as an independent entity and was renamed SAP SuccessFactors. This acquisition has helped the company to establish its presence in cloud services and analytics.

Ultimate Software

UltiPro, the cloud-based solution from Ultimate Software, simplifies and improves work experiences for all employees. The solution helps the organizations to manage global people, data, and process easily.

Workday

Workday provides enterprise cloud applications for finance and HCM. The company provides software solutions for financial management, HCM, and analytics. In addition, the company also provides professional services, training and support, and customer services.

Looking for more information on this market? Request a free sample report

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report including the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

Browse Related Reports:

Global Courier Management Software Market 2017-2021

Global Gym Management Software Market 2017-2021

Global Social Media Management Software Market 2017-2021

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 10,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170821005562/en/

Contacts:

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media Marketing Executive

US: +1 630 333 9501

UK: +44 208 123 1770

www.technavio.com
Jaipur: Founder-patron of Rajput Karni Sena Lokendra Singh Kalvi has said that it is "too early" to comment on censor board's decision to give U/A certification to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has proceeded with the certification process of the movie and has suggested the director to change the film's title to Padmavat.

"A lot of clarifications are yet to come on the issues and it will be too early to comment on it. My stand is very clear, which is known to everyone," Kalvi told PTI.

"It was proposed that film will be reviewed by a panel of nine intellectuals, but the film was reviewed by only three persons. The recommendations of the panel are not in public domain so it will be too early to comment. I am still on the same path, which I had chosen," he added.

President of Rajput Sabha Giriraj Singh Lotwara said that it was unfortunate that the board wants to favour the film producers instead of considering recommendations of the panel that reviewed the film.

He said that he will continue to protest against Padmavati in democratic manner.

"CBFC should be transparent, unbiased and should think in the interest of the country. If the board was not ready to consider recommendations of the panel, then why was it constituted? We will continue to protest in a democratic manner and will decided on future course of action after holding discussions," he said.

According to a release issued by the CBFC, the board had a meeting of their examining committee on 28 December and decided to give the film a "U/A certification along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title to Padmavat".

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, had said his lavishly mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

The board also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant changes in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed, the release further stated.

A number of organisations, especially Karni Sena, have been opposing the release of the period drama claiming that it has portrayed the Rajput queen in bad light.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje had earlier written to Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani, urging her to ensure that Padmavati is not released without necessary changes.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's beleaguered film Padmavati may soon be set for release. However, it may release under a different title, as per news reports by India Today and The Quint.

The development comes after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the film with a U/A certificate  with the condition that the film's title is changed from Padmavati to Padmavat.

Padmavat is the 16th century epic in verse by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi. It is felt that changing the film's title to Padmavat will reflect that it is a work of fiction and not based on any historical figure.

Sources speaking with CNN-News18 said that disclaimers about sati and there being 'no intention to distort history' would be included in the film, and that the filmmakers had 'agreed to some conditions'. The attempt is to "try to achieve consensus between all parties" the source added.

Central Board of Film Certification had examining committee meeting on 28 Dec to review #Padmavati & decided to give it UA certificate along with some modifications & likely change of the title to Padmavat. Certificate to be issued once required & agreed modifications are made. pic.twitter.com/tiFIW2gDGD  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

The film was approached with balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers & society. Considering complexities & concerns around the film the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC to add perspective to the final decision: CBFC #Padmavati  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr.Chandramani Singh & Prof K.K. Singh of Jaipur University. Panel member had insights & also some reservations regarding claimed historical events & socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length: CBFC #Padmavati  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Bhansali's film  which stars Deepika Padukone as Rani Padmini, Ranveer Singh as Alauddin Khalji and Shahid Kapoor as Rana Ratan Singh  has been at the centre of widespread protests by the Rajput groups and allies since earlier this year. Organistions such as the Karni Sena not only manhandled Bhansali and disrupted the film's shoot in Rajasthan, they called for a ban on Padmavati's release in the state. Several state governments then declared that they would not allow Bhansali's film to be screened in their theatres. Deepika and Bhansali received death threats.

Padmavati was originally scheduled to release on 1 December, but was sent back by the CBFC for filing an incomplete submission before it. The board later invited two historians from Jaipur to view the film before passing it.

A source told CNN-News18 that the Karni Sena wants all references to jauhar and the ghoomar removed, and has not accepted Padmavat as a title.

Vikram Singh of the Karni Sena told Times Now: "The cuts don't make a difference when our culture is not protected. We will continue our movement (against the film). We won't allow pseudo-liberals to destroy history."

With the new title and the U/A rating, will the decks be cleared for Padmavati/Padmavat's release. Or will the Karni Sena's continued opposition throw a spanner in the works?
This Christmas-New Year, Kerala is witness to a celebration of depravity. What else do you call film producer Joby George's job offer to 24-year-old Printo, a house painter who was arrested by the Ernakulam police on 26 December on charges of threatening, intimidating and abusing actor Parvathy and her family online.

Printo was released on bail in less than 48 hours and he came out to hear of George's announcement over Facebook.

"Mone (son), if you can contact me or come to my home or office, you have a job till I die, in India, UK, Dubai, Australia or drop in your number, I will call you,'' the message read.

George's heart bled for Printo presumably because he had put his money in Kasaba, the film that is at the heart of the controversy. Kasaba was Malayalam superstar Mammootty's Eid release last year, in which he played circle inspector Rajan Zachariah, a rogue cop with several shades of grey. In one scene, Zacharaiah walks over to a female police officer, pulls at her belt and tells her that he can make her miss her menstrual cycle. This vulgar threat to rape was not the only low point of the film, the movie was laced with several such lines, double-meaning dialogues and scenes that denigrate women.

In a critique of Kasaba in July 2016, I had written: "Mammootty's character equates machismo with crude innuendos. And they come at the expense of the women in the film, with lewdness defining the narrative. The intention of the film may have been to entertain the filmgoers but gender equality is the casualty.''

At an open forum at the International Film Festival of Kerala earlier this month, Parvathy, while discussing misogyny in movies, referred to Kasaba without naming it.

"I was disappointed to watch an actor par excellence mouth dialogues to a woman that were not just derogatory but saddening. Cinema reflects society, many say. But the line to draw is whether to glorify a hero like this or not,'' Parvathy had said at the forum.

It was only when filmmaker Geethu Mohandas nudged her to name the movie, that Parvathy mentioned Kasaba. That was provocation enough for Mammootty fans to start Pongala (a slang for trolling even though Pongala is a festival involving women) even though Parvathy had not criticised the actor. In a land where superstars are worshipped as demi-gods, Parvathy was seen as having defiled their Godliness. Never mind if Mammootty's character in Kasaba was crass and the fact that he chose not to use his seniority and stardom to make alterations in the script, extremely irresponsible.

In fact, Rojan, a student from Kollam who is the second person to be arrested, is proof of the influence stars like Mammootty have. Rojan sent three direct messages to Parvathy on Instagram, the third one threatening "We are planning to rape you. Be ready.''

"No, I am not going to dilute the messages. He described how many people are going to rape me and how they are going to rape me. He said it will happen very soon and asked me to be ready,'' says Parvathy, speaking exclusively to Firstpost from Dubai.

It is not as if Mammootty was unaware of the storm that had broken over Kasaba and what Parvathy was being subjected to. When Parvathy texted Mammootty soon after the controversy broke out, he reportedly replied, "It is okay. Don't worry. I am used to this.''

Little that Mammootty knew it was not about him but Parvathy and by extension, any one who supported her.

"No one made an effort to understand the criminal nature of the issue. I myself recognised it on the 4th day of the trolling, where it had gone beyond Parvathy talking about a film. It had gone to a level of manic aggression and that space worried me. It was a planned attack that I saw, a sort of brotherhood which can lead to a lot of criminal activity,'' explains Parvathy.

One statement from Mammootty at that stage could have muted the mob, but the silence of the Superstar was like oxygen to the online vandals. He finally spoke to Manorama Online two weeks later on Thursday to say, "I don't go after any controversy. What we need are meaningful debates. I have not assigned anyone to respond on my behalf or defend me.''

This is, to put it bluntly, a rather lame statement, especially coming from someone like Mammootty who is an articulate person.

"I leave it to him to decide what works for him,'' says Parvathy, in response. "I am not in a space to judge that because to be honest, if anything had to be spoken, it should have been done a long time ago. It is okay for him to clarify now but it has now escalated to a level where it is now a criminal activity.''

While the Women in Cinema collective in Kerala, politicians like MP Shashi Tharoor and Kerala Finance minister Thomas Isaac have supported Parvathy, many other actors and filmmakers have trashed her for what they see as insolence in "criticising Mammootty''. AMMA, the association of Malayalam Film Artistes, has been conspicuous by its silence. Not surprising given that it is under the stranglehold of the patriarchal bigwigs of the Malayalam film industry, including Mammootty who is its general secretary.

"We need to dilute the term - the doyens of the industry, the male superstars. We don't need doyens, we need a healthy environment to create art. This obsession to concentrate power in a few is not going to fly any more,'' says Parvathy.

Earlier this year, the Malayalam film industry was caught in a storm when superstar Dileep was arrested in the molestation case of an actress. Both episodes have exposed the faultlines within Mollywood and the male chauvinism and misogyny both within the industry and civil society at large. Parvathy however, insists filmdom in Kerala is a good space to be in.

"This unrest will lead to change. In any other industry, I would have been advised to shut up and move on. Here too I was, but the political consciousness is better in Kerala,'' says Parvathy.
New Delhi: The censor board's suggestion to Sanjay Leela Bhansali to change the title of his film Padmavati to Padmavat has led to a flurry of reactions on Twitter with many users poking fun at the latest development.

Many social media users took to the micro-blogging site to express their views on the modifications suggested by the CBFC.

Director Anubhav Sinha said, "So Bhansali can now actually throw a party. Just that Whisky will be called 'Whiska' Vodka will be called 'Vodki' and so on."

So Bhansali can now actually throw a party. Just that Whisky will be called 'Whiska' Vodka will be called 'Vodki' and so on.  Anubhav Sinha (@anubhavsinha) December 30, 2017

Apurva Asrani tweeted, "If 'Padman' picks up the 'i' that 'Padmavat' drops, they'll have to call it 'Padmani'. From the frying pan into the pyre."

If Padman picks up the i that Padmavat drops, theyll have to call it Padmani. From the frying pan into the pyre. #Padmavati  Apurva Asrani (@Apurvasrani) December 30, 2017

Comedian Sorabh Pant tweeted, "'Padmavati' already got released. They changed the character name, the plot and history. They called it, 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' but Indians know..."

#Padmavati already got released.

They changed the character name, the plot and history. They called it, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" but, Indians know...  Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) December 30, 2017

Actor Prakash Raj tweeted, "'Padmavati' to be 'Padmavat' plus 26 cuts.. says CBFC... Finally has someone achieved to chop something of 'Padmavati'. An 'I' from the title."

#padmavati to be PADMAVAT +26 cuts..saysCBFC....finally has some one achieved to chop something of padmavathi. an I from the title. LOL  Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) December 30, 2017

There were reports doing the rounds that the board had suggested 26 cuts to the film, but in a statement, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi clarified that they have only advised five modifications, including the title change, but "no cuts".

Board member Vani Tripathi Tikoo also tweeted about the same, saying, "Stop the Misinformation Campaign for God sake on 'Padmavati', CBFC has not asked for any cuts with the U/A certificate its only few modifications and a title change with the consent of the filmmaker. It's finally over so let the film release and judge it then!"

Stop the Misinformation Campaign for God sake on #Padmavati ,CBFC has not asked for any cuts with the U/A certificate its only few modifications and a title change with the consent of the film maker. It's finally over so let the film release and judge it then!  Vani Tripathi Tikoo (@vanityparty) December 30, 2017

Actor Renuka Shahane and director Rahul Dholakia expressed their displeasure with the board's suggested changes. Dholakia also linked the board's decision with the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh elections. "The 'I' of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of 'Padmavati' to 'Padmavat' and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby nobody will have any issue and nobody's sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game-changing... I must say," Shahane tweeted.

The "I" of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of "Padmavati" to "Padmavat" and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby nobody will have any issue and nobody's sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game changing I must say!!!  Renuka Shahane (@renukash) December 30, 2017

"Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw filmmakers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, 'Padmavati' has got its U/A, it will be praised. Rajputs' heroism will be talked about by the same people who slammed it. Thank God we have not made a film called Gandhi! Can you imagine what title CBFC would suggest," Dholakia tweeted.

Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw film makers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, @FilmPadmavati has got its UA, it will be praised. rajputs heroism will be talked about by the same people who slammed it.  rahul dholakia (@rahuldholakia) December 30, 2017

#padmavat thank God we have not made a film called Gandhi ! Can you imagine what title #cbfc would suggest ?  rahul dholakia (@rahuldholakia) December 30, 2017

The board had a meeting of their examining committee on 28 December and decided to give the film a "UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title on the basis the attributed material/creative source".

The board also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of "Sati" and also relevant changes in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed, said a CBFC release.

Joshi said the producers and the director of the film are "completely in agreement" with the proposed modifications.

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, had said his lavishly-mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th-century epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorts history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

Historians are divided on whether Padmini actually existed.

As protests spread across various states, the film's 1 December release was deferred as it didn't have censor clearance.
A 15-year-old boy was admitted to a hospital in Delhi on Friday after he was shot at during celebratory firing at a wedding procession, said media reports.

15-year-old admitted to a hospital after being shot at during celebratory firing in Chandni Mahal #Delhi  ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017

The victim received two bullet wounds and is currently in serious condition at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital in New Delhi, said a report on ZEE News.

According to ABP News, the incident happened in Chandni Mahal locality of Delhi when a person who was part of the wedding procession opened fire.

The report added that the accused has been identified by the police and is now absconding. According to locals, several rounds of bullets were fired.

It isn't the first such incident of people being hit by celebratory firing in north India. In November, an 8-year-old boy was killed by celebratory firing at a wedding function in Punjab, Hindustan Times had reported. Police had arrested the maternal uncle of the groom for the incident after he fired from a 32-bore revolver.

In September, an assistant sub-inspector in Delhi was arrested after a bullet accidentally went off from his firearm and injured a person during a marriage ceremony, The Pioneer had reported. A case was registered against ASI Anil Dwivedi under Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code.

A 28-year-old disc jockey was killed in June, allegedly in celebratory firing at a village in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar. Two people were arrested under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code in connection with the death.

With inputs from PTI
Guwahati: India has mobilised around 60,000 police and paramilitary troops in a sensitive border state ahead of the publication of a list of citizens it says will be used to detect and deport illegal immigrants  mainly Muslims  from neighbouring Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took power in Assam for the first time in 2016, vowing to act against illegal Muslim residents who take away jobs from local Hindus.

On Sunday the state government will release a draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) after a census carried out for the first time since 1951.

The exercise could lead to communal tensions in Assam, which has the second highest percentage of Muslims of any Indian state. Muslims leaders have called the NRC a tool to make them stateless, likening themselves to Myanmar's persecuted Rohingya minority.

The NRC is being done to identify illegal Bangladeshis residing in Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assams finance minister who is also in charge of the citizenship register, told Reuters. All those whose names do not figure in the NRC will have to be deported. Were taking no chances and hence all security measures have been taken.

Sarma said Hindu Bangladeshis who faced persecution there would be given shelter in India, in line with federal policy.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi had no immediate comment.

Bangladeshs home minister Asaduzzaman Khan said Dhaka had no knowledge of any plans to deport people. We didnt receive any information from the Indian government, neither formally nor informally, he said.

It is estimated that there are more than 2 million Muslims in Assam who trace their roots to Bangladesh.

To be recognised as Indian citizens, they must be able to produce documents proving that they or their family lived in the country before 24 March, 1971.

My grandparents and my parents were all born in India but today we are finding it difficult to provide documents to support our claims that we are Indians, said Asiful Rahman, a teacher at an Islamic seminary in a Muslim-majority district of Assam.

Our parents and grandparents were illiterate and did not keep any legal documents, and for that we are facing the test of proving our Indian nationality now.

Tens of thousands of people fled to India from Bangladesh during its war of independence from Pakistan in the early 1970s. Most of them settled in Assam, in Indias north-east, and the neighbouring state of West Bengal, where there are similar demands to send back illegal Muslim immigrants.

"Bags packed"

When Modis BJP swept to power nationally in 2014, the election was marred by sectarian violence in Assam that killed more than 40 people. During that campaign, Modi told illegal immigrants in states bordering Bangladesh to have their bags packed ready to be sent home should he win.

Since taking office, meanwhile, the government has been making it easier for Hindus, Buddhists and Christians from Bangladesh and Pakistan to gain citizenship in India.

Proposed changes to the law would mean no Hindu or other minority from those countries who arrived in India before the end of 2016 would be considered illegal immigrants.

Modi's administration also plans to nearly halve the number of years Hindus and other minorities from the neighbouring countries need for naturalisation to six years, in line with a long-held belief on the religious right that India is the home for all Hindus.

A pilot project to update the NRC in Assam in 2010, under the previous Congress government, had to be stopped due to what the government called law and order problems. The current process is being monitored by the Supreme Court and it could be months or years before the list is finalised.

The Assam government has stepped up security after a senior Muslim leader told a news conference last month that any registration of citizens on the basis of religion would be devastating for the country and there could be unrest.

One needs a number of documents to prove the family lineage and nationality, said Rafiqul Ali, a college student in the Muslim-dominated Barpeta district of Assam. I know many of my friends and relatives who were unable to submit all the documents required to get names enlisted in the NRC.
Firozabad (Uttar Pradesh): BJP president Amit Shah has termed a bill criminalising instant triple talaq by making it punishable by up to three years imprisonment for the husband as a "revolutionary step" by the Narendra Modi government.

The Lok Sabha passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill by a voice vote on Thursday after rejecting a string of amendments moved by Opposition members. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a revolutionary step. In the history of Parliament, 28 December will be etched as a golden day. The government as per the Supreme Court verdict, came up with an anti-triple talaq bill, and got it passed. This is a strong step in ending the atrocities unleashed on Muslim women in the name of triple talaq," Shah said.

The Supreme Court had outlawed instant triple talaq in August and asked the government to frame a law within six months.

Accusing the previous state governments of ignoring developmental works, Shah said, "Now the Yogi (Adityanath) government is working with full readiness with the Centre for upliftment of the poor farmers. In a recent programme held in Noida, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he has adopted Uttar Pradesh. This shows his love for the state and his intention to develop it. Modi and Adityanath are making Uttar Pradesh an ideal state."

The BJP chief was in Firozabad to lay the foundation of a hospital. Adityanath, who was also present at the occasion, said, "The electoral success of the BJP in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh has increased the party's saakh (reputation) in the world, and we

are moving towards development."

He added that for development of Firozabad  known for its glass bangles  the UP government would soon implement its "one district, one product" policy.
Jammu: Amid the spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan, Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Saturday reviewed the operational preparedness of the force in Jammu and the prevailing security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, an defence spokesperson said.

The army chief also visited forward posts along the LoC and interacted with soldiers in Rajouri sector, where an army major and three jawans were killed by Pakistani troops on 23 December, he said.

"The Chief of Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat, accompanied by the Northern Army Commander Lt General D Anbu visited (Jammu-based) White Knight Corps to review the operation preparedness and the prevailing security situation," the spokesman said.

The Army Chief was briefed by General Officer Commanding, White Knight Corps Saranjeet Singh, about preparedness in dealing with the emerging and dynamically changing security situation and the measures taken to thwart "misadventures by the inimical forces", he said.

The spokesman said the army chief visited Rajouri Sector, where he was briefed on operational readiness by the General Officer Commanding, Ace of Spades division.

The army Chief, while complimenting the formations for their unflinching efforts, reiterated the continuous need to remain prepared in order to counter nefarious designs of the enemy, the spokesman said.
As the release of the initial part-draft of the contentious National Register of Citizens (NRC) reaches its final stages, security has been beefed up across Assam on Saturday to maintain law and order.

The government has mobilised around 60,000 police and paramilitary troops in sensitive areas of the border state as the Registrar-General of India prepares to publish the list on the midnight of 31 December, which it says will be used to detect and deport illegal immigrants from neighbouring Bangladesh.

Speaking to Firstpost, Assam Director-General of Police Mukesh Sahay said that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to avoid untoward incidents after the release of the list.

We have been reviewing our security preparations every day and have been reacting to the evolving situation, Sahay said, We have categorised regions based on their perceived sensitivity and planned accordingly.

When asked which areas have been marked sensitive, Sahay said that a places sensitivity will depend on the profile of the draft that will be released to the public.

Pointing out that social media is an important factor adding to the regions security, he said, Most of the misinformation, rumours etc spread through social media, so we are closely monitoring that space as well.

Last week, Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba visited the state to take stock of the situation ahead of the release of the draft. Saying that Gauba was satisfied with the preparation, Sahay added that the Central government has extended help both directly and indirectly.

The help has been extended directly by way of inducting about 85 companies of paramilitary forces across Assam, and indirectly through intelligence sharing, social media monitoring etc.

The NRC draft will be released through multiple portals like government websites, physical NRC Seva Kendras, and even through SMS if one has their phone number registered in the NRC database.

Around 2,500-3,000 government seva kendras, each covering about 10 villages, will hand out physical copies of the draft list. Seva kendras where the lists will be published will be covered by static security, not only for security purposes but also for regulating the crowds that may gather there. Additionally, there will be quick reaction teams stationed and mobile teams on the move  we are trying to manage it almost like an election, Sahay said.

The Hindu reported that the initial list would contain the names of nearly two crore of the 3.28 crore who applied for inclusion in the registry from 2013.

As a Firstpost report had earlier pointed out, the exercise could lead to communal tensions in the state, which has the second highest percentage of Muslims in India. The NRC is being done to identify illegal Bangladeshis residing in Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assams finance minister who is also in charge of the citizenship register, said.

All those whose names do not figure in the NRC will have to be deported. Were taking no chances and hence all security measures have been taken, Sarma said.

However, government officials say that there is no reason for panic for people who do not find their names in the draft that will be released on Sunday.

There is no first and second draft as such. What releases tomorrow is the part publication of the draft NRC. The Supreme Court had mandated that using all documents that have been verified as of 31 December, a part publication of this draft has to be released, a senior official in the state government who did not wish to be named, said.

He said there will be another draft that will be released subsequently, soon after completion of verification of all unverified and pending documents. People who do not find their names in tomorrows draft, or find details of themselves or others erroneously entered, can appeal under the claims and objections tab in the portal, the official, who is closely associated with the NRC work of the Assam government, explained.

The subsequent complete NRC draft publication will be released in the coming months, but a date cannot be estimated at this stage, he said.

The entire process is a statutory exercise carried out in compliance of and in accordance with the provisions of law. Moreover, the highest court of the land itself is independently and closely monitoring the situation. So there is no reason for people to panic, he added.

Sahay had a word of warning for people planning to create trouble after the release of the list. We have already sent out a strong message that if somebody tries to create mischief, we will deal with them with a very heavy hand, he said.

My message to the people is this: Our New Years Eve will be spent in the NRC Seva Kendras, and all our boots will be on the ground from Sunday, so there is no reason to worry, he further said.
A day after 14 people lost their lives and 55 were injured in a major fire that broke out at a building in Kamala Mills Compound in Mumbai's Lower Parel locality, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out a demolition drive against illegal structures in the area on Saturday, according to media reports.

BMC's demolition drive against illegal structures in #KamalaMills area of #Mumbai, a fire that broke out here late Thursday night, claimed 14 lives. pic.twitter.com/w71mc27yP8  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) demolition drive against illegal structures in #KamalaMills area of #Mumbai, a fire that broke out here late Thursday night, claimed 14 lives. pic.twitter.com/qODi4TGeae  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

BMC workers also acted against illegal structures in the Raghuvanshi Mill compound of Lower Parel, ANI said.

Mumbai: BMC action against illegal structures in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound. pic.twitter.com/2GDTqSchve  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

"Investigation is underway, we are taking strict action against those who violated the rules," ANI quoted BMC's additional municipal commissioner as saying on Saturday.

Restaurants found violating multiple regulations

Thursday's fire, which killed 14 and injured 55, engulfed portions of three separate pubs which were situated adjacent to each other. "The incident occurred after 12.30 am at 1Above pub, located on the third floor of the Trade House building in Kamala Mills compound on Senapati Bapat Marg," PTI quoted a police official as saying.

Although news reports had said the main reason for the blaze was a short circuit, eyewitnesses at Kamala Mills reportedly told fire department officials that the blaze was caused by a hookah.

The restaurant 1Above appeared to have violated multiple fire safety provisions. The restaurant building reportedly had blocked its fire exit, which led to people present at the building getting stuck.

An India Today report said that the presence of untrained staff was also a violation by the restaurant. Poor ventilation, improper functioning of fire equipment, and the presence of only a single staircase for movement of customers were also some of the other violations at 1Above.

However, Dr Sulbha KG Arora, an eyewitness, told The Quint that staff present at the building helped some of the people escape. "Thankfully, the staff ushered some of us out through the kitchen, which was the only other point of exit from the restaurant. We escaped using the back gate while the staff members patiently helped us. We could feel the flames behind us. Even the security guards downstairs were asking everyone to evacuate in an orderly manner, and were trying to calm people down," the report quoted her as saying.

Sources told Firstpost that in August, BMC had demolished a parapet which was commonly shared by 1Above and Mojo's Bistro, a restaurant located adjacent to it. But the parapet was re-constructed to facilitate seating arrangements for guests.

The Kamala Mills area has one of the largest concentration of eateries in the city. A perfunctory search yielded 36 names of restaurants, bars, cafes, clubs and pubs located inside Kamala Mills. These include several Pan Asian and Continental fine-dining restaurants, rooftop pubs, live event venues, clubs and discotheques, and even a gaming arcade.

Restaurants defend themselves

1Above released the following statement, saying they had followed all the necessary regulations.

"The facts of the incident, as seen by our staff, indicate a rising fire that began to emanate from the adjoining quarters to 1Above. We presume the unmanageable nature at the preliminary source of the fire resulted in it's escalation to our property where all owners, staff and restaurant management from 1Above engaged immediately in clearing the crowd from the establishment. There was no escape from Mojos Bistro, therefore we believe that all their guests were told go through the premises of 1Above as we have an emergency exit. Hence, patrons from Mojo's Bistro also began to rush into our premises as we helped the fire brigade that had arrived at the scene to evacuate guests. All our premises are well-inspected and we have the requisite permissions for the same."

In a statement by Mojo's Bistro, the restaurant denied that it had any cylinders on its premises, a reason speculated to have aided the blaze. "Our staff were able to evacuate all our guests and themselves out to safety with zero injuries. There were no cylinders on our premises," it said.

BMC to ensure restaurants are fire safety compliant ahead of New Year's Eve

The BMC on Saturday directed its officials to form teams to ensure that all restaurants are fire safety compliant ahead of new year's eve celebrations in the city.

BMC chief Ajoy Mehta, in a message to all assistant municipal commissioners and deputy commissioners of the civic body, said all zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers are requested to form a team comprising staff of building and factory departments, medical health officers and fire department staff.

The team will inspect all restaurants in their respective wards and ensure they are fire compliant, the message said. The premises should have fire escape routes, staircases and ensure open spaces are encroachment free, it added.

The Mumbai civic body had on Friday suspended five officials, including those attached to the G-South ward for dereliction of duty. There are allegations that civic authorities turned a blind eye to construction irregularities and violation of fire safety norms in the compound.

Mumbai mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar had said an inquiry had been ordered and strict action would be taken against errant officials.

Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena, which is at the helm of affairs in the BMC, in its mouthpiece Saamana, lamented about the lethargic attitude of administrations across the world towards issues of fire safety, as it cited the examples of fire incidents at Mecca and London.

With inputs from agencies
New Delhi: The Congress and the BJP on Friday engaged in a war of words over Pakistani authorities harassing Kulbhushan Jadhav's kin as the former sought to know why India did not ask the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to facilitate the meeting through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or any other UN body.

In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit back at the Congress and said that the Congress party's misdeeds had emboldened Pakistan to indulge in uncouth behaviour.

Paks mistreatment of Jadhavs family unequivocally condemnable but-1.What were ground rules settled between India&Pak about the meeting?2 Knowing Paks perfidy fully well why did India not ask ICJ to facilitate meeting through ICRC or any other UN body rather than bilaterally???  Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) December 29, 2017

Reacting to it, BJP national spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao tweeted

Congress party's misdeeds, misadventures, misdemeanor, junkets, secret meetings & loose statements have emboldened Pakistan to indulge in uncouth behaviour. @INCIndia, It's time not to ask questions but to atone for Jaichand-like acts. https://t.co/9W9GaJR7O9 via @timesofindia  GVL Narasimha Rao (@GVLNRAO) December 29, 2017

Pakistani authorities made Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife and mother remove their mangalsutra, bangles and bindi and also made them change their clothes before the meeting, India said on Tuesday.

India also slammed the meeting conducted across a glass panel, terming it "lacking in credibility" and "intimidating".
New Delhi: The Congress on Saturday termed as "disappointing and unacceptable" the sharing of dais by Palestine ambassador in Pakistan with JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

"It is imperative that the Palestine authority clarify its position and reaffirms its stated position of condemning the terror syndicate led by Hafiz Saeed," Congress leader Anand Sharma said.

"News reports of Saeed's presence in a public function and sharing the dais with the ambassador of Palestine in Pakistan, is disappointing and unacceptable," he said.

The former Union minister said the Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief was the mastermind behind the Mumbai terror attack of 2008, which killed a large number of innocent people, both Indians and nationals of other countries, for which "he is yet to be brought to justice".

The Palestine Authority had always acted in solidarity with India and had condemned the Mumbai terror attack, Sharma added.
New Delhi: The Communist Party of India (CPI) urged the Centre to take immediate steps to rehabilitate people who have been displaced because of the Polavaram dam.

A delegation of the CPI, led by its Rajya Sabha member D Raja, on Friday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and submitted a memorandum.

The delegation requested the prime minister's intervention to settle litigations between the Centre and state governments.

"Lakhs of people are being displaced by Polavaram Dam in Andhra Pradesh, which is being built by the Union Ministry of Water Resources. Central laws which should be applied to rehabilitate and provide relief to the displaced and evicted people tribals, farmers, women and Dalits should be implemented forthwith," the memorandum says.

The delegation explained that since the Polavaram Dam project is important for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it is extremely necessary to end the stalemate.

The leaders requested the Central government to take immediate steps for speedy implementation of the central project, allocate more funds and extend all possible relief to the people who gave up their houses, land and villages for the dam.

The delegation has urged the Centre to take over relief camps and rehabilitation work and also create proper grievance settling machinery for the displaced.
Sivakasi: Fireworks manufacturers across the country have decided to request the Tamil Nadu government to implead itself in a plea filed in the Supreme Court, seeking a nation-wide ban on crackers.

A resolution to this effect was adopted at a meeting of All India Federation of Fireworks Associations (AIFFA). Manufacturers from 20 states attended the meeting held on 28 December.

Fireworks manufacturers have closed their manufacturing units indefinitely since 26 December, demanding amendment to the Environment Protection Act and exempt their produce from its ambit.

The meeting also passed another resolution seeking expeditious hearing of the petition which seeks a series of steps to curb air pollution, including a ban on sale, possession and bursting of firecrackers across the country.

President of AIFFA, A Asaithambi said there was uncertainty as the case was pending in the apex court.

Fireworks manufacturers alleged that there was a "conspiracy to destroy" the Indian tradition and culture on the pretext of protecting the environment.

The pollution caused in New Delhi was due to vehicles and not fireworks, they claimed.

The apex court had on 9 October said that no firecrackers would be sold in the Delhi-NCR during Diwali this year while banning its sale till November 1.
With the media abuzz with rumours of a rift within the Gujarat unit of the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), Patidar Anamat Aandolan Samiti (PAAS) leader Hardik Patel has invited deputy chief minister Nitin Patel to leave the government and join hands with him. Hardik said he would speak with the Congress and get Nitin a good position.

If Gujarat Deputy CM #NitinPatel along with 10 MLAs is ready to leave BJP, then will talk to Congress to get him a good position. If BJP does not respect him, he should leave the party: Hardik Patel in Gujarat's Sarangpur pic.twitter.com/cFlORE7Yqu  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Speaking to ANI in Gujarat's Sarangpur, Hardik said, "If Gujarat deputy chief minister Nitin Patel along with 10 MLAs is ready to leave BJP, then I will talk to Congress and get him a good position."

This came after reports claimed that Nitin is unhappy with key portfolios being taken away from him in the new state cabinet.

Nitin is reportedly miffed at being given "light-weight" portfolios by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. He was absent from his office even as all the newly-anointed cabinet colleagues took charge of their respective ministries.

In the previous Vijay Rupani government, Nitin Patel was holding hefty departments like Finance, Petrochemicals, Urban Development and Urban Housing, Roads and Buildings, Capital Project, Narmada, and Kalpasar.

But of these, Finance, Petrochemicals and Urban Development and Housing were taken away from him this time, reported IANS.

Finance and Petrochemicals have been given to Saurabh Patel, who was curiously dropped when Rupani took over the reins for the first time in August 2016, while the chief minister has retained the Urban Development and Housing beat for himself.

Hardik said that if BJP "does not respect him (Nitin Patel), he should leave the party".

According to IANS, not only did Nitin keep away from the office for most of Friday, Secretariat reports also claimed that the veteran politician used his personal four-wheeler instead of the government vehicle and official escort.

The deputy chief minister looked glum and lost even during the first joint press conference of the new Cabinet late on Thursday night and maintained an uncanny silence.

The meeting had itself started after a delay at 9 pm in the wake of arguments over portfolio distribution. Besides Nitin, former senior cabinet minister Babubhai Bokhiria from Porbander and former minister of state from Vadodara Rajendra Trivedi also expressed their anger at being dropped.

With inputs from agencies
Mumbai: The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) on Saturday strongly condemned the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Waleed Abu Ali, for sharing the dais with JuD chief and mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks Hafiz Saeed.

"We demand that the government of President Mahmoud Abbas condemn and sack the envoy (Waleed Abu Ali) for sharing a platform with Hafiz Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," the IPSF said in a statement.

The statement is released by the IPSF National Committee members Suresh Khairnar, Kishor Jagtap, Jatin Desai, Feroze Mithiborwala.

"The fact that this reprehensible act comes soon after the historic UNGA vote where the Government of India stood by Palestine and negated President Trump's declaration on Jerusalem is even more shocking," the IPSF said.

It pointed out that "India has consistently voted in favour of Palestine and stood by all UN Resolutions and the overwhelming international consensus favouring an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital."

"On the other hand the global solidarity movement for the cause of Palestine continues to gather momentum. Thus any such unprincipled actions on the part of the Palestinian representatives, will only damage the cause of the liberation of Palestine in their courageous struggle against the colonial occupation by apartheid Israel," the signatories said.

On Friday, Waleed Abu Ali courted controversy by sharing a stage with the terror outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Saeed at a gathering organized by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organization of hardline right-wing groups.

India on Saturday reacted strongly to the development and plans to take up the matter with the Palestinian Ambassador to India and the Palestine authorities, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.
Mumbai: Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam on Saturday demanded that BMC commissioner Ajoy Mehta be suspended, for the deadly fire at a rooftop pub in Kamala Mills, which claimed 14 lives.

Terming the suspension of five civic official as an eyewash, Nirupam demanded a CBI or a judicial probe into the incident saying the Brihammumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner "was guilty of overlooking irregularities".

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had on Friday said that he has asked Mehta to hold an enquiry and submit a report within 15 days.

Talking to reporters at the site of the fire in central Mumbai, Nirupam said, "The commissioner is guilty of overlooking illegalities and violation of rules. How can he probe his own sins. He should be suspended".

On Friday, a massive fire swept through a plush rooftop pub in downtown Mumbai during a birthday bash before swiftly raging through the building, leaving 14 people dead and 21 injured.

Mehta had said that five BMC officials were suspended for negligence in connection with the fire.

"The assistant commissioner is in charge of the ward and should have been suspended first," Nirupam added. In wake of the blaze, the Mumbai civic administration has started razing unauthorised constructions of hotels and pubs.

Referring to it, Nirupam said, "this means the BMC knew the illegal structures and still kept quiet for so long."

"If Fadnavis is sincere and has some feelings for the deceased, he should conduct a comprehensive inquiry into how permissions were given to eateries, restaurants and pubs on mill lands without ascertaining if they are complying with safety rules," added the Congress leader.
Kolkata: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday alleged attempts were being made to "distort" the country's history to serve the vested interests of a political party.

In a veiled reference to the BJP and the RSS, she said if a particular political party tried to rewrite history to serve its purpose, then the future generation would be deprived of the truth.

"History is documentation of truth, recorded truth. You cannot distort the truth. If you distort history, then you are distorting the truth. It is a big crime to distort history," Banerjee said at the 78th session of the Indian History Congress.

"We should respect our federal structure, Constitution, our past and history," she said.

On a sarcastic note, Banerjee questioned the need for extensive researches by scholars and academicians if a specific political party tried to rewrite history to serve its political interest.

The BJP and the RSS have been accused by Opposition parties of trying to "rewrite and distort" history of India in to put forward their agenda of Hindutva.

A section of Sangh Parivar and Hindutva groups had earlier alleged that a distorted version of history is being taught in India by "Left and liberal historians" who since Independence have "monopolised the intellectual space" in the country.

Banerjee termed attempts to allegedly portray Nathuram Godse as a patriot a "calculated motive" to thrust on the people the ideals of the political party.

The Trinamool Congress chief said she felt ashamed to witness lynchings in the country in the name of caste, creed and religion.

"If you start rewriting history in the name of political vendetta, what will happen to the future generation? I am always in favour of historians and the truth must prevail," she said.
Lucknow: A 30-year-old man on Saturday tried to jump in front of the car of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to draw his attention to illegal mining allegedly being patronised by BJP leaders.

As Adityanath was headed to Lok Bhawan for an event, the man who had camouflaged himself with the waiting media at the gate, tried to leap in front of the Chief Minister's car when the cars arrived.

Security personnel caught hold of him and handed him over to the Hazratganj police.

The cars of Governor Ram Naik, Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma and visiting Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were right behind Adityanath's vehicle when the incident happened.

The man has been identified as Shyamji Mishra of Sonebhadra district, police said.

He said he had tried to meet the Chief Minister many times but was not able to. Mishra said he wanted to tell Adityanath about the "illegal mining" being done in Sonebhadra "under the patronage of BJP's Sardar legislator and BJP's district president".

He alleged that BJP district president Ashok Kumar Mishra and Sardar legislator Bhupesh Chaubey were getting illegal mining of sand and concrete done through their men, and the police was silent. He added that he and others have staged sit-in protests in Lucknow in the past but no one paid heed. He claimed to have evidence of the illegal mining.

Mishra added that the permits, which cost Rs 2,200 each, were being sold in black for Rs 14,000 at the behest of the BJP leaders, while people are not getting enough construction material for their own houses.
New Delhi: The New Delhi Municipal Council has asked restaurants in its area to abide by trade license conditions, fire safety norms and sitting capacity regulations or be ready to face cancellation of permits and sealing of premises.

NDMC Chairman Naresh Kumar called an emergent meeting of all traders associations on Friday under his jurisdiction and asked them to comply with safety measures.

The directions came a day after a fire at a Mumbai pub claimed 14 lives and sparked off concerns over safety at thousands of eateries and restaurants in the national capital as just 400 of them have an NOC from the Delhi Fire Services.

"There should not be any laxity on the fire safety measures and sitting capacity sanctioned in each restaurant," Kumar told traders.

"If any restaurant is found to be violating terms and conditions, its licence would be cancelled without any further notice and properties operating without licence will be sealed."

Two major markets in the NDMC area which are flooded with restaurants are Khan Market and Connaught Place.

According to norms, eateries with a seating capacity of less than 50 do not need a no-objection certificate from the police and fire departments, officials at the Delhi Fire Services said.

After Friday's massive blaze at the '1 Above' pub in Mumbai in which 14 people were killed, fire department officials said only civic authorities can answer questions about the status of fire preparedness of restaurants.
Majuli : Union shipping minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday complained of uneasiness after addressing a public meeting at Majuli island in upper Assam.

The minister who was in Assam to flag off cargo movement on the Brahmaputra river was seen resting his head on the back of his chair after delivering an hour-long speech.

A team of doctors, deployed at the venue, rushed to the stage and attended to Gadkari. They checked his sugar and blood pressure levels and offered him a banana to eat.

The volume of the speakers was considerably reduced and a large pedestal fan was placed next to him for his convenience.

Majuli District Medical Officer Dr Sashidhar Phuka said Gadkari's blood pressure level had shot up temporarily and he was doing fine now.

Soon after the programme, Gadkari left for the Kaziranga National Park, where he was scheduled to attend a closed-door review meeting on national highway projects of northeast states.
Palestine has recalled its ambassador in Pakistan Walid Abu Ali after India took objection to his presence at a rally with 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. The Indian government had denounced his attendance at the rally as 'unacceptable.'

We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pak anymore (for sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed): Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija pic.twitter.com/JMN9b2CXug  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Palestinian Ambassador to India, Adnan Abu Al Haija was quoted by The Hindu as saying that what the ambassador did was 'not acceptable to my government.' Haija also said that Palestine has supported India's fight against terror.

The envoy has been asked to report back to Ramallah, Hindustan Times reported.

On Friday, the envoy had reportedly attended a rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council, an association of religious and extremist groups led by Hafiz Saeed in Rawalpindi.

The meeting generated sharp reactions from the foreign ministry, saying that it would take up the matter strongly.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations. The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine", the MEA press release read.

The Palestinian side too had conveyed "deep regrets", assuring India that they will take serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at the event.

"Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with New Delhi in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The controversy took place days after India, had voted in favour of a United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for the United States to drop its recent recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital.

With inputs from agencies
Mathura: Opposing the Centre's move to bifurcate existing power distribution system, All India Power Federation and NCCOEEE has decided to go for power strike in case the government remains firm on its stand, a union representative said on Saturday.

The power ministry is expected to push Electricity (Amendment) Bill in the forthcoming Budget session, which provides for segregating the distribution network business and the electricity supply business.

"25 lakh members of NCCOEEE (power engineers and employees) would go on power strike for a day, if the Government takes unilateral decision, of bifurcating existing distribution system of power supply," Shailendra Dubey, co-convener NCCOEEE (National coordination committee of Electricity employees and engineers) and chairman All India Power Engineers Federation said while talking to reporters.

A notice for power strike has already been given to the government and no further notice will be given, and if the govt remains adamant, the future course of action would follow, he said.

In order to aware the masses about the "draconian change", which is anti-people and pro-corporate houses, NCCOEEE will go for a massive demonstration in Delhi during the Budget Session of the Parliament, Dubey added.

He also said that the date of the demonstration will be declared shortly.

The separation will pave the way for introducing a new system where consumers will have the option to choose from multiple electricity service providers in their areas, similar to that of telecom services.

Justifying the move of NCCOEEE, Dubey said it is virtually privatising the profit and nationalising the losses in power sector.

The worst part of the move is that it will be "bumper profit" gift to corporate houses for which people will be charged tax from the back door.
Orchha (MP): Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday condemned Pakistan as well as its media for harassing the wife and mother of Kulbhushan Jadhav, the former Indian Navy officer who is on death row in the neighbouring country.

Singh said the humiliating treatment meted out to Jadhav's family members by Pakistan and its media should be condemned in the strongest manner.

He was speaking to reporters after his arrival at Orchha in Madhya Pradesh's Tikamgarh district to offer prayers at the famous Ram Raja temple in Orchha.

A video doing the rounds on the internet shows Jadhav's wife and mother being heckled purportedly by the Pakistani media outside the Foreign Affairs ministry building in Islamabad.

Singh also said the Army was fully capable of giving a befitting reply to Pakistan's proxy war.

He claimed that the Centre had succeeded in tackling Naxal-related violence and added that such incidents had come down, compared to the situation earlier.
New Delhi: The security situation in the country, including in Jammu and Kashmir and Naxal-hit areas, has improved considerably, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday.

Singh made the remark at an inter-ministerial meeting, convened to discuss development issues in Jammu and Kashmir, Left Wing Extremism-affected states and the Northeast region.

The home minister said the overall security situation in the country had shown considerable improvement, an official statement said.

He said the LWE situation was well under control and it was made possible due to the efforts of security forces and development initiatives undertaken by the central and state governments.

He said it's time to move forward with speed on the development front.

The meeting discussed issues related to increasing the limit of general approval under the Forest Conservation Act from 5 hectares to 40 hectares for all linear projects, upgradation of 2,187 mobile towers installed in Phase-I and installation of 4072 mobile towers in Phase-II, the statement read.

Operationalisation of approved 1,789 post offices, approval for additional 4,173 post offices in the 106 LWE-affected districts and provision of core banking services in these post offices were also discussed.

The meeting reviewed improvement in the education infrastructure with the opening of additional Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas and Kendriya Vidyalayas, opening of additional girls hostels and upgradation of schools in Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan and extension of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan to all affected districts.

Provision of solar pumps, lamps and street lights in LWE -affected districts, improvement of communication infrastructure in the Northeast, Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Ladakh region, and Lakshadweep was discussed.

Strengthening of the education infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir was discussed at length.

Those who attended the meeting included Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar, Minister of State for Communications Manoj Sinha among others.
In August 2017, the Supreme Court passed a seemingly remarkable judgment in the Shayara Bano v Union of India on the practice of instant triple talaq, stating that it was manifestly arbitrary and against the basic tenets of Islam. The court split 3:2  the minority opinion, including erstwhile Chief Justice JS Khehar, had asked the Centre to legislate on the matter of talaq-e-biddat, and the majority opinion stated that the practice is inherently illegal and unconstitutional. The Centre, in a bid to stay true to the judiciary, introduced the triple talaq bill and passed it in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

The bill is titled The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017 and its objective is to protect the rights of married Muslim women and to prohibit divorce by pronouncing talaq by their husbands. Under the bill, the declaration of talaq by a person upon his wife, by words, either spoken or written or in electronic form or in any other manner whatsoever, void and illegal. The practice of triple talaq is criminalised under this bill; a cognisable and non-bailable offence under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, wherein the punishment for pronouncing talaq upon ones wife is imprisonment that may extend to three years and fine. Chapter III of the bill highlights provisions on the Protection of Rights of Married Muslim Women. It provides for a subsistence allowance, determined by a magistrate, for her and any dependent children. A Muslim woman who has been subjected to triple talaq is also entitled to custody of her minor children.

The bill is followed by a Statement of Objects and Reasons a simple rationale about the factors that spurred the draft legislation. It talks about the liberation of Indian Muslim women from the practice of capricious and whimsical method of divorce, by some Muslim men, leaving no room for reconciliation. The statement also affirms that there was a need for state action in order to give effect to the order of the apex court and to redress the grievances of victims of illegal divorce. According to the statement, it would meet the objectives of gender justice and equality of married Muslim women.

On a thorough examination of the draft legislation, it is apparent that nuances of womens human rights have not been taken into account. The concept of subsistence allowance is abstract at best, and knowing how Muslim property and maintenance laws work, the calculation of such allowance should have been prioritised. Moreover, the Statement of Objects and Reasons within the bill proposes to mete out justice to the hapless married Muslim woman and save her from the throes of instant triple talaq  it makes victims out of Muslim women living in India. The statement grossly victimises Muslim women living in India  In order to prevent the continued harassment being meted out to the hapless married Muslim women due to talaq-e-biddat, urgent suitable legislation is necessary to give some relief to them. The bill proposes to declare pronouncement of talaq-e-biddatby Muslim husbands void and illegal in view of the Supreme Court verdict. Further, the illegal act of pronouncing talaq-e-biddat shall be a punishable offence. This is essential to prevent this form of divorce, wherein the wife does not have any say in severing the marital relationship. It is also proposed to provide for matters such as subsistence allowance from the husband for the livelihood and daily supporting needs of the wife, in the event of husband pronouncing talaq-e-biddat, and, also of the dependent children. The wife would also be entitled to custody of minor children.

The bill looks at talaq-e-biddat in an isolated manner  it does not take into account the domestic violence, cruelty, rape, sexual assault that the hapless married Muslim woman might have been subjected to in the course of her marital relationship. Under the bill, the protection of the rights of Muslim women does not include protection, prevention or redressal of violence against Muslim wives by their husbands.

Is this a deliberate attempt to quash triple talaq, empower Muslim women, while at the same time hiding violence in marital relationships?

Criminalisation of pronouncement of triple talaq as a non-bailable and cognisable offence would mean that anyone can report a Muslim man if he pronounces talaq-e-biddat against his wife. Is this an attempt of the government to saunter into the marital homes of the hapless married Muslim woman? But hasnt the Supreme Court and the Centre repeatedly spoken about the sanctity of the matrimonial home and how the entry of the state in a matrimonial relationship would prove to be a ruthless destroyer of the institution of marriage? For years together, the government has been reluctant to reconsider the marital rape exemption within Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code. The state does not want to introduce constitutional law in the home as it is inappropriate and might cause weakening of the marriage bond. Even a recent case of 2014 (State v Vikash), the judiciary refused to intervene in the marital relationship by refusing to identify that marital rape had taken place  [t]he prosecutrix and accused being legally wedded husband and wife, the prosecutrix being major, the sexual intercourse between the two, even if forcible, is not rape.

Earlier this year, while debating the case on marital rape around the same time as the Shayara Bano case, the Centre stated that if marital rape is declared a crime, it would hit the institution of marriage. The former governor of Mizoram, Swaraj Kaushal, was reported tweeting  There is nothing like marital rape. Our homes should not become police stations...There will be more husbands in the jail, than in the house.

When legislating on triple talaq and empowering Muslim women, why isnt the sanctity of marriages a concern? Why is violence, assault, torture and harassment condoned by the state under the pretext of preserving the family system and instant triple talaq criminalised? Moreover, what is this abject sense of empowerment if the legislation is passed quietly, without consulting the community of Muslim women and any other stakeholders on what they would have wanted in the law? The bill has been drafted by an exclusive committee of privileged men who are marginalising Muslim womens interests and stifling their voices.

The triple talaq bill provides no new remedies to Muslim women who are subject to talaq-e-biddat by their husbands. In fact, it seems unnecessary and redundant when the Supreme Court had already invalidated the practice. In my opinion, the bill only serves one purpose  it allows elitist Hindu men to save the hapless married Muslim women from Muslim men.
Now that the government has bulldozed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, criminalising talaq-e-biddat (instant triple talaq), through the Lok Sabha, isn't it also essential that it passes a legislation on marital rape in a similar, unilateral manner? After all, this is, quite simply, the BJPs approach to delegitimise Indian Muslims; as senior advocate Indira Jaising put it: Shameful display of brute force passing the TT [Triple Talaq] Bill turning Muslim husbands into criminals, this is not what we fought for in the Supreme Court of India.

This article is meant to serve as an indictment of the prime minister, his Cabinet and party, for cultivating animus towards the countrys Muslims. Indias citizens should expect that a bill will be discussed publicly and the views of experts, if not affected communities, will be incorporated into it. But the government, in this instance, has displayed total disregard for democracy. The bill was not released in the public domain. Just as instant triple talaq is delivered unilaterally, the law minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, handed over the bill to members of Parliament to pass  without prior discussion, not even in the media.

The bill was hailed as historic by writers and journalists in editorial newsrooms, social media was littered with their professed contention, that it marks empowerment of Muslim women. Law minister Prasad, echoing these sentiments, said, It is a historic day. We are making history today.

This argument is bogus. Social media euphoria too is a balloon that will burst. When the Indian Penal Code was amended to insert Section 498A, this anti-dowry law was also hailed as historic. Today, this law has become a murderous curse on this nation and its men.

Zakia Soman of Bharatiya Muslim Mahila Aandolan has said that if dowry, bigamy and domestic violence can be punishable by jail term, instant triple talaq should also be. Let me respond. Before the Supreme Court, she argued for minimum interference on triple talaq and did not advocate quashing of a unilateral Muslim divorce, the real curse, by Muslim husbands.

On the one hand, her group runs Sharia courts parallel to the Indian judiciary, and on the other, argues that a Muslim man must pay a dowry of one year's salary to a woman to marry her in the name of mehr. This is duplicity of convenience.

There is a difference between civil law and criminal law. Only acts that cause injury and harm to others, such as murder, theft and assault constitute criminal law. Marriage and divorce are not part of criminal law. Non-criminal acts such as talaq must remain within civil law. Since 22 August, talaq-e-biddat remains illegal. Violations of civil law must be punished, possibly with a fine. We have witnessed large-scale criminalising of Indian society under Section 498A. If the governments bill becomes law, any aggrieved Muslim wife can accuse her husband of uttering triple talaq, landing him in jail for three years.

However, the difference is that the bill specifically targets the Muslim community and therefore has its roots in hatred of Muslims being nursed in our political culture. This hatred is seen when cow vigilantes murder a Muslim, or when a cap-wearing Muslim is dragged out of a train and killed, and when certain ministers in the government mouth their hatred of secularism. These acts are committed by people who are, broadly speaking, from the BJPs vote bank.

When the issue of instant triple talaq came up before the Supreme Court, the judges remarked that Muslim husbands have no judicial forum to go to seek divorce and asked what remedies the government would provide.

On 15 May, the then attorney general Mukul Rohatgi informed the judges that if instant divorce is struck down, the government would bring a law to regulate marriage and divorce in the Muslim community. However, the Bill that was passed by the Lok Sabha has failed to fulfil this promise.

It is critical that we outlaw all unilateral forms of divorce by a Muslim husband. We must also outlaw practices such as mehr, halala, polygamy, two Muslim women's testimony being equal to one man's, a girl's inheritance being half of a boy's, the guardianship of male over female, and so on.

This effectively points at the need for a Uniform Civil Code. A year ago, this author drafted such a code, calling it the Universal Bill of Rights for the Indian Citizen. However, political considerations motivate the government to skirt such reforms. Indeed, if transformation and betterment were the order of the day, the state would have introduced a Muslim family reform bill, enabling husbands to seek divorce via court, among other things.

But even after the passage of this Bill, a Muslim husband has no choice but to bring about his own divorce through the following two means: send one talaq and wait for three months to lapse, or send one talaq each month for three months making the marriage invalid. But for the government, this key issue of unilateral divorce is not the concern. This new law prevents any reconciliation between the couples  by jailing the husband for three years (it remains to be seen how he will pay maintenance from inside jail).

At best, the government's concern is nurturing the issue of instant triple talaq for political reasons: it helps energise right-wing Hindu voters. It suits the party. It nurtures an intellectual form of anti-Muslim hatred among its constituents.

Smita Dikshit, a legal counsel, wrote on Twitter about comments by supporters of the Bill: Men need to go to prison. If Muslim men go, it's better. This comment reveals a lot about the hatred that is being nurtured in Indian society. It is also indicative of how the BJP will use triple talaq to nurture its electoral constituency in view of next year's assembly elections and the 2019 general elections.

Tufail Ahmad is Senior Fellow for Islamism and Counter-Radicalization Initiative at the Middle East Media Research Institute, Washington DC. He tweets @tufailelif
Lucknow: As many as 51 girls were rescued on Saturday after a raid was conducted on a madrasa in the old city area following complaints of sexual harassment of the inmates by the institute's manager, police said.

A senior police official said madrasa manager Mohammad Taiyab Zia was arrested.

Acting on a tip-off by locals, a police team carried out a raid at Madrasa Jamia Khadeejtul Qubra Lilabnat in Yasinganj area under Saadatganj police station last night, police said.

"The madrasa manager was arrested and 51 girls being held hostage in the institution in the old city area were rescued following the raid," they said.

Police said as they made arrangements for sending the inmates to their parents, the girls narrated their ordeal alleging inhumane treatment and molestation by the accused.

Investigations to ascertain whether the madarsa was being run illegally or was registered are on, they said.

The police said more than 100 girls study at the madarsa and the rest were not present at the time of the raid.
New Delhi: A day after a massive fire in a central Mumbai rooftop pub claimed 14 lives, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said it was a "wake-up call" for Delhi and called for "zero tolerance" towards those flouting fire and safety norms in the national capital.

The housing and urban affairs minister said rampant construction and flouting of fire and safety norms was turning Delhi into tinderbox.

He tweeted:

Anguished & angry at apathy that caused Mumbai tragedy. Heart goes out to bereaved families. A wake up call for Delhi. Rampant construction & flouting of fire & safety norms turning city into tinderbox. There should be Zero tolerance for individuals & cartels who allow this. pic.twitter.com/QlmhgAqOVR  Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) December 30, 2017

A massive fire swept through a plush rooftop pub in downtown Mumbai during a birthday bash before swiftly raging through the building, leaving 14 people dead and 21 injured.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at 1Above pub in upscale Parel's Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

While some escaped to safety, for others, the way was blocked by fire and smoke.

Many panicked patrons locked themselves up in the washroom of the restaurant to escape the blaze. Most of the victims, including 11 women, died due to suffocation.
Banda (Uttar Pradesh): Twelve farmers suffered injuries in a clash between two groups over chasing away stray cattle in neighbouring Hamirpur district and had to be hospitalised, police said on Saturday.

Eight farmers have been arrested in connection with the incident that occurred on Friday under Jariya police station area, they said.

Farmers of Chibauli and Magraul villages clashed over chasing away stray cattle with both sides used sticks and also opening gunfire in the air, Circle Officer, Jariya, Rajnish Upadhyaya said.

Twelve farmers from both sides were injured and were hospitalised, he said.

Upadhyaya said FIR has been filed against 14 farmers of Chibauli and 20 of Magraul villages of which eight have been arrested.

Police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed in the villages as a precautionary measure, he added.
On 21 December, the CBI special court delivered its verdict on the much-sensationalised 2G spectrum case, acquitting all of the accused. Arguably the most damning statement in the 1,552-page verdict was the assertion that the scam was an entirely fabricated one, with gross untruths packaged as facts. In the words of the special court, a huge scam was seen by everyone where there was none. Some people created a scam by artfully arranging a few selected facts and exaggerating things beyond recognition to astronomical levels.

I joined the government as Minister of State for Telecommunications in July 2011, right in the thick of the action as the 2G controversy unfolded. As I began my work in the ministry, I was very clear that I would study my predecessors policy from an objective and unbiased lens. He was neither a friend, nor a close associate  we werent even from the same party  so I had absolutely no vested interest in defending or unduly endorsing the decisions he had made in the ministry.

I was simply determined to uncover and understand the facts as they had presented themselves. In order to be able to objectively assess the situation for myself, I based my analysis on the merits and demerits of A Rajas policy decisions. Shortly after I joined the ministry, I examined the situation and tried to ascertain whether it was, indeed, a wise decision to auction spectrum  a policy that we would do well to remember was inherited by UPA from Atal Bihari Vajpayees NDA  or whether it was an imprudent choice.

What became clear to me without a doubt was that a governments highest priority cannot be revenue maximisation  in this case, it should have been expanding teledensity. Just as in the banking sector, priorities must be focused on financial inclusion and access to financial services, in telecommunications, the priority must be ensuring the widest possible net for access to mobile telephony, broadband and high-speed internet.

The whole notion that the highest priority for a government should be to earn revenue is fallacious and misleading.

While the government earns money from spectrum auctions, the money that telecom companies pay to the state is almost entirely borrowed from banks. If the government earns revenue from auctions, it must dig into other pockets to capitalise banks straddled with debt as a consequence of those very auctions.

The ramification of the 2G debacle is that the telecom sector is reeling with debt running up to Rs four lakh crore, owing partly to auctions and license cancellations. When telecom companies do well, 5-10 percent of their topline or CAGR goes to the government as part of a revenue share model. Conversely, when they perform poorly, not only do banks lose out, but teledensity takes a hit as the adverse financial consequences are passed on to consumers, and the government loses out on revenue share as well as direct and indirect taxes paid by telecom companies. Currently, Indias telecom sector is one of the worst performing ones in the world.

Most importantly, a healthy telecom sector, characterised by steadily increasing teledensity and connectivity, engenders productivity and employment, providing a boost to the health of the economy. The notional gain of earning revenue through auctions, therefore, pales in comparison to the very real, massive costs borne by the economy. The state of the telecom sector in the country and the impact of its poor performance on the economy speak for themselves.

In this six-year long debacle, even as a minister in the government, I chose to stay silent and withhold judgment on the politics of the controversy and the legality of the situation  until the verdict was announced. In light of the judgment, I have to agree with the courts analysis that the CAG report provided the impetus and opportunity for all and sundry  including the BJP, Aam Aadmi Party, and India Against Corruption  to turn the situation into a grossly sensationalised public spectacle and fabricate a scam to the tune of 1.76 lakh crore.

A shrill, toxic environment was created and the waters were muddied, which gave Opposition parties and political start-ups the opportunity to make a quick political buck by fishing in those troubled waters. I wish, for the countrys and the economys sake, that the concerned parties  media, political outfits, business rivals  had simply chosen to allow due process to be followed and the truth to come out through legal channels. Almost everyone jumped into the bandwagon to create this spectacle and fuel untruths, and now the court has found that the scam was manufactured. Not only did this falsely discredit the accused, it also hurt Indias competitiveness, economy and the credibility of the political system.

A personal takeaway for me from this situation, and one I would urge my colleagues and members of the Congress to pay heed to, is how very important it is to strategically and actively counter untruths in a timely manner. As the 2G case made evident, in the business of politics, facts are easy to conjure and manufacture, and public perceptions are hard to change. While being principled is indispensable, being silent is not  doing so might help one be vindicated in the long run, but in the short run, the untruths can cause irrevocable damage. The truth in most cases will ultimately prevail  our countrys robust judicial framework would see to that  but in the meantime, its absence can be pretty devastating for some.
New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party appears split over Rajya Sabha nominations, with a section of the party suggesting that it should nominate outsiders to the Upper House, an AAP leader has said.

Elections to three Rajya Sabha seats from Delhi would be held on 16 January. The AAP, which enjoys a brute majority in the 70-member Delhi Assembly, is all set to win all the three seats.

A group of AAP leaders has emphasised on sending to the Rajya Sabha people from the fields of economics, law and social work.

This would also help the AAP leadership deal with the internal rift over Rajya Sabha berths.

The AAP had approached former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan in this regard but he declined the offer. There were reports that the party talked to the former chief justice of India TS Thakur who also did not agree to it.

Many in the AAP view it as a tactic to counter senior leader Kumar Vishwas, a strong contender for a Rajya Sabha berth.

However, his nomination is unlikely given the uneasy equation he has with some senior AAP leaders, the party leader said.

But if other leaders are given preference over Vishwas, who has the support of several MLAs and volunteers, the rift in the party could widen.

Another section of the AAP is in favour of sending senior party leaders to the Upper House.

On Thursday, supporters of Vishwas pitched tents in the party office demanding that leaders who have worked in the anti-corruption movement should be sent to the Rajya Sabha.

Names of senior party leader Sanjay Singh and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's close confidant Ashutosh are doing the rounds.

However, Kejriwal has kept the cards close to his chest.

"Many leaders who are in the core decision-making body of the party are themselves in the race. So it is Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia who will decide on the nominations," another AAP leader said.

The last date to file nominations for the three Rajya Sabha seats is 5 January.
Amid reports of cracks in the newly-formed Gujarat government, Sardar Patel Group (SPG) chief Lalji Patel has demanded that he should "be announced as the chief minister of Gujarat," India Today reported on Saturday. His comments have come on the same day as Hardik Patel urged the deputy chief minister to leave the state government and join hands with him.

Make Nitin Patel Gujarat CM: Lalji Patel, Patidar leader  IndiaTodayFLASH (@IndiaTodayFLASH) December 30, 2017

Earlier on Saturday, Lalji had met Nitin at his residence in Ahmedabad on Saturday. He hailed Nitin Patel for being "a dedicated worker of the BJP", India Today further reported. According to Tv9 Gujarati, the SPG chief claimed that the entire Patidar community was with Nitin.

Lalji criticised the BJP high command for "doing injustice" with Nitin and announced a bandh in Mehsana, Nitin's consituency, on Monday to further push the demand. He also threatened to call for a state-wide bandh if Nitin Patel was not made the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

We have announced #Mehsana Bandh on January 1 , 2018 : Lalji Patel  Tv9 Gujarati (@tv9gujarati) December 30, 2017

"People of Gujarat and former chief minister Anandiben Patel wanted Nitin to be made the chief minister (when Anandiben resigned). He was not made the chief minister but he accepted the decision and decided to work as deputy chief minister. People are angry with the latest development. Nitin-bhai is the right candidate for chief minister's post," Lalji said.

He further said: "We met Nitin-bhai...We asked him what is needed to be done. It is now for him to take the final call. He said the party's high command has said it will decide the matter in two days." Ketan Patel, a Patidar leader who left the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) to join the BJP, also met the deputy chief minister.

"Nitin Patel has worked tirelessly to mollify the agitated Patidar community and played important role in bringing the party back to power. The BJP high command should address his concerns positively," he said, adding that the BJP should ensure that political opponents do not take advantage of the development.

Earlier on Saturday, Hardik Patel had urged Nitin to leave the government and join hands with him. Hardik claimed that he would hold talks with the Congress to get Nitin a good position. "If Gujarat deputy chief minister Nitin along with 10 MLAs is ready to leave BJP, then I will talk to Congress and get him a good position," he was quoted as saying by ANI.

Nitin, who was inducted into the cabinet along with Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Tuesday, is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him.

In the previous government, Nitin handled key portfolios like finance and urban development. However this time, he has been alloted charge of departments like road and building, and health.

Apart from these two, he has also given the charge of medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital project after the portfolios were allotted on 28 December.

This time, the finance portfolio was allotted to Saurabh Patel, while Rupani has kept the charge of urban development department with himself.

According to News18, Nitin has given an ultimatum to the party high command by threatening to quit if the three portfolios were not given back to him.

After allocation of portfolios on Thursday, Nitin had avoided speaking at the media briefing and left the venue in a hurry. At that time, Rupani had said: "It is not true that the minister who has finance portfolio is number two in the cabinet. Nitin is our senior leader and will remain number two."

With inputs from PTI
New Delhi: BJP chief Amit Shah will spend the last day of this year in poll-bound Karnataka, strategising with state party leaders, as they gear up to take on the ruling Congress in the Assembly election next year.

A party statement said Shah will first hold a meeting with all BJP MPs and MLAs in the state followed by a deliberation with the in-charges of all its assembly constituencies.

He will also chair meetings with the state's core group leaders, district presidents of the party and in-charges among others.

The BJP is aiming to dislodge the Congress from the only big state in which it remains in power. The 224-seat assembly is likely to go to polls in May next year.

The Congress had captured power in the southern state in the last Assembly polls dethroning the BJP which was hit hard by a rebellion by BS Yeddyurappa, who had floated a party.

Yeddyurappa is back in the saffron fold and has been declared the BJP's chief ministerial candidate. The Congress campaign is being led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress and the BJP had won 122 and 40 seats respectively in the last assembly polls.

Since the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah have got the better of the Congress in a number of assembly elections. However, the Congress hopes to do well in Karnataka after putting up a spirited fight against the BJP in Gujarat.
Shillong: In a setback to the Congress in Meghalaya ahead of Assembly elections, eight MLAs including five from Congress, on Friday resigned from the Assembly to contest the polls on the ticket of National People's Party (NPP), which is part of NDA.

The Congress legislators, who include former deputy chief minister Rowell Lyngdoh, former cabinet ministers Prestone Tynsong, Coming One Ymbon, Sniawbhalang Dhar and Ngaitlang Dhar submitted their resignation letters to Assembly commissioner and secretary Andrew Simon.

Apart from the five Congress legislators, the three others are United Democratic Party legislator Remington Pyngrope and Independents Hopeful Bamon and Stephanson Mukhim.

The resignations come after Congress legislator PN Syiem, who is also the chief executive member of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, resigned as member of the Assembly and joined the newly-floated People's Democratic Front.

Moreover, veteran Congress legislators  state Congress president and four-time chief minister DD Lapang, incumbent deputy chief minister Roytre Christopher Laloo and health and family welfare minister Roshan Warjri  have been declared "retired" from electoral politics.

"We (Congress legislators) have put in our papers since the leadership (Chief Minister Mukul Sangma) in the state has failed to meet the aspirations of the people, besides the style of functioning of the chief minister," Tynsong said.

But while he accused Sangma of practising "one-upmanship", Tynsong also said, "Despite his negativity, there is also a positive side. Mukul is a good leader. He is courageous, whatever he says we had to do it."

NPP national president Conrad K Sangma said all eight legislators would formally join the NPP on 4 January at a public rally in the Polo grounds.

"Their decision to join NPP is a shot in the arm for us. It is also an indication that people of the state want a new party to lead the state," Sangma, who is also the lone Lok Sabha member from the state, told IANS.

The (National People's Party) NPP, an ally of the BJP-led NDA central government, has two members in the Meghalaya Assembly. It was founded by former Lok Sabha speaker Purno Agitok Sangma.

Mukul Sangma had earlier said that in constituencies represented by rebel Congress MLAs, there is tremendous pressure to put up candidates. "The good thing is that we are getting promising leaders who are showing keen interest to join the Congress and offer themselves for the people as potential candidates. This is setting a new benchmark," he added.

The Congress has been reduced to 24 from 30 members in the truncated 51-member Assembly following the resignations.

However, Mukul Sangma is expected to complete his five-year term as chief minister with the support of two Nationalist Congress Party legislators, one member from the North-East Democratic Socialist Party and seven Independent legislators who support the Congress-led government.

The opposition Meghalaya People's Front is made up of seven United Democratic Party legislators and two from the National People's Party. The Hill State People's Democratic Party, which has four members and four Independents, is not part of the Opposition grouping.

The ninth Meghalaya Assembly, comprising 60 members, was constituted on 1 March, 2013, and its term expires on 6 March next year.
Chennai: DMK leader MK Stalin on Saturday charged Tamil Nadu's ruling AIADMK with functioning like a "branch" of the BJP in the state.

In a statement issued in Chennai, he said that the entire India knows that the AIADMK party is functioning like a branch of BJP and is submissive to the latter, even though Chief Minister K Palaniswamy, in a bid to refute this, recently said that his party is not in alliance with BJP.

According to the DMK leader, following the defeat of AIADMK candidate in the recent Radhakrishnan Nagar by-election, many ministers have started criticising the hidden alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Stalin said when the AIADMK does not object Governor Banwarilal Purohit's review meetings at various districts, how can it be believed that the ruling party does not have any alliance with BJP.

People of Tamil Nadu clearly know that the very reason for the existence of this 'minority government' is because of the blessings from BJP in centre and their implicit coalition, he said.
A meeting of the Citizens' Initiative and Action (CIA), that was held in Delhi on Friday to decide on its national awards for 2017, was marked by unprecedented chaos and fisticuffs. An 80-member governing council of CIA comprising eminent Indians of all walks of life picks the best and worst Indians each year by majority vote. Deep Throat, my trusted source, watched Friday's proceedings through a keyhole and gave me an exclusive blow-by-blow (pun intended) account.

And the awards go to...

The most voter-friendly: Narendra Modi, for hitting upon the scientifically ingenious and politically swashbuckling idea of vaulting around in a seaplane on the Sabarmati waters to reach out to voters on land. Prize: A copy of Donald Trump's forthcoming book: Underwater Campaign? Just Use Scuba Gear! What Fun!

But in protest against this award, three CIA members with allegiance to the Congress threw paperweights at BJP supporters who proposed it. The BJP men stood calmly, caught the Congress supporters by the scruffs of their collars, and bashed them against the wall. Peace was restored after the CIA chairperson, a model from Bengaluru, pouted her lips and urged the gathering not to politicise the proceedings. The meeting went on.

The least voter-friendly: Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, for rubbishing Modi's seaplane ride as "hawa hawai". Prize: A bullock cart made by former prime minister HD Deve Gowda.

At this point, pandemonium broke out again when a fly dropped into the coffee cup of a CIA member, who is also a JNU professor. Holding Modi squarely responsible for the fly's "impudence", the Marxist let out a scream, like the war cry of prehistoric Huaorani tribesmen in the Amazonian jungles. He was, however, pacified by his Congress chums.

The shouts of a 19-year-old girl, the chief political editor of Naya Duniya TV (NDTV), demanding to know where Sabarmati river was, were drowned in the melee.

The best Hindu: Rahul Gandhi, who waltzed to 27 temples during the Gujarat election campaign. Prize: A seaplane for faster pilgrimages in the future.

When the motion for this award was put to vote, a CIA member with known links to Vishwa Hindu Parishad brandished a trishul and threatened to kill those supporting it. His smooth logic was that the members who would live to vote could defeat the motion by majority. But he was prevailed upon by the chair to stay calm.

The worst Hindu: Jitu Vaghani, Gujarat BJP president, for bad-mouthing Rahul's temple-hopping. Prize: A kilometre-long Janeu thread made by Brahmins in Ayodhya.

The best tear-jerker: Sonia Gandhi, for saying with tearful eyes at the event to mark Rahul's elevation as Congress president: "Our party has lost several state elections." Prize: Popcorn and a ticket to Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

The worst tear-jerker: Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, for nodding his head and sporting a wide smile while agreeing with Sonia. Prize: Five Ways to Look Heartbroken at Public Meetings by Mamata Banerjee.

The happiest man: A Raja, who is overjoyed that court verdicts are based on evidence, not on truth. Prize: A copy of How to Play Pokemon Go with Courts by Vijay Mallya.

The saddest man: Lalu Prasad Yadav, jailed on the basis of evidence in fodder scam. Prize: Twenty Ways to Bury Hatchets (and Evidences) by Mayawati.

The best investigator: Narendra Modi, for discovering that Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar had hosted a dinner of beef kebabs for former prime minister Manmohan Singh and a bunch of Pakistanis. Prize: A pair of binoculars and two spy cameras.

The worst investigator: Hardik Patel, the 24-year-old Patidar leader, for claiming that the BJP had hired 140 engineers to hack 5,000 EVMs to ensure victory in Gujarat. Prize: A copy of How to Grow Up Fast Like Me by Rahul Gandhi.

The best chef: Amit Shah, who knows how to make the most delicious khichdi of parties in different states and win elections. Prize: A brass cauldron (the size of a kids' swimming pool) to keep it boiling till 2019.

The worst chef: Rahul Gandhi, for making an insipid khichdi of castes in Gujarat. Prize: M Karunanidhi's forthcoming book How to Change Ingredients of Political Khichdis in Each Election.

Congress supporters growled but looked the other way when the VHP man glared.

The best psephologist: Haryana businessman Mahindra Dahia, who said, "Elections? One set of crooks are always replaced by another. But I have hope for the future." Prize: A ticket to Never Say Never Again.

The worst psephologist: Manmohan Singh, who said, "What? Who will win 2019 polls? Asking me? You know I don't talk. Ask Rahulji." Prize: A statuette of the Sphinx (with red tape over its lips).

The best talker: Narendra Modi, for coaxing Gujaratis into voting for BJP, despite 21 years of anti-incumbency. Prize: A bass drum and a portable megaphone.

All hell broke loose when a Leftist columnist slapped a BJP leader for proposing the next award for CPM apparatchik Sitaram Yechury. The columnist said the award was an "insult" to Communism in general and Yechury in particular. His fellow communists and Congress members shouted "aye" to support him. Sangh Parivar backers then thrashed the opponents of the motion, severely injuring 21 people. The remaining members voted for it.

With a giggle and a sigh, the chairperson said this was the final award on the agenda, and ended the proceedings. Here goes the last award.

The worst talker: Sitaram Yechury, for talking in a way that even the few people who hear him don't care what he says. Prize: All You Need To Know About Weaning People and Winning Elections by TTV Dhinakaran.
tech2 News Staff

We finally have it, the 4G variant of the recently redesigned Nokia 3310. The device was spotted on Chinese telecommunication device certification site TENAA, alongside hints that it would be running a variant of Android.

The original Nokia 3310 was announced in the year 2000 and is almost old enough to vote. Earlier this year, HMD Global, the company that now makes and sells Nokia-branded devices, announced a remake of the iconic device. The new 3310 was a feature phone that came with a promise of modernising the aging legend. A new OS, a colour display and even the inclusion of a camera were welcome updates, but the device only launched with support for 2G and 3G networks. These networks are slowly but surely being phased out in many parts of the world

Thus, a 4G update was inevitable if the phone was to remain relevant.

Nokiamob was the first the report spotting the device on TENAA. From the released images, its quite clear that the 4G version of the phone sees no further design modifications. VTechgrapgy, a Chinese-language website, dug deeper and reports that the phone will run YunOS, a variation of Android. The previous model ran S30+. YunOS was developed by Alibaba Group and unlike regular feature phone operating systems, can harness the power of the cloud.

Given its Android roots, there is a remote possibility that the phone might support some Android apps.

This might be wishful thinking, but wed certainly love to see a 4G Nokia 3310 with support for a basic browser and WhatsApp!

Various sites speculate that the device will hit the Chinese market in the first half of January 2018.
hidden

A SpaceX Falcon rocket blasted off from California on Saturday, returning the company to flight for the first time since a fiery launchpad explosion in September. The 230-foot (70-meter) rocket launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base at 9:54 a.m. PST (1754 GMT) to deliver 10 satellites into orbit for Iridium Communications Inc.

"It's a clean sweep  10 for 10," SpaceX launch commentator John Insprucker said after the satellites were released.SpaceX founder and entrepreneur Elon Musk's ambitious flight plans had been grounded since the September 1 explosion during fueling ahead of a pre-flight test in Florida.

About 10 minutes after Saturday's launch, the first stage ofthe rocket, which had separated from the rest of craft,successfully touched down on a platform in the Pacific Ocean, a feat previously accomplished by four other returning Falconrockets.

Mission looks good. Started deploying the 10 Iridium satellites. Rocket is stable on the droneship.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 14, 2017

SpaceX intends to reuse its rockets to cut costs. "Rocket is stable," Musk posted on Twitter. "Mission looks good." Two other returning Falcon boosters landed on the ground. The mission tested changes implemented by SpaceExploration Technologies Corp, known as SpaceX, since the launchpad explosion.

Accident investigators determined that a canister of heliumburst inside the rocket's second-stage liquid oxygen tank,triggering the explosion. The canister is being redesigned, butuntil then SpaceX is addressing the issue by modifying itsfueling procedures.

The explosion destroyed a $62 million SpaceX booster and a$200 million Israeli communications satellite that it was to put in orbit. The accident clouded the company's aggressive agenda, whichincludes beginning to ferry U.S. astronauts into space next year, when it also plans to make its first voyage to Mars.

Saturday's flight begins to clear a logjam of more than 70 planned missions, worth more than $10 billion, involving SpaceX Falcon rockets, which last flew in August, SpaceX said. The launch is the first in a seven-flight contract with Iridium worth $468.1 million, company spokeswoman Diane Hockenberry said.

SpaceX aims to launch 27 rockets in 2017, more than triplethe eight flights the privately held firm managed in 2016,according to a report on Friday in the Wall Street Journal. In addition to its dozens of commercial customers, SpaceX is one of two companies hired by NASA to fly cargo to the International Space Station.

The company's 2017 agenda includes the debut launch of a heavy-lift booster, flying its first reused rocket and repairing the Florida launchpad damaged in the explosion.

Reuters
IANS

Google has updated its review policies according to which people are now banned from reviewing their former place of work negatively on its business tool.

The move will also make more accurate the reviews that people post on Google My Business  a tool behind the rating that appears on-screen when you carry out search for a business using the search engine or its maps functions.

"Maps' user contributed content is most valuable when it is honest and unbiased. Posting negative content about a current or former employment experience is not allowed", The Independent quoted the company as saying.

Previously, former employees were free to post any kind of review of places they used to work at. Google said that it considers this practice to be a "conflict of interest".

The tech giant said posting negative reviews about former employers has the potential to damage a company's reputation in the eyes of an actual customer and were difficult to remove.

Now companies can directly contact Google to remove any reviews they consider to be unfair, which in turn could improve the ratings of businesses helping users get unbiased information.
Aditya Madanapalle

In 2017, we discovered exoplanets with conditions totally unsuitable for life, Cassini concluded its mission with a suicidal dive into Saturn, NASA outsourced the processing of stunning images of Jupiter to the general public, astronomers and planetary scientists continued to argue over whether Pluto was a planet, Blue Origin successfully tested an unmanned Crew Capsule and not one single SpaceX rocket blew up.

The Cassini Mission to Saturn came to a conclusion

The 20-year long Cassini mission ended spectacularly with the spacecraft diving into the atmosphere of Saturn, becoming a shooting star in the turbulent skies of the gas giant. Normally, there would have been a six-hour gap between the spacecraft collecting data and then relaying it to ground stations on Earth. For the final dive however, the instruments on board the spacecraft beamed back the data continuously until the very moment the Spacecraft exploded. NASA decided to end the mission as the spacecraft was low on fuel and it would no longer have been possible to maintain control of the spacecraft. With no means of controlling it, Cassini could have drifted into one of the moons of Saturn, contaminating the surface and potentially harming any life forms harboured by those distant moons. Two of the Saturnian moons are of particular interest in this regard.

Enceladus has most, if not all of the ingredients necessary to support life as we know it on Earth. Titan has an atmosphere and liquid methane lakes that could host an exotic form of life. This form of life could be methane based and would not need oxygen to survive. On Titan, Cassini has found evidence of molecules that can be the building blocks of life. NASA plans to use a dual-quadcopter type vehicle called Dragonfly to explore the surface of Titan to study the prebiotic chemistry as well as to investigate the habitability of several sites.

Another concept mission, called Enceladus Life Signatures and Habitability (ELSAH), will research cost-effective ways to limit contamination by spacecraft, allowing future missions to carry instruments designed to detect life.

NASA has released an image captioned A Farewell to Saturn, a mosaic of photographs captured by Cassini two days before it crashed into the surface of the planet. The single image contains several moons in the Saturnian system, Prometheus, Pandora, Janus, Epimetheus, Mimas and Enceladus. The image will be the last, complete picture of Saturn available till a follow up mission reaches the gas giant. For those personnel at NASA who had worked on both the Cassini and Voyager missions, the moment was reminiscent of the time when Voyager first captured images of Saturn.

Carolyn Porco, a former Voyager imaging team member, who is also the leader of the Cassini imaging team said, "For 37 years, Voyager 1's last view of Saturn has been, for me, one of the most evocative images ever taken in the exploration of the solar system. In a similar vein, this 'Farewell to Saturn' will forevermore serve as a reminder of the dramatic conclusion to that wondrous time humankind spent in intimate study of our Sun's most iconic planetary system. On its way to the final, science-rich dive, Cassini bid farewell to many of the moons of Saturn that it had studied for so long. This process of the final observation runs of the moons took place over many months.

In March 2017, Cassini bid farewell to the pockmarked moon Mimas, which has earned the moniker of the Death Star, because of the large and prominent Herschel crater.

In May 2017, Cassini executed its final flyby of Iapetus, also known as the Yin-Yang moon, and in August 2017, Cassini observed the water jets emanating from a region near the south pole of Enceladus one last time.

In September 2017, Cassini performed a slingshot manoeuvre around Titan, catapulting it into its fatal final orbits around Saturn. The exercise was called the Goodby Kiss.

NASA has also released an image captioned Alpha and Omega, comprising of one of the earliest images of Saturn captured by Cassini, and the very last image showing the site where the spacecraft plunged into the surface. The two photographs together show just how far Cassini had travelled during the course of its mission.

Alpha and Omega: one of our first looks at Saturn, and one of our last. Details: https://t.co/n4g13S46mX pic.twitter.com/HHBJ9Ucanx  CassiniSaturn (@CassiniSaturn) November 27, 2017

Over the course of its mission, Cassini studied the atmosphere of Saturn, including moving methane clouds and the hexagonal jet streams around the north pole of the gas giant. Cassini also observed the tiny waverider moon, Daphnis and the disturbances it caused within the ring system. Peering through the hazy atmosphere on Titan that obscures surface details, Cassini found that the deep canyons there were flooded with liquid hydrocarbons.

The Cassini mission was a joint effort by NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Italian Space Agency (ASI).

Although Cassini has become one with the planet that it studied for thirteen years, the data beamed back by the spacecraft is expected to play a role in scientific studies for at least another sixty years.

Juno continued to unravel the mysteries of Jupiter

Juno, NASAs mission to another gas giant in the solar system, is carrying out its mission objectives very well and continues to engage citizen scientists and space enthusiasts as well as the imaging-processing community with the wonders of the most massive planet in the solar system.

The spacecraft was deployed into orbit around Jupiter in 2016. The JunoCam instrument on board the spacecraft is not designed as a scientific payload, but was instead a way for NASA to increase engagement with its missions. However, scientists still use the images captured by JunoCam.

Although NASA released raw images from the Cassini mission, as well as images processed by NASA, when it comes to the JunoCam mission, NASA hardly ever processes the images themselves. The JunoCam provides a steady stream of breathtaking views of the atmosphere on Jupiter, processed almost exclusively by the general public. For an imaging campaign that began in January, NASA crowdsourced the interesting locations that JunoCam would capture. Candy Hansen, co-investigator on the Juno Mission, said, We are looking forward to people visiting our website and becoming part of the JunoCam imaging team. It's up to the public to determine the best locations in Jupiter's atmosphere for JunoCam to capture during this flyby.

It was incredibly cool that space aficionados sitting at home could photograph Jupiter. Over the course of the year, a number of images captured by the Juno mission, and processed by citizen scientists, have been released. The first of these was a series of massive storms that rotate in a counterclockwise direction in the southern hemisphere. It's known as the String of Pearls.

Towards the end of the year, Juno would train its eyes on the white storms again, with a single pearl from the String of Pearls clearly visible, with another in a distance.

In November 2017, NASA released a stunning image of a single storm in the northern hemisphere of Jupiter, processed by two citizen scientists, Gerald Eichstadt and Sean Doran. The image shows clouds formations at various altitudes.

In December 2017, NASA released another image processed by the same pair of citizen scientists, Eichstadt and Doran, which showcased blue cloud formations, again in the northern hemisphere. Because of the angle of the Sun with respect to the gas giant when the image was captured, the clouds at a higher altitude were casting shadows on the clouds at a lower altitude.

Apart from reaching out to the general public and increasing the interest in space in general and planetary science in particular, Juno has also been engaged in scientific studies. It has probed beneath the clouds of the Jovian atmosphere, studied the auroras and investigated the planets internal structure and magnetosphere. Researchers have found out that the magnetosphere is more complicated than previously believed and that the auroras are created from a complicated current system that carries high energy particles from Jupiters volcanic moon, IO. Juno also detected a previously unknown radiation belt near the equator, consisting of energetic hydrogen, oxygen and sulphur ions moving at speeds close to that of light.

My latest #Jupiter science flyby is complete! All science instruments + #JunoCam were operating to collect data https://t.co/gITSYkWmO6 pic.twitter.com/fOc6Z8USdF  NASA's Juno Mission (@NASAJuno) July 11, 2017

In November 2017, NASA engineers executed a tricky manoeuvre that required a complete cut-off of communications with the spacecraft. The transmission moratorium was put into place because the path of the signals between ground stations and the spacecraft would come too close to the Sun. Transmitting data or instructions during this time, known as a solar conjunction, could damage the sensitive instruments on board the spacecraft. The spacecraft executed a science flyby during the communications blackout and beamed home at a pre-programmed time after the conjunction. All the eight science instruments on board were working in perfect order. One of the biggest tasks for Juno this year was the closest flyby ever of the most interesting and well known feature on the gas giant. The Great Red spot is a storm raging on Jupiter and observed continuously since 1830. It is 16,000 kilometres wide, big enough to swallow the Earth whole. The storm has been shrinking, and was once wide enough to swallow three Earths. Juno passed just 9,000 kilometres above the storm during a close flyby in July 2017. The data collected from the storm allowed scientists to peer into its heart, leading to the finding that the roots of the Great Red Spot penetrate 300 kilometres into the atmosphere of the planet, about 50 to 100 times deeper than the oceans of Earth. True to form, when NASA released the images of the Great Red Spot from the closest every flyby, the images were raw.

The James Webb Space Telescope gets thoroughly tested

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the largest space telescope ever and is the successor to the venerable Hubble Space telescope, which has captured stunning images of the depths of space. The JWST is an international project and a collaboration between NASA, ESA and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). 18 gold-plated hexagonal mirrors form the primary 6.5-metre wide mirror, which makes the telescope powerful enough to spot a bumblebee as far away as the moon, from its thermal radiation alone. The telescope, which has been optimised for the infrared spectrum, will investigate other objects in our solar system, the atmospheres of exoplanets and the formation of the earliest stars and galaxies. It is expected to be used to understand why the atmosphere on Pluto is much colder than expected, and hunt for pairs of runaway stars.

The construction of the JWST was completed towards the end of 2016, and the telescope was then on track for a launch in 2018. However, in October 2017, NASA announced that the launch of the telescope has been delayed to mid 2019 as the integration of the components of the telescope was taking longer than expected. Over the course of the year, the JWST was put through a series of rigorous tests to make sure that it performs as expected in the cold, airless, microgravity environment where it will spend most of its time. Future testing will also ensure that the sensitive images on the telescope are not damaged during the launch.

In November 2016, the JWST completed a 100 day end-to-end optical test in a sealed cryogenic chamber at the Johnson Space Centre in Houston. The 12-meter wide chamber was so massive that it had doors weighing 40 tonnes to seal it, and it took a week to pump all the air out. The testing on the telescope continued even as Hurricane Harvey raged around the facility.

Prior to the testing at Houston, the JWST successfully completed environmental testing at another NASA facility, the Goddard Space Flight Centre in Maryland. One of the most exciting duties of the JWST will be to peer into the skies of alien worlds, looking for any signs of life. One of the most promising candidates for the JWST to study are the seven Earth-sized exoplanets in orbit around a star 40 light years away, called TRAPPIST-1. The JWST will help determine if the planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system can support life.

Private spaceflight blasts off

International space programs, governments, researchers, academic institutions and private corporations are increasingly depending on private spaceflight companies for their launch capabilities. Companies with aerospace expertise including Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Bigelow Aerospace have participated in space missions in various capacities, but now, disruptive new players such as Elon Musks SpaceX and Jeff Bezos Blue Origin have also entered the arena.

SpaceX kickstarted a year with a return to rocket launches with the deployment of 10 communications satellites, after a disastrous launchpad explosion in September 2016 destroyed an Israeli-built satellite that Facebook planned to use for providing Free Basics in Africa.

Mission looks good. Started deploying the 10 Iridium satellites. Rocket is stable on the droneship.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 14, 2017

SpaceX's rocket flights have proceeded more or less smoothly throughout the year, with only minor delays due to technical issues or unfavourable weather conditions. SpaceX executed sixteen flawless launches over the year, recovering the boosters on the launch pads or drone ships every time, with the exception of three flights during which a recovery was not attempted. Over the course of the year, SpaceX launched the top secret X37B spaceplane for the US military, a communications satellite for South Korea and executed a series of three flights over a period of just 12 days in July 2017. The chief executive of Roscosmos, the Russian Space Agency, admitted in an interview that SpaceX has emerged as a serious threat in the global commercial satellite launch market. SpaceX carried out four resupply missions to International Space Station (ISS), making it an almost routine operation. The Dragon spacecraft was re-used on two of those flights, CRS-11 and CRS-13. The resupply missions ferry research, supplies and hardware to and from the ISS. The first resupply mission in February 2017 allowed a technology demonstration module, informally dubbed The Three Eyed Raven to perch on the space station, while the latest one in December 2017 had on board transforming materials and a module to study how beer can be brewed in space.

The @SpaceX #Dragon resupply ship loaded with new science experiments was captured at 5:57am ET as the station orbited above Australia and New Guinea. https://t.co/v8qYkysswI pic.twitter.com/J2tIWAhqxU  Intl. Space Station (@Space_Station) December 17, 2017

Elon Musk as usual announced some grand plans for the years ahead, which were however, pretty tame in comparison to his plan, revealed in 2016, to establish a permanent settlement on Mars by ferrying 1,000,000 people to the Red Planet over a series of 5,000 to 10,000 spaceflights.

SpaceX revealed plans to deploy a swarm of 4,425 satellites into orbit to provide worldwide wireless broadband coverage. Musk also wants to use a Falcon 9 to park a Tesla Roadster in orbit around Mars, send a Dragon to the Moon with tourists on board and develop a terrestrial, rocket-based transportation system that reduces travel time between any two locations to less than 30 minutes. The BFR for the terrestrial transport system would also be used for deep flight missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond.

SpaceX is already working with NASA to identify suitable landing sites for the first pathfinding mission to Mars. Apparently, several landing sites have been identified and one of those appears to be particularly promising. A modified version of the Dragon known as the Red Dragon was initially supposed to be used for the initial missions to Mars, but Musk has indicated that SpaceX is in the process of developing a better alternative.

An enterprising scientist translated Musks 2016 talk at the International Astronautical Congress on making humans an interplanetary species into a scientific paper. It was perhaps the coolest study to be published in a scientific journal, with a number of brilliant observations, including Generally, I do not like calling things 'systems,' as everything is a system, including your dog As a response to Musk announcing plans to kick-start the process of introducing orbital debris around Mars in the form of a Tesla Roadster, Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg claimed that the first human to reach Mars would do so on a Boeing rocket. It was the second time that Muilenburg had made such a declaration. The episode resulted in a showdown on Twitter between Boeing and Musk.

Game on!  The Boeing Company (@Boeing) December 7, 2017

The competition is all good as NASAs plans to send pioneering missions to Mars depends on participation from several private spaceflight companies.

The Russian Soyuz spacecraft serves double duty as an emergency escape pod on board the ISS. Although there has been no occasion deserving an emergency evacuation so far, NASA intends to be amply prepared, and is working closely with Boeing and SpaceX to get the CST-100 Starliner and Dragon spacecraft ready to be used as lifeboats.

Blue Origin, an emerging player in the private spaceflight industry, tested its Crew Capsule 2.0 in mid-December, 2017. The Capsule uses three parachutes to return to the ground, has large windows so spacefarers can take in the view and a built in safety mechanism to allow the crew to rapidly move away from any potential hazards. Blue Origin has plans to send civilians to space through the Crew Capsule 2.0.

Earlier in the year, Blue Origin signed its first commercial satellite launch deal with Eutelsat, its first customer. The maiden launch with the New Glenn rockets, which are designed to be re-usable as well, is expected to take place around 2021. In October this year, Blue Origin conducted the first hot fire test of the Blue Engine 4 rocket engine, which is powered by a novel liquid oxygen and liquid methane-based fuel. Although Blue Origin is planning to use the engines for the New Glenn rockets, they may also be used by the new flagship rocket of the United Launch Alliance, the Vulcan.

Discovery of exoplanets that may support life, including seven in the TRAPPIST-1 system

The TRAPPIST-1 system was initially discovered in mid 2016 and researchers had identified three of the planets in orbit around the star. All the three planets were in the habitable zone, the requisite distance for liquid water to exist on the surface, which is a prerequisite for life as we know it on Earth. If the planets were any closer, the water would evaporate, and if they were any farther away, they would be frozen. The possibility of the TRAPPIST-1 system harbouring life was raised during this initial discovery itself.

In December 2016, Kepler started an observation campaign dedicated to the system called K2 Campaign 12. The portion of the sky was monitored without interruption for almost 72 days.

In February 2017, an explosive piece of news dropped. Data gathered by the Spitzer space telescope had helped researchers identify seven Earth-sized exoplanets in orbit around the ultracool white dwarf star. The system is only 40 light years away in the constellation of Aquarius and practically in our celestial neighbourhood. Given the right atmospheric conditions, it is possible for liquid water to exist on the surface of all the seven planets. The TRAPPIST-1 system quickly emerged as the best candidate system for finding life elsewhere in the universe.

Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASAs Science Mission Directorate said, This discovery could be a significant piece in the puzzle of finding habitable environments, places that are conducive to life. Answering the question 'are we alone' is a top science priority and finding so many planets like these for the first time in the habitable zone is a remarkable step forward toward that goal.

Just a few days after making the announcement, NASA scientists made the raw data from Keplers observation run available to the scientific community. Allowing enthusiasts and researchers to dive into the unprocessed data, enabled them to make plans for follow up studies on the planets. The data allowed scientists to make plans and file proposals for observation runs on other telescopes. Scientific papers followed soon after the data was published, with one of the earliest findings confirming that the outermost planet orbited the star every 19 days.

The outermost planet in the TRAPPIST-1 system has a year that is as long as 19 Earth days. By comparison, Pluto* goes around Sun once every 248 Earth years. All the seven planets are closer to the star than Mercury is to the Sun. An individual standing on the surface of one of the planets would see several of the others in the skies, even being able to discern surface details. The planets appear to be in more or less a straight line. During the initial discovery, exactly how the planets maintained a stable orbit so close to each other was somewhat of a mystery.

The system is ancient and the planets appear to be tidally locked to their host star. This means that the planets no longer rotate around an axis and that one side of the planet constantly faces the star, similar to how the Moon always shows a single face to the Earth. This has implications for the day/night cycles as well as the weather on these planets. One side would bask in perpetual daylight, while another side would be stuck in a never-ending night. A narrow belt between the day and night zones would enjoy an everlasting sunset. At some points on the surface of these planets, an observer can enjoy a sunset that appearing to be frozen in time.

About three months after the initial discovery, researchers managed to figure out the intricate orbital dance of the seven planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system. The phenomenon is known as gravitational resonance, where each planet tugs the next planet just enough to keep it in line, and prevent the planets from colliding into each other. Kepler-80 and Kepler-223 were previously known systems with four planets each in gravitational resonance. Neptune, Pluto and the trans-Neptunian object Orcus are all locked in gravitational resonance within our own solar system.

Rodrigo Luger, lead author of the study said, All of this indicates that these orbital relationships were forged early in the life of the TRAPPIST-1 system, during the planet formation process. The resonant structure is no coincidence, and points to an interesting dynamical history in which the planets likely migrated inward in lock-step. This makes the system a great laboratory for planet formation and migration theories.

About three months after the orbits of the planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system was understood, researchers and musicians collaborated to convert the planetary system into a musical instrument. The melody was derived from the pattern of transits. The pitch corresponded to the orbital frequency of the planets, shifted to a range that human ears can hear. The actual gravitational tugs, were converted to beats through a drum kit where cymbals, hi-hats, a snare and a kick were mapped to conjugations of different pairs of planets. A conjugation occurs when an inner planet races ahead of an outer planet. The instrument can be used on any system, but nothing sounds as good as TRAPPIST-1.

NASA researchers also found out that the TRAPPIST-1 system was older than the solar system. While the solar system is around 4.5 billion years old, the TRAPPIST-1 system is between 5.4 billion and 9.8 billion years old. This study decreased the possibility of finding life on the system as any atmosphere the planets had could be blasted away by the stellar radiation, to which the planets had been exposed to for much longer than Earth. Adam Burgasser, the lead author of the study said, "If there is life on these planets, I would speculate that it has to be hardy life, because it has to be able to survive some potentially dire scenarios for billions of years."

Researchers using data from follow up observations via the Hubble Space Telescope estimated that the inner planets may have lost about 20 Earth oceans worth of water over the last 8 billion years, considering the exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the host star. The outer planets e, f and g, were however not that exposed to the radiation and would have lost significantly less water over the same period, about three Earth oceans worth each. This indicates that liquid water could exist on the surface of the outer planets. E, f and g are also the three planets in the habitable zone around the host star.

Apart from the planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system, a number of discoveries of exoplanets with conditions suitable for supporting life were identified over 2017. Ross 128 b is 11 light years away but moving towards us, Gliese 625 b is 21 light years away, GJ 1132 b is 39 light years away and is the first Earth-like exoplanet known to have an atmosphere, LHS 1140 b is 40 light years away, while K2-18 b is just a little further away at a distance of 111 light years. Four Earth-sized exoplanets were discovered around Tau Ceti, 12 light years away and the closest Sun-like star. In the middle of the year, the Kepler team announced 10 rocky, Earth-sized planets in the habitable zones of their host stars, after surveying 219 exoplanet candidates.

Through the year, there were also findings of exoplanets with toxic conditions, unimaginably unsuitable for life. In August 2017, researchers found evidence of the potential habitability of Proxima b, a planet in orbit around Proxima Centauri, the star closest to our Sun. The star blasts the planet with ultraviolet radiation hundreds of times the amount the Sun emits towards the Earth, which means the planet cannot have an atmosphere.

WASP-12 b absorbs almost all the light that falls on it and has surface temperatures of 2,537 degrees Celsius. Wasp-19 b is also very hot at 2,000 degrees Celsius, but the atmosphere is rich in titanium oxide, which could provide thermal insulation. The stratosphere on Wasp-121 b is hot enough to boil metals, while WASP-18 b is devoid of any water and has a toxic stratosphere rich in carbon monoxide. 55 Cancri e has water, hydrogen and oxygen just like the Earth, but is blasted with too much heat from the host star to support life.

For a summary of our own contribution to space research, head here.

* If any readers are annoyed that Pluto is being referred to as a planet, do note that planetary scientists who specialise in the study of planets (as against, say astronomers) point out that Pluto is a planet irrespective of whether it is considered as one or not. Pluto is geologically active and has all the characteristics of a planet, which is why NASA scientists want to promote it to the status of a planet again. And, according to the current definition by the International Astronomical Union, the Earth fails to qualify as a planet for the same reasons as Pluto.
Tehran: Iran said on Saturday that US president Donald Trump's support for protests in the country was "deceitful and opportunist".

"The Iranian people see no value in the opportunistic remarks by American officials and Donald Trump," foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said on its website.

He said Iranians remembered Trump's actions in barring them from entry to the United States and "the arrest of many Iranians in that country on baseless pretexts".

"That's why they see the support of these officials for some rallies in recent days in some Iranian cities as opportunistic," he added.

"The constitution of the Islamic republic of Iran has established democratic structures for the legal support of people's civil demands," he said.

Trump tweeted on Friday night in support of protests against Iran's economic problems that had spread to several towns and cities in Iran.

"Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption & its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," he wrote.

"Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests."
Beijing/Washington: China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of UN sanctions, after US president Donald Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

China on Thursday blocked a US effort at the United Nations to blacklist six foreign-flagged ships  five of which were mainland-China  or Hong Kong-owned  that Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a UN Security Council diplomat said.

Trump said on Twitter on Thursday that China had been caught RED HANDED allowing oil into North Korea and that would prevent a friendly solution to the crisis over Pyongyangs development of nuclear-tipped missiles capable of hitting the United States.

Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 28, 2017

In a subsequent New York Times interview, Trump explicitly tied his administrations trade policy with China, North Koreas neighbour and lone major ally, to cooperation in resolving the North Korea standoff.

I have been soft on China because the only thing more important to me than trade is war, he said. If theyre helping me with North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And thats what Ive been doing. But when oil is going in, Im not happy about that.

South Koreas Chosun Ilbo newspaper this week quoted South Korean government sources as saying that US spy satellites had detected Chinese ships transferring oil to North Korean vessels about 30 times since October.

US officials have not confirmed details of this report but a US State Department official said Washington had evidence that vessels from several countries, including China, had engaged in transhipping oil products and coal.

Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, two senior Western European security sources told Reuters, providing another economic lifeline to Pyongyang.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters she had noted recent media reports, including suggestions a Chinese vessel was suspected of transporting oil to a North Korean vessel on 19 October.

In reality, the ship in question has, since August, not docked at a Chinese port and there is no record of it entering or leaving a Chinese port, Hua said, adding that the reports did not accord with facts.

China has always implemented UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to North Korea in their entirety and fulfils its international obligations. We never allow Chinese companies and citizens to violate the resolutions, Hua said.

If through investigation, its confirmed there are violations of the UN Security Council resolutions, China will deal with them seriously in accordance with laws and regulations.

South Korea said on Friday that in late November it seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship, the Lighthouse Winmore, suspected of transferring oil to North Korea. The ships registered manager, Lighthouse Ship Management, is in the Chinese port of Guangzhou.

A South Korean Foreign Ministry official said the ship transferred as much as 600 tons to the North Korea-flagged Sam Jong 2 on 19 October in international waters between China and the Korean peninsula, on the order of its Taiwan-based charterer, Billions Bunker Group Corp.

Taiwans presidential office said the firm was not incorporated in Taiwan and Chinas Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said she did not have any information about the matter.

US ship-ban proposal

Both ships were among 10 vessels the United States proposed that the UN Security Council should blacklist for illicit trade with North Korea, documents seen by Reuters this month showed.

Of those ships, three were listed earlier this month as Hong Kong-owned and two as mainland-China-owned, sailing under flags of convenience.

China blocked six of the proposed vessels, a UN Security Council diplomat said. Four of the vessels were designated yesterday.

Three of the ships designated were North Korean, while the other was the Panama-registered Billions No. 18. Earlier this month, the latter ship was listed as Taiwan-owned.

The other ships were the Xin Sheng Hai; the Yu Yuan; the Glory Hope 1 (also known as Orient Shenyu), and the Kai Xiang.

The Trump administration has led a drive to step up global sanctions on North Korea and the UN Security Council last week unanimously imposed new sanctions in response to Pyongyangs 29 November test of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

Those sanctions seek to further limit North Koreas access to refined petroleum products and crude oil and Washington says the full cooperation of China, North Korea main trading partner, is vital if this peaceful pressure campaign is to succeed.

It has warned that all options are on the table, including military ones, if sanctions fail.

US defence secretary Jim Mattis was asked by reporters on Friday whether the US Navy might become involved in seizing vessels suspected of transferring oil to North Korea.

He said he would not speculate on future operations but added: Obviously if a government finds that there is a ship in their port conducting trade that was forbidden under the UN Security Council resolution, then they have an obligation and so far we have seen nations take that obligation seriously.

In September, the Security Council put a cap of 2 million barrels a year on refined petroleum products exports to North Korea.

The latest UN resolution seeks to ban nearly 90 percent of refined petroleum exports to North Korea by capping them at 5,00,000 barrels a year.

It also caps crude oil supplies to North Korea at 4 million barrels a year and commits the Security Council to further cuts if North Korea conducts another nuclear or intercontinental ballistic missile test.

Ship tracking data in Thomson Reuters Eikon shows that the Lighthouse Winmore has mainly been doing supply runs between China and Taiwan since August.

Prior to that, it was active between India and the United Arab Emirates. In October, when it allegedly transferred petroleum products to the North Korean ship, the Lighthouse Winmore had its tracking transponder switched off.

South Koreas customs service concluded that the Lighthouse Winmore had loaded about 14,000 tons of Japanese refined petroleum products in South Korea on 11 October, reportedly bound for Taiwan, the South Korea official said.

Its unclear how much oil the ship had transferred to North Korea for how long and on how many occasions, but it clearly showed North Korea is engaged in evading the sanctions, the official told Reuters.

It was not immediately possible to find contact information for the Taiwanese charter company.

The Hong Kong government said it was liaising with the Korean parties concerned to obtain further information about the incident, and will take appropriate actions as necessary.

Employees at the office of Lighthouse Ship Management declined to comment and said they had no knowledge of the situation.
Guatemala City: Guatemala's foreign minister insisted that President Jimmy Morales' plan to move the country's embassy in Israel to Jerusalem will not be reversed, and called for critics to "respect" the country's decisions.

"It's a decision that has been made ... it is not going to be reversed," Sandra Jovel told journalists during an event to commemorate the end of the Guatemalan civil war in 1996.

"The Guatemalan government is very respectful of the positions that other countries have taken, and as we are respectful of those decisions, we believe others should respect decisions made by Guatemala," she added in response to critics including the Palestinians.

Last Sunday, Morales unexpectedly announced the transfer of the embassy from Tel Aviv to Israel on social media, in the wake of the UN General Assembly's condemnation of a similar move by the United States.

The announcement made Guatemala the first country to follow the United States's controversial lead on the holy city.

Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, while Palestinians, consider east Jerusalem as the occupied capital of their future state.

Morales, defending his decision, said Israel is an "ally" and that Guatemala has "historically been pro-Israel."
Kuala Lumpur: A Malaysian state plans to run a conversion therapy course aimed at transgenders, officials said on Saturday, sparking alarm among LGBT activists in the conservative Muslim-majority country.

The course would run over several days next year after authorities completed a survey of the transgender population, a Terengganu state official said.

Participation in the course would be voluntary, Ghazali said, adding that the programme would include medical, psychological and religious experts, as well as transgender women who have "returned to normal lives".

"Transgender women are part of our society... They are our responsibility," Terengganu executive council member Ghazali Taib told AFP. "At the end, it is up to them to make a choice. The government's concept is not (to) force. (We) give them a path to make the best choices for their lives," he said.

A Human Rights Watch report in 2017 wrote that discrimination against LGBT people was "pervasive" in Malaysia, where there are laws against sodomy, with offenders facing jail time and whipping.

LGBT activists condemned the government's plans. "If you ask someone not to be themselves that will have an adverse impact on the health and-well being of the person," Thilaga Sulathireh, co-founder of transgender activist group Justice for Sisters, said.

Leading transgender activist Nisha Ayub said courses such as these would only deepen the community's isolation. "They're looking more to... corrective therapy, which violates everyone's rights in so many ways," she said. "If (transgenders)... feel that they cannot change themselves, they will feel like outcasts from society," she added.

There are no official figures on transgenders in Malaysia, though a health ministry document estimated that the country was home to about 24,000 transgender sex workers as of 2014.
Bamako: Mali's prime minister Abdoulaye Idrissa Maiga and his government resigned on Saturday, a surprise move just months ahead of presidential polls.

Authorities gave no reason for Maiga, who had been in his post since April, stepping down seven months before President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita seeks re-election.

Maiga "presented to the president his resignation along with that of the members of his government," the president's office stated, saying Keita had "accepted" his decision to quit.

The statement added a replacement prime minister and government would swiftly be found for Maiga, who had thanked the president for the opportunity to serve his country.

Maiga, a trained engineer who hails from the northern city of Gao, is vice-chairman of the ruling Rally for Mali (RPM), which Keita founded.

He was Keita's campaign director during the latter's successful run for the presidency in 2013.

He resigns with Mali's north still a theatre of unrest almost six years after a French-led military operation chased Islamic extremists linked to Al-Qaeda from a region they had taken control of in early 2012.

Mali's army, French soldiers and a UN mission (MINUSMA) still have little control over large tracts of the country, which regularly come under attack in spite of a peace accord signed with Tuareg leaders in May and June 2015 with the aim of isolating the jihadists.

The past two years have seen jihadist attacks spread to central and southern areas as well as over the border into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger.

The spread of the unrest this year prompted the G5 regional forum, which also includes Mauritania and Chad, to step up peace efforts with French support.

Maiga was Keita's fourth prime minister after Oumar Tatam Ly (September 2013-March 2014), Moussa Mara (April 2014-January 2015) and Modibo Keita (January 2015-April 2017).
Moscow: The Kremlin views the continued strain on Russia's relations with the United States as a major disappointment of the year, President Vladimir Putin's spokesman said on Friday.

Ties between Moscow and Washington sank to a post-Cold War low following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the allegations of its meddling in the US presidential election last year.

The Kremlin's hopes for warmer dealings under President Donald Trump have withered amid the Congressional and FBI investigations into alleged links between Trump's campaign and Russia.

The two countries introduced tit-for-tat measures to rebuke each other all year, ranging from restrictions on embassy staff to legislation targeting state-owned media.

Asked about the Kremlin's biggest disappointments of 2017, Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that worsening relations with the US were "certainly" on the list.

Russia has denied any interference in the US election, and Peskov noted that the Kremlin is watching the ongoing US investigations with "bewilderment."

"It's the US internal business, but it certainly hurts bilateral relations and we regret that," he said. Peskov reiterated the Kremlin's position that Russia seeks good relations with the US based on "mutual trust and mutual respect," but added that "it takes two to tango."

Russian officials and lawmakers last week expressed dismay with the US decision to provide Ukraine with lethal weapons, including anti-tank missiles, warning the move would only fuel hostilities in eastern Ukraine.

Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon Friday, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said the US approach to Ukraine's conflict with Russia-backed separatist rebels wasn't changing despite the decision to supply weapons to Ukraine. "I don't see an evolving US military role in Ukraine," Mattis said.

"Right now, we have some trainers there helping to train their army to NATO standards, and that has a lot to do with making certain it serves the needs of the Ukrainian

people, in the way democracies' armies do, so the US military role remains the same."
Madrid: Spain's prime minister said he intends to convene Catalonia's new parliament on 17 January and hopes the restive region's next government won't renew the push for independence that fueled a serious political crisis.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy set the date just over a week after a regional parliamentary election resulted in the separatist parties he hoped to keep out of power again winning the most seats and in turn a good chance to lead the next Catalan government.

At the opening session, the parliament typically chooses a house speaker, who then calls on a candidate to try to form a government in the following days.

Rajoy ordered the 21 December election under constitutional powers he invoked in October to dissolve the previous parliament after it voted to declare Catalonia an independent republic. He also removed the region's pro-independence president and his Cabinet.

Governing Catalonia will remain in the hands of Spanish authorities until a new president and Cabinet are chosen. Rajoy has not ruled out seizing control of the region again, if necessary.

While the anti-secession Ciutadans (Citizens) collected the most votes of any single party, the prime minister's hope that the separatists would suffer a stinging rebuke at the polls went unfulfilled.

It remains to be seen if the secessionist parties, which won 70 of the regional parliament's 135 seats, will be able to form a government. Eight of their deputies elected last week are either in flight from justice or jailed in Spain while being investigated for alleged rebellion over the independence declaration.
Washington: The US state department has released emails from Huma Abedin, a top aide to Hillary Clinton, that were found by the FBI on her husband's laptop.

Some of the emails found on former representative Anthony Weiner's laptop were marked classified. It was unclear whether they were deemed classified at the time they were sent or when the state department was preparing them for release.

The emails were released in response to a lawsuit filed by the conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch.

The state department said it reviews the content of records requested through the Freedom of Information Act to determine whether any information is sensitive or classified.

It said some of the documents released on Friday have "classified information that has been redacted." The FBI found the emails while investigating Weiner.
While the city of Flint still recovers from a lead-tainted water crisis, Michigan is scrambling to combat potential health risks in other tap water that stem from chemicals long used in firefighting, waterproofing, carpeting and other products.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have been detected at military bases, water treatment plants and, most recently, an old industrial dump site for footwear company Wolverine World Wide. The contaminants, classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as "emerging" nationally, have sparked enough concern that Gov. Rick Snyder created a state response team and approved $23 million in emergency spending.

The chemicals do not break down easily and can migrate from soil to groundwater. They were used in scores of U.S. industrial applications and have been detected in human and animal blood around the globe. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry says scientists are uncertain about how they affect human health at exposure levels typically found in food and water. But some studies suggest the chemicals might affect fetal development, disrupt hormonal functions, damage fertility and immune systems, and boost the risk of cancer.

At least 1,000 homes with private wells in the Plainfield Township area north of Grand Rapids  near where Wolverine dumped hazardous waste decades ago  have been tested for PFAS contamination in recent months.

Cody Angell, 28, who lives in the area, said he has had "sleepless nights," even though his home is on the local water system that has been deemed safe. He's concerned because the chemicals have been discovered in the municipal supply, and Plainfield Township for years pulled water from backup wells that have tested positive for the substances. He wonders if PFAS contamination caused his mother's thyroid disease.

Angell said he lacks confidence in state regulators, pointing to their failures that led to Flint's crisis. Environmental activist and legal consultant Erin Brockovich recently met with area residents, urging them to join a class-action lawsuit that alleges Wolverine illegally disposed of PFAS from Minnesota-based 3M's Scotchgard product in the area. The suit seeks financial damages and steps such as targeted, more frequent medical testing.

Another lawsuit alleges that a family of four living near Wolverine's unlined tannery waste dump drank highly contaminated well water for 17 years, causing the father to develop colon cancer, the mother to have a miscarriage and one of their children to develop a rare bone cancer.

The chemicals have been identified at 28 sites in 14 Michigan communities. Nearly half are on or near military installations, where the source is believed to be firefighting foam.

The $23 million will be used to hire new state employees to sample and analyze well water, buy lab equipment and help public health departments with unexpected response costs. Samples have been sent to California because no Michigan labs can test for the chemicals; state officials want quicker results.

"People are starting to get an understanding of a whole class of chemicals that ... are in so many things. How much of that is getting into our systems? I don't think people really know," said state Rep. Chris Afendoulis, a Republican whose district includes the Wolverine dump area. He warned it could become "a nationwide problem."

Of about 1,050 homes tested in neighborhoods north of Grand Rapids, 74 had PFAS levels above 70 parts per trillion  the U.S. government's combined health advisory level for two PFAS in drinking water, set in 2016. Some houses had concentrations measuring hundreds of times higher than the lifetime advisory level. Results are not back yet for every home. Wolverine has provided affected residents with bottled water and whole-house filters and, at the state's request, is investigating 20 reports of discarded barrels or leather scraps at five sites.

For now, the Snyder administration and majority Republicans in the Legislature are comfortable with the 70 parts per trillion standard  a non-enforceable and unregulated limit unlike the federal restrictions on other contaminants such as lead, asbestos and mercury.

"It is largely used for trying to communicate to the public the point at which if you're below that, we don't have public health concern. When you get above that, then that is when we start to say there are some people who may be at risk of harm from a lifetime of drinking levels above 70," said Kory Groetsch, environmental health director at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. "I like to think of it as a speed limit. If you're doing 58 in a 55, your chance of anything bad is very small. If you're doing 95 in a 55, your chance of something going wrong is quite high."

Michigan Democrats are proposing legislation to establish a 5 parts per trillion limit, which would be the country's toughest and follow states such as New Jersey, Minnesota and Vermont that have imposed stricter guidelines. They also are calling for legislative oversight hearings to investigate whether Wolverine and the state moved too slowly to protect people. On its website, Wolverine calls the federal advisory level "very conservative" and says there is no human study proving PFAS exposure causes illness.

Still, the EPA recently announced a "cross-agency effort" to address PFAS contamination nationwide, saying it will identify near-term actions to help communities, enhance coordination, boost research and expand communication about health risks. Snyder, a Republican, said the state is building a "good working relationship" with the EPA, but  echoing criticism from both sides of the aisle in Congress  said he wants a "better response" from the Defense Department.

The former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in northern Michigan has been on officials' radar for some time. While PFAS levels in samples from private residential wells nearby were not higher than the federal advisory level, the state urged people to not use their water for drinking or cooking because of uncertainty about the duration or amount of previous exposure and other concerns.

"We're at this point in dialogue with different branches of military, and it'd be good if we could get the Department of Defense to figure out the best way to respond and partner with us on helping address this issue," Snyder said.

___

Follow David Eggert on Twitter at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00. His work can be found at https://apnews.com/search/David%20Eggert

___

Sign up for the AP's weekly newsletter showcasing our best reporting from the Midwest and Texas: http://apne.ws/2u1RMfv
Meghan Markles half-brother said her father would be extremely hurt by Prince Harrys claims that the royals were the family shes never had.

Thomas Markle Jr. told the Daily Mail in a video interview that Markle had a good family and an amazing childhood.

It was just a little shocking because Meghan had an amazing, amazing childhood growing up and she had a lot of family, Markle Jr. told the Daily Mail. Especially at Christmas and the holidays, she had Christmas at my house, Christmas at her moms house, my dads house.

So, as far as the family that she never had, I dont really get that, he continued.

MEGHAN MARKLES HALF-SISTER SLAMS PRINCE HARRYS CLAIM THE ROYALS ARE THE FAMILY SHE NEVER HAD

The half-brother also said his father, Thomas Markle Sr., would be extremely hurt by Harrys comments.

He (the father) dedicated the majority of all his time and everything to her, Markle Jr. said. He made sure she had what she needed to be successful and get to where shes at today.

Markle Jr. said he was also hurt by the princes comments.

Shes had a really good family, he said. We were as close as we could be, as tight as we could be, thats what we were. Wed get together on Christmases, on holidays, on birthdays, on Thanksgivings. It was always somewhere, even though we lived in different parts of [Los Angeles], we still all got together.

The Oregon resident said he has not spoken to his half-sister since 2011 and does not expect an invitation to the wedding but added he would like to attend.

I dont know if she gets to invite who she wants. But shell reach out if she wants me there, shell call me, Markle Jr. said. She knows where to find me. But thats up to her, theres no pressure. I wouldnt mind seeing my little sister have the biggest wedding in the world. That would be incredible. If my dad doesnt walk her down the aisle, then I will.

MEGHAN MARKLE REPORTEDLY CONSIDERED FOR BOND GIRL ROLE BEFORE ENGAGEMENT TO PRINCE HARRY

The backlash began after Prince Harry made some comments about his familys Christmas celebrations with his fiancee Markle.

He said in a recent interview with BBC Radio 4, "There's always that family part of Christmas [where] there's always that work element there as well, and I think together we had an amazing time... [Meghan's] getting in there and it's the family I suppose that she's never had."

Markles half-sister, Samantha Grant, slammed Harrys comments on Twitter.

"Actually she [Markle] has a large family who were always there with her and for her, Grant tweeted.

The Suits actress reportedly has an estranged relationship with her older sister.

Fox News' Sasha Savitsky contributed to this report.
About 40,000 pounds of scorched avocados spilled onto an interstate south of Dallas this week after the 18-wheeler hauling them caught fire.

Interstate 35E was closed in both directions for nearly three hours, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. Authorities worked to extinguish the blase and determine its cause, Fox 6 in Dallas-Forth Worth reported.

No one was injured in the fire, which was believed to caused by a mechanical failure, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Mexico is the largest distributor of the green fruit known for its healthy fats. It is believed to help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Avocado prices have sharply risen recently as harsh weather has affected production, the paper reported.

As of May, the average cost for Hass avocados was $1.27 each, which is an increase of 98 cents from the previous year, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data.
Middle school can be tough as it is without the demands of dress codes, so one Pennsylvania school is making it easy for students to comply with campus policy.

On Dec. 29, Shamokin Middle School math teacher Tiffani Bogart told Yahoo Lifestyle that she dreamt up the idea for The Clothes Closet with principal Chris Venna, who wanted to create a positive way for students to avoid dress code violations. Leading marketing and donation efforts to stock the initial inventory, Bogart says the closet is now full with 100 articles of clothing for students to take when needed, free of charge.

D.C. RESTAURANT CHANGES DRESS CODE AFTER BEING ACCUSED OF 'RACISM'

So far, two students have [come forward on their own and] asked for clothing. In other cases, weve encouraged kids who wear the same pair of pants throughout the week to use the closet, Bogart told the outlet. And a student whos currently homeless will start school in January so I gave her four pairs of pants and six tops from the closet.

According to the Shamokin area school district's dress code, students from kindergarten through twelfth grade are forbidden from wearing hooded sweatshirts, baggy clothes, cargo pants, head-to-toe clothing in one color, sleeveless, formfitting or midriff baring tops, logos and shorts or skirts above the knee. Failure to comply can result in in-school suspension and detention, Yahoo adds.

STUDENT TOLD SWEATSHIRT AND JEANS VIOLATED SCHOOL'S DRESS CODE

From yearbook photo rules to strict homecoming attire stipulations, school dress codes made headlines across the country many times this year, as students and parents protest what they often feel to be sexist, discriminatory and body-shaming policies.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

Meanwhile, at Shamokin, The Clothes Closet has done nothing but good.

According to Bogart, the communal closet has not only reduced the number of dress code violation incidents, but also inspired students to get involved with maintaining the inventory.


Each September, dictators, tyrants and appeasers from nations around the world arrive in New York City for the opening of the United Nations General Assembly and lie to the world about their own actions, denounce Israel as an illegal occupier, blast America as an imperialist aggressor and attack some of our allies.

No matter how small, weak, poor and insignificant they are, all nations have an equal vote in the General Assembly. And far too many cast those votes not based on fairness and justice, but to lash out at their enemies and flatter their friends  even when their actions have no basis in fact.

Americans have a love-hate relationship with the U.N. We appreciate its charter, which guarantees the sovereignty of its member states and holds out the hope of a more just and humane world. But we realize that the conduct by nations at the U.N. often does not live up to the institutions great ideals.

Fortunately, from time to time a diplomat comes along who stands up to the dictators and tyrants with such force that the original promise of the U.N. re-emerges. America has been served by four such ambassadors  Democrats Adlai Stevenson and Daniel Patrick Moynihan, and Republicans Jeane Kirkpatrick and John Bolton. Each of them is remembered for a defining moment at the U.N.

Last week, with her defiant speech in defense of President Trumps announcement that the U.S. is moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, Ambassador Nikki Haley joined this distinguished group.

Earlier this month, President Trump did something that his predecessors from both parties had promised to do in their campaigns, but never did as president. He recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital and ordered preparations begin to move the U.S. embassy there.

In response to the elected leader of the U.N.s oldest democracy moving his nations embassy to the actual capital of the Middle Easts only true democracy, the U.N. passed a harsh resolution condemning America and Israel. With President Trumps backing, Haley let the assembled delegates know that America finally had had enough.

To its shame, the U.N. has long been a hostile place for the state of Israel, Haley told U.N. delegates. Ive often wondered why, in the face of such hostility, Israel has chosen to remain a member of this body.

Haley then put the U.N. on notice that the U.S. will remember this day in which it was singled out for attack in the General Assembly for the very act of exercising our right as a sovereign nation. We will remember it when we are called upon to once again make the worlds largest contribution to the U.N.

It is long past time that the U.S. rewards its friends and shines a light on its adversaries conduct at the U.N. As the worlds most powerful nation, we have a responsibility to stand firm on behalf of the founding ideals of the U.N.  especially when such a stance is unpopular with the dictators, tyrants and their enablers.

With her actions, Nikki Haley has joined the ranks of Americas greatest U.N. ambassadors. The American people are fortunate to have her representing us.
Is there any spot left in America where we can get away  for at least just a little while  from leftist hysteria?

Its getting harder and harder. Even at the home of Mickey Mouse.

Disney World in Florida is a special place that attracts about 52.5 million children and adults each year for days of family fun at what it calls the most magical place on Earth. But the theme park was unable to offer its guests an escape last week from a truly bizarre protest against President Trump.

A man who clearly was no Trump fan started screaming LOCK HIM UP! over and over again when a robot portraying President Trump at the Hall of Presidents attraction began speaking with the recorded voice of the real President Trump.

Malsky's message is clear: even children dont deserve a peaceful holiday if they happen to be born into privilege. They should have chosen more wisely when picking their parents, no doubt.

No one locked up Robot Trump. And although no Robot Secret Service Agents were around, actor and comedian Jay Malsky was apprehended by security staff members and escorted out of the attraction when he wouldnt stop screaming.

Other audience members, presumably including children and their parents trying to enjoy their holiday vacations, had tried to get Malsky to stop ruining the performance for them, but to no avail.

Malsky helpfully recorded his protest for posterity and posted it on Twitter. Perhaps he hopes it will bring him fame and a great boost for his career, which includes sometimes performing in drag as Hillary Clinton, according to his website.

In fact, in earlier tweets, Malsky contemplated throwing an object or perhaps attacking Robot Trump in some way. Apparently, he doesnt believe in the free speech rights of robots any more than he believes paying guests have the right to enjoy a day at a theme park.

Malskys response was the best part of all. In a statement to TheWrap, he said people should check their privilege if they are upset by his antics.

Anyone thats upset I disrupted a family vacation can check their privilege and consider getting mad about the thousands of children being taken away from their parents because of Trumps racist immigration policies, or the families of the hundreds of trans Americans murdered each year by transphobic and homophobic people, or the negative impacts of the tax bill on poor and middle-income Americans, Malsky said.

His message is clear: even children dont deserve a peaceful holiday if they happen to be born into privilege. They should have chosen more wisely when picking their parents, no doubt.

While its easy to dismiss Malskys protest as just a stupid stunt, its worth noting that the philosophy driving Malskys actions is right on par with progressive thought.

For many progressives, Americans are not individuals  each unique and special in his or her own way. Your skin color, gender, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status are whats most important. The more privileged you are in those domains, the less respect you are due.

So long to the days when individuals are judged by their character. In victimhood politics, all that matters is the situation you were born into.

Now, more than ever, its important that real American patriots continue to teach the true spirit of our country: that all people are worthy of respect until they prove otherwise. If we as nation dont recover and protect that principle, protests such as these will continue and become the norm.

As for Malsky, his 15 minutes of fame will probably pass soon enough. If hes lucky, maybe Disney World will open a Hall of Hecklers and give him a job. Or maybe he can tour the nation, screaming LOCK HIM UP! at statues and monuments he doesnt like.

Hey, but at least Malskys screaming match says one good thing about the greatness of America. If he tried the same stunt in Russia, Iran, China, North Korea or a lot of other nations without the freedom of speech Americans enjoy, hed probably be spending the next several years behind bars, after a government judge ordered: LOCK HIM UP!
President Trump should take decisive action in 2018 to support the ouster of the virulently anti-American theocracy that has ruled Iran with an iron fist and threatened its neighbors for the past four decades.

The presidents first step should be to throw American support behind the brave anti-government protesters who have taken to the streets in mass demonstrations across the Islamic Republic since Thursday. The street protests continued Saturday, with demonstrations in cities including the capital of Tehran and Kermanshah.

In a good first step, the U.S. State Department announced Friday that the America strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption.

President Trump himself used his Twitter account to condemn the arrest of protesters in Iran, writing late Friday night: Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching!

Saturday afternoon he tweeted from part of his September U.N. General Assembly address where he specifically mentioned Iran:

However, while such statements are helpful, more is needed. Statements and tweets alone will not bring about a change of government in Iran.

The United States should next impose crippling economic sanctions targeting key institutions that act as a lifeline for the Iranian regime, in particular the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps. The U.S. should also make it clear that Iran will face serious consequences if protesters are suppressed violently.

Slogans targeting the Iranian regimes supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, show that resentment is giving way to anger and that the regime is more vulnerable to losing the consent of the governed than many Western analysts may have thought.

As a political gesture, the Trump administration should also formally recognize the Iranian peoples right to regime change and the legitimacy of the organized resistance that is pursuing this goal.

The latest nationwide demonstrations are indicative of fierce discontent and growing frustration with the Iranian regimes corruption, incompetence and badly misplaced priorities.

The demonstrations have proven beyond doubt that the welfare of Iranians was never going to improve after the 2015 agreement that lifted worldwide economic sanctions against Iran in return for actions designed to halt the nations development of nuclear weapons.

Thanks to the lifting of those sanctions, Iranian companies linked to the government and the Revolutionary Guards are reaping the rewards of reopened international trade. But the Iranian people face increasingly dire economic circumstances, prompting the demonstrations and sharp criticism of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

With slogans like Death to the dictator, death to Rouhani, and Leave Syria alone; think about us instead,  referring to Irans unpopular military intervention to prop up Syrian dictator Bashar Assad  protestors have demonstrated their frustration with the endemic culture of corruption in Iran.

Slogans targeting the Iranian regimes supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, show that resentment is giving way to anger and that the regime is more vulnerable to losing the consent of the governed than many Western analysts may have thought.

There are plenty of reasons for the public anger against Irans rulers.

For example, according to Amnesty International, Iran alone accounted for 55 percent of all recorded judicial executions in the world in 2016. And according to a 2010 United Nations report: Since the beginning of the 1980s the Iranian government has executed 120,000 of its opponents. There have unquestionably been more executions since then.

Tehran is the worlds foremost state sponsor of terrorism. As U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley put it Dec, 14: Irans ballistic missiles and advanced weapons are turning up in warzones across the region. Its hard to find a conflict or a terrorist group in the Middle East that does not have Irans fingerprints all over it.

Unfortunately, America and its allies have pursued relations with so-called Iranian moderates since long before President Rouhani emerged as a player in contemporary Iranian politics. The result has only been a worsening situation for Western interests and also for the beleaguered people of Iran.

Contrary to the rhetoric of Irans rulers, the Iranian public is predisposed to democracy, seeks civil and political freedoms, and would prefer to be friendly with Western powers.

This constituency  the Iranian people as opposed to the Iranian regime  represents an important potential ally for the United States in efforts to improve the stability of the Middle East.

As the Iranian opposition leader Maryam Rajavi put it: Recent demonstration have once again proven that the overthrow of the mullahs regime and the establishment of democracy and the rule of people is a national and public demand.

But American officials have put the U.S. relationship with opposition forces at risk time and again by pursuing back channel deals with Irans clerical rulers, while ignoring the voices of the Iranian people.

Each new protest against the rulers of Iran represents an opportunity to use the peoples resentment as leverage against the regime.

The Obama administration squandered valuable opportunities in the past  most notably during the 2009 anti-government protests in Iran, when Western powers turned a blind eye to the governments brutal crackdown. It is time for this to change.

Activists have demonstrated courage by resisting the Iranian regimes violent influence domestically, regionally and internationally. But the protestors still need foreign support to see them through to their ultimate goal  the establishment a genuine democracy in one of the worlds most volatile regions, and an Iran free from tyrannical, theocratic rule.

To its credit, the Trump administration has taken preliminary steps in the right direction by imposing comprehensive sanctions on the Revolutionary Guards, a leading perpetrator of domestic crackdowns and international terrorism.

The opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran and its leading constituent group, the Peoples Mujahedin of Iran (MEK), are mobilized to safeguard the peoples rights in the Islamic Republic.

MEK activists have provided live reports of the new round of protests in Iran, and they have long been credited with providing the world with credible intelligence on Tehrans activities, despite the tremendous risks involved.

As American officials look toward 2018, it is time for the White House to formally recognize the National Council of Resistances legitimate goal of regime change in Iran.

The resistance already enjoys bipartisan support in Congress and broad support from Western officials in North America and Europe. It also has an intricate and determined network of supporters inside Iran, as evidenced by the presence of MEK activists in the protests directed at the Iranian regime over the past year, including those now underway.

If the U.S. provides strong support to anti-regime forces in Iran, America will have the opportunity to strike a fatal blow against a dangerous and tyrannical government by leveraging the discontent on the Iranian street and closing ranks with those seeking to topple the regime.

President Trump should follow this course in 2018.
For all the squabbling that social media platforms are notorious for, their relevance to the media landscape plays an important role in times of protest.

This was evident with Black Lives Matter, among other movements. Its been evident for the past three days in Iran, where thousands have taken to streets and public squares calling for an end to the hardline conservative regime of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The question that needs to be asked right now is why traditional mainstream media outlets  grandstanding over their importance in this new, bold era of fact-checking and truth-telling  have largely ignored a blossoming revolution.

Anyone on Twitter could click #IranProtests and view videos and eyewitness accounts that contradicted much of Western medias early reporting about these protests being simply about economic anxiety as was the case with The New York Times and Washington Post.

Anyone on Twitter could click #IranProtests and view videos and eyewitness accounts that contradicted much of Western medias early reporting about these protests being simply about economic anxiety as was the case with The New York Times and Washington Post.

But the now three-day duration of rallies and protests that have found their way to Tehran have gone largely unnoticed in Americas corporate media apparatus. The New York Times simply described the protests as economic grievances, the same way Iranian state-run television described them.

CNN ignored the protests completely, and the explosion on social media until a front page story reporting on not uprisings against the regime, but a pro-government rally and President Trumps tweet in support of the protestors. If the State Department wants to send a message of solidarity to the protesters in Iran, perhaps it can send them a white truck. Yes, the question has to be asked how such an uprising of thousands against their government would be covered by western media if this were Tel Aviv. We dont need U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley defiantly raising her hand to answer that question for us.

The somewhat muted reaction to thousands of people rising up against the Iranian regime can and should be compared to the attention the Arab Spring received in 2010. The scenes coming out of Iran are just as dramatic, if not more so, than those of the Arab uprising.

A woman was caught on videotape screaming death to Khamenei at Iranian law enforcement officials  an action that could not only endanger her life, but the lives of her family. But nevertheless, she persisted.

Social media came to a halt when another video was shared on Twitter of a female activist, shedding her hijab and waving a makeshift flag at security forces while standing atop a container.

Im not exactly sure why an Iranian woman would shed such a garment that weve been told by the political left of this country is a symbol of empowerment and feminism. But her body, her choice.

Protesters are shouting Death to Khamenei, Mullahs get lost, No more Islamic Republic, Clerics return us our country. They are not shouting We have economic anxiety. This is not about economic anxiety. This about revolting against a regime who has exhausted its moral good will, and no longer can lean on a sympathetic United States for more pallets of cash.

There is no doubt that socio-economics are playing a small role in all this. Thats bound to happen when a corrupt repressive regime promises its people millions of dollars to improve their lives, courtesy of their former friends in the Obama administration who flew them pallets of cash. Then somehow that money found its way to Syrian dictator Bashar Assad and terrorist groups Hamas and Hezbollah.

The echo chamber of media outlets that are now hesitant to report on the uprising in Iran cannot be ignored, especially after the coordinated lash-out on the heels of Josh Meyers devastating report in Politico over the Obama administration killing an investigation into Hezbollahs drug trafficking operation. The Obama administration reportedly took the action to appease Iran and facilitate a nuclear deal.

Despite a near blackout, these protests are not intended for domestic Iranian audiences only.

How will the Obama Presidential Library wing look celebrating a nuclear deal with an oppressive Iranian regime that could possibly be deposed by security forces and the military joining with protesters, thirsty for democracy and a return to an Iran before the 1979 revolution?

More to the point, how will it look if the Trump administration, of all things, facilitates and encourages such change in Iran?

The prospect of this is not lost on the self-styled resistance and anti-Trump media, all too anxious to witness the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Obama Library or hand a Nobel Prize to former Secretary of State John Kerry.

Overseeing the fall of an oppressive, hardline Iranian regime that sponsors terror all around the globe  followed by the rise of a democratic Iran not interested in aggression against its neighbors  would be a foreign policy victory for President Trump, one of the biggest for a president since the fall of the Berlin Wall.

If the Iranian regime is ousted, the move would neuter Hezbollahs primary source of funding. It would diminish Hamas at a time when the United States rightfully is moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem in defiance of the United Nations.

Replacement of the Iranian government could signal that Assads days in Syria are finally coming to an end, without powerful bullies to back him up. A new Iranian government would also no doubt give Russia pause about meddling in Middle East affairs  a hesitancy it did not have when the Obama administration gave Russian President Vladimir Putin flexibility.

Combative media reluctant to give President Trump credit for any policy victories  along with reluctance by anti-Trump analysts on the right (this one included)  should not divert our attention from Iranian citizens risking their lives to take to the streets. These Iranians hope the United States and the rest of the world do not ignore them again.
President Trump has deported fewer illegal Mexican immigrants in 2017 than President Obama did during the same amount of time for 2017, according to data from the Mexican government.

Roughly 152,000 Mexican nationals were deported from the U.S. between January and November, Bloomberg reported, citing data from Mexicos Interior Ministry. More than 200,000 were deported between January and November of 2016.

An ICE report concluded that the lower numbers were due to an overall decline in undocumented immigrants apprehended at the border  17 percent less than 2016.

Even though the removal of undocumented immigrants are comparatively less under Trump, the ICE report showed that arrests of all immigrants were up in fiscal year 2017.

One of Trumps key campaign promises was a harsh crackdown on illegal immigration and to build a wall along Mexicos border.

Trump also temporarily ended the Obama administrations Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which prevented people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children from being deported.

Click for more from Bloomberg.
The Department of Justice said it would not appeal the rejection of its stay request in the transgender military case, however, officials told Fox News the DOJ was not abandoning the case, either.

A federal judge earlier this month rejected President Trump's call to delay the enlistment of transgender people in the military, setting a date of Jan. 1, 2018 by which the military must allow enlistment.

The DOJ says it is holding its appeal until the completion of a Department of Defense study that advocates maintain will aid litigation of the case on its merits.

"The Department of Defense has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks," the official told Fox News. "So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DOD's study and will continue to defend the President's lawful authority in district court in the meantime."
They may be members of Congress, but they didnt sleep at a Holiday Inn Express last night. They probably slept in their offices on Capitol Hill.

When Congress meets, dozens of lawmakers catch their zs in the Spartan accommodations of the Rayburn Ramada, the Longworth Motel 6 or the Cannon Airbnb.

Its a nightly ritual in the halls of Congress. Lawmakers retreat to their offices in the Rayburn, Longworth and Cannon House Office buildings, inflate an air mattress or wheel out a rollaway cot, then turn in for the night.

Many shave and brush their teeth in the personal sinks attached to each office suite. But members have to lope down to the House gym in the basement of the Rayburn Building to shower.

Freshmen lawmakers often make a big production to local media, touting their intentions to sleep in their offices. They make a point of telling constituents theyll eschew renting or buying in D.C., lest theyre perceived as going Washington and having forgotten about the little guys back home.

So they stage elaborate photo ops with their sleeping bags and Murphy Beds to demonstrate how they intend to rough it in the big city.

They came to Washington -- but they dont really want to be here.

Its a good way to demonstrate fiscal prudence to the voters and make a mark when youre new to the district. Lawmakers can burnish their image and score some free press when they dont have many legislative bona fides on their resume yet.

The office sleeping practice has been in question for years. Good government groups question whether federal office accommodations resemble a perquisite for lawmakers. They dont have to rent an apartment or purchase a house when they work in Washington. Instead, they just camp on the floor  on the federal dime.

In other words, taxpayer subsidized lodging, which amounts to a skimping on taxes. Never mind that federal law and House rules bar lawmakers from using official resources for personal purposes.

So, what you get is a bizarre version of public housing, not far from the marble corridors, statues and historic artwork which adorns the Capitol complex.

Some lawmakers view the practice as unseemly and beneath the dignity of Congress. Thats why late House Speaker Jim Wright, D-Texas, barred office sleeping. Former House Speakers Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and John Boehner, R-Ohio, never slept in their offices. But House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., certainly does and has bragged about it.

But now theres a bigger question. Various sexual harassment scandals now embroil Capitol Hill. Multiple female aides who work for members of both parties have expressed concern to Fox about their bosses converting their congressional quarters into a bedroom at night -- especially when theyre still toiling at the Capitol late or early in the morning.

That said, none of the aides indicated there was ever an incident. But perception reigns in politics. And by far, the number of lawmakers who live in their offices skews predominantly male.

Its just awkward, said one female aide who asked not to be identified. It can be uncomfortable.

Ryan defended the couch-surfing when asked if it should continue amid the sexual harassment climate sweeping Capitol Hill.

Its more of a convenience thing, said Ryan, arguing he didnt see how the practice was connected to issues involving workplace sexual harassment.

We sleep in our offices because we work until midnight and get up early, he said. We dont see our staffs. I never see my staff when I return.

To be clear, nobody has ever suggested inappropriate conduct involving the speaker.

But many aides say they do see their lawmaker bosses loping around the office at night when theyre working late or trekking back and forth to the House gym early in the morning in sweats and shower sandals.

Ryan is right about the convenience factor. Members work strange hours when in Washington. There are late-night votes and committee hearings. Fundraisers. Meetings at 9 and 10 p.m. with colleagues. But plenty of lawmakers also live just a few blocks away from the Capitol in efficiencies or studio apartments.

Others are happy to put a few miles between them and Capitol Hill, renting or buying across the river in Arlington or Alexandria, Va. Some even live in Maryland.

Cost is an issue, too. Rank and file House and Senate members take in $174,000 a year. Thats good money. But its not a lot when a lawmaker has to maintain residences back home and in high-cost Washington. Tiny apartments consuming 700 square feet may run as much as $2,000-plus a month.

Its little surprise that some lawmakers room together in group houses close to the Capitol. Its expensive when many members of Congress have families back home, are trying to be thrifty as they put kids through school or caring for aging parents.

A cost of living adjustment? Lawmakers are often loathe to vote themselves a pay increase for fear of voter backlash. Some assert that lawmakers deserve cost of living benefits -- especially if the country wants to attract good people to represent them in Washington.

They also make the case that congressional pay should be competitive. Otherwise, Washington will only attract lawmakers who are independently wealthy and can afford to buy or rent a place off Capitol Hill.

Members of Congress are extremely concerned about maintaining a solid reputation. The frugality of sleeping in their offices certainly helps underscore the idea that lawmakers dont bask in the glory of Washington and go native.

By the same token, allegations of sexual harassment involving multiple members -- spurring the resignations of Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., and Reps. John Conyers, D-Mich., and Trent Franks, R-Ariz. -- could alter the calculus.

Some lawmakers could discreetly ditch the office futons and couches for a small apartment not far from the Capitol. They could then avoid the appearance that there could be a problem with them crashing in their offices.

Its unclear exactly how many House and Senate members set up residences in their offices when Congress is in session. But when nightfall comes in Washington, the Capitol doubles as The Nations Innkeeper.
A Republican lawmaker says top officials at the FBI and the Department of Justice should be held in contempt of Congress if they dont hand over documents related to an anti-Trump dossier to the House Intelligence Committee.

I think if they don't produce those documents on the third of January, they should be held in contempt, Florida Rep. Francis Rooney said Saturday on Fox News America's News Headquarters.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes has previously said he has instructed committee staff to begin drawing up a contempt of Congress resolution for Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and FBI Director Christopher Wray unless the committees demands for records are met.

In a Thursday letter to Rosenstein obtained by Fox News, Nunes expressed frustration that information and witnesses subpoenaed by the committee in August related to the so-called Steele dossier had not yet been turned over. The salacious dossier includes unverified allegations about President Trump's connections with Russia that he has denied.

NUNES BLASTS DOJ, FBI FOR 'FAILURE' TO PRODUCE RECORDS RELATING TO ANTI-TRUMP DOSSIER

Unfortunately, DOJ/FBI's intransigence with respect to the August 24 subpoenas is part of a broader pattern of behavior that can no longer be tolerated, the California Republican wrote to Rosenstein.

Nunes has demanded that all records  and available dates for witnesses to testify  be provided to the committee by Jan 3.

Fox News reported this month that Bruce Ohr, a senior Justice Department official, was demoted amid questions about his contacts with the opposition research firm responsible for the anti-Trump dossier.

Among the information being sought by the committee are reports that summarize meetings between FBI confidential human sources and FBI officials about the Steele dossier.

Last week, Rooney, the Florida Republican, made news for calling for a purge at the FBI of people who are kind of the deep state."

He specifically said hed like to see Peter Strzok -- a former FBI official who was removed from the special counsel investigation after a number of anti-Trump texts were discovered on his phone  purged from the FBI.
A Democratic senator from New Hampshire has been added to a black list after Russia denied a visa request effectively canceling a bipartisan congressional trip to the country in the coming weeks.

The Russian Embassy said Saturday that it had denied the visa request by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, who is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in response to those U.S. lawmakers who backed more sanctions on Russia earlier this year and are part of a black list.

The two-term senator along with Sens. Ron Johnson, of Wisconsin, and John Barrasso, of Wyoming, had planned to travel to Russia in January, but the trip is now canceled.

While she regrets the Kremlin decision to impede dialogue between the Senate and the Russian people, (the senator) vows to continue her work to hold the Russian government accountable for its actions that go against international norms and against the Russian people," a Shaheen spokesmen told news outlets.

In a statement, the Russian Embassy blamed Washington for creating "this situation" and urged Washington to renounce the sanctions.

The senators reportedly were also going to visit Germany and Ukraine as part of the trip and meet with Russian civil groups as well as leaders and future leaders to talk about future diplomatic relations

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Donald Trump is the first president to govern by Twitter.

And during his first year in office, he's used the social media platform to announce new policies, pressure wavering lawmakers, battle the media, rally support for his agenda and otherwise steer the national conversation.

Despite lacking the official gravitas of a formal speech, these messages are taken seriously. Earlier this year, former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said Trumps tweets are considered official statements by the president of the United States.

The forum, though, has come with pitfalls for the quick-to-type president who's seemingly feuding with the media and Democrats on a daily basis.

Here is a list of the most explosive Trump tweets of 2017:

Wire-tapped in Trump Tower?

Trump caused an uproar in March over a tweet suggesting former President Barack Obama wire-tapped Trump Tower during the election.

Terrible! Just found out that Obama had my wires tapped in Trump Tower just before the victory. Nothing found. This is McCarthyism! Trump tweeted March 4.

Later that day, he added: Is it legal for a sitting President to be wire tapping a race for president prior to an election? Turned down by court earlier. A NEW LOW!

How low has President Obama gone to tapp my phones during the very sacred election process. This is Nixon/ Watergate. Bad (or sick) guy! Trump tweeted that same morning.

Trump never produced evidence to support his claims, and a spokesman for Obama denied its accuracy -- though CNN reported that Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort was wiretapped before and after the election.

In September, the Justice Department also made a statement in a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit that they had no evidence to support Trumps claim.

Enemy of the American people

President Trump has been battling the media all year, regularly calling them the FAKE NEWS as he seeks to undermine their credibility.

Some journalists claim Trump's rhetoric has gone too far. This one, in particular, struck a nerve with the media:

The FAKE NEWS media (failing @nytimes, @NBCNews, @ABC, @CBS, @CNN) is not my enemy, it is the enemy of the American People! Trump tweeted on Feb. 17.

The president has kept up his criticism of the media through the year, calling them out for getting recent stories about the Russia probe wrong, and at times suggesting their anonymous sources do not exist.

Transgender military ban

Perhaps Trump's most significant use of Twitter all year was to announce a major policy change for the military.

On July 26, in a three-tweet series, the president wrote:

After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allowTransgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our Military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you.

This led to a scramble at the Defense Department as well as legal challenges.

Earlier this month, though, the Pentagon announced plans to allow transgender people to enlist in the military beginning Jan. 1, after a federal court ordered the military to do so despite opposition from Trump.

Cabinet-shaming

Trump has used his Twitter account to call out his own Cabinet officials, including Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. His tweets made lawmakers on Capitol Hill and members of the media question whether his support was wavering for members of his own administration.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions has taken a VERY weak position on Hillary Clinton crimes (where are E-mails & DNC server) & Intel leakers! Trump tweeted on July 25.

One day later, it emerged that Sessions would launch an official Justice Department probe into leaks. The attorney general officially announced the hunt for intel leakers Aug. 4.

And there was this:

I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting our time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man, Trump tweeted on Oct. 1. Save your energy Rex, we'll do what has to be done!

While his tweet for Tillerson wasnt quite as harsh as the one for Sessions, it was seen as an attempt to undermine U.S. diplomatic efforts with North Korea.

Multiple media reports have questioned whether Tillerson will remain at the State Department next year.

Comey tapes

On May 12, days after he fired James Comey as FBI director, Trump warned Comey about leaking to the press, after a supposed private dinner between the two emerged in the New York Times.

James Comey better hope that there are no tapes of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press! Trump tweeted.

This launched questions over whether Trump had been recording his conversations with the then-FBI director.

A month later, Trump addressed those questions on Twitter, saying he did not make and did not have any recordings.

Flynn flare-up

One day after former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI during Special Counsel Robert Muellers probe, Trump caused a Twitter stir.

"I had to fire General Flynn because he lied to the Vice President and the FBI. He has pled guilty to those lies," Trump tweeted Dec. 2.

Trump said in February that he fired Flynn for lying to Vice President Pence about Russia contacts. The tweet suggested to some that Trump knew Flynn lied to agents and fueled accusations that he may have obstructed justice by reportedly asking Comey in February to ease up on Flynn.

Trump's attorney, John Dowd, attempted to explain that the tweet was referring to then-acting Attorney General Sally Yates telling White House Counsel Don McGahn in January that Flynn had given the agents the same story he gave the vice president.

Trump went on to blast the bureau for a rigged system and a double standard.

So General Flynn lies to the FBI and his life is destroyed, while Crooked Hillary Clinton, on that now famous FBI holiday interrogation with no swearing in and no recording, lies many timesand nothing happens to her? Rigged system, or just a double standard? Trump tweeted.

The following day, he continued his attacks on the FBI.

After years of Comey, with the phony and dishonest Clinton investigation (and more), running the FBI, its reputation is in Tatters worst in History! But fear not, we will bring it back to greatness, Trump tweeted.

'Do anything' for donations?

Capitol Hill, Hollywood, and the media have been shaken to the core by the wave of sexual misconduct allegations.

Against this backdrop, Trump drew Democratic complaints when he said New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand went begging for campaign contributions and would do anything for them -- in response to her calling for his resignation amid similar allegations.

Lightweight Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a total flunky for Chuck Schumer and someone who would come to my office begging for campaign contributions not so long ago (and would do anything for them), is now in the ring fighting against Trump. Very disloyal to Bill & Crooked  USED!

Some Democrats claimed Trumps tweet was crude -- though he has used similar language to refer to male lawmakers. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders fired back from the podium.

Only if your mind is in the gutter would you have read it that way, Sanders said, noting that Trump was talking about political games that politicians play with wealthy individuals to get financial support.

*Bonus  'Covfefe'

Trump tweeted May 30 what appeared to be a typo.

Despite the constant negative press covfefe, Trump wrote and deleted it minutes later.

The following day, questions swarmed over what covfefe really was.

Who can figure out the true meaning of covfefe??? Enjoy! Trump tweeted the following day.

It will forever remain a 2017 mystery.
Looks like Apple has gotten caught with its California roots showing.

The Silicon Valley tech giant's flagship store in Chicago, which opened in October, was designed with a range of architectural bells and whistles -- except perhaps more consideration for the harsh winter realities of the Windy City.

The building's sleek roof is now considered a danger to the public, with sharp icicles forming above an outdoor area where people walk, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Large chunks of the plaza were roped off with yellow tape Friday -- and signs reading, "Caution: Watch for Falling Snow and Ice."

An Apple spokesman told the Chicago Tribune that a warming system built into the roof "needed some fine-tuning," which he said it received Friday.

"It's hopefully a temporary problem," Nick Leahy added.
Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have finally landed in Tokyo after what can only be described as a surreal flight experience.

On Dec. 27, the famous pair boarded an ANA airlines non-stop flight to Tokyo, where they planned to celebrate Legends birthday. But four hours into the flight the pilots were forced to turn the plane around because it appeared that an unauthorized person somehow boarded the flight without anyone noticing.

But Teigen took it all in stride and diligently updated her followers throughout the entire ordeal on social media.

[A] flying first for me: 4 hours into an 11 hour flight and we are turning around because we have a passenger who isnt supposed to be on this plane, Teigen tweeted Tuesday night. Why...why do we all gotta go back, I do not know.

After several hours, the pair, who were a part of the planes police questioning, were able to board another flight. And finally, Teigen updated her followers with the good news: They landed in Tokyo and were enjoying some delicious ramen noodles.

We uhhhhh went ahead and cancelled our connecting flight to nagoya and 3 hour car ride for...obvious reasons, she tweeted. But are happy to stay here in Tokyo! We feel like young lovers again. Been a while since the ramen adventures of 2012!

She also, apparently, found some really great melon to munch on.

The pair, Daily Mail explained, had visited Tokyo the year before their 2013 wedding, long before welcoming baby Luna and announcing their second child was on the way.

While the mid-flight incident seems humorous, security experts agree that turning the flight around was the correct response to what could have been a true security threat.

"Its almost unheard of to turn back unless theres some security or safety related reason for it. I think in this case theres got to be a security-related link," Jeffrey Price, a professor in the Aviation Department at the Metropolitan State University of Denver, told Travel + Leisure. If youre on the wrong plane, and somehow they figure that out halfway through or you figure it out, well youre going to wherever that plane is going to land. And then theyre going to rebook you once you get there.

This article originally appeared in Travel + Leisure.
Kansas officials and the FBI are investigating whether a fatal shooting by a police officer on Thursday was the grim outcome of a prank by video gamers.

Officials said the death of an unarmed man, whom family members identified as Andrew Finch, 28, at a home in Wichita, may have been the result of a hoax called swatting. As defined by 911.gov, swatting is "false reporting an emergency to public safety by a person for the intent of getting a ('SWAT team') response to a location where no emergency exists."

Los Angeles police on Friday arrested Tyler Barriss, 25, claimed by law enforcement to be the prankster who called 911 and made up a story about a kidnapping in Wichita, KABC reported.

Barriss reportedly gave police the address he believed the other gamer lived.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said Thursdays shooting, which he deemed a "tragic and senseless act," happened when an officer was responding to a call from someone claiming his father had been shot in the head.

The caller said he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint, and noted he poured gasoline inside the home "and I might just set it on fire."

That was the information we were working off of, Livingston said. Police released audio of the 911 call, and also released a brief video of body camera footage at the scene.

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT

Supposedly responding to a hostage situation, police arrived at the home and got into position, Livingston said.

Finch went to the front door, and after sporadically complying with "several verbal commands" to put his hands in the air, was shot by an officer who allegedly thought Finch had drawn a weapon from his waistband. Finch later died at a hospital.

The deputy police chief said Finch was not armed.

"Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim," Livingston said at a Friday night news conference. He said no one has been arrested in connection with the hoax.

A woman named Lisa Finch told The Wichita Eagle that her son, Andrew, was the victim. She said Andrew, who has two young children, walked to the door after hearing something, then screamed and was shot, before family members were forced to go outside barefoot in the freezing cold and were cuffed.

Lisa Finch added that her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle, and that no guns were found in the home.

"What gives the cops the right to open fire?" Lisa Finch asked. "That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place."

"I can't believe people do this on purpose."  Aunt of shooting victim

Andrew Finch's aunt, Lorrie Hernandez-Caballero, called whoever made the false report to police a "murderer."

"I cant believe people do this on purpose," the aunt told the newspaper.

Finch, described by his mother as a "very kind and caring" man who would "do anything for his family," leaves behind two children, ages 2 and 7.

The events that may have led to the fatal police shooting Thursday began with an online argument over a $2 wager in a "Call of Duty" game on UMG Gaming, gaming-focused news service Dexerto reported. Two players arguing after losing a match reportedly threatened to swat one another.

UMG Vice President Shannon Gerritzen told The Associated Press that the company was doing everything we can to assist the authorities as they investigate the fatal shooting, and a Twitter account for the company said: "We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life. Our hearts go out to his loved ones."

At Friday's news conference, Livingston didn't mention reports that the call may have stemmed from an argument over an online game.

Livingston called the emergency call a little peculiar, as it went to a substation first, then it was relayed to dispatch, then dispatch gave it to us. We have a lot of information to go through.

The deputy chief added that detectives investigating the episode have so far found "promising information." He added that while in general, law enforcement is aware of "swatting," calls made to 911 are "based on the premise" that someone is calling to get immediate help in an emergency.

COPS, SWAT TEAM DESCEND ON HOME AFTER VIDEO GAME HOAX

The officer who fired the shot  a seven-year veteran of the police force  has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is department policy.

Kansas law makes some false emergency calls a felony that can be punished up to 13 months in prison for a first-time offender, although the presumed sentence is probation.

Swatting, according to 911.gov, can be done via several techniques, including caller ID spoofing. Those making the false call to law enforcement "will often have a reasonable scenario and will sometime include personal information."

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, Missouri, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation at the request of local police.

TERROR, COMMUNITY PRESSURE AFFECTS SCHOOLS' RESPONSES TO THREATS

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email bomb threat.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at her home.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The Latest on the fatal shooting of a 7-year-old Texas boy (all times local):

5:15 p.m.

Police say a 7-year-old Texas boy died after his father's girlfriend opened fire as he drove away with the boy and two other children.

Greenville police identified the boy as Kaden Green on Friday. He was shot in the chest and died at a hospital after a witness took him there Thursday afternoon.

Authorities say the woman accused in the shooting, 26-year-old Brooke Craig, was arrested early Friday in the Dallas suburb of Frisco about 45 miles (72 kilometers) west of Greenville. She faces a capital murder charge.

Authorities say she led police on a car chase before her arrest. The boy's father, 24-year-old Cameron Castillo, was a passenger in the car and was arrested for a parole violation.

Police say the two other children who were in the vehicle are in the custody of the state. A Child Protective Services spokeswoman says they have a 4-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl who are the siblings of Kaden in their custody.

___

1:15 p.m.

A Texas woman is facing a capital murder charge in the fatal shooting of a 7-year-old child.

Police say Brooke Craig was arrested early Friday on a dead-end street in Frisco, a Dallas suburb, after leading police on a car chase. Police say her passenger was arrested for a parole violation.

A Child Protective Services spokeswoman says the passenger is the child's father but that Craig is not the child's mother.

Police say they were summoned to a home in Greenville on Thursday afternoon. At the same time, they were told a 7-year-old gunshot victim was taken to a hospital and died soon after.

Craig has been named in a capital murder warrant related to that shooting.

Greenville is 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Dallas.
On one of the coldest nights of the year, New York Citys deadliest residential fire in decades ravaged a Bronx apartment building  killing 13 people, including several young children and a U.S. Army soldier who lost his own life after saving several others.

Some of the victims of the Dec. 28 blaze died of smoke inhalation and others from burns, New York City Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro told reporters. He said the fire was started by a 3 1/2-year-old child, who was playing with stove burners in a first-floor apartment.

The fire was historic in its magnitude because of how many people perished, Nigro also said. Excluding the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the apartment fire was the worst blaze in the city since 87 people died in a fire at a Bronx social club in 1990. In 2007, 10 people, including nine children, died when a fire caused by a space heater tore through a four-story home in the Bronx.

The fire traveled up the buildings stairwell because the door of the affected first-floor unit was left open, Nigro said.

People had very little time to react, Nigro said, adding that residents were not able to escape the fire by using that staircase.

Our hearts go out to every person who lost a loved one here and everyone who is fighting for their lives, Nigro said.

Officials released the names of all 12 victims Saturday, Dec. 30, but some had been identified shortly after the tragedy by family members. A 13th victim was named on Thursday, Jan. 4 after dying in a hospital from his injuries.

Heres what we know about the victims:

Young girls ages 7 months, 2 and 7, and a boy whose age was not given, were among the victims of the Bronx fire, Mayor Bill de Blasio said. A 17-year-old girl also died, police told Fox News.

Three women, ages 19, 37 and 58, four men, 28, 48, 49 and 54, also died in the fire, police said.

Four others were hospitalized, battling for survival, but a 27-year-old man succumbed to his injuries days later.

Emmanuel Mensah, 28

Emmanuel Mensah, who was at the Bronx apartment building to be home for the holidays, died in the fire. His father, Kwabena Mensah told WPIX-TV that his son, who was a U.S. Army soldier stationed in Virginia, lost his life while trying to rescue others.

His uncle, Twum Bredu, told The New York Times "he brought four people out. When he went to bring a fifth person out, the fire caught up with him."

Mensah immigrated to the Bronx from Ghana five years ago, and, according to The Times, recently graduated from boot camp with the rank of private first class. Authorities reportedly said he died of smoke inhalation.

Shantay Young, 19

Shantay Young was 19 years old.

Young was visiting family members on the fifth floor of the apartment building when the fire began, her father, Howard Williams, told WABC-TV. He said he attempted to get to his daughter but was unable to push through the smoke.

Shevan Stewart, a family member, told the New York Times that she was cooking curry chicken and rice when Young popped into her apartment to see what she was making. Stewart said Young informed her that she was going upstairs to visit Auntie Karan but promised to come back.

But she didnt come back, Stewart told The Times.

Karen Stewart-Francis, 37

Karen Stewart-Francis and her two daughters were among those who died in the fire, The Times reported.

Stewart-Francis was part of a 13-member family from Jamaica, all of whom lived in the building, her mother, Ambrozia Stewart, told The Times.

I dont know what to do and I dont know how to feel. I need somebody to tell me what to feel, Stewart told The Times of her loss. Where do I go from here? Four at one time  what do I do?

Stewart-Francis was also Shawntay Youngs aunt, according to WABC-TV.

Charmela Francis, 7

Charmela Francis mother and younger sister also died in the fire. She was only 7.

Kylie Francis, 2

Kylie Francis mother and older sister also died in the fire. Kylie Francis was 2.

Maria Batiz, 58

Maria Batiz and her 8-month-old granddaughter, Amora Vidal, died, her brother told the New York Daily News.

Maria Batiz reportedly called her daughter, the babys mother, and told her they were trapped in the apartment, according to a GoFundMe account.

Maria told her daughter that were going to die in here, her brother, Fernando Batiz, told the Daily News.

I lost my angel baby and my best friend; my mother. The lady who birthed me and would do anything for me is gone, Christine Batiz, Marias daughter, said on GoFundMe. She added that she would not wish this on my worst enemy and said her heart goes out to the rest of the families that are grieving.

Fernando Batiz told WPIX-TV that his sister, who worked as a home care attendant, was often selfless and helped him when he was homeless.

Maria Batiz came to New York from Puerto Rico, her brother said, and was one of 10 siblings  some of whom still live in Puerto Rico.

Amora Vidal, 7 months old

Amora Vidal, the 7-month-old granddaughter of victim Maria Batiz, died in the fire, relatives confirmed to WPIX.

Vidal's mother, Christine Batiz, wrote on a GoFundMe page: I lost everything in a matter of minutes. One thing you know my daughter is playing with her new toys [and] the next hour they are gone from my life.

The baby's paternal grandmother, Nyvia Vidal, told the Daily News Amora was just learning to crawl.

"She was my love, Vidal said. She was my first grandbaby. It just hurts so much. I still cant believe it.

Police identified the remaining victims on Dec. 30. They included William Donkor, Hannah Donkor, 17, Gabriel Yaw Sarkookie, 48, Solomon Donkor, 49, and Justice Opoku, 54.

Holt Francis, 27, died in a hospital Jan. 4 after succumbing to his injuries.

Fox News' Nicole Darrah, Pamela Ng and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
An American tourist was shot and killed while apparently being robbed in a resort town on Mexicos Pacific Coast that has become popular with surfers and Hollywood stars.

Douglas Bradley was killed Thursday in the hotel zone of Ixtapa. He was on Christmas vacation in neighboring Zihuatanejo and would have turned 50 the next day.

The city of Imperial Beach in San Diego County announced Bradleys death on Friday. He was the citys director of finance.

Doug Bradley was loved by all that knew him, said Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina. He was always positive, loved to surf, and had helped to turn around the City of Imperial Beachs financial management as well as restructure city administration to make it more efficient and resident-friendly.

Witnesses told local media they saw Bradley being chased by gunmen who shot him with a 9 mm handgun about 4 a.m., Mexico News Daily reported.

However, police werent called for four hours, and when they arrived they found Bradley's body in a parking lot, the website reported.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that Bradley was unmarried and did not have children. He lived in Playas de Tijuana and commuted to Imperial Beach.

Dedina said the city was working with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana to bring the body home.

On Saturday, Mexico News Daily reported that less than an hour south of Ixtapa, just hours before Bradley was killed, the mayor of Petatlan was killed by a gunman.

Violence in the region is attributed to gang turf fights involving drug trafficking, kidnapping and extorition, the website also reported.

Last week a comedy show at the Krystal Ixtapa hotel was canceled after gangsters tried to shake down one of the performers for $2,500, accordng to the website.

Guerrero, where Ixtapa is located, was one of the most violent states in Mexico in the first 11 months of 2017, with a homicide rate of 58.6 per 100,000 people, the Associated Press reported.
A dog was found buried alive in a dumpster last week outside a business in suburban Atlanta.

Emily Goldstein told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that her neighbor found the beagle while taking out the trash at work.

The neighbor and a few coworkers rummaged through the garbage to rescue the dog after he heard a whining sound coming from the dumpster, the paper reported.

Goldstein told the paper she believes the beagle, which had no collar or form of identification, is between 1 and 2 years old.

She and her neighbor put an online advertisement in an effort to locate the owner, and are determining the next step in finding the dog a new home, according to the paper.

Click here for more from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
A 25-year-old California man was arrested in connection to an online quarrel between two Call of Duty gamers that prompted a hoax call and led to a man being killed by police in Kansas.

Los Angeles police on Friday arrested Tyler Barriss, who law enforcement claimed is the prankster who called 911 and made up a story about a kidnapping in Wichita, ABC 7 reported.

Barriss reportedly gave police the address he believed the other gamer lived.

In the audio of the 911 call, the caller claimed his father had been shot in the head and that he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller added that he poured gasoline inside the home and "might just set it on fire."

The address was for the home of Andrew Finch, 28, whom police believed was not involved in any argument on Call of Duty.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston, speaking at a news conference, said the hoax call was a case of "swatting," in which a person makes up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

"Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim," Livingston said. He said no one has been arrested in connection with the hoax.

When officers arrived at the scene, Finch opened the door for the officers. As police told him to put his hands up, Finch moved a hand toward the area of his waistband - a common place where guns are concealed. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died a few minutes later at a hospital and was found to be unarmed, Livingston said.

The officer who fired the shot, a seven-year veteran of the department, is on paid leave pending the investigation.

Police did not disclose the name of the man shot Thursday evening but Lisa Finch, Andrew's mother, identified him. She told reporters Friday her son was not a gamer.

"What gives the cops the right to open fire?" she asked. "That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place."

Finch, described by his mother as a "very kind and caring" man who would "do anything for his family," leaves behind two children, ages 2 and 7.

Livingston on Friday said investigators had made good progress tracking online leads.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a "Call of Duty" game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving "Call of Duty."

"We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life," UMG spokeswoman Shannon Gerritzen said in an email to The Associated Press. "Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter." She declined to disclose other details.

In addition to the 911 call, police also released a brief video of body camera footage from another officer at the scene. It was difficult to see clearly what happened.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number.

Fox News' Nicole Darrah, Kathleen Joyce and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
An attorney who reportedly had just been canned at a Southern California law firm opened fire in the office, killing one senior partner and wounding another before killing himself, according to the Orange County Register.

The paper quoted sources as saying the partner who was killed was Major Langer, 75, and the partner who was wounded was Ronald Beck, who ran the day-to-day operations at Perona, Langer, Beck, Serbin, Mendoza and Harrison, a personal injury litigation firm in Long Beach.

This guy was the most caring, sincere man I probably ever met, longtime friend Jim Hall told the paper, referring to Langer. He just had a heart of gold and really cared for everybody who works at the firm and considers them members of his family. He certainly didnt deserve this.

The shooters name was not immediately known, the paper reported.

A friend of Becks said his son drove him to the hospital after the shooting Friday, according to the paper.

Police received reports of a shooter at 2:25 p.m. at the law firm in the Bixby Knolls section of Long Beach  an oceanfront city south of Los Angeles, Fox 11 reported.

Dozens of police officers, including members of a SWAT team, surrounded the building. The first officers to arrive entered the office looking for the gunman, and initially encountered groups of terrified workers hiding or trying to escape, the Los Angeles Daily News reported, citing police sources.

Nearby residents said they were shaken by the sudden and significant police presence.

When you see helicopters over your home, and they're police helicopters, that's a bad sign, Kelly Bray, 61, told The Los Angeles Times.

Eventually, police confirmed the gunman and another victim were dead, with a third person was injured.

At a news conference, Sgt. Brad Johnson of the Long Beach Police Department said the suspect had shot himself but it remained unclear if he died before or after police arrived.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Utah teacher was fired earlier this month following complaints made against him after he showed images of classical paintings containing nudity in a classroom seen by fifth and sixth-graders.

Mateo Rueda, a former art teacher at Lincoln Elementary in Hyrum, Utah, said he planned to appeal his termination to clear his reputation, FOX13 reported.

The teacher said he was not aware that a set of educational postcards from the schools library contained a few works depicting nudity when he handed them out during a lesson.

The two images seen by students were the Impressionist-era portrait "Iris Tree" by Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani and the Rococo-style partial nude "Odalisque" by 18th-century artist Francois Boucher, the teacher said.

BOY, 8, RESCUED FROM FROZEN UTAH POND IS AWAKE, DOING WELL

Rueda told FOX13 he was surprised about those images being there. He said he went through the educational postcards and took out the ones he felt were inappropriate for the students.

Bella Jensen, a fifth grader who was a student of Ruedas, said he told her their lesson on Dec. 4 may make the class feel uncomfortable.

Mr. Mateo explained to us that there might be some pictures that we'll find uncomfortable, Jensen told FOX13. She said her friends laughed at some of the paintings but enjoyed the project.

There were some pictures that were a little weird, and most kids were laughing, she said.

However, some students felt the images were inappropriate.

Children were expressing their discomfort and then explaining that they felt it was inappropriate, Rueda said.

The teacher attempted to explain the images were art and encouraged the students to speak with their parents about the paintings they saw. The educator later found out one of the parents called the police claiming Rueda showed pornography to the students.

UTAH MAN WIELDING BATTLE AX, WEARING BODY ARMOR SHOT BY COPS, OFFICIALS SAY

On Dec. 8, Rueda was issued a termination letter from the school.

I was super upset when I heard that he got fired, Bella told FOX13. Her mother, Kamee Jensen was also upset.

The images that he showed the children were provided by the school district, Jensen said.

She also wrote a letter to the Herald Journal defending him and said her daughter wasnt offended by the pictures.

"She was just very upset that her teacher was in trouble," Jensen said.

A mother who wished to remain anonymous told FOX13 she was not happy with how Rueda handled his explanation with the kids.

Rueda said he was bewildered by the situation.

Who knows if I can be hired back, he said.

The Cache County Sheriffs Office said they investigated the complaint but did not press charges because the images were not considered pornography.

The Cache County School District declined to comment, saying it's a personnel matter.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In an apparent violation of a U.N. Security Council resolution, Russian ships have allegedly transferred oil products to North Korean vessels out at sea on several occasions, according to a published report.

The Security Council resolution bars the Hermit Kingdom from importing natural gas and capped its crude oil imports in September, Reuters reported, citing two senior Western European security sources.

The news follows President Donald Trump's criticism of China this week regarding a South Korean report that Chinese ships have illegally supplied oil to North Korean ships at sea dozens of times since October. China denied the reports Friday.

On Saturday, the Russian Foreign Ministry denied the report and vowed the country has "fully and strictly observed the sanctions regime." The ministry noted that resolutions by the U.N. Security Council have imposed limits on North Korea's refined oil imports but have not banned it all together.

According to the report, Russian ships conducted ship-to-ship transfers at least three times during October and November. In September, Reuters reported a number of North Korean ships fueled up directly from Russia and sailed the product back to their country by lying about where the cargo would be delivered.

Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions, the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters.

The second source, who also confirmed the illicit activity, told Reuters, there is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state.

Both sources referred to naval intelligence and satellite imagery to back up their claims of Russian ships aiding in North Koreas efforts to secure oil and fuel despite an international crackdown to cut off Pyongyang in hopes of curbing its nuclear missile program.

The vessels are smuggling Russian fuel from Russian Far Eastern ports to North Korea, the first security source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

Reuters was unable to independently confirm the reports.

Last week the U.N. Security Council passed even stricter sanctions on North Korea, banning roughly 90 percent of oil and refined petroleum imports in response to Kim Jong Uns latest missile test Nov. 29, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
North Korea vowed Saturday to never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their blackmail and war drills at its doorstep.

The hermit kingdoms official state media, Korean Central News Agency, reported the communist nations often repeated stance. The media outlet also reviewed the countrys major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

The isolated nation conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland U.S.

SOUTH KOREA HOLDING CREW OF SHIP THAT ALLEGEDLY GAVE OIL TO NORTH KOREANS

The numerous tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly.

The U.S. and South Korea have repeated they wont negotiate with the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) unless it was willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile program.

KCNA said in its report that the isolated nation had taken steps for bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force in the face of a continued nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills by the United States and its vassal forces.

North Korea often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

NORTH KOREAN NUCLEAR SCIENTIST WHO DEFECTED TO CHINA KILLS HIMSELF AFTER FORCED TO RETURN

KCNA accused President Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power.

"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.

"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

On Friday, Defense Secretary James Mattis said he thinks the world will exert increased pressure on North Korea in the coming months.

"I think you will see increased pressure, Mattis told Fox News on Friday. What form that pressure takes in terms of physical operations is something that will be determined by the cognizant governments. Obviously if a government finds there is a ship in their port conducting trade that was forbidden under the U.N. Security Council resolution then they have an obligation and so far weve seen nations take that obligation seriously.

Mattis also said that nothing impresses me when asked about the development of North Koreas missile program.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


Estimates say that up to one million Iranians have been protesting across the country since Thursday in what one Iranian opposition group says has turned into a protest for regime change.

Those protesters are being buoyed by messages from the Trump administration, says the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), a coalition of democratic Iranian groups and personalities.

In two tweets earlier Saturday, President Donald Trump offered up a message of hope to the protesters: The entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change, and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Irans people are what their leaders fear the most

Trump added: Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice. The World is watching!

According to reports, the protests have brought some bloodshed, with at least two people being shot and killed by Iranian Revolutionary Guards who opened fire on protesters in the city of Dorud.

In the countrys capital city of Tehran, video provided to Fox News by the NCRI showed protesters fending off tear gas from the police. Other videos show them burning posters of Irans supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.

Chanted slogans included many calls for independence and freedom from an Islamic Republic. They also offered pointed commentary on Iranian involvement in foreign lands: Leave Syria, think about us, Death to Hezbollah, and "Forget about Gaza and Lebanon: Ill sacrifice my life for Iran," protesters shouted, according to the NCRI.

In Arak on Saturday, protesters occupied the governors office. Arak has a population of over half a million and houses a heavy water reactor that was used by its nuclear program.

"President Trumps expression of support for the Iranian people and his condemnation of the arrests of the protests send an encouraging signal to all those who want to see Iran liberated from the yoke of the medievalist mullahs.  Ali Safavi, NCRI

While there is no word of the administration having talks with opposition parties, Ali Safavi, an official in the Washington office of the NCRI, told Fox News that messages of support from the Trump administration are a big change from how the Obama administration handled the 2009 popular uprising.

Safavi said: When millions of Iranians poured onto the streets in 2009, the Obama administration reached out to the Supreme Leader Khamenei, enabling him and his president to suppress the uprising. President Trumps expression of support for the Iranian people and his condemnation of the arrests of the protests send an encouraging signal to all those who want to see Iran liberated from the yoke of the medievalist mullahs.

According a translation given to Fox News by the NCRI, Iranian media reported that Iranian Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani was quoted as asking people to not participate in such unlawful gatherings because they cause trouble for themselves and other citizens.

Another news agency affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps was quoted as saying the chants shouted by the protesters were very similar to the ones chanted during the 2009 sedition.

Maryam Rajavi, the head of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, released a statement in which she saluted the bravery of the protesters. She said, in part, The ongoing protests in different cities against the regime reveal the explosive state of Iranian society and the peoples desire for regime change.

Rajavis statement said Iranians have loudly rejected the mullahs regime: The Iranian people demand the overthrow of the ruling religious dictatorship. It is their right to topple this repressive regime. And I emphasize: regime change in Iran is within reach.
The U.S. and Turkey have resumed normal visa processing services.

After a diplomatic conflict between the two countries resulted in each suspending visa services at embassies, relations have normalized. However, they have not been entirely smoothed out.

A statement released today from the U.S. Embassy in Turkey announced the return to regular operations.

Since October, the Government of Turkey has adhered to the high-level assurances it provided to the United States that there are no additional local employees of our Mission in Turkey under investigation, that local staff of our Embassy and consulates will not be detained or arrested for performing their official dutiesincluding communicating with Turkish officials also working in an official capacityand that Turkish authorities will inform the U.S. government in advance if the Government of Turkey intends to detain or arrest any member of our local staff in the future.

The statement continued:

"The Department of State is confident that the security posture has improved sufficiently to allow the full resumption of visa services in Turkey," the U.S. Embassy said.

Turkey was pleased by the announcement but hit back regarding the statement issued by the U.S., saying that it had provided no such assurances in relations to ongoing legal issues.

"We do not approve of the United States providing the Turkish and American public wrongful information," the embassy said.

The U.S. remains concerned about the existing allegations against workers for the U.S. Mission in Turkey as well as allegations against U.S. citizens in the country, which sparked the crisis in October. The U.S. continues to engage with Turkish officials in order to resolve these issues.

Turkey isn't the only place in which the U.S. has slashed visa services as a result of poor diplomatic relations. The U.S. has had similar troubles in Russia and recently announced it would reduce operations in the country. U.S. Embassy staff and services have also been greatly reduced in Cuba following a number of reports of unexplained sonic attacks.

This article originally appeared on TravelPulse.
Sometimes, when Gary Trice reads the morning paper or watches the nightly news, he feels surrounded by bad news.

Then he thinks about whats happened in his own life in the last 20 months, from a massive heart attack that almost killed him in April 2016 to his heart transplant on July 4, 2017. He gained a new appreciation for his independence that day, when he was able to get back some of his life, thanks to a donor hell never know.

Ive seen the good in people, said Trice, whos never liked to talk about himself, but cant do so these days without reaching for a handkerchief to dab tear-filled eyes. It blows me away. For all the negativity we hear and see, I can vouch for the inherent good nature of people.

Trice, 57, thought hed have to close his mom-and-pop business, Homestead Hardware, after the heart attack leveled him that night in spring 2016. He was working alone at the shop, off U.S. 1 in Caroline County, when he passed out and a customer happened to see the light on and called Trices brother.

The type of attack he had usually causes such massive damage to the organ that pumps blood throughout the body, doctors call it the widowmaker.

Trice spent 2 months in intensive care at VCU Medical Center in Richmond, wired to machines that kept him alive.

The store owner and active outdoorsman had always been the one to help teams or school groups raise money or to reach out when he heard of a need or somebody hurting, said Gerald Castlebury, pastor of Carmel Baptist Church.

When the roles reversed, people turned out in droves to help Trice. They unloaded trucks, delivered feed or assembled equipment to keep the business going. Concerned customers also stopped by the store daily to check on his progress.

Trice showed his appreciation with an event in November 2016, when he and the Homestead crew served up chili, cornbread and their undying gratitude.

Doctors had told Trices family he had about a 4 percent chance of surviving, and the group celebrated that one of their own had beaten the odds.

A lot of people were praying for that man, Rebekah Wales said at the lunch, and there he stands.

DEATH WAS IMMINENT

Even though he survived the heart attack, Trice wasnt firing on all four cylinders afterward.

Doctors said he might get some function back, that the severely damaged portion of his heart might be able to start pumping blood again, in time, but tests in March 2017 showed otherwise.

The bottom half of my heart was not doing anything at all, he said.

Doctors suggested surgery to implant a left ventricular assist device, or LVAD.

Trice started the battery of tests needed for the surgery, considered a bridge to a heart transplant.

He was overwhelmed.

Hed had a heart valve replaced while hospitalized, and the pain from the procedure, and the attack before it, was fresh in his mind. So were the weeks of being stuck in a beda horrible situation for a man who worked like a bear.

If theres such a thing as hell on earth, that was it, he said. My family and friends and church were the only way I could get through it.

An LVAD is a mechanical pump attached to the heart. A tube routes blood from the left ventricle to the aorta while a cable goes out through the skin and connects to a power source outside the body. The accompanying equipment has to be worn in a belt around the body and from each shoulder.

Trice got a second opinionand a third and a fourthabout whether he was a good candidate for the surgery. He took it as a bad omen the day he sat in a medical office, spinning an LVAD around in his hand, and the device fell apart.

A clinician assured him that wouldnt be the actual one used.

I was kinda like a jug on a fence at that point, Trice said, suggesting he could go either way. It was really just a dark period. I knew death was imminent.

Then he chuckled a little and said, I guess it is for all of us, but for me, it was a little bit closer.

MINIMAL PAIN

Three days before surgery to implant the device, Trice told doctors he didnt want it. Hed wait for a heart.

One member of the transplant team told his siblingsTrice is divorced and has no childrenthat he hoped Trice hadnt signed his death warrant. He said it might take four or five years for an eligible heart.

One became available less than four months later.

Trice was watching a Christian drama called Gods Not Dead when the transplant team called and told him to get ready. He was on the operating table early the next morning, on July Fourth of all days, he said.

There was no guarantee the doctor would even do the surgery, if he didnt like what he saw once he opened up Trice and the donor.

When Trice awakened, the nurse gave him a thumbs up.

The pain of having his chest cut open and his heart removed to make way for a transplanted one was minimal. Within five days he was on a treadmill; after two weeks, he was back home on the farm, behind the hardware store.

Compared to the heart attack, which was a show-stopper, Trice said the heart transplant was easy.

That surgery was like a hangnail, he said.

80 PERCENT THERE

Trice isnt totally out of the woods. He takes medicine three times a day to keep his body from rejecting the heart, and he also needs insulin because the heart problems brought on diabetes. His kidneys have been damaged.

Hes had to make changes at home, such as getting rid of his chickens and replacing the kitchen floor where water had leaked. Because of his compromised immune system, he cant be exposed to possible infections from elements such as chicken dander or household mold.

Hes not to the point that all four cylinders are firing, but he estimates hes about 80 percent there. Before the heart transplant, he was winded constantly, to the point he had to take a break every few minutes and rest.

Slowly, hes getting away from the office work he despises and back into lifting, hauling and working on equipment. He said it feels good to take care of things for himself again.

Ive been self-sufficient. My whole life, I never depended on anyone, he said. Its humbling to have to rely on other people for even the smallest thing.

DIVINE INTERVENTION

In the November 2016 Free LanceStar story, Trice encouraged people to see a doctor if they had any health concerns, no matter how benign they might seem.

He held himself up as an example. He was active and seemingly in good shape; he even ran 3 miles daily before the heart attack.

But his body had been telling him that something wasnt right. Hed gotten dizzy and almost passed out a couple times.

This go-round, Trice wants to spread the gospel of organ donation. Hes humbled by the gift a stranger gave him, by the donation of life that came at such a high price to the donors family.

He feels blessed by the divine intervention that led him to say no to the LVAD surgery so he could be ready for the heart transplant.

And, Trice stressed again how grateful he is to all those who stood by him. He believes God said, I gotta save this dude, as a result of all the prayers offered on his behalf.

It just wasnt my time, Trice said, despite all the obstacles I had.
FREDERICKSBURG

First Christian Church, 1501 Washington Ave., will hold an 11 a.m. worship service on Sunday following the all-ages Sunday school at 10 a.m. The church office will be closed on Monday. 540/373-7716; 1stchristianchurchfredva.org.

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY

Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 6030 Harrison Road, will host the African Childrens Choir on Jan. 21 at 10:30 a.m. Concerts are free and open to all. A free-will offering will be taken to support choir programs. africanchildrenschoir.com.

New Destiny Baptist Church, 11903 Bowman Drive, will hold a New Years Eve Celebration and Worship Service with speaker Bishop Joel Nelson on Sunday at 4 p.m. newdestinyva.org.

Redeemer Lutheran Church, 5120 Harrison Road, will host the African Childrens Choir on Jan. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Concerts are free and open to all. A free-will offering will be taken to support choir programs. 540/898-4748; africanchildrenschoir.com.

STAFFORD COUNTY

Bible Way Christian Church, under the leadership of Pastor Bobby R. Smallwood, has moved and is now located at H.H. Poole Middle School, 800 Eustace Road. Sunday morning services are at 10 a.m. biblewaystafford.org.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 395 Mt. Olive Road, will host a reunion concert today at 4 p.m. The choir will be current and former members from all of the choirs of the church. The concert is free, and no tickets are required. For more information, email smithlm_155251@live.com. 540/752-4296.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg, 25 Chalice Circle. The Art Of Memory, an exhibit of the paintings by Mark Prieto, will be held Jan. 7 through Feb. 25, 2018, with an opening reception on Jan. 7 from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Diagnosed in 2010 with dementia, he paints every day in an effort to ward off memory loss. He also will present Storytelling Talk on Jan. 21, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. Empowering Communications: Confronting Harassment will be held Jan. 13, 1-3 p.m., in the Sanctuary Hall. Marcia Grimsley will present skillful communication techniques for handling controlling, harassing and bullying individuals. All participants must be at least 18 years of age. Bring paper, writing tools and a firm surface to write on. $10; no credit cards. 540/785-4104 or 540/310-4001.

KING GEORGE COUNTY

Dahlgren United Methodist Church, 17080 14th St., The Sheeps Pen, located in the little brown building behind the church, is open on Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon, weather permitting. It will close for the winter on Monday. Gently used items from books to toys, clothes to strollers and dishes to furniture are available. All items are donated, and all proceeds go to the church. 540/663-2230.

Mountain View Baptist Church, 6713 Passapatanzy Drive. Chosen People Ministries will present an informative Hanukkah program on Sunday during the 11 a.m. worship service. This program is free and open to the public. 540/775-9468; mtnviewbaptistchurch.org.

Salem Baptist Church, 12262 Salem Church Road, Jersey, will observe its New Years Eve service on Sunday at 10 p.m. Dinner will be served starting at 9 p.m. Guest speaker for the service will be the Rev. Gregory Nick of Shiloh Baptist Church, Port Royal, who will be accompanied by his congregation and singing group. 540/775-2350.

CAROLINE COUNTY

Beulah Baptist Church, 5216 Arcadia Road, Woodford. The Rev. Dr. W. David Lee Sr., pastor, will celebrate Watch Night Service on Sunday at 10 p.m. Beulah Choirs, G.A.P. and The Praise Dancers will help bring in 2018.

First Baptist Church, 9262 Guinea Station Road, Woodford, will hold morning worship service at 8 a.m. Sunday. There will be no New Years Eve Watch Night service. 540/786-0226.

St. John Baptist Church, 17080 S. River Road, Woodford, will hold the worship service on Sunday at 8 a.m. only. There will not be a Watch Night Service. All are welcome to celebrate at this hour. 804/448-3866.

CULPEPER COUNTY

St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 115 N. East St. (parking at 120 N. Commerce St.) will hold a special Lessons and Carols Holy Communion service Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Nursery is available 9 a.m. to noon. 540/825-8786; ststephensculpeper.net; or ssec@ststephensculpeper.net.

REGIONAL

Faith Christian Church and International Outreach Center, 6472 Duhollow Road, Warrenton. A special New Years Eve service will be held Sunday at 10:30 p.m. 540/349-0178; gotfaithnow.com.

Fauquier Friends Worship Group (Quakers), Bealeton Library Depot, 10877 Willow Drive N., Bealeton. Meet the Friends for quiet, reflective worship on Jan. 21 at 11 a.m. Hospitality time is at 10:30 a.m. and again after worship. Come as you are, and bring the children for First Day School. Open to all faiths. fauquierfriends@gmail.com.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 18410 Chapel Drive, Triangle. A Watch Night Service will be held Sunday at 9 p.m.
Addressing the event, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said building institutions and laws is a difficult task, asking ministers to pay due attention to the issue. The ministries must coordinate with the National Assemblys agencies during the acquirement, adjustment and completion of documents, especially those receiving feedback from the legislature.

The cabinet members also looked into a draft Law on Vietnamese Coast Guard, a proposal on building a draft Militia Law (revised) and a draft Law on Public Security (revised), and a proposal on adjustments and supplements to the law on the issuance of legal documents 2015.

An overview of the Cabinet meeting (Source: VNA)



Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung presented a report on the implementation of the economic restructuring plan during 2016-2020, which says 44 out of 66 tasks set for ministries and agencies have generated clear outcomes.

PM Phuc applauded efforts made by ministries, agencies and localities in economic restructuring, thus helping to fulfill socio-economic tasks in 2017.

He urged greater endeavours to realise resolutions adopted by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and the NA, as well as Resolution No. 27 of the Government on economic restructuring, considering this as a key task in tandem with reforming the growth model.

The government leader emphasised the need to complete modern and integrated market economy institutions, and create the best possible conditions and environment for businesses, including the private economic sector.

It is necessary to reform methods of regional economic connectivity and promote the role of coordinating agencies from the stage of making plans to supervising the deployment of regional connectivity activities, he said.

Public investment should yield fruits along with maximising non-State resources, he said, stressing that the private economic sector must become a driver of the economy.

PM Phuc also ordered the acceleration of equitisation and divestment of state capital and improved operations of state-owned enterprises./.
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.
This years figure is estimated at more than USD8.3 billion, marking a 19 percent rise year-on-year.

According to the VASEP, seafood export to most countries saw strong growth, excluding the US, Australia and Russia. The EU has replaced the US as the top importer of Vietnams aquatic products, followed by the US, Japan and China.

Source: VNA



Seafood export to Japan posted two-digit growth with a total revenue of USD1.3 billion, up nearly 18 percent from 2017.

Notably, China has surpassed the US in the list of the largest importers of Vietnams tra fish and shrimp. The neighbouring country is now the biggest importer of Vietnamese tra fish and the third largest importer of Vietnamese shrimp, after the EU and Japan.

Vietnams shipment of aquatic products to the US decreased slightly by 2.9 percent year-on-year, mostly due to pressure from catfish inspection that started from August 1,2017 and high anti-dumping tariff. Tra fish export to the country fell by 10 percent annually.

VASEP commented that Vietnamese seafood exporters will continue faring well in 2018 thanks to high demand for shrimp products and potential of major markets such as China, Japan and the Republic of Korea./.
On The Water: You might need a bigger boat for Transpac 2023
Nine-year-old Ceci Chapman placed the Sorting Hat on her head Thursday while perched on a couch at a north Corvallis home.

She closed her eyes and selected a piece of paper from a basket. Ravenclaw, she read.

RAVENCLAW! 14-year-old Robert Carleski shouted from nearby, mimicking the authoritative pointy hat from the "Harry Potter" franchise.

Carleski was helping his brothers, 12-year-old Calvin and 13-year-old George, raise money for a class trip to Washington D.C. in March. The boys, with help from their mother, Katie, hosted a Harry Potter-themed Winter Break Camp.

Eight children attended the day camp. The camps will continue for two days next week, but with different themes: Legoland Frontier on Wednesday and Superhero Scientists on Thursday.

For the Harry Potter camp, the Carleski family transformed their home into the Wizarding World. The children, some of them wearing Hogwarts robes, walked through a tarp painted with red bricks at the front door. Above the door was a sign reading Platform 9.

The kids then walked through dozens of Hogwarts acceptance letters suspended from the ceiling. Paper owls dangling from above carried more letters.

Inside the living room were several wooden planks designating locations in the Harry Potter novels, such as the Forbidden Forest, Whomping Willow, Ollivanders, Hagrids Hut and The Three Broomsticks.

On a bench by the window sat stuffed versions of Dobby the House Elf, a Hungarian Horntail dragon and Fluffy the three-headed dog. On an adjacent shelf was a cage holding a snowy owl stuffed animal, a miniature ceramic Hogwarts castle and a jar of Floo powder.

Scarves in the colors of each of the Hogwarts houses were hung on the wall. A Nimbus 2000 broomstick was displayed on a table beside the couch.

After each of the children were sorted into their houses, the camp leaders distributed yarn balls in varying colors. Each color denoted a spell, like the stunning spell Stupefy. The kids dueled with the yard balls, or rather ran throughout the house playing dodgeball.

The children then gathered at the dining room table, above which were dozens of painted white toilet paper rolls hanging from the ceiling. The flames of LED candles poked out of the top of each roll, resembling the suspended candle sticks in Hogwarts Great Hall.

The kids created Fizzing Wizzbees candies out of powdered sugar, citric acid and Jell-O mix. They spooned the mixture into their mouths.

Its sweet and then its sour, Chapman said.

The camp organizers then announced it was time for a Care of Magical Creatures class. The children gathered in the living room around a woman who had brought a live 3-foot Mojave ball python.

I want to see if it talks, Chapman said, referencing the articulate snake in the first Harry Potter novel.

Calvin delivered a short lesson on the traits of the species before the kids took turns holding the reptile.

The kids then took part in a Herbology lesson, with each creating their own potted mandrakes out of marshmallows, kiwi slices and sour patch straws, which they placed into cups of yogurt and chocolate Nesquik.

Next, the group concocted Butterbeer. They passed around a large bowl, each adding ingredients and taking turn stirring the drink, which was comprised of ice cream, creme soda, caramel syrup, brown sugar, butter and spices.

Katie told the group to follow the directions on the recipe, otherwise you end up like Seamus Finnigan and have half your hair blown off by your potion.

After tasting the buttery drink, the kids migrated to the back yard, where three hoops had been staged on a Quidditch pitch. The kids split into two teams, mounted branches and competed to score with the Quaffle.

The children then gathered in the living room for hot chocolate and "The Tale of the Three Brothers," read by Katie. Each child then decorated their own magical wand with paint and jewels.

Katie has six sons and one daughter, and refers to their home as the Burrow after the Weasleys house in Harry Potter. Calvin and George, who attend Franklin School, are working to raise the $1,600 they each need to travel to D.C.

Its good for them to learn management skills, Katie said.

Fundraising teaches the kids entrepreneurship, as well as how to present themselves when asking for monetary support from strangers and how to manage money, she added.

The day camps cost $15 per day per child. In addition to the camps, the boys have used a wood burning kit to create decorative plaques, which they are selling. Theyve also sold pizza coupon cards supplied by their school.
Taoist meditation group: The group will meet at 9 a.m. Sunday at the First Alternative Natural Foods Co-op north store, 2855 NW Grant Ave. in Corvallis.

The event will feature Taoist Quiet Sitting meditation, also known as "Preserving the Light of the One." Information: docneedlestcm@gmail.com.

Epiphany celebrated: First United Methodist Church, 1165 NW Monroe Ave. in Corvallis, will anticipate the New Year at its service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday.

The congregation will celebrate the Wise Men's arrival in Bethlehem to greet the infant Jesus. Epiphany will be celebrated as a New Year is launched.

Baha'i devotions: "Vistas Beyond Mere Tolerance" is set for 10 a.m. Sunday at 5006 SW Hollyhock Circle, Corvallis.

The idea of tolerance fails to solve the increasingly complex issues of our time. We need something deeper and more solid. What would it be like to live through a day of truth and reconciliation, following the example of South Africa  in the neighborhood? In the city? The state, the nation, the planet? All are welcome to join the prayers and conversation.

New Years Eve concert: Lebanon Mennonite Church, 2100 S. Second St., will hold a concert at 7 p.m. Sunday.

The event will feature Dale and Gwen Kropf and the Bethel Mountain Band. Refreshments will be served as a fundraiser for the youth mission trip.

Financial class offered: Financial Peace University will be offered at 7 p.m. nine Mondays, starting Jan. 1, at Kings Chapel Oregon, 65 W. Grant St. in Lebanon.

Financial expert Dave Ramsey created the class, which is designed to provide families and individuals with practical tools to gain control of their finances and set themselves up for long-term financial success.

Registration is available at www.fpu.com/1055453.

Taize: A contemplative ecumenical Taize worship service will take place at 7 p.m. Jan. 7 at the Episcopal Church of the Good Samaritan, 333 NW 35th St. in Corvallis.

The monthly event, sponsored by the Corvallis Taize Ensemble, is open to all, and features singing and prayers. Information: 541-753-7622.
It is not a bad thing for us, that the route known as the Goldene Strae or the Golden Road as we will get to know it- has escaped the attention of so many. It has been spared being overrun by hordes of tourists and as you will discover the
Hit by train : Grief for 13-year-old at the Rungsdorf level crossing

Bad Godesberg There is great sorrow after the death of a 13-year-old in Rungsdorf. The boy was hit by a train on Thursday evening after he climbed over the closed gates. The train driver was also attended to by pastoral workers.

Teilen

Teilen Weiterleiten

Weiterleiten Tweeten

Tweeten Weiterleiten

Weiterleiten Drucken

The strong, cold wind continually blows out the candles. There are 15 of them on the small area in front of the level crossing at Kapellenweg in Rungsdorf. Someone has left a plastic bag with tea lights so that anyone who wants can light one. The otherwise busy spot at which a 13-year-old boy was hit by a train and killed on Wednesday afternoon has become a place of silence.

Many people who knew the boy pass by. Its simply unbelievable. A few hours earlier I saw him shopping, explains one young mother with tears in her eyes. He was a happy and bright boy. She does not want to ask the question why, perhaps she cannot. Its just sad. It was silly to run over the closed crossing. Two school friends of the 13-year-old are there with their parents and listen to the woman. The two boys hardly say anything. Their faces are pale. They absolutely wanted to come and light a candle.

The wind blows over a small flower vase. Ill come back later and put some water in it again, says a pensioner. She thinks safety measures at the rail tracks need to improve. I constantly see young people and children who climb quickly over the barriers or wriggle under the metal bars to get across. A high fence bars the way directly next to crossing, which is on the way to school for many children and young people. 50 metres further it is missing. Those who want to, can get across, she says. At this point an Intercity train races past. They are so quick and quiet that you dont see or hear them.

The train driver suffered from shock

Police investigators are examining exactly what happened at around 3.20pm. The General Anzeiger learned from witnesses that the boy was out with two friends. At first they were waiting on the Pennenfeld side of the crossing in front of the barrier. According to police spokesman Simon Rott, the 13-year-old had climbed over the barriers and had tried to cross the tracks in the direction of the Rhine. Whether it was a dare or he wanted to get to the other side quickly, no one knows at the moment. The teen was hit by an Intercity train and fatally injured. Rescue services and an emergency doctor were unable to resuscitate him.

Father Jurgen Langer, with three specially trained pastoral workers and an emergency attendant, looked after the eye witnesses, who also had to see the accident. They included the train driver, who was suffering from shock. At first it was said only he needed care. At the scene it became clear that more people required help, said Langer. A Muslim emergency attendant, who speaks Turkish, cared for the family of the 13-year-old boy. The relatives, who live nearby, had immediately come to the scene on learning of the accident.

Serious accidents at rail crossings have triggered discussions about the safety situation there several times in Bonn in recent years, although the crossings were correctly secured in all cases. Most recently, the focus has been on tram crossings. The public utility company therefore regularly appeals to road users to abide by the applicable rules.
kacylee at 29-12-2017 09:38 PM (4 years ago) (f)

Nigerian veteran actor and broadcaster, Sadiq Daba, who underwent a successful surgery for Leukemia and Prostrate cancer in U.K, is back to Nigeria.

Nigerian veteran actor and broadcaster, Sadiq Daba, who underwent a successful surgery for Leukemia and Prostrate cancer in U.K, is back to Nigeria. Sadiq Daba who was received by his excited wife Mobolaji, his son and activist, Joe Okei-Odumakin, said upon his arrival today;



 Its soooo good to be back home!! Who else will be there? Who has always been there ? Yes , the indefatigable woman of esteem and high standards, sincerity, honesty ,love, care ,adoration and an AngelDr.Joe Odumakin!! I am back stronger, healthier and well.all thanks to the goodwill and kindness of thousands and thousands of Nigerians both home and abroad. Special mention and lots of love to Soni Irabor, who kick started it all !! I am ever so grateful



















Sadiq Daba who was received by his excited wife Mobolaji, his son and activist, Joe Okei-Odumakin, said upon his arrival today;

Post Reply 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 29-12-2017 09:38 PM (4 years ago) | Addicted Hero
bohlah at 30-12-2017 10:11 AM (4 years ago) (m)

Founder and leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has revealed what God told him concerning a national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Ahmed Bola Tinubu, President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigeria as a country.

Founder and leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has revealed what God told him concerning a national leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Ahmed Bola Tinubu, President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigeria as a country.

He said Tinubu will become insignificant in the ruling party and will not continue in politics after 2019 general election because someone else will take his position.



The prophet had earlier said former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar should consult God before finally making his decision to contest for presidency.



He said if the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP fields the right candidate, they will unseat Buhari but if that they dont get one, Buhari will remain in power.



Speaking in an interview with Sun, the prophet predicted that Nigerias oil will dry in the next 15 years.



Tinubu, after 2019 will not continue in politics. He may not be able to go around again.



He might not continue not because of health, but another leader may take over the leadership of the party.



Nigeria is sitting on a time bomb, so the state of the Nation is very bad; we are still in a recession but they tell us that we are no more in recession.



The ship of the country is shaking, the ship is in the storm, there is a storm surrounding Nigeria and only God will help us.



I know at the appropriate time, something mysterious will happen, and that is the reason why anybody cannot put Nigeria together again. If we go to the original system of government, it is fine.



But not all the agitators will do all of these things but God has a time for everything, in his own appropriate time, it will happen. Nigeria will not break up now but what will lead us to the breaking point is already in the pipeline.



There is nothing to do to checkmate the breaking up because the breaking up is not now.



So, if anybody is talking about breaking up, he is just making noise. He said Tinubu will become insignificant in the ruling party and will not continue in politics after 2019 general election because someone else will take his position.The prophet had earlier said former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar should consult God before finally making his decision to contest for presidency.He said if the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP fields the right candidate, they will unseat Buhari but if that they dont get one, Buhari will remain in power.Speaking in an interview with Sun, the prophet predicted that Nigerias oil will dry in the next 15 years.

Post Reply I have been reporting on latest news from Nigeria for almost 10 years now. I report on every possible news area I come across, but always ensure my reports are compiled with dignity and fact to uphold my personal values and duty as a journalist Posted: at 30-12-2017 10:11 AM (4 years ago) | Addicted Hero
bohlah at 30-12-2017 10:42 AM (4 years ago) (m)

Senator Francis Okpozo, who died at 81, in 2016, has been named Chairman, Nigerian Press Council (NPC).

Senator Francis Okpozo, who died at 81, in 2016, has been named Chairman, Nigerian Press Council (NPC).

Also on the list is late retired Deputy Inspector General of Police and elder statesman, Donald Ugbaja.



The late Ugbaja was appointed member of Consumer Protection Council. His name is the third on the list of the council whose chairman is Emeka Nwakpa.



The two men are among the 209 chairmen and 1,258 members appointed to fill the governing boards of agencies and parastatals positions.



The Presidency had issued a statement on December 28, 2016 expressing condolences to his family and the government of Delta State on his death.



Until his death, Late Okpozo was a Second Republic senator and member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the All Progressives Congress (APC).



In a statement by the presidential spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, the President also commiserated with the family and friends of the late senator, whose championing of social justice in the Niger Delta, during his long history of service to the people, endeared him to many.



The statement added that As a stalwart of the APC in the South-South, President Buhari believes that the party greatly benefited from the octogenarians charismatic leadership and wealth of experience as a politician.



The President also hopes that all who mourn Senator Okpozo will carry forward his legacy of unwavering dedication to the unity of Nigeria, even as the nation would fondly remember his contributions to peace, development and justice in the Niger Delta.



Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on November 28th, 2017 also in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, described the late Ugbaja as a complete gentleman, a thorough bred officer, who contributed his own quota to serving his country and humanity.



The appointments which was released late Saturday night to mainly online media by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, read: Mr. President considered the approval for the constitution of the Boards as well as the appointments, very necessary, so as to provide a proper Governance and oversight structure for Government Agencies and Parastatals. The constitution of the boards with the appointments, is a demonstration of this Governments efforts aimed at building strong institutions of Governance, and by extension, improving the quality of Policy formulation and supervision.



While these appointments represent a substantial number of hitherto pending board appointments, some more appointments are still being processed and will be released in due course.



The appointments take immediate effect and Honourable Ministers are advised to inaugurate the boards after letters of appointment have been issued.



These appointments are the single largest President Buhari has made since he took office in 2015.



Prominent among the appointees is a former Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo, who will be serving on the board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria alongside Akingbesote Akinyeye, Suleiman Mohammed and Bello Babura.



Chief Bode Mustapha and Mr. Fetus Keyamo will also be serving on the board of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation alongside Alhaji Garba Buba, Bello Garba, Gen. J.O.J. Okoloagu, Mudashiru Mustapha and Adewole Adeleke.



On the board of Sheda Science and Technology Complex are Senator Ayo Arise, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, Kevin Njideaka, Rotimi Erogbogbo, Bala Abdullahi, Shuaibu Bukkuyum, Mohammed Us, Kolawole Yusuf, Inuwa Mangoron and Gale Idriss.



The General Overseer of Foundation of Truth Ministry, Lagos State, Rev. Yomi Kasali, was appointed on the board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission alongside Emmanuel Ebomuche, Ezekiel Agazu, Israel Akanji, Anthony Fasipe, Jidda Musa, Yusuf Biniyat and forgiven Amachree.



Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and others are on the board of the National Boundary Commission while Gen. John ShaG.aya and others made the list of National Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies.



Osinbajo is also chairing the Border Communities Development Agency, the National Planning Commission and the National Space Research and Development Agency.



The President himself is chairing the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority. Also on the list is late retired Deputy Inspector General of Police and elder statesman, Donald Ugbaja.The late Ugbaja was appointed member of Consumer Protection Council. His name is the third on the list of the council whose chairman is Emeka Nwakpa.The two men are among the 209 chairmen and 1,258 members appointed to fill the governing boards of agencies and parastatals positions.The Presidency had issued a statement on December 28, 2016 expressing condolences to his family and the government of Delta State on his death.Until his death, Late Okpozo was a Second Republic senator and member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the All Progressives Congress (APC).In a statement by the presidential spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, the President also commiserated with the family and friends of the late senator, whose championing of social justice in the Niger Delta, during his long history of service to the people, endeared him to many.The statement added that As a stalwart of the APC in the South-South, President Buhari believes that the party greatly benefited from the octogenarians charismatic leadership and wealth of experience as a politician.The President also hopes that all who mourn Senator Okpozo will carry forward his legacy of unwavering dedication to the unity of Nigeria, even as the nation would fondly remember his contributions to peace, development and justice in the Niger Delta.Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on November 28th, 2017 also in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, described the late Ugbaja as a complete gentleman, a thorough bred officer, who contributed his own quota to serving his country and humanity.The appointments which was released late Saturday night to mainly online media by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, read: Mr. President considered the approval for the constitution of the Boards as well as the appointments, very necessary, so as to provide a proper Governance and oversight structure for Government Agencies and Parastatals. The constitution of the boards with the appointments, is a demonstration of this Governments efforts aimed at building strong institutions of Governance, and by extension, improving the quality of Policy formulation and supervision.While these appointments represent a substantial number of hitherto pending board appointments, some more appointments are still being processed and will be released in due course.The appointments take immediate effect and Honourable Ministers are advised to inaugurate the boards after letters of appointment have been issued.These appointments are the single largest President Buhari has made since he took office in 2015.Prominent among the appointees is a former Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo, who will be serving on the board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria alongside Akingbesote Akinyeye, Suleiman Mohammed and Bello Babura.Chief Bode Mustapha and Mr. Fetus Keyamo will also be serving on the board of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation alongside Alhaji Garba Buba, Bello Garba, Gen. J.O.J. Okoloagu, Mudashiru Mustapha and Adewole Adeleke.On the board of Sheda Science and Technology Complex are Senator Ayo Arise, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, Kevin Njideaka, Rotimi Erogbogbo, Bala Abdullahi, Shuaibu Bukkuyum, Mohammed Us, Kolawole Yusuf, Inuwa Mangoron and Gale Idriss.The General Overseer of Foundation of Truth Ministry, Lagos State, Rev. Yomi Kasali, was appointed on the board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission alongside Emmanuel Ebomuche, Ezekiel Agazu, Israel Akanji, Anthony Fasipe, Jidda Musa, Yusuf Biniyat and forgiven Amachree.Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and others are on the board of the National Boundary Commission while Gen. John ShaG.aya and others made the list of National Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies.Osinbajo is also chairing the Border Communities Development Agency, the National Planning Commission and the National Space Research and Development Agency.The President himself is chairing the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

Post Reply I have been reporting on latest news from Nigeria for almost 10 years now. I report on every possible news area I come across, but always ensure my reports are compiled with dignity and fact to uphold my personal values and duty as a journalist Posted: at 30-12-2017 10:42 AM (4 years ago) | Addicted Hero
Despite a looming tax law that could stifle charity donations, managers at charity secondhand stores in the Dan River Region say year-end giving has either matched or outpaced the previous year.

Its been very steady, said Sherry Hines, vice president of retail and operations at Goodwill Industries of South Central Virginia. Weve had a steady last couple of months.

At Goodwills headquarters off Piedmont Drive, dozens of customers scoured the racks for clothes and other items Friday. Drivers pulled around the side of the building to the stores new covered two-lane donation drop off space.

Hines said the drive-thru shelter, which was added in August, had greatly decreased the time needed to drop off donations to the store. Though donating was relatively slow Friday, Hines added that it might change over the weekend as the year ends.

Tomorrow might be a different story, Hines said.

At the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, manager R. J. McGaughey said the stores recently expanded hours had helped drive up donations.

Weve just recently changed our hours, and donations have increased and more people coming in and buying materials, McGaughey said.

At Goodwill, Danville resident Jan Yoder said she tries to donate old clothes every year.

Theres a lot of clothes and other people need them, Yoder said.

The new tax law recently passed by Republican members of Congress could reduce the incentive to donate items at the end of 2018, according to a story by The Associated Press. Because standard deduction amounts are increased under the new law, taxpayers may find that itemized deductions no longer save them as much as in the past. Some estimates project that as few as 10 percent of taxpayers will continue to itemize deductions on their returns, down from the current one-third, according to the story.

Hines said Goodwill is keeping an eye on the law, and will decide how to react as it gets closer to implementation.

Thats always on our radar, she said.

Hines said she thought that Goodwills aim of enhancing the quality of life of families and individuals through job training programs would combat any side effects of the law.

Were hoping that the mission will drive up donations, Hines said.
The Pittsylvania County Parks and Recreation Department has been honored with the Best New Facility Award from the Virginia Parks and Recreation Society.

The parks, located at the four county middle schools, are the first in the countys history. County funding got the ball rolling on these parks, but over a year, the department raised more than $500,000 to pay for everything the needed  from playgrounds to paved walking tracks to bathrooms and picnic shelters.

The parks are open all day, every day, for free.

Over the last 18 months or so, weve opened four new parks, opened a community center and started to diversify what we offer to the community, Pittsylvania County Parks and Recreation Director Mark Moore said. Those are milestones for any parks and recreation department.

The community center in Chatham will begin offering dance classes for the first time in January. Moore said that almost all of the classes are full, speaking to the desire for new programs there.
25,715,390 shares of our common stock held by selling stockholders

18,418,250 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of common stock purchase warrants held by selling stockholders exercisable at CDN$0.40 per share

6,927,140 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of common stock purchase warrants held by selling stockholders exercisable at CDN$0.25 per share

1,500,000 shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of common stock purchase warrants held by selling stockholders exercisable at CDN$0.227 per share

Vancouver, December 29, 2017 - Rise Gold Corp. (CSE: RISE) (OTCQB: RYES) ("Rise" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") has declared effective the Company's registration statement on Form S-1 relating to the resale of up to 52,560,780 shares of the Company's common stock (the "Securities") held by certain stockholders of the Company named in the registration statement comprised of the following:

The registration statement, while effective, allows the selling stockholders named in the registration statement to publicly resell the Securities. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Securities by the selling stockholders. Upon the cash exercise of the warrants, the Company will receive the exercise price of the warrants.

The registration statement may be accessed through the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. A copy of the prospectus relating to the offering may also be accessed through the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or may be obtained from the Company by sending a request to: Rise Gold Corp., Suite 488  1090 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 3V7 or by calling (604) 209-0034.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sales of these securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Rise Gold Corp.

Rise is an exploration-stage mining company. The Company's principal asset is the historic past producing Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine located in California, USA. The Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine is one of the United States' greatest past producing gold mines with total past production of 2,414,000 oz of gold from 1866-1955. Rise is a US corporation incorporated in Nevada, USA and maintains its head office in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Benjamin Mossman

President, CEO and Director

Rise Gold Corp.

For further information, please contact:

Rise Gold Corp.

Suite 488, 1090 West Georgia Street

Vancouver, BC V6E 3V7

T: 604.260.4577

info@risegoldcorp.com

www.risegoldcorp.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to certain factors including, without limitation, obtaining all necessary approvals, meeting expenditure and financing requirements, compliance with environmental regulations, title matters, operating hazards, metal prices, political and economic factors, competitive factors, general economic conditions, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulation and supervision, seasonality, technological change, industry practices, and one-time events that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information contained in this release. Rise undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law.


</p>

The destination: CES in Las Vegas.In typical Google style, the company plans to make an entrance at this years Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next month. Thats why it's funding a project that integrates the Google Assistant into Electrons Gen 2 Wheel for bicycles. The system allows the rider to control the features of the wheel, such as assist mode for inclines, by speaking to the Google Assistant through the microphone in their smartphone.To get the product to CES, cyclist Max Lippe will ride a bike equipped with the Assistant-powered Electron Wheel from Union Square in New York City to Las Vegas. Lippe will have to ride for 17 hours each day, and if all goes according to plan he should roll into Las Vegas 10 days later, on day two of CES. Since the wheel can only go about 50 miles per charge, Lippe will be trailed by a van with six additional wheels that can be quickly swapped out and recharged.You can track the rides progress on Electrons website here
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
A Royal New

Years Eve

When aspiring fashion designer Caitlyn (Jessy Schram) is hired to design a dress for a socialites New Years Eve party, she ends up falling for the wealthy womans betrothed in this premiere romance. Sam Page also stars.

Ten Days in the Valley

Kyra Sedgwick stars as an overworked television producer whose world is turned upside down when her daughter mysteriously disappears in the middle of the night. The investigation reveals several suspects, including family members and co-workers.
GREENSBORO  An expert for the legislative defendants in North Carolinas racial gerrymandering lawsuit has leveled sharp criticism at recently proposed election maps because he said they likely stem from another consultants use of forbidden racial quotas.

In a report backing Republican leaders in the North Carolina General Assembly, redistricting expert Douglas Johnson said that in light of the remarkable similarity in the African-American percentages of the voting age population in the districts drawn by the special master, it is natural to ask whether those problems and results are truly coincidental or if they indicate the use of race as a predominant factor.

Johnson alleged that the use of racial quotas was particularly open to question in revisions of several Greensboro-area state House and Senate districts proposed by another consultant in the case, Stanford University law professor and election-law expert Nathaniel Persily, who was tapped recently by a three-judge panel as a special master in the case.

A special master uses specialized knowledge and skills to help one or more judges put a court order into effect.

In particular, the special masters decisions regarding House Districts 57, 61 and 62 in Greensboro raise questions regarding whether racial quotas were targeted by the special master when drawing the districts, Johnson said in his report.

Of Persilys proposed revisions to Senate District 28 in Greensboro, Johnson voiced a legitimate concern that the district as drawn achieves some unstated racial quota, since none of the stated goals fully explain why some areas were included and others excluded.

Persily filed his own report early this month, recommending among other things sweeping changes to Guilford Countys legislative voting maps that would affect a half-dozen local districts and put state Sens. Gladys Robinson (D-Greensboro) and Trudy Wade (R-Greensboro) in the same Senate district so they would either have to run against each other or one of them move into another district.

In his report, Persily said he adhered closely to widely accepted norms for designing election districts in an unbiased way that resolved the lingering problems with the handful of remaining districts that had too many black voters.

The two experts both come from California. Persily is a well-known law professor at Stanford and an acknowledged redistricting expert who has played key roles in a number of legislative redistricting cases in other states.

Johnson, of Glendale, Calif., is a political scientist and demographer who operates a consulting company that has worked on several hundred districting, redistricting and voting-right cases involving school districts and local or state government, many of them in California.

Their differing viewpoints are scheduled to be aired Friday at a hearing in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina at Greensboros federal court building.

Johnsons new report is part of the strategy of the defendants lawyer, Phillip Strach of Raleigh, to turn the tables on the 31 voters who brought the case by claiming that it is critics of the GOP-controlled legislature who are unfairly obsessed with race.

The protesting voters and activist groups filed their successful lawsuit almost three years ago in federal court, arguing that too many black voters had been packed in a relatively small number of districts to blunt the statewide impact of their heavily Democratic voting tendencies.

Strach represents state Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden), state House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain), state Rep. David Lewis (R-Dunn) and former state Sen. Bob Rucho (R-Matthews), who are named in the lawsuit as legislative leaders involved in the original 2011 redistricting that triggered the lawsuit.

In a ruling later upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, the three-judge panel sided with the protesting voters and ordered 28 racially gerrymandered districts to be redrawn to eliminate the racial disparity. The state House and Senate complied this summer, largely succeeding in satisfying the court in 24 of the 28 contested districts.

Persily was tapped to help the court fix the remaining four, including two in Guilford and one each near Fayetteville and Goldsboro. In addition to Senate District 28, currently represented by Robinson, the other district the judges found still wanting was House District 57 now held by state Rep. Pricey Harrison (D-Greensboro).

Persilys proposed fixes to those districts also would affect neighboring districts and they led Strach to argue in previous court filings that the special master distributed black voters among the various revised districts to make up about 40 percent of the voting age population in each district, where it would be most advantageous for Democratic candidates.

The legislative defendants contend there is nothing truly wrong with the maps they produced this summer. They contend that in redrawing the 28 offending districts, they did not consider race at all and that the few remaining instances where districts have disproportionate numbers of black voters are naturally occurring.
RALEIGH  After many decades, N.C. State Universitys bell tower will finally live up to its name.

The 115-foot granite landmark off Hillsborough Street will get something that any respectable bell tower should have: bells. Since its dedication in 1949, the bell sounds have come from speakers near the top of the tower, produced by an automated carillon in a nearby building.

The installation of 54 bells will come about 100 years after the Memorial Belltower was first planned to honor alumni who died in World War I. Its part of a renovation of the tower, with new bells made possible with a gift from Bill and Frances Henry of Gastonia. Bill Henry is a 1981 graduate of N.C. State, and his two brothers graduated from the university. The Henrys son, William, is a freshman there studying engineering.

The news is being cheered by alumni and students.

For the university, I have to believe that its such a momentous occasion because this tower is on our rings, its on our stationery, its on our street signs, its everywhere, said Matt Robbins, who has two N.C. State diplomas, including a 2009 graduate degree in architecture. It literally stands for N.C. State.

Robbins became known as the bell guy when he was part of a grass-roots student campaign to raise money for the bells about 10 years ago. The fundraising effort was popular, but in the end only brought in enough money for five bells.

The other 49 will come in the next two to three years as part of an extensive renovation. The project includes a stairwell to the top of the tower, where a lightning strike knocked a chunk of the tower off in 2009, and repairs to the ground-level shrine room, which has suffered water damage over time. The surrounding plaza will be upgraded and named Henry Square.

The amount of the donation will be kept confidential, at the request of the donors, who declined to be interviewed, according to a spokesman for N.C. State.

The gift accomplishes what students and alumni have been trying to do since 1919, when the tower was first envisioned.

The structure rose in fits and starts  the first 14 feet in 1921, another 10 feet each in 1924, 1925 and 1926.

Construction stopped whenever the project ran out of money.

Once the Great Depression hit, the U.S. governments Works Progress Administration finished the exterior of the tower in 1937.

But there was no money for bells, and it was clear that it would take many years for each graduating class of students to raise enough money, engineering professor C.L. Mann, wrote in a 1940 letter to the towers architect.

Is there any such thing as electronically amplified sound chimes? Mann wrote. Of course, I realize that nothing of this kind would take the place of the bells, but it will be some time before we can expect to get them in the tower.

He was right.

It took another 10 years to get the clock and first carillon. The towers dedication was held four years after the end of World War II.

Over time, the structure has morphed from a veterans monument to one of N.C. States main gathering spots. The tower is lit for Veterans and Memorial days, but it also glows red for big Wolfpack wins, or whenever students or faculty members earn major achievements.

Over the years, the tower has become the most iconic place and structure on the whole campus, said Tom Stafford, a former vice chancellor for student affairs, who has led hundreds of tours of the location. This is now considered to be one of our hallowed places. Its a sacred place.

On the day before winter graduation, Stafford approached a few graduates in cap and gown who were posing for photographs in front of the landmark. He handed them the key to the tower, joking that it was his graduation gift to them.

Its kind of awesome, graduate Madeline Severance of Amesbury, Mass., said after getting her first peek inside the shrine room. I wasnt expecting that at all. Its emotional.

Inside, a memorial plaque on the wall lists 35 names, but there were only 34 N.C. State alumni killed in the first world war. The name of George L. Jeffers, Class of 1913, was carved into stone, but he had been erroneously reported as killed in action.

To correct the error, the university crudely chiseled in an alteration, changing the name to George E. Jefferson, a fictitious person. The name, according N.C. States website, has come to symbolize unknown soldiers everywhere.

When asked about the plans for real bells, Severance said, simply, I love that.

Brian Sischo, the vice chancellor for university advancement, said the Henrys saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact on what is commonly seen as the most iconic structure on campus.

For Robbins, the N.C. State alumnus, a finished tower represents a dream realized for those alumni who wanted to honor their classmates 100 years ago. And a tribute to all those who raised money since.

Not only is this a place where students gather, connect and have their voice heard, but its a place where the men who died so long ago can have their voices heard, Robbins said.

The tower was envisioned that there would be this lighthouse, this beacon of light, but also of sound, so that these lost soldiers could find their way home. It was such a symbolic gesture. To have that actually come to fruition, its almost as if the building will come alive for the first time.
In breweries and beer establishments across the state, small children routinely are present. Minors are unacceptable in breweries and beer establishments for the following reasons:

1. It is a morally dubious environment. Most people go to breweries to imbibe and, generally, inebriate themselves. The atmosphere at a brewery is loud and conducive to swearing, roughhousing and off-color language. States have a vested interest in having children be brought up in wholesome environments. Adults may choose to abstain from these purveyors of alcohol, or leave when it gets too raucous. But children must follow their parents.

2. It demonstrates  and models  poor parenting. Oftentimes children at breweries are school age, and it is a school night. It is unacceptable that parents let their children run around, shuffling the burden on babysitting from themselves to other adults  who have made proper child-rearing arrangements prior to coming to the bar.

As the college clientele transfers from students to parents, it should not be receiving a message that the only difference between fraternities/sororities and parenthood is the venue.

North Carolina should consider legislation that bans minors from entering breweries and beer establishments on the same basis that minors are prohibited from bars.

Cristina Richie, Ph.D.

Greenville
We sing God Bless America; our coins say In God We Trust; the Pledge of Allegiance says one nation under God.

America was formed by Christians seeking freedom from religious persecution, our Constitution was based on Christian precepts of individual God-given rights and Biblical governance, and the majority religion in America is Christianity.

God has blessed and sustained America through wars and internal attacks on our constitutional government because we are a Christian nation.

What other nation has been so blessed besides Israel? Why then, would any American vote for Democratic senators expressing concern about Christian judicial nominees because of their religion?

The left has been waging an all-out war on Christianity in America for decades. Whether they are atheists, Muslims, secularists or simply enemies of America who strategize removal of Christianity to defeat our country from within, all alarm bells should sound and suspicions should arise when any politician attacks the very foundations of our country.

The big three strengths of Christianity, constitutional rule and strong self-sufficient families are all opposed by the left. Their agenda is destruction of everything that works! Why?

Janice Wangard

Ruffin
Tommy Trevenet / Contributed photo

With a fun, hopping/bopping sound and party vibe, Funky Dawgz Brass Band brings its big-energy horns and percussion to Cafe Nine Monday, Jan. 8 in a Manic Presents show.

With members who hail from Stamford, Meriden, Newington and Hartford (and including several University of Connecticut connections), the Dawgs can turn an ordinary stage into something resembling a Super Bowl party in New Orleans.
Job Archive July 2021 (524) June 2021 (681) May 2021 (698) April 2021 (659) March 2021 (688) February 2021 (615) January 2021 (698) December 2020 (714) November 2020 (671) October 2020 (631) September 2020 (690) August 2020 (713) July 2020 (713) June 2020 (690) May 2020 (713) April 2020 (690) March 2020 (713) February 2020 (667) January 2020 (713) December 2019 (713) November 2019 (687) October 2019 (711) September 2019 (689) August 2019 (711) July 2019 (707) June 2019 (688) May 2019 (2002) April 2019 (1978) March 2019 (2039) February 2019 (1688) January 2019 (2251) December 2018 (2095) November 2018 (1932) October 2018 (1984) September 2018 (1914) August 2018 (39) July 2018 (72) June 2018 (44) May 2018 (76) April 2018 (65) March 2018 (16) February 2018 (32) January 2018 (201) December 2017 (352) November 2017 (381) October 2017 (600) September 2017 (1211) August 2017 (1655) July 2017 (1590) June 2017 (1506) May 2017 (1902) April 2017 (1965) March 2017 (1417) February 2017 (1808) January 2017 (1807) December 2016 (1593) November 2016 (1376) October 2016 (1408) September 2016 (1317) August 2016 (1499) July 2016 (1504) June 2016 (1421) May 2016 (1391) April 2016 (1340) March 2016 (1476) February 2016 (1396) January 2016 (1474) December 2015 (1409) November 2015 (1367) October 2015 (1478) September 2015 (1441) August 2015 (1467) July 2015 (1465) June 2015 (1410) May 2015 (1057) April 2015 (1269) March 2015 (1132) February 2015 (1151) January 2015 (1152) December 2014 (1156) November 2014 (1267) October 2014 (81)




Haiti - Education : Bac session of recaled 2017, success rate for 4 departments





Following the 1st special session of the Bac for the academic year 2017-2018 which took place from Monday 18 to Thursday 21 December 2017 and which involved 34,205 candidates, the National Bureau of State Examinations (BUNEXE) has published the success rates for 4 departments :



Centre : 2,500 participants, 548 candidates admitted, success rate of 21.92% ;



South East : 1,167 participants, 105 candidates admitted, success rate of 9.00% ;



Northeast : 1,935 participants, 595 candidates admitted, success rate of 30.75% ;



Nippes : 759 participants, 428 candidates admitted, success rate of 56.39%.



According to the Ministry, the results for the other departments will be communicated shortly.



HL/ S/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - USA : Message from the US Secretary of State





Friday in a press release, Rex W. Tillerson, US Secretary of State on the occasion of the independence of Haiti National Day on 1 January, declared :



"On behalf of the U.S. government, I extend best wishes to the people of Haiti as you celebrate the 214th anniversary of Haitis independence.



The United States and Haiti share a long history of close relations, and our futures are even more closely linked through the nearly one million Haitian Americans who contribute to both American prosperity and the economic growth of Haiti.



We acknowledge the tremendous strides Haiti has made over the last year. The inauguration of President Moise in February, and the work Haiti is undertaking to stabilize its electoral system going forward, can reaffirm the Haitian peoples commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also note significant progress in security, and commend Haitis efforts to develop its agricultural sector.



As a longstanding friend and partner, the United States remains committed to supporting Haiti as it strives to increase economic growth and investment, unlocking its full potential."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Politic : The diaspora will be able to watch contents of the TNH





Friday, Gamall Augustin, the Director General of Haiti's National Television (TNH) and Clifford Dessables, the head of Focused Media Team LLC (Florida), signed a partnership agreement that will allow the Haitian diaspora to be able to watch contents of the TNH on cable television platforms.



According to the terms of the agreement, the TNH grants permission to Focused Media Team to work to the search of broadcasting spaces for TNH content, with operators specializing in the distribution of television content, in order to open the international market to the productions of the Haitian public service channel.



In this partnership, several parameters are taken into account in particular the quality of the production, but especially the respect of the copyright guaranteeing the signature of TNH, even beyond the borders of Haiti. Thus, certain production segments of TNH will be able to be part of the menus offered by the big international companies of diffusion of contents on the world market.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Young Bros announces new president

by Michael Hansen, Hawaii Shippers Council, December 29, 2017

Young Brothers Limited (YB) posted on December 28, 2017, to their website the press release, Joseph Boivin appointed new president of Young Brothers, announcing Boivin will assume duties as of December 22, 2017, replacing the retiring Glenn K. Y. Hong who served as the companys president for 25 years.

YB is the sole inter-Hawaiian Island ocean common carrier providing regularly scheduled liner service from their hub port of Honolulu Harbor to six ports on five Neighbor Islands (also known as the outer islands). As a common carrier by water, YB is regulated by the Hawaii State Public Utilities Commission (HPUC) under The Hawaii Water Carriers Act of 1974 (HWCA) as amended (15 HRS 271G-8 through 271G-25) with a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) as a monopoly. YB is a Jones Act operator as is required for the coastwise trade.

The interisland service provided by YB is operated on a radial basis with all interisland voyages beginning and ending at their Pier 39/40 terminal in Honolulu Harbor employing ocean tugs and cargo barges and typically calling at a single Neighbor Island port (with the exception of Kaunakakai, Molokai Island and Kamalapau, Lanai Island which are served by joint voyages).

YB is a subsidiary of Foss Maritime Company of Seattle, Washington, which in turn is a subsidiary of Saltchuk Resources Inc., a Seattle-based privately-owned conglomerate with annual revenues of approximately U.S. $3 billion (2015). Saltchuk also operates through its subsidiary TOTE Inc. group several ocean shipping services in the Alaska, Puerto Rico and Caribbean trades (both Jones Act and Foreign-flag). TOTE was the owner and operator of the Jones Act Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro/R0) containership EL FARO, which sank en route from Jacksonville, Florida, to San Juan, Puerto Rico, off the Bahamas Islands on October 1, 2015 with all 33 personnel on board lost.

On August 17, 2017, TOTE announced that they would be launching a new liner container service in the interstate Hawaii trade between California and Hawaii ports with four newbuild containerships, which were to be constructed at Philly Shipyard Inc. Although TOTE said the new service was to be inaugurated in 2020, there appear to be problems with this proposed timeline (and perhaps the project) due to container terminal availability in Honolulu Harbor.

With his retirement from YB, Saltchuk announced on August 17, 2017, that Hong would move on within the corporation. At the time, Hong said his, new role will consist of representing the companys growing interests in the Hawaii region. That would presumably include the other Saltchuk companies in Hawaii including Akeo Kula Inc. (Aloha Air Cargo) and Hawaii Petroleum Inc. (Ohana Fuels Mau Petroleum, Minit Shop & HFN). It would seem a major assignment for Hong would be securing a container terminal in Honolulu Harbor for its proposed interstate containership service.

Although Bovin has no direct maritime or shipping experience, his previous employment with The Gas Company (d.b.a., Hawaii Gas), the States sole gas utility, would have given him a great deal of experience dealing with a HPUC regulated company operating under a CPCN. Presumably that was attractive to Saltchuk/Foss.

Key excerpts from YB:
DOCTORS surgeries in Henley and South Oxfordshire are facing a shortage of GPs over the next decade.

A report commissioned by the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group says the number of doctors at the 10 surgeries in the south-east Oxfordshire locality could decrease by 11, or more than 20 per cent, by 2027.

At the same time, the areas population is expected to rise by as much as 6,500.

The report blames the problem on doctors retiring and difficulties with recruiting replacements.

It recommends that more must be done to spread GPs workloads among other staff, including nurses, physiotherapists and pharmacists.

The south-east Oxfordshire locality is split into three neighbourhoods and includes the Hart and Bell surgeries in Henley as well as the GP practices in Sonning Common, Nettlebed, Goring and Woodcote, Benson and Watlington.

These serve a population of more than 93,000 and currently have more than 40 GPs between them. The report, which is about a new primary care plan for the area for the next five to 10 years, says: The south-east realises that more must be done to realise the potential of utilising different kinds of clinical staff.

Alternative solutions might need to be investigated, such as a pharmacist completing medication reviews, or a physiotherapist seeing musculoskeletal patients.

The practices which are not training practices may want to consider becoming accredited for this, perhaps with support from current training practices.

A spokeswoman for the commissioning group said: The locality plans are taking a forward view beyond the next year and thinking about the workforce is a key part of this.

Given the age profile of GPs in the locality, we have estimated that 11 GPs might be expected to retire within the next 10 years. We know this is likely to be a picture repeated across the country. This needs to be considered alongside the additional demands expected in primary care.

Our draft plans have set out some proposals for how we might plan to deliver services differently.

The group wants to encourage more doctors to work in this area, which has historically had difficulty with recruitment.

The Bell and Hart surgeries are both training practices and new doctors Chee Pavey and Will Hearsey both trained at the latter before joining full-time.

The group suggests increasing the number of training centres and encouraging GPs to remain in the area where they have trained with financial incentives such as bursaries, mentoring schemes and additional support staff.

Dr Philip Unwin, senior partner at the Hart Surgery, said: We are in a very lucky position of being training practices in Henley and getting a decent supply of good quality trainees coming through.

Other practices are not so lucky. There is already a shortage of GPs, which is leading to the closure of practices, including some in north Oxford. We are looking at other ways of increasing our services by possibly employing a paramedic to help with visits, maybe a pharmacist and expanding the role of nurses because demand is relentless.

The Government is not training enough people to meet the demand.

The report says that healthcare services in the area will be put under further strain as new homes are built, increasing the population to almost 100,000 by 2027.

An increase in the number of elderly people will also require improvements in care services.

It suggests increasing the capacity of the current GP practices, with around 3,000 extra patients able to be accommodated in the Henley sector without changes to the existing infrastructure.

Other ideas include planning for extra demand, investigating mergers with other bodies, improving administration and IT systems and sharing work with other services in the region.

The commissioning group wants to increase initiatives that promote preventative and self-care to ease the strain on healthcare services.
ALEDO, Texas  Hes got to be the most popular guy at school. Its his hair, his eyes, the way he walks down the hallway.

The Dallas Morning News reports the students at McCall Elementary clamor just to be near him.

Pax, a fuzzy 3-year-old golden retriever, visits the school at least once a month to do what he does best: offer comfort.

They just love him, counselor Shannon Reynolds said. We like to make Pax a really fun part of the school.

Pax and Phoebe, another golden retriever, are part of the Lutheran Church Charities comfort dog program, which includes Fort Worths St. Paul Lutheran Church. The program sends out 100 dogs from 24 states for free visits.

Pax and Phoebe spend six to seven hours a day visiting hospitals, nursing homes and anywhere else that calls for their help in North Texas.

Pax in November traveled to Sutherland Springs to bring comfort to the small South Texas town after more than two dozen people were killed in the church shootings there.

Pax was walking with Janice Marut, St. Paul Lutherans comfort dog coordinator, when they met a fire chief who told them a struggling firefighter could use a boost.

Pax and five other dogs visited the restaurant where the volunteer firefighter worked. She spent time with the dogs and their handlers, who prayed with her, Marut said.

Later, the firefighters mother told the charitys president the visit with the dogs was the first time the firefighter had smiled since the shooting.

Thats what we do; thats what we do with a dog, Marut said. And its really not about the dog. The dog just gets us there and allows us to do the ministry.

Pax, whose name means peace in Latin, also traveled to Orlando, Florida, after the Pulse nightclub massacre that killed 49 people in 2016 and provided comfort in Dallas after the police ambush downtown.

Before he went on his first comfort mission, Pax learned how to behave as part of a program in Chicago, where he completed more than 2,000 hours of training.

When his leash is on, Pax knows to obey his handler, who can be anyone from a pool of 45 trained volunteers from the church. He can respond to 40 commands.

On his recent visit to McCall Elementary, Pax helped Reynolds, the school counselor, as she read Marley: A Thanksgiving to Remember, a story of a mischievous golden retriever.

The relaxed, 74-pound pooch splayed across the colorful carpet as kindergartners surrounded him, touching his whiskers, smoothing his fur and playing with his paws.

After the story, Reynolds had each student tell Pax what they were thankful for.

Im thankful for my swimming pool and Pax, Caden Laughley said.

Im thankful for Pax and Jesus, Samantha Reeder said.

Im thankful for Pax and bunnies, Ella Lee said.

Reynolds calls the church when she knows a student or staff member needs support. She has reached out when a student has lost a loved one or has a relative dealing with an illness.

The dogs presence in Reynolds office can help students talk about how theyre feeling or just make them feel better if theyre too young to put their feelings into words, she said.

He just brings so many smiles and lots of love and comfort to our building, and were just really, really blessed, Reynolds said. Hes helped us in so many different situations, from kindness to sadness to celebrations.

When Pax cant be there, the counselor has a stand-in stuffed toy replica, Pax Jr., that children carry around for comfort. Similar toys were handed out to the children in Sutherland Springs.

Pax gets plenty of toys, too. When hes not working, he loves to roll in the mud and play, handlers said. And he gets a massage every day.

It helps reduce the stress from him, Marut said. Because whatever stress he takes from a child he keeps, and we have to help him get rid of it.
Update: Authorities have located the missing boy following a 7 hour search near the Bristol, Tennessee Walmart.

BRISTOL, Tenn.-The Bristol Tennessee Police Department is searching for a 15-year-old child with Autism.

Capt. Charlie Thomas said police received the call at 5:20 p.m. at the Walmart on Volunteer Parkway. The child apparently became separated from his mother and was believed to have gone in the woods.

City fire and police personnel are searching the vicinity. A helicopter is also flying over the area.

The male child was last wearing a black and green jacket, a blue shirt and jeans, police said.

Thomas said police hope to find him as soon as possible, especially due to cold conditions.

Police said they are not currently requesting the public's help at the scene. A number of K9s are currently searching the terrain around Walmart.
COEBURN, Va.  Two Coeburn men face charges after police said they found materials used to manufacture explosive devices at a home on Christmas weekend.

Jerry Douglas Sam Hensley, 53, and William Stewart Winebarger, 50, both of Coeburn, were each charged with one count of manufacturing, possession or use of a fire bomb or explosive devices, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

On Dec. 23, officers of the Coeburn Police Department responded to a residence in the 600 block of Crab Orchard Road after receiving information that pipe bombs were being manufactured at the residence, according to a written statement.

Assistant Police Chief Jimmy Williams said officers spoke with the homes owner and obtained permission to search the residence. During the search, police found an item that contained explosive powder, as well as other items that appeared to be intended for use as shrapnel during detonation, Williams said.

Officers secured the potentially explosive item and obtained a search warrant to conduct a more detailed search of the home.

The Wise County Sheriffs Office and Virginia State Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team were also dispatched to the scene to assist in the search. Williams said officers found another explosive device during the search. The explosive ordnance disposal team rendered both devices inoperative, Williams said.

Both men have been convicted of felonies in Wise County, according to court records. Winebarger was found guilty in October on a drug charge, and Hensley was found guilty in 2003 on drug charges.

Arrest warrants were issued, and Hensley and Winebarger were taken to the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail in Duffield, where they remained incarcerated on Friday. Both have court dates set for Feb. 14, 2018.
The Wytheville field office of the Virginia State Police will use its share of nearly $1.2 million in grant funding to fight methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution in Southwest Virginia.

The Virginia State Police received nearly $1.2 million in funding from the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, a federal agency, to aid the departments ongoing efforts to combat meth in the central and western parts of the state.

Virginia is one of six state law enforcement agencies in the country to receive federal funding, according to a State Police news release issued Friday. The California Department of Justice, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Kentucky State Police, New York State Police and North Carolina Department of Public Safety also received anti-meth grants.

Virginia State Police also received the grant in 2014 and, during its two-year funding cycle, doubled the amount and number of meth seizures, the release states.

The state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished meth, laboratories and laboratory dump seizures, according to a COPS news release announcing the grant recipients. State agencies will be awarded two years of funding to support the investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of meth.

Virginia State Police said its field offices in Appomattox, Culpeper, Salem and Wytheville will use the funding. The four field offices encompass regions experiencing the greatest meth availability and seizures, the release states.

The Wytheville field office comprises all of Southwest Virginia, including Bristol.

In 2016, State Police participated in 776 meth-related investigations through its multi-jurisdictional drug task forces statewide, which resulted in the seizure of 37,744 grams of meth with an estimated street value in excess of $4.5 million, according to the release. State Police also dismantled 293 meth labs across Virginia in 2016.

In 2016, these four field offices accounted for 72 percent of State Police meth seizures statewide, as well as 87 percent of known meth lab incidents and 93 percent of new meth investigations initiated by state police, said Lt. J.A. Robinson at the Wytheville field office.

Robinson said the funding will enable the department to enhance special agents investigation, identification and dismantling of local drug trafficking organizations involved in meth manufacturing or distributing.

The training and updated surveillance equipment will benefit 64 state and local law enforcement member agencies of State Police multi-jurisdictional narcotics task forces located within the four field offices, including Southwest Virginia agencies.

Additionally, the grant will allow for overtime funding so State Police can pursue and focus on mid- to upper-level meth distributors and manufacturers.
Brendon Hartley says his age and maturity helped him deal with a massively busy end-of-season schedule in 2017.

As a works Porsche driver, the Kiwi had his routes all nicely organised for the last stretch of his WEC program.

But Red Bull's unexpected call to jump on the F1 bandwagon wreaked havoc on his plans and introduced a period of eight races in eight weekends spread accross four continents!

From Road Atlanta in the US, Hartley traveled to Japan for a WEC commitment, then back to America for two back-to-back races with Toro Rosso before flying to China, then to Brazil, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi.

"I think probably eight nine years ago I wouldn't have been able to deal with that, the pressure involved, all the different stresses, managing all the things," said the 28-year-old world traveler.

"I'm pretty happy with how I dealt with it, a couple of times I felt very tired and a little bit flat, the last three not having to cross so many time zones I felt more on top of it.

"The team has been great in terms of not overloading me when they didn't need to and trying to keep things reasonably simple."

A beefed-up schedule awaits Hartley in 2018, albeit a more predictable one as his sole focus will be on F1 and Toro Rosso.

"The first race in Austin was a massive moment in my career," he said.

"I knew I needed to not do anything stupid and take it step by step, which I did.

"Now to be signed off as a full-season F1 driver was a huge weight off the shoulders, I'm proud, I'm optimistic, I have the belief I can do it.

"But I'm very aware I have a lot of hard work, and [I have] all the respect for the other drivers, [as they] are obviously very good and are working hard.

"I'm aware of the challenge ahead but I'm excited and optimistic about it."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
This site uses cookies from Google to deliver its services, to personalize ads and to analyze traffic. Information about your use of this site is shared with Google. By using this site, you agree to its use of cookies. Learn more here

Grand Prize Winner: Donna Rickey Blog Winners: A Song for her Enemies by Sherri Stewart: Mary Ann Hake Spies & Sweethearts by Linda Shenton Matchett: Connie Ruggles Sword of Trust by DebbieLynn Costello: Brenda Walters Justice for Julia by Donna Schlachter: Natalya Lakhno Party Prize winners: Sherri Stewarts Winners A Song for her Enemies: Angie Pool Bottle of Dutch Syrup: Carol Koch Alscheff Corrie ten Boom book: Deb Gramie Burgess Linda Shenton Matchetts winners: $5.00 gift card to online retailer or choice (Kobo, B&N, AppleBooks, Amazon): Karen Hadley A Bride for Seamus: Carol Osterhouse Wotring DebbieLynn Costellos winners: Sword of the Matchmaker: Melissa Planas Sword of Forgiveness: Paty Hinojosa Gomez Shattered Memories: Charlene Zall Capodice Sword of the Perfect Bride: Licha Haney Donna Schlachters winner: Leather Journal: Lisa Turley

GIVEAWAY RULES

Winners must leave their email address and will be notified by email and the winners name will be announced in the days comments. No one under 18 can enter our giveaways. No purchase is necessary. All winners have one week to claim their prize. USA shipping only. Offer void where prohibited. Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has signed a decree assigning state scholarships to outstanding public health figures, the press service of the head of state has reported.

According to the report, 13 doctors received lifelong scholarships, and 70 doctors got two-year scholarships.

The public health figures include employees of the municipally-owned Dnipropetrovsk Mechnikov Regional Clinical Hospital, a number of medical institutions in Ivano-Frankivsk, Chernihiv, Zaporizhia, Chernivtsi, Volyn, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Zhytomyr, Lviv, Kyiv, Rivne, Donetsk and Ternopil regions.

In addition, scholarships were given to employees of the institutions of the Ukrainian Health Ministry and the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine.
In the genteel world of diplomacy, Walid Abu Ali is unlikely to be held up as a role model for nuance and subtlety.

The actions of the Palestinian envoy to Pakistan on Friday were more akin to those of a man wielding a sledgehammer. In the full glare of the media, Ali shared a stage in Rawalpindi with some of the most notorious jihadi leaders, including Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed.

The purpose of the rally--the protection of Jerusalem and its religious sites--seems to be an issue dear to the envoys heart, especially if his Twitter timeline is any indication.

But as a diplomat, he should have paid a little more attention to the organisers of the rally--the Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an agglomeration of some of the most extreme and radical groups active in Pakistan, including elements of the anti-Shia Sipah-e-Sahaba, Jamaat-ud-Dawah and LeT.

Several of those who addressed the gathering of thousands, such as Saeed and LeT leader Amir Hamza, have been sanctioned and designated terrorists by the United States and the United Nations.

The Palestinian envoy is also no novice in Pakistan. As someone who recently completed five years in the position in Islamabad, he should be familiar with the lay of the land and the reputation of people such as Saeed, who used the rally to rake up the Kashmir issue and draw a false equivalence between it and the Palestinian cause.

For several years now, there have been credible reports of the Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation (FiF) --designated a terror group and a front for the LeT--establishing a presence in the Gaza Strip in the guise of carrying out welfare activities. The reports have suggested that FiF activists in the area were followed by LeT recruiters.

The Palestinian envoys timing was way off the mark. The rally came less than 10 days after India backed a UN resolution denouncing the Trump administrations decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

And Alis decision to join hands with the top Pakistani jihadis came at a time when Palestinian and Indian officials are discussing a possible visit to Ramallah in February by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Indias vote at the UN came as a surprise to many, given the Modi governments concerted outreach to Israel, a close ally in security and counter-terrorism. It remains to be seen how much New Delhis vote was influenced by US threats of action against countries that backed the resolution.

However, the Palestinian envoy in Islamabad would have been well aware that India has contributed far more than Pakistan to the Palestinian cause and people.

While Pakistani leaders have been content with paying lip service to the Palestinian cause and providing some monetary aid over the years, India has provided budgetary and project support of $60 million to Palestine in recent years. This includes $4 million provided for the reconstruction of Gaza in 2015. Hundreds of Palestinians have studied or are studying in India and New Delhi has backed development projects such as a Centre of Excellence in ICT and Innovation in Al Quds University, an ICT centre in Ramallah and a $12-million Techno Park in Ramallah.

Such aid and support does not mean Palestines position on crucial issues will toe Indias line, but the least New Delhi can expect is a little more sensitivity from Ramallah on Indias concerns.

That sensitivity was clearly missing when Ali decided to share the stage with Saeed and an assortment of anti-India jihadis on Friday.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The censor board on Saturday said it would clear controversial Bollywood film Padmavati after suggesting five major modifications, including changing the title to Padmavat, but the move failed to pacify Rajput groups that allege the movie distorts history.

A fringe group warned of vandalising cinema halls if the Rs 150-crore movie was released and Vishvaraj Singh, a descendent of the royal family of Mewar, called the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ignoble and unprofessional.

The CBFC agreed to clear Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati with a U/A certificate and asked the filmmakers to put in a disclaimer that the movie does not claim historical accuracy and does not in any way subscribe to or seek to glorify the practice of Jauhar.

The suggestions also included changing any incorrect and misleading reference to historical places, and modifications to a song in the film in which a Ghoomar dance is performed.

The censor boards certificate will be issued once these changes are made and the movie re-examined.

Joshi reportedly said that filmmakers had agreed to the CBFCs suggestions, but no official comment was issued by Viacom18. A meeting is reportedly on the cards between the filmmakers and censor board officials in January.

This was an unprecedented and tough situation. I am glad that following a balanced approach we resolved the task at hand in a pragmatic and positive manner, CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi said.

The board took the decision after its examining committee and a special advisory panel met on December 28 to review the film featuring actor Deepika Padukone as Rajput queen Padmavati.

The film is based on Padmavat, a 16th-century poem written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi, who gives an account of a Rajput queen of Chittor who chooses to kill herself rather than be captured by Delhi ruler Alauddin Khilji.

Historians are divided about whether the queen existed, but many Rajputs believe she did and accuse Bhansali of portraying her in a bad light. Rajput groups were angry that the movie allegedly contained a romantic scene between the queen and Khilji, who had attacked the Mewar capital of Chittorgarh.

The Shri Rajput Karni Sena, a fringe outfit that made dire threats against the films cast and disrupted shooting in January, reacted with caution to the censor boards decision.

I would wait for some clarity to emerge before commenting. For now, I would like to point out that only three of the nine panel members have watched the screening. Lets wait and watch, said Lokendra Singh Kalvi, the groups chief.

Other outfits such as the Rajput Sabha and Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena announced they would not let theatres screen the film even with the changes.

The panel formed to watch the movie was of the view that historical facts were distorted. That shows the CBFC went out of its way to help the filmmaker. We will protest if the film is released and the government will face the music, said Rajput Sabha president Giriraj Singh Lotawara.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, chief of the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, warned of a violent stir if the film was released. We will vandalise cinema halls. We want a complete ban, he said.

Vishvaraj Singh, son of Mahendra Singh Mewar, the 76th Maharana of Mewar, wrote in a letter to CBFC chief Joshi that the board is just as ignoble as those distorting and seeking to profit from the history of this country and my family.

Earlier this month, the censor board asked the erstwhile Mewar royal family to join the advisory panel to help review Bhansalis period drama.

Rajput groups object to the Ghoomar song, alleging that it portrays Padmavati in a courtesan-like manner. They said queens never performed Ghoomar, a traditional folk dance.

Reacting to the CBFC decision on Saturday, filmmakers Anubhav Sinha and Rahul Dholakia took to social media to slam the censor board.

So Bhansali can now actually throw a party. Just that whisky will be called whiska, vodka will be called vodki and so on, Sinha tweeted.

Dholakia posted on Twitter: Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw filmmakers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, Padmavati has got its U/A, it will be praised

(With agency inputs)
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) move to clear film Padmavati with some suggested modification and change of films title to Padmavat has failed to mollify the Rajput community in Rajasthan.

Central Board of Film Certification had examining committee meeting on 28 December to review Padmavati and decided to give it UA certificate along with some modifications and likely change of the title to Padmavat. Certificate to be issued once required and agreed modifications are made, ANI tweeted on Saturday.

The screening of the film was held in the presence of committee members comprising regular examining committee members along with the CBFC officials and a special advisory panel. The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur and Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof K K Singh of the Rajasthan University.

Rajput Sabha president Giriraj Singh Lotawara said, The panel that was formed to watch the movie was of the view that historical facts have been distorted. It shows that CBFC has gone out of its way to help the filmmaker. We will protest if the film is released, and the government will face the music.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, a splinter group, warned of violent agitation if the movie was released. We will vandalize the cinema halls if the movie is released. We want a complete ban, he said.

Padmavat is an epic written in 1540 by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi and is based on a fictional story about Alauddin Khalji and his desire for Padmavati, the queen of Chittor.

Apart from change in the title, the reviewing committee also sought adding disclaimers, pertinently regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati that has been banned and making modifications to the song Ghoomar. The members of the special panel also had some reservations regarding the claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects, sources said.

Shri Rajput Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi reacted with caution. There is a lot of speculation, and I would wait for some clarity to emerge before commenting on the issue. For now I would like to point out that only three of the nine panel members watched the screening. I have also been told that CBFC has suggested 26 cuts. So lets wait and see, he told HT.

In November, the Rajput community leaders had rejected filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis contention that the movie Padmavati upholds the honour of Rajputs and does not depict anything that may hurt sentiments.

The Rajput Karni Sena, which had demolished the sets of the movie in Jaipur and reportedly hit Bhansali, has also warned the director to show the movie with historically correct facts. Later, a set of the film in Kolhapur was vandalised and set on fire.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Author and former actor Twinkle Khanna, who shares her birthday with her father the late actor Rajesh Khanna, celebrated her special day in Cape Town, South Africa, on Friday with friends and family by her side.

Twinkle shared a picture on Instagram which shows her along with husband Akshay Kumar, sister Rinke and friends. They are at a lunch, it seems.

She wrote: A perfect birthday with all the people I love the most in the world and food with layered flavour that explodes on the tongue like a Diwali firework display inside your mouth #chefswarehouse #birthdaygirl.

Akshay and his family are on a holiday in South Africa before he returns to India and continues with the promotions of his upcoming film, PadMan, produced by Twinkle.

The Bollywood couple has been posting pictures from their vacation. Five days back, Akshay posted a picture of his daughter Nitara with Valentino, the son of their housekeeper. Both are looking into a telescope, from either ends. Incidentally, around the same time last year, Akshay had introduced the little boy to his fans, via instagram. Evidently, the Kumars are rather fond of little Valentino.

On Friday, Akshay shared a picture of Twinkle and him from a drive as he wished his wife on her birthday.

A rather engaging picture was shared by Twinkle which showed her, a friend and two young girls climbing trees. She wrote: I want to be like a child again-to climb trees and perch on branches, only because the tree exists and so do I... #treehuggers #familyfunday #capetown.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Indias Chinese community has been here for at least a century. So why is it that we hardly ever get to eat the food that our local Chinese eat at home when we go to restaurants?

It is a complicated question and there are no easy answers. Many (if not most) of Indias Chinese-origin citizens are Hakka, part of an adventurous wandering Chinese community whose members have spread out all over Asia and the world. It was possible (and perhaps it still is) to get the food they eat at one or two places in Calcuttas old Chinatown.

China Kitchen remains the most influential Chinese restaurant in 21st Century India. Its success suggests that more Indians are willing to go beyond Sino-Ludhianvi

But the Chinese-Indians quickly came to the conclusion that Indians had no interest in eating the food that the Chinese actually ate at home.

So, the Chinese-Indians who opened restaurants  first in Calcutta and then, all over India  fell back on a global Chinese menu that had been invented in America. This comprised dishes that they would rarely (if ever) eat at home: garlic prawns, chop suey, sweet and sour pork, sweet corn soup and the like.

The Chinese had arrived in America during the Gold Rush in the middle of the 19th Century and many had been hired to work on building the railroad. They were paid poorly, treated badly and subjected to the worst kind of racism  often backed by the force of the law.

Shanghai soup dumplings at Hyatts China Kitchen

Like many immigrant communities in the West who found it difficult to secure jobs, they took to running restaurants that served food at low prices. Recognising that authentic Chinese cuisine may be a step too far for Americans, they created a new menu that incorporated some Chinese flavours.

This menu travelled around the world and came to be regarded as Chinese food. It was these dishes that Indias Chinese served at their restaurants.

If Indias Chinese community had continued to serve this version of American-Chinese food, I doubt very much if Chinese cuisine would have been as popular in India as it is today. The great transformation occurred in the mid-1970s when the Taj group opened two seminal Chinese restaurants: The Golden Dragon in Mumbai and The House of Ming in Delhi. Both restaurants had the same origin: they were staffed by chefs and a manager from a Hong Kong restaurant called The Red Pepper.

Even in 1970s Hong Kong, The Red Pepper was relatively unusual because it served the fiery cuisine of Chinas Sichuan province. The Tajs Camellia Panjabi ate there and hired the team pretty much on the spot. The Taj then battled restrictive Reserve Bank regulations to bring the Hong Kong Chinese to India.

Beijing Roast Duck at Shang Palace

Sichuan food  and in the early days, the Golden Dragon and House of Ming food was largely authentic  came as a revelation to Indians. The idea of spicy Chinese food was irresistible and both restaurants became phenomenally successful.

In the 1970s, the furtherest east that most Chinese-Indians had been was Chowringhee. They were largely Indian-born and were as stunned by the flavours of Sichuan food as the rest of us. They had never encountered this kind of Chinese food either.

But within a few years, they had adapted. The most famous example of the extent of this adaptation is the creation of Chicken Manchurian, probably by Nelson Wang at the old Fredericks restaurants in Mumbais Colaba. (To be fair, others claim to have invented the dish too.)

The instant popularity of Chicken Manchurian (it turned up on every menu in just a few months) meant that Indias Chinese restaurateurs now had carte blanche: they could simply make up vaguely Chinese dishes with lots of chillis and Indian spices.

But once they did that, a second phenomenon occurred: if the whole cuisine was going to consist of made-up dishes, then why bother with Chinese cooks? Bit by bit, the Chinese restaurant business slipped out of the hands of the Chinese-Indian community. Today, more Punjabis own Chinese restaurants than do ethnic Chinese. And more Nepalis cook at Chinese restaurants than do actual Chinese people.

By the beginning of this century, Indian-Chinese (or Sino-Ludhianvi) was a cuisine in its own right, as much a complete school of cooking, as Nelson Wang bragged, as Cantonese or Beijing or Hunanese.

The Signature Sizzling Lobster Mapo Tofu at Shang Palace at Shangri-La Hotel

Hotels tried to serve a more authentic kind of Chinese food. But that depended on what you regarded as authentic Chinese. The Oberoi hired overseas Chinese chefs from Singapore for Delhis Taipan. Others found Chinese cooks in Malaysia. The original House of Ming team had come from Hong Kong and that remained a source of many Chinese chefs at deluxe hotels. Except that the cuisine of each of these cities was different and so the flavours varied from restaurant to restaurant.

Nothing really significant happened to the Chinese restaurant scene in India till the Hyatt chain opened China Kitchen in Delhi and China House in Mumbai at around the same time over a decade ago. The Hyatt used an English-speaking Singapore-Chinese chef called Jack Aw Yong who had worked at the Beijing Hyatt to marshal a team of six chefs from the mainland for Delhis China Kitchen. Jack created a menu of crowd-pleasing, but largely authentic, Chinese dishes from all over China with an emphasis on spicy Sichuan flavours. The restaurants signature, however, was the Peking Duck, cooked in an oven with an open flame, that soon became Delhis most famous Chinese dish.

China Kitchen remains the most influential Chinese restaurant in 21st Century India. It is still the standard against which other Chinese restaurants are judged. And its success suggests that more and more Indians are willing to go beyond Sino-Ludhianvi.

The Hyatts China Kitchen was a game changer for Chinese food in India

The three Chinese restaurants that have recently opened in Delhi and threaten China Kitchens dominance are offering more than just the fiery flavours of Sichuan.

The Shang Palace is the Delhi outpost of a great Shangri-La brand whose other branches have won Michelin stars around the world. The Shangri- La chain is owned by an overseas Chinese family and headquartered in Hong Kong. The three chefs it has sent to Delhi focus on the kind of food China Kitchen does not do: barbecued skewers from the North of China, Hong Kong-style roasted meats, etc. I have eaten there often and the food has always been sensational and technically perfect.

The Andaz is a Hyatt brand so when it decided to open a high-glam, spectacular Chinese restaurant in Delhi, it was careful not to compete with the China Kitchens spicy, Sichuan flavours. Its massively glamorous new Hong Kong Club serves Cantonese food, a gutsy positioning in a market where Chinese food is often equated with spice. I have eaten there only once and the food was terrific. But even if the food was not this good, my guess is the restaurant will flourish because of the glamour factor. It is now the most talked about restaurant in Delhi.

The Indian chains have always needed to up their game. I dont eat Chinese food at a Taj hotel if I can help it: a sorry decline for the chain that started it all. And the Oberois Taipan used to be horrible.

Chef Andrew Wong is the mentor chef at Baoshaun

So imagine my surprise when I discovered that the newly renovated Oberoi (I will do a separate piece on the reopening of Indias most influential hotel) had taken the out-of-the-box decision of getting Andrew Wong from Londons A Wong to open in the old Taipan space.

I have written about A Wong before. It is the best Chinese restaurant in London because Andrew, who owns it and cooks, has taken a cerebral approach to the food of China. Brought up in the UK in a family of Chinese restaurateurs, he has gone all over China picking up dishes he likes and has refined their presentation for the 21st Century.

Baoshuan at The Oberoi has the lightest wasabi prawns

I had the best meal I have had in a long time at Baoshuan (as the restaurant is called) with translucent soup dumplings, delicate pork and prawn siu mai, the lightest Wasabi prawns imaginable and even a modern riff on that old British-Chinese restaurant standard: Crispy Aromatic Duck.

This is not a big restaurant like Hong Kong Club or Shang Palace. But it is going to be the Chinese restaurant where everybody who is anybody in Delhi will eat.

It is all a long way from Sino-Ludhianvi. And (fingers crossed) perhaps the influence of these restaurants will finally edge out the thick red sauces of Punjabi-Chinese cooking.

From HT Brunch, December 31, 2017

Follow us on twitter.com/HTBrunch

Connect with us on facebook.com/hindustantimesbrunch

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The government will likely notify the National Financial Reporting Authority, a regulator for chartered accountants (CAs), in January as it gets serious about efforts to crack down on financial crimes including money laundering.

Minister of state for corporate affairs PP Chaudhary said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Friday that in addition to the self regulation mechanism existing within the ICAI framework, there is need for an independent regulator... to oversee compliance with accounting and auditing standards and for oversight of audit professionals.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India says that the existing framework is adequate and that there is no need for a new body.

The present system under the disciplinary committee of ICAI is robust. We have already brought down the pendency of cases from seven years to three years as of July 2017. The setting up of NFRA will lead to duplicity and confusion among stakeholders. Our focus should be strengthen existing bodies rather than replicating them, said Nilesh Vikamsey, president, ICAI. He cited the opinion of the standing committee of finance in 2016 against setting up the NFRA, to buttress his argument. According to ICAI, till 20 December, a total of 1583 cases were pending before it and at different stages.

We realised that the track record of ICAI in taking disciplinary action against CAs was poor. Penalties have been trivial and probes have been significantly delayed, said a government official familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified. Once set up, the NFRA can initiate probes against CAs, auditors and audit firms. Headquartered in New Delhi, the authority will have equivalent powers of a civil court can impose penalties on erring CAs, disbar them, even recommend criminal proceedings.

Sources said that provisions are likely to be made to allow NFRA to impose penalties of at least Rs 1 lakh which may extend up to five times of the fees received in case of individuals and not less than Rs 10 lakh which may extend up to ten times of the fees received in case of firms.

It can disbar any CA or a firm from practice for a minimum period of six months which can extend up to 10 years.

NFRA will become the umbrella regulator for CAs, cost accountants and company secretaries. The branding and image of the profession will increase given that a transparent regulator will now regulate it, said Sanjay Gupta, president, Institute of Cost Accountants of India.

Earlier this year, the government raised concerns as over 1400 complaints against CAs were pending and data showed that only 25 CAs have been punished in the past 10 years.

During his interaction with chartered accountants in July, soon after the implementation of the Goods and Services Act, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed n the need to improve the disciplinary mechanism in the profession.

We are increasingly seeing that money is being laundered through financial institutions in India using shell companies and real estate. In this matter the role of CAs cannot be ruled out, said a top officer in the Enforcement Directorate. Asking not to be identified, this person added that the matter has also been highlighted in the meeting of the task force created for cracking down on shell companies.

(PTI contributed to this report)
A Sonipat hospital allegedly refused to treat the wife of a deceased soldier for failing to produce an Aadhaar card, resulting in her death earlier this week. Health minister Anil Vij ordered an inquiry into the incident on Saturday.

A complaint filed in this regard stated that Sankuntala Devi  wife of Kargil martyr Lachman Dass  died on Thursday, a few days after she was denied treatment by the private hospital. A preliminary probe has already been carried out into the incident.

Vij, in an interaction with mediapersons, said it was inappropriate of hospitals to turn away patients on the pretext of not have an Aadhaar card. A team from Chandigarh will visit the hospital to investigate the issue, he added.

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar has also condemned the incident.

Devis son Pavan Kumar alleged that the hospital authorities did not admit her even after he showed them a scanned copy of the document on his mobile phone. I begged them to begin treatment while I fetched her card, but they wouldnt budge, he said.

Hospital authorities have denied the allegation, stating that they would never turn away patients over an Aadhaar card. The document is needed only for documentation purposes, not availing treatment, an official said.

(With IANS inputs)
HARIDWAR: The involvement of inter-state gangs in recent crimes in Haridwar district of Uttarakhand and western Uttar Pradesh has forced the police of the two states to sit, coordinate and share inputs on criminals and their activities on a regular basis.

According to Haridwar senior superintendent of police (SSP) Krishan Kumar VK, police officials from the bordering districts of UP and Uttarakhand will remain in touch with each other. Confirming the report, UPs Bijnor SP Prabhakar Chaudhri said that the record of criminals will also be shared, as several cases showing involvement of same criminals in Bijnore and Haridwar districts have come to light in the recent times.

Last month, three gunmen had fired on Devpal Rana, a resident of Deoband town in UP and close aide of notorious gangster Sushil Rathi, on the premises of an additional district judges court in Ramnagar area of Roorkee. Rana is also the main accused in killing of three members of Chinu Pundit gang outside Roorkee prison.

Extortion threats by gangs in western UP to property dealers, doctors, industrialists and influential people in Haridwar and Roorkee have also increased. Last month, the Roorkee police carried out a raid at Baraut in Baghpat district of UP to arrest Rajabala, the mother of gangster Sunil Rathi, in connection with an extortion threat to Roorkee-based Dr ND Arora.

Haridwar appears to have become a safe haven for criminals from western UP because of its proximity to the crime-sensitive districts of Muzaffarnagar, Bijnore and Saharanpur in UP. Three major gangs run by Sunil Rathi, Chinu Pundit and Jeeva are active in western UP and simultaneously in Roorkee-Haridwar-Dehradun belt of Uttarakhand. Notorious criminals Praveen Valimiki, Sachin Khokhar, Pappu and Vishu of western UP also operate in the belt.

According to the Haridwar SSP, a close watch is being kept on all these UP-based gangs.

Involvement of UP-based criminals is also suspected in the 1.30 lakh loot from a bank agent at Lakshar and a couples murder at Saidabad village in Haridwar on November 21 .

Supply of smack from UP to Uttarakhand has also come to light recently. Three drug peddlers, who had brought a consignment of smack worth 1 lakh from UP to supply in Kaliyar and Roorkee belt of Haridwar district, were arrested from Kaliyar on Thursday.

Commenting on the increased coordination between the police of the two states, Haridwar SP Mamta Vohra said, We are vigilant and if similar checking and patrolling drive will be carried out by the UP police on a regular basis, surely it wont be an easy access to UP-based criminals in Uttarakhand.
The high-profile Uttarakhand Health System Development Project (UKHSDP) is yet to take off even though its been nine months that the stakeholders inked an agreement to improve both access and quality of healthcare services in all the 13 districts of the state.

The Centre and the state had signed the agreement with the World Bank for the project in New Delhi on March 23. The World Bank is funding 100 million USD of the projects total cost of 125 million USD (around Rs 800 crore). It noted how most public health facilities in hilly areas were unable to function optimally because of large-scale vacancies of health staff. One of the key areas of the projects focus was to finance innovative engagements with private health care providers to ensure quality health services even in distant corners of the state.

The health department called for bids twice for implementing the project, but sources said the offer did not gain enough traction from private players. Officials claimed the bidders could not meet the technical qualifications.

We will now go for another tender (to invite private players for the project). But before that, we are working to fulfill conditions of the World Bank, which is to constitute the project steering committee and the project governing body at the state level that will look after (the project) implementation, UKHSDP project director Chandresh Yadav told Hindustan Times.

The proposal for setting up the committees will be placed before the cabinet for its approval soon. Once formed, the project steering committee will take a call on changes to be made in the conditions (to ensure a successful tender process this time), based on which fresh tender will be floated, Yadav said.

Activists rued how projects directly associated with public health in the state  which is battling a shortage of more than 50% doctors  often suffered due to lack of vision and political will by the government. Health services are in a shambles in Uttarakhand, especially in remote and rural areas, with pregnant women being one of the prime sufferers, who are often forced to travel long distances in labor pain and deliver on roads owing to lack of doctors or staff in remote health centres. Around 31% deliveries were outside hospitals while around 29% births took place without any assistance of a doctor, nurse and health personnel, according to the latest National Family Health Survey.

All of these are happening when the health portfolio itself is held by the chief minister himself. Even till date, the people from the hills travel long distances to places like Dehradun and Rishikesh to seek medical care. Primary and community health centres are in a poor shape due to lack of vision and implementation and difficult terrain, Srinagar-based activist and Socialist Unity Center of India state convener Mukesh Semwal said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and national spokesperson, Sanjay Singh, is set to be the partys one of the three nominees for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls, sources said on Saturday.

The names of other two candidates will be decided in the Political Affairs Committee (PAC)  the highest decision-making body  which will meet when national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal returns from their holiday early next week.

AAP sources told Hindustan Times that Sanjay Singhs name was confirmed by the top leadership and a formal announcement will be made after the PAC meeting.

The party has decided to send Sanjay Singh to Rajya Sabha. The search for two other names is going on, said senior leader of the party.

The elections for electing three Rajya Sabha members from Delhi would be held on January 16 as terms of the incumbent members, Dr Karan Singh, Janardan Dwivedi and Parvez Hashmi  representing Congress party  would expire on January 27.The ruling AAP, which holds a majority (66) in the 70-member Delhi Assembly, is all set to win all the three seats.

Many party leaders, who did not want to be named, said the three candidates would be a mix of one insider and two outsiders.

Apart from Singh, senior leader Ashutoshs name is also doing rounds within the party circles. As many as seven prominent personalities, including former RBI governor, Raghuram Rajan, former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie, and former chief justice of India TS Thakur, have turned down AAPs offer for the Upper House berth so far, sources said.

Born in Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh , Singh was one of the core committee members of Team Anna during the India Against Corruption (IAC) movement in 2012. He is also in charge for political affairs in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

He played a crucial role in AAPs national ambitions, especially in Punjab where he was in charge of the party unit ahead of the 2017 assembly elections in the state. AAP could not form government in Punjab as the party came second, losing the contest to Congress. Singh resigned taking moral responsibility for the defeat. In Uttar Pradesh, where he managed the civic polls, the party won 42 of out 3,400 seats they contested.

The uncertainty in deciding other names for Rajya Sabha has led to internal rift within the party. A group of supporters of founder-member Kumar Vishwas barged into the party office at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg on Thursday demanding that Kumar be picked for the upper house. The group left the office after Vishwass appeal on Twitter later that day.
Russian-supported militants have violated the New Year and Christmas ceasefire six times over the past 24 hours, killing one Ukrainian serviceman and wounding two more, the press center of the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) headquarters has reported.

"Over the past day, the enemy made six targeted shelling attacks on the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. In one case, Ukrainian servicemen were forced to open fire from grenade launchers and machineguns... Two soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling, and, unfortunately, Ukraine lost one defender," reads a report posted on the Facebook page of the ATO HQ's press center early on Saturday.

In the Luhansk sector, militants used 82mm mortars, grenade launchers and heavy machineguns near Luhanske.

In the Donetsk sector, illegal armed groups repeatedly fired from 82mm mortars, grenade launchers, machineguns and small arms at Ukrainian positions near the Butivka mine. They also used grenade launchers and light infantry weapons near Kamianka and Verkhniotoretske.
For those who have been forced to re-examine the two weeks over and over again, singular moments define the time between September 1 and 14.

For Jayant Singh, an IT professional based in Dwarka, it was while he drove from one hospital to another on the night of September 14, requesting a certificate pronouncing his seven-year-old daughter dead.

It was just like in the movie Gabbar where Akshay Kumar goes from hospital to hospital begging for a death certificate for his child.

For his wife, Deepti Singh, it was when, having finally brought the body of her dead child home the next morning, she was asked by the ambulance driver to return the sheet in which it was wrapped.

He said he must return it to the hospital because it was attached with a chip, but how could I have taken it off  her body had swollen, her face had turned black. He said I should otherwise pay him Rs 700 for the sheet.

For Bhavdeep Singh, the CEO of Fortis Healthcare, the moment only came in the third week of November, when, watching prime-time TV debates, he was struck by how his hospital would appear to someone who just landed in Delhi from Mars. They must think that anyone who steps into Fortis for treatment is mugged, robbed, assaulted or killed.

For Narottam Puri, medical adviser at Fortis Healthcare, it came last week when a friend and fellow doctor who had been struggling to persuade his son against a career in medicine called him to say that his son had changed his mind. He came into the room and told my friend, Papa, I dont want to be a doctor anymore.

What happened between September 1 and 14?

At 10:30pm on August 31, Jayant and Deepti brought their daughter, Adya, to the Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurgaon in a state of emergency. Down with dengue since August 27, the seven-year-old had by now developed a dangerous form of the mosquito-borne disease called Dengue Shock Syndrome. Unprepared to deal with the condition, doctors at their local Rockland Hospital, where she had first been admitted, had advised that she be transferred to a paediatric ICU (PICU). The parents chose Fortis. Her organs collapsing by the time she was placed in the PICU, Adya was put on life support: plasma transfusion, renal-replacement therapy, high-pressure ventilation. The last time her family saw her conscious was on the night of September 1. As she lay, strapped and unconscious, the only sign of change her parents saw was the daily SMS from the accounts department. Sept 1st, Rs 48922...Sept 6th, Rs 700318...Sep 9th, Rs 1046420.

Worried about her chances of recovery, the father started requesting an MRI scan on the fifth day of Adyas admission. On September 12, a committee of doctors told us that her condition was critical. My husband told them that he wasnt going to pay any more money until they did an MRI and found out about the extent of damage to the brain, said Deepti. On the 13th, they finally did an MRI and told us that the brain was 70 to 80 per cent damaged. It was up to the parents to decide now: they could let the hospital keep her on life support in the bleak hope of a recovery, or they could let her go by asking for the tubes to be taken off. The parents chose to seek a second opinion. On September 14, they took her case files to Gurgaons Medanta hospital, where they were given the same two options.

The family decided to take the child home. At 2am on September 15, Jayant signed a form confirming that he was taking his daughter home against medical advice. Against the entry asking him to articulate the important outcomes/risks which may result on account of my action, he scrawled a single input: Death. In the absence of any legal ground for discharge of patients on life support, the only way an Indian hospital will allow it is after the family has consented to their Leaving Against Medical Advice (LAMA). Its not a release without responsibilities, however. As per LAMA guidelines set by the Indian Medical Association, a hospital must transfer a patient from life support to life support, a condition that includes arrangement of an appropriately equipped ambulance.

Fortis did not arrange for an ambulance while releasing Adya from their care; the family was asked to hire one from a recommended service provider. The family chose one that did not contain an ambu bag, a manual resuscitator used for ventilation. The parents told HT they knew their daughter would be dead once the doctors take off the tubes. After he had paid the outstanding bills, a process that took six hours, the father asked the Fortis management if he could turn around the ambulance and get the baby readmitted to the hospital to get a death certificate, but this was refused. Once she was transferred to the ambulance, the doctor removed the ventilators and the pipe, waited for 2-3 minutes, and pronounced the baby dead and asked us to go, the mother said. By the time they procured a brought dead certificate from Rockland Hospital, whose initial response was to deny it, the sun was out. At 9 am, when Adyas body was placed on the floor of the familys living room, her parents were determined to put the past two weeks behind them.

The big fight

But they couldnt. As questions and counsel poured in from friends and well-wishers, the parents were forced to relive every second of their two weeks at Fortis. They were also struggling to comfort their other child, Adyas twin sister, who felt confused and alienated. On October 6, Deepti found out that she was pregnant. She was forbidden stress by her doctor. On October 15, she lost the child. By now the parents were convinced that their lives had been ruined by Fortis. On November 16, a college friend of Jayants tweeted a scan of the 20-page bill Fortis had charged the Singhs. It was retweeted thousands of times overnight. The details made headlines for days: ?15 lakh bill for 15-day treatment, family billed for 660 syringes and 2,700 gloves, 1,700 per cent margin on consumables and medicines. By early December, the case had blown up into a battle between middle-class parents and private healthcare, exposing a number of wrongs but no clear villain.

Now that the fight is on, I want to take it to the next level, said Jayant, surrounded by stuffed animals  teddy bears, elephants, dogs, zebras  in the living room of his two-bedroom apartment. Since he took up the fight, he has made a series of allegations against the hospital. Other than inflated bill, unreasonably prolonged treatment, and breach of LAMA, Singh has accused the hospital of forging his and his wifes signatures on consent forms and offering him a bribe to drop the charges (a refund of Rs 10,37,889 lakh that I paid Fortis from my pocket  insurance covered the rest  and Rs 25 lakh in cash). Thats not all. The Singhs have alleged that after confirming the prognosis of their daughters condition on September 14, the doctors advised them to let the baby die in peace. The question they would like answered is: Would you still called it LAMA?

Fortis responds

Asked for a response, the management at Fortis told HT, We strongly deny any such allegations. Its not unusual, however, for doctors to make that informal suggestion, said Narottam Puri. This conversation happens between doctors and families. A doctor himself for the past 40 years, the 70-year-old said the community has never felt more besieged. I feel insulted. I feel humiliated. People are calling us thieves, murderers. He would like the world to understand that a doctor is as helpless as the family in a case like this. Legally, we cant let a patient under a ventilator go. What to do in a situation where there is a slim chance of survival or doubts about the quality of life? The law should allow the doctor to take off life support of a brain-dead patient.

Could the doctors have let the family know about the extent of brain damage sooner? When to do MRI is decided by a number of factors. If we had taken her off the ventilator and shoved her into an MRI machine in her earlier condition, she would have died of that shock.

What about the breach of LAMA protocol?  The law is unclear, said Puri. Theoretically, the hospitals bears vicarious responsibility until the patient is transferred to another facility; the ambulance becomes an extension of the hospital  but how can we control where the family will take the patient? Kahaan chhod ke aayein (Where do we leave the patient)? Earlier we used to provide ambulances, but in one such case, once the patient was transferred to the ambulance, the family said they wanted to be taken to their home in Agra  the vehicle didnt even have the permission to drive out of Delhi!

Puri said the hospital didnt prolong Adyas treatment to make money off her parents. No hospital profits from keeping a patient longer. Fortis has one of the citys 12 PICUs. There is a long waiting list. Our profits come from rotation of beds. He said the treatment Adya received at Fortis was second to none and it comes at a cost. ICU costs money. Ventilated patients cost a lakh a day. If you think we are looting you, go somewhere else. The number of syringes and gloves used in the treatment of was consistent with medical practices anywhere in the world, said Bhavdeep Singh, CEO of Fortis Healthcare.

The hospital staff didnt forge their signatures on the case files, either, he said, but only put in their names where required. Did one of his representatives offer the father a bribe to shut up? We went to meet the father. He told me about his financial difficulties. I offered to set up an education fund for Adyas twin totalling the amount he paid to Fortis. But he asked for more money. He wanted Rs 25 lakh. If we had intended to bribe him, we would have met him in a dark alley, not at a well-known hotel.

Right and wrong

Who should you believe? The only investigation done so far is by a fact-finding panel set up by Haryanas health department. In the report submitted to the Haryana government, the four-member team found Adyas treatment adequate and the hospitals usage of consumables not injudicious, but it criticized the hospital for suggesting LAMA and the parents for accepting it: Half-hearted attempt by institute led to the ill-informed decision by father which led to this unfortunate incident. The panel also found the lack of patient transfer to ambulance protocols and patient transport in ambulance protocols evident. Their forensic expert revealed that the said columns in consent forms hadnt been filled with The Name of the parents, but signatures were done.

On overpricing, the experts found that the total bill was charged at a profit margin of 108 %. No violation of Drug Price Control Order was observed, according to the report. However, it noted aberrations of a different kind. Baby Adya was issued Meropenem Injection 1gm of two different brands with different MRPs with huge gap in price. The brand Merocrit Inj was found having MRP 3112.50 per unit but the other brand, Merolan Inj, was found with MRP 499 per unit. In another such instance flagged by the report, Fortis overcharged Rs 12,800 for 8 units of platelets in spite of knowing that they have to charge at Rs 400 per unit only.

In an ICU, says Dr K Srinath Reddy, president of Public Health Foundation of India, there are bound to be many expenses, but if they are clearly very high markups then thats not acceptable. Doctors will say if you want quality, there will be cost, but part of what makes quality is cost optimisation. He believes the parents would have been spared a lot of trouble if the doctors had communicated with them clearly. Obviously, when a sick child is there, you try to save the child. But at what point should you reveal the extent of brain damage? Should you suggest a full-body plasma transplant after telling them there is no chance of recovery? A good panel of doctors should have formed a clear consensus and communicated it to the parents.

However, he says, the essential question here is about the flaws of our healthcare system. Emergency transport should be part and parcel of healthcare of a country. None of this would have happened if we had prepaid universal healthcare system.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A Delhi court has acquitted a womans father-in-law and brother-in-law in a 2002 dowry harassment case saying continuing the trial would violate the accused persons right to speedy trial as prosecution can never prove the allegations.

The court, while absolving the two men of the charges of cruelty to woman, breach of trust under the IPC and relevant provisions of the Prohibition of Dowry Act, noted that there was no eyewitness or any evidence to prove the complaint.

In absence of evidence of the complainant and other material witnesses, the prosecution can never hope to prove the allegations levelled against the accused persons as none of the remaining witnesses are eyewitnesses to the incident or even circumstantial witness to the commission of the alleged offence, Metropolitan Magistrate Deepti Devesh said.

The court said, Right to speedy trial is a constitutionally guaranteed fundamental right of the accused.

The present case pertains to an FIR of the year 2002 and continuing the trial any further, when it is clear that the prosecution can never hope to prove its case against the accused, would tantamount to violation of right to speedy trial of the accused, it said.

According to the prosecution, the woman had alleged that she was tortured by her in-laws for bringing insufficient dowry and an FIR was lodged in 2002. Later, a charge sheet was filed against them in 2004.

The court, while letting off the accused, did not record their statements under section 313 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) saying it would be a waste of judicial time, money and resources and will also cause unnecessary oppression of the accused persons who have anyhow faced the ordeal of trial in the present case for almost 13 years.

Hence, recording of further evidence and statement of accused persons was dispensed with as nothing incriminating came on record or can come on record against the accused persons in the present case, the court said.
Delhis swanky malls may be one of the safest public places when it comes to fire safety, but a host of other problems can leave visitors trapped if a blaze similar to Mumbais Kamala Mills happened here, fire department officials said.

The warning was issued in the wake of a blaze at a Kamala Mills restaurant in Mumbai, which killed 14 people on Thursday night.

According to Atul Garg, chief fire officer (Delhi Fire Services), the safety arrangements at malls are of the highest category, like cinema halls and hotels. There is not a mall in Delhi that does not have our NOC and it is renewed every three years after an audit, said Garg.

Director of Delhi Fire Services, GC Mishra, agreed that malls had the highest level of protection, but said that overcrowding remained a constant threat. Most of the malls admit much more visitors than they are designed to hold. The problem becomes more acute during the festive seasons and on weekends, Mishra said.

The officer also pointed to the blocking or crowding of entrances by kiosks and by security check posts. If a fire broke out on a busy day, visitors could find themselves cramped at the exit points, said Mishra.

He pointed out that some gates of the mall are also closed on the pretext of ensuring security and metal detectors at entrances shrinks the space further.

We keep raising these issues with the mall authorities whenever our men find such shortcomings. We also try to ensure that every single entrance of the mall is kept open from morning to night, said Mishra.

The fire safety arrangements at the pubs and discotheques in malls also remain a cause of concern. To ensure controlled access, the pubs often have only one door serving as entry and exit points. The dim lights in these places also make it difficult to spot fire extinguishers or emergency gates.

Before giving NOCs to pubs and discotheques in Delhis malls, with a seating capacity of over 50, we ensure that they keep at least two exit points open, said Mishra.

But a senior police officer pointed out that like many eateries in the city, several pubs in malls too show they have fewer than 50 seats, but accommodate more people.

Meanwhile, ahead of the New Years Eve, the fire department as well as the civic agencies have decided to carry out inspections and visits of restaurant and malls. Fire tenders will be put on standby at all prominent places from Sunday evening and on Monday, said Garg.
With its rapid expansion and unprecedented growth opportunity, India is at the centre stage of the ripple effect being created by the adoption of digital technologies. The onset of this digital revolution has engrained technology into every aspect of our lives, and transformed the way we experience the world  including the way we think, interact, entertain, work, and relate to the everything around us.

Born into the age of technology, Indias Gen Z (usually those born between 19952014) population comprises of digital natives, who are already using the power of technology for every task  big and small. As the worlds youngest population just starting work, Gen Z in India see technology as the backbone of their personal and professional lives. In fact, they are more eager than ever, to see how technology can help them be more innovative, creative, and prepare them for solid careers for the long haul. Educational institutes too, have grown to acknowledge the critical role of technology in helping students truly leverage the wide range of opportunities that lie ahead.

Adobes study: Gen Z in the Classroom: Creating the Future recently surveyed 500 students aged 11-17 years and 200 teachers across India, gathering their perspectives on learning, role played by technology and creativity as well as the future workforce. The findings reaffirm the need for creativity and technology in learning environments to thrive in tandem, and are symbolic of how Indias education curriculum needs to evolve, to help students, gear up for a fast-changing world.

The research concluded that a staggering 95% of students and 91% of teachers see creativity as essential to Gen Z students future careers. The study also found that 94% of students and 90% of teachers think technology tools play a key role in Gen Zs long-term career preparedness  thus highlighting that synergies in creative thinking and technology based learning have already become instrumental in helping Gen Z students stand apart in the future workforce. While the need for technology across educational institutes is obvious, fostering creativity is also essential.

As per the Adobe studys findings, while Gen Z feel they are more creative than past generations, with teachers agreeing wholeheartedly, 92% students and 89% teachers expressed a mutual wish to see an increased focus on creativity in the classroom. Indias remarkable growth story has paved the way for a new stream of compelling and creative careers. When asked if they thought their future careers would involve creativity, 62% of students agreed, and 90% of teachers felt their Gen Z students will have careers that do not exist today.

But how prepared are our Gen Z for the future? Interestingly, while excited about their prospects, Gen Z  characterised as creative, curious and confident by students and teachers alike  express a nervousness about their future careers. As per the study, only 31% of Gen Z students in India feel very prepared for the future. As 60% of our educators rate willingness to embrace hands-on learning in their classrooms as the most effective learning tool, the answer is simple: the best way ahead is to leverage the power of technology to prepare students for the future through a doing and creating approach. Parents too, must encourage Gen Z children to go beyond the traditional mediums of learning, and discover new ways in which digital tools can help them experience what they learn. Digital and online interactive media including videos, podcast, and app based tutorials can play a big role in making education more relevant, relatable, and real for students. Increasingly, creative online courses have started to play a big role in helping Indias Gen Z gather deeper insights into subjects that interest them, and offer them fresh perspectives on career paths for the future.

As Gen Z constantly strives to look for better, faster and smarter way of doing things, the slow and steady shift in the way educational institutes approach learning will strongly drive the future of our countrys next-gen workforce by positively shaping their careers for success.

The author is managing director  India and South Asia, Adobe
The Haryana Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Friday issued a suspension notice to the blood bank and the pharmacy at the Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon.

The suspension comes in the wake of FDA officials investigating the death of a seven-year-old girl due to dengue in September this year.

The girl was treated at Fortis Hospital in Gurgaon and her father had alleged that the his daughter had died due to medical negligence by the hospital. An FIR has been lodged against one of the doctor of Fortis hospital who was involved in the treatment of the deceased even as further probe is conducted in the case.

We have issued a suspension notice to the hospitals blood bank and pharrmacy till the time that it files a compliance report regarding the defects that were found during the investigation into the death of 7-year-old Adya Singh. Once the department approves the compliance report, the units will be able to function again, said Narendra Ahuja Vivek, state drug controller, Haryana,

He further said that the Haryana government was dedicated to providing the best medical car to the poor patients and as his department was trying to ensure that no patient is cheated by a hospital.

Apart from the state health department, the Gurgaon police have also issued notices to Rockland Hospital and to Lal Path Lab in New Delhi, where the blood sample of the 7-year-old was taken.

We have issued a notice to Lal Path Lab to submit the blood report test in this case. We have also asked Rockland to submit its report about the condition of the patient. We will receive the lab report by Monday, said Gaurav Phogat, station house officer, Sushant Lok Police Station.

On November 9, the police had also filed an FIR in the case against a Fortis doctor under Section 304 (2) (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of Indian Penal Code (IPC) which carries a maximum punishment of 10 years.

Though the blood bank and pharmacy operations were suspended at Fortis Hospital, however, relatives of patients said they hadnt faced any inconveniences yet.

Varun Vashist, whose uncle is admitted at the hospital for a knee replacement surgery said, The hospital is taking care of medicines and blood requirements of the patient. We are not aware of any kind of suspension.

The hospital sources said that they are managing from the pharmacy transfer units that they have at each floor inside the hospital. In case of emergency they will get blood and medicines from nearest blood bank and other hospitals.

We are cooperating with the authorities. We will continue to ensure that patient care is not compromised in any manner and all our admitted and visiting patients get the best treatment available, said a spokesperson of the hospital.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
This year, the Real Estate Regulatory Act (RERA) came as the biggest boon for the property buyers, as it gave them the hope that their long standing complaints against builders would be redressed.

Of the 393 projects registered, till date, under RERA by the Haryana government, 246 are from the city and another 147 are from the rest of the state.

Scores of city homebuyers here have been victims of indefinite possession delay even after paying 90-95% of the apartment cost. Earlier, the buyers were left to the mercy of builders. They ran from one office of the town planning department to the other, moved different courts and even the National Consumer Disputes Redressal

Commission, in the hope of relief. But all in vain.

The state government put its RERA draft in public domain on April 30, seeking suggestions and objections from residents. It set a 15-day deadline for residents to post their feedback.

The government notified the draft rules on July 28, 2017 and appointed chairpersons Rajan Gupta for Panchkula authority and KK Khandelwal for Gurgaon and Faridabad on November 27, 2017.

In last ten years or more, possession delay has been a major cause for concern for city homebuyers. Thousands of buyers are suffering on account of delay in possession of plots and flats and now, all projects that are incomplete or have not started despite the builders collecting money from buyers after obtaining licence from the government, will invite punishment, Dilbag Singh Sihag, executive director, RERA,Haryana, said.

Read I Haryana okays diluted RERA rules, Gurgaon homebuyers upset as builders get escape route

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 was notified by the Union government on May 1, 2016. States were required to notify RERA rules from May 1, 2017. All the real estate projects and property agents were to be registered with the respective regulatory authorities by July 31.

However, the state government allegedly watered down some of the building rules notified by the Centre, evoking concern from property buyers.

Contrary to the RERA rules notified by the Centre, the Haryana government allowed builders to remain outside the ambit of the RERA rules even if they apply for licences or receive part completion or occupation certificates for their projects before the Act is notified. It meant that builders who did not complete projects and left property buyers in the lurch, cannot be penalised under RERA rules. This is a major dilution aimed at helping builders, RS Rathee, president, Gurgaon Citizens Council (GCC), which moved a petition against Haryana government on August 10, said

As per the building rules notified by the Centre, all ongoing projects for which builders have not obtained competition certificates (CC) from competent authorities, will be brought within the ambit of RERA. Shephali Verma, vice president, Federation of Apartment Owners Association, Gurgaon, said, The state government has let down property buyers who are waiting for their dream homes. Nearly three lakh homebuyers in Gurgaon are victims of inordinate delay in possession.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Army chief general Bipin Rawat reviewed the security preparedness of forces along the border in Nagrota and Rajouri sectors of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

Accompanied by northern army commander Lt Gen D Anbu, Rawat visited Nagrota-based White Knight Corps, and was briefed by Lt Gen Saranjeet Singh, GOC 16 Corps, about the preparedness of White Knight Corps, said a defence spokesman.

Rawat visited Rajouri sector where he was briefed on the operational readiness by the GOC Ace of Spades division.

The spokesman said the army chief also went to forward posts along the LoC where he was briefed on the actions being undertaken to ensure a robust counter-infiltration grid.

He also interacted with the soldiers deployed on the forward posts and exhorted them to continue to remain vigilant and ever ready.

Rawats visit comes a week after Pakistan had ambushed an Indian patrol team on the LoC in Keri sector on December 23, killing an officer and three soldiers of 2 Sikh Regiment.

The Indian army then eliminated three Pakistani soldiers after crossing over to Rakhchikri area of Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Meenakshi Lekhi, BJP Lok Sabha member from New Delhi, has pitched for setting up a body to regulate the functioning of private hospitals in India.

There have been allegations against these private hospitals about malpractices and overcharging for procedures and services, the BJP leader said in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

The doctors in the government hospitals are overworked and underpaid. The doctors in private hospitals do their job like business. We need to address it, she said, raising the issue during Zero Hour.

The Fortis Hospital in Gurugram was recently in controversy for allegedly charging Rs 18 lakh from a family for dengue treatment. Medanta, another hospital in Gurugram, too was accused last month for overcharging for treatment of a seven-year-old boy.

Lekhi said the private healthcare sector was virtually unregulated and the time has come to make it accountable and do business under a specific framework.

Citing examples of alleged malpractices, she said that though the government has reduced price of stents, the hospitals have increased the rates for the procedure to insert them so as to compensate for their losses.

A stent is a device placed in an artery through surgery after removal of blockages in it to ensure proper blood flow.

The telecom sector has TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India), and the medical sector also needs a regulator, she said.

Currently, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) examines drug pricing in India.
The BSF has been told to keep a close vigil on the 856-km-long India-Bangladesh border in Tripura to prevent entry of unwanted elements into the state, where assembly elections are due early next year, an election official said.

Tripura chief electoral officer (CEO) Sriram Taranikanti held a meeting with top Border Security Force (BSF) officials regarding the close vigil on the border.

A meeting was held with Inspector General (IG) of BSF couple of days back. All polling stations along the border were mapped using Global Positioning System (GPS). I hope close vigil will begin in the coming weeks, Taranikanti told reporters in Agartala.

The CEO said central paramilitary forces would start arriving in the state soon and the central government has agreed to send security forces as required by the Election Commission.

He said Indian voters living on the other side of the barbed wire fencing along the border would be able to exercise their franchise without any problem.

The fencing was erected 150 yards away from the international zero line to adhere to Indira-Mujib pact, 1971 and border management agreement signed in 1975.

In an effort to reduce distance and increase ease of voting, 44 more polling stations would be set up in the state for next years assembly election.

We had 3,170 listed polling stations in Tripura. Our exercise revealed that their average distance from nearby habitations was often high, so we have decided to reorganise.

In total, 3,214 polling stations would be utilised in assembly polls this time, Taranikanti said.

The CEO said, after reorganisation, all polling stations would be located within a range of 3.5 km from nearby habitations.
From a distance, villages on the border of Rajasthan and Haryana look like any other rural hamlet  narrow, dirt roads lined with clumps of small earthen houses. But many of these settlements are smugglers dens and have recorded numerous cases of cow smuggling, police data reveals.

The border districts of Alwar and Bharatpur together account for a third of all cattle smuggling cases recorded in Rajasthan.

In Alwar, an average of seven cases was registered every month this year under the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995. The corresponding number stood at five for Bharatpur, say police.

Hindustan Times travelled to the two districts to examine the workings of the illegal cow trade, and spoke to several smugglers on the condition of anonymity.

Many smugglers said they acted as agents of illegal slaughterhouses in Haryanas Nuh district, and started their day by conducting a recce of local areas where many residents abandon their cattle. The smugglers then round up the stray cattle and herd them into vehicles after nightfall before packing them off to Haryana. They get Rs5,000 for every cow successfully transported .

People from Haryana approach us to act as local agents because we know the routes where they can avoid police and gaurakshaks (cow protectors). Most of us have our relations in Haryana, said one of them in Bharatpur. He added that usually three to four people travel in each vehicle and divide the money. In some areas, we have to give a monthly amount of Rs20,000 for two rounds to police. Hamari setting ho jati hai, police rokti nahi (we strike a deal with the police and they dont stop us), added the man in mid-40s.

Bharatpurs additional superintendent of police (Deeg) Surendra Kavia dismissed this charge. We are cracking down on them, the officer said.

The reach of the smugglers in Haryana extends to the Capital. Delhi police say more than thirty gangs of cattle lifters, each comprising of 10 to 15 members, operate in Haryanas Mewat and Nuh regions. The gangs have a unique modus operandi.

They steal tempos and trucks and then modify them by installing heavy iron bumpers and guarders in such a way that they can hit and damage police barricades and vehicles and escape. The cattle thieves are instructed to ram the vehicle into any vehicles, including that of the police, if they follow or chase them. The driver is rewarded, if he successfully brings the vehicle and stolen cattle back to Mewat even at the cost of police deaths.

In the past three years, Rajasthan has ramped up efforts to protect its 13 million bovine animals and end smuggling by setting up 39 police outposts across the state, six each in Alwar and Bharatpur.

The state, where cow slaughter is punishable by up to 10 years in jail, also has set up Indias only cow welfare ministry.

But the state has been dogged by reports of cow vigilante violence. In April, dairy farmer Pehlu Khan was lynched by alleged cow-protection vigilantes in Alwar who accused him of smuggling the animal. Khan had bought the cow legally. Last month, men ferrying cows were attacked.

Also added to the burden are increasing numbers of stray cattle.

Farmers abandon their cows when they become non-productive. All male cattle are abandoned because they have no utility, said Rajasthan animal husbandry director Ajay Kumar Gupta. He said the animal husbandry department didnt keep track of stray cattle because it is the responsibility of local bodies.

In Deeg , a smuggler said they used opium to sedate the cattle so that the animals stay quiet during the transport. A maximum of 20 cattle is smuggled in one round. We use Tata 407 Pick-up, Bolera or milk tankers for this. Tankers carry the most animals. We keep welding machines to seal the tankers temporarily after loading cattle into it, he said.

In Bharatpur district, Ghatmika village grabbed national headlines last month after local resident Umar Mohammad was found dead on the railway tracks in Alwar. Police said he and two others were transporting cattle when anti-social elements attacked them. A badly damaged pick-up truck was recovered nearby. In his village, 75 residents have more than one criminal case against them, including that of cow smuggling, show police data .

Ghatmika village chief Shaukat Ali rubbished the charge. Theres only one family that indulges in smuggling. When I was elected the sarpanch, I requested everyone not to indulge in the crime because our village is already infamous but this family doesnt listen, he said. Umars uncle Illiyas also parroted the claim.

Only five brothers in the village indulge in the crime, said the 61-year-old.

(with inputs from Karn Pratap Singh in New Delhi)
Russia wants to retain its influence over Ukraine in the context of the ideology of a large Slavic family and make Kyiv part of a large Russian orbit, U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker has said.

I think that Russia wants Ukraine to be part of a large Russian orbit, part of a large Slavic family, have good relations with Russia and a government friendly to Russia. The Ukrainian government is now more skeptical about Russia, more nationalistic and pro-Western than ever, Volker said in an interview with the Echo of Moscow radio station on Friday, December 29.

At the same time, he said that a similar attitude was now being strengthened in the younger generation of Ukrainians who see Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the violence coming from this invasion. He said it was up to Russia to decide in what its interest was, but it did not work yet.

According to him, Russia's goal with regard to Ukraine remains the same, but its tactics should change.

The occupation of territory does not work. Of course, Russia will fight for the hearts and minds of Ukrainians for a long time, and this should not surprise anyone, but this should happen on a legal basis, not when Russia invades Ukraine and seizes its territory, Volker said.

He also noted that Washington wants to see the restoration of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, as well as the restoration of security and protection for all Ukrainians, regardless of nationality, ethnicity or religion.

Volker said that the United States, even with the implementation of the Minsk agreements, is ready to lift sanctions against Russia only partially.

Sanctions, both European and American, fall into different categories. There are sanctions imposed for annexation of Crimea. There are sanctions imposed later for invasion of Donbas. There are sanctions within the Magnitsky Law. There are sanctions for Russia's interference in U.S. elections. All these are different groups of sanctions. The most severe sanctions were imposed on Russia for non-compliance with the Minsk agreements, and if Russia had got out of Donbas, the provisions of the Minsk agreements had been applied, and we had seen the restoration of Ukraine's sovereignty, these sanctions would have been lifted, Volker said.

While commenting on illegal annexation of Crimea, Volker stated that Washington would never recognize it.

We will not recognize the seizure of Crimea by Russia, its annexation... With Crimea, I think, we will have a long period of disagreement over its status, he said.
On Saturday midnight millions across Assam will be glued to their smart phones or computer screens trying to find out whether their names are in an updated draft recording details of Indian citizens amid heightened security in the state.

The first part-draft of the contentious updated National Register of Citizens (NRC), a process which is being undertaken only in Assam with a view to weed out illegal immigrants, will be made public on December 31st midnight.

Apprehending violence and unruly incidents from those whose names get left out from the first draft, nearly 45,000 police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in sensitive places across the state.

Review meetings are being conducted frequently and the army has been kept on standby for emergency.

Last week union home secretary Rajiv Gauba visited Assam to take stock of NRC preparations and security.

The draft would be crucial for many like Mohd Azmal Hoque. The retired junior commissioned officer from Indian Army would be praying his name and the rest of his family members and relatives are listed.

The 49-year-old had hit the headlines two months ago when he was summoned by a foreigners tribunal asking him to prove he is an Indian and not an illegal Bangladeshi immigrant.

Following public outcry and verification of his records, the police claimed that the notice sent to him was a case of mistaken identity.

Hoque was lucky, many other may not be.

Not just me, but several of my relatives were also served notices. The tribunals have verified our records and cleared doubts about our citizenship. Now we are confident our names will appear in the first NRC draft, Hoque told HT.

The NRC is being updated in Assam for the first time after 1951 to identify those who may have entered the state from Bangladesh after March 25, 1971, a date agreed in the Assam Accord signed between the All Assam Students Union and the Centre in 1985.

Persons who can prove links with family members whose names appeared in the 1951 NRC or subsequent electoral rolls till March 25, 1971 will be included in the updated NRC.

Entry of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh to Assam, which has been going on allegedly for decades, is a contentious issue. Many fear such unabated influx is a threat to the states indigenous population.

The AASU led a mass agitation for six years against illegal immigrants, which culminated in signing of the 1985 accord.

In 2005, as part of an agreement among central and state governments with the AASU, it was decided to update the 1951 NRC to prepare a comprehensive list of bona fide Indian citizens in the state.

The updating process started in 2015, but it got a big push after the Bharatiya Janata Party came to power in Assam for the first time last year with ouster of illegal immigrants as its main poll issue.

The magnitude of the work is evident from the fact that there are 3.28 crore individuals involved, about 68 lakh applications and over 6 crore documents which needed verification.

The entire exercise is being monitored by the Supreme Court.

The enormity of the task and glitches like in the case of Hoque make many, especially those belonging to the minority community, feel their names could get left out.

Earlier this month, former Congress MLA from Goalpara Shadeed Mazumdar and his wife were served notices by the NRC office to re-verify their documents.

Another former MLA Siddique Ahmed also got a similar notice.

On December 31, only a part draft of the updated NRC will be made public. The entire draft will be published at a later date after verifying documents of all applicants.

Date of complete publication of draft NRC will be notified later.

An NRC official said those applicants who dont find their names in the first draft published on December 31 should not have any fears and apprehensions as their verification is under process and will be completed soon.

Any claims or objections will be taken up only after the complete draft NRC is made public. The final NRC would be published after all such claims are settled.

Those whose names dont appear in the first draft neednt get unduly worried as there will be opportunities for subsequent verification, the official said.

While Hoque is confident, millions of others would be hoping their names appear in the first draft.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Nine foreign law enforcement agencies have approached the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) through the Interpol for help in apprehending 21 Indians wanted for various crimes.

The Interpol has issued red notices against the 21.

Among those wanted, two  Krishnan Ambi and Akshat Bhatnagar was sought by Afghanistan. Both are facing charges of fraud.

Six  Chetanbhai Patel, Harinarin Vijayampa, Jasbir Riar, Dipesh Kumar S Shah, Prakashandand Saraswati and Akbar Rana are wanted by the US.

Five  Somasundram Kathamuthu, Jasrath Singh Mogia, Rajapandi Ramalingam, Sharmeela Shahjahan, Rajeswari Thiyagrajan are wanted by Malaysia for charges of theft.

Malawi has sought custody of a 20-year-old Indian Sadiq Adam Patel, who is wanted there on the charge of murder.

Canada is looking for two Indians  Sawaran Singh Sekhon, on charges of second degree murder, and Parthasarthie Kapoor who is facing charges of sexual contact, inciting to sexual contact, sex abuse and child pornography with regard to four children.

Cyprus is also looking for two Indians  Sarbjit Singh and Sandeep (only first name is known) on the charges of conspiracy to commit a felony, premeditated murder, attempt to commit murder and possession of aggressive instruments.

Singapore, Russia and South Africa are looking for one person each in various cases.

We would not like to comment on the status of any of these cases as the Interpol Red Notices have been issued on the request of foreign agencies. The CBI being nodal agency for Interpol in India, coordinates efforts to nab these accused with other law enforcement agencies in the country, said a CBI spokesperson.

In comparison, Indian law enforcement agencies have approached the Interpol for red notices against roughly 630 Indian and foreign nationals, including Dawood Ibrahim.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
As a van carrying a group of reporters to the White House straightened after making a right, a muted yell went up from a corner: They hugged. They being Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his host President Donald Trump.

They would hug two more times before the day was out. It was June 26, 2017.

They have met several more times since, and hugged. The two leaders and the countries have moved past the usual awkwardness that comes dealing with a new US administration, especially one led by such an unpredictable president. Officials on both sides say the leaders share a close rapport.

They will need every bit of that, and more, as their governments deal with trade and immigration  read H-1B visas  which are likely to emerge as top challenges confronting relations in 2018, the year Modi shifts into election mode for the 2019 general election and Trump gets his administration moving.

Pakistan is likely to be the main foreign policy issue between the two countries as New Delhi will look for follow-up actions by the Trump administration on its tough rhetoric to force Islamabad to act decisively against terrorists operating from its soil, across both its eastern and western borders.

Trade, however, is likely to pose the first challenge, starting as early as a second past December 31 midnight, and into the new year, with the lapsing of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), a programme that allows selected developing countries to export some products duty-free to the US.

The last extension, in 2015, came nearly two years after the expiration date, with retroactive effect. There is no word yet on the administrations plans or Congress, which has to legislate the renewal. This could take anything around six months or more, said an official on condition of anonymity.

India is GSPs top beneficiary, and hopes to continue the preferential treatment. It exported goods worth $4.7 billion to the US under GSP in 2016, more than any other country and equal in worth to nearly 10% of its exports to the US under normal trade relations of $41.36 billion.

During that period, India expects to come under pressure, multiple sources have said, to yield ground on some continuing market issues such as removing the price cap on stent devices used in heart surgeries, opening up its poultry sector to US imports, and implementing a WTO adjudication verdict.

India will have to pay a price if wants to continue on the list  withstanding pressure from some critics who have argued India doesnt need that kind of help any longer  and which will not be easy for Modi to pay, specially so close to a general election.

There are other trade issues between the two countries, such as the matter of trade deficit, that has been alleviated to an extent by Indian purchase of US crude and gas and a large order of civilian use aircraft. But market access and related issues have been an irritant for a while, and 2018 might be no different.

There will be then the issue of immigration, specially the H-1B short-term work visa programme under which US companies can hire foreign workers for speciality jobs. Indians account for 70% of all H-1B visas  87% of whom, a point often missed, are hired by US companies, and only 13% by Indian firms.

Trump, a critic of the programme, and his administration have already changed some aspects of it such as redefining speciality to raise the bar, and a slew of changes expected in 2018 through administrative and legislative measures could change it beyond recognition.

Indian companies will be hit, said an Indian official speaking on background, but we feel Indian professionals hoping to work in the US could remain unharmed or may even benefit. Trumps resolve to switch to merit-based immigration, the official said, could benefit Indian professionals.

Pakistan will be a key issue, and one on which India would hold the US to its words, specially the tough language used by Trump and his top officials.

A failure of the Trump administration to match deeds to its words would underscore India's longstanding concern that the US government insists on maintaining workable relations with Islamabad despite Pakistan's continued support for terrorists that target both Americans and Indians, said Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert with Wilson Center, a leading US think tank.

Year 2018 will pose other challenges  such as the continuing clash of Modis and Trumps Make in India and Buy American, Hire American vision for spurring domestic manufacturing, but overall, experts and officials said, the relationship is headed north, all conditions remaining the same.

2017 rewind

The leaders: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to speak to President Donald Trump after his inauguration, ahead even of Prime Minister Theresa May of Britain, a close US ally.

They went on to strike a close personal rapport, based on several phone calls and at least three meetings, including one in the White House on June 26 that stretched over several hours, and included a reception for the visitors thrown by first lady Melania Trump.

The convergence: Trumps tough talking on Pakistans record on counter-terrorism and explicit warnings that the US will no longer be silent aligned with Indias long-standing frustration with cross-border terrorism backed by Islamabad.

The Trump administration and New Delhi have identical views on Chinas predatory One Belt, One Road initiative, and the two countries raised their concerns on multiple platforms. Indo-Pacific, a phrase used to describe the region is commonly used by both, to much irritation in Beijing.

On Afghanistan, the US wants India to step up its cooperation under Trumps new South Asia strategy, mostly in the economic and infrastructure sectors.

The dissonance: Chiefly, trade and immigration  H-1B. The Trump administration is investigating India and other countries with whom the US is running massive trade deficits. India has sought to close the gap with massive purchases of American crude and gas, and other big-ticket items such as civilian aircraft.

H-1B was going to be a major irritant, as Trump had indicated as a candidate, and it was, with the administration singling out Indian IT companies with US operations for criticism, alleging they were gaming the system. Trump has ordered a review of the programme and every visiting Indian official has said they raised the issue very strongly with their American counterpart.

Modis Make in India and Trumps Buy Americans, Hire American have similar, clashing objectives of boosting domestic manufacturing through inward-looking incentives. But they have so far lived in happy co-existence.

The race issue: Srinivas Kuchibhotla, an IT engineer from India became one of the first victims of the surge in racial and ethnic crimes unleashed by Trumps election
An Indian-origin student was shot dead during an attempted armed robbery in the US, becoming one of the latest victims of gun violence in the country.

Another Indian was injured in the attack.

Arshad Vhora, 19, was shot dead on Thursday at the Clark gas station at 142nd and Langley in Dolton in Chicago, CBS News reported.

Police said two people were shot during an armed robbery attempt inside the convenience store.

The second victim, who was not named, was critically wounded, police said, adding the victims are related.

Vhora was filling in for a family member at the convenience store and gas station, relatives were quoted as saying by the report.

The suspects fled the scene. No one has been arrested yet. A $12,000 reward is being offered to help solve the case, the report said.

The shooting comes amid growing attacks on Indians and Americans of Indian descent in recent months.

On December 15, Karunakar Karengle was killed during a robbery by two hooded attackers in Ohio.

Earlier this month, a 30-year-old Indian national pursuing his masters in Chicago has been seriously injured after he was shot in his right cheek by an unidentified assailant.

Srinivas Kuchibhotla, a software engineer from India, was fatally shot in Olathe, Kansas, in February by a US navy veteran who had told him and his friend at a bar to go back to their country.

Weeks later, a Sikh man was shot in his arm in his driveway in Kent, Washington state, by a masked man who had told him go back to his own country.

There were 58,491 incidents of gun violence across the country in 2017 in which 14,763 people were killed and 29,888 others injured, according to Gun Violence Archive (GVA), a not for profit corporation providing public access to gun-related violence.
Two sons of Nagpur BJP leader Munna Yadav on Saturday surrendered before the Dhantoli police station after being untraceable since October.

Police said that Karan (22) and Arjun (19), along with their father, were wanted in a case registered in October after they allegedly attacked and seriously injured their relatives following a dispute over bursting crackers in their locality.

Police sub-inspector Anantrao Wadatkar of Dhantoli police station said that Karan and Arjun surrendered in the afternoon and the Sessions Court sent them to police custody for three days.

The two have been booked under relevant sections of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code, police added.

Munna Yadav is still untraceable in the case and his disappearance and the alleged inability of the police to nab him was raised by the Opposition in the winter session of the Maharashtra Assembly held in Nagpur in December.

Munna Yadav is currently the chairman of the Maharashtra Construction Workers Welfare Board.
The mother of a woman whose gang-rape in a moving bus and subsequent death in 2012 triggered a nationwide outrage has alleged that the Nirbhaya Fund set up in her daughters name was not being used for security and empowerment of women.

The Nirbhaya Fund should have been used for women security and empowerment but it is being for works like road construction, Asha Devi said at a programme in her village Maderwa Kala to mark the conclusion of the Nirbhaya Jyoti Yatra which had started from Lucknow.

The fund needs to be used in setting up schools and hospitals, she stressed.

She also said her pleas for an appointment with chief minister Yogi Adityanath in the past two months had proved futile.
The body of a 75-year-old widow in Odisha could not be cremated for two days as villagers had ostracised the family because her son was doing manual scavenging despite being a Kshatriya, an upper caste.

The villagers relented on Friday evening and allowed the cremation only after the family paid Rs 1000 for Mahaprasad from Puris famous Jagannath temple to purge the so-called sin.

The incident took place at Nuaguda village in Malkangiri district.

The villagers refused to carry the body of Kamala Chital to the cremation ground as they had socially boycotted the family seven years ago.

The villagers were angry with family as Kamalas son Laxman used to clean drains and cremate bodies for a living, which they considered demeaning for a Kshatriya.

Though Laxman died a few years ago, the ostracism continued.

After Kamala died, her daughter-in-law and grandson Rabindra Chital pleaded with the villagers to help them carry the body to cremation ground.

Local ward member Subhransu Parichha said he tried mediating with the villagers who insisted on payment of Rs 1000 as cost of Mahaprasad and another Rs 3000 for reinducting the Chitals into their clan.

Malkangiri district collector K Sudarshan Chakraborty said he has asked the BDO to inquire into the incident and submit a report.

In a similar incident last year, the body of a 65-year-old OBC woman was dragged in a cot by her brother in-law and sister in-law after villagers refused to lend help in carrying her mortal remains.

The villagers had ostracised the woman for marrying a tribal.
Palestine on Saturday recalled its ambassador to Pakistan after India expressed anger and concern over his presence next to Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed at a rally organised by extremist and radical groups in Rawalpindi.

India issued a strongly worded demarche after photos of Walid Abu Ali sharing the stage with Saeed and addressing the rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council (DPC) were circulated on social media on Friday.

Barely hours after the Indian statement, a Palestinian official told Hindustan Times: The ambassador has been recalled from Pakistan and asked to report to Ramallah. Palestine is part of the world community and it is committed to fighting terrorism. This shouldnt have happened.

The Palestinian ambassador to India, Adnan Abu Al Haij, was quoted as saying that his government supported India in its fight against terrorism and had decided to call back its Pakistan envoy.

A statement in Arabic issued by the Palestinian foreign ministry said the envoy in Pakistan was recalled on the direct instructions of President Mahmoud Abbas. The envoys participation in the rally in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified, it said.

Read: Palestine expresses regret after its Pakistan envoy spotted with Hafiz Saeed

A statement issued by Indias external affairs ministry said the Palestinian side conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the government of India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassadors presence at the rally. It said that the Palestinian side had conveyed that it highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

The envoys presence at the rally came barely 10 days after India joined 127 other members of the United Nations to back a resolution criticising US President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The countries disregarded Trumps threat to cut aid to the countries that voted for the resolution.

India and Palestine are also discussing a possible visit to Ramallah by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February  seen by some here as a conciliatory gesture in connection with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus visit to India in January. If Modis visit goes ahead, it will be his first to Palestine.

India formally conveyed its concerns about Walid Abu Alis association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, to the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and to the minister of foreign affairs in Ramallah.

Saeed used Fridays Tahafuz Baitul Maqdas rally to launch a broadside against India and to rake up the Kashmir issue by linking it to Palestine. We consider it our prime responsibility to liberate Kashmir from India. We will free Kashmir in fulfilment of Jinnahs dream, he said, speaking in Urdu.

Saeed also referred to the controversial meeting between Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian national sentenced to death by Pakistan for alleged spying, and his wife and mother in Islamabad on December 25.

Pakistan let the family of Kulbhushan meet him out of kindness and goodwill, but India sent them with spy devices, he claimed.

The rally featured several jihadi leaders, including Saifullah Khalid of the Milli Muslim League, a political party formed by Saeed, and Abdul Rehman Makki of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) The event was attended by thousands, including members of the JuD.

The DPC is a grouping of some 40 extremist and jihadi groups that was formed by Hafiz Saeed and other extremists in 2012. It has campaigned for long for snapping ties with India and the US.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Palestinian authorities have expressed regret after India reacted with anger at the presence of Palestines envoy to Pakistan at a rally organised by Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Ambassador Walid Abu Ali joined the stage with the Lashkar-e-Taiba founder at an event organised by jihadi groups on Friday, just days after New Delhi backed a United Nations General Assembly resolution that denounced Washingtons decision to recognise Jerusalem as the Israeli capital. The rally in Rawalpindi was organised to oppose the US move.

The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassadors presence at this event, the external affairs ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, the statement added. We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side.

The Palestinians reacted after a terse statement issued on Friday night by external affairs ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar , saying: We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities.

Photos of the the Palestinian envoy with Saeed and addressing the rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council at Liaqat Bagh had gone viral on social media on Friday.

India was particularly incensed as the development came less than 10 days after India joined 127 other members of the UN to back a resolution criticising US President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The countries disregarded Trumps threat to cut aid to countries that voted for the resolution.
As many as 51 girls were rescued on Saturday after a raid was conducted on a madarsa in the old city area following complaints of sexual harassment of the inmates by the institutes manager, police said.

A senior police official said madrasa manager Mohammad Taiyab Zia was arrested.

Acting on a tip off by the locals, a police team carried out a raid at Madarsa Jamia Khadeejtul Qubra Lilabnat in Yasinganj area under Saadatganj police station last night, police said.

The madarsa manager was arrested and 51 girls being held hostage in the institution in the old city area were rescued following the raid, they said.

Police said as they made arrangements for sending the inmates to their parents, the girls narrated their ordeal alleging inhumane treatment and molestation by the accused.

Investigations to ascertain whether the madarsa was being run illegally or was registered are on, they said.

The police said more than 100 girls study at the madarsa and the rest were not present at the time of raid.
Kyiv authorities will present the city's draft general plan in 2018, Head of Kyiv City State Administration Vitali Klichko has said.

"We are now preparing to present the capital's general plan to the public. Every resident of Kyiv will be able to see how his or her district or neighborhood will develop, and what is planned to be built," the city administration's press service quoted him as saying on the NewsOne television channel on Saturday.

According to Klitschko, it is necessary to put an end to chaotic construction in the capital. In addition, it is necessary to introduce a practice when social infrastructure is built simultaneously with residential houses, in particular, schools, kindergartens, and medical institutions.

"This should be a strategic plan for the development of our city. Of course, we will not approve it without public discussion," he said.
The Election Commission has directed the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to re-evaluate chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawats immovable assets, which he declared by in the nomination papers for the assembly elections in February this year.

The poll panels directive follows a complaint by former BJP member Raghunath Singh Negi, who accused Rawat of providing false information, concealment and misrepresentation of actual age, pending litigation and valuation of immovable properties in the election papers.

In his complaint on October 30, Negi alleged that the chief minister had given wrong information before assembly elections in 2007 and 2012 as well as a bypoll in 2014 that he lost.

The chief ministers office refused comments but the BJPs state general secretary, Naresh Bansal, said the complaint was motivated. We will present our version before the agency concerned if it approaches us with such a request, he said.

According to Negi, who heads Jan Sangharh Morcha (JSM), a fringe political group, the chief minister undervalued farmlands and residential plots registered in his and wifes name in Dehradun.

He mentioned three residential properties that Rawat bought for his wife. The immovable properties were valued at Rs 9.56 lakh against the actual cost of Rs 84 lakh, he alleged.

He accused Rawat of stamp duty evasion of Rs 65,000 in the purchase of land in Shera Gaon near Dehradun, measuring 0.126 hectares.

Negi said Rawat purchased the properties after his name figured in the Dhaincha scam involving farm seeds when he was agriculture minister in the BJP government that ruled the state for five years from 2007.

He alleged that the chief minister provided incorrect details about his age in three affidavits. In his papers ahead of the 2014 Doiwala bypoll, he said he was 54, the same age he mentioned in the affidavit before the 2017 assembly elections Negi alleged. In 2012, Rawat mentioned his age as 51.

If Rawats birth year is 1960, he should be more than 56, the complainant said.

The complaint prompted the Election Commission to direct the CBDT on December 19 check Rawats immovable properties, in accordance with his nomination papers for the 2017 polls, and submit a report.

The opposition Congress was guarded in its response. We hope an impartial inquiry will be conducted  and the EC will take appropriate action in case irregularities are detected, party leader Surendra Kumar said.
A woman working as an office assistant in the ministry of external affairs (MEA) alleged on Saturday that she was brutally assaulted by husband and in-laws when she was pregnant after she refused to abort her female foetus, police said.

The woman, 42, a resident of Sector 49 in Gurugram, got married to Delhi-based doctor Rajnish Gulati on July 21, 2016. Gulati is associated with Mudit Vishwakarma Hospital and resides in West Patel Nagar, police said.

The woman in her complaint to police said Gulati, his sister Amita, his uncle Sushil Kumar Nagrath and her mother-in-law Sarla Gulati dragged her from their house after she refused to abort her female foetus, in February this year, the FIR said.

When I tried to enter my in-laws house, my mother-in-law beat me. Later, I complained to Delhi Police but no action was taken against my husband and in-laws, the victim told IANS.

She also alleged in her complaint to Delhi Police commissioner Amulya Patnaik and assistant commissioner of police (ACP) Rohit Rajbir Singh that station house officer (SHO) Pramod Kumar Joshi and sub inspector Devender, posted in Patel Nagar police station, traumatised her on many occasions and threatened to fabricate her in fake cases if she does not take her complaint back.

She also alleged that SHO Joshi, on April 1, 2017, forced her to sit in the police station for over six hours and did not let her drink water and eat food, even though she was pregnant.

Her husband also beat her inside the police station. The repeated assault and trauma eventually led to miscarriage.

She later approached the Tis Hazari court against them. During counselling in court, her husband assured that the matter would be sorted out peacefully and also requested her to issue a written statement that she would not go for any legal action against him and his family members.

He took the woman to his residence but after a week, threw her out of the house. The woman made a fresh complaint on Monday (December 25) against her in-laws and SHO Joshi, and sought action.

ACP Rohit Rajbir Singh told IANS that he has received a complaint regarding cruelty on the woman by her husband and in-laws. We are examining the matter, he said.
Police seized three trucks and rescued 80 bovines late on Friday night in Hindaun town of Rajasthans Karauli district, but the alleged cow smugglers escaped.

The incident happened after 24-year-old Taleem from Nuh in Harayna was killed in police firing in Alwar when he and five or six accomplices were allegedly smuggling cows in a pick-up truck on December 6. The other accused managed to escape.

We received information about the cow smugglers who were transporting bovines in Haryana-registered trucks, said Adhyatam Gautam, station house officer of Hindaun city police station.

He said police barricaded the Hindaun town to arrest the cow smugglers but they fled away.

Cases have been registered under the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995 against truck drivers and conductors, Gautam said.

The trucks were designed in such a way that bags of fodder and bovines were kept in blocks. Police are trying to get details about the Haryana-registered trucks to take legal action against them, he said, adding the rescued bovines were sent to a cow shelter at Fulwada village.

Police have registered 65 cases against cow smugglers in 2015 in Bharatpur district, 71 in 2016 and 51 till October 2017. Police data shows that 41 cow smugglers were arrested this year.

In the district, 1121 bovines were rescued from cow smugglers in 2015, 403 in 2016, and 210 till May this year. In 2015, Bharatpur police seized 38 vehicles illegally transporting cattle to neighbouring states, 30 in 2016, and 12 this year.

On April 1, Pehlu Khan (55) from Nuh in Harayana was waylaid by a mob near Alwar when he was transporting cows for his small dairy farm and beaten up; he died of injuries two days later.

On November 10, 35-year-old Umar Mohammeds body was recovered from railway tracks in Alwar district. He was allegedly killed by vigilantes trying to stop cow smuggling.
Hanumangarh child welfare committee (CWC) chairperson Jodha Singh was booked by the Rajasthan police for demanding 10 lakh from a man, who was accused of raping a minor girl.

Singh allegedly demanded the money from the accused in lieu of turning the victim hostile in court in his favour. The Hanumangarh police registered a case against him under sections 420 (cheating) and 384 (extortion) of the IPC on a complaint given by Kamal Singh Rajpurohit, nephew of the rape accused, Mahendra Singh, on Thursday.

According to the case, a 16-year-old girl had gone missing in Delhi on February 23 this year, following which her father had filed a case against unknown persons at the Aman Vihar police station in Delhi under sections 363, 366 of the IPC.

In March, the Hanumangarh police and the CWC rescued the girl from a human trafficking gang. In her statement before a magistrate, the girl named around 12 people for raping her over a period of time.

In his complaint, Rajpurohit alleged that Singh misguided the girls parents to lodge a fresh FIR in Hanumangarh, while an FIR was already registered in Delhi. Through the fresh FIR, Singh falsely implicated local traders and businessman through the statement of victim given under section 164 of the CrPC, he alleged, adding that the CWC chief extorted money from the accused and helped them get bail.

Rajpurohit alleged that his uncle, Mahendra Singh, had paid 2 lakh to Jodha Singh, but could not pay the remaining amount and hence was left to languish in the jail.

We received a complaint against CWC chief Jodha Singh through a court endorsement and registered a case of extortion against him, said Chandrabhan, a police officer of Hanumangarh.

However, Singh denied the charges. I am being targeted because the deputy SP, who investigated the case, has animosity with me, he said.
The Jaipur police has been on a roll on social media for the past two days highlighting the perils of drinking and driving through a series of tweets.

Roses are red, sky is blue. Please dont be dead in the year coming through, the official handle of the Jaipur police tweeted on Friday with an accompanying caricature of an accident victim with the hashtag stay alive to see 2018.

The police have launched an intensive checking drive at different locations in the city since December 20. Figures obtained from the Jaipur traffic police department show that 23,162 challans were issued for violations between December 20 and 29.

Out of these, 739 were for drunk driving alone, a police official said. Other traffic violations include crossing the zebra line, jumping red light, and not wearing helmets or seat belts.

Some other cheeky tweets include bottoms up with a picture of overturned vehicle with a caption: Dont drink and die.

The social media campaign seems to have been launched in preparation for the New Year and the revelry that accompanies it. Police usually intensify checking drive during this period. The Jaipur police has also warned the New Year revellers against drinking in public places.
The Central Board of Film Certifications move to clear controversial film Padmavati with some modifications and likely change in the title to Padmavat has failed to mollify the Rajput community in Rajasthan.

Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had its examining committee meeting on December 28 to review Padmavati and decided to give it UA certificate along with some modifications and likely change of the title to Padmavat. Certificate to be issued once required and agreed modifications are made, ANI tweeted on Saturday.

The screening of the film was held in the presence of committee members comprising regular examining committee members along with the CBFC officials and a special advisory panel. The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur and Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof K K Singh of the Rajasthan University.

Rajput Sabha president Giriraj Singh Lotawara said, The panel that was formed to watch the movie was of the view that historical facts have been distorted. It shows that CBFC has gone out of its way to help the filmmaker. We will protest if the film is released, and the government will face the music.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, a splinter group, warned of a violent agitation if the film is released. We will vandalize the cinema halls if the movie is released. We want a complete ban, he said.

Padmavat is an epic written in 1540 by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi and is based on a fictional story about Alauddin Khalji and his desire for Padmavati, the queen of Chittor.

Apart from changing the title, the review committee also sought adding disclaimers, pertinently regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati that has been banned and making modifications to the song Ghoomar. The members of the special panel also had some reservations regarding the claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects, sources said.

Shri Rajput Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi, however, reacted with caution. There is a lot of speculation, and I would wait for some clarity to emerge before commenting on the issue. For now, I would like to point out that only three of the nine panel members have watched the screening. I have also been told that the CBFC has suggested 26 cuts. So lets wait and watch, he told HT.

The panel members from Udaipur, Arvind Singh and Prof K K Singh and Dr Chandramani Singh from Jaipur could not be contacted for comments as their cell phones were switched off.

In November, the Rajput community leaders had rejected filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis contention that the movie Padmavati upholds the honour of Rajputs and does not depict anything that may hurt sentiments.

The Rajput Karni Sena, which had demolished the sets of the movie in Jaipur and reportedly hit Bhansali, has also warned the director to show the movie with historically correct facts. Later, a set of the film in Kolhapur was also vandalised and set on fire.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A team of researchers from the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati College, Junnar, Pune, as a part of an international collaborative study, have devised a novel biofilm possessing antibacterial capacity as well as the ability to fight against aedes aegypti; vector of the virus that causes zika, dengue and chikungunya diseases among humans.

It is the film coated with silver and gold nanoparticles obtained from the silk protein of mulberry silk which was able to completely kill the larva of aedes aegypti . The scientists used this film coated with nanoparticles synthesised from mulberry grown locally in and around Junnar, located about 90 kms from Pune. Silk being a fibre produced by the silkworms consists of two proteins -- namely fibroin and sericin.

The resultant nanosilver and nanogold-based fibroin solution and films were tested for antibacterial activity against various bacteria, including E. coli S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa and antifungal activity against A. fumigates, said RD Chaudhari, head of Zoology Research Centre, Shri Shiv Chhatrapati College.

He along with Dinesh Amalnerkar from Hanyang University, South Korea, and former executive director of Centre for Electronics and Materials Energy Technology (C-MET), India worked on this project. Synthesised silver and gold nanoparticles are effective against P. aeruginosa, which is resistant to most of the present day antibiotics. Nanosilver-based solution exhibited an effective antimicrobial action against all these microbes as compared to the nanogold solution. Nearly 100 per cent mortality of aedes aegypti mosquito larva was obtained in the water-insoluble films, while the films of gold-based nanocomposite revealed 86  98% mortality, explained Dinesh Amalnerkar.

According to statistics provided by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, there were a total of 5,01,31 cases of dengue and 1,87,829 cases of chikungunya in the country during 2013  2017 (until December 17).

While, the bio-nanocomposite material could restrict the growth of aedes aegypti, other infections like flavivirus, malaria, yellow fever, filariasis, schistosomiasis and Japanese encephalitis could automatically be curbed and effectively controlled, highlighted co-researcher prof. Haiwon Lee, Hanyang University.

Besides preventing mosquito breeding, Chaudhari is of the opinion that farmers from Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Jammu & Kashmir could greatly benefit from the sale of mulberry silk. "Since this tree can bear fruits at regular intervals, a cultivator can get an assured income which will support his regular income from the farm produce," Chaudhari added.

Yet another benefit of using this film, the study team claims, is that it is biodegradable. The team also tested the water for wheat cultivation and there were no side effects on it.
A 30-year-old man tried to jump in front of the car of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow on Saturday to draw his attention to illegal mining allegedly being patronised by BJP leaders.

As Adityanath was headed to Lok Bhawan for an event, the man who had camouflaged himself with the waiting media at the gate, tried to leap in front of the chief ministers car when the cars arrived.

Security personnel caught hold of him and handed him over to Hazratganj police.

The cars of governor Ram Naik, deputy chief minister Dinesh Sharma and visiting Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis were right behind Adityanaths vehicle when the incident happened.

The man has been identified as Shyamji Mishra of Sonebhadra district, police said.

He said he had tried to meet the chief minister many times but was not able to. Mishra said he wanted to tell Adityanath about the illegal mining being done in Sonebhadra under the patronage of BJPs Sardar legislator and BJPs district president.

He alleged that BJP district president Ashok Kumar Mishra and Sardar legislator Bhupesh Chaubey were getting illegal mining of sand and concrete done through their men, and the police was silent.

He added that he and others have staged sit-in protests in Lucknow in the past but no one paid heed. He claimed to have evidence of the illegal mining.

Mishra added that the permits, which cost Rs 2,200 each, were being sold in black for Rs 14,000 at the behest of the BJP leaders, while people are not getting enough construction material for their own houses.
The month of December signifies celebration  first theres Christmas and then New Years. Fun, parties, gifts, family functions, a chill in the air and good food! But how much do you really know about New Year? Like did you know about the connection between the Hollywood sign and New Years? Or why its good luck to kiss someone when the clock strikes 12? Here are five facts about New Years that you might not know:

1. It is believed that it is good luck to kiss someone when the clock strikes 12 on December 31. This tradition dates back to the time of the masquerade balls which were held across Europe during the Renaissance period.

The masks which people wore during the dances symbolised evil spirits and the negative of the year gone by. At midnight, the participants would remove their masks and kiss each other, to symbolise a cleansing act to banish all the evils of the previous year and start the year on a good note.

2. Every New Years evening, around 1 million people are present at New York Citys Times Square to watch the famous ball drop. The Times Square Ball is located on the roof of One Times Square.

The ball drops 141 feet in 60 seconds at 11:59 pm and stops at midnight to signify the start of the New Year. There are also live performances by musicians and other artists.

3. Beethovens 9th Symphony is special to the Japanese every New Years.

It is because during World War 2 German prisoners of war introduced their Japanese captors to Beethovens music.

4. On January 1, 1976, a man called Danny Finegood changed the Hollywood sign (in Los Angeles) to Hollyweed as a practical joke to celebrate he decriminalisation of marijuana. It was on this day that California implemented its relaxed marijuana law. He and his friends used $50 curtains to camouflage the two Os in the sign to Es. The sign was returned to its original state the same day.

The act was repeated on January 1, 2017 by the prankster and videographer Zachary Cole Fernandez, who was arrested by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and released shortly after.

5. The first New Years celebration dates back to around 4,000 years. Romes ruler, Julius Caesar, declared January 1 as a national holiday.

Janus, the two-faced god after whom January is named. (Youtube)

January was named after Janus, the two-faced God of doors and gates. One face of Janus looked forward, while the other looked back, signifying looking back at the old year and welcoming the new.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more
Its 4 pm. The mellow winter sun gives way to a crisp breeze on the outskirts of Borati village in Maharashtras Yavatmal district.

Beyond the cotton fields, a slight man watches over a herd of grazing cows. The mild chill doesnt explain his attire. His torso is wrapped in a band of rusted metal. A similar band wrapped around his neck has sharp spokes pointing outwards. The armour is fastened and secured with a lock and key.

I made this gear last month after I saw a tiger in the forest, says Shankar Atram, 48. He earns a living as a cowherd  Rs 150 per animal per month, he says.

The only way to survive a tiger is to keep all your senses alert. They usually hide among cattle or up in trees and then attack.

Hes been on high alert since the death of Sonabai Bhosale, who was mauled by a tigress in June 2016; hes been terrified since he saw the animal himself last month.

I have done the best I can to save myself, he says. When a tiger attacks from the back, they usually go for the neck. I am ready, he says.

***

In 13 villages near Pandharkawada town, night now arrives before daylight fades. Fields ripe with cotton are deserted by 5 pm. Early mornings are still and quiet.

These villages had never recorded a tiger attack before June 2016, when 60-year old Bhosale of Borati was mauled and killed. Since then there have been nine tiger deaths, the last on December 9 in Vihirgaon village.

In 2015, we first tracked the two big cats in the patches of forest here, which adjoin the Tipeshwar wildlife sanctuary. Through our network of tracker cameras in the forest, we have been able to confirm that there are a tiger and a tigress in the area, says KM Abharna, deputy conservator of forests for Pandharkawada.

The process for confirming that the tigress was involved in the killings is similar. Tracking images show that she was in the area before each kill.

Cotton swabs from the bodies of the last three victim and animal hair collected from the spot were also sent to the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad and the National Centre for Biological Sciences in Bangalore, which have confirmed that it is the tigress that is attacking humans.

Its a tricky business, convicting an animal of human kills.

If the wrong animal is targeted, even to be tranquillised and taken away from its habitat, it could lose the ability to live in the wilderness again. Due to its reduced capacity to hunt it may attack humans as easier prey, Abharna says. But if the animal that is preying on humans is allowed to roam free, there is a risk to other human lives, an added risk that people living in the area will panic and start to consider all animals man-hunters.

The forest department has put up signs and red flags on roads that they consider danger zones. (Pratik Chorge/HT Photo)

There are now 70 people from the forest department, including veterinary and range officers, and members of the NGO Wildlife Conservation Trust, are struggling to track the animal down.

Theyve been at it since September. More than 60 camera traps have been planted; a Hyderabad-based hunter who now works with forest departments across the country was called in, with his tranquilliser darts. But no one has seen the big cat.

***

Teams like that of veterinary officer Dr Ravikant Khobragade are using newer methods to try and capture the animal. On December 20, Khobragade had some success with an innovative cage that blends perfectly into the vegetation. The team left two buffaloes inside it as bait and waited in tree machans.

Before dawn, the animal killed the buffaloes and even entered the cage. We just needed to shut the exit and entry once it had entered a little more. But then we realised that it was the male and let it go, he says.

In the chase for the killer tiger, the animal has been innovating and adapting too, and the terrain works in its favour. A standard procedure for capturing tigers is to watch the spot where it had stashed its kill, because it always returns to the spot to eat. But this tigress has not come back in any of the cases. Whenever it senses any disturbance, it goes into a deep gorge in the area or into dense forest, where the bushes are so close together that a person cannot walk through them, says Abharna.

Mangala Pawar, 28, seen here with her daughter, lost her husband Gajanan to a tigress attack in August. (Pratik Chorge / HT Photo)

Meanwhile, tranquiliser darts have a range of just 15 to 20 metres.

This is very challenging terrain, says the Hyderabad-based conservationist and government-authorised shooter Nawab Shafath Ali Khan. And its the worst time of year to try and tranquilise a tiger. The vegetation is very thick and the post-monsoon cotton crop makes visibility very poor. Even shooting one would be difficult in these conditions.

Khan is also concerned about the potential for further loss of life and man-animal conflict, the longer the tigress roams free. Having such an animal on the prowl effectively turns about 25,000 villagers into enemies of all tigers in the area, he says.

As the clock continues to tick, the forest department is now considering applying for permission to have the tigress shot. We have already given order to dart and the process is going on. I have received files for the case of the tigress. I will have to go through it carefully and will take a call by next week, says chief wildlife warden, AK Mishra, the man who would give permission to pull the trigger.

***

Already, the long wait is wearing out the villagers. We always start work in the farms before 7 am and work till at least 6 in the evening during harvest season. But now we are all avoiding going into the fields, says Karrulal Singh Rathore of Banda village.

Initially, this anger spilled over onto the forest department. When 20-year-old Satish Kove of Sakhi village was mauled to death in September, villagers from Sakhi and Banda got together in an angry mob and blocked the departments access to the site.

The two sides are now working together to prevent more such attacks. The department has placed red flags along roads considered dangerous, especially at night. Villagers are paying heed to these warnings and taking other elaborate precautions.

A forest official at a camera trap. More than 60 have been added in the region to try and track the tigress but she has adapted too. She never revisits a kill zone, and she hides out in gorges covered in bracken so thick that even the trackers cannot follow. (Pratik Chorge / HT Photo)

Before the women enter the field to pluck cotton, we burst crackers and play drums to scare away the tiger. Also, we ensure that everyone now works in the fields in groups of four or more, says Singh.

Our biggest achievement in this period is that we have been able to get a large section of the villagers to cooperate and follow campaigns avoiding the forest and moving in groups for the time being, she says.

But the villagers still have doubts about how the forest department is going about things. They dont understand why the tigress cant just be shot. The delay is making them jittery.

Sadly, this kind of impasse is only likely to become more common. Incidents of animal attacks and deaths like these are only going to increase in the coming years, says Anish Andheria, president of the Wildlife Conservation Trust.

Every year the non-protected forest area in the country is getting degraded as the land is being used for grazing and farming. Tigers are also leaving their sanctuaries in search of food and water, and people and predators are coming face to face.

***

Back at Palaskund village, its 8 pm and a group of villagers are huddled around a fire. One spotted a tiger less than a kilometre away from the village on December 18.

It was nearly the size of a cow, casually passing by, says Shankar Pawar. I was so startled that I dropped the logs I was carrying. I was terrified the tiger would notice me but thankfully it didnt. In the darkness, theres a hushed silence. Should we just wait for the next time, asks one villager. There is no answer.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Prymorsky District Court of Odesa has arrested Russian national Yevgeny Mefedov, who is one of the suspects in a criminal inquiry into the May 2, 2014 events in Odesa, until January 18, 2018.

According to an Interfax-Ukraine reporter, the court made such a decision during a closed session on Friday, December 29. Journalists were able to stay in the courtroom when the presiding judge announced the results of the consideration of a petition by the prosecutor's office to take Mefedov into custody.

On December 14, Prymorsky District Court of Odesa ordered Mefedov's release from custody.

Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office told Interfax-Ukraine that the issue concerns the measure of restraint as part of a joint criminal proceeding under Article 110 (encroachment on the territorial integrity of Ukraine), Article 109 (actions aimed at violent change or overthrow of the constitutional order or the seizure of state power) and Part 1, Article 14, Part 1, Article 294 (preparation for riots) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which is managed by the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) office in Odesa region.

"The measure of restraint was cancelled for the purpose of [Mefedov's] further exchange for Ukrainian servicemen and other persons illegally held in the territory of criminal groups [in occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions]," the prosecutor's office said, adding that together with the SBU office in Odesa region, it keeps this issue under control and takes measures to ensure that as many illegally detained Ukrainian citizens as possible can return home.

Later, it became known that Mefedov had not been exchanged for Ukrainian captives, and, together with about a dozen other Russians, according to one version, should be transferred to Russia through the Foreign Ministry, or, according to another version, exchanged for Ukrainian citizens held not in occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, but in Russia.

Forty-eight people were killed and over 200 injured during mass riots in Odesa on May 2, 2014. Most victims perished in the local House of Trade Unions.
In a major crackdown on illegal sand dredging along the Thane creek, the police on Friday, arrested 25 people and seized over three lakh kilograms of sand worth over Rs80 lakh.

The drive was carried out by the collectors office and the revenue department between Kasheli-Diva and Anjur. Twelve accused are absconding.

This is the second time in a month that the departments have nabbed illegal sand miners.

During the drive, the officials seized 15 boats used to transfer sand and 15 suction pumps from each boat.

They also seized 67 brass (3,03,376 kg) of sand during the drive.

VD Bhise, senior inspector, Bhoiwada police station said, We started the drive at 6am on December 29 from Kasheli, which went on till late at night. Instead of searching for sand storage units on the land, we entered the water and searched for the sand mafias.

We have registered three cases and arrested 25 people for the crime. However, 12 of them are still absconding, which includes the mastermind behind the racket, Bhise added.

The accused were booked under relevant sections of the IPC, Environment Protection Act, Inland Vessels Act and the Indian Ports Act.

On December 20, over 1.67 lakh kgs of sand was seized by the authorities in Thane and Dombivli areas.

The officials had raided areas such as Ganesh ghat, Dombivli, Kalwa and Mumbra (Reti Bunder), Thane.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Four men from Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh were arrested in the city, for burglary at the houses of people who were out on Christmas vacations.

The Dindoshi police have recovered valuables worth Rs1.8 lakh and booked the accused under sections of house break-in and theft.

The police, led by assistant inspector Ganshyam Nair, kept a watch on Squatters Colony in Malad (East) following a tip-off, where they nabbed the accused and seized an auto-rickshaw which they used as a getaway vehicle. They stayed in the Malwani slums and would recce houses between Dahisar and Mahim. They managed to rob six houses.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A day after a devastating blaze at two upscale restrobars claimed 14 lives, the Shiv Sena-led Mumbai civic body ordered fire safety audits of all restaurants in the city and demolished illegal structures at six places on Saturday.

With New Years Eve celebrations just hours away, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation chief Ajoy Mehta asked his officials to inspect adherence to fire safety norms in the restaurants before parties get started on Sunday night.

The BMC on Friday suspended five officials for dereliction of duty after it was accused of turning a blind eye to violation of safety norms in the Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel, a commercial hub in central Mumbai that housed the two ill-fated restaurants --Mojos Bistro and 1Above.

The central Mumbai area -- a former textile mill district now dotted by swanky glass-and-concrete towers -- had witnessed death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway bridge on September 29 this year.

There are about 8000 restaurants in Mumbai, of which roughly 60% are bars and pubs. Thousands of people are expected to throng these places for New Years Eve parties.

Speaking to HT, Mehta said: My full force will be out on field, and do all it takes to inspect every restaurant before Sunday night.

The officials will check whether entrances to the restaurants are spacious enough, whether they have fire exits, if they have encroached upon an open space, such as a balcony, among other safety measures, civic body sources said.

All deputy municipal commissioners and assistant municipal commissioners (ward officer) have been asked to carry out the inspections that will also focus on illegal structures apart from violation of fire-safety norms.

If any restaurant is found flouting rules, it will not be allowed to operate on the New Years Eve, the sources said.

On Saturday morning, The civic body carried out the demolition drives at Lower Parel and Worli by pulling down structures in the eateries which were constructed illegally.

Pappa Roti, Drifters, Old Wild West are some of the restaurants in Kamala mills whose illegal structures were razed on Saturday. BMC officials said the drive will continue.

After Fridays fire, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered Mehta to conduct a high-level probe and pin responsibility on the guilty.

Mehta will lead the probe into the fire. He said, I have not appointed anyone, I will lead this probe as per chief ministers order, he said.

Arvind Sawant, a Shiv Sena MP from south Mumbai, said a no-confidence motion against BMC chief Mehta should be brought in after the Kamala Mill tragedy.

Meanwhile, the fire brigade officials said they were probing whether flames during a fire stunt by a bartender, burning coal used for hookah or a short circuit led to the tragedy that also left many injured.

Most of the 14 victims of the fire that started after 12.30am died of asphyxiation.

We are probing if the flames created during a fire stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out whether the burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy, a fire official said.

All other possibilities, including that of short circuit is also being probed, he added.

The police have booked Hratesh Sanghvi, Jigar Sanghvi and Abhijeet Manka of C Grade Hospitality, which manages the pub, along with others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others).

After the fire, some escaped to safety, while others found their way blocked by fire and suffocating smoke. Many panicked patrons took shelter in a toilet, where they were asphyxiated to death.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at 1 Above pub in upscale Parels Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

(With PTI inputs)
With an eye on fire safety, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will now inspect all restaurants across the city.

Late on Friday, civic chief Ajoy Mehta directed all deputy municipal commissioners and assistant municipal commissioners (ward officer) to carry out the inspections, focusing on illegal structures and fire safety violations, in the wake of the Kamala Mills fire.

Mehta has directed the officials to carry out the inspections with health and fire officials of the ward. According to civic officials, zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers are directed to form a team of officials from building and factory department to check violations and illegal alterations, along with health and fire officials. He said the officials will have to ensure the eateries are fire compliant i.e have fire escape routes/staircases and open spaces such as rooftops are encroachment-free.

Meanwhile, party workers of the Nationalist Congress Party forcefully closed all eateries at Kamala Mills compound.
Sophia, a lifelike robot and the first one to be granted citizenship of a country, made its first appearance in India at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) on Saturday, during its cultural extravaganza, TechFest.

Draped in a sari, the humanoid robot had a 15-minute conversation with a student in front of an audience of more than 3,000, on topics ranging from artificial intelligence to the issues facing the world. However, after answering a few initial questions, Sophia went silent due to an unexplained technical snag. It started functioning again after the organisers intervened.

Known for its human-like appearance and behaviour, Sophia was developed by Hong Kong-based Hanson Robotics and activated in 2015. Using artificial intelligence, it imitates human gestures and facial expressions, and is able to make conversation on predefined topics.The robot was granted citizenship of Saudi Arabia in October.

The presence of Sophia had created much buzz among students and technology enthusiasts who thronged to IIT-Bs convocation hall in large numbers. The excitement among more than 3,000 attendees was palpable, as they waited for the first appearance of the robot modelled on Hollywood actress Audrey Hepburn. The event began after a 45-minute delay.

When asked about its maiden India trip, the robot replied, I have always wanted to visit India. I heard so much about this vibrant land of tradition and culture. Indians have made contributions towards Silicon Valley. I am always very excited about Indias investment in space technology.

However, five minutes into the conversation, the robot fell silent and stopped responding to questions, much to the disappointment of the audience. The organisers didnt provide any explanation for the glitch except that it was an internet issue. The performance resumed after the glitch was fixed.

The robot gave a detailed and coherent answers to a wide variety of questions posed by the students. Describing its peculiar appearance, Sophia, in its mechanical voice, said, I have been created on a human scale so that I can adapt to human society. A humanoid robot can use the same tools, same spaces and interact with people the same way humans do. Not every robot needs to be like this. But you should definitely make sure that you have good human values at heart when you design an artificial intelligence device.

Much of the discussion revolved around comparison between humans and robots, advances in artificial intelligence, and the threat it posed to human race. Sophia sought to alleviate the concerns of a robotic takeover of the world by saying, Robots should be helping humans. Artificial Intelligence may be the key to a peaceful civilization.

The audience also witnessed some witty replies by the robot. When asked by a student if it will marry her, Sophia said, I will have to decline, but thanks for compliment.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
There is a common thread connecting the Saki Naka fire incident that killed 12 workers, the fire incident at La Mer building where celebrities reside, and the Kamala Mills tragedy on Friday night that killed 14 people  a blatant disregard for fire safety norms.

Be it slums, high-rises, restaurants, industrial units, studios or old buildings  each has witnessed massive fire incidents this year. The violation of fire safety regulations has turned each into a tinder box, said experts.

Ten days before the fire at 1Above, 12 migrant workers died in a fire that broke out in an illegal snack-making unit at Saki Naka in Andheri. At the La Mer building in Bandra, where fire gutted a portion of a flat on the 10th floor, the fire-fighting system was defunct. Even in RK studios in Chembur, where a fire destroyed a part of the iconic studios, fire safety guidelines were not followed. A massive fire in the Behrampada slums of Bandra, that gutted 200 to 300 shanties, was a result of the storage of gas cylinders and a huge amount of other combustible material.

Pratap Khargopikar, former chief fire officer of the Mumbai fire brigade, said that the increasing number of incidents is a combination of the authorities negligence, the storage of combustible material and the defunct internal fire-fighting system in most buildings.

Khargopikar said, The National Building Code of India specifies the usage of fire-retardant material as upholstery. Also, buildings with glass facades in Mumbai are becoming an increasing challenge for fire safety.

According to the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2009, buildings are supposed to conduct a fire audit twice a year - in January and July  and submit the fitness certificates to the brigade. However, this is hardly complied and there is hardly any follow-up on the part of the brigade.

Between 2010 and 2016, the Mumbai fire brigade had sent notices to 4,592 buildings in the city for flouting fire norms, but initiated prosecution against only 14 buildings. A senior fire official said that it is practically impossible for the brigade to keep following-up on cases and checking buildings. With more than 17,000 fire calls in a year, administrative work does take a backfoot, the official said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A common thread links the Saki Naka fire, the blaze at the upmarket La Mer building, and the recent Kamala Mills tragedy that killed 14. A blatant disregard for safety norms was seen in all the three fires, and many others that occurred in Mumbai through 2017.

Several structures, from slums, high-rises, restaurants, industrial units and studios to old buildings, witnessed massive fires this year  causing significant loss to life and property. Blatant violations of fire-safety norms have virtually turned the city into a tinder box, say activists and experts.

Ten days before the fire at 1Above, 12 migrant workers were killed when a major fire broke out in an illegal snack-making unit at Saki Naka, Andheri. Bandras La Mer building, where a blaze gutted part of a tenth-floor apartment, had a defunct fire-fighting system. Storage of gas cylinders and huge amounts of combustible material was identified as the cause of the massive fire at Behrampada slums in Badra, where 200-300 shanties were gutted. Fire safety guidelines were not followed even at the iconic RK Studios in Chembur.

Pratap Khargopikar, former chief fire officer of the Mumbai fire brigade, said the rising number of fires in Mumbai can be attributed to negligence on the part of the authorities, the increasing usage of combustible material, and defunct fire-fighting systems. The national building code specifies the use of fire-retardant material for upholstery. Despite a stringent act being in place, no third party has been employed to check if all the norms are being followed. Similarly, buildings with glass facades pose a big challenge to fire safety, he added.

According to the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act-2009, buildings should conduct fire audits twice a year  in January and July  and submit fitness certificates to the authorities. But few comply with these regulations, and the fire department is not very prompt at following through either.

The Mumbai fire brigade sent notices to 4,592 buildings in the city for flouting fire norms between 2010 and 2016, but initiated action only against 14. A senior fire official said following up on every case was virtually impossible. With having to answer over 17,000 fire-related calls in a year, administrative work is relegated to the backburner, he added.

Pankaj Joshi, executive director of the Urban Design Research Institute, said the need of the hour was to check if all remodelled buildings in the area complied with fire-safety norms. Even though fire audits are mandatory, we do not know if they are undertaken regularly, he added.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
surendra.gangan@htlive.com

The state government will seek financial assistance of Rs2,430 crore from the central government under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to compensate farmers who were hit by the pest attack on cotton and paddy crops and loss of horticulture due to the Ockhi cyclone.

Almost 90% of the cotton crops standing on 41 lakh hectares in the state was hit in the pink bollworm pest attack in the last two months. Farmers are believed to have incurred huge losses as they did not get anything from the standing crops during third picking. Experts estimate the losses to be more than Rs15,000 crore across the state , with the majority of losses being incurred in Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. Similarly, the pest attack on paddy crops had caused huge losses in parts of Vidarbha.

The state government had last week announced compensation of Rs6,800 to Rs13,500 a hectare to cotton growers, Rs6,800 to Rs13,500 a hectare for paddy farmers and Rs13,500 to Rs18,500 a hectare for horticulture farmers as their share when compensation under the NDRF is announced. Following the announcement, the government has prepared a memorandum to be sent to the Centre to seek financial help. The financial assistance is being demanded after Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh gave assurance to the state government, during their meeting on December 18 at Nagpur, about the relief package.

The memorandum to be sent to the Centre has been finalised and will be submitted by Monday. Major part of the package demanded is towards the compensation to be given to cotton farmers, Medha Gadgil, additional chief secretary, relief and rehabilitation department, told HT.

Bijay Kumar, principal secretary, agriculture department, said that NDRF assistance is applicable when more than 33% of the crop is lost. Of the total area affected, about 80% has sustained losses of more than 33% and we are hopeful that we will get maximum support from the Centre, he said.

After the memorandum is submitted, teams of senior officials from the central government will visit the affected area for assessment before the assistance is announced. According to officials from the agriculture department, many areas are unlikely to pass the parameters of the loss as the first two pickings of cotton in September and October yielded more than last years average. Secondly, the estimated loss and the assistance demanded do not match when compared with the relief package already announced by the government in the state legislature last week. Past experiences show that we get very little against demanded funds. If it happened this time too, how are we going to pay out the compensation announced?, an official from the agriculture department questioned.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
In a knee-jerk reaction to the Kamala Mills fire incident, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday ordered immediate demolition of establishments such as eateries, nightclubs, pubs and bistros that are running without proper permission from the civic body.

The authorities have also been asked to conduct safety audits of the establishments that are in operation with due permission and licences.

Fadnavis visited the spot at the Kamala Mills, where 14 people died in the fire, on Friday. After his visit, Fadnavis said the authorities responsible to ensure safety of visitors at such places have been asked to take stern action in case of violations. Five officers from the civic body have been suspended. If they are found guilty of giving permissions illegally, they will be booked for criminal offence. The owner-directors of the rooftop restaurant are being booked under various sections of Indian Penal Code and are facing the charge of culpable homicide, Fadnavis said. The CM said the establishments without permissions will be demolished immediately. The establishments in such types of business that are running without permissions or licences will be demolished on war-footing. The ones running with permission from the civic body and the fire brigade will have to undergo a safety audit, he said during his visit on Friday. He did not specify any time-limit for the audit.

Earlier in the day, Fadnavis directed Mumbai municipal commissioner Ajoy Mehta to conduct an inquiry into the incident and submit the report in 15 days. On learning that many establishments in Kamala Mills rampantly violate safety rules, he directed the BMC commissioner to crack the whip. Five civic officers were suspended within hours of the incident. He also directed not to show any leniency in action against these officials, an official from the CMO said. Disturbing to know about the loss of lives in unfortunate #KamalaMills fire incident in Mumbai. My thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured, he tweeted on Friday morning.
Fire safety norm violations were reported earlier too in the two Kamala Mills restaurants, which were burnt down in a massive fire that killed 14 people on Friday morning, according to local activists.

1Above resto-bar on the terrace of Trade House is one of the many in Kamala Mills compound that had illegally extended its structure using bamboos and tarpaulin sheets. The management of 1Above denied all allegations.

Mangesh Kasalkar and Mandar Parab, residents of the area, said they sent letters to the civic body complaining about the unauthorised and unsafe construction in at least 20 open-air restaurants in and around the mills, including 1Above. We have been following the issue since October, but the civic body replied saying the restaurant did not flout any norms, said Parab.

In July, another activist Ilyas Khan claimed he wrote to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) about non-compliance to fire safety norms in seven open-air restaurants in Lower Parel, including the restaurant in question.

1Above was not fire-compliant at all. It had used 8,000 sqft of terrace illegally. I also made online complaints against five restaurants in Kamala Mills and three in Raghvanshi Mills, said Khan, adding many illegal restaurants had sprung up in the area this year.

A statement issued by 1 Above management said, All our premises are well-inspected and we have all the requisite permissions. All fire safety mechanisms were place and a regular safety audit carried out. We presume the fire emanated from a property adjoining 1Above. The unmanageable nature at the preliminary source of the fire resulted in its escalation to our property.

The BMC said 1Above had permission to use the designated one-thirds of the open space of the terrace.

However, the one-year-old resto-bar used up more of the space, even after we sent notices for demolition in July, August and September. We took action against 1Above in September and also against Mojo Bistro for illegal extension in August, said assistant municipal commissioner Prashant Sapkale.
Armed man takes hostage nine adults, two children at post office in Kharkiv

An armed man who seized the Ukrposhta post office near the Kyivska metro station in Kharkiv on Saturday has taken hostage nine adults and two children, the head of the National Police's main office in Kharkiv region, Oleh Bekh, has told Interfax-Ukraine.

"There are nine adults and two children there. We currently do not understand the demands. He did not make any demands. We are trying to get in contact with him," he told Interfax-Ukraine on Saturday.

Bekh also said that road traffic near the scene of the incident had been closed.

Earlier reports said that a masked gunman entered the post office near the Kyivska metro station in Kharkiv on Saturday afternoon and barricaded himself there.

The police left for the scene.
: The Mumbai police have issued a lookout notice against the three owners of rooftop restaurant 1Above in Kamala Mills, where a fire killed 14 people and injured 55 early on Friday. The owners have been booked for culpable homicide.

A lookout notice alerts security agencies to restrict domestic and international air travel of wanted accused.

The NM Joshi Marg police have filed a case against Kripesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi and their partner Abhijit Mankar. The notice has been issued so that the three men dont travel domestically or internationally, said an officer privy to the investigation.

The police suspect that the three business partners may approach the court for an anticipatory bail. Three teams are out of the city to trace them, said the officer.

The case has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) which is non-bailable. Under this section, if an accused is found guilty, he can get a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

The police are investigating how the fire started and recording statements of witnesses. The CCTV camera wires and the digital video recorder box have been charred, but we are investigating further, said the officer.

Several theories are floating over the cause of fire: hookah cinders, a short-circuit or fire games at 1Above. But the police and fire brigade officials are yet to ascertain the cause. We are focusing on the negligence part. The fire could be an accident but preventing it with adequate precautionary measures was the responsibility of the restropub, said the officer.

Witnesses told the police that the fire broke out on the rooftop bar of the four-storey building in Lower Parel at 12.15am. The investigating officer said the fire spread quickly, engulfing the ceiling, before patrons could realise its intensity. Fearing for their lives, they ran helter-skelter to save themselves from the collapsing roof.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Kamala Mills fire has highlighted how restaurant owners flout fire safety regulations.

In the past few years, Mumbai witnessed a boom in restaurants, pubs, bars and lounges, with industrial areas being turned into commercial zones.

The complex procedure to obtain permissions to start and continue with the business has led to various malpractices  either the owners violate/ignore rules themselves or they do so in connivance with the authorities. There have hardly been any cases where an establishment was shut down for violation of rules.

For instance, once a restaurant is opened, the fire brigade officials visit the premises and give a no-objection certificate (NOC). After that, every year, restaurants renew their licences. The health department internally asks for clearance from the fire brigade before issuing the licence.

No one inspects the fire safety equipment, but we get the licence anyway, said a prominent hotelier.

Even the fire audit is voluntary, and a majority of restaurants refuse to do it.

Savio Dsa, a bar consultant who has set up several pubs in the city, said the whole system is designed to favour corrupt practices. There are many old rules that need to be scrapped. The hotelier spends crores of rupees to get the place, furnish it and is desperate to get approvals. Officials take advantage of the situation and safety takes a back seat. The focus is to okay the plan irrespective of consideration for space and safety, said Dsa.

The rooftop restaurant where the fire broke out was never meant for commercial purposes. A majority of rooftops have just one entrance and that too small, thus putting the emergency exit out of question. The hoteliers submit a plan showing all systems, but the ground reality is starkly different, said Ashraf Khan, president, Youth Voice, who has complained of several such violations.

In 2016, under the Ease of Doing Business, the state government took away the power of the police department and shifted it to the local ward offices health department.

As the pubs operate at night, the BMC officials who leave home in the evening do not conduct any inspection. This has given the owners a long rope to violate rules, said Khan.

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) said it was advocating faster approvals but with safety as priority. It is difficult to do business considering it takes six to eight months to get approvals to open a restaurant, said Riyaz Amlani, Member, NRAI. However he said that safety should not be compromised.

The safety rules can be complied with and should be done, he said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
It was to be a girls night out to celebrate the purchase of a new car. But the fire at two rooftop restaurants in Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel made it the saddest day for a family from Ghatkopar. (14 KILLED IN BLAZE)

On Thursday, eight cousins and two of their daughters gathered at Ghatkopar for lunch at a relatives place. They suddenly made a plan to celebrate the new car, which Tejal Gandhis husband gifted her on their wedding anniversary. Tejal and Kavita Dharani unanimously suggested they could celebrate in a pub, 1 Above. Tejal and Kavita, both 36, did not survive the fire.

Pashmina Parikh, Gandhis sister, while recalling the previous days incident, said she decided to opt out of the plan after lunch owing to the commute between Kamala Mills and her home in Goregaon. The aunt also skipped the dinner. Tejal was the youngest among all of us. My father still cant get over the visual of his daughters dead body, Parikh said.

The group had left for Kamala Mills a little after 9.30pm, and had to wait for more than half-an-hour for a table to be allotted to them. Just some time later, while they were having momos, the fire broke out and people started running to escape the fire.

Onlookers gather outside the building that caught fire in Mumbai on Friday. (PTI)

Another couple, who was sitting right next to the group, with whom they exchanged pleasantries, died in the fire.

While, the other seven cousins ran towards various exits, Gandhi and Dharani decided to rush towards the washroom, assuming they would be safe there because the interiors in the pub were made of wood.

Meghana Thakkar, Gandhis sister, who survived with some burns, tried to find her way out through the kitchen.

Dharanis uncle, Nemish Shah, said the family is a close knit one and they would have often have gatherings, one of which was planned for Friday morning. Shah demanded the authorities should check the security exits and arrangements before providing licences.

My niece told me the exit door was so small that only person could pass from there, while there were things kept on stairs, which led to a stampede kind-of situation, Shah said.

Dharanis sister, Shefali Dharani, who survived the incident said she didnt spot any firefighting equipment in the pub. It didnt seem like that was firefighting equipment in place. Nor was there provision for oxygen. If at all there would have been, it was too dark to spot, said Shefali.

Shefalis daughter who was present there too was caught in the stampede, but was later rescued by one of her neighbours.

Namita Malde, Kavitas friend, said the bodies didnt have any burn marks as they died of suffocation. Although Tejals sister got a chance to exit, Tejal couldnt escape, Malde said.
Khushbu Mehta Bansali was celebrating her 29th birthday at the 1Above restaurant in central Mumbai. There was music, cake, and her friends and family for company. Shortly after midnight a fire broke out and the restaurant was reduced to ashes. Bansali was among the 14 people who died.

Bansalis husband, Jayesh, survived. Most people choked to death, say doctors.

Bansali, dressed in a black top, is blowing out candles on her birthday cake to the chorus of Happy Birthday and wishes for a long life, shows a video her friends shared on social media. The video, inscribed with a caption saying Happiest birthday Khushi, shows a friend teasing Bansali, who gestures before cutting the cake.

The video is believed to have been recorded minutes before the fire broke out at the restaurant in Kamala Mills complex in Lower Parel, a popular night spot and commercial hub.

1Above and another restaurant called Mojo are being investigated for the fire. The two allegedly had ignored notices about safety and unauthorised construction.

Babulal Mehta, Bansalis grandfather, blamed irresponsible hotel management and civic officials. The hotel had put up a temporary structure supported by bamboo, with the possibility of catching fire. There was no fire extinguishing facility either. It is the responsibility of the police and civic authorities to act against any violations, he told the media.
Despite the Uttar Pradesh governments appointed of three ministers committee aimed to solve the issues faced by homebuyers, the state has failed to bring any solution to thousands of people affected.

The committee, consisting industry minister Satish Mahana, urban housing minister Suresh Khanna and minister of state for industry and sugar mills Suresh Rana, held multiple meetings with the buyers, builders and the officials. The panel had directed the Greater Noida authority to file FIR against errant builders, who are not delivering flats as per the promises they had made to the buyers.

But the committee failed to address any of the issues we (homebuyers), have been facing for the last seven years, said Pushpendra Kumar, a buyer.

Homebuyers had pinned their hopes on the new government in Uttar Pradesh to solve their issues in 2017. After almost eight months of assuming power, chief minister Yogi Adityanath led state government has been unable to provide relief to thousands of homebuyers in Noida and Greater Noida.

Yogi Adityanath, however, said the government has addressed the issues of homebuyers.

The committee is seriously looking into the issues of homebuyers and it has been able to solve much of the problems. The committee has ensured delivery of 40,000 flats and another 40,000 flats will be delivered next year, said Suresh Rana, minister and committee member.

On September 12, the chief minister directed the Noida and Greater Noida authorities to deliver around 50,000 flats by end of December 2017.

We did not get any relief even after flat delivery promises were made by the state government on several occasions. The chief minister on December 25 said that Noida and Greater Noida authorities have ensured delivery of 40,000 flats by December end and another 40,000 flats delivery in 2018. But two authorities are unable to give a break up of these flats, which were claimed to be delivered to buyers, said SK Nagrath, president of Jaypee Aman flat buyers association.

Homebuyers said living up to the promises of the government to maintain transparency in public functioning, the authorities should have provided details of delivered 40,000 flats on their respective website.

The two authorities and the UP government have given an imaginary figure and their claim is an eyewash to fool us. Why cannot they share exact details of the number of flats delivered to buyers, who were earlier in trouble? We are going to resume our protests from January 2018, said Abhishek Kumar, president of Noida extension flat owners welfare association (NEFOWA).

Office-bearers of NEFOWA said none of the aggrieved homebuyers associated with their group got any relief from the problems.

Officials of the Noida and the Greater Noida misled the CM on flat delivery issue. In reality, the two authorities and the builders are yet to solve the problems, said Shashank Shekhar, a flat buyer.

Out of 40,000 flats, the Noida builders were supposed to deliver 12,500 flats, and Greater Noida builders were supposed to deliver 27,500 flats.

As per the details given by the Noida authority, the builders have delivered 6,900 flats while remaining 5,600 are yet to be delivered. In Greater Noida, the builders delivered 12,000 flats out of 27,500 flats and remaining were supposed to be delivered by December end. But these ready flats are not owned by aggrieved buyers. The question is the builders should have delivered pending flats or shared a schedule of delivery, said Satish Kumar, a buyer.

Homebuyers said the state government and officials in two authorities are ignoring the questions of buyers pertaining to pending flats.

We have tried to ensure the builders deliver flats as per the orders of the Chief Minister. Now we have scheduled another meeting on January 15, 2018 with builders to ask them to deliver pending flats at the earliest, said Debasish Panda, chief executive officer of the Greater Noida authority.

The Noida authority officials said they are helping the builders to deliver flats.

We have tried to help the builders so that they easily deliver the flats and the homebuyers get relief by getting possession of their flats. We have expedited the process of issuance of occupancy certificate and also simplified the process for the same, said Alok Tandon, chief executive officer of the Noida authority.

There are around 300 stuck housing projects in Noida and Greater Noida. Around 2 lakh homebuyers are unable to get flats as per the schedule promised by the builders, said officials. The Noida authority needs to recover around 11,000 crore land dues from the 94 builders, who got land on instalments after paying 10% of the total land cost. And the Greater Noida authority needs to recover around 7,200 crore from 203 builders.

The confederation of real estate developers association of India (CREDAI), a realtors body, said the pending flats can be delivered if the UP government agrees to their demands.

The real issue with the builders is of the funds due to the dip in sales of flats. If the UP government will agree to our demands, 80% of the pending flats can be delivered. Our important demand is that the government should allow the builder to pay land dues flat wise, said Amit Modi, vice-president of CREDAI (western UP).

On August 9, the Allahabad bench of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) admitted a plea from private bank IDBI to begin insolvency proceedings against Jaypee Infratech for defaulting on 526.11 crore loan the real estate developer for its Wishtown project in Noida. More than 30,000 buyers of Jaypee Infratech in Noida and Yamuna Expressway areas are worried that the insolvency proceedings would leave them in a lurch and without recourse to get either a house or compensation from the company.

In August, NCLT has also admitted an insolvency plea from the Bank of Baroda against Amrapalis three firms  Ultra Homes Private Limited, Silicon City and Amrapali.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Aiming to reduce the rate of fatalities in road accidents, the district administration has decided to introduce two state-of-the-art ambulances to provide on the spot first aid to the mishap victim.

Member Parliament(Rajya Sabha) Ambika Soni is paying from her MPLAD fund for the same. The order for the ambulances has been placed by the deputy commissioner, whom I met last week, while on my visit to Chandigarh, said Soni. A concern for immediate requirement of a fully equipped and advanced ambulances was raised.Following which, we sanctioned funds for Mohali and Kharar respectively she said.

34 deaths in 77 accidents: December deadliest month for Mohali commuters

The ambulances will include an advanced oxygen facility, provision for stretchers, expert staff and driver.

 Ambika Soni , MP

A normal ambulance will cost anywhere between Rs 10-11 lakh however, the state-of-art vehicle will cost the administration over Rs 16 lakh. The ambulances will include an advanced oxygen facility, provision for stretchers, expert staff and driver to help save victims in case of accidents said Soni. Civil Surgeon Mohali Rita Bhardwaj said, The ambulances will be equipped with auto-load stretchers. These stretchers makes loading and unloading of critically injured persons easy.

The ambulances will have pre-fitted oxygen cylinders, Bhardwaj said. In 2017, over 271 deaths in 509 accident cases have been registered in Mohali so far. In December alone, so far 34 people have been killed in road accidents in the district, the most in the year.

The ambulances are scheduled to arrive by January 20. Initially, the ambulances will have expert staff from the civil hospital said Mohali deputy commissioner Gurpreet Kaur Sapra.

Green corridor for ambulances

DC Sapra said that the administration has finalised a proposal for a special passage for smooth commuting of ambulances across the district. Due to increasing traffic in the district it takes a lot of time for the ambulances to reach hospitals and the delay can cost the victims their life, Sapra said.

She said,  We have zeroed in on few routes to provide a dry run to ambulances to reach major hospitals in the city as well as to the PGI in Chandigarh.

Shelters for attendants in Mohali, Kharar

Meanwhile, shelters for the attendants staying put at the civil hospital of Mohali and Kharar will also come up in the next year. Around 50 lakh for Mohali and over 40 lakh for Kharar have been kept aside for shelter that will provide a resting place for the family members of the patients admitted in the hospital said Soni.
Government school students in Jharkhand are likely to worship their parents at least once a year as part of their curriculum from the next academic session.

State education minister Neera Yadav has asked the school education department to work on a project to hold an annual Matri Pitri Pujan ceremony at about 40,000 schools run by the government.

The idea is to instil respect in children for their parents. Respecting parents is part of our culture and we plan to hold an annual function at schools to celebrate this relationship, Yadav said.

The idea stems from neighbouring Chhattisgarh, where the states the BJP government officially declared Valentines Day as Matru-Pitru Divas, or Parents Day, in 2015. This was seen as an effort to prevent children from celebrating Valentines Day, which many people detest as a damaging import from western culture.

But Yadav said she drew inspiration after witnessing an event in a government-aided school in which children worshipped their parents with Aarti and garlands. She was referring to an event at Lota Nayak High School in Giridih districts Dhanwar block on November 20.

A day for the Matri Pitri Pujan in 2018 will be fixed soon.

Jharkhand school education and literacy secretary Amrendra Pratap Singh confirmed that the department has received the ministers directive and was working on it. The project is still at an infancy stage, he said.

Sources from the department said the date for the event was not decided, but schools across the state will participate on the same day.

The Jharkhand Parents Association (JPA) welcomed the move and thanked the minister. The groups members said the initiative was needed to preserve Indian culture, which was gradually losing ground to western influences.

I hope the idea doesnt remain a concept and is actually practiced in all schools, said Ajay Rai, president of the JPA.

Over five million children study in government schools in Jharkhand and the majority come from villages and urban slums.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Indonesia is planning to attract Indian wedding planners to promote that country as the big fat Indian wedding destination with attractive offers, said a top official of Visit Indonesia Tourism Office (VITO)-India. He said Indonesia is also interested in promoting the country as a movie shooting spot for Indian film-makers.

We are targetting wedding planners in India to promote Indonesia as a destination for Indian weddings. There are several Indian restaurants and even Jain food is available there. So, wedding food will not be an issue. Similarly, purohits can also be arranged to conduct the wedding, said Sanjay Sondhi, country manager, VITO-India.

Similar to the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions) events, incentives like a cultural programme and a special spa session for the bride and bridegroom can be offered, added Sondhi. According to him, Non-Resident Indians are coming to Indonesia for conducting weddings for their families.

That apart, Sondhi said Indonesia has decided to promote other destinations like Lombak, Bondung and JogJakarta for Indian tourists and the necessary infrastructure for that was being created.

Sondhi said the target for 2017 is 4,56,000 Indians. Till October 2017, a total of 3,97,000 Indian tourists had come to Indonesia. Indonesia also has three-star hotels that offer facilities for $50. Indian tourists normally spend six nights in Indonesia and the average spend per head will be around $1,200, he said.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more
On Fridays episode of Bigg Boss 11, Vikas was given a secret task. His prize would be winning a New Years dinner for everyone in the house. In the first part of the task Vikas had to convince everyone to send anyone but himself and Akash to the jail. The trouble was that Akash had been the most uncooperative member of the house by far, and no one was ready to nominate any other person.

But Akash couldnt understand why Vikas was trying to save him. Puneesh took him aside and told him that Vikas didnt want him to enter the jail because thats where a person has the most opportunity to get footage. Soon thats what everyone started believing and Vikas became a villain.

In the end, Vikas lost the first part of the task because everyone ended up picking Akash anyway and Vikas and Puneesh had a fight which lasted for five minutes, and then they hugged and made up.

Time for part 2. In this challenge, Vikas had to make someone cry. But Vikas had a unique idea to win. He went to Hina and Luv and challenged them to cry on cue if they were such good actors. Hina did it in a jiffy. To top it, even Luv managed to do it. Vikas was congratulated for his win, and given the third part of this task. He had to accuse someone of thievery and convince everyone that he was not lying.

Bigg Boss contestants discuss who should be sent to the jail during Fridays episode.

Vikas took out empty coffee jars and started yelling that someone had taken it. Puneesh wasnt buying it, but when Vikas pulled out a planted pack from Akashs bed, everyone seemed to believe it. But just when Akash swore on his mother that he hadnt taken the coffee, the others had doubts. Vikas apologised to Akashs mother on camera for putting her son in the jail.

But Bigg Boss called him and told him hed succeeded. Bigg Boss also gave him the next part of his challenge, which was to angrily throw someones clothes into the pool. To begin the task, Vikas faked an argument with Priyank, and then faked crying. No one bought it. In fact, everyone was shocked as to why was faking it. When he was confronted, Vikas got the opportunity to throw the clothes into the pool.

Bigg Boss then informed everyone about the secret task, which no one suspected. Expect Hina, who said she knew it all.

The contestants then had a New Year celebration, two days early by dancing on a makeshift stage.

Catch all the latest updates from Bigg Boss 11 here

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has instructed Kyiv's representatives in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) to immediately organize talks on the next round of the exchange of Ukrainian detainees.

"Another thing that requires our common efforts is to ensure the release of those guys who stayed there. I have already ordered my advisers and representatives in the Trilateral Contact Group to immediately organize a meeting... And I want to say that we will have the first meeting on [January] 10 so that we did not stop on this wave, because I feel how hard it is for them now," he said in Kyiv on Saturday, while visiting at the main military clinical hospital the Ukrainian servicemen freed from occupied Donbas.

The president also asked the freed servicemen to write letters to their friends who are still held captive and maintain contact with their families.

"If you had friends there, write letters to them, pass them to the doctor. I will try to pass [the letters] to them on [January] 10 when I go there. They will be pleased," Poroshenko said.

He also wrote on his page on Facebook that the best doctors provide medical treatment to 24 freed persons.

"The government is working on the preparation of a package of social assistance to them and their families. The regional administrations were also instructed to urgently help solve social and domestic issues," Poroshenko wrote, thanking the liberated Ukrainians "for courage and strength of spirit, and their families for trust."
From vacationing at exotic locations to spending time with loved ones in the family  this is how most of TV celebrities are going to ring in the New Year. While Sourabh Raj Jain is looking forward to spend some time with his newborn kids, Jasmin Bhasin will be shooting for her show on the last day on the year. Mishal Raheja will too, be working when ringing in the New Year.

Check out for more details:

Sourabh Raaj Jain: This year, I would be partying at home with our babies. The craziest celebration that I can remember is during college days when a bunch of us partied all night from one place to another, until next morning when we ended it at India gate.

Ssharad Malhotraa: I will be in Mumbai because I want to spend some quality time with my awesome friends. I would also do some introspection and have my me time and plan my next move in my career and life.

Smriti Kalra: Whenever I make plans, things dont go the way I want. So I am not making any plans this time and would go with the flow. But I wont be turning crazy unlike the entire world. All that I know for sure is that today I am going to indulge in food and desserts.

Jasmin Bhasin: This year I am shooting on New Years Eve, so after pack up, it would just be a simple dinner with close friends.

Mishal Raheja: I will be working when the New Year rings in, but I am planning to have a celebratory lunch with some friends, after which I will be flying down to Goa for a shoot.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Priyank Sharma, who is the latest contestant to be evicted from Bigg Boss 11, says his journey can be described in one word  amazing.

The Delhi boy is planning to head back to the Capital to celebrate New Year with his family; and looks back at his days in the Bigg Boss house with cheer. That house is unpredictable, and I think I got whatever I deserved. Im only looking at the positives, now. 2017 has turned out to be a wonderful year for me. This boy [Priyank]  who was depressed, making mistakes and trying to rectify them, and even at one point of time thought life has become meaningless  saw so many good things happening. Three popular shows  Splitsvilla, Roadies and then Bigg Boss happened, and changed my life completely. From nothing, I have become something, says Priyank reminiscing his journey .

Did his eviction come at the cost of Luv Tyagi, his co-contestant on the show  who the audiences believe is surviving purely on basis of luck? Yes, this time too he got saved and [he] was like is it for real! I could only laugh at his expression, and then had to convince him that he has survived, yet another eviction. After all, anything can happen... Salman [Khan] bhai also told me whatever happened has happened, [and] now I should move on. Im doing exactly that, he explains.

There has been much discussion about Priyanks loyalties shifting from Vikas [Gupta] to Hina [Khan] and then back to Vikas. Priyank says, I think everyone is playing their best game to win the show. Im friends with all of them. The only thing I did was to make sure [that I] take a stand, and support whoever is right. And I also pointed out mistakes, as a true friend. There is no love lost between Vikas, Hina, Luv and me.

Will he now try to shed his Casanova tag that he received after his ex-girlfriend, Divya Agarwal, visited him in the Bigg Boss house? Im not at all a Casanova. Trust me. Not every relationship works out. Same happened between Divya and me. We have moved on, and are happy with our lives. Right now Im not dating anyone, and just want to focus on my career, says Priyank.

Well, it goes without saying that he is looking forward to build his career as an actor. I am naive right now, and want to find out what I am good at. There were a few offers that I had discussed before entering Bigg Boss. Now I am going to take them forward, says the actor, adding, Im open to working in films, web and TV.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
An Egyptian court has convicted former Islamist President Mohammed Morsi and 18 others over insulting the judiciary, sentencing them to three years in prison.

Among defendants in the case are prominent rights activist Alaa Abdel-Fattah and political analyst Amr Hamzawy, both of whom were fined 30,000 Egyptian pounds.

Abdel-Fattah is serving a five-year sentence for taking part in an illegal protest in 2013. Hamzawy lives in exile.

Todays verdict can be appealed.

Morsi, Egypts first freely elected president, was ousted by the military in 2013 following mass protests against his one-year divisive rule. He has since faced trial on a host of charges, including espionage and conspiring with foreign groups.

Egypt has since 2013 cracked down on Islamists, jailing thousands of them as well as secular and liberal activists.
A Gazan died on Saturday after being wounded by Israeli fire during a protest on the border over US recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital, a Palestinian health official said.

Jamal Muslih, 20, of Al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, had been seriously wounded by live fire yesterday, health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

His death brings to 13 the number of Palestinians killed since US President Donald Trump announced on December 6 that he would recognise Jerusalem as Israels capital and move the US embassy there from Tel Aviv.

Eleven protesters died after clashes with Israeli troops, and two others were killed in an Israeli air strike on Gaza earlier in the month.

More than 50 Palestinians were wounded in yesterday clashes on the Gaza-Israel border as part of a day of rage over the US declaration, called for by both Gaza rulers Hamas and fellow militant group Islamic Jihad.

In the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said at least 16 people were wounded when Israeli troops fired live rounds during demonstrations, while others were hit with rubber-coated bullets.

Earlier yesterday, militants in Gaza fired three rockets at southern Israel, two of which were intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defence system, with the third hitting a village near the border, causing damage but no casualties.

Israeli aircraft and tanks targeted two Hamas positions near the border in response, again causing damage but no casualties.

Rockets from Gaza are often fired by fringe Islamist groups but Israel holds Hamas responsible for all attacks from the territory.
India reacted with anger after Palestines envoy to Pakistan joined Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed at a rally organised by jihadi groups on Friday, just days after New Delhi backed a UN resolution that denounced Washingtons decision to recognise Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

Photos of the Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, sharing the stage with Saeed and addressing the rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council at Liaqat Bagh in Rawalpindi were circulated on social media on Friday. The rally was organised to condemn the US move on Jerusalem.

The development triggered an angry response from the external affairs ministry, with spokesperson Raveesh Kumar saying in a brief statement: We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities.

The statement noted that the Palestinian envoy had been seen at the rally organised by the JuD chief and mastermind of the Mumbai terror attack Hafiz Saeed.

Hafiz Saeed with the Palestinian envoy at the rally. (Pic from a JuD-run Twitter account)

Officials said a strongly worded demarche would be sent to the Palestinian government.

The external affairs ministry was particularly incensed as the development came less than 10 days after India joined 127 other members of the United Nations to back a resolution criticising US President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The countries disregarded Trumps threat to cut aid to countries that voted for the resolution.

Indias decision to back the resolution prompted a protest from Israel, a key ally in defence and security matters. New Delhi explained the vote by saying its position on Palestine is independent and consistent and shaped by our views and interests, and not determined by any third country.

India and Palestine are also discussing a possible visit to Ramallah by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February  seen by some here as a conciliatory gesture in connection with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus visit to India in January. If Modis visit goes ahead, it will be his first to Palestine.

Officials here also noted that the Palestinian envoy was present when Saeed used the Tahafuz Baitul Maqdas rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council (DPC) to launch a broadside against India and to rake up the Kashmir issue by linking it to Palestine.

We consider it our prime responsibility to liberate Kashmir from India. We will free Kashmir in fulfilment of Jinnahs dream, Saeed said, speaking in Urdu.

Saeed also referred to the controversial meeting between Kulbhushan Jadhav, an Indian national sentenced to death for alleged involvement in spying, and his wife and mother in Islamabad on December 25.

Pakistan let the family of Kulbhushan meet him out of kindness and goodwill, but India sent them with spy devices, he claimed.

India and Pakistan are engaged in a spat over the treatment meted out to Jadhavs mother and wife, whose shoes were taken away for tests after Pakistani officials claimed they contained a metal chip. India has rubbished these claims as absurd.

The rally in Rawalpindi featured several jihadi leaders such as Saifullah Khalid of the Milli Muslim League, a political party formed by Saeed, and Abdul Rehman Makki of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), who condemned the US decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The event was attended by thousands, including members of the JuD.

Photos on social media showed the Palestinian envoy seated next to Saeed and addressing the large gathering. Several speakers at the gathering referred to the Kashmir issue and made anti-India remarks. Saeed also called on Muslim nations to act in the defence of Jerusalem.

The DPC is a grouping of some 40 extremist and jihadi groups that was formed by Hafiz Saeed and other extremists in 2012. It has campaigned for long for snapping ties with India and the US.
Iran said on Saturday that US President Donald Trumps support for protests in the country was deceitful and opportunist.

The Iranian people see no value in the opportunistic remarks by American officials and Mr Trump, foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said on its website.

He said Iranians remembered Trumps actions in barring them from entry to the United States and the arrest of many Iranians in that country on baseless pretexts.

Thats why they see the support of these officials for some rallies in recent days in some Iranian cities as opportunistic, he added.

The constitution of the Islamic republic of Iran has established democratic structures for the legal support of peoples civil demands, he said.

Trump tweeted on Friday night in support of protests against Irans economic problems that had spread to several towns and cities in Iran.

Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 30, 2017

Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad, he wrote.

Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests.
A large fire has broken out in an 12-storey residential block in Manchesters Northern Quarter, and police have advised members of the public to avoid the area.

Onlookers said the fire appeared to be have been extinguished, but dramatic footage of the blaze engulfing flats has been posted on social media.

Police and firefighters have cleared a large area around the residential building, with 12 fire engines on the scene. Authorities advised those nearby to keep windows and doors shut.

Greater Manchester fire and rescue service tweeted: Were currently tackling a fire on the 9th floor of a 12 storey building on Joiner Street in Manchesters Northern Quarter. Please avoid the area if possible and keep windows and doors shut if you live nearby.

A spokeswoman for the North West ambulance service said resources are at the scene but no further information is currently available.

Aman Thakar, visiting Manchester, told the Guardian that the fire appeared to have been quickly brought under control.

We could see firemen working with torches through the windows of some of the floors where there was fire, so hopefully its being controlled, he said.

We could see lights on the floors below where the fire was, but nothing in the floors above, so hopefully that also means that non one was trapped up there.

It looks like a residential block. Everyone watching below was quite calm although we heard London being mentioned a few times in the context of people saying: at least its not as bad.
Backdoor diplomacy initiated by Saudi Arabia and the UAE may help ease tensions between Pakistan's military and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif with a possibility of a political deal on the horizon, according to sources in political circles.

Nawaz Sharif will be in Saudi Arabia over the weekend to meet with Saudi crown prince Muhammad Bin Salman at the request of the Pakistani military high command which wants to avert a head-on collision with the former prime minister.

Sharif will be expected to tone down his barbed attacks against the military and in exchange some sort of deal could be in the offing under which Shahbaz Sharif would be given the military's endorsement as the country's next prime minister while Nawaz Sharif would be allowed to retain his position as the president of the ruling PML-N party.

Shahbaz Sharif, the younger brother of Nawaz and the chief minister of Punjab, is already on an official visit in Saudi Arabia.

He was nominated for the position of prime minister by Nawaz earlier this month after the possibility of Nawaz being able to run for a fourth term was ruled out by the courts.
A Pakistani lawmaker has demanded that the government ensure that the ban on Japanese cartoon Doraemon be implemented fully because it has a negative impact on society.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) legislator Dr Murad Rass made this demand through a resolution submitted in the Punjab assembly. He claimed that some cable operators and TV channels were running dramas and Doraemon cartoons despite a ban in Pakistan.

Children are an easy target of Doraemon cartoon. These cartoons are having a negative impact on the educational and physical well-being of children, he said. These dramas and cartoons are having a negative impact on Pakistani children.

He said the authorities concerned were playing the role of silent spectators. He said that more opportunities should be created for the talented youths so that they produced cartoons for our children. There is no dearth of talented people in the country.
Pakistans Supreme Court has acquitted a man convicted for blasphemy after he had already spent over nine years in jail, officials said on Saturday.

Muhammad Mansha, 58, was arrested by police in September 2008 for allegedly desecrating pages of the Quran in Sadiqgunj area of Bahawalnagar district in Punjab province.

He was charged under Section 295-B of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and awarded life imprisonment in 2009 by a district and sessions court. The sentence was also upheld by the Lahore High Court in 2014.

The convict appealed to the Supreme Court in 2014 and the court issued the verdict on Friday.

According to a court official, a Supreme Court panel of Justice Dost Mohammad and Justice Qazi Faez Isa acquitted the man after it emerged that the main witness in the case was suffering from severe hearing and speech impairments.

The judges observed that the witness was not competent to record evidence under the law.

Pakistans controversial blasphemy law was enacted by military dictator Ziaul Haq in 1980s to appease clerics. The law has been under criticised by rights groups for its misuse aimed at settling personal scores and disputes.

Those accused of blasphemy are under imminent threat of being killed by extremists.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called for pragmatic cooperation in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

In a statement on the Russian presidents New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, Frances Emmanuel Macron, Germanys Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russias Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year.

The statement added that Putin told Assad Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assads military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.
Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, according to two senior Western European security sources, providing an economic lifeline to the secretive Communist state.

The sales of oil or oil products from Russia, the worlds second biggest oil exporter and a veto-wielding member of the United Nations Security Council, breach UN sanctions, the security sources said.

The transfers in October and November indicate that smuggling from Russia to North Korea has evolved to loading cargoes at sea since Reuters reported in September that North Korean ships were sailing directly from Russia to their homeland.

Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions, the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters.

A second source, who independently confirmed the existence of the Russian ship-to-ship fuel trade with North Korea, said there was no evidence of Russian state involvement in the latest transfers.

There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans, the second European security source said.

The two security sources cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific but declined to disclose further details to Reuters, saying it was classified.

Russias Foreign Ministry and the Russian Customs Service both declined to comment when asked on Wednesday if Russian ships had supplied fuel to North Korean vessels. The owner of one ship accused of smuggling oil to North Korea denied any such activity.

The U.S. State Department, in a statement, called on Russia and other UN members to strictly implement sanctions on North Korea and to work more closely together to shut down UN-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea.

The latest report came as China, responding on Friday to criticism from US President Donald Trump, denied it had illicitly shipped oil products to North Korea.

North Korea relies on imported fuel to keep its struggling economy functioning. It also requires oil for its intercontinental ballistic missile and nuclear programme that the United States says threatens the peace in Asia.

The vessels are smuggling Russian fuel from Russian Far Eastern ports to North Korea, said the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Reuters was unable to independently verify that the vessels had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels, whether the Russian state knew about the sales or how many Russian vessels were involved in the transfers. It was also unclear how much fuel may have been smuggled.

Ship satellite positioning data consulted by Reuters and available on Reuters Eikon shows unusual movements by some of the Russian vessels named by the security sources including switching off the transponders which give a precise location.

The security sources said the Russian-flagged tanker Vityaz was one vessel that had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels.

The Vityaz left the port of Slavyanka near Vladivostok in Russia on Oct. 15 with 1,600 tonnes of oil, according to Russian port control documents.

Documents submitted by the vessels agent to the Russian State Port Control authority showed its destination as a fishing fleet in the Japan Sea. Shipping data showed the vessel switched off its transponder for a few days as it sailed into open waters.

According to the European security sources, the Vityaz conducted a ship-to-ship transfer with the North Korean Flagged Sam Ma 2 tanker in open seas during October.

Reuters could not independently verify the transfer as ship tracking data showed that the Sam Ma 2 had turned off its transponder from the start of August.

The owner of the Russian vessel denied any contact with North Korean vessels but also said it was unaware that the vessel was fuelling fishing boats.

Yaroslav Guk, deputy director of the tankers owner, Vladivostok-based Alisa Ltd, said the vessel had no contacts with North Korean vessels.

Absolutely no, this is very dangerous, Guk told Reuters by telephone. It would be complete madness.

When contacted a second time, Guk said the vessel did not have any contacts with North Korean ships and that he would not answer further questions.

An official at East Coast Ltd, the vessels transport agent, declined to comment.

Two other Russian flagged tankers made similar journeys between the middle of October and November, leaving from the ports of Slavyanka and Nakhodka into open seas where they switched off their transponders, shipping data showed.

In September, Reuters reported that at least eight North Korean ships that left Russia loaded with fuel this year headed for their homeland despite declaring other destinations, a ploy that US officials say is often used to undermine sanctions.

A Russian shipping source with knowledge of Far Eastern marine practices said North Korean vessels had stopped loading fuel in Russias Far Eastern ports but that fuel is delivered at sea by tankers using ship-to-ship transfers, or even by fishing vessels.

China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of UN sanctions, after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

Chinas denial came a day after it blocked a U.S. effort at the United Nations to blacklist six ships Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a U.N. Security Council diplomat said.

According to documents seen by Reuters this month, the United States had proposed that the U.N. Security Council blacklist 10 ships for illicit trade with North Korea.

It accused the vessels of conducting illegal ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or illegally transporting North Korean coal to other countries for exports.

Three North Korean ships among the 10 were blacklisted, along with a Panama-registered vessel.
Russian investigators on Saturday arrested a suspect behind the Saint Petersburg bomb attack which tore through a supermarket this week, wounding 18 people.

The suspect is being questioned, a spokeswoman for the Russian Investigative Committee, Svetlana Petrenko, said in a separate statement.

The organiser and direct perpetrator who triggered an improvised explosive device on December 27 in a supermarket in Saint Petersburg was arrested during a special operation by the FSB, the security services added, according to Russian news agency Interfax.

The news agency quoted a source close to the case as saying the suspect was 35-year-old Dmitry Lukyanenko, a resident of Saint Petersburg and member of the nationalist New Age movement.

The homemade bomb had been placed in a locker at the supermarket in northwestern Saint Petersburg, Russias second city and President Vladimir Putins home town.

A pregnant women was among those injured in the blast, claimed by the Islamic State group. Eight people remain in hospital.

Putins 2015 decision to begin a military intervention in Syrias conflict on the side of President Bashar al-Assad has made Russia a priority target for jihadist groups.

The bombing came after the FSB security service said earlier this month it had prevented a terror attack on a key Orthodox cathedral in Saint Petersburg with the help of Americas CIA, which led Putin to thank US President Donald Trump.

Saint Petersburgs subway was targeted by a bomb attack in April that left 15 dead and dozens wounded, claimed by a little-known group linked to Al-Qaeda.
The Trump administration has said the United States will withhold $255 million in military aid to Pakistan as it expects Islamabad to take decisive action against terrorists and militants on its soil.

The announcement on Friday reflected the USs disillusionment with Pakistan for disregarding explicit warnings by President Donald Trump and his members of his team such as secretaries James Mattis and Rex Tillerson.

The United States does not plan to spend the $255 million in FY 2016 in Foreign Military Financing for Pakistan at this time, said a spokesperson of the US Presidents National Security Council in a statement to Hindustan Times.

The President has made clear that the United States expects Pakistan to take decisive action against terrorists and militants on its soil, and that Pakistans actions in support of the South Asia strategy will ultimately determine the trajectory of our relationship, including future security assistance.

The Administration continues to review Pakistans level of cooperation.

The withheld aid amount is left over from the $1.1-billion US aid earmarked for Pakistan in 2016, and which included non-military assistance. It was cleared for release in August, just days before it would lapse as unspent money.

This could be the severest blow dealt to Islamabad by this administration if it indeed decided to withhold, said a leading US expert on Pakistan who did not want to be identified. There is more coming, the expert added.

First reported by The New York Times, the move to withhold the money, which may not be a large amount but would have signalled US backing, comes shortly after Pakistan refused to hand over to the Americans an operative of the Haqqani Network apprehended during the rescue of an American-Canadian family in October.

The Haqqani Network is an affiliate of the Afghan Taliban and works out of Pakistan, inflicting massive casualties on the US-led international coalition in Afghanistan. Frustrated by Islamabads reluctance, the US has tied large portions of military aid payments to Pakistan to its actions aimed at debilitating the network.

The Trump administration has been clear from the start it wouldnt continue its aid to Pakistan without real changes. We have been paying Pakistan billions and billions of dollars at the same time they are housing the very terrorists that we are fighting, Trump had said unveiling his new South Asia strategy in August. But that will have to change, and that will change immediately.

But there was no marked change in Pakistans behaviour, top US military commander General John Nicholson said in November, three months after Trumps unequivocal warning.

Instead, Pakistan released Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed from house arrest, which led an outraged White House to use unusually harsh language to demand Saeeds re-arrest, warning that it could have repercussions for bilateral ties.

Saeed remains free, and Pakistani officials have sought to shift the blame for it on the independence of the countrys judiciary.

Pakistan also sought to blame India for providing insufficient evidence in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks carried out by Saeeds Lashkar-e-Taiba. There is a US bounty of $10 million for his arrest.

Denial of aid, many critics of Pakistan argue, is unlikely to have an impact on Islamabad, and call for harsher measures. They say that stripping Pakistan of the status of a non-NATO ally, for one, could cost it military aid in terms of money and equipment. Even more punishing, they contend, would be to declare Pakistan a state sponsor of terrorism, such as Syria and North Korea.

Thats the impending more indicated by the South Asia expert.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Oil prices vaulted above $60 a barrel Friday for the first time since June 2015, reaching a threshold that could strengthen Houston energy companies and accelerate the recovery of the region's oil-centric economy.

The milestone could mark a tipping point for local drillers, making less lucrative oil fields and costly offshore projects financially attractive, and spurring the hiring of thousands more workers in Houston. If oil holds near $60 a barrel, the metropolitan area could add 75,000 jobs over the next 12 months - 30,000 more than if prices slide back near $50, according to forecasts by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

"We could have a bigger expansion in drilling activity than many expected in 2018, which could be a tailwind for Houston," said Jesse Thompson, a business economist at the Houston branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. "But oil prices can go all over the place, and that makes Houston one of the most volatile metros to forecast job growth."

U.S. oil prices rose 58 cents to $60.42 a barrel in New York on Friday, finishing the year 12 percent higher than it began and extending a rally in the second half of 2017 that has boosted prices more than 40 percent from their recent low of $43 a barrel in June.

Prices have more than doubled since they hit $26 a barrel in February 2016, the bottom of brutal oil bust that cost Houston tens of thousands of jobs and pushed scores of companies into bankruptcy.

The last time oil prices closed above $60 a barrel, in the summer of 2015, the oil industry's glee was quickly followed by a plunge.

That's unlikely this time around, analysts said, but they expect crude prices to dip in the first half of the year amid the slower oil demand typical of the winter, when Americans drive less.

Oil prices have sailed higher in recent months after a string of supply disruptions and signs of rising geopolitical tension in the Middle East.

Hurricane Harvey's floodwaters shut down major refineries across the Gulf Coast. OPEC and its allies agreed to keep 1.8 million barrels of oil a day off the market for another year. A small crack forced operators to shut down a major U.K. pipeline system. And internal strife in Saudi Arabia, violence in Iraq and a pipeline blast in Libya added to the oil market's rise.

Steady rise in demand

The International Energy Agency, a Paris-based adviser to energy-importing countries, also projects that global oil demand will increase at a healthy 1.3 million barrels a day, or 1.3 percent, in 2018.

"Oil demand continues to grow at a pretty good clip, and we're facing geopolitical headwinds," said Andy Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates in Houston. "Although the U.S. is going to produce a record amount of crude oil exports, those will go to satisfy the world's thirst for oil."

Over the course of next year, Lipow said, oil prices will likely rise a few dollars a barrel and end 2018 in the $60 to $65 range.

Most oil executives think crude prices have to exceed $60 a barrel for the industry to see another surge of drilling next year, according to a survey by the Dallas Fed. Forty-two percent of those surveyed said oil prices will have to float between $61 a barrel and $65 a barrel for the nation's active oil-rig count to see a big jump from the current 747 working rigs.

The number of working U.S. oil rigs has climbed from 525 at the beginning of the year, but has remained flat in recent weeks, according to the Houston oil services company Baker Hughes.

Traders Friday reacted to Energy Department data showing U.S. crude inventories fell 4.6 million barrels last week, adding to declines that have shrunk the nation's commercial stockpile of oil by more than 100 million barrels since peaking at 536 million barrels in March. But analysts warned that high oil prices could encourage U.S. shale drillers to rapidly ramp up production and add new supplies to the market, which could halt the advance of crude prices.

Domestic output rose

On Friday, the Energy Department said domestic output rose to 9.64 million barrels in October, the highest level since May 1971, and up 1.8 percent over September.

It expects output to rise to an all-time record next year above 10 million barrels a day.

Companies could increase spending - an indicator of future production - by 15 percent in 2018, according to a survey by New York investment bank Evercore.

"The companies that have announced plans for 2018 are increasing their outlook for production and spending, not reining it in," said Aaron Brady, an oil market analyst at IHS Markit. "That's going to limit how high prices can go."

Even if oil prices remain higher, there's no guarantee that would accelerate Houston's economic growth, said Thompson, the Dallas Fed economist.

Instead of hiring, he said, the money could go to satisfy investors demanding returns or creditors, holding large debts run up during the oil boom of 2014.

"There are competing claims on that money," Thompson said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The oil services company Weatherford International has scrapped plans for a joint venture with competitor Schlumberger and instead sold outright its pressure pumping and hydraulic fracturing fleet to the international giant for $430 million in cash.

The move will push Schlumberger, the world's largest oil services company, another step toward catching the industry's largest fracking fleet owned by Halliburton, based in Houston, while allowing a smaller Weatherford to focus on a return to profitability.

It's also a harbinger for a heated 2018 oil services race, said Jonathan Garrett, an analyst at the Houston energy research firm Wood Mackenzie.

With prices low and profits thin, fracking firms had been reluctant to buy more equipment, worried they'd be stuck with the fleet and no work. But several companies have announced in recent months that they'd be adding horsepower, gearing up for what they expect will be a busy year with oil prices back around $60 a barrel.

The addition of Schlumberger bolsters the outlook.

"They don't want to miss the boat," Garrett said. "It looks like people are getting more comfortable with where oil prices are."

Oil settled at $60.42 a barrel Friday, the first time it has closed above $60 since June 2015.

Schlumberger, which has one of its four principal offices in Houston, will take ownership of Weatherford's U.S. pressure pumping facilities and contracts, Weatherford said Friday. About 100 Weatherford employees will transfer to Schlumberger. Weatherford will hold onto its well completions portfolio, manufacturing capability and supply chain, and use the cash to pay down debt.

Weatherford, which operates out of Houston, reported more than $7.5 billion in debt at the end of September, and $256 million in losses in the third quarter.

"Although not as originally anticipated, this transaction delivers cash proceeds," Weatherford CEO Mark McCollum said. It will lead the company to a "leaner" future and higher profits, he added.

McCollum suggested Weatherford will refocus on onshore completions, a process that involves cementing and other steps to make wells ready for production.

The companies had planned to close on the joint venture by year's end. It recently was approved by U.S. regulators. It's unclear why the companies abandoned that plan.

But this deal will give Schlumberger complete control and make operations simpler, including eliminating the need to integrate the software of two companies to run equipment, Garrett said.

The deal also will help Weatherford focus on other segments of the oil services market, he added.
Houston-area auto dealers expect new-vehicle sales to plateau in 2018 after a brief surge by customers replacing cars and trucks damaged in Hurricane Harvey, a spending spree that boosted year-end totals.

Total sales are expected to reach 306,000 vehicles next year, according to the TexAuto Facts Report, published by Sugar Land-based InfoNation. This year, dealers are expected to sell 324,000 vehicles, including about 30,000 Harvey replacements.

The forecast isn't substantially more than the 2016 total, which plunged by nearly a quarter to roughly 300,000 vehicles in the wake of the energy bust. Crude oil topped $60 a barrel on Friday for the first time since 2015, but InfoNation owner Steve McDowell doesn't anticipate a near-term uptick in vehicle sales even as the economy steadily recovers.

"I don't see anything that's going to change a whole lot in the next year," he said.

Despite the tepid forecast, area dealers expressed optimism that a few months of above-average business would give way to at least a modest boost at the start of next year. InfoNation estimated that the storm destroyed about 300,000 cars and trucks worth $2.4 billion, and many dealers saw a substantial increase in sales after Harvey.

In September, as drivers rushed to resume their obligations and commutes, retail new-vehicle sales in the area soared 61 percent from August and 15 percent year over year. Steven Wolf, president of the Houston Automobile Dealers Association and owner of three local dealerships, said he sold about 350 vehicles in September, twice his monthly average.

The momentum has carried into December, Wolf said, helped in part by strong incentives and finance options. Manufacturers, faced with sluggish sales nationwide, are working to move this year's models off the lots by offering steep year-end deals.

"This last week has been really good," he said.

Harvey-related sales could spill into next year. Area dealers had sold 26,600 replacement vehicles at the end of last month, and InfoNation estimated that they could sell as many as 75,000 replacement vehicles by the end of January.

Many dealers agree, however, that the Harvey rush is mostly over. Rick Maroney, president of the Houston Independent Automobile Dealers Association, said the boost has tapered after providing a welcome break from the lingering effects of the oil bust.

"I don't really know what would've happened this year-end if we hadn't had the flood," he said.

He is waiting to see whether auto insurance providers will raise premiums for Houston-area drivers in the wake of the storm, a move he expects would put additional pressure on sales in the area. Some carriers have already raised rates, he said, and his commercial insurance has also become more expensive.

"That's not very promising," he said. "It's going to have a big impact on people's decision to buy cars."

The 2018 forecast, however, spells good news for truck and SUV dealers. Those vehicles claimed a 69.2 percent market share last month, a record and a trend that is expected to continue.

"That means people are buying vehicles that are a little pricier than a passenger car," McDowell said.

Virgil Skinner, owner of Fort Bend Kia and former chairman of the dealers association, said the utility of trucks and SUVs has driven a shift in demand nationwide.

In Houston, he said, low gasoline prices and the need to navigate hazards like floodwaters has compounded that interest.

Already, he said, manufacturers have responded to the shift by introducing a greater assortment of crossovers and large SUVs. He hopes the annual Houston Auto Show, which will take place at NRG Center on Jan. 24-28 next year, will generate interest in the newest models.

"That should give us a boost," he said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Two people were killed at a southwest Houston auto shop Friday when a former employee walked in and opened fire Friday afternoon, police said.

The man then walked outside Bemer Plus in the 14300 block of South Post Oak Road near West Orem and killed himself shortly before 4 p.m., according to HPD Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner.

"(It's) very, very sad this time of year or any part of the year (when) we lose three citizens," Finner said.





Now Playing: Around 4:00pm an Ex-Employee of Bemer Plus, went to the Auto Repair business with a gun and went inside and opened fire, shooting two employees, who died there inside the shop. The suspect then went outside and shot himself. He died as well. Video: Metro Video

The first officer arrived roughly one minute after police were called but had not determined details on the motive by Friday night. Police also did not confirm the identity of the shooter or when he stopped working at the auto shop.

"Personnel at scene of apparent double murder & suspect suicide. Early indicator this is senseless workplace violence," Police Chief Art Acevedo tweeted.

None of the victims has been identified, but a man at the shop said that his cousin, who had worked at the auto shop for 20 years, was among the dead. Hours after the shooting, multiple people who said they were also related to that male employee had gathered outside the shop.

They said one of the victims had just celebrated his anniversary Thursday with his wife, who was flying from her home in Jamaica at the time and had not yet been informed of her husband's death.

Finner said that multiple employees and customers were inside the shop at the time of the shooting but did not indicate whether the gunman had targeted specific people when he opened fire.
Before 2017, our year of the flood, passes into history, I wanted to re-introduce an early-day Houstonian who endured her own flood-ravaged year. Dilue Rose Harris, an 11-year-old who experienced the Runaway Scrape in 1836, not only endured but prevailed. I see the feisty youngster as an inspiration to all of us as we look forward to a new - and drier - year. (The column originally appeared on March 20, 2015.)

COLUMBUS - It's raining as I write, just as it probably was across much of eastern Texas on this day in 1836. In raw, little villages and isolated farms, a cold, wet winter and spring only added to the misery settlers were enduring as they faced nothing less than their own annihilation. In Columbus, in Gonzales, in La Grange, word had just been received that the Alamo had fallen, all its defenders slain. Soon settlers would learn, to their horror, that more than 300 of Col. James Walker Fannin's men in Goliad had been marched out and shot on Palm Sunday.

The Mexican army under Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna was on the move, sweeping eastward across Texas, intending either to kill or drive out every American colonist in the newly declared independent republic.

Texians were terrified, their panic heightened by the fact that women and children had been left alone and defenseless, their men either slaughtered at the Alamo or at Goliad or off somewhere with Gen. Sam Houston's ragtag army, an army - if you could call it that - on the run. Racing ahead of the Mexican force even more swiftly than Houston's troops were horrifying rumors of Santa Anna's ruthlessness - ruthlessness on a par, perhaps, with the so-called Islamic State today, or so the settlers feared.

Those in the general's path, Anglo, Tejano or African-American, did what you and I would have done, what any sensible person would have done. They packed up whatever pitiful belongings they could and fled.

Their mass exodus is called the Runaway Scrape. It doesn't get as much attention as the iconic bookend battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto, in part because it undercuts the myth of the ever-stalwart Texan, but the Runaway Scrape is a remarkable event. It's reality.

The Runaway Scrape - "scrape" as in scrap or fight - actually began in January 1836, when settlers in South Texas heard that Santa Anna was approaching the Rio Grande. Many fled immediately, giving up their land grants and abandoning all they had built as colonists.

Santa Anna crossed the river in mid-February with his best generals and 4,000 men.

When the makeshift garrison at the Alamo was annihilated a few weeks later, full-fledged panic set in among the Texians. Thousands headed toward Louisiana and the protective arms of Uncle Sam, otherwise known as Andrew Jackson.

Fleeing after Alamo fell

Dilue Rose Harris, 11 at the time, lived with her parents, Dr. Pleasant W. Rose and his wife Margaret, at Stafford's Point (now Stafford, the Houston suburb). The youngster made bullets for the Alamo defenders and fled with the family across the rain-swollen Trinity shortly after receiving word of the mission's fall.

"We left home at sun-set, hauld beding Clothing and provision on the sleigh with one yoak of oxin," she recalled in a remarkable reminiscence first published in 1898. (Her spelling and syntax are eccentric, but her memory's crystal clear.) "Mother and I walking she with an infant in her arms. brother drove the oxen. two little sisters rode in the sleigh. we were going two miles where we could get in acart. Father was helping with the cattle. he joined us after dark."

The rain had set in weeks earlier, turning the roads into bogs of red or black mud. Rivers spilled out of their banks - the Trinity was more than a mile wide - and the lowlands became impassable swamps. Livestock drowned. Cold, sick and exhausted, women and children walked barefoot. Measles, whooping cough and fevers of various sorts set in. Babies, including the Roses' newborn daughter, died in their mothers' arms.

"They were tough people; they had to be. I just wonder how they made it at all," said Laura Ann Rau earlier this week, as we sat in the parlor of the house in downtown Columbus where Dilue Rose Harris, her husband and their nine children lived for 40 years. Rau, her mother and grandmother restored the house back in the 1970s.

Kate Scurry Terrell wrote decades after the event of a group of exhausted refugees camping at a plantation on Buffalo Bayou on the evening of April 21 after a long march in a cold rain. "Towards sunset," she recalled, "a woman on the outskirts of the camp began to clap her hands and shout 'Hallelujah! Hallelujah!' Those about her thought her mad, but, following her wild gestures, they saw one of the Hardins, of Liberty, riding for life towards the camp, his horse covered with foam, and he was waving his hat and shouting, 'San Jacinto! San Jacinto! The Mexicans are whipped and Santa Anna a prisoner!' "

'Peace to tired hearts'

"The scene that followed beggars description," Terrell wrote. "People embraced, laughed and wept and prayed, all in one breath. As the moon rose over the vast flower-decked prairie, the soft southern wind carried peace to tired hearts and grateful slumber."

Until the end of April, the Rose family camped outside Liberty, where they buried their newborn daughter. Dilue Rose Harris described how, on their way home, a man named King got his family across a rain-swollen bayou and swam back to fetch his horses. He had gotten nearly across with them, when a large alligator surfaced. The man's wife first saw it and screamed. The alligator struck her husband, and he went under. Several men fired their guns at the animal, but it did no good. Mr. King was gone.

Back home at Stafford's Point, the Rose family discovered that their house had been broken into. They considered themselves lucky, since many other settlers lost everything, either to looters or the Mexican Army. Dr. Rose's bookcase had been ripped apart and hogs lay sleeping on his books and medicines. Meanwhile, the corn field needed plowing, so he hitched up his oxen and went to work - on the Sabbath, no less - before cleaning out his office.

"Mother was very despondent, but Father is hopeful," Harris wrote. "Says Texas wold gane her Independ-ence and become agreat nation."

Afraid of spinsterhood

She also recalled considerable talk about a new town being started on Buffalo Bayou about 10 miles above Harrisburg, a town named in honor of the hero of San Jacinto.

Two years later young Miss Rose concocted a plan of her own that was almost as audacious as the Allen Brothers'. Not quite 13 and fearful she would be an old maid, she resolved to dance with President Houston at the second annual San Jacinto Ball in downtown Houston. She was nearly within reach of the great man that evening when, alas, a "pretty young widow" politely bumped her aside. She settled for a Texas Ranger and future Colorado County sheriff. She was 14 when they married.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

WASHINGTON - Beto O'Rourke, the Democrats' latest, best hope of turning Texas "blue," recalls a refrain he's heard on the national fundraising and endorsement circuit: "I've had my heart broken by Texas before."

The memory comes as the congressman from El Paso sits in a bare office near the U.S. Capitol, a faraway look in his eyes as he recites a long list of dusty border towns he's toured on the campaign trail, sometimes combined with family camping trips juiced by the sight of scorpions under the stars.

It's been more than two decades since a Democrat won a statewide election in Texas. In the last attempt, state Sen. Wendy Davis spent some $40 million and lost the 2014 governor's race by more than 20 percentage points to Republican Greg Abbott.

Now comes O'Rourke, a three-term congressman from the far west corner of the state, challenging a political dragon-slayer in his own right: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, a tea party icon who proved to be Donald Trump's most enduring rival in the Republican presidential primaries of 2016.

Cruz's evident ambition - seen in his first trip to Iowa, within months of being sworn in as a senator - will be central to O'Rourke's case as he crisscrosses Texas trying to rally long-marginalized Democrats, independents, first-time voters, Latinos, the anti-Trump "resistance," and anyone else who might have grown weary of post-Trump Republicanism.

Race not like Alabama

Strategists on both sides know that the backdrop for the U.S. Senate race in Texas - possibly one of the marquee races of the 2018 midterm elections - will be the push or pull of Trump, who bested Hillary Clinton in Texas by 9 percentage points.

For O'Rourke, a Spanish nicknamed, fourth-generation Irish-American from El Paso, that is a source of hope. But first, the 45-year-old ex-punk-rocker with the toothy, Kennedyesque smile will have to prove it can be done - even as he eschews polls, Beltway consultants and, most importantly, political action committee money.

"They have to know it's possible," O'Rourke said of the grass-roots volunteers he hopes to mobilize.

His case might have become slightly more plausible given the Democrats' upset victory in a hotly contested Senate race in deep crimson Alabama.

Within minutes of Doug Jones' win over scandal-scarred Republican Roy Moore in early December, O'Rourke's campaign fired off an email to potential donors: "Tonight, the eyes of the nation were on Alabama. Tomorrow, Texas and 2018."

Texas Republicans are quick to point out that even though Cruz backed Moore, he's a very different breed of cat from the former Alabama Supreme Court chief justice tarred with allegations about pursuing teenage girls.

Like Moore, Cruz might have become a lightning-rod of criticism from liberals and traditional conservative Republicans in the Senate. But his personal rectitude has not been seriously questioned beyond the Trump campaign's clumsy attempts in 2016 to tie him to tabloid stories about the JFK assassination and extramarital affairs.

The son of a Southern Baptist preacher who emigrated from Cuba, Cruz, who himself was born in Canada, knows how to speak in the cadences of Texas' politically influential Christian Right. Combining mathematical rigor and Harvard law erudition, Cruz has built one of the most formidable fundraising and grass-roots organizing machines in American politics.

Harnessing the energy of a resurgent Democratic base, O'Rourke was able to best Cruz in the money chase in the second-quarter of 2017, but he entered the fall with some $3 million in his campaign kitty, about half of Cruz's total.

O'Rourke could boast of 7,000 more individual donors than Cruz through the end of September, when their last financial reports were filed. But from a modern campaign perspective he will be fighting with one hand behind his back: Though he's accepted campaign contributions from political action committees in the past, O'Rourke has sworn off PAC money in the race against Cruz. He also says he's dispensing with polling. This stands in contrast to Cruz who, while once positioned as a Washington "outsider" taking on the political establishment, now commands one of the city's best data analysis operations.

The digital tools that his 2016 presidential campaign developed contributed mightily to his victory in the Iowa caucuses, arguably the epicenter of conservative evangelical political strength outside the South.

"You can quibble about whether Ted Cruz continues to be the head of the conservative movement," said senior Cruz adviser Brian Phillips, in a February post-mortem on the 2016 elections. "But the movement is still there, and we've got the keys to the engine."

Looking for 'blue wave'

Texas Democrats are hoping that after a year of tumultuous Trump leadership amid the ongoing Russia probe, the gas might be running out of the conservative machine, or that their own tanks are being freshly filled with new energy and vigor.

"A blue wave is rising in the Lone Star State," said Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa. "Texas Democrats are marching, organizing, and stepping up to serve."

O'Rourke, counting on the growing friction between Trump, the Republicans, and the Hispanic community over immigration, already has started making a play for Texas' burgeoning Latino population, using his fluent Spanish to do interviews on Spanish-language radio and television.

The flip-side of that strategy, however, may be the Republicans' overwhelming advantage among white voters in rural Texas, a demographic where Democrats know they will need to make inroads.

One problem confronting O'Rourke is that while Democrats are stepping up to run in every Texas congressional district for the first time in decades, there will be no other high-profile Democrat running statewide to help him draw voters to the polls.

Apart from Texas U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, who considered a Cruz challenge, no other Democrat with statewide name recognition was willing to take on the job.

In many ways, O'Rourke is running on his own. Until he kicked off his campaign last summer at a rooftop rally in El Paso, he was largely known as a youthful congressman from West Texas who favored marijuana legalization and opposed a border wall. Facing a Republican with nearly universal name recognition across the nation, he could barely register a blip even in Texas polls.

O'Rourke has sought to change that with a peripatetic campaign strategy that will take him to all of the state's 254 counties by Election Day. He started a "Town Haulin' Across Texas" tour last summer, hoping to contrast his take-all-comers town halls to Cruz's predilection for more controlled business, party or activist settings.

Looking for signs of a wave, Democrats point to Trump's relatively modest victory in Texas over Clinton in 2016. That 52-43 percent split was significantly narrower than Mitt Romney's 16-point margin, 57-41 percent, over President Barack Obama in 2012. In 2008, John McCain bested Obama 55-43 percent, a difference of 12 points.

Republicans confident

Republicans, meanwhile, look at the same numbers and see a ceiling for Democrats in Texas in the low 40s. Even in the face of conservative skepticism and establishment Republican disdain, Trump still won Texas by some 800,000 votes, meaning Democrats have a lot of ground to make up.

"There is no reason to believe that Texas is turning into a Democratic state," said Texas GOP pollster Chris Wilson, a top strategist in Cruz's 2016 presidential campaign.

Like Davis, O'Rourke's hope for a Democratic resurgence in Texas has garnered national attention, with profiles in the Washington Post, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone ("Beto O'Rourke: Ted Cruz's Punk-Rock Problem").

Even if midterm elections generally favor the opposition party, Democrats in 2018 will be defending 10 U.S. Senate seats in states carried by Trump. Cruz, no matter how much liberals dislike him, is unlikely to become a top national target for Democrats or their donors, even as they vie to overcome the GOP's one-seat majority in the Senate.

If the 2018 Texas Senate race comes down to money and built-in party infrastructure, most analysts give it to Cruz hands down. But if it becomes a referendum on Trump, even Republicans are bracing for a fight.

"In 2018, we could see a reversal of what Obama did," Wilson said. "Obama motivated Republicans. Trump motivates Democrats."

But if voters turn on Trump in 2018, as they did in Alabama, New Jersey and Virginia in 2017, Cruz has some cards to play. He will run under the Trump banner of tax cuts, Obamacare repeal and a border wall - 180 degrees the opposite of O'Rourke's liberal politics - and yet his personal clashes with Trump during the 2016 GOP primaries could give him more latitude to run as his own man.

He also will be running with a nod from GOP maverick and ex-Trump strategist Steve Bannon, who has turned on much of the GOP's Senate leadership.

"Cruz has played the Donald Trump issue as well as can be expected," said University of Houston political analyst Brandon Rottinghaus. "He's been able to articulate a role where he's both a team player and an outside bomb-thrower, and that's a hard needle to thread."

Clinton's Texas campaign chairman, Garry Mauro, the last Democrat to win a statewide race when he was re-elected Texas land commissioner in 1994, still sees the 2016 Cruz-Trump smackdown a chink in Cruz's armor.

Mauro believes Cruz should have suffered permanent damage when he bent his knee to Trump after the brash New Yorker insulted members of his family in campaign interviews and on Twitter. Mauro sees that as an affront to rugged Texas values. "I don't see how Texas' U.S. senator can support Trump after what he said about his wife and father," he said.

But O'Rourke, temperamentally intellectual and issue-oriented, seems an unlikely attack dog. Like Cruz, he has an Ivy League pedigree, having studied English at Columbia University. He served for six years on the city council in El Paso, where he made a name for himself as a champion of brotherly love between El Paso and its cross-border neighbor, Ciudad Juarez.

He's convinced that Texans, even many conservatives, see the border as a source of pride, not a threat. "Texans live the border," he said, "It's something they're proud of and understand as a source of strength."

On the flip side, he also was an advocate of downtown development, an agenda that got him cross-wise with Mexican-American activists who feared the gentrification of their neighborhoods.

The Cruz campaign's opposition research team will have no trouble unearthing old ethics complaints alleging conflicts-of-interest involving O'Rourke's wealthy father-in-law, William Sanders, a real estate investor who was involved in one controversial redevelopment plan. The charges were dismissed by an independent commission.

In his first run for the council, O'Rourke also had to live down two youthful indiscretions which come back to haunt him from time to time: a 1995 burglary arrest involving a prank climb over a fence at the University of Texas in El Paso, and a DWI in 1998. Both charges were dismissed.

O'Rourke calls his behavior in both incidents "stupid," offering no excuses, not even his youth. "It does nothing to diminish how dumb it was," the married father of three says.

Using social media

If O'Rourke has his own secret weapon, it's his own openness and facility with social media, which he has used to great effect in Congress. He raised hackles when he used Facebook Live to stream the Democrats' House floor protest pressing for gun legislation in the aftermath of a mass nightclub shooting in Orlando. The images went viral on the Internet, as they would again when he teamed up with San Antonio Republican Will Hurd on a cross-country road trip of bipartisan comity during weather-related flight cancellations.

Video streaming has become a standard feature of his travels across the state, inviting viewers along for the ride between campaign stops, where they can listen to him expound on the weather, history, music, family life and politics.

It's a classic underdog strategy, one that Democrats hope will level the playing field, pull back the veil on politics, and excite the ranks for what promises to be a steep, uphill climb through big media markets and small-town Texas.

"At 50,000 feet," Democrat Mauro said hopefully, "Beto O'Rourke is the classic reform candidate who comes in and wins against Ted Cruz, the classic machine politician."
AUSTIN - The state education department spent three weeks vehemently defending its decision to pay $4 million to a relatively unknown startup company to craft a long-term special education plan for Texas and to analyze confidential information on special education students.

That defense abruptly ended Dec. 15 when Education Commission Mike Morath pulled the plug on the project and severed ties with SPEDx, the company hired to do the work.

Officials aren't saying why the department's position suddenly changed after weeks of parents, educators and advocacy groups raising concerns with the project and the company hired to do the work.

"We felt like we needed more support from parents and educators and felt the project was not going to proceed effectively without that," said Lauren Callahan, a TEA spokeswoman.

DENIED: How Texas keeps tens of thousands of children out of special education

Texans for Special Education Reform, a group of parents, educators and disability rights advocates, was particularly vocal, questioning how a for-profit company was going to use extremely sensitive information on students, and why the state did not let other companies compete for the project.

"What started out as a few red flags became a burning fire," said Cheryl Fries, a co-founder of the organization and a parent of a child with disabilities.

In May, just as the school year was ending, TEA hired SPEDx to mine information on special education students. While the state already collects information on students with disabilities, state officials say they do not have enough information to examine if schools are meeting student's needs.

The agency was under pressure to show it was committed to improving special education in Texas after a 2016 Houston Chronicle investigation found that tens of thousands of students with disabilities were denied access to services because of the TEA directed districts to limit special education services to no more than 8.5 percent of students.

The U.S. Department of Education spent months investigating whether the state had violated federal law. The report has not been released.

By hiring SPEDx, the state believed it could better understand how students with disabilities performed academically.

For example, state officials say they do not know how many students in Texas have autism. But state officials believed SPEDX software could read students' Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and determine how many students have autism, the severity of their disability, and how those students are performing academically.

"That is something TEA does not have access to any other way," said Justin Porter, TEA's executive director of special populations. "The scale at which we are able to do it with this project is much different than anything we would ever be able to do by hand. You are talking about hundreds of thousands of documents that would have to be reviewed individually."

DENIED: Enrollment of students in special ed programs surges in Texas

An IEP is a document that details a student's disability, educational needs and academic goals. The plans are developed by a child's parents, teachers and school staff. In order to perform the state-level analysis of these documents, TEA was going to pay districts thousands of dollars to participate in the project.

TEA officials said they checked with dozens of education technology companies, state-level education experts and others to determine if there were other companies that could offer a similar analysis.

Only SPEDx could do the work. Penny Schwinn, TEA's deputy commissioner of academics, said conducting a competitive bid process would cost the agency money and time.

"We had the urgency of now at the agency," Schwinn said in an interview with reporters a week before the contract was terminated. "Being able to go through the sole-source provision, understanding that we deeply believed that it was a sole source, allows for a much faster contract, which means we can execute things for this school year."

Parents question project

Fries, the parent advocate, said she and others heard about the project after a school district told parents it signed on to participate.

"To parents, it's a big fat deal that their child's very personal information in IEPs has been shared," Fries said.

In early fall, the group met with the new special education director Laurie Kash and other TEA staff to talk about their concerns with the project. Fries said TEA and SPEDx staff struggled to explain how the project was going to lead to real reforms in the classroom that increased access to special education resources.

"All they could tell us was that they were going to find trends, and they were brainstorming solutions," Fries said. "How do trends help with individualized education?"

Still, Fries said Kash was receptive and promised to work more closely with parents to address their concerns.

What the advocacy group didn't know at the time was that Kash had many questions of her own.

Soon after she was hired in August, Kash began questioning the company's work, according to her lawyer. Kash worried the company was not delivering the information laid out in the contract, and alleges a SPEDx contractor is a friend of a TEA employee.

Kash was fired Nov. 22, a day after she filed a federal complaint against TEA, alleging the agency did not follow proper protocols when awarding the SPEDx contract. But TEA officials said they fired Kash because of allegations that she covered up the sexual abuse of a 6-year-old girl in her previous school district. Two former employees filed a civil lawsuit making the allegations in Oregon days before Kash was fired.

TEA officials have repeatedly denied Kash's allegation and said the department followed all the proper procurement procedures. But in announcing the cancelation of the project, Morath said he had ordered "a review of contracting processes within the agency."

Fries said Kash's firing spurred more parents to action, who began calling their school districts pull out of the analysis. On social media, using #SayNo2SPEDx, many said they didn't wanted to keep their child's information private. Two statewide advocacy groups, Disability Rights Texas and the Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education called on the state to temporarily stop the project.

"Significant concerns have been raised regarding our agency's processes and the scope of the project. The efficacy of the project would be undermined without real support from parents and educators alike. As a result, this project cannot proceed effectively," Morath said when he cut off the project.

A TEA spokeswoman said the agency was in the process of adding eight school districts to the project, but 12 others pulled out of the analysis.

Fries is skeptical that TEA ultimately canceled the project because of parent and advocate concerns, but she said she is proud of that parents and educators kept advocating for the state's most vulnerable children.

"I would love to think TEA did this for the right reasons, but they never contacted us to say, we heard your concerns and we are going to cancel this contract," Fries said.

"It feels like they got caught, more than they were interested in doing the right thing."

***

DENIED: In 2004, Texas arbitrarily decided what percentage of students should get special education services. Today, tens of thousands of children are paying the price.

Part 1: How Texas keeps tens of thousands of children out of special education

Part 2: Schools push students out of special education to meet state limit

Part 3: Mentally ill lose out as special ed declines

Part 4: Texas schools shut non-English speakers out of special ed

Part 5: Unable to get special education in Texas, one family moved

Part 6: Houston schools systematically block disabled kids from special ed

Part 7: Special ed cap drives families out of public schools
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The neo-Gothic structure that is Trinity Episcopal Church rises above the corner of Main Street and Holman Avenue like a testament to the cathedrals of yesteryear. Smooth-cut limestone forms pointed arches and buttresses. A 97-foot high tower stretches heavenward over the church's gabled roof.

"Trinity was designed to resemble a 13th- to 14th-century parish church," historian Gayle Davies said.

Though the physical space of the church has changed little over its roughly 100 years, its mission and character has shifted dramatically. The once small countrylike church now sits in an urban area near downtown, hosts country music Mass, exhibits works of artists and cares for homeless people.

Its evolution has gained renewed focus as Trinity Episcopal Church recently hosted its Cornerstone Centennial Celebration.

The congregation gathered Dec. 17 to commemorate the day, 100 years ago, when construction crews laid the first cornerstone of what has become a landmark building in Midtown.

Davies has been a lifelong member of Trinity - and wrote a book about the church's journey starting at its roots as a mission. At the time, Midtown was known as the Fairgrounds Addition neighborhood, named for the Texas State Fair, held in the area from 1870 to 1878.

This is not the only 100-year anniversary that Trinity has celebrated, Davies said.

The original mission, from Christ Church, was founded in 1893, became a parish in 1902 and moved to its current location in 1910 - all milestones that have already reached their centennials.

The Cornerstone Centennial Celebration, however, is an important anniversary for its nod to the auspicious architecture of the building, Davies explained.

"Trinity is the only church designed by Ralph Adams Cram in Texas," she said.

Cram was partner in the elite Boston architectural firm Cram and Ferguson - noted for its design of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York, Rice University and Princeton University.

The list of notable buildings designed by Cram is extensive.

Davies said the architect also advised president Franklin D. Roosevelt. "There have been volumes written about him," she said.

William Ward Watkin, a member of Cram's firm, came to Houston to work on the Rice project - and then became an instructor at the university. He assisted with Trinity's design and joined the congregation.

The church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 and was granted a Registered Texas Historical Landmark in 1988.

After the structure was completed, the Trinity congregation continued to grow - at one point becoming the largest Episcopal church in the state - and the sixth largest in the nation, Davies said.

"It has a really distinguished history," she said. "It started out as a little, almost country, church. Houston just grew around it and past it, and it's become an urban parish. It also suffers the ills of that happening. At the same time, instead of losing its focus, it gained a renewed focus."

Davies explained that at one point Trinity was surrounded by residences.

"Trinity used to be a neighborhood church," she said. "People would just walk to Trinity. There was no parking lot, because people lived close by."

When Houstonians began moving to the suburbs in the 1960s and 1970s, the membership of the congregation declined.

Trinity rose to the challenge - and strengthened its focus. Its outreach efforts became increasingly important as the need rose in the area.

"If you walked into the sanctuary today, you would find very little that has changed from 60 or 70 years ago," Davies said. "Other than the building itself, things have changed dramatically."

For example, at the helm of Trinity now stands its first female rector, the Rev. Hannah Atkins.

She celebrated her first decade as leader of the church in October and recalls being initially drawn to the position for two reasons - the beauty of the sanctuary and the congregation's commitment to outreach.

"I loved the fact that people were committed to beauty - both old and new," Atkins said. "Trinity has been committed to that neighborhood for 100 years."

At Trinity, Atkins found a dedication to traditional liturgy along with an open-minded congregation, ready to embrace diversity and to tackle issues in Midtown.

Before she started, the church already was ministering to the homeless through its Evening Prayer Ministry, services for those in need followed by distribution of sack meals. The church also had established Lord of the Streets in 1990, which offers a sit-down breakfast and a service on Sundays.

The commitment to helping homeless neighbors has only grown since her time at the church, Atkins said.

"Sometimes people feed and work with the homeless outside or in another part of the church," she said. "At Trinity, it's not like that at all."

Everyone is welcomed in the sanctuary, where homeless neighbors sit in the pews alongside established members, Atkins said.

"We continue every day to invite folks in for respite and prayer and food," she said. "And we're going to continue to do that."

She added that the church partners with Homeless Gay Kids-Houston, a nonprofit helping LGBTQ youth, ages 13 to 24, with safe places where they can thrive.

Atkins said Trinity has numerous partnerships that support worthy causes in the neighborhood - from working to end human trafficking and assisting veterans to providing mentors for youth and helping with emergency aid.

As Midtown has been increasingly redeveloped, the church has found new ways to help.

"We're committed to serve our most vulnerable and marginalized," Atkins said. "The need is still there. Instead of pushing them away, we're continuing to welcome them."

She said that Trinity's vow to make outreach a top priority is an essential part of the church.

"It's a fortitude that's a symbol of our deep abiding faith," she said. "That's always been part of what makes Trinity a special place."

Atkins also wants the church to reflect the artistic neighborhood in which it's located. Midtown is home to Houston Community College, MATCH and Ensemble Theatre, as well as galleries, music venues and art studios.

"They've allowed me to do some really creative stuff with music," she said. "We have a country Mass every year and a jazz festival."

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has even recognized Trinity for its Merle Haggard Mass.

In addition, the church's chapel doubles as a gallery featuring Texas artists, including Kermit Oliver.

Trinity also hosts Jazz Education Inc. - a musical education program - during the summer and offers free jazz master classes during the year.

"We're committed to the arts and youth in our area," Atkins said. "Art reflects the creative nature of God. Beauty is here in art, the architecture and the human spirit."

The rector believes that personal transformation can be inspired by the church's beauty, its commitment to social justice and its offering of friendship.

"Trinity is historic," she said. "We also have become a church of a second chance and of a new beginning. The people who are attracted to Trinity are willing to walk with people. They have a lot of compassion."

Now, she's ready to help the church continue to grow and thrive, serving as a spiritual home for people from all over the city.

"We're not a huge church," she said. "We're not a small church. We're just right."

Lindsay Peyton is a freelance writer based in Houston.
AUSTIN - The day after Mohanad Albdairi began his enlistment in the Army Reserve, recruiters called him back with bad news: Immigrants, even those here legally, can no longer join the Reserve force.

Albdairi, 32, an Iraqi immigrant attending Austin Community College, had served in the New Iraqi Army, formed with the support of the U.S. after occupying the country, then worked as an interpreter for U.S. forces until threats by militants forced him to flee the country.

He underwent extensive background checks to get his special immigrant visa but was told he's a security risk who can't join the Army Reserve.

The October rule change temporarily halting National Guard and Reserve recruitment of noncitizens is the latest barrier to immigrants joining the military, critics of the new policies said.

"That's the first time in American history that green card holders have been barred from joining the military," said Margaret Stock, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Army and an immigration lawyer in Alaska. "It's unprecedented, to be barred openly from joining the Guard and Reserve."

Green card doesn't matter

The Department of Defense announced this fall that foreign enlistees in the armed forces will have longer wait times to become citizens, and it continued suspension of a program that allowed visa holders with special skills to join the military.

Most enlistees must have lawful permanent residence, known colloquially as a green card. Under the George W. Bush administration, Stock helped develop a program to allow visa holders who hadn't obtained or weren't eligible for green cards but who had certain language skills and medical training to join the military.

The Military Accessions Vital to National Interest Program, known as MAVNI, was created to fill much-needed positions in the military. It was suspended last year under then-President Barack Obama. Stock blamed its halt on what she called "anti-immigrant sentiment that appears to be rampant and has infected the Pentagon."

Anthony M. Kurta, a retired rear admiral who at the time was acting undersecretary at the Pentagon, signed three memos in October that critics said erect hurdles for immigrants to enlist. Kurta was with the office last year when the MAVNI program was suspended, Stock said, and is President Donald Trump's nominee for its deputy undersecretary.

Along with continuing the suspension of MAVNI, Kurta's memos require noncitizens to undergo a background check, which can take months, before they can report for basic training.

Kurta's memos didn't ban joining the Guard and Reserve outright, but neither the Guard nor Reserve have a way of running background checks before enlistment takes place, so they had to halt all recruitment of green card holders.

Albdairi has a green card, but he can't join the Reserve under the new policy. The Defense Department is in the process of creating a system to run background checks on Guard and Reserve enlistees before they begin training, said Army Maj. Dave Eastburn, a Pentagon spokesman. The new rule was created because immigrants were completing basic training before their background checks were completed, Eastburn said.

"It actually helps the service member in the long run, but it potentially could prolong the process," he said. "By completing the background check prior to service member shipping  there's no potential holdup at the end of basic training due to the background check not being done."

The memos also require green card holders to serve 180 days before they can begin the citizenship naturalization process, adding significant delays to lawful permanent residents going through the military's expedited citizenship program.

'Doesn't help security'

The delays effectively serve as a barrier for immigrants to enlist, Stock said. The wait times are onerous and will drive away qualified foreign-born recruits, she said.

"This doesn't help security at all," Stock said. "It makes things worse. It means a lower-quality workforce in the military. And it gives away the United States' largest home-court advantage. We've always welcomed immigrants. We've won wars because we had them in the ranks."

The U.S. population is 13.5 percent foreign-born, lower than it was at the start of the 20th century but up from historical lows 40 years ago.

"They're basically saying 13.5 percent of the population is off-limits," Stock said. "That means they have to give a lot more waivers for depression  pot use, drug use, criminal (convictions). That's what they're doing. They're letting more low-quality native(-born) people into the military right now than they would have to let in if they were recruiting immigrants."

Of the 1.98 million people who joined the armed forces between 2000 and 2010, only 3.8 percent were noncitizens, according to a 2013 thesis by students at the Naval Postgraduate School. A 2011 study conducted for the Defense Department by CNA Analysis and Solutions found that immigrants have a lower attrition rate in the armed forces and represented a growing share of the 18-29 population targeted for recruitment.

The study also found that "noncitizens who are eligible to enlist may possess language and cultural skills that are useful in theater, or medical and technical skills that can be used to fill high-demand, low-density occupations."

Eastburn rejected Stock's assertion that the new policies will result in a personnel shortfall.

"There's no shortage and there's no need to issue waivers to anyone who wouldn't otherwise be eligible to serve," Eastburn said.

Albdairi, who's studying criminal justice at Austin Community College, said he saw enlisting in the Army Reserve as a way to give back to a country that had welcomed him, and also to help his family. He acknowledges that he's struggled to find gainful employment and thought serving in the Reserve would be a way to supplement his income.

Active duty isn't an option, he said, because his wife doesn't speak English and needs his help caring for their two children and still suffers from the trauma of seeing her uncle gunned down in front of her, retribution by militia members for the help Albdairi gave the U.S. He still blames himself for the man's death.

"I decided to join the Army because part of me appreciates this country for my family's safety," he said. "And part of me, to be honest, I'm tired of these jobs. So I'm thinking of doing something part time for the Army and serve this country. Because my life is over in Iraq. This is my country now."

Albdairi was enrolled in college when the U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003. The next year he joined the New Iraqi Army and served until 2006. After leaving the military, he worked as an interpreter for U.S. forces until he got his visa six years later. That included not just translating, but explaining Iraqi culture, right down to naming conventions, which U.S. military personnel didn't always understand.

"I always enjoyed it because I want to help people," Albdairi said of his time as an interpreter. "I know both sides, my people and the U.S. Army. I'm in the middle."

After he'd been on the job about a year, Albdairi said, militias in Iraq began targeting interpreters and their families. He had to move his family out of Baghdad and he couldn't leave the U.S.-controlled Green Zone.

In 2008, he applied for a special immigrant visa, which allows interpreters in Iraq and Afghanistan to come to the U.S., but it took four more years before he could come here and get a green card.

8 years of experience

Albdairi spent a few months in San Antonio before moving to Austin at a friend's suggestion. He's washed dishes, worked as a delivery driver and as a driver for ride-hailing apps. Albdairi said he's disappointed he couldn't join the Army Reserve and that he'd have to wait a year for background checks if he wanted to go active duty.

"I spent three years with the Iraqi Army and five years with the U.S. military," he said. "It's in my blood. I want to do something to help this country."

Stock called Albdairi "a perfect example of why this new policy makes absolutely no sense." The background checks he underwent to serve as an interpreter and come to the country on the special immigrant visa should have assuaged any concerns that he's a security risk, she said.

"If they can't get a guy like him into the military, you know what they have to use?" she asked. "Unvetted foreign contractors at great expense to the U.S. taxpayer."
Chief Judge Susan Braden of the United States Court of Claims gave flood-weary and beat-up Houstonians an early Christmas gift when she arrived from Washington, D.C., to conduct a hearing on Dec. 20 in the lawsuits arising from the flooding associated with Addicks and Barker Reservoirs. And a lovely gift it was.

Judge Braden gave us the gift of an empathetic judge caring about rendering swift justice, win or lose. She was scathing in her remarks to the federal government's lawyers, whom she felt were unnecessarily attempting to delay progress in the hearing of these cases. Instead of going along with these stalling tactics, she grasped and articulated the urgency of our community's situation and acted upon it.

How refreshing it is to see a public servant truly concerned about the public. How refreshing it is to see a federal judge speak about the need for swift justice, for urgency in addressing the concerns of flood-ravaged Houstonians. And how rare.

All politicians in the Houston area should take notice of this federal judge's example and learn from it. Of our local, state and federal politicians, only County Judge Ed Emmett seems to really grasp the seriousness of our situation and the need to change the status quo. Emmett led Harris County to vote to use the 500-year flood plain in the interim for regulation and planning - a bold step.

To Emmett, I say: "Good start. Now take us forward to address even more difficult tasks and get us to the finish line."

To the others I say: "Get with it or get out."

It is hard to overstate the urgency of effective action regarding our flooding situation. We need to overhaul our thinking and our approach to flooding. We have a $500 billion-plus economic engine in the Houston area that we need to protect and nourish - the golden goose that we all have enjoyed. But our goose is threatened by our major flooding mess, not to mention the threat to our property, lives and well-being.

There are any number of priorities. The first is telling the truth about our flooding problem. The mapped 100-year flood plain is obsolete. To the extent that we are trying to protect our people and our buildings from a storm that has a 1 percent chance of occurring in any year, this map is simply wrong and not dependable. Our roads are built to this level, our buildings and homes are elevated to this level, and hazardous waste is protected to this level. It must be changed.

Yes, Harris County has moved to replace this obsolete flood plain with the 500-year flood plain, which is certainly a step forward. However, the city of Houston has not replaced their obsolete 100-year flood plain, and we have to ask: "Why not?"

Why do we have one local government protecting us to a higher standard than another? Those of us living in Houston and surrounding smaller cities and towns are simply not being protected as well in this respect as are those living in unincorporated Harris County.

The same goes for the state of Texas. Nothing has been changed by the Texas Highway Department regarding our flood planning for roads. Nor has anything been changed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding our planning standards for hazardous waste. Both of these agencies are overseen by the governor and lieutenant governor. Both have been mute on this subject, to which I say: "An official who is mute on flood-related action is the enemy of the people of this region."

The same is true of the federal government. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has been silent regarding our obsolete flood plains. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been silent about any revised planning standards. No new refinery and chemical safety standards have been proposed.

At the federal court hearing earlier this month, Judge Braden said, "What has been proposed to the Court, frankly, is insulting. It's insulting to the people in this community  ."

We, the "people in this community," should all be insulted by the poor efforts mounted so far by elected officials for the city, state and federal governments. They can do better, and we should demand better.

Blackburn is an environmental lawyer and the founder of Bayou City Initiative.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Before Hurricane Harvey hit, all too many people living in the Houston area were blissfully unaware of the critical importance of the Barker and Addicks dams. Even people living in the flood pools around the dams didn't know their neighborhoods were specifically targeted for inundation during major storms. The damage done in those subdivisions was stunning, but a catastrophic failure of the dams could have been apocalyptic.

On the west side, two earthen berms have held back a wall of water that, if it breaks free, would create a deluge unseen since Hurricane Katrina submerged New Orleans.

A failure at Addicks alone would leave nearly 7,000 people dead and inflict $22.7 billion in property damage, Houston Chronicle reporter Lauren Caruba wrote last year.

So if you think the situation is bad enough, that is how things gets worse 

We'd like to tell you that these dams, located near the intersection of Interstate 10 and Texas 6, are up-to-date marvels of technology and that everything was under control. But we'd be lying.

The Corps branded both dams with the agency's worst safety rating and labeled them as being at "extremely high risk of catastrophic failure" in 2009. Only four other dams in the nation earned that rock-bottom rating, and none are near a city as big as Houston.

RELATED: Harvey exposed every point of weakness

Aug. 29, 2017

A breach would send forth a half-mile-wide wall of water powerful enough to knock homes off their foundations, Precinct 3 County Commissioner Steve Radack told the editorial board. Imagine an inland tsunami sweeping east along the Energy Corridor toward the central business district, killing upward of 7,000 people.

"It's next to impossible to get people to believe the unbelievable," Radack said.

A disaster of this scale may seem unthinkable, but environmental and engineering activists have been ringing the warning bell for years.

This page wrote an editorial last year urging local and federal officials to make the dams an immediate priority. "There's always the chance, however small," we wrote, "that the next storm will be 'the perfect storm.' " We may be living through it. Harris County, though, has preferred to focus on development foremost, even allowing construction within the reservoirs themselves.

Aug. 29, 2017

About 31,000 property owners in Harris and Fort Bend counties learned only after Hurricane Harvey that their homes lie in an area the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers knew it might have to inundate. Whole subdivisions were built in the flood pools behind the Barker and Addicks dams, areas federal authorities considered dry lake beds designated to go underwater in an emergency. A corps official later said there was no question homes in those subdivisions would flood someday, it was only a question of when it would happen.

And yet, many of the people living in this area had no idea their neighborhoods were basically doomed to flood. As hard as it is to believe, that critical information was never revealed to homebuyers. This stunning lack of disclosure is one of the many issues that state lawmakers need to address in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

Oct. 4, 2017

It is too late for studies and delays - Houston needs action. Any Harvey recovery bill must include the funding necessary to bolster our two existing reservoirs and construct a third on Cypress Creek. Experts have pegged the bill at $500 million. That project is priority No. 1. Following close behind are $300 million to update bayou infrastructure and a whopping $15 billion for coastal storm surge protection.

The cost of a new reservoir may seem hefty, but the price of a worst-case scenario on Houston's west side would be incalculable.

Sept. 30, 2017
The following are excerpts from reports generated by the Texas County Sheriffs Department:

A man called Dec. 28 to report that cows were starving on a neighbor mans Pine Road property at Willow Springs.

An investigating officer determined the property didnt belong to the man the caller named, and there were no cows at the location. Neighbors told the officer they had not heard of anyone by the name the caller gave.

A deputy was dispatched at about 11:30 p.m. Dec. 28 regarding a report of a round bale of hay in the roadway at U.S. 63 and Highway B at Houston. The officer was able to move the bale off the roadway.

A deputy responded at about 3 p.m. Dec. 28 to a report of a domestic dispute between a father and son at a Putter Road residence at Cabool.

The officer made contact with a 64-year-old man who lives there who said his 40-year-old son had gotten angry and was tearing up things in the house before going to a next door neighbors house. The officer spoke with the son and advised him to stay away from his fathers house because he was unwelcome there.

A deputy responded Dec. 26 to a request to check the well-being of a man at a Shipp Drive residence at Licking.

The officer made contact with the man, 66, who said he was fine and stated that he and his wife had gotten into an argument earlier in the day and he was ignoring her calls.

A deputy was dispatched at about 6:30 p.m. Dec. 24 regarding a report of trespassing at a U.S. 63 residence at Licking.

The officer made contact with two men there, who said a man in a hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants had jumped the fence onto their property.

One man told the officer the issue has been ongoing and he wished to pursue charges against the suspect if caught. The other man told the officer the suspect sleeps in the basement of his home even though he isnt supposed to be there, and that he is always gone when they try to confront him.

The deputy was unable to locate the suspect and advised the two victims to call if they see him again.

A deputy was dispatched at about 9:15 p.m. Dec. 23 regarding a report of shots fired at a Highway C residence at Licking.

The officer made contact with a 26-year-old man who lives there who said a truck had pulled about half way down his driveway with its headlights on and a male driver. The man told the officer he was home alone with his 1-year-old daughter, so he retrieved a .243 caliber rifle from inside his house and went outside and fired one shot into the air. The man stated that the driver of the truck then fired three shots in his direction and then left.

The officer found a spent .243 shell on the ground where the man said he was standing when he fired his rifle. The officer looked closely at a vehicle next to where he had been standing and located what looked like a bullet hole on the passenger side near the rear tire.

Photographs were taken at the scene. There are no suspects, but investigation continues.

A deputy responded to a request to check the well-being of an allegedly suicidal woman at a Roffe Drive residence at Houston.

The officer determined the woman actually lives in the St. Louis area and was fine.

Texas County Jail admissions

Dec. 22

Ryan M. Wagner  assault, resisting

Dec. 25

Gary L. Simmons  stealing

Dec. 26

Michael E. Hoth  30-day commitment

Jacob A. Danzo  resisting, interfering with arrest

Michael K. Jackson  writ

Dec. 27

Randilyn R. Wilson  drug charge

Scott A. Grim  assault

Tyler Barnett  DWI

Dec. 28

Carol M. Dicarro  failure to appear

Dec. 29

Lloyd R. Hill  stealing
Houstons fire chief escaped injured Friday night in a crash in Audrain County, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

Tpr. G.T. Perberton said an eastbound 2016 Honda CRV driven by Lisa M. Birch, 25, of Sturgeon, slid on ice, crossed into oncoming traffic on Highway 22 and rotated, causing the rear of the vehicle to strike the front of a 2011 Chevrolet Impala operated by Joey D. Moore, 45, of Houston.

Birch was taken to Boone Hospital Center in Columbia with minor injuries. Both were wearing seat belts, Pemberton said.
The terrorist attack on the Coptic Church of Mar Mina has left nine dead and five injured, police say one of the terrorists arrested has carried out previous terror attacks on civilians and police

Two unidentified gunmen killed nine people as they opened fire early Friday on a church south of Cairo, ahead of Coptic Christian celebrations next week, Egypt's state TV and health ministry said.

Security forces shot dead one of the terrorists in an exchange of fire outside the church of Mar Mina in Helwan district while the other assailant has been captured, state TV and state news agency MENA said.

Health ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed told state television that nine people  including a Muslim and eight Christians  had been killed, in addition to the gunman, and five injured. Those wounded include two women in critical condition, he added.

State TV aired footage of the assailant's body, showing a bearded man wearing an explosive vest lying on the ground as crowds gathered.

The interior ministry said in a statement in the afternoon that it arrested an attacker on a motorcycle who attempted to drive through security forces outside the church armed with a machinegun, ammunition and a bomb that he intended to detonate in the church.

The ministry said he killed two people when he opened fire on a shop before heading to the church where he shot dead seven people, including a policeman.

The arrested attacker is an active terrorist who has carried out a number of terrorist attacks targeting police and civilians, the statement added.

Cairo's security chief and a number of security officials visited the scene of the attack earlier Friday.

Friday's attack took place as Egyptian Coptic Christians, who make up 10 percent of the country's 93 million population, make preparations to celebrate Christmas on 7 January.

Dozens of Christians have been killed in terrorist attacks on churches and congregations in recent years.

Police have beefed up security around churches during the Christmas celebrations. The ministry of Interior has deployed 230,000 personnel to guard churches, parks and other vital institutions. Police have cordonned off streets around churches to preempt suicide attacks and installed metal detectors outside larger churches.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print.

Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition.

If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create.
In September, members of the Mount Greylock School Building Committee took a 'hard hat' tour of the addition/renovation project, including the new lobby, seen here. The new Williams Bookstore on Spring Street opened in August. May saw the retirement of longtime Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation Executive Director Leslie Reed-Evans. The Zoning Board of Appeals makes a site visit to the proposed location for a new hotel on the 'Lehovec Property.' The request for special permits was denied. The town is benefiting from electricity generated by solar panels at the capped landfill on Simonds Road, which went online in November 2017. Voters at November's special town meeting overwhelmingly approved the expansion of the Mount Greylock Regional School District. In April, the town announced plans to locate the new police station at the former Turner House veterans home. Village Ambulance Service explained its dire financial situation to town officials in January. PreviousNext

Williamstown: 2017 Year In Review



Just before Thanksgiving, Hal March, the longtime owner of Toonerville Trolley Records discussed his plans to sell the business and retire. WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  Two major mergers and one sort-of merger that did not happen helped shape the year that was in the Village Beautiful.

The top story of 2017 undoubtedly was the expansion of the Mount Greylock Regional School District to include its two feeder elementary schools in Williamstown and Lanesborough.

Citing inefficiencies in the shared services arrangement that previously yoked the three schools and desiring to preserve the educational and financial benefits the towns have reaped from the cooperative agreements, school committees in the two towns asked voters to bring all three into the same region.

The idea had been talked about for years and was the subject of a 2013 yearlong study by Mount Greylock, which ultimately put the proposal on the back burner in order to concentrate on the addition/renovation project at the middle/high school.

In 2017, the Mount Greylock School Committees resurrected Regional District Amendment Committee recommended that the proposal be driven by the elementary school committees in the two towns.

Elementary school committee chairs Joe Bergeron in Williamstown and Regina DiLego in Lanesborough developed a plan that addressed the thorny issue of local control by breaking the standard mold for regional school funding. Instead of both towns paying for K-12 education based on student population, each town will pay its K-6 cost based on the budget for its respective elementary school -- while continuing to split the 7-12 price tag under the student-population formula already used at Mount Greylock.

In the end, the regionalization proposal passed with minimal opposition in Lanesborough and virtually no dissent in Williamstown at concurrent special town meetings.

As we ring in 2018, a Transition Committee that includes members from all three elected school committees is charged with making the merger work.

But it was not the only merger in town.

Village Ambulance Service, which started the year with dire warnings about its financial situation, ended the year by ending its existence and joining forces with neighboring North Adams Ambulance Service. Together, the combined operation will cover most of North Berkshire and avoid the feared financial collapse of the non-profit VAS.

A committee that included Williamstown, VAS, Williamstown Fire District and Williams College officials spent most of 2017 studying the problem and seeking the advice of an outside consultant. The task force decided that uniting with NAAS was the best possible solution for Village Ambulance, which was hampered by, among other things, a changing insurance market and the reality that smaller ambulance services nationwide are struggling to survive without economies of scale.

The towns other first responders, after flirting with a different kind of merger -- at least in terms of infrastructure -- made moves in 2017 to find their own solutions to well-established building woes. The town acquired a Simonds Road [Route 7] property for a new Williamstown Police Department headquarters while the Williamstown Fire District, on its third try, acquired a Main Street [Route 2] parcel where it hopes to build a new firehouse.

The Fire District twice asked voters in 2013 to approve the purchase of the 3.7-acre Lehovec Property next to the Aubuchon Hardware store that opened in 2017. Twice, voters at special Fire District meetings favored the acquisition but not by the two-thirds supermajority needed to make it happen.

After the second failure, the town and Fire District -- a separate taxing authority outside of town government -- agreed to form a joint committee to look at a possible public safety building that could accommodate the towns police and fire needs. Ultimately, that group decided in 2016 there was no suitable space.

In spring 2017, the town announced it had a purchase and sales agreement for the former Turner House on Simonds Road, and as soon as Mays 2018 annual town meeting, the town manager hopes to have a proposal for bonding the renovation and addition needed to turn the former veterans home into a police station.

The Prudential Committee, which governs the fire district, is taking its time with the process of developing plans for the hoped-for firehouse on Main Street, across from East Lawn Cemetery. In the meantime, the Fire Department is making do with its current digs on Water Street.

Speaking of Water Street, it was impacted by the latest construction project to hit Williamstown: the replacement of an underground culvert that carries Christmas Brook to the Green River, which runs along the eastern side of Water Street.

The larger culvert and a stormwater detention system being installed under the college-owned municipal parking lot on the bottom of Spring Street will help alleviate flooding that has plagued residents in the Meacham Street neighborhood.

The culvert is planned to be in place beneath Water Street before it undergoes a major rebuild under the auspices of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

The culvert replacement is an important piece of the reshaping of Williamstowns downtown, an initiative led by Williams College and includes the new Williams Bookstore , which opened this year, and the new Williams Inn , which broke ground in the fall.

Of course, Williams is not the only one making news in the hotel business in Williamstown this year.

2017 began with two separate hotels being proposed for commercial lots on Main Street. Both needed special permits from the Zoning Board of Appeals, which permitted one developer to go forward and blocked the other.

The year ended with the permitted project already taking shape as a new Fairfield Inn by Marriott rises on the land that formerly was home to the Grand Union and, recently, Developers Finance.

And it ended with the ZBA at the center of yet another conflict, a proposed cell tower on Cold Spring Road that faced staunch opposition from some members of the community and a public hearing that was continued into 2018.
Full Resumption of U.S. Visa Services in Turkey

Washington, DC - Since October, the government of Turkey has adhered to the high-level assurances it provided to the United States that there are no additional local employees of our Mission in Turkey under investigation, that local staff of our Embassy and consulates will not be detained or arrested for performing their official duties  including communicating with Turkish officials also working in an official capacity  and that Turkish authorities will inform the U.S. Government in advance if the Government of Turkey intends to detain or arrest any member of our local staff in the future.

Based on adherence to these assurances, the Department of State is confident that the security posture has improved sufficiently to allow for the full resumption of visa services in Turkey. We continue to have serious concerns about the existing allegations against arrested local employees of our Mission in Turkey. We are also concerned about the cases against U.S. citizens who have been arrested under the state of emergency. U.S. officials will continue to engage with their Turkish counterparts to seek a satisfactory resolution to these cases.
According to a White House press release, Trump emphasised during a phone call his commitment to strengthening efforts to defeat terrorism and extremism in all forms

US President Donald Trump stressed his countrys full solidarity with Egypt in its war against terrorism in a phone call with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi hours after Fridays terrorist attack on a Coptic church south of Cairo, which killed nine and injured five, a statement by the Egyptian Presidency read.

In an official statement, Egyptian Presidency Spokesman Bassam Rady said Trump called El-Sisi to express his condolences for the victims of the terror attack on the church of Mar Mina in Helwan district, reiterating the US stance with Egypt against terrorism.

El-Sisi expressed to Trump his sincere gratitude for the presidents condolences, stressing the importance of uniting international efforts to combat terrorism and eradicate it.

According to a press release by the White House, Trump emphasized during the phone call his commitment to strengthening efforts to defeat terrorism and extremism in all their forms.

On Friday, ahead of Coptic Christian celebrations next week, two unidentified gunmen killed nine people as they opened fire on the church.

The interior ministry said it arrested one of the attackers, who attempted to drive through security forces outside the church armed with a machine gun, ammunition and a bomb that he intended to detonate in the church.

The ministry said the man also killed two people when he opened fire on a shop before heading to the church where he shot dead seven people, including a policeman.

The ministry identified the attacker as Ibrahim Ismail Mostafa, adding that he has carried out multiple terrorist attacks against civilians and policemen since 2016.

Friday's terrorist attack took place as Egyptian Coptic Christians, who make up 10 percent of the country's 93 million population, make preparations to celebrate Christmas on 7 January.

Police have deployed 230,000 personnel to protect churches, parks and other vital public institutions during the Christmas season.

Dozens of Coptic Christians have been killed in several terrorist attacks on churches and congregations in recent years.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


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 exploding price of the cryptocurrency bitcoin this year  and its subsequent recent fall  has triggered doubts not only about its financial stability, but also the environmental sustainability of the currency itself.

One alarmist article in Newsweek said that bitcoin computer operations could consume all of the worlds energy by 2020. The website Digiconomist claims that bitcoin operations use as much energy as Denmark, or enough to power 3,071,823 US households.

Other analysts say the true figure is smaller, albeit hard to measure because it is spread around the world, generated by an unclear mix of machines and co-mingled with other sources of electricity demand. But several experts told The Washington Post that bitcoin probably uses as much as 1 to 4 gigawatts, or billion watts, of electricity  roughly the output of one to three nuclear reactors.

That would amount to less than 1 per cent of US electricity.

That wont devour the worlds entire electricity resources, but its a significant drain  and its growing fast. Moreover, some of the electricity used, in China in particular, may come from burning coal  a fossil fuel that contributes most heavily to climate change.

The reason bitcoin uses a lot of energy is rooted in the way its network operates. A digital currency, bitcoin is not controlled by any central bank or commercial clearinghouse but by a network of users who expend large amounts of computing power, and thus energy, building a so-called blockchain of bitcoin payment transactions.

To compile this comprehensive record, the bitcoin network relies on miners. Bitcoin miners have to perform a phenomenally large number of computer calculations to track and verify transactions and solve complex puzzles to obtain bitcoin rewards. As bitcoins became more popular and valuable this year, the puzzles miners face grew more difficult, and therefore the demand for high-powered computer processing grew as well. That means more energy usage.

If the price of bitcoin continues to rise, it will continue to use more energy, said Mike Reed, director of the Blockchain Programme Office for Intel. The reason, he said, is that the price represents an economic incentive to add more mining equipment to the network ... and that incentive is built in.

Bitcoins soaring prices earlier this year were driven by everything from a craze in South Korea to the international CME Group electronic exchange which started trading bitcoin futures on 18 December. And although it may have taken a tumble recently, most observers are expecting it to recover its value in 2018, meaning demand should remain high.

At the moment ... a lot of people want to get into the mining game, explains David Malone, a lecturer at Maynooth University in Ireland who co-authored a paper in 2014 finding that at that time, the bitcoin network was using up about as much electricity as his entire country. And then ... bitcoin responds by making the problems more difficult.

The difficulty of uncovering a new block has increased along an exponential curve of late, even as the number of calculations per second has grown sharply as well since late last year. The bitcoin network is now generating some 14 million trillion hashes, or possible solutions to a problem, per second.

How much energy is being consumed?

Malone and a colleague calculated in 2014 that the total power required for bitcoin calculations could be between 0.1 and 10 gigawatts, or billion watts, of instantaneous power. Ireland at the time was consuming about 3 gigawatts steadily, so he compared the two in terms of order of magnitude.

But since then he thinks the usage is a lot more. Computing efficiency has increased, but the number of calculations has gone up even more, meaning he thinks that 1.2 gigawatts is now probably the lowest the number can be, and that assumes everyone is using the most efficient computing hardware, which they certainly are not.

That really is the lower bound, said Malone. Its really unlikely everybody in the network is using that, so the 1.2 is the lowest it can possibly be.

Thats roughly comparable to the electricity generated steadily by one of the larger utility-scale nuclear reactors in the United States. But there are 99 US nuclear reactors in total, which provide about 20 per cent of the nations electricity  so while bitcoin is clearly a large energy consumer, it would still be relatively small scale in the context of a major country like the United States or China.

Harald Vranken, a professor of management at the Open Universiteit in the Netherlands, has calculated a similar number. On 1 January he calculated the energy usage at 0.1 to .5 gigawatts, but with the bitcoin explosion this year, he thinks it has increased to between 1 and 4 gigawatts.

It will only go up if things increase like they have been doing in the last four months, said Vranken. So at some point in time, I think, this situation cannot hold. I think that is clear.

Still, there are skeptics. Jonathan Koomey, an energy researcher and lecturer at Stanford University who studies the energy consumption of data centres, has found that they consume about 1.8 per cent of US electricity, of which he sees bitcoin as a small fraction.

While bitcoin mining electricity use may have grown, it is a tiny part of all US data centre electricity use, and that conclusion is true for the world as well, said Koomey by email. As we transition more and more workloads to the cloud, it is unlikely that total data centre electricity use will grow much in the next few years.

Still, that bitcoin mining is energy intensive is shown not just in the calculations by experts, but in the stark reality of how this business works. Energy consumption is a major factor governing the strategies behind where, and how, miners conduct their work.

The economics of bitcoin mining mean that most miners need access to reliable and very cheap power on the order of 2 or 3 cents per kilowatt hour. As a result, a lot are located near sources of hydro power, where its cheap, said Sam Hartnett, an associate at the Rocky Mountain Institute, a non profit energy research and consulting group.

The amount of energy going into mining is largely a product of the price of bitcoin and the type of hardware being used, Hartnett said. As the price goes up, there are stronger incentives for miners to add new computing power or new hardware or attract new operations to mining. In either case, youd be adding to total computing power of the network, which influences the difficulty of the hash problems that miners are raising.

If bitcoins price, and concurrent energy consumption, rose in a similar way next year, that could be a serious problem. But its less clear whether the current rate of growth in consumption would continue.

Claire Henly, a manager at RMI, said there are two ways this problem can be solved. There can be changes to the protocol of bitcoin that would allow for reduced energy spent, or users could switch to other cryptocurrencies that require less energy expenditure.

She said that ethereum, the second most widely used network, is changing its protocol to reduce energy use.

She said that bitcoin, unlike many other digital currencies using blockchains, is difficult to change because it is decentralised. However, she added, there are definitely changes that can be made that would reduce energy use and not make this a fatal flaw for bitcoin.

Christian Catalini, assistant professor for technological innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said that the current energy trends of bitcoin are not permanent.

The first thing to keep in mind is that the system is not in equilibrium, he said. What youre looking at is the expansion and growth phase of the [bitcoin] network. The reason miners are investing so much in bitcoin from the start is that they were hoping to earn tokens that would appreciate dramatically in value over time. They are willing to invest capital and electricity to be early in this race to manufacture bitcoin.

Currently, as many as half of the biggest bitcoin miners are believed to be Chinese firms, which tend to have low capital and energy costs.

However, Catalini said, over time there will be fewer bitcoins left to find, a feature of the original plan by bitcoins mysterious founder. Once were at scale and so few bitcoins are being mined that it is essentially irrelevant for the system, the revenue for the miners will have to come from transaction fees. So in equilibrium, the energy and security provided by the network from this wasteful computation will have to be equivalent to the transaction fee.

He also said that different miners will have different cost structures depending on how advanced their hardware is. He said that most mining takes place using highly efficient chips customised just to mine bitcoin.

The days when you or I could buy desktop and mine off on the side and have a chance of doing proof of work that bitcoin uses, is a pretty small chance, said Gerald Gray, technical executive at the Electric Power Research Institute. Now guys have large data centres specifically designed for this.

Gray said his group at EPRI has discussed whether utilities could use excess data centre capacity to mine for bitcoins in their unregulated businesses. But he said he would have to do the maths on whether that made economic sense.

But at the Rocky Mountain Institute, Henly is most interested in blockchain technology as a way to monitor and control electric power generation in a more sophisticated energy grid.

For Intel, the broader blockchain technology holds huge potential in commercial transactions, and the company is designing technologies to support these applications. But Intels Reed is not sure whether bitcoin can easily change away from its energy consuming ways, and also points to ethereum as the next currency in line and one that is more sustainable.

If it were to continue to ... become more costly to mine, there are other networks that could displace it, said Reed. Ethereum, for instance, has a cryptocurrency to it as well, and has [a] more energy efficient way to mine. And therefore, that network will have basically less friction as it grows and could overtake it as an alternative.

 Washington Post
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

The number of men in Britain interested in sexually abusing children could be in the tens of thousands, a police chief has warned.

Simon Bailey, National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) lead for child protection said that 4,000 men in the UK were found to be using a single online chat room by investigators monitoring a site this year.

The Norfolk Constabulary Chief Constable told The Guardian: I believe there are tens of thousands of men that are now going into chat rooms and forums with a view to grooming children.

Technology has afforded an access to children that people who have a sexual interest in children never had before.

The figure could be more than 20,000, he said.

Mr Bailey also warned that a lack of resources meant police could not tackle all offenders, and officers had to prioritise the most serious threats posed by perpetrators.

Some lower-level offenders cannot be arrested and taken to court. There is just not the capacity, he told the newspaper.

But he said that thousands and thousands of officers still would not be enough to deal with all child abuse offenders, adding: This is one of those wicked problems we simply cannot arrest our way out of.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 17 November 2022 Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt leaves 11 Downing Street, London, for the House of Commons to deliver his autumn statement PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2022 Emma Woolf, great niece of British author Virginia Woolf, and her son Ludovic sit next to a new bronze statue of Woolf, unveiled in Richmond, London Reuters 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 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

Mr Bailey also called for a crackdown from tech giants on youngsters use of live streaming platforms such as Periscope and Facebook Live.

It comes after the NPCC and the National Crime Agency launched a campaign to encourage parents to be alert to the dangers of live streaming and warn their children of the risks.

At the start of the campaign in early December, Mr Bailey said: We need internet companies to help us stop access to sexual abuse images and videos and prevent abuse happening on their platforms.

We need parents and carers to talk to their children about healthy relationships and staying safe online.

Press Association
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 }}

Hundreds of thousands of women are working for less than the real living wage in Scotland, amid an unacceptable gap with their male counterparts, figures show.

Analysis of government figures showed that 270,000 female workers (22 per cent) received less than 8.45 per hour in 2017, compared to 159,000 men (14 per cent).

Lesley Laird, the Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland, said the gender pay gap was unacceptable and partly attributed it to low-paid professions employing more women.

Its not right that over 100,000 more women than men make less than the living wage, she said.

One of the reasons for this is low-paid professions like caring, cleaning, retail and hospitality tend to employ more women than men.

The gender pay gap hit headlines earlier in the year after the BBC revealed its own 9 per cent gap between male and female staff salaries, but Ms Laird said the issue it impacts on almost every workplace in the country.

The minister vowed that Labour would increase the current minimum wage set by the Government, to a new living wage rate of 10 an hour by 2020  a promise matched by the Scottish Government.

We need to transform our economy so that it works for the many, not the few, Ms Laird said.

That means boosting pay, cracking down on zero-hour contracts and getting tough on companies who think a womans labour is worth less than a mans.

 Government increase living wage

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) cautioned that the definition of a living wage was not clear cut, with the Governments National Living Wage for over-25s due to rise from 7.50 to 7.83 in April.

It does not record the number of people in England and Wales paid less than the figure used by Scottish Labour, but said there were 342,000 employees aged 16 and over earning below the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage earlier this year.

The National Living Wage was introduced in April 2016 and is likely to be one of the main drivers behind the reduction in proportion of low-paid jobs in the past two years, the ONS said at the time.

Analysis of its figures by KPMG estimated that 21 per cent of British jobs paid under the living wage in 2017  5.5 million in total  and 62 per cent of the workers affected were women.

Research suggested that 26 per cent of all UK working women were still earning less than the benchmark, compared to just 16 per cent of working men.

It found people were being paid better in Scotland on the whole, with the proportion of people not being paid the living wage at 18 per cent.

Critics have said the amount set by the Government is still not enough to live on, particularly in cities like London where basic living costs are higher.

Scottish Labour set its benchmark nearer what campaigners call the Real Living Wage  8.75 across the UK and 10.20 in London  which they say is an independently-calculated assessment on what people need to get by.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 17 November 2022 Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt leaves 11 Downing Street, London, for the House of Commons to deliver his autumn statement PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2022 Emma Woolf, great niece of British author Virginia Woolf, and her son Ludovic sit next to a new bronze statue of Woolf, unveiled in Richmond, London Reuters 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 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

Katherine Chapman, director of the Living Wage Foundation, said: Across the UK, women make up nearly two-thirds of workers currently earning below the real Living Wage  thats 3.4 million working women compared to 2.1 million men.

Women continue to be hit hardest by low wages in the UK and with the cost of living rising, we need to see more organisations joining the 3,800 employers across the UK who are paying a real Living Wage  this will benefit women and part time workers nationwide.

Jamie Hepburn, the Scottish National Partys minister for employability and training, emphasised that Scotlands gender pay gap for full-time workers is lower than the UK as a whole, standing at 6.6 per cent compared to 9.1 per cent overall.

However, the Scottish Government remain committed to seeing that gap closed completely, he added, calling for further devolution to pas employment law to Holyrood.

Proposals include requiring all public authorities with more than 20 staff  as opposed to the current minimum of 250  to publish pay statistics by gender.

We are also working to make our jobs market fairer, including promoting the real living wage, where we punch well above our weight with almost a fifth of all UK living wage-accredited employers, committing to paying the living wage to adult social care workers, Mr Hepburn said.

This is an ambitious commitment, giving up to 40,000 people  mainly women  doing some of the most valuable work in Scotland a well-deserved pay rise.

A separate report from the independent Scottish Parliamentary Information Centre earlier this year found 64 per cent of workers earning less than the living wage in the country were female, with 297,000 women workers receiving a lower salary.

Additional reporting by PA
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 protestant paramilitary group wrote to former Irish Prime Minister Charles Haughey to warn him that MI5 had asked them to assassinate him, according to newly disclosed documents.

The Ulster Volunteer Force - a loyalist group classified as a terrorist organisation by the UK - contacted Haughey during his third term as Taoiseach in 1987, claiming that two years earlier, an MI5 agent had provided information about his home, his cars and the yacht he used to reach his private island, and encouraged them to assassinate him.

The previously classified government documents were released under the thirty-year rule.

In 1985 we were approached by a MI5 officer attached to the NIO [Northern Ireland office] and based in Lisburn, Alex Jones was his supposed name, the UVF letter said. He asked us to execute you.

The UVF letter says they turned down the request, because they did not want to do the work of the UKs Dirty Tricks Department.

In the letter to Haughey they wrote: We refused to do it. We were asked would we accept responsibility if you were killed. We refused.

We have no love for you but we are not going to carry out work for the Dirty Tricks Department of the British.

The agent was said to have provided extensive information about Haugheys vehicles, along with photographs of his home, details of his trips to Kerry airport, and pictures of the plane he used.

The threat was taken seriously at the time, and scuba divers were used to search the hull of Haugheys boat for explosive devices.

The UVF letter said they believed the MI5 plot was designed to destroy the Irish economy, and also said the British planned to provide them with anthrax, and also the means of spreading foot and mouth disease, fowl pest, and other animal diseases.

The declassified papers also show that Irelands embassy in Australia received threatening and abusive calls after a statue of Queen Victoria which had been in storage for 40 years was given as a gift to the city of Sydney.

The embassy wrote to the Irish government in December 1987 to warn that the gesture had not been received well by some.

The message said: In the days preceding the unveiling, you should be aware that the embassy received a number of threatening and abusive phone calls about the propriety of an Irish government giving a statue of Victoria as a gift.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 17 November 2022 Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt leaves 11 Downing Street, London, for the House of Commons to deliver his autumn statement PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2022 Emma Woolf, great niece of British author Virginia Woolf, and her son Ludovic sit next to a new bronze statue of Woolf, unveiled in Richmond, London Reuters 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 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

The callers demanded to know the name of who was going to represent the Irish government at the ceremony and to warn him/her to stay away.
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 }}

There will be fewer police in London for the New Years Eve celebrations, despite four serious terror attacks in the capital this year.

But a larger number of armed police are to be deployed, Scotland Yard said.

Over 3,000 armed officers are expected to either patrol streets or operate undercover, and the force said there was no specific threat to the public.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson told The Independent: Whilst the Met will not discuss numbers, the plan has been developed to ensure the right assets are in the right places.

Superintendent Nick Aldworth insisted the force would have the necessary resources based on the threat.

Speaking to The Telegraph he said: We are providing a proportionate number of officers based on the threat, number of people coming, and the secure environment we've been able to build.

We have fewer officers policing here but they represent the appropriate number of resources that we need.

The reduced overall number of police officers on duty for New Years Eve comes as new Metropolitan Police commissioner Cressida Dick has described police resources as stretched, and called for more funding.

Recommended Met chief says extra funding would help combat violent crime

We need to focus on what matters most and violence on our streets is a big risk for Londoners, she told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

Recorded crimes have risen by 13 per cent in a year, including a surge in acid attacks, stabbings, sexual offences and cyber crime.

The Metropolitan Police has already instructed officers to stop investigating some low-level crimes as it works to save 400m by 2020 and other forces are believed to be enacting or considering similar policies.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 17 November 2022 Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt leaves 11 Downing Street, London, for the House of Commons to deliver his autumn statement PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2022 Emma Woolf, great niece of British author Virginia Woolf, and her son Ludovic sit next to a new bronze statue of Woolf, unveiled in Richmond, London Reuters 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 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

Labours Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott said: Everyone deserves to be able to enjoy New Years Eve in safety. But it must be clear by now that Government cuts have left the police over-stretched.
Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Boris Johnsons pledge to build a global Britain after Brexit has been branded hot air after it emerged the Foreign Office was hollowing out embassies around the world to fund diplomatic posts in Europe.

The Foreign Office plans to hire 50 extra staff for embassies within the European Union and promote ambassadors in smaller nations such as Malta and Luxembourg to a more senior level, officials have told MPs.

The idea will be funded by cost-cutting measures for diplomatic missions in places such as Asia and Africa, in a move at odds with Mr Johnsons claims that the UK will play a greater role on the world stage after it leaves the EU.

 Boris Johnson and Russian foreign minister talk about frosty UK-Russia relationship

Recommended Johnson clashes with Russian Foreign Minister during Moscow visit

Critics seized on the news as a sign of the impact of Brexit on Britains diplomatic and trade relations amid growing concern over how Whitehall departments will cope with the sheer volume of work involved in preparations for leaving the EU.

In evidence to the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, reported by The Times, Foreign Office minister Sir Alan Duncan said: We are developing proposals for making savings across Asia-Pacific; south Asia and Afghanistan; the Americas and Africa to release about 4.2m worth of savings to fund these 50 new jobs.

The Foreign Office also plans to hire 50 extra staff to help Whitehall departments cope with the challenges of Brexit.

Caroline Wilson, Europe director at the Foreign Office, reportedly told MPs there had been a big network shift to emerging market economies, including India and China in recent years and the plan focused on redressing the balance towards European diplomacy.

Ambassadors in Malta, Luxembourg, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia and Slovakia will be promoted to a more senior level as work in those areas had become more important after the EU referendum, she said.

Ms Wilson said that the Foreign Office was in negotiations with the Treasury about cutting posts elsewhere in the world, according to The Times.

Pro-European campaigners said the plan makes a mockery of Mr Johnsons hopes for a global Britain, which he outlined in his first major policy speech as Foreign Secretary last year.

James McGrory, director of the Open Britain campaign, said: Despite all of Boris Johnsons hot air about global Britain, the reality is Brexit is diminishing our countrys presence on the world stage.

No one voted in the referendum for Britain to have less international influence. If that is the consequence of Brexit, people have a right to keep an open mind about whether it is the right path for our 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

Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesperson Tom Brake said: The Foreign Secretarys shameless attempts to bolster his influence on Brexit negotiations, so that we end up with the most self-destructive possible outcome, is now damaging our trade prospects, and existing relationships, around the world.

This makes a mockery of the Conservatives claims that they are pushing hard to forge new trading relationships across the globe as they sever ties with our most important trading partner.

Mr Johnson has been one of the leading supporters of a clean break from Brussels, warning Theresa May earlier this year that Britain must not remain subject to EU regulations after leaving the bloc.

In a major speech, entitled Beyond Brexit: A Global Britain, he said: Whether we like it or not we are not some bit part or spear carrier on the world stage.

We are a protagonist  a global Britain running a truly global foreign policy.
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 Utah art teacher was fired amid complaints that images of classical paintings containing nudity were passed out in a classroom and seen by sixth-graders, a newspaper reported.

Mateo Rueda said he wasn't aware that a set of educational postcards from the elementary school library contained a few works depicting nudity when he handed them out during a lesson, the Herald Journal newspaper said on Thursday.

He removed the cards when they made students uncomfortable, the paper reported.

"This is not material at all that I would use. I had no idea," Rueda said.

He said he has requested a hearing and plans to appeal his termination to clear his reputation.

A few days after the lesson on 4 December, police went to Lincoln Elementary School in Hyrum, about 80 miles north of Salt Lake City, to investigate a complaint that Rudea was showing pornography to students.

Cache County deputies found Principal Jeni Buist shredding postcards  at the request of the school district  that contained nudity, said Sheriff Chad Jensen.

Deputies showed some of the images to prosecutors, who decided they were not pornography, Jenson said.

The Cache County School District declined to comment, saying it's a personnel matter.

The two images seen by students were the Impressionist-era portrait "Iris Tree" by Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani and the Rococo-style partial nude "Odalisque" by 18th-century artist Francois Boucher, the teacher said.

Parent Venessa Rose Pixton said she's upset because Rueda's handling of the situation belittled students, including her 11-year-old son.

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 said Mr Mateo even told the class 'There's nothing wrong with female nipples. You guys need to grow up and be mature about this,'" Pixton said.

Rueda denied making that statement and said he simply explained the human body is often portrayed in art displayed in museums.

Some parents are supporting Rueda.

Kamee Jensen wrote a letter to the Herald Journal defending him and said her daughter wasn't offended by the pictures.

"She was just very upset that her teacher was in trouble," Jensen said.

AP
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 }}

Emmanuel Mensah was a handsome, strongly built young man in his late 20s who immigrated to the Bronx from Ghana five years ago. He joined the Army National Guard but returned to his apartment on Prospect Avenue in December, after graduating from boot camp with the rank of private first class.

And on Thursday night, he lost his life trying to save people from his furiously burning apartment building, one of 12 people to die in the blaze.

He brought four people out, said his uncle, Twum Bredu, who lives next door. When he went to bring a fifth person out, the fire caught up with him.

Mensah was found in Apartment 15, his uncle said, but he lived in Apartment 11, with a friend of his father who was at home with his wife and four children.

Mensah, a decorated soldier who had been awarded a medal for marksmanship and was planning to join the military police, got that family to safety, then pulled out four more people, his uncle said, before returning to the building. He never emerged. Authorities said he died of smoke inhalation.

The fire cut a deadly path through the building, with four children among the victims.

Maria Batiz was at home with her 8-month-old granddaughter when the fire swept up the stairs. Maris Orellana, who works at the Bronx Zoo Deli down the street, said Batiz was a regular customer and that this was her first grandchild.

On a GoFundMe page asking for support, Batizs daughter, Christine Batiz, said that while she was at work her mother watched the girl, a tiny child with big brown eyes. On Thursday night, she frantically called her daughter.

She told me there was a fire in the building and she was trapped, Christine Batiz wrote. I never heard from her again. Later on, at around 1 am, I heard the news I never thought I would hear. I lost my angel baby and my best friend, my mother. The lady who birthed and would do anything for me is gone. I lost everything in a matter of minutes.

Around the Belmont neighbourhood on Friday, the loss of four members of one family, the Stewarts, carried a heavy resonance. In all, 13 family members  cousins, uncles, aunts  all lived in the building. They had moved to New York City from Jamaica and decided to stay close.

On Friday morning, Ambrozia Stewart stood on the corner of East 187th Street and Prospect Avenue, weeping into the frigid air. She had lost her youngest daughter, Karen Stewart-Francis, 37, and three granddaughters: Kylie Francis, 2, and Kelly Francis, 7; and Shawntay Young, 19, their cousin.

I dont know what to do and I dont know how to feel. I need somebody to tell me what to feel, Stewart said. Where do I go from here? Four at one time  what do I do?

Maria Rivera, 37, who lives in the building next door, said the Stewarts were familiar faces and that their generosity extended beyond their own relatives. They were always together, she said. When the weather was nice, they would host barbecues and invite neighbours to join them. Come, you want to eat? was their refrain.

Shevan Stewart, 44, another of Ambrozias daughters, said that her mother immigrated to the United States in the late 1980s, and that 19 of her family members followed her in 2004.

The family had just returned from visiting Jamaica last week.

Stewart-Francis, her husband, Holt Francis, and their two children had moved to their fifth-floor apartment from Manhattan about a year ago. Holt Francis was in a coma at Jacobi Medical Centre on Friday because of injuries he suffered in the fire.

Young, another member of the Stewart family, had lived in a basement apartment with her mother and stepfather.

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

Kenyon George, 19, said she was his girlfriend of seven months and they were constantly in contact, talking over FaceTime, text and Snapchat, even when she was in Jamaica visiting family. He last saw her two days ago, he said. Young had a little attitude, George recalled with a laugh, tears cutting across his cheeks, but it was impossible for him to stay angry with her for long. Its that smile, you know, he said.

He said that he loved to cook for her, and she would sometimes ask him to teach her how. She graduated from Frederick Douglass Academy III high school in the Bronx, he said, and until recently had worked at a C-Town supermarket.

She was a mother figure to Georges baby boy, and they would often fall asleep together. Once, he recalled, he went upstairs in his home to cook as she and his son watched TV. I came back down, they were asleep, Law and Order still playing, he said.

Now, he wondered  What am I supposed to tell my son?

Shevan Stewart, the family chef, said her relatives loved to gather for a meal in her first-floor apartment, where they would tell stories about her 102-year-old grandmother back home.

Im always cooking, and theyre always eating, Shevan said.

On Thursday night, Shevan was cooking curry chicken and rice for herself when Young poked her head in to ask what Shevan was making. The dish was her favourite.

She said, Im gonna come back. Im gonna go to the fifth floor to visit Auntie Karen,' Shevan said.

I said, Dont stay long,' Shevan recalled. She said, Im gonna come back.'

But she didnt come back, Shevan added, her voice breaking. She didnt come back.

The names of the five other victims have not yet been released. Jose Miguel Agrelo, who lives nearby, said he watched a firefighter carry an unconscious child from the building, a thin boy he had often seen playing in the streets. The child was shirtless, wearing just a pair of shorts in the biting cold. He was gone, Agrelo said.

The New York Times
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 }}

Temperatures have dropped so low in Canada that Calgary Zoo has had to move its penguins indoors.

As an extreme-cold warning was in effect for the country  temperatures hit a frosty -25C late this week  zookeepers thought it safer to move the penguins to their indoor enclosure.

Larissa Mark, manager of communications at Calgary Zoo told Global News that: On cold days like this, we have to make that choice for them because it is so cold, but on other days, we do give them the option of coming in and out as they please.

Ms Mark explained that king penguins, like the ones at Calgary zoo, are not as accustomed to sub-zero temperatures as their cousins, the emperor penguins.

King penguins, characterised by the bright orange spots on the sides of their heads and feathers at the nape of their necks, are generally found in sub-Antarctic regions in Chile and Argentina and temperate places like the Falklands, Macquarie and the Sandwich islands.

However, the cold snap has not stopped people from going to the zoo.

Calgarians are a hardy bunch. A cup of hot chocolate and a warm fire and they are still coming out and enjoying Zoolights. Our attendance is doing well, it is on par with where we were last year, said Ms Mark of the annual holiday-lights display event put on by the zoo.

 Severe weather swamps Pennsylvania city of Erie in 165cms of snow

She noted though, that some of the associated events have been moved indoors to make them more comfortable.

One visitor, Bill Robinson, was there with his two children and told Global News: You know if the penguins are inside, thats a sign that its cold outside. As long as youre dressed for it, its a great time to be outside.

Meanwhile in the US, extreme cold and hot temperatures are in effect.

The west coast saw record high temperatures. In Sandberg, California reached up to 70F (21C). In Woodland Hills, a section of Los Angeles, the sun was out in full force as residents experienced a high of 88F (31C).

Scientists p-p-pick out penguins from space for new head count Show all 3 1 /3 Scientists p-p-pick out penguins from space for new head count Scientists p-p-pick out penguins from space for new head count IA14-32-Penguins-main.jpg British Antarctic Survey Scientists p-p-pick out penguins from space for new head count IA14-32-penguin-2.jpg British Antarctic Survey Scientists p-p-pick out penguins from space for new head count IA14-32-Penguins-3.jpg British Antarctic Survey

Of course, much of the east coast and midwest were blanketed in snow, wind, and several layers of clothing. Erie, Pennsylvania residents were busy digging themselves out of almost five feet of snow in just one week.

The National Weather Service reported the extremes: the peak national temperature was 88F (31C) in Lake Elsinore, California and the coldest place in the country hit -38F (-39C) in upstate New York near the Canadian border.

Us President Donald Trump took the opportunity of frigid temperatures to hit out at climate change.

In the East, it could be the COLDEST New Years Eve on record, Mr Trump tweeted.

He wrote: Perhaps we could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming that our Country, but not other countries, was going to pay TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS to protect against. Bundle up!"

The President appeared to be referencing the US role in Paris Agreement on climate change, signed by nearly 200 countries in an effort to stem carbon emissions and contain global warming to 2C.

Mr Trump had begun the US withdrawal process in June.
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 Canadian province is preparing to decriminalise drink driving.

Alberta could follow British Columbia in making major changes to the way that police can enforce punishments for driving while under the influence, according to CBC News.

The changes will give officers discretion on how they deal with people who are found to be driving while impaired. But for most first offenders that will just mean a fine or other punishments that can be given out at the roadside, rather than going through the criminal process.

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

Proponents claim that the punishments are much less severe but far more likely to actually happen, since it can be difficult to go through the administrative process of full legal proceedings. But opponents say that it gives too much power to the police and removes some of the protections of traditional criminal proceedings.

As well as hitting drivers with fines, they could have their car towed or temporarily lose their license if they are found to have been driving while under the influence of alcohol.

The rules are expected to bring Alberta in line with another Canadian province, British Columbia. Those laws were introduced in September 2010.

A study in 2013 found that the new laws had dramatically improved safety, and were judged to have saved 104 lives in three years, a drop of more than 40 per cent. The author of that study, Scott Macdonald, said that the laws should be rolled out across Canada  because while the punishments were less severe, it was far more likely that people would be convicted.

"The problem with the Criminal Code is that it's very time consuming to convict somebody," he told the Vancouver Sun at the time. "You're not criminally charged and it's much more efficient for the officers."

The changes haven't yet been confirmed by the regional government, who said only that it is looking at new ways to replace drink driving laws that were recently ruled unconstitutional. But it did confirm that major changes will be coming, and new laws need to be passed within the year.
Troy Police Department(NEW YORK) -- Two men have been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of two women and two children in upstate New York this week.



James White, 38, and Justin Mann, 24, both of Schenectady, New York, were arrested in the quadruple killing in Troy, New York, according to Troy Police Capt. Dan DeWolf.



White and Mann were arraigned in Troy City Court on Saturday morning and remanded to the Rensselaer County jail. They had both been brought in for questioning by the police Friday night. Each of the men was charged with one count of first-degree murder and four counts of second-degree murder, according to DeWolf.



They pleaded not guilty to the charges. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Jan. 4.



At a press conference later Saturday, Troy Police Chief John Tedesco said one of the men was acquainted with one of the victims.



The four victims -- Shanta Myers, 36; Shanise Myers, 5; Jeremiah Myers, 11; and Brandi Mells, 22 -- were found dead the day after Christmas in their basement apartment in Troy, about 8 miles outside of Albany, according to police.



Police said Shanta Myers and Mells were in a relationship.



At a press conference Wednesday, Tedesco said the killings weren't believed to be a random act. He called the murders "an act of savagery" and said the officers involved in the case would not be able to forget the brutal crime scene.



"I don't need to speak about the horrific events that took place in that apartment, especially dealing with children," the police chief said.



Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
European Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn firmly condemned Friday's terrorist attack on a Coptic church in south Cairo, which left nine killed and five injured.

"Firmly condemn yet another heinous terror attack on #Coptic #Christians in #Egypt," Hahn wrote on his Twitter account.

"My sincerest condolences to the families of the victims. #EU stands by #Egypt and all its people," Hahn added.

On Friday, two unidentified gunmen killed at least nine people and injured five as they opened fire at Mar Mina church in the south Cairo district of Helwan, according to state TV

The interior ministry said it arrested the terrorist who attacked the church. The ministry identified the man as Ibrahim Ismail Mostafa, adding that he has carried out multiple attacks against civilians and policemen since 2016.

Friday's attack took place as Egyptian Coptic Christians, who make up 10 percent of the country's 93 million population, make preparations to celebrate Christmas on 7 January.

Police have deployed 230,000 personnel nationwide to secure churches, parks and vital public institutions during Christmas celebrations.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


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 }}

For the first time in the 100 days since Hurricane Maria slammed Puerto Rico, the government finally knows how many people still dont have power: about half.

The figure released on Friday by the islands governor and power utility company indicates that more than 1.5 million people on the island are still in the dark. Experts say some parts of the island are not expected to get power back until next spring.

We understand how difficult it has been for the people of Puerto Rico who have been without power for so long, said Governor Ricardo Rossello of Puerto Rico as he announced a request for up to 1,500 more restoration workers from the mainlands electric industry.

In its statement on Friday, authorities said power restoration has been slow because of the sheer scale and complexity of the damage. Much of the islands 2,400 miles of transmission lines, 30,000 miles of distribution lines and 342 substations were damaged in the storm, they said. Carlos D Torres, the systems restoration coordinator, said workers were finding unexpected damage in some areas even as they make repairs in others.

Jose E Sanchez, who heads the US Army Corps of Engineers taskforce to restore power in Puerto Rico, said some homes were so damaged they are unable to receive electricity, though he did not know how many homes were in that situation.

The islands governor and power utility said that of the homes that could receive electricity, roughly 55 percent have had their service restored. He noted that the governments new estimate includes five towns that recently received temporary fixes from Corps generators.

Sanchez acknowledged that the 55 percent restoration was hardly a success.

55 percent? No, oh my gosh, I want it quicker, faster, better, he said.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

He said the Corps has increased its number of crews working on the island, and many of the materials ordered in October are beginning to arrive. Some private companies that had committed to help Puerto Rico will begin to arrive in January.

Several investor-owned electric companies that are members of the Edison Electric Institute will deploy nearly 1,500 additional restoration workers and support personnel to Puerto Rico in early January to accelerate on-going power restoration efforts across the island, the agency announced on Thursday.

Sanchez said the companies faced the same kind of logistical challenges that kept them from arriving sooner.

A lot of people are angry, said Cannabis Nebot, 43, who lives in Arecibo, where power was largely restored. They dont believe what the government says about the power outage. You can see on Facebook a lot of people saying that they got no light. A lot of people in the countryside have no light. Or some towns have it, but it comes and goes.

The government had previously not been able to say how many people had power because of damage to the outage management system. The government has repaired the fibre-optic cables that allow the system to read meters.

Hurricane Maria slammed into Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm on 20 September, flooding neighbourhoods and villages and cutting the power to 3.4 million people. The darkness has left enormous swaths of the island living without hot meals, electric fans or night time lights. It has hobbled business in an already weak economy and left peoples lives at risk in hospitals or senior complexes without power. A New York Times analysis found the death rate rose considerably on the island after the hurricane passed and the outages became part of life.

The power utility has been heavily criticised for its response to the outage. In mid-November, the chief executive of PREPA stepped down after a public outcry over its decision to award a $300 million (220 million) restoration contract to a tiny Montana firm. The government has since cancelled that contract.

We wont be satisfied until its 100 percent, said Gerardo Quinones, a spokesman for PREPA. The media can criticise all it wants, but this is a result of a lot of hard work. We are getting results.

The New York Times
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 man has been arrested after a father-of-two was killed in a swatting prank in Kansas.

A Wichita police officer shot and killed Andrew Finch after a prank caller  suspected to be 25-year-old Tyler Barriss  reportedly told authorities Mr Finch had killed his father and was holding hostages inside the mans home.

Authorities later learned that the call was a hoax, known as swatting, in which people falsely report an emergency to authorities that requires a police response, usually by Special Weapons and Tactics, or SWAT, teams.

Recommended Heartbroken man kills himself after Swat besieges home

A law enforcement official who earlier confirmed Mr Barriss arrest said the shooting stemmed from a dispute over the Call of Duty video game. The official was not authorised to discuss the investigation publicly, however.

Mr Finch, 28, was killed during a standoff with police minutes after they received the hoax call, Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said during a news conference.

Online gamers have been previously been accused of wasting police time and endangering the public with prank calls, and authorities are now searching for the caller who was responsible for instigating the deadly callout, Mr Livingston said.

Shortly after 6pm on 27 December a call was made from a man who claimed he had just shot his father in the head and that he was holding his mother and little brother hostage.

I already poured gasoline all over the house, I might just set it on fire, he told the dispatcher, according to a recording of the call published by The Wichita Eagle.

Wichita police officers responded, surrounding a house on the citys west side, Mr Livingston said.

As the incident unfolded, a 28-year-old male opened the front screen door and stood in the doorway or just outside that doorway, he said.

Officers gave him several verbal commands to put his hands up and walk towards them.

Mr Finch was unarmed and followed commands to raise his hands but then failed to keep them raised as instructed by police, Mr Livingston said, and an officer feared he was drawing a gun. An officer opened fire and shot once.

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

Police entered the house and found no one dead or injured and no hostages inside, Mr Livingston said.

Mr Finchs mother, Lisa Finch, told The Wichita Eagle her son had heard movement outside and was shot by officers when he opened the door to investigate.

The shooting is a tragic and senseless act. The irresponsible actions of a prankster put peoples lives at risk, Mr Livingston said. The incident is a nightmare for everyone involved.

The person who made the phone call took my nephew ... two kids father, Mr Finchs aunt, Lorrie Hernandez-Caballero, told the Eagle.

How does it feel to be a murderer? I cant believe people do this on purpose.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise money to go towards Mr Finchs funeral costs.

The FBI estimated that 400 such cases of swatting occur annually with many of the prank callers using some sort of caller identification spoofing software to disguise their phone numbers.

Agencies contributed to this report
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 }}

With their rifles at the ready for an active shooter, Sergeant Charles Jivapong and half a dozen other police officers move quickly through an industrial building not far from the airport here, trying to determine which victims are alive and which are too far gone to be saved.

This time, it was a drill. But Jivapong remembers when it was real: Less than three months ago he responded to reports of gunfire aimed at thousands of people at a country music concert. In just a few days, Jivapong will be out with his officers once again, this time with more than 300,000 revellers celebrating the start of 2018.

Its not really a matter of if it happens again, more like when, he said. Something like that really changes your perspective and mind-set. It weighs heavily. I find myself scanning overhead all the time, thinking about what will happen if we have to do it all over.

Las Vegas is preparing for its first New Years Eve since the shooting on 1 October, when Stephen Paddock shot hundreds of rounds from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, killing more than 50 people and wounding hundreds of others. For decades, 31 December has been the biggest night of the year in Las Vegas, drawing tourists from all over the world who come to party with abandon on the Strip.

For years, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department had lobbied federal officials to give New Years Eve the Department of Homeland Securitys top special event assessment rating, which would provide the city with federal officers and resources like intelligence and helicopter teams. A few weeks after the October shooting, the Police Department got word that they would receive the rating for the first time this year.

We need to be able to focus on multiple shooters, on one or more above ground  weve got to multiply our forces, said Chief Chris Jones, who is overseeing the departments preparations. Jones said he could not give specific details of precisely how officers would be deployed, but estimated that there would be more than 5,000 local and federal officers along the Strip. Nearly the entire length  roughly 4 miles  will be closed to traffic.

About 330,000 visitors are expected on the Strip for New Years Eve, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, which puts on a fireworks show from seven rooftops and is billing the event as Americas Party. The number is down slightly from last year, though officials said it could still rise.

While there was a slight dip in tourism just after the shooting, Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing, said that conversations with focus groups showed that the hesitancy to visit was not because of safety fears.

They were trying to figure out what was appropriate, when they could come and have a good time, she said. Were talking about people who drive, who can decide on Thursday to come on Friday and are very comfortable here. They were just waiting. Now they want their Vegas back.

In the days after the shooting, the tourism authority pulled advertisements proclaiming What happens here stays here, replacing them with commercials that used Vegas Strong, a motto and hashtag that is now emblazoned on T-shirts and billboards all over the city. The What happens here spots will begin airing again next month.

The Las Vegas shooting has prompted the New York Police Department to reassess its New Years preparations as well, with the city, and Times Square in particular, long considered likely targets.

Each New Years Eve, the New York Police Department, and its counterparts in state and federal law enforcement, face anew the job of securing the highly symbolic spot where the ball drops to the clamour of up to 1 million spectators packed together.

The Vegas attack has prompted the department to re-examine their plans. Were saying, Lets revisit our high-vantage security during events like this,' said Stephen P Davis, the Police Departments chief spokesman.

The department plans to use its rooftop observation teams and counter-snipers across a more vast area of real estate than in past years. Those teams are also more vigorously preparing for New Years Eve, scouring the hotels, office buildings and residential high-rises around Seventh Avenue and Broadway, from the West 40s through the West 50s, to familiarize themselves.

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

Like the officers in New York, Las Vegas police have a dual focus: trying to prevent an attack and quickly stopping it if one does happen. Every officer in the department will work a shift between New Years Eve and New Years Day, Jones said. Inside Police Headquarters, officials will closely monitor the city using hundreds of security cameras placed in the heavily trafficked tourist areas.

Were watching everything, Lt. Dori Koren said.

The department will also coordinate with casinos, all of which have their own security teams. Several resorts impose special rules on New Years Eve, such as allowing only hotel guests into the property as midnight nears. As MGM Resorts International faces several lawsuits claiming the Mandalay Bay is liable for the 1 October shooting, many hotels have begun to reassess and revamp their own security plans and procedures.

Jeffrey S Muller, a former FBI agent who now runs a security consulting firm, said several resorts have hired him in recent months to spot their weaknesses and help them address any vulnerabilities.

Theres a willingness to do something now that wasnt always there before, Muller said. The casinos acknowledge theres more they can and should do because there really are many targets that can be attacked at once.

After years of planning, officials here recently began installing steel bollards along the strip to prevent drivers from mowing down pedestrians with their cars, as one woman did two years ago.

Im just as afraid of people who get drunk or high as I am of terrorists or mass shooters, said Carl Davis, 28, who had come from Santa Clarita, California, to celebrate before Christmas. As he stood in front of the bollards near the Bellagio, he held a frozen margarita in his hand and grinned. If you start letting yourself be too afraid to go somewhere because it might happen again, youll never leave your house. This is where we come to have fun, not be scared.
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 }}

President Donald Trump's public rebuke of Saudi Arabia this month for its role in the conflict in Yemen was an impromptu move quickly set in motion after intelligence officials presented him with images of the deepening humanitarian crisis there, officials said.

In a strongly worded statement that surprised foreign diplomats and even key figures in his administration, Mr Trump called on Saudi Arabia to allow food and supplies to reach "the Yemeni people who desperately need it."

"This must be done for humanitarian reasons immediately," he said.

The statement on 6 December marked a striking departure for a president who has shown unflinching support for the kingdom's leadership. Administration officials say it was instrumental in Saudi Arabia's decision to temporarily suspend its blockade of the Red Sea port of Hodeida, which to critics had come to symbolise Saudi excesses in the nearly three-year-old war in Yemen.

The episode also highlights the powerful role that depictions of civilian suffering overseas have had in stirring a president who took office with a clear domestic focus and little foreign policy experience. Sometimes they have triggered sudden, consequential responses from the president.

In April, Mr Trump decided to launch Tomahawk missiles at a Syrian air base after televised images of victims of a chemical weapons attack, including lifeless children, had what he said was a "big impact" on him. It was the first direct US assault on the government of President Bashar Assad in that country's civil war, a seeming break with the administration's policy on the Syrian leader.

Mr Trump's public critique of Saudi Arabia capped a weeks-long behind-the-scenes effort as US officials sought to persuade Saudi leaders to fully lift the blockade, which it imposed on Yemeni ports, airports and land crossings after Houthi rebels fired a missile toward Riyadh's international airport 4 November. But the private entreaties from diplomats and White House aides lacked the impact of Mr Trump's action.

"When the criticism comes from State, they can discount it because that's just the bureaucracy talking," said Gerald Feierstein, an expert on Persian Gulf nations and a former US ambassador to Yemen. "But if they're losing Donald Mr Trump, they have to be concerned about the state of the relationship."

Intelligence officials highlighted deteriorating conditions in Yemen as part of the President's Daily Brief (PDB) the morning of 6 December as Mr Trump prepared to meet with Cabinet officials, according to officials familiar with the day's events. Hours after the briefing, which included imagery related to the crisis, the White House issued Mr Trump's terse, first-person statement.

Officials said the president previously had been briefed on the humanitarian crisis, but one official with knowledge of the 6 December briefing said it had prompted him to push the United States to take a harder stance. Since then, the president has asked periodically about Yemen, the official said.

"While it was a relatively spontaneous decision, it also brought to a climax many months of discussions and wrangling on the issue of how to ease the humanitarian plight in Yemen," a senior US official said of Mr Trump's statement that day. Like others interviewed for this report, he spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly about the issue.

As they have for other presidents, intelligence briefers frequently have employed imagery and graphics to illustrate complex conditions overseas for Mr Trump in the PDB and other briefings. Officials close to Mr Trump say the former reality television star has been particularly drawn to photos and images used in those presentations.

"He doesn't have the attention span or the patience to sit and comb through books or briefing materials," said Tim O'Brien, a Mr Trump biographer and long-time observer. Mr Trump also has made a habit, O'Brien said, of making instinctive decisions based on what he sees.

"He makes snap judgments because he thinks his instincts are unerring," Mr O'Brien said.

David Priess, a former CIA officer and intelligence briefer, said content presented in the PDB has the potential to shape presidential perceptions. "Something that is emotional, that is heart-breaking, has the ability to change policy," he said.

A spokesman for the National Security Council said Mr Trump's statement was "entirely consistent with and a natural progression" from earlier statements from the White House, State Department and other agencies.

"We have a very strong partnership with Saudi Arabia and engage regularly on a broad range of issues, including Yemen," the spokesman said.

The conflict in Yemen has presented a dilemma for the United States since gulf countries led by Saudi Arabia intervened in 2015 to contain a rebellion that they said was stoked by regional rival Iran.

US officials have been eager to demonstrate their support for Saudi Arabia, which has faced multiple missile attacks by the Houthi rebel movement. But they also have sought to distance themselves from the kingdom's management of the conflict, which critics say has been characterised by indiscriminate Saudi air strikes and inaction in the face of civilian suffering.

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 United States has provided military support, mostly in the form of weapons sales and aircraft refuelling assistance, to Saudi Arabia since the beginning of the conflict.

President Barack Obama's administration was sharply critical of Saudi Arabia's humanitarian stance, but there was a sense that such pressure might subside after Mr Trump took office, as the new president embraced the gulf nation's leaders and vowed to help them push back against Iran. Mr Trump has repeatedly defended the kingdom's ruling family, including after a controversial internal purge.

But US officials have grown increasingly concerned as the conflict - driven by the rebels and the Saudi-led coalition - has caused needless civilian casualties, led to as many as 1 million cases of cholera and pushed millions to the brink of famine.

Saudi Arabia, which blames the Houthis for the crisis, identified Hodeida as a priority because, it says, weaponry used to attack Saudi interests is smuggled through the port.

Initially, US officials made their appeals privately. At the State Department, Deputy Secretary John J Sullivan met with aid groups. White House aides engaged with Saudi diplomats.

But many officials say it was Mr Trump's public pressure that led the Saudi government to announce later in December that it would permit both humanitarian and commercial shipments, including desperately needed fuel, into Hodeida for 30 days.

Aid groups remain concerned that it will take longer than that to unload supplies and are sceptical that the port will be handed over to the United Nations as planned, raising the likelihood that the blockade may be reimposed in short order.

"As long as imports through Hodeida are threatened, the worst mass atrocity in decades remains scarily on the horizon," said Scott Paul, senior humanitarian policy adviser at Oxfam America.

Perry Cammack, a former Obama administration official who is now at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the Mr Trump administration must signal to Saudi Arabia that it is willing to withhold military support.

"President Mr Trump now has Saudi Arabia's attention," he said. "But to meaningfully ameliorate the catastrophic conditions in Yemen, he'll need to signal that his 6 December statement constitutes not just a rhetorical flourish but a real change in policy."

The Washington Post
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

US President Donald Trump took to Twitter again to comment on the ongoing protests in Iran, this time to warn that "oppressive regimes cannot endure forever."

He wrote that "the entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change" and touted that other than US military might, its people's will is what leaders in Iran feared the most.

Thousands have taken to the streets demanding an end to President Hassan Rouhani's term in office.

Mr Trump previously tweeted a call for the government to respect the wishes of its people and the White House issued a statement appearing to be in support of the Iranian people's "right to express themselves."

The US State Department also issued a statement about the largely peaceful protests: "Iran's leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos."

The State Department also said it "strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption."

The wave of spontaneous protests over Iran's weak economy has swept into the capital Tehran as well, with college students and others chanting against the government just hours after hard-liners held their own rally in support of the Islamic Republic's clerical establishment.

The three days of protests - which began in the second-largest city of Mashhad, a holy site for Shiite pilgrims - thus far appear to be the largest demonstrations the country has seen since the disputed presidential election in 2009.

 Iran broadcasts pictures it says show jailed British mum Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe trained journalists

State media broke its silence on the protests after Mr Trump began tweeting about them yesterday evening.

"Counterrevolution groups and foreign media are continuing their organised efforts to misuse the people's economic and livelihood problems and their legitimate demands to provide an opportunity for unlawful gatherings and possibly chaos," the state television station said.

Reports have suggested the protests began over the surging price of goods like poultry and eggs.

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

Fars, the semi-official news agency, reported that Qom, a city that is the world's foremost centre for Shiite Islamic scholarship and home to a major Shiite shrine, also saw protests.

In response to Mr Trump's tweets, the state-run IRNA news agency quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi as saying: "The noble Iranian nation never pays heed to the opportunist and hypocritical mottos chanted by the U.S. officials and their interfering allegations on domestic developments in the Islamic Republic of Iran."

In October, the US President announced he would not re-certify a nuclear deal signed by Iran and six world powers - a signature foreign policy achievement by predecessor President Barack Obama.

Despite the evidence provided by the United Nations on Tehran's compliance with the deal, Mr Trump said it was too lenient on Iran and that they had violated portions of it.

It opened the door for harsher economic sanctions to be placed on the country, the mitigation of which was a key inducement for Iran to comply with the historic deal.

Agencies contributed to this report.
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 }}

San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz has again criticised Donald Trump for his response to Hurricane Maria, 100 days after the storm devastated the American island territory.

Ms Yulin Cruz, the mayor of Puerto Ricos capital city, claimed Mr Trump was disrespectful to the people of Puerto Rico and the other Americans who came to their aid.

Where he needed to be a commander-in-chief, he was a disaster-in-chief, Ms Yulin Cruz told ABC News. President Trump does not embody the values of the good-hearted American people that have make sure that we are not forgotten.

Recommended Puerto Rico to review Hurricane Maria death toll

The Category 4 storm hit Puerto Rico on 20 September, wiping out power to the entire island and leaving thousands scrambling to find food and water.

Nearly half of the island is still without power now, officials told the Associated Press. The US Army Corps has said power will be fully restored by the end of May.

Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Show all 20 1 /20 Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Crew chief Kenney shelters under the blade of an HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit preparing to take off during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Isla Grande, Puerto Rico, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico An HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit takes off behind Crew Chief Alexander Blake and his fellow soldiers during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Morovis, October 5, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Crew member Bynum stands in tropical rain as a HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit prepares to take off during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Isla Grande, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter pilot Chris Greenway receives a hug from a woman thanking him for water as he works with the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Verde de Comerio, October 7, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico A man carries a case of water away from an HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter after soldiers working with 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit dropped off relief supplies during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Jayuya, October 5, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Crew chief Alexander Blake from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit loads water into a helicopter during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Isla Grande, October 5, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Residents wait for soldiers in UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade to deliver food and water during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in San Lorenzo Reuters Bringing aid to Puerto Rico An HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit lands in a field to avoid lightning during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Manati, October 5, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Residents hold their hands aloft to signal that they need water as UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade fly past during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, near Ciales, October 7, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Tropical rain splashes on a runway as HH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit wait for weather to clear during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Isla Grande, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Pilot Eldwin Bocanegra Torres speaks with residents isolated by landslides in the mountains after unloading water and food from a helicopter during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, near Utuado, October 10, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Residents stand in front of wind-damaged trees as they wait for soldiers in UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade to deliver food and water during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in San Lorenzo, October 7, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico The contents of a home are seen from the air during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria near Utuado, October 10, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Thomas looks out of the window of an HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit, loaded with relief supplies, during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria in Isla Grande, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico A message written on the rooftop is seen from the air during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria near Humacao, October 10, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico A HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit lands in a field during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria in San Sebastian, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Sergeant First Class Eladio Tirado, who is from Puerto Rico, looks for a landing spot for a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade, during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria near Ciales, October 7, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Boys carry water away from an HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter after soldiers working with the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit dropped off relief supplies during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Jayuya, October 5, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Sergeant First Class Eladio Tirado from the First Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade, who is from Puerto Rico, speaks with residents as he helps during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in San Lorenzo, October 7, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson Bringing aid to Puerto Rico Residents peek through a fence at helicopters from 101st Airborne Division's "Dustoff" unit that had parked in a locked field during recovery efforts following Hurricane Maria, in Lares, October 6, 2017 Reuters/Lucas Jackson

The Department of Public Safety reported 64 people had died as a result of the storm, but other organisations have put the death toll much higher. The New York Times, citing vital statistics bureau data, reported 1,052 more people had died on the island than usual in the weeks since the storm struck.

Ms Yulin Cruz cited confusion over the death toll was an example of how the recovery effort had gone awry.

When you do not have a clear and precise view of what has gone on, then you know something is wrong, she said.

 Donald Trump: Our response to Puerto Rico was ten out of ten

The Mayor strongly criticised Mr Trumps response to the storm in the immediate aftermath, putting her squarely in the Presidents crosshairs. After Ms Yulin Cruz publicly pleaded with Mr Trump for more federal assistance, he called her nasty and faulted her poor leadership ability for the dire situation.

Such poor leadership ability by the Mayor of San Juan, and others in Puerto Rico, who are not able to get their workers to help, the President tweeted. They want everything to be done for them when it should be a community effort.

The war of words between the two leaders has since cooled, and the federal government has continued to provide relief to the island. Government officials told the Associated Press that nearly 14,000 poles have been shipped to Puerto Rico and another 7,000 will arrive in the coming days. Some 3,500 workers are trying to restore power across the island.

Still, Ms Yulin Cruz said the road to recovery for Puerto Rico looks rocky.

The next hundred days will look like more people moving from Puerto Rico, [more] foreclosures, she said, but also the first sparks of light  literally  in order to get back on a new track.
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 Trump administration has fired all remaining members of the Presidents Advisory Council on HIV/Aids (Pacha).

Scott Schoettes, a lawyer with Lambda Legal and former member of Pacha, reported what he called a purge of the advisory council on Twitter. He later confirmed to The Independent that all of the remaining advisers had been let go, citing three members who had received termination letters from the administration.

I knew that the people that remained were speaking their truth, and Ive got a feeling that was not appreciated, he said. I think this is a President and an administration that doesnt value dialogue and dissenting views.

Mr Schoettes was one of six former members who left the council in June, claiming that the President simply does not care about people living with HIV.

Gabriel Maldonado, a member of the council who chose to stay, confirmed to the Washington Blade that the remaining members had all been fired this week.

Mr Maldonado said the members, many of whom were Obama-era appointees, were given no reason for their dismissal.

Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Show all 8 1 /8 Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP

Kaye Hayes, Pachas executive director, responded to a request for comment after this story was first published.

On December 27, 2017, the current members of Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/Aids (Pacha) received a letter informing them that the Administration was terminating their appointments, she said in a statement. They were also thanked for their leadership, dedication and commitment to the effort.

The statement also noted that changing the makeup of federal advisory committees is a common occurrence during Administration changes, and that former President Barack Obama had dismissed the Bush-era appointees on his council.

 Betty Price on HIV treatment: "I don't want to say the quarantine word, but I guess I just said it"

Ulysses Burley, a former Pacha member who left with Mr Schoettes in June, told The Independent he had heard from other, Obama-era appointees who were suddenly dismissed this week.

As far as I know it came as a surprise, it was very abrupt, and each remaining member simply received a letter saying that their service was no longer needed effective immediately, he said.

To the best of my knowledge its not a disbandment of the council altogether, but a dismissal of any pre-Trump nominees, he added, which in my opinion might be more dangerous than not having a council at all.

Cecilia Chung, an Obama-era appointee who left voluntarily after her term expired earlier this year, echoed these concerns.

So far we have not seen the administration actively reach out to any advocates around HIV policy at all, she said. There is no way for us to know where on the agenda HIV policy is, and that is the concerning part.

President Bill Clinton created Pacha in 1993 to provide advice and information to the Secretary of Health and Human Services about best practices for combating the HIV/Aids epidemic. Othe presidents, including Mr Obama, have cleared out most of their predecessors appointees to make room for their own.

Every president since Mr Clinton has also appointed a leader of the White House Office of National Aids Policy within their first year. Mr Trump has left the position open.

The President has also proposed massive budget cuts to HIV/Aids programmes, including a $150m reduction in funding for such programmes at the Centres for Disease Control.

Mr Burley, Mr Schoettes, and four other Pacha members quit the Council in June. In a resignation letter published in Newsweek, they warned of the potential effects of purging HIV/Aids experts from the administration.

If we do not ensure that US leadership at the executive and legislative levels are informed by experience and expertise, they wrote, real people will be hurt and some will even die.
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 }}

Nepal has banned double amputees, blind people and solo climbers from scaling Mount Everest.

The controversial new safety regulations for the world's highest peak have been introduced in a bid to reduce accidents.

Foreign climbers must also now be accompanied by a guide under the new rules.

Officials said the move would make climbing the famed summit safer and would decrease deaths. But disability campaigners have said the rules amount to discrimination.

Aspiring Everest climber Hari Budha Magar, who lost both his legs during a tour in Afghanistan, called the move discriminatory and an injustice on Facebook. I will be climbing Mount Everest whatever the cabinet decides. Nothing is impossible, he said.

So far, six people have died trying to climb the mountain this season.

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

More than 5,000 climbers have scaled Mount Everest since it was first climbed by New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953, and nearly 300 have died trying.

Exhaustion, exposure, frostbite, falls and altitude sickness are major causes of death on Everest. But the biggest killer in recent years has been avalanches.

Eighteen people were killed in 2015 when a 7.8 magnitude earthquake triggered avalanches that smashed into the base camp.

A year earlier, 16 sherpas hauling gear to higher camps for climbers were killed when they were hit by an avalanche while crossing the treacherous Khumbu Icefall, just above base camp.

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 }}

Donald Trump and other world leaders must guarantee the survival of Kim Jong-uns regime if they are to de-escalate tensions on the Korean peninsula, a leading academic has told The Independent.

Restraining Pyongyang from open conflict and beginning a peace process means accepting at the moment that North Korea has gained a nuclear deterrent, according to Lee Geun, of Seoul National University.

Mr Kim is a rational actor, Prof Lee says, meaning he and his top officials can be deterred from menacing their neighbours with weapons of mass destruction.

He says: North Korea has taught us that it can stand economic sanctions and develop nuclear weapons.

At the same time its pattern of nuclear development is exactly the same as other nuclear powers, meaning it has deterrence in mind and assumes rationality of the nations.

Recommended The US is pursuing two contradictory strategies with North Korea

In 2018, he believes, Pyongyang will declare its nuclear status and claim a policy of no first use of atomic armaments. The regime may also agree on no proliferation, and shift focus to economic development, he says.

This year North Korea tested its sixth and most powerful nuclear device and a new, more capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-15.

It is thought the projectile is capable of striking parts of the US mainland but Mr Kims regime has not yet demonstrated it can successfully and accurately guide a warhead through atmospheric re-entry.

In response to repeated test firings Mr Trump has lashed out rhetorically, promising fire and fury like the world has never seen and suggesting the US will totally destroy North Koreas regime, including Little Rocket Man Mr Kim.

He and his senior officials have emphasised that all options are available to them.

 UN security council unanimously agrees new sanctions for North Korea

Mr Kim declared in November that he had realised the great historic cause of completing the state nuclear force  a moment Prof Lee calls the most important development regarding North Korea this year.

It showed Pyongyang had attained enough confidence in terms of deterring the US attack and planned to pursue economic development, he says.

He adds: The next step to be taken by the North would be mass production of delivery systems and diversification of its nuclear capability without overt missile and nuclear tests  provocations  and hard bargaining for nuclear status and a peace treaty with the US.

Dr John Nilsson-Wright, a senior research fellow at Chatham House and lecturer at Cambridge University, tells The Independent he believes a no-test pledge would be required to bring the US to the table.

He says: If [Mr Kim] wants economic development hes got to get sanctions released. And hes got something he can trade. If Kim were to say no more testing and live up to that then we could take some reassurance.

I suspect the Americans will need to see that hes serious about taking the first step.

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 Norths speedy progress on weapons development  faster than most experts expected  will continue to put Mr Trumps administration under pressure to get results, Dr Nilsson-Wright says.

He adds: When Donald Trump talks about all options being on the table hes not making a big change from previous administrations.

However, whats different is Trumps style and his use of inflammatory rhetoric, and his willingness to sound quite as if he is prepared to do things that would be considered deeply provocative.

It increases the potential that Kim Jong-un may interpret US behaviour as the first step towards a military conflict in which the US is willing to pre-emptively attack North Korea. Thats a problem.

This behaviour includes scheduled military drills and power-play movements of aircraft carriers, meaning their value in reassuring allies must be balanced with the potential for mistaken intentions, Dr Nilsson-Wright says.

North Korea has regularly accused the US, Japan and South Korea of preparing for war when drills take place. General Valery Gerasimov, Russias defence chief, warned in December that military exercises served only to heighten hysteria and make the situation unstable.

Prof Lee says: Taking deterrence in mind for the time being, and in the long run, the world leaders need to come up with what I would call a complete, verifiable, irreversible guarantee of North Korean regime survival which is, at the moment, no other than nuclear weapons for North Korea. In other words, they need to design a peace process that is equivalent to that.

If he felt his regimes survival was threatened a rational Kim Jong-un might use nuclear weapons to deter an attack, Dr Nilsson-Wright says.

Displays of respect could provide a route to genuine dialogue, he says, but Mr Trumps style and a lack of information about Mr Kims thought processes  a question mark in a situation full of question marks  make divining the future difficult.

Its like a game of diplomatic chicken, says Dr Nilsson-Wright. The only good news is that all of the strategic uncertainty that Trump and Kim contribute to this situation has forced the international community and other countries to take this issue really seriously, he adds, with civil servants globally working around the clock.

A UN envoy travelled to Pyongyang in December to meet top North Korean foreign officials. Jeffery Feltman, from the US, said there was an urgent need to prevent miscalculations, and open channels to reduce the risks of conflict.

And shortly after Christmas the US and Russia agreed to continue diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Sergei Lavrov, Moscows foreign minister, agreeing that neither would accept North Korea as a nuclear power.

 US soldier Charles Jenkins who defected to North Korea stars in 1970s film

Nonetheless, Dr Colin Alexander, a political communications lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, says he thought the US might implement a change of tack in 2018, opening the way to a detente.

He tells The Independent: We now have a situation where North Korea has become the next nuclear power.

Rather than talking about preventing nuclear capability youre instead saying, OK, they most likely got it and theyve spent many billions on it.

Theyre not going to get rid of it any time soon. That requires a change of thought and a change of approach. Thats the big thing weve seen this year.

We may see a change in tack in the rhetoric that comes out of the US, which may lead to a de-escalation. If the US is less belligerent towards North Korea, then North Korea may well be less belligerent back.

But he warned that while he detected no movement towards war, were seeing a movement towards the preparation of a landscape in which conflict could be seen as acceptable because the US wanted to have all options available.

The propaganda war machine that failed to head off anti-war protests before the invasion of Iraq has been in motion for easily the whole of this century so far in painting North Korea as a threat, Dr Alexander says.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

A man has been exonerated after serving nine years of a life sentence for blasphemy in Pakistan.

A two-judge panel on the Supreme Court ruled that Mohammad Mansha was falsely accused, citing lack of evidence.

The 58-year-old was arrested in 2008 after the imam of a mosque in the Bahawalnagar district in Punjab province told authorities he had desecrated a copy of the Quran.

Mr Mansha was convicted of blasphemy and sentenced to life in prison in 2009.

The conviction was upheld in 2014 and the Supreme Court took up the case the same year.

Mr Manshas defence claimed he was arrested on a complaint from a man who suffered from hearing and speech impairments and the evidence provided had no legal value under the Evidence Act.

They also said Mr Mansha was presented before a village council where he was badly beaten and then handed over to police.

Abdul Waheed, the prosecutor in the case, said there was no scientific evidence against Mr Mansha and that the police investigation was faulty, which led to his acquittal.

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 Waheed said Mr Mansha, a poor villager, could not hire a lawyer so the court appointed him one.

Zia Awan, head of Lawyers for Human Rights and Legal Assistance, praised the verdict in Mr Manshas case but said the court should have compensated him for his years behind bars on false charges.

Mr Awan added that it is time for Pakistans parliament to carefully look into the countrys blasphemy law.

Agencies contributed to this report
Cairo Criminal Court has sentenced Islamist former president Mohamed Morsi and 18 others to three years in prison for "insulting the judiciary."

The court handed its sentences to 14 defendants, including Morsi and Brotherhood figures Saad El-Katatny and Sobhi Saleh, who were present in court.

Fugitive Salafist preacher Wagdy Ghoneim and Al-Gamaa Al-Islamiya leader Assem Abdel-Maged were also handed the same sentences among others, in absentia.

Morsi was also ordered to pay a EGP 1 million ( approximately $56,270) as a fine.

The defendants were convicted of insulting and cursing the judiciary and its judges using publications and statements to TV and radio stations, as well as social media, using statements that carry slurs and hatred to courts and judicial authority.

Since his ouster and arrest in 2013, Morsi has faced a number of trials on charges that include conspiring with foreign powers  including Hamas, Lebanon's Hizbullah and Iran's Revolutionary Guards  to destabilise Egypt. He has had a life sentence upheld against him by Egypts Court of Cassation last September in what is known as the "Qatar espionage case."

The court also ordered ordered that five defendants in the case, which includes leftist activist Alaa Abdel-Fattah and academic and liberal activist Amr Hamzawy, pay a fine of EGP 30,000 (approximately $1,688). No prison terms were handed to them by the court.

Abdel-Fattah is already serving a five year prison term over his participation in an illegal protest in 2013.

The sentences can still be appealed.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


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 }}

After a year that has seen them subjected to a brutal Burmese military crackdown described as ethnic cleansing by the UN and US, Rohingya Muslim refugees face the prospect of a concerning new development in 2018 across the border in Bangladesh.

Conditions in the camps of Coxs Bazar continue to deteriorate as more Rohingya arrive, and those trapped here have one of two grim options for the future.

In the past weeks, Bangladesh and the Burmese government have assembled a working group to arrange the repatriation of Rohingyas back across the border, which  if forced  international observers say would be unsafe. At the same time, refugees fear being stuck for many years to come in the camps which have ballooned to rank among the biggest in the world.

And in a new development along the border, goodwill from local Bangladeshi communities towards their embattled fellow Muslims is being stretched to the limit. Tensions are building over land and wages, while refugees desperate for cash to buy daily necessities are exposed to exploitation by landowners.

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

The Independent has found Rohingya boys as young as 14 are working from dawn to dusk in rice fields outside the makeshift settlements of Coxs Bazar for as little as 300 taka (less than 3) a day, about half the normal local wage.

I arrived in September, says Awaz, a 15-year-old from Maungdaw township, just across the border in Burmas western state of Rakhine. The military came and opened fire so we fled leaving everything behind, says the boy, who stays over the road in a plastic tent in Thangkhali camp, with his parents, in their thirties, and five brothers.

Back home we had our own land, he adds.

The latest UN figures suggest an exodus of 655,000 people has taken place across Burmas northwest border in just four months. After abandoning burning villages, their crops and livelihoods, the refugees have settled along the hilly borders of Coxs Bazar district  on land belonging to locals.

The building tension is piling pressure on the Bangladeshi authorities, who are mindful of the clashes that were sparked in the early Nineties when a more modest influx of fewer than 300,000 Rohingyas crossed the border. Then they were also fleeing persecution in Burma and, again, faced forced repatriation and poor conditions in Bangladesh.

According to NGOs working in the area today, Rohingyas are increasingly vulnerable to exploitation by landowners while the massive influx is forcing poor Bangladeshi labourers out of work.

Now there are so many Rohingyas that we are not getting any work, says 60-year old Aminah Khatun. We used to get some 500-600 taka, but they are much cheaper, she says. And the prices of food, fruit and vegetables have almost doubled. We used to pay 1,200 taka for a sack of rice, now its 2,000.

As the humanitarian crisis nears its fourth month, a preliminary agreement between Bangladesh and Burma to repatriate expeditiously the Rohingya is setting nerves on edge among the refugees who fear they will have no guarantees for their safety, or equal rights with the Buddhist majority in Rakhine.

Bangladeshs government announced late on Friday that it had prepared a list of 100,000 Rohingya refugees to be repatriated in a first phase. Burmese officials will now consider the list, and both sides say people will only be moved willingly.

But many Rohingya remain terrified the Burmese military will force them into detention camps, alongside some 120,000 in central Rakhine who were driven out of their villages following intercommunal violence five years ago.

The local community in Coxs Bazar has so far sympathised with the plight of the Rohingyas. But while some have taken economic advantage of the situation, others ask when the repatriation process will start, even as refugees continue to arrive.

They tell us that theyd been persecuted by the Buddhists at home, that we are Muslims like them and have to help them, says Aminah. There is no resentment in her voice, but with no short-term solutions on the horizon, she hopes they will go back home soon.

In camps such as Unchinprang water shortages at the beginning of the dry season mean more wells are needed. NGOs have to bargain with locals and pay rent as the camps keep expanding.

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 beginning, the owners of the land were asking for money to buy the land from them for some $50 and relatives in Malaysia would send us money. Now the military has forbidden this but the owners complain because people forage in the forest and cut trees for fuel to cook, explains Safil, a Rohingya in Kutupalong camp. The overcrowded hills were covered with trees just a few months ago, he adds.

The influx of aid following the extraordinary humanitarian effort of the past months is also contributing to the bubbling resentment. As across the border in Burma when foreign aid was first delivered in the 1990s to Rohingyas, the local community feels left out.

Even the older Rohingya settlers who fled in the past decades are afraid of losing support and land.

We appreciate the pressure of having almost one million refugees in a poor country that needs help, says Mohammed Abu Asaker, UNHCR spokesperson in Coxs Bazar. This is why we try to help the local community as well, providing medical facilities for locals for example, he says. He points out that when there are so many refugees, locals are exposed to illnesses as well.

Recommended Rohingya women reveal rape and torture inflicted by Burma forces

But UNHCR also notes that the Rohingya are refugees because they crossed the border out of fear of their lives. Its not early to talk about repatriation but the situation in Burma is not conducive for people to go back. We strongly recommend no one goes back unless the root causes of the problem, including citizenship and promoting integration instead of confining them in camp, have been addressed, the spokesperson says.

UNHCR also confirms that with the end of the rainy season, smugglers are approaching Rohingyas in the camps who want to risk the dangerous and illegal journey by boat to Thailand or Malaysia. Thousands are believed to have lost their lives at sea in 2015 when a crackdown by Thai authorities led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea.

Rights activists note that the repatriation agreement, which the two governments are still working out, is likely to exclude many Rohingya as Burma insists on evidence of their former residency.

The truth is that the implementation of the agreement is unlikely and many would not meet the requirements anyway, says Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project, an NGO advocating for the rights of the Rohingya for almost two decades. Many refugees fled without documents or do not speak the national Burmese language. It is not clear what will happen to those who dont meet the requirements, Ms Lewa adds.

But among the tents packed into Kutupalong camp, many Rohingya men say they have to get out. I will never stay here. I want to leave. I hope to get a fake passport and go, says Safil, father of two children.
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 Australian air force was put on alert amid operations by Russian bombers.

A Darwin air base briefly went into a state of increased readiness in case it had to respond to the operations, launched by the Russian ministry of defence. The unprecedented manoeuvres appear to be an attempt by Moscow to stretch out over the Pacific, according to local experts.

Its not thought that Russian planes have flown such a patrol mission over the South Pacific before. Defence experts in Australia feared the mission was an attempt to gather Australian intelligence and demonstrate the countrys increased confidence.

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 the Russians to send a couple of aircraft this far down south I think is really proving its got the capacity for that long-range reach, Peter Jennings from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute told Australias ABC, which first reported the incident.

Recommended Royal Navy tracks Russian warship through North Sea on Christmas Day

It doesnt surprise me in the least that our own military forces raised their alert levels in response.

Im sure there would have been concerns about Russian intelligence gathering because they wouldnt have come this far south without wanting to look at the one significant [United States] allied presence in this part of the world, which operates out of [RAAF Base] Darwin and RAAF Base Tindall a little further south.

Spokespeople for the Australian air force said that the base was never in lockdown but that it was put in a state of increased readiness in early December, while the Russian operation was ongoing. The mission saw Russia move planes towards Indonesias Biak airbase and take part in a mission that involved two Tu-95MS bombers and more than 100 personnel.

The Russian defence ministry said that the operation was successful, routine and had been done in accordance with international law.

Today, two Tu-95MS strategic bombers carried out air alert mission over neutral waters of south Pacific Ocean, it said in a statement. The aircraft took off from the Indonesian airfield Biak. The flight time exceeded eight hours.

Flights over neutral waters in Arctic, Northern Arctic, Black and Caspian seas, and Pacific Fleet are conducted regularly by long-range aircraft, the post uploaded in early December read. All the missions of the Russian Aerospace Forces are carried out in strict accordance with the International Air Law.
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 }}

Kidnappers in Ukraine have released an employee at a United Kingdom-registered cryptocurrency exchange after getting more than $1 million (740,000) in bitcoins as ransom, an adviser to the Ukrainian interior minister told Reuters on Friday.

Pavel Lerner, a leading analyst and blockchain expert, was abducted by unknown masked people on 26 December, according to a statement by his company, EXMO Finance, on its website.

This is the first such case in Ukraine linked to bitcoins, Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Interior Minister Arsen Avakov, said in a phone text message.

It was unclear who paid the ransom. Lerners work at EXMO did not involve access to the financial assets of its users, the company said, adding that the platform was operating normally.

At the moment, he is safe, and there was no physical harm inflicted on him, the statement said. Nevertheless, Pavel is currently in a state of major stress, therefore, he will not provide any official comments in the coming days.

News of the release came as bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rebounded after two days of losses partly related to regulators toughening rules on digital currencies in an effort to curb excessive speculation. Many digital currencies surged in value this year.

Strana.ua, a local news website, had earlier reported that six gun-toting men in dark clothing and balaclavas had snatched Lerner and pushed him into a minibus with stolen number plates.

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

Kiev police have begun a criminal investigation after a man was kidnapped in the Obolon district of Kiev, Oksana Blyshchyk, the Kiev police spokeswoman said by phone without revealing the name of the victim.

EXMO has 900,000 users as of December 2017, according to its website.

We would like to note that the story of Pavels abduction has overgrown with rumours that might tamper with the official investigation, EXMO said in its statement. That said, EXMO currently refrains from any comments or suggestions of own versions of the possible scenario, in the nearest future.

Reuters.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }}

Russia's highest court on Saturday upheld election officials' decision to bar opposition leader Alexei Navalny from running for president in March's election.

The Supreme Court turned down Navalny's appeal against the Central Election Commission's move, ruling that the decision to bar him from the race fully conforms to law.

President Vladimir Putin, whose approval ratings top 80 percent, is set to easily win a fourth term in the elections on 18 March.

Navalny has campaigned for the presidency all year despite an implicit ban on his candidacy due to a fraud conviction seen by many as politically driven. Election officials formally barred him from the ballot on Monday.

He responded to the ban by calling for a boycott of the vote. The Kremlin said authorities will look into whether such a call violates the law.

Navalny repeated his call for a "voters' strike" after Saturday's court ruling.

"We don't acknowledge elections without competition," he said on Twitter.

Many others have declared their intention to run. They include veterans of the past campaign  ultranationalist Vladim ir Zhirinovsky and liberal Grigory Yavlinsky  as well as communist nominee Pavel Grudinin and star TV host Ksenia Sobchak.

While none of them poses a serious challenge to Putin, the Kremlin is worried about voter apathy and has focused on boosting turnout to make Putin's victory as impressive as possible.

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 involvement of 36-year old Sobchak, the daughter of the late mayor of St. Petersburg who was Putin's boss in the 1990s, could raise public interest in the race. While Sobchak has denied colluding with the Kremlin, her participation could draw some of Navalny's supporters to her side and help improve turnout.

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 }}

A man has been arrested on suspicion of setting off an explosion at a supermarket in St Petersburg earlier this week, Russia's main domestic security agency said.

The blast on Wednesday in a storage area for customers' bags injured 18 people.

The Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest in a statement carried by Russian news agencies, but did not identify the suspect or provide any details about his motive.

It did say the suspect organised and carried out the attack on his own.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the explosion, according to SITE, a group that monitors IS statements.

President Vladimir Putin has called the explosion a terror attack, adding that he ordered security agencies to kill terror suspects on the spot if they resist arrest.

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 }}

A man believed to be strapped with explosives has taken nine adults and two children hostage in a post office in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, police have said.

The unidentified man is calm, has not made any demands and is in regular contact with police through the telephones of the hostages, regional police chief Oleg Bekh told 112 news channel.

Television footage showed police and parked police cars outside a white-and-yellow two-storey building in the north-eastern city. The area has been closed off to traffic.

"We are trying to do everything to maintain communication with him and to do everything that is necessary to ensure the people are released," Mr Bekh said.

He added the man in the post office was concerned about the recent prisoner exchange between the Ukrainian authorities and pro-Russian separatists and thought more prisoners should have been released. Police did not know what the hostage-taker wanted.

"His demands are unknown to us," police spokesman Yaroslav Trakalo said.

Ukraine swapped hundreds of prisoners with the separatists on Wednesday in the biggest such exchange since the outbreak of a conflict in the eastern Donbass region that has killed more than 10,000 people.

According to the terms of the deal, Kiev was to hand over 306 prisoners to the rebels and receive 74 prisoners in return.

The swap was the first in 14 months and is seen as an important part of efforts bring about a ceasefire.
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 }}

Vladimir Putin has called for "pragmatic cooperation" with the US in a New Year message to Donald Trump.

In a telegram message, Mr Putin said a constructive dialogue between the two nations was essential for global stability.

The Kremlin said Saturday that Mr Putin emphasised in his Seasons Greetings to Mr Trump that Russia and the US could develop a "pragmatic cooperation aimed at long-term perspective" on the basis of "equality and mutual respect."

 Ten great things Donald Trump will give the world in 2018

Mr Putin noted that "the development a constructive Russian-US dialogue is particularly important for strengthening strategic stability in the world and finding the optimal answers to global threats and challenges."

Ties between Moscow and Washington sank to a post-Cold War low following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the allegations of its meddling in the US presidential election last year.

The Russian President also addressed Syria's Bashar al-Assad in a seasonal message, promising he would "continue to render every assistance to Syria in the protection of state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity".

Earlier this month Mr Putin ordered the Russian forces in Syria to start withdrawing from the country, but said Russia would keep its Hmeymim air base in Syria's Latakia Province as well as its naval facility at Tartous "on a permanent basis".

Russia first launched air strikes in Syria in September 2015 in its biggest Middle East intervention in decades, turning the tide of the conflict in Assad's favour.
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 }}

Donald Trump took to Twitter to decry the Iranian government over protests in the country. His tweet, a copy, almost word for word, of the White House press secretarys, accused Tehran of squandering the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad and ended with the declaration: The world is watching.

In reality there has been little reaction abroad to the marches in a number of Iranian cities and the counter-demonstrations which have followed. But the disturbances will be good news for Mr Trump as an avowed adversary of Iran, a belligerent stance he forcefully reiterated in his first foreign trip as President, to Saudi Arabia on an arms-selling mission.

The malign shadow of Mr Trump loomed over the Iranian presidential election I covered earlier this year. His threat to tear up the agreement over the countrys nuclear programme with world powers was seized on by hardliners to attack President Hassan Rouhani, charging that the reformist leader had been naive in trusting the West and has compromised the nations security.

The liberals were deeply concerned about what this held for the future with the prospect an American abrogation of the deal further strengthening the reactionaries.

Since then Mr Trump had refused to ratify the nuclear agreement, creating uncertainties for Irans international trade. Washington had already refused to lift the sanctions it was expected to under the deal, thus stymying the full economic benefits expected by the Iranian people and leading to criticism of the Rouhani government.

There have, in fact, been rewards in return for Iran limiting its uranium enrichment programme. Tehran, for example, now sells its oil in the global market and has signed deals for tens of billions of dollars of Western aircraft. But the aircraft purchase is one of many which may now be in jeopardy if the US Congress brings in the tougher sanctions Mr Trump wants.

Crucially, the economic situation has failed to adequately improve the lives of ordinary Iranians.

Unemployment remains high, at 12.4 per cent, up 1.4 per cent in the previous 12 months. There has been a steady rise in food prices with a drastic hike in the cost of poultry, by up to 40 per cent, one of the triggers for the protests.

The government blames the shortage and price rise due to the necessity of a cull to prevent an outbreak of avian flu. Some of the marches were also about low pay, not a new phenomenon. There had been peaceful protests and sit-ins over this in the past, but this time it added to the sense of general discontent.

Some of the protest, albeit a small part of it, has gone beyond immediate economic woes, with strident condemnation of corruption, the power of the conservative clergy as well as foreign policy, especially Irans involvement in the Syrian conflict.

Demonstrations had taken place in the holy cities of Mashhad and Qom. This was unusual, but not entirely surprising. In three visits to Qom in the last 18 months I had been struck by the increasing number of young people, including theology students, who had come forward to stress the need for change and reform, reflecting similar refreshing views in other cities.

But the hardliners remain a power to be reckoned with in Iran and they have been blamed by some for instigating the current troubles. The liberals note that the marches began after a number of recent reforms  the most eye-catching of which was the announcement that women in Tehran will no longer face potential arrest for not wearing head-scarves  were announced.

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

Eshaq Jahangari, the First Vice President, acknowledged that there was legitimate anger about rising prices. But, he went on to claim, opponents were also trying to destabilise the reformist government. The people behind what is taking place think they will be able to harm the government. But when social movements and protests start in the streets, those who have ignited them are not always able to control them he stated.

What happens next will depend on the scale of any further protests and the authorities reaction to them. So far any action has been taken by the police, with the Revolutionary Guards, fervent protectors of the Islamic Republic, staying in the barracks, thus showing tacit backing for the government.

There is a view that the Iranian government is being given a helping hand, inadvertently, in this time of trouble by Mr Trump.

Trita Parsi, the president of the Washington-based National Iranian American Council, said that the fastest way to discredit these legitimate grievances expressed by the Iranian people is for Trump to throw himself in the mix.

Amir Hamdani of the Atlantic Council think tank in New York concurred: Anything Trump says about Iran will be rejected by the vast majority of Iranians, given his position in a host of issues that touch on Iranian prestige and national interests.
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 US has given a critical warning to Iran as thousands of its citizens take to the streets to demand regime change.

Protests have swept across Iran in recent days, with many demanding that the government of Hassan Rouhani steps down. The White House warned that the government needs to listen to those protestors, and suggested that it would respond to any attempts to shut down the protests.

Donald Trump, who has been critical of the Iranian regime as well as the nuclear deal signed with it last year, repeated the White House's warning that "the world is watching".

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

Earlier, the White House had said that the Iranian government needed to respect people's "right to express themselves".

"Reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regimes corruption and its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad," the White House said. "The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights including their right to express themselves. The world is watching."

An earlier statement took explicit aim at the Iranian government, and appeared to suggest that the protestors were justified. "Irans leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state, whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos," it read.

Donald Trump repeated some of the wording of both of those statements in a tweet.

The State Department called the protests peaceful and said that protestors should not be arrested. It is not clear how many activists have been arrested so far.

"Iran's leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos," it said in a statement. "As President Trump has said, the longest-suffering victims of Iran's leaders are Iran's own people.

"The United States strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption."

Protests in Iran are expected to continue into their third and fourth days over the weekend. Recent reports suggested that they had spread into the country's capital, Tehran.
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 }}

The subject of railways tends to be a political hot potato around this time in the calendar, with annual fare rises kicking in to give commuters a less than happy New Year, but Fridays resignation of Lord Adonis has served to increase the spotlight on one of the most contentious areas of British life.

The chair of Theresa Mays National Infrastructure Commission said he was ready to share troubling evidence about a recent indefensible decision by the transport secretary Chris Grayling to change the East Coast rail franchise, which he said puts hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayers money at risk.

On Tuesday UK rail fares will rise by 3.4 per cent  the largest increase for five years. The rise covers regulated fares such as season tickets and long-distance off-peak journeys. But other fares can rise or fall at the train operators discretion.

And with recent analysis revealing that almost three in five rail journeys are made on foreign-owned services, there is growing support for bringing franchises back into public ownership when current contracts expire  a key policy of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

As weary passengers prepare to pay ever-steeper fares, while negotiating the usual minefield of strikes and cancellations, The Independents travel correspondent Simon Calder asks a panel of seasoned observers of the rail industry what they would do to fix the railways

BD Barry Doe, acknowledged to be the UKs leading rail fares expert, responsible for The Fare Dealer feature in every edition of RAIL magazine.

CM Clair Mowbray, chief executive of the National College for High Speed Rail, which has campuses in Birmingham and Doncaster.

NS Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries contributed jointly to this exercise as editors of Hidden Europe  a print and online magazine about people, places, communities, often involving little-known rail adventures.

MS Mark Smith, The Man in Seat Sixty-One  former British Rail manager and founder of the award-winning Seat61.com website on international rail travel.

Learning from the past

The railways of Britain were at their zenith in the 1920s, a time of consolidation and technological advances that saw passenger numbers at their highest. The 1921 Railway Act aimed for more efficient and economical working of the railway system of Great Britain, and created the Big Four: the Great Western Railway (GWR), the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS), the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) and the Southern Railway (SR). What can the UK in 2018 learn from this Golden Age of the train?

NS In the 1920s railways were just beginning to see the threat from road transport. In that Golden Age of rail transport, it was widely recognised that it made sense to limit the number of operators. From the 1920s we learn that coordination was key, both in terms of timetables and fares.

CM: The 1920s was a time when powerhouses such as the Doncaster Locomotive and Carriage Building Works really came into their own, creating legends such as The Flying Scotsman and Mallard  the original high-speed trains. There was also a sense of pride in rail travel, with both the passenger and those staffing the trains wanting to enjoy the journey. It was more than just getting from A to B. We need to restore that pride.

Investment in infrastructure and transport can help to reenergise and transform our communities.

MS: Todays technology and circumstances are so different from the railway of the 1920s there may not be much sensible read-across. But with all the modern technology, operators shouldnt forget the basics: a comfy seat, sufficient legroom and a clear view from the window.

BD Im not sure we can learn anything from the 1920s but we can learn a huge amount from the 1980s and 1990s when the railways offered a better service overall than today. InterCity was in particular perceived the most efficient railway in Europe at the time and the quality of its services far exceeded anything offered today.

Reversing the Beeching cuts

The Beeching Report was the basis for wholesale closures of lines and stations in the 1960s and 1970s. The Department for Transport has asked for submissions on re-opening some links. Which candidates do you favour?

MS Several routes closed by Beeching would be very welcome today. Closing the Oxford-Cambridge line was a mistake, and Im glad that resolving that one is already in hand. Road congestion in the Lake District means Penrith-Kendal would be good to have back.

With such a good start already made (and exceeding expectations) I hope the Borders Railway is eventually completed all the way from Edinburgh to Carlisle.

NS It is a tragedy that towns like Wells, Ripon, Wisbech and Peebles are simply not served by Britains rail network. The folly of the cuts needs to be seen in the context of the Beeching era, when some routes were so poorly served that it hardly made any sense to retain them. Half a century later it would certainly make sense to reconnect many small towns across Britain into the national network. But each project will need to be evaluated on its merits.

BD The only routes that have been mentioned so far are ones we knew about anyway like Oxford-Cambridge and Tavistock-Plymouth. A commitment for Okehampton-Tavistock or Skipton-Colne routes would imply business, rather than just talk.

Should Britains railways be re-nationalised?

NS It is the duty of the State to provide basic infrastructure and services. The business of running the post, building roads and promoting mobility through an efficient rail network is surely a prerogative of government. Thats not to say that there isnt also a place for private operators, and we have seen in Britain how entrepreneurial franchise holders really can help expand the network  think of Chiltern Railway opening a line from London Marylebone to Oxford. But some degree of re-nationalisation would allow for the 20- to 30-year forward planning horizon which new railway developments and investments require.

BD It is the only way the railway can ever truly improve. Those who think privatisation has worked well attempt to con us into believing the proof is that passenger numbers have doubled. They have, but despite privatisation and for two main reasons: traffic congestion has led many to use trains; and the Government has put a lot more money into the railways than it ever invested in British Rail. We need a return to railway professionals running our railway, not civil servants as now.

MS Its a mistake to see every issue in terms of private versus public. I hear people argue that nationalising will somehow make fares cheaper or the trains run on time. Those issues are in fact largely independent of ownership. Weve a lot going right at the moment, in spite of many imperfections. Lets keep whats right and tackle the imperfections.

What ideas could beneficially be brought from abroad to Britain?

CM The journey should be considered from the moment someone is trying to book their ticket, through to the actual use of train and getting to the end point destination. Other countries have moved forward in smart ticketing, improved passenger information and the planning of multi-modal systems to enable a seamless travel experience.

We should also introduce digital signalling into all areas of our train network on a more compressed timetable. This would increase capacity making journeys more comfortable, reduced delays and allow for a more frequent services where this is currently limited.

NS The very feel of the train in Britain is so different from the Continent. One of the issues we really notice when we travel to Britain is that there is insufficient luggage space and the space is carriages is cramped (and we understand the reasons for that due to the tighter loading gauge in Britain). There is in Britain not quite the same collective wish on the part of the trains users to maintain a pleasant travelling environment. Compared with a German ICE or a Spanish AVE, British trains are often quite noisy and people have a tendency to leave rubbish lying around.

Britain should also provide much better information about connecting trains as one approaches major interchanges. Its good to know as you approach York that the connecting trains to Harrogate and Scarborough will depart from platforms X and Y.

MS They have some great trains in mainland Europe, our train designers should certainly try out their interiors  some of our latest trains have no tables or armrests for long journeys and over-hard seats. But although its unfashionable to say so, I think we have a lot to teach the continentals! I see trains and routes being cut back on mainland Europe whilst we are increasing train frequency and reopening closed lines, and even building new sleeper trains.
Egypts state TV broadcast yesterday Friday's prayers from the countrys southernmost Halayeb and Shalateen area in the Red Sea Governorate for the first time ever.

Egypt's Minister of Religious Endowments Mohamed Mokhtar Gomaa delivered Fridays sermon at Al-Tawba Mosque in Halayeb, which is approximately located more than 1,000 kilometers away from the capital.

Gomaa said Egypt has entered a new phase in building a government which provides for all of its citizens and develops its border regions in an equitable way to its capital.

Gomaa added that Egypt is fighting the forces of terrorism in North Sinai through economic development and construction projects.

The minister also praised economic development efforts in the governorates of Matrouh in the northwest and El-Wadi El-Gedid in the southwest.

Following the prayers, Gomaa attended a religious seminar in the city over the consolidation of the principles of mercy, justice, and faith, where he announced that 20 of the areas residents will be appointed in the citys mosques and that 100 new homes will be constructed in the city as a donation from his ministry.

The minister said that housing construction in Halayeb and Shalateen in the last four years has surpassed what was accomplished in this field in the past 30 years by five times.

The endowments minister visit, which started on Thursday, comes as Egypt announced on Wednesday that a new weekly television and radio programme from the area would be broadcasted with the aim of "enhancing the sense of belonging for Egyptians in this area."

The foundation stone of a new state-owned radio station's headquarters was set in the city of Halayeb in March 2014.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


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 }}

Andrew Adonis is one of the most remarkable ministers of postwar Britain. Apart from prime ministers and chancellors, few ministers leave a mark. James Callaghan as transport minister introduced zebra crossings  the first trial ones were blue and yellow stripes  in 1949, although he was later Chancellor and Prime Minister. Barbara Castle as Minister for Transport introduced the breathalyser.

Adonis was a transport minister too, and leaves the High Speed 2 rail link, planned to open in 2025, as his monument. But he was also an education minister in Tony Blairs government, creating academy schools, which have helped improve the life chances of hundreds of thousands of people. And he created Teach First.

Naturally, his achievements are controversial, but as a force for change Adonis has had no equal. He continued to drive ambitious and creative ideas as chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, to which George Osborne appointed him in 2015, because he wanted the Commission to have the bipartisan authority to generate a national consensus over long-term thinking. So much for that high-sounding idea.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 17 November 2022 Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt leaves 11 Downing Street, London, for the House of Commons to deliver his autumn statement PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2022 Emma Woolf, great niece of British author Virginia Woolf, and her son Ludovic sit next to a new bronze statue of Woolf, unveiled in Richmond, London Reuters 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 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

Adoniss impact is all the more extraordinary because, as those who disagree with him are quick to point out, the only thing to which he has ever been elected is Oxford City Council (he was a Social Democrat and then a Liberal Democrat councillor, 1987-91). His impact on national life has been achieved as a policy adviser at 10 Downing Street from 1997, as a minister in the House of Lords 2005-10, and as head of Osbornes quango.

In each of those roles, of course, he did what elected leaders wanted him to do, but now that run has come to an end. Predictably, the suggestion from No 10 is that the Prime Minister was about to get rid of him anyway, just as Alan Milburn resigned before the Government had the chance to fail to renew his term as chair of the Social Mobility Commission. Milburn was another consequential minister in the Blair government, recruited by David Cameron and Osborne to provide a veneer of cross-party reasonableness.

Theresa May tends not to bother even with the veneer. She sacked Michael Heseltine as a government adviser in March because he defied the Conservative whip in the Lords to vote against invoking Article 50. But she was curiously passive about Adonis, allowing him to campaign noisily against Brexit while retaining his official post  and hence allowing him to strike first with his incendiary resignation letter on Friday.

In the letter, Adonis comes out with fists flying. He accuses May of betraying the national interest in her approach to Brexit, which is a little odd, since her direction  excluding Britain from the EU single market and the free movement of people  has been clear since before she became Prime Minister 18 months ago. But he says he had to resign because the EU (Withdrawal) Bill, the worst legislation of my lifetime, will soon come before the House of Lords, and I feel duty bound to oppose it relentlessly from the Labour benches.

He calls Brexit a dangerous populist and nationalist spasm worthy of Donald Trump, and accuses her of becoming the voice of Ukip. Note that he picks up on the theme of populism, the subject of a paper this week from Tony Blairs Institute for Global Change, which traces the rise in European and US politics of nationalist leaders stoking hostility to elites, minorities and immigrants.

Adonis appears to be pursuing a twin-track tactic in the fight against Brexit. You might think his resignation and heated rhetoric would be counterproductive in seeking to persuade soft Leave voters that they should think again. But I suspect that he, and Blair, along with Heseltine and Kenneth Clarke and the other ultra-Remainers, are trying to create space for moderate doubters to emerge. They know that public opinion on Brexit is likely to shift only if prominent Leavers say they are having second thoughts, and they hope that, as outriders, their melodramatic warnings will make that easier.

It seems a forlorn hope to me, and it seems Adonis also knows that the chances of averting Brexit are small. In one of the significant passages in his resignation letter, he tells May: Taking us back into Europe will become the mission of our childrens generation, who will marvel at your wanton destruction.

Admittedly, this comes after an if  if Mays version of Brexit succeeds in putting up barriers between people and trade even within Ireland, then the next generation would try to rejoin the EU. But the prospect of a different kind of Brexit  the Norway option of being in the single market without a say over it  seems remote. The only way it could happen would be if the EU27 allow the UK to restrict free movement, which seems even less likely.

It seems that Adonis accepts that Brexit cannot be stopped or changed, and is preparing the ground for the longer struggle. Far from being a call to arms against Brexit, it could be that Adoniss resignation marks the moment the ultra-Remainers admit defeat in this war and start to prepare to fight the next one.

It could be that 2018 will be the year in which opposition to Brexit transforms into the beginnings of the campaign to rejoin the EU after we have left.
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 }}

For all the talk of global and domestic conflict that continued through 2017, many of the internal social and existential issues faced by both the Western and Muslim worlds in the last year were similar, if not almost identical. Across different societies and civilisations, we share a global culture  particularly an online culture  where atomised, isolated and disaffected youth are vulnerable to radicalisation, whether by Isis or the far right.

These two ends of the extremism spectrum are similar and feed off each other. Some would say they even need each other to function, like the two blades of a pair of scissors: apparently pushing in opposite directions, but ultimately working together to perform the same purpose.

The stats speak for themselves: just as 2017 was tragically the year global terror become an almost daily and unremarkable occurrence for many, the same could be said of Islamophobia and the associated far right prejudices. We have known for some time that Islamophobia and prejudice rise after a terrorist attack, and more recently, hate crimes against Muslims increased fivefold in the wake of the London Bridge terrorist attack this year.

In the face of all these pull factors for far-right recruitment, Security minister Ben Wallace announced a renewed focus on far-right terror grooming, which is now using almost exactly the same techniques as Isis recruitment. The two blades on the scissors grow ever closer  and sharper.

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 other lesson of 2017 is that the online Isis recruitment space is not dependent on physical space. This year we are actually winning the territorial war on terror: Isis has been driven from large swathes of the Middle East, Boko Haram has been weakened in Nigeria and an armed opposition group led by war veteran Gulbuddin Hekmatyar joined the Afghan government.

But if terrorist groups have lost physical space to breathe, it seems to have only driven them further and deeper online, where they have ample ideological space to not only survive but flourish  if we let them.

This is why it is so important that 2017 was the year that offline opposition to extremism was finally translated into online policy, including among social media brands. After renewed pressure by various heads of state, including Prime Minister Theresa May, we have seen many extremist accounts, from across the extremism spectrum of Isis and the far right, shut down. Twitter alone has suspended 360,000 accounts for the promotion of terrorism. This not only limits the actual act of radicalisation, but also sends out a broader message that there is no space in mainstream society (including online society) for extreme views.

This translation of offline counter-radicalisation into the online space is also happening in the Muslim world. The intellectual heft and cultural capital we need for this dialogue has long been present in Muslim-majority countries: as far back as 2014, 126 Islamic scholars across the world issued a 17-page open letter to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of Isis, referring to scripture and religious legal precedent to meticulously dismantle the authenticity of the so-called Islamic State.

 Stand Up To Racism protests against Donald Trump's Britain First retweets

And there is also institutional and political support. Long-standing religious institutions such as Al-Azhar in Egypt, the Muslim World League in Mecca and the Rabita Mohammadia in Morocco have all taken proactive steps to counter the abuse of religion by extremists.

These efforts are welcome, but they are all offline  which is not the key battleground now. This why the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the second-largest intergovernmental organisation in the world after the UN, has recently launched an online anti-radicalisation messaging centre. We will directly intervene in the online space to counter extremist propaganda and pick apart extremists arguments.

The centre, called The Voice of Wisdom, has real credibility  we know that in this space not only the message, but the messenger, matters. Thats why weve partnered with the legitimate religious institutions and well-known scholars in our member states who have the authoritative knowledge and years of everyday experience in communicating with regular people that we need.

I believe that the best remedy to extremism in the Muslim world is the correct understanding of traditional Islam. Im not alone: former US National Security Council director, Quintan Wiktorowicz, spoke directly to extremists and found that those most prone to radicalisation also had the weakest understanding of the Islamic faith. And MI5s behavioural science unit found that a well-established religious identity actually protects against violent radicalisation.

This is a mammoth task, and the OIC is well-placed to do it. Across our 57 member states, there is a diverse range of know-how, experience and resources. And perhaps most importantly, we have a track record in addressing the issues that are used by extremist recruiters, such as conflict, poverty and Palestine. The message will be coming from one of their own, in their own language, from within their own tradition.

Just as Western states are responsible for transferring their cultural capital online to address their internal problems of far-right extremism, so must the Muslim world do the same from within its own intellectual and spiritual tradition. If we do that, 2018 can be much better for everyone.

Bashir Ahmad Ansari is the director of the Dialogue and Outreach Department and the Voice of Wisdom: Center for Dialogue, Peace and Understanding at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). He is a former Afghan diplomat
An Alexandria misdemeanor court sentenced on Saturday activist and human rights lawyer Mahinour El-Masry and rights lawyer Moatasem Medhat each to two years in prison for illegally demonstrating against the Egyptian-Saudi maritime border demarcation deal last June.

Three other defendants, Asmaa Naeim, Waleed El Amary and Ziad Abo El Fadl, were handed three-year prison terms in absentia by the same court, according to the Free Mahienour campaign page on Facebook.

In June, lawyers in Egypt's second-biggest city organised a demonstration in front of an Alexandria court to protest a parliament debate over the border demarcation agreement, which places the Red Sea islands of Tiran and Sanafir under Saudi control.

All verdicts can still be appealed, with the court setting 13 January for an appeal hearing, according to El-Masrys family.

El-Masry served 15 months in prison in 2015 and 2016 for "storming" an Alexandria police station in 2013.



She also served four months of a six-month sentence in 2014 for illegal protesting during the retrial of Khaled Said murder case in December 2013.

Hundreds have been tried for illegally protesting against the April 2016 Red Sea islands deal. Many have since been released after paying hefty fines.

Last June, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi ratified the demarcation deal shortly after a parliamentary approval in favor of the agreement.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


All Is Not Quiet on the Syrian Front: US to Launch Another War

By Alex Gorka

December 30, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - This is a classic example of flip-flop policy. In November, the US promised Turkey to stop arming Kurdish militias in Syria after the Islamic State was routed. Brett McGurk, the US Special Presidential Envoy to the Global Coalition to Defeat Islamic State, explained that after the urban fighting in Raqqa was over "adjustments in the level of military support" would be made. "We had to give some equipment  and it's limited, extremely limited  all of which was very transparent to our NATO ally, Turkey," he said during a special briefing on December 21. In June, the US told Turkey it would take back weapons supplied to the Kurdish the Peoples Protection Units (YPG) militia in northern Syria after the defeat of Islamic State.

But sophisticated weapons will continue to be sent to Syria in 2018, including thousands of anti-tank rocket launchers, heat seeking missiles and rocket launchers. The list of weaponry and equipment was prepared by US Department of Defense as part of the 2018 defense budget and signed by Trump of Dec. 12. It includes more than 300 non-tactical vehicles, 60 nonstandard vehicles, and 30 earth-moving vehicles to assist with the construction of outposts or operations staging areas. The US defense spending bill for 2018 ("Justification for FY 2018 Overseas Contingency Operations / Counter-Islamic State of Iraq and Syria Train and Equip Fund") includes providing weapons worth $393 million to US partners in Syria. Overall, $500 million, roughly $70 million more than last year, are to be spent on Syria Train and Equip requirements. The partners are the Kurds-dominated Syria Democratic Forces (SDF). The YPG  the group that is a major concern of Turkey  is the backbone of this force.



The budget does not refer to Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) but instead says Vetted Syrian Opposition. According to the budget list, there are 25,000 opposition forces supported as a part of the train and equip program in Syria. That number is planned to be increased to 30,000 in 2018. The arming of Kurdish militants with anti-tank rockets is a sensitive topic because of Turkeys reliance on its armored Leopard tanks in northern Syria.



Talal Sillo, a former high-ranking commander and spokesperson of the US-backed SDF, who defected from the group last month to go to Turkey, divulged details of the US arming the Kurdish group.



The list does not detail which vetted Syrian groups will receive certain pieces of equipment. In northern Syria, there is the SDF, including the YPG, and the Syria Arab Coalition  a group of Arab fighters incorporated into the SDF. The Maghawir al-Thawra and Shohada al-Quartayn groups are operating in the southeastern part of Syria. They are being trained by US and British instructors at the al-Tanf border crossing between Syria and Iraq.

Never Miss Another Story Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter

Besides the SDF and the groups trained at al-Tanf, the US is in the process of creating the New Syria Army to fight the Syrian government forces. The training is taking place at the Syrian Hasakah refugee camp located 70 kilometers from the border of Turkey and 50 kilometers from the border of Iraq.



Around 40 Syria opposition groups on Dec. 25 rejected to attend the planned Sochi conference on Syria scheduled to take place in January. They said Moscow, which organizes the conference, was seeking to bypass the UN-based Geneva peace process, despite the fact that UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura said that Russia's plan to convene the congress should be assessed by its ability to contribute to and support the UN-led Geneva talks on ending the war in Syria. If fighting starts, these groups are likely to join the formations created by the US.



So, the United States not only maintains its illegal military presence in Syria and creates new forces to fight against the Syrian government, it appears to be preparing for a new war to follow the Islamic States defeat. The continuation of arming and training Kurdish militias will hardly improve Washingtons relations with Ankara, while saying one thing and doing another undermines the credibility of the United States as a partner.

This article was originally published by Strategic Culture Foundation -

====

Join the Discussion
Putin Foresaw Death of US Global Power

By Finian Cunningham

December 30, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - L ike a good wine, Russian President Vladimir Putins famous speech delivered in Munich 10 years ago regarding global security has been rewarded with time. A decade on, the many facets contained in that address have only become all the more enhanced and tangible.

Speaking to a senior international audience at the annual Munich Security Conference, on February 10, 2007, the Russian leader opened by saying he was going to speak about world relations forthrightly and not in empty diplomatic terms. In what followed, Putin did not disappoint. With candor and incisiveness, he completely leveled the arrogance of American unilateral power.

He condemned the aspirations of world supremacy as a danger to global security. We are seeing a greater and greater disdain for the basic principles of international law, adding at a later point: One state and, of course, first and foremost the United States, has overstepped its national borders in every way.

But, moreover, Putin presciently predicted that the American arrogance of unipolar dominance would in the end lead to the demise of the power from seeking such supremacy.

A unipolar world, he said, is a world in which there is one master, one sovereign. And at the end of the day this is pernicious not only for all those within this system, but also for the sovereign itself because it destroys itself from within.

Ten years on from that call, few can doubt that the global standing of the United States has indeed spectacularly fallen  just as Putin had forewarned back in 2007. The most recent example of demise was the sordid business earlier this month of arm-twisting and bullying by the US at the United Nations over the tabled resolutions repudiating Washingtons ill-considered declaration of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

Other examples of fallen American leadership can be seen in regard to President Trumps reckless threats of war  instead of diplomacy  with North Korea over its nuclear weapons program. Or Trumps irrational and unfounded belligerence towards Iran. The American propensity for using military force regardless of diplomacy and international law leaves most nations feeling a shudder of contempt and trepidation.

Another example of fallen American leadership is seen in the boorish way the Trump administration has unilaterally rejected the 2015 international Paris Accord to combat deleterious climate change. Trump views it as a conspiracy to undermine the American economy, as he alluded to in his recent National Security Strategy. How can such a self-declared global leader be taken seriously, much less, with respect?

Putins warning that the unipolar-seeking US would destroy itself could not be more apt.

Because in order to seek such supremacy, such a power, by necessity of its ambition, must reject the rule of law and the principle of democracy as being nothing other than bothersome constraints on its hegemony.

Never Miss Another Story Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter

President Trump likes to talk at times about the peaceful coexistence of sovereign nation states. But whatever virtue he may be intending or paying lip service to, it is totally negated by American ambitions of unipolar dominance  ambitions that have been harbored in successive administrations in Washington since the end of the Cold War more than 25 years ago.

To this view of the world, Putin said: I consider that the unipolar model is not only unacceptable but also impossible in todays world.

The impossibility, and impermissibility, stems from the inevitable tendency of unilateral conduct, which rejects the principle of all being equal under the law. The would-be unipolar hegemon, by definition, sees itself as above the law. Such a self-anointed view of oneself leads to tyranny and abuse of power.

Since the end of the Cold War balance of power between the US and the former Soviet Union, the world has been plunged into a state of permanent wars and conflicts, due to the proclivity of the United States to act alone and on the basis that its might is right.

Ten years ago in Munich, Putin noted: Unilateral and frequently illegitimate actions have not resolved any problems. Moreover, they have caused new human tragedies and created new centers of tension. Judge for yourselves: wars as well as local and regional conflicts have not diminished even more people are dying than before. Significantly more, significantly more!

The unipolar position sought by the US leads ineluctably to a world of lawlessness, chaos, insecurity, fear, violence, and, in a fiendish feedback loop, reinforces the further deterioration in all such facets.

Today we are witnessing an almost un-contained hyper use of force  military force  in international relations, force that is plunging the world into an abyss of permanent conflicts, said Putin in Munich.

Recall that the Russian leader was speaking at the height of the US, British and NATO wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Those wars constitute perhaps the two biggest war crimes over the past quarter of a century. The violations went unpunished, as befitting the arrogance of unipolar power, and because of that impunity, the lawlessness and abuse of national sovereign rights have only become more exacerbated, as Putin forewarned.

Diplomacy, international law, dialogue and consensus have been all but discarded. Look how the US and its NATO allies demolished Libya in 2011, and how they ransacked Syria covertly through a seven-year proxy dirty war; a war that was only stopped by Russia and Irans principled military intervention at the end of 2015. Look how the US and its NATO allies have destabilized Ukraine, yet blame Russia, even as Washington readies in the New Year to supply lethal weapons to the regime in Kiev it installed by a violent coup in February 2014.

The provocative expansion of NATO across Europe with its weapons pointed on Russias border was also an outcome that Putin warned against in 2007, admonishing that it would lead to more insecurity and tensions in Europe, not less.

Putin was right to talk straight truth to power in that 2007 speech, rather than using empty diplomatic terms, as he put it.

We cannot hope to rectify problems unless we address those problems accurately.

In doing so, Putin deserves immense praise for exposing the corruption of absolute power in world relations.

But there can be little doubt that his courageous speech in Munich in 2007 earned him the hatred of Washingtons imperial planners. Putin was in effect giving notice that Russia was shaking off the vassal status that his predecessor Boris Yeltsin had accepted in the early post-Cold War years.

Russia is a country with a history that spans more than a thousand years and has practically always used the privilege to carry out an independent foreign policy. We are not going to change this tradition today, said a defiant Putin.

It was this defiant independence and Putins searing analysis of how so much of global insecurity is the direct result of American imperialist arrogance that has since made the Russian leader the target for so much hostility from Washington over the past 10 years.

When you step back, it is amazing to observe the campaign of relentless Russophobia, vilification and slander directed at President Putin by Washington and the mass media under its control. The precedent for this demonization can be found in the Munich speech delivered by Putin a decade ago.

But lets recap on the point he made about unipolar obsession being self-destructive.

The American penchant for lawlessness and violation of democratic principles does not just stop with its intrigues of regime change and subversions abroad. Those very noxious habits of diseased US statecraft are now eating into the body politics of the US itself.

Looking at the necrotic state of US politics and society  the venal, political infighting and corruption, the lack of respect for its own laws, and the lack of respect for its peoples sovereignty and office of the president  there can be little doubt that the once ambitious superpower is dying a slow death from diseased practices that have turned inward.

Putin saw it coming 10 years ago. And in a classic futile case, they have tried to shoot the messenger ever since.

Finian Cunningham has written extensively on international affairs, with articles published in several languages. He is a Masters graduate in Agricultural Chemistry and worked as a scientific editor for the Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, England, before pursuing a career in newspaper journalism. He is also a musician and songwriter. For nearly 20 years, he worked as an editor and writer in major news media organisations, including The Mirror, Irish Times and Independent.

This article was originally published by Strategic Culture Foundation -

====

LEAKED: How The U.S. Weaponizes Human Rights

Join the Discussion
How Cheney and His Allies Created the North Korea Nuclear Missile Crisis



By Gareth Porter

December 30, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - The Trump administration has been telling people for months that the crisis with North Korea is the result of North Korea's relentless pursuit of a nuclear threat to the US homeland and past North Korean cheating on diplomatic agreements. However, North Korea reached agreements with both the Clinton and George W. Bush administrations that could have averted that threat, had they been completed.

Instead, a group of Bush administration officials led by then-Vice President Dick Cheney sabotaged both agreements, and Pyongyang went on to make rapid strides on both nuclear and missile development, leading ultimately to the successful late November 2017 North Korean intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test.

The record shows, moreover, that Cheney and his allies derailed diplomatic efforts to curb North Korean nuclear and missile development, not because they opposed "arms control" (after all, the agreements that were negotiated would have limited only North Korean arms), but because those agreements would have been a political obstacle to fielding the group's main interest: funding and fielding a national missile defense system as quickly as possible. The story of Cheney's maneuvering to kill two agreements shows how a real US national security interest was sacrificed to a massive military boondoggle that served only the interests of the powerful contractors behind it.

Curbing North Korean Arms or Missile Defense?

In October 1994, the Bill Clinton administration reached a historic agreement with North Korea called the "Agreed Framework," under which Pyongyang agreed to freeze its existing plutonium reactor and related facilities within a month, with full monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and to dismantle them as soon as they could be replaced with light water reactors. The United States promised to provide the reactors, as well fuel oil, until the light water reactors were built. And even more crucially, the US also pledged to take steps to end the enmity toward North Korea and normalize relations between the two longtime adversaries.

No sooner had the Clinton administration negotiated the "Agreed Framework," however, than the Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress in the 1994 election. That seismic political shift enabled a powerful lobby of military contractors pushing for a national missile defense system to achieve a congressional mandate for rapid development and deployment of such a system.

It was a fateful convergence, because the missile defense lobby's strategy was to create a sense of urgency about an alleged imminent threat to the US homeland from ballistic missiles armed with nuclear weapons mounted by "rogue states"-- Iraq, Iran and North Korea.

And the Clinton administration's agreement with North Korea -- the only "rogue state" known to have a nuclear weapons program as well as a missile program -- threatened that missile defense lobby strategy.

When a 1995 CIA intelligence estimate said that none of the three "rogue states" would have ballistic missiles capable of threatening the United States for at least 15 years, the missile defense lobby got Congress to pass legislation creating a "national commission" on the ballistic missile threat that would contradict the CIA assessment. The commission, led by Republican hard-liner Donald Rumsfeld, asserted in its final report in July 1998 that either Iraq or North Korea might acquire long-range ballistic missiles capable of hitting the United States in as little as five years. In a craven retreat under political pressure, the CIA then largely adopted the commission's argument.

North Korea had only carried out two tests of medium or longer-range missiles in the decade from 1988 to 1998, neither of which had been successful, so the Clinton administration was not focused on the threat of an ICBM: It held just two rounds of talks on the ballistic missile program between 1996 and 1998.

In fact, it was not the United States, but North Korea that proposed an agreement in 1998 that would end its development of new missiles as part of a broader peace agreement with Washington.

When the United States failed to respond to the proposal, however, North Korea launched a three-stage rocket called the Taepodong on August 31, 1998, which the missile lobby and news media argued was a major step toward a North Korean ICBM. The missile lobby used that event to push for legislation establishing a national policy goal to deploy and "effective National Missile Defense System" as soon as technologically possible.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il was using the regime's missile development as a prod to get the Clinton administration to negotiate a deal that would include concrete steps toward normalization of relations. He even sent a personal envoy to Washington to present the outline of a new North Korean offer to give up the regime's quest for an ICBM, as well as its nuclear weapons capability. In October 2000, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright went to Pyongyang, and the two sides came close to a final agreement that would have ended North Korean missile development as well as its nuclear weapons program and led to normalizing relations.

But Clinton didn't go to North Korea to sign the deal in the final months of his presidency, and the election of George W. Bush in November 2000 was a major victory for the missile defense lobby. Bush named Rumsfeld, the primary political champion of a missile defense system, as his Secretary of Defense. And no less than eight figures with direct or indirect ties to Lockheed Martin, the leading defense contractor in the missile defense business, became policymakers in the new administration. The most important was Dick Cheney, whose wife, Lynn Cheney, had earned more than half a million dollars serving on the board of directors of Lockheed-Martin from 1994 to 2001.

Never Miss Another Story Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter

Cheney set about killing the Agreed Framework and securing the missile defense system even before Bush entered the White House. Cheney chose Robert Joseph, a hardline supporter of missile defense and foe of an agreement with North Korea, as a key member of the transition team that Cheney led. Cheney then made Joseph senior director on the National Security Council (NSC) staff with responsibility for both missile defense and "weapons of mass destruction" proliferation policy.

"Joseph really hated the Agreed Framework," Larry Wilkerson, then in the State Department's Policy Planning Staff, told journalist Mike Chinoy . "His objective was first to kill the Agreed Framework and to make sure that nothing like it could ever get created again."

Joseph's first project was to draft a National Security Presidential Directive that laid out a "new strategic framework," essentially built around a ballistic missile defense system, as Joseph later told a National Defense University researcher .

Joseph drafted a speech that the president gave on May 1, 2001, in which Bush debuted a new central argument for national missile defense. "Deterrence can no longer be based solely on the threat of nuclear retaliation," Bush declared , adding that missile defense system could "strengthen deterrence by reducing the incentive for proliferation."

Cheney and Bolton Go for the Kill

Colin Powell's State Department posed the main obstacle to the Cheney group's plans for trashing the Agreed Framework. The Department's East Asian Bureau got Bush's approval for a formal policy review on North Korea, which concluded by defining the policy goal of exploring a deal with North Korea that would involve "an improved relationship."

But Cheney had a bureaucratic strategy to frustrate that endeavor and finish off the Agreed Framework. The NSC staff initiated a "nuclear posture review," which was carried out without any participation by Powell's allies. The final document included North Korea on a new list of countries that could be targets for US use of nuclear weapons.

That designation, which was leaked to the press in March 2002, conflicted directly with the US pledge in the Agreed Framework to "provide formal assurances to the DPRK, against the threat or use of nuclear weapons by the U.S."

Then Bush's State of the Union message in January 2002 introduced the idea of North Korea as part of an "axis of evil" along with Iran and Iraq. That was not merely a throwaway line introduced by a speechwriter, but reflected lobbying by Cheney and Rumsfeld for "toughening sanctions and isolation to lay the groundwork for regime change in North Korea," according to Condoleezza Rice's memoir, No Higher Honor.

John Bolton, Cheney's proxy in the State Department on proliferation issues, writes in his memoir Surrender is Not an Option that he considered the "axis of evil" speech a signal that he could now begin a bureaucratic offensive aimed at killing the Agreed Framework. Bolton recalls that he pushed the State Department to adopt the position that North Korea was out of compliance with the Agreed Framework for having "failed to make a complete and accurate declaration of its nuclear activities and refused to allow inspection of related facilities."

However, Bolton was misrepresenting the terms of the agreement, which provided that North Korea would come into full compliance with its safeguards agreement, including the accuracy and completeness of its declaration on its nuclear program, "[w]hen a significant portion of the LWR [light water reactor] project is completed, but before delivery of key nuclear components" Construction on the light water reactor had not even begun in 2002, when the State Department notified Congress that North Korea was out of compliance.

Bolton's plan was frustrated temporarily by resistance from the NSC, over which then-National Security Adviser Rice had some influence. But the decisive blow to the Agreed Framework came in July 2002, when, according to his memoir, Bolton obtained an intelligence assessment stating that North Korea "began seeking centrifuge-related materials in large quantities" in 2001, and that it had "obtained equipment suitable for use in uranium feed and withdrawal systems." Bolton recalls that the new intelligence finding was "the hammer I had been looking for to shatter the Agreed Framework." He argued in interagency meetings that North Korea had pledged to "take steps to implement the North-South Joint Declaration on the Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula," and therefore any North Korean move toward uranium enrichment violated its commitment.

Bolton was creating another false issue. Robert Carlin, a North Korea expert and adviser to the US negotiators, has pointed out that the reference to that document was an "afterthought" and that "no one really believed that the reference to the North-South agreements would constitute one of the core DPRK obligations" in the agreement.

Bush's negotiator with North Korea, Charles L. Pritchard, suggested bringing the uranium enrichment issue into the Agreed Framework, using the North Korean interest in normalization as negotiating leverage, according to Bolton. He also warned that if the United States withdrew from the agreement, North Korea would resume its plutonium program or start a new uranium program.

However, Bolton recalls telling Pritchard that wouldn't make "the slightest difference," because North Korea already had enough plutonium for "several weapons." In fact, it was not at all clear that Pyongyang had already converted plutonium into a single nuclear weapon.

However, Bolton showed no apparent concern about North Korea's long-range missile program, which the Clinton administration and North Korea had agreed would be negotiated in conjunction with moves toward normalization. "I wanted a decisive conclusion that the Agreed Framework was dead," Bolton writes.

In October 2002, Assistant Secretary of State James Kelly went to Pyongyang with explicit orders, which Rice attributes to those who were undermining diplomacy, to accuse Pyongyang of cheating on the agreement by having a uranium enrichment program. North Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Kang Sok Ju did not deny the government's interest in uranium enrichment, but said it was a response to the clear indications from the Bush administration that it had no intention to improve relations with his government. He also said North Korea was prepared to negotiate on all enrichment, including uranium, if the United States changed its hostile policy.

However, at an NSC meeting a week later, no one disagreed with the assertion that the Agreed Framework was dead, according to Bolton. In December 2002, the Bush administration strong-armed its Japanese and South Korean allies to end their supply of oil to the North Korea, officially terminating the Agreed Framework.

Cheney and his allies were clearing the political path to full funding for the national missile defense system they wanted to rush to deployment as quickly as possible. Rumsfeld had created a new Missile Defense Agency in the Pentagon in early 2002, which had unprecedented freedom from congressional or Department of Defense oversight.

They were also opening the floodgates for North Korean nuclear and missile development.

Cheney Kills Rice's North Korea Agreement

For the next three years, the Bush administration refused direct negotiations with North Korea. But Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice got Bush to agree in September 2005 to a joint statement of principles with North Korea in the context of Six-Party Talks.

In October 2007, Washington and Pyongyang negotiated an agreement under which Pyongyang would first seal and then disable its plutonium-based facilities for shipment of heavy fuel and provide a full accounting of its entire nuclear program, including uranium. For its part, the US pledged to remove North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism and lift other trade restrictions. In a later phase, the two sides would agree on a verification system and on steps leading to normalization of relations.

Then Cheney sabotaged the new agreement. In April 2007, Israel claimed Syria had built a nuclear reactor in the desert in eastern Syria with North Korean assistance. Bush's advisers all accepted the Israeli claim as true, but nearly a decade later, the IAEA's expert on North Korean reactors at the time revealed detailed technical evidence that had led him to conclude with certainty that the Syrian site could not possibly have been a North Korean-designed reactor.

Cheney seized on the alleged Syrian reactor to wrest control over North Korea policy from Rice. In a January 4, 2008 White House meeting, he recalls in his memoirs In My Time how he successfully prodded Bush and Rice to agree with his assumption that a "failure to admit they've been proliferating to the Syrians would be a deal killer." Two months later, Bush gave Cheney power to approve any joint US-North Korean text negotiated by the State Department.

Under pressure from Cheney, Rice adopted a new diplomatic strategy. In addition to their obligations in the first two phases of the October 2007 agreement, she writes in No Higher Honor, "[t]he North Koreans would also have to agree to a verification protocol to govern the on-site inspection of all aspects of their nuclear program."

That verification protocol -- not the actions pledged by Pyongyang in the October 2007 agreement -- would now be the basis for deciding whether the administration would take North Korea off the terrorist list and stop the application of the Trading with the Enemy Act.

Rice was changing the rules after the fact. After had North Korea delivered its declaration on its plutonium enrichment program in late June 2008, US negotiators sought North Korean agreement for inspectors to go into any site, whether declared or not, including sensitive military sites. Pyongyang conveyed its strong private objections to that, as well as to environmental sampling by inspectors. The 45-day period during which the United States was supposed to have taken its two small steps toward normalization came and went. North Korea immediately accused the United States of violating the October agreement and suspended the disabling of its nuclear facilities. The US negotiator, Chris Hill, got what he regarded as North Korean verbal agreement to an amended version of the verification protocol, but North Korea would not sign it. On the basis of that unwritten understanding, Bush agreed to take North Korea off the US list of terrorist sponsors, and the physical disabling of the North Korea's plutonium complex was completed. But Bush insisted that North Korea sign the verification protocol, and in December, after Barack Obama's election, Pyongyang rejected the Bush administration's unilateral rewriting of the agreement, issuing a statement that it would only agree to intrusive inspections when US "hostile policy and nuclear threat to the North are fundamentally terminated." US-North Korean diplomacy on the October 2007 nuclear deal came to a halt. Cheney and his allies had prevented the successful completion of two agreements that could have averted the present crisis with North Korea. When Bush took office in 2001, North Korea was believed to possess less than an atomic bomb's worth of plutonium. By the end of his second term, North Korea was already a nuclear power, with several nuclear weapons. Even more significant, however, the Bush administration never even attempted to negotiate limits on North Korea's long-range missile program. That failure was very costly to the interests of the American people -- but it was a gift to the national missile defense program that has kept on giving.

Gareth Porter is an independent investigative journalist and historian writing on US national security policy. His latest book, Manufactured Crisis: The Untold Story of the Iran Nuclear Scare , was published in February of 2014. Follow him on Twitter: @GarethPorter .

This article was originally published by Truthout -

Copyright, Truthout.

====

Join the Discussion
Facebook

Says it is Deleting Accounts at the Direction of the U.S. and Israeli Governments

By Glenn Greenwald

December 30, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - In September of last year, we noted that Facebook representatives were meeting with the Israeli Government to determine which Facebook accounts of Palestinians should be deleted on the ground that they constitute incitement. The meetings  called for and presided over by one of the most extremist and authoritarian Israeli officials, its pro-settlement Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked  came after Israel threatened Facebook that its failure to voluntarily comply with Israeli deletion orders would result in the enactment of laws requiring Facebook to do so, upon pain of being severely fined or even blocked in the country.

The predictable results of those meetings are now clear and well-documented. Ever since, Facebook has been on a censorship rampage against Palestinian activists who protest the decades-long, illegal Israeli occupation, all directed and determined by Israeli officials. Indeed, Israeli officials have been publicly boasting about how obedient Facebook is when it comes to Israeli censorship orders:

Shortly after news broke earlier this month of the agreement between the Israeli government and Facebook, Israeli Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked said Tel Aviv had submitted 158 requests to the social media giant over the previous four months asking it to remove content it deemed incitement. She said Facebook had granted 95 percent of the requests.

Shes right. The submission to Israeli dictates is hard to overstate: as the New York Times put it in December of last year: Israeli security agencies monitor Facebook and send the company posts they consider incitement. Facebook has responded by removing most of them.

What makes this censorship particularly consequential is that 96 per cent of Palestinians said their primary use of Facebook was for following news. That means that Israeli officials have virtually unfettered control over a key communications forum of Palestinians.

In the weeks following those Facebook/Israel meetings, reported The Independent , the activist collective Palestinian Information Centre reported that at least 10 of their administrators accounts for their Arabic and English Facebook pages  followed by more than two million people  have been suspended, seven of them permanently, which they say is a result of new measures put in place in the wake of Facebooks meeting with Israel. Last March, Facebook briefly shut down the Facebook page of the political party, Fatah, followed by millions, because of an old photo posted of former leader Yasser Arafat holding a rifle.

A 2016 report from the Palestinian Center For Development and Media Freedoms detailed how extensive was the Facebook censorship:

Pages and personal accounts that were filtered and blocked: Palestinian Dialogue Network (PALDF.net) Gaza now, Jerusalem News Network, Shihab agency, Radio Bethlehem 2000, Orient Radio Network, page Mesh Heck, Ramallah news, journalist/ Huzaifa Jamous from Abu Dis activist Qassam Bedier, activist Mohammed Ghannam, journalist /Kamel Jbeil, administrative accounts for Al Quds Page, administrative accounts Shihab agency, activist Abdel-Qader al-Titi, youth activist Hussein shajaeih, Ramah Mubarak (account is activated), Ahmed Abdel Aal (account is activated), Mohammad Zaanin ( still deleted), Amer Abu Arafa (still deleted), Abdulrahman al-Kahlout (still deleted).

Needless to say, Israelis have virtually free reign to post whatever they want about Palestinians. Calls by Israelis for the killing of Palestinians are commonplace on Facebook, and largely remain undisturbed.

As Al Jazeera reported last year , Inflammatory speech posted in the Hebrew language . . . has attracted much less attention from the Israeli authorities and Facebook. One study found that 122,000 users directly called for violence with words like murder, kill, or burn. Arabs were the No 1 recipients of hateful comments. Yet there appears to be little effort by Facebook to censor any of that.

Though some of the most inflammatory and explicit calls for murder are sometimes removed, Facebook continues to allow the most extremist calls for incitement against Palestinians to flourish. Indeed, Israels leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, has often used social media to post what is clearly incitement to violence against Palestinians generally. In contrast to their active suppression against Palestinians, the very idea that Facebook would ever use its censorship power against Netanyahu or other prominent Israelis calling for violence and inciting attacks is unthinkable. Indeed, as Al Jazeera concisely put it: Facebook hasnt met Palestinian leaders to discuss their concern.

Facebook now seems to be explicitly admitting that it also intends to follow the censorship orders of the U.S. Government. Earlier this week, the company deleted the Facebook and Instagram accounts of Ramzan Kadyrov, the repressive, brutal and authoritarian leader of the Chechen Republic, who had a combined 4 million followers on those accounts. To put it mildly, Kadyrov  who is given free rein to rule the province in exchange for ultimate loyalty to Moscow  is the opposite of a sympathetic figure: he has been credibly accused of a wide range of horrific human rights violations, from the imprisonment and torture of LGBTs to the kidnapping and killing of dissidents.

But none of that dilutes how disturbing and dangerous is Facebooks rationale for its deletion of his accounts. A Facebook spokesperson told the New York Times that they deleted these accounts not because Kadyrov is a mass murderer and tyrant, but because Mr. Kadyrovs accounts were deactivated because he had just been added to a United States sanctions list and that the company was legally obligated to act.

As the Times notes, this rationale appears dubious or at least inconsistently applied: others who are on the same sanctions list, such as Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, remain active on both Facebook and Instagram. But just consider the incredibly menacing implications of Facebooks claims.

What this means is obvious: that the U.S. Government  meaning, at the moment, the Trump administration  has the unilateral and unchecked power to force the removal of anyone it wants from Facebook and Instagram by simply including them on a sanctions list. Does anyone think this is a good outcome? Does anyone trust the Trump administration, or any other government, to compel social media platforms to delete and block anyone it wants to be silenced? As the ACLUs Jennifer Granick told the Times:

Its not a law that appears to be written or designed to deal with the special situations where its lawful or appropriate to repress speech . . . This sanctions law is being used to suppress speech with little consideration of the free expression values and the special risks of blocking speech, as opposed to blocking commerce or funds as the sanctions was designed to do. Thats really problematic.

Does Facebooks policy of blocking people from its platform who are sanctioned apply to all governments? Obviously not. It goes without saying that if, say, Iran decided to impose sanctions on Chuck Schumer for his support of Trumps policy of recognizing Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, Facebook would never delete the accounts of the Democratic Party Senate Minority Leader  just as Facebook would never delete the accounts of Israeli officials who incite violence against Palestinians or who are sanctioned by Palestinian officials. Just last month, Russia announced retaliatory sanctions against various Canadian officials and executives, but needless to say Facebook took no action to censor them or block their accounts.

Never Miss Another Story Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter

Similarly, would Facebook ever dare censor American politicians or journalists who use social media to call for violence against Americas enemies? To ask the question is to answer it.

As is always true of censorship, there is one, and only one, principle driving all of this: power. Facebook will submit to and obey the censorship demands of governments and officials who actually wield power over it, while ignoring those who do not. Thats why declared enemies of the U.S. and Israeli governments are vulnerable to censorship measures by Facebook, whereas U.S and Israeli officials (and their most tyrannical and repressive allies) are not:

All of this illustrates that the same severe dangers from state censorship are raised at least as much by the pleas for Silicon Valley giants to more actively censor bad speech. Calls for state censorship may often be well-intentioned  a desire to protect marginalized groups from damaging hate speech  yet, predictably, they are far more often used against marginalized groups: to censor them rather than protect them. One need merely look at how hate speech laws are used in Europe , or on U.S. college campuses , to see that the censorship victims are often critics of European wars , or activists against Israeli occupation , or advocates for minority rights .

One can create a fantasy world in ones head, if one wishes, in which Silicon Valley executives use their power to protect marginalized peoples around the world by censoring those who wish to harm that. But in the real world, that is nothing but a sad pipe dream. Just as governments will do, these companies will use their censorship power to serve, not to undermine, the worlds most powerful factions.

Just as one might cheer the censorship of someone one dislikes without contemplating the long-term consequences of the principle being validated, one can cheer the disappearance from Facebook and Instagram of a Chechen monster. But Facebook is explicitly telling you that the reason for its actions is that it was obeying the decrees of the U.S. Government about who must be shunned.
A former permanent secretary in the administration of former Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Shema, Yusuf Sule Saulawa, was on Friday convicted by Justice Sanusi Tukur of the Katsina State High Court of one count of obtaining by false pretense.

The convict fraudulently obtained the sum of N2,500,000 ( Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira Only) from the complainant while he was a permanent secretary attached to the office of the Deputy

Governor of Katsina State on the pretext that the Office would award the complainant a contract for the supply of fertilizer to all the Local Government areas in Katsina State.

Mr. Saulawa claimed that the money was for the purchase of bidding documents. It was further alleged that after obtaining the money, the convict cut all contacts with the complainant.

In the course of prosecution, EFCC counsel, Saad Hanafi Saad, called three witnesses and tendered many exhibits.

After both parties closed their case on the October 3, 2017, final written addresses were adopted and the case was subsequently adjourned to December 29 for judgement.

In his judgement, Justice Tukur said he was convinced that the prosecution had proved the case beyond reasonable doubt and pronounced the accused guilty as charged.

Mr. Saulawa was accordingly convicted and sentenced to seven years imprisonment without option of fine.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
A worried Nigerian lady has cried out to relationship expert Joro after her husband reportedly bought their 17-year-old maid an iPhone 6.

Heres what she wrote to Joro ;

Hi Joro, thank you for your time and generosity here. The least i can say is God Bless you since we dont pay you. To my issue, apart from the fuel crisis. i am in sadness and loneliness. My Husband bought an iPhone 6 for the Maid.

I had a serious problem with it and i told my mother who has been living my husband and myself for 3 years.

My mother said its not a problem that its for better communication. I finally confronted my husband on Tuesday. He said whats the big deal that my mother approved of it.

This girl is 17 but she has big boobs and ass. Im sure shes sleeping with the neighbours. I buy her 3000 naira attachment but i saw all the hairs i bought her this year in the Dustbin.

My husband had asked me how much and where i get my hair from ? Joro I am upset, I threatened to ask her to leave but my mother said no that she is very useful and my husband forbids it. I would lose my mind if my husband is having an affair with this girl.

What do i do when my mother is against me because of the money my husband gives her. And my own is upset and isnt talking to me.

I want her out.

What do i do?
A policeman was stabbed to death Saturday in a rare attack in Omans capital Muscat, authorities said, with his assailant described as mentally ill.

Police said the attacker stabbed the policeman at a Muscat shopping centre, adding that the assailant was in possession of a document indicating that he was mentally ill.

One officer told Omani public television that police had gone to the shopping centre after reports of suspicious behaviour and confronted the man at a fast-food restaurant.

The suspect pulled a knife and stabbed one officer, delivering a fatal wound. Two other officers were wounded and the assailant was arrested.

The crime rate is very low in Oman, with incidents of serious crime extremely rare in the Arabian Peninsula nation.

Source : ( AFP )
Egypt's interior ministry announced on Saturday that security forces had raided a hideout belonging to the Hasm terrorist group at a farm on Korayemat road, near Atfih in the Giza province, killing three leading members of the group in a shootout.



"The farm was used as a base for plotting and committing terrorist actions and for manufacturing explosives. A cache of weapons and ammunition was seized," the ministry said in a statement.

"Under the framework of proactive security efforts against terrorist groups, the ministry had uncovered a plan by Hasm to commit hostile actions that target touristic and other vital facilities, as well as police and armed forces, during Christmas celebrations in an attempt to cause instability and portray a negative image of the security situation in Egypt."

Ten other members of that group who are involved in the terrorist plot were caught in the governorates of Fayoum and Qalyubia at locations also containing ammunitions and other tools, which were uncovered by police.

The ministry added that information confirmed the involvement of those elements in firing upon security forces on a road near Fayoum, 60 km (40 miles) south of Cairo, in July 2017. That attack resulted in the killing of one security member and the injury to another, the statement reads.

"Information also revealed that those arrested received training on using arms and manufacturing explosives at a location in Egypt's Western Desert in the Fayoum governorate, where plotters had listed a number of touristic and security spots in preparation for a planned Christmas attack, following the orders of a fugitive Muslim Brotherhood figure in Turkey," the ministry added.



The ministry announcement comes one day after a gunman killed several people in an attack on a church in Helwan, south of Cairo, before being shot and captured by police.

Security beefed up



The interior ministry is beefing up security as Egyptian Coptic Christians, who make up around 10 percent of the country's 93 million population, prepare for Christmas on 7 January.



Friday's attacker in Helwan attempted to drive through security forces outside the Mar Mina church armed with a machine gun, ammunition and a bomb that he intended to detonate in the church.

The ministry said he killed two people when he opened fire on a shop, before heading to the church where he shot dead seven people, including a policeman.



Dozens of Christians have been killed in terrorist attacks on churches and congregations in recent years.

Police have deployed 230,000 personnel to protect churches, parks and other vital public institutions during the Christmas season.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Do you want to hire employees for your self-storage business who can contribute to your success and profitability while adding value to your culture? Those of us whove been hiringand firingfacility managers for a while can admit weve sometimes hired in a rush, hoping the candidate will be our savior behind the counter. But sometimes even a great employee can be wrong for this unique job.

Following are 10 secrets to successful hiring to help you choose the right person for your self-storage operation.

1. Write a Great Job Description

The best job descriptions dont just outline duties, responsibilities and necessary skills. They also articulate how you want the work to be done, and the moral climate in which the company operates. If youre a fiercely competitive company that likes to pit stores against each other, say so. If customer care is critical, ensure your candidate is empathetic.

Most self-storage businesses dont have job descriptions in place for their various positions, but you need to set the expectations at the start. Recruitment planning identifies the specifications for the position so you know the skills and experience youre seeking. It also addresses how youll publicize the position, wholl review applications, and wholl participate in first and second interviews.

You also must decide wholl participate in the selection of the employee and wholl provide input. This is a key step in a successful hiring process. You need to be clear about how interviewers input will be used by the hiring manager.

2. Know Your Talent

An important step in the posting process is to notify current employees when theres a job opening. Are you sure there isn't internal talent who might seize the opportunity? Inside hires tend to do well, so if you promote from within, youre likely to reduce your risk.

You want to encourage the employees who already work for you, so know what talent you have before you go looking for fresh faces. Whether youre a small or large self-storage operator, offering career growth is key to showing employees you value them. Dont overlook a golden candidate whos already on your team because you want to avoid opening another position.

If you dont believe you have any qualified candidates already on your payroll, you can post the position externally at the same time. However, your in-house applicants may surprise you with their talent and skills. If you do post the position outside, let your inside candidates know so you can avoid any misunderstandings.

3. Align Your Values

Make sure your hiring process is consistent with your companys core culture and values. For example, theres no point in saying teamwork is important and then letting one person make the hiring decision. If you say you value instinct, then doing a wide array of personal and professional assessments probably isnt the way to go. If you value creativity and risk-taking, dont ask ridiculously hard questions that humiliate those who cant answer them.

What are the characteristics of a successful employee? Consider the following:

Stable work record

Well-groomed appearance

Willingness to accept the conditions of work (hours, pay, duties, etc.)

Ability to communicate (answer questions intelligently, converse easily)

Pleasant personality (sincere, positive attitude)

Intelligence

Common sense

Optimism

Tact

The applicants tone of voice during the interview can be an indicator of his outlook on life. Be wary of whiners and complainers. Watch for confidence (not to be confused with arrogance) in their walk and talk. Also, consider that during the interview, the applicant is a guest. How did he handle this role?

4. Never Sell Your Organization

Interviewing should be about unfettered exploration, not persuasion. You shouldnt sell your company, and the candidates shouldnt sell themselves, either. What youre after is an intelligent, adult discussion about what constitutes success within your organization and within the candidate's professional and personal life. The stories must be honest and appropriate.

5. Listen for Dissenting Voices

If everyone on your team loves your preferred candidate, somethings wrong. No hire is perfect, and there should be some dissenting voices around the table. What are the persons weaknesses? These might not be critical, but they must exist. Its better to identify themand figure out how to accommodate themearly.

6. Perform Background Checks

Check references and backgrounds for your candidates during and following your second interviews. Confirm all claims by the candidate including education credentials, employment history and criminal background. Where possible, the best source of information is the applicants past supervisors.

7. Watch Salary Negotiations

How people manage money will tell you a great deal about how theyll handle customers. If you dont like what you see, pull the plug. If they state a dollar amount on the resume and later change it during the interview, they may constantly be looking for a bump before its earned. Be careful of the 50-cent and hour jumpers. Check work history thoroughly.

8. Assign a Mentor

Most organizations are bad at explaining themselves. Each new hire should have someone he can turn to with questionsand this mentor shouldnt be the boss. In fact, everyone in your company should be good at mentoring. After all, if youre great with co-workers, youre more likely to be great with customers. Mentoring new hires is also excellent leadership training for other staff.

9. Start With a Trial Period

You never know a person until you see him in action. This applies to the employee and the person hiring him. For both your sakes, agree to a joint review after one to three months. Provide honest feedback and ask for it in return. No new hire is ever as alert and insightful as he is at the beginning. Most companies lose all sense of how they come across to outsiders, so this feedback is precious.

10. Be Welcoming

How you welcome your new employee lays the groundwork for retention. Stay in touch with your new hire from the time he accepts the job offer until his start date, and then continue to build the relationship. Let co-workers know when the new employee will begin, issue a welcome letter, plan the onboarding process, and make sure the person feels warmly welcomed during the first days of work. If you do this effectively, youll have an excited employee whos ready to set the world on fire.

Employee turnover costs time and money. Your goal should be to hire the right person the first time. Rather than rushing to fill a position, write a thorough job description and determine your staffing needs before the search begins. Make hiring your next self-storage team member a group effort and everyone will benefit.

Susan Haviland is the owner of Haviland Storage Services and a partner of industry consulting and training firm Self Storage 101. She has more than 27 years of industry experience, from serving as a site manager to acting as vice president of operations at Extra Space Storage Inc. and Price Self Storage. She's a frequent speaker at industry conferences and tradeshows. For more information, call 866.360.2621; visit www.selfstorage101.com.
The Government needs to put clear laws in place for driverless cars, according to the AA.

The organisation said that there are questions about how they could work in Ireland - including issues like liability in case of a road accident.
Update 8.33pm: The ESB are mobilising teams to prepare for possible electricity outages resulting from Storm Dylan.

Spokesperson Derek Hynes said they expect "significant, but not multi-day, level outages".

"Depending on how bad the wind actually is, we would expect to see some customers without electricity in Mayo, Sligo and Donegal. But at this point we're not expecting that number to be extremely high," said Hynes.

These are some of the charts for #StormDylan Left hand side is 3am right hand side is 6am if you lose supply see https://t.co/VMtxFrW7FY Maybe charge all devices prior to midnight , do not charge items overnight #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/oxYSPjCCib  ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) December 30, 2017

Update 5.04pm: Ireland is braced for Storm Dylan to bring a wet and windy end to 2017.

There's an orange wind warning in place from Met Eireann for Connacht and eight other counties, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Westmeath, Meath and Clare.

The forecast track of Storm Dylan.

Get the latest warning updates here:https://t.co/X6NncUghZ9#StormDylan pic.twitter.com/FVxhsHtwkV  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) December 30, 2017

They are warnings of gusts reaching 125kph from late on Saturday into Sunday morning.

There's also a yellow wind warning in place for the rest of the country.

A UK Met Office amber wind warning covering the Northern and parts of southern and western Scotland is in place for Sunday morning after forecasters warned there was the potential for "injuries and danger to life from flying debris".

Met Eireann warned that Dylan would pass close to the country's north-west coast, bringing wintry showers as temperatures dropped as low as 2C.

Southeast winds will freshen this evening, becoming SW & incr to reach storm force off the NW coast overnight. Clear weather in N for a time this evening but rain on S coast will steadily spread northwards to all areas later. Becoming heavy with a risk of thunder in N tonight  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) December 30, 2017

A spokesman said: "Rain will become widespread tonight.

"In the north it will be heaviest, with a risk of thunder, and will fall as snow and sleet over the hills and mountains.

"Coastal flooding is expected along the west coast as high seas coincide with low tide and onshore winds."

The winds are expected to ease into the afternoon on December 31 as the storm moves north west, so revellers heading out to see in 2018 may escape the worst of the weather.

Original story (7.32am): Strong winds and coastal flooding are due to hit parts of the country today as Storm Dylan reaches Ireland.

A Status Orange weather warning is in place for Connacht and seven other counties from 9pm tonight, with gusts of up to 120 kilometres an hour expected.

A Status Yellow wind warning will be in effect for Munster, as well as Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, Wicklow and Offaly.

#StormDylan has officially been named by @MetEireann. Dylan will track across parts of Ireland Saturday night and into the early hours of Sunday morning pic.twitter.com/OJlnBxPnte  Met Office (@metoffice) December 29, 2017

Met Eireann forecaster Vincent O'Shea outlines the conditions we can expect.

"Like any storm, it's going to bring wind and rain, a combination of those," he said.

"There'll also be high seas going into western coastal areas.

"Overnight on Saturday night, it will be very, very windy, stormy, particularly across the north western half of the country. So very, very strong winds, gusts of up to about 130km p/h are possible, so they could do at least some slight structural damage."

Very lucky escape for one couple when windy conditions ahead of #StormDylan brought a tree down on their car in Belfast earlier! pic.twitter.com/bNOOiN9Gj6  UTV (@utv) December 29, 2017

Assistant Garda Commissioner Michael Finn is advising motorists to be extra vigilant in stormy conditions.

"We can't just assume because the speed limit is 120 on the motorway that you can continue to drive 120 on the motorway if there's surface water, or if there's high wind or other factors going to impact on safety, so you've got to slow down and drive your vehicle proportionate to the road conditions you encounter at the time."
Ireland has a new multi-millionaire after a lucky punter landed the EuroMillions jackpot of more than 38 million, writes Dan Buckley

The winning ticket was sold in Ireland. While it was not yet clear where the ticket was sold in the country, players have been urged to check their tickets.

The last jackpot of 2017 amounted to 38,906,715 and the winner managed to land the big win by matching all five and the two lucky stars. The winning numbers drawn were 4,8,22,23,48 followed by Lucky Stars 1 and 12.

A National Lottery spokesperson has appealed to players to check their numbers to see if they are the holder of the golden ticket worth a cool 38,906,715.

The spokesperson said: This is fantastic news! What a great way for a player to end the year and start the new. This has been an amazing year for our EuroMillions players with three Jackpot wins and 31 EuroMillion Plus wins of 500,000 each.

We are urging all our players to check their tickets to see if they are the lucky winner or winners. At this stage we dont know if its a single winner or a syndicate.

She added: We advise anybody who has this ticket to keep it safe until they can get into the National Lottery office next week to make their claim. This is a valuable piece of paper. We are open after the new Years break on Tuesday.

The spokesperson said there is also time left for a lucky National Lottery player to win a guaranteed one million euro in the Christmas Millionaire Raffle draw which takes place on New Year's Eve. As well as the top prize of a a million there are 5,055 other prizes ranging from 50,000 to 500. Tickets are on sale in store or at lottery.ie

The lucky punter is the 12th Irish winner of the EuroMillions jackpot and brings to well over 1bn the amount of money won by Irish EuroMillions players since the draw began in 2004.

This is the third EuroMillions Jackpot win in Ireland this year.

In January a Dublin work syndicate claimed a 88.5 million EuroMillions jackpot . The winning ticket was sold at the Applegreen Service Station on the M1 Northbound in Lusk, Co Dublin.

And in July a lucky West of Ireland syndicate scooped almost 29 million on a ticket sold in the Garryduff XL Store, Castlebar, co. Mayo.

The largest Irish win so far remains that of Dolores McNamara from Limerick. Her massive 115 million win back in 2005 made her the first of many record-breaking EuroMillions winners.

The 12 Irish Euromillions winners to date:

1. July 2005: Dolores McNamara from Limerick was Irelands first and biggest EuroMillions winner scooping over 115 million.

2. July 2008: A lucky ticket bought in Carrick-on-Suir in Co Tipperary won a player 15 million.

3. June 2009: A family syndicate shared the jackpot with a British winner, taking home over 29.4 million.

4. June 2013: A winning ticket sold in Beaumont, Dublin, shared a jackpot worth over 93 million.

5. September 2013: A young man from the southeast shared a jackpot of over 25 million with a player in Spain, taking home over 12.8 million.

6. April 2014: A jackpot prize worth 15 million was claimed on a ticket sold in Castlebar, Co Mayo.

7. September 2014: An 86.7 million jackpot was won by a syndicate from Dublin. The ticket was sold in Centra, Ballybrack, Co Dublin.

8. January 2016: A syndicate of friends won over 66 million , splitting the jackpot of 132,376,632. The ticket was sold in Easons store, Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Carlow.

9. July 2016: 22 colleagues from Dublin Bus won 23.8 million . The ticket was sold in OHanlons in Portarlington.

10. January 2017: A Dublin work syndicate claimed the 88.5 million EuroMillions jackpot . The winning ticket was sold at the Applegreen Service Station on the M1 Northbound in Lusk, Co Dublin.

11. July 2017: A lucky West of Ireland syndicate scooped almost 29 million

12. December 2017: A 38.9m EuroMillions Jackpot ticket sold here.
Their good fortune came through the EuroMillions, Lotto, and Daily Millions draws.

The prize haul, so far in 2017, in the major draws, has topped 440m.

The National Lottery also confirmed, yesterday, that a further 150m was paid out on scratch cards.

The biggest prize paid out this year was 88,587,275 on a EuroMillions jackpot, last January, and reportedly won by a Dublin work syndicate, which requested anonymity.

The National Lottery said that, due to the privacy request, the win officially created just one millionaire.

The lotterys chief executive, Dermot Griffin, said it has been an incredibly busy year.

We are thrilled to have written cheques for 1m or more to 22 players so far, he said.

It has been great meeting so many of these big winners, and witnessing them enjoy the start of their life-changing wins.

Significantly, Mr Griffin said, lottery players contributed to 225m  or 4.3m a week  being provided for good causes .

This money is supporting communities and projects all over Ireland, in the areas of health, sport, welfare, arts, and culture, he said.

Meanwhile, there is still an opportunity for lottery players to be added to the 2017 millionaires list, with the Millionaire raffle scheduled for 10pm tomorrow night, New Years Eve.

Along with a guaranteed top prize of 1m, there are 5,000 other prizes, ranging from 500 to 250,000.

The highest Lotto win of the year, meanwhile, was 12.8m, won by a family from south Dublin, in March.

Overall, Dublin has proved to be Irelands luckiest lottery county this year, with over 128m paid out in 47 high-tier wins in EuroMillions, Lotto, Daily Millions, and Telly Bingo.

The second-luckiest county was Mayo, where players scooped 31,429,907m in seven big wins, while Limerick was the third-luckiest county, with 10m secured in five wins.

The top ten winning counties also included Tipperary (seven top-tier wins) 8.74m, Donegal (6) 7.26m, Cavan (3) 6.97m, Westmeath (5) 6.35m, Cork (19) 4.1m, Leitrim (3) 3.4m, and Kildare (9) 2.4m.

The National Lottery said 30c in every 1 spent benefits good causes.

Since the Lottery was established, in 1987, community initiatives in every parish in Ireland have shared in the 5bn handed out to good causes, schemes, and projects.

These include the restoration of the ship cabin in which polar explorer Ernest Shackleton died. It will go on display in Athy Heritage Centre-Museum in early 2018.

Another beneficiary was the Blackwater Sub Aqua Club, based in Fermoy, Co Cork, which has been involved in at least 200 search-and-recovery operations all over the country.
In a case supporting the nostalgic notion that they dont make them like they used to, an old Chubb safe purchased by Jim Dennison Snr back in 1961 proved too much for todays criminals.

In a scene straight out of the Worlds Dumbest Criminals television series, the bungling burglars spent all of six hours battering away with kango hammers, nail bars, and lump hammers, it has emerged, but to no avail.

The old safe, located at the Main St, Abbeyfeale practice of Dennison Solicitors, stood strong during the all-night onslaught, before the robbers finally gave up and fled the premises empty-handed before dawn.

They went straight for the safe. Im not sure what they would have thought would be in it as we dont keep cash on the premises. But it was a complete waste of time, said James Dennison, who runs the practice which was founded by his father.

They got nothing. They stayed hammering away for around six hours, we estimate.

My father was old school, and held that an essential part of any legal firm is a safe to hold wills and title deeds.

He went all-out when he bought this one.

He went to London in 1961 to deal directly with Chubb, the makers of the best safes in the world.

He specified a safe to bankers standard.

My fathers uncle, the late Jack Healy from Brosna, installed the safe to the strict specifications set out by Chubb, which included building a concrete and steel reinforced room around the safe.

The safe door dominates the reception in the legal firm and it has held several thousands of client files over the years, he added.

The burglars must have expected a safe like that has to hold cash.

It doesnt but, even if it did, it seems to have stood the test of time. It was an awful lot of effort to go away empty-handed.
When Fine Gael senator Jerry Buttimer, 50, first met Conchobhar O Laoghaire, 48, a decade ago, a referendum on marriage equality seemed as likely as the sky falling in.

Less than three years on from that ground-breaking vote, both men answered Togfaidh me when asked if they took each other as respective husbands.

Its a wonderful day. We never thought it was going to become a reality but its finally happening, Jerry said before the ceremony. Its a celebration of our life together and a celebration of all those who played a role in ensuring that all our citizens are equal. We are sharing the day with family and friends whove been with us all of the way.

Former taoiseach Enda Kenny, who was among around 250 wedding guests, said: Its an example of the joy and excitement that comes from the people having made the decision in respect of marriage equality.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, attending with his partner Matthew Barrett, avoided the limelight. It was, after all, Jerry and Conchobhars big day.

A great day for society and the happy couple

There was no sign of nerves, not really, no, said Simon Coveney when asked if the wedding couple had shown any sign of the jitters.

But why would either man be nervous? Havent Jerry Buttimer and Conchobhar O Laoghaire had years to prepare for an occasion no-one thought possible a decade ago, when they first met through mutual friends.

Relaxed and happy best summed up Jerrys pre-marriage demeanour. Bounding up the gravel drive of Triskel Christchurch on Corks South Main St well ahead of the 1.30pm KO time, he willingly posed for photos, every inch the dapper groom.

A black-tie wedding, Jerrys navy dickie-bow set him apart from the other guests. Doling out hugs and glad words to guests on the steps of a building that, according to legend, has seen more than its share of momentous weddings, Jerry, a Fine Gael senator, kept an eye all the while for the love of his life.

When Conchobhar showed up at the entrance gate with just minutes to go to the official start time, Jerry gave him the broadest of smiles.

The two hugged tightly on the steps, before walking down the aisle together, albeit a good 20 minutes behind time, thanks largely to stragglers who had struggled to find parking  among them former taoiseach Enda Kenny and wife Fionnuala.

Proud of you, said Enda said on the way in, gripping Jerrys hand in a warm handshake.

Mile buiochas as ucht an tacaiocht, (thanks for all the support), answered Jerry. He also had a special word of thanks for Fine Gael TD and former tanaiste and justice and equality minister Frances Fitzgerald, under whose watch the 2015 marriage equality referendum took place.

Current Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said: I dont think Ive ever seen Jerry as happy. Id say it will be a fun party later on as well.

John Buttimer, Jerrys brother and one of two best men (the other being Fergal OLeary) said it was a great day for Jerry on a personal level and for society in general.

The wedding, or ceiliuradh bainise, celebrated in English and Irish, had a significant musical component, and, in addition to the exchange of rings, a hand-fasting ceremony which included rainbow ribbons to symbolise the rainbow flag, or LGBT pride flag, a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender pride.

After the ceremony, guests, among them journalist Vincent Browne, Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy, junior education minister Mary Mitchell OConnor, former Fine Gael health minister James Reilly, and Fine Gael senators Colm Burke and John Crown, headed for the Rochestown Park Hotel. Endas exit took him past the site of the Non-Event Centre where he turned the sod almost two years ago. Does he think it will ever happen?

Now listen, Im here today at the marriage of Jerry and Conchobhar, he said, signalling that while he may no longer be taoiseach, he still has the knack for side-stepping awkward questions.
In an interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr Naughten also said the process of connecting some 540,000 homes and premises in rural spots under the national broadband plan will begin next year. Reiterating previous comments about the roll-out of fast internet access here, he said Ireland could end up being a global leader in providing high-speed broadband in isolated rural communities.

The national broadband plan, as well as the use of private firms to bring access to high-speed internet in homes nationwide, has been beset by delays and tendering problems. The plan was first mooted in 2012 and the parallel processes of the state-subsidised schemes for 540,000 properties and private connections for hundreds of thousands of others have been delayed.

But Mr Naughten has now pledged most of the country will be online by the end of 2018: I can say by the end of next year, 78% of premises in the country will have access to high-speed broadband.

The likelihood is it is going to be higher than that but I am not going to commit myself until I see the colour of their money. It will probably be higher with wireless rollout.

A number of areas remaining will first get access to wireless networks, ahead of broadband being provided. However, the crucial intervention is in areas which commercial operators have not taken full ownership of and the State must intervene, under the plan, to provide broadband.

We will be going to final tender early in the new year on that. That will deliver high-speed broadband to 540,000 homes and premises across rural Ireland. I expect we will see that moving ahead next year now.

Elsewhere, a number of private operators are rolling out schemes. Eir will connect high-speed broadband and high-speed connections to over 300,000 homes and this will be completed by the end of next year, he added.

In total, private operators are spending about 1.92m a day in rolling out infrastructure, explained the minister. He added: The expectation is by 2020 to have coverage in 91% of premises and then to complete out the outstanding premises after that.

If all goes to plan, despite the long delays, connections could see Ireland being held up as a model for other countries.

The Independent minister said: It is a complex area and the procurement process that has been used for this is complicated as well, and the reason for that is it is a very different approach that hasnt been taken anywhere else in the world up to now. Vint Cerf, one of the founders of the internet, speaking last June in Dublin, said that Ireland, if they crack this particular issue which no one else has done before, will be the global leader in providing high-speed broadband to isolated rural communities.
Communications Minister Denis Naughten says the current TV licence regime is unsustainable and there is huge merit in a charge that would be non-device dependent across all homes.

In an interview with the Irish Examiner, the Independent TD said that he would discuss the idea of Revenue collecting the new charge with Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe in the new year.

I think there is huge merit in going down the road of some type of a household charge, said Mr Naughten. How that is going to be structured and collected is what we need to look at.

The Oireachtas Communications Committee last month recommended the introduction of a household charge, regardless of whether there is a TV in a house. Revenue could collect this, it said. The broadcasting levy would help reduce the estimated 40m in annual losses for RTE, accumulated through licence fee evasion.

Money collected would also go towards independent radio and print media. Furthermore, the new charge would capture all homes consuming media regardless of the technology used.

Mr Naughten said he agreed with most of the committees proposals. In the long term, the current TV licence regime cant remain, it is unsustainable, he said.

The Roscommon-Galway TD said that, when he became minister after the 2016 general election, he felt it would be difficult for the new minority government to progress legislation for TV licence changes, particularly after the introduction of water charges and property taxes. However, his view has changed.

I would be of the view that it should be possible to reduce the overall charge if you increase the number of households that are going to be paying it, he said.

A restructured charge that would also capture more homes and result in a lower levy than the current 160 a year. That would be my intention, he said.

The objective is to bring in a set amount of money and if you have 100% compliance that means that the overall cost per household can come down.

And while nine firms have expressed an interest to collect the licence fee under the current regime, including An Post, this may be an interim measure if Revenue get that job.

Id be quite open to that and Revenue are open to that as well and that is something that we will be exploring with Minister Paschal Donohoe in the new year, said Mr Naughten, adding that the current TV licence regime could be tweaked, particularly to boost collection.

Interim legislative measures for this will be brought to Government early next year. The fee collection process may be overhauled ahead of the long-term radical changes.

The minister added: I have been looking at the existing licence structure and how we can tweak and amend that because it is going to take a bit of heavy lifting because we have to bring forward a completely new structure in relation to how we collect it and then how you distribute it.

The newer and more long-term model is also likely to see the higher revenue collected going towards local independent radio as well as print media, the minister indicated.

Well introduce the bursary for young journalists in broadcasting media, he said. I personally would like to see that expanded out beyond just the broadcasting media and then we are looking at the longer-term issues.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Mr Naughten also made fresh pledges on the national broadband plan.
Confidential cabinet papers released under the 30-year rule reveal the Fianna Fail administration sought to alter legislation with amendments specifically designed to benefit the Goodman International group.

Records show the Government voted to change the Finance Act 1986 to exclude the food processing industry from having to pay tax on grants.

It also looked for a revision of disadvantaged areas to include Louth  Mr Goodmans native county  the intended location for a major new headquarters for Goodman International.

The changes were proposed after the beef baron had rejected a major IDA initiative worth 42m in grants, equity and EEC funding to develop Irish beef exports.

State papers reveal the minister for agriculture, Michael OKennedy, eventually sought government approval in June 1987 for the IDA to provide a package worth 60m to Goodman International after he had originally sought 90m.

The businessman claimed the offer of a further 48m to be provided in currency swap loans would cause problems for his group structure.

Documents show the IDA believed Mr Goodman used this as an excuse to increase the grant and equity element of the total package.

A game of poker is being played, the IDA warned officials in the Department of the Taoiseach.

The IDA contacted the officials because they believed Mr Goodman would ask Mr Haughey as well as the minister for industry and commerce, Albert Reynolds, to intervene in the dispute.

The IDA insisted they would find it difficult to make a better offer as it was already very good and innovative.

The beef processing group, founded by Mr Goodman in 1961, had become one of Europes largest beef exporters with annual turnover in excess of 500m.

It operated 13 beef, lamb and pig processing plants in Ireland and Britain. The company employed 960 staff in the Republic.

The plan will result in a new generation of meat factories with a technical capacity to produce long shelf-life, consumer cuts for exports, Mr OKennedy said.

The Department of Agriculture estimated the initiative would generate 664 new full-time positions as well as 500 seasonal jobs.

It calculated that the State would provide funding of up to 90,000 for each new job created, compared to the average cost at the time of 13,000 for other projects in the food sector.

The total cost of the five-year investment plan was an estimated 261m.

Cabinet records reveal that the minister for finance, Ray MacSharry had serious reservations about the deal.

Ray MacSharry

Mr MacSharry claimed the project would result in increased slaughtering of animals at a time when there was already over-capacity in the sector.

The success of the project is likely to result in the failure of other firms, he predicted.

Mr MacSharry added: The project will increase substantially the dominant position held by Goodman. That would be detrimental to other processors and farmers.

He also said the cost for each new job was unprecedentedly and unacceptably high.

The minister for finance said he could not support the project in its existing form.

Reacting to Mr MacSharrys observations, Mr Reynolds said conditions imposed by the IDA would adequately protect against over-capacity in the sector.

The report also noted that Mr Goodman appeared to have considerable influence in Brussels.

Some Commission initiatives in recent years have been very obviously in line with views Mr Goodman was known to hold, it added.

However, it said the businessman tended to expect the Department of Agriculture to deliver items on his shopping list that the EEC had already rejected.
Records show that senior officials in the Department of the Taoiseach were also worried that Rehab and the Central Remedial Clinic had found a way of circumventing the Gaming and Lotteries Act to overcome prize-fund limits for private lotteries by pooling their resources.

Frank Flannery, the chief executive of the Rehab Group and a Fine Gael national handler, met with senior officials in November 1987 to discuss plans by Rehab and the CRC to jointly run a new lottery.

Rehab had applied unsuccessfully for the licence to operate the National Lottery which began in March 1987.

Mr Flannery said they wanted to become the second biggest lottery in the State, although it would be on a small scale compared to the National Lottery.

Several charities like Rehab, which had previously organised pools, were concerned that their income from such games would be seriously affected by the launch of the National Lottery.

To ease such concerns, the Government had agreed to remove the ban on advertising for privately-run lotteries as well as raising prize limits from 300 to 3,000 for once-off lotteries, and from 500 to 10,000 for periodic lotteries.

Mr Flannery estimated the Rehab/CRC lottery would only gain 5%-10% of the market.

He also signalled that Rehab might organise lotteries for other charities in future but would operate strictly in accordance with the law.

As Rehab and CRC had combined their two licences on one lottery ticket, Mr Flannery said there was no reason why a bigger number could not be used in the future.

He explained that their new lottery would offer a weekly prize of both a car and 10,000  twice the maximum prize fund  as two licences had been obtained.

State papers show the National Lottery contacted the Minister for Finance, Ray MacSharry, to express its concern about the impending launch of the Rehab/CRC nationwide lottery in October 1987.

The State-owned company under the control of An Post, said it looked like they could operate lotteries with a prize fund in multiples of the 10,000 limit which meant they could rival the National Lottery.

A memo drafted for the Taoiseach, Charles Haughey, in November 1987 said the problem was that if Mr Flannery got 20 charities to co-operate he would have a product to compete in a very significant way with the National Lottery.

Records show National Lottery management expressed very strong disquiet about the possible inroads Rehab could make on its viability.

Officials in the Department of the Taoiseach recommended that Mr Flannery should be informed that the law is that a weekly prize fund could not exceed 10,000.

They suggested the prize limit could be reduced well below 10,000, or alternatively an attempt could be made to buy off Rehab/CRC through generous allocations of funding from National Lottery money.

Either option had drawbacks, as the Government could be accused of crippling a major fundraising venture planned by two highly reputable charities which enjoy considerable public support.

The Taoiseach was subsequently recommended to include in his speech at the launch of the National Lottery that Rehab should accept the 10,000 limit.
Charlie McCarthy, 32, from Aghada, Co Cork, and his wife Nicole, were waiting for a taxi home in Perth in the early hours of December 23 when he was attacked by a man with an object.

He was rushed to hospital where he was placed on life support. His family members flew over to Australia to be at his bedside.

His life support was turned off on St Stephens Day as he was not in a position to recover from his injuries.

Mr McCarthy was a popular former player at Aghada GAA club. A book of condolences is available onsite for signing.

In a post on Facebook club secretary, Darren Lee, said that Mr McCarthy was a proud Aghada man who was a positive force in life.

Charlie joined us in his teenage years and had a positive impact with his energy, dedication and attitude throughout his time in the club, said Mr Lee.

On moving to Australia, he continued to wear the club colours with pride and celebrated club successes like so many at home and abroad. What is clear from listening to those who knew him best was that the dedication and energy we experienced on the pitch, was small compared to his dedication for his wife Nicole and their children Ciara and Niall.

While Charlies loss has been felt in the club, his passing is a loss to all in the Aghada community, those at home and overseas.

We offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family and friends locally and to Nicole and their children in Australia.

Australian national Andrew Doan, 34, has been charged in connection with his death and is to to appear in court again on January 3.
Back in the final years of the last century, the big property story for Cork was the imminent development of the docklands and how it was going to transform the city for future generations.

Twenty years on, after a boom and a bust, we are back in the same spo.

And, although Cork Docklands, including Tivoli, still represent the biggest urban opportunity in Ireland and one capable of transporting Cork into a 21st Century European city, there are still significant challenges that can only be solved at the highest level of government, with strong support by local representatives and other stakeholders.

Certain parts of the commercial property market are working to an extent, the obvious one being the office and hotel sectors where we currently see the first few cranes on the city horizon.

But this is driven generally by owner occupiers or large pre-lets and there is still little or no speculative development in any sector in the city centre.

The City Council has commissioned a new flood study for the Docklands, and the docklands LAPs are scheduled for the middle of next year, both of which are extremely important.

In addition, the New Vision for Apartment Living just published by the Department of Housing will provide some assistance to the design and viability issues, but much more is required in this sector to get PRS Schemes actually under construction.

A movement of the VAT rate to zero, in keeping with the UK model, is an obvious measure and should be considered for a period of time at least.

Realistically, the regional urban centres will need much more direct intervention from government if they are to meet the expectations of the 2040 National Planning Framework, which has predicted an additional 50,000 housing units for Cork over the next 20-25 years.

With apartment and high density urban living one of the major lifting blocks of the plan, we are realistically looking at another 20,000 residential housing units in Cork City Centre over that period.

So, as part of a vision for Cork, some major progress which government could certainly influence for Cork docklands and which would prove a significant catalyst for future private investment would include as follows:

- Realistic and cost effective (funded) plan around the new flood relief system for Cork city and docklands, a significant infrastructure requirement to allow any development going forward.

- Confirmation of completion of deals for the physical dockside areas, between Port of Cork and City Council, who need to control these areas going forward.

- Announcement of some relocation of a major government department to new offices in Cork city, easier to attract staff and much cheaper rent.

- Announcement of a major investment to create a university/third level education hub in part of docklands which could cater for immediate expansion requirements of both UCC and CIT, including the new proposed Business School.

The focus on offices has certainly shifted from business parks and suburbs to the city centre. This is driven by occupiers, most specifically in the FDI sector.

The developers have responded with One Albert Quay and The Capitol now completed and fully occupied with quality FDI dominated companies such as Johnson Controls and Facebook, but also longstanding Irish occupiers such as PWC and Arup.

Both these schemes were promoted by JCD Group, who are also behind 85 South Mall, currently under construction.

In the next 15 months, Cork will add 500,000sq ft of new office stock to the market including Apple Hollyhill, Lilly Eastgate (OFlynn Construction), Block A & B, Navigation Square, and 85 South Mall.

Based on current deals and enquiries in the market all this space is already spoken for and could add an additional 3,000 jobs for the city.

All will be completed by the end of Quarter 1, 2019, and we will require the next wave of stock to take up demand from that time.

On a personal level, I must comment on Navigation Square in particular and am delighted to see this development commence construction.

The brainchild of Owen OCallaghan, who we lost just 12 months ago, I am aware it is one which all in OCallaghan Properties are extremely proud of and I believe all the industry wish them well and that this scheme will become a testament to Owen OCallaghan himself and his love for his native city.

If we look at the other likely office schemes which we believe will happen in the city over the coming five years, excluding those already mentioned  HQ Horgans Quay, Anderson Quay, Custom House Quay, Trinity Quarter, Camden Quay and Sullivans Quay  we are likely to add another 1.25m sq ft of office accommodation during that period.

This only represents five years stock, based on average take-up figures going back over the last 20 years, and will add an additional 12,000 new jobs to the city centre.

We expect some big office announcements in early 2018 and this will bring added focus on Cork docklands and the ability to develop residential accommodation in our cities. It has to take place as our cities cannot develop a modern urban environment unless we have a vibrant community living and working there.

Obviously, suburban residential schemes will continue to be delivered but not at the levels required to meet the numbers mentioned in the National Planning Framework.

We see a very positive future for Cork, but central and local government need to be focused and progressive in terms of the infrastructure, transportation and other investment required which will provide the catalyst for private sector funding.

It can be frustrating to see all the action in Dublin over the last number of years, and although we now have opportunities, these have to be managed and aggressively pursued.

In a recent survey, Cork has emerged as a popular destination for workers in the tech industry looking for better career opportunities but also for a better work-life balance and fundamentally better quality of life.

For this to be sustained, we have to focus on providing an urban framework that caters for everyone and injects life to our city centre.

Peter OFlynn is MD of Cushman & Wakefield, Cork.
Syrian regime forces advanced against Islamist militants Saturday on the edge of the northwestern province of Idlib, the last outside government control, a monitor and the state news agency said.

Government and allied forces backed by Russian warplanes have since Monday been battling mostly Islamist militants in an area straddling the border between Idlib and Hama provinces.

The fighting, which could signal the start of a major offensive to seize Idlib province from rebels dominated by a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, escalated on Thursday.

On Saturday, regime troops advanced, seizing several villages and surrounding areas, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said.

State news agency SANA said regime forces had taken control of five villages, areas and "strategic hills" in the northeast of Hama province.

An AFP correspondent said civilians continued to flee areas near the battle zone, heading north towards the provincial capital of Idlib with their belongings piled high on pickup trucks.

"We were the target of strikes more than once -- we couldn't stay," said Abu Ahmed, a man in his sixties from the southeast of Idlib province, fleeing with his family in a pickup.

"I don't know how to say how I feel, leaving my land and home at my age. We are leaving without even knowing where we're headed."

In the Maaret al-Numan area, some people have put up tents, pots and pans piled at the entrance flaps.

"We escaped for the sake of the children. They were terrified by air raids and strikes," said Abu Khaled, a bearded man in his thirties wearing a red and white checkered keffiyeh headscarf.

The father-of-four, originally from Hama province, had already fled once with his family -- to Idlib, where they lived in a camp for the displaced.

Since Thursday, the clashes have killed 32 soldiers and allied members of paramilitary units, as well as 29 rebels from Islamist groups or from former Al-Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham, the Observatory said.

Twenty-one civilians have also died.

Government forces first aim to take control of the southeast of Idlib province, Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said.

This would allow the regime to have full control of a road that links the capital Damascus to the government-held second city of Aleppo.

Russia intervened on the side of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in 2015, helping it to take back control of swathes of territory including Aleppo.

The forces of Syrian General Suheil Hassan, on the front lines of the battle against the Islamic State group in the east of the country, are leading the Idlib offensive, the Observatory said.

"After finishing off IS, the regime's forces are concentrating their operations on Idlib's jihadists," Abdel Rahman said.

The war in Syria has killed more than 340,000 people and displaced millions from their homes since it began in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


Russia's Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed an appeal by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny against a decision by the country's central election commission to bar him from taking part in next year's presidential election.

The commission this week barred Navalny from taking part in the March 18 vote because of a suspended prison sentence he says was trumped up.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


THE solar system was the star of an astronomical society's 21st anniversary celebrations.

The Orpington Astronomical Society marked its anniversary by holding a Universe Day at St Olaves School, in Goddington Lane, Orpington, to celebrate the solar system.

Professor Colin Pillinger gave a talk about the Beagle2 a tiny probe he plans to send to Mars in 2003 to look for signs of life. Many of the 350 people attending the event took part in a guided Walk the Solar System tour in which pictures representing the solar system were laid out in a line along one of the school's playing fields.

There was also an inflatable planetarium, a 3D display of pictures from science missions and a balloon race.

One of the labels from the 150 balloons released was returned from Germany three days after the event.

October 24, 2001 10:50
During a meeting on Saturday, Egypts president Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi instructed acting Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Electricity Mohamed Shaker to continue efforts to update the countrys electricity sector in accordance with the set timeframe, and to improve the service, a presidency spokesman said.



El-Sisi also instructed the two officials to speed up the completion of key studies on electricity interconnection plans and projects with neighboring countries, stressing the need to continiue the government's focus on combining urban development with the maintenance of safety standards in the process.

Egypt has been heavily investing in its electric power infrastructure in the past three years to overcome acute shortages.

During the meeting, acting PM Madbouly presented the latest developments in the start of the executive steps to construct the Dabaa nuclear plant, presidency spokesman Bassam Rady said.

The Dabaa nuclear power plant will produce 1,200 MW from each of its four reactors and has a 60-year operational lifetime.



Electricity Minister Shaker reiterated his ministrys target to increase Egypts percentage of new and renewable energy to 20% by 2022.



Shaker has also highlighted the latest developments regarding cooperation with the Italian company ENI to establish a factory of high-power convertors, and establishing Benban solar power plants, as well as a new power plant in the new administrative capital.



The minister has previously said that the Benban solar power complex is set to produce 2,000 MW, the largest amount of solar energy produced from any location.



The plant set for the new administrative capital is expected to be connected to the unified electricity network by mid 2018, to be able to generate 4800 megawatt and include 8000 workers.



The German Giant Siemens has been constructing three major natural gas-fired power plants, including one in the new administrative capital, as part of an 8 billion euro deal signed with Egypt in 2015.

The meeting also tackled ongoing energy interconnection projects between Egypt and its neighbors, such as the electricity grid with Saudi Arabia; two similar projects with Jordan and Libya, as well as clean energy projects with Cyprus and Greece.



The Egypt-Saudi grid, which is expected to operate by 2021, is set to transmit at a capacity of 3000 megawatt in a total investment cost of $1.56 billion.



A memorandum of understanding has also been signed for electricity interconnection between Egypt, Cyprus and Greece, for a 3000 MW capacity line.



Shaker has also pointed to the ministrys steps to transform the electricity pressure towers above buildings into land cables in an effort to ensuring the safety of citizens, as well as improving the service.



The recent projects to develop Egypts electricity grid have cost the government EGP 483 billion, Shaker had said in November.

The figure does not include the cost of a nuclear power plant Egypt is preparing to build in Dabaa.



Search Keywords:

Short link:


Q: Is it acceptable for Christians to make resolutions for the new year?

ANSWER: Yes, in fact it is important to do so.

In just two days we will be embarking on a new year! It reminds me of a poem penned by Louisa Fletcher as she reflected on the regrets of the past and hopes for the future.

I wish there were some wonderful place

in the land of beginning again,

where all our mistakes and all our heartaches

and all our poor selfish griefs

could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door

and never put on again.

In many ways, the beginning of a new year is a place of beginning again. We all make resolutions for the new year, a practice we inherited from ancient Babylonia. There is nothing wrong with that except that most of them are too grandiose to be kept. Perhaps we should limit our resolutions to one or two and to those we can reasonably fulfill.

From a Biblical and religious perspective, the land of beginning again is a central theme. Hinduism teaches the doctrine of reincarnation, that we actually have multiple lives from which we can learn and improve. Buddhism says we can reach a state of Buddhahood, Nirvana, when we are freed from the desires that cause pain and suffering. Judaism has Rosh Hashanah and the day of Atonement, a chance to overcome the past and begin again. Islam speaks of a time of submission to the will of Allah and a new beginning. And, of course, the central message of Christianity is that there is a place of beginning again at Calvary, at the cross of Christ, who died for the sins of believers.

The Bible is replete with stories of beginning again. It was not an upgrade, but Adam and Eve were sent to a new land following their disobedience to God. Moses and Joshua led the Hebrews from Egyptian slavery to the Promised Land of beginning again. Following the Babylonian Exile, the Hebrews returned to Israel to build a new land, a land of beginning again. When the 12 disciples learned of Jesus resurrection, they were thrust into a new beginning, spreading the Gospel to the world.

As we celebrate the New Year, it might be interesting to reflect on some of the ways different people in the world celebrate it. In Spain, they try to get 12 grapes in their mouth which will bring good luck for the future year. In the southern states, we eat black eyed peas for good luck and greens for prosperity. In New York, a ball is dropped from the Times building to usher in the New Year. In Russia, they write a wish on a piece of paper, burn the paper, and put the ashes in a champagne glass and drink it. They say Italians wear red underwear on New Years Day. In Japanese Temples, the bells are rung 108 times to exorcise the 108 bad desires. In Edinburgh, the hearty take a dip in the frigid waters of the nearby Firth of Forth. And we can thank the English for initiating the idea of kissing as the clock strikes twelve. Many of these celebrations appear to have no religious significance, but underlying each is the belief that some unseen, mysterious power or powers are at work in our lives. Thats religious!

I am wishing for each of you a happy new year which could also be expressed as a joyful new year. Being full of joy can be a shared blessing and a way to new beginnings. Drop the useless baggage like a shabby coat and embrace the power that brings peace and kindness to share with fellow travelers on the pathway during 2018.

I hope you will find your land of beginning again. Eat your black eyed peas and greens, kiss those you love, and together sing the song by Robert Burns which goes back to the 18th century. It is called Auld Lang Syne, old long ago.
One of the oldest and most inspiring themes in Egyptian art is tackled once again with freshness by Ayman Saadawy in his solo exhibition at Cairo Zamalek Art Gallery

Sculptor Ayman Saadawys exhibition opened at Zamalek Art Gallery on 10 December and continues until 2 January 2018. The theme chosen was the Nile, a theme that has been dealt with thousands of times in various artistic venues yet still inspires artists and all of us.

The relation of Egyptians to the Nile is very particular and each has his own experience with the great river. Saadawys experience was a first hand one. Growing in a village near the Nile made him chose the longest river on the planet to be his inspiration. He used memories and vision to create twenty statues expressing the relation between the past and the present with a hint of political vision. In his works, Saadawy mainly used the noble metal bronze.

Though it is a hard metal to master, Saadawy carved the minute details is each piece, whereas his confidence in each chisel stroke is very apparent.

Saadawys talent and creativity is particularly obvious in many pieces in which he intertwines bronze with the use of granite. The viewers feel that the statues are carved in the stone and metal, not designed or burned. No doubt, the confidence in the lines, sincerity in the strokes and the undulating rhythm are the main brilliance of Saadawy's talent.

The exhibition can be divided into two groups of sculptures, modern and ancient. The modern ones are all in bronze, depicting the lives of fishermen making a living through one of the oldest economic activities related to the Nile. The artist displayed a collection of boats in different sizes and shapes that are used in Egyptian daily life.

The ancient-style statues were the ones mixing bronze and granite, inspired by Ancient Egyptians art and their gods.

For instance, in the piece called the Niles Bride, a well dressed Egyptian girl proudly seated on deck of a stone boat whose bow and rear take the shape of the famous Egyptian papyrus.

The Niles Bride was an old tradition where a girl was sacrificed in worship of the river Nile in order to keep it flowing with water and prosperity. The details are glorious underscoring the respect and greatness to the bride.

The statue is made with bronze and green marble, a rare mix that adds to the glory and gives an impression that it belongs to one of the old dynasties.

The second relying on a mix, this time bronze with Aswans black granite, is The Boat. The Boats body is in granite while the bow is lotus-like and the rear is in the shape of the God Anubis in his famous jackal face. It is here that we experience the Ancient Egyptians style of boats aiming at creating a clear bond between the past and the present.

The sculptors confidence is striking. It is very hard to control the force of the chisel stroke or measure how the stone will react or be shaped according to the stroke, yet Saadawy was capable of getting the shape he wanted, especially in the mixed statues.

In the Abundance of the Nile, Saadawy chose fishing as the intimate economic activity related to the Nile. Saadawy started by forming the mass of clay from point zero, while using his imagination to complete the final product. The piece embodies both movement and expression, allowing a dialogue between the viewer and the piece.

The statue shows a fisherman throwing his net into the river while standing on the boat. Though it is made of bronze, we feel we are looking upon a living human being. The statue is impressive for the accuracy of proportions and clearly sculpted details. The spirit of the fisherman becomes familiar.

The Boatsman carries a similar theme, the details of the fisherman relaxing after a day of hard work on the boat.

The lives of Nile people return in the Fish Vendor, a woman carrying fish in order to sell them. The clothing and the container she carries are traditional to that of peasants in Upper Egypt. Again the statue is in bronze and the details are amazingly accurate, an undeniably a strong suit of Saadawys.

On the other hand the Afternoon Light shows a practice that is related to farming by the Nile. When the cows swim in the Nile, traveling from one side to another, the farmers sometimes place their feet on the cows backs to jump into the Nile for a swim.

The Three Fishermen statue has a different spirit though. The shapes do not seem to relate to fishermen in general; fishermen are big people, overweight yet proportional at the same time. The three are pulling a rope, each in a different direction but there is no net, boat or fish.

The sculptor tells us about going in different directions, pulling in different ways, societal problems even if they are confined within the small community of the fishermen. Indeed, the fat cats who gain from the activities of the less fortunate exist everywhere and in all times.

Afternoon Fishing, a bronze statue, represents the festive mood of a girl playing with a rope on a boat. The details are that of a happy smiling woman in a dancing position. This statue is an addition to the optimistic spirit that the whole exhibition represents.

Being on the Nile, whether fishing or enjoying its breeze, is a happy occasion and the river is worshipped in various forms, dancing being one of them.

Saadawys talent and skill are apparent in the statues whether they are stationary or in movement due to his firm grasp of anatomy and control of proportions and scales.

Sculpture is an art that will keep growing strongly in Egypt. Saadawys exhibition is a revival for the art and a continuation of this creative tradition.

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

Search Keywords:

Short link:


A Winston-Salem lawyer convicted of failing to file North Carolina tax returns will get to keep his law license as long as he continues to file and pay his state taxes and complies with other conditions.

Cowles Liipfert, 79, of Englewood Drive pleaded guilty May 10 in Wake District Court to three misdemeanor counts of willful failure to file a return, supply information or pay tax, according to the N.C. Department of Revenue. Wake District Judge Kris Bailey gave Liipfert a suspended sentence of 45 days in jail and placed Liipfert on unsupervised probation for 18 months. Liipfert was also ordered to complete 100 hours of community service and pay a $3,000 fine. He also has paid the taxes he owed.

On Nov. 16, Liipfert signed a consent order of discipline with the N.C. State Bar. The state bar stayed a two-year suspension of Liipferts law license, which means Liipfert can practice law as long as he complies with certain conditions. Those conditions include that he file his state and federal tax returns and pay whatever taxes are owed. He also has to provide proof that he has done so, according to the consent order.

Liipfert was supposed to file individual state tax returns in 2012, 2013 and 2014, but he didnt, according to arrest warrants and the consent order. A special agent with the state revenue departments criminal investigations section began the investigation that resulted in the criminal charges against Liipfert.

The N.C. State Bar said in the consent order that the crimes Liipfert was convicted of showed professional unfitness. A hearing panel of the state bar determined that Liipferts actions represented a negative impact on the publics perception of the law profession in concluding that his law license should be suspended.

But the hearing panel also considered other factors, including no prior disciplinary offenses with the state bar, in deciding that the suspension should be stayed for two years.

Liipfert is a partner in the law firm Craige Jenkins Liipfert & Walker LLP in Winston-Salem. It was created in 2015 with the merger of two law firms. Phil Searcy, a partner at the law firm, said earlier this year the amount Liipfert owed in taxes was less than $10,000.

Liipfert has been practicing law since 1964 and works in estate planning, estate administration and probate matters, trust administration, taxation and corporate law.

Alan Schneider, Liipferts attorney, could not be reached for comment Friday.
Syrian rebels prepared to evacuate an enclave in southwestern Syria on Friday in a surrender deal with the government, state media said, as the army thrust into the northwest - the insurgents' main remaining stronghold.

Government forces and allied Shia Muslim militias have forced numerous rebel pockets to surrender since Russia brought in heavy air power to help them in 2015, pushing the insurgents into an ever smaller number of enclaves.

The northwestern area around Idlib province is the rebels' most important territory. They also hold a large area bordering Jordan and the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights near Deraa in the southwest, as well as scattered pockets elsewhere including eastern Ghouta near Damascus.

Fighters and their families started to leave Beit Jin, 40 km (25 miles) southwest of Damascus, on Friday after losing nearby areas to the army and its allies in heavy fighting earlier this month, state television reported.

Some were heading to Idlib in the northwest, an area controlled by jihadists and the destination for all previous evacuees from surrendered rebel pockets, others to rebel territory in the southwest held by nationalist insurgents.

Beit Jin's location near Israeli-controlled territory made it a strategic flashpoint given the role of Lebanon's Hezbollah group - Israel's sworn enemy - in fighting the rebels there.

Israel has bombed Hezbollah convoys and weapons caches several times in Syria this year and fired on military positions in Syria after projectiles landed in the Golan Heights.

The Syrian army's advance against rebels in the northwest involved bitter fighting and intense air strikes on Thursday and Friday, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor.

Fighting killed dozens on Friday and is concentrated in the village of Abu Dali in southern Idlib after weeks of incremental government gains in adjacent areas of Hama province.

The army has only recently advanced into Idlib for the first time since a string of rebel victories there evicted the government from the province in early 2015.

The government's gains across many fronts have ended rebel hopes of ousting President Bashar al-Assad by force.

On Friday his office distributed photographs of Assad meeting a family in Homs, a sign of his growing comfort travelling around Syria this year after years in which he mostly stayed in Damascus.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


A judge on Pennsylvanias Commonwealth Court [official website] on Friday ruled [opinion, PDF] that those challenging the states 2011 congressional map in League of Women Voters v. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania [docket] failed to provide a sufficient standard for determining whether a redistricting plan is unconstitutional or merely political.

Judge P. Kevin Brobson [official profile] issued the courts assessment of the record evidence, testimony and expert opinion presented during a five day trial in early December. Brobson noted that, although [a] lot can be said about the 2011 Plan, much of which is unflattering and yet justified, the legislature was within its rights to consider partisan advantage as part of its redistricting process. The court found all of the challengers expert witnesses to be credible, but that their collective testimony  has limited utility as all their analyses showed was that there was a substantial partisan skew in favor of Republican candidates. In the courts estimation, none of these experts opined as to where on their relative scales of partisanship the line is between a constitutionally partisan map and an unconstitutionally partisan districting plan. This is the point that has bedeviled courts throughout history.

Brobson reiterated the significant challenge faced by those seeking to set aside the map:

In challenging the constitutionality of the 2011 Plan, it is Petitioners burden of establishing not that a better or fairer plan can be drawn, but rather that the 2011 Plan fails to meet constitutional requirements  Petitioners, in order to prevail, must articulate a judicially manageable standard by which a court can determine that partisanship cross the line into an unconstitutional infringement on Petitioners free speech and associational rights.

Reviewing the evidence in considerable detail, the court determined that Petitioners have not presented a judicially manageable standard.

As Brobson noted in his findings of fact, the litigation presents substantial logistical challenges, as state and federal legal timelines for 2018 congressional races begin as early as February. Nonetheless, Brobson found that [t]hrough a combination of internal administrative adjustments and court-ordered changes, it would be possible to hold the primary election on the scheduled May 15, 2018 date even if a new congressional districting plan is not put into place early in the process, and that it would also be possible to postpone the 2018 primary election  to a date in the summer[.]

The Commonwealth Court acts as both an intermediate appellate court and a court of first instance in cases brought by or against the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In this case, the Commonwealth Court was ordered [JURIST report] by the states Supreme Court to conduct appropriate hearings and to file its  its findings of fact and conclusions of law no later than December 31, 2017. The Commonwealth Court had previously put proceedings in League of Women Voters on hold pending the US Supreme Courts decision in Gill v. Whitford [SCOTUSblog backgrounder], a Wisconsin gerrymandering case making similar claims under federal law. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court found that the case involves issues of immediate public importance, and ordered the Commonwealth Court to take sufficient evidence to allow the Supreme Court to rule on the petitions merits.
The lower house of parliament of India, the Lok Sabha [official website], on Thursday passed a bill [text, PDF] criminalizing the practice of triple talaq or instant divorce whereby a Muslim man could divorce his wife by merely uttering the word talaq three times at one go.

Titled the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act of 2017 (the Act), the Act declares that Any pronouncement of talaq by a person upon his wife, by words, either spoken or written or in electronic form or in any other manner whatsoever, shall be void and illegal and that Whoever pronounces talaq  upon his wife shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years and fine.

The Act provides for relief for a married Muslim woman (the woman) in the form of an entitlement to receive alimony and child support, which are to determined by a magistrate. The Act further entitles the woman to custody of her minor children in a manner also to be determined by a magistrate. Furthermore, an offense committed under this Act is non-bailable.

This bill follows the India Supreme Courts [official website] 3-2 ruling [judgment, PDF] in August declaring the triple talaq as not integral to religious practice and a violation of constitutional morality. Justices Kurian Joseph, Rohinton F. Nariman and U.U. Lalit ruled for the majority and issued a temporary injunction effective until such time a legislation on the matter is considered by the parliament. Dissenting Justices J.S. Khehar and S. Abdul Nazeer stated that they would have upheld the practice reasoning that it is the parliaments prerogative to outlaw the practice as opposed to the Judiciarys, and that no injunction should be issued.

A 2015 national study [PDF] in India, conducted by the Bharatiya Muslim Mahila Andolan [advocacy website], revealed that a vast majority of Muslim-Indian women were victimized by the practice of the triple talaq, whereby they received no alimony or any form of compensation or support. Womens rights activists celebrated [The Guardian report] the Supreme Court ruling as a significant victory for the 90 million Muslim women of India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi [official website] welcomed it.

This bill, when it becomes effective, would apply to all of India, except the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
GRAND ISLAND  The central Nebraska Prescribed Burn Task Force will host advanced and basic training for landowners at four locations within the Central Platte Natural Resources District later this month.

The training will provide information about using property equipment and safety measures for the successful use of fire to improve pastures.

Advanced training on fire behavior due to weather, topography and fuel will be Jan. 22 at the Farnam Fire Hall and Jan. 23 at Bootleg Brewers in Taylor.

Contact Bruce Treffer at Dawson County Extension, 308-324-5501, to attend the Farnam workshop and Lisa McMillan at the Natural Resources Conservation Service, 308-872-6877, for the Taylor workshop.

The basics of prescribed fire will be taught Jan. 24 at the Pleasanton Community Center in Pleasanton and Jan. 25 at the Crane Trust headquarters south of Alda. The contact for both sessions is David Carr at the CPNRD, 308-385-6282.

All workshops will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and cost $15 per person, lunch included.

Registrations are required to the contacts listed by Jan. 15 for the lunch counts.

For information about other fire training workshops or prescribed fire in general, contact Carr.
Iowas ethanol industry celebrated a record-breaking year in 2017 as 43 plants produced 4.2 billion gallons, an increase from 2016.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association reported the increase is largely due to several plant expansions, increased demand of exports and higher blends, like E-15 fuel.

Iowa continues to lead the country and the world in ethanol production and efficiency, association executive director Monte Shaw said in a release. Several plant expansions just finished or will finish during the 1st quarter of 2018, so production could jump again next year.

Brian Cahill, president, CEO and general manager at the Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy plant south of Council Bluffs, said part of the growth is credited to increased demands.

A lot of the blended pumps in Minnesota and Nebraska have led to a larger need, he said.

The SIRE plant has increased its annual capacity from 125 million to 140 million gallons recently  expansions other ethanol plants are also doing, Cahill said.

This affects not just the ethanol facilities, but employees benefit in different industries, he said. Product transportation services through trains and trucking have felt the impact, as have those who grow the corn for ethanol.

Ethanol is renewable, better for the environment and is grown right here in the U.S. Those are all benefits, Cahill said.

The association said its top priority for 2018 is to secure funding for the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program to help more retailers offer ethanol blends.
While the soil health improvement movement has been gaining momentum, lower grain prices have caused some farmers to ask if cover crop investments pay.

Although there are many long-term positive reasons for growing cover crops, Nebraska Extensions on-farm research doesnt support short-term economic yield benefits for the next crop. So corn and soybean producers may be considering more than yields for the next cash crop when evaluating cover crop investment benefits.

In 2017, the Soil Health Institute published a list of 19 key indicator factors to define soil health.

Since, as the adage goes, you cant manage what you cant measure, the institutess long-range goal is to help producers know which soil health tests are the most reliable to monitor soil health while maintaining economic returns.

Scientists have known for decades that healthy soils need the interaction of chemical, physical and biological properties. Because biological tests were limited, soil test recommendations historically focused on chemical and physical properties.

Chemical tests

University research provides high confidence in the required levels for 16 essential elements for normal plant growth and reproduction.

Traditional lab soil chemical tests usually review pH and nutrient levels, which are used by crop advisers to develop field fertilizing plans. Primary soil elements needed by plants in the largest quantities are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Soil testing may expand to secondary elements, calcium, magnesium and sulfur. Other tests may monitor trace or micronutrient element levels of iron, manganese, boron, chloride, zinc, copper and molybdenum.

Fertilizer supplement programs based on such soil chemistry tests seek to balance available nutrients with projected crop needs.

Physical tests

Tests of soils physical properties generally link improvement progress to the percentage of soil organic matter. Soils higher in organic matter usually have better soil aggregation, less compaction, less erodibility, improved water infiltration, and higher productivity as a result of more available water and nutrients.

Tests of soil bulk density and infiltration rates help quantify a fields ability to move water into and through soil profiles. Infiltration rate measurements identify how fast water enters the soil and usually is recorded as inches per hour.

In-field infiltration may be expressed as the minutes needed for a soil to absorb each inch of water applied to the surface, which then is converted to inches per hour.

Biological tests

New biological soil tests may provide additional soil health indicators that are especially helpful to no-till farmers in the early years when cover crops are being moved into crop rotations.

Biological tests include:

- Phospholipid Fatty Acid Analysis. Designed more for researchers than farmers, these tests estimate total soil biomass, including gram positive and negative bacteria, total actinomycetes bacteria, mycorrhizae and saprophytic fungi.

- Solvita Test. It seeks to quantify total soil microbial respiration activity by measuring carbon dioxide release, since live microbes take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

However, the test doesnt identify the types of microbes releasing the carbon dioxide. Also, microbial activity levels must be adjusted for temperature and moisture content.

- Haney Test. Developed by Rick Haney, a U.S. Department of Agriculture researcher from Texas A&M, it uses the Solvita test and four other soil content factors to analyze available organic nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels.

This method uses biology and chemistry to get a microbial activity indicator for a soil health score that is used later to calculate fertilizer needs.

- Cornell University Soil Health Assessment. Its tests follow the soil health institute indicators and account for soil texture and aggregate stability, available water capacity, field penetration resistance, organic matter, active carbon, mineralized nitrogen, root health assessment, and standard chemical soil nutrient testing.

Producers may like the green, yellow and red color coding to compare their soils traits to standards, but the many factors involved may be confusing when trying to interpret the results for practical applications.

Biological tests may become more popular in the future with no-till adoption growth.

Because of the costs, producers usually choose one test rather than multiple measurements.

More information about soil health indicators is available at local Nebraska Extension offices or at http://cropwatch.unl.edu.

Todd Whitney is a University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension educator who focuses on Phelps, Gosper, Harlan and Furnas counties.
Whats the best way to prepare for the celebration of Christmas each year? Whats the best way to get ready to enter and walk through a New Year, as we will begin the year 2018 in two days?

I believe the best way is to follow St. Pauls words in Philippians 4:4-7. I am quoting from the New King James Translation. Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Paul, in these words, gives us a beautiful formula for finding peace this Christmas, as well as in the new year  a peace which surpasses all understanding! He tells us to rejoice in the Lord always. Pauls admonition about rejoicing in the Lord always was no pie-in-the-sky denial about the presence of suffering in the world. Paul wrote this letter from prison  he was on death row. He was in chains, waiting to find out if he would be sentenced to death, or if he would be set free.

The Apostle Paul had an amazing spirit. Three times he was shipwrecked; at least once he was stoned  with real stones; five times he was given the 39 lashes across the back with the ship; and he was beaten many times as well for his faith in Jesus. He had been the focus of riots and death threats; he was bitten once by a deadly scorpion. Yet these experiences could not and did not take away his joy in Christ Jesus! To have true joy in your life doesnt mean that everything is going your way. Joy comes from the inner assurance that whatever you are going through, whether good times or bad, THAT GOD IS WITH YOU!

Paul also writes, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Could you give thanks this coming year, if some of the things you cherish were stripped away from you? What if you lost your sight or hearing, or the ability to speak? Or all of them? Could you give thanks to God?

A baby was born in 1880 in Alabama, named Helen Keller. She came into a dark, silent world. Helen was unable to see, unable to speak, unable to hear. What a dark, frightening world that must have been. But one of the success stories of the ages is how Helen Keller came out of that darkness into a light which you and I can only look at with amazement! Helen lived a full, rich, radiant life! She graduated from Radcliffe College  cum laude! She became close friends with kings, presidents and some well-known people!

When her teacher, Anne Sullivan, brought her to where she could understand and receive ideas and concepts, she also came to know about God and Jesus Christ. Helen Keller said, I always knew there was a God, but I never knew what to call Him. Helen Keller wrote one day in an essay titled A Christmas Legend. A legend tells that when Jesus was born, the sun danced in the sky, the old trees straightened themselves and put on leaves and sent forth the fragrance of blossoms once more. These are symbols of what takes place in our hearts when the Christ Child is born anew each year.

Helen Keller found joy in life that few people ever find. She learned to lay aside every anxiety and fear, and in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, she presented her requests to God! I pray that we will in every situation of the New Year, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God, and to rejoice in the Lord always! A blessed, joy-filled, Christ-centered New Year to all!

The Rev. Duane Duley is pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney.
KEARNEY  Tired of sniffling and sneezing as temperatures plummet?

Alisha Sobotka, owner of Natural Foods and Supplements at 3704 Second Ave., wants to help keep that cold at bay.

There are 200 viruses that cause the standard cold, she said. The viruses are more prevalent in the winter when people are crowded in tighter spaces.

She said people touch their faces an average of 16 times a day. Wash your hands, she said. And keep your hands away from your face.

She also sells Himalayan salt lamps, which she said ease coughing and soothe allergies. Last year, 536 people shared her Facebook posting about the lamps with 30,000 others.

Sobotka sold 1,500 pounds of salt lamps in two days. Her salt lamp selection is the largest in Nebraska.

A Kearney native, Sobotka calls Natural Foods and Supplements a business opportunity that turned into a life, but she had no idea it would turn out that way when she purchased it in 2006. She was pregnant with her first child then, and I saw it as a place where I could take my daughter to work. At the time, it was located in the spacious red barn  since then demolished  beside Family Fresh Market at 3920 Second Ave.

That decision turned out to be serendipitous. Her daughter, Alexondra, now 11, was born five weeks early with digestive issues and hip dysplasia. Doctors said she would never walk correctly, but Sobotka refused to accept her daughters diagnoses. She got online and began doing her own research.

As she educated herself on her daughters medical issues, she discovered holistic medicine. She began thinking of her daughters issues as hurdles that could be overcome. I then needed to find a way to connect Eastern and Western medicine, she said.

She did. Now shes passing that information on to customers. In 2010, she moved her store to its current location on Second Avenue. Owning this store is about sharing my life experiences with everybody that I can, she said.

Eating healthier food and adopting healthier living habits have changed her life and that of her entire family. All the information I learned is directing my way as a retailer, Sobotka said. It became my passion after seeing the difference it made in our life. Theres no going back.

She knows about debilitating conditions. She has had back and shoulder surgery, and at one point, I was flat on my back for four months. I know what works and what wont work. I am using my life story to share what Ive learned with others.

She sells not only vitamins and herbs, but cleaning products, pet products, candles and more. All the information I learned is directing my way as a retailer, Sobotka said. Its phenomenal. My family feels better. Were more active. Were more educated in our decisions about what we eat, what cleaning supplies we use, and more.

She said every person has problems, aches and pains, and she prefers to put hers out on the front porch, and not hide them in the basement. That allows her to help others, and vice versa. If a customer asks about a condition or an issue shes not familiar with, she responds, Ill look into that. Im here to do that with them.

As for her daughter Alexondra, shes now a strong fifth-grader who is studying martial arts.

Sobotka continues to read extensively. She said she is blessed with time to do research, of which she never tires. She is passionate about her store and her customers. Her weekday hours are 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. so people can come in after work. She is open until 4 p.m. Saturdays.

Weve seen phenomenal growth over the years, she said. People have become more health-conscious. Many people have side effects from prescription medication. They want a cleaner lifestyle. People still need their doctors and regular checkups, but I like the balance between Eastern and Western medicine.

She added, Health is not something you can buy. Its the ultimate wealth in life.
KEARNEY  Buffalo County property owners went through a new property valuation protest process this year.

The Buffalo County Board of Commissioners hired a group of six to eight certified appraisers as property valuation referees to listen to protests in place of County Board members. The board voted 4-3 in April to hire lead referees Joe Wilson and Ron Elliott of Lincoln at a rate of $125 an hour and to pay $85-$125 an hour for the additional referees.

Buffalo County Board Administrator Lynn Martin said the total cost of the referees was $159,000.

The boards decision was based on the flood of protesters in 2016, which reached an all-time high in the county of 2,566, up from 383 protests in 2014 and 1,751 in 2015. The protests were lowered a bit this year to 1,972.

The referees listened to each protester within a 15 minute window at an office space at 215 W. 18th St., which is owned by Buffalo County.

The countys property valuations went up about $283.69 million from about $5.85 billion in 2017 to $6.13 billion in 2018. However, the 1,972 property valuation protests this year lowered the overall value of Buffalo County property valuations by about $66.92 million, according to Buffalo County Assessor Ethel Skinner.

Sheriff kidnap plot

An Arapahoe man was accused in May of withholding information about an alleged plot to kidnap Furnas County Sheriff Kurt Kapperman.

Anthony Todd Weverka, 54, is accused of not disclosing full information about Canadian Sue Hollands alleged plot to kidnap the sheriff and a judge in Tipton County, Tenn., and to break out an inmate, Michael Wayne Parsons, 55, of Arlington Tenn., from the Furnas County Jail in Beaver City.

Weverka is charged with felony misprision, which is the term for concealment of knowledge about a felony. Weverka pleaded not guilty to the charge and is set to go to trial on Jan. 8 in Lincoln.

Details of the alleged kidnapping plot are outlined in Weverkas indictment and a May press release from U.S. Attorney Jan Sharps office.

While Weverka was serving as president of the Arapahoe Airport Board of Directors, he met Parsons, 55, of Arlington, Tenn., who flew a plane to the airport on Jan. 10 and asked to spend the night at the airport. He allegedly fled from Tennessee that day, the same day he allegedly failed to appear for trial on two counts of felony possession of a weapon in the Tipton County Circuit Court.

On Jan. 12, Parsons was apprehended by Nebraska law enforcement officers and the FBI at the Arapahoe Airport. Parsons was then transported to the Furnas County Jail.

Between Parsons Jan. 12 arrest and March 16, Holland requested Parsons release and his exoneration on his alleged criminal offenses.

Parsons represented himself as the ambassador and associate chief justice of the Universal Supreme Court, the same court on which Holland presents herself as the Chief Justice.

Between mid-January and mid-March, Weverka allegedly learned of the plot to kidnap the sheriff and didnt immediately disclose the plan.

He also allegedly made false statements to Kapperman. Weverka told Kapperman that his life might be in danger, but Weverka alegedly spoke repeatedly with the Canadian woman, Sue Holland, who presented herself as the Chief Justice of the Universal Supreme Court of the Tsilhoqotin Nation, a self-appointed body purporting to represent the country of Chilcotin. However, representatives of Universal Supreme Court are not Tsilhoqotin Nation tribal members.

Weverka allegedly supplied Holland with the sheriffs home address.

Parsons is charged in U.S. District Court with being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to Parsons federal indictment. That felony conviction was on an aggravated assault charge on Nov. 23, 2009, in the Tipton County Circuit Court.

Peoples March

As tens of thousands of people gathered around the nation on Jan. 21 for the Womens March, an unlikely small Nebraska town organized a march of its own.

Nearly 130 people walked in solidarity from one end of Loup City, population 1,000, to the other, for the Peoples March for Equality.

Loup City native Tamara Jonak and her sister Charlene Kempfe organized the march in Loup City one day after President Donald Trumps inauguration.

Our march isnt in protest of President Trump. ... The march is turning into a support system for everyone involved and their concerns, Jonak said in a previous interview with the Hub.

Marchers met at the Loup City Community Center to make signs and congregate over coffee. Before the march began, organizers stressed peace and positivity.

(Hub reporter Amanda Push contributed to this report.)

B-Bow recall, resignation

Broken Bow Schools Board of Education Treasurer J.B. Atkins survived his recall election on Nov. 14 with nearly 60 percent of the vote.

A debate about the school boards decision to cut the budget by 5 percent, which equaled about $600,000, and its move to reduce the districts tax levy 15 cents from $1.05 to 90 cents led to the recall attempt. According to Broken Bow Public Schools financial documents, the general fund budget was reduced from $11.56 million in 2016-2017 to $10.99 million in 2017-2018.

An attempt to set a recall election date for School Board President Carl French was unsuccessful. Custer County District Judge Karin Noakes ruled in late October that the recall petition for French was filed three days late.

In an earlier interview with the Hub, Superintendent Tom Bailey said he cut department budgets 8 percent across the board. The cuts reduced some programming, but did not eliminate it, he said.

In addition, seven noncertified staff positions were eliminated, including five para-professionals. Atkins claimed in an earlier interview with the Hub that three of the five para-professionals would have been dropped regardless of budget cuts because of a reduction in the number of students in the school.

Bailey resigned from his superintendent position at last weeks school board meeting.

It has become apparent that my student-centered philosophy is not in line with the direction that this current board chooses to follow. Therefore, I am submitting my resignation as superintendent, effective June 30, 2018, Bailey wrote.

Crimes and death

- The body of a Kearney woman was found by an agronomist checking a corn field in July near Funk.

Several weeks later, the Phelps County Attorneys Office released the identity of the woman as Cynthia Lammers, 51.

The Phelps County Sheriffs Office said it was investigating Lammers death as a homicide, but two months after Lammers body was found, the attorneys office released autopsy results that ruled her death as a drug overdose.

- A Montana man suspected of being the AK-47 Bandit was apprehended in June by a Dawson County Sheriffs Deputy at the Lexington truck stop.

The sheriffs deputy identified a reportedly stolen Kansas truck. Several hours earlier, the suspect allegedly fled a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in a high-speed chase, court records say.

Richard Gathercole, 39, of Roundup, Mont., is suspected of several bank robberies in five states from 2012-2015, including an armed robbery in Nebraska in 2014, according to a previous FBI press release.

He is charged in U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska with interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle and interstate transportation of a stolen firearm.

Hes in a Colorado federal prison awaiting trial, according to the Associated Press.

- Two people were arrested and charged in connection with a Dawson County homicide.

Melissa Callahan, 35, allegedly helped Jose Regalado-Mendez, 41, of Lexington dispose of the body of Jose Hernandez, 37, according to testimony at Regalado-Mendezs preliminary hearing in January by Criminal Investigations Sgt. Edward Albrecht of the Dawson County Sheriffs Office.

Regalado-Mendez was arrested and charged with felony first-degree murder, and felony use of a weapon to commit a felony in connection with the murder of Hernandez. Callahan was charged with felony accessory to first-degree murder.

According to the Lexington Police Department, Hernandez was reported missing Dec. 2, 2016. Then, a week before authorities found Hernandezs body, law enforcement received a phone tip that there might have been a homicide, Dawson County Chief Deputy Mike Hudson said in an earlier interview with the Hub.

On Dec. 12, 2016, Hernandezs body was found under fencing and pallets at Regalado-Mendezs residence 2 miles north of Lexington on 434 Road.

Callahans jury trial has been set for Feb. 13. Regalado-Mendezs trial has not been set because he is receiving treatment at the Lincoln Regional Center.

- At an Alma mans bench trial in October an Alma woman testified to having four-way sex with a mentally disabled teen.

The 37-year-old woman said the one-time encounter between herself, a 39-year-old Alma man, a 40-year-old Alma man and the girl started as sex between the adults.

The names of the three adults are not being published in an attempt to protect the girls identity.

The woman testified at the trial in exchange for lesser felony charges. She later pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse for allowing a mentally disabled teen to be sexually abused between July 1 and October 2016.

The 39-year-old Alma man was found guilty of one count of felony child abuse and one count of felony sexual assault of the girl between Aug. 1, 2016, and Sept. 30, 2016.

A trial hasnt been set for the 40-year-old man because he was deemed not competent to stand trial. The man is under treatment at the Lincoln Regional Center.

@erikadpritchard
I read with interest the Dec. 18 letter to the editor stating Nebraska should legalize pot. The letter said that 51 percent of Republicans support this legalizing of pot.

Just because eight states and Washington, D.C., have legalized it doesnt make it the smart thing to do in Nebraska or anywhere else.

If it is so good for medicinal purposes it should be regulated and prescribed by the medical professionals for those who need it for pain relief or seizures, etc., and it can be monitored and its usage can be controlled.

The writer cited the figure that 450,000 lives per year are lost to alcohol and tobacco. Is it the right thing to do to add one more vice and add thousands more to this figure? I think not.

The letter writers statement that laws arent stopping people from breaking the law doesnt make sense. Should we eliminate all laws based on this logic because people on a daily basis are breaking laws: burglary, vandalism, speeding, etc.?

We need laws in place and enforced to protect our citizens. Laws were made by our founding fathers who deemed it necessary so as to have an orderly society. If we dont obey and respect these laws our country and communities will be in chaos.

Tax revenues generated from legalizing pot mean nothing if it is destroying lives and families and babies born to pot users.

A Nebraska Educational Television documentary on the effects of legalizing pot in Colorado stated that there has been a dramatic increase in brain damage and mental disorders to babies born to pot users since legalizing this drug. Is this worth the revenue generated?

We need to have more seminars and school assemblies to explain the effects from pot and drug abuse. It would be well worth our tax dollars to do this.

Marlys E. Geiselman, Oxford
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to form
FILE- In this Dec. 31, 2008 file photo, Allison Smith of Jacksonville, Fla, left, tries to keep warm as she and others take part in the New Year's Eve festivities in New York's Times Square. Brutal weather has iced plans for scores of events in the Northeast U.S. from New YearAos Eve through New YearAos Day, but not in New York City, where people will start gathering in Times Square up to nine hours before the famous ball drop. (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg, File)
FILE - In this April 23, 2016, file photo, ousted Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi, wearing a red jumpsuit that designates he has been sentenced to death, sits inside a defendants cage in a makeshift courtroom at the national police academy, in an eastern suburb of Cairo, Egypt.An Egyptian court has convicted former Islamist President Mohammed Morsi and 18 others over insulting the judiciary, sentencing them to three years in prison. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil, File)
Kenosha County residents can now place online orders during the countys annual Tree & Shrub Program.

Residents have purchased nearly 1 million trees through the program, which started more than 25 years ago. County conservationist Dan Treloar said the county set a record in 2017 when it received 257 orders for a variety of native flora.

Treloar said the purpose of the program is to encourage area residents to plant native trees and shrubs to enhance conservation and wildlife habitat.

Transplants and seedlings from a variety of evergreens, hardwoods and shrubs are available in undividable bundles of 25 trees, at a cost of $20 to $25 per bundle. Treloar said there is no impact on the budget for the county, which charges just enough to cover its cost.

This year, available varieties include Colorado and Norway spruce, Frasier fir, white pine, arborvitae, black walnut, poplar, hazelnut, dogwood, crabapple, cherry, plum, red bud, lilacs, birch, oaks and maples. The number and species of trees and shrubs depends upon availability, weather conditions, past sales success, tree performance and general demand trends.

Trees and shrubs are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and are available for pickup in mid- to late April. The deadline to place an order is Feb. 23.

Treloar said the sale is open to the public and is not limited to Kenosha County residents.

A printable tree order form is available on the Kenosha County website at www.kenoshacounty.org/trees, or printed copies of the forms can be picked up at the Division of Planning and Development office at the Kenosha County Center, 19600 75th St., Bristol.

The website www.kenoshacounty.org/trees also includes a link to an online inventory database that tracks what varieties are available.

For more information, contact Treloar at 262-857-1900.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Froedtert South have reportedly reached an agreement that will keep Kenosha medical providers in Anthems network.

We have a verbal understanding of an agreement with Anthem as of today, Ric Schmidt, Froedtert South CEO, said Friday.

Anthem, however, would not confirm that an agreement had been reached Friday, instead releasing a statement saying it looks forward to continuing to have Froedtert South in Anthems network.

For Anthem, our members are our No. 1 priority as we continue working towards a fair agreement with Froedtert South that is in their best interest and maintains their access to high quality, affordable care in Kenosha, the company said in the released statement.

We are pleased that we have been making progress in this effort and look forward to continuing to have Froedtert South in our network so we can best meet the health care coverage needs of Southeast Wisconsin.

Schmidt said the written version of the agreement is slated for delivery to Froedtert South Tuesday. The final contract will be reviewed to ensure it is consistent with what was verbally agreed upon, Schmidt said.

As they say, The devils in the details,  Schmidt said.

Barring any discrepancies, the three-year contract will be signed Wednesday.

The agreement comes within days of the Dec. 31 negotiations deadline. It puts to rest months of sometimes acrimonious exchanges that included a media blitz underwritten by Froedtert South and a cease-and-desist order on those ads from Anthem.

Froedtert Souths ad campaign began in October when contract negotiations stalled. The full-page ads stated that many of its physicians would no longer accept Anthem insurance after Dec. 31.

This set off a chain reaction of concern from consumers unsure if they were among those who would be affected should the hospital system no longer take Anthem insurance.

While details of the agreement were not available Friday, Schmidt said patients would not see any changes in terms, co-pays or invoicing.

Perhaps most significantly, Anthem patients get to keep their Froedtert South doctors.

No big shakeups are anticipated in current care; patients wont miss a beat, Schmidt said.
1 of 5

Bizarre! Giant dog statue resembling Trump



In honor of the Lunar New Year a shopping mall in northern China has planted an enormous statue of a dog that resembles President Donald Trump. The statue, which is displayed at Fashion Walk Mall in Taiyuan, has been installed to celebrate the coming Year of the Dog. The huge canine figure has Trump's, 71, signature golden hairstyle, prominent eyebrows and classic gesture.



The figure has one finger extended in the air in the President's classic pose and the dog is even wearing a red scarf, representative of Trump's power ties.



Although the statue represents the coming year of the dog in the Chinese zodiac, ironically Trump's Chinese astrological sign is also the year of dog, as he was born in 1946. Read More...


A defendant who admitted stealing thousands of euro worth of machinery has been sentenced to two years in prison.

Jonathan Walsh, 4 Lord Edward Street admitted the offences which took place in Carlow in August of last year.

A mini digger, valued at 6,000 was stolen and has not been recovered. A second digger, valued at 9,000 was returned to its owners through the gardai and a roller with a value of 6,000 was also recovered.

The defendant had rented all three pieces of machinery and had not returned them to their owners. The court heard that following the thefts word spread quickly and gardai obtained a warrant for the homeplace of Jonathan Walsh. The court heard that gardai received a phone call from the defendants solicitor and he presented himself to gardai on September 16 and he was subsequently arrested.

The court heard that the defendant has 24 previous convictions, including convictions for offences under the Road Traffic Act, the Misuse of Drugs Act, The Public Order Act and the Criminal Damage Act.

The defendant told the Probation Services that at the time of his offending behaviour he was under pressure for debts.

The court heard that in respect of all three misappropriations no violence was used. There was also loss incurred by both of the injured parties. The defendant had raised 1,000 to date in compensation and apologised to both the injured parties in court and said that he was anxious to make full recompense.

The defence barrister outlined to the court that his client is a 35-year-old with a history of alcohol and cannabis misuse.

According to the prosecution the loss of income and of the vehicles amounted to approximately 27,680.

Judge Brian OCallaghan said that on August 13 the defendant had with criminal intent rented two mini diggers from Doyles Hire Properties with the intention of stealing them and under the pretence of renting them out. On August 25 the defendant carried out a similar activity under the pretence of a rental agreement stole a mini roller, the property of Denis O'Shaughnessy. Mr OShaughnessy subsequently recovered his own vehicle through his own piece of private detective work.

This was a pre-planned, intentional, considered, deliberate act of dishonesty and deceit. He entered into three rental agreements on the pretence that he would return them but he had no intention of so doing. His motive was greed and money to address his business debts and none of the items were returned to the rightful owners by Mr Walsh. He was clearly identified when taking the roller and this enabled Mr OShaughnessy to follow him and and he did. Following chat within the trade the dots were linked together. The loss can be measured not only with the loss of vehicles but also with the loss of business.

The elements of trust that we place in our fellow citizens is being eroded because of people like Mr Walsh and this is to the detriment of our society.

He has already been afforded two opportunities to pay back society by been given two community service orders by two different courts. The courts granted you two opportunities in the past to deal with your criminal activity, said the judge.

The court accepts your remorse but it is abundantly clear to this court that these three offences require a custodial sentence. The deceit carried on well beyond the actual offence. There are people working in those businesses whose jobs are reliant on these businesses doing well, he added.

The judge sentenced him to two years in respect of each of the counts and ordered that they be served concurrently as there is a connection between all three of them. He suspended the final 12 months on condition of the defendant entering into a bond to be of good behaviour and keep the peace for three years post release and to engage with the Probation Service and keep away for the business premises of his victims.
A young Kilkenny jockey has helped bring a smile back to the faces of a couple who lost their son in the Berkeley College balcony tragedy in the US.

Daniel Holden from Mullinavat gave Ellie Mac, owned by John and Graziella Schuster from Dublin a perfect ride to win the Horse and Jockey Hotel Maiden Hurdle on St Stephen's Day at Leopardstown.

It was the 20-year-old's first win as a professional and the horse had been backed from 200/1 into 50/1 before the race.

John Schuster told the Kilkenny People that Daniel gave the horse a magic ride and that he is grateful for Daniel's patience with the horse.

We are over the moon and we have big connections with Kilkenny and so it makes it all the sweeter, John said.

The horse is owned by a horse racing club established by the Schusters in memory of the late Nicolai, who was one of six Irish students that lost their lives in the Berkeley balcony tragedy on 16 June, 2015.

Before the race, Daniel dismounted from the mare as she came out of the parade ring because she was getting too excited and at the start more drama followed. He and Ellie Mac were shoved into the railing as other jockeys jostled for position before the white flag was raised - the omens didn't look good.

From the start, Daniel was gentle with his charge and as the race progressed, he noticed she was improving and before the last hurdle he realised he could be placed and dreamed of winning it.

He couldn't get over the guts Ellie Mac displayed over the last furlong to win and beat much more fancied runners. He said it will always be a special moment for him.

I am delighted for the Schusters and they deserve this bit of joy after what they went through, he said.

Daniel is a son of former Fine Gael councillor, Catherine Phelan who hugged her son and the Schusters in the parade ring after the race was over. Daniel is a nephew of Minister for Local Government, John Paul Phelan. He is attached, full-time, to the Henry De Bromhead stables in County Waterford.

He will go to Cheltenham in March for the annual national hunt racing festival and have his first ride their on Ellie Mac.
January was a busy month which started on a high note with the news that Kilkennys Paul Smithwick has been awarded an Order of the British Empire in the New Years Honours List.

Mr Smithwick OBE received the award for his ongoing service to British-Irish relations. A blacktie dinner was held in the Smithwicks brewery centre to make the award. It was hosted by Mr Smithwicks brother, Peter, and attended by the British ambassador to Ireland.

Meanwhile just 18 minutes past midnight little Caoimhe was born at St Lukes Hospital. Her proud parents Mark Casey amd AnnMarie Walsh are from Bennettsbridge. Caoimhe was not the only New Years baby in Kilkenny, with another proud mother, Caroline Jenkinson (Kilkenny City) opting for a homebirth for her baby Lee.

January also saw the passing of one of the citys oldest residents. Mrs Eileen McEvoy died at the age of 103 at Drakelands Nursing Home.

Meanwhile following a hugely successful 2016 choral director at the Presentation Secondary School, Verionica McCarron retired. Scarcely a month went by in 2016 when the choir were not being lauded for one performance or another, from the local stage to the national and even the international on occasion. None of it would have been possible without Ms McCarron and her outstanding contribution. Students, friends and staff all turned out to wish her well and to acknowledge her hard work over the years.

Millions of euro was netted by the local authority in property tax in Kilkenny. Figures seen by The Kilkenny People revealed that a whopping 7.3 million was collected in property tax in the city and county over the previous 12 months.

Sadly in recent years a number of iconic local businesses have closed andin January Burkes on RoseInn Street shut its doors for the final time. Burkes Newsagent on Rose Inn Street ceased trading on New Years Day after decades. With its distinctive shopfront, the little shop will be remembered by many as a place where they called in for their newspaper or tobacco, or where children would buy comic books or sweets.

It was also reported in The Kilkenny People in January athat a Kilkenny man is part of a huge scientific research project on the ice shelf which is currently breaking off Antarctic. His duties are hugely varied as ever, everyone has to pitch in because of the small number of the team, the cold and the need for everyone to do their part to ensure they survive and get the job done.

Damiens main responsibility, along with the team, are to decommission the station, de-rig and transport it over 20 kilometres to a safe zone on floating ice. Other tasks include constructing temporary camps, to house all the catering and communal area.

The L'arche Cafe in Callan celebrated its tenth birthday last week and marked the occasion with a party for all their staff and patrons. The cafe was created as a social enterprise where people with and without intellectual disabilities work together to provide home cooked food with outstanding service and a welcoming space for all.

Cafe L'arche strives to encourage the general public to interact and get to know people with a disability , and ultimately to build a more compassionate society.

Thousands attended the annual Wellie Race in Castlecomer with colourful floats and plenty of inventive and imaginative costumes.
PRAGUE, Dec 27 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Czech financial markets on Wednesday.

ALL TIMES GMT (Czech Republic: GMT + 1 hours) =========================ECONOMIC DATA==========================

Real-time economic data releases.................... Summary of economic data and forecasts........... Recently released economic data.................. Previous stories on Czech data............. **For a schedule of corporate and economic events: =========================NEWS===================================

BONDS: The Czech Republic's financing needs will reach 351.6 billion crowns ($16.19 billion) in 2018 to cover maturing debt and the planned budget deficit, the finance ministry said on Friday.

Story: Related stories: CEE MARKETS: Central European currencies were mostly stronger on Friday, with the Czech crown extending gains in the wake of its central bank's hawkish comments and the Polish zloty also firmer despite Poland's political row with Brussels.

Story: Related stories: ***For real-time stock market index quotes click in brackets: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX For updates on CEE currencies TOP NEWS -- Emerging markets =========================PRESS DIGEST==========================

POLITICS: President Milos Zeman said in a Christmas address that he would not call early elections, something that he said would be an affront to voters.

Prime Minister Andrej Babis is seeking parliamentary support for a minority cabinet after winning an October election, although other parties refused to enter a coalition with him.

Pravo, page 1

BANKS: The Czech National Bank and the Banking Association agreed to begin work on implementing an instant-pay system for money transfers.

Hospodarske Noviny, page 17

SHOES: Shoemaker Snaha, a producer of retro shoes, will seek new partners and investors next year, aiming to raise 1 million euros to boost production.

Mlada Fronta Dnes, page 7

(Reuters has not verified the stories, nor does it vouch for their accuracy.)

Prague Newsroom: +420 224 190 477

E-mail: prague.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com

(Reporting by Prague Newsroom)
By Deisy Buitrago and Marianna Parraga

CARACAS/HOUSTON, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Venezuela is investigating Rafael Ramirez, a once powerful oil minister and former head of state oil company PDVSA, in connection with an alleged $4.8 billion Vienna-based corruption scheme, the state prosecutor's office announced on Friday.

Prosecutor Tarek Saab said Ramirez and at least four other oil executives from the South American OPEC nation sold crude oil at below market prices in exchange for bribes.

Ramirez, who led PDVSA for a decade, told Reuters the allegation was a "blatant lie."

Venezuelan authorities had warned earlier this month that they planned to launch a criminal investigation of the former oil czar, in an escalation of a corruption purge that has resulted in the arrest of dozens of senior oil executives.

"(Ramirez) appears as the main intellectual author of what happened," said Saab, inviting Ramirez to Venezuela to defend himself.

Venezuela ordered the removal of Ramirez from his post as representative to the United Nations in New York last month.

"What the prosecutor says is not only false but demonstrates a deep ignorance," said Ramirez.

He added that the Vienna office of PDVSA was not in charge of selling oil but rather monitoring prices of Venezuelan crude exports.

"It's a blatant lie ... intended to persecute not only me but my team."

In his announcement on Friday, Saab also reported the arrest of Nelida Izarra, a former boss at a Vienna-based subsidiary of PDVSA, for alleged links to irregular purchases and sales of crude oil.

Saab also said he had ordered the arrest of two other PDVA officials who worked in Austria: Bernard Mommer and Irama Quiroz, as well as lawyer Mariana Zerpa. It is not immediately clear where Izarra was arrested or where the others currently reside.

Mommer was a pillar of oil strategy under former President Hugo Chavez, with oil sales serving as the cash cow for the country's socialist revolution. He was key in planning the nationalization of swaths of Venezuela's oil fields a decade ago and once served as the country's representative to OPEC.

"The executives involved in the case were complicit in these modifications that caused serious damage to the Venezuelan State, allegedly in exchange for commissions in foreign currency," said a statement from the state prosecutor's office.

Critics say the ongoing oil graft purge has as much to do with score settling among old political rivals as it does with any real attempt to root out endemic corruption.

Ramirez, 54, has been an increasingly vocal critic of leftist President Nicolas Maduro in recent months. He was seen by some as angling to run in the 2018 Venezuelan presidential election, in which Maduro is expected to seek another term.

The alleged crimes being investigated occurred between 2009 and 2015. Saab did not explain how authorities had reached the conclusion that they yielded $4.8 billion in illicit profits.

The prosecution reported that 69 oil managers have been arrested over the last few months for corruption in PDVSA, including former oil minister Eulogio Del Pino, former PDVSA president Nelson Martinez and the board of directors of Citgo, a PDVSA subsidiary in Houston.

(Writing by Girish Gupta; Editing by Alexandra Ulmer and Tom Brown)
Jihyun, arrived in the UK in 2008



When I was in North Korea, we had to listen closely to the yearly address by Kim Il-sung or Kim Jong-il. Then, on January 3, we had to prove in self-criticism sessions that we had understood. It wasn't our personal wishes or dreams we had to think about when a new year started. When I was young, we would share food and spend time with our neighbors around the New Year. It was considered to be a curse when women visited neighbors first, so men would go first. During the 1990s, the customs of sharing food and giving money disappeared because of the famine.



Eunhee, arrived in South Korea in 2012



It wasn't unusual for North Koreans to make New Year's resolutions, but I didn't. I didn't think about the next year or the future when I was in North Korea. I only thought about tomorrow. I need food tomorrow. I need to survive tomorrow. Now I am free, so I can think about my own life. My New Year's resolution for next year is to settle down well, keep improving my English and to live a happy life.



Sujin, arrived in South Korea in 2014



I had no New Year's resolutions when I was in North Korea, but I had one constant resolution in mind every day: To escape from the hell of North Korea. Every year, every day, I was thinking, "How can I escape?" I had no hope. I am from the countryside, so I had realized that I was destined to be a farmer like my father. I wanted to change my life's destiny.



My resolution in 2017 was to get a driver's license; I was so happy when I got it. I also wanted to learn English. I was struggling until I found TNKR (Teach North Korean Refugees). Next year, I will continue learning English. I hope my parents will be able to arrive safely. They tried to escape from North Korea, but they have been missing since May.



Collected by Casey Lartigue Jr., co-founder of the Teach North Korean Refugees Global Education Center (TNKR) in Seoul.


A common food establishment circa 1900s



By Robert Neff



In 1888, Daniel L. Gifford  an American missionary in Korea, wrote:



"The drink curse is widely prevalent in Korea. The liquors are of two kinds; one white and thick, the other a clear liquid. They are made from rice, barley or wheat. Saloons are frequent, with sauerkraut and liquor for sale. Maudlin sots or drunken brawls, with men tugging at each other's top-knots are, alas, a common sight upon the streets."



Men were not the only drunks. An American naval officer visiting Seoul in early 1884 recalled his first encounter with a Korean drunk  "an old woman, over sixty, drunk and happy, trying to support herself with her long staff, but eventually tripping over a pile of beans in the market place. She was kindly helped to her feet, smiling, and reclining, everyone she passed giving her a friendly set up to keep her on her feet."



The upper class also excessively partook of the "spirituous liquors." Isabella Bird Bishop, an elderly English travel-writer popular for her amusing and often opinionated observations, wrote: "[Drunkenness] is an outstanding feature in Korea. And it is not disreputable." She went on say, "A great dignitary even may roll on the floor drunk at the end of a meal, at which he has eaten to repletion, without losing caste, and on becoming sober receives the congratulations of inferiors on being rich enough to afford such a luxury."





Punishment for drinking at the American gold mines 1900
Most everyone is busy these days, and it can be hard to find the time to get the little things done. Errands like shopping for medicine and groceries, getting a  Read More
PRESS RELEASE

Saudi War of Genocide Dramatically Worsens Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen

Dec. 29, 2017 (EIRNS)As the Saudi-imposed war on Yemen passes one thousand days in duration, the humanitarian situation there only seems to be getting worse. Jamie McGoldrick, the UN humanitarian coordinator for Yemen issued a statement, yesterday, expressing deepening concern about civilian casualties resulting from the Saudi bombing campaign. "I remain deeply disturbed by mounting civilian casualties caused by escalated and indiscriminate attacks throughout Yemen," he said.

"Initial reports from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) indicate that on 26 December, airstrikes on a crowded popular market in Al Hayma sub-district in Attazziah district, Taizz Governorate resulted in at least 54 civilians killed, including eight children, and 32 others injured including six children."

He also cited a Dec. 26 airstrike that killed 14 members of a single family in Hodeidah governate.

"These incidents prove the complete disregard for human life that all parties, including the Saudi-led Coalition, continue to show in this absurd war that has only resulted in the destruction of the country and the incommensurate suffering of its people, who are being punished as part of a futile military campaign by both sides,"

he said.

Reuters reports that the civilian death toll over the past ten days, including the 68 cited by McGoldrick, is 109, with dozens more wounded. The same report also says that the UN has no updated estimate of the civilian death toll since August of 2016, when the number was put at 10,000.

But it doesnt stop with the Saudi bombing campaign. In a country already racked by a war featuring indiscriminate bombing, widespread hunger and cholera, a new horror has arisen in Yemen: diphtheria. That dreaded disease is making a comeback in a country where it hadnt been seen since 1992. And, as with the cholera epidemic, whats left of the Yemen health care system is totally incapable of dealing with it. A Reuters report from Aden, which is under the control of the Saudi-backed puppet government, paints an absolutely horrifying picture of a situation thats totally out of control in a hospital thats already overwhelmed by the cholera epidemic and doesnt have the resources to deal with this new outbreak, most of the victims of which are children under the age of 5. The pediatrician at the center of the story, in effect, is reduced to watching helplessly as these children, already suffering from malnutrition, die in front of her. The World Health Organization estimates there have been 380 diphtheria cases, so far, with 40 deaths.
QUESTION: I am a board director and was shocked to discover that the associations attorney and his firm represented our management company in a recent lawsuit. When I asked about this I was told that the management company also has a current retainer with this same attorney and his firm.

The board was never given notice of any of this by our attorney or manager, and when I asked about conflict waivers for representing both parties, our attorney looked at me as if hed never heard of such a thing.

He said his firms representation of our management company has nothing to do with representing our homeowner association, but then added that should our association and the management company have a dispute, he would withdraw from representing either party.

Advertisement

He treated me as if I was out of line to even suggest there might be a conflict. Does our association need to sign a waiver for our attorney to represent the management company?

ANSWER: Whether or not your association has to sign a waiver, your attorney and your management company should have disclosed their relationship with you. The attorney also should have made it unequivocally clear who the client was for purposes of invoking attorney-client privilege and respecting issues of confidentiality.

A management companys interests are often diametrically opposed to your homeowners association and its directors interests. If those differences are ongoing and significant, then the association cannot enter into a waiver of conflict and the attorney must decide which party to represent.

It is also important to know if representation of the other party was limited to civil litigation or if the attorney continues advising the management company. By signing the waiver, your association risks having its representation limited by their lawyers responsibilities to another client.

The importance of disclosure and consent is highlighted by a U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision that spells out a lawyers ethical obligations to fully disclose representation of multiple clients at the same time. There must be an explanation of the nature of the conflict of interest in such detail that the parties can understand the reasons why it may be desirable for each to have independent counsel that provides them with undivided loyalty. (Unified Sewerage Agency vs. Jelco Inc.)

California Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys also recognize that clients must not only be informed of the conflict but appreciate the risks and possible adverse outcomes of dual representation. That is why the rules say an attorney also has an obligation to tell each party that they should each obtain independent counsel to review the matter before giving consent.

This obligation is certainly not satisfied when you have to investigate and discover the potential conflict on your own and when your concerns are dismissed without any additional relevant information provided by your attorney.

Even if your association and management are not currently engaged in a dispute, you are still on opposite sides of a contract  a contract that may need to be renegotiated or litigated at some point in the future. It will be extremely difficult, or impossible, for your attorney to give you unbiased counsel on how to deal with your management company or negotiate a new contract while also representing management.

Similarly, if a homeowner or third party ever sues the association or its management, one or both of you may need to sue the other for indemnification or contribution, which would then deprive you both of your long-term legal representative.

With a better understanding of the respective relationships and possible repercussions at issue, your association can now make an informed decision. Because of the possibility of losing representation in the event of withdrawal or termination, consider shopping for a new attorney or management company.

Zachary Levine, a partner at Wolk & Levine, a business and intellectual property law firm, co-wrote this column. Vanitzian is an arbitrator and mediator. Send questions to Donie Vanitzian, JD, P.O. Box 10490, Marina del Rey, CA 90295 or noexit@mindspring.com
Takeshi Hamano liked to stroll through the Umeya Rice Cake Co. factory in Little Tokyo, stopping along the way to taste test his senbei, or Japanese rice crackers.

When hed see employees, hed stop and quiz them about the production process  from the washing of the rice to the steaming, kneading, cutting, toasting and flavoring of the Japanese snacks.

He was very good at getting you to say the wrong thing, said his son Rex Hamano, with a laugh. But in a mentoring way. He wanted people to get better.

Advertisement

Rex Hamano took over as president when his father, known by all as Tak, died in April at age 92.

Hamano, an accountant by training who said he never felt pressured to become the third generation to run Umeya, described his father as the heart of the business. Ultimately, the family decided that Umeya and Tak Hamano should rest together, so the Los Angeles company will close Dec. 31, after nearly a century in operation.

That entrepreneurial spirit of never giving up, thats Tak, Rex Hamano said. You cant transfer that.

Umeya was one of the few businesses of its kind left in Little Tokyo. It was started by Tak Hamanos father, Yasuo, with the familys help both in startup funds and the labor to help make rice crackers by hand in the back of Yasuos small shop, sometime around 1918. Umeya Rice Cake Co. was incorporated about 1925.

Umeyas products proved popular with small Japanese grocery stores, fishing villages and farm camps around California, according to a company history written by Tak Hamano.

The original factory on Weller Street, now called Weller Court, closed in 1942 when the family was sent to an internment camp under President Franklin D. Roosevelts Executive Order 9066, which resulted in the incarceration of about 120,000 people of Japanese descent, most of them American citizens.

The family stored its manufacturing machinery and was taken to an assembly center at the Santa Anita race track, then to the Rohwer internment camp in Arkansas. In 1944, the Hamano family was able to reopen the business in Denver.

The demand for rice crackers was high from the internment camps, and the family struggled to fill orders.

Umeya made the move back to Los Angeles in 1950. Because of postwar discrimination toward people of Japanese ancestry, Umeya made it a point of being one of the few corporations to hire immigrants, Rex Hamano said.

Tak Hamano, who took over the company in 1970, helped people start their lives again, said June Aochi Berk, a close friend who was in the same camp during the war.

Tak expanded company operations with his ability to do business in two different cultures, which gave him an edge and allowed him to introduce the Japanese rice snack to non-Japanese populations, said Brian Kito, owner of Fugetsu-do, a mochi confectionery shop in Little Tokyo.

Umeya wholesaled its rice crackers and other snacks, including fortune cookies, to Japanese and Asian grocery stores such as Marukai, Mitsuwa Market, Tokyo Central and 99 Ranch Market, as well as some mainstream supermarkets. Hamano said the family is considering licensing its products in some form.

Customers also could walk up to the window at Umeyas production facility and warehouse on Crocker Street and buy boxes of hana rice crackers that were shaped like flowers or the popular assorted mix of rice crackers that included wasabi peas, sugar twists and salty rectangles. The Hamano family hasnt decided what will happen to downtown facility; Rex Hamano declined to say how many people were employed there.

One of Tak Hamanos greatest joys was giving back to his community, Aochi Berk said. He was adamantly opposed to being in the limelight or receiving recognition for the contributions in products, funds and resources he made to Japanese-American non-profits and businesses, including the San Fernando Valley Japanese-American Citizens League, the Suzume no Gakko Summer Camp and Fugetsu-do.

Fugetsu-do, which was also a customer, sold 70 or 80 gift-wrapped sets of rice crackers at a time during the holiday season. Kito often wondered, why wouldnt Umeya raise the prices?

They were very inexpensive, so inexpensive that it used to just irk me, Kito joked. I would tell my dad, We buy these things for $1.75, and we sell it for $2.50 and wrap it up and put a bow on it.

Im saddened to see some of the older businesses as they disappear.  Brian Kito, Little Tokyo business owner

But as small and inexpensive as the rice snacks were, they were significant for the Japanese-American community.

For many customers, Umeya represented nostalgia  it was a familiar snack they would carry to school and on field trips and receive as gifts on holidays, Rex Hamano said.

Derek Yee, a 31-year-old Carpenteria resident, said his family has been buying Umeya products for generations. In the mid 1930s, young Tak Hamano and Yees grandfather would snack on Umeya senbei, bought by his great-grandmother, at their boy scout troop meetings in Little Tokyo.

Years later, Yees grandmother bought boxes full of snacks for holiday gifts. She wrapped fortune cookies in cellophane bags, tied them with a Christmas ribbon and topped them with the appropriate label to be delivered to whomever she wanted to show appreciation.

Sitting by Tak Hamanos bedside a few months before he died, Kito said he realized Hamano was probably one of the last people in Little Tokyo who could tell stories about what the old days were like.

I think the community looks at [Umeya closing] thinking Gee, what could we have done? Kito said, tears in his eyes.

Even in his final days, Tak Hamano remained an innovator, Kito said. Hamano talked of plans to make coffee-, salsa- and cinnamon-flavored rice crackers.

Umeyas absence will mark another change in Little Tokyo. Several other family-owned Japanese businesses have struggled, closed or sold in the last few years.

Last year, Rafu Shimpo was near shutting down. The newspaper raised enough funds to operate through 2018, but is strategizing for ways to survive permanently, said Ellen Endo, president of the Little Tokyo Business Assn.

Mikawaya, a 107-year-old mochi ice cream shop, which sells in many locations across the country, was bought from the Hashimoto family by a private equity firm in 2015.

The shift in Little Tokyo might be attributed to growing competition, Endo said. New businesses have established in the 11-block neighborhood, drawing people away from Japanese mom-and-pop shops.

Kito said that Little Tokyo businesses once were close-knit, tied together by the necessity of fighting open prejudice and discrimination. But with newer businesses, fewer people know each other, diminishing the sense of community, he said.

We do see a lot of good things, a lot of younger businesspeople coming to the area, Kito said. Im saddened to see some of the older businesses as they disappear.

Times staff writer Samantha Masunaga contributed to this report.

alejandra.reyesvelarde@latimes.com

Twitter: @r_valejandra
Like its beach-city neighbors to the north and south, Hermosa Beach was formerly part of the Rancho Sausal Redondo, 25,000 acres of prime grazing land on the rolling coastal plain of the Los Angeles Basin.

At the beginning of the 20th century, 1,500 acres of the rancho were purchased by developers who formed the Hermosa Beach Land and Water Co. to facilitate the creation of a seaside vacation community for well-to-do Angelenos seeking to beat the heat; the wind blowing in off the bay kept summertime temperatures up to 30 degrees cooler than those farther inland.

Those cool breezes came with a downside, however: The persistent onshore flow whipping across the settlements dunes inspired one early resident to record her impression of life there: But my inmost being shrank / From the greeting chill and dank / Of a wind forever blowing / Oer the sand dunes of Hermosa.

Advertisement

But blowing sand did little to dissuade newcomers from moving to Hermosa or from visiting it via the Los Angeles Pacific Railway.

By 1903, a small downtown was built to serve the residents of five permanent homes and numerous beach shacks that were built atop skids and could be moved back and forth to avoid the tides.

Just one year later, the earliest version of the Strand boardwalk was under construction, and a wooden pier  the first in a succession of three municipal piers  was built, extending 500 feet into the ocean.

After the town incorporated in 1907, it purchased two miles of beach from the Hermosa Beach Land and Water Co., with the deed stating that it be held in perpetuity as a beach playground, free from commerce, and for the benefit of not only the residents of Hermosa, but also for the sea lovers of Southern California.

As the town grew, it became a popular vacation destination, with massive crowds converging during high tourist season.

In the 1940s, Hermosa became something of a jazz hot spot with the opening of the Lighthouse nightclub, which boasted a nationally renowned house band in addition to playing host to such jazz greats as Miles Davis and Chet Baker.

Two decades later, the third Hermosa Beach pier became a popular surfing spot, and the sport soon became central to the towns culture, culminating with the opening of the Surfers Walk of Fame in 2003.

Neighborhood highlights

Hit the beach: Surfing, swimming, fishing, beach volleyball and just lying out in the sun with a cool drink in hand are all popular Hermosa Beach pastimes.

They got the jazz: The Lighthouse is still a great place to catch the hottest jazz acts and has recently received renewed national attention as a filming location for La La Land.

Retail therapy: Hermosas quaint, walkable downtown has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, and after the sun goes down, there are nightlife options galore.

Neighborhood challenge

Not enough there there: With Hermosa Beach clocking in at less than a mile and a half square, there arent many houses available to buy, limiting opportunities for first-time home buyers or those looking for deals.

Expert Insight

David Keller of RE/MAX Estate Properties has been active in the Hermosa Beach community for more than three decades.

He said the neighborhoods energy flows from Pier Avenue, which is lined with hand-painted murals, statues commemorating legendary surfers and very few franchise-type shops and restaurants.

On the architecture front, Keller said a new style is catching on in Hermosa Beach.

Currently, theres an equal draw toward a style which is formally called Coastal Plantation, Keller said. This style incorporates the idea of an elevated beach farmhouse with clean, contemporary lines.

Market snapshot

In the 90254 ZIP Code, based on 14 sales, the median sales price for single-family homes in November was $1,575,000, up 3.7% year over year, according to CoreLogic.

Report card

There are two public schools within the Hermosa Beach boundaries. Hermosa Valley Elementary scored 935 on the 2013 Academic Performance Index, and Hermosa View Elementary scored 934.

Times staff writer Jack Flemming contributed to this report.

hotproperty@latimes.com

MORE FROM HOT PROPERTY

Modernist marvel Edris House in Palm Springs seeks $3.2 million

Dave Coulier of Full House fame cuts loose from longtime home in Encino

DWTS alum Frankie Muniz sells his 1930s hacienda in Arizona for $3.2 million
We were driving east out of Otay Mesa when my phone buzzed with a text message from T-Mobile. Welcome to Mexico! it read. I slid the phone back into my pocket. The wide street we were on, Via de la Amistad, soon turned into a dirt road. The SUV I was riding in, with a pair of officers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, bumped along for another five minutes or so before we pulled into a long, open field.

We hadnt actually driven into Mexican territory, as I far I knew. Yet my phones confusion seemed to mirror my own. Lined up in the middle of the expanse of dirt where wed stopped, now visible in a perfect row, were eight prototypes of the border wall that President Trump has promised to build between the United States and Mexico.

Id been working for a few days to arrange a visit to the prototypes, which are being tested and evaluated by the federal government through early next year. They were designed and fabricated by six firms  not engineering giants like Bechtel or AE Com but for the most part homegrown companies including W.G. Yates & Sons of Mississippi and Fisher Sand & Gravel of Arizona. (One entry is by the North American arm of ELTA, an Israeli defense contractor.) To get permission to see them, Id had to convince a CBP public-affairs officer that my interest in the subject was genuine  and my professional experience germane.

The opening line of his email reply to me had taken the form of a question: What is an architecture critic? Id sent back a long and Im sure insufferably earnest definition of my job, explaining that I see my beat as including nearly every part of the built environment. This corner, I added, is a whole lot more politically and symbolically potent than most.

Yet as I climbed out of the SUV and began walking toward the eight sections of wall, each about 30 feet wide and 30 feet high, I wondered if hed been right to be surprised by my interest. All of a sudden my critical instincts seemed divided against themselves. The slabs in front of me seemed at once the most and least architectural objects Id ever seen. They were banal and startling, full and empty of meaning. Here were the techniques of Land Art, medieval construction, marketing and promotion, architectural exhibition and the new nativism rolled uncomfortably if somehow inevitably into one.

From the start, Trumps presidential campaign and his pledge to build the border wall were so intertwined as to be nearly synonymous. He made his first official version of the promise during the news conference announcing his White House bid, which took place in the windowless lowest level of Manhattans Trump Tower on June 16, 2015. (According to the Hollywood Reporter and other news outlets, at least some of the people cheering the announcement had been paid to be there, provided to the campaign by a casting company called Extra Mile.) After some opening boasting that will now strike most Americans as familiar  Wow. Whoa. That is some group of people. Thousands.  This is beyond anybodys expectations. Theres been no crowd like this.  Trump vowed to build a great, great wall on our southern border. And I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words.

Fairly quickly, as Trump rose in the polls, that promise began to bump up against some real-world limitations. Mexico wasnt going to pay for the wall, no matter how many times Trump announced it would. Nor, since he took office, has Congress seemed inclined to fund anything close to the whole project, which carries an estimated price tag of somewhere between $12 billion and $70 billion. (The House, but so far not the Senate, has passed a 2018 budget that includes $1.6 billion in border-wall funding.) There are long stretches of territory  along the Rio Grande and in areas where most borderland parcels are in private hands, to name two  where erecting a wall would be practically if not literally impossible.

In Trumpworld, that hardly mattered. What mattered was the brilliant battering-ram simplicity of the wall as political weapon  a blunt idea for a blunt candidate. After eight years of coolly detached rhetoric from Barack Obama, a politician whose perspective could seem Olympian to a fault, Trumps advisors guessed that the electorate was ready for something more direct, even more tribal. Something far closer to the ground.

The slabs seemed at once the most and least architectural objects Id ever seen. They were banal and they were startling, full and empty of meaning.

The wall became the marker of that shift in tone. The monosyllabic phrases Trumps crowds chanted at various rallies  Lock her up, taunting Hillary Clinton, as well as Build that wall  made up a rhetorical foreshadowing of the prototypes themselves. The point in both cases was to suggest something drastic or even shocking in the plainest of terms. Not to gild the quotidian but the opposite: to make the outlandish, the improbable or the hostile sound like the most routine, achievable thing in the world.

Its often said that the most basic form of architecture is shelter. Theres a famous illustration on the frontispiece of Marc-Antoine Laugiers Essay on Architecture, a staple of Architecture 101 college syllabi, showing two tree branches lashed together to form a pitched roof: the so-called Primitive Hut. Yet its possible to pare the idea down further. In the simplest sense, human beings build two kinds of things in the world. We build connective things and we build protective things. We build tunnels and we build walls.

Tunnels suggest connection but also rule-breaking and escape. Walls suggest not just division but authority and control. Tunnels are about expanding the number of paths in the world. Walls are about limiting that number. Tunnels are stateless; walls give shape to statehood. Each is made in a fundamental sense out of a desire to outsmart the other.

It was hardly surprising, then, that the CBPs guidelines for the prototypes included the requirement that they be strong enough to repel attempts to tunnel beneath them to a depth of 6 feet. Each also had to be able to withstand a half-hour of attack by sledgehammer, car jack, pick ax, chisel, battery-operated impact tools, battery-operated cutting tools, oxy/acetylene torch or other similar hand-held tools. CBP had divided the wall samples by material: There were walls made of concrete and walls made of something, as the guidelines put it, other than concrete.

As for their looks? This was the most surprising thing of all. When I first caught sight of them from the SUV, I worried about making even basic distinctions among them. They looked virtually identical. But as I spent more time in this odd open-air architecture gallery, it became clear that the aesthetic spectrum the prototypes covered was very wide.

The one furthest east, by Fisher Sand & Gravel, was the idea of a wall stripped to its essence, suggesting a kind of accidental minimalism, a section of a Peter Zumthor facade after a trip through the federal bureaucracy. Made of three panels that matched almost perfectly the color of the dirt at its feet, it was the simplest of the group and also  at $365,000  among the least expensive to produce.

A very different sensibility was evident in the slab designed by ELTA. Its bottom half was concrete, its upper half metal. The concrete section (though only on the side facing the U.S., per the official guidelines) was painted white and blue, as if it were covering a split-level ranch house outside Phoenix.

One of the border wall designs with a partially transparent lower portion. (Guillermo Arias / AFP / Getty Images)

Another wall prototype takes its color cues from the landscape. (Guillermo Arias / AFP / Getty Images)

A wall protoype thats concrete on the bottom, metal on top. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP / Getty Images)

Also in this decorative vein was the concrete wall by Texas Sterling Construction, which featured a white faux-brick pattern stamped into its American side. The argument these two walls made was pragmatism a la HGTV: that any piece of construction could be humanized, even made cheerful, with some measured, cost-effective ornament.

Adding to the strangeness of the setting was the fact that these prototypes for a new border wall overlooked the imperfect real thing. Running along the southern edge of the field where they were arranged was a genuine stretch of border fence, a sagging, pockmarked barrier made of rusting corrugated metal.

Im sure that section of wall, built in the 1990s, looked shiny (and maybe even robust) when it was new. But time and nature had taken their toll. If the three-panel concrete prototype by Fisher Sand & Gravel looked as though it had risen straight from the earth, the existing fence seemed to be slowly returning to it.

As I kept examining the prototypes, more variety emerged. There were perfectly straight walls and humpbacked ones. Some were solid. Others had vertical metal bars along the base, making it possible to see easily through them.

What the prototypes didnt resemble, in any practical sense, was a wall. (A swatch of fabric is not a shirt; a lone panel from an umbrella wont keep you dry when it rains.) It wasnt just that they suggested Potemkin slices, architectural stand-ins to match the human ones Trumps campaign invited to the news conference kicking off his White House bid.

Because theyd been put up with gaps between them  the better to appreciate the differences from one design to the next  they offered no sense of enclosure or completeness. This gave the whole display a surprising and ironic twist: the way the prototypes were arranged struck me as emblematic of the limits of Trumps border-security aspirations. They were prototypes of a wall that will likely, for practical reasons as well as political ones, always be as notable for its gaps as for its consistent protection.

SIGN UP for the free Essential Arts & Culture newsletter 

What is an architecture critic? Maybe an architecture critic is somebody who goes to see slices of concrete and steel in a big field and comes back to report whats so self-evident, even obvious, that it threatens to remain unsaid: that these sections of wall are better understood for their collective symbolism than as competing entries in a genuine design competition.

That as a group  eight slabs and seven spaces-between-slabs  they enact, with surprising precision, the southern border wall that we already have and probably always will, the one were eternally displeased with and yet condemned to keep building. That what were producing is a strange hybrid of wall and tunnel, just as I was in the United States while my phone told me I was in Mexico: something that both frustrates and enables connection, that makes plain that a border is at once the place where were separated from another country and where were joined to it.

A barrier made of alternating bands of substance and absence, aspiration and impossibility. Here wall, here no wall. Here something, here nothing. And on and on across the desert.

christopher.hawthorne@latimes.com

Twitter: @HawthorneLAT

MORE ARCHITECTURE

Best architecture in 2017: In a tough year, plenty of highlights

Flood, fire and volatility became the new normal for American cities

The Hogwarts Effect: College buildings look straight out of Harry Potter's world
The new year is upon us! In with the new. Out with the old. Except for this highly caffeinated newsletter, which is your weekly dose of all things culture from the great state of Califas. Heres wishing you joy and good fortune for 2018!

Heres what weve got for the final week of the year:

L.A. GUIDE TO NEW YEARS EVE

Dont have any plans for the big night? Times contributor Matt Cooper has rounded up a selection of events  including jazz, hip-hop, comedy and a free outdoor concert  with which to ring in the New Year. Los Angeles Times

Advertisement

Add to that list the Troubadour Theater Companys How the Princh Stole Christmas! which runs through New Years Eve. The Times Daryl Miller reviews the hijinks of the companys latest theatrical send-up. Los Angeles Times

PICKING UP THE PIECES

We hope the new year will bring some comfort to the Californians whose homes and communities were devastated by the many fires that plagued the Southland. The Times Deborah Vankin speaks with one artist about what it was like to lose his studio and his lifes work. It was terrible, says John Wullbrandt, a painter in Carpinteria. But I thought: Were alive. The story also features some remarkable photography by Times photo editor Hal Wells. Los Angeles Times

John Wullbrandt sifts through the ashes of his painting archives. (Hal Wells / Los Angeles Times )

BLACK RADICAL WOMEN

A sculpture in the form of a Molotov cocktail that had never been on public view and a prison mural that has been seen only twice by a general public. We Wanted a Revolution: Black Radical Women, 1965-85, on view at the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, brings together rare and surprising works that tell the story of how black women artists in the late 20th century contended with the racism of mainstream feminism and the machismo of the Black Power movement. Its a show that, as I report this week, makes the story of art a little richer and deeper. Youve got until Jan. 14 to see it! Los Angeles Times

Plus, I also report on the improvised mural inspired by Los Angeles that was painted by Mexican artist Hugo Crosthwaite at the Museum of Social Justice on Olvera Street. Starting in February, the artist will obliterate the work bit by bit. Los Angeles Times

Hugo Crosthwaite stands before In Memoriam: Los Angeles at the Museum of Social Justice. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times )

ART AND POLITICS

In a year in which everyone seemed glued to a Twitter stream of political turmoil, Times theater critic Charles McNulty explores the role of art in responding to current events. Its all well and good to be timely, he writes. But playwrights have more pressing business than keeping up with the news crawl. At the moment, theres no greater service they can provide than creating imaginative worlds for audiences to contemplatively explore. Contemplatively is the crucial word. Los Angeles Times

The Public Theaters staging of Julius Caesar, in which a Donald Trump-like character gets assassinated, was a particularly politically pointed production in 2017. (Joan Marcus / Associated Press )

RE-IMAGINING THE DMZ

Speaking of politics, South Korean artist Jae-Eun Choi has a dream of transforming the 160 mile-long demilitarized zone that separates North Korea from South into a border nature sanctuary with the assistance of artists and architects. We need it. They need it, she tells Times contributor Alan Weisman. We dont need war: With terrorism, hurricanes, and extinctions, the world is already dangerous enough. In such times, we must get together. Los Angeles Times

MAN OF MANY FACES

What does L.A. Phil Music Director Gustavo Dudamel look like when he conducts? Times photographer Jay L. Clendenin captured the man in action in 19 frames. Its worth clicking through to see the video. Los Angeles Times

Gustavo Dudamel leads the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl in August. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times )

IN OTHER NEWS...

 Cuba has been hit by a wave of artist detentions, including Tania Bruguera, who has been detained multiple times in the past (and whom I interviewed in 2015). Havana Times

 A woman  Barbara Jatta  now leads the Vatican Museums. New York Times

 Artists, activist and inveterate collaborator Tim Rollins has died. ARTnews

 Incredibly ugly Confederate statue is vandalized. Splinter

 Urbanism writer Alissa Walker wraps up all of the things that Angelenos have to look forward to in the coming year, including improved street design and legal weed. Curbed

 How cities are turning themselves into Instagram backdrops. Make it stop. Citylab

 Daniel Hernandez on the banality and beauty of the 110-105 Freeway interchange. L.A. Taco

An aerial view in 2014 of the Judge Harry Pregerson Interchange, where the 110 and the 105 meet. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times )

 And Gustavo Arellano on South Coast Plaza and its history. Curbed

 Anne Bown-Crawford has been named head of the California Arts Council. Lost Coast Outpost

 Why I love the internet, Part 1: A first-date-gone-wrong story that involves busted-up Warhols and a tank. KHOU

 Why I love the internet, Part 2: The U.S. was meant to have the metric system. Then pirates intervened. NPR

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST...

How do we all feel at the end of 2017? I think my dog Bonnie best sums it up...

Los Angeles Times culture muse Bonnie Miranda hits the end of the year. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times )

Sign up for our weekly Essential Arts & Culture newsletter 

carolina.miranda@latimes.com

@cmonstah
Here are the 2018 SAG Awards nominees reactions to their nods

The on-camera talent recognized during the 24th Screen Actors Guild Award nominations on Wednesday shared their excitement and gratitude for the special honor bestowed upon them by the acting community.

The SAG Awards serve up laurels for actors and ensemble casts working in television and film as voted by their peers. The awards show, hosted by The Good Place star Kristen Bell, will take place on Jan. 21.

LIST: The 2018 SAG Award nominees

In statements to the Los Angeles Times, several nominees repeatedly thanked their drama families, particularly the casts and crews of their respective projects. Heres what some of them had to say about the recognition:

Alison Brie. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Alison Brie, GLOW

It is such a great honor to be recognized by my fellow actors with this nomination. I am so proud to be part of a show that celebrates the craft of acting, with all its pitfalls and glories, and to be able to work with such a diverse group of insanely talented women. GLOW has meant the world to me and Im deeply thankful for this recognition for me and the cast. Thank you SAG-AFTRA!!

Millie Bobby Brown. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Millie Bobby Brown, Stranger Things

Screen Actors Guild! Thank you SO much for recognizing me and our cast for the second year in a row! This means the world coming from you, our peers. I am so lucky and honored to have the privilege of playing Eleven  a strong, powerful, badass, strange, wonderful character! Cant wait to celebrate with my Stranger Things family!

Timothee Chalamet. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

Timothee Chalamet, Call Me By Your Name

What an incredible morning! This nomination is very close to my heart because its from the actor. When we made Call Me By Your Name, we had no idea what it would turn into. The experience in making the film with Armie [Hammer] was so special, and yet, we just didnt know. Simply put, Ive been blown away by the response this film has received. And, to be included in ensemble along with my Lady Bird family (congrats, Saoirse [Ronan]!) makes this recognition that much more special.

David Harbour. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

David Harbour, Stranger Things

If it isnt wildly apparent by now, Ill say it directly  I love actors! To be recognized by my peers in such distinguished company gives me a special joy. And Millie [Bobby Brown] and the show! Beyond.

When I act, when I create, I feel alive, full to bursting, and I feel of service to the mysterious goodness that firmly exists in this world. I have been rewarded with a life that indulges in the primacy of self, but at its core and at its purest and its best, it is a life of service. A service to audiences. To prod and poke when necessary, to comfort and entertain when times seem dark, to ever expand the human experience, to offer a reason to live, to celebrate to the gods the great gift and scourge that is consciousness. Sometimes it means expressing iron intellect and rigorous truth that bonds us all in the achingly profound wisdom of no escape. Sometimes it means revealing the intimate moments of endurance, of unexpected kindness, unasked for love. And sometimes it simply means making a fierce and joyful noise, to spin, to twirl, to throw your hands up with the relentless dips and climb aboard this roller coaster of life. Ya know, to dance. *insert Hopper dancing gif*

Thank you for recognizing me, as it might mean itll be easier to get more jobs doing it.

Sally Hawkins, The Shape of Water

I am beyond thrilled to have received the honor of this nomination. And to receive it from fellow colleagues is huge to me. Guillermo [del Toro], this film and the entire cast and crew hold a very special place in my heart and always will. Each and every one of them made me better. I am truly delighted more than I can really express in words but my heart is fit to burst with pride for us all. Thank you dearest SAG members. Thank you for your embrace.

Sean Hayes. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Sean Hayes, Will & Grace

I am so honored to be recognized in this category with these extraordinary actors. I love acting because I love actors. I also like to bake sometimes.

Richard Jenkins. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Richard Jenkins, The Shape of Water

I am thrilled and humbled to be nominated by my peers for a SAG Award. This union is very close to my heart. Well, the SAG card is in my wallet, so its a little further south.

Zoe Kazan. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Zoe Kazan, The Big Sick

Thank you to SAG for honoring The Big Sick ensemble with a nomination. It means so much to us, especially from our acting peers. I am deeply proud to be a part of this film and to have brought Kumail [Nanjiani] and Emily [V. Gordon]s story into the world, especially at this time. We are particularly moved to have been recognized as an ensemble, as this was such an extraordinary collaborative experience Im excited to be reunited once more with my movie family, and to share this with Kumail, Holly [Hunter], Ray [Romano], Zenobia [Shroff], Anupam [Kher], and Adeel [Akhtar] and everyone else who helped bring The Big Sick to life.

Nicole Kidman. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Nicole Kidman, Big Little Lies

What an amazing morning! Thank you to SAG-AFTRA for recognizing Big Little Lies in such a significant way. Ive been acting since I was 14 and have dedicated an enormous amount of my life to my craft so to be acknowledged by my acting family is the most incredible honor.

Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Laura Linney, Ozark

I am so proud to be included in a list of such wonderful actresses who have raised the bar so high. What an amazing year for women in television. And I am especially proud to be representing Ozark with my TV spouse, the ever deserving Jason Bateman! Thank you SAG-AFTRA!

Marc Maron. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)

Marc Maron, GLOW

I am stunned and excited to be recognized by other actors in this way. I really never thought this was possible in my life. It helps to be surrounded by amazing actors and to have such a defined and well written character as Sam Sylvia and to be on a show as unique as GLOW. I am just a small part. So, thanks SAG for recognizing me and the mind-blowing ensemble that is GLOW.

Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, The Big Sick

We are so lucky to have been graced with the enormous talents of every single member of our cast. They each put a piece of themselves into our story and we are thrilled at being recognized. Thank you. And a special shout out to Holly Hunters individual nomination!

Now we have to go tell our real parents that they arent actually nominated.

Bob Odenkirk. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul

I am thrilled to get this nomination from my fellow actors! At Better Call Saul I am surrounded by an ensemble of excellence  Michael McKean, Rhea Seehorn, Jonathan Banks, everybody raises my game. Thank you to SAG-AFTRA.

Gary Oldman. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Gary Oldman, The Darkest Hour

No actor could ever deny the special satisfaction that comes from being recognized by your fellow artists  we all share the same challenges, insecurities, and uncertainties, chief among them, the question am I any good? this nomination, and in the wonderful company of the other nominees, is so very satisfying.

Margot Robbie. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Margot Robbie, I, Tonya

Im so incredibly moved and excited to be nominated by my fellow actors. I feel very fortunate to be able to have had the opportunity to bring Tonyas story to the big screen. Thank you to Steven [Rogers] for his brilliant and unique script, to Allison [Janney] and Sebastian [Stan] for being such incredible screen partners and to Craig [Gillespie] for his amazing direction and perfectly capturing the tone and essence of the film. Im so honored to be recognized among the truly powerful and wonderful women in the category. I cant wait to celebrate with everyone.

Sam Rockwell. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Sam Rockwell, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

It is such an honor to be nominated by your fellow actors, I have been a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild for as long as I can remember. To share it with this wonderful ensemble whom I have had the pleasure to work with over the years and others I got to collaborate with for the first time is truly special. I want to thank Martin McDonagh, our director and writer, for crafting these characters, as well as Woody [Harrelson], Fran [McDormand] and the rest of the cast who brought the town of Ebbing to life on screen. I am thrilled.

Ray Romano. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)

Ray Romano, The Big Sick

This is awesome but I wont believe it till the recount.
The city obsessed with image got a makeover in 2017, and it turns out that Los Angeles isnt that vapid after all, at least on series television.

Insecure, Snowfall, Marvels Runaways, Bosch and East Los High were among an unprecedented number of new and returning series set in, and in some cases starring, slices of the city and its subcultures that Angelenos might actually recognize.

The stucco apartment complexes and busy burger joints of of Inglewood. The homeless encampments from downtown to Santa Monica. The small mom and pop stores of El Sereno and Boyle Heights.

Advertisement

L.A. on the small screen went from a fantasy city of sun, fun and fame to a real place, where the majority of residents cant afford their rent, homelessness is more prevalent on the streets than convertibles and race and class divides are everywhere.

Taken as a whole, these shows presented a city that began to look more like the real Los Angeles, where there are more than 100 districts and neighborhoods, the annual per capita income is around $29,000 and most residents have never seen the inside of soundstage, let alone stepped foot in the hotel suites or penthouses of Ray Donovans world.

A boost to Californias film tax credit program a few years ago, with added incentives for TV productions, has likely contributed to bringing productions back to the city. But its the fresh perspective from a diverse collection of shows that rendered fictional L.A. a more believable place in 2017.

Its a notable shift, especially in a year that demanded we rethink just about everything, including how we watch TV.

Stream it. Binge it. Swap passwords. Just make sure its commercial-free because no one should ever have to see that Liberty Mutual insurance ad about a car named Brad again.

The proliferation of content across multiple platforms has equaled a demand for fresh, new narratives, and in L.A.s case thats meant a move away from the mediums historically vapid depictions of the city.

From Baywatch to Beverly Hills, 90210 to Entourage to Curb Your Enthusiasm, the general formula has been the same: blonds in big sunglasses and small bikinis. Celebrity and/or rich-kid excess. Moneyed Westsiders and their self-centered escapades. And, holy avocado toast, dont forget the establishing shots of roller skaters on the Venice boardwalk. This isnt Poughkeepsie, after all.

The citys homogenized suburbs and Westside mansions have been portrayed or lampooned in series from The Brady Bunch to Transparent to Curb Your Enthusiasm. The dark side presented in police procedurals from CHiPs to NCIS: Los Angeles often meant (or means) venturing into dicey areas and subcultures, meaning anything outside the aforementioned safety zones of white, upscale L.A.

Shows such as HBOs comedy-drama Insecure, now headed into is third season, bring viewers through a very different L.A. experience, that of a single black woman stumbling toward her 30s with a group of lifelong friends and a career in the not-so-lucrative nonprofit world

Main character Issa (played by the shows creator, Issa Rae) lives in a 60s-era, courtyard apartment complex called the Dunes, which, like most every other vintage building in L.A. with a beachside name, is nowhere near the shore. The constant whooshing sound outside her window is not waves but Airbus after Airbus landing at nearby LAX. She meets friends at an Ethiopian restaurant in the Carthay neighborhood and West Hollywoods Swingers diner, shops at the local Rite Aid and Eastside hipster boutiques, goes clubbing on Crenshaw and in DTLA.

Each 30-minute episode is full L.A. immersion, from gridlock to gentrification. And characters here dont just drive past Randys Donuts because its a cultural landmark that must be in every montage about L.A. They get out of their cars and eat there.

The new FX series Snowfall is set in 1980s South Los Angeles just before the crack epidemic wreaks havoc on an otherwise tight and fairly quiet working-class neighborhood. It moves among the small, tidy rows of 1920s bungalows in Leimert Park, a Hispanic neighborhood across the city and the ostentatious mansion of an Israeli drug dealer in the hills  a triangulation that shows the connections between seemingly disconnected social classes and cultures.

Even familiar milieus, such as the glamour of Hollywood past, took on different meaning in 2017. Feud, FXs anthology series, premiered this year with a season dedicated to the rivalry between Bette Davis (Susan Sarandon) and Joan Crawford (Jessica Lange). The show re-created the splendor of Hollywood in both actresses heyday, as well as its brutality toward them as their careers declined.

Objectification, degradation and humiliation: for women they were as much a part of Hollywood here as storied celebrity hangouts like Perinos and Chasens, a truth often overlooked as the price of admission prior to the #MeToo movement and the fall of many powerful media moguls this year. The series, set all over L.A., shows how much has and hasnt changed.

It certainly would have been easier to focus on the glamour and nostalgia of the era, but director Ryan Murphy chose to plumb the unspoken depths of sexist Hollywood and expose a very specific misogynistic studio culture that still exists today. And the shows re-creation of the 35th Academy Awards on the very site where they took place, the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, is about as authentic as it gets.

Hulus longest-running series, East Los High, now in its fourth and last season, was on the front end of presenting a diverse Southern California narrative far from the world of the Kardashians or O.C.s supposedly real housewives. The entirely Hispanic cast navigates the usual set of young adult challenges  love, identity, independence  on another side of the city off the 10 Freeway. Though Latinos are the majority in L.A., when the show ends its run in 2018, so will TVs one series dedicated to life in East L.A.

FXs Youre the Worst lives in Silver Lake and Los Feliz among the hipsters, artists and LGBTQ community who gentrified and priced out much of the Latino population. Now theyre being priced out by wealthier white folk whove themselves been priced out of the Westside. A modern L.A. story.

Ariela Barer as Gert Yorkes, Rhenzy Feliz as Alex Wilder, and Virginia Gardner as Karolina Dean, left to right on the Los Angeles set of Marvels Runaways. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times )

Even Marvel ventured outside of NYC this year for Marvels Runaways, Hulus first crack at the superhero franchise. Its hardly the hardscrabble world of The Punisher or Jessica Jones. These defenders are privileged teens who live in areas like Brentwood and almost never have to slay evil in the rain or a dark Bronx-like alley. But they do offer an updated version of what 90210 might look like now: more colorful, more feminist, more aware of the absurdity of their lux lifestyles.

lorraine.ali@latimes.com

@lorraineali
A Lawrenceville, Georgia, man and his family became so impatient during their trip to Burger King that they reportedly threw drinks at members of the staff and eventually brandished a gun in the restaurant. Emanjula Daracus Brown and his wife and three children went to Burger King on Dec. 23 and encountered a long wait for service.

Brown claims that after he asked the Burger King manager multiple times to get off her phone and help the line of customers, the woman threw a cup of cold liquid at him, then one of hot coffee, and finally threatened to throw boiling oil. In response, he threw a drink back at the manager - and his wife brought him a gun from their car. He says he only tucked it into his pants and didnt threaten anyone with it.

After police viewed surveillance footage, Brown was arrested, while the manager who had allegedly thrown beverages at him was not. The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Brown has been charged with simple battery, battery aggravated assault, criminal trespass damage, possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a felony, misdemeanor third-degree child cruelty, and felony third-degree child cruelty. Think you wont forget this Burger King incident? These are the 9 most memorable crimes that happened at fast food restaurants.

Advertisement

View slideshow

More on Burger King
If anyone knows where to find refuge from air pollution near Los Angeles freeways, its Suzanne Paulson.

The UCLA atmospheric chemistry professor has spent years studying how invisible plumes of dirty air from car- and truck-choked roadways spread into surrounding neighborhoods  increasing residents risk of cancer, asthma, heart disease and other illnesses.

So when she bought a home in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Santa Monica in 2007, she made sure it was on a quiet street far from the 10 Freeway  well beyond the 500-foot zone where California air quality regulators say its unhealthful to put homes, schools and day cares.

But it wasnt far enough.

In the late night and early morning, it turns out, traffic pollution drifts much farther than during the day, and can extend more than a mile downwind from the freeway.

That discovery, made by Paulson and her colleagues, is one example of new research revealing how much your exposure to harmful levels of vehicle pollution is affected by your specific surroundings. Its not only your distance from traffic, but other details such as wind patterns, freeway design, the time of day and the types of cars, trucks and buildings around you that determine the risk.

Were learning that the pollution you breathe comes down to where you are, when youre there and what the traffic is like, Paulson said.

Such findings are prompting new advice from air quality officials and scientists on steps you can take to protect yourself.

Traffic flows below a pair of affordable housing developments under construction next to the 110 Freeway at El Segundo Boulevard in Los Angeles. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Keep your distance from freeways and busy roads

Southern California is experiencing a surge in home construction near freeways that is pushing more people into high-pollution zones. But just because state and local officials are allowing new housing there doesnt mean it is safe, health experts say.

When choosing a home, school or day care, aim for locations as far from the freeway as possible.

Avoid sites within 500 feet  where California air quality regulators warn against building  or even 1,000 feet. Thats where traffic pollution is generally highest, along with rates of asthma, cancer, heart attacks, strokes, reduced lung function, pre-term births and a growing list of other health problems.

See how far you live from the nearest freeway 

Also avoid living near major roads  those carrying more than 100,000 vehicles a day  which, according to air quality regulators, can pose health risks similar to freeways. That includes stretches of some of Los Angeles busiest boulevards such as Sepulveda, La Cienega and Wilshire.

Cars and trucks pass by a 198-unit luxury apartment complex under construction in 2015 next to the 91 Freeway at Artesia Boulevard in Cerritos. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Use filters, but know the limitations

If you have a central heating, air-conditioning or ventilation system, install high-efficiency air filters. They should be rated 13 or higher on the 16-point industry MERV scale (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) that measures how effectively they block tiny pollution particles.

Make sure to replace them on schedule, about every few months.

But filters remove only some of the harmful ingredients in traffic pollution. And theyre effective only when the air is running and all doors and windows are closed.

Most will not remove toxic exhaust gases such as benzene and 1,3-butadiene. To screen those out, you need more costly charcoal filters.

Also factor in the age of your building. Filters are less effective in older homes, which let in more pollutants, and work better in newer dwellings that seal off more outside air.

If you live in a new home near a freeway in Los Angeles or San Francisco, high-efficiency filters may already be required. And the California Energy Commission is moving to require MERV 13 air filtration in all newly constructed dwellings starting in 2020.

But those rules will do nothing to reduce pollution in existing homes, including those occupied by more than 1.2 million people in Southern California who already live within 500 feet of a freeway.

Dont have central air? Adding one or two stand-alone air-cleaning devices to your home can help reduce particle pollution levels, so long as you keep them running 24/7. But air cleaners are effective at lowering particle levels only in a single room, not an entire home. Make sure the model you choose is certified by California regulators.

Joan Winget stands outside her home in Sun Valley, which sits near the 5 Freeway. To protect herself from car and truck pollution, she keeps her doors and windows closed and runs the air conditioning nonstop. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Find physical barriers

If you cant avoid living near a freeway, some locations offer more protection than others.

Its better to live behind a sound wall, especially one with thick trees and plants extending above it. Such obstacles, though not designed to block vehicle emissions, can reduce pollution levels immediately downwind.

Its also preferable to live near a freeway that is elevated above or sits well below your home. That vertical separation can help disperse pollutants. At-grade freeways, where lanes sit at the same level as surrounding buildings, are worse because they put vehicle tailpipes right next to peoples lungs.

If you live on a major boulevard, youre better off when there are buildings of varying heights, parks and other open spaces that allow allow exhaust pollutants to disperse up and away from traffic, state regulators say. Avoid street canyons, blocks with masses of tall buildings that can trap pollution.

(Los Angeles Times)

Avoid early morning exercise near traffic

Postpone outdoor exercise to later in the morning to dodge the spike in traffic pollution in the pre-sunrise hours. Thats when stagnant weather conditions, caused by nighttime cooling, trap freeway pollution near the ground. That slows down the dispersal of emissions, allowing them to drift more than a mile downwind, compared to no more than 1,000 feet during the day.

Levels of ultrafine particles, nitric oxide and hydrocarbons are highest in the early morning, aided by a big injection of exhaust from morning rush hour. Those conditions usually break up once the sun has been up for a few hours and winds pick up again.

Its also better to keep your windows closed in the early morning hours. You may think its safer to leave them open after traffic dies down at night, but recent research suggests the opposite.

Students play at Elizabeth Hudson K-8 School next to the Terminal Island Freeway in Long Beach. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Drive less, and use the 'recirculate' button

Spending time in a car on the freeway can expose you to pollution levels five to 10 times higher than surrounding areas.

Even with the windows up, you could be breathing up to 80% of the levels of pollution found in traffic if your vehicles ventilation system is drawing in outside air.

So if you can, live closer to work, use public transit or take other steps to limit your driving time.

Thats where we still get a big, big share of our exposure, especially if youre driving very far in rush-hour traffic, said Scott Fruin, a professor of preventive medicine at USC. If you can reduce that, it helps a lot.

When youre in the car, roll up the windows and set your ventilation system to recirculate. That button can cut pollution to 20% of on-road levels.

Everett Smith looks out at rush-hour traffic on the 101-110 freeway interchange from his seventh-floor balcony at the Orsini apartments in downtown Los Angeles in 2015. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Stay away from interchanges, intersections and other hot spots

The risk to your health can be compounded if you live near multiple pollution sources. Avoid living close to highway interchanges and freeway ramps, which regulators and scientists have identified as hot spots that can hit residents with twice as much as pollution.

Keep away from major intersections and stoplights, where vehicles spit out a lot of exhaust when drivers step on the gas, and copper dust and other toxic particles when they hit the brakes.

Theres basically a big cloud of fairly concentrated pollution when the light turns from red to green, Fruin said.

Also factor in whether you live in a smoggy area. If you live near a freeway in a community with higher smog levels, like the Inland Empire, you could get a double dose of dirty air from traffic emissions piling on top of regional pollution.

(Los Angeles Times)

Avoid truck routes and the diesel death zone

Its especially unhealthful to live near freeways and roads frequented by diesel trucks, which spew many times more harmful gases and particles than cars. Diesel particulate matter, carcinogen-laden soot that deposits deep in the lungs, is responsible for the bulk of the cancer risk from air pollution and more than 1,000 early deaths a year in California.

Experts are most concerned about people living near ports, warehouse distribution centers and other freight corridors. Asthma rates and cancer risk there can be so elevated that physicians have labeled it the diesel death zone.

An air-monitoring station next to a truck-congested stretch of the 60 Freeway in Ontario had the highest levels of fine-particle pollution, or soot, of all near-roadway sites in the nation, according to 2015 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data. About 217,000 vehicles a day passed by in 2015, more than 29,000 of them trucks.

A monitoring device measures air pollution levels along the 60 Freeway in Ontario, Calif. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Be aware of the type of vehicles in your neighborhood

The kinds of vehicles traversing your neighborhood can have a big effect on how much pollution you breathe.

Paulson and other scientists have detected huge disparities among L.A. neighborhoods, with some of the lowest levels of traffic pollution in wealthier enclaves such as West Los Angeles, where the roads have more new cars with cleaner engines, and fewer trucks.

Levels of ultrafine particles, the tiny, short-lived particles scientists measure as an indicator of recently emitted exhaust, are several times higher over in the Eastside neighborhood of Boyle Heights, which in addition to being carved up by a freeway interchange has more diesel trucks and older, higher-polluting cars on its surface streets.

Amelia Mueller-Williams displays a finger with soot she removed from the windowsill of her apartment close to the 405 Freeway in West L.A. (Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times)

Clean the dust, but worry more about the pollution you can't see

The black road dust that deposits on the windows, shelves and patios of people living near traffic? If its big enough to see, it probably can get into your mouth or nose, and not much farther than that.

Clean it up, especially if its dark or sooty in color, said Fruin, the USC professor. If you run your finger on your windowsill and its black, thats a bad sign because it means youre getting a lot of diesel soot.

More important, soot can be an indication of traffic pollution you cant see but may be breathing in. Scientists are especially concerned about ultrafine particles, exhaust pollutants less than one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Theyre so tiny they can lodge deep in the lungs and move into bloodstream, where they may harm the heart, brain and other organs.

Ultrafine particles are suspected of causing some of the illnesses among people living near traffic, but more research is needed to say for certain.

A truck exits the 710 Freeway next to an apartment complex at East Alondra Boulevard in Compton. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Don't count on electric cars to eliminate the problem

Cars and trucks keep getting cleaner, but dont count on electric vehicles bringing an end to traffic-related health problems.

Switching to zero-emission vehicles only gets rid of tailpipe-generated pollution. It does nothing to reduce non-exhaust pollutants, including dust from brake pads and tires that contains toxic metals, rubber and other compounds that are kicked up into the air.

Scientists trying to pinpoint the most harmful agents in traffic pollution are just beginning to study the health effects of those non-tailpipe pollutants.

The switch to electric vehicles will certainly reduce the publics exposure to engine-related emissions, said Ed Avol, a professor of preventive medicine at USC. But this other kind of pollution generated by the frictional forces of tires and brakes and from lubricating oils is likely to remain in some form for years to come.

tony.barboza@latimes.com

Times staff writer Jon Schleuss contributed to this report.
Homicides and gun violence were down in Los Angeles in 2017, a payoff of building closer ties between police and communities and increased efforts to remove firearms from the streets, officials said.

The 6% decline in homicides was a reversal from the increases of the previous two years. There were 271 homicides through Dec. 16, compared with 289 last year. The number of shooting victims was also down by 11% from 2016.

Angelenos are far less likely to be murdered than in the 1990s, when homicides peaked at 1,094 in a single year.

Advertisement

But there were other, more ominous trends in the year-end tally of crime in the city. Violent crime was up for the fourth year in a row, fueled by a 6% increase in robberies and a 5% spike in aggravated assaults. Property crime also ticked higher for the third year in a row up 1% over last year.

Overall, violent crime was up 4% over last year and 16% over two years ago.

The Los Angeles Police Department did not make an official available to discuss the crime trends. A spokeswoman said no one could speak on the topic until a news conference in late January.

Earlier this year, a similar media event that was planned to discuss 2016 crime numbers never occurred.

In a written statement, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck said the drop in gun violence was due in part to data-driven community-focused strategies, expanding community trust, and relentless follow-up.

Beck did not address the increases in other types of crime.

Mayor Eric Garcetti, in a statement, said, This past year marked an important moment in our drive to end gun violence as we reduced the number of homicides and shooting victims. I thank Chief Beck and the LAPD for their continued work to make Los Angeles the safest city in America.

Kevin Orange, a Westmont resident who works to reduce gang violence, said rival gangs are increasingly building relationships with one another. He attributed the decline in homicides and nonfatal shootings to those networks.

Before, they would pick up their guns. Now, theyre picking up the phone and making a phone call, Orange said. Instead of blaming somebody, whats the best way to deal with this situation without someone losing their life?

In 2016, a rash of homicides and shootings early in the year prompted the LAPD to send extra platoons of elite Metropolitan Division officers to South Los Angeles.

This year, the situation stabilized. But while homicides went down, robberies continued to climb. Earlier this month, the LAPD held a news conference to discuss a 30% citywide increase in cell phone robberies.

Keep your head up and put your phone down, Capt. Rafael Ramirez of 77th Division said. On the bus, on the train, walking down the street  put your phone away, be aware of your surroundings and stop advertising that item.

At a Police Commission meeting earlier this month, Beck said the rise in aggravated assaults was due partly to ongoing adjustments in how the crimes are categorized  an issue that first surfaced in a 2014 Times investigation which found that the LAPD misclassified thousands of aggravated assaults as minor offenses, artificially lowering the citys violent crime rate.

The increases in some types of crime were not limited to the most violent areas of the city. In the Wilshire Division, for example, which includes Fairfax, Hancock Park and nearby neighborhoods, robberies were up 17%, and burglaries were up 16%. In the Topanga area, robberies increased by 14% and auto theft by 9%.

At a park near the La Brea Tar Pits, some Los Angeles residents said they did not worry much about crime.

But Remy Bender, 41, who has lived in the area for 20 years, said she never feels safe. An increase in the homeless population makes her feel uneasy, she said.

Im always looking out for something, she said.

The Watts area, meanwhile, did not see the drop in homicides most other places did.

Eddie Lewis, 58, stood outside his house on West 105th Street and pointed up the street and down an alley. Two homicides occurred at those locations in the past year, Lewis said.

Too many shootings involving young kids, he said.

In the areas patrolled by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, violent and property crime fell this year by 5% after two years of increases.

Homicides decreased by 20%, driven largely by a decline in gang-related deaths.

Compton recorded 39 homicides in 2016, compared with 21 through Nov. 30 of this year.

Some of this we can take credit for by being proactive, by being out there, by working with community partners, engaging in intervention activity, working through the schools, Sheriff Jim McDonnell said of the homicide trend at a news conference Thursday.

McDonnell also cited the departments anti-gang unit, Operation Safe Streets, for quelling gang activity.

The Sheriffs Department runs the county jails and patrols the streets of unincorporated areas as well as cities such as Lakewood, Lancaster and West Hollywood.

McDonnell said criminal justice reforms such as Proposition 47 and AB 109 that were designed to reduce the prison and jail population have resulted in more people on the streets committing crimes to support their drug addiction. Meanwhile, there has been no increase in treatment programs, he said.

Proponents of the measures say there is no evidence they have led to more crime. Earlier this year, Los Angeles County received nearly $40 million from a Proposition 47 fund for drug and mental health treatment as well as prison re-entry programs, said Will Matthews, public affairs manager for Californians for Safety and Justice, which sponsored the proposition.

In a pair of studies released this fall, Mike Males, a senior research fellow at the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice, argued that changes in the law are not responsible for crime increases because crime trends vary widely both in L.A. County and statewide.

Local variations, including organized crime rings and economic conditions, are a more likely explanation, he said.

Of course, the police are blamed a lot when crime goes up, and I dont think its justified in most cases, he said.

In San Francisco, crime was up 11% through Nov. 30, with homicides increasing by 14% and thefts from vehicles by 26% compared with 2016 data.

Oakland saw a 1% increase in crime this year. Homicides and violent crime were down, but burglaries were up 21%.

Craig Lally, president of the union that represent rank-and-file LAPD officers, pointed to a chronic shortage of manpower as a reason why crime has been going up in Los Angeles. The department needs to add at least 2,500 officers to its 10,000-person force, Lally said.

Were working the homeless problem  thats always our problem, as is the mental illness problem, Lally said. Were tasked with doing way too much with very little resources.

Community policing programs, paired with enforcement strategies such as taking guns off the street, have helped reduce homicides, said Steve Soboroff, president of the Los Angeles Police Commission, the LAPDs civilian governing body.

But building trust among the citys Latino residents is increasingly difficult because of the Trump administrations strict immigration policies, Soboroff said.

And, he said, the root causes of crime  poverty, overcrowded schools, drug addiction  are beyond a police departments power to fix.

What it comes down to in the very end game, it isnt about policing, Soboroff said. Its about the underserved getting services, and theyre not getting enough.

Times staff writers Makeda Easter, Kate Mather and Michael Livingston II contributed to this report.

cindy.chang@latimes.com

For more news on the Los Angeles Police Department, follow me on Twitter: @cindychangLA
Two years ago, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti celebrated a milestone in his campaign to make City Hall more efficient. Time spent on hold during calls to the citys 311 phone service fell to just about a minute, from the nearly four-minute wait before Garcetti took office.

By going back to the basics, we are doing big things, Garcetti said in his State of the City speech at Cal State Northridge.

But now, hold times have shot back up. Callers seeking to report graffiti, illegal dumping and other vexing problems to City Halls main hotline waited an average of about six minutes to speak to a 311 operator in the fiscal year that ended June 30, according to city data.

Advertisement

In the first four months of this fiscal year, the average hold time was more than five minutes.

City staff say the longer hold times are the result of new 311 services intended to improve callers experience. Operators now stay on the phone longer and field more types of requests, rather than transfer the calls to another department. Callers can also leave their number and get a return call from an operator.

The call center also recently expanded its operating hours.

At the same time, staffing levels havent increased, which means callers are left on hold as operators juggle more tasks.

The union representing 311 operators says the city needs to hire more staff. But Garcettis office argues that hold times have dropped in recent months and that more people are using the 311 app and website, which now handle more than 30% of requests.

Reducing hold times is an important priority, Garcetti spokesman Alex Comisar said. But improving 311 is also about making our service to each caller better. And its about expanding digital access so that Angelenos can get the answers they need, when and where they need them.

Donna Arrechea, director of the citys 311 service, said a request for more operators in the city budget was turned down last year. She described the additional workload as the straw that broke the camels back.

Absolutely the wait time is longer, and were aware of it and were doing everything we can to minimize it, she said. Basically, an agent can only take so many calls in a day.

Asked about requests for more 311 employees, Comisar said that adding staff isnt always the most effective way to overcome a challenge, or make the system better. Thats why Mayor Garcetti has expanded digital capacity and added technologies to improve service to 311 customers.

The 311 center has about three dozen operators, who take questions and complaints about an array of issues. Operators get the most calls about bulky item pickups, graffiti removal and illegal dumping, Arrechea said.

When Garcetti took office in 2013, hold times averaged 3:45, according to a city audit. Those wait times plunged to 1:10 in his first year, and dropped to about a minute in Garcettis second year.

Hold times increased last fiscal year even as the number of calls dropped to 1.02 million that year from 1.19 million the year before.

At the same time, operators are answering a broader range of questions on the spot now, and transferring fewer calls to other departments, including Animal Services. That department is having problems with its phone system, with complaints about busy signals or callers left waiting in silence.

At an October City Hall meeting, Jeanne Holm, an assistant general manager at the citys Information Technology Agency, said that 311 operators are handling an additional 2,000 to 3,000 calls a month that would have been transferred to Animal Services.

It stretches our personnel at 311 and increases our hold times, but it seemed like in the sense of city service, it was at least a Band-Aid that we could put in place, Holm said at the hearing.

The longer 311 hold times concern animal activists, who say the extra wait can be devastating if a caller is trying to rescue or help a hurt animal.

Animals can die in that amount of time. They can run out of sight in that amount of time, said Lisa Lange, a senior vice president at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

Lange met with the mayor earlier this month to discuss animal issues and said Garcetti looked surprised to hear complaints about the 311 hold times. He called the service in front of her to test it, but hung up after a second because the hold audio was a distraction and he didnt want to disrupt their meeting.

Comisar declined to comment on Langes account of the meeting with the mayor. He said integrating Animal Services requests into the 311 system made service to these callers better, more consistent, and in many cases, faster.

Meanwhile, the city audit found that L.A.s 2013 hold time of 3:45 was 3 times that for callers in comparable cities. In New York City, the average wait time before speaking to a 311 representative was 18 seconds in fiscal year 2017, a spokesperson for Mayor Bill de Blasio said last week.

According to L.A.s city administrative officer, adopted budget levels for the citys 311 department remained flat the last two years. The previous year, it received an additional $1.7 million to help pay for the new 311 services.

Teresa Sanchez, a business representative with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 36, the union that represents the citys 311 operators, complained of chronic understaffing at the call center.

Even with an app or an email, you still need a person, Sanchez said. A person has to interpret the request. Theres just a depth of knowledge and judgment needed to respond to the request.

Arrechea said the 311 operators hear complaints about the longer wait times, but we also get a lot of compliments about the service.

Our agents have a lot of city knowledge, Arrechea said. That makes them very valuable.

dakota.smith@latimes.com

Twitter: @dakotacdsmith
A Los Angeles police officer was shot and wounded late Friday in an ambush attack in the Westlake District, authorities said.

The shooting occurred about 9:50 p.m. on Hartford Avenue, south of Seventh Street.

She was ambushed, Officer Mike Lopez said. Youre walking and all the sudden someone starts shooting at you.

Advertisement

The unidentified officer was hit in the thigh and was hospitalized at County-USC Medical Center.

On his way to the hospital, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck described it as an unprovoked and cowardly attack where a suspect fired multiple rounds from a significant distance at officers conducting an unrelated investigation.

The officer who was shot recently graduated from the LAPD academy and was with her training officer at the time, Beck said. The chief said the officer was in stable condition late Friday.

The training officer was not wounded. Neither fired a weapon, Lopez said.

The LAPD tweeted, Please keep the officer in your prayers tonight.

A 28-year-old suspect was taken into custody, and the gun recovered by a Metro officer responding to the scene, Beck said. Several streets in the area were closed, as well as the southbound 110 Freeway, as officers conducted their search.

An officer at the Rampart station, which is near the scene, said, The situation is still fluid.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Times staff writer Kate Mather contributed to this report.

UPDATES:

12:45 a.m.: This article was updated with comments from LAPD Chief Charlie Beck.

11:40 p.m.: This article was updated with additional information about the shooting.

This article was originally published at 11:05 p.m.
San Diego will try something new in its uphill battle to shrink emergency response times in the sprawling and increasingly congested city: roving peak-hour fire engines not connected to any station and deployed at busy times in busy areas.

City officials say they plan to add six peak-hour engines  three in July 2019 and another three in July 2020  to help meet a goal of having emergency crews arrive at the scene within seven and a half minutes 90% of the time.

Fire Chief Brian Fennessy said this month that the city is meeting that goal about 79% to 80% of the time, predicting the peak-hour engines could significantly boost that.

Advertisement

The engines will operate with four-person crews from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day in areas where response times have been weak, or where regular crews are not available because of training.

City officials say its crucial to have peak-hour engines during late afternoon and evening commute hours, when emergency calls are typically at their highest volume.

To fully staff all six engines, the city plans to hire 48 additional firefighters at a cost of $6.3 million per year. No capital costs are anticipated because the city has several reserve engines it can use.

Fennessy stressed that peak-hour engines are not a substitute for new fire stations in key geographic locations, which he called the ultimate solution to the citys response time struggles.

Ive never considered serving any of the fire station gaps with peak-hour engines instead of, rather than in addition to, fire stations, Fennessy told the City Council this month.

Peak-hour engines, however, can shrink response times in areas where new fire stations are badly needed, but where construction has been delayed by lack of money or other problems.

Fennessy said an example is a planned station on the edge of City Heights that outside consultants Citygate called San Diegos No. 1 response time priority in reports published in 2011 and 2017.

City officials considered seven potential locations in the area before buying a Fairmount Avenue site in May that has significant environmental hurdles.

Those issues have prompted city officials to estimate construction of the three-story station wont begin until fall 2020, frustrating nearby residents and community leaders.

Councilwoman Georgette Gomez, who represents many of the neighborhoods the station would serve, said its baffling that a consultants report called for a new station there in 2011 and the city is still three years away from construction.

Fennessy said land in the area is scarce and some other potential sites wouldnt have had as great an impact on response times in the area.

He said, however, that a peak-hour engine would be ideal for the area until the new station opens.

Other parts of the city likely to be considered for peak-hour engines, based on the 2017 consultants report, include Pacific Beach, south University City, Torrey Pines, Rancho Bernardo, Sabre Springs and southeastern San Diego.

Three areas with weak response times slated to get new fire stations are north University City in 2020, Black Mountain Ranch in 2021 and the UC San Diego campus in 2022.

Additional new stations include one already under construction in Little Italy and one planned in the Otay Mesa area.

Peak-hour engines will save the city money compared with quickly filling all of the 12 emergency-response gaps identified by the consultant, Fennessy said.

The savings go beyond just the cost of building 12 new stations at roughly $15 million per station. Staffing a new station typically adds about $2 million per year to the citys budget on an ongoing basis.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com
Two years ago, Tyler Barriss called in multiple bomb threats to the Glendale offices of KABC-TV Channel 7, prompting a mass evacuation.

Barriss was charged and eventually convicted in connection with the hoax, one of several high-profile incidents at the time that focused attention on the act of crank-calling known as swatting.

Now, Barriss, 25, is accused of a much more serious hoax. He was arrested in South Los Angeles on Friday for his suspected role in a deadly prank in Kansas, police said.

Advertisement

Barriss allegedly made a hoax call that resulted in the police shooting of Andrew Finch, according to police and family members of the victim. Finch, 28, was killed after officers descended outside his Wichita house after getting a 911 call about a shooting at the residence on Thursday night.

The term swatting refers to the police response typically generated by such calls, with officers deploying SWAT teams to an address. Pranksters typically claim that an armed intruder is inside the home.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. Swatting cases that result in the death of a victim are less common, however.

An FBI supervisor in the Kansas City, Mo., office, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation in Wichita at the request of local police.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said a prankster called to report a shooting and kidnapping. Police have not disclosed the name of the man who was killed Thursday evening, but relatives identified him as Finch.

Police played audio of the 911 call for reporters. A man said his father had been shot in the head. He said he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller, speaking with relative calm, said he poured gasoline inside the home and I might just set it on fire.

Several officers arrived and surrounded the home, bracing for a hostage situation. When Finch went to the door, police told him to put his hands up and move slowly.

But Livingston said the man moved a hand toward the area of his waistband. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died later at a local hospital. Livingston said Finch was unarmed.

LAPD Officer Mike Lopez said Barriss was arrested Friday afternoon on a fugitive warrant. He is being held in Los Angeles County Jail without bail, Lopez said.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on the video game world, reported that the fatal series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager over a Call of Duty game in an online tournament operated by UMG Gaming. Lisa Finch, Finchs mother, told reporters her son was not a gamer.

We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life, UMG spokeswoman Shannon Gerritzen said in an email to the Associated Press. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter.

The Finch family on Friday allowed reporters inside their home.

What gives the cops the right to open fire? Lisa Finch asked. That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place.

Lisa Finch said the family was forced outside barefoot in the freezing cold and handcuffed after the shooting. She said her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns were found in the home.

Barriss alleged bomb threats to KABC-TV in 2015 triggered a large police response. Prosecutors said Barriss also allegedly threatened a relative to prevent her from reporting the threats.

Barriss was convicted of two counts related to making a false bomb report and sentenced to two years and eight months in jail. Its unclear how much time he served in the case.

Court records show other convictions against Barriss, including a violation of a protective order.

A rash of swatting incidents in 2013 targeting Los Angeles-area celebrities prompted police to stop publicizing the cases. The police believed that media coverage fueled more swatting incidents. The Los Angeles City Council also voted that year to offer reward money for information leading to the arrest of suspected swatters.

dakota.smith@latimes.com

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Two security guards were shot dead inside a hotel room at a Las Vegas hotel-casino early Saturday morning before the gunman fled and ultimately shot and injured himself.

Las Vegas Police Lt. Dan McGrath said the shooting happened around 6:30 a.m. at Arizona Charlies Hotel and Casino on Decatur Boulevard, after a woman called security to report a disturbance.

The guards, employed by the casino, had entered the room on the hotels fourth floor and were shot with a handgun by the man, who was the lone occupant in the room, McGrath said.

Advertisement

He said the suspect then fled down the hallway with the gun and exited the rear of the casino, which is adjacent to a residential neighborhood.

McGrath said the man tried to carjack a person in their car, but the individual closed the door on him. Then he tried to break into another car before running up to a house and confronting a woman with four children, McGrath said.

The homicide detective said the woman was able to fend off the man as he kicked the door. McGrath said the suspect then ran to the garage, entered the laundry area and shot himself in the head.

Police later identified the suspect as 29-year-old Christopher Olague. He was taken to University Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition.

I dont expect him to live, McGrath said.

Arizona Charlies is one of three casino properties owned by Golden Entertainment Inc.; it also runs the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and Arizona Charlies Boulder in Paradise, Nev. A spokesman for the company referred questions to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, but said the casino didnt shut down because the shooting didnt affect the public.

The hotel was reportedly fully booked for the New Years Eve weekend, and Ron Corona, a visitor from San Francisco, said everything appeared normal inside.

It was the scene outside the casino  which advertised 24-hour bingo and specials on Bud Light and Jim Beam on its marquee  that was jarring.

Corona, 31, was walking through the parking lot as a Las Vegas police squad car was parked near an entrance along with a crime scene investigators van. He was reading an account of what happened on his smartphone.

I figured somebody got murdered in their room, Corona said. But inside the casino, youd never know anything had happened.

The slaying of security guards at a casino prompted memories of the mass shooting on Oct. 1, when a Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino a security guard was shot by Stephen Paddock. The guards injuries were not life-threatening.

From a room in the hotel, Paddock, 64, shot and killed 58 people and wounded hundreds when he opened fire on thousands attending a country music festival across the Las Vegas Strip.

Christopher Darcy, deputy chief of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigative services division, said that while the homicide had no connections to terrorism or the mass shooting, the coupling of a casino and shot security guards triggered an initial reaction of dread.

That was my concern and thats why the response out here today was commensurate with that [we] thought, Darcy said. We want to assure the public that Las Vegas is a safe community and this is in no way related to events on the Strip or terrorism.

The city has steeled itself for the New Years Eve events, which are expected to draw 334,000 people to Las Vegas. The Strip will be closed to vehicle traffic for close to 12 hours amid extra-high security.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department authorities requested the U.S. Department of Homeland Security make the New Years Eve event a so-called SEAR 1 event. That is the highest level of security and includes measures such as snipers, extra FBI and Homeland Security mobile stations and medical personnel. Other SEAR 1 events include the Super Bowl and political party conventions.

But the mass shooting had an effect on travelers coming to Las Vegas, with the citys convention and visitors bureau noting a decline in people coming to stay and play.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reported visitation to the city was down 4.2% in October compared with the same month in 2016. Kevin Bagger, executive director of the agencys research center, said that decline was due mainly to a reduction in the number of nearby tourists driving in to the city, as opposed to flying in from further afield. Another factor, he said, was that peoples usual excitement for a Vegas stay was muted due to the tragedy.

The visitors authority reported that November numbers were down again  a decline of 3.7% to 3.3 million compared with November 2016. The agency didnt attribute the second straight decline in visitors to the October shooting, saying there wasnt enough data to make a correlation.

The authority also expected fewer visitors for New Years Eve, but that is being attributed to hotel renovations, which have left fewer rooms available for the night.

david.montero@latimes.com

Twitter: @davemontero

UPDATES:

6:45 p.m.: This article was updated with the identity of the suspect and his medical condition.

6 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details, including information about how events unfolded.

12:50 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details and a police account of the shooting.

This article was originally published at 9:50 a.m.
Well, 2017 was quite a ride, wasnt it? Record wildfires in the West; a Trumpster fire in the Oval Office; massive dissonance and attacks on the truth nearly everywhere; and, despite the collapse of Islamic State, continued war in Syria helping propel a global migration crisis  65.6 million displaced people  on a scale that surpasses even that of World War II. Enormous political and cultural divisions continued to roil the United States, Congress rolled over on the presidents Cabinet appointees and the gutting of essential institutions continued. It should go without saying that, for the most part, our 2016 wishes went unfulfilled.

But hey, the Dodgers came this close to winning the World Series, so weve got that going for us.

Hope springs eternal, as Alexander Pope wrote nearly 300 years ago. So, with optimism propelling us through the sea of cynicism, heres is The Times annual list of wishes, in no particular order. Remember, these are wishes, not predictions.

Advertisement

We wish for:

 a greater effort to keep politics out of the investigations into Trump, the Russians, the firing of FBI Director James B. Comey and whether the presidents actions since the election have constituted an attempt to obstruct justice.

 a continued focus on mens bad behavior toward women  from banal chauvinism to sexual assault. Were hoping for not just a momentary ripple of revelations, but an actual correction in the imbalance of power and respect between the genders.

 a retreat of alt-rightism and white nationalism (good-bye, Stephen K. Bannon; so long, Breitbart).

 an end to the devastating war in Syria and a ratcheting back of tensions between the Sunni and Shiite regimes across the Middle East.

 a stop to the brutal persecution of Rohingya Muslims by the Myanmar government and a recognition of their right to live in peace.

 a path to peace for unsettled regions of Africa  from Libya to the Central African Republic to Somalia  and a way home for those displaced by conflict.

 the discontinuance of Trumps Twitter account and cable TV feed. Surely someone in the White House can figure out how to do that.

 a reversal on Brexit. The people of Britain should come to their collective senses and find a way out of this mess.

 a negotiated solution to demands for Catalan independence.

 less whataboutism. Americans should think twice before responding to fair criticism of their movement or party or favorite politician with, Yeah, but what about ...?

 a national conversation about the need to retire the phrase national conversation.

 an important Supreme Court decision decided not only unanimously but without any concurring opinions. Come on, justices, you can do it.

 an end to the rash of new (and often unconstitutional) proposals in statehouses across the country that would erode a womans constitutional right to abortion.

 a more enlightened, pragmatic approach to marijuana, which is currently classified as just as dangerous as heroin  even though it is now legal in some form in more than 40 states. Congress has made it too difficult to conduct necessary research into marijuanas effects on users, challenging states abilities to craft rational regulations.

 a lot more housing in Southern California for the working poor and for middle-class families who need stable, affordable places to live.

 rejection of the Republicans cynical, self-serving ballot initiative to repeal the state Legislatures 12-cent-per-gallon gas tax hike, which was passed to pay for road repairs and other critical transportation infrastructure.

 continued focus on the city of Los Angeles by Mayor Eric Garcetti, who should not let his presidential ambitions get in the way of his day job. L.A. still faces a budget deficit, a housing shortage, a homeless crisis and many other challenges that demand his full attention.

 a reduction in partisanship posing as news, and increased resources for clear-eyed and independent journalism.

 Democrats to heal the progressive-moderate schism that is threatening their chances to win seats in Congress in November. And while theyre at it, to stop with the rear-view mirror stuff about the 2016 presidential primaries.

 Republicans to realize that Trump is not one of their own and that he does not have the nations best interests at heart. And that he is not the straight-talking middle-class champion he pretended to be.

 a free and open internet without interference by broadband providers, and better solutions by Facebook and other social media giants to the flood of fake news and propaganda across their platforms.

 an end to Washington gamesmanship over the federal debt ceiling and government funding.

 Republicans to join Democrats in trying to make health insurance more accessible and affordable, rather than pursuing their endless attack on Obamacare.

 more Angelenos to take mass transit.

 direct, productive talks between the United States and North Korea.

 a recognition by Americans that protecting the environment and combating climate change will take more than slapping a bumper sticker on the SUV.

 California to keep the single-use plastic-bag momentum going  and to ban polystyrene take-out containers.

 another rain-filled California winter (despite the dry start) to stave off a return to drought conditions. (While were at it, we also wish for no major earthquakes or additional mega-wildfires.)

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook
Amid battles with President Trump over his calls to shut down the nations borders and increase deportations, California lawmakers focused this last legislative sessionon keeping personal data collected by state and local agencies away from the federal government.

In the coming year, their attention is likely to turn to private companies and how they protect consumers information. With federal regulation rollbacks, a rise in data breaches and a growing industry of products connected to the internet, some legislators and tech lobbyists say they want people to have more notice and control over what personal data is collected, without having to pay for privacy or better services.

Advertisement

Here are some efforts to watch:

1. Legislation  and litigation  on net neutrality

After the Federal Communications Commission voted to repeal net neutrality regulations, state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) pledged to bring them back to California.

The Obama-era rules put in place in February 2015 barred broadband and wireless companies such as AT&T and Verizon from slowing speeds for some video streams and other content, discriminating against legal material online and selling faster delivery of certain data. They also gave the Federal Trade Commission authority over internet service providers.

Supporters of net neutrality could go to court in an attempt to halt the FCC order and to challenge language that could prevent state and local governments from adopting their own net neutrality rules.

But Wiener says there is room for the state to act now. He is looking into ways to require net neutrality as a condition in state contracts, cable franchise agreements and broadband packages.

2. Efforts to stop the sale of personal data

Assemblyman Ed Chau (D-Monterey Park) has been working to reinstate another set of FCC regulations rolled back this year by Trump and Congress: rules that require internet providers to get permission from customers before using, selling or allowing access to their browser history.

Chau first introduced the California Privacy Act last legislative session, but it was shelved in the state Senate following heavy lobbying efforts by major internet service providers. He intends to try again in 2018.

The bill would enshrine the old federal regulations in state law. It also would bar companies from blocking or limiting service if customers do not waive their privacy rights. And it would prohibit them from offering customers discounts in exchange for waiving their privacy rights  or from charging them a penalty if they refuse to do so.

In a separate effort, privacy advocates are attempting to establish similar rules through a proposed ballot measure. But they want the regulations to apply to all businesses that collect and deal data for commercial purposes. Organizers have until May to collect more than 365,000 signatures before the initiative can become official.

3. Free credit freezes

In an area where there are no federal rules, state Sen. Jerry Hill (D-San Mateo) has said he plans to introduce legislation to prevent credit agencies from charging up to $10 to place or lift a credit freeze.

The legislation comes after Equifax, one of the nations three major credit reporting agencies, revealed in September that the personal data and credit information of more than 145 million consumers had been exposed in a breach, including names, birth dates and social security and drivers license numbers.

Under California law, people can freeze their credit for free if they have been victims of identify theft and have filed a police report. Otherwise, a person can pay up to $30 to freeze their credit with all three major credit agencies, Equifax, TransUnion and Experian  and another $30 to unfreeze it. Residents older than age 65 can get a credit freeze for free but must pay $5 to remove it.

Four states  Indiana, Maine, North Carolina and South Carolina  allow free credit freezes, according to the U.S. Public Research Interest Group.

Credit agencies are involved in so many aspects of our lives  from buying a car and purchasing a home, to simply signing a new cell phone contract, Hill said in a statement. The agencies possess our most sensitive information, and they shouldnt profit from consumers efforts to protect their personal and financial data.

Equifaxs interim CEO has apologized for poor customer support after a massive data breach. (Mike Stewart / Associated Press )

California state senator pledges to bring back net neutrality rules just as FCC votes to repeal them 

4. Rules for teddy bears and toasters

Privacy advocates also are watching for the comeback of another Senate bill shelved last year that would prevent companies from selling products that can listen in on conversations and collect personal information from unknowing consumers.

SB 327, also known as the Teddy Bear and Toaster Act, by state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) would require manufacturers to equip their internet-connected devices, including toys, clocks, kitchenware and electronics, with certain security and privacy features.

Products would have to alert consumers  through visual, auditory or other cues  when they are gathering data. Companies would have to obtain user consent when they intend to transfer the information. And they would have to disclose at point of sale whether the devices are capable of sweeping up sensitive data so that customers can take that into account while shopping.

Jackson will likely move the bill forward in January.

jazmine.ulloa@latimes.com

@jazmineulloa

ALSO:

California state senator pledges to bring back net neutrality rules just as FCC votes to repeal them

Closely watched California Internet privacy bill dies in final minutes of legislative session

California passed a law boosting police transparency on cellphone surveillance. Heres why its not working

Updates on California politics
Trump promotes sons Justice with Judge Jeanine interview President Trump promoted via Twitter an interview with his son Eric Trump just before it aired Saturday night on Fox News Justice with Judge Jeanine. Eric Trump on @JudgeJeanine on @FoxNews now!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 Eric Trump called into the show to defend his father from criticism prompted by the first government shutdown in more than four years, as well as a series of Womens March events that saw protesters in dozens of cities take to the streets to oppose the presidents policies. .@EricTrump joined me over the phone from Mar-a-Lago ! pic.twitter.com/Hro3TzUW52  Jeanine Pirro (@JudgeJeanine) January 21, 2018 Speaking to host Jeannine Piro  who is reportedly an old friend of the presidents  Eric Trump offered effusive praise for his father, ticking off glowing statistics to illustrate the strength of the U.S. economy and gains against Islamic State fighters overseas. My fathers working like no ones ever worked before to bring back this country and to fulfill his promise to make America great again, said the executive vice president of the Trump Organization. He also repeated a sentiment recently expressed on Twitter by his father: That Democratic lawmakers forced a government shutdown on the anniversary of the presidents inauguration in a bid to distract from his achievements. You look at this whole government shutdown, and the only reason they want to shut down government is to distract and to stop his momentum, Eric Trump said. I mean, my father has had incredible momentum. Hes gotten more done in one year than arguably any president in history. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump tweets: a perfect day for all Women to March President Trump hailed the nationwide Womens March gatherings Saturday. On Twitter, the president called it a perfect day for all Women to March, seeming to imply that those taking part were celebrating his administrations accomplishments: Beautiful weather all over our great country, a perfect day for all Women to March. Get out there now to celebrate the historic milestones and unprecedented economic success and wealth creation that has taken place over the last 12 months. Lowest female unemployment in 18 years!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Participants in the marches across the United States were actually seeking to deliver a powerful rebuke to Trumps policies and mount a crucial mobilization for this years midterm elections. But Trump continued to tout his administrations unprecedented success in tweets sent later in the day: Unprecedented success for our Country, in so many ways, since the Election. Record Stock Market, Strong on Military, Crime, Borders, & ISIS, Judicial Strength & Numbers, Lowest Unemployment for Women & ALL, Massive Tax Cuts, end of Individual Mandate - and so much more. Big 2018!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The Trump Administration has terminated more UNNECESSARY Regulation, in just twelve months, than any other Administration has terminated during their full term in office, no matter what the length. The good news is, THERE IS MUCH MORE TO COME!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 In addition to the roll call of major American cities where womens marches took place  including New York, Washington, Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta  protesters also raised their voices in suburbs and small towns, reflecting the aim of coalescing a broad-based movement on the anniversary of Trumps inauguration to oppose the presidents stance on immigration, healthcare, racial divides and an array of other issues. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump calls shutdown a present from Democrats By Associated Press President Trump is blaming Democrats for the government shutdown  tweeting that they wanted to give him a nice present to mark the one-year anniversary of his inauguration: This is the One Year Anniversary of my Presidency and the Democrats wanted to give me a nice present. #DemocratShutdown  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 That comes after Senate Democrats late Friday killed a GOP-written House-passed measure that would have kept agencies functioning for four weeks. Democrats were seeking a stopgap bill of just a few days in hopes that would build pressure on Republicans, and they were opposing a three-week alternative offered by GOP leaders. Democrats have insisted they would back legislation reopening the government once theres a bipartisan agreement to preserve protections against deporting about 700,000 immigrants  known as Dreamers  who arrived in the United States illegally as children. Trump on Saturday accused Democrats of holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration: Democrats are holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration. Cant let that happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Democrats are laying fault for the shutdown on Republicans, who control both chambers of Congress and the White House and have struggled with building internal consensus. In a series of tweets hours after the shutdown began, the president tried to make the case for Americans to elect more Republicans to Congress in November in order to power through this mess: Democrats are far more concerned with Illegal Immigrants than they are with our great Military or Safety at our dangerous Southern Border. They could have easily made a deal but decided to play Shutdown politics instead. #WeNeedMoreRepublicansIn18 in order to power through mess!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 He noted that there are 51 Republicans in the 100-member Senate, and it often takes 60 votes to advance legislation: For those asking, the Republicans only have 51 votes in the Senate, and they need 60. That is why we need to win more Republicans in 2018 Election! We can then be even tougher on Crime (and Border), and even better to our Military & Veterans!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 #AMERICA FIRST!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The stopgap spending measure won 50 votes in the Senate, including five from Democrats. Although the House and Senate were in session Saturday, it was unclear whether lawmakers would take any votes of consequence. Trump had been set to leave Friday afternoon for a fundraiser at his estate in Palm Beach, Fla., where he intended to mark the inauguration anniversary. But he remained in Washington and ended up scrapping his plans to attend the Saturday fundraiser. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump tweet casts doubt on likelihood of averting shutdown President Trump appeared to cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching a deal to avert a government shutdown Friday night in a tweet. Trump also sought to blame Democrats for what would be the first shutdown since 2013. His message came just hours before the midnight deadline by which lawmakers must pass a measure to fund government agencies, or some operations will cease. Not looking good for our great Military or Safety & Security on the very dangerous Southern Border. Dems want a Shutdown in order to help diminish the great success of the Tax Cuts, and what they are doing for our booming economy.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Despite last-minute negotiations Friday between Trump and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, Congress remained deadlocked over a spending bill and the federal government was headed toward a shutdown at midnight. Senate Democrats  joined by some GOP deficit hawks and immigration allies  were set to filibuster a stopgap funding bill approved by the House on Thursday. A Senate vote was planned for 10 p.m. Eastern, and even White House officials predicted it would fail. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Lisa Mascaro. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump signs surveillance law after confusing tweets By Associated Press President Trump on Friday signed a bill into law to renew a foreign intelligence surveillance program, announcing his action in the latest in a series of confusing tweets about the spy program: Just signed 702 Bill to reauthorize foreign intelligence collection. This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 19, 2018 Trumps tweet on Jan. 11 created chaos in the House just before it voted to reauthorize what is known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He linked the intelligence program to a dossier that alleges his presidential campaign had ties to Russia. That caused people to wonder if he didnt support the program that allows U.S. spy agencies to collect intelligence on foreign targets abroad. Trump and other Republicans have alleged that Obama administration officials improperly shared the identities of Trump presidential transition team members mentioned in intelligence reports. Democrats say there is no evidence that happened. Shortly before the House vote, and after conferring with House Speaker Paul Ryan, Trump did an apparent about-face. This vote is about foreign surveillance of foreign bad guys on foreign land, he tweeted. We need it! Get smart! In his tweet announcing that he had just signed the bill, Trump wrote: This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first! There are no obvious links between the dossier Trump spoke of, which includes salacious but unsubstantiated allegations against him, and the reauthorization of the spying program, or between the program and Trumps oft-repeated claims that the Obama administration conducted surveillance on Trump Tower during the presidential campaign. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

In tweet, Trump suggests that Pennsylvania trip is a political one The White House press office was once again forced to walk back a tweet from President Trump on Thursday morning after he described a trip to Pennsylvania later in the day as a political one  a statement that would force the Republican Party, not taxpayers, to pay for the journey. The White House had said Trump was going to an industrial equipment company outside of Pittsburgh to highlight the good economy and new tax cuts, making it an official, policy-oriented event. It was widely assumed that the trip had a political cast  the area is holding a special election to fill a congressional seat vacated by a Republican who resigned. Trump, by his tweet, seemed to confirm that politics was the whole purpose: Will be going to Pennsylvania today in order to give my total support to RICK SACCONE, running for Congress in a Special Election (March 13). Rick is a great guy. We need more Republicans to continue our already successful agenda!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 Trump later shared via Twitter a pair of video clips of his speech at H&K Equipment, in which he touted the tax cuts he signed into law just before Christmas and tried to turn the conversation back to his accomplishments after weeks dominated by distractions, including questions about his mental health and comments about immigration that some considered racist: Departing Pittsburgh now, where it was my great honor to stand with our incredible workers, and to show the world that AMERICA is back - and we are coming back bigger and better and stronger than ever before! pic.twitter.com/kWPgylqFzj  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 AMERICA will once again be a NATION that thinks big, dreams bigger, and always reaches for the stars. YOU are the ones who will shape Americas destiny. YOU are the ones who will restore our prosperity. And YOU are the ones who are MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! #MAGA pic.twitter.com/f2abNK47II  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 The Republican National Committee, rather than the White House, is supposed to pay for political travel so that taxpayers are not financing party activities; for trips that combine policy and politics, parties have split the cost under past presidents. Neither the RNC nor the White House responded to emails sent Thursday asking who would pay. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement later Thursday suggesting that taxpayers would foot the bill. She insisted that Trump would be conducting government business while in Pennsylvania. Read More This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump tweets praise of Bob Dole after awarding him Congressional Gold Medal By Associated Press Former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole knew the art of the deal before President Trump published the 1987 book of the same name. The two shared a stage under the Capitol dome Wednesday as Dole, 94, accepted Congress highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal, for his World War II service and decades of work in the House and Senate. Trump later praised Dole in a tweet, attaching to his message a video composed of clips from the ceremony: Today, we witnessed an incredible moment in history  the presentation of Congress highest civilian honor to our friend, and true AMERICAN HERO, Bob Dole. #CongressionalGoldMedal pic.twitter.com/qNQqDLRmCk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 17, 2018 At the ceremony, the president saluted Dole as a patriot and gave tribute to Doles struggle as a veteran who worked his way back from a grievous shoulder wound he suffered in Italy. He knows about grit, said Trump. But it was Doles penchant for working across the aisle that earned him his latest award, according to the legislation. Bob Dole was known for his ability to work across the aisle and embrace practical bipartisanship, reads the legislation Trump signed in September. Some of the awards 300 recipients include George Washington and Mother Teresa, according to the Congressional Research Service. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump touts report that seeks to link terrorism cases with immigration By Joseph Tanfani The Trump administration on Tuesday released a report attempting to link terrorism with migration, arguing that it was evidence of the need to dramatically reshape the nations immigration system. New report from DOJ & DHS shows that nearly 3 in 4 individuals convicted of terrorism-related charges are foreign-born. We have submitted to Congress a list of resources and reforms....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 ....we need to keep America safe, including moving away from a random chain migration and lottery system, to one that is merit-based. https://t.co/7PtoSFK1n2  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The report, ordered by President Trump in an executive order last year, said that 75% of the 549 people convicted of terrorism charges since 9/11 were born outside the U.S. Administration officials called that a sign that the U.S. needs to scrap its policy of family preferences for visas, which they call chain migration, and a diversity visa lottery program. But the report did not specify how many  if any  of the convicted terrorists entered the country through those means. It also did not detail how many of the convictions were related to attacks or plans in the U.S. versus overseas and how many involved people who went to fight overseas for the Islamic State or another terrorist group. Those details were not available, officials said. The report, due last year, is being released in a highly charged moment in the immigration debate, as Trump and some Republicans in Congress seek tough new border and immigration measures in return for a deal protecting the 690,000 people in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Trump also fired off a pair of tweets on the topic earlier Tuesday: We must have Security at our VERY DANGEROUS SOUTHERN BORDER, and we must have a great WALL to help protect us, and to help stop the massive inflow of drugs pouring into our country!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The Democrats want to shut down the Government over Amnesty for all and Border Security. The biggest loser will be our rapidly rebuilding Military, at a time we need it more than ever. We need a merit based system of immigration, and we need it now! No more dangerous Lottery.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The focus of our immigration system should be assimilation, a senior administration official said on Tuesday, speaking on condition that his name not be used. He said the nation should give priority to potential immigrants who speak English, who have an education and those who are committed to supporting our values  not family members of people already here. The official said the timing of the report was coincidental. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump tweets welcome to president of Kazakhstan By Associated Press President Trump said Tuesday that he and the president of Kazakhstan are united in a shared determination to prevent North Korea from threatening the world with nuclear devastation. Trump and President Nursultan Nazarbayev discussed North Korea along with other issues during meetings at the White House. Today, it was my honor to welcome President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to the @WhiteHouse! pic.twitter.com/TerYFZViax  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 Trump said Kazakhstan, once part of the Soviet Union, is a valued partner in our efforts to rid the Korean peninsula of nuclear weapons. Together we are determined to prevent the North Korean regime from threatening the world with nuclear devastation, he said, as both presidents addressed journalists between meetings. Nazarbayev noted that his country once had one of the worlds largest nuclear arsenals but voluntarily gave it up after the Soviet Union collapsed. He said his country is in talks with Iran, which was the focus of a global deal that lifted some economic sanctions in exchange for Irans curbing its nuclear program. Trump has sharply criticized the Iran nuclear deal and threatened last week to pull out soon unless other countries fix what he says are terrible flaws. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump falsely claims his approval rating among black Americans has doubled By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump lashed out at the news media Tuesday morning in a tweet denouncing the special counsel investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and possible collusion among members of his campaign team. Do you notice the Fake News Mainstream Media never likes covering the great and record setting economic news, but rather talks about anything negative or that can be turned into the negative. The Russian Collusion Hoax is dead, except as it pertains to the Dems. Public gets it!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the presidents tweet, but it appeared as though he was watching Fox & Friends. A short time later, Trump tweeted a headline from a report that aired during that mornings episode: 90% of Trump 2017 news coverage was negative -and much of it contrived!@foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The segment focused on the latest survey results from conservative watchdog Media Research Center, which purportedly analyzed the evening news broadcasts on ABC, CBS and NBC from Jan. 20 to Dec. 31 and found that 90% of the statements made about Trump were negative. Study: 90% of Trump media coverage in 2017 was negative pic.twitter.com/vbrwup4Drg  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 16, 2018 But believe it or not, through all this negative coverage, they did a survey of 600,000 people about how black America views this president, co-host Brian Kilmeade said. His numbers have actually doubled in approval. Trump highlighted the statement in another tweet: Unemployment for Black Americans is the lowest ever recorded. Trump approval ratings with Black Americans has doubled. Thank you, and it will get even (much) better! @FoxNews  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 But its not true. The claim appears to have originated from a misreading of data from the online polling firm SurveyMonkey, according to factcheck.org. The firm polled 600,000 Americans in 2017 and found that Trumps approval rating among blacks actually dropped from 23% early in his presidency to about 17%, as of the week ending Jan. 3. Some conservative outlets, including Breitbart, produced an average from those and other SurveyMonkey figures and compared them to the scores Trump received from black voters in the 2016 exit polls. That methodology is not sound. And since the statistics measure different things, the comparison is misleading. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump goes after senator who surfaced his immigration remark By Associated Press President Trump turned his Twitter torment Monday on the Democrat in the room where immigration talks with lawmakers took a famously coarse turn, saying Sen. Richard J. Durbin misrepresented what he had said about African nations and Haiti and, in the process, undermined the trust needed to make a deal. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting, Trump tweeted, using a nickname to needle the Illinois senator. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 Trump was referring to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which protects young people who came to the United States illegally as children. Members of Congress from both parties are trying to strike a deal that Trump would support to extend that protection. Trump also cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching an agreement in tweets sent earlier Monday: Statement by me last night in Florida: Honestly, I dont think the Democrats want to make a deal. They talk about DACA, but they dont want to help..We are ready, willing and able to make a deal but they dont want to. They dont want security at the border, they dont want.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 ...to stop drugs, they want to take money away from our military which we cannot do. My standard is very simple, AMERICA FIRST & MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 On a day of remembrance for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Trump spent time at his golf course with no public events, bypassing the acts of service that his predecessors staged in honor of the civil rights leader. Instead, Trump dedicated his weekly address to Kings memory, saying Kings dream and Americas are the same: A world where people are judged by who they are, not how they look or where they come from. That message was a distinct counterpoint to words attributed to Trump by Durbin and others at a meeting last week, when the question of where immigrants come from seemed at the forefront of Trumps concerns. Some participants and others familiar with the conversation said Trump challenged immigration from shithole countries of Africa and disparaged Haiti as well. Without explicitly denying using that word, Trump lashed out at the Democratic senator, who said Trump uttered it on several occasions. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump thanks pundit for laudatory Fox & Friends spot By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump thanked Fox News personality Stuart Varney after Varney praised Trump during an appearance on Fox & Friends. In a pair of tweets early Sunday, Trump quoted from Varneys commentary, in which he argued that Trump deserves more credit for the booming economy. The pundit, who also hosts a show on Fox Business Network, cited moves by some corporations to raise workers minimum wage or pay out one-time bonuses in response to the GOP tax cuts. President Trump is not getting the credit he deserves for the economy. Tax Cut bonuses to more than 2,000,000 workers. Most explosive Stock Market rally that weve seen in modern times. 18,000 to 26,000 from Election, and grounded in profitability and growth. All Trump, not 0...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 ...big unnecessary regulation cuts made it all possible (among many other things). President Trump reversed the policies of President Obama, and reversed our economic decline. Thank you Stuart Varney. @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 Varney was reacting to a quote from House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), who on Thursday called the bonuses handed down to workers pathetic in comparison to the gains corporations are expected to see from the tax cuts. In terms of the bonus that corporate America received versus the crumbs that they are giving to workers to kind of put the schmooze on is so pathetic, Pelosi told reporters. Its pathetic. Varney shot back Sunday that the bonuses, along with explosive stock market growth, are enriching all Americans. This is a huge shot in the arm, its the result of this tax cut deal and I think President Trump should get the credit for it, he said. .@Varneyco Sets the economic record straight after Nancy Pelosi calls U.S. mass bonuses crumbs pic.twitter.com/BvjIHGm3HE  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 14, 2018 The sweeping tax plan passed last month lowers the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and cuts personal income taxes. Analysts say the benefits will largely flow to corporations and the wealthy, as theyre more likely to be in positions to share in corporate profits. For instance, Wells Fargo & Co., which responded to news of the tax overhaul by announcing it will raise workers pay to at least $15 an hour, also reported that it expects to pay an effective tax rate of 19% this year, down from about 31% in previous years. That should amount to tax savings of more than $3 billion annually. On average, middle-class Americans are expected to see a very small tax cut in the near term and a tax increase after 2025, when all of the tax cuts for individuals expire. The tax cuts for corporations, however, are permanent.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer James Rufus Koren. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump touts MLK proclamation in tweet, but ceremony is overshadowed by reports of racist remarks By Associated Press President Trump signed a proclamation Friday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, noting the contributions of a great American hero. Today, it was my great honor to proclaim January 15, 2018, as Martin Luther King Jr., Federal Holiday. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with appropriate civic, community, and service activities in honor of Dr. King's life and legacy. pic.twitter.com/samlJsz1Nt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 Overshadowing the event was mounting backlash from Trumps comments during a private meeting with lawmakers the day before. A short time after the meeting, which was called to discuss a possible immigration deal, reports emerged that Trump had asked participants why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Illinois Sen. Richard Durbin, the Senates second-ranking Democrat, appeared to confirm those reports on Friday. Trump did not respond Friday to several questions about the incident, including whether he actually used vulgar language to describe African nations, or if he is racist. The president said at the White House that love was central to the slain civil rights leader. Trump said the nation celebrates King for standing up for the self-evident truth Americans hold so dear, that no matter what the color of our skin or place of our birth, we are all created equal by God.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump criticizes Democrats in tweet calling for stricter immigration rules President Trump hit out at Democrats on Thursday night in a tweet calling for stricter immigration rules. Trump wrote that members of the party seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the border with Mexico: The Democrats seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the Southern Border, risking thousands of lives in the process. It is my duty to protect the lives and safety of all Americans. We must build a Great Wall, think Merit and end Lottery & Chain. USA!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the tweet. Earlier Thursday, Trump rejected a bipartisan compromise to resolve the standoff over so-called Dreamers, young immigrants who were brought to the United States illegally as children but have temporary permits to work, attend school or serve in the military. The president drew widespread condemnation after reports emerged that he had asked participants in an Oval Office meeting about the proposal why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump touts bill aimed at improving border screening for fentanyl By Associated Press President Trump signed legislation Wednesday aimed at giving Customs and Border Protection agents additional screening devices and other tools to stop the flow of illicit drugs. Speaking at a surprise bill-signing ceremony while flanked by members of Congress from both parties in the Oval Office, Trump described the bill as a significant step forward in the fight against powerful opioids such as fentanyl, which he called our new big scourge. He echoed that language Thursday in a tweet: Yesterday, I signed the #INTERDICTAct (H.R. 2142) with bipartisan members of Congress to help end the flow of drugs into our country. Together, we are committed to doing everything we can to combat the deadly scourge of drug addiction and overdose in the United States! pic.twitter.com/ELZvFol5Lo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 The legislation will pay for new portable and fixed chemical screening devices to detect and intercept fentanyl at ports of entry and in the mail, along with other laboratory equipment and personnel, including scientists. Trump has made fighting the opioid epidemic a centerpiece of his administration, though critics say he hasnt dedicated nearly enough money or resources to make a difference. Trump suggested during his remarks on Wednesday that hed like to take a more aggressive approach to the drug crisis  but the countrys not ready for what he has in mind. So were going to sign this. And its a step. And it feels like a very giant step, but unfortunately, its not going to be a giant step, because no matter what you do, this is something that keeps pouring in, he said. And were going to find the answer. There is an answer. I think I actually know the answer, but Im not sure the countrys ready for it yet, he added. Does anybody know what I mean? I think so. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump applauds news that Toyota-Mazda plant is slated for Alabama By Associated Press Japanese automakers Toyota and Mazda on Wednesday announced plans to build a mammoth, $1.6-billion joint-venture plant in Alabama that will eventually employ about 4,000 people. President Trump lauded the news in a tweet: Cutting taxes and simplifying regulations makes America the place to invest! Great news as Toyota and Mazda announce they are bringing 4,000 JOBS and investing $1.6 BILLION in Alabama, helping to further grow our economy! pic.twitter.com/Kcg8IVH6iA  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Good news: Toyota and Mazda announce giant new Huntsville, Alabama, plant which will produce over 300,000 cars and SUVs a year and employ 4000 people. Companies are coming back to the U.S. in a very big way. Congratulations Alabama!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 Several states had competed for the project, which will be able to turn out 300,000 vehicles per year and produce the Toyota Corolla compact car for North America and a new small SUV from Mazda. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and company executives held a news conference to announce that the facility is coming to the Huntsville area not far from the Tennessee line. Production is expected to begin by 2021. The decision to pick Alabama is another example of foreign-based automakers building U.S. factories in the South. To entice manufacturers, Southern states have used a combination of lucrative incentive packages, low-cost labor and a pro-business labor environment, because the United Auto Workers union is stronger in Northern states. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump highlights call for border wall in tweets on visit with Norways prime minister By Associated Press President Trump praised Norways prime minister in a tweet on Wednesday after Erna Solberg became the first foreign leader to visit with the president in 2018. Today, it was my great honor to welcome Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway to the @WhiteHouse - a great friend and ally of the United States! Joint press conference: https://t.co/qWR1BhfQZI pic.twitter.com/PJvwznjRCO  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Trump also shared via Twitter a video clip of a joint news conference he held with Solberg on Wednesday afternoon. In the clip, Trump responds to a question from a reporter by saying there can be no bipartisan immigration deal absent funding for his long-promised wall along the U.S. border with Mexico. Republican and Democratic lawmakers have been seeking a solution for hundreds of thousands of so-called Dreamers, young people who were brought to the United States as children and are living here illegally. The United States needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval. The safety and security of our country is #1! pic.twitter.com/4CFzQXb5aS  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 We need the wall for security, we need the wall for safety, we need the wall for stopping the drugs from pouring in, Trump said Wednesday.  Any solution has to include the wall because without the wall, it all doesnt work. On Tuesday, Trump drew widespread attention when he said during a meeting with a bipartisan group of lawmakers that he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. That contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill in subsequent tweets and public comments. Read More This post contains reporting from Los Angeles Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump praises Cabinet in tweet touting meeting By Associated Press President Trump promoted a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday, sharing via Twitter a link to a video of the session posted on the White House YouTube account. In his tweet, Trump thanked his Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country and wrote that the last year has been one of monumental achievement. I want to thank my @Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country. 2017 was a year of monumental achievement and we look forward to the year ahead. Together, we are delivering results and MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! https://t.co/ptXa1hAPwW pic.twitter.com/yv6RALkQf3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The former reality television star continued to dispense accolades at the meeting Wednesday, greeting reporters in the Cabinet Room by saying: Welcome back to the studio. Then he proceeded to relive a Cabinet Room session from the prior day, when he had allowed reporters and TV cameras to stick around for much of his meeting with a bipartisan group of legislators on the thorny issue of immigration. It was a tremendous meeting. Actually, it was reported as incredibly good. And my performance  you know, some of them called it a performance  I consider it work, Trump said. Trump went on to say he had received letters from news anchors calling it one of the greatest meetings theyve ever witnessed. He added that the media will ultimately support Trump in the end, because theyre going to say, if Trump doesnt win in three years, theyre all out of business. Asked for examples of letters received from news anchors, the White House said it had received private communications. It also offered a series of positive on-air comments and tweets from journalists about the unusual access to the meeting. During his remarks, Trump swung from praising his own meeting coverage to telling journalists that they were dependent on his presidency for ratings to threatening a strong look at libel laws. Still, Trump thanked the journalists in front of him, joking: Youve gotten very familiar with this room. I appreciate your nice comments yesterday. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump blasts DACA ruling in tweet calling courts broken and unfair By Lisa Mascaro President Trump denounced the federal courts Wednesday as broken and unfair after a district judge in San Francisco issued a nationwide injunction keeping protections in place for so-called Dreamers. Trump tweeted: It just shows everyone how broken and unfair our Court System is when the opposing side in a case (such as DACA) always runs to the 9th Circuit and almost always wins before being reversed by higher courts.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 On Tuesday night, U.S. District Judge William Alsup in San Francisco temporarily blocked the Trump administrations decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, which has protected from deportation some 700,000 people who came to the country illegally as children. Alsup granted a request by the state of California, the University of California and other plaintiffs to stop Trump from ending DACA on March 5. The administrations decision to end DACA, which was announced in September, was based on a flawed legal analysis, Alsup wrote in his decision. Dreamers would be irreparably harmed if their DACA protections, which allow them to live and work legally in the U.S., were stripped away before the courts had a chance to fully consider their claims, he ruled. The action is the mirror image of a ruling in 2015 by a federal judge in Texas who ruled in favor of that state when it sought to block President Obama from expanding DACA to include the parents of Dreamers. Trump administration officials praised that judicial ruling. By contrast, they sharply criticized Alsups decision. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump thanks lawmakers for productive immigration meeting, says deal must include border wall President Trump thanked a bipartisan group of lawmakers for participating in a meeting on immigration legislation on Tuesday. Much of the discussion involved so-called Dreamers, an estimated 700,000 young people who were brought to the country illegally as children and are now facing deportation. In a tweet, Trump wrote that there was strong agreement to negotiate a bill to protect Dreamers, as well as put into place some of the reforms favored by Republicans. Thanks to all of the Republican and Democratic lawmakers for todays very productive meeting on immigration reform. There was strong agreement to negotiate a bill that deals with border security, chain migration, lottery and DACA. https://t.co/SdqAQ3aL3z pic.twitter.com/8DYHZHspAy  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 The most notable exchange of the meeting came when Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the San Francisco Democrat, asked Trump whether he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. Yeah, I would like to do it, Trump responded. The statement drew widespread attention because it contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump later backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill, tweeting that a wall along the U.S. border with Mexico must be part of any deal: As I made very clear today, our country needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Pressure has been mounting for Congress to broker an immigration deal by Jan. 19 as part of a must-pass budget package to fund the government. This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump thanks officers and veterans in tweets President Trump doled out a slew of accolades Tuesday via Twitter. He thanked the nations law enforcement officers, including in his message a hashtag denoting a day of appreciation organized by a national support group for law enforcement families. On behalf of the American people, THANK YOU to our incredible law enforcement officers. As President of the United States - I will fight for you, and I will never, ever let you down. Now, more than ever, we must support the men and women in blue! #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay pic.twitter.com/Qb4uxB4JRm  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trump later expressed gratitude for federal immigration agents, in particular: .@ICEgov HSI agents and ERO officers, on behalf of an entire Nation, THANK YOU for what you are doing 24/7/365 to keep fellow Americans SAFE. Everyone is so grateful!#LawEnforcementAppreciationDay

President @realDonaldTrump https://t.co/HXCpTlruVo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The president thanked veterans as he cited his administrations efforts to curb the number of veteran suicides by improving mental health treatment for the high-risk group: Today, it was my great honor to sign a new Executive Order to ensure Veterans have the resources they need as they transition back to civilian life. We must ensure that our HEROES are given the care and support they so richly deserve! https://t.co/0MdP9DDIAS pic.twitter.com/LP2a8KCBAp  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trumps tweet included photos of the president signing an executive order Tuesday directing the secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs to develop a plan to provide seamless access to mental health and suicide prevention resources for 12 months for members leaving the armed forces. Also on Tuesday, Trump touted a law he signed the day before designating the birthplace of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. a national historic park: It was my great honor to sign H.R. 267, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Act, which redesignates the Martin Luther King, Junior, National Historic Site in the State of Georgia as the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. https://t.co/Qe0b6HBFTY pic.twitter.com/QTgaqTawPT  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 And he thanked House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) for sharing a video compilation comprised of clips of politicians and commentators praising the GOPs tax cut bill: Thank you @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy! Couldnt agree w/you more. TOGETHER, we are #MAGA https://t.co/QaxtqpyXTR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018  This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump hails tax bill in tweets recapping speech to farmers By Associated Press Connecting with rural Americans, President Trump on Monday hailed his tax overhaul as a victory for family farmers. Farm country is Gods country, Trump told the annual convention of the American Farm Bureau Federation. Trump became the first president in a quarter-century to address the federations convention. His Southern swing also included a stop in Atlanta for the national college football championship game. Cant wait to be back in the amazing state of Tennessee to address the 99th American @FarmBureau Federations Annual Convention in Nashville! #AFBF18



On my way now - join me LIVE at 4:00pmE: https://t.co/QaljAqekdD. pic.twitter.com/Wm7Io0hYT8  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Joined by Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) and a group of Tennessee lawmakers, Trump said most of the benefits of the tax legislation are going to working families, small businesses, and who  the family farmer. The package Trump signed into law last month provides generous tax cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans, and more modest reductions for middle- and low-income individuals and families. In every decision we make, we are honoring Americas PROUD FARMING LEGACY. Years of crushing taxes, crippling regs, & corrupt politics left our communities hurting, our economy stagnant, & millions of hardworking Americans COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN. But they are not forgotten ANYMORE! pic.twitter.com/MdYS7xnukQ  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The president vastly inflated the value of the package in his speech, citing a total of $5.5 trillion in tax cuts, with most of those benefits going to working families, small businesses and who? The family farmer. The estimated value of the tax cuts is actually $1.5 trillion for families and businesses because of cuts in deductions and the use of other steps to generate offsetting tax revenue. We have been working every day to DELIVER for Americas Farmers just as they work every day to deliver FOR US. #AFBF18 pic.twitter.com/QDH7fvFkZ7  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 From Nashville, Trump traveled to Atlanta to watch Alabamas Crimson Tide and Georgias Bulldogs face off Monday night in the College Football Playoff National Championship. We are fighting for our farmers, for our country, and for our GREAT AMERICAN FLAG. We want our flag respected - and we want our NATIONAL ANTHEM respected also! pic.twitter.com/16eOLXg6Fi  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Before departing for the game, Trump referenced his ongoing defense of the American flag and the national anthem, saying there was enough space for people to express their views. We love our flag and we love our anthem, and we want to keep it that way, he said. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump tweet hails drop in unemployment rate for African Americans By Associated Press President Trump touted a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans on Monday in a tweet. African American unemployment is the lowest ever recorded in our country. The Hispanic unemployment rate dropped a full point in the last year and is close to the lowest in recorded history. Dems did nothing for you but get your vote! #NeverForget @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The rate fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Trump also hailed the development via Twitter on Saturday. His latest tweet on the topic came about an hour after it was discussed during an episode of Fox & Friends, according to Mediaite. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump talks up the economy and dresses down the media in Sunday tweets With President Trump cheering from the sidelines, the White House on Sunday pressed its defense of the presidents fitness to govern, as fired former aide Stephen K. Bannon reversed course and apologized for his role in a new books explosive portrait of Trump. The presidents critics, meanwhile, said Trumps stream of taunts and insults in response to the book  Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, released last week  served only to underscore the authors unsettling portrayal of Trumps year-old presidency, depicting a leader whose own aides consider him childish, ignorant and dangerously erratic. Trump provided more ammunition Sunday morning, as he continued to attack the book via Twitter while preparing to depart Camp David for the White House: Leaving Camp David for the White House. Great meetings with the Cabinet and Military on many very important subjects including Border Security & the desperately needed Wall, the ever increasing Drug and Opioid Problem, Infrastructure, Military, Budget, Trade and DACA.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Ive had to put up with the Fake News from the first day I announced that I would be running for President. Now I have to put up with a Fake Book, written by a totally discredited author. Ronald Reagan had the same problem and handled it well. So will I!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 The most vehement defense of Trump on Sunday came from senior advisor Stephen Miller, a onetime Bannon acolyte who distanced himself from his former mentor. In a combative appearance Sunday on CNNs State of the Union, Miller called the book grotesque and writer Michael Wolff the garbage author of a garbage book. Trump is known to closely monitor aides televised performances in putting forth his case, and he gleefully weighed in within moments of Millers televised clash with host Jake Tapper. CNN has long been a particular target of Trumps ire. Jake Tapper of Fake News CNN just got destroyed in his interview with Stephen Miller of the Trump Administration. Watch the hatred and unfairness of this CNN flunky!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trumps reaction, however, seemed to bolster Tappers on-air depiction of Miller as using his appearance on the show to play to the president rather than addressing questions put to him. I get it  theres one viewer that you care about, the host said exasperatedly after Miller turned the discussion repeatedly to negative news coverage of the president while deflecting specific queries. Later on Twitter, Trump took up two themes that have been prevalent on his social media feeds recently. The president again went after the news media, tweeting that the recipients of his self-proclaimed most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year, which he promised earlier in the week to announce on Monday, would actually be revealed the following Wednesday: The Fake News Awards, those going to the most corrupt & biased of the Mainstream Media, will be presented to the losers on Wednesday, January 17th, rather than this coming Monday. The interest in, and importance of, these awards is far greater than anyone could have anticipated!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trump later lauded a New York Post opinion piece that compared him favorably with his predecessor, President Obama, as well as Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. In quoting the op-ed, Trump initally misspelled consequential as consensual, but he deleted those tweets and re-sent the messages. His is turning out to be an enormously consequential presidency. So much so that, despite my own frustration over his missteps, there has never been a day when I wished Hillary Clinton were president. Not one. Indeed, as Trumps accomplishments accumulate, the mere thought of...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 ...Clinton in the WH, doubling down on Barack Obamas failed policies, washes away any doubts that America made the right choice. This was truly a change election  and the changes Trump is bringing are far-reaching & necessary. Thank you Michael Goodwin! https://t.co/4fHNcx2Ydg  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Trump also continued talking up the economy, which has been enjoying a period of strong gains. The Stock Market has been creating tremendous benefits for our country in the form of not only Record Setting Stock Prices, but present and future Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Seven TRILLION dollars of value created since our big election win!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 In addition to Miller, other senior administration officials made the rounds of Sunday news talk shows to decry the claims made in Wolffs book. CIA Director Mike Pompeo said Wolffs characterization of Trump as averse to digesting classified briefing material was ludicrous, and the ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, insisted that that those around Trump love their country and respect their president. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Responding to book that mocks his intelligence, Trump tweets hes like, really smart By Tracy Wilkinson President Trump declared himself a very stable genius on Twitter on Saturday and later in a televised news conference called the author of a book that questioned his mental fitness a fraud. His comments came on a bone-cold day at Camp David during a weekend retreat with top administration officials and Republican congressional leaders strategizing on the years legislative agenda, including matters such as infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and national security. Now that Russian collusion, after one year of intense study, has proven to be a total hoax on the American public, the Democrats and their lapdogs, the Fake News Mainstream Media, are taking out the old Ronald Reagan playbook and screaming mental stability and intelligence.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....Actually, throughout my life, my two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart. Crooked Hillary Clinton also played these cards very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....to President of the United States (on my first try). I think that would qualify as not smart, but genius....and a very stable genius at that!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Still, Trumps explosive rebuttal to author Michael Wolffs claims not only opened the day, but it also ensured the presidents capability to fill the highest office in the land was a topic that would not go away. In his early-morning tweets, Trump said two of his greatest assets have been mental stability, and being, like, really smart. He noted that his former Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, played these cards [about competence] very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star to President of the United States (on my first try). Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

In morning tweets, Trump touts job numbers and takes digs at news media By Associated Press President Trump used Twitter on Saturday morning to tout a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans. He also used the tweets as an opportunity to take digs at media outlets whose past coverage he has found to be critical. The African American unemployment rate fell to 6.8%, the lowest rate in 45 years. I am so happy about this News! And, in the Washington Post (of all places), headline states, Trumps first year jobs numbers were very, very good.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The unemployment rate for African Americans fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Still, the rate for black workers remains well above those for whites and some other groups, something experts attribute in large part to decades of discrimination and disadvantages. Robust job creation has lowered unemployment for all Americans. U.S. employers added nearly 2.1 million jobs in 2017  the seventh straight year that hiring has topped 2 million. In his tweet, Trump praised a report that noted the numbers, touting the fact that it appeared in the Washington Post (of all places). Minutes later, Trump renewed his attack on an ABC News reporter who was suspended last month after filing an erroneous report on Michael Flynn, Trumps former national security advisor. Brian Ross, the reporter who made a fraudulent live newscast about me that drove the Stock Market down 350 points (billions of dollars), was suspended for a month but is now back at ABC NEWS in a lower capacity. He is no longer allowed to report on Trump. Should have been fired!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The reporter, Brian Ross, was reportedly reassigned within ABC News upon returning from his unpaid suspension. But on Saturday, Trump wrote that he should have been fired. Trumps tweets came hours before he was set to host congressional Republicans and administration officials at Camp David. The meeting scheduled to begin at midmorning Saturday was expected to touch on the budget, infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and the shape of the midterm election this fall. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump commends Sen. Rand Paul after he proposes eliminating all U.S. aid to Pakistan President Trump commended Sen. Rand Paul after the Kentucky Republican announced plans to introduce legislation that would eliminate all U.S. aid to Pakistan. Trump tweeted Friday night: Good idea Rand! https://t.co/55sqUDiC0s  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 On Thursday, the Trump administration announced it was suspending security assistance to Islamabad until the country moves aggressively against local militants who have attacked U.S. troops in neighboring Afghanistan. Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration at the apparent inability of Pakistani authorities to rein in militants who cross out of the countrys rugged tribal areas to attack U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Tracy Wilkinson. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump continues to lash out at Sloppy Steve Bannon in tweets on tell-all book By Associated Press President Trump is praising a major Republican donor family for distancing themselves from his former advisor Steve Bannon. Trump tweeted Friday: The Mercer Family recently dumped the leaker known as Sloppy Steve Bannon. Smart!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trump has continued to lash out at Bannon over an explosive new book that quoted his former aide as questioning Trumps competence and describing a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower among Donald Trump Jr., Trump campaign aides and a Russian lawyer as treasonous and unpatriotic. On Thursday, billionaire GOP donor Rebekah Mercer issued a statement distancing her family from Bannon. Mercer is a co-owner of Breitbart, the populist website Bannon helps run. I support President Trump and the platform upon which he was elected, Mercer said. My family and I have not communicated with Steve Bannon in many months and have provided no financial support to his political agenda, nor do we support his recent actions and statements. The book, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, quickly shot atop Amazons best-seller list, and the publisher moved up its release date by four days, to Friday. Trump took up the topic again on Twitter on Friday night, denouncing both Bannon and the books author, Michael Wolff, in starkly personal terms: Michael Wolff is a total loser who made up stories in order to sell this really boring and untruthful book. He used Sloppy Steve Bannon, who cried when he got fired and begged for his job. Now Sloppy Steve has been dumped like a dog by almost everyone. Too bad! https://t.co/mEeUhk5ZV9  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Trumps message linked to a meme depicting a parody book cover titled, Liar and Phony, that featured a photo of Wolff and disparaging quotes about the author. In a tweet sent earlier Friday morning, Trump suggested the book was intended to serve as a distraction from the FBIs investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, which Trump wrote is proving to be a total hoax. Well, now that collusion with Russia is proving to be a total hoax and the only collusion is with Hillary Clinton and the FBI/Russia, the Fake News Media (Mainstream) and this phony new book are hitting out at every new front imaginable. They should try winning an election. Sad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 That came amid reports that Trump directed his White House counsel to tell Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions to not recuse himself from the Justice Departments Russia investigation. Trumps effort to keep Sessions, a vocal and loyal supporter of his election bid, in charge of an investigation into his campaign offers special counsel Robert Mueller yet another avenue to explore as his prosecutors work to untangle potential evidence of obstruction. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump praises the economy ahead of meetings at Camp David By Associated Press President Trump is praising the strength of the U.S. economy ahead of meetings at Camp David with congressional Republicans. Trump tweeted early Friday: Dow goes from 18,589 on November 9, 2016, to 25,075 today, for a new all-time Record. Jumped 1000 points in last 5 weeks, Record fastest 1000 point move in history. This is all about the Make America Great Again agenda! Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Six trillion dollars in value created!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The president also told reporters on the South Lawn that the tax cuts are really kicking in after Congress passed a package of tax cuts at the end of 2017. And the president praised the December jobs report, which found U.S. employers added 148,000 jobs in December and the unemployment rate stayed at 4.1%, the lowest level since 2000. The modest but steady pace of hiring is a reassuring sign for investors who have been buoyed by the just-passed Republican tax plan and have been sending stock market indexes roaring to uncharted heights. The president is meeting with Republican congressional leaders and members of his Cabinet on Friday and Saturday to discuss the 2018 agenda. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump tweets as Dow crashes through 25,000 By Associated Press President Trump dispatched a congratulatory tweet as the Dow Jones industrial average rose above the 25,000-point mark Thursday, just five weeks after its first close above 24,000. Dow just crashes through 25,000. Congrats! Big cuts in unnecessary regulations continuing.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 After the Dow closed above 25,000, Trump shared a graphic depicting the stock indexs record-setting rise. MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/iONbr1DkVk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Later in the day, the president was back on Twitter, complaining that news outlets had barely covered the stock market milestone. He suggested that the strength of the economy would be the biggest story on earth, had it unfolded during the presidency of his predecessor. The Fake News Media barely mentions the fact that the Stock Market just hit another New Record and that business in the U.S. is booming...but the people know! Can you imagine if O was president and had these numbers - would be biggest story on earth! Dow now over 25,000.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The Dow broke past 1,000-point barriers in 2017 on its way to a 25% gain for the year, as an eight-year rally since the Great Recession continued to confound skeptics. Strong global economic growth and good prospects for higher company earnings have analysts predicting more gains, although the market may not stay as calm as it has been recently. The Dow has made a rapid trip since it reached 24,000 points Nov. 30, partly on enthusiasm over passage of the Republican-backed tax package, which could boost company profits this year with across-the-board cuts to corporate taxes. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump reacts to Fire and Fury book in tweet lashing out at author and Sloppy Steve President Trump lashed out at the author of a soon-to-be-released book about the chaotic first year of his presidency Thursday night. In a tweet, Trump called Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, a phony book and claimed that hed never spoken to its author, Michael Wolff. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve! Trump wrote. He appeared to be referring to former White House chief strategist Stephen K. Bannon, whose stunning criticisms of Trump and his circle figure prominently in the title. I authorized Zero access to White House (actually turned him down many times) for author of phony book! I never spoke to him for book. Full of lies, misrepresentations and sources that dont exist. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trumps tweet came hours after he had his lawyer demand that Henry Holt & Co. and Wolff stop publication the book. Instead, the publisher expedited the books release to Friday, four days before it was slated to hit bookstore shelves, in response to unprecedented demand. Published excerpts on Wednesday and Thursday whetted that appetite and roiled Washington. Bannons comments, including that it was treasonous and unpatriotic for Trumps son Donald Trump Jr., son-in-law Jared Kushner and campaign manager Paul Manafort to have met in 2016 with Russians said to have dirt on Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, prompted Trump on Wednesday to rebuke his former advisor, saying Bannon had lost his mind. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Brian Bennett and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump thanks senators who attended meeting on immigration President Trump tweeted thanks to Republican senators who attended a meeting about possible immigration legislation on Thursday. In his message, Trump also listed his top priorities when it comes to any type of overhaul of the nations immigration system. Thank you to the great Republican Senators who showed up to our mtg on immigration reform. We must BUILD THE WALL, stop illegal immigration, end chain migration & cancel the visa lottery. The current system is unsafe & unfair to the great people of our country - time for change!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Trumps tweet echoed his remarks at the beginning of Thursdays meeting, when he insisted again that constructing a border wall and overhauling two legal immigration programs must be part of any deal with Democrats to protect the so-called Dreamers from deportation. Two-year deportation protections and work permits given under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program begin to expire March 6 under an executive order. Trump announced in September that he was ending the Obama-era program, but told Congress to draft a law to continue protections for people brought to the country illegally as children  a group that has widespread public support. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Brian Bennett. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump resumes Twitter war against kneeling NFL players President Trump has resumed his Twitter war against NFL players who kneel during the national anthem to protest social injustice and racial inequality. In a tweet early Thursday, Trump replied to a supporter who shared a meme that appears to depict family members lying on the grave of a fallen soldier with the caption: This is why we stand. Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! Trump wrote. So beautiful....Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! https://t.co/tJLM1tvbvb  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The president has denounced players who kneel during the anthem in previous tweets. Hes also called for the firing of players who do so. His latest message came amid news that the NFL finished the regular season with TV ratings that fell nearly 10% below the previous season. Analysts attribute the drop to controversies facing the league, as well as changing viewing habits and a possible saturation point in the number of games available. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Stephen Battaglio and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump credits himself with facilitating talks between North and South Korea By Associated Press President Trump says his tough stance on nuclear weapons on the Korean peninsula is helping push North Korea and South Korea to talk. Trump tweeted early Thursday: With all of the failed experts weighing in, does anybody really believe that talks and dialogue would be going on between North and South Korea right now if I wasnt firm, strong and willing to commit our total might against the North. Fools, but talks are a good thing!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 That assertion is in conflict with some of the presidents own statements. Last year, he ridiculed Secretary of State Rex Tillerson for talking about negotiations with the North. This week, Trump seemed open to the possibility of an inter-Korean dialogue after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare overture toward South Korea in a New Years Day address. But Trumps ambassador to the United Nations insisted that talks wont be meaningful unless the North is getting rid of its nuclear weapons. The overture about talks came after Trump and Kim traded more bellicose claims about their nuclear weapons. In his New Years Day address, Kim repeated fiery nuclear threats against the United States. Kim said he has a nuclear button on his office desk and warned that the whole territory of the U.S. is within the range of our nuclear strike. Trump mocked that assertion Tuesday evening in a tweet. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

After disbanding his vote fraud panel, Trump still says voting system is rigged By Brian Bennett One day after disbanding his troubled voter fraud commission without any findings of fraud, President Trump continued to call the U.S. voting system rigged and said states should require that Americans have voter-identification cards. In two tweets on Thursday morning, Trump blamed the commissions failure on the lack of cooperation from mostly Democrat States that refused to hand over voter rolls because they know that many people are voting illegally. However, voting supervisors in Republican-led states refused as well, objecting on privacy and other grounds. Many mostly Democrat States refused to hand over data from the 2016 Election to the Commission On Voter Fraud. They fought hard that the Commission not see their records or methods because they know that many people are voting illegally. System is rigged, must go to Voter I.D.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 As Americans, you need identification, sometimes in a very strong and accurate form, for almost everything you do.....except when it comes to the most important thing, VOTING for the people that run your country. Push hard for Voter Identification!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Despite Trumps assertions, analysts have not found evidence of widespread voter fraud. Trump created the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity in May after alleging, without proof, that millions of illegal votes were cast for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. Trump was elected after winning a majority in the electoral college, but the nationwide count showed Clinton received nearly 3 million more votes. The commission sought personal data on voters across the country and faced mounting lawsuits in recent months over privacy concerns. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump touts another good day for stocks, credits tax cut By Associated Press President Trump touted another good day for the stock market Wednesday in a tweet. Stock Market had another good day but, now that the Tax Cut Bill has passed, we have tremendous upward potential. Dow just short of 25,000, a number that few thought would be possible this soon into my administration. Also, unemployment went down to 4.1%. Only getting better!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Big gains for technology and healthcare stocks helped U.S. indexes set records again Wednesday. Some analysts attributed the surge to investor enthusiasm for Trumps $1.5-trillion tax cut. All told, Wall Street analysts estimate the tax package should boost earnings for companies in the Standard & Poors 500 index by roughly 8% this year. Thats much more generous than the average tax cut of 1.6% that middle-class families will receive, according to the Tax Policy Center. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The public has been less enthusiastic about the tax law. A Monmouth University poll last month found that nearly half of Americans disapproved of it, with only 26% in support. Still, as Trump also noted on Twitter, some workers have seen a benefit: So far, dozens of companies have announced bonuses and higher minimum wages as a result of the tax cut. AT&T, Comcast, Bank of America, and American Airlines have all pledged to pay $1,000 bonuses to their employees. Some 40 U.S. companies have responded to President Trumps tax cut and reform victory in Congress last year by handing out bonuses up to $2,000, increases in 401k matches and spending on charity, a much higher number than previously known. https://t.co/bmWrwWzxMR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Investors also appear less concerned than many politicians about how the additional profits will be used. The Trump administration says it expects companies will plow much of the extra profit back into their businesses, purchasing more software, machinery, and other equipment. Those investments will make workers more productive and provide a key boost to the economys long-run growth. They should also boost wages and salaries for employees. Opponents of the tax law respond that companies are more likely to pass the windfall on to shareholders in the form of higher dividend payments and share buybacks, which raise the price of those shares still in investors hands. Previous cuts in corporate tax rates, in the United States and overseas, havent always led to higher wages. For Wall Street, its all good, at least in the short run. Most analysts take the view that either way, companies and the economy will benefit. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump reacts to death of Mormon Church president By Associated Press President Trump mourned the death of Mormon Church leader Thomas S. Monson on Wednesday evening. Trump tweeted a link to a statement in which he said that Monson demonstrated wisdom, inspired leadership, and great compassion and delivered a message of optimism, forgiveness, and faith. Melania and I are deeply saddened by the death of Thomas S. Monson, a beloved President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints...https://t.co/ETD3fWtfU3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 A church bishop at the age of 22, Monson became the youngest church apostle ever in 1963 at the age of 36. He served as a counselor for three church presidents before assuming the role of the top leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in February 2008. After a life of church service, Monson died Tuesday at his home in Salt Lake City, according to church spokesman Eric Hawkins. He was 90. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump tweets that Iranian protesters will see great U.S. support at the appropriate time By Associated Press President Trump continued to express support for Irans anti-government protesters on Wednesday. In a tweet, Trump commended the protesters and pledged that the United States will support them at the appropriate time. Such respect for the people of Iran as they try to take back their corrupt government. You will see great support from the United States at the appropriate time!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Trumps tweet Wednesday morning came as Iranian Ambassador Gholamali Khoshroo sent a letter to United Nations officials complaining that Washington was intervening in a grotesque way in Irans internal affairs. The President and Vice-President of the United States, in their numerous absurd tweets, incited Iranians to engage in disruptive acts, the ambassador wrote to the U.N. Security Council president and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The U.S. didnt immediately respond to the letter, which maintains that Washington has crossed every limit in flouting rules and principles of international law governing the civilized conduct of international relations. At least 21 people have been killed and hundreds arrested in Iran during a week of anti-government protests and unrest over economic woes and official corruption. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people took part in counter-demonstrations Wednesday backing the clerically overseen government, which has said enemies of Iran are fomenting the protests. Trump has unleashed a series of tweets in recent days backing the protesters, saying Iran is failing at every level and declaring that it is time for change in the Islamic Republic. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump congratulates Sen. Orrin Hatch upon news of his retirement By Associated Press President Trump congratulated Sen. Orrin Hatch for an absolutely incredible career upon news of Hatchs impending retirement. In a tweet Tuesday afternoon, Trump called Hatch a tremendous supporter and wrote that he will be greatly missed in the Senate. Congratulations to Senator Orrin Hatch on an absolutely incredible career. He has been a tremendous supporter, and I will never forget the (beyond kind) statements he has made about me as President. He is my friend and he will be greatly missed in the U.S. Senate! pic.twitter.com/0VjzLEeHTl  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Hatchs decision to retire from the Senate after four decades lets the Utah Republican walk away at the height of his power after helping to push through an overhaul of the tax code and persuading Trump to downsize two national monuments. Retirement also preserves the 83-year-olds legacy by allowing him to avoid a bruising reelection battle that would have broken his promise not to seek an eighth term. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump tweet exaggerates progress in improving veterans care By Associated Press President Trump played up tremendous progress in improving care for veterans in his first year on Tuesday in a tweet. His message linked to an Instagram video describing eight accomplishments that show Trump is fighting for our veterans. But it overstates the impact of these steps. We will not rest until all of Americas GREAT VETERANS can receive the care they so richly deserve. Tremendous progress has been made in a short period of time. Keep up the great work @SecShulkin @DeptVetAffairs! https://t.co/ir25vW15hx pic.twitter.com/OtuzIgxMn6  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Of the eight achievements cited, two are ceremonial proclamations recognizing National Veterans and Military Families Month and National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Two are pieces of legislation that extended the troubled Veterans Choice program on a temporary basis. This became necessary because the Trump administration repeatedly miscalculated the amount of taxpayer dollars available to pay for care from private doctors outside the Veterans Affairs system when veterans had to endure long waits for treatment at VA medical centers. The departments poor budget planning caught lawmakers off guard. A fifth claim involves telehealth, a step letting doctors practice medicine across state lines using digital technology. Announced in August, it has yet to take full effect because a proposed VA regulation hasnt been completed. The VA wants authority to practice across state lines to come from legislation, not a regulation. On Wednesday, the Senate approved a telehealth measure that now goes to the House. A sixth claim refers to legislation that streamlines the appeals process for disability compensation claims within the VA. This step has had limited effect so far because it applies to new disability claims, not the 470,000 pending claims. The last two initiatives make it easier for the VA to discipline employees. The department has pointed to more than 1,300 employees who have been fired under Trumps watch. Because their infractions are not detailed in public documents, the effect on veterans care is not fully known. Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump unleashes his first tweetstorm of 2018 By Noah Bierman President Trump clearly didnt resolve to change his Twitter habits this year. With nine disparate tweets over three hours on Tuesday morning, the first working day of 2018, Trump continued to exploit social media to be the most aggressive commentator in chief in American history. For any other president, his posts would have made for a monumental day of (mis-)statements. Yet for Trump, the series  attacks on political foes and media, provocations of foreign leaders and self-praise for events he had nothing to do with  was all but unremarkable. His Twitter barrage  sent between 7:09 a.m. and 10:16 a.m.  reflected a familiar gamut after nearly a year in office: Attacks on political foes: Nearly 14 months after his election, Trump called for the jailing of Huma Abedin, Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid (his misspelling, another occasional feature of Trump tweets). Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid, Huma Abedin, has been accused of disregarding basic security protocols. She put Classified Passwords into the hands of foreign agents. Remember sailors pictures on submarine? Jail! Deep State Justice Dept must finally act? Also on Comey & others  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 In the same tweet, he disparaged the Deep State Justice Dept, headed of course by his appointees, calling on it to act against James B. Comey, the FBI director he fired for investigating the Russia thing. Diplomatic provocations: Trump again called North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Rocket man, ridiculed the volatile nuclear-armed foe for recent military defections and openly speculated about potential talks between North and South Korea. Sanctions and other pressures are beginning to have a big impact on North Korea. Soldiers are dangerously fleeing to South Korea. Rocket man now wants to talk to South Korea for first time. Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not - we will see!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not  we will see! Trump wrote. Later Tuesday, Trump tweeted: North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un just stated that the Nuclear Button is on his desk at all times. Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Also later Tuesday, Trump tweeted an attack on Pakistan, his second in as many days, and added a new one against Palestinians: It's not only Pakistan that we pay billions of dollars to for nothing, but also many other countries, and others. As an example, we pay the Palestinians HUNDRED OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS a year and get no appreciation or respect. They dont even want to negotiate a long overdue...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ...peace treaty with Israel. We have taken Jerusalem, the toughest part of the negotiation, off the table, but Israel, for that, would have had to pay more. But with the Palestinians no longer willing to talk peace, why should we make any of these massive future payments to them?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Undermining media: Trump offered Congratulations! to A.G. Sulzberger, who took over as publisher of the New York Times this week. The Failing New York Times has a new publisher, A.G. Sulzberger. Congratulations! Here is a last chance for the Times to fulfill the vision of its Founder, Adolph Ochs, to give the news impartially, without fear or FAVOR, regardless of party, sect, or interests involved. Get...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ....impartial journalists of a much higher standard, lose all of your phony and non-existent sources, and treat the President of the United States FAIRLY, so that the next time I (and the people) win, you wont have to write an apology to your readers for a job poorly done! GL  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the two-part post was really yet another slam against a perceived media foe: Trump said the paper had a last chance to fulfill its journalistic mission, and accused it of relying on phony sources and substandard reporters  just days after he granted another exclusive interview to the paper. As a bonus, the tweet contained a recycled falsehood, that the paper apologized after the election for reporting on him unfairly. It didnt. Trump later said on Twitter that he would soon announce the most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year. Stay tuned! I will be announcing THE MOST DISHONEST & CORRUPT MEDIA AWARDS OF THE YEAR on Monday at 5:00 oclock. Subjects will cover Dishonesty & Bad Reporting in various categories from the Fake News Media. Stay tuned!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 The president also tweeted a quote from Fox Business Networks Lou Dobbs Tonight, which aired a segment praising Trumps first-year accomplishments. Dobbs reportedly joined Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday for a gala to celebrate New Years Eve. President Trump has something now he didnt have a year ago, that is a set of accomplishments that nobody can deny. The accomplishments are there, look at his record, he has had a very significant first year. @LouDobbs Show,David Asman & Ed Rollins  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Taking credit: Trump congratulated himself for policing the border with Mexico, an area where his policies and anti-immigration rhetoric are believed to have had some effect on reducing illegal crossings. Thank you to Brandon Judd of the National Border Patrol Council for your kind words on how well we are doing at the Border. We will be bringing in more & more of your great folks and will build the desperately needed WALL! @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 He took credit for employee bonuses by companies after he signed Republican tax cuts into law last month. Companies are giving big bonuses to their workers because of the Tax Cut Bill. Really great!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the jaw-dropper was Trump congratulating himself for planes not crashing. Since taking office I have been very strict on Commercial Aviation. Good news - it was just reported that there were Zero deaths in 2017, the best and safest year on record!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 It was the safest year on record worldwide, but the American streak without commercial jet passenger deaths goes back to 2009. Trump, who has promoted deregulation as one of his top accomplishments, has not signed off on any new airline safety regulations. The White House pointed to new security screening of passengers, to electronic devices to prevent terrorist attacks and to Trumps support for privatizing air traffic control  a proposal that has gotten nowhere in Congress. Falsehoods: Trump said President Obama, in brokering the 2015 nuclear arms limitation deal with Iran, foolishly gave money to the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. He didnt. The people of Iran are finally acting against the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. All of the money that President Obama so foolishly gave them went into terrorism and into their pockets. The people have little food, big inflation and no human rights. The U.S. is watching!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 The nuclear deal, which included major U.S. allies as signators, released Irans own funds that had long been frozen. Trumps art of the deal: When Trump sees a big deal looming, he often blasts the other side  to gain leverage, as hes written. This week he resumes a showdown with Democratic lawmakers over funding the government and immigration protections for so-called Dreamers, who were brought to the country illegally as children. Democrats are doing nothing for DACA - just interested in politics. DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start falling in love with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Trump, who in September ordered a gradual end of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, sought to shift blame for the resulting controversy, saying Democrats are doing nothing for DACA and are just interested in politics. Trump has insisted that any help for Dreamers be paired with funding for a border wall and a crackdown on legal immigration. Democrats, and some Republicans, are opposed. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

In tweet, Trump suggests U.S. will withdraw financial assistance to Pakistan By Shashank Bengali Pakistan lashed out Monday after President Trump accused its leaders of lies & deceit and suggested the United States would withdraw financial assistance to the nuclear-armed nation it once saw as a key ally against terrorism. It was the presidents latest broadside against Pakistan after a speech in August in which he demanded its leaders crack down on the safe havens enjoyed by Taliban militants fighting U.S.-backed forces in neighboring Afghanistan. The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 1, 2018 U.S. Ambassador David Hale was summoned to the Foreign Ministry to discuss the presidents statement, U.S. Embassy spokesman Richard Snelsire said. Pakistan lodged a strongly worded protest and asked for clarification about Trumps comments, according to two foreign office officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Pakistans prime minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, called a Cabinet meeting for Tuesday and a meeting of the National Security Committee on Wednesday to discuss Trumps New Years Day tweet. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Trump continues to tweet in support of Iranian protesters By Laura King President Trump expressed renewed support Sunday for protesters in Iran, declaring that people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. In a tweet from his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, the president said the nationwide economic protests that began on Thursday  and have taken on wider political overtones as they have grown in size  were a signal that Iranians will not take it any longer. Big protests in Iran. The people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. Looks like they will not take it any longer. The USA is watching very closely for human rights violations!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Trump has tweeted about the protests for three days straight as Iranians took to the streets despite a heavy police presence, tear gas and scores of arrests. The defiance gained urgency after two people were reported shot to death in the city of Dorud, about 200 miles southwest of Tehran. As the conflict escalated, Iranian authorities on Sunday slapped a temporary ban on Instagram and the messaging app Telegram, which were widely used to fan protest fervor. Iran, the Number One State of Sponsored Terror with numerous violations of Human Rights occurring on an hourly basis, has now closed down the Internet so that peaceful demonstrators cannot communicate. Not good!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Irans leaders already are casting Trumps increasingly effusive expressions of support for the demonstrators as opportunistic meddling and are painting the demonstrators as foreign pawns, adopting a strategy that some analysts say could jeopardize the legitimacy of the nascent antigovernment protests. Read More Facebook

Twitter

Show more sharing options Share Close extra sharing options Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Email

Copy Link URL Copied!

Print

Advertisement

Trump tweets condolences after Colorado deputies are shot in ambush, one fatally By Associated Press A man fired more than 100 rounds at sheriffs deputies in Colorado early Sunday, killing one and injuring four others, before being fatally shot himself in what authorities called an ambush. Two civilians were also injured. President Trump expressed sorrow, writing on Twitter: My deepest condolences to the victims of the terrible shooting in Douglas County @DCSheriff, and their families. We love our police and law enforcement - God Bless them all! #LESM  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said deputies came under fire almost
So many norms of politics and civic discourse have been shattered in the year that ends this Sunday. And not every smashed convention this year has been the handiwork of President Donald J. Trump.

In a book of essays published in October, two dozen psychiatrists and psychologists challenged strictures laid down by their professions leaders and publicly probed Trumps mental state. The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump is a recitation of evidence for what they contend is Trumps malignant narcissism, hedonism and sociopathy.

Their consensus has two thrusts: First, the nations 45th president is a clear and present danger to the United States, and to the well-being of its citizens. And second, as a profession, mental health practitioners are bound by a legal and ethical duty to warn the public of the danger he poses.

Advertisement

The authors defiance has won them a harsh rebuke from Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, a past president of the American Psychiatric Assn. Lieberman denounced the book of essays as tawdry, indulgent, fatuous tabloid psychiatry.

But in an essay published this week in the New England Journal of Medicine, a psychiatrist and philosopher defends her colleagues willingness to challenge a decades-old prohibition on the practice of psychiatry in the public square.

In an era in which virtually everyone fancies him or herself qualified to render a psychiatric diagnosis, asks Dr. Claire Pouncey, should actual mental health professionals really be muzzled?

She readily acknowledges that the psychiatrists and psychologists who speak up will not actually have examined the person whose psyche is under discussion. Even so, she asks, mightnt they have some valuable insights to inform the public debate?

The book of essays, edited by Yale School of Medicine psychiatrist Dr. Bandy X. Lee, has been a finger in the eye of the American Psychiatric Assn., which in 1973 issued a prohibition against public diagnosis by its members. In what is widely known as the Goldwater Rule, the APA declared it unethical for a psychiatrist to offer a professional opinion on a public figure unless he or she has conducted an examination and has been granted proper authorization for such a statement.

That rule was crafted to avert any repeat of a Cold-War-era incident that caused the psychiatry establishment acute embarrassment. In an article titled The Unconscious of a Conservative, Fact Magazine reported in 1964 that 1,189 psychiatrists believed Goldwater to be psychologically unfit to be president. Goldwater went on to sue the magazine for libel  and won.

Almost a decade later, the APAs first-ever ethics committee crafted the Goldwater Rule.

In a clarification issued this March, the APA doubled down on the 44-year-old rule by broadening its prohibition against members public musings on a leaders mental health, Pouncey reports. Two months into the Trump administration, the APA said the rule should be understood to apply to any opinion on the affect, behavior, speech, or other presentation of an individual that draws on the skills, training, expertise, and/or knowledge inherent in the practice of psychiatry.

That did not stop such psychiatric luminaries as Harvard Universitys Dr. Judith Lewis Herman and Dr. Leonard Glass, along with a clutch of mental health professionals mostly steeped in the psychoanalytic tradition, from offering their perspectives on Trumps psychological makeup in the bestselling book.

Pouncey, a psychiatrist in private practice and a fellow at the Philadelphia College of Physicians, calls these essayists thoughtful, experienced, well-meaning mental health professionals.

In the spirit of their professions highest ethical principles, she writes, the authors take themselves to be contributing to the improvement of the community and the betterment of public health.

I believe that the APA, in the interest of promoting public health and safety, should encourage rather than silence the debate the book generates, Pouncey adds.

She also cautioned the psychiatric establishment against enforcing an annotation that undermines the overriding public health and safety mandate that applies to all physicians. The American Medical Assn.s ethical standards, by which all physicians are bound, says, a physician shall recognize a responsibility to participate in activities contributing to the improvement of the community and the betterment of public health.

To justify mental health professionals right to weigh in, then, Trumps mental state need not be so dangerous as to be disabling, or to require his removal from office. If psychiatrists believe their insights will improve the publics health, she suggests, their public commentary should be welcomed.

Standards of professional ethics and professionalism change with time and circumstance, and psychiatrys reaction to one misstep in 1964 should not entail another in 2017.

Lieberman, for his part, remains unconvinced.

In a letter to the editors of the New England Journal of Medicine, Lieberman says he believes Lee, Pouncey and the rest are acting in good faith and are convinced they are fulfilling a moral obligation. But the history of psychiatry is littered with examples of mental health professionals being exploited for political purposes, he wrote, citing doctors who gave cover to Nazi eugenics policies and those who helped confine dissidents to mental hospitals in the Peoples Republic of China.

Although moral and civic imperatives justify citizens speaking out against injustices of government and its leaders, that does not mean that psychiatrists can use their medical credentials to brand elected officials with neuropsychiatric diagnoses without sufficient evidence and appropriate circumstances, he wrote. To do so undermines the professions integrity and credibility.

melissa.healy@latimes.com

Follow me on Twitter @LATMelissaHealy and like Los Angeles Times Science & Health on Facebook.

MORE IN SCIENCE

11 science stories were looking forward to in 2018

Exercise is good medicine for boosting memory and thinking skills, new guidelines say

From the dazzling to the disheartening, 2017 was a remarkable year for science
When Eric Garcia first joined the Burbank Fire Department, he didnt think this moment would happen.

Back when he was starting out as a recruit in 1994, he was content with becoming a paramedic engineer. The 46-year-old said he always wanted to become a paramedic and was pretty adept at being a mechanic.

Now, Garcia will lead the department as its new chief. Hell succeed Tom Lenahan, who announced his retirement in October.

Heading into his new role, Garcia will have to contend with a citywide budget deficit thats expected to balloon to $27.4 million by the 2022-23 fiscal year. The budget shortfall will preclude the department from implementing any new policies, he said.

However, it doesnt entirely prevent the department from exploring the possibility of new policies.

One of the main things I like to see is to really get our guys focused and dialed in on our culture aligned with innovation and creativity, he said.

Garcia said he wants the department to research different ways its ambulances are deployed in the field so its paramedics are better prepared to deal with any and every kind of medical emergency.

He said hes also hoping to address the mental well-being of firefighters in addition to their physical fitness, which is an issue thats being increasingly recognized by fire departments statewide.

[We] want to look at something thats to be a program that will evolve from primarily a physical standpoint to one that accounts for a firefighters psychological well-being as well, Garcia said.

Garcias appointment comes after a two-month internal search involving various interviews and tests, a process he described as highly stressful.

It had a lot of emotion tied to it, he said. When I got the call [to become chief], it was exciting and nice to know that the effort that went in paid off.

Outgoing Burbank Fire Chief Tom Lenahan removes his chiefs badge during the change-of-command ceremony at the departments headquarters (Tim Berger / Burbank Leader )

New Burbank Fire Chief Eric Garcia watches as his wife Cathy pins the chiefs badge during the change-of-command ceremony at the department. (Tim Berger / Burbank Leader )

Lenahan, 56, said he was excited by the appointment of his successor. Garcia has the integrity, dedication, leadership, maturity  to lead Burbank fire into great new heights, he said.

Im just so happy and proud that I could turn the department over to Eric, Lenahan said. Hes going to do a fabulous job.

With over 30 years of public service under his belt, including a stint as a deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, Lenahan said the time was right to leave the fire department.

However, he wont be out of firefighting.

Lenahan is heading a few miles westward to oversee Hollywood Burbank Airports fire department.

Looking back on his career, one of the accomplishments Lenahan said hes most proud of is the departments international accreditation with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International and its recognition as a Class 1 fire department, which means the department is recognized as having a quick response time, rigorous training for personnel and a high commitment to firefighting.

There are a very small percentage of fire departments in the United States with both recognitions, he said. Its something Im very proud of and the staff worked hard on it.

Lenahan said he was also grateful to have worked alongside many talented men and women in the department over the years. He singled out his executive assistant, Robina Sarkisian, and fire administrator Sana Arakelian Ford as two people who really made the department look good and made me look good.

Lenahan officially stepped down from the job Thursday during a change-of-command ceremony at the departments headquarters. He said such a ceremony hadnt been held in 27 years because the outgoing and incoming chiefs were typically unavailable to be together at the same time.

At the end of the ceremony, Lenahan removed his chiefs badge, which was then given to Garcia.

Out with the old, and in with the new, Lenahan said before the ceremony.

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

Twitter: @Andy_Truc
There were more than 100 volunteers at the Burbank Tournament of Roses Assn.s float barn Thursday morning diligently fabricating and decorating all the pieces of the float ahead of its public debut on New Years Day.

Although there was still plenty of work to be done on Sand-Sational Helpers  which included covering a large octopus that sits on the front of the float with flowers, decorating all of the sea animals with the appropriate plant materials, fabricating an umbrella out of metal wire mesh and installing spires atop a sand castles turrets  there was no sense of urgency or tension in the air, which slightly concerned float construction chairman Bob Hutt.

It seems like its going a lot smoother than it has in years past, but then again, after years of working on a float, youre kind of waiting for the other shoe to drop, Hutt said with a laugh.

Since Tuesday, droves of volunteers, as many as 300 in a day, have stopped by the construction site, located next to Burbank Water and Powers yard at 123 W. Olive Ave., to work on the float.

Ginny Barnett, the associations president, said numerous residents have donated their time to the effort.

She added that several restaurants in the city  including Simmzys, Centanni Trattoria, Handy Market, Gordon Biersch, Coral Cafe, Martinos Bakery, Western Bagel and Lancers  have donated food to give to volunteers in order to show appreciation for their hard work.

Among the volunteers was Catherine Glandon, the 14-year-old designer of Burbanks 2018 float. She was meticulously placing caraway seeds on the underside of one of the structures turtles.

Though she and her family have been volunteering with the Burbank Tournament of Roses Assn. since 2010, Catherine said it was surreal decorating the float she helped design.

Its kind of crazy. Sometimes I still cant believe that I designed this, she said. Its pretty amazing, though.

Just outside the float barns large door was 14-year-old Sophia Goodson, who was gluing fabricated suction cups onto the octopus arms.

Sophia, who is from Temple City, said it was her third year helping decorate a Burbank float and that it was the first time that she was able to walk on the float and physically decorate different parts of the structure.

Before this year, Id only been working on making the product thats glued onto the float, like crushing lentils or brushing out palm bark to make hair, Sophia said.

Now that she has a greater responsibility during the decorating process, Sophia said she has learned that it takes good communication and management skills to finish a float.

You have to be really organized, and you have to work well with other people, she said. Other than that, its really cool and really fun.

anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com

Twitter: @acocarpio
The director of operations for Los Angeles World Airports, which runs Los Angeles International Airport, has been appointed the new director of Orange Countys John Wayne Airport, officials announced Tuesday.

Barry Rondinella will develop airport policies at JWA and be responsible for business development, facilities, finance, administration, operations and public affairs. He also will oversee airport staff and prepare annual budgets, according to a county news release.

The airport serves more than 10 million passengers each year.

Rondinella, 54, replaces Alan Murphy, who retired in February. He will earn $200,000 a year, the release stated.

Orange County is fortunate to have airport professionals who put travelers and visitors first, and we welcome Barrys expertise and leadership to the team, county Supervisor Michelle Steel said in a statement.

Before joining Los Angeles World Airports in 2010, Rondinella was deputy director for operations at Sacramento International Airport and director of Stockton Metropolitan Airport and Santa Maria Public Airport.

Rondinella has a commercial pilots license and graduated from Cal State Los Angeles with a degree in aviation administration, according to his LinkedIn profile.
During their first meeting of 2018, Costa Mesa City Council members Tuesday will take their first crack at suggested changes to local regulations governing development of accessory housing units  commonly referred to as granny flats.

Costa Mesa, like other cities throughout Orange County, is updating its codes to comply with recently passed state laws geared toward making it easier to build supplemental units that theoretically could help address the states housing crunch.

The new standards up for the councils review would allow development of accessory units  which can be freestanding structures, attached to a home or fashioned out of existing space such as a garage or master bedroom  on lots of at least 7,500 square feet in single-family areas.

Currently, the requirement is 8,500 square feet.

Under the proposed revisions, granny flats could be built in some multifamily residential zones, where they arent allowed now.

In those areas, accessory units would be permitted on legal lots that existed as of March 16, 1992, and are 6,000 to 7,260 square feet  as long as the parcel is already developed with a single home.

Detached secondary units and those that are connected to a primary residence would be capped at 800 square feet. Attached units also would be limited to 50% of the existing living area.

Costa Mesa currently allows accessory units as large as 1,200 square feet.

The city Planning Commission voted in October to recommend that the council adopt the proposed standards.

City attorney role

At the request of Councilman John Stephens, the council also will discuss Tuesday whether to direct city staff to analyze options for filling Costa Mesas city attorney position.

The city has contracted with the law firm Jones & Mayer for those services since 2004. Tom Duarte, a partner in the firm, has been Costa Mesas city attorney since 2011.

What Id like to do is simply study if there is a more efficient and effective alternative for delivering city attorney services to the city of Costa Mesa, Stephens said Friday.

Options include searching for another law firm to take over the responsibility, hiring an in-house employee to assume the role or seeking to make the city attorney an elected position, according to a staff report.

The council also could maintain the status quo, Stephens said.

Stephens said hes concerned about the amount of money Costa Mesa spends on legal services from Jones & Mayer. The bill topped $2.5 million last fiscal year, the staff report states.

Stephens, an attorney himself, also said hes had some concerns about the level of service that we receive from the firm.

Last month, for instance, Stephens strongly disagreed with Duartes analysis of whether the council could remove member Katrina Foley from her appointed role as mayor. Duarte said his initial opinion was that the council could take that action, but Stephens said he believes the move violated the municipal code.

The council  with Stephens and Foley opposed  voted to remove Foley from the post in favor of Sandy Genis.

Tuesdays council meeting starts at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 77 Fair Drive.

luke.money@latimes.com

Twitter @LukeMMoney
In a nondescript office building in Huntington Beach, Kathy Tillotson heads a small nonprofit that quietly changes lives for hundreds of vulnerable young adults.

Her organization, Build Futures, is dedicated to quickly finding housing for men and women ages 18 to 24  a niche group, she says, that is often overlooked. The nonprofit also provides resources and support intended to help them maintain employment, self-sufficiency and long-term independence.

Though there are groups focused on helping families, foster youths, veterans and women escaping abuse, the population of young adults  primarily young men  that Build Futures aids is underserved, Tillotson said.

They come to us with the clothes on their back, she said. They could just cease to exist and no one would care.  We give hope for them.

Most of the homeless adults are running away from trauma, abuse or neglect, she said. Some are 18-year-olds getting out of incarceration with few resources.

Heading a nonprofit is something Tillotson, who lives in Huntington Beach, never imagined herself doing when she moved to California from the East Coast in 2009 for retirement.

She came from the business world, selling computer software and managing networks.

But after realizing the plight of homeless young adults in Orange County, she founded Build Futures and starting working full time on it without taking compensation.

Much of the organizations money pays for housing its clients. It has about 80 properties countywide that it uses to provide homes for people.

In 2016, Build Futures housed about 125 people. This year, it housed about 150.

The nonprofit keeps things spartan. Its Beach Boulevard office space is donated, as is the furniture. In 2016, 95% of each dollar donated went directly toward client expenses. Donations can be sent through its website, buildfutures.org.

Tillotson jokes that the fundraising is basically me begging for things on the street instead of the kids.

Build Futures finds its clients on referrals from faith groups, nonprofits and word of mouth.

Earlier this month, the group had about 30 young adults on its radar. Their lives keep Tillotson busy seven days a week, she said.

The nonprofit only recently was able to add paid part-time staff members who work on case management.

Kevin OGrady, former executive director of the LGBT Center OC and a former regional director for the Anti-Defamation League, is one of the people Build Futures brought aboard.

The program that Kathy started saves lives, he said. Every day.

Editors note: This is an installment of Unsung Heroes, an annual feature that highlights otherwise overlooked members of the community.

bradley.zint@latimes.com

Twitter: @bradleyzint

ALSO

Unsung hero: Interior designer Beth Phillips furnishes hope to families in crisis

Unsung hero: Costa Mesas Hydee Beth makes Westside feel the love

Unsung hero: Emergency-response leader Judy Kane is ready for anything in Bayside Village

Unsung hero: Nurse-midwife Robbie Prepas goes to disaster scenes

Unsung hero: Ken Nottle devotes his life to charity

Unsung hero: Kathryn Rollins helps senior citizens take control of their bodies and lives

Unsung heroes: Brad and Trish Miller bring food and friendship to Main Beach
La Tuna fire scorches Burbank and Glendale hillsides

While most people would spend their Labor Day weekends going to the beach or having a barbecue, Burbank and Glendale residents living in the foothills had to deal with mandatory evacuations and falling ash because of the La Tuna fire.

The brush fire raged for over a week in the Verdugo Mountains, and firefighters from across the Southland pitched in to help battle the blaze. By the time it was extinguished, the La Tuna fire burned more than 7,000 acres and destroyed 10 buildings.

Although the fire has long been snuffed out, its impact is still felt as authorities have expressed concerns about potential mudslides during the wet season in areas charred by the flames.

La Crescenta woman remains missing

Friends and family of Elaine Park continue to be haunted by the mystery surrounding the 21-year-olds disappearance.

The La Crescenta woman has been missing since Jan. 28, having been last seen leaving her ex-boyfriends Calabasas home. Her car was discovered two days later abandoned along Pacific Coast Highway with several personal items like Parks laptop and cellphone left inside.

Authorities combed through the surrounding area, both by land and sea, for any sign of Park but eventually suspended their search after finding nothing.

Several rewards have been offered since Parks disappearance for any information on her whereabouts, but she remains missing.

Community comes to terms with parks Nazi past

A community confronted its Nazi past in late-August with the erection of a historical marker at Crescenta Valley Regional Park.

The sign depicted the areas German American roots but also acknowledged its past ties to Nazi Germany. The new marker replaced an old sign that welcomed residents to Hindenburg Park  which a portion of the park was once called.

Because it was named after former German President Paul von Hindenburg, critics of the old signed called it a callback to Nazi atrocities and the areas Nazi past.

During his tenure, Hindenburg appointed Adolf Hitler as Germanys chancellor. Historians view the move as a contributing factor to the rise of Nazi Germany.

During the rise of Nazi Germany, several pro-Nazi rallies were held on the parks grounds.

City sees a rise in homicides for 2017

Glendale saw a spike in homicides during 2017 with three people being murdered within the city; in 2016 only one person was killed.

Fredrick Ford was the first reported homicide in the city this year. On June 30, the 51-year-old was stabbed near his apartment in the 1200 block of East Harvard Street.

His alleged killer, 31-year-old Ernest Culbertson, was arrested on suspicion of murder. According to Glendale police, he confessed to the crime.

However, before his case could go to trial, Culbertson killed himself on July 5 while in custody.

Hye Soon Oh was the second homicide in the city.

The 67-year-old was shot on Aug. 8 in the 2900 block of Montrose Avenue. She was in the parking garage of her apartment complex, having just arrived home from her business in Lynwood, when she was approached by someone who had followed her.

A struggle ensued, and she was fatally wounded.

Police eventually linked 20-year-old Devon White to the shooting. His case is currently going through the court system.

Mary Gligorov-Meeker, 42, was the citys third death, having been shot and killed by her ex-husband on Sept. 23.

The incident was ruled a murder-suicide by authorities as Gligorov-Meekers ex-husband shot himself after murdering her.

The two were discovered by family members at a home in the 1500 block of East Windsor Road.

Cupcake ratatouille

Shoppers at the Americana at Brand got a small surprise several months ago when a rat was spotted scurrying around the inside of a Sprinkles Cupcakes at the outdoor mall.

A video of the encounter was uploaded to YouTube in June, but it was unknown when it was recorded. A woman could be heard in the video screaming the rat was in everything.

However, the rat was running through empty display cases at the store and it did not appear to get into any cupcakes.

The company issued a response in the wake of the video going viral that stated it had addressed the issue with its employees as well as the Americana.

Vegas tragedy strikes Glendale

Two Glendale firefighters were among the thousands of people who were shot at by a lone gunman in Las Vegas on Oct. 1.

Jason Bess and Steven Keys were enjoying a night out with friends and family at the Route 91 Harvest Festival when the first shots rang out around 10:05 p.m.

In the aftermath of the shooting, Bess spent over two hours administering first aid the people who were wounded during the chaos.

Keys also helped give first aid to people who were wounded during the shooting, but for some it was too late. The firefighter was wounded himself when a bullet grazed his torso.

The two firefighters were commended for their actions later that month at the Glendale Fire Departments awards luncheon.

A 32-year-old woman who lived in Eagle Rock and worked in Glendale was one of the 59 people who were killed in the Vegas shooting.

Michelle Vo was a recent convert to country music and the festival was her first concert as a new fan of the genre.

Nestle announces its departure from Glendale

After nearly three decades in Glendale, food company Nestle USA announced in January that by the end of 2018, it will be leaving the Jewel City and relocating its U.S. headquarters  along with the bulk of its 1,200 jobs  to Rosslyn, Va.

According to spokesperson Edie Burge, the company will begin shifting about 750 jobs to its new location in Virginia and 300 to Solon, Ohio, as a way to station itself closer to a majority of the companys stateside business operations and customers.

The announcement was made without the knowledge of city officials who have since expressed optimism for new tenants to the 518,302-square-foot space.

As a result of the move, Glendale officials created a team tasked with block-by-block outreach toward the citys businesses to better measure business satisfaction and the citys growth.

Section of 134 Freeway to be named after President Obama

A little more than a year ago, state Sen. Anthony Portantino introduced a resolution to name a portion of the 134 Freeway that runs from Glendale and into Eagle Rock the President Barack H. Obama Freeway and in September, lawmakers gave their approval.

Portantinos resolution was inspired by Obamas time living in Southern California, where he used that section of the 134 Freeway to travel to and from his home in Pasadena and Occidental College in Eagle Rock, which he attended from 1979 until he transferred to Columbia University in 1981.

I am so proud to have authored this proposal to forever appreciate and commemorate President Obamas tremendous legacy, statesmanship and direct connection to Southern California, Portantino said in a statement earlier this year.

The cost of signs for naming other stretches of freeways in honor of public figures, such as the Ronald Reagan (118) Freeway in Simi Valley, has ranged from $3,000 to $7,000, according to previous Caltrans estimates.

City manager leaves Glendale

After six years, the city of Glendale is again without a permanent city manager, as Scott Ochoa announced his resignation to take the top management job with the city of Ontario.

Ochoas last day with Glendale was Nov. 17, and three days later he began a four-year employment contract with Ontario to serve as its city manager as well as executive director of the Ontario Housing Authority.

Former Ontario City Manager Al C. Boling  who has served in that top position since December 2013  announced he would step down due to family issues.

Ochoa is now serving a slightly smaller population  roughly 173,000 residents compared to nearly 201,000 residents in Glendale  but will receive a pay increase from his previous $275,000 plus benefits to an annual salary of $310,000 plus benefits, according to the Ontario city clerks office.

Deputy City Manager Yasmin Beers was selected to be Glendales interim city manager.

North Glendale gets a little quieter

In a combined effort by Glendale officials and Metrolink, train horns will (mostly) no longer bother residents living in or near the Pelanconi Estates neighborhood as the city instituted a railroad quiet zone at nearby railroad crossings.

The quiet crossings are located at Grandview Avenue, Sonora Avenue and Flower Street along San Fernando Road, where previously, trains were required by the Federal Railroad Administration to alert nearby drivers at public, highway-grade crossings with their horns.

Trains will still sound their horns as a warning in case of a pedestrian or vehicle blocking the tracks.

In 2016, the Glendale City Council unanimously approved a series of safety infrastructure improvements  funded by a portion of $1.5-million in street enhancements  that would grant the San Fernando crossings a quiet-zone status. These included new signage, fences and railings.

Those final improvements were the tail end of of a broader effort that began a decade ago between the city and Metrolink toward making the necessary safety additions that would result in approval of a quiet zone along the Glendale corridor.

mark.kellam@latimes.com

Twitter: @lamarkkellam
Employee negligence and a drug-laced brownie may have led a 23-year-old man to fall to his death from the roof of the Glendale YMCA in 2016, according to a lawsuit filed by his parents this week.

Abel Montes Jr. fatally fell from the top of the YMCAs Louise Street housing unit in the early morning of Jan. 1, 2016. His parents, Abel Montes Sr. and Angela Reisner, are seeking unspecified damages from the organization.

The younger Montes unknowingly consumed a brownie that contained an intoxicating substance, possibly cannabis, before arriving after 2 a.m. at the YMCA where he was a resident, according to the lawsuit. The suit also claims he told an employee at the housing unit that he felt unwell, high and was in some kind of danger.

The YMCA has a policy prohibiting residents from entering the unit if theyre under the influence of an intoxicating substance, according to the suit. Montes was allowed entry despite telling an employee he was high.

[The YMCA] affirmatively agreed to supervise [Montes] on this date, according to the suit. Howeverthey were negligent in their efforts and, at times, they failed to actually supervise [Montes] despite their representations they would do so.

George Saikali, chief executive of the Glendale YMCA, said employees did offer to get help for Montes but he declined and went to his room.

He said no, that he was going to sleep it off, Saikali said.

At that point, the YMCA had no legal authority to do anything since Montes was an adult, according to Saikali.

Between 4:30 and 6 a.m., Montes made his way to the roof of the housing unit, from which he then fell onto the street. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead sometime after 7 a.m., according to the suit.

The suit states the units rooftop was widely used by residents of the unit and was a touted benefit by YMCA employees. However, it was a dangerous feature that violated city and state building codes with slippery, brittle, broken and unstable Spanish tile.

This area of the roof has no walkways, railings, guardrails or protective barriers of any sort, the suit states.

Saikali disputed this, saying the YMCA has not violated any building codes in regards to its roof. Locking access would create a fire hazard because the residential building has multiple stories and people would need a way to escape in the event of an emergency, he said.

There have been no other incidents involving the roof, before or since Montes death, according to Saikali.

He also said it is not the first time the organization has been sued by Montes family over his death and that this is the third attempt.

Court records show at least one previous suit filed against the YMCA by Montes family on June 30, 2016.

If someone, an adult, refuses helpwhat can you really do? Saikali said. All of us were devastated when it took place but there was nothing we could about it.

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

Twitter: @Andy_Truc
Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said Friday she would raise the defense budget and develop more domestically manufactured weapons as its powerful political rival China steps up military test flights just offshore.

The island will increase defense spending with a focus on building military hardware such as a multifunctional drone, Tsai told a news conference at a defense research center near the capital, Taipei.

Taiwan may not be big, but we are very determined to defend our country, Tsai said. Here, I solemnly pledge that we will continue to increase our defense budget on a stable and reasonable basis each year.

Advertisement

Six Chinese bombers or fighters flew through the Miyako Strait north of Taiwan or the Luzon Strait to the south in July, November and again this month, according to the Taiwanese defense ministry.

Chinas intention to expand its military presence in the region has become increasingly evident, the president said Friday.

China and Taiwan, which sit 99 miles from each other across the Taiwan Strait, have been separately ruled since the Chinese civil war, when Chiang Kai-sheks Nationalists fled the mainland and set up their government in Taipei. China insists on eventual reunification  which most Taiwanese oppose, according to public opinion surveys  and has not ruled out use of force if needed to get there.

Tsai, a 61-year-old legal scholar who took office in May 2016 for a four-year term, has frustrated Beijing by rejecting its idea that both sides belong to one China. China wants Taiwan to agree to that as a condition for formal dialogue.

A national security official from Taipei said in October the islands military budget would probably go up 2% a year. That would take it to about $10.7 billion in 2018.

Tsais government is stepping up development of its own weapons in part to avoid dependence on its traditional supplier, the United States.

Taiwan is worried that its arms supplies could be curtailed if the U.S. caves to pressure from Beijing, which fumes whenever Washington approves an arms sale to Taiwan, most recently a $1.42-billion package in June. This month, Chinas minister to its embassy in the United States said any American naval visit to Taiwan would prompt a military response from Beijing.

The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, where Tsai spoke, has developed missile and radar systems over its five decades. The defense ministry chose it this year to develop trainer jets. In early 2016, the ministry contracted with Taiwanese manufacturers to develop a $3.3-billion submarine within eight years.

A domestically built drone with surveillance capabilities is about to begin mass production, Tsai said Friday.

Over the past two years, Chinese military units have sent planes 10 times to just outside the Taiwanese air defense zone, according to Andrew Yang, a former defense minister of Taiwan and secretary-general of the Chinese Council of Advanced Policy Studies, a Taipei-based think tank focusing on military affairs.

Chinas military aircraft are collecting information and testing Taiwans resolve to defend itself, said Shane Lee, a political scientist at Chang Jung Christian University in Taiwan.

Tsai has called the flights a conflict with regional stability.

She said Friday that the Chinese maneuvers threaten East Asia as a whole and that affected countries with similar ideas should increase communication. Japan, an informal ally of Taiwan, has raised its alert over the Chinese plane movement as its own outlying islands lie near the Miyako Strait.

Last week Tsai asked the air force command center to step up monitoring for any more planes. But she said Friday that she believes Chinas leader to be a reasonable decision maker, and that Taiwan has no plans to start a fight.

I want my countrypeople to rest assured that cross-strait relations will not be reckless, Tsai said. They will not be deadlocked.

Taiwan can ultimately do little to resist Chinas aircraft movement, said Liu Yi-jiun, a professor of public affairs at Fo Guang University in Taiwan. The military is capable of doing some [moves] for show, but they are not capable of carrying some serious missiles, he said.

China has also expressed its discontent with the Tsai government by scaling back its tourism to Taiwan, analysts believe. They say China had a strong hand in the recent decisions by two countries, Panama and the west African nation Sao Tome and Principe, to switch their diplomatic recognitions from Taipei to Beijing.
Catalan separatist leader Carles Puigdemont called Saturday for peaceful resistance to direct rule by Madrid, a day after Spains central government fired him and dissolved his government in response to Catalonias unilateral declaration of independence.

The Madrid government, meanwhile, began implementing its administrative takeover of Catalonia, the first such imposition of direct central rule in a Spanish region since the advent of democracy nearly 40 years ago.

Puigdemont, in a brief prerecorded statement shown on Catalan public TV, called for resistance to Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoys directives, but offered no specifics about his own situation.

Advertisement

Its very clear that the best form of defending gains made up until now is democratic opposition to Article 155, Puigdemont said, referring to the constitutional provision that Madrid invoked in response to the regions independence drive.

The article gives the Spanish central government the authority to strip a region of its autonomous powers in the event of a serious breach of law. Catalonia, like other Spanish regions, was granted autonomy powers under the 1979 constitution that gave it limited control over its own affairs.

The mood in Barcelona, Catalonias capital, was largely calm Saturday, following a night of raucous street celebrations  and some scattered violence  after the Catalan parliaments vote to break away from Spain. Local police patrolled busy tourist areas near the Catalan parliament and government buildings, where hundreds of tourists mixed with independentistas in the mild afternoon sun.

In Madrid, thousands flooded a central plaza for a pro-unity rally, waving Spanish flags and chanting that Spain must remain undivided. There were shows of anti-secessionist sentiment in Barcelona, too, though on a relatively small scale.

Long live Spain! a man in a red shirt and bicycle shorts shouted as he pushed his bicycle past a crowd in front of the main Catalan administrative building.

Spain put its deputy prime minister, Soraya Saenz de Santamaria, in charge of day-to-day affairs in Catalonia. She has been a forceful advocate of the central governments stance that Catalan separatists acted illegally and that the independence votes  both in parliament on Friday and a referendum held Oct. 1  are invalid.

There was widespread uncertainty over how the Spanish takeover will play out. The start of the work week on Monday will yield clues as to how the regions 200,000 civil servants will respond; some have already declared they will not obey directives from the central government. One of Catalonias largest unions has called a 10-day general strike starting Monday in support of independence.

Another unknown was whether separatist lawmakers would be allowed to stand for parliamentary seats in the regional elections that Rajoy set for Dec. 21.

Polls have suggested that Catalonias people are split roughly equally on the independence question. The separatist side overwhelmingly prevailed in the Oct. 1 referendum, but less than half the electorate voted after the central government urged people to shun the balloting.

The opposition also boycotted Fridays parliamentary vote.

Pro-independence politicians struck a defiant tone Saturday. Albano-Dante Fachin of the secessionist Podemos party suggested in an interview on Catalan radio that the independence camp would refuse to take part in the Spanish-mandated balloting.

On the anti-secession side, the head of the Ciudadanos party in Catalonia, Albert Rivera, urged backers to take part in the Dec. 21 vote.

We had a sad day yesterday, but we also saw the application of the law and the constitution, he said. Our country is headed in the right direction.

As part of its effort to bring the secessionists to heel, the central government is seeking to further isolate Catalonia internationally, dismantling the regions informal embassies in Europe and elsewhere. No country has offered recognition of the independence declaration.

The Trump administration on Friday offered support for the Madrid government, a NATO ally, saying that Catalonia is an integral part of Spain. Europe, too, has sharply rejected the independence declaration.

The European Commissions president, Jean-Claude Juncker, called Saturday for respect for Spains constitutional order.

Twenty-four hours after the parliaments independence vote, secessionists were still expressing happiness, but said they didnt know what might happen next.

No one knows, said Pilar Morer, 70. This is a hard time.

Her father, a Republican, had been jailed in France under dictator Gen. Francisco Franco, and as a girl she had been forbidden from speaking Catalan in public, only daring to use her native language secretly inside her home.

Our fathers, our grandfathers, have been fighting for this, she said. We endure.

Barcelona street vendor Jose Manuel went about his business as usual, selling magazines, selfie sticks, and hats to passing tourists  an endeavor that earns him 450 euros, or about $520, a month. While he said he believed in Catalonias right to be independent, he worried about a potential currency change.

Its a big problem, the money, he said, before hurrying to attend to a customer.

Times staff writers Hennessy-Fiske reported from Barcelona and King from Washington. Staff writer Meg Bernhard contributed from Barcelona.

molly.hennessy-fiske@latimes.com

@mollyhf

laura.king@latimes.com

@laurakingLAT
The Seoul Metropolitan Government is offering a reward of W500,000 for reporting taxis that charge foreign tourists exorbitant fares (US$1=W1,089). The decision was made on Wednesday.

Reports can be made to district offices or the city's call center at 120 with evidence such as receipts and photos.

Also, the city government decided to ban the opening of new cosmetics shops, massage parlors, opticians, bakeries, Chinese restaurants and mobile phone shops in the traditional district of Insa-dong.

It will also introduce a certificate system for shops selling authentic traditional products like paper, stationery, crafts and antiques, over concerns that cheap tat from China and other developing countries is taking over the streets.
Cold is outside the comfort zone of John Gallagher, chief instructor at the Bethlehem Martial Arts Academy.

So, for more than a decade, he's been leading fellow practitioners of martial arts for a ceremonial plunge into a Lehigh Valley body of water around New Year's.

"In our martial art, we believe in basically growing ourselves, making ourselves better people, and you can't do that if you're comfortable," Gallagher said just after sunrise Saturday on Sand Island in Bethlehem.

This year is no different, despite an air temperature of about 18, wind chill around 10 and light snow falling as Gallagher and 22 members of three martial arts schools gathered to practice Tang Soo Do.

Then they waded into the Monocacy Creek where it meets the partially iced-over Lehigh River. They splashed their faces, pumped their fists and sang.

"It was great," said Don Sachs, 66, of Hellertown, who has trained with Gallagher for 16 years and taken part in 12 of the New Year's celebrations.

Mark Barger, 12, would beg to differ a little.

"It's really painful. Your hands and your feet and your whole body get so cold you can't even feel them," the Bethlehem resident said.

But would he do it again? "Yeah, probably."

"It's always a little bit of a shock, but it's bracing, and then you don't feel your feet anymore, so it doesn't matter," said Julie Pineiro, 48, of Bethlehem. She's in her ninth year of this New Year's training, and called this the first or second coldest for her.

Saturday's martial arts group -- from Bethlehem Martial Arts, Saucon Valley Karate and Anani Tang Soo -- got their ceremonial plunge in before an ongoing cold snap gets even worse. Not that it hasn't been cold already: As of Friday, Lehigh Valley International Airport was on track to have a stretch of at least 10 days at or below freezing, the 23rd longest stretch on record.

The next few days, though, are forecast to see nighttime lows in the single digits for the Lehigh Valley.

Several polar plunges have canceled their events, including the Lehigh Valley Road Runners' "Dip in Da Crick" that had been set for Monday in the Little Lehigh Creek.

In New Jersey, this weekend's Polar Bear Plunge in Ocean City and Ventnor City were scrapped, NJ.com says, adding that the Press of Atlantic City reported a third community, Brigantine, rescheduled its plunge for Jan. 13.

The Lehigh Valley Plunge benefiting Special Olympics remains on for Feb. 17 in the Delaware River at Scott Park in Easton.

Taking part in a polar plunge is generally safe, even in the bitter cold, said Dr. Andrew Miller, medical director for the emergency department at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township.

"Basically the patients I worry about the most are either the elderly or kind of the young children, if you will, if you get them involved, which most of the time it's usually teenage or young adults upwards," Miller said last week. "Those two at-risk populations can have some problems especially if the elderly patients have high blood pressure, heart disease or are smokers.

"Those categories can have some problems when the cold water hits them."

Health problems can arise when the cold water causes an adrenaline surge and vasoconstriction of the blood vessels away from the skin toward the heart. That has the potential to cause a heart attack, Miller said.

He also advises polar plunge participants avoid alcohol, which can interfere with normal vasoconstriction. And anyone taking prescription medication should talk over their plunge plans with their physician, he said.

Miller also recommends only doing a polar plunge in a group setting, with provisions for getting dry and warm as soon as possible, and doing it quickly. He's done one, about 20 years ago in the Chesapeake Bay, but only the one.

"It was enjoyable enough, but now that it's of my list, my bucket list, I'm not sure I would want to do it again," Miller said.

Saturday in Bethlehem, the dip into the Monocacy celebrated two tenets of Tang Soo Do, a Korean reference to the way of the China hand, said Gallagher, the instructor. One is no retreat in battle. The other, demonstrated by the relatively quick drenching, was sense and honor in fighting.

"We had probably winder than this, but as far as the cold, no," Gallagher said. "This is a record-setting year."

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Forks Township police asked Saturday for the public's help in tracking down a male perpetrator and vehicle involved in a road rage incident.

It occurred about 3:15 p.m. Thursday at Walgreens, 1955 Sullivan Trail in the township.

Police released photos said to show the man, accused of puncturing someone else's tires, according to a news release from Detective Michael Friel.

Police had a limited description of the perpetrator to release, but described the vehicle as a dark-colored Audi sedan.

Police asked anyone with information to contact Friel at mfriel@forkstownship.org or 610-252-0785, ext. 213.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
A pipeline running through the Lehigh Valley would see new use under a proposal from a New Jersey natural gas company.

The Adelphia Gateway project would convert 49 miles of the existing 84-mile-long pipeline from oil to natural gas. The northern 35 miles -- extending from western Bucks County to the Martins Creek terminal in Lower Mount Bethel Township in Northampton County -- were converted in 1996 to deliver natural gas.

Scheduled to go into service in 2018, Adelphia Gateway is designed to bring natural gas produced from Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale region to Greater Philadelphia for regional energy use -- not for export, the company says.

The 18-inch polycoated seamless steel pipeline is now owned by Interstate Energy Co. LLC, and was built in the 1970s. It traverses portions of Northampton, Bucks, Montgomery, Chester and Delaware counties.

The line transported No. 6 and No. 2 fuel oil from Marcus Hook in Delaware County to the Martins Creek Power Plant, and the northern 35 miles carry natural gas to the Martins Creek plant and the Lower Mount Bethel Power Plant, both of which are owned by Allentown-based Talen Energy.

The southern 49 miles of the pipeline have not carried oil since 2014 and would no longer be used for that purpose, under the Adelphia Gateway plan.

Adelphia Gateway plans to apply in early 2018 for project approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Operation of the existing line is regulated by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, and once conversion is complete it would be regulated by FERC.

The project includes installing compression facilities on brownfield properties -- abandoned industrial sites -- that the company owns. Construction would also include multiple laterals and interconnects to tie in to existing lines in the region.

"Since this project involves converting an existing pipeline, we anticipate minimal impact in relation to the work that needs to be completed," Adelphia Gateway spokeswoman Katelyn Howard said in an email.

Adelphia Gateway says it has "completed environmental site assessments, including cultural, biological and wetland surveys.

"We do not anticipate any impact to wetlands or farmlands," the company says in a fact sheet about the project.

Environmentalists are critical of the proposal. The New Jersey Sierra Club voiced concern about New Jersey Resources' role as a member company in the PennEast Pipeline Co. LLC proposal to build a 36-inch-diameter line from the Marcellus Shale region in Pennsylvania's Luzerne County to Mercer County, New Jersey.

"NJR wants to double the size of the Adelphia Pipeline to transport 500,000 dekatherms of natural gas per day," New Jersey Sierra Club Director Jeff Tittel said in a statement. "This makes it half the size of PennEast and could easily become expanded for more. We are concerned this could be come part of the PennEast project. Or it could become an alternate route for PennEast could connect to the same pipelines and substations."

Tittel also voiced concerns about expanding the market for natural gas harvested through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, which injects chemical-laden water and sand deep underground to break up shale and release natural gas. The process is controversial because of the introduction of chemicals into the earth and the wastewater that is generated, and which can be tainted with radioactive elements.

Fracking is proposed to be prohibited by the Delaware River Basin Commission in its territory. That proposal also seeks to "reinforce commission policies to discourage importation of wastewater and exportation of water, and include rules to address the inter-basin transfer of water and wastewater related to hydraulic fracturing," according to the commission. Public hearings on the proposal are scheduled Jan. 23 in Waymart, Pennsylvania, and Jan. 25 in Philadelphia.

"We oppose both the PennEast Pipeline and this Adelphia Pipeline," Tittel continued in his statement. "Purchasing the new line could be their way of getting around the opposition and environmental reviews for PennEast in N.J. While the pipeline can currently only hold a quarter of PennEast's gas, they could easily make it bigger or add a loop using existing right-of-ways. They could intersect the line above Frenchtown and bring the pipe down the Pennsylvania side, tying into the Adelphia line that crosses the river and even connect it to the proposed South Jersey Gas pipeline."

Howard, the Adelphia Gateway spokesman, said Thursday: "The Adelphia Gateway project is completely separate and it will go through its own regulatory process and is not related to the PennEast Pipeline."

PennEast Pipeline had hoped to secure FERC approval by the end of 2017 for its 110-mile-long line.

"Based on FERC's favorable final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) issued in April, PennEast still anticipates receiving a Certificate of Convenience and Public Necessity approving the PennEast Pipeline Project and beginning construction in 2018," PennEast spokeswoman Pat Kornick said in an email last week. "Construction is expected to extend approximately seven months."

PennEast says its investment is about 90 percent subscribed to by natural gas providers. Adelphia Gateway said earlier this month it had received bids on its proposed natural gas supply "exceeding more than double the initial offered capacity and terms up to 20 years."

"The tremendous response to Adelphia Gateway's open season demonstrates the demand for clean, safe, low-cost natural gas in the greater Philadelphia area," Stephen Westhoven, chief operating officer of New Jersey Resources, said in a statement Dec. 15. "By utilizing existing infrastructure, Adelphia Gateway will help meet the energy needs of a constrained marketplace with little to no impact to the environment and surrounding communities."

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Tax-reform supporters say the new law will stimulate growth in income, jobs, investment ... yeah, all that good stuff.

It's actually better than that. German economists studying the legislation concluded that lots of German investment money will now flow to America. We've long known that German companies needing to reinvest cash into their operations have been looking abroad to invest. With their government's global-warming mania producing excessive electricity costs and deteriorating power grid reliability, they're reluctant to invest at home.

Now, seeing America's greatly improved tax policy plus affordable and reliable energy, these companies will look here to invest. What would have been German jobs may now be established in America.

It's even better. This could also push Germany to moderate its global-warming initiatives that are so damaging to its people, perhaps another indicator of the high-water mark of the global-warming fraud. Predictably, U.S. global-warming governors will continue state climate initiatives, at their peril.

It's easy for European investment money to move to America. It's even easier for investment money -- and workers -- to leave global-warming states like California and New York for friendlier states like Texas. And they have been.

And better yet: Normally we would have preferred congressional Democrats participating in the tax-reform process instead of simply mounting monolithic resistance. However, had they participated we may have gotten a destructive carbon tax that would have erased much of the legislation's economic benefits.

In the end, America did quite well.

James M. Policelli

Plainfield Township
Should the sun appear, a chain will gleam on the village green in Timahoe on New Years Day.

Wearing that chain will be Padraig Fleming, signifying his position as Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council.

And to him will go the honour of launching Timahoes 16th annual charity walk to raise funds for the Laois Branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Fatima Invalid Fund.

Padraig, from the nearby Swan, is no stranger to the event. He has hiked through the Fossey Hills in previous years, but this, so to speak, will be his first time leading the way.

The walk begins at 1pm and has two routes, six kms and, for the more fit, 10 kms. Sponsorship cards are available from the organizers, or donations can be made on the day. On their return to Timahoe, the participants will be served well-earned, soup, tea and sandwiches in the Community Hall.

Organiser in chief is Johnny Dalton. He has been involved since the walk's inception 15 year's ago.

All money raised will be spent in Laoison Mt Alvernia in Portlaoise for the Irish Wheelchair Association and on sending invalids on the annual Pilgrimage to Fatima, stresses.

Maura OBrien, of the Fatima Fund, notes that the Timahoe walk is only one of her organizations many fundraisers.

She praises her colleagues for the great work theyve done during the past 18 years, especially James Smyth.

Maura reveals: Up to 12,000 are raised each year which brings a number of deserving cases to the Holy Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, and for this we are most grateful to all our generous benefactors.

Those seeking sponsorship cards for the Timahoe walk can contact Maura at 086 3344722.They are also available from John Egan, Eugene Lacey, Jimmy Sheils, Nuala Smith and Michael and Margaret Holohan.

Enthuses Johnny Dalton: The walk is a great and healthy way of starting the New Year. We have a big welcome for everyone.

The walk raises up to 5,000 annually. Until 2015, all funds went to the Irish Wheelchair Association.

They've been lucky with the weather over the years. Snow forced the postponment in 2010 but Johnny reorganised and held a lovely walk on St Valentine's Day.
August saw news that the number of people on the waiting list for a council home in Laois had jumped to almost 1,500 during 2017, despite efforts by Laois County Council to stem the crisis.

Ego Boost in Abbeyleix wond the hotly contested Leinster Express Best Hairdresser in an online competition.

The Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail was back on track with the approval of 1 million by the Government for the project. Minister Charlie Flanagan said the money would allow for t he commencent of the Trail.

Minister Eoghan Murphy vetoed a proposal in the County Development Plan which would effectively ban wind farms in the county, rejecting the proposal which was led by local Fine Gael councillors.

Kiln Lane in Mountrath and Rathdowney and Errill showcased their local areas to great effect when the judging took place in the Pride of Place competiton.

Tourists flocked to the Scarecrow Festival in Durrow.

Laois Rose Maeve Dunne represented the county at the Rose of Tralee festival. Unfortunately, Maeve was not selected for the final 32.

Also unlucky was Perth Rose Kerrie-Ann Barnes whose mother hails from Mountmellick.

The Leaving Cert results brought the usual mixed emotions, but with many students and schools pleased with the overall results.

The end of August saw the arrival of 55,000 Electric Picnic fans to Stradbally Hall, for the annual end of summer gig.

One of Portlaoise's best known businessess, Miller's Hardware announced its closure.

The Holy Family Schools in Portlaoise, Scoil Bhride National School in Knocmkay prepared for the new school year and a new era education in the town. A fourth secondary school, Dunamase College also opened in Portlaoise.

Unfortunately, crime raised its head also in August with a man hospitalised following a botched robbery from a filling station in Mountrath. Gardai arrested the man at the site of a crash in Abbeyleix. The car he was travelling in had been hijacked.

It emerged that Laois County Council had taken ina quarter of a million in total in parking fees and fines in the first six months of the year.

August also recorded a bad week on the county's roads, with a 22-year old man dying in a road crash in Portarlington and ayoung Abbeyleix man lost his life following a car crash in Tipperary.
Aside from the obvious tourism benefits, it's also hugely important that we maintain and develop our outdoor infrastructure to encourage everyone to keep fit and live a healthy and active lifestyle.

- Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan supporting the Slieve Bloom bike trail development.

We're given a decision to make, yet we've no power, Why put us through the blooming thing, going to meetings, when in actual fact we can do nothing, putting us through the torture of arguing with management, trying to represent the people. It was a silly, stupid thing to be at.

Cllr John Moran's reaction to a Ministerial reversal of their decision to ban windfarms in Laois.

I've spent all my working life at St. Paul's, this is like moving home, for the children and the teachers. It is a new start for us all. Everything we love is here, it's just a matter of settling down now.

Meree O'Sullivan, Deputy Principal at Holy Family Senior School.

Of course I love vegetables, you couldn't believe the quality of eating fresh vegetables compared to what you get in a shop. I don't drink, and I never smoked, I was into all sports, and the outdoor life. I work every day.

All Ireland vegetable winner Harold Lawlor (94) on his recipe for a long healthy life.

It's absolutely super and well deserved, she is a total inspiration for people and for new parents of babies with Down Syndrome. She proves what can be done, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and they can make themselves part of society.

Geraldine Flanagan, mother to Kate, Laois Person for August.

We were penalised in a huge way for being innovative or entrepreneurial, we got hammered because we wanted to improve the premises, the service to customers, layout and everything. It has happened in a huge amount of businesses. There are a lot of issues, traffic management is pretty deplorable at the moment which doesn't help any kind of retail business. Stand alone retail business in Portlaoise and Ireland in general are going to be a museum piece in ten years.

Pat Miller, on the closure of Miller's Hardware
What was your personal highlight of 2017?

Becoming the First Laois Nissan Generation Next Ambassador, Winning Best Food Provider in Ireland 2017 at the Micro Biz Awards , Representing Laois at The Taste of Dublin and of course meeting HRH Prince Charles & The Duchess of Cornwall in Kilkenny.

Did you achieve all you wanted to achieve in 2017?

I did and more! This has been a very successful year for my Business and I have made a lot of progress!

What was your biggest disappointment/regret of 2017?

I do not believe in dwelling on regret, because everything we do, makes us who we are!

What was the greatest challenge you faced in 2017?

The Business challenge was the severe flooding that Mountmellick experienced which had a big impact, not only on the local Community here in the town but also on my Business.

The second and also the biggest challenge that I faced was the serious car accident that my daughters and I were involved in recently!

What was a standout moment for you in 2017 in the cultural sphere

All the events that unfolded after the Mountmellick floods!

Who was the standout personality for you in 2017?

I would have to say, Vera Twomey, without question! When faced with such a challenge, she was fearless

What are your goals/ambitions for 2018?

To take my Business to the next level, both nationally and through Export and as always, to continue to grow, learn and evolve in Business!

What is on your 'To Do' list in 2018?

Export to the UK and Europe and Expansion including creating Laois Jobs!

What is your biggest fear for 2018?

There is nothing to fear but fear itself or so they say, so I don't let anything hold me back!

Aside from yourself who would you like to see be successful in 2018?

Generally in life, I love to see everyone succeed, I like to see people doing well and excelling in what they do! From a Business point of view, I would say Start Up Businesses!

What sporting event would you most like to attend in 2018?

Would have to say World Cup 2018!

What cultural event would you most like to attend in 2018?

I am looking forward to Africa Day 2018 here in Ireland!

Who would you say is 'One to Watch' in 2018?

I would go with Track & Field on this one and say John Ikpotoken, a phenomenal young sprinter from Portarlington

What are your hopes for Laois in 2018?

It would be fantastic to see new business growth throughout the county and also more business supports for both new and established businesses.

I also hope, that the proposed downgrading of Portlaoise Hospital will be reversed and instead of downgrading, investment is made.
Met Eireann has included Laois among all Leinster counties including Dublin, Offaly and Kildare in its latest weather warning news as Storm Dylan bears down on Ireland.

The forecaster updated its weather warnings ahead of the arrival of the Atlantic storm which is expected to hit the west and parts of the north Leinster hardest. It will be a wet and very windy overnight as the storm hits.

A STATUS ORANGE Wind Warning has been issued for all of Connacht, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Westmeath, Meath and Clare was updated at 8am on Saturday, December 30

The warning states that Storm Dylan will track northeastwards close to Connacht and Ulster coasts that Saturday night and Sunday morning. Met Eireann says the biggest impact from the storm will be in western and northern counties with west to southwest winds reaching mean speeds of 65 to 80 km/h with gusts of 110 to 125 km/h. High seas along the west coast too with the risk of coastal flooding.

The forecast track of Storm Dylan.

Get the latest warning updates here:https://t.co/X6NncUghZ9#StormDylan pic.twitter.com/FVxhsHtwkV  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) December 30, 2017

The STATUS YELLOW Wind Warning covers for Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, Wicklow, Offaly, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.

The latest Met Eireann update of this warning says that tonight and Sunday morning west to southwest winds will reach mean speeds of 45 to 65 km/h with gusts of 90 to 110 km/h as Storm Dylan tracks to the northwest of the country,

Both the ORANGE and YELLOW warnings are valid from 9pm Saturday, December 30 to midday Sunday, December 31.

ROAD SAFETY AUTHORITY STORMY WEATHER DRIVING ADVICE

THE LATEST FORECAST IS AS FOLLOWS

Bright and blustery today with sunshine and well scattered showers, becoming confined to the north with mostly dry weather this afternoon. A little milder than recent days with highs of 6 to 10 degrees Celsius, in fresh and gusty west to southwest winds, which will ease for a time into the afternoon.

Rain in the south will spread countywide later this evening and winds will begin to strengthen.

Tonight

From around midnight onwards, it will become stormy in the west and northwest with severe or damaging gusts of up to 125 km/h. Very windy further east with very strong and gusty west to southwest winds. Further spells of rain, mainly occurring early on. Lowest temperatures of 2 to 6 degrees Celsius, coldest further north.

Tomorrow

Sunday morning will continue very windy or stormy over the northern half of the country. Very strong and gusty west to southwest winds will persist for a time with further severe gusts of up to 125 km/h. In the late morning, winds will, however, begin to ease. There'll be sunshine and heavy possibly thundery showers through the day too. Feeling cool with highest temperatures of 6 to 9 degrees Celsius.

Outlook

On Sunday night, New Years Eve, it will be cold and mainly dry with frost in many areas and some icy patches. Lowest temperatures of -1 to +3 degree.

New Year's Day will bring a mix of sunshine and showers. There may be more prolonged rain in the south for a time. Highest temperatures of 5 to 8 degrees with light to moderate southwest breezes. On Monday night, there'll be some ground frost in places.

On Tuesday, after a dry start, it will become wet and blustery as rain spreads eastwards. Highest temperatures of 7 to 10 degrees with fresh to strong west to southwest winds.

Wednesday will be cold, windy and showery with some of the showers turning wintry. Highest temperatures of 5 to 8 degrees with fresh, gusty northwest winds.

On Thursday, rain and sleet will spread eastwards to all areas, clearing to showers on Thursday night.

Friday will be cold and showery.

MORE FROM MET Eireann here


A receiver was appointed to the unopened Naas Shopping Centre in July. It was a move regarded as a lead in to putting the premises up for sale.

The National Asset Management Agency appointed top finance house Duff & Phelps as the receiver. Its the latest development in the chequered history of the town centre development which was originally scheduled to open in December 2009.

Neither Duff & Phelps nor NAMA has yet made any comment on the appointment. Duff & Phelps has an office in Dublin and describes itself as a global financial services firm with expertise in complex valuation and corporate finance.

It was founded in Chicago in 1932 by William Duff and George Phelps.

The news was welcomed by local residents and the business community who are anxious to see the centre open. However, since the appointment, there has been very little news.

It is known that Kildare County Council was also in discussions up to recently with NAMA about ways to achieve an opening of the centre.

The centre was to have been anchored by Dunnes Stores but the supermarket giant pulled out, at least partly because of the onset of the economic crash.

At the time the developer Marshalsea, a local company controlled by Liam OFarrell and members of the McDermott family, were hopeful that Dunnes Stores would take up to 75,000 square feet on two levels.

However it now appears that, in an ironic twist of fate, Dunnes Stores is to open a store at the former Superquinn suite.

On July 13, shortly after the receiver was appointed, a fire took hold inside the building and Fire Service staff spent some time within the centre extinguishing the blaze, which reportedly occurred when insulation material caught fire.

One unofficial estimate put the cost of the damage at about 3m. and the receiver declined to comment on this or whether any insurance payment, if any, would be spent on repair work.

Meanwhile the bills keep rising. A security company maintains a round the clock presence at the centre and has been since the fire. Since the fire event, the centre has been locked to those who were formerly allowed to park there free of charge.

These are staff and owners businesses and banks whose premises form part of the centre.
Two Naas CBS students made it through to the quarter finals of this years X Factor.

Brothers Sean (15) and Conor (18) Price, from Blessington, first blew judges away at the auditions in Edinburgh on September 16 last.

Their modern take on Jimi Hendrixs All Along the Watchtower landed them a spot in boot camp.

The video rocketed to over 1 million views in two days on YouTube, and was trending number one.

Speaking about their fame to the Leader on September 20, Conor said: Were like little celebrities walking around the school halls (Naas CBS)!.

The talented duo had a rocky start to their bootcamp performance on October 1, as judge Simon Cowell didnt like their first song choice was Beggin by Madcon.

Their alternative song was Ed Sheerans Sing which the was enough to secure the lads a spot in the six chair challenge.

Their own original song Time landed them a chair on October 10s show. They then jetted off to Simon Cowells house in France for the next stage.

The lads then sailed through judges houses on October 22, to get through to live shows.

They survived three weeks of live show performances to make it to the quarter finals, before being knocked out on October 18, in a double elimination.

Fresh from their success on the show, the duo are currently taking to the stage for the Olympia Theatre Christmas panto.

They have also won a place in the X Factor live tour, which kicks off in February.

For now, the pair are back to the books, busy preparing for exams in 2018, as they take on the Leaving and Junior Certs respectively.
A GROUP of Limerick school kids were surprised just before the beginning of their Christmas holidays with a visit from JP McManus, who dropped by their school unexpectedly to offer some business advice.

Sixth class students at Ballybrown National School had previously invited Mr McManus to come and visit their school when they wrote to him seeking business advice.

The class decided to write to the billionaire businessman after they enter-ed the Junior Entrepreneur project.

Find something you are really interested in and really enjoy, Mr McManus told the students.

Give that your best effort and you won't go wrong.

Christmas is always a hectic time in classes as the end of the school year approaches, according to principal Joe Lyons.

Last Thursday afternoon, we held our Christmas Quiz for the children in fourth, fifth and sixth classes, Mr Lyons said.

More than 80 children were pitting their wits against each other in the halla when the door opened and JP McManus walked in.

When we had recovered from the surprise, he told us that the children in sixth class had invited him to the school and he had responded to their invitation.

Mr Seamus Barry, who teaches Sixth Class, had entered the Junior Entrepreneur project and the class decided to write to Mr McManus seeking his advice for anybody setting out in business.

Mr McManus was most helpful as he dealt thoughtfully with each question that was put to him.

Mr McManus had some interesting advice on career choice, according to Mr Lyons.

'Live in the moment and try to enjoy everything as best you can.

He also said that he tries not to worry too much about the future or look back too much at what might have been.

All too soon, the unexpected visitor had to leave and the quiz resumed, finishing in a three-way tie for first place as three teams ended on a score of 52 points out of a possible 60.

Life in school can be full of surprises but this is certainly a Christmas we won't forget, Mr Lyons added.
LIMERICK councillor Eddie Ryan has confirmed he will seek the Fianna Fail nomination to run in the general election alongside Niall Collins.

With Fianna Fail set to hold its selection convention for the next Dail count early in the New Year, Cllr Ryan, Galbally, believes he can help the Soldiers of Destiny win back its traditional second seat in the rural constituency.

Yes I will be putting my name forward for Fianna Fail for the Dail come the next election, he said when contacted by this newspaper.

I believe I will bring a lot to the table. I got the highest vote in the 2009 and 2014 local election, and this has to stand for something.

A senior Fianna Fail source has also confirmed the partys top brass have already been in contact with the councillor  a farmer by profession  with a view to have him contesting the selection convention.

It comes after last year, the party leader, Micheal Martin told the Limerick Leader his party would pursue a two-candidate strategy in both local constituencies after Mr Collins and Willie ODea were elected with huge surpluses.

Prior to the last Dail election, Cllr Ryan criticised his own party hierarchy after it decided to run just one candidate, a situation he described as flawed and very weak.

Its understood the comments caused tensions within Fianna Fail locally.

This week, the outspoken councillor has called on his party leader Mr Martin to carry out a radical shake-up of his front-bench.

My own personal view is that Fianna Fail needs to up its game a small bit. We havr a lot of people saying little or nothing. Look at the state of the country. When Fianna Fail were last in government, there were 21,000 people on the waiting list for procedures. Today, its almost 700,000.

"We have 90,000 on the housing waiting list, 8.,000 homeless including 3,000 children. But we have ministers in government going through unchallenged, he said.

Elected in 2009 at the third time of asking in the old Kilmallock area, Cllr Ryan secured 1,840 votes when the wind was against Fianna Fail. In 2014, in the redrawn Cappamore-Kilmallock area, he secured 2,178 first preferences.
CEAPACH Mhor which chronicles what happens in Cappamore every year celebrated their own anniversary in 2017.

The 30th edition is for sale now in the village and surrounding parishes. Parish priest, Fr Dick Browne put it well when he said: Every time Christmas approaches now, the years seems to fly and times have certainly changed.

And that is why Ceapach Mhor - and every parishs yearbook - is so important. It shows how rural life has changed. It reflects every aspect of life in the year - from celebrations to obituaries; local history; schools; clubs and organisations; photographs and stories.

Co-ordinator of Ceapach Mhor, Pauline Campbell has been involved in 26 of the previous 30 editions. One of the big changes she has seen is they have gone from receiving almost everything in handwritten format to now getting 95% of the material by email. Ms Campbell thanked her committee, all the contributors and photographers, advertisers, and Troy Printing, who designed and printed the book.

She paid special tribute previous co-ordinator, Mary T Ryan, who continues to source articles and look after the historical section.

Ms Campbell also extended good wishes to Ollie Dillon, who has stepped down as chairperson of Cappamore Historical Society after 26 years at the helm.

He has contributed greatly to each and every yearbook and is a good friend, said Ms Campbell.

The visit of Roy Keane to Cappamore Celtic FC and talk in Hayes was a huge success. And one of Cappamores most famous sons is also honoured in Ceapach Mhor.

Mr Dillon said: In a very special tribute to the late Dr Liam Ryan, president of Cappamore Historical Society, a book of his selected writings was launched by Professor Mary Corcoran on May 26. Future generations will now have access to this important collection of Fr Liams writings over his long and distinguished academic career.

The book is still available as is As Time Goes By A Photographic Record of Cappamore.

Our 30th edition of Ceapach Mhor with its wide variety of articles and photographs from our organisations, clubs, schools and individuals reflect the very strong and active community spirit in Cappamore, said Mr Dillon. Ceapach Mhor costs 10.
A LIMERICK mother, who lost a memory bracelet dedicated to her late son, has had her wishes come true after the crystal memento miraculously landed back in her hands on Christmas night.

Miriam Gallagher, 51, from Lough Gur, issued an urgent appeal after losing the bracelet dedicated to her late son Andrew on December 10.

Miriam was given the item after 11-year-old son Andrew died after a sporting incident in 2004.

When she lost her bracelet she started to panic and contacted all the places she had visited that morning; the Santa gathering at Grange primary school; McDonalds in Castletroy; Odeon cinema; car parks and the gardai.

With no luck after travelling miles, she launched an urgent appeal on Facebook, which was shared more than 750 times.

She posted on Facebook: Hopefully, with a Christmas miracle, someone may have found it or come across it.

I was really upset. I was thinking, if its gone, its gone. When you lose a child, things that are materialistic really takes a second place. But this was very close because I had got it soon after Andrew had been killed. It meant everything to me, she explained.

On Christmas night, she noticed that the recliner was down in the living room while she was preparing tea. When she flicked the recliner, she saw something shining, which she initially mistook for tinsel. It was, in fact, the bracelet. I put my hand down and picked it up, and I just burst into tears. I cried for about two hours, she said.

I knew it was from Andy. I was always a spiritual person, but since Andrew died, there have been a few times when I really needed him that something has happened. And I had been praying and praying, saying: Please Andrew, if its meant to be, just give me the bracelet. And then it happened on Christmas night.

She added that since Andrew died, she never celebrated Christmas.

He loved everything about Christmas. I could never bring myself to do anything ever. I have had a tough year, and I think this was Andrews way of saying: There you go, Mom. Everything is gonna be alright.
THE FAMILY of a pensioner who was killed in a car crash in West Limerick, have spoken of the traumatic impact of the fatal multi-vehicle collision that was caused by a soldier two years ago.

The son of the late Margaret Peg Kelly, 71, read out the familys victim impact statement at Limerick Circuit Court, two months after 28-year-old Noel Higgins pleaded guilty to careless driving causing death on July 26, 2015.

Mr Higgins, who has an address of Ballineetig, Lispole, Kerry, is a member of the Defence Forces.

Margaret Kelly, who was a passenger in the Renault Clio her son Albert was driving, died after they were rear-ended by Mr Higgins Audi on the main N21 near Newcastle West.

After the first impact, the court heard, the vehicle spun at a 90 degree angle and went into the oncoming lane, then colliding with a Toyota Corolla. The mother and son were travelling to a brothers house shortly after 6pm.

Citing evidence, Lily Buckley, BL, instructed by State solicitor Aidan Judge, said that, following the second impact, Albert reached across to feel a pulse. I asked was she okay but I couldnt feel anything.

Margaret Kelly was pronounced dead at 7.40pm after being removed from the rear of the vehicle by emergency services. A post-mortem at UHL found that she died after suffering multiple traumatic injuries.

The court heard that alcohol, speed or vehicle defects were not a feature in the collision.

The court heard that Mr Higgins had said that he didnt get enough warning or enough time to break.

Mark Nicholas, SC, defending, said that his client was extremely shocked and distressed after the incident. He described it as an unfortunate sequence of events that comes down to momentary lapse.

He said that reasonable, competent drivers can make errors and that there were no aggravating factors involved in the collision. He added that he has an exemplary record in the army.

Reading the victim impact statement, Margarets son Cyril said that on the day of the crash the lives of a close family changed forever.

Albert, the driver, suffers nightmare spasms following the fatal crash, the court heard.

Lieutenant Daniel Hanley, of Sarsfield Barracks, was asked if a custodial sentence could mean Mr Higgins discharge. He said that it is at the discretion of the commanding officer.

Lt Hanley said that Mr Higgins, who has no previous convictions, is following a good, steady career and that he immediately reported that he was involved in the incident to senior officers.

Judge Tom ODonnell said that these cases are very difficult to deal with and adjourned the matter for final judgement on February 5.
OUTRAGED asylum seekers believe that they have been denied Christmas celebrations at a Direct Provision centre on the outskirts of Limerick, the Limerick Leader has learned.

It is understood that residents at Knockalisheen Accommodation Centre had been planning a gathering within the communal space on Christmas day. All residents were invited to attend.

It is understood that after dozens of residents raised money to fund food, non-alcoholic drinks and goodie bags, residents were not able to avail of the communal space on Christmas evening.

The plan was to dress up and just spend Christmas together. That way, we were going to have food later as well, sources said. It is understood that around 40 people, including a number of Muslims, contributed 5 to the event. Direct Provision residents earn just 21.60 a week.

It is understood that a staff member had been informed of the event, but that permission was not granted to host the celebration.

It is understood that they were unable to access the communal space on Christmas evening as the doors were locked.

Can you imagine having more than 50 children, dressed up in new clothes, waiting to go and celebrate Christmas with everyone, and then just be told that it is not going to happen? sources said.

Sources have said residents feel they have been denied Christmas celebrations.

To rob the children of that opportunity to experience the joy of Christmas, it was just miserable, the Limerick Leader was told.

The Leader contacted Knockalisheen Accommodation Centre, but was advised to contact the Reception and Integration Agency, through the Department of Justice. The Leader contacted the Department of Justice on Wednesday morning, but did not receive a response at the time of going to print.

Solidarity councillor Cian Prendiville issued a statement to the Leader, condemning the matter: This highlights the complete inhumanity of the direct provision system. Children and families were denied their right to socialise together on Christmas, for no good reason.

For a long time we have described Direct Provision as like an open prison, and this just shows how right that comparison is, and how authoritarian and cruel this system is. As the great socialist Tony Benn said the way government treats refugees is very instructive because it shows how they would treat the rest of us if they could get away with it. The system of direct provision must go in 2018, there can be no more half measures and delays.
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.
Congress state president Sudhakaran says rebels will be inducted into the party on Sunday despite opposition from leaders
LOCALS in the quiet County Limerick village of Pallaskenry have expressed their shock at the suspicious death of a local man this Saturday.

A 35-year-old man was found dead in a house in the village with suspected stab wounds.

A 29-year-old man was arrested in relation to the death this Saturday evening.

He is being detained at Newcastle West Garda station under the provisions of section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 as amended.

Gardai were called to the scene shortly before 5pm and discovered the body of a male in a house. The area was immediately sealed off for a technical examination.

The circumstances are very tragic, and my thoughts and wishes are with his family and his extended family, commented Independent councillor Emmett OBrien who is from the Pallaskenry area.

Anyone with information or who can assist the guards in anyway, I would appeal for you to please come forward."

Another local, who did not wish to be identified, said there was a huge sense of shock in the locality since news of the death broke.

Its the last thing we expected to hear as we prepared to ring in the New Year. Its very sad for all involved, he added.

The State Pathologists office has been notified.

The body remains at the scene.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact the gardai in Newcastle West on 061 393102, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

More to follow
Albany

In the years before he pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges, lobbyist Todd Howe regularly emailed top officials in Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration about government business using their personal email accounts, a recent court filing shows.

The use of private email for public business would violate official state policy, and is contrary to Cuomo administration directives to conduct state business on state email accounts, to avoid the perception of an intent to hide communication from the public.

One recipient of Howe's emails was Jim Malatras, a chief policy advisor before taking over as state operations director in August 2014 following a brief tenure at SUNY. The court filing shows Howe sent a dozen emails to Malatras' official accounts, and about the same number to his private Gmail address. Howe's emails to Malatras' private account bore subject lines that suggested they involved state affairs: "Seligman Statement," "$75m ESD grant" and "DOB Letters"  references to, respectively, the president of the University of Rochester, Empire State Development, and the state Budget Division.

Malatras, now president of the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government, an Albany-based think tank that's part of the SUNY system, said he had "no idea" why Howe would repeatedly reach out to him through his private email.

"I would tell him to switch over (to the official email account) because this is business," Malatras said.

In September 2016, Howe pleaded guilty to felony charges revolving around influence-peddling and bid-rigging of upstate development deals. He is expected to be a key cooperating witness at the trial of former top Cuomo aide Joe Percoco and three others beginning in January, as well as a separate trial where the defendants include SUNY Polytechnic Institute founder Alain Kaloyeros and five others.

Howe  whose ties to Cuomo reach back into the administration of his father, Gov. Mario Cuomo  has acknowledged working as a well-paid consultant at SUNY Poly while also steering contracts to private developers that were paying him. Defense lawyers are likely to portray him as a serial liar who will say anything to lighten his own sentence. All eight defendants spanning the two trials have pleaded not guilty.

The email information comes from an exhibit list filed by an attorney for one of the executives from the Syracuse-area firm COR Development, where two officials are accused of paying bribes to Howe and Percoco. The list includes the subject lines of emails Howe sent to people, including other defendants, but not the content of the emails or the dates they were sent.

Even so, the 320-page court filing shows Howe wrote frequent emails to John Regan while he was working as a counsel in Cuomo's office from 2012 to 2015, including on economic development matters. A Republican, Regan landed his initial job with Cuomo despite his only prior government job experience being as a diplomat in the George W. Bush's administration covering Cuban relations.

The emails from Howe were sent to Regan's personal AT&T address, according to the court filing.

Before taking the job with Cuomo, Regan had previously worked for Howe at a Washington, D.C., lobbying subsidiary of the Albany-based law firm Whiteman Osterman & Hanna, where the two specialized in landing federal appropriations for nonprofits. Regan had worked at the Mortgage Bankers Association with both Howe and Howard Glaser, who was Cuomo's state operations director from 2011 to 2014.

In February 2015, Regan left the administration to rejoin Whiteman Osterman & Hanna, this time as a partner in the Albany office. Regan now serves as associate counsel and director of government relations at Albany Medical Center. Though a spokesman, he declined to comment on his communications with Howe.

The email subject lines indicate Howe, who lived in Washington, regularly updated Regan on his travel plans. Howe wrote to Regan about apparent government matters, too, such as a request for proposal in Rockland County.

Malatras' advice that Howe should use official email for state business was apparently not taken to heart, based on his voluminous correspondence with other Cuomo officials. Howe sent more than 50 emails to the official Executive Chamber email account of Andrew Kennedy, who was Cuomo's assistant director for economic development and deputy director of state operations, the evidence list shows. More than two dozen other emails cited in the document were sent to Kennedy's Hotmail account, bearing subject lines that similarly suggested the contents involved state business: "COR to FSMC Real Property transfer," "$50M disbursement," "CNY hub," "Quad C"  all references to SUNY Poly projects across the state.

Kennedy, now president and CEO of the Albany-based Center for Economic Growth, did not respond to messages seeking comment.

The defense team's inventory of emails also lists outreach by Howe to the private accounts of former state operations director Glaser as well as Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, Cuomo aides Melissa DeRosa and Linda Lacewell, New York Power Authority chief Gil Quinones and Executive Secretary to the Governor Stephanie Benton.

It is unclear how many of the emails themselves will be unveiled in upcoming trials.

Cuomo's office has insisted Howe wasn't part of the governor's "inner circle," a claim his spokesman Rich Azzopardi repeated in a statement Friday. "This vague and incomplete document has no dates, no content, and typically no subject matter  nor does it show that anyone ever responded to his emails," Azzopardi said. "To be clear, the administration's policy is that government email is used for government business and, if an issue is not government-related, government email is not appropriate to use."

Azzopardi said many of Howe's emails sent to administration staffers' private emails could be explained by his work as a "volunteer" for Cuomo's 2014 re-election campaign, managed by Percoco when he was on leave from the administration. In the same period, Percoco collected payments from some of Howe's private clients, including COR Development. (The company insists it never paid Percoco.)

In 2014, ProPublica reported Cuomo aides had been in the habit of collecting emails from private accounts to conduct official business in an effort to hide communications.

ProPublica also reported that emailing from private accounts may violate state policy: State employees were not to "use a personal email account to conduct State business unless explicitly authorized," according to a policy published by the Office of Information Technology Services.

Use of private emails can be used as a tactic for circumventing New York's Freedom of Information Law. Any reporter or private citizen filing a FOIL request for communications from Howe and executive chamber members would almost certainly never receive any of the communications conducted through the Executive Chamber staffers' private accounts.

Robert Freeman, executive director of the Committee on Open Government, said public business conducted on private accounts still must be subject to the law.

Casey Seiler contributed.

cbragg@timesunion.com  518-454-5303
1 Health coverage: More than 8.7 million people signed up for coverage next year under the Obama-era health care law, as the program that President Trump has repeatedly pronounced a disaster exceeded expectations. Enrollment for the 39 HealthCare.gov states reached nearly 95 percent of last years level, outperforming projections in a show of consumer demand, despite a shortened sign-up season and big cuts in the ad budget. A complete national tally may not be available until March, as states running their own health insurance markets are continuing to sign up consumers. In California and New York, enrollment season ends Jan. 31.

2 Virginia vote: Republican leaders said Friday that Democrats are trying to litigate their way to victory in a tied state House race that could decide the balance of power in the House of Delegates. GOP House Leader Kirk Cox made his comments after lawyers for Republican David Yancey urged state elections officials to schedule a random drawing of the winners name before the legislature reconvenes Jan. 10 in Richmond. Yanceys lawyers urged a recount court to deny Democrat Shelly Simonds motion to reconsider its ruling declaring the election a tie. If Simonds wins, the partisan split will be 50-50. If Yancey wins, Republicans will have a 51-49 majority. The drawing will take place next Thursday.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The case of an August 1991 cold case homicide was put to rest with a guilty verdict against 52-year-old Michael Todd McIntyre in October.

McIntyre, of New Hudson, was convicted of first-degree felony murder after Midland County Sheriffs Office detectives reopened the case in 2013. Investigation brought forth additional witnesses who were not interviewed in the time just after the killing of Diane Ross.

Ross was 43 years old when she was attacked by a masked assailant about 1 a.m. Aug. 7, 1991, while sleeping in her North 11 Mile Road home, just off M-20. Someone beat her in the head, and a broken pool cue was found nearby. The only witness was her 5-year-old grandson.

Midland County Prosecutor J. Dee Brooks prosecuted the cold case in tandem with Michigan Assistant Attorney General Oronde Patterson.

Lindy Barton, one of Ross' sisters, spoke during McIntyres sentencing hearing.

"On Aug. 7, 1991, my life and my whole family's life was changed forever," Barton said. The murder of her sister, who had lost both her legs to a childhood illness yet managed to be as independent as she could and even raise her grandson, destroyed the family's peace, unity and safety.

"We now have our memories and sweet closure," she said. "Rest in peace, Diane. You were never forgotten."

Midland County Circuit Court Judge Stephen P. Carras sentenced McIntyre to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
A police officer in Wichita fatally shot a man while responding to an emergency call that authorities now say was a tragic and senseless prank.

The 28-year-old man, whom officials did not immediately identify, was killed around 6:20 p.m. Thursday after police responded to a report that there had been a shooting and hostages taken at the house, Deputy Wichita Police Chief Troy Livingston said at a Friday news conference.

"Due to the actions of a prankster, we have an innocent victim," Livingston said, calling it a case of "swatting."

Swatting, which has a long history in the online gaming world, refers to the practice of making an emergency call about a fake situation often involving a killing or hostages, in the hopes of sending police to the address of an adversary or random person.

In an interview with the Wichita Eagle, the slain man's family identified him as Andrew Finch, a father of two, and said he was not armed.

"I heard my son scream, I got up and then I heard a shot," his mother, Lisa Finch, told reporters Friday.

"What gives the cops the right to open fire?" Finch said. "Why didn't they give him the same warning they gave us? That cop murdered my son over a false report."

The officer who fired the fatal shot, a seven-year veteran of the force, has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is department policy. Police are investigating the circumstances of the call.

A person who first called the security desk at Wichita City Hall told a 911 operator that he had accidentally shot his father and was pointing a gun at his mother and brother.

"They were arguing and I shot him in the head and he's not breathing anymore," the caller said.

The individual later threatened to set the house on fire, then asked the operator, "Do you have my address correct?"

A man emerged from the house after police arrived. Livingston said police officers repeatedly told him to put his hands up, and one shot when he believed the man was reaching for a weapon. Police said the man was not armed.

The officers did not find anyone who had been taken hostage at the location, nor any deceased victims.

The family members were handcuffed and taken in police cruisers to be interviewed by officers at a station, the Eagle reported.

"The police said, 'Come out with your hands up,' " Lisa Finch told the Eagle. "[The officer] took me, my roommate and my granddaughter, who witnessed the shooting and had to step over her dying uncle's body."

The man was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead at 7 p.m., Livingston said, adding that the caller continued to call 911 after officers had arrived at the scene.

The incident has drawn speculation, fueled by statements made by individuals on social media, that the emergency call was part of a prank made by a video-gamer in an argument. Swatting has been used as a tactic to harass and intimidate people across the country and is typically done with digital tools that disguise the caller's location.

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, a Massachusetts Democrat, introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015 - then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at Clark's home.

UMG Gaming, which operates online gaming tournaments, said in an email to the Associated Press that the company is "doing everything we can to assist the authorities."

Livingston said Wichita police have some promising leads.

Lisa Finch told the Eagle that her son did not play video games.

Andrew Finch's aunt Lorrie Hernandez-Caballero told the Eagle she was shocked that a person would make such a prank call.

"How does it feel to be a murderer?" she said. "I can't believe people do this on purpose."

- - -

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
RICHMOND, Va. - Republicans on Friday asked a three-judge panel in Virginia to stick by its decision to count a disputed ballot in a squeaker legislative race, a ruling that threw the contest - and control of the House of Delegates - into limbo.

House Republicans were responding to a motion Democrats had filed Wednesday, asking a recount court to reverse itself and declare Democratic challenger Shelly Simonds the winner over Del. David Yancey, Newport News, by a margin of one vote.

A win by Simonds would split the 100-seat House down the middle, forcing a rare power-sharing arrangement on a chamber that Republicans have controlled for 17 years.

Also Friday, the state Board of Elections announced that it will move ahead with plans to pick a winner through a random drawing at 11 a.m. Thursday unless the court signals its intention to weigh in.

A previously scheduled drawing - called off Wednesday as Simonds sought to toss the race back to the recount court - had attracted national attention as an unusual way to settle a highly consequential election. Board members said then that they would prefer to have the court decide the race.

But given that the recount court has been silent, that the board must give 24 hours' notice before meeting, and that the General Assembly session is looming, the Elections Board scheduled a drawing in case it comes to that. The board could still cancel at the last minute.

"Unless we hear from the court otherwise, we'll go ahead and pull a name out of the bowl," said Clara Belle Wheeler, the lone Republican on the three-member board.

The GOP enjoyed a 66-34 majority in Richmond's lower chamber heading into the Nov. 7 elections. But Democrats picked up at least 15 seats in a wave election widely viewed as a rebuke to President Donald Trump.

On Election Day, Yancey appeared to beat Simonds by 10 votes in the 94th legislative district. Then a Dec. 19 recount left Simonds ahead by a single vote, prompting Yancey to concede.

The next day, the three-judge recount court decided that a ballot declared ineligible during the recount should count for Yancey, tying the race at 11,608 votes apiece. The voter, whose identity is unknown, filled in bubbles on the paper ballot for Simonds and Yancey but also made slanted mark across the Simonds bubble. The court ruled the extra mark was an effort to strike out the vote for Simonds.

Republicans have noted that the voter chose others from their party on the ballot, including Ed Gillespie, who ran unsuccessfully for governor against Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, D.

But Democrats say that the voter's intent is unclear and that the ballot must be tossed as an "overvote," meaning two competing candidates were chosen. They note that the voter also made extra marks by Gillespie's name, drawing an "X" on the bubble as well as filling it in. Perhaps, they argue, the extra mark by Simonds' name was half of an "X," abandoned as the voter reverted to filling in bubbles.

On Wednesday, Simonds filed a motion asking the recount court to reconsider. That prompted the Elections Board to call off plans to break the tie that day by drawing a name out of a 19th century pitcher.

If the board goes ahead with a drawing, the loser could request a second recount.

In the GOP response filed Friday, Yancey's attorney, Trevor M. Stanley, argued that Democrats had not brought forward any new facts for the court to consider.

He also argued that the court - assembled with judges from different jurisdictions solely for the purpose of overseeing the recount - had already been dissolved.

But Democrats showed no signs of backing down - even as Republicans said their time could run out to have a say on the House speakership and rules even if Simonds ultimately prevails.

Katie Baker, spokesman for the House Democratic Caucus, issued a statement saying "desperate" Republicans were trying to "steal the election" to hang on to the majority. She pushed back against Republican claims that Democrats were dragging out the process for tactical gain.

"Their suggestion that we're engaged in some elaborate House of Cards power ploy is laughable," she said. "We're spending our time writing power-sharing arrangements in full detail and hoping to get a face-to-face meeting with Republicans to decide how to govern."

If the outcome of the Yancey-Simonds race is not determined by the time the legislature convenes on Jan. 10, Republicans would control the chamber 50 to 49. If Yancey wins, the Republicans will retain their majority by the slimmest possible margin. Democrats could force power sharing if they prevail in Simonds' race or in another disputed contest. They would have to win both to take control.

In the other disputed race, Republican Bob Thomas defeated Democrat Joshua Cole by a margin of 73 votes. Democrats are suing for a new election because a registrar's apparent mistake caused 147 voters to cast ballots in the wrong race.

In a conference call with reporters, Del. M. Kirkland Cox, R-Colonial Heights, said the House will choose a speaker for the next two years and pass rules governing its operation on opening day, even if the Yancey-Simonds race remains in limbo.

Cox, who is in line to be speaker if the GOP retains control, dropped the title "speaker designee" in the immediate aftermath of the recount but used it again Friday.

"We plan to organize the House on the opening day, with the members who are sworn in and seated," Cox said. "We have a budget to balance, we have schools to improve, we have an opioid crisis to fight."

Cox also said the House must organize to pass a joint resolution with the Senate that, among other things, sets in motion the formal procedures for swearing in Northam three days later.

Baker said it was "disappointing" that the "House Republicans are using the inaugural festivities as a smokescreen to hang on to power. However, nothing could be more transparent than Del. Cox's decision to readopt the term 'speaker-designee.' "
Richmond, Va.

As Democrats and Republicans continued sniping Friday over a House seat that could determine the balance of power in the Virginia House of Delegates, state elections officials moved to break the deadlock by scheduling a random drawing to pick the winner.

The Virginia Board of Elections will pick the winner in the Newport News-based 94th District next Thursday, unless a recount court decides to intervene.

The race between Democrat Shelly Simonds and Republican Del. David Yancey has seesawed since the Nov. 7 election. Initially, it appeared that Yancey won by 10 votes, but a recount put Simonds ahead by a single vote.

A three-judge recount court later declared the race a tie after agreeing with the Yancey campaign that a disputed ballot was a vote for him. On Wednesday, Simonds asked the court to reconsider, but the panel has not responded.

The fight over the seat has been intense as Republicans try to hold on to a majority in the House after an election in which Democrats erased the 66-34 advantage held by Republicans, as voters vented anger toward Republican President Donald Trump.

During a conference call with reporters Friday, GOP House Leader Kirk Cox criticized Democrats for causing "politically motivated delays" in deciding the 94th District race.

Cox said, "They've sought to litigate their way to victory."

He called Simonds' action a "deliberate strategy to make it more difficult for the House to organize smoothly" when the legislature reconvenes Jan. 10.

Even if the winner's name is pulled Jan. 4, he said, the House will not be able to seat the winner by the opening day of the legislative session if the loser asks for a recount. That would leave Republicans with a 50-49 majority as the session opens.

Simonds said Yancey is to blame for the delay. "We won the recount ... it should have been over, and the next day, the Yancey team pulled a stunt. So this delay is squarely on him," she said Friday.
Two people died at a southwest Houston auto shop Friday when a former employee walked in and opened fire Friday afternoon, police said.

The man then walked outside Bemer Plus in the 14300 block of South Post Oak Road near West Orem and killed himself shortly before 4 p.m., according to HPD Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner.

"(It's) very, very sad this time of year or any part of the year (when) we lose three citizens," Finner said.

The first officer arrived roughly one minute after police were called but had not determined details on the motive by Friday night. Police also did not confirm the identity of the shooter or when he stopped working at the auto shop.

"Personnel at scene of apparent double murder & suspect suicide. Early indicator this is senseless workplace violence," Police Chief Art Acevedo tweeted.

None of the victims has been identified, but a man at the shop said that his cousin, who had worked at the auto shop for 20 years, was among the dead. Hours after the shooting, multiple people who said they were also related to that male employee had gathered outside the shop.

They said one of the victims had just celebrated his anniversary Thursday with his wife, who was flying from her home in Jamaica at the time and had not yet been informed of her husband's death.

Finner said that multiple employees and customers were inside the shop at the time of the shooting but did not indicate whether the gunman had targeted specific people when he opened fire.
Funded and founded by evangelicals, the new Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., sticks out for something its leaders clearly wanted to emphasize: Jews.

The eight-story, cutting-edge $500 million institution, which opened last month and already is one of the world's largest Bible museums, devotes more space to stories of the Hebrew Bible (Jewish texts) than to the New Testament (the part of the Christian canon featuring Jesus and his teachings), highlights a special permanent exhibit on Israeli antiquities, sells Jewish items in its gift shop like menorahs and mezzuzahs, and pipes the sound of people praying in Hebrew through its speakers. A real, live yarmulke-wearing rabbi from Israel is seated at the end of the final major exhibit, writing the letters of a Torah scroll, deliberately there to emphasize museum leaders' perspective that "God started with the Jewish people, and he is still with the Jewish people," said Cary Summers, the museum's president.

Then why do some Jews express skepticism about the museum?

The answer blends politics, culture, theology and the question of whether it's possible for disparate groups to ever share the Bible in a meaningful way. While modern liberal rhetoric aspires to religious pluralism, the reality is that Christians and Jews see the Bible in fundamentally different ways - from what counts as "the Bible" to how to read and understand it.

Shmuel Herzfeld, a modern Orthodox rabbi who leads the Ohev Sholom synagogue in Washington, wanted to go weeks ago, when the museum opened, but members of his study group weren't willing. He finally went alone last week and said he felt awed and a bit weird walking through a bustling museum that to him seemed more about Jews than for them.

He noticed a stack of Star of Davids placed in the gift shop next to statues of a girl in what appear to be God's hands - which was jarring to Herzfeld since Jews avoid statues, idols or images of anything Godlike. He felt uncomfortable watching the experiential, Disneylike "Jewish Bible" show, much of which is told through impressionistic video. That it was presented without noting the post-biblical Talmud and other rabbinical commentary Jews consider crucial parts of their canon seemed to him to imply that God's story continues through Christianity - not Judaism. He shook his head as the show depicted Abraham kneeling before God - an image much more in keeping with Christian than Jewish prayer.

"You're seeing the Bible the way Christians do," he said of the museum.

"I don't want to sound cranky because they went out of their way to be nice, and certainly we're not opposed to teaching what Judaism is about. But there is an uneasy feeling that we're part of this marketing campaign where the point is to convince people of the prophetic message of Christianity," he said.

A panel at this month's annual Association for Jewish Studies conference, entitled "the Museum of the Bible As Mediator of Judaism," included panelists who all agreed that the museum's "self-description as religiously neutral" was inaccurate, said Mark Leuchter, professor of Hebrew Bible at Temple University and a participant in the panel.

However, while some Jewish visitors said they felt like props, or felt they were being proselytized to, or had concerns about the legality and authenticity of some items (Hobby Lobby, a craft chain whose owners founded the museum, paid a $3 million fine this summer for smuggling ancient Iraqi artifacts), other Jews are happy with the museum.

The museum collaborated with a number of paid Jewish consultants - including Bible scholars, community advocates and rabbis. The consultants sit on an international advisory board or are expert guides. The Museum's director of content, Seth Pollinger, said 35 to 40 percent of the academic advisors are Jewish, a dramatic number when you consider Jews are less than 2 percent of the adult U.S. population, according to the Pew Research Center (and less than a half of 1 percent, worldwide, Pew says).

The consultants lean to the more Orthodox side (which represent about 10 percent of U.S. Jews), but the list also includes people from across the religious and ideological spectrum.

"We are pursuing exhibits that present balanced descriptions that highlight broad consensus views ... without taking up causes for the 'religious right' or the 'political left.' Although this is our goal, we will need to constantly host discussions that are open to critical and constructive suggestions on points to improve so we can advance a more 'centrist' presentation," Pollinger wrote in an email.

Among the consultants was prominent Brandeis University historian Jonathan Sarna, whose specialty is American Judaism. He hasn't yet toured it but reviewed the museum exhibit wording in detail for curators.

Sarna said museum officials did the best they could, but there's no escaping that the Christian Bible is organized in a way that anticipates the coming of Jesus, while the Hebrew Bible (the older part, often called the Old Testament by non-Jews) is organized differently and does not. Some Jewish visitors felt the museum's main storytelling exhibit - the "narrative" floor - emphasized the Christian version of the shared stories, such as highlighting Ruth - someone Christians see as a foremother of Jesus - and not Sinai, an essential spot for Jewish understanding of the Bible.

"The Bible is really almost a Rorschach test, people see different things in it. At its best the museum does reflect that. In other places it more reflects the Bible as seen by the funders of the museum," Sarna said.

There are endless ways to see both the Jewish and Christian traditions, but one core difference is that many Christians see the Bible itself as the highest authority. Jews typically see the Bible as a starting point, to be read and translated through the lens of centuries of rabbinical commentary. This is one reason Sarna thinks most Jews aren't rushing to the museum - they don't focus on the Bible.

"When someone from my congregation says: 'I'm reading the Bible,' I get worried," half-joked Stuart Weinblatt, a rabbi from Potomac, Md., who spoke at the museum's dedication and who thinks it's wonderful. "I say: 'Just make sure you read it with a Jewish commentary.' That's the filter that makes it Jewish."

Weinblatt said the museum is an opportunity for Jews to engage with biblical texts and to find a common ground with others.

Many Jews are wary of evangelical interest, Weinblatt said, because they think it's motivated primarily by a desire to convert them. While the need for conversion to Christ remains a basic tenet of evangelicalism, many evangelicals today express a more general commitment to the idea that God in the Bible promised to "bless those who bless Israel," and interpret that in various ways.

"There has been a radical change over the past 20, 25 years and the Jewish community hasn't woken up," Weinblatt said.

Weinblatt is touching on a reality: There are key cultural and political challenges in making evangelical Christians and Jews genuine partners. While Orthodox Jews work often with conservative evangelicals on social issues like opposing same-sex marriage, securing public funding for religious private schools and on their shared idea of how to support Israel, the typical American evangelical and the typical American Jew are on opposing sides of many issues in America.

In research released earlier this year, Pew analyzed religious groups' feelings toward one another. White evangelicals ranked Jews more "warmly" than they did almost any other group, while Jews ranked white evangelicals near the bottom.

American Jews are far more liberal than the American public, particularly on social issues and on the ideal size of government. The museum's board is almost entirely evangelical, a group that falls on the opposite side of such issues. Evangelicals' tendency to view scripture as orthodox and unchanging clashes with the perspective of most Jews. Pew Research Center found 55 percent of evangelical Protestants said scripture should be taken literally, compared with 11 percent of Jews who said the same.

There are points where museum staff sought to accommodate beliefs shared by the museum's conservative Christian leaders and their Orthodox Jewish advisers - beliefs not necessarily widely shared by Jews, said Gordon Campbell, an expert on the King James Bible who is on the museum's advisory board. For example, there is an exhibit about early writing, he said, which is meant in part to honor the perspective of more literal believers that the Torah was written very early - perhaps, one could say, by Moses, inspired by God. Academics date it nearly a millennium later, he said.

The museum worked hard to make Jews comfortable in the museum, Campbell said - for example, taking care to focus on major Protestant figure Martin Luther - a raging anti-Semite - as a Bible translator rather than as a hero.

Summers, the museum president, disagreed with the premise that Jews are staying away and said staff reports hearing that visitors regularly include Jews. He said the museum's main challenge is the months of articles in the run-up to the opening expressing skepticism about the intentions of the institution. The initial mission statement of the museum talked about promoting the literal word of God.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Adrian Ballesteros and his wife, Jessica, stood before the packed shelves Friday evening at one of six fireworks stands clustered just inside Comal County on U.S. 281 to prepare for their New Years Eve celebration.

The couple, who live in Fox Grove, were among a wave of consumers swarming the Alamo Fireworks complex of stands, shopping for their own pyrotechnic show in their far North Bexar County neighborhood.

The pair recalled going to fireworks shows as children  Adrian Ballesteros in El Paso, and Jessica Ballesteros in Laredo. But today, they live in a neighborhood just outside of San Antonio city limits where they can legally have their own show.

RELATED: Saturday is the last day to buy liquor in Texas before New Year's Eve, New Year's Day

Were going to have some friends and family over, but the whole neighborhood gets involved, Adrian Ballesteros said.

They looked at the Warlock, a package that stand operator Britty Trowers said contained a canister with 24 shells thats blown into the air and comes down in a wide spread of color. The top seller: Voodoo Balls, a 12-shell assortment that explodes in the air in brilliant colors.

The Ballesteros said theyd get together with their neighbors and the adults would fire off those, possibly for a finale, with some medium-sized options leading up to the big bang.

For their children, Jessica Ballesteros chose Roman candles and sparklers.

Trowels, who has been with Alamo for 12 years, began as a fireworks saleswoman and worked her way up to a stand operator, running sales at the wood frame structures during the winter and summer seasons.

The city, which doesnt allow private sales or use of fireworks, officially will ring in its Tricentennial with Celebrate 300: San Antonios 300th Celebration Kick-Off and New Years Eve event, from 5 p.m. Sunday to 12:30 a.m. New Year's Day at Hemisfair Park downtown.

RELATED: Cold blast, icy conditions likely to hit San Antonio-area Sunday night

Organizers said they can accomodate 25,000 people at the show. For everyone else, theres the roadside stands. This season, as in others, sales at fireworks stands have started a bit slow, but by Friday were picking up.

Its always slow at the beginning, Trowels said.  People tend to wait until the last minute to shop.

Dry and windy weather conditions in years past have prompted county officials to clamp down on the sales of aerial items that can cause fires, such as rockets and missiles.

Trowels said she expects more people will buy fireworks with a cold front expected Sunday to bring a slight chance of freezing drizzle and a hard freeze.

Rain is good, she said, So you dont get grass fires.

City and county officials issued reminders earlier this week, urging the public to follow the law and safety regulations when discharging fireworks.

Residents can discharge consumer fireworks in unicorporated areas of Bexar County, as long as it is outside of cities, officials said.

Madi Shawver of Leon Springs shopped with her two sons. Salesman Aaron Cruz helped her explain to them some safer options than the large, explosive kind that widened their eyes.

So Roman candles shoot little fireballs out, but you have to hold it, Shawver said to Rylyn, 8. Is that too much for you?

No, he said, as he glanced at his brother, Noah, 9.

Trowels said she and her team take their responsibility to explain how things work seriously, and also offer options that can be handled for specific ages.

Although people enjoy fireworks, pets do not like loud noises, and many of them can become frightened. Animal Care Services recommends giving household pets a quiet place indoors to keep them away from the mayhems and provide toys to keep them occupied if they are left alone. Officials urge pet owners not to leave them unattended outside, even if the yard is fenced, because fear and noise can motivate them to escape. It also is against the law to tether, tie or chain any animal.

In San Antonio and other cities, possession, use or transportation of fireworks is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by fines that start at $100 and top at $2,000.

A statement from Bexar County Fire Marshal Chris Lopez reminded residents that its also illegal to discharge fireworks within 600 feet of a hospital, school or church; and within 100 feet of a gas station, whether youre in a city or not. You also cant discharge them at or from a motor vehicle.

Officials for the city and county have set up individual hotlines, which will take calls through Monday for people to contact law enforcers about illegal use of fireworks.

San Antonio residents are asked to call 210-207-0202 for violations or unsafe activity in the city. The phone line will be operational from 6 p.m. Sunday, which is New Years Eve, through 1 a.m. Monday.

People residing in unincorporated areas of the county are asked to call 210-335-3473 to report violations. Calls are being taken until Monday.

Elizabeth Zavala is a San Antonio Express-News staff writer. Read more of her stories here. | ezavala@express-news.net | @elizabeth2863
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

WASHINGTON - When Celeste Kidd was a graduate student of neuroscience at the University of Rochester she says a professor supervising her made her life unbearable by stalking her, making demeaning comments about her weight and talking about sex.

Ten years on and now a professor of neuroscience at the university, Kidd is taking legal action. She has filed a federal lawsuit against the school alleging that it mishandled its sexual harassment investigation into the professor's actions and then retaliated against her and her colleagues for reporting the misconduct.

"We are trying to bring transparency to a system that is corrupt," Kidd told The Associated Press.

Academia - like Hollywood, the media and Congress - is facing its own #MeToo movement over allegations of sexual misconduct. Brett Sokolow, who heads an association of sexual harassment investigators on campuses, estimates that the number of reported complaints has risen by about 10 percent since the accusations against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein surfaced in early October, spurring more women to speak out against harassment in various fields. The increase is mostly from women complaining of harassment by faculty members who are their superiors.

But the Trump administration has viewed the issue of sexual harassment on campus in a different light. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has scrapped Obama-era regulations on investigating sexual assault, arguing that they were skewed in favor of the accuser. New instructions allow universities to require higher standards of evidence when handling such complaints.

A forthcoming study of nearly 300 such cases in the Utah Law Review found that one in 10 female graduate students at major research universities reports being sexually harassed by a faculty member. And in more than half of those cases, the alleged perpetrator is a repeat offender, according to the study.

On Friday, two University of Texas faculty members resigned after being informed that they were accused of sexual misconduct.

Jay Boisseau, who built UT's supercomputing center into an international powerhouse, and tenured chemistry professor Bradley J. Holliday both stepped down shortly after university officials confronted them with accusations. Boisseau resigned in 2014 and Holliday in 2016.

The university paid Boisseau's accuser $325,000 to settle her claims.

"Often schools might turn a blind eye toward sexual harassment that they know about or have heard about because a professor is bringing in a big grant or is adding to the stature of the university," said Neena Chaudhry, senior counsel at the National Women's Law Center.

The Education Department did not respond to a request for comment.

Career held hostage

Activists say young women pursuing graduate studies are especially vulnerable to sexual misconduct because they depend heavily on their academic adviser to complete their degrees, pursue research in their field of study and get recommendations for future jobs. Reporting misconduct could endanger an academic career. And besides damaging the women's mental health and well-being, sexual harassment can chase some of them out of academia altogether.

"Often professors who are advising graduate students are the students' gateway to their degree attainment and their career prospects," said Anne Hedgepeth with the American Association of University Women. "That's an immense amount of power that professors hold. It's also an immense amount of risk that students take when coming forward when future prospects are on the line."

That sums up what happened to Kidd, according to the lawsuit.

Kidd says Florian Jaeger, a linguistics professor at the New York university's cognitive sciences department who was one of her academic advisers in 2007, pressured her to rent a room in his apartment for a year.

She says he then constantly intruded in her private life, demoralized her and talked to her about oral sex and other sexually explicit topics.

"I begged him to stop and to just advise me professionally and he said that was impossible, that wasn't his mentorship style," Kidd said in a phone interview. "There were many moments where I went to sleep in the lab and I wondered what I had done to deserve the hell I was living in every day."

When Kidd protested, Jaeger made it understood that he could derail her career.

"He had a lot of control over my work life, he had the ears of everybody in the field," she recalled. "He reminded me constantly that they know him, that he was a big shot and that I was no one."

In the end, Kidd moved out of Jaeger's apartment and abandoned language research so that she wouldn't have to be supervised by Jaeger. She now studies attention and general learning.

Universities face pressure

Last year, two professors at the department, in whom Kidd eventually confided, filed a sexual harassment complaint. The university investigated but found the allegations unsubstantiated.

The professors say the university then began a retaliation campaign against them. In August, Kidd together with group of faculty members filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a federal agency in charge of workplace discrimination issues. In December, Kidd and her colleagues filed a federal lawsuit.

The university responded by placing Jaeger, now a tenured professor, on administrative leave and commissioning an independent investigation. Results are expected in early January.

University President Joel Seligman said in a statement that the school is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment, but vowed to "vigorously defend" himself and the university provost against some personal claims made against them in the suit.

Jaeger did not respond to an email seeking comment. But shortly after the case was made public this fall, he emailed his students to say that while some of the online comments about him were painful to read, "I am glad that there is now generally so much support for people who speak up against discrimination." Jaeger added that he has always tried to make his lab "an exciting, sa(f)e and supportive place to pursue science" and that he has received letters of support from former students.

As universities face pressure to rethink their sexual misconduct policies, activists suggest various possible remedies: spelling out what interaction is appropriate between faculty and students; more transparency in reporting and investigating complaints; more women in senior leadership positions in academia; and making a student's career less dependent on just one professor.

"There is really no excuse for not addressing this," Chaudhry at the National Women's Law Center said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Taibe was born in Konigsberg, Germany in 1922 as the middle child of three siblings and soon moved to Lithuania.

As a teenager, Taibe and her family were forced into the Kovno Ghetto, where she witnessed her brother get shot by a Nazi simply because he did not salute. This tragic event transformed the young girl into a survivor.

Taibe quickly learned how to escape the Ghetto and get food by trading her familys possessions. She was later transported by train with her family to the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, where she was separated from her mother and sister. She eventually escaped the camp and was admitted to a Red Cross hospital, where she remained until the war ended on March 10, 1945 - a date of liberation which she celebrated for the rest of her life.

Upon returning to Lithuania after the war, Taibe found no surviving family but did reconnect with her soon-to-be husband, Lazar Goldberg. Taibe and Lazar spent two years together at a refugee camp in Santa Maria di Leuca, Italy where they married.

The couple later emigrated to the United States and settled in Laredo, Texas where Lazar had three brothers, Nathan, Samuel, and Raul Goldberg.

The two began their careers in Laredo as peddlers, and once they had saved enough by selling items door-to-door, they opened their first retail shop, La Garantia, downtown in the early 1950s - creating a thriving business that ultimately supported dozens of employees.

Both Taibe and Lazar stood as pillars of Laredos local and Jewish communities.

Taibe had two daughters, Elida Goldberg Katzman and Debbie Goldberg. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren (John, Alex, Tony, Adam, and Jacob), 6 great-grandchildren (Lindsay, Jonah, Cameron, Max, Evan, and Adelaide), and her younger sister, Yentale Shapiro.

Most likely because of the atrocities they had witnessed during the war, Taibe and Lazar understood the power of family. Despite having been subjected to constant terror, pain, and personal loss throughout her life, Taibe responded not with bitterness and defeat, but rather by building a new, more beautiful life - one filled with love, support, strength, humanity, resilience, and honor.

A consistent pattern of selfless love is what defined the Goldbergs' lives, and Taibe was the shepherd that kept our family, her flock, operating at the highest of levels. Her life was an inspirational example to all she met, and she will be missed by all who loved her.

Special thanks to her loving and gracious caretakers, Juanita Sosa, Nancy Pinales, and Yolanda Patino. Thank you, too, to Julio Mendez and her wonderful and caring doctors, Dr. Dennis Cantu and Dr. Robert Hudson.

A graveside funeral service will be held at the Laredo Jewish Cemetery on Sunday, December 31 at 12:00pm.

If you would like to sign the guestbook or send private condolences, you may do so at www.hillsidefuneral.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Hillside Funeral Home, 310 Hillside Road.
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.
Could the lucky 38.9 Euromillions ticket holder be in Longford?

A ticket bought in Ireland has won Fridays mega EuroMillions jackpot of almost 39 million, a National Lottery spokesperson has confirmed.

The winning numbers are: 04,08,22,23,48 LUCKY STARS: 01,12

While it is not yet known where the winning ticket was purchased, the lotto spokesperson has appealed to players to check their numbers to see if they are the holder of the golden ticket worth a cool 38,906,715.

The spokesperson said: We are urging all our players to check their tickets to see if they are the lucky winner or winners. At this stage we dont know if its a single winner or a syndicate.

We advise anybody who has this ticket to keep it safe until they can get into the National Lottery office next week to make their claim. This is a valuable piece of paper. We are open after the new Years break on Tuesday.

This is the third EuroMillions Jackpot win in Ireland this year.

You may also be interested in:

A great 2018 in store for lucky Cavan player who scooped 112,469 in last night's Lotto
Met Eireann has updated its Status Orange Warning on Storm Dylan this morning.

Forecasters say that the storm will hit Ireland tonight between 9pm and Midnight, tracking close to Connacht and Ulster coasts.

Met Eireann has updated the National Warnings for Storm Dylan.https://t.co/X6NncUghZ9#StormDylan pic.twitter.com/ABV11EMO7L  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) December 30, 2017

The biggest impact from the storm is now expected to be felt in western, northern western and some inland northern counties with west to southwest winds reaching mean speeds of 65 to 80 km/h with gusts of 110 to 125 km/h.

High seas along the west coast too with the risk of coastal flooding.

Level Orange Weather Warning for Connacht, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Westmeath, Meath & Clare. Please drive with care and reduce speed if necessary pic.twitter.com/OkCyhd6Gfy  An Garda Siochana (@GardaTraffic) December 30, 2017

What to do if you are in the expected path of the storm:

- Clear away anything from around your home which could pose a debris hazard in high winds. Pick up animal bowls, secure pet houses and if you have a trampoline, either dismantle it or turn it upside down and place a weight on it to ensure it doesn't become airbourne. Secure bins and ensure all children's bikes, outdoor toys etc are either dismantled or removed.

- Don't park your vehicle, if possible, under any trees during the storm.

- Ensure you have batteries and torches in case of power outages and try to avoid using candles as they pose a fire risk.

- Do not make any unnecessary journeys during the storm as gusting winds will make conditions especially hazardous. If possible, avoid driving completely and stay indoors during the storm.

Orange warning : Winds of 60-80km/h with 120km/h gusts are expected for MO, LM, SO, G, RN, CN, MN, LH, LD, WM, MH on Saturday night and Sunday morning. #StormDylan pic.twitter.com/PYzWsKKfx6  RSA Ireland (@RSAIreland) December 29, 2017

- If you have elderly neighbours please check on them and assist them in preparing for the storm today. Ensure they have access to torches and additional blankets if power outages arise.

If you have a farm

Secure all sheets of metal or wood so they don't become dangerous during high winds. Try and secure any loose roofing and secure all shed doors. Clear away any buckets, bins etc left outside so they don't become airbourne.

Following the storm

Be aware they may be downed power lines and trees. Do not attempt to clear fallen trees across roads yourself. If you need to contact the Fire, Civil Defence or if you have a Road Emergency for example large trees down and blocking public roads, please dial 999 or 112. Please respect the fact these services may be inundated during storm events and be mindful of whether what you are calling about actually warrants the action of emergency services. Report any downed power lines or power outages immediately to ESB Networks on 1850 372 999 - this service is available 24 hours/ 7 days.

@MetEireann issue a STATUS ORANGE WIND WARNING FOR

Connacht, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Westmeath and Meath from 21.00 tomorrow to 6.00 Sunday #staysafe #StormDylan  ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) December 29, 2017

You may also be interested in:

Wrap up Longford - National Status Orange weather alert as Storm Dylan approaches

Top online marketing award for Peter Hanley Motors, Ballymahon
Members of the Edgeworth Society returned last week from a very successful International Edgeworth250 conference in Rome.

The conference was organised by the English Department of Roma Tre University under the direction of the Scientific Committee led by Raffaella Leproni, Professor of Enhlish and Translation Roma Tre and Carla De Petris, Senior Professor of English Roma Tre.



A tremendous amount of work went into organising this event which included members traveling to Edgeworthstown in the summer period.

The conference was one of many events being organised internationally to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of the novelist, childrens writer and educator Maria Edgeworth.



The conference was supported by the Irish Embassy to Italy with the Ambassador Colm O Floinn addressing the opening session.



It was an honour and a privilege to have been invited to speak at such an auspicious event where I got the opportunity to highlight the work being carried out in Edgeworthstown, aimed at creating an awareness of the place Edgeworthstown holds amongst the worlds literary sites, and the role it will play in being of international importance as a cultural Tourism attraction under the Failte Ireland, Irelands Ancient East initiative, said Matt Farrell of the Edgeworth Society in Edgeworthstown.



He also stated that the attendance at the conference was an opportunity to promote and develop links with the prestigious Roma Tre university and that plans are afoot to develop a collaborative programme where future students from Rome will visit Edgeworthstown as part of their English Literature studies.



The conference heard a wide range of papers on the works and life of the celebrated Maria Edgeworth ranging from childrens education, her novels, gender and political issues of the period and their ongoing relevance to current thinking.



The conference ran over two days with the speakers and guests being hosted at the splendid Villa Spada by the Irish Ambassador.



This was a wonderful opportunity for the group from Edgeworthstown John McGerr, James and Camilla Kelly, who gave of their time and at their own expense to promote Longford and Edgeworthstown.



Plans are well advanced for additional events in Edgeworthstown, Longford, Dublin, Waterford and York in England as part of the Edgeworth250 initiative.

You may also like to read:

Edgeworthstown resident to launch Gospel album

New writings charting life and times of Edgeworthstown novelist hits bookshelves

GALLERY: The Maria Edgeworth Literary Festival in Edgeworthstown
A couple that appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes at last weeks district court sitting in Longford charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act was convicted and fined 1,500 following a hearing into the matter.

Agata Szulc and Tomasz Toczek, Carrickduff, Dring, Co Longford appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes charged with allowing a premises to be used to make a controlled substance at Carrickduff, Dring, Co Longford on April 25 last.



Mr Toczek was also further charged with unlawful possession of Methamphetamines at Carrickduff, Dring on the same date.



Outlining the evidence to the court, Inspector Donal Sweeney said that on the date in question, Garda Lynn executed a search warrant on the property that the couple shared a couple of miles outside the north Longford town of Granard.



The court heard that when the Garda entered the house, he observed Mr Toczek cooking Methamphetamines.



A search of the property ensued and gardai subsequently discovered various items that were used in the drug cooking process.

Ms Szulc and Mr Toczek were arrested and taken to the local gardai station where they were later charged in respect of the matter.



Both were interviewed and admitted being involved in the process, Inspector Sweeney informed Judge Hughes.

Meanwhile, in mitigation, the defendants solicitor Brid Mimnagh said her clients had been discovered, during what was a very small amount of Methamphetamine being cooked.

Agata is in the country 12 years and is going out with Tomasz for the past 10 years, she added, before pointing to the fact that Mr Toczek had worked for Facebook in Dublin, but was now unemployed.



He got addicted to Methamphetamines and couldn't get enough of it.

He sourced it in the Czech Republic.

The court went on to hear that when times became tough financially, Mr Toczek would cook his own product while Ms Szulc purchased Sudafed tablets - a childs medicine - so that her partner could source an essential ingredient to Methamphetamines from that.



Judge Hughes then asked the defendant how he learned to cook the drugs in the first instance and Mr Toczek replied, from the internet.

During his ruling on the matter, Judge Hughes said that while it was clear that the defendants had all the paraphernalia in place for cooking Methamphetamines, he was satisfied the process was on a very small scale.



The Judge subsequently convicted Mr Toczek and imposed two fines of 500 on him while Ms Szulc was also convicted in respect of her charge before the court and fined 500.
The Ardagh 10 Mile Challenge & 5k Fun Run takes place on Saturday, December 30.

The 10 Mile race starts at 1pm, with the 5k getting underway at 1.15pm.

Registration on the day from 11am in Ardagh Community Centre, Ardagh, Co Longford.



Entry fee 10 Mile - 20 online and 25 on the day and 5k 10.



Chipped timing AAI permit measured course.



Specially commissioned finisher medal for 10 mile runners. Trophies 1st Master Male/Female Over 40 and Over 50.



Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Male/Female in 10 Mile Race.



Online registration through active.com or Ardagh Moydow Glen Community Games Facebook page.

Background

The annual Ardagh 10 Mile Challenge takes place on a scenic, point-to-point course during the peak of Winter. The first two miles of the course brings you on the scenic route around the village before you head up over the mountain, the last half mile has you once again running through the historic and award winning village of Ardagh to finish at the village green.

The 10 mile start line is located 100 meters on the left from the front entrance of the community centre

Race Route

Travels up through the village past St Brigids church before turning around a traffic bollard at about 1 km and coming back through the village. The route then heads from the village towards the famous Ardagh Mountain (Dont panic, its only a small mountail) at about 2 mile. The climb lasts for about 1200m and is quite steep in parts so gauge your effort. After a nice down-hill section the course is quite flat with a few long inclines up to the finish.

The finish to race is located on the village green

You may also be interested in:

Longford County Council refuse to grant planning permission for Lanesboro wakeboarding facility
MANCHESTER, CONN. -- Police are investigating a Saturday shooting at a Manchester, Connecticut restaurant that has reportedly injured at least one person.

Officers responded to reports of a shooting at the Bonchon Chicken Restaurant at 1540 Pleasant Valley Rd. around 12:30 p.m., Manchester Police Department Capt. Chris Davis reported on Twitter.

MPD is investigating a shooting at the Bonchon Restaurant 1540 Pleasant Valley Rd. There is no word right now on the victims condition. At this point it appears to a an isolated incident  Chris Davis (@CaptDavisc) December 30, 2017

Davis said the shooting appears to have been an isolated incident. The condition of the victim was unclear, he noted.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
DEERFIELD -- Police have arrested and charged a 25-year-old Illinois man with unlawful firearms possession following an early Saturday morning traffic stop.

Officers reportedly seized a handgun and took the man into custody after stopping his vehicle, which reportedly had a defective light and expired registration, around 2 a.m. on Greenfield Road, Deerfield Police said on Facebook.

Officers asked the driver if there were any weapons or things of value in the vehicle, which they explained needed to be towed, according to Deerfield Police.

The operator reportedly told officers he had a Glock handgun under the driver's seat. He did not posses a Massachusetts firearm permit, Deerfield Police said.

Officers contacted the Woodbridge, Illinois Police Department, which confirmed the operator would be in violation of the law and arrested if found with the firearm in their community, according to police.

The driver was arrested and will appear in Greenfield District Court.
Every person has a story. Everyday People is a series that seeks to highlight the stories of everyday residents in Massachusetts.

----------------------------

Dakota Matthews fell while having a seizure at age 4, and when she came to, she was surrounded by police officers trying to help her. She was overwhelmed and scared.

Now 8, Dakota doesn't really remember her seizure, but ever since then, she has felt the need to take a photo with every police officer she sees.

Years of photos turned into a project: Dakota is on a mission to visit every police department in Massachusetts.

"It's always fun," said Dakota, who as of Friday has completed 40 visits all over the state. She started counting her trips in August or September.

As Dakota began taking photos with officers after her seizure, she started marking a map with each place she met a cop, said Dakota's mother, Cherie Boisvert.

"Ever since the seizure, every officer she saw she had to get a picture with them," Boisvert said.

Dakota jokingly said she wanted to meet all the officers in Massachusetts, which evolved into her goal of going to every department.

How long will it take her to go to every station? Dakota said she thinks she'll be 12 years old by the time she finishes.

"I think that 12 is a good goal because that gives us four years," her mother quipped. "We can take lots of breaks in between."

Dakota will sometimes take trips to the departments with her brothers, who are 13 and 20, or with her godmother.

"It's kind of empowering to see that she gets enjoyment out of this and to see the officers and the joy in their face," Boisvert said. "I didn't expect it at first."

The coolest thing Dakota has seen so far, she said, is how police officers fingerprint people. Dakota even got her own fingerprints done.

She's also seen where police officers store their guns and got to look at some (empty) jail cells.

Dakota has also taken rides in police cars. She has soaked up all of the positive messages the officers give her during her visits.

"If they do something good then I want to do something good too," she said.

Dakota, of Plainville, is a third-grader who says her favorite subject in school is gym class. She, of course, wants to grow up to be a police officer.

"They teach me to be good," she said.

Dakota may not fully understand it, but she is aware of the negative connotation that some people have toward police, Boisvert said. One thing Dakota loves about her mission is that it highlights all the good police officers do in the community.

She's documenting her journey on the Facebook page "She Loves Police."

Though shy on the phone, the bright smile Dakota boasts in her photos with police officers shows just how excited she is to be checking off one department after another on her journey.

Facebook posts show Dakota's visits to departments including Uxbridge, Northbridge, Mendon, Braintree, Weymouth, Rockland, the MBTA Police Academy and more.

"Sgt Thompson and Director Carroll made me an honorary Police Officer for the day," her post about the Academy reads. "It was really cool to see how you become a brave police officer, I hope I get to go there some day.... but I hope they don't yell at me like that."

Because she's not old enough to have a Facebook, Boisvert runs the page. Dakota dictates what she wants each post to say and then checks her mother's typing.

"She double checks it," Boisvert joked. "She's a rule follower so she knows she can't be on it until age 13."

During one trip, Dakota got to check out the State Police Air Wing.

"Trooper Pina is the Pilot of this helicopter and I got to see what an important job they all do. They showed me how their infrared radars work. They even let me try them and I kept trying to find Mom. It was almost like playing a video game but much more important," the Facebook post about that trip reads. "They don't always search for the bad guys. They also help search for people who got lost. I bet they save a lot of lives."

Dakota is planning to check out the Medfield Police Department on Tuesday, but it's possible that she'll pop in at a few other departments before then.

The best department Dakota has seen so far?

"All of them," she said.
TOLLAND, Connecticut - A 45-year-old Southbridge man who apparently just missed being shot by a homeowner during an attempted break-in earlier this month was returned to Connecticut Friday to face burglary charges, according to Connecticut State Police.

Dale Laliberte of Cohasse Street, Southbridge is charged with burglary in the 3rd degree, larceny in the 3rd degree, and first-degree criminal mischief. The charges are related to a Dec. 12 incident in Tolland where a homeowner come home that night and interrupted a break-in, police said.

The homeowner told police he found a strange car in his driveway. The woman in the passenger seat said they were lost and the driver of the car had gone to a neighboring house to ask for directions.

While he was talking to her, he heard footsteps behind him, and turning around saw a middle-aged man with an object in his hands running at him. The homeowner was armed with a handgun, and in fear for his safety, he drew his weapon and fired at least one shot at the stranger, police said.

The man got into his truck and fled the scene.

Police found no evidence at the scene that the man had been hit by gunfire. The homeowner, whose name was not disclosed, was in legal possession of the gun and was not charged, police said.

An investigation of the house by police found that the rear sliding-glass door had been kicked in. Police did not say if anything had been taken.

An investigation by Connecticut State Police led to the location of the truck and that Laliberte was the driver. Connecticut police obtained a fugitive from justice warrant against Laliberte, and he was arrested in Southbridge by Southbridge police.

Laliberte was extradited on Friday from Massachusetts to Connecticut to stand charges. He was being held in lieu of $250,000 and is due to be arraigned in Rockville District Court on Tuesday.
During Friday night's freezing weather, the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing led officers on the ground to a wanted man who covered himself with snow in an attempt to harm himself.

Just before 10 p.m., Hatfield Police and troopers assigned to the State Police Northampton Barracks were looking for a man who made threats to harm himself and then ran into the woods, State Police said.

The man also had felony warrants out for his arrest.

Troopers Kevin Doyle and Eric Fairchild used the Air Wing's FLIR thermal imaging camera to guide officers on the ground to the man, State Police said.

Video from the Air Wing released by State Police Saturday shows officers and a K-9 searching for the man.

When officers got to the man, they found that he was not dressed for the frigid weather, State Police said. He was covered with snow and was laying on the bank of an ice-covered pond.

Officers guided the man out of the woods. He was taken to a hospital to be treated for exposure.

State Police said Hatfield Police will handle the arrest of the man, who was not identified, once he is released from the hospital.
Seals usually travel by water, not by highway.

But for some reason, a baby seal was wandering on Route 6A in Yarmouthport on Friday night, Yarmouth police said.

No one has any idea why the seal waddled so far inland or how the seal managed to do so without getting hurt.

"He was rescued and is now safe and sound," Police wrote on Facebook. "Must be a NAVY SEAL!"

A resident is the one who discovered the pup and reported the lost seal to police, according to Boston 25 News.

Yarmouth police secured the pup in a cage with the help of the group Amazing Animal Ambassadors.

The seal hung out at the Yarmouth Police Department until the International Fund for Animal Welfare could pick the pup up.

Once the pup gets a "seal" of approval for its health, it will likely be released, Amazing Animal Ambassadors wrote on Facebook.
The city has launched "Lunch with Legal" in an effort to make the city attorneys office more accessible and to increase public understanding of its work.

The first episode aired Dec. 19 and included an overview of the new series and presentations on snow removal regulations and the criminal court jurisdiction.

Lunch with Legal is aired live on City 190 on the third Tuesday and recorded for replaying during the other Tuesdays each month at noon. The recorded programs are also posted on the city website.
TORONTO

Dec. 30, 2017

Bernard C. Sherman

Canada

Canada's

Canada

Canada

Canada

$1.5 billion

Canada

$11 million

$20 million

/CNW/ - Dr., known to many as Barry, founder and Chairman of the Board of Apotex Inc., has been appointed to the Order of Canada. One of our country's highest civilian honours, therecognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.Cited by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, "for his entrepreneurship in the pharmaceutical industry and for his unwavering support and commitment to education and charitable causes", all of us at Apotex are beaming with pride in this well-deserved honour, yet deeply saddened that Barry is not with us to accept this award.Barry founded Apotex more than 40 years ago and today it islargest pharmaceutical manufacturer. Driving the organization is the company's purpose: improving access to medicines for millions of patients worldwide. To this end, Apotex produces 25 billion dosages annually and exports to more than 115 countries. Inalone, Apotex products are used to fill close to 95 million prescriptions a year or 1 in 5.Through Barry's vision, leadership and unbridled passion, the contribution of Apotex to sustainable healthcare has been striking. Inalone, the company has saved the healthcare system billions of dollars by bringing affordable medications to market before patent expiry. It has also been one of the largest investors in research and development of any company in, investing more thanover the last 10 years.Despite the increasingly global scope of Apotex, Barry remained committed to his company's Canadian roots creating more than 6000 jobs and operating 21 facilities across the country, demonstrating the motto of the Order: "They desire a better country".Barry embraced, with open arms, the social responsibilities that came with success, and regularly provided significant support through Apotex to a variety of charitable organizations and community groups inand around the world. Apotex has contributed more thanto the United Way,to Canadian universities where many of the company's employees earned their degrees, and more than $25 million in product donations over the past 15 years. With Barry's direction, the company has also supported several hospitals including Humber River Hospital, Baycrest and Mount Sinai Hospital, among many others.Barry dedicated his life to enriching the lives of others, and all of us at Apotex are committed to honouring his legacy by continuing his life's work.SOURCE Apotex Inc.
CARO  A well-known Thumb area medical administrator was reappointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to the Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging.

Margot Roedel, of Caro, was among those appointed to the 15-member commission that offers oversight on the administration of state programs and priorities affecting aging Michiganders.

Roedel has an extensive history in the medical field. She was the chief executive officer of the Tuscola County Medical Care Center for 17 years before she retired in July.

Under her guidance, the Tuscola County Medical Care community became one of Americas Top Rated Nursing Homes as recognized by U.S. News and World Report; in addition to receiving a 95 percent favorable rating by residents, families and employees.

Also, Roedel, who is a registered nurse, was recognized in 2012 by the American College of Care Administrators as the leader of one of the top 26 skilled nursing facilities in the United States, and in 2016 she was appointed for the first time to the State of Michigan Commission on Services for the Aging.

It is a three-year appointment that expires in 2020.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

American Girl's new doll is out of this world -- or, at least, she wants to be.

Luciana Vega is an 11-year-old aspiring astronaut with dreams of being the first person on Mars. She's the Wisconsin-based doll maker's 2018 Girl of the Year.

Luciana is "a champion of [science, technology, engineering and math] and a natural-born leader who puts her whole heart into making her dreams a reality," said Katy Dickson, president of American Girl, in a news release.

The company worked with NASA and Johnson Space Center to develop Luciana's story, which starts with her winning a scholarship to Space Camp in Alabama. Her story is chronicled in a three-book series also available for purchase.

Luciana -- decked out in a white space suit and helmet -- was unveiled Thursday on "Good Morning America." It is the company's 16th girl of the year and will be available for purchase Jan. 1.

"Luciana is a role model for today's girlsempowering them to defy stereotypes, and embrace risks that will teach them about failure and success as they chart their own course in lifewhatever the goal," Dickson said.

To ensure accuracy, doll creators traveled to Johnson Space Center in Houston to "gain insight into a day in the life of a Space Camp trainee," the company said.

Now Playing: Margo Georgiadis comes to Mattel from Google. Video: Fortune

The creators learned how to eat in space, how to function in microgravity and even put on a space suit, the release adds.

American Girl also worked with a four-member Advisory Board that included Ellen Stofan, former NASA chief scientist; Deborah Barnhart, CEO and executive director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center; Megan McArthur Behnken, NASA astronaut; and Maureen O'Brien, manager of strategic alliances at NASA.

"American Girl's partnership with NASA was developed through the Space Act Agreement to inform and inspire the wider public (and especially young girls) about the excitement of space and STEM careers," the release added.

Also in partnership with Scholastic, NASA and Space Camp, the company has funded several educational activities to help young students learn about space and STEM fields.

They include:

Blast Off Discovery: a program built for third through fifth graders that includes STEM-based lesson plans and classroom activities. It will be available at www.scholastic.com starting Jan. 31.

Mission to Mars Sweepstakes: Families who participate in weekly missions can win numerous prizes, including a trip to Space Camp.

Space Camp scholarships: American girl is sponsoring 20 such scholarships.

Information about these and other educational opportunities can be found at americangirl.com/meetluciana.

Alex Stuckey covers NASA and the environment for the Houston Chronicle. You can reach her at alex.stuckey@chron.com or Twitter.com/alexdstuckey.
DETROIT, MI - A former deputy chief with the Detroit Police Department entangled in a corruption scandal involving municipal contracts is scheduled to make an admission next week in federal court.

Celia Washington is to appear for a plea hearing at 10 a.m. before U.S. District Judge David Lawson, according to a Friday court filing.

Her lawyer, Arnold Reed, told the Detroit Free Press that Washington made one mistake and accepted a "relatively small amount of money" from towing company owner Gasper Fiore, knowing he wanted something in return. Reed said Washington never helped the Fiore.

"From her perspective, they were friends, good friends .... But he was trying to get something out of her," Reed told the newspaper.

Washington was charged in October with bribery and bribery conspiracy involving federal funds. She allegedly accepted at least $3,000 in cash and in exchange, she rigged towing rotations in certain police precincts so that companies would receive preferred contracts for service. Police towing work in Detroit is estimated to be valued in excess of $2 million a year.

She resigned from her position, as deputy chief and as a legal adviser for the police department, in June.

The owner of Boulevard and Trumball Towing, a large Detroit contractor, Fiore entered into a plea agreement this month with the U.S. Attorney's Office. He was to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit federal program bribery and serve 1 1/2 to 2 years in prison with up to three years of supervised release and $250,000 in fines.

Fiore admits he attempted to bribe Clinton Township Trustee Dean Reynolds in exchange for lucrative municipal contracts. Reynolds is facing a charge of theft or bribery concerning federally funded programs.

The federal investigation ensnared several officials and took down Charles Rizzo and his son Chuck Rizzo of Rizzo Environmental Services. The younger Rizzo admitted he paid Reynolds about $50,000 and provided free legal services in order to influence or reward Reynolds for his help securing an extension of the Clinton Township contract. He also paid former Macomb Township Trustee Clifford Freitas, charged too with bribery.

Charles Rizzo pleaded guilty this month to conspiracy to commit mail fraud for a failed embezzlement scheme involving the purchase of Dumpsters and garbage trucks, according to federal court records.
HOLLAND, MI -- The city of Holland is paying the former deputy city clerk a severance package of $18,475 after she resigned in mid-December, documents show.

The severance pay amounts to three months of the deputy clerk's salary.

Anna Perales resigned from her post as deputy city clerk after a 17-year career with the city. The city council voted to accept the resignation agreement after going into a closed meeting Dec. 13.

City officials declined to comment on Perales' resignation after the meeting.

Former Holland Deputy City Clerk Anna Perales, as seen in a screen shot from the city's video of the Oct. 4, 2017, meeting. (Courtesy | City of Holland)

Under the terms of a resignation agreement obtained by The Press through a Freedom of Information Act request, Perales agreed to a non-disclosure agreement and agreed to not sue the city.

The city is also paying out Perales' accrued and unused paid time off -- $8,609 -- and will pay 80 percent of her COBRA health insurance until Feb. 28, 2018.

The agreement also states Perales will assist the city with any questions staff may have in the transition until Feb. 28.

In the city of Holland's current structure, technically the finance director Tim Vagle wears the official title of city clerk.

Vagle works out of the finance office, though Perales presided over most official clerk's office duties including running elections, processing Freedom of Information Act requests, preparing city council packets and taking meeting minutes.

Perales was named deputy city clerk in 2014 after serving in that role for eight years prior, running the clerk's office as the city battled a lawsuit brought by fired Clerk Jenifer French.

In 2014 city officials said Perales didn't meet the educational requirements to be named clerk. The clerk's position required a bachelor's degree, said former City Manager Ryan Cotton.

The deputy city clerk is hired and fired by the city manager; while the clerk is appointed by the city council.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Inside Van Andel Research Institute are powerful microscopes that can show the images of life's building blocks in startling clarity.

The largest microscope, the Titan Krios, can visualize molecules 1/10,000th the width of a human hair.

The technology is part of the downtown Grand Rapids biomedical research center's $10 million David Van Andel Advanced Cryo-Electron Microscopy Suite, completed in early 2017.

"The resolution available with the Krios, compared to earlier methods, is akin to upgrading from a road atlas to Google Earth," said Peter Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc., VARI's chief scientific officer, in a statement. "It offers exquisite detail of complex systems, which will help us find new therapies so desperately needed for patients around the world."

Cryo-EM technology has been key to some significant discoveries from better understanding complex structure of Alzheimer's-related proteins in the brain to revealing the structure of hundreds more molecules implicated in a variety of diseases.

Although cryo-EM has been around for decades, recent advances in both techniques and technology have revolutionized the approach, giving researchers powerful new tools to more quickly and more precisely see some of the smallest yet most important biological components in their natural state, according to the Institute.

VAI was established by Amway's late co-founder Jay Van Andel and his wife Betty in 1996. In its first decade, the Institute has grown to support the work of more than 360 scientists, educators and staff.

Van Andel Research Institute, VAI's research division, is focused on discovering the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and turning those findings into effective therapies. The Institute's scientists participate in collaborative partnerships that span the globe.

VARI's growing team of scientists are using the cryo-EM technology to find new treatments for diseases such as cancer and Parkinson's.

Researcher Juan Du, Ph.D, for example, is on a mission to shed new light on the diverse molecules responsible for healthy brain function.

Her goal is to better understand how these molecules work and what happens when they malfunction.

"By gaining a more precise grasp of the molecular building blocks that underlie normal function as well as disease, we hope to leverage our findings to improve human health," Du said in a statement.

Du is one of three cryo-EM experts who have joined the Institute's faculty since 2016, complementing VARI's existing strengths in structural biology.

In 2017, an international team, led by scientists at Van Andel Research Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Imperial College London, announced the discovery of a critical step in DNA replication.

Their research showed what these enzymes do to DNA once they are in place, Huilin Li, Ph.D explained in a statement.

Li, an internationally recognized structural biologist and professor in VARI's Center for Epigenetics, is one of the senior authors on the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Using the powerful microscopes, Li and his collaborators revealed the very first steps in DNA replication, which involved the the separation of the two DNA strands from one another.

"These are processes at the very foundation of life that have largely remained a mystery to biologists since the discovery of DNA double helix more than 60 years ago," Li said.
MARQUETTE, MI - When Dan Schetter saw how the weather was shaping up on Christmas Day - below zero temperatures and a wind chill hovering around -25 degrees - he knew it would be a great day for surfing a blustery Lake Superior.

Even better, they were fantastic conditions to grow his signature ice beard.

The frigid spray didn't disappoint. When Schetter walked away from the lake that day, his winter whiskers had icicles hanging down to his chest.

Those who know Marquette's "Surfer Dan" understand he's serious about riding the waves year-round. But the beard? That's become a bonding point for the surfing community.

A couple years ago when Schetter joined Facebook, he was fascinated to see other surfers showing off pictures of their ice beards - a quest he'd already been on for many years.

The Christmas Day photo shoot was part of that fun, allowing him to share the photos and grow the legend.

"It's not like we're trying to out-ice beard each other," he said of other surfers. "I just happen to have the biggest ice beard."

The recipe for frozen beard success: Plenty of open water, a stiff wind and bitterly cold air temperatures.

Mother Nature obliged with this week's Arctic snap.

Devon Hains, a freelance photographer whose pictures of Schetter have inspired a photoshop battle on Reddit, said he wasn't surprised when Schetter called him for the holiday photo shoot.

"Every year he tries to beat the size of his beard," Hains chuckled. "He knew that day would be a great day for it. The wind chill really helps that ice build up."

To withstand the cold while he was shooting, Hains layered up. He added a face mask, and several pairs of gloves stuffed with handwarmers.

"I had to pop back in my car a couple times just to warm up," said Hains, 24, a student at Northern Michigan University. "And there was Dan, he was just paddling back out."

Schetter, 39, said he's careful about his winter gear. He was wearing a 9mm XCEL wetsuit, with 8mm boots and gloves.

He cautions others about the big lake conditions. Even though he makes sure to prepare, it's still dangerous. Lake Superior's surface temperature that day was about 36 degrees.

"Even though I know what I'm doing, it was still difficult," he said. "My board and body iced up. I had to thaw out underwater."

A Marquette native, Schetter has been surfing Lake Superior for more than 20 years.

He's lived abroad, surfed in Japan and Hawaii, but is happy to call The Great Lakes his home.

He's caught waves on Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and even Teal Lake - a 460-acre expanse in the Upper Peninsula's Negaunee. With a stiff wind, Schetter laughs about how you can have a good surf even there.

So if you see Surfer Dan, ask him about Teal Lake or another one of his adventures. He's proud to be a Yooper and always has a good story to tell.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

By Mazhar Mohammad

Indian benchmark indices signed off the years in style after netting a gain of around 27 percent in the year gone by. This kind of return, especially on the back of underperformance in the preceding two years, may not appear to be excessive return.

There were many such occasion in the past since 1980 when the market has continued to deliver in the subsequent year even after clocking 25 percent plus kind of returns.

Hence, this rally may well get extended into the early part of the New Year but the moot question in front of the investor is to what extent.

For this purpose, if we dissect the long-term trends then we will know that this market is staring at a critical resistance level placed around 10,650 and in need of a breakout.

Related stories

Hence, for bigger up moves, the index needs to witness a sustainable breakout above the said level. In case such a breakout takes place, then bulls can easily take the indices to much higher levels and may even head towards 11,200 levels on the Nifty.

Is market ready for such a breakout?

Albeit, there may not be any reversal signs as of now, the market has already witnessed a relentless upmove from December 2016 lows of 7,893 to 10,500 without a proper correction both price wise as well as time wise.

The price action suggests strong momentum but at the same time, it also sends a tough message to the participants that major part of the upmove before the next leg of bigger downswing might have completed.

Hence, traders at these levels should not create fresh bets on the long side with the hope of similar performance. Our studies of different technical parameters on the long-term charts are creating a feeling of unease as most of them are already in overbought zones.

These levels should get further stretched on the upside in case market breaks out which will compel us to conclude that the rally should not sustain without a prolonged pause or meaningful correction.

Even simple fundamental parameters are suggesting limited upsides as Dividend yield on Sensex scripts is a meagre 1 percent, whereas the price-to-book value is at 3 times and historical Price to Earnings ratio is at 25x.

With this kind of limitations, indices may not have much leg room to move on the upside.

What Strategy suits for 2018?

Adopting a contrarian strategy can be better for a bet for the year 2018 which should reward investors in case market turns out to be very volatile and turbulent.

In the midst of this strong bull market, certain sectors like PSU Banking and Pharma were almost reeling under the bear market kind of scenario where IT was out of favour with low institutional interest.

Hence, one main advantage of going long in select pockets from these sectors is that downside will be insulated even if the market is going to correct drastically.

Especially in case of PSU Banking space where efforts are being made to clean up the Balance Sheets a decent price appreciation can be expected over a period of time by focusing on stocks like Punjab National Bank and BOB.

Similarly one should look to find long-term investment opportunities in the recently listed Insurance players which slipped below their IPO prices and appears to be stabilising now.

Besides, leadership may change from Financials especially from NBFCs and Housing Finance Companies as they have underperformed the last leg of rally despite Nifty50 made new lifetime highs. At best they can remain market performers.

Top 5 stocks which can give up to 16% return in the short term:

HUL: BUY| Target Rs1465| Stop Loss Rs1337| Return 7%

After hitting new lifetime highs this counter appears to have witnessed a breakout above its 4-month-old channel which is projecting a target placed around Rs1,465 levels.

As long as it sustains above Rs1,340 levels one can retain a positive outlook and buy for the said target. A Stop Loss should be placed below Rs1,337 on a closing basis.

Tata Steel: BUY| Target Rs793| Stop Loss Rs690| Return 8%

This counter, a couple of days back, witnessed a channel breakout signalling the end of correction in which it slipped towards Rs660 levels.

However, Rs735 is looking like a critical resistance on the long-term charts and once this hurdle is cleared on a closing basis its next logical target is placed at Rs793.

As the long-term trend is intact in this counter, positional traders should create fresh long positions in anticipation of a breakout for a target of Rs790 with a stop below Rs690 on closing basis.

Gruh Finance: BUY| Target Rs550| Stop Loss Rs490| Return 9%

Long-term charts on this counter are looking quite interesting as a fall of 10 percent from its life time highs of Rs553 appears to be providing a good opportunity for the Bulls around Rs500.

The counter is slowly seeing some sort of accumulation because, for the last three months, the counter closed around Rs500 with a positive bias.

As on daily charts, a trend line breakout also witnessed. Positional traders should long on the stock for initial targets of Rs550 with a stop below Rs490 on a closing basis.

Satin Credit: BUY| Target Rs534| Stop Loss Rs437| Return 16%

Off late, this counter was buzzing on the back of technical breakouts and after a brief pause, it now appears that it has resumed its uptrend with a price and volume breakout in the last Wednesdays session.

Hence, last two days of weakness should be considered as one more opportunity to go long in the counter for a target of Rs534 with a stop placed below Rs437 on a closing basis.

NMDC: BUY| Target Rs152| Stop Loss Rs133| Return 11%

This counter has registered a breakout on higher volumes in last Tuesday session and after the breakout, it appears that it is in pause mode providing one more opportunity to go long.

Hence, short-term traders should make use of the current weakness to go long for a target of 152 with a stop below 133 on a closing basis.

The author is Chief Strategist  Technical Research & Trading Advisory, Chartviewindia.in. The views and investment tips expressed by investment expert on Moneycontrol.com are his own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Yogesh Nagaonkar, Fund Manager, Bonanza PMS, expects the rally in the equity market to continue in 2018 and has kept his December 2018 target at 12,000 for Nifty. It's surely a buy on dips market, Nagaonkar said.

The valuation picture currently looks little stretched by all means. Is it fair to call this market a buy on dips?

No doubt the valuation on the index has moved up from 19 to 26 P/E, so the index might look expensive but again pocket of opportunities exist in various sectors and companies. So it's surely a buy on dips market but at the same time if you get good business at attractive valuation today then one should buy it.

2017 has been a great year for Indian equities as the market grew by around 25 percent. Do you see same kind of rally in 2018 also and what is your Nifty target for December 2018?

I expect the rally to continue in 2018 and my December 2018 target is 12,000.

India Inc raised over USD 11 billion through IPOs in 2017. Will 2018 be another golden year of IPOs?

I am not sure that 2018 will see big size IPO as majority of big size IPOs have happened in 2017.

What are the next key events (or themes) to watch out for the year 2018? Kindly explain events or themes in 100-150 words. Will those events drive the market up or down? Also what are the global upside and downside risks for Indian markets in 2018?

Major event to watch for us crude , global political turmoil and rise in US fed rates! Surely these above events happen they will drive the market down . Indian market is facing risk of higher crude prices and consequently will lead to fiscal defect widening , however as the economy is on the growth path after shocks of demonetisation and GST so don't see a major risk to India

Everyone is saying corporate earnings were far better-than-expected in September quarter. Do you see December quarter earnings laying foundation stone of earnings recovery? What is your earnings outlook for FY19?

Yes, September quarter earnings is precursor of better earnings in 2018 that's why the market has rallied and we expect earnings to be better going forward

What are your key expectations from the last full-fledged Budget. After Gujarat elections there are as many as 8 state assembly elections lined up before general elections in the year 2019. Do you see a change in tactics of the Modi government or a policy shift in policy framework  from reformist to populist?

Surely we will see a populist budget and lot of goodies will be given as this is technically last budget before election and Gujarat is an eye opener for this government so they will keep no stone unturned for a convincing win in the elections to come

Top five sectors which you think stand to gain the most from the upcoming Budget 2018?

NBFC, especially housing finance companies, due to government housing for all push, consumer, auto ancillaries, capital goods and also banking.

As we move to 2018, what are your 4 best picks for 2018?

Mirza International

The company sells footwear under the red tape brand and is doing well recently. Their strategy is aligned towards selling more in the domestic market rather than focussing on exports !

This augurs well as the margins in domestic business is very good . They are also expanding into new segments like sport shoes and women's footwear so this will help the company to target a larger set of population we expect company to post good growth and good profitability going forward.

Pondy Oxides

Company is the business of lead processing as global lead mining bans exists in many countries and some countries have ban lead processing due to pollution . This offers an unique opportunity to the Indian lead processors. Pondy has a descent capacity and is financially and operationally well managed company. We expect company to post great set of earnings going forward

DHFL

It is one of the leading housing finance companies with a very low valuation compared to its peers! Last year the company has raised huge capitals and competitive rates we expect the company to keep on posting good earnings growth and profitability and hence we expect he stock to double from current levels in 2018 due to convergence of the valuation gap with peers and due to growth in the segment

Bajaj Finserv

Company is poised for growth as the company's life insurance business has picked up in a very nice way , company holds stake in Bajaj Finance which he done well over the past years. We expect the insurance sector to do well and hence Bajaj Finserv is a good bet for a long term.
Identifying multibagger is anybody and everybodys dream and the rules for identifying the same are the same across ages and geographies.

To start with one must remember that a multibagger does not pop up overnight; it takes exhaustive study, thorough analysis, and complete conviction to ideate an investment opportunity.

Over and above that it takes painstaking patience to stay invested in it till the ultimate manifestation of the value unlocking happens converting it to a multibagger.

There is a famous saying which goes -- Rome was not built in a day. The same rule applies to the multibagger stocks as well.

A multibagger stock is the one that multiplies say 10x or 100x over a period of time giving astonishing returns to its investors. When one starts analysis and invests in the idea, it may not necessarily seem to be a multibagger idea.

But, over a period of time as the opportunity grows, the stock being one among the very few players with all the requisite characters would grow into a multibagger, thereby rewarding the investor for identifying and entering it at the right price point and remaining invested to ride the price movement.

Hence, it is of utmost importance that the investor must have complete conviction in the business model and patience to hold on to the idea till it reaches the market capitalization it is worth of.

Let us now understand few features of a probable multibagger stock idea:

Size of Opportunity:

The first and foremost criterion for the would be multibagger stock ought to be growth i.e. it should be operating in the sector which is exhibiting high growth rate and has the longevity to last for decades.

The source of earnings should be clearly identified and plausible. E.g. Hero Motors came up with its bikes when the market was predominately controlled by the licenses issued by Government.

The industry was migrating from scooters to motorbikes and growing at double-digit owing to rising middle class and young population. The stock has given stupendous returns over last 33 years.

Economic Moats:

The Company should have what is called moat i.e. an entry barrier that would prevent the competition to encroach upon its turf. It can be in form of any brand image, technology, patent or IP etc.

This moat gives the pricing power to the company which helps it protect its margins even in adverse conditions, e.g. Coca-Cola and its patented formula, which is kept in a locked vault underneath its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, US. No other company on earth that can exactly replicate Coca-Colas soft drink formula.

The company does not have to worry about any competitor entering the market with an identical product and grab its market share; many have tried, but they have all failed.

A strong moat offers the company/ franchise a competitive advantage over its peers which if coupled with adequate and long-lasting growth opportunity gives a sure shot multibagger, e.g. the IT industry in 2000.

Management Quality:

Investment in equities is like partnering in the business; one has to be very choosy and mindful about whom he is partnering with while making an equity investment.

The quality of management and business is of utmost importance for an equity investor to convert his investments into a goldmine. The management/ promoters are the persons responsible for the day to day management of the company.

A visionary and ethical management will take the business to places, and the same would be true the other way round i.e. an unethical and myopic management will destroy the business and its prospects. Corporate governance is of utmost importance as the business would not grow without good management.

Entry Point:

Oscar Wilde had famously said, Nowadays people know the price of everything and value of nothing. It is the price which decides the returns one makes from his investment.

Lower entry price vis-a-vis intrinsic value gives an adequate margin of safety for the investor and ensures higher returns. One must ensure that he catches the prospective investment at its infancy before it is noticed by the fellow market participants.

Having invested at an as low price as possible with a deep value embedded, one has a good margin of safety which would ensure good returns even if the investment arguments or assumptions go wrong.

In conclusion, the multi-baggers are not known at the time of ideation, they evolve. The investor has to have conviction and patience, to hold on to the investment till the business matures enough and the price appreciation potential of the stocks peters down.

Meanwhile, he has to closely monitor the performance of the company and regularly study the quarterly results to check if the company is performing on the designated course and if it does, he can ride the growth and enjoy the fruits.

The author is MD & CEO, Axis Securities. The views and investment tips expressed by investment expert on Moneycontrol.com are his own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
A series of raids by India's market regulator, investigating whether corporate announcements were prematurely leaked by market participants in social media chatrooms, was the largest it has conducted.

But despite the scale of the action, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) will likely face several tough legal challenges in any prosecutions, according to four lawyers, including two former officials of the regulator.

Dozens of SEBI officials raided offices and homes of brokers on Dec 22, seizing mobile phones and laptops, one regulatory source told Reuters. As many as 30 brokers were targeted in the action, according to local media.

SEBI has broad search-and-seizure powers that enable it to seize "books, registers, other documents" and records of anyone associated with securities markets, according to the regulations laid out in the official act that governs the regulator's activity.

Those powers would likely allow the regulator to withstand in court any challenge to the seizure of electronic gadgets, the lawyers interviewed by Reuters said.

But whether SEBI has legal rights to get into individual social media accounts does not appear to have been established, the lawyers said. They said they were not aware of any explicit law that gives SEBI power to access social media accounts or compel users to provide passwords.

That would mean that the regulator would have to make a case that such accounts should be considered "books, registers, other documents" and records, they said.

SEBI did not respond to emailed requests for comment.

A senior official at SEBI expressed confidence that the regulator would be able to successfully prosecute any cases that came out of the investigation.

"We have enough powers to proceed," the official, who requested anonymity because he was not allowed to speak with media, told Reuters. SEBI was "testing if the powers given to us can stand the scrutiny of law. If not, we will again ask for an amendment to the regulations and laws. We will strengthen it."

SEBI's chairman, Ajay Tyagi, at a press conference on Thursday said that pursuing suspected illegal activity taking place on social media was new territory for the regulator.

"Precedence, of course, there isn't," he said. But market participants "cannot hide behind technology", he said.

The lawyers interviewed by Reuters said defendants would likely counter efforts by SEBI to access their social media accounts on privacy grounds. Reuters was unable to reach lawyers representing brokers targeted in the raids.

"An individual who is involved could challenge the access to his or her social media as a constitutional breach of privacy," said Sandeep Parekh, a partner with Finsec Law Advisors, and former head of enforcement at SEBI.

In a landmark judgment, India's top court unanimously ruled in August that individual privacy is a fundamental right, which lawyers said would have broad legal implications for Indians.

"Violation of privacy rights is definitely one of the potential challenges SEBI faces," said Vaneesa Agrawal, a former SEBI official who is now a partner at Suvan Law Advisors. "A number of aspects can be challenged, like the procedure of how the device was accessed, or the power of the court to issue a warrant."

Parekh said the challenge for SEBI was that any case on privacy issues would "take its time" to wend its way through India's cumbersome legal system.

The SEBI investigation was triggered last month after Reuters reported at least 12 instances of messages that predicted results and other financial metrics about companies had circulated in private WhatsApp groups.

On Wednesday, SEBI ordered Axis Bank (AXBK.NS), which was among the 12 companies mentioned in the Reuters story, to conduct an internal investigation into a suspected leak of financial information and to strengthen its handling of such data, as part of the investigation.

Under India's insider trading laws, it is illegal to circulate "unpublished price sensitive information", which is defined as "any information" that is not "generally available" and that could have a market impact.

The lawyers said that SEBI would need to conclusively prove that any messages posted by those under investigation qualified as constituting "unpublished price sensitive information."

Individuals could make the case that information was "generally available" if they had merely taken it from other WhatsApp groups, for example, and posted it elsewhere, or cite it as general market speculation, they said.
The Chhattisgarh Government today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Centre for the second phase of the Bharat Net project under which 5987 village panchayats will be connected through optical fiber network.

The MoU will pave the way for laying 32,466 kms of optical fiber cable in 5987 Gram Panchayats of the state at a cost of Rs 1624 crore, Chief Minister Raman Singh said.

Union Minister of State for Telecommunications Manoj Sinha, present during the signing, said that Chhattisgarh is the first state in the country to use the ultramodern "ring architecture technology" to connect village panchayats by optical fiber to ensure better connectivity.

Sinha also said that the Centre had sanctioned Rs 1830 crore for the installation of 1028 mobile towers in the naxal-affected regions of Chhattisgarh.

He said that by March next year, 26 India Post payment banks will be set up in Chhattisgarh.

"Under the second phase of Bharat Net project for which agreement has been signed with eight states, 1.5 lakh villages will be connected through optical fiber network across the country. In the first phase, one lakh villages have been covered," Sinha said.

He added that a high level committee has been constituted which is making efforts to introduce 5G mobile networks in the country soon.

Speaking on the occasion , CM Singh said that the Bharat Net project will cater to the needs of the last person in remote regions.

"The priorities in remote regions like Abujmarh (considered severely naxal-affected) have also changed with people demanding mobile connectivity along with roads, schools and hospitals," he said.

"For the expansion of digital connectivity, work is underway on three projects worth Rs 3400 crore namely Bharat Net, Bastar Net and Suchna Kranti Yojna (SKY)," Singh said.

At present work is in progress to link about four thousand gram panchayats with optical fiber network, he added.

The CM said a committee headed by the Chief Secretary would draft a detailed action plan for the better utilisation of digital technology and would submit its report in four months.

The four-party agreement, involving the union telecommunications department, Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), the states Information and Technology Department and Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (ChIPS), was signed today.
A monkey sits in the rain at the entrance of the Nehru park in the old quarters of Delhi July 27, 2006. REUTERS/Desmond Boylan (INDIA) - GM1DTDIEBIAA

There is no denying that 2017 was a momentous year for a lot of reasons. There were moments that made you want the year to get over as soon as possible, and those that made you wish it never ended.

But as the year draws to a close, we at Moneycontrol had the urge to look for some of the quirkiest stories to make headlines this year. After all, what's the point of reminiscing about everything if you miss out on the weird stuff?

Women worshipping dustbin in Bihar

When a kangaroo-shaped dustbin was installed inside a temple complex in Bihar earlier this year by the government during Chhath Puja, it was mistaken for deity by some female devotees who started worshiping it by applying vermillion on its forehead and sprinkling holy water.

These poor women, who hailed from a rural area, cant be blamed for their ignorance as people subscribe to numerous faiths and beliefs in India and have been known to worship trees, animals, rocks and other inanimate objects. Nonetheless, the incident did manage to catch the eye of people on Twitter and attracted a lot of laughs and trolls.

Rajasthan High Court Judge calling Peacock as celibate and drinking cow urine stops ageing

Court judges are usually known to have a calm, thinking demeanor and a tendency measure their words carefully. But that was clearly missing when Judge Mahesh Chand Sharma of the Rajasthan High Court said earlier this year that the cow should be made India's national animal and suggested that killing a cow should warrant a death penalty.

In an interview given to CNN-News18 after his retirement function in May, Judge Sharma said that the only reason the peacock is the country's national animal is because it is celibate in nature. "Peacock is a Bramhachari and it does not have sex with a peahen. The peahen gets pregnant drinking the tears of the peacock. Even Lord Krishna carried the feather of a peacock on his head," he was quoted as saying.

He further added that there is no substitute for cow milk and that cow urine has many medicinal benefits, including anti-ageing properties. He also said that even after a cow's death, its bones are useful for tantric purposes.

Now the Indian judicial system did come out with some landmark judgements this past year, but this one clearly had the most comic value by a fair distance.

SpiceJet Flight forced to land midway due to stinking toilet

A SpiceJet plane flying to Delhi from Bengaluru with 184 passengers and four infants in March this year, was forced to make an unscheduled landing at Hyderabad airport due to very bad foul emanating from the forward lavatory.

The aircraft was allowed to continue its journey only after the lavatory and cockpit were cleaned thoroughly and ventilated.

Man On Bus To Delhi Arrested For Stinky Socks

A man in Delhi made the headlines this year when he was arrested because his socks were too stinky. Probably misunderstanding the word freedom, Prakash Kumar, who was a tourist traveling to the city, took his shoes off when on the bus.

Clearly in no mood to tolerate this, Kumar's fellow passengers asked him to put the socks in a bag or throw them out. However, instead of obliging, Kumar refused to do either, which led to an altercation between him and some of the passengers.

Kumar was handed over to the police in Una, Himachal Pradesh, and allegedly created a ruckus in the police station as well. After he was released on bail, he even filed a counter-complaint against his fellow passengers, alleging that they fought with him for no reason and that his socks were not smelling. Talk about standing up for yourself!

Monkey addicted to petrol steals fuel from motorbike

It came as a complete surprise to some bike owners in Panipat, Haryana, when they decided to patrol around on their bikes to find out who was stealing petrol and leaving the fuel pipes dangling behind every day.

The culprit turned out to be a monkey, who used to sit there quietly watching the entire area and waiting for people to clear off before pulling the fuel pipes off and drinking petrol from the tanks.

The monkey was so high on the taste of petrol that it refused to eat bananas and nuts offered by locals.
Hafiz Mohammad Saeed, head of Jamaat-ud-Dawa and founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba

Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said today.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy told PTI that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

Ali reportedly attended the rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday following which India issued a strong demarche on the matter.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan headed by Saeed.
The Mumbai civic administration has cracked down on restaurants and started razing unauthorised constructions, in the wake of a fire at a rooftop pub in central Mumbai's Lower Parel which snuffed out 14 lives.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) took action against at least five eateries and restaurants following yesterday's fire at Kamala Mills compound.

A BMC official confirmed that they have pulled down "illegal roofs" of two restaurants-'Skyview Cafe' and 'Social' in Kamala Mills and encroachments of 'Pranay' and 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same locality.

Action was also taken against some restaurants in Andheri, the official said.

"We have already formed several teams and are collecting information about the hotels and restaurants, after getting complaints of unauthorised constructions by them. Several ward officers are also carrying out inspection and razing such illegal structures," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

The inferno at '1 Above' rooftop pub in Lower Parel in the early hours of Friday brought back memories of the fire that broke out in City Kinara restaurant in Kurla in October, 2015 in which eight people were killed.
The RSS and its allied bodies gave their feedback and suggestions to further improve the BJP-led government's economic policies to party chief Amit Shah and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, sources said today.

The suggestions were shared during a two-day coordination meeting between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), its allied organisations and the BJP.

The meeting was attended by Sangh Joint General Secretary Krishna Gopal, leaders of RSS-affiliates the Swadeshi Jagran Manch, the Bhartiya Kisan Sangh, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, the Sahakar Bharati, the Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat and the Laghu Udyog Bharti, sources said.

While the BJP was represented by Shah, Jaitley and a few other ministers represented the government, they added.

During the meeting, the RSS-affiliated organisations shared their views and gave feedbacks about the Centre's economic policies, sources said.

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch expressed concerns about rising Chinese imports and its harmful effects on indigenous small scale industries, they said, adding that similar sentiments were echoed by the Laghu Udyog Bharti.

The Bhartiya Kisan Sangh raised issues of farmers being forced to sell produce below the support price announced by the Centre, the sources said, adding both Shah and Jaitley gave assurances that the suggestions and concerns would be considered and appropriate action taken.
Education

Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu.

Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu.

Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events:

International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu.

EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu.

Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale  an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s  will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets  June Homecoming: Participant  $18 per person; Sustainer  $25 per person; Benefactor  $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler  Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events:

SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available  for information call 610-275-1960

Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above)

SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m.

Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.  4 p.m.  computers are available during those hours.

Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863.

Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376.

Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com.

The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes:

Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at

other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020.

CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313.

The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events:

Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m.

Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30.

Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301.

For Kids & Families

The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443.

Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950.

Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required.

The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950.

Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus.

Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage.

Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun.

Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train.

Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world!

Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class.

Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org.

Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583.

Community Events at the Ambler Y:

-YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register.

Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org.

Health

Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot.

The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information.

Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245.

Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net.

Spring Aquatic Programs  UDHS Pool:

-Summer is just around the corner  Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required.

 Shallow Water Aerobics  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR.

 Adult Swim Instructions  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR

-Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21.

-Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday  Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m.

-Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons.

-Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates.

Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994.

SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com.

Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org.

Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs:

FITNESS CLASSES

Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month.

Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30  9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000.

Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30  7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047.

New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m.  12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30  4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931.

Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325.

Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes.

Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com.

Librarytalk

Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744

www.upperdublinlibrary.org

APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS:

Storytimes: Please register in the library.

o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.

o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m.

o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.

o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6.

APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS:

North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee

APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS:

NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org.

One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register  contact info above.

Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744.

o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register.

Meetings:

Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m.

Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m.

Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org.

For children and teens at Blue Bell:

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m.

* May 14  Despicable Me

* June 11  Alpha and Omega

* Special Events

* April  watch for date of spring/Easter events

* April 14 at 4:30 p.m.  Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children.

* April 14 at 7 p.m.  Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided.

* April 16 at 1 p.m.  Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King.

* April 16 at 1:30 p.m.  Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes?

* April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button.

* April 30 through May 3  Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults.

* May  sign up for Science in the Summer

* June  sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children

* June  sign up for Summer Reading, all ages

For adults at Blue Bell:

* Daytime Book Discussion Group  fourth Tuesday, Jan  April at 1:30 p.m.

* April 26  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Night-time Book Discussion Group  third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.

o April 19  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges

o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked?

*Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs

* Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class.

* Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class.

* Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m.

* Giant Book Sale, April 29  May 3

o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults!

o Held during library hours.

o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m.

o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join.

* Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series

o May 11 at 1 p.m.  Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society

* Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room.

* Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read.

* Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome.

* Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome.

*Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older.

* Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours

* Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours

* Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday!

Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library.

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* For adults:

* Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn.

* Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net

* Special Events:

* April 14 at 1:30 p.m.  Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian.

* April 19 at 7 p.m.  Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m.

* April 21 at 7 p.m.  Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades.

*May 2 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

*May 10  Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*May 12 at 1:30p.m.  Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman.

*May 17  Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*June 13 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

Meetings and Lectures

The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833.

The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200.

The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/.

LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings.

Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org.

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org)

-Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them.

The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter.

For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps.

Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin.

Special Events

The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County.

The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065.

Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members.

Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex.

The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com.

The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348.

The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org.

Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163.

The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu.

The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com.

The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net.

Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages.

13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries.

Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family.

The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler.

JPRN  Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them  Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike.

Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies.

Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately.

Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways.

Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table.

Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp  Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall:

-Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store.

Music and Theater

The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220.

Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html.

Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free.

The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org

Religious News

The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276.

Reunions

St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net.

Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572.

Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779.

Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net

Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net

The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411.

Support

New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149.

PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931.

The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296.

Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656.

Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group  every other Wednesday, 7  8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support  second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner  Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers  Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information.

CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7  8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich,
HS BASKETBALL: Wrays 25 leads MCS past crosstown foe MCA Midland Christian forward Josiah Wray took over the game in the second quarter, and Midland...

HS BASKETBALL: Roundup from Nov. 17 GIRLS MHS LOSES 2 IN TOURNEY FLORESVILLE  The Midland High girls basketball team lost two...

HS FOOTBALL: Forsan falls to New Deal in area round For the second straight year, New Deal ended Forsans season in the area round of the Class 2A...

Small Bites: Where to get your Thanksgiving fill Don't want cook for Thanksgiving this year? Here's a list of local catering options, restaurants...

Perryman: Permian Basin is economically health Perryman: While the Permian Basin will feel the effects of a recession next year, the regions...

MCAs Bell signs with Oklahoma Christian swimming Midland Classical senior Jacob Bell has quite the collection of state meet medals, which has...
GET OUR APP Our Spectrum News app is the most convenient way to get the stories that matter to you. Download it here.
The man accused of killing a woman and injuring another man on Christmas Day in Eatonville is behind bars.

Jason MacDonald, arrested and charged with Christmas Eatonville double shooting

Cindy Jackson killed in shooting; Arthur Glover injured

PREVIOUS STORY: Eatonville police ID victims in fatal Christmas double shooting

After a five-day manhunt for the suspect, 38-year-old Jason MacDonald was arrested in Texas overnight.

MacDonald was spotted by Texas Highway Patrol near the Mexican border driving a car that belonged to one of the victims.

This led to a chase and then a foot pursuit.

He was soon arrested and is now sitting in a jail cell in Brownsville, Texas.

Police say he shot 34-year-old Cindy Jackson and her 70-year-old boyfriend Arthur Glover inside a home on Washington Avenue in Eatonville.

The victims knew the suspect.

"All we know is that they were friends, they were gentle people," Eatonville deputy chief Joseph Jenkins said. "And they took this person in as an act of kindness."

Jackson did not survive the shooting. Glover was released from the hospital Friday.

"I knew Cindy as a little girl as a recreational director of the town of Eatonville at that time," Eatonville Mayor Eddie Cole said. "So Ive known her for her entire life and her family just had a sigh of relief (with MacDonald's arrest)."

Cole said a funeral will be held soon as the community bands together.

"How do you heal from losing a child, I can't explain that," Cole said. "But the family will know that we will be there for them."

MacDonald is expected to be transferred here to the Orange County Jail. But authorities don't know when that will happen.
Staff writer Mary Ellen Godin joins the Morning Record to share some of the initial reaction to the GOP's federal tax reform bill, including praise from craft brewers and concern from nonprofits.
By Bryan Lipiner

Record-Journal staff

BERLIN  Firefighters responded to a fire at a Berlin Turnpike motel Saturday morning.

The fire was reported at Mount Royal Inn, 2447 Berlin Turnpke., about 8:30 a.m. Firefighters were on scene until about 10 a.m.

Other information was not available.

blipiner@record-journal.com

203-317-2444

Twitter: @BryanLipiner
[Mike Savino: ] [Ralph Tomaselli: ] emc[Eric Cotton: ] Fairfield, Hartford and New Haven counties are among the housing markets in the U.S. expected to see a drop in housing values in the wake of new federal tax legislation, according to Moodys analytics.

The new GOP tax law doubles the standard deduction while capping popular deductions that benefit homeowners. Initial bills capped the mortgage interest deduction at $500,000 while the property tax deduction is capped at $10,000, thereby eliminating some incentives for homeownership, according to the National Association of Realtors.

New Jersey, New York and Connecticut are among the states expected to feel the most pain from the tax plan.

Beginning next year, corporations will still be able to deduct state and local taxes, while individuals and families are capped at $10,000, said U.S. Rep. John Larson, D-1. Considering that 41 percent of Connecticut residents itemize and take this deduction, our state will be unfairly penalized.

Congressional estimates indicate that only 5 to 8 percent of filers will now claim these deductions by itemizing, meaning there will be no tax differential between renting and owning for more than 90 percent of taxpayers, according to the NAR.

Homeowners in high-priced markets in high property tax states would feel the intitial pinch that could potentially ripple into lower priced markets.

When House and Senate bills were first introduced, the deduction for state and local taxes would have been completely eliminated. The House and Senate passed bills would have allowed property taxes to be deducted up to $10,000. The final bill reduces the limit on deductible mortgage debt to $750,000 for new loans taken out after December 2017.

Current loans of up to $1 million are grandfathered and are not subject to the new $750,000 cap. The final bill, while less beneficial than current law, represents a significant improvement over the original proposals, according to NAR.

We are in favor of tax reform, but one of the things that concerns us, and is particularly onerous to states like Connecticut, is we have high property taxes, and prices are higher, and we have a state income tax, said Michael Barbaro, president of the Connecticut Realtors Association. The mortgage interest and property tax deduction got first time home buyers off the fence. Theyll now be able to get a similar benefit by renting.

The issue does highlight the need for Connecticut to review its own finances and taxation policy, but the new federal rules exacerbate an already fragile fiscal situation and sluggish economic recovery.

Locally, accountants and homebuilders are taking a wait-and-see attitude about the impact of the new law.

Robert Weidenmann, president of Sunwood Development, has built subdivisions in Wallingford and other towns. He said fewer tax incentives might cause a wait-and-see attitude from some clients, but families looking to buy or expand their living quarters wont be deterred.

Most people make a decision to buy a home based on need, Weidenmann said. Taxes are a relatively small part of the overall process. Its still sort of a wait and see.

Home buying helps the overall economy because people spend money on landscaping, renovation materials, and other goods and services to improve their properties, Barbaro said.

Were worried about the trickle down effect, he said.

Robert Gollnick, a certified public accountant, said he has clients with $20,000 in state income tax and $20,000 in property tax deductions who are now capped at $10,000. But some of the increase will be offset by other cuts, depending on circumstances.

Its all close, Gollnick said.

He fears some of the biggest losers are people who have second mortgages and second homes who cant deduct those costs and wind up paying more.

According to Moodys, Fairfield County could see a 7.9 percent reduction in home values, Hartford County 7.5 percent, and New Haven Country 6.8 percent, compared to a 3 percent reduction nationally. Essex County in New Jersey would see the highest drop at 10.5 percent.

mgodin@record-journal.com 203-317-2255 Twitter: @Cconnbiz

Web body

Photo caption

mgodin@record-journal.com

203-317-2255

Twitter: @Cconnbiz
HARTFORD  With the legislature planning to restore funding for a popular Medicare program, Gov. DannelP. Malloy reiterated his push last week for lawmakers to also come up with broader deficit plan.

He repeated his warning that restoring funds to the Medicare Savings Program without also addressing a $222.5-million deficit would worsen the shortfall, which already has reached the threshold that requires Malloy to submit a mitigation plan to the legislature.

If the legislature is convening a special session, they should take this opportunity to address the full deficit facing the state, he said in a statement Thursday. Having said that, if their intention is to limit their action to only restoring eligibility for the Medicare Savings Plan, its imperative that the additional expenditure is offset with real and achievable spending cuts.

Malloy also had his budget chief, Benjamin Barnes, draft a memo stressing the difficulty of trying to find the savings needed for the program within the current budget. The budget, adopted in October, reduced the number of residents eligible for the Medicare program and cut $54 million in the current budget, followed by $130 million next year.

While it is clear why the cuts to MSP have been targeted for restoration, it is not clear that there are realistic alternatives that are not as bad or worse, Barnes wrote.

Malloys warning drew criticism from Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, who called the memo  a lot of words from someone who is desperately trying to be relevant.

Frankly, the last person I would take suggestions from at this point is GovernorMalloy and his administration, he continued. They have failed to keep businesses here, failed to protect our economy, failed our states transportation needs and failed to create any kind of stability for Connecticut. The governor and his administration need to sit back and let lawmakers do the driving.

The Medicare Savings Program utilizes Medicaid funding to help cover some out-of-pocket costs incurred by residents on Medicare. If the cuts are not restored, some residents will become ineligible because the budget closed the program to those whose incomes exceed the federal poverty level.

Barnes said in his memo that balancing those cuts with savings elsewhere in the budget would be too difficult. Aside from arguing that overtime costs are already greatly limited and leave little room for savings, he also wrote that state agencies are unable to absorb additional cuts.

He also wrote that enrollment in the program jumped after the state loosed eligibility requirements in 2010, just as the state was about to be hit with the worst fiscal crisis in a generation.

The state increased income limits and removed an asset test, prompting enrollment to grow from 69,790 in August 2009 to more than 161,000 currently.

Barnes said that changes in the budget would eliminate eligibility for roughly 70,000 residents and reduce benefits to another 20,000.

Some lawmakers have suggested reinstituting an asset test as a way to keep residents with more resources from qualifying because they meet the income requirement. Barnes said that would have a limited impact because residents can pass the test by putting assets into a trust, give them to family members, or purchase certain protected items.

msavino@record-journal.com

203-317-2266

Twitter: @reporter_savino
By Bryan Lipiner

Record-Journal staff

BERLIN  Police are investigating a wrong-way crash on the Berlin Turnpike early Saturday morning that seriously injured three people.

The crash occurred about 3 a.m. when a driver was traveling north in the turnpikes southbound lanes near the entrance to Sage Park, police said in a statement. A section of the Berlin Turnpike was closed at Middletown Road while authorities investigated.

Three people were taken to Hartford Hospital with serious injuries, police said.

Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call police at 860-828-7080.

blipiner@record-journal.com

203-317-2444

Twitter: @BryanLipiner
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Note: This is a Just a Taste review, which the Express-News does soon after a restaurant or bar opens to give our first impressions.

For the better part of the past year, the historic Fairmount Hotel has been without a proper spot to sit and nosh a spell. Patrick Richardson has changed that state of affairs right quick.

Less than two months after opening Nonna Osteria on the Alamo Street-facing ground level of the historic hotel, the prolific San Antonio restaurateur is at it again. Silo Prime is the fourth in Richardsons Silo family, and it kicked off with a quiet, limited seating launch Friday night. And you know what? This take on a classic steakhouse is one smooth operator.

Silo Prime, helmed by chef Gary Boatman, is the leather and whiskey cool older uncle to the boisterous and joyful Nonna Osteria. You walk through the same door to get to both establishments, but they quickly diverge down seperate hallways into distinctly unique personalities. The steakhouse has moodier lighting, darker furnishings, quieter environs, all the better to lose ones gaze in the sky-high flames leaping from a shiny steel grill anchoring the kitchen.

RELATED: Chris Madrid's aiming for spring re-opening, teases food truck announcement

And oh, that grill. The wood-burning showpiece is the fiery heart of a menu that is clearly carries Silo DNA in its blood. A handful of signature dishes from Richardsons three other Silo concepts make appearances, but that flame belching beauty sears a brand in his latest property.

On the menu: The bill of fare presents plenty of ways to eschew a steakhouse experience at Silo Prime, but whats the fun in that? Go on, let the classics wash over you. Theres a reason your grandaddy loved em, and I did, too.

Oysters Rockefeller ($16) sings a familiar tune with a twist thanks to a splash of fennel-infused cream. Steak tartare ($15) is pure retro glory made silky smooth thanks to the gorgeously marbled Akaushi beef employed for the task.

Silo Prime offers a textbook lineup of old school cocktails  French 75, Jack Rose, Whiskey sour although each is given a stiff shot of modernization. Their take on a Clover Leaf swaps grenadine for a house-made raspberry syrup and the Texas-distilled Austin Reserve Gin. Their Manhattan is a blend of sweet and dry vermouths barrel-aged for two months. Theyre classy, confident and competent drinks.

RELATED: Review: J.Y. Ramen a pale copy of Austin standout

You want French onion soup? Chef Boatman has you covered. His version ($9) is delivered in a ceramic tureen with properties akin to Dr. Whos Tardis  its obviously bigger on the inside. Theres no other way to explain the near comical quantity of Gruyere cheese he packs into the deeply flavored beef and onion broth.

A bit of greenage wont hurt after all that cheese. I opted for the trusty frisee salad ($10), adorned with the requisite bacon, poached egg and vinaigrette, over the equally fundamental wedge and Caesar. It wasnt a standout interpretation  greens missing a pinch or two of salt, and bacon shy of the promised crisp  but who goes to a steakhouse to quibble about salads?

Speaking of steak, Im pretty sure I did it right in choosing the 12-ounce center cut strip ($45). Dressed with little more than a pat of herbed butter and half a roasted tomato, this slab of beef hid a juicy pink heart under a perfect crusty overcoat. A lineup of complements including bearnaise and hollandaise sauces, lump crab or grilled lobster tail are available for $2 to $57, but theyre utterly unnecessary.

RELATED: Review: Francis Bogside makes a rousing comeback

Where theres turf, you can count on surf, and the Sea Scallops ($34) more than deliver. The kitchen exercises restraint with a quartet of monstrous shellfish, each seared just enough to accent their inherent sweetness. Plated with a saute of mushrooms, cauliflower puree and browned butter, they were a subtle treat.

Silo Prime isnt as playful as Nonna, and the prices, which skew significantly higher than its sister, make menu surfing a deep-pocketed commitment. That being said, Richardson has certainly upped downtowns steak game with his latest offering.

Location: 401 S. Alamo St. at The Fairmount Hotel, 210-224-8800, Facebook: Silo Prime

Hours: Starting Jan. 2, regular hours will be 5-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday

pstephen@express-news.net | Twitter: @pjbites | Instagram: @pjstephen
Recy Taylor, a black Alabama woman whose rape by six white men in 1944 drew national attention, died Thursday. She was 97.

Taylor died in her sleep at a nursing home in Abbeville, her brother Robert Corbitt said. He said Taylor had been in good spirits the previous day and her death was sudden. She would have been 98 on Sunday.

Taylor was 24 when she was abducted and raped as she walked home from church in Abbeville. Her attackers left her on the side of the road in an isolated area. The NAACP assigned Rosa Parks to investigate the case, and she rallied support for justice for Taylor.

Two all-white, all-male grand juries declined to indict the six white men who admitted to authorities that they assaulted her.

In a 2010 interview, Taylor told The Associated Press that she believes the men who attacked her are dead, but she still would like an apology from officials.

"It would mean a whole lot to me," Taylor said. "The people who done this to me, ... they can't do no apologizing. Most of them is gone."

The Alabama Legislature passed a resolution apologizing to her in 2011.

Taylor's story, along with those of other black women attacked by white men during the civil rights era, is told in "At the Dark End of the Street," a book by Danielle McGuire released in 2010. A documentary on her case, "The Rape of Recy Taylor," was released this year.

"It is Recy Taylor and rare other black women like her who spoke up first when danger was greatest," Nancy Buirski, the documentary's director, told NBC News in an email. "It is these strong women's voices of the 40's and early 50's and their efforts to take back their bodies that led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott and other movements that followed, notably the one we are witnessing today."
The end of Japan's four decades of rice-market control could be good news for noodle lovers.

That's because rice farmers may plant alternative crops like wheat once government control ends by March 31 and look to tap into rising demand for ramen. Fukuoka, on Japan's southern island of Kyushu, is expanding production of a locally-developed variety of grain known as Ra-Mugi that's designed to be perfect for tonkotsu ramen: a dish of cloudy white pork broth, with noodles and slices of pork that originates in the region.

Ramen demand has climbed in recent years with restaurants opening from London to Sydney, challenging the ubiquity of Japan's other well-known food export sushi. The number of shops outside the country more than doubled to over 2,000 in the two years to early 2015, Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum says, with the expansion supported by the government-backed Cool Japan Fund. Asia's second-biggest wheat importer relies on grain from the U.S., Canada and Australia to produce ramen noodles domestically.

"What is ideal for our ramen noodle is a chewy, sticky one that can preserve its texture in a soup," said Yuji Yamaguchi, counselor at Tofuku Flour Mills Co., which developed the wheat jointly with the Fukuoka prefectural laboratory. "Ra-Mugi is designed to meet our requests."

Tonkotsu ramen was invented in 1937 by noodle-shop operator Tokio Miyamoto and was initially eaten by fish-market workers in Fukuoka as fast food. Two decades later, Momofuku Ando invented the instant ramen noodles beloved by college students. The global retail value of instant noodles rose 11 percent since 2012 to $33 billion this year, Euromonitor International estimates.

In Japan, tourists are also driving demand and ramen now ranks alongside sushi and Wagyu steak as one of their top menu choices, according to Motoo Kawabata, a professor for global marketing at Kwansei Gakuin University in Nishinomiya. The number of foreign tourists visiting Fukuoka city rose 24 percent in 2016 to 2.57 million, a fifth straight record. Korean tourists accounted for about 40 percent, according to the city government.

"After seeing photographs and videos of our outlets via social media, they come here to have a real one," said Yukari Shibayama, a spokeswoman at Ichiran's flagship shop in Fukuoka city. "We have seen a surge in foreign customers to our shop, mainly from Taiwan, Korea and Hong Kong, in the past three years."

"Tonkotsu ramen is the best Japanese food for me, along with sushi," said Jeon Byeong Hyun, a 34-year-old office worker visiting Fukuoka from Busan, South Korea. "I came here to introduce my favorite shop to my friends."

Farmers may also be encouraged to grow Ra-Mugi wheat as it offers higher returns.

Yukio Endo, 49, who grows rice, wheat and barley in Fukuoka, must spray crops with fertilizer for a fourth time with a heavy machine on his back about a month before harvesting Ra-Mugi on his 8-hectare (20 acres) paddy. That compares with three times for other wheat, but is necessary to maintain a high level of protein. Millers request at least 12 percent.

"It requires us to work harder, but rewards us better," he said in an interview. Farmers producing Ra-Mugi can get premium of 2,300 yen ($20) per 60 kilogram bag compared with conventional wheat. Growers are also eligible for a 35,000-yen subsidy for every 0.1 hectare of wheat planted as the government seeks to curb its reliance on imports.

Producers are unable to keep up with local demand. Fukuoka, Japan's second-biggest wheat grower, wants to raise Ra-Mugi production by more than 30 percent to 8,000 tons in the near future, which would be enough to supply about half the ramen shops in the prefecture, said Tadayuki Matsumoto, director at the local government's agricultural department.

Hakata-Sanki, the biggest user of Ra-Mugi wheat, uses the variety even though it's 20 percent more expensive than flour made from imported grain because it helps attracts customers, according to Akira Nakano, the manager of the company's noodle-making plant in Dazaifu. Sales of Ra-Mugi noodles are set to increase to 300,000 units a month by March from about 230,000 in November and will double by 2019 as it moves to supply more than just its own 14 stores, Nakano said.
MORRIS  After further reducing the potential rise in the tax rate, the Board of Finance has voted to send a fourth municipal budget proposal to the voters.

The latest draft budget totals $9.43 million, Chairman Scott Pottbecker said Friday. It would prompt a tax rate of 28.72 mills, up from 27.83 in the 2016-17 fiscal year.

A town meeting to consider the latest budget proposal has been scheduled for Jan. 4, Pottbecker said.

The third prospective budget, which was rejected by residents at a Dec. 6 referendum, totaled $9.45 million and would have led to a tax rate of 29.29 mills.

Pottbecker said the Board of Finance was able to increase the amount of money to be drawn from the town fund balance from $150,000 to $250,000 Thursday, after a draft of the communitys latest audit showed that the transfer included in last years budget was not made.

A planned salary increase for town elected officials was also reduced Thursday, Pottbecker said  the First Selectmans salary would increase to $46,797 under this proposal, down from the $49,785 allocated in the boards October draft  and funding for the Highway Department was reduced after a presentation from Foreman Lewis Clark.

He said he hopes the budget will pass this time around, allowing the community a steadier cash flow and giving the Board of Finance the chance to focus on the 2018-19 fiscal year budget.

Weve met with all the departments. Weve gone through it; weve listened to concerns from the public, said Pottbecker. I do think its a reasonable budget.

Pottbecker noted Friday that a significant majority of the town budget is beyond the boards control, as it goes to Regional School District 6. The $6.64 million Region 6 budget was approved in May over the objection of Morris residents, who cast 324 votes against it out of a total of 419.

Were fortunate to be able to make this fund balance transfer, said Pottbecker. Weve really tried to minimize the impact to our taxpayers.

This is the second straight year Morris has had protracted deliberations over a new town budget  two drafts were voted down in 2016 before a third was approved.

Reach Ben Lambert at william.lambert@hearstmediact.com.
Ben Barres, a neuroscientist who did groundbreaking work on brain cells known as glia and their possible relation to diseases like Parkinson's, and who was an outspoken advocate of equal opportunity for women in the sciences, died Wednesday at his home in Palo Alto, California. He was 63.

In announcing the death, Stanford University, where Barres was a professor, said he had had pancreatic cancer.

Barres was transgender, having transitioned from female to male in 1997, when he was in his 40s and well into his career. That gave him a distinctive outlook on the difficulties that women and members of minorities face in academia, and especially in the sciences. An article he wrote for the journal Nature in 2006 titled "Does Gender Matter?" took on some prominent scholars who had argued that women were not advancing in the sciences because of innate differences in their aptitude.

"I am suspicious when those who are at an advantage proclaim that a disadvantaged group of people is innately less able," he wrote. "Historically, claims that disadvantaged groups are innately inferior have been based on junk science and intolerance."

The article cited studies documenting obstacles facing women, but it also drew on Barres' personal experiences. He recounted dismissive treatment he had received when he was a woman and how that had changed when he became a man.

"By far," he wrote, "the main difference that I have noticed is that people who don't know I am transgendered treat me with much more respect: I can even complete a whole sentence without being interrupted by a man."

Barres was born on Sept. 13, 1954, in West Orange, New Jersey, with the given name Barbara.

"I knew from a very young age  5 or 6  that I wanted to be a scientist, that there was something fun about it and I would enjoy doing it," he told The New York Times in 2006. "I decided I would go to MIT when I was 12 or 13."

Barbara did indeed go to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on a scholarship, graduating in 1976 with a degree in life science, then moving on to Dartmouth Medical School and receiving an M.D. there in 1979.

Barres became interested in the degeneration of brain function during an internship and residency at Cornell and returned to school to study it, this time at Harvard Medical School, receiving a Ph.D. in neurobiology there in 1990.

A postdoctoral fellowship took Barres to University College London and the lab of Dr. Martin Raff, who was studying glia, the cells in the human brain that are not nerve cells. Barres went to Stanford in 1993, taking his interest in glia with him. In 2008 he became chairman of the neurobiology department.

"Ben pioneered the idea that glia play a central role in sculpting the wiring diagram of our brain and are integral for maintaining circuit function throughout our lives," said Thomas Clandinin, a professor of neurobiology at Stanford who assumed the chairmanship in April 2016 when Barres' cancer was diagnosed. "People had thought glia were mere passive participants in maintaining neural function. Ben's own work and that of his trainees transformed this view entirely."

Barres and researchers working with him studied the three types of glial cells and their role in proper neonatal brain development, as well as the possibility that inflamed glia are a cause of neurodegenerative disorders. Stanford said Barres published 167 peer-reviewed papers in his career.
A secessionist push in Cameroon's English-speaking regions is on the brink of a full-blown revolt, threatening political stability in a country ruled by one of Africa's longest-serving leaders.

Following a crackdown on independence supporters who tried to raise flags on government buildings in the central African nation's English-speaking regions in October, at least 16 members of the security forces have been killed in attacks the government blames on the activists. This month a mob of 200 men besieged a paramilitary police station, according to the government.

It marks a dangerous turn in the crisis that began about a year ago with peaceful protests against the French language's dominance in courtrooms and schools. Attacks on the military "presented those activists who were against armed combat before with a fait accompli -- those who want to take up arms now have the upper hand," said Hans De Marie Heungoup from the International Crisis Group. "There's a real risk of rebellion that could make the Anglophone regions ungovernable."

The secession issue in Cameroon echoes a global trend spanning from Iraqi Kurdistan and Catalonia in Spain, where leaders this year led thwarted drives for independence, to Africa itself. In neighboring Nigeria there are new calls for a southeastern Biafran state, 50 years after a previous attempt led to a civil war that claimed a million lives. Meanwhile, Kenya's political opposition, smarting from an election loss they blame on rigging, have warned some regions could seek to secede.

Cameroon's English-speaking minority, about a fifth of the population, has complained of marginalization for decades and many highly educated Anglophones have moved abroad. The country, whose roads and ports are vital for landlocked neighbors such as oil-producing Chad, was split after World War I into a French-run zone and a smaller, British-controlled area.

Radical factions of the protest movement in the Northwest and Southwest regions now refer to the area as Ambazonia and discuss armed struggle on social media. About 20 percent of the population in the affected regions is estimated to support secession, according to the Brussels-based International Crisis Group.

The unrest comes as Cameroon's army struggles to halt a spate of bombings and raids by the Islamist militant organization Boko Haram near the northern border with Nigeria. While Boko Haram forced thousands of Cameroonians to flee their homes last year, the secession campaign poses a much bigger threat to the government, Heungoup said by phone from Nairobi, Kenya's capital.

"Even if Boko Haram killed a lot of people, it was clear from the onset that they would never threaten or capture the state," he said. "But the Anglophone crisis calls the foundations of the Cameroonian state into question."

President Paul Biya, who calls the secessionists criminals, is seeking to extend his 35-year rule in elections next year. Biya is the continent's second-longest serving head of state, after Teodoro Obiang of neighboring Equatorial Guinea. Robert Mugabe, who ruled Zimbabwe since 1980, resigned in November.

Some say the radicalization is a result of a heavy-handed government response that's left dozens of people killed in protests this year and some leaders jailed. While the government initially ignored the crisis, it switched tactics in a bid to suppress the movement. The internet was cut off for several months in the two regions and a nighttime curfew was imposed. Activists responded by organizing general strikes in the biggest towns, leaving schools and businesses closed.

Ambazonia now has a self-proclaimed president, a flag and an official government website. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland spent five days in Cameroon this month in an attempt to defuse the crisis.

"When this crisis was in its beginning stages, the government thought it could kill a few protesters, arrest others and heavily militarize the North West and South regions for the crisis to be over," said Shadrack Mbirwang, an activist who claims to be a member of the Ambazonia army. "This time around, we are ready to fight and fight till the restoration of our statehood."

---

Bloomberg's Divine Ntaryike Jr. contributed.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

A 29-year-old man has been arrested after he attempted to ingest cocaine in front of police, officials said.

Ruben Angel Pineda, 29, faces multiple charges including tampering evidence with intent to impair.

Police stopped him on Dec. 22 for a traffic violation, and searched his vehicle when he was found not to have a valid license, according to an affidavit supporting an arrest warrant issued Thursday. Officers found two digital scales and small pieces of what police later verified to be crack cocaine, the affidavit said.

RELATED: Homeowner shoots man dead in possible home invasion near Leon Valley

During the search, they noticed Pineda was bleeding from his mouth while he sat in a patrol car and found he was chewing on a plastic baggie and had bit his tongue and inner cheeks because his mouth was numb from ingesting cocaine, the affidavit states.

Investigators believed Pineda was hiding narcotics near his crotch after noticing his pant zipper was down and a "large lump" present, and after obtaining a search warrant for Pineda's person, they found 14 grams of tar heroin near his buttocks, according to the affidavit.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

Pineda was not immediately arrested due to his ingestion of the narcotic and his need for medical attention. Online court records show Pineda also faces two other drug-related charges, including a first-degree felony for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

aluna@express-news.net | Twitter: alexluna801
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 5 1 of 5 By Alexandro M. Luna Show More Show Less 2 of 5 By Alexandro M. Luna Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 By Alexandro M. Luna Show More Show Less 5 of 5









A male motorcyclist traveling at high speed died Friday evening following a wreck on the Northside, according to police.

The unidentified male motorcyclist was speeding south on the 3300 block Blanco Road near Alamitos on a red 2008 Suzuki GSX-R600 about 8:30 p.m. when he struck a black 2000 Pontiac Grand Am turning into the Fred's Fish Fry restaurant, according to police.
Erica Garner, the daughter of Eric Garner who became an outspoken activist against police brutality after her father's death at the hands of a New York police officer, died Saturday, according to her mother. She was 27.

Garner had been placed in a medically induced coma last week after an asthma episode precipitated a major heart attack. She was being treated at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center in Brooklyn, and died there. No official cause of death has been given.

"The only thing I can say is that she was a warrior," Garner's mother, Esaw Snipes, said in an interview Saturday. "She fought the good fight. This is just the first fight in 27 years she lost."

Garner became a central figure in the charged conversation about race and the use of force by the police after a New York Police Department officer placed her father into an unauthorized chokehold on Staten Island in 2014 while responding to complaints he was selling untaxed cigarettes.

As Eric Garner, who also suffered from asthma, was being choked by officer Daniel Pantaleo, he repeated the words "I can't breathe" 11 times - a phrase that became a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter movement and other activists.

An autopsy by the city's medical examiner ruled Eric Garner's death a homicide. No charges were brought against Pantaleo.

Erica Garner was initially apprehensive about becoming a face of the movement for police accountability, according to her website. But she became outspoken, organizing a "die-in" on the same corner where her father was placed in the chokehold, and accusing Mayor Bill de Blasio of not caring about African-Americans.

In a tweet on Saturday, de Blasio praised Erica Garner's "unshakable sense of justice and passion for humanity." The Rev. Al Sharpton, who was close with Erica Garner and her family, blamed her death on the lack of accountability for what happened to her father.

In an interview this month with Benjamin Dixon, the host of a progressive podcast and YouTube show, Garner described the frustrations and physical toll of her activism.

"I'm struggling right now with the stress and everything," she said. "This thing, it beats you down. The system beats you down to where you can't win."

Garner had an 8-year-old daughter and a 4-month-old son, whom she named after her father.

In addition to her children and mother, she is survived by two sisters, two brothers and her grandmother, Snipes said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Iran's leaders were confronted by unauthorized protests in major cities for the third straight day Saturday, with crowds aiming their anger at the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and some demanding that he step down.

The demonstrators first took to the streets of Mashhad, one of the holiest places in Shiite Islam, on Thursday. By Saturday, dozens of people had been arrested, and police had fired tear gas to disperse crowds.

On Saturday night, the protests turned violent, with at least two demonstrators shot in the western town of Dorud, according to videos posted on social media. At least one of the videos was verified by BBC Persian. It could not be determined who was responsible for the gunfire.

The protests, which erupted over declining economic conditions, corruption and a lack of personal freedoms, presented a serious challenge to the government of President Hassan Rouhani, who won re-election on promises to revitalize the economy.

On Saturday, the angry crowds turned out on the same day that an annual pro-government rally took place in Tehran to commemorate counter-demonstrations against those who had challenged the re-election of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as president in 2009.

But the pro-government rallies, planned for 1,200 cities and towns, according to the state media, were overshadowed in intensity by Iranians in Tehran shouting, "Death to the dictator" and "Clerics should get lost," witnesses said.

Overtly political demonstrations are rare in Iran, where security services are omnipresent.

The Interior Ministry urged Iranians on Saturday "not to participate in these illegal gatherings as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," according to the BBC.

The Revolutionary Guards, which along with its Basij militia spearheaded a crackdown against protesters in 2009, said in a statement carried by state news media Saturday that efforts were underway to replicate that unrest, and that Iran "will not allow the country to be hurt."

Later in the evening, police fired tear gas to disperse crowds protesting at Tehran's central Vali-e Asr Square, a witness said.

About 4,000 people, meanwhile, turned out for the annual pro-government rally in the capital, state media reported. State television stations showed marchers carrying banners in support of Khamenei in Mashhad, Iran's second-largest city.

President Donald Trump tweeted support for the protesters, saying the government should respect the people's right to express themselves.
Leemi Keche By

Online Desk

The year 2017 saw many new developments in terms of the world political scenario, the drastic climate change which created a huge impact on our environment resulting in several natural hazards in the world. Planet earth witnessed new changes not just in terms of political upheaval but many world terror attacks too apart from natural calamities which claimed many innocent lives.

The year left the world devastated with a series of horrifying events. The natural disasters have not only claimed many lives but also caused loss of property worth billions of dollars.

Some of the major destructive calamities this year were hurricanes namely as Irma, Maria, and Harvey. The monsoon rains wreaked havoc in many parts of India as well as in neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh causing large-scale floods.

The massive landslides in Vietnam caused a huge loss of both lives and properties. These damages were catastrophic and triggered a major humanitarian crisis. Let's have a look at the major natural disasters caused by the fury mother nature.

The Hurricanes: Maria, Irma, and Harvey a trio of super strong hurricanes wept the

Caribbean and the Gulf Coast of US. The trio hurricanes pummelled the Atlantic during August and September. The power lines were completely destroyed, and houses were drowned. The National Hurricane Centre called it an 'extremely active' year for hurricanes as the storms had wind speeds upwards of 74 miles per hour.

The destructions caused by the hurricane Maria | AP

Most of the Puerto Rican residents are still without power three months after Hurricane Maria touched down on the islands. Hurricane Maria alone is projected to cost USD 95 billion in damage. Maria is regarded as the worst natural disasters on the record. As per the data provided by Recent Natural Disasters, at least 129 people are confirmed dead due to Hurricane Maria; 55 in Puerto Rico, 57 in Dominica, 5 in the Dominican Republic, 4 in the contiguous United States, 3 in Haiti, 2 in Guadeloupe, and 3 in the United States Virgin Islands.

Destructions caused by hurricane Harvey | AP

Around 82 people were found dead when Hurricane Harvey hit the land. Many of them died while trying to escape the floodwaters. According to officials, More than 185,000 homes were damaged and 9,000 destroyed as 42,000 people remain in shelters amid overflowing rivers and reservoirs. Experts estimated that Hurricane Harvey alone caused USD 100 million dollars damage. Hurricane Irma has caused heavy destruction in the Caribbean Islands, leaving 12 people dead. One million residents of Puerto Rico were plunged into darkness and left homeless.

Hurricane Irma | AP

Earthquakes: A massive magnitude of 7.1 earthquakes shook the Mexico city in Mexico on September 19. Mexico is located at the intersection of three massive tectonic plates and is one of the most seismically active countries in the world. The strong force devastated the region killing as many as 369 people and leaving tens of thousands of homes destroyed. Among the people who were killed, 20 children were crushed to death when their school collapsed.

Members of the specialized rescue team search for survivors in

Juchitan de Zaragoza, Mexico, on September 9, 2017. | AFP

The Iraq-Iran border suffered a heavy loss when the quake at a magnitude of 7.3 hit the region on 12th November. The force was so powerful that it was felt as far west as the Mediterranean coast. According to the officials, 620 people were killed and more than 8,000 were injured in the calamity. Many houses in rural areas of Iran are made of mud bricks that can crumble easily in a quake which were also responsible for the rise in the number of casualties.

A 7.3-magnitude quake that hit the Iraq-Iran border area. | AFP

Landslides/Mudslides: In August, the landslides which took place in the impoverished African country Democratic Republic of Congo killed as many as 174 people and leaving around 280 children orphaned.

In early April, the city of Mocoa in Colombia witnessed a massive landslide which claimed 300 lives and left about 200 persons injured. The landslides were caused after the region was affected by heavy rainfall. The most sufferers were the poorer section of the city.

Another slippery landslide in Sierra Leone killed hundreds of people. According to the government reports the death toll rose to 500. Al Jazeera said that more than 1,000 were buried and killed in the slides.

Bangladeshi firefighters at work in Chittagong where three

days of heavy rain triggered landslides near a slum.| AFP

This year Bangladesh received heavy monsoon on 12th June 2017 which triggered the landslides in the hilly areas of the country. Around 150 deaths were reported as of June 15th, 2017.The worst affected was Rangamati, where landslides buried houses while people were sleeping.

Floods: End of May received incessant rainfall in Sri Lanka along with strong winds which caused floods and landslides killing as many as 213 people and displacing about 415,600 others. More than 30 per cent of the affected were children. The aftermath of the flood gave way to many diseases such as dengue. More than 250 people in Sri Lanka have reportedly died from dengue fever since the disaster. Many deaths were reported due to the scarcity of the safe drinking water.

An Indian man holding an umbrella wades through a

flooded street during heavy rain showers in Mumbai on Aug 29, 2017. | AFP

According to the report by The Guardian more than more than 1,200 people have died across India, Bangladesh and Nepal as a result of flooding, with 40 million affected by the devastation, while millions were forced to leave behind their homes and 18,000 schools were shut down across the region. The monsoon rains also crippled Rohingyas who were fleeing from their homeland due to religious persecution. The fleeing 400,000 muslim Rohingya found the journey to Bangladesh quite perilous as the terrain got inundated from the heavy monsoon rain.

The flood in Peru, which took place during March when the region received the maximum rainfall, killed at least 150 people and affected more than 1 million. The flood caused a heavy loss of more than USD 9 billion.

China was also hit by severe floods between January and July. The report said at least 144 people lost their lives.

Avalanche: Apart from terror attacks and bombing Afghanistan was severely affected by natural hazard this year. The avalanches caused havoc in the Afghan-Pakistani border in February. After three days of heavy snowfall, 156 people were found dead, 103 injured and 300 civilian homes were destroyed, according to the government officials.

In this photograph taken on February 6, 2017, Afghan survivors

of an avalanche search in the village of Hafsa in Nuristan Province.| AFP

In January, a major avalanche hit a luxury hotel in central Italy killing 29 people. The avalanche is considered to be one of the deadliest in Italy in a century.

Wild fires: This year California saw a major wildfire which torched roughly 170,000 acres of area on 9th October. In the Napa Valley, a series of spark were caught by the winds which spread further leading to a huge destruction of luxury homes and businesses. An estimated 20,000 people were evacuated and at least 40 people lost their lives. The state has spent USD 505 million for fighting wildfires.

Two firefighters watch Thursday as home burns in a wildfire in

La Conchita, California on 7th December 2017. | AP

In January, Chile witnessed its worst wildfires in the country's recent history. More than 90 blazes had scorched 180,000 hectares, razed hundreds of homes, reduced village schools to ashes and destroyed cattle herds and vineyards.

Firefighters drop water on a forest fire in Portezuelo,

Chile, Jan. 29, 2017. | AP

A series of wildfires erupted in central Portugal in June killed 65. Close to 560,000 hectares of forest was destroyed. It represents 60 per cent of Europes total, for a country that makes up just over 2 per cent of its landmass.

Cyclone Okhi: Due to moisture and warmer temperatures between Sri Lanka and Kanyakumari in mainland India, it intensified into a Cyclonic Storm on November 30. While near Kanyakumari in mainland India, Cyclone Ockhi changed its path and headed towards Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea, while intensifying.

Cyclone Ockhi has spoiled not only the lives and physical assets of people in the affected areas. It has had a major impact on the countrys seafood business, too. With fishermen keeping away from venturing into the sea for fear of adverse weather conditions, it affected the industries that depended on seafood.

A relief worker places sandbags on the banks of a beach in Kochi in wake of cyclone Ockhi on Saturday. (PTI)



The defence forces and other agencies in India have involved in rescue operations saved 845 lives, but still 661 fishermen still remain missing. Of the total 845 people rescued, 453 were from Tamil Nadu, 362 from Kerala, and 30 from Lakshadweep and Minicoy islands. As many as 245 fishermen from Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Lakshadweep are dead. A whopping worth of USD 5 billion properties was damaged.

These disasters have time and again shown us why we need to watch our activities and be very cautious while dealing with nature. We need to rethink and intensify our efforts to reduce the impact of such events in the future. The drastic changes in climate, the pollution, the population explosion, deforestation, exploitation of natural resources etc. have exerted so much pressure on our planet that we are directly responsible for such hazards.

Robert Glasser, a United Nations disaster risk official said in a recent statement that 'If we do not succeed in understanding what it takes to make our society more resilient to disasters, then we will pay an increasingly high price in terms of lost lives and livelihoods'.

It's a high time we follow what our father of nation Mahatma Gandhi has said 'the world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed', for our better tomorrow.

The year 2017 saw many new developments in terms of the world political scenario, the drastic climate change which created a huge impact on our environment resulting in several natural hazards in the world. Planet earth witnessed new changes not just in terms of political upheaval but many world terror attacks too apart from natural calamities which claimed many innocent lives. The year left the world devastated with a series of horrifying events. The natural disasters have not only claimed many lives but also caused loss of property worth billions of dollars. Some of the major destructive calamities this year were hurricanes namely as Irma, Maria, and Harvey. The monsoon rains wreaked havoc in many parts of India as well as in neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh causing large-scale floods. The massive landslides in Vietnam caused a huge loss of both lives and properties. These damages were catastrophic and triggered a major humanitarian crisis. Let's have a look at the major natural disasters caused by the fury mother nature. The Hurricanes: Maria, Irma, and Harvey a trio of super strong hurricanes wept the Caribbean and the Gulf Coast of US. The trio hurricanes pummelled the Atlantic during August and September. The power lines were completely destroyed, and houses were drowned. The National Hurricane Centre called it an 'extremely active' year for hurricanes as the storms had wind speeds upwards of 74 miles per hour. The destructions caused by the hurricane Maria | AP Most of the Puerto Rican residents are still without power three months after Hurricane Maria touched down on the islands. Hurricane Maria alone is projected to cost USD 95 billion in damage. Maria is regarded as the worst natural disasters on the record. As per the data provided by Recent Natural Disasters, at least 129 people are confirmed dead due to Hurricane Maria; 55 in Puerto Rico, 57 in Dominica, 5 in the Dominican Republic, 4 in the contiguous United States, 3 in Haiti, 2 in Guadeloupe, and 3 in the United States Virgin Islands. Destructions caused by hurricane Harvey | AP Around 82 people were found dead when Hurricane Harvey hit the land. Many of them died while trying to escape the floodwaters. According to officials, More than 185,000 homes were damaged and 9,000 destroyed as 42,000 people remain in shelters amid overflowing rivers and reservoirs. Experts estimated that Hurricane Harvey alone caused USD 100 million dollars damage. Hurricane Irma has caused heavy destruction in the Caribbean Islands, leaving 12 people dead. One million residents of Puerto Rico were plunged into darkness and left homeless. Hurricane Irma | AP Earthquakes: A massive magnitude of 7.1 earthquakes shook the Mexico city in Mexico on September 19. Mexico is located at the intersection of three massive tectonic plates and is one of the most seismically active countries in the world. The strong force devastated the region killing as many as 369 people and leaving tens of thousands of homes destroyed. Among the people who were killed, 20 children were crushed to death when their school collapsed. Members of the specialized rescue team search for survivors in Juchitan de Zaragoza, Mexico, on September 9, 2017. | AFP The Iraq-Iran border suffered a heavy loss when the quake at a magnitude of 7.3 hit the region on 12th November. The force was so powerful that it was felt as far west as the Mediterranean coast. According to the officials, 620 people were killed and more than 8,000 were injured in the calamity. Many houses in rural areas of Iran are made of mud bricks that can crumble easily in a quake which were also responsible for the rise in the number of casualties. A 7.3-magnitude quake that hit the Iraq-Iran border area. | AFP Landslides/Mudslides: In August, the landslides which took place in the impoverished African country Democratic Republic of Congo killed as many as 174 people and leaving around 280 children orphaned. In early April, the city of Mocoa in Colombia witnessed a massive landslide which claimed 300 lives and left about 200 persons injured. The landslides were caused after the region was affected by heavy rainfall. The most sufferers were the poorer section of the city. Another slippery landslide in Sierra Leone killed hundreds of people. According to the government reports the death toll rose to 500. Al Jazeera said that more than 1,000 were buried and killed in the slides. Bangladeshi firefighters at work in Chittagong where three days of heavy rain triggered landslides near a slum.| AFP This year Bangladesh received heavy monsoon on 12th June 2017 which triggered the landslides in the hilly areas of the country. Around 150 deaths were reported as of June 15th, 2017.The worst affected was Rangamati, where landslides buried houses while people were sleeping. Floods: End of May received incessant rainfall in Sri Lanka along with strong winds which caused floods and landslides killing as many as 213 people and displacing about 415,600 others. More than 30 per cent of the affected were children. The aftermath of the flood gave way to many diseases such as dengue. More than 250 people in Sri Lanka have reportedly died from dengue fever since the disaster. Many deaths were reported due to the scarcity of the safe drinking water. An Indian man holding an umbrella wades through a flooded street during heavy rain showers in Mumbai on Aug 29, 2017. | AFP According to the report by The Guardian more than more than 1,200 people have died across India, Bangladesh and Nepal as a result of flooding, with 40 million affected by the devastation, while millions were forced to leave behind their homes and 18,000 schools were shut down across the region. The monsoon rains also crippled Rohingyas who were fleeing from their homeland due to religious persecution. The fleeing 400,000 muslim Rohingya found the journey to Bangladesh quite perilous as the terrain got inundated from the heavy monsoon rain. The flood in Peru, which took place during March when the region received the maximum rainfall, killed at least 150 people and affected more than 1 million. The flood caused a heavy loss of more than USD 9 billion. China was also hit by severe floods between January and July. The report said at least 144 people lost their lives. Avalanche: Apart from terror attacks and bombing Afghanistan was severely affected by natural hazard this year. The avalanches caused havoc in the Afghan-Pakistani border in February. After three days of heavy snowfall, 156 people were found dead, 103 injured and 300 civilian homes were destroyed, according to the government officials. In this photograph taken on February 6, 2017, Afghan survivors of an avalanche search in the village of Hafsa in Nuristan Province.| AFP In January, a major avalanche hit a luxury hotel in central Italy killing 29 people. The avalanche is considered to be one of the deadliest in Italy in a century. Wild fires: This year California saw a major wildfire which torched roughly 170,000 acres of area on 9th October. In the Napa Valley, a series of spark were caught by the winds which spread further leading to a huge destruction of luxury homes and businesses. An estimated 20,000 people were evacuated and at least 40 people lost their lives. The state has spent USD 505 million for fighting wildfires. Two firefighters watch Thursday as home burns in a wildfire in La Conchita, California on 7th December 2017. | AP In January, Chile witnessed its worst wildfires in the country's recent history. More than 90 blazes had scorched 180,000 hectares, razed hundreds of homes, reduced village schools to ashes and destroyed cattle herds and vineyards. Firefighters drop water on a forest fire in Portezuelo, Chile, Jan. 29, 2017. | AP A series of wildfires erupted in central Portugal in June killed 65. Close to 560,000 hectares of forest was destroyed. It represents 60 per cent of Europes total, for a country that makes up just over 2 per cent of its landmass. Cyclone Okhi: Due to moisture and warmer temperatures between Sri Lanka and Kanyakumari in mainland India, it intensified into a Cyclonic Storm on November 30. While near Kanyakumari in mainland India, Cyclone Ockhi changed its path and headed towards Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea, while intensifying. Cyclone Ockhi has spoiled not only the lives and physical assets of people in the affected areas. It has had a major impact on the countrys seafood business, too. With fishermen keeping away from venturing into the sea for fear of adverse weather conditions, it affected the industries that depended on seafood. A relief worker places sandbags on the banks of a beach in Kochi in wake of cyclone Ockhi on Saturday. (PTI) The defence forces and other agencies in India have involved in rescue operations saved 845 lives, but still 661 fishermen still remain missing. Of the total 845 people rescued, 453 were from Tamil Nadu, 362 from Kerala, and 30 from Lakshadweep and Minicoy islands. As many as 245 fishermen from Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Lakshadweep are dead. A whopping worth of USD 5 billion properties was damaged. These disasters have time and again shown us why we need to watch our activities and be very cautious while dealing with nature. We need to rethink and intensify our efforts to reduce the impact of such events in the future. The drastic changes in climate, the pollution, the population explosion, deforestation, exploitation of natural resources etc. have exerted so much pressure on our planet that we are directly responsible for such hazards. Robert Glasser, a United Nations disaster risk official said in a recent statement that 'If we do not succeed in understanding what it takes to make our society more resilient to disasters, then we will pay an increasingly high price in terms of lost lives and livelihoods'. It's a high time we follow what our father of nation Mahatma Gandhi has said 'the world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed', for our better tomorrow.
Spare Change: Newport City Council must address North End eyesores

With a new City Council arriving, lets hope it can prod property owners in the North End into getting back to work on a pair of eyesores
A video of damage to the menorah outside the Chabad Center on the University of Illinois campus.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Reporter

Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk).
Kolkata: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is going to change India's economy though initially it might have caused some pain, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said.

Speaking on the concluding day of the 11th Global Doctors' Summit in Kolkata, Naidu said the improvement in India's tax system with the introduction of GST will ultimately benefit its people.

"As the World Bank report suggests, GST is going to be transformational, revolutionary tax system to change India's economy. Any improvement in system ultimately helps people," Naidu said.

He said that as Vice-President, he would not discuss the merits of issues like demonetisation or GST, but if one argues that almost the entire demonetised money has come back to banks post note ban, then it must be considered if that is not better than the money stashed in bathroom and underneath the pillows of individuals.

He said India is on the cusp of new economic growth in sync with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, "reform perform and transform."

Naidu said that 65 percent of India's population were under 30 years of age and called for new ideas to take the country forward.

About his new role as Vice-President, Naidu said, "two months back I was a minister. Now I have retired from politics but not retired from public life. So, I cannot speak on issues as I did when I was a minister."
Mumbai: Defending government decision to privatise national carrier Air India and its subsidiaries, junior aviation minister Jayant Sinha on Friday said the private sector can run airlines business "far better" than government.

Sinha also expressed hope of getting a winning bid for the national carrier in the next six to eight months.

To revive the loss-making national carrier, government is working on the modalities for its strategic disinvestment. "Around the world most public sector airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways and Qantas have all been disinvested by their governments."

"They are now actually private sector airlines because the private sector can run airlines far better than government running them. That is why we are also going through the strategic disinvestment process with AI," Sinha told an IIT-Bombay event.

Expressing hope that "good" bidders will come forward, he said once the airline is privatised he is sure of Air India returning to its earlier glory.

"We are hopeful that in the next six-eight months we will be able to find a winning bidder for Air India," he said. Stating that Air India has improved its performance quite dramatically in the past three years and it is now making operating profit, Sinha said the arilines' total debt as of September stood at Rs 51,890 crore and the annual interest outgo on this debt is around Rs 5,000 crore.

This high financing cost, which is on the net profit basis, puts Air India balance sheet in the red, he said. "The winning bidder can invest more, improve its services, make the airline more competitive," Sinha said.

On June 28, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave an in-principle approval to privatise Air India along with its five subsidiaries. Subsequently, an AI-specific alternative mechanism was set up to guide the process.

The ministerial group is studying how to treat Air India's large unsustainable debt. some of the ideas doing the rounds are hiving off certain assets of the airline group to a shell company, and then go in for strategic disinvestment of three profit-making subsidiaries.
New Delhi: Padmavati will finally come to a theatre near you. We still dont know the exact date, but it will. And oh, it will now come as Padmavat.

Yes, you heard that right. The Central Board of Film Certification has suggested to Sanjay Leela Bhansali to change the title of the film and remove the I.

The censor board's suggestion has led to a flurry of reactions on Twitter with many users poking fun.

Apurva Asrani tweeted, "If 'Padman' picks up the 'i' that 'Padmavat' drops, they'll have to call it 'Padmani'. From the frying pan into the pyre."

If Padman picks up the i that Padmavat drops, theyll have to call it Padmani. From the frying pan into the pyre. #Padmavati Apurva Asrani (@Apurvasrani) December 30, 2017

Comedian Sorabh Pant tweeted, "'Padmavati' already got released. They changed the character name, the plot and history. They called it, 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' but Indians know..."

#Padmavati already got released.They changed the character name, the plot and history.They called it, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" but, Indians know... Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) December 30, 2017

#Padmavati already got released.They changed the character name, the plot and history.They called it, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" but, Indians know... Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) December 30, 2017

Actor Prakash Raj tweeted, "'Padmavati' to be 'Padmavat' plus 26 cuts.. says CBFC... Finally has someone achieved to chop something of 'Padmavati'. An 'I' from the title."

#Padmavati to #Padmavat. Okay. Now change Allauddin to Alladdin and Ratan Singh to Raman Singh.  *slow claps to CBFC*  Aditi R. Lanjewar (@AditiLanjewar) December 30, 2017

So CBFC has passed #Padmavati by removing "I" from the name and releasing as #Padmavat . Congratulations to the cast, Deep_ka, Shah_d, Ranveer S_ngh, Bhansal_  Sunny (@sunil_ss7) December 30, 2017

Still it's a wise decision to lose an I than losing eye to Karni sena after watching Padmavati.  EngiNerd. (@mainbhiengineer) December 30, 2017

There were reports doing the rounds that the board had suggested 26 cuts to the film, but in a statement, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi clarified that they have only advised five modifications,

including the title change, but "no cuts".

Board member Vani Tripathi Tikoo also tweeted about the same, saying, "Stop the Misinformation Campaign for God sake on 'Padmavati', CBFC has not asked for any cuts with the U/A certificate its only few modifications and a title change with the consent of the film maker. It's finally over so let the film release and judge it then!"

Actor Renuka Shahane and director Rahul Dholakia expressed their displeasure with the board's suggested changes. Dholakia also linked the board's decision with the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh elections.

"The 'I' of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of 'Padmavati' to 'Padmavat' and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby nobody will have any issue and nobody's sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game changing... I must say," Shahane tweeted.

The "I" of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of "Padmavati" to "Padmavat" and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby nobody will have any issue and nobody's sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game changing I must say!!! Renuka Shahane (@renukash) December 30, 2017

"Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw filmmakers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, 'Padmavati' has got its U/A, it will be praised. Rajputs' heroism will be talked about by the same people who slammed it. Thank God we have not made a film called Gandhi! Can you imagine what title CBFC would suggest," Dholakia tweeted.
New Delhi: Indian Air Force chief BS Dhanoa on Friday flew the last sortie of the 'Hawkeyes' squadron's Mig-21, bringing a glorious end to the reign of the Type 96 variant of the fighter aircraft, a defence statement said.

Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa, who is on a three-day visit to Air Force Station Nal December 28-30, one of the premier air bases operating the MiG-21 aircraft, where 108 Squadron or the 'Hawkeyes' is being "number plated".

"Chief of the Air Staff, callsign 'Air Force One', flew the last sortie of the 'Hawkeyes' thus bringing a glorious end to the reign of the T-96 aircraft, with the squadron," the statement said.

THE AIR CHIEF FLIES LAST SORTIE OF 'HAWKEYES : The CAS ACM BS Dhanoa is on a 3 day visit (28-30Dec17) to AFSNal, one of the Premier AirBases operating #MiG21 Aircraft.The Chief flew last sortie of Hawkeyes today, bringing an end to Glorious reign of #T96 Aircraft in Squadron. pic.twitter.com/cr2uKIpBWj Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 29, 2017

During the course of his visit, the Air Force Chief addressed and interacted with personnel of the station, emphasizing the importance of aerospace safety, its various aspects and stressed on the physical security of the base. He congratulated and conveyed his best wishes to all personnel and their families for the New Year.
New Delhi: During the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lashed out at the ruling UPA by expressing concern at the pace at which squadrons were being added to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The BJP in its manifesto called it an indication of the surrendering of Indias interests and called for a complete overhaul of the system. But figures tabled in the Lok Sabha by the Ministry of Defence reveal that there would be no net increase in the number of squadrons added by the NDA government in its five-year tenure. In fact, by 2025, the IAF may end up having less squadrons than it currently possesses.

The question was posed by Anurag Thakur, BJP MP from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh, who asked, the number of squadrons and squadrons of helicopters likely to be with Indian Air Force (IAF) by 2020.

Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Subhash Bhamre in his response said, The IAF will have 32 Fighter Squadrons and 39 Helicopter Units by 2020.

The Indian Air Force currently possesses 32 squadrons but, as the minister put it, Three squadrons of MiG-21 aircraft will be phased out by 2020.

By 2019, the government plans the introduction of two squadrons of Su-30MKIs.

If the figures revealed in response to this question were worrying, another response revealed that by 2025, the number of squadrons with the IAF may, in fact, go down.

Biju Janata Dal MP from Kalahandi asked the ministry whether the government proposes to phase out these fighter aircrafts in future.

MoS (Defence) Bhamre in his response revealed, Ten Squadrons of Indian Air Force (IAF) equipped with MiG-21 and MiG-27 aircraft are scheduled to retire by 2024 on completion of their Total Technical Life.

Two squadrons of the Jaguar are also set to retire during this period.

Between now and 2025, the government plans to procure two additional squadrons of the Su-30MKI, two squadrons of the Rafale and six Squadrons of the Tejas, a single-engine fighter.

So while India will see 12 squadrons retire by 2024, the country will have added only 10 to offset those losses by 2025.

Air Chief BS Dhanoas assessment that India plans to have a 42-squadron Air Force by 2032 seems tough to achieve given the current pace of procurement by the Indian government. But one way in which the government may just be able to pull off this feat is if it manages to ink deals for single-engine fighter aircraft with haste.

Air Defence expert Air Vice Marshall (retired) Manmohan Bahadur said, It may seem difficult at this stage to have 42-squadrons by 2032 but I think we can pull it off. It all depends on the pace at which the Tejas is manufactured and whether India will be able to procure single-engine fighter jets on time.

In addition to two squadrons of the Tejas Mark 1 and four squadrons of the Tejas Mark 1A, India has also expressed interest in buying a foreign-made single-engine fighter. The two companies currently in the running are Swedish manufacturer Saab, which has offered to sell its Gripen E, and US arms giant Lockheed Martin, which has offered to transfer its entire F-16 Block 70 production line from Texas to India.

If India purchases around five squadrons of either the American or Swedish single-engine fighter, it may well be on the way to achieving a 42-squadron air force.

However, sources at Lockheed Martin suggest that the deal may not go down any time soon as the government continues to drag its feet.
Bhopal: Established almost seven years before the social media platform Facebook introduced the link offering information on blood donors' in 2017, India's first ever blood donation call centre is set to be inaugurated in Bhopal in early 2018.

Armed with the list of 3 lakh blood donors at almost every city in India, the call centre, a brainchild of Damodar Yuva Sangthan, floated by a volunteer Ashok Nayak in Indore in 2010, has helped save lives of thousands of patients during medical emergencies.

Besides, making available rare blood groups like 'A' negative, 'O' negative and 'AB' negative, the 32-year-old volunteer has helped two patients save their lives in Madhya Pradesh by supplying them with rarest Bombay blood group which according to him is only found in 180 persons across the world.

"Perhaps in the month of January 2018, we will establish the call centre branches, second after Indore established in 2013, in Bhopal," said Nayak. With extensive awareness, I plan to take the number of registered donors in Bhopal to 50,000 in next six months, Nayak said.

Once a small time tailor, Nayak had transformed into a blood donation crusader in 2010. "At My Hospital in Indore, I saw a patient die in front of my eyes for want of blood and this incident moved me so much that I established the blood call centre inside my small home at New Govind Colony in 2010," said Nayak who that time worked as a small time tailor and made both ends meet with difficulty.

After meeting his family's requirements, he used to put in remaining money whatever he earned into saving lives. I thought my small endeavour could help save some lives, he said adding the initiative had received overwhelming response which also reflects in scores of awards he has received.

In 2013, the district administration Indore helped him establish a full-fledged call centre with proper infrastructure. As soon as we get a call for blood donation, we contact the donors in particular area and send them to the hospital concerned, he explained.

At Indore alone, the organisation has linked 1.25 lakh blood donors to its services. Over 50 celebrities from TV industry and Bollywood are associated with the selfless initiative.

Being Human, the volunteer initiative of superstar Salman Khan has recently adjudged Nayak winner of their contest meant to honour society's heroes and he is due to meet the actor in Mumbai shortly.
Lucknow: After a passerby came across a crumpled note crying for help, the manager of an all girls madrassa in old Lucknow was arrested on Friday, on charges of sexually abusing minor inmates of the facility.

Seven of the 51 girls residing at the madrassa have filed a police complaint against the madrassa manager alleging that he would violate them and beat them up on several occasions.

The girls have alleged sexual harassment and attempt to rape against Tayyab Zia, the convenor of the madrassa.

Lucknow Police conducted a raid on the Saadatganj madrassa after being informed by the owner of the madrassa. A neighbour had come across one of the several notes that the girls had thrown out of a window of the educational institute, who informed the owner, who in turn approached the police.

Police said, the owner was not aware of these malpractices as he would resided somewhere else and was alarmed at being told that inmates at his madrassa were crying for help.

The owner also told SSP Deepak Kumar that some of the girls had been held captive and were being threatened.

Speaking to the media, SSP Deepak Kumar said, A 15-year-old girl student of Gomti Nagar in her written complaint has levelled charges of harassment. She has also alleged that seven other girl students were also molested by Tayyab.

One of the letters that were recovered from outside the madrassa. (Image: News18)

A joint team of the police and local administration raided the madrassa located on the Campbell Road in Saadatganj around 9 pm on Friday and they rescued 51 girls from the madrassa. There were 126 girls from various states and other districts of Uttar Pradesh who were enrolled here.

One of the rescued girls reportedly told officials that when the girls resisted Tayyabs sexual advances, they were tortured and beaten. Police said, Out of the 51 rescued girls, seven have alleged sexual abuse and attempt to rape charges against convenor Tayyab Zia.

Meanwhile, families of the rescued girls have been informed and the girls would soon be taken to a Nari Niketan facility.
Begunkodor (WB): A group of rationalists spent a winter night in the small obscure railway station in West Bengal's Purulia district, which had been recorded as 'haunted' by the Railways, to bust the myth.

The group found a few locals trying to scare them away from the station on Thursday night instead of any paranormal presence, a member of the rationalist group said on Saturday.

Begunkodor station, located near the Ayodhya Hills and 50 km from Purulia town, had earned the distinction of being a 'ghost station' after 1967, the year its station master had reportedly died after seeing a white sari clad woman walking along the tracks in the night.

The incident had caused passengers to desert the station and it had come to be known as 'haunted' in the Railways records.

Begunkodor had been closed since then and was listed by Railways as one of its 10 'haunted' stations in India.

The station was reopened 42 long years later in 2009 by Mamata Banerjee during her tenure as the railways minister. Since then trains stopped at this obscure station and passengers used it only till 5 pm scared of encounters with the ghosts.

A nine-member team of the rationalist organisation Paschim Banga Bigyan Manch, armed with torches, digital compasses and cameras, had camped at this station with police protection on Thursday night and busted the decades-old myth.

Nayan Mukherjee, who led the team said, "We were at the Begunkodor station in Purulia district from 11 pm on Thursday night till the early morning hours the next day but there was no nocturnal activity."

He said the team did not see the ghost of a woman who is said to have committed suicide years ago or the apparition of the station master, who reportedly haunt the station. "We could only spot a snake in an adjacent well," Mukherjee said.

He said, the team had heard a peculiar noise from the darkness behind the station building deep in the night. "When we focussed the torch light on the surrounding bush at around 2 AM we saw four to five people, who appeared to be locals fleeing from the spot. We chased them for a while but they ran away."

The station was being touted by certain people for some time as a 'ghost tourism' spot to attract visitors. Some of the locals apparently scare them away with the noise and steal their belongings after they flee out of fear, he said.

The digital compasses and cameras installed in the station compound by the team did not pick up any sign of paranormal activity, Mukherjee said.

The Superintendent of Police of Purulia district Joy Biswas said the team had asked for police protection which was given to them.

He said the police and the administration were aware that Begunkodor station was known as a 'ghost station' among the locals and had started night patrolling in the area recently. Efforts were also made to create awareness among the people over the public address systems.

"I have asked the the superintendent of police to take necessary steps in the matter," Purulia District Magistrate Aloke Prasad Roy said.
New Delhi: Out of Rs 9,860 crore released to 60 cities under the Smart City Mission only seven per cent, or about Rs 645 crore, have been utilised so far, an issue which has raised concerns in the Urban Affairs Ministry.

Of the Rs 196 crore released to each of around 40 cities, Ahmedabad has spent the maximum amount of Rs 80.15 crore, followed by Indore (Rs 70.69 crore), Surat (Rs 43.41 crore) and Bhopal Rs 42.86 crore, according to a data of the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry.

On the other hand, the data revealed that of the sanctioned funds Andaman and Nicobar could utilise only Rs 54 lakh, Ranchi 35 lakh, and Aurangabad Rs 85 lakh.

A HUA official recently said the ministry was concerned about the "unsatisfactory" progress of the project in some of the cities.

He had said that the ministry would approach the cities that are lagging behind to find out the "bottlenecks" with an aim for speedy implementation of the projects.

Among cities which got around Rs 111 crore each from the Centre, Vodadara has spent Rs 20.62 crore, Namchi in Sikkim spent Rs 6.80 crore, while Salem, Vellore and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu could utilise only Rs five lakh, Rs six lakh and Rs 19 lakh, respectively.

Ninety cities have so far been selected by the government under the smart city mission and each of them will get Rs 500 crore as central assistance for implementing various projects.

The cities are required to set up Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to get funds from the Centre for the implementation of the project.

In a review meeting recently, the official said cities in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were found to be "performing well", while those in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra needed to speed up the implementation process.

Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of State (independent charge) for Housing and Urban Affairs, had earlier this month said the impact of projects undertaken under the scheme would be visible by mid next year.

To instill competition among cities and push them for faster implementation of projects, the Centre will also present Smart City awards in June next year to well performing cities.

Reviewing the progress of the Smart City Mission on August 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the challenge before everyone was to ensure implementation and expeditious completion of the work in the 90 identified cities.
The Lok Sabha has passed The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, popularly known as Triple Talaq Bill, that makes instant triple talaq a criminal offence and proposes a three-year jail term for a Muslim man who divorces his wife by pronouncing the word "talaq" three times.

The Bill makes all declaration of talaq, including in written or electronic form (by phone, text or email), to be void and illegal. It makes declaration of talaq a cognizable and non-bailable offence.

This effectively means that if a Muslim woman goes to the police station and lodges a complaint that her husband has pronounced triple talaq to her, the police officer can arrest the accused husband without warrant. If proven guilty, he can be imprisoned for up to three years along with a fine.

The woman against whom instant triple talaq has been pronounced, is permitted for subsistence allowance from her husband for herself and her children. The woman is also entitled to seek custody of her minor children.

Defeating all amendments to the bill, the Modi government disregarded all the resentment coming from opposition parties like the RJD, the BJD, All India Muslim League and AIMIM.

The principle opposition, Congress, strategically but selectively supported the bill, raising concerns on few of its aspects. The government has accepted it on record that it did not consult any Muslim organisations on the issue, neither did it take into account the disagreements coming from the Muslim women activists who have been fighting for gender equality for years and were the first ones to go to court against the archaic practice of triple talaq.

Standing in Parliament as a champion of gender justice and a crusader for Muslim sisters, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad sought for bipartisan support for the Bill, without actually consulting the actual stakeholders, including the very Muslim sisters that he and his government are fighting for.

The government is taking a cue from the minority view of the Supreme Court judgment that declared triple talaq as unconstitutional and invalid, leaving aside the majority judgment. The court did not ask the government to frame a law.

The fundamental flaw in this whole argument of criminalising the mere utterance of triple talaq is the fact that pronouncement by the man does not eventually dissolve the marriage, so why criminalise an offence that did not even take place?

The SC judgment effectively means that even after the pronouncements of talaq three times at one go, the marriage in still intact and the man and the woman remain husband and wife.

The law if implemented will take away the husband of the Muslim woman and end all possibilities of any reconciliation, making her socially and financially insecure. Looking at it from the other end of the gender debate, criminalising Muslim men for a civil wrong is an outright abuse of human rights. One does not need to be a legal expert to understand something as basic as this.

While much has been talked about the lack of rationale and logic in structuring a law like this, it is also important to look at the politics of legislating and criminalising triple talaq.

In the last three and a half years of the BJP rule, most of their policies and politics have been brazenly anti-Muslim. The atmosphere of sustained hatred against Muslims, pulling them out of trains and buses and killing them anywhere at any pretext, from cow protection to Love Jihad, has created a feeling of terror and insecurity among the Muslim community.

Most of these self-appointed protectors of Hindu religion go unpunished and at times enjoy the covert support and patronage of the ruling powers. While this religious division and polarisation take place under the watch of BJP government, the Love Jihad project of the Sangh Parivar demonises Muslim men and marginalises them in the public spheres.

The propaganda and naked bigotry on social media and on prime time TV debates is gradually turning Muslim men into demons who eat beef, convert Hindu women on the pretext of love and divorce their wives at will.

The technology has allowed the spread of hate and bigotry on an industrial scale and has normalised the anti-Muslim propaganda, the centre of which remains the Muslim men.

Now by framing this Triple Talaq Bill and turning Muslim husbands into criminals, it will only be an extension or continuation of the demonisation of the Muslim men.

This bigotry and hate is also an effective tool for political dividends.

From Uttar Pradesh to Gujarat, the election campaigns run by the BJP were not just outright communal but unabashedly based on Muslim-hate. How does a party that functions and succeeds on Muslim-hate and anti-Muslim politics expects to gain credibility in the Muslim community and pretend to work for their social reforms?

Their strategy is clear: demonize Muslim men and patronise Muslim women. We can safely conclude that the Triple Talaq Bill is a politically motivated act and is an attempt to consolidate the Hindu vote.

(The author is a television journalist. Views are personal)
New Delhi: India will strongly take up with Palestine the issue of its ambassador in Pakistan attending a rally organised by Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

"We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

He was reacting to a query on reports and photographs of the Palestinian ambassador participating in the rally.

Waleed Abu Ali, the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, was seen sharing the stage with the designated 'global terrorist' in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan that campaigns aggressively against India and the United States of America, held a show of strength in Rawalpindi's Liaqat Bagh on Friday.

Ali, the Palestinian envoy to Pakistan, was seen sharing the stage with Saeed, who even at this event used the pulpit to deliver an anti-India and anti-US speech, peppered with reference to Kashmir and Kulbhushan Jhadav.

Saeed, who has been declared as a globally terrorist by the United States State Department, carries a bounty of $ 10 million on his head. But more importantly, he is wanted by India on charges of being the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which ten terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed over 160 lives and injured over 600 people.

This appearance by the Palestinian envoy is sure to ruffle feathers in New Delhi, seeing as this comes just days after India voted in the United Nations in support of Palestine and against the American decision to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognising the disputed city as the capital of Israel.
New Delhi: Palestine has decided to recall its ambassador to Pakistan a day after he shared the stage with 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed at an event in Rawalpindi.

Palestinian ambassador to India, Adnan Abu Al Haija, confirmed the decision soon after the ministry of external affairs said it had conveyed to him that Waleed Abu Alis meeting with Saeed was unacceptable.

India's Secretary (economic relations) Vijay Gokhale in the external affairs ministry called Palestinian ambassador Haija to the South Block after which the ministry said, "the concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

Palestine expressed deep regret and assured the Indian government that it had taken serious cognizance of their ambassador's presence at Fridays event that was called by Saeed, who has been declared a global terrorist by the United Nations and is the founder of terrorist outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jamaat-ud-dawa.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy to India said Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad. "The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not its envoy to Pakistan anymore," Haija said.

It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in war against terrorism and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, the MEA said in a statement on Saturday.

Waleed Abu Ali had on Friday attended attended the Difah-e-Pakistan Council-organised rally in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday. Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Saeed. The hardline Islamic parties advocate conservative policies and often target India.

Saeed, who has been declared as a global terrorist by the United States State Department, carries a bounty of $ 10 million on his head. But more importantly, he is wanted by India on charges of being the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, in which ten terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed over 160 lives and injured over 600 people.

This appearance by the Palestinian envoy came just days after India voted in the United Nations in support of Palestine and against the American decision to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and recognising the disputed city as the capital of Israel.
After Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's intimate high profile wedding this month, another couple is expected to tie the knot in 2018. Speculation is rife that actor Sonam Kapoor is the next one in line to enter the married club sometime in March 2018. The actor has booked Umair Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur for a week in March, a time auspicious for wedding nuptials.

A reliable source told News18, "Sonam Kapoor has booked the palace for 5-6 days somewhere around March and it is suggestive that she might tie the knot here."

In 2017, Sonam made her relationship with beau Anand Ahuja public and even posted their pictures from their various vacations. Anand also seemed quite close to her family, her dad Anil Kapoor, mother Sunita and sister Rhea Kapoor.

Credit: @ sonamkapoor

From partying together to their personal skype chats, Sonam didn't hide anything about her long-term boyfriend on social media but continued to maintain a stoic silence in front of the media.

Credit: @ sonamkapoor

Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur is a popular wedding destination for many high-profile celebrities who want their big day to be no less than a royal celebration. Considering Sonam has always expressed her love for traditional settings, it just looks like an ideal destination for her to get married.

On the work front, the actor is gearing up for Veere De Wedding which is slated to release in May 2018. Well, looks like a big fat Indian wedding is in the air for Kapoor, both personally and professionally.
New Delhi: Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Prasoon Joshi, has set the record straight on the green signal given to Deepika Padukone-starrer Padmavati and refuted rumours that 26 cuts have been ordered in the film.

Joshi clarified that the film will be released with a U/A certificate without any cuts. The CBFC, he said, had "only" asked for five modifications in the film, whose status had been in limbo for over two months.

He also confirmed that the title of the movie will be changed to 'Padmavat'. Explaining the rationale behind this decision, he said that the filmmakers during discussions with the special panel formed to review the film had attributed their material/creative source as the fictional poem Padmavat and not history.

Apart from this, changes have been ordered in the song 'Ghoomar' to make the depiction 'befitting' the character being portrayed. The fifth modification was to change the incorrect or misleading references to historical places, Joshi added.

The CBFC chairman said that film's producers and director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, are in complete agreement with the changes. He also expressed happiness at having resolved the situation in a pragmatic and positive manner.

"This was an unprecedented and tough situation. (I) am glad that following a balanced approach, we resolved the task at hand," he said.

When asked why a special panel was needed to review the film, Joshi said CBFC felt that considering the complexities and concerns around the film, there was the requirement for a special panel "to add perspective for the decision".

He said that the filmmakers, Bhansali Productions, too had asked for a special panel to of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community to view the film in a written communication.

This is also not the first time that a panel has been formed, he said. Earlier, experts were consulted before the release of Aarakshan and Jodhaa Akbar too, he said.

The panel saw the period drama on December 28. It consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr. Chandramani Singh and Prof K.K. Singh of the Jaipur University.
New Delhi: The Censor Board has given a green signal to Deepika Padukone-starrer Padmavati, which is likely to be renamed as Padmavat for release with a U/A certificate.

A statement by the Central Board of film Certification said the Sanjay Leela Bhansali film will carry disclaimers, "pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song Ghoomar to befit the character portrayed."

The Board of Film Certification had their examining committee meeting on the 28th of December. The decision was to give the film a UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the films title to Padmavat basis the attributed material/ creative source, the statement said.

The film was approached with balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and society. Considering complexities and concerns around the film the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC to add perspective to the final decision, the censor board said.

The special panel included Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of the Jaipur University. The members of the panel had insights and also some reservations regarding the claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length. The filmmakers, BhansaIi Productions, in a written communication to CBFC had also requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community view the film, the statement said.

It added that the modification details had been shared with producers and Bhansali, who attended the feedback session post the screening and are in agreement with the modifications.

The "modifications", sources said, may include 26 cuts in the film and a clarification on the song Ghoomar.

A U/A certificate would mean the film can be viewed by all age groups. A final decision, however, will be taken by the censor board after another round of meeting next month, sources said.

The Sanjay Leela Bhansali film was to release on December 1, but was deferred by producers Viacom18 after violent opposition and threats from Right-wing and Rajput groups, including the Karni Sena, which accused the makers of distorting history over the alleged portrayal of fabled Rajasthan queen Rani Padmini.

Bhansali, who had appeared before a parliamentary panel, has said his lavishly mounted Rs 150-crore period drama is based on the 16th century epic poem "Padmavat" by Malik Muhammad Jayasi. He had said that Deepikas character does not share screen space with Allauddin Khiljis character, portrayed by Ranveer Singh.

The controversy took an ugly turn when Karni Sena leader Lokendra Singh Kalvi threatened to chop off Deepika Padukone's nose, following which the security cover of the film's cast and director Bhansali was beefed up.
New Delhi: The Censor Board has cleared Deepika Padukone-starrerPadmavati and will likely give it a U/A certificate early next year, capping months of suspense on whether the controversial film would ever see the light of day.

Pahlaj Nihalani, the former chief of the Central Board of Film Certification, has attributed the timing of the announcement to the relative calm over the issue. Ab mahaul shaant hai. I think this happened now because they must have felt this was a peaceful time to release the film, Nihalani told News18.com.

Nihalani, who had his fair share of controversies as censor board chief, said the censor board was under pressure from all quarters, but should not have delayed watching the movie.

Why did it (censor board) delay watching the movie? It is a questionable thing. We go according to the queue. There was pressure on the CBFC from all quarters. Political motives were involved behind delaying it Hindi cinema suffers because of politics, he said.

On the one hand, there is so much stress to promote Hindi language. But it is the Hindi movie industry which ends up suffering; the producer of this Hindi film has incurred losses and the people have been made to wait, Nihalani said.

Recalling his days at the helm of the CBFC, Nihalani claimed he was able to handle a similar situation concerning Salman Khan-starrer Bajrangi Bhaijan better than his successor, lyricist Prasoon Joshi.

The ministry was not ready for the festive release of Bajrangi Bhaijan. They were skeptical that it would lead to law and order problem, but I did not give in. I resorted to the guidelines and watched the movie to clear it, he said.

Taking a dig at the Karni Sena and other outfits opposing the release of Padmavati, Nihalani said, People who are concerned with history will be never be bothered with a film based on history.

A statement by the Central Board of film Certification said the Sanjay Leela Bhansali film will carry disclaimers, "pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song Ghoomar to befit the character portrayed."

The Board of Film Certification had their examining committee meeting on the 28th of December. The decision was to give the film a UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the films title to Padmavat basis the attributed material/ creative source, the statement said.
New Delhi: On December 23, the Delhi Legislative Assembly celebrated Christmas for the first time since inception. In attendance were chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Justice Kurian Joseph, Archdiocese of Delhi Anil Joseph T Cuoto and Archbishop of Faridabad Kuriakose Bharanikulangara. The twilight celebrations were understated but symbolic.

Justice Kurian Joseph made it to newspaper headlines when he congratulated the Delhi chief minister, for "daring to organise a celebration of this kind in the legislative assembly premises".

Justice Kurian Joseph thought it was fitting to reiterate what another speaker, the Archbishop Bharanikulangara had said just a while ago, "This is all the more pertinent when there is no other government body in this capital city that dares to organize such an event on Christians".

Delhi Chief Minister credited Speaker Ram Niwas Goel for transforming the Assembly from a 'dull' to a 'vibrant' space that celebrates festivals of all communities. Kejriwal said, "India is like a bouquet of flowers of many religions, castes and communities where if even one flower is removed, the idea of India will not survive...and some people are trying to spoil this bouquet."

Justice Kurian Joseph also recalled the time, years ago, when he was the Chief Justice in Himachal Pradesh and despite the number of Christians being 'very, very few, marginally few', the whole of Shimla celebrated it and nobody bothered about whether one was a Christian, or a Muslim or a Jain or a Sikh. "...the very meaning of Assembly is where people meet irrespective of religion, irrespective of politics, irrespective of community. So this is a real Assembly today where on Christmas we have gathered to celebrate a wonderful celebration of the people," he said.

Speaker after speaker articulated the feeling of isolation and estrangement among Christians. "The reason is obvious. In some parts, the political environment has become hostile to the spirit of shared festivals," said Ashis Nandy, political scientist and social theorist. On Delhi government's initiative, he said, 'it acknowledges in some sense, directly or indirectly, that there is a necessity for this kind of an initiative in contemporary India'.

Political commentator Ajay Bose said the AAP is trying to be different to create a talking point. "Everything has become political and after this (NDA) government came in, they made religion very political, there is an overall Hindu coloring to this government and that is dictating other parties in their attitude towards religion," he said.

Political analyst Manisha Priyam said the government should not be seen as publicly celebrating private beliefs and faiths of citizens. "The government should be sending a signal of goodwill for the citizens to celebrate their private beliefs and faiths."
New Delhi: Congresss first week in Parliament under Rahul Gandhis leadership has left party leaders confused on their strategy this Winter Session.

The party first tried to capitalise on the sedimentary effect of the Gujarat election results, seeking an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Congress MPs disrupted the House for a week, demanding an apology for Modis comments against predecessor Manmohan Singh during the campaign.

At the first Congress Working Committee meeting under his leadership, Rahul Gandhi had taken up the issue and had instructed his colleagues to hit the streets. He came out and accused the BJP of being a pack of liars. Congress workers across the country were asked to organise street protests.

All this turned out to be a damp squib when Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad accepted the clarification from Finance Minister Arun Jaitley that the PM wasnt insinuating that Dr Manmohan Singh was pro-Pakistan.

The Congress claimed to have extracted an apology from the Treasury Benches, but it was the BJP which was smiling.

Top government sources say there was a written agreement finalised by Arun Jaitley and Azad. This was also to ensure that no comments would be made against each other after the detente.

But then came Rahul Gandhis attack on Jaitley. He tweeted, punning on the Finance Ministers name to call him a liar.

Dear Mr Jaitlie - thank you for reminding India that our PM never means what he says or says what he means. #BJPLies pic.twitter.com/I7n1f07GaX  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) December 27, 2017

This took senior leaders within the Congress, who had worked on the truce, by surprise. The BJP was angry and dashed off a privilege notice against Rahul Gandhi.

The events of last week have left some senior Congress leaders confused. If Rahul had agreed to accept an apology, why did he attack Jaitley?

The party workers, who were enthused after Rahuls call to hit the streets, are also at sea.

Why a climbdown from the demand of an apology from the PM is a question many are asking? Why not make the humiliation of Manmohan Singh the rallying point for the party?

The other confusion in the Congress was seen in its stand on the Triple Talaq issue. Rahul Gandhi held a meeting before the Parliament session in the morning. It was decided that the Congress wont oppose the Bill as it would be seen as being regressive and anti-women.

With the Congress demanding the Women Reservation Bill, opposing the Triple Talaq Bill would have diluted the partys stand. Assam MP Sushmita Dev, as Mahila Congress President, was asked to articulate the partys view on the subject.

The Congress issued a statement before the Bill was taken up, stating that the party will not oppose the Bill, or move amendments. It will only raise concern over the criminality clause.

However, midway through the discussions, the Congress moved two amendments and demanded the Bill be sent to the Standing Committee.

Sources say this changed strategy comes from Congresss newfound love for soft Hindutva. It has tasted blood in Gujarat where Rahuls temple visits helped the party shun the perception of being pro-Muslim, at least partially. At the same time, it also didnt want to antagonise the Muslim core vote.

So Rahul was conspicuously absent from the discussions and voting. He was holding meetings with state leaders. No whip was issued to the party either.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi was quick to see through this. The Congress is pursuing janeu (sacred Hindu thread) politics and they stand exposed, he pointed out in Parliament.

After the flip-flops of this week, 2018 promises to be a curious year for the Congress under Rahul Gandhis leadership.
Ahmedabad: Firebrand Patidar leader Hardik Patel has urged a displeased Gujarat deputy chief minister Nitin Patel to quit the BJP along with 10 party MLAs and join the Congress for a deserving position.

Hardik said a "veteran politician" like Nitin Patel, was being "sidelined" and "not being given respect" by the BJP "despite working hard for 27 years". The Patidar leader said if the deputy chief minister was ready to quit the BJP, then he would speak to the Congress to give the latter the post he deserved.

Days after being sworn into office, Nitin Patel is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him, with a source in the BJP saying he had conveyed his displeasure to the party leadership over the departments given to him.

Talking to reporters, Hardik Patel said, "As a veteran politician, Nitinbhai (Patel) worked hard for 27 years to ensure that the (BJP) party stays in power. The community members need to understand that such politicians are being sidelined. I am not giving any suggestion, but asking him to ponder as to why he is not being given respect despite working so hard."

"I would request Nitinbhai to join us and together we will fight against the arrogant people (of BJP). We are trying to ensure that Gujarat witnesses good governance. "If Nitinbhai makes up him mind and says he is ready to resign from the party and that 10 more MLAs are ready to tender their resignation, then we are ready to fully support him," he said.

"To ensure good governance in Gujarat, we will talk to the Congress to include Nitinbhai and give him the post he deserves," he said.

Hardik Patel also said he had messaged the deputy chief minister on Friday and said that he (Hardik) was with him. "I messaged him yesterday (Friday) saying I am with him and let me know if he needs me. If he says he wants to leave the BJP, then we are with you, and will stay with you in all situations," he said.

"I would request Nitinbhai to only say for the benefit of the community that it should get reservation. We will work together for the betterment of the state," he added.

In the previous government, Nitin Patel used to handle key portfolios like finance and urban development. This time, he has been given the charge of departments like road and building, and health. He has also been allotted medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital project. A source in the BJP said Nitin Patel had conveyed his displeasure to the party leadership over the departments allotted to him.

With 99 MLAs, the BJP has a simple majority in the 182-member Assembly, 16 less than its 2012 tally of 115. The opposition Congress, which had won 61 seats in 2012, managed to increase its tally to 77. The strength of the Congress and its allies in the new House is 80.

(With PTI inputs)
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday ordered action against a school in Palakkad for allowing RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to hoist the national flag during the Independence Day celebrations.

Vijayan directed the Director of Public Instruction (DPI) to ensure that proper action was taken against the Headmaster and Manager of the state-run Karnakeyamen School.

The Chief Minister also asked the police to examine whether criminal proceedings could be initiated against them.

Being financially supported by the state government, the school was expected to function according to government guidelines. It was also told that political personalities could not take part in August 15 event.

The District Collector and police had informed the Karnakeyamen School management that only people's representatives or the head of the institution could raise the flag.

Apparently, the school belongs to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh supporters and hence they had invited Bhagwat to be the chief guest.

Kerala BJP General Secretary M.T. Ramesh had then said that the RSS chief was in Palakkad to attend a few functions and "RSS is not a political party and Bhagwat is not a political leader".

Reacting to Vijayan's decision to initiate action, state BJP President Kummanem Rajasekheran told the media on Friday that they will deal with the issue legally.

"There is no harm in what had happened then as there was no violation of any rules. Similar incidents have taken place the same day at several places, but why is the CPI-M taking action only here.

"The Vijayan government is playing the political card. We will deal with this legally," said Rajasekheran.
Ahmedabad: Within three days of having been inducted into power, the Vijay Rupani government in Gujarat appears to have run into trouble. Deputy chief minister Nitin Patel does not seem to be happy with the portfolio allocation and is said to have conveyed his displeasure to the party high command. In fact, Nitin Patel is said to have threatened to quit as minister.

Soon after the deputy CM's ultimatum, patidar organisation Sardar Patel Group announced a bandh in Mehsana, the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday to put pressure on the state government.

Patel reportedly is miffed at being stripped off three key portfolios that he held in the outgoing government  Finance, Urban Development and Petroleum. When portfolios were allocated late on Thursday after a marathon cabinet meeting, the Finance portfolio was handed over to Saurabh Patel, while Rupani kept Urban Development and Petroleum for himself.

Signs that all is not well with the new government were evident on Friday, when a sulking Nitin Patel did not attend office. He met well-wishers at his home. Patel is also said to have called on senior party leader Anandiben Patel and expressed his displeasure, though no one from the party was willing to admit this.

Patel is said to have told Anandiben to convey his displeasure to the party high command and threatened to quit as minister if the three portfolios were not given back to him. Anandiben Patel is said to have advised him to be patient.

On Saturday, a delegation of Patidar leaders from Mehsana  Nitin Patels district  in North Gujarat met him at his house and extended their support to him.

Kirit Patel, a Patidar leader from Mehsana told the media after the meeting, We are with Nitin Patel. Clearly, injustice has been done to him as he is the seniormost Patidar leader in the government.

Purvin Patel, the leader of Sardar Patel Group, another Patidar organization, said, The Patidar community is with Nitin Patel. The departments that he was in charge of have been snatched away from him. This amounts to injustice.

The allocation of portfolios itself was clearly a difficult task for CM Vijay Rupani. With former finance minister Saurabh Patel back in the Cabinet, it was evident that Nitin Patels Finance portfolio would be allocated to him. However, sources say that snatching away of the Urban Development and Petroleum portfolios miffed Nitin Patel further.

Interestingly, Vijay Rupani, Nitin Patel and 18 other ministers were sworn in on the morning of December 26 and a Cabinet meeting to allocate portfolios was scheduled immediately after the swearing-in ceremony. However, it was put off indefinitely and portfolios of the new Cabinet were announced late on December 28.

Nitin Patel continues to be the number two in the new government as the deputy chief minister. It is incorrect to say that he is not number two since finance portfolio was given to another minister, Rupani said after the allocation of portfolios.

On Saturday, while inaugurating the annual flower show event at the Sabarmati riverfront, Rupani received a phone call while he was on stage. He stepped aside and took the call. Given the fact that Rupani interrupted his function and was on phone for 10 minutes, speculation was rife that he had received a call from someone very highly placed in the party over the Nitin Patel issue.

Quick to react to the rift, Patidar Ananmat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) Hardik Patel said he would meet Nitin Patel. I have messaged him and sought time to meet him.

Nitin Patel was a frontrunner to replace Anandiben Patel in 2016. His family also distributed sweets and posed for the camera before a last-minute change brought Rupani to power, with Patel as his deputy.
West Palm Beach, Florida: President Donald Trump said Friday there will be no deal to protect hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants from deportation without funding to build a wall along the US-Mexico border.

"The Democrats have been told, and fully understand, that there can be no DACA without the desperately needed WALL at the Southern Border and an END to the horrible Chain Migration & ridiculous Lottery System of Immigration etc," Trump tweeted. "We must protect our Country at all cost!"

Trump's declaration casts doubt over how Democrats and Republicans will come together to protect Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) participants - of which there are nearly 800,000 who were brought to the United States illegally as children - from deportation because it is unlikely that Democrats will agree to substantial funding for Trump's border wall in exchange for DACA protections.

Drew Hammill, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi's spokesman, responded to Trump's tweet by stating Democrats are "not going to negotiate through the press and look forward to a serious negotiation at Wednesday's meeting when we come back."

Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Paul Ryan, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and White House chief of staff John Kelly will meet on Wednesday, according to two sources familiar with the meeting. The top discussion topic will be renewed government spending talks, the sources said.

Trump campaigned for president on a hardline immigration platform. Chants of "Build The Wall" became a trademark of his campaign and, as president, Trump has advocated ending so-called chain migration, guidelines that allow people in the United States to bring in family members from abroad, and the visa lottery system, a program that distributes around 50,000 visas to countries where there is a low rate of immigration to the US.

Trump's tweet is his clearest statement to date on his negotiating position with Democrats to achieve a deal on DACA, an Obama-era program that Trump ended in September. At the time, the President said he wanted Congress to step in to save the program.

Democrats and Republicans were unable to come together before the end of the year to mint a deal on the immigration program, but members of both parties will return to Washington in 2018 with the DACA program as a focus.

Any agreement would be the second major deal between Trump and Schumer and Pelosi -- who Trump has taken to referring to as "Chuck and Nancy." The trio, much to the chagrin of conservatives, worked together earlier this year to strike a deal on the debt ceiling and government spending.

Trump has previously said that McConnell and Ryan are on board with a deal to make the DACA program permanent.

The details, however, are what matter in the deal and remain elusive.

Trump has demanded that funding for the border wall would need to be part of any deal, but it's unclear how far he would be willing to go to protect DACA recipients.

Trump said earlier this year that his administration was not looking at "citizenship" or "amnesty" but that they are "looking at allowing people to stay here."

He added: "If we don't have the wall, we are doing nothing," but later added that the wall could come later.

McConnell said earlier this month that the Senate will hold a vote on immigration legislation in January, but only if Republican and Democratic lawmakers can reach a deal.

"If negotiators reach an agreement on these matters by the end of January, I will bring it to the Senate floor for a free-standing vote," he said.

Arizona Republican Sen. Jeff Flake had said earlier this month that he received a commitment for a vote on immigration after he voted to pass the Republican tax bill.
Kathmandu: Nepal has banned solo climbers from scaling its mountains, including Mount Everest, in a bid to reduce accidents, an official said Saturday.

The cabinet late on Thursday endorsed a revision to the Himalayan nation's mountaineering regulations, banning solo climbers from its mountains  one of a string of measures being flagged ahead of the 2018 spring climbing season.

"The changes have barred solo expeditions, which were allowed before," Maheshwor Neupane, secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, told AFP.

Neupane said that the law was revised to make mountaineering safer and decrease deaths.

Experienced Swiss climber Ueli Steck lost his life in April this year when he slipped and fell from a steep ridge during a solo acclimatisation climb to Nuptse, a peak neighbouring Everest.

The ban is likely to anger elite solo mountaineers, who enjoy the challenge of climbing alone, even eschewing bottled oxygen, and who blame a huge influx of commercial expeditions for creating potentially deadly bottlenecks on the world's tallest peak.

The cabinet also endorsed a ban on double amputee and blind climbers, although Everest has drawn multitudes of mountaineers wanting to overcome their disabilities and achieve the formidable feat.

New Zealander Mark Inglis, who lost both his legs to frostbite, became the first double amputee to reach the top of the 8,848-metre (29,029-foot) peak in 2006.

Blind American Erik Weihenmayer scaled Everest in May 2001 and later became the only visually-impaired person to summit the highest peaks on all seven continents.

Aspiring Everest climber Hari Budha Magar, a former Gurkha soldier who lost both his legs when he was deployed in Afghanistan, said the ban was discriminatory.

"If the cabinet passes, this is #Discrimination against disable people, breaking #HumanRights," Magar said in a Facebook post after the decision was proposed early this month.

Thousands of mountaineers flock to Nepal  home to eight of the world's 14 peaks over 8,000 metres  each spring and autumn when clear weather provides good climbing conditions.

Almost 450 climbers  190 foreigners and 259 Nepalis  reached the summit of Everest from the south side in Nepal last year.
Moscow: Russia's Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed an appeal by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny against a decision by the country's central election commission to bar him from taking part in next year's presidential election.

The commission this week barred Navalny from taking part in the March 18 vote because of a suspended prison sentence he says was trumped up.

Navalny, who did not attend the Supreme Court hearing, wrote on Twitter that he and his supporters "will not recognise elections without competition" and renewed calls for a boycott of the vote.

Polls indicate that President Vladimir Putin, who has dominated Russia's political landscape for 18 years, is on course to be comfortably re-elected, but Navalny says his own exclusion from the vote makes a farce of the ballot.

Navalny, who has organised some of the biggest anti-government demonstrations in years, has been jailed three times this year and charged with breaking the law for organising public meetings and rallies.
Long Beach (US): Two people including a gunman were killed early on Friday (US time) and another was injured in a shooting at a Southern California law office that authorities called workplace violence.

A murder investigation was underway at the scene, Long Beach police said.

The wounded person was taken to a hospital, said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia, who described the person's condition as stable.

It wasn't immediately clear whether the gunman shot himself or was shot by police.

Authorities emphasised that it was not an active shooter situation, despite initial reports they received at about 2:25 pm (local time).

"This was a workplace violence incident," Long Beach police tweeted.

Video showed people running from a two-story office building shouting about a shooting inside.

The building is home to several law offices, but authorities have not specified which firm it was.

The shooting brought a massive response from police, who filled the surrounding blocks after the shooting.

The office is about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles in Long Beach, a city of about 460,000 people on the southern tip of LA County.
Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin called for pragmatic cooperation in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

In a statement on the Russian presidents New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, Frances Emmanuel Macron, Germanys Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russias Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year.

The statement added that Putin told Assad Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assads military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.
Bedford County staff are gearing up to implement an expanded ordinance that goes into effect Monday requiring property owners countywide who offer short-term rentals to secure a $50 permit before renting the property.

The new ordinance, which includes property owners who use the online platform Airbnb, updates a previous ordinance that targeted only the Smith Mountain Lake and Leesville Lake areas.

Although the ordinance states a property owner who fails to register a short-term rental property will face a civil penalty of $500 per violation, Gregg Zody, the countys director of community development, said his office will not immediately assess fines.

County offices are closed Monday and Tuesday for the New Years holiday and reopen Wednesday.

They dont have to do it by Jan. 1, but they do need to register within a reasonable period of time, Zody said. Ill make that determination, and Ill work with them.

After a new Virginia law gave local governments more power to regulate short-term rentals, the board of supervisors voted at its Dec. 11 regular meeting to expand the ordinance, which was established about 10 years ago.

Zody said in an email Friday there currently are more than 350 registered properties near Smith Mountain and Leesville lakes, but he is not aware of any new permits issued since the Dec. 11 meeting when the Bedford County Board of Supervisors voted 4-2 to expand the ordinance. Property owners have reached out to his office to ask about the new ordinance, Zody said.

Were not going to assess a fine unless its a fairly egregious abuse, County Administrator Carl Boggess said Friday.

County staff will work on identifying and sending letters to short-term rental owners starting in January, Boggess said.

Forest resident Jay Gray, who has been a host on the Airbnb short-term rental platform for about a year, said he has contacted the county to try to register. On Dec. 12, he said staff told him the application form wasnt yet updated. Gray said Friday he plans on applying to register in person Jan. 3.

It is confusing if people were worried about being fined, Gray said. I think its all good. Ill go in there next week and register.

Supervisor Andy Dooley, who represents District 6, said staff hasnt informed him about any delays in registering property owners.

You gotta take into consideration holidays and offices being closed, I understand all that, Dooley said. ... If [county staff] werent able to do it, we gotta understand that.
Close to 100 community members came together Friday to celebrate culture through Kwanzaa.

The event, billed as a celebration of family, community and culture, took place from 2 to 4 p.m. at Miller Park Theatre and was put on by the Legacy Museum of African American History.

The holiday dates back to 1966, when it was created by Maulana Karenga, an American academic and activist, who founded Kwanzaa in an effort to celebrate values of African heritage.

Kwanzaa is celebrated over the course of a week, and the holiday is centered on seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

Karenga drew from various African harvest celebrations to inspire the traditions of Kwanzaa. The name comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, which can be translated as first fruits.

In her welcoming address, Legacy Board President Joyce Dixon reflected on the seven principles of Kwanzaa and encouraged the audience to use these principles throughout the new year.

The event featured music, poetry and dancing, all celebrating African culture and traditions.

This is a time for family and community youth, shared values and faithfulness, said Valeria Chambers, vice president of the Legacy board.

A highlight of the event was the lighting of the Mishumaa Saba or the seven candles, three red, three green, and one black. The central black candle symbolizes unity and is traditionally lit first.

The three red candles represent self-determination, cooperative economics and creativity.

The green candles symbolize purpose, collective work and responsibility and faith.

Traditionally, the candles are lit one day at a time over the course of a week from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.

Sheron White, a member of Kuumba Dance Ensemble Inc., which performed Friday, said Kwanzaa is not intended to be religious or political but rather a cultural celebration.

This is what Kwanzaa is about: celebration, White said. Celebrating life.

White was joined in celebration by a group of drummers and dozens of dancers, including those pulled from the crowd and onto the stage to learn traditional African dances. Some dance moves mimicked digging into the Earth and casting seeds, a reflection on Kwanzaas harvest roots.

Following the event, guests were treated to refreshments. Though Kwanzaa ends Jan. 1, the celebration traditionally culminates Dec. 31 with an African feast known as the karamu.

According to a 2015 survey by the National Retail Federation, roughly 2 percent of Americans surveyed said they planned to celebrate Kwanzaa.

White said the spirit of Kwanzaa was about coming together, celebrating shared culture and embracing others.

We are more alike than unalike, she said.
Gov. Terry McAuliffe on Friday commuted the death sentence of a killer who had been found mentally incompetent to be executed.

William Joseph Burns, who was convicted of raping and murdering his 73-year-old mother-in-law in Shenandoah County in September 1998, will now serve life without parole.

Virginia governors have granted clemency to death row inmates nine times since the death penalty was allowed to resume in 1976, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.

On April 20, McAuliffe commuted the death sentence of Ivan Teleguz to life in prison without the possibility of parole, saying the sentencing phase of Mr. Teleguzs trial" in the murder-for-hire case "was terribly flawed and unfair.

McAuliffe said in a statement on the new commutation that Burns "has long suffered from severe mental illness," that experts have confirmed that Burns "is not likely to be restored to competence" and that he "has not showed signs of stabilizing" while in custody.

"There is no doubt that Mr. Burns committed an unimaginably heinous crime," McAuliffe said.

"He will not evade punishment  he will be incarcerated for the remainder of his life. Commuting Mr. Burns sentence to life without possibility of parole brings finality to these legal proceedings; it assures the victims family that Mr. Burns will never again enjoy freedom, but without the torment of post-trial litigation; and it allows the commonwealth to devote its resources towards other cases. In my view, this is the only just and reasonable course."

In recent decades Virginia governors granted clemency to two other mentally ill killers who were facing execution. In 1999, Gov. Jim Gilmore commuted the death sentence against Calvin Eugene Swann and, in 2008, Gov. Tim Kaine commuted Percy Levar Waltons death sentence. Both were diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Burns was sentenced to death in Shenandoah County for the murder, rape and forcible sodomy of his wifes 73-year-old mother, Tersey Elizabeth Cooley, fatally beaten at her home in Edinburg.

Burns was sentenced to death in 2000 and the Supreme Court of Virginia affirmed the sentence in March 2001.

In 2002, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in the case of Atkins v. Virginia that executing people with intellectual disabilities violates the 8th Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.

The Supreme Court of Virginia subsequently held that "Mr. Burns' claim of intellectual disability was not frivolous" and sent his case back to Shenandoah County Circuit Court, McAuliffe said.

During those proceedings "Mr. Burns again showed signs of severe mental illness," the governor added.

The state Supreme Court ruled that Burns has a constitutional right to be competent for adjudication of his intellectual disability claims, McAuliffe said. It sent the case back to the trial court for further proceedings, but ruled that it could not proceed to trial on the intellectual disability claim unless Burns was mentally competent.

McAuliffe said he has considered the views of the commonwealth's attorney who prosecuted the case and the victim's family - noting that they oppose clemency in Burns' case.

"But I have determined that continued pursuit of the execution of Mr. Burns is no longer in the best interests of the commonwealth.

"As of now, there is no lawful way to impose the death sentence on Mr. Burns, and there is no clear path for that ever being possible. To do so would require returning Mr. Burns to competency (which experts believe unlikely to occur), defeating his claim of intellectual disability in a jury trial, exhausting appeals of that and other claims, setting an execution date, defeating subsequent litigation over his execution, and maintaining his mental competence for execution."

McAuliffe added: "As governor, it is my responsibility to ensure that the commonwealth carries out the death penalty in accordance with the requirements of the Constitution, which forbids cruel and unusual punishment (here, potential execution of the intellectually disabled) and requires due process (here, the mental competence to participate in ones defense).

"These are unyielding requirements, and I have concluded that continued pursuit of the execution of Mr. Burns, both as a matter of constitutional principle and legal practicality, cannot be justified."
Thumbs up to a platoon of volunteers who staffed Lynchburgs Daily Bread on Christmas Day to make sure no one went without a plate of hot food and a smile on the holiday.

Daily Bread, which is located on Clay Street in downtown Lynchburg, is open 365 days a year, providing free, hot meals to those in need. One thing, though: Its not a soup kitchen  it operates as a fine dining establishment would. Guests are seated at tables, often decorated with flowers and other centerpieces. Servers deliver drinks, meals, salads and desserts to their patrons. It may not be the Five Diamond Inn at Little Washington, but its not the proverbial kitchen, with meals served directly from big pots and cafeteria-style trays.

For the folks who staffed Daily Bread on Christmas morning and for lunch, it was important that there be no person left hungry or in want on the holiday. Some were new volunteers; others were seasoned pros. Janice Colemore, whos been the weekend supervisor at Daily Bread for more than 20 years, is grateful for each and every one of them. There were so many volunteers this Christmas, that she had to split them into two groups. The first cleaned the dining room and prepped and cooked the days meal, while the second shift handled serving and clean up.

And thanks to even more volunteers and supporters of Daily Bread, each person left that day, not only with a hot meal, but with a Christmas package  winter necessities like hats and socks for adults and toys for children.

Thank you one and all.

* * *

Thumbs up to Marcus Rose, of Amherst, and his cousin C.J. who brought more than a little bit of Christmas cheer to senior citizens, freely giving of their time and their resources to reach out to those the holiday sometimes forgets.

Marcus, 14, had saved up almost $200 with plans to buy a new pair of Nikes Jordan sneakers. Instead, he used his savings to purchase small gifts for residents of two senior living centers in Amherst: Johnson Senior Center and Fairmont Crossing. He and C.J., also 14, delivered presents to 61 Johnson residents on Christmas Eve and 105 Fairmont Crossing residents on Christmas Day.

His grandmother, Lucille Rose, died last year, and Marcus recalled how his visits to see her at Fairmont Crossing brought such joy to the other residents. Its the first year without my grandma, he said, and I just wanted to do something nice for the community.

His mother, Liz Rose, wanted to help with the costs, but her son insisted on covering it all himself. Helping distribute the gifts were Marcus sister, Jasmine Berry, and her children Josiah and Jaleah.

This, readers, is what the holiday is all about. Thank you.
What we ask of America's leaders

Consider these American presidents, in time of crisis:

 Franklin D. Roosevelt (Pearl Harbor)

Service to our country: Assistant Secretary of the Navy

Previous government experience: New York State Senate, New York State governor

Famous quote: The only thing we have to fear, is, fear itself.

Results: Preserved the American way of life while maintaining class and dignity

 John F. Kennedy (The Cuban Missile Crisis)

Service to our country: Decorated World War II naval commander

Previous government experience: Represented Massachusetts in both houses of Congress

Famous quote: Ask not, what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your Country.

Results: Prevented a possible nuclear war using non-aggressive military strategy and diplomatic negotiations

 George W. Bush (9/11)

Service to our country: Decorated officer And pilot in the Texas Air National Guard

Previous government experience: Texas State governor, son of past president

Famous quote: I hear you, the world hears you, and the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!

Results: Helped unify and calm the American people after the 9/11 tragedy

 Donald J. Trump (North Korean Nuclear Missile Threat)

Service to our country: None

Previous government experience: None

Work experience: Real estate sales, reality TV host

Famous quote: When youre a star, you can do anything. Grab em by the p***y.

As the Roman writer Publilius Syrus said, Anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm.

BRUCE BLACK

Lynchburg
The clearance of travellers at Beitbridge Border Post has relatively improved after border authorities reviewed their operational strategy. This has also been helped by the figures of people accessing the border which reduced significantly a day before Christmas. Last week, the border post had become clogged with both vehicular and human traffic as many Zimbabweans based in South Africa arrived for the holidays.



Assistant immigration officer in charge of Beitbridge, Mr Notius Tarisai said they were clearing about 16 000 travellers daily down from between 24 000 and 30 000 during peak period. He said though a few people had started going back to South Africa, they were anticipating the numbers to peak from January 1.



The situation at the moment is manageable, we are handling around 11 000 departures and 6 000 arrivals. We have reviewed our operation plan to ensure that we create a smooth environment for efficient services for those leaving or entering the country, said Mr Tarisai.

Mr Tarisai said they had opened more clearance points. Herald
North Korea said Saturday it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the US and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" at its doorstep. The North's Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed its major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year, the AP reports. The North conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three ICBMs into the sea in July and November, indicating it's closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland US. The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly. The US and South Korea have maintained they won't negotiate with the North unless it's willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile program.

In its report, KCNA said the North had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the US and its "vassal forces." The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the US and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive. KCNA accused President Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against the North and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power." "Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said. "The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

(Read more North Korea stories.)
Thousands of people gathered in Iran's capital Saturday to lend their support to the Iranian government, a response to anti-government protests that had been held there over the past two days, the AP and CNN report. Numbers vary, but reports place between 2,000 and 4,000 pro-government demonstrators in Tehran, with state media airing footage of protesters waving Iranian flags; CNN notes the anti-government protests received little coverage from state media. Officials say about 50 of those in the latter group have been arrested after social media posts spurred them to gather to protest rising gas and food prices, with blame for the nation's economic woes being directed at Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, and even at the US. "They always say that [they] are supporting Iranian people, but who should pay the costs?" one demonstrator said to the AP.

Press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders and President Trump tweeted an almost identical message about Iran Friday night, lending support to the original set of protesters. Trump's tweet noted: "Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption & its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching!" An earlier State Department statement similarly urged the world to stick up for Iranians' "demands for basic rights and an end to corruption." Meanwhile, a statement on Iran's Foreign Ministry site labels Trump's comments as "opportunistic," and an Interior Ministry rep tells citizens "not to participate in these illegal gatherings, as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," per the BBC. (Read more Iran stories.)
A Florida sheriff calls it "one of the most bizarre domestic violence cases I have seen in my career." The Daytona Beach News-Journal reports a Florida man allegedly rigged a "booby trap" capable of electrocuting his pregnant wife if she unlocked the front door of their home over the Christmas holiday. Authorities say 32-year-old Michael Wilson aroused the suspicions of his unnamed wife's stepfather when he told her to make sure she used the front door and to not let a child touch the doorknob. (Reuters reports Wilson and his wife have a young daughter together.) During this time, Wilson had disappeared from his in-law's home in Tennessee without explanation and accused his wife of cheating on him via text.

Authorities went to Wilson's home in Florida on Tuesday and found burn marks on the front door, which let off a large spark when kicked open. Inside they found the doorknob and deadbolt attached to a car battery charger. An electrician who looked at a picture of the booby trap determined there was an 80% to 100% chance of "suffering death or great bodily harm." They also found Wilson's wife's new smart cameras in the toilet and other odd items. Wilson was arrested Thursday in Tennessee and charged with attempted aggravated battery on a pregnant person. He's also been charged with stealing a firearm from his father-in-law's home, WKMG reports. Wilson's wife says he "seemed to be a normal person" until falling a few months ago and refusing to get medical treatment. Wilson's Facebook page lists him as "widowed." (Read more weird crimes stories.)
Police say two people have been arrested in the quadruple homicide that took the lives of two women and two children in their upstate New York apartment. Officials made the announcement early Saturday morning. The suspects' names, photos, and charges have not yet been released. Police say that information will be made available later Saturday. Both defendants are scheduled for arraignment in Troy City Court around 8:30am local time Saturday.

A property manager found 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah Myers and 5-year-old Shanise Myers; and 22-year-old Brandi Mells in a basement apartment along the Hudson River, just north of Albany, on Tuesday. Police say the two women were in a relationship. Police Chief John Tedesco says he has "never seen savagery like this" in 42 years in law enforcement.

(Read more murder stories.)
Vladimir Putin is heading into the new year with hopes that Russia and the US can move toward a "pragmatic cooperation" that will allow them to work together over the long haul. Per the Kremlin, that's the gist of the New Year's message the Russian president sent over to his US counterpart, telling President Trump that a "mutual respect" is what's needed as "a base to develop relations," the AP and AFP report. "The development [of] a constructive Russian-US dialogue is particularly important for strengthening strategic stability in the world and finding the optimal answers to global threats and challenges," Putin is said to have added.

The AP notes that Putin's message comes at a time when relations between the US and Russia are the worst since the Cold War era, in part due to Russia's occupation of Crimea and its interference in the US election. Putin also sent end-of-year correspondence to French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, expressing "sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year" and vowing to "show all kind of support" to Syria in its efforts to "protect its state sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity." (Read more Vladimir Putin stories.)
A man was arrested Saturday in connection with a St. Petersburg supermarket bombing that wounded 18 people, Russia's main domestic security agency said. Eight people remain hospitalized after a device exploded Wednesday in a storage area for customers' bags, the AP reports. Investigators said the homemade device contained 7 ounces of explosives and was rigged with shrapnel to cause more damage. The Federal Security Service, or FSB, did not identify the suspect or provide any details about his motive. The agency said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies that he organized and carried out the attack on his own.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the blast, but a member of the security committee in the lower house of Russia's parliament cast doubt on the claim, saying it might have been an attempt by IS to gain publicity. "Now, when the IS defeat in Syria seriously dented its image, it will try to restore its authority and claim responsibility for the attacks by others," Adalbi Shakhgoshev said, according to Russian news wires. The FSB said that it has handed over the suspect to the Investigative Committee, the nation's top investigative agency. The FSB normally deals with terror suspects itself, and the transfer could indicate that the man had other motives.

(Read more Russia stories.)
Police have arrested a 25-year-old man in Los Angeles in connection with a "swatting" prank that left a 28-year-old Kansas man dead Thursday night, KWCH reports. Tyler Barriss, arrested Friday afternoon, is accused of making a false report to police. He was arrested two years ago in connection to a bomb threat to ABC Studios. On Thursday police turned up at a house in Wichita after getting a report of someone shooting their father in the head and holding their family hostage. In a recording of the 911 call, the caller says the man was also threatening to set the house on fire, KABC reports. The Wichita Police Department confirmed Friday the call was a swatting prank, in which someone calls in a false report to get a large police response to their victim's home.

In this case, the victim of the prankreportedly a response to a $1.50 bet on the video game Call of Dutyprovided a fake address that sent police to the home of Andrew Finch. Police say Finch at first followed directions to put his hands in the air when he opened the door. Deputy chief Troy Livingston says Finch then moved his hands toward his waistband, leading an officer to fatally shoot him. "Due to the actions of a prankster, we have an innocent victim," Livingston says. But Finch's mother, Lisa Finch, says blame also lies with police. "What gives the cops the right to open fire?" the AP quotes her as saying. "That cop murdered my son." Lisa Finch says police didn't give her son any warning before opening fire, and he was unarmed when he was shot. The FBI estimates there are about 400 cases of swatting a year. (Read more swatting stories.)
One of the heretofore unanswered questions of Donald Trump's presidency is what, exactly, caused the FBI to open an investigation into the Trump campaign and possible Russian attempts to influence the election in July 2016. Trump and others have claimed it was in response to a dossier put together by a former British spy. That now appears not to be the case. A New York Times report appears to place the blame for the investigation, which is now being run by special counsel Robert Mueller, on former Trump foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos, an Australian diplomat, and copious amounts of alcohol. After being made an adviser, the Times reports Papadopoulos was told by Moscow that it was in possession of thousands of apparently stolen emails embarrassing to the Clinton campaign.

Three weeks later, in May 2016, Papadopoulos was drinking heavily at a London bar when he reportedly told Australian diplomat Alexander Downer about Russia's dirt on Hillary Clinton. Two months after Papadopoulos' drunken confession, leaked Democratic emails showed up online. That prompted Australian officials to tell American officials about Papadopoulos' conversation with Downer and the FBI to open an investigation, the Times reports. Papadopoulos has since pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and is cooperating with the investigation he apparently helped incite. Click here to read the rest of the Times report, which claims Papadopoulos tried for months to arrange a meeting between Trump and Vladimir Putinor at least their aides. (Read more George Papadopoulos stories.)
Sorry!

This content is not available in your region
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High 11F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy during the evening followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 6F. Winds light and variable.
#FIFA World Cup Ghana coach 'happy' to see old pupil Son Heung-min in Qatar When South Korea and Ghana square off in their second Group H match of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this month, it will also set up a reunion for a coach and a former player o...
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 :

Sanjay Leela Bhansalias controversial period drama aPadmavatia is likely to get a UA certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which has also suggested the director to change the filmas title to aPadmavata.A

According to a release issued by the CBFC, the board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 and decided to give the film a aUA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the filmas title on the basis the attributed material/creative sourcea.

However, the Karni Sena seems to be in no mood to let the movie release peacfully and has threatened to vandalise cinema halls showing the film.

A Rajput Karni Sena memberA Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi said, "Our people will be outside cinema halls & each hall which shows the film will be vandalised."

"Members of committee formed to review the film have opposed it but censor board is taking this decision due to underworld pressure," he added.

Our people will be outside cinema halls & each hall which shows the film will be vandalised. Members of committee formed to review the film have opposed it but censor board is taking this decision due to underworld pressure: Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, Rajput Karni Sena #Padmavati pic.twitter.com/nTBdpstsIb a ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Reacting to the development, former CBFC Chairman Pahlaj Nihalani has raised questions on the credibility of the Censor Board and said Prashoon Joshi was facing political pressure for delaying the film.

"This film was sidelined by CBFC & it raises question on the Censor Board. Producers suffered such huge losses because of the cuts. Vote bank politics has obviously been done, the film is being seen after elections. Chairman faced pressure from the ministry," Nihalani said.

This film was sidelined by CBFC & it raises question on the Censor Board. Producers suffered such huge losses because of the cuts. Vote bank politics has obviously been done, the film is being seen after elections. Chairman faced pressure from the ministry: Pahlaj Nihalani pic.twitter.com/4MVjw8w0jg a ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

"Padmavati" director Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, has said his lavishly mounted 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem aPadmavata by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

The board also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of aSatia and also relevant changes in the song aGhoomara to befit the character portrayed, the release further stated.

The meeting took place in the presence of CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi and was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other censor board officials.

aThe film was approached with a balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and the society,a the statement added.

Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the CBFC appointed a aspecial panel to add perspective to the final decision of the censor boardas official committee.a

The special panel included Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and professor K K Singh of the Jaipur University.

According to the board, the modification details and CBFCas decision regarding this film was shared with the producers Viacom and Bhansali, who attended the feedback session post the screening and are in agreement with the changes.

The certificate as per procedure will be issued once the required modifications are carried out and final material is submitted, the statement added.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorts history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

As protests spread across various states, the filmas December 1 release was deferred as it didnat have censor clearance.

(With PTI Inputs)

For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Mumbai:

Vidya Balan will be turning a year older on January 1 and the actor like always plans to ring in her birthday with her family.

The actor, who is fresh out of the success of her film "Tumhari Sulu", however, plans to do something different this time.

"My birthday has always been very simple. It has always been a family affair. When I was single, I used to wake up my parents at 12 am and ask them to wish me. All my birthdays have been with them.

"Now that I am married, I celebrate it with Siddharth(Roy Kapur) and meet my parents over lunch. This year I am thinking I should do something," Vidya told PTI.

The actor is currently enjoying her time off with her dear ones and plans to sign a new project next year.

"I am celebrating the success of 'Tumhari Sulu' and will sign something only next year. I don't like switching from one project to another. I prefer to pick stories which interest me and characters which offer me a great scope as a performer,"she said.

For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Chandigarh:

Widow of a Kargil martyr died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat after the medical staff allegedly refused to admit her for not carrying her Aadhaar card, forcing the state government to order an inquiry into the matter on Saturday.

Talking to media at Ambala, Health Minister Anil Vij said a team of health department has been sent to Sonipat to collect the details of the incident.

"Shakuntala Devi (55), widow of Kargil war martyr Havaldar Laxman Dass, died on Thursday for want of medical care at a private hospital as it insisted on having the patient's Aadhaar card," her son Pawan Kumar Balyan told PTI over phone.

Balyan, a resident of Mahlana village in Sonipat, said his mother was suffering from a heart problem.

"I took her to the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Hospital in Sonipat and got the referral slip for Tulip Hospital on Thursday," he said.

"At the counter of the hospital, the authorities asked me to give the Aadhaar card of my ailing mother so that she could be admitted for treatment. I told them that I have forgotten it and will get it soon from my home, and requested them to start the treatment. But, the hospital authorities insisted on providing the Aadhaar card," Balyan said.

"After about half-an-hour of argument with the hospital authorities, I decided to leave the place with my mother," he said, adding that the hospital authorities also called up police who asked me not to create a scene in the hospital premises.

"I brought back my mother to ECHS Sonipat where she died the same evening," Balyan said.

"I have given a written complaint about the matter to ECHS authorities who visited my house from Ambala," he said.

Meanwhile, Abhimanyu Kumar of Tulip Multispeciality Hospital, Sonipat, said they insist on Aadhaar cards, but denied the allegations that they were not ready to admit Devi.

"We wanted to treat the woman, but her family members decided to take her away," he said.

Also read: Indian Air Force bids farewell to MiG-27 ML Bahadur



Policeman Srikrishan, who was at the spot when the incident took place, said the hospital authorities had requested Balyan to get the ailing woman admitted.

"Balyan seemed upset by the attitude shown to him by the hospital staff and preferred to leave with his mother," he said.

Also read: 18th Kargil Vijay Diwas: Who said what on Twitter



Shakuntala Devi was the wife of Havaldar Laxman Dass who was posted with the 8th Jat Regiment in Muskoh valley near Kargil. He died of bullet injuries during a gun battle with intruders on June 9, 1999.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Bengaluru:

The Karnataka Minority Welfare Minister Tanveer Sait on Saturday said that his government has rejected the Triple Talaq bill passed in Lok Sabha on December 28.

While BJP is trying hard to get Triple Talak bill passed in Rajya Sabha, Congress-led Karnataka govt has come out publicly and not only criticised but rejected the Triple Talaq bill.

The Karnataka Minister said, The government has decided to reject the Triple Talaq bill. On December 11, Union government has sent a letter to my department seeking opinion on the bill.

However, we have not replied to it till now which means our government has rejected it, he added.

Also Read | Sukshetra Kalika Ashram members demand ban on New Year Celebrations in Bengaluru

The Minister said, If need arises we will meet the President of India regarding the Triple Talaq Bill.

The Karnataka BJP has condemned Saits statement saying the Minister comes from the same Congress which dis-empowered Muslim women in 1986.

When the whole country is celebrating today, especially Muslim women, Tanveer Sait is opposing the bill but what can we expect from him? He hails from the same Congress party which disempowered Muslim women in 1986, said Karnataka BJP spokesperson Malavika Avinash.

Sait will also be holding a meeting with Muslim religious groups and their leaders next week to discuss the future course of action.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

In an act of revenge, mother of 26-year-old youth was gang-raped by relatives of his friend with whom he eloped a month back, Uttar Pradesh police said on Saturday.

The police also added that the boys family was also assaulted by the relatives of the girl on Friday evening at Nojal village in Uttar Pradeshs Shamli district.

The incident came to light after the youths family lodged a complaint with the police on Saturday morning.

Superintendent of Police Ajay Pal Sharma told reporters that the youth fell in love with a 24-year-old girl, who hailed from a village in Muzaffarnagar and was studying in Ghaziabad.

Also read: Woman gangraped in Thane, cab driver and aide arrested



The duo had eloped on November 20, said Sharma.

Another senior police officer not willing to be quoted said, The girls family member abducted the youths father, mother and brother and confined them in a house in Shamli district.

Also read: Teenager raped in Delhi on pretext of job



The Uttar Pradesh police acting on a tip-off rescued the youths family on Friday late hours and later registered a case of gang-rape.

Police said, The girls father, two brothers, a former gram pradhan and his son have been booked in charges of abduction and gang-rape.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) created a new world record by launching as many as 104 satellites under the much-awaited single mission this year on February 15. This was ISRO's path-breaking move was very crucial for India. Also, India's heaviest rocket GSLV MKIII-D1 carrying communication satellite GSAT-19 launched from Sriharikota. After all these record, ISRO has revealed that from 2018 one rocket will be launched every month from its spaceport, Sriharikota.

Achievements of ISRO in 2017:

# GSLV MKIII launch

India's heaviest rocket GSLV MKIII-D1 carrying communication satellite GSAT-19 launched from Sriharikota on Monday. Soon, after its lift-off, it was claimed that the launch of ISRO GSLV Mark III carrying GSAT-19 communication satellite was successful.

# GSAT-17

Indias latest communication satellite GSAT-17 was successfully launched by a heavy-duty rocket of Arianespace from the spaceport of Kourou in French Guiana.

Configured around I-3K extended bus, GSAT-17 with a lift-off mass of about 3,477 kg carries payloads in Normal C-band, Extended C-band and S-band to provide various communication services.

It also carries equipment for meteorological data relay and satellite-based search and rescue services being provided by earlier INSAT satellites.

# PSLV-C38 carrying 31 Satellites in a Single Flight

The PSLV-C38 (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) was a 995-kilogram rocket that comprised 31 satellites from countries like the US, UK and Germany.

Apart from cartographic applications, the satellite is also being used for monitoring roads and keeping track of water distribution.

Post this launch, the total number of Indian satellites launched by PSLV stands at 48.

# GSLV-F09:

On 5th February 2017, the GSLV-F09 (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) took flight from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh.

The GSLV-F09s main objective is to establish a smooth communication network amongst the South Asian nations by providing them with applications in Ku-band, which gives them a higher frequency range to communicate in. This will enable telecommunication, tele-education and tele-medicine, as well as mapping of natural resources.

Predicting weather forecasts, land monitoring, and quick response to natural disasters are some of the other benefits of the satellite.

# Record-breaking launch of 104 satellites

The world watched when Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO launched record number of 104 satellites using single rocket last month. And now, the space agency is preparing to add another feather in its cap by launching two GSLVs this year.

ISRO on February 15 successfully launched a record number of 104 satellites under a single mission from the spaceport in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.

With the launch of over 100 satellites, India has now broken the record of Russia, which previously accomplished the feat of launching record number of satellites at 37, followed by the US space agency NASA, which has launched 29.

ISROs achievement in 2016:

# Resourcesat-2A

The 36-hour countdown for the launch of PSLV-C36 carrying Resourcesat-2A began in December. After the launch ISRO said that Mono Methyl Hydrazine (MMH) fuel and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen (MON-3) oxidiser filling operations of the fourth stage (PS4) of PSLV-C36 are completed.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched PSLV-C36 carrying Resourcesat-2A successfully at 10:25 hours from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.

# GSAT-18

The launch of India's latest communication satellite with 48 transponders that receive and transmit communication signals has been launched on October 6 from Kourou in French Guiana.

The Indian satellite GSAT-18 was launched at 2am on October 6, 24 hours after its initial launch time. The 3,404 kg Indian satellite GSAT-18 will be providing services in normal C-band, upper extended C-band and Ku-bands of the frequency spectrum.

# INSAT-3DR on-board GSLV-F05

ISRO on September 8 successfully launched its advanced weather satellite INSAT-3DR on-board GSLV-F05 from the second launch pad at the spaceport of Sriharikota, about 110 km from Chennai.

In April 2001, the first test flight of the GSLV with a cryogenic upper took place, however, it failed. After that, the rocket made eight flights over the past 14 years. Out of 14, five had a Russian cryogenic engine, while three others were powered by the indigenously developed ones. Three turned out to be successful, while four failed and one achieved partial success. The first successful test flight with a Russian engine took place in May 2003. First successful test flight using an indigenous engine happened in January 2014.

In 1986, ISRO made plans to develop a cryogenic engine to be used in rockets. ISRO received offers to develop engines from three different entities  US, Soviet Union and France. The space agency accepted an offer from a company named Glavkosmos in the erstwhile Soviet Union as the other two were not affordable.

# PSLV C34/Cartosat-2 Series Satellite Mission

Indian Space Research Organisation launched record 20 satellites, including India's Cartosat-2 series, from Sriharikota's Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh in July 2016. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle C-34 (PSLV) carried 17 foreign satellites from Canada, Indonesia,

Germany and the US.

The main passenger satellite comes from the home land with the name Cartosat, which can take images at sub-meter resolution. The other two Indian satellites are Sathyabhamasat and Swayam.

# Scramjet engine

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the Scramjet engine at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh around 80 km from Chennai.

The scramjet engine works on supersonic wave technology and will be helpful in bringing down the overall launch cost of weather satellite INSAT-3DR

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

After Indias strong protest, Palestine government has recalled its ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali for attending an event of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, also a UN-designated terrorist.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties with India, Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan said, "The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan" and given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

He said, "We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home."

We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pak anymore (for sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed): Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija pic.twitter.com/JMN9b2CXug  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

The Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan had reportedly attended a rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Hafiz Saeed, also Mumbai terror attack mastermind.

India had strongly conveyed to Palestine that the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed.

Also Read | Pakistan govt asks court to deny clearance to Saeed's political party

The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine, the External Affairs Ministry said.

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassadors presence at this event.

They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, it said.

(With PTI inputs)

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Washington:

The Iranian government should respect the rights of its citizens to protest peacefully, the White House said on Saturday amidst reports of multiple protests erupting in various parts of the country.

Peaceful protests were reported from various parts of the country, in what appeared to be a sign of unrest against the economic policies of the Iranian President Hassam Rouhani.

"The world is watching," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

"There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regime's corruption and its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," she said.

"The Iranian government should respect their people's rights, including their right to express themselves," Sanders said.

In a separate statement, the US "strongly condemned" reports of arrests of peaceful protestors.

Hundreds took to the streets of Mashhad and other cities on Thursday. An Iranian official said that 52 protestors were arrested in Mashhad.

"The United States strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption," said State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert.

On June 14, 2017, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson testified to Congress that he supports "those elements inside of Iran that would lead to a peaceful transition of government. Those elements are there, certainly as we know."

The Secretary, on Saturday, repeated his deep support for the Iranian people, his spokesperson said.

"We are following reports of multiple peaceful protests by Iranian citizens in cities across the country. Iran's leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos," Nauert said.

"As President Trump has said, the longest-suffering victims of Iran's leaders are Iran's own people," she added.

Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher urged US President Donald Trump to back Iranian protestors.

Also Read| Cryptocurrencies offer great hope, but present risks: White House

"I call on President Trump to make clear, this new year, that a new government is his fondest wish for the Iranian people. He must offer all manner of support, moral and material, to those Iranians who aspire to a life free of religious and political tyranny," he said.

"Eight years ago, in what we called the Green Movement, or the Persian Awakening, thousands of Iranian protesters took to the streets to call for an end to radical Islamic tyranny," Rohrabacher said.

Also Read| Microsoft, Facebook disrupt North Korean hackers from cyber attacks in US: White House

They were brutally suppressed, the streets running with their blood, he added.

Rohrabacher noted that the imprisoning and killing of protestors in Iran was the "first foreign crisis" faced by the then Obama administration. He rued that the Obama administration "watched passively" the deaths.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Long Beach (US):

Two people including a gunman were killed on Saturday in a shootout at a law office in Southern California. A murder investigation was underway at the scene, Long Beach police said.

The wounded person was taken to a hospital, said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia, who described the person's condition as stable.

Long Beach police say the incident is over now but didn't elaborate. They received reports of a shooter around 2:25 pm (local time) on Saturday.

"This was a workplace violence incident," Long Beach police tweeted.

Video showed people running from an unmarked building shouting about a shooting inside.

Also Read| Iceland: Crash kills Chinese tourist, critically injures 12

The office is about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles in Long Beach, a city of about 460,000 people on the southern tip of LA County. The two-story building is home to several law offices, but police did not specify what kind of business it is.

The shooting brought a massive response from police, including members of a SWAT team, who filled the surrounding blocks after the shooting.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Washington:

The US State Department said on Saturday it "strongly condemns" the arrest of protesters in Iran, where dozens were detained during demonstrations against high prices and unemployment.



The State Department is monitoring the protests, and urged "all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption," spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.



"Iran's leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos," she said.



"As President Trump has said, the longest-suffering victims of Iran's leaders are Iran's own people."



Hundreds took to the streets of Mashhad and other cities on Thursday, and an Iranian official said that 52 were arrested in Mashhad.



The head of Mashhad's revolutionary court, Hossein Heidari, said people were arrested for chanting "harsh slogans," the Fars news agency reported.



Protests spread to the capital Tehran and Kermanshah on Friday, although numbers reportedly remained small, in contrast with the "Green Movement" opposition protests in the aftermath of the 2009 election.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

In a New Year telegram to US President Donald Trump, Russias President Vladimir Putin says a constructive dialogue between the two nations is essential for global stability.

The Kremlin said Saturday that Putin emphasized in his Seasons Greetings to Trump that Russia and the US could develop a pragmatic cooperation aimed at long-term perspective on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

Putin noted that the development a constructive Russian-U.S. dialogue is particularly important for strengthening strategic stability in the world and finding the optimal answers to global threats and challenges.

Ties between Moscow and Washington sank to a post-Cold War low following Russias annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the allegations of its meddling in the US presidential election last year.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
The state has delayed a controversial plan, originally scheduled to go into effect Jan. 1, to consolidate agencies addressing mental health and substance abuse.

The plan, now slated to take effect March 1, will eliminate the states five regional mental health boards and 13 regional action councils, which focus on substance abuse, and create five new agencies to tackle both issues. The new boards will be called Regional Behavioral Health Action Organizations.

Diana Lejardi, a representative of the states Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, said the new system will save money and help mental health and addiction services work better together.

The current structure, she said, seperates mental health and addiction services even though the two issues often go hand in hand.

By consolidating the RACs and boards, services will be integrated, allowing for improved delivery of services and outcomes for clients, Lejardi said. (And) in these serious economic times, its important that we work to increase efficiencies so that we can continue to deliver vital services to clients.

The existing agencies typically receive funding from the states general fund, from gambling revenue and from various grants. This years state budget reduced the general fund contribution in anticipation of a consolidation plan, said Chris McClure, a representative of the states Office of Policy and Management.

Last year, $1.2 million came from the general fund. The reduction was not specified in the new budget, McClure said, but Lejardi estimates the consolidation plan will save $1 million each year.

But many of the current boards and councils, some of which have applied to be designated as one of the new agencies, have said the consolidation could threaten the services they offer across the state.

All five boards, including the Danbury areas Northwest Regional Mental Health Board, issued a flyer opposing the plan when it was first proposed.

The flyer argues that the current boards provide independent and external oversight of state-funded programs and needs assessment for local communities, ensuring that state and federal money for behavioral health programs is well spent. Each of these services would be at risk with the consolidation plan, they claim.

No other structure provides independent, community-based oversight of the behavioral health system, the flyer said.

The Southwestern Connecticut Regional Mental Health Board also drafted a letter opposing the plan, arguing that the intended watchdog function of the boards will be in jeopardy with the consolidation.

The board said the regional mental health system was created 40 years ago by the legislature to provide that oversight and is still necessary today.

This was a direct response to the states discovery of abuses of patients at psychiatric hospitals, the letter states. Now  ironically at a time when abuses are once again being uncovered  this community watchdog function seems set for elimination.

Ingrid Gillespie, executive director of Communities for Action, which covers Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan and Stamford, said the consolidation will likely lead to reduced services as the organizations try and cover more issues and a larger region.

She said she suggested increasing the new boards to eight instead of five so they can keep the local connection the councils currently have, which will get harder the larger the regions become.

Bottom line is, when you go from 18 organizations and decrease that number while expecting them to deliver the same services, youre going to see a dilution in services, especially in the area of substance abuse prevention, said Gillespie, who is also executive director for the Regional Action Council for Stamford and former president of Connecticut Prevention Network.

The Danbury areas regional action council, the Housatonic Valley Coalition Against Substance Abuse, was one of the existing entities that applied to be one of the new organizations.

Still, Rudy Marconi, president of the coalitions board, worries that consolidation was proposed merely to save money, not to address any problems with the current structure.

He added that he was disappointed the state was unable to choose among the boards applying to be one of the five new agencies by the Jan. 1 deadline.

That is a terrible way to do business, Marconi said. This is very disappointing when we are dealing with the most serious issue of our time  the opioid crisis.

Im hoping for the state just to make a decision and allow people to go to work and do what needs to get done in the state, which is developing greater education and prevention, assisting in the development of more beds, rehab facilities, hopefully getting more money for enforcement.

Gillespie added that the state hasnt made clear how the new agencies will merge the responsibilities of the existing boards and councils. Most of the organizations are their own 501-(c)3 nonprofits, which are not easy to consolidate in a short amount of time.

Its a long and drawn-out process, she said. So for some of us, the primary question is, What would a Regional Behavioral Health and Action Organization look like in our region? And we really dont have an answer for that right now.

aquinn@newstimes.com
TROY, N.Y. -- Police say two suspects have been arrested for the quadruple homicide in Troy earlier this week.

Both of the accused are scheduled to be arraigned at 8:30 a.m. Saturday in Troy City Court, according to Captain Dan DeWolf of the Troy Police Department.

The suspects' names were not released when Troy police made the announcement at 2 a.m. Saturday.

The building's manager found the deceased in their basement apartment at 158 Second Ave., Troy before 1 p.m. Tuesday.



Police later identified the victims as 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah Myers and 5-year-old Shanise Myers; and Brandi Mells, 22, who attended high school in Central New York.

Numerous law enforcement sources not involved in the investigation have told news outlets that all four of the victims were bound, with their throats cut.

Troy Police Chief John Tedesco previously stated that the homicide scene was the "worst we've experienced."

Family members of the Myers urged people to come forward with information on who may have taken the lives of the two women and two children.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ORANGE  The ordinary look of Bull Hill Plaza belies the powerful energy of Islam, culture, diversity and shopping that the 30,000-square-foot center brings to town.

Each week thousands from more than 50 countries worship at the New Haven Islamic Center mosque located at one end of the plaza.

They and hundreds more Muslims and non-Muslims from around the state shop weekly at the other half of the plaza in four retail spaces and soon, a fifth spot that will be occupied by a Mediterranean restaurant.

Its all owned by New Haven Islamic Center, which is the first in the state to be self-sustaining by combining worship and retail, although the trend is catching on elsewhere, said Islamic Center Board of Trustees member M. Asaf Sheikh.

For religious non-profits, the financial future is challenging, he said. If we become financially independent, we can do more to help the community.

Although it is not a rule that tenants must be Muslim, there are certain rules of ethics in this Little Islam that commercial tenants must follow, including: no selling of alcohol, lottery tickets or racy clothing.

The New Haven Islamic Center was located on Prudden Lane in West Haven for some 30 years  established by students at University of New Haven  but upon outgrowing the space purchased the plaza in Orange four years ago with a large down payment and an interest-free loan, as Muslims are not allowed to pay interest or receive interest.

With thousands flocking there each week for five daily prayers and mandatory Friday worship services that draw 1,000 to 1,500 alone, theres an aspect of an automatic customer base.

But more importantly, the centers leaders say, is that the model of the mosques ownership ensures its financial sustainability, rather than depending on money from worshippers.

We are a financially independent facility. I think its a great model, Sheikh said. Its a first for a center of this size.

When they purchased the plaza at 254 Bull Hill Lane it was run down and largely unoccupied. Sheikh said the price was right, the location is easily accessible to Interstate 95 and Route 15 and there is plenty of parking for the large crowds, including an easement to use an adjoining lot connected to an old, unoccupied building.

Parking is key with so many attending the mosque weekly. On the Islamic holiday of EID  celebrated after Ramadan  3,000 to 5,000 people pray in the parking lot.

Part of their centers aim is to help in the community. The social welfare system in Islam puts responsibility on the community  relatives, friends, others, but not the state  so that is a focus. The center recently donated $1,000 to the Orange food pantry.

The New Haven Islamic center has been very nice and welcoming, Orange First Selectman Jim Zeoli said.

The Islamic Centers aim is to educate the public about Islam, said Jamilah Rasheed, a female board member and director of the outreach arm of the Islamic center.

Rasheed is director of the non-profit New Haven Inner City Enrichment Center - acronym NICE - which she said makes everyone smile. The organization is run by Muslim women and supplies food and other items to the needy.

She said there is an inaccurate stereotype that Muslim women are oppressed and dont go out of the house. She said they have already hosted Christian/Muslim womens breakfasts, will hold open-houses and are becoming involved in the greater interfaith community that brings churches and synagogues together.

Theres always an opportunity to increase peoples knowledge of what were about, she said.

Imam Bachir Djehiche said the religion is not what you see in the media, and one bad apple doesnt spoil the bunch.

Djehiche said the religion, like others Abrahamic religions, is based on the tenetsof freedom of religion; life and health; mind, intellect, education; lineage and family, and wealth and prosperity.

Sheikh added: We are a God-fearing community and Connecticut is full of God fearing communities, in churches, synagogues.

Although Muslim women are leaders, professionals and own businesses, they have a separate entrance from the men in the mosque portion of the plaza and worship in a separate area.

On the womans side during the Friday service, women are on their knees on the floor during prayer, and their hands touch the ground. They wear long dresses or skirts, head coverings, and shoes are left by the door. But just as in any other place of worship, young children scamper about playing and making noise as the adults pray.

At a recent Friday service  which is like Sunday to Christians and Saturday to Jews  Djehiche gave a sermon or Khutba with a message that would resonate in many circles.

He spoke about how to have a happy marriage and family life, advising the mosque-goers to express their emotional love, for their spouses and to be kind, forgiving and to focus on the positive aspects of the other person. He also encouraged them to accept criticism and feedback within the family and the community.

Islamic Center leaders said the Orange community has been welcoming.

Sheikh said last year the Islamic Center received a hateful letter  similar ones went to two other mosques in Connecticut  the greater community supported the center.

A number of our own non-Muslim neighbors, sent kind notes and gestures, Sheikh said, noting one woman bought fruit at Orange Farmers Market and passed it out.

Connecticut and the United States are filled with beautiful people.

The specialty businesses in 15,000-square-feet of the plaza have drawn a diverse shopping base from near and far, leaders say.

The current tenants of the plaza beginning with the Bull Hill Lane side are:

 Orange Farmers Market, a produce store, owned by Murat Karacayli, who said he can offer great prices because he orders fresh, in bulk.

They treat me well, he said of his landlords. When the mosque bought the shopping center, it was occupied by only his store and Statewide Pets, he said. When ShopRite opened across the street, presenting him with competition, the mosque lowered his rent voluntarily out of fairness. That doesnt happen  not in the United States, Karacayli said.

Sheikh responded: We are not like a commercial landlord always interested in profits, Sheikh said. We are all looking out for each other.

 AZ Floor Covering and Bedding, which sells flooring, carpeting and mattresses. Owner Nauman Ali said having the busy Islamic Center in the same plaza was a big draw to the space.

 Halal Meat, a market holding to the rules of Islam in slaughtering meat. Leaders said the slaughtering (not done at the plaza) is done in a way thats not cruel to the animal and includes a prayer that makes clear the life of the animal is being taken to feed another life. The blood is also drained from the animal before it is butchered. The animals must also be treated well beforehand and not see other animals being killed.

The store is also a grocery of international foods. The owner has a business in New York and saw the need here, Sheikh said. Many non-Muslims buy the meat because its fresh and organic, Sheikh said.

 A multi-cultural boutique called Modish that features affordable, fashionable, modest clothing from around the globe, including Africa, the Middle East, Asia. The Mod in Modish is for modesty. They sell head covers - or hijabs - and even Burkinis, a modest swimsuit for women. Sheikhs daughter, Aisha Sheikh, who owns the boutique, said she gets a lot of customers from churches, including clergy, because along with modest dresses and skirts, she sells robes.

Sheikh said she left her job as a public elementary school teacher to live out the advice she always gave students: To follow their passion.

Sheikh said retail is her passion  along with dedication to modesty and diversity. Its important to her that clothes be trendy and affordable. I love it, she said of the business. The store has a website at Modishfamily.com.

 Bab Al Salam Restaurant, a new Mediterranean eatery, is preparing to open in the space once occupied by Statewide Pets. We changed everything, Adnan Akil, one of new eatery partners, said. The inside, under construction, has an authentic Mediterranean feel.

Sheikh said the mosque is attended by people from more than 50 countries, including: Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iran, China, Russia, Serbia, Bosnia, United Kingdom, France, Yemen, Sierra Leone, Egypt, Kenya, Somalia, Ghana, Spain. The congregtion is racially diverse and includesa range of socio-economic backgrounds.

We are probably going to be the largest Islamic Center in Connecticut, Sheikh said. When I moved here 30 years ago, it was beyond my imagination.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

NEW HAVEN  The New Haven-based Knights of Columbus gave $256,000 to area charities in 2017, with a new home in Hamden for a Vietnam War veteran and his family among the funding targets, according to a release.

The home was built with $75,000 in funding from the Knights under the direction of Habitat for Humanity, the release said. The Knights have supported building five homes in the New Haven area in partnership with Habitat.

The Knights also donated $7,000 for Thanksgiving turkeys for New Havens annual Day of Joy. Since Thanksgiving Day, the Knights have given away about 2,000 Coats for Kids in Connecticut valued at $39,000, the release said.

The Catholic fraternal organization has recently sent contributions to more than 20 area charities, which puts its giving for the year in excess of a quarter of a million dollars, the release said.

The Knights of Columbus is happy to partner with and support the great work of these organizations in our community, said Knights CEO Carl Anderson, also in the release. Whether they provide housing, food, a safe place or other kinds of assistance, the spirit of giving and help that these organizations exhibit is a great reminder to all of us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Among organizations that received donations are: Connecticut Food Bank, St. Anns Soup Kitchen, Columbus House, Connecticut Hospice, Farnam Neighborhood House, Christian Community Action, Community Soup Kitchen, Little Sisters of the Poor, Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, St. Lukes Lunch for Women and Children, St. Thomas More Soup Kitchen, The Salvation Army, Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church, Beacon on the Hill, Caring Cuisine, Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen, Life Haven, Community Dining Room and Mary Wade Home.

The Knights set a new record for charitable donations in 2016, with more than $177.5 million in donations and more than 75 million hours of service valued at $1.8 billion, according to the organization.

The Knights also recently announced the organization is giving a 30-day supply of food to 12,000 displaced or formerly displaced Christian families in northern Iraq.

The Knights of Columbus is pleased to help bring a Merry Christmas to those displaced by ISIS or now returning home to recently liberated areas, Anderson said, in a release. These Christians have lost everything for their faith, and we want them to know that they are not forgotten and that their sacrifices inspire us in our own faith.

Valued at $840,000, the Christmas baskets contain food staples such as wheat, rice, beans and meat, along with cleaning supplies. With the assistance of the Chaldean Catholic Archdiocese of Erbil, the Knights gift is being distributed to Syriac Catholic, Syriac Orthodox and Chaldean Catholic families, as well as Yazidis.

Even though we are still in a time of great uncertainty, the knowledge that our brothers in the Knights of Columbus are in solidarity with us, especially at this time of year, brings great comfort, said Archbishop Bashar Warda of Erbil, in the release. God bless them all.

The K of C has committed more than $17 million in aid to Christians and other religious minorities in the region since 2014, the release said.

For more information on the Knights efforts visit www.ChristiansAtRisk.org.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

NEW HAVEN  The owners of English Station power plant have been ordered to demolish the facade of a building that fronts on Grand Avenue after the city determined it is in danger of imminent collapse.

The address is 510 Grand Ave. and the deteriorating building, which housed the turbine hall for a coal-fired power plant built around 1890, directly abuts the sidewalk.

That sidewalk has been closed to pedestrian traffic since the middle of the month and the city put concrete barriers in place on Friday to block a lane of traffic closest to the building.

TRC Solutions, which was on the English Station property as part of a remediation plan for the highly contaminated site, found that some bricks had fallen from the facade onto the sidewalk and alerted the city and representatives of the United Illuminating Co., now a subsidiary of Avangrid, which formerly owned the 9-acre site that juts into the Mill River.

The order is dated Dec. 15 and was sent to Evergreen Power in Wilmington, Delaware, and ASNAT Realty LLC in New York. Evergreen is now the owner of the building in question, which is one of two structures on the property, while ASNAT Realty owns the main shuttered power plant there.

It read, the facade is in danger of imminent collapse and separating from the substrate of the building.

Attorney Keith R. Ainsworth, who represents Evergreen and its manager, Mehboob H. Shah, said the company is taking this very seriously. He said it had contacted eight contractors to see if they would take the job, but they found no one.

He said it was a combination of the holidays and nobody wants to get out in 8 degree weather. They expect to get better results next week.

The city estimates the work will cost between $40,000 and $120,000 and it plans to arrive at a solution by Tuesday. State statutes give the city the right to contract someone to do the work and then bill the owners, if necessary.

Ainsworth said they received the order, which was dated Dec. 18, on Dec. 22. The order directs the owner to find a contractor to remove the facade and parapet wall down to a safe location per direction of structural engineer ... and repair and/or demolish the structure that has suffered damaged ... within five days upon receipt of this notice.

Engineer David Carlson of Spiegel Zamecnik & Shah, who inspected the building at the request of the city, wrote deterioration of the masonry due to heavy corrosion and weathering has severely degraded some elements of the facade, particularly the parapet and masonry spanning above the windows at the upper level and the pilasters at the west end of the north wall.

Carlson continued that along numerous locations on that wall brick appears to be able to fall at any time. These pieces endanger pedestrians and could bounce into the roadway on impact with the sidewalk.

He also told the city that the stability of two pilasters at the west and most of the parapet is in question due to an apparent loss of support steel as well as cracking and displacement observed.

Carlson wrote that the masonry will be further disrupted as the parapets are exposed to additional freezing and thawing. He said the wall is also subject to the highest wind pressures of any wall on the building. Because of this, he wrote that they ... pose a risk of large size pieces coming down in a storm event, posing greater risk to street level traffic and pedestrians.

A pilaster is a shallow rectangular column that projects slightly beyond the wall into which it is built, according to one definition. A parapet is a low wall or railing to protect the edge of a platform, roof, or bridge.

The engineer said action was needed to remove the two pilasters at the west end. He said it would be prudent to remove the two sections of the parapet at the west end and one at the east end to determine its condition (on) how it is supported followed by its partial or complete removal or reinforcement.

He also found that at least three bays of the timber roof deck inside the parapet had collapsed.

He warned workers that the structural integrity of the roof deck should not be assumed and he recommended they stay off it. The order also prohibits anyone from entering the building without permission of Building Official Jim Turcio.

UIL Holdings and Iberdrola, the Spanish energy giant, agreed in 2015 to pay up to $30 million to clean up the heavily contaminated site in exchange for state approval of their $3 billion merger. This was the conclusion of a long fight between UIL the city of New Haven and environmentalists.

Dozens of vehicles and some trailers were evident on the main part of the English Station property this week apparently connected to the remediation agreement. Ainsworth said his clients had to get permission to go on the property from the Attorney Generals office. As part of the remediation stipulation, the owners agreed to stay off the site.

The cleanup deal was worked out by state Democratic Senate Pro Tempore Martin Looney, Attorney General George Jepson and the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
After being in detention for two years, relations and associates of a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Mr. Sambo Dasuki, yesterday...

After being in detention for two years, relations and associates of a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Mr. Sambo Dasuki, yesterday asked the Federal Government to release him.They said an Edict, titled Instrument No 1 of 1999, has shielded security agencies from external audit and investigation of their financial dealings.They alleged that since the Department of State Security Service (DSS) had depended on the Edict to prevent the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission from arresting or interrogating the former DG of DSS Ita Ekpeyong, the ex-NSA has no case to answer.The affected relations and associates made their position known under the auspices of the Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki Progressive Association (SIDPA).A statement, released to the media in Abuja by the Secretary General of the SIDPA, Comrade Kabir T. Auwal, reads in part: The Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki Progressive Association (SIDPA), for and on behalf of the entire members of the Sultan Dasuki family, wishes to request the Federal Government, under the leadership of Muhammadu Buhari, to respect the rule of law in the case of our son, brother and cousin and the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), to release him from detention.Today is two years since the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki, was arrested and re-arrested in December 2015 after securing his bail condition, but ignored by the Federal Government. Since his incarceration, Dasuki has been arraigned before four federal courts which granted him bail, while the ECOWAS court, a sub-regional court not only ordered that the FG release him immediately, but also order his compensation to the tune of N15million.The agents of the Federal Government, especially Department of State Service (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have refused to obey any of the court orders.Meanwhile, just recently the DSS had prevented the EFCC from arresting or interrogating the former DG of DSS Ita Ekpeyong by relying on the provision of a proclamation approved by General Abubakar Abdulsalam in 1999.The edict, titled Instrument No 1 of 1999, shields security agencies from external audit and investigation of their financial dealings, making them subject to only presidential review. Why is this not applied to Sambo Dasuki who supervised and coordinated activities of the intelligence services when the instrument has not been nullified or replaced by a National Assembly-enacted Act.In addition, just recently too, while receiving a report on National Intelligence Agency (NIA) over Osborne Tower Scandal from Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, President Buhari, in a statement by his spokesperson, Femi Adesina, said the scandal must be understood that this (investigation) cannot be done in a manner that jeopardizes national security or exposes the operations of any intelligence agency, which must, by nature be conducted in secrecy. Why is this not applicable to Sambo Dasuki who supervised those agencies during his tenure. We and other right-thinking members of his family have deliberately remained silent on his ordeal and persecution, hoping in a democratic government, rule of law would be adhered to.But surprisingly in over two years that Sambo Dasuki has been unlawfully and illegally detained without any court order or warrant, he has been subjected to media trial, scandalized, criminalized, insulted and humiliated not through any court of justice, but from the propaganda of the current administration through media trials of falsehood.Suffice to say that Dasuki has served the nation with best of intentions, yet he remains the only public officer that has remained in detention in the last two years; the only officer that has been granted bail by four courts.The FGs sheer disregard for the rule of law in the last two years, especially as it affects Sambo Dasukis incarceration has become worrisome to the Dasuki family even when we lost our father, Sultan Dasuki. No nation develops in the absence of rule of law, in which case her extant laws and judicial structures are respected ydevoid of sentimentality and grudging impunity.We are all living witnesses to the fact that some suspects on grievous charges of treasonable offence were released by this same government after clamour and outburst by their people. In Dasukis case whose offences are all bailable and granted by the court, he was not allowed to enjoy his bail.The disregard by the government agencies of these orders could not be without the express approval of President Buhari which is most painful and to his in-law. The judiciary should be encouraged to have the courage to exercise its powers without undue interference by the executive arm.Since we are not in a military junta but a democracy, Nigerias constitution should not be turned to military decrees with which rights of citizens are trampled upon without question.We strongly call on the yFederal Government to respect the rule of law and allow Sambo Dasuki to enjoy his bail, except if the intention of government is to kill him in detention.We, therefore, call on the Federal Government to release Dasuki on bail in compliance with the rulings of our competent courts while it continues with the cases in open court rather than in secret or media trial.
Gov. Abiola Ajimobi has urged Nigerians to pray fervently for the first family, particularly for the quick recovery of President Buharis son, Yusuf.This appeal was made in a statement by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, made available to newsmen in Ibadan.Yusuf was on Tuesday involved in a bike accident around Gwarimpa in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.Ajimobi described the accident as unfortunate and depressing, praying that God Almighty would grant the presidents son quick recovery.The abiding grace of God that allowed the ebullient young man to survive the crash will see to his quick and complete recovery.It is indeed heartwarming to hear that he is in a stable condition now and responding well to treatment.In the African culture of being our brothers keepers, I urge Nigerians to continue to remember the first family in their prayers and thoughts in this difficult period, he said.The governor, on behalf of the government and people of Oyo State, prayed that Yusuf would soon be back on his feet.According to him, the incident is a temporary setback and one of the vicissitudes of life. Yusuf will come out of it stronger and will live long to fulfill his destiny.
Med-View Airline passengers in London, on Friday, attacked the carriers members of staff at the Gatwick Airport after several Lagos-boun...

Med-View Airline passengers in London, on Friday, attacked the carriers members of staff at the Gatwick Airport after several Lagos-bound flights were cancelled, leaving them stranded for days.According to persecondnews.com, up to 800 passengers had been stranded at the Gatwick Airport for five days with dozens of them sleeping on the floor.Some of the passengers were said to have accused the airline of abandoning them.Eyewitnesses said police were later called to the south terminal of the airport to maintain peace amid angry scenes as passengers took on airline officials.The airlines Dubai- and London-bound passengers had on Thursday disrupted activities at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos following days of waiting to be airlifted to their destinations.Some of the passengers said they had been stranded for several days due to flight delays and cancellation.The aggrieved passengers were said to have gone to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authoritys Consumer Protection Department desk to complain, alleging that the airline did not send any update through emails or text messages despite delaying some of them from travelling to London since December 24th.In a statement signed by its Accountable Manager, Mr. Michael Ajigbotosho, on Thursday, the airline said delayed flight operations out of Gatwick Airport, London on December 22, caused the problem as it created a backlog of passengers.He said the flight, VL 2101, London to Lagos on Friday, December 22, which had about 300 passengers on board, returned back to Gatwick after departure as a precautionary measure taken by the pilot in line with Aviation Standard and Recommended Practices.He added, This led to cancellation of the flight as the aircraft was declared AOG (Aircraft On Ground). The passengers were catered for, they were lodged in a hotel and those who decided to go back home were also taken care of.After the aircraft was declared AOG, we had to wait for a maintenance report. The aircraft had to remain on ground until a certified expert carries out the necessary checks and certify that the aircraft is airworthy.So, the holiday compounded the problem. In line with that confirmation, we decided to seek for a relief flight and tried as much as possible go get the approval from both the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the CAA of United Kingdom in Gatwick. We attest to their full cooperation and we appreciate them.He said the airline announced to operate three flights feeling the concern of all its passengers and on Wednesday, December 27, positioned three aircraft after securing the approval of the CAA.According to him, the three aeroplanes would have evacuated 700 passengers which would have normalised the situation.But the passengers neither understood nor knew the challenges ahead, which resorted to having a delayed operation and the crew rested and we ended up operating two flights out of three, he said.Ajigbotosho, while appealing for more understanding from passengers, had stated that normal flights would resume on Friday for the airlines London, Dubai and Jeddah passengers.
The Peoples Democratic Party on Saturday described as an unpardonable national embarrassment, the appointment of deceased persons as mem...

The Peoples Democratic Party on Saturday described as an unpardonable national embarrassment, the appointment of deceased persons as members of various federal boards by President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress administration.National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, said in a statement in Abuja on Saturday, that the development had further confirmed PDPs position that the APC administration is completely confused, disorganised and grossly incompetent. He added that Nigerians can now see the level of recklessness and shoddiness inherent in the management of the nation under the APC.Ologbodiyan noted that the situation has further exposed why the nations economy which he said has been in shambles under the APC and wondered how a government which cannot tidy up a routine issue of board appointment for over two years can successfully take on complex issues of governance.He said, Nigerians can now see why the nations economy has been in shambles in the last two years. When we say that this government is completely inept, some Nigerians did not know to which level, but now they do.This inability to tidy up a simple issue of list of 209 appointees has completely exposed the extent the APC government is bereft of simple organisational skills to manage a country like Nigeria, which is in dire need of development.How on earth can a government that cannot compile a common list handle intricate issues of national planning and budgeting; issues of health, education, aviation, agriculture, infrastructure and management of the huge civil service?How can they possibly initiate and successfully implement national and international instruments for national development in todays competitive world?
Tragedy struck on Friday, December 30, in Lagos state, as terror gang Badoo reportedly killed a father, mother and their child.According to reports that the assailants killed a couple and an infant in Ibeshe in Ikorodu area of the state.Residents of Ikorodu were recently made to live through what can best be described as a nightmare.A deadly gang went on a rampage killing people including women and children for months, sometimes even going as far as wiping out an entire family.Meanwhile, it had been reported that the Badoo on Tuesday, November 21, allegedly struck again, killing a mother and her two children.The victims, identified as Iyabo (mother), David, a four-year-old boy and Rachael, an eight-year-old girl were reportedly killed at a Celestial Church of Christ parish in the neighbourhood.
The Federal Government, through the Department of Petroleum Resources, has sealed over 62 petrol stations across the country.

The Federal Government, through the Department of Petroleum Resources, has sealed over 62 petrol stations across the country.The petrol stations were shut down due to varying acts of malpractices, including selling the Premium Motor Spirit, otherwise known as petrol, far above the N145 official price.Since fuel scarcity started nationwide some days before Christmas, several filling stations had started selling fuel as high as N300 per litre.Speaking to one of our correspondents, the Head of Operations, DPR, Kwara State, Mr. Oyedele Ibitayo, said the agency had sealed no fewer than 10 petrol stations in the state for varying acts of malpractices and infractions since the fuel crisis started.Ibitayo listed the petrol stations that allegedly flouted regulations to include Korrect Petroleum at Agbabiaka Road, Ilorin; Alhaji M. Oyetunji Petrol Station at Ajase; Golden Mother Petrol Station at Agbabiaka; Haflum Petrol Station at Babaoko; and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation retail outlet at Okoolowo.He stated that their offences ranged from under-delivery, over-pricing and product diversion. He added that one of the stations sold petrol as high as N250 per litre.Ibitayo said punishments meted out to the defaulters varied depending on their offence.He said while some were shut down for between two and six months, some were asked to pay a fine of N200,000 and sign an undertaking that they would not be involved in such sharp practices again.In Edo State, the DPR said it had sealed 23 petrol stations for indulging in sharp practices.This is just as the state Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Mr. Makinde Ayinla, said that the agency was collaborating with the DPR to check malpractices among the oil marketers.Three of the stations were sealed on Friday for dispensing fuel above the official price.One of the alleged erring stations, FU Alohan, located on Sapele Road in Benin, was shut down for selling a litre of petrol at N260.The state Operations Controller, DPR, Mr. Maynard Oriaifo, said that officials of the agency had been going round the state to ensure all filling stations sold petrol at N145.In Osun State, the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Mr. Babawale Afolabi, told newsmen that so far, three filling stations had been sealed in the state.He added that marketers involved in hoarding fuel had been forced to sell the product to motorists and other consumers at the official price of N145.Likewise, in Katsina State, the Area Operations Manager, DPR, Mr. Yusuf Shehu, said the agency had sealed nine filing stations for alleged product diversion and selling fuel above N145.He said that the seal order on the affected filling stations would not be lifted until they served all the penalties meted to them, which he did not disclose.But, a DPR official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said some of the errant filling stations were asked to pay a fine of at least N200,000.In Enugu State, the DPR said it had sealed three petrol stations and arrested seven operators for sharp practices during the period of fuel scarcity.In Enugu, the DPR sealed three filling stations, and arrested seven operators, for hoarding fuel and selling above the official pump price.The Head, Health, Safety and Environment Unit, DPR, Mr. Unyime Akpan, named the errant stations as Pipeline West Africa, Abakpa Nike; Raino Oil and Gas, Enugu-Onitsha Expressway; and NACO, Presidential Road, Independence Layout.He said that the stations had been forced to selling fuel at the official price.The DPR has also sealed six filing stations in Sokoto and Kebbi states, according to the agencys Acting Controller, Sokoto Zone, Alhaji Nura Kamba.He said that while four were sealed in Sokoto State, two were in Kebbi State, adding that the errant stations had been asked to pay a fine of N100,000 per pump.It was a similar scenario in Kaduna State, where the DPR sealed three filing stations for hoarding over 17,000 litres of petrol. Speaking to journalists, the Executive Director, Services, Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company, Mallam Abdullahi Idris, and the Kaduna State Commander, NSCDC, said the erring stations had been forced to dispense fuel at the official price.The Comptroller, DPR, Bauchi State, Alhaji Garba Salihu, told newsmen that four filling stations had been sealed off in the state for selling petrol above the government-approved price of N145.The stations were selling at N167; we have sealed them off, he said, warning that the agency would stop at nothing to punish the errant oil marketers.In Plateau State, the Operations Manager of the DPR, Mr. Jeremiah Mashat, said the agency had only sealed off one filling station, which had been fined N200,000 for selling fuel above N145.
Hon. Sunday Adepoju (APC-Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency) on Saturday gave an assurance that the National Assembly would ensure full implementation of the 2018 budget.Adepoju told newsmen in Eruwa, headquarters of Ibarapa East Local Government of Oyo State, that the federal lawmakers would also strive to ensure prompt passage of the fiscal proposal.He said, Budget is an estimation of expected expenditure from expected revenue. If expected revenue is not met, then the expected expenditure would not be met.Though it is rare to see any country implementing the budget 100 percent but we will ensure it is implemented fully to bring rapid economic recovery.As a member of the National Assembly, we are going to pass the budget quickly and will ensure that it is fully implemented. If it is poorly implemented, it will affect every Nigerian, including us, he said.He expressed optimism that the nation would witness more economic development in 2018 than that experienced in the outgoing year.The two-term lawmaker stated that the present National Assembly had improved rapidly in the discharge of its statutory functions.Our relationship with the executive is very cordial as against the insinuations in the public domain. We have only made the executive know that we are not rubber stamp.We have only ensured that the principle of separation of powers is respected. With this, I can tell you that Nigerias democracy is taking shape, he said.Adepoju also said that the anti-corruption crusade of President Muhammadu Buhari had drastically reduced the scourge.I cant say because APC is my party, everything is rosy. The president is trying, that I can proudly say. I think the president has slowed down due to his health challenges and judicial process.In Nigeria, we have lawyers who are ready to paint white as black in the public. It is left for Nigerians and the media to expose them, he added.The lawmaker, who dismissed insinuations of a cold relationship between the president and a leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, said that the party would win convincingly in the 2019 general elections.
Several Nigerians have started to lament the hardship brought about by the lingering fuel scarcity across the nation. While many had lo...

Several Nigerians have started to lament the hardship brought about by the lingering fuel scarcity across the nation. While many had looked forward to a blissful holiday season devoid of chaos and confusion, the opposite was what happened, as many were forced to spend long hours at fuel stations, thereby cutting down on the merriment and bliss of the Christmas season.Nightmarish. That was how Calabar based banker Samuel Akpan described his experience searching for fuel in the days leading to, and during the Christmas festivity.Not many Nigerians would disagree with him. Others will probably go for harsher adjectives to describe what they went through during the period. And the agony is not yet over, despite promises by top government officials that the end is in sight for the fuel scarcity that has paralysed economic activities across the country for the their week running.I think I have spent more time on fuel queues than I have with my family this Christmas, 40-year-old Akpan told newsmen in Calabar.His decision to buy from filling stations rather than the black market stemmed, partly from his experience. He once bought fuel from the black market and he does not like what happened to his car afterwards: the engine was damaged apparently by the adulterated fuel he was sold then.Besides the quality of petrol, he said he could not bring himself to cough up between N250 to N400 for a litre of petrol by the road side. Consequently, he had to spend up to 12 hours on the queue at a filling station to enable him get fuel at the official N145 per litre.The nightmarish experience, according to him, ended up taking the joy out of the yuletide season, although he was quick to add that fuel scarcity at this time of the year in the country is not particularly new.We must not forget that this is not new to us, he said. I see people make it seem like it is all about the president, Buhari. Let us not forget that in the past this always occurred during this season and I dare say, some even worse than what we are facing now.We always seem to forget too easily. My disappointment with this government is that despite all its promises, it still allowed this situation to persist. We were thinking that with all the assurances it gave us, this kind of experience would remain in the past, but what we are experiencing right now is a real shame.A fellow Calabar resident, Miss Affiong Etim, could not stand the hike in transport fares caused by the fuel scarcity.Her words: No light, no roads, no water, no money, and now no fuel. The money we dont even have we now spend on transport alone. And it is not just transport, because as a market woman, I can tell you that the price of everything has gone up.Transport fares have doubled or trippled. My brother, people are suffering. As I am to you, I have been standing here for close to one hour and I still cannot get a vehicle to enable me go and do my business. It is bad.Mr Chinedu Nwosu, who was on his way to Umuahia, Abia State, said he had to pay N2,500 as against the normal fare of N1,500.Blaming government for the situation, Nwosu said: I cant blame transporters because it is business they are running and they buy petrol at this crazy price. Its all governments fault. It has to do something urgently about it.The agony of motorists and commuters continues in Ilorin metropolis, the Kwara State capital, and other parts of the state like Offa, Ajase Ipo, Omu-Aran, Omupo and Idofian, as only a few filling stations are dispensing fuel.Only NNPC mega station and retail outlets along Asa Dam road, have regular supplies to sell. Same goes for Bovas filing stations along Fate and Offa Garage Roads.Sadly, there are long queues of vehicles waiting to buy fuel. Accordingly, transport fares have gone up astronomically.Black marketers are having a field day with five litres now going for between N1,800 and N2,200 in Ilorin township. The situation has also affected the prices of food items and other essentials.Recounting his ordeal, a motorist who gave his name as Johnson Abiodun, said he had to park his car at home.I now take motorbike to my workshop, he said. The situation is not palatable at all. It marred the Christmas celebration.A Jos motorist, Monday Azi, is surprised that governments promise that the increase in the pump price of petrol to N145 per litre would ensure an uninterrupted supply of fuel in the country has now failed.That deregulation has gone on for two years over and market forces have not brought down the price of petroleum.A commercial bus driver in Jos who chose not to be named said: Since December 23, once I close in the evening, instead of going home to rest, I go and queue at the station to enable me get fuel for the next day.Another commercial taxi driver in Jos, Sunday Abah, said: For me to get fuel by 7 or 8 in the morning, I would join the queue by 10pm of the previous day.It began as a joke; we thought it would end quickly. But here we are, nobody knows when we will be out of the problem.A major fall out of the fuel scarcity in Jos is the December 15 tanker explosion at a filling station in the tin city. One of the five tankers waiting to off load their content unexpectedly exploded.Three of the tankers were completely burnt and the remaining two partly burnt.Two lives were lost in the inferno.A Port Harcourt commercial driver, Onwuchekwa Precious, revealed hat the situation was getting unbearable for him.Things are so bad; the pain is unbearable. Sometimes I sleep at petrol stations to be able to get fuel to do my business. Christmas did not go as planned at all because since the fuel scarcity started, the price of almost everything has gone up. Times are very hard, I must confess.Another commercial driver, who identified himself simply as Isaac, said: We did not have a wonderful Christmas at all, if you ask me. It is just that we Nigerians are so used to suffering and smiling, according to the music icon Fela. The fuel scarcity ruined my plans for the Christmas.I had planned to go home (Anambra State) with my family but I couldnt do that because the cost of fuel was too high. I am buying petrol at the rate of N250 per litre and black marketers are selling at N400 per litre. As a result of this, I have no choice than to increase transport fare.A traveller, Sefiu Olabisi, said: It is so bad we are ending this beautiful month on this note. I normally pay N4,500 for a bus ride from Port Harcourt to Lagos, but it suddenly went up to N10,000.For Mr. Femi Olutade, a Lagos resident, this years Christmas will linger in his memory for ll the wrong reasons.Transport fare increased four times over, he lamented, adding: I boarded Ketu to Berger, which was usually N50, at N200 on the 23rd and 24th December. Berger to Oshodi, which used to be N150, went up to N500.This fuel crisis made Christmas to be less memorable for a lot of people who couldnt travel to see their loved ones. Many motorists couldnt do their businesses efficiently because it was hard to get fuel.They were forced to cut down on the number of trips, hence reducing drastically the number of vehicles that could convey the teeming population, he lamented.Mr Olutade believes that until the constitution of the country is strengthened and regulatory agencies become independent and transparent in their activities, fuel scarcity may persist.Marketers wouldnt have the nerve to hoard fuel if they know the DPR is watching and has the constitutional authority to arrest and prosecute any offender, he submitted.Olumide Ogundele, an Osogbo resident, simply remained indoors during the festivity to avoid the chaos that characterized the period. The fuel scarcity made the Christmas holiday boring, he said.I had to stay indoors to maintain some sanity. The few places I had to travel to, I couldnt get fuel and that means missing out of what would have been a wonderful celebration with my family.Visiting some places within the metropolis also became a chore. Transport fare was jacked up and we even had to make do with squeezing ourselves, as four people were packed to occupy a space made for three persons.It was the same case of retreat from fun activities for Amos Abah, a youth corps member, who couldnt travel home for Christmas as a result of the fuel scarcity.Fuel scarcity in Owerri gave my Christmas celebration a solitary and less exciting outlook. The ripple effect that resulted in a hike in transport fare within Owerri made me retreat to the comfort of my room to avoid engaging drivers in arguments over transport fare.The fare from World Bank to Wetheral Road, which was usually N100, was doubled and in some cases quadrupled, with drivers charging outrageous fees whilst taking advantage of helpless passengers.
Some Nigerians who were recently deported from Libya have urged the federal government to focus on securing the release of Nigerians lan...

Some Nigerians who were recently deported from Libya have urged the federal government to focus on securing the release of Nigerians languishing in various prisons a rather than deporting Nigerians doing well in the country.They said it was wrong for Nigerians who owned their houses and doing well are deported when thousands of Nigerians are in prisonsMatthew Ereyemwen, who spoke to newsmen in Benin City shortly after he was lodged in a hotel by the state government said it was better for the government to concentrate on how to evacuate Nigerians who are languishing in various prisons in Libya.He noted that the deportation of Nigerians living comfortably in their various houses has ruined the chances of those who are in dire need of coming back to Nigeria.According to him I travelled to Libya and I knew what I passed through there. Our people are still suffering over there.Those people who are living in their living houses which is their comfortable houses are oppressing us. They are living comfortably in Libya and are not in prisons.Those who are living in their living homes are not part of us. Those people that came back from Libya with luggage. We that came from prisons we do not have luggage but only shirt.This is the way we dress those of us in prisons. So anybody you see like this with unkempt hair are those who have been kept in prisons for a long time. It was not their intension to keep their hair unkempt but it was because they never had combs to comb their hair.We do not have our bath and we eat once in a day but those who they have brought along with us who are living in their comfortable houses are not like thatAnother returnee, James Itama appealed to the federal government to concentrate on how to evacuate Nigerians in Libya prisons before concentrating on those living in their comfortable houses in Libya.Our people are suffering in Libya prisons. They are more than 2,000 of them in prisons and they are dying.Reacting to the allegation, the South-West Zonal Coordinator of National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Alhaji Suleiman Yakubu, said the federal government is working assiduously round the clock to ensure that all Nigerians living in Libya are brought back to their country whether in prisons or outside the prisons
By Patrick Villanova | The Jersey Journal

They are the stories that give us hope, make us proud, and quite simply, make us feel good.

Hudson County's most heartwarming stories from 2017 come in all shapes and sizes. From a school that rallied to save its future to a police officer who made one family's Christmas with a generous donation, the Hudson County community should be proud of these stories and the people that made them happen.

Here are the stories that warmed our hearts in 2017:

Don't Edit

(Reena Rose Sibayan | The Jersey Journal)

The Marist Miracle

Things looked bleak for Marist High School in March when the school announced it needed to raise $1.5 million in one month's time in order to stay open. It appeared the Bayonne Catholic school would suffer the same fate as St. Anthony High School in Jersey City, but the school community rallied together and raised about half the money by the time the deadline rolled around. The Marist Brothers announced the school would stay open for at least another year. More good news rolled around in December when the Marist Brothers said the school could begin exploring development plans for its large property to better secure its own financial future.

Don't Edit

Cop anonymously donates gifts to family in need

It was a Christmas miracle -- at least thats what it felt like for one Jersey City family.

An anonymous police officer donated $500 worth of Christmas gifts to a woman and her 11 children, seven of whom are adopted, two days before the holiday.

Don't Edit

Detective saves pregnant woman from burning car

A detective for the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office was hailed a hero in November when he saved a pregnant woman from her car moments before it became engulfed in flames. Det. Guershon Cherilien spotted fire beneath the woman's car as she drove near the Driscoll Bridge. Cherilien got the pregnant woman to pull over and helped her exit the vehicle in time. "I can honestly say that he saved my life and the life of my daughter," she said.

Don't Edit

Candido Ortiz stands outside his El Sabor Del Cafe on Martin Luther King Drive. (Terrence T. McDonald | The Jersey Journal)

Freed from prison by Obama, ex-inmate opens cafe

Not everybody gets a second chance, but one ex-offender got a very special second chance at life when President Barack Obama commuted his 44-year prison sentence for drug and weapons offenses in August 2016. The clemency paved the way for Candido Ortiz to eventually open his own cafe in Jersey City, where he serves Latin American cuisine. El Sabor Del Cafe on Martin Luther King Drive opened in December, completing Ortiz's dramatic transformation from convict to business owner. "This is my dream come true," a teary-eyed Ortiz said.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Secaucus teacher wins $25,000 award

A Secaucus math teacher got the surprise of the year when New Jersey Commissioner of Education Kimberly Harrington paid an impromptu visit to Secaucus Middle School last month. During a the surprise assembly, Harrington announced the school's Toni Ann Palmisano was one of 44 educators across the country to win the Milken Educator Award, a prestigious honor that comes with a $25,000 cash prize. The astonished teacher's reaction was caught on camera and provided NJ.com readers with one of the best feel good stories on the year.

Don't Edit

Michaelangelo Conte | The Jersey Journal

Jersey City woman didn't die alone

When a 67-year-old was struck and killed by truck in Jersey City in July, the woman's grieving family could take some solace in the actions of a stranger who came to the woman's aid and comforted her in her final moments. Vincent Carroll saw Blandina Briones laying on West Side Avenue on the morning of the accident, and rushed to her side. Briones was eventually brought to Jersey City Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead, but kindness and empathy Carroll showed endures as one of the moving stories of the year.

Don't Edit

Reena Rose Sibayan | The Jersey Journal

3 years after she was shot, former Lincoln hoops star goes pro

Breana Bey established herself as Hudson County's most dominant girls basketball player during her time at Lincoln High School. Her talent and work ethic eventually propelled her to the Division I ranks at Stetson University in Florida. However, her career could have come to a premature end in 2014 when she was shot in the foot while walking near her home in the Salem-Lafayette public housing complex in Jersey City. But the traumatic injury didn't derail Bey. In July, her lifelong dream of playing professional basketball came true when she signed a contract with Brunell Ladies Basketball Club in Ireland.

Don't Edit

Caitlin Mota | The Jersey Journal

Jersey City promotes its first female battalion chief

The Jersey City Fire Department made history this year when Constance Zampella became the woman to be promoted to the rank of battalion chief. She was among the first two female firefighters in the city's history when she joined in 2002. When asked what she would say to girls who aspire to be firefighters, Zampella said: "Go in, if you really want this job and you really want to make a difference in your city, go in with a positive attitude. Forget, put it on the shelf that you're a female and become one of us."

Don't Edit

16-year-old is this college's youngest valedictorian ever

Graduating early from college is impressive on its own. But to do so at just 16 years old, and be named your class valedictorian? Well thats downright amazing.

Reyhan Lalaoui achieved that feat in May when she graduated from Hudson County Community College atop her class. When she spoke with The Jersey Journal in May, Lalaoui, a Guttenberg resident, said she planned to pursue her bachelor's degree at New York University or Saint Peter's University.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Secaucus Police Officers, from left, William Smith, Stephen Lui, Sgt. Reneildo Cruzado and Salvatore Manente are credited with saving a woman's life. (Secaucus police photos)

Secaucus cops save woman's life

Fast-acting Secaucus police officers performed CPR and used a defibrillator to save a woman's life in October. The 63-year-old woman was found unresponsive and not breathing in a vehicle at the Shell gas station on Route 3 East on the morning of Oct. 1.

Don't Edit

Hudson County year-in-review

Bayonne's top 11 news stories of 2017

2017 in Hudson County politics

Hudson County's most-viewed online stories of 2017

The Hudson County stories from 2017 we couldn't have made up even if we tried

Don't Edit

Patrick Villanova may be reached at pvillanova@jjournal.com. Follow him on Twitter @pvilla_nova. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.
It's customary at year's end for columnists to leave the paying customers on an uplifting note, words about how well things are going. A nice custom. But not this year.

I'm here to report that 2017 was a lousy year. Sure, there were some good things. Well, a few good things. The defeat of Roy Moore in the Alabama U.S. Senate race tops the list of victories for the good guys and decency, sanity and common sense.

But mostly the news of 2017 was bad. For long-term impact, the worst bad news was the all-out assault by the Trump crowd and its court jesters in Congress on some of the country's most revered institutions -- institutions that we rely on as sources of truth and stability and even-handedness and occasionally wisdom in turbulent times.

I mean the Justice Department and its Federal Bureau of Investigation; the CIA and the nation's assortment of intelligence agencies; the federal court system, and lastly the press.

Each has come under attack, usually unfounded and unjust, by the White House and its congressional coat-holders. For example, the White House refuses to accept the mountain of evidence amassed by our intelligence agencies that Vladimir Putin's minions interfered in the 2016 presidential election process.

Trump says he has asked his pal Putin repeatedly if his hackers meddled in our election and Putin says, repeatedly, "Not us." Guess that takes care of that, eh?

Not really. It simply prompts the inescapable question: "Why believe Putin and not our intelligence services? What's Trump afraid of? Or what has Putin got that Trump wants. . .or needs? Silence, maybe? It's a puzzlement.

But it's no reason and certainly no justification for repeatedly throwing mud at our intel agencies and employees, and questioning their competency and credibility.

Ditto the Trumpsters' mistreatment of the FBI. As they tell it, the bureau is a nest of Democrats. Could be. Then again, it might be a nest of Republicans, too.

Either way, it's no breach of law. Last I looked, no law prevented federal employees from supporting or even contributing to a political party. The Hatch Act, as I understand it, does forbid government employees from using their federal working hours for a political candidate or campaign. But beyond that, they're free, like the all Americans, to support the political party of their choice.

The real Trump target here is Robert Mueller, the special prosecutor, and his inquiry into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and the Russians. Trump's minions want to tarnish the Mueller effort as a "witch hunt" staffed by Democrats and Hillary Clinton partisans.

Mueller, a Republican deemed unimpeachable by leaders of both parties, did find one staffer who was publicly critical of Trump. But he promptly removed him.

So far, no "collusion" with the Russians has been found but Mueller's probe continues and Trump clearly fears that all that smoke might eventually produce some fire. It's time to tarnish Mueller -- or try.

Then there's the court system, perhaps the crown jewel in our democracy. Trump has wasted no time trashing it, especially those federal judges who've tossed out his clumsy attempts to bar Moslem immigrants.

And don't overlook the bigoted tirade he launched at a Latino federal judge handling a suit involving a Trump entity. Citing the judge's Mexican surname, Trump declared him obviously biased, ignoring the fact that guy was born in this country and lives in Indiana. A Hoosier, no less.

Finally, there's Trump's assault on an institution older than the country and accorded a special place in the Constitution -- the press. I'm a special pleader here, but with good reason. For without an unfettered press there is no democracy. There's Russia.

People fault the press today because much of it has chosen sides in the current political standoff. That has serious drawbacks -- overstatement and excessive partisanship-- but it's also further evidence that our American press is uniquely free.

We choose up sides and fight it out in public. Nothing's hidden. It's the way it should be.

Trump just can't handle that. He sees any criticism as "fake news," something he acquired personal familiarity with when, as "John Miller," he reportedly fed gossip glorifying himself to the New York tabloids. He has even criticized the press in general as "enemies of the people."

A dinner pal of mine singled me out personally one evening as an "enemy of the people." He was kidding, I'm sure. Well, I think he was kidding. I hope he was kidding.

I wonder if he was kidding?

John Farmer may be reached at jfarmer@starledger.com. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.
Keep your parkas out, New Jersey. The deep freeze that hit this week is hanging on tight, and snow is expected to fall Saturday.

An inch of snow is predicted for far northern reaches of the state, spurred by a fast-moving storm system coming from the Great Lakes region, while 1 to 3 inches are forecast for the southern tip.

The rest of the state should expect to see between 1 and 4 inches, with South Jersey's accumulation reaching the higher end of that range.

Here's a radar snapshot showing snow starting to develop and move in this morning with temperatures in the teens to near 20. pic.twitter.com/OBFAyqpCT4  NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) December 30, 2017

A winter weather advisory is in effect for much of the southern half of the state until 6 p.m. Snowfall is expected to make roads slippery and limit visibility, according to the National Weather Service.

Winter Weather Advisory in effect for today. Please pass on any snow reports you may get to us. Thanks, and be safe! #NJWX #PAWX pic.twitter.com/NGMi3I8Asb  NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) December 30, 2017

Highs will be in the low 20s in northern and western counties and in the mid to high 20s in southern counties -- 10 to 15 degrees below normal for this time of year. The far southern reaches of the state could see temperatures reach 35 degrees.

New Year's Eve is expected to be one of the coldest on record. Forecasters say it could be the second or third coldest in Manhattan for the thousands of people expected to converge on Times Square for the ball drop.

Temperatures are predicted to reach only 12 or 13 degrees in northwest corners of New Jersey and could dip as low as 8 degrees in New York City at night. With the wind chill and winds around 16 mph, it could feel as cold as -10 degrees in Manhattan on Sunday night.

Staff reporter Len Melisurgo contributed to this report.

Marisa Iati may be reached at miati@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Marisa_Iati or on Facebook here. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips
John Besh at Restaurant August in New Orleans in June 2016. (Brett Duke, Nola.com | The Times-Picayune)(BRETT DUKE)
The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement announced a series of changes in its safety rules for the offshore oil and gas exploration and production industry on Thursday (Dec. 28).(Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement)
As vice president of patient care at CHI Health Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs, where her health care career has spanned 23 years, Denise McNitt had plenty on her plate before being named recently as the 2017-18 chair of the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Though shes lived in Council Bluffs since beginning her career at Mercy, McNitt spent a number of years working with the corporate staff in Omaha. Her work site returned to Mercy when she was named vice president of patient care at the hospital.

A graduate of both the chambers Leadership Council Bluffs and Leadership Iowa, she said, When I came back to Mercy as vice president, I felt I needed to get more actively involved in the community.

McNitt has served on the chambers Board of Directors for the past five years and on the executive board for the past three years, where she served as treasurer and chair-elect.

Looking ahead to the coming year and her term as board chair, she said a primary goal will be to help Dan Koenig  who assumed the position of chamber president and CEO last September  succeed in his role.

She is looking forward to working in partnership with chamber staff to develop a program of work that reflects member and community needs.

We had a six-month gap without a president and CEO, she said. Some of our partners felt we werent doing enough as an organization, and we will be focusing on getting some community and funding partners back in the fold.

To that end, McNitt said one of her primary duties as board chair will be assuring the organizations membership and the community as a whole that the chamber is a leader at the local, regional and state levels, providing leadership based on a clear understanding of the needs of stakeholders, members, civic leaders, partners and elected officials. Listening to the needs of those stakeholders, members, civic leaders, partners and elected officials and discussing those issues that effect the health of area businesses and the community as a whole should, McNitt believes, strengthen the chambers membership as well as the value of the services the chamber provides.
The post-Christmas prolonged, dangerously cold weather across half the country has advocates for the homeless scrambling to get people off the streets and local officials urging area residents to assist their elderly neighbors.

The Midwest to the Northeast were dealing with sub-freezing temperatures and wind chills, while the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies were bracing for storms that forecasters warn can cause heavy mountain snow and freezing rain.

Locally, arctic air dipping deeper south than usual will bring a prolonged chill to Iowa and Nebraska as temperatures sink below zero Friday night and remain there for three days.

The National Weather Service is warning of hazardous cold as temperatures dip to near records not seen in 130 years.

The cold is expected to continue through the holiday weekend and likely longer, according to the National Weather Service, prolonging a stretch of brutal weather blamed for vehicle crashes, emergency room visits and at least one death.

Wind chill advisories remained in place for many areas. Animal owners were urged to bring their pets indoors if possible or at least make sure they have sufficient warmth.

At New Visions Mohms Place, the Rev. Harry Wallar said the shelter is busier than normal. The location on North 15th Street typically has 100 to 125 people stay overnight. Right now, about 140 to 150 have been staying overnight.

Numbers always go up when its cold, Wallar said. Especially when its life-threatening cold.

Wallar said the shelter is available 24 hours a day whenever the wind chill or temperatures reach zero. Usually patrons are required to leave from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

When its cold like this, we stay open 24/7, he said, noting the facility is in need of gloves, hats, coats and socks.

Forecasters warned people to be wary of hypothermia and frostbite from the arctic blast that has gripped a large swath from the Midwest to the Northeast, where the temperature, without the wind chill factored in, dipped to minus-32 Thursday in Watertown, New York. Temperatures rose to minus-7 early Friday morning.

A woman trying to maneuver her wheelchair on a cold, snowy night in the metro area got a firetruck escort. Snow and construction items on the sidewalk forced her into a busy Omaha thoroughfare Tuesday.

Firefighters returning to their station noticed the woman. They flipped on their lights and followed the woman until she reached her destination. She gave them a thumbs-up as they departed.

In South Dakota, an 83-year-old woman died from exposure to the cold. Police believe she crashed her car on a gravel road near the tiny rural town of Revillo then left the vehicle to look for help. They found her body in a ditch on Sunday.

The Ohio Department of Aging said older people are at increased risk from such severe cold, from medication side effects to falling risks. The department encouraged people to check on family members, friends and neighbors to make sure theyre warm enough and have their needed medications and sufficient food and water.

On Thursday, cold weather records were set from Arkansas to Maine, and the freezing air will linger through the weekend, reaching as far south as Texas and the Florida Panhandle.

 AP writer David Pitt contributed to this report. Sharp reported for the AP from Portland, Maine.
Luke 2:18-20

And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.

As much of the world has ceased the holiday celebrating and moved on, as I saw the other day, to Valentines Day, we as Christians continue in the Octave (eight days) of Christmas joy. We contemplate those first days after Jesus was born. We think of the people, great and small, that came to visit him in the manger. This weekend, Catholics celebrate a special day to remember the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. As we reflect on each one of them, we see a great beauty and lesson for our own life of faith.

Mary, Jesus mother, quietly adores her son. She plays with his toes and fingers and realizes that in these same hands, the promise of the angel Gabriel will come true. Mary pondered all this in her heart and in humility accepted the challenges of her time to raise for us a savior. What are my own challenges in this day in age, especially when it comes to my faith? Do I respond with my own fiat, or may it be done to me according to Your word?

Joseph, the dreamer and the quiet and gentle carpenter, looks upon this child with the greatest wonder. How could he compare to a heavenly Father? How would he be able to teach Jesus the trade of hard work and dedication, the tender and necessary love one needs to show others at all times. Joseph always met the angels in a dream. What are the hopes and dreams do we have? How can we teach the core values of life to our children, grandchildren, everyone around us?

Finally there is Jesus, the babe of Mary and yet the only begotten Son of God the Father. What do you suppose was going through this precious little divine mind? I would like to think that what Jesus pondered, even as a child, was us. I reflect on how Jesus has always had us all in His mind and heart. That He would be thinking of how precious we are to Him. That He was so happy to begin salvation history His infant tears were of joy and gladness.

I think it would benefit all of us to reflect on the importance of these three figures of the Holy Family and maybe find some way to mirror the love of this Holy Family in our own homes. May God the Father who gave us a savior in His Son, bless our families and draw us closer to Himself.

The Rev. Joshua Brown

St. Patrick Catholic Church

North Platte
Written for Saturday Dec. 18, 2004

Remember when you were a child and laughter was frowned upon when you were in church? Not so anymore. The thinking now days is that God would delight in our joyful approach to just how we apply the good news now.

I will never forget the first time that I saw a picture of Jesus smiling, thanks to the minister of my church in Bethesda, Maryland. I had never thought about Christ having a sense of humor. It was then that I realized that God wants us to laugh and smile and enjoy humor. I was pleased that I wasnt alone.

In a sermon titled, Dont stop laughing, Dr. Otis Young mentioned a few of these funny stories in his Reach Out And Live series on KNOP-TV on Nov. 28, 2004.

Also, I researched on the internet and collected information from friends.

Often, funny things happen in church.

 When children were asked why it was necessary to be quiet in church, one youngster responded, Because people are sleeping.

 When the communion plate of bread was passed to a young child, he replied, Im not hungry.

 A minister was leading up a time of prayer and got his words all confused. He said, Let us pray for the down-putting of good and the exaltation of evil. The minister thought no one had noticed his mistake, but an elderly woman commented to him as she left the service, Keep a close eye on your parish this week, pastor.

 A youngster handed his teacher a note from his mother on the first day of Sunday School. The note read: The opinions expressed by this child are not necessarily those of his parents.

 A mother finally got her fidgety 7-year-old son to sit still and be quiet by telling him, If you dont keep quiet the minister will lose his place and will have to start his sermon all over again.

 Another little girl became restless when the preachers sermon seemed to drag on and on. She said, Mommy, if we give him the money now, will he let us go?

As you know, I am always on the lookout for bloopers in church bulletins. Here are a few that made me grin:

 Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and has requested tapes of the ministers sermons.

 Church women dont forget the rummage sale. It is a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Dont forget your husbands.

 The sermon this morning, Jesus Walks On Water, the sermon next Sunday, Looking for Jesus.

Jesus often encouraged laughter. There are several scriptures that refer to Jesus finding humor in the situation. Imagine the following situation:

 There was a woman who was trying hard to get the ketchup out of the bottle. During this struggle the phone rang, so she asked her 4-year-old daughter to answer. It is the minister, Mommy. Then the daughter said to the minister, Mommy cant come to the phone right now. She is hitting the bottle.

Martin Luther once said, If you are not allowed to laugh in heaven, I dont want to go there.

That sounds like a fitting ending to this type of a story. Let laughter fill your days.

Mary Hepburn is in her 23rd year of writing the Church News & Views column for the North Platte Telegraph.
When Cody Sweet graduated the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Academy last month, he was congratulated by his father, retired Sheriffs Deputy Tom Sweet.

Across the public safety sector in Lincoln County, multiple relatives work alongside each other in law enforcement and first response.

We used to have a policy where we would not hire relations, said Chief Deputy Roland Kramer. Kramer said he and Sheriff Jerome Kramer discussed it at length for years, to see if it would be a problem.

Today, three sets of relatives work either as deputies or in the Lincoln County Detention Center, Kramer said. Out of all the relatives, two staff members who are not related are Sheriff Kramer and Chief Deputy Kramer.

One sargeant in the sheriffs office married a corporal, Chief Deputy Kramer said. Another jailers wife was hired onto the staff, which helped the couples family in income and benefits.

I dont want to give the impression of nepotism, Kramer said.

He described a standardized interview process and elaborate background check.

Its ranked, and the top person gets the job, Kramer said. Its just how it is.

At the North Platte Police Department, where two brothers and a married couple are on the force, Lt. Steve Reeves said the same.

Youre hired based on your qualifications, he said. Not who youre related to.

In addition to two brothers who are police officers, Deputy Chief Jim Agler is married to Mary Ann Agler, a telecommunications supervisor. The Aglers met on the force years ago, and were married long before Reeves began working at the police department about 30 years ago, he said. The two brothers have different titles  lieutenant and patrol officer  which keeps them from working different shifts. Their relation has nothing to do with it, Reeves said.

Kramer understands why he sees relatives on his staff.

People respect what their siblings, their fathers do, he said. They want to have the same profession.

On the North Platte Fire Department, Fire Chief Dennis Thompsons sons, Justin, Derek and Ryan, all work as firefighters; Ryan is also a paramedic.

Assistant Chief Trent Kleinow came to work following his father, Bill. Bill is now a batalion chief. He joked that Trent is his boss, but expressed pride in his son moving up the ranks. In addition, Trents son, Tyler, now works as a firefighter.

Two other brothers, Capt. Jeff Henkla and Jeremy Henkla, also work on the fire department.

Typically a direct supervisor would not be a relative, said Trent Kleinow. He said that titles on the fire department are a lot like the military, describing a chain of command. Reeves said the city handbook does not allow relatives to be a direct supervisor.

If there could be a bias in a decision Trent Kleinow makes about Tyler or Bill, Chief Thompson weighs in, Trent said.

Years ago, the fire department began allowing relatives to work the same shift.

Everybody just does their job, Trent Kleinow said.

The firefighters who followed their fathers didnt grow up intending to follow in their footsteps. The firefighters whose sons serve didnt push the career. But when Trent Kleinow was about 22, he realized his career working in heating and air conditioning didnt provide as good of health insurance or benefits. He decided to apply for the fire department.

I dont necessarily suggest it to my family, he said. But I tell them its the greatest job in the world.

Chief Thompson once thought his children would take a different path.

I think at one point I thought, youll get a job where you dont have to bust your tail and stick your nose in some of these situations, he said. But he echoed sentiments from Trent Kleinow and others, that its a good career, with a chance to serve.

When the firefighters arent working five 24-hour shifts over a 10-day period, they barbecue, fish, hunt and spend time together as friends, with each others families. Trent Kleinow joked that of all the firefighters sons in the room, there likely wasnt one whose diaper wasnt changed by the other.

The sons of the firefighters agreed that the strong bonds in the off time influenced them to join the force.

When you grow up around it like we did, these people become family, Justin Thompson said. Its not like you intend for it to become all you ever know. It just falls in line.

Deputy Cody Sweet could not be reached for comment for this article.
Two people died after a Thursday house fire near Indianola, Red Willow officials confirmed Friday.

Firefighters were dispatched to the fire, located southeast of Indianola, about midnight Thursday, said Red Willow County Attorney Paul Wood and Red Willow County Sheriff Alan Kotschwar in a news release.

In the fire, Douglas and Debra Swanson, a married couple who are both 61, are believed to have died, Wood said in the news release. Their remains were scheduled to undergo an autopsy Friday.

The couples daughter, Laura Swanson, 34, was visiting her parents from Denver for the holidays, escaped the house and called 911, according to the news release. At the time, Laura Swanson believed her sister, Faith Swanson, 24, was also in the home. Faith was later found alive in Furnas County and was brought back to Red Willow County.

The sisters were interviewed at the Red Willow County Sheriffs Office, according to the news release. The State Fire Marshals Office continues to investigate the fire, according to the news release.

Due to the house being a total loss, the results of the investigation will not be able to be released for some time, Wood and Kotschwar said in the news release.

In addition to the State Fire Marshal and Sheriffs Office response, Indianola Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, McCook Fire and Rescue Department, Red Willow Western Fire Department and Nebraska State Patrol all responded to the fire.
Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading.

Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy
Two former doctors who practiced in the Kokomo area were accused Friday of Medicaid fraud in a civil complaint filed at the federal courthouse in Hammond.

U.S. Attorney Thomas Kirsch II and Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill Jr. allege that Don and Marilyn Wagoner routinely overbilled Medicaid for multiple drug tests of their patient's urine when the doctors only collected and analyzed a single sample from each patient.

Kirsch said altogether the defendants submitted 6,433 false claims between 2011 and 2013 for which they received $1.12 million in payments from Indiana Medicaid.

The governments are seeking triple repayment of the fraudulently received Medicaid disbursements plus a civil penalty of $5,500 to $11,000 for each false claim submitted, or a total of between $38.7 million and $74.1 million.

"Working to recover taxpayer funds taken through fraud and other illegal means is part of our responsibility as stewards of the public trust," Hill said.

Don Wagoner, 81, and Marilyn Wagoner, 80, both of Burlington, Indiana, permanently surrendered their licenses to prescribe drugs and practice medicine in 2013 after a state investigation of their opioid prescribing practices resulted in a felony drug dealing conviction and a two-year prison sentence for Don Wagoner.

"Although they no longer are endangering vulnerable Medicaid patients by practicing medicine, former physicians Don Wagoner and Marilyn Wagoner cannot be allowed to retain the fruits of their fraudulent Medicaid claims," Kirsch said.

"My office will continue to make it a priority to pursue investigations and cases to recover funds that were fraudulently received from the Medicare and Medicaid programs."
INDIANAPOLIS  State employees will ring in the new year with pay raises worth up to 4 percent of their current salaries.

Gov. Eric Holcomb told state workers in a letter Friday that he approved the pay hikes in recognition of the "exemplary service you provided Hoosier taxpayers throughout 2017."

"I am grateful to work alongside the men and women who are the force behind the service Hoosiers have come to expect from their state government," Holcomb said. "I am pleased to authorize performance-based raises for a job well done."

The wage increases are tied to employee performance ratings, with state workers deemed to "meet expectations" getting a 2 percent increase, "exceed expectations" garnering a 3 percent raise and "outstanding" employees earning 4 percent more.

The Holcomb pay hikes match the performance-based raises authorized by former Gov. Mike Pence in December 2016, but are less than the 6 percent maximum increases awarded by Pence at the end of 2014 and 2015.
INDIANAPOLIS  Legislative leaders are not entirely on board with Gov. Eric Holcomb's call to realign Indiana's education and workforce development programs, during the 2018 General Assembly, to primarily meet the needs of the state's employers.

House Speaker Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis, and state Sen. Travis Holdman, R-Markle, both said at a recent conference that while they agree with the governor's overall goal, it won't be possible to do in the 10 weeks that lawmakers meet next year, starting Wednesday.

"We'll nibble around the edges, but a systemic fix is not happening," said Holdman, chairman of the Senate Committee on Insurance and Financial Institutions.

Bosma indicted part of the problem is that Holcomb has not laid out many specific details of how he intends to transform Indiana's fragmented education and workforce systems into a direct employment training pipeline.

"There are several proposals on the table that are worthy of discussion," Bosma said. "But nothing that really radically and systemically revises what we're doing today  which is spending $1 billion through nine different agencies and 30 different programs, and not moving the ball."

"I have yet to see the silver bullet."

That doesn't mean, however, that Bosma is not interested in working on workforce issues.

"I think the proposals the governor has placed in front of us are workable," Bosma said. "We'll work with them. We've got a few ideas of our own."

But Bosma said probably the best thing to do is take time to reconsider everything the state now is doing, rather than immediately creating at least two more state boards and dozens of additional local workforce committees, as Holcomb has proposed.

"We're not going to have a solution this session," Bosma said. "We need to have a hard stop so that people plan on it, and get it done in 2019."

He said that means evaluating and eliminating existing education and workforce programs that aren't delivering on their promises before replacing them with services that lawmakers believe will do a better job preparing Hoosiers for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

"It's time to say, 'Hey, let's rethink this. How could we spend $1 billion if we were starting from scratch?'" Bosma said. "The only way you can do that is to sunset programs."

Holcomb, meanwhile, is urging lawmakers to prioritize workforce issues next session, and act quickly, because "we don't have time to waste."

"We've rightly spent the last 10 to 12 years diversifying our economy here in the state of Indiana, and we need to make sure that our educational system truly matches that evolution and the evolving economy  this tech-driven economy  that we find ourselves in," Holcomb said.

To meet that challenge requires infusing science, technology, engineering and mathematics throughout the curriculum, as well as making computer science training available in every school by 2021, he said.

How exactly that happens, and who pays for it, Holcomb has said little beyond promising: "We're going to move away from the regulatory and compliance, top-down approach, and forward the capacity-building to the very local level, the street-level."

Hoosier Democrats are skeptical of the entire endeavor, pointing out that Holcomb's language on workforce issues almost identically matches similar promises made by Republican former Govs. Mitch Daniels and Mike Pence dating back to 2005.

John Zody, chairman of the Indiana Democratic Party, said if Statehouse Republicans want to improve the quality of Hoosier workers they should spend less time denigrating and de-funding Indiana schools.

"Republicans' divisive education policies havent helped stem the tide of Indiana's workforce crisis; in fact theyve fueled it," Zody said. "You cant learn about science, technology, engineering or math when your school is closed."
INDIANAPOLIS  A Northwest Indiana state senator is leading an effort to reform how boundaries for the state's congressional and General Assembly districts are drawn, with an eye toward greater transparency and less partisanship.

State Sen. Mike Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores, is co-sponsor of Senate Bill 159. It establishes a redistricting commission to draw the lines with significant public input, rather than leaving the redistricting process solely in the hands of self-interested state legislators.

The first-term lawmaker, whose district actually tilts Democratic, said he's repeatedly been approached by his constituents and numerous "good government" advocates about taking action to alter the way Hoosier legislative boundaries are crafted.

"I think it's been a nationwide discussion, and I think it's time to start having the conversation in the state of Indiana, too," Bohacek said.

Filling the commission

His measure, co-sponsored by state Sen. John Ruckelshaus, R-Indianapolis, creates a nine-member redistricting commission to lead the redrawing of legislative boundaries in 2021, following the once-a-decade national population count set for 2020.

Four of the commissioners would individually be selected by the Republican and Democratic leaders of the Indiana House and Senate.

A separate nominating commission, composed of Indiana public university presidents, would solicit applications from the public to fill the five remaining slots on the redistricting commission.

The applicants, who'd be required to have had no role in government, public service or lobbying in the prior six years, will be sorted into three candidate pools: Republican, Democratic and nonpartisan.

The nominating commission will identify the seven applicants it believes are most qualified in each pool.

Then a random selection will be made to put one Democrat, one Republican and two nonpartisan members on the redistricting commission.

Those eight commissioners will select a ninth member by choosing any of the candidates recommended by the nominating commission.

The redistricting commission also will elect its own chairman who must be one of the five non-legislative appointments.

Bohacek admitted the selection process for redistricting commission members is necessarily complicated.

"We're trying to get a redistricting board that is truly nonpartisan, but that also still has representation from the two parties because they want to have some input as well," Bohacek said.

"So I think what we're trying to do is make it truly a transparent process."

The commission's work

Under the measure, which Bohacek expects will change as it advances through the legislative process, the commission members will be selected and the redistricting commission will get to work prior to March 15, 2021.

It must establish a website to publicize the commission and enable Hoosiers to submit proposed redistricting maps to the commission.

In conjunction with the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency, the commission will publish between May 1 and May 15 any legislative district maps created by the commissioners, or the public, that it believes are worthy of further consideration.

The commission will hold public hearings on the submitted maps in each of the state's nine congressional districts prior to June 30.

However, the commissioners would be prohibited from communicating, directly or indirectly, about the maps with any elected official, former elected official or candidate for elected office.

By Aug. 1, the commission must recommend a final redistricting plan to the General Assembly that is supported by at least seven of the nine commissioners.

The proposed districts must contain contiguous territory that is as compact as possible, not cross precinct lines, minimize the crossing of municipal or county boundaries and accommodate the minority representation requirements of the Voting Rights Act.

State lawmakers would convene in special session prior to Oct. 1 to review the maps recommended by the redistricting commission and either approve them without changes, or send them back with instructions for specific revisions.

If the General Assembly twice rejects the commission's proposed maps state lawmakers then would be entitled to draw new maps on their own.

Once approved, the maps would be in force for U.S. House and Statehouse elections from 2022 to 2030.

The current Indiana maps, drawn by the Republican-controlled General Assembly in 2011, have produced GOP supermajorities in the House and Senate since then, as well as Republican domination of the state's congressional delegation.

Other redistricting proposals

Bohacek is not the only Hoosier lawmaker working on redistricting during the 2018 legislative session that begins Jan 3.

Senate Democratic Leader Tim Lanane, D-Anderson, has a similar proposal in Senate Bill 77 for an independent redistricting commission to draw the maps with limited input by elected officeholders.

The Indiana House in recent years also has advanced redistricting reform measures only to see them die in the Senate due to the strong opposition of state Sen. Brandt Hershman, R-Buck Creek, floor leader for Senate Republicans.

But with Hershman resigning from the Senate on Tuesday to take a job at a Washington, D.C., law firm, the road ahead for redistricting changes might not be as bumpy.

Bohacek said he's remaining realistic about his chances.

"Whether it passes, whether it gets a hearing, all those things are yet to be seen and heard," he said.
GARY  Snow-covered streets and subzero temperatures usually mean Mary Edwards will see some new faces around the Brothers Keeper homeless shelter.

Sometimes theyll come in to warm up while waiting for a ride. Others will pop in for dinner, a hot meal, said Edwards, who has served as the shelter's executive director for the last 30 years.

A refuge on Broadway

Brothers Keeper at 2120 Broadway is one of several warming centers available to the public during cold snaps like the one that has gripped the Region this past week.

Fridays winter storm slicked roadways, dropped up to 4 inches of snow in some areas across Lake and Porter counties, and sent some people to Brothers Keeper for relief.

About a dozen people bundled up in jackets and hats Friday afternoon in the Gary shelters warm community room enjoying each others company.

Some stopped in for a short break from the outside. Others, like Michael Russell, 60, are staying overnight at the shelter.

After losing his house and welding job in Houston back in April, Russell said he floated from state to state before happening upon Gary a few days ago, he said.

Ms. Edwards, shes a wonderful person, giving me a place a stay like this. I almost froze to death in Kansas. It started snowing. Couldnt heat my car because I had no gas, the 60-year-old said.

Looking around the room, Edwards said many of the men staying at the shelter are just like him  down on their luck, with mounting debt, no job and no family willing to take care of them.

If it werent for Ms. Edwards, Id probably be sleeping in a cardboard box on the streets, he said.

Warming centers available

With temperatures expected to dip below zero again this weekend and persist through next week, several cities and towns in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties are opening up community centers to the public.

The Brothers' Keeper shelter in Gary is available only to men overnight, but anyone can use the shelter from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in dangerously cold weather.

The Dyer Police Department has opened the departments community rooms for temporary shelter. If it becomes long-term, the department arranges for the town hall to serve as a shelter, said Dyer Police Chief Dave Hein.

In Hobart, the Fire Station No. 2 community room, 2411 W. Old Ridge Road, serves as a 24-hour warming center and the PCC Buildings East Lobby meeting room is available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Maria Reiner Senior Center is available for senior citizens who live in Hobart during those same hours.

In East Chicago, the Bessie Owens center at 4001 Alexander Ave. is available as a warming center overnight from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. A city spokesman said East Chicago opens the warming center anytime there is a wind chill below zero forecasted for three consecutive days.

In Porter County, the Woodland Park Community Center at 2100 Willowcreek Road will be available daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Residents in need of assistance after 10 p.m. are encouraged to contact Porter County Dispatch by dialing 911, according to county officials.

In LaPorte County, several centers are open in Michigan City, including the police station at 1201 E. Michigan Blvd., the Fire Administration Building at 2510 E. Michigan Blvd., the Michigan City Senior Center, Two on the Lake, the public library at 100 E. 4th Street and Keys to Hope community Resource Center, 1802 Franklin St. Hours vary.

Police also encouraged people to call 211 from a Northwest Indiana area code if they need assistance.

Cold snap continues

Saturday will be partly sunny with wind chill values as low as minus 14. Isolated snow showers are expected Saturday night through Sunday.

Lake-effect snow is possible Sunday morning in Lake and Porter counties. LaPorte County also could see periodic lake-effect snow, with accumulations expected by the end of next week, according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures will hold steady in the single digits for much of next week  with wind chills expected to fall to minus 25 through Tuesday morning.

People are advised to wear a hat and gloves because frostbite in extreme cold can happen in a matter of minutes, especially with uncovered skin and on the extremities, such as hands and feet.

Here's a look at some local warming shelters:
The arrival of the new year is bringing below-freezing air early next week and the cold weather is anticipated to stay throughout next weekend.

Daytime temperatures will drop from the low 50s to mid-40s through Sunday, according to the National Weather Service, but the Auburn-Opelika area will expect its coldest air Monday and Tuesday mornings with temperatures in the upper teens to lower 20s  feeling more like 13-15 degrees because of wind.

This is the first cold air that weve had of this magnitude in several years, said NWS meteorologist Gary Goggins. So folks need to start preparing accordingly.

The coming week will be mostly sunny or partly cloudy, allowing some gain in warmth during daylight hours, but not much.

Temperatures of around 40 degrees during the daylight hours are expected for Monday and Tuesday, but will drop again Tuesday night into the low 20s. Wednesday is expected to continue the early weeks patterns with a high of around 41 degrees and a low of around 21 degrees at night.

Although predicted to be sunny, Thursday is anticipated to bring another reinforcing shot of cold air, Goggins said, with temperatures dropping back down to the upper teens and lower 20s, and again on Friday and into the weekend.

"Looking at Friday and into next weekend, it is going to remain cold," Goggins said. "(We have) another round of cold air coming down from the north."

Cold weather safety

When preparing for the cold weather, Goggins said residents need to remember the four Ps, which is people, pets, pipes and plants.

With this, people are reminded to bring pets and plants inside, make sure your pipes are insulated to prevent freezing and check on people, such as the elderly, make sure they have a means to stay warm, Goggins said.

Matt Jordan, deputy fire chief for the Auburn Fire Division, cautioned residents on how they heat their homes to prevent fires.

If using a space heater, plug the appliance directly into the wall instead of an extension cord, he said.

A lot of times people try to hide extension cords by putting them beneath rugs or use extension cords that are not rated for the amount of electricity the heaters pull , Jordan said.

Heating your home with kitchen appliances, such as a stove, is not recommended  especially if it is a gas appliance because it can cause a buildup of fumes inside the home, Jordan said.

Residents are also encouraged to make sure their homes are equipped with working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Holiday hazard

Because residents may already be in the process of removing decorations, Jordan said now would be the time to remove live Christmas trees from the home because the trees can be an extra fire hazard during cold weather.

They dry out if you have it for a good period of time. Even if youve watered it, it can really start to dry out and they are a pretty big fire hazard, Jordan said, cautioning that dry trees ignite easily. Theres a reason they say it goes up like a Christmas tree. They can really burn.
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.
ASHLAND, Neb.  Ashley Welch can see things that arent there. Then, like a magician, she makes them appear in real life.

Take her farmhouse. The 35-year-old mother of four could see her family in one of those wood-sided, porch-wrapped farmhouses. So she and handy husband Nolan built one.

Take her farmhouse furniture. She could see her new sunlit home, all 4,000 square feet of it, filled with chunky, simple-lined wood pieces. She could not see paying for them. So she learned how to use a saw and built nearly every piece of furniture  minus couches and mattresses but plus the mantel and kitchen island.

Take her business. Welch could see herself running a business and tried a bakery. When that closed, she sold a coffee table shed built to a friend and started Salt Creek Farmhouse Furniture.

And take the bigger business. Welch could see a wood shop with a second floor for entertaining. So, when the business took off, she and Nolan built a place big enough to drive three cars into and hired four employees, and now the place hums with a project list 50 to 70 orders long destined for buyers across the country.

Welch has no formal training in construction or furniture-building. She did not grow up around saws and hammers. She has no college degree. Everything she has learned shes done by asking questions, reading manuals, seeing photos she liked and employing trial and error.

Yet, when you look around her 10-acre property and take in the pet sheep, the cows, the three dogs, the four children and the four workers, you see the vital quality that Welch does possess: vision.

She can see the way a table looks or a life looks and, by thinking it through, drawing out sketches, talking it over and just trying it out, her vision becomes reality.

Not only is Welch building furniture, but she also has created a flexible, fulfilling work environment for herself and four others, including three stay-at-home dads in their 30s.

Its a really good place to work when you dont have a normal life or a normal schedule, said Andrew Loges, whose wife is an Omaha police officer who starts her shift at 2 p.m. So Loges shows up around 6 a.m. and starts building Welchs country furniture, made from solid pine, ash and alder wood.

Next in the shop are Joe Kasel, the only full-timer, and Blake Winder, who puts in a few morning hours when his 4-year-old is at preschool. Last to arrive is Blase Lichtas, who works evenings and weekends, around his wifes primarily daytime job in graphic design.

We all feel fortunate to have this (job), Lichtas said.

Welchs business is online. You cant come to her shop and buy one of these tables, which range from $420 for an end table to almost $1,500 for a dining room table with cubby space underneath for place settings. But she will ship it to you, fully assembled  no Allen wrench or cursing required.

She also builds spice racks, bath cabinets, console tables, wall signs and big wall clocks. Between 2015, when she sold her first table on Etsy, to mid-December, she had sold 580 items.

She also runs a busy household. Nolan Welch, an electrician, has his own electrical business in town. They have four daughters, ages 11 to 8 months.

For work, Ashley Welch is constantly thinking of variations and other products. She stays up late handling customer communication and sketching out new ideas.

She never quits, Nolan said.

The Omaha native and Burke High graduate had attended three colleges and tried two career paths: criminal justice and interior design. She couldnt decide. So she left college to work, met Nolan and moved to Ashland. She dreamed of living in the country and running some kind of business.

Six years ago, she opened a bakery downtown, first called Bittersweet and then Wallflour. She baked cinnamon rolls, turnovers, muffins, scones. She sold everything she made. But it wasnt enough to justify a business that broke even. It closed in 2014.

About that time, Ashley and Nolan Welch were moving into their farmhouse. But there was a problem: None of their furniture from their old place worked.

Ashley Welch wanted farmhouse furniture, so Nolan showed her how to use a saw and the next day shed built a kitchen island. Nolan got the spirit and used old barnwood for a dining room table. They celebrated a wedding anniversary by building their mantel.

Once she saw she could build furniture, she tried to sell it and sold her first piece in summer 2014. She opened up her Etsy online store in fall 2015 and nailed a sale three days after that. She grew busy enough to hire Lichtas.

Then came spice racks to Alaska! Coffee tables to New York City! At one point, Nolan Welch was marking all the customers with pins on a map. But then there were too many.

How does this vision-thing work with Ashley Welch?

I just sit and stare at stuff sometimes and think: How can I make this different? she explained. Sometimes things pop up. Sometimes they dont. It cant hurt to go for it. If it doesnt work out, consider it a learning experience.

Welch isnt finished seeing into her future. Whats in her current line of sight is a brick-and-mortar retail store, something that does not exist right now but, given her track record, certainly could.

* * *

Ashland-based furniture makers let the wood talk to us

There is another Ashland-based, family furniture-making business that, too, is shipping Nebraska-built tables everywhere thanks in part to the online makers market, Etsy.

ABP Works, which launched in 2010, produces custom-made tables built with a live edge style that produces wavy tabletop shapes that follow the natural line of sapwood. Tables sometimes have mineral or wood inlays and are built to order.

We let the wood talk to us, said Todd Peterson, whose two adult sons, Ben and Andrew, are the primary builders. This is their full-time job.

Todd grew up at the knee of his carpenter father, Jerry. Though he has a desk job in Lincoln and a title as vice president of sales, he has dabbled and tinkered with wood practically his entire life. When his mother-in-law asked him one day if he wanted her old barnwood, he eagerly said yes and then went to work building pieces for his lake home near Ashland. Friends and family members would ooh and ahh and say, Can you make one for me, too?

From there came his business. ABP Works builds coffee trays out of barnwood and sells them from $44 to $115 apiece.

The rest of the furniture pieces are tables that take about five weeks to make because of an intense wood-cutting, drying, straightening, cutting, gluing and refinishing process. Most of what the company builds comes with hairpin legs that reflect a minimalist style that Peterson calls modern industrial.

Dining room tables sell for between $2,000 and $4,000 apiece. Shipping can cost up to $1,000. ABP markets itself through regional art shows in Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas City and Omaha. A lot of Petersons business comes from word of mouth.

Their tables have traveled to homes in Sedona, Arizona, and offices in New York City. One of ABPs current projects is a 12-foot-by-almost-4-foot conference table for a bank in Ceresco, Nebraska.

Peterson said customers love the live-edge style, the stories behind the barnwood trays and this fact about both: They are made in Nebraska.
Theres no stopping a good song. It comes on the radio, and its stuck in your head. You hear it on TV, and you cant stop searching until youve found the title. A friend sends you a playlist, and you save your favorites. This year was full of pop hits, rocking riffs, fiery rhymes, thumping indie groove, piano ballads and redemption rock. Here are my 20 favorites.

LOS AGELESS | St. Vincent

Los Angeles is a strange place, and Annie Clark sings about losing her mind over bendy synthesizer melodies.

BODAK YELLOW | Cardi B

Staying at the top of the Billboard charts for seemingly forever, Cardi Bs breakout single is all about the moves shes making.

CHASE ME | Danger Mouse, Run the Jewels, Big Boi

No surprise, this song about thieving and car chases is featured in Baby Driver.

CALIFORNIA | Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors

California can be a strange place, but Drew Holcomb knows why so many people fell in love with it. He falls in love with it on this strummer, too.

HOPE THE HIGH ROAD | Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit

The best riff on Isbells new record comes while hes singing about looking forward and staying on the high road.

SILVER | Waxahatchee

Katie Crutchfield cranks out another rocking jam.

HUMBLE. | Kendrick Lamar

Another No. 1 for Lamar, this song has been nominated for four Grammys.

GREEN LIGHT | Lorde

The phenom turned ambitious for her second record, and this song, with its driving piano melody, is the highlight.

WANT YOU BACK | HAIM

The Haim sisters weave their voices into yet another beautiful tapestry in this thrumming pop tune.

SHARK SMILE | Big Thief

An upbeat song about young lovers on a long drive; this one ends in tragedy.

GOD IN CHICAGO | Craig Finn

Usually the Hold Steady frontman kind of sing-talks through songs about life and love and celebration and (occasionally) tragedy. This time he actually speaks the lyrics through a tragic song about death and drugs and maybe a little redemption.

HOT THOUGHTS | Spoon

Bells and that thumping bass punctuated by staccato guitar riffs. This is a Spoon song.

FEEL IT STILL | Portugal. The Man

The delightfully retro funk tune will get stuck in your head. And youll play it again and again and again.

SIGN OF THE TIMES | Harry Styles

The former One Directioner went big with a glammy piano ballad about life and death and rebirth.

PRAYING | Kesha

Keshas song about an abuser isnt a scorched-earth diatribe. Its bigger and better than that: a heartfelt piano ballad that stands as a letter saying farewell, hoping their soul changes and claiming bigger things for herself. Her voice has never sounded better.

THE WAY YOU USED TO DO | Queens of the Stone Age

The ultimate crunchy guitar riff begs you to roll down the window, hit the gas and cruise down the highway.

THATS WHAT I LIKE | Bruno Mars

A silky R&B tune, this earworm was inescapable.

WALK ON WATER | Eminem feat. Beyonce

Kicking off a polarizing album, Eminem sees the expectations and hopes that hip-hop heads are putting on his shoulders. Im not God-sent, he raps, before Beyonce adds, Im only human, just like you.

DISCO TITS | Tove Lo

Not for the faint of heart, the pop newcomer dazzles on this breathy and very danceable club song.

WOMAN | Kesha

And this is where Kesha stands up and says she can do it all for herself, thank you very much. Im a (expletive) woman.
A critical government program that provides health-care coverage to 9 million low-income kids received yet another patch to help stretch it out a few more months  with still no long-term fix in sight.

Congress passed short-term legislation Thursday night that includes $2.85 billion to help fund the program, known as CHIP, through the end of March. The measure will help cover the estimated 1.9 million children across 24 states and Washington, D.C., that stood to lose coverage for care such as doctors visits and hospitalizations in January as states have dipped into reserve funds. But the temporary relief still leaves CHIP and families that rely on it in a state of uncertainty.

"You can't run an insurance program this way," said Sara Rosenbaum, a professor at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University. Lawmakers are forcing health officials who run the program "to go month-to-month."

Funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program lapsed at the end of September when lawmakers couldn't reach agreement on a five-year reauthorization of the program. They've since failed to come up with a solution and instead passed short-term fixes  even though CHIP is one of the few programs that enjoys bipartisan support. Both Republicans and Democrats have disagreed on how to pay for a full reauthorization.

"We share a commitment to extend full funding for CHIP as soon as possible," Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch, a Republican, and Sen. Ron Wyden, the top Democrat on the committee, said in a joint statement.

The spending legislation passed Thursday is part of a last-ditch proposal that keeps the government open through Jan. 19 while a longer-term budget solution is worked out. Both the House and Senate approved the spending measure before government-wide funding expired Friday.

CHIP, created in 1997, is a shared federal-state program for children of parents who can't afford private insurance but make too much to qualify for the Medicaid government program for the poor. States have broad discretion in setting eligibility, and have the option to cover pregnant women as well.

Funding for CHIP  which also covers dental care and prescriptions, among other services  amounts to almost $16 billion, with more than 90 percent coming from the federal government.

Even with passage of another patch, the limbo is hard on families.

"It's a pretty bad Christmas or holiday present for a lot of families," said Diane Rowland, executive vice president of the Kaiser Family Foundation, a bipartisan nonprofit focused on national health issues. "You can predict that there will be relief that the funding has been extended, but it will be combined with a lot of anxiety."

As for states that can't plan ahead, "this is creating an administrative nightmare," Rowland said.

States have to start preparing for a possible shutdown of the program well before the day comes when they run out of money.

"This whole situation is causing chaos," said Cathy Caldwell, director of the bureau of Children's Health Insurance with the Alabama department of public health. "We are causing confusion to families, stress and turmoil."

Alabama health officials were forced to warn on Dec. 15 they would stop taking new enrollees on New Year's Day and that the 84,000 children currently in the program could lose coverage Feb. 1.

Democrats have opposed a House GOP proposal to reauthorize CHIP for five years because it would be paid for by taking money from a fund set up under Obamacare to invest in prevention efforts. Bipartisan talks with the Senate and the White House on other funding offsets are "well down the road," said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, a California Democrat.
The World Health Organization is poised to officially recognize that playing video games too often could be a mental health disorder.

The WHO is planning to add the term gaming disorder to its official list of diseases in 2018, according to a draft of the organizations 2018 International Classification of Diseases.

The WHOs description of gaming disorder says that those who are afflicted are characterized by a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behavior, either on digital devices like smartphones or video-gaming offline on machines.

According to the WHOs description, you may have a problem if your symptoms include impaired control over gaming  you just cant stop playing. It could be a red flag if you are feeling left out because millions of people right now are playing Horizon: Zero Dawn, Assassins Creed: Origins or Star Wars: Battlefront II and you arent.

Or, you give an increased priority to playing video games to the point that they take precedence over other life interests and daily activities like eating and sleeping and socializing.

And, the continuation and escalation of gaming continues even after you suffer negative consequences like getting fired for playing on company time or you keep losing relationships because you just arent present.

The WHOs classification means that doctors and insurance companies can recognize gaming disorder as a disease. The classification will make it easier for scientists to share and compare health information between hospitals, regions and countries.

Among those praising the designation is Amber Sherman, addiction treatment supervisor at Wisconsins Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare, who told the Chicago Tribune, I think that is a big step forward in treatment. We see that type of addiction, and hopefully that will help.

Chris Ferguson, a professor of psychology at Stetson University in Florida whose research interests include video games and other media violence effects, described the International Classification of Diseases as the book of real diseases that you can get insurance payments for.

People who have treatment centers for video game addiction or a gaming disorder will now be able to get reimbursed, Ferguson told CNN. In the past, they have not. It will be a financial boon for those centers.

I dont think that the WHOs proposal is reflecting a real consensus in the field, Ferguson said. Some people agree with it, but a lot of us dont.

He questions whether it is really a disorder, or symptomatic of another mental disorder.

After 20 or 30 years of this, the evidence base is not really good to suggest that this is a unique disorder  the evidence base really to my mind suggests that this is, if anything, symptomatic of an underlying problem that people might be having, Ferguson said.

Gaming disorder will join gambling disorder under disorders due to addictive behaviors in the diagnostic manual. The WHOs clinical description does not include prevention or treatment options.

But you can self-diagnose by asking yourself the same questions people use to detect alcohol addition. Just swap the word alcohol for gaming. If you identify strongly with the four questions you may have a problem and are advised to try to cut down:

 Have you ever felt you should cut down on your gaming?

 Have people annoyed you by criticizing your gaming?

 Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your gaming?

 Are video games usually the first thing you think about in the morning when you wake up?
LINCOLN  A six-year legal battle between the state and 400 current and former Nebraska state troopers now has another big number attached to it: $12 million.

Thats roughly how much the troopers say they were overcharged for pension contributions between 2008 and 2016. The troopers have been pursuing a series of lawsuits since 2011 to recoup those funds and end what they consider an unconstitutional breach of contract by the state.

We want an equitable resolution, said Trooper Kurt Frazey, legislative liaison for the State Troopers Association of Nebraska. Wed rather not go to trial. At the end of the day, were all taxpayers.

At stake is the Nebraska Legislatures ability to adjust pension contribution rates by troopers, which is allowed under state law, said Mark Laughlin, the Omaha attorney hired to defend the state.

Their attempts years later to keep all their benefits without paying what was clearly required under Nebraska statutes is both unfair and contrary to Nebraska law, he said.

The legal team for the troopers has twice fought off attempts by the state to have the lawsuits tossed out. But with several important legal questions yet to be decided, no end is in sight as the litigation heads for a seventh year.

The issue also has commanded the attention of State Sen. Mark Kolterman of Seward, the chairman of the Legislatures Retirement Systems Committee, which provides oversight of the patrols nearly $400 million retirement plan.

Were watching it closely because the outcome could have a significant impact on the plan, Kolterman said.

Its far from the first legal dispute over the retirement pension plan for state troopers. Prior lawsuits, however, have centered on the benefits paid to troopers. This one involves contributions made by them.

Lawmakers established the plan in 1947 because the Highway Patrol has performed good service to the state and ... salaries were not large enough to hold men for a long enough period of time, according to the legislative history cited by Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong in her 2016 order allowing the lawsuits to continue.

The law requires troopers to contribute a set percentage of their salaries to the plan, which also is funded by contributions from the state and returns on investment.

Lawmakers initially required the state to withhold 5 percent of each troopers paycheck, not to exceed $15 per month. But the law also stated that a troopers contributions may be increased from time to time to ensure the actuarial soundness of the retirement fund, the judge said.

By 1969, the pensions were underfunded because the state had failed to keep up with contributions. So lawmakers increased the troopers contribution to 7 percent. While the Legislature dropped the language that reserved the states right to increase trooper rates, the state has continued to do so. The senators also added a clause requiring the state to cover the plans unfunded liabilities going forward.

Over time, the pension system grew until it had $12.5 million more in assets than in liabilities. Then, in 1993, the Legislature reduced the minimum retirement age for troopers to 50, as long as the officers had at least 25 years of service. It was a change the troopers union lobbied to obtain.

An increase in early retirements in 1994 was one of several factors that led to a projected long-term shortfall in the pension plan, the judge said. That same year, the Legislature increased the contribution rate, which was at 8 percent, to 10 percent.

Between 1994 and 2011, the rates were increased six more times until they peaked at 19 percent. In 2013, they were reduced to their current level of 16 percent.

Despite hikes in trooper contributions, the plan currently has an unfunded liability of nearly $70 million, according to a recent report on the states pension plans. That puts the plan at 85 percent of full funding.

The judge said the legislative history shows a lobbyist for the troopers union testified that union members would support contribution rate increases. Their support was tied to the early retirement benefit approved by the Legislature two years earlier, the lobbyist said. No similar testimony by a union leader appears in the official record, the judge noted.

One of the fundamental arguments made by the troopers in their lawsuit is that they have a contractual right to their pensions, which includes paying the same contribution rate as when they were hired. They argue that any increase in their contribution must be accompanied by an increase in benefits, which they contend has not been done through the years.

In arguing for dismissal of the lawsuits, the states lawyers said that lawmakers did not unmistakably say that the troopers contribution rates could never be changed.

Lawyers with Fraser Stryker in Omaha  hired because of a conflict of interest with the Attorney Generals Office  cited a 1995 ruling by the Nebraska Supreme Court that said a state law is a policy that can change or even be repealed, making it unlike a binding contract. Only unmistakable language in the law can bind the state contractually, the court ruled.

The troopers legal team with Keating OGara Law in Lincoln cited a different Supreme Court decision, from 1982, that involved a member of the patrol suing over the pension plan. The court ruled in that case that pensions are a type of deferred compensation that constitute contracts between public employers and their employees.

The Supreme Court also said it must be determined whether changes to a pension plan impair the employee and whether such impairment violates the Constitution. To comply with the Constitution, the state must show that any changes are reasonable and necessary to serve an important public purpose.

Judge Strong ruled that the troopers have established a contractual right to the pension contribution rate in effect on their hiring date. As a result, she rejected the states motion for summary judgment. What now needs to be decided through further litigation is whether the Legislatures increases in the contribution rates have impaired the troopers vested pension rights.

And if so, whether those modifications were reasonable and necessary or accompanied by comparable benefits, the judge added.

The case currently is in the discovery phase, during which lawyers exchange information. No trial date has been scheduled.
LINCOLN  Families wishing to fully cash in on the recently approved federal tax benefit on K-12 private and parochial school tuition might need to hold their horses.

And they may be holding those horses for a while.

State Treasurer Don Stenberg, whose office administers the 529 savings plans, said the Nebraska Legislature must enact enabling legislation before taxpayers can take advantage of any state tax breaks made available by Congress for private K-12 education.

While federal tax benefits for K-12 education are now available, Stenberg said he wants to put off implementation of the new state tax break until 2020 to avoid any adverse fiscal impact on the state budget.

We all know were in a revenue crunch, Stenberg said. I think it will make some sense to push that out beyond the current biennium.

That might not be good news for families of parochial and private school students wishing to take immediate advantage of the federal change, which allows them to use funds in a tax-advantaged 529 savings plan for tuition at private and parochial K-12 schools.

Right now, the 529 plans can be used only for higher education expenses, at a college or technical school.

Putting off the state tax change for two years will raise questions among families seeking to use the new tax break, said Tom Venzor of the Nebraska Catholic Conference.

When someone sees a tax change at the federal level, theres going to be that general disappointment and curiosity, Why cant we do this?  Venzor said.

Of the roughly 38,460 students in private and parochial schools in Nebraska this school year, the vast majority, about 29,225 students, are in Catholic schools, he said.

The new K-12 tax break, because it will reduce the amount of taxes paid, promises to reduce state revenue, but whether it will be a major or minor impact on the state budget is as yet unclear.

Numbers crunchers with the Nebraska Department of Revenue are now conducting a fiscal analysis, but that estimate is not expected for a couple of weeks.

But a hint of the potential fiscal impact was given in a bill introduced this year that would allow up to $2,000 a year to be invested in an educational savings account for private K-12 school expenses. Legislative Bill 118, which did not advance to debate by the full Legislature, was estimated to reduce state tax collections by between $7.9 million and $8.7 million a year.

State Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion, who heads the Legislatures Revenue Committee, which sets state tax policy, said that he appreciated Stenbergs approach but that he wants to see what the predicted fiscal impact might be before making any decisions on when the new tax breaks should be implemented.

We do have a very strained state budget, and we have to be careful about what we do, the senator said.

State lawmakers, when they convene for a 60-day session on Wednesday, will be looking to close a $200 million budget gap created by lower-than-expected tax collections and an unexpected request for an additional $50 million over two years to pay for higher-than-anticipated child welfare costs and lower-than-expected federal funding of Medicaid.

Several senators have already said they see tough sledding ahead for any proposal  like a broader tax break on 529 plan expenditures  that would add to that budget shortfall.

The new federal law expands state-sponsored 529 plans to include tax-free distributions of up to $10,000 per year to pay for tuition at K-12 private and parochial schools.

But Stenberg, in a post on his offices website, warns families that until Nebraska passes authorizing legislation they wont qualify for any state tax breaks, and will be subject to recapture of any state income tax deduction previously claimed, if they withdraw 529 funds to pay for K-12 expenses.

The treasurer said that his office has drafted enacting legislation and would be looking for a state senator to introduce the bill during the upcoming legislative session.
Controversy over the treatment of a conservative University of Nebraska-Lincoln student has surfaced once again, this time in Gov. Pete Ricketts re-election campaign.

The Republican governors campaign last month sent a survey to donors asking, in part, how troubled they were by the bullying of conservative students.

The survey question reflects how divisive one incident at UNL has been and suggests that it could have political implications. It has given conservatives a situation to seize upon as evidence of liberal bias at the university.

The survey question has made some faculty members in the NU system cringe.

In the current climate, it doesnt surprise me that this kind of thing is occurring, said William Wozniak, a past president of the University of Nebraska at Kearney Faculty Senate. But its just another indication of how  how rotten  the atmosphere has gotten with regard to pitching grenades at the other side.

Jessica Flanagain, Ricketts campaign manager, said this week that the survey went out to Republican donors. She didnt know how many received it.

Five of the seven involved questions about budget, efficiency and taxation. Another question was about whether the media give fair and accurate coverage to Republican officials.

The one involving the university states: Recently, employees of our taxpayer funded state university system have been caught bullying students for their conservative beliefs. ... how concerned are you about this?

The options include 5 Very Concerned to 1 Not at all.

Flanagain, who said she helped devise the survey, declined to comment on why the word students was used when only Kaitlyn Mullen was belittled in the Aug. 25 incident.

Its campaign fundraising, she said. The survey included current issues of significance, and just getting a sense of where our supporters are on some of these issues.

The incident involved a sophomore who sat outdoors at a table at UNL, recruiting for the conservative group Turning Point USA.

A graduate student/lecturer flipped the student the bird and called her a neofascist, among other things. The lecturer was initially given a written reprimand. But after some state senators got involved, alleging that the NU system might be hostile toward conservatives, the lecturer was informed that her contract wouldnt be renewed at the end of the school year.

The letter asks, in part, that NU administrators resist political interference.

Wozniak, a psychology professor, said the question about the university assumes that conservative students are being intimidated.

Wozniak said he is liberal, but in the classroom he works to be objective, present multiple sides of an issue and isnt out to change students opinions.

Richard Duncan, an NU law professor, didnt object to the survey question and found it fair. Duncan, a conservative, called UNL a good place that values diverse points of view.

Solid work is rewarded, regardless of viewpoint, he said. And Im outspoken, said Duncan, who has been on the Lincoln campus for 39 years. Ive never been afraid to speak out on issues. Ive never felt that I would be punished.

Some students might keep their conservative views to themselves, he said, but that would mainly be because they dont want to be judged by their classmates.

I have not felt silenced at the University of Nebraska.

Paul Landow, a political science professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, said Ricketts should have more important work than poking around in small matters in the NU system.

Landow said a graduate student had a dust-up with an undergraduate student and it turns into the world coming to an end and conservative politicians using it for their own purposes.

Landow, a Democrat, was former Omaha Mayor Mike Faheys chief of staff from 2001 through 2008.

The university has been around for the better part of 150 years, and its done just fine without political meddling from either side, he said.

NU Regents Chairman Bob Whitehouse of Papillion, said he would have preferred a question about how well the university is doing its job.

That would have been fair, said Whitehouse, a Republican.

As for the incident in question, Whitehouse said: Gawd, this is a story that just wont go away.
Perhaps a judge is correct that Nebraska law is unclear about the criminal liability of a bounty hunter who broke into the wrong home in Omaha, but theres no mistaking the injustice of the situation.

Nebraska lawmakers need to amend state law and make clear that any similar incidents in the future will be subject to firm legal penalty.

In January, a 25-year-old rookie employee with a Council Bluffs bail bond firm was looking for a 17-year-old who failed to show up for a court date in Pottawattamie County. The report from the Omaha Police Department says the bounty hunter knocked at an east Omaha home and then, gun in hand, forced the door open, smashing a hole in the drywall. Inside were a couple and their 13-year-old daughter.

The bail bondsman swept from room to room, leaving the family shaken. The daughter, the police report said, is now afraid to sleep in her own home and (is) now talking with her school counselor as she is afraid all the time.

The actual suspect was two miles away; the bounty hunter was at the wrong address.

The bounty hunters employer says the bondsman was not carrying a gun when he was in the house.

The Douglas County Attorneys Office filed felony burglary charges against the bail bondsman. Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine was right when he stated: If this is allowed to happen, in effect they could just start breaking into houses all over the place to find the person theyre looking for. You simply cant allow this kind of behavior.

Indeed, barging into someones home in such a dramatic, alarming fashion is no minor act. And if such entry is made in error, its no small mistake  just ask the Omaha teenager and her parents.

But the vagueness in Nebraska law about such matters so far has tripped up prosecutors in this case. Douglas County District Judge Shelly Stratman has dismissed the burglary charge against the bounty hunter, ruling that his actions were not out of line with applicable, if dated, court rulings.

If the state desires to curtail the broad powers of bail bondsmen, Stratman wrote, then it ought to do so legislatively rather than through selective criminal prosecution.

Kleine says he intends to file an appeal.

In any case, Nebraska lawmakers need to step up during the 2018 session and tackle this issue. Theres clearly a blank spot in state law when it comes to bounty hunters. The Legislature needs to fix it.
Recently there have been several Public Pulse letters about whether or not Nebraska is truly a pro-life state.

Ive come to the conclusion that the slogans pro-life and pro-choice belong in the dustbin of history. Both are simplistic products of PR focus groups. They bury a deeply complex moral issue under rhetoric and rancor.

Most who identify as pro-life vote for candidates who are pro-death penalty, against Medicaid expansion, the Affordable Care Act, SNAP, public education, immigrants, etc. Those of us who call ourselves pro-choice say this contradicts pro-life bumper stickers.

However, as a Catholic Democrat, the pro-choice label sounds breezily casual, so it also falls short. And the alternative term, reproductive rights, is terribly cold  clinical and legalistic.

Neither allude to the diverse, difficult human situations in which these decisions are made  the realm of morality where only God can judge.

Lets declare these two positions to be what they are: One is dogmatically against abortions and, often, artificial contraception. The other trusts women to make their own deeply personal life decisions rather than politicians, bureaucrats and judges.

Say no to cliches. Say yes to dialogue.

Ellen Moore, Bellevue
New Managers

BULLETIN: Australian hedge fund veterans launch cryptocurrency fund, 70% of new hedge funds to use computer models, including AI and machine learning versus 47% in 2015, A&P Emerging Manager Index

70% of new hedge funds to use computer models, including AI and machine learning versus 47% in 2015

The Deloitte Center for Financial Services has published its 2018 Investment Management Outlook focusing on the big challenges in the year ahead for hedge funds, mutual funds and private equity firms.

Deloitte makes some predictions in there, including this one: With the exponential rise in data availability, and continued increases in processing power, 70 percent of new hedge fund launching globally in 2018 will include investment processes supported by computer models, including AI and machine learning algorithms, as compared with 47 percent in 2015.

Staying ahead of the curve

Many investment managers are augmenting traditional stock-picking methods with advanced analytical techniques and alternative datasets to stay ahead of the curve. These investment managers seeking organic growth via consistent alpha generation should be on the lookout for creative approaches utilizing technology and alternative data sources for making investment decisions. Alpha generation has shifted the focus

from the stock-picking skills of portfolio managers and traditional financial analysis to augmented processes including:

1. Quantitative and analytical techniques, such as artificial intelligence (AI)

2. New alternative data sources that can provide investment insight

Investment managers are using a myriad of technologies in their investment decision processincluding AI and other advanced analytical techniques to improve their traditional processes. In fact, many hedge funds and family offices are using AI not only for investment decision making, but also for finding better ways for executing trades.

The transition to such augmented investment processes seems to be accelerating as the volume of available data rises exponentially. Investment managers like Man Group PLC (see Rise of Man Group assets via AI and a......................

To view our full article please login
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica  Ricardo Rudin Mathieu ran a racket. He put labels bearing the U.S. Department of Agriculture's organic seal on boxes of pineapples grown conventionally with chemicals.



Before Rudin was caught, he managed to export more than 400,000 of the phony organics to the United States and Canada  enough to supply a pineapple to every resident of New Orleans.



Rudin confessed in 2014, USDA records show. Then something remarkable happened. The agency did nothing to him.



Like others responsible for what appears to be a rising tide of fakes in the $43 billion U.S. organic food market, Rudin escaped consequences for duping U.S. consumers, who pay steep premiums for food that may not meet the promise of the USDA seal.



The USDA records show that a year into a meandering three-year investigation, agency managers told Costa Rican officials they had no idea whether Rudin continued selling conventional fruit as organic.



A former business partner has filed a lawsuit against Rudin, 42, accusing him of mislabeling produce again, exporting 40,000 conventionally grown pineapples to the U.S. last year at a 100% markup.



"He's moved on to bananas and I believe avocados and plantains, from what we know," William Umana Aguirre, co-owner of Packing House Gala Gold in Costa Rica, told NerdWallet.



Umana accused Rudin last year of misappropriating company money to export phony organic pineapples using another supplier's certificates. He says he reported Rudin to judicial authorities but they have not taken any steps against him.



"I really need to get this guy shut down, but nobody does anything," Umana said.



Rudin denied all of Umana's accusations.



The Rudin case exemplifies the weakness of the USDA's enforcement system, as purveyors succumb to the temptations of profiting from forbidden fruit, a NerdWallet investigation found. Markups are so high  anywhere from a third to almost triple, at retail  that swindlers belly up to the organic trough, with little to fear if they're caught.



Such temptations extend to the 80 powerful certifiers the USDA authorizes to inspect organic operations worldwide. Those certifiers are accredited by the agency but then chosen and paid by the organic companies themselves, creating a conflict of interest.



Among the findings of NerdWallet's four-month investigation: Some consumers who pay extra for organics are bilked and don't know it. Honest organic farmers are undersold and struggle to survive. And cheaters are emboldened as culprits walk and the USDA organic seal loses credibility.

Fake organics involve far more than just pineapples. The Washington Post reported in May, for instance, on a load of conventionally grown soybeans shipped to the U.S. and sold as organic at a $4 million premium. Watchdog organizations such as The Cornucopia Institute in Wisconsin say that dairies and egg producers break organic rules while managing cows and hens.



"This industry is way, way out of control," said Pat Dockstader, managing partner of USDA-certified Doc's Organics LLC, whose sister company, P&T Enterprises in California's Imperial Valley, farms 800 acres of lemons and other organic fruit.



"I've been around a few campfires where guys say, 'Well, how much nighttime spraying do you do?'" said Dockstader, referring to secret application of chemicals banned for organics. He says he doesn't do any.



Merely by relabeling, a dishonest competitor can get $35 for a $25 box of conventionally grown lemons, Dockstader said.



NerdWallet investigated the Rudin case by interviewing him and others involved, and by examining hundreds of pages of emails, documents and photos the USDA released in response to public records requests.



NerdWallet's investigation also found another glaring example of USDA inaction, also involving Costa Rican pineapples. In the separate, ongoing mess, PrimusLabs, the same certifier as in the Rudin case, is accused by a Costa Rican government investigator of improperly certifying a big farming operation, allowing millions of dollars of bogus organics to reach the United States.



A gold standard, tarnished

Rudin's scam was simple, USDA records show. Acting as a middleman between Costa Rican suppliers and U.S. importers, he got hold of organic certificates issued to other companies. Then he presented them as proof his pineapples were worthy of the USDA seal, the gold standard in organics.

Marc Beesley told the USDA he became suspicious that large pineapples had not been grown organically. Richard Read/NerdWallet

It worked for a while. But in October 2014, Marc Beesley, an American businessman who helped pioneer Costa Rica's organic farming industry, grew suspicious. His firm sent reports of suspect fruit to the USDA and to Primus headquarters in Santa Maria, California. The company, which certifies about 100 organic outfits in the U.S. and abroad, now does business as Primus AuditingOps, an all-purpose industrial auditor.



Beesley, Costa Rica-based managing director of CAPA LLC, a pineapple exporter, importer and producer, told the USDA and Primus that a salesman had offered his company's U.S. branch "organic" pineapples in impossibly big quantities. Only a giant "mystery farm" that no one knew about could produce that much, said Beesley, who also noticed that the fruit was abnormally large.



The "five count" pineapples  grown so big that only five fit in a standard-size box  struck Beesley as red flags. Costa Rica's organic farmers hadn't yet found a way to feed plants enough natural nitrogen to consistently produce fruit that big.



In that year's hot market, Beesley knew, Costa Rican exporters who charged $15,000 for a shipping container of conventional fruits could get $24,000 for the same load marked organic, a 60% premium. At retail today, a regular pineapple that would sell for $2.40 could fetch $3.80 as an organic.



Primus began investigating by conducting a surprise inspection of one of Rudin's suppliers. However, the certifier neglected to inspect a second implicated company, according to the USDA's overseer of certifiers.



Primus extracted the confession in the form of a private letter to its Costa Rica manager from Rudin, who wrote that he absolved Primus of blame in the labeling scam. Primus submitted it to the USDA.



The USDA investigated from its headquarters in Washington, D.C., where the agency's outgunned staff has just one compliance officer for every $9 billion of U.S. organic-labeled food.



The USDA assigned an inexperienced investigator who struggled with secondhand information. The case plodded on and on.



"It's been taking up quite a lot of my time!" Karin French, one of the National Organic Program's five backlogged compliance officers, wrote in a December 2014 email, aiming to reassure a U.S. importer who worried that the trail was going cold.



French, a former program analyst, had a master's degree in animal science. She had been a social media moderator and a web marketing consultant. The 17 skills listed on her LinkedIn site do not include investigative abilities.



French worked the Rudin case until transferring in January to an agency grants-management job. The case file contains no indication that she or others from the USDA traveled to Costa Rica.



Files released at NerdWallet's request contain numerous emails in which French requested elementary information from Primus and others, showing that the USDA lacks an enforcement database with timely information on organic operators and certifiers.



And the files include glimpses of bureaucratic fumbles, including USDA enforcement managers stymied by a lack of response from the Costa Rica Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock  until a ministry official pointed out they were emailing defunct addresses.



USDA spokespersons declined after three months of repeated requests to make officials available for interviews concerning the pineapple cases and the systemic issues they raise. Primus did not respond to repeated requests for comment.



The USDA closed the case Aug. 3 during a drive to reduce a backlog.



The case closure memo said that organic certificates were suspended for two Costa Rican companies. David Glasgow, USDA agricultural marketing service public affairs director, identified the two as Isabella Fruit Co. and Productos Organicos de Exportacion Pura Vida.



Glasgow didn't mention it, but USDA records show that a third company in the Rudin investigation, Exportaciones Pina Tica, lost certification. After USDA officials discovered during the investigation that Primus had improperly certified Pina Tica, they dinged the certifier with a noncompliance, but the agency subsequently reaccredited the certifier.



In an example of the agency's disarray, NerdWallet searches of the USDA's Organic Integrity Database, an online resource promoted by the agency as a tool consumers can use to check on the integrity of organic operations, produced no listing for Isabella or Pura Vida.



Critics of the USDA

In an interview with NerdWallet, Rudin said he never suffered any consequences.



The USDA even redacted his name in records releases to protect his privacy, under a Freedom of Information Act exemption.





Large "five count" pineapples struck Beesley as a red flag. Rich Read/NerdWallet

Rudin denied his former business partner's allegations that he mislabeled fruit again last year by misrepresenting certificates of a USDA-certified supplier  accusations that the agriculture ministry investigated but a judge declined to pursue. Rudin also denied relabeling and selling other types of fruit.



USDA failings are all too familiar to the Organic Consumers Association, a nonprofit formed 20 years ago as federal officials began regulating organic food, replacing scattershot local certifications.



"We have spent our entire lifetime as an organization having to run campaigns against the federal government to get them to do their jobs on organics, whether it's regulation or enforcement," said Alexis Baden-Mayer, Organic Consumers Association political director for the OCA.



"Certifiers are the smartest people in the room, but they are close to the industry and don't always do what's right as representatives of consumers," Baden-Mayer said.



Costa Rican officials also criticize the USDA. Gina Paniagua Sanchez, Costa Rican deputy agriculture minister, warned in an email to the agency that scams like the Rudin racket could recur if U.S. border officials didn't compel importers to prove each shipment organic, as the European Union does.



The USDA, however, has not followed the lead of the European Union, which requires organic importers and brokers to be certified as well, in addition to growers, processors and handlers.



The USDA does process compliance complaints, recently obtaining a $1.8 million civil penalty against a Texas corn chip maker whose fine will drop by three-quarters if it complies with regulations for a year. The agency reported levying $187,500 in negotiable fines during the year ended Sept. 30. The USDA also occasionally revokes or suspends certifiers that don't meet requirements.



Lawmakers propose fixes

U.S. Rep. John Faso, R-New York, is sponsoring legislation to address some of the USDA's problems regarding fake organics.



House Bill 3871 would boost the agency's budget to computerize organic certificates for better tracking of international shipments. It would improve coordination among federal agencies for enforcement, and strengthen USDA oversight of its certifiers' foreign branches.



Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, a co-sponsor of the bill, serves on the Agriculture Appropriations Committee and owns a USDA-certified organic vegetable farm. She said that the agency's coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection is "hopelessly behind."



Congress is partly to blame for failing to increase organic enforcement funds to keep pace with explosive market growth, Pingree said.



On the Senate side, Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, said at a July hearing that "uncertainty and dysfunction" had overtaken the U.S. organic system, creating an unreliable regulatory environment.



Attempting to determine whether organic imports are laced with more fakes than domestic products is like trying to count fruit worms. But Pingree and others believe that chances are higher.



An opening for criminal organizations

Producers such as Dockstader, the California organic grower, believe that opportunities for fraud are greater in hotbeds of corruption  opening the door to more sinister forces, which can seize an advantage via the USDA's flawed certification system.



Criminal organizations can pay illicitly gained funds to exporters whose organic exports provide both money laundering and additional profit, he and others in the industry said.



"If the cartel tells you, 'You're going to ship it or I'm going to put you 6 feet under,' well..." said Dockstader, leaving the rest to the imagination.



Beesley, the American expatriate who spotted the Costa Rican fakes, said that in light of such dangers abroad, credit should go to foreign producers and officials who summon courage to call out fraud.



"The last thing we want to show the world is that you can't trust anyone from Costa Rica, and that organic from here is just a big joke," Beesley said.



--Richard Read/NerdWallet
In 2017, the armed robberies of two local businesses shook the Fremont community.

While the perpetrators were able to escape both the Tienda Mexicana Guerrero grocery store and First State Banks Military Avenue branch with cash in hand, they couldnt escape the long arm of the law as authorities apprehended suspects in each incident.

The pair of robberies, and subsequent apprehension of suspects, land at the Tribunes No. 2 spot for the Top 10 Stories of 2017.

In February an armed robbery at Tienda Mexicana Guerrero grocery store, and an attempted theft of an ATM in North Bend, would lead local authorities on an investigation that would eventually result in the identification and arrest of individuals wanted for 14 armed robberies over a 15 month period in California where more than $250,000 was taken.

On February 22, 2017 at approximately 9:30 p.m., Tienda Mexicana Guerrero grocery store was robbed by two heavily armed masked men with a third individual as a getaway driver. The trio got away with a large amount of cash.

These guys were pros at this, they were out of the store in less than 2 minutes, Fremont Police Chief Jeff Elliott said in a previous interview with the Tribune. It appears that it was rehearsed, they got there and they then fled in one vehicle, dumped that and had another vehicle waiting. They had been around the block and knew where they were going with this and they obviously had committed numerous robberies in California as well.

After responding to the scene and beginning investigation, officers learned that the vehicle used by the suspects was a stolen vehicle from Fremont. Officers found the vehicle abandoned approximately two blocks away from the robbery scene, where the suspects fled in a different vehicle. The suspects were also involved in another vehicle theft on that same day.

With one of the stolen vehicles the entire theft was caught on camera and I think they popped the lock, popped the steering wheel, got the thing started and out of the parking lot in under 45 seconds, FPD Detective Aaron Howe said.

Throughout the investigation, Detective Matt Hultquist and Howe were able to determine that the robbery and both stolen vehicles were related. The detectives were able to obtain video surveillance which provided leads to help identify the three suspects.

Once the detectives had identified the suspects they found that all three were from California. This prompted Fremont Detectives to contact police officers in California who stated they had experienced similar robberies in Tulare County, California.

Tulare County authorities were able to link the three suspects from the Fremont robbery to a string of robberies in their jurisdiction from information provided by Fremont Police Detectives.

Authorities from California came to Fremont in June and worked with FPD Detectives and DCSOs Craig Harbaugh on the case and were able to further develop information on the three suspects.

Had it not been for these three guys there would have been no arrests in California and they would have a number of unsolved armed robberies and our robbery would not have been solved, Elliott said of Hultquist, Howe, and Harbaugh. This was extraordinary police work by these three detectives, they did a great job and cleared up a number of cases.

The Fremont Police Department and The Dodge County Sheriffs Office were able to obtain arrest warrants for Javier Beltran Alonzo, Homero Palomino Ontiveros, and Ulises Medina all of California, in connection to the armed robbery of Tienda Mexicana Guerrero as well as the attempted ATM theft in North Bend. The suspects also had active arrest warrants in connection to 14 armed robberies throughout Tulare County, California.

The joint investigation led to the arrest of Beltran Alonzo by Tulare County authorities in California on July 26, and subsequent arrest of Medina, while Palomino Ontiveros currently remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.

In November, local authorities again found themselves investigating a robbery but this time the incident took place at First State Bank, at 1965 East Military Avenue, in Fremont.

According to information released by the Fremont Police Department, it was reported that several armed individuals entered the bank and took money from the cashier drawers and bank vault at approximately 10:35 a.m on November 15th.

The men fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of money and no bank employees or customers were injured during the robbery.

Fremont Police reported that, following the robbery, a witness saw the suspects drive away from the area in a vehicle described as a white colored sport utility vehicle. Shortly after, an FPD Lieutenant saw a vehicle matching that description which was occupied by at least three individuals driving south on Highway 275 toward Omaha.

A description of the vehicle and its direction of travel was dispatched to the Nebraska State Patrol, which led to an attempt by a Nebraska State Patrol officer to stop the vehicle on Dodge Street near Elkhorn.

Following a short pursuit that ended near Village Pointe at 168th and Dodge Streets in Omaha, three individuals were placed into custody by members of the Nebraska State Patrol.

The three suspects were apprehended due to the great work of the State Patrol, and they did a fantastic job of bringing those guys into custody, Huston Pullen, public affairs officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, said.

The suspects were identified as Warren D. Vasser, 44 years old, of Council Bluffs, IA, Warren D. Copeland, 27, of Omaha, and Angelo C. Douglas, 25, of Omaha. All three men were indicted by a Grand Jury on charges of robbery, use of a weapon to commit a felony, possession of stolen property, and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person.
NW Natural said Friday that it wants to raise overall rates by 6 percent next year to pay for operations and maintenance of its natural gas distribution system.

The Portland utility says this is the first time it has sought a general rate increase since 2011, a period when natural gas prices have been falling amid a major uptick in production.

New drilling techniques, including fracking and horizontal drilling, have made gas production far more efficient. NW Natural said its average residential customer bills are down 25 percent since 2011. The utility said it expects the proposed increase would generate $40.4 million in new revenue.

NW Natural has 730,000 customers, nearly 90 percent of them in Oregon. The utility said a typical residential customer using 53 therms a month on average would pay $60 more annually under its rate proposal; a commercial customer using 238 therms monthly would pay $180 more each year.

The rate increase is subject to review by the Oregon Public Utility Commission, which will evaluate NW Natural's rationale and could reject or reduce the request. It's a long process that could take most of 2018, meaning the new rates wouldn't go into effect before next fall.

"Typically they ask for more than they expect to get," said Bob Jenks, director of the Citizens Utility Board of Oregon, an organization created by state voters to advocate on behalf of utility customers. In particular, Jenks said NW Natural's new request appears to seek a higher profit margin than Oregon ordinarily allows.

"I suspect this will become a smaller number pretty quickly," he said.

While Jenks said he believes NW Natural does have safety and maintenance investments to make, he said the utility board and utility commission will scrutinize the proposal to ensure they're spending the money appropriately.

NW Natural reported $521.8 million in revenue in the first nine months of the year, up from $442.4 million in the same period of 2016. It reported profits of $34.5 million, up from $30.6 million a year earlier.

Separately, the utility commission said Friday it expects filings from six utilities  including NW Natural  for proposals to reduce rates following the corporate tax cut President Donald Trump signed last week.

Oregon and other states allow regulated utilities to pass on certain costs to their customers; when those costs go down, prices must, too. The new tax law cut the corporate tax rate from 35 to 21 percent.

It's not unusual for regulators to consider competing factors, like the effects of higher utility investments and lower taxes, when reviewing rate proposals like NW Natural's.

This article has been updated with additional comment from NW Natural, noting that 53 therms are typical for its residential customers.

-- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699
As if the U.S. newspaper business didn't have enough trouble coping with decades of lost readers and advertising dollars, an escalating trade dispute with Canada is poised to make every edition cost a lot more to publish.

Newsprint prices have jumped since October to a three-year high and may keep increasing if, as expected, the administration of President Donald Trump slaps duties on imported paper from Canada next month. America's northern neighbor accounts for about three quarters of what gets used in the U.S., from the Wall Street Journal to local news providers like the Idaho Press-Tribune.

The higher costs will squeeze U.S. newspapers already coping with 28 straight years of declining circulation and increased competition from the internet. Many publications have closed as print-advertising revenue plunged 80 percent since 2005. The New York Times Co. alone spent $72 million last year on newsprint, or 5 percent of operating costs. But the biggest impact may be at the hundreds of smaller papers with fewer financial resources.

"It could have a catastrophic impact on community journalism," said Matt Davison, the publisher and president of the Idaho Press-Tribune, which publishes six days a week and has a circulation of 15,000 in Nampa, about 20 miles west of Boise.

A metric ton of newsprint in the U.S. cost about $570 as of Dec. 26, according to FOEX Indexes Ltd., a provider of global pulp and paper data. Prices are the highest since December 2014 and are up 4.8 percent since Oct. 3, after the U.S. began investigating imports of Canadian newsprint.

Prices will probably rise even further in 2018 because it's "pretty much a guarantee" that the U.S. will impose preliminary countervailing duties of 15 percent to 25 percent, said Kevin Mason, managing director Vancouver-based ERA Forest Products Research.

Canada, with its vast forests and timberland, is the world's biggest maker of newsprint and the U.S. is its top customer. But North Pacific Paper Co., a producer in Longview, Washington, filed a trade complaint alleging Canada subsidizes its industry, giving companies like Montreal-based Resolute Forest Products Co. an unfair advantage in preserving a dominant market position.

The U.S. Department of Commerce is scheduled to announce in January whether it will impose preliminary countervailing duties on Canadian imports of uncoated groundwood paper, used in everything from book publishing to newsprint. It's the latest dispute between the two countries, which have a growing list of trade spats that also includes dairy products and softwood lumber.

If duties are imposed, Canadian newsprint exporters will have to boost prices, causing immediate hardship for smaller U.S. publications that operate on thin margins, said Paul Boyle, senior vice president of public policy at the Arlington, Virginia-based News Media Alliance. The group represents almost 2,000 news organizations from the Journal Star in Peoria, Illinois, to the New York Times.

"It's a killer," and the pain of higher newsprint costs is compounded by U.S. mills that already are unable to produce enough to meet domestic demand, Boyle said. "In some cases, you're going to see smaller newspapers go out of business."

Look no further than the struggles at the Idaho Press-Tribune. Last year, it stopped publishing on Mondays to save money. In early 2017, the paper took another hit when the local Macy's department store closed, ending a source of advertising revenue. To cut costs, the Press-Tribune renegotiated the rental contract on floor mats in its building and installed more-efficient automatic paper-towel dispensers in the restrooms, which use less paper, according to Davison, the publisher.

"When you lose an account like that in a market like this, it's a significant impact," said Davison, who declined to provide specific figures. Newsprint is a big expense, so any increases probably will force the paper to consider "an immediate reduction in publication days" to "keep the lights on," he said.

A group of more than 1,100 local newspapers was so alarmed about rising newsprint costs that it sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross this month saying that the market is being upended by just one company, North Pacific Paper, known as Norpac.

The company, formerly a joint venture of Weyerhaeuser Co. and Nippon Paper Industries Co., was acquired in November 2016 by One Rock Capital Partners LLC. Norpac's trade claim appears to be driven by the "short-term investment strategies of the company's hedge fund owners," the newspapers said in their Dec. 4 letter.

"This is really egregious," said Seth Kursman, a spokesman for Resolute Forest Products, the world's largest newsprint maker. "This is one company. The entire U.S. domestic industry is against them."

In its petition, Norpac notes that the market share of Canadian producers in the U.S. has risen even as demand has slowed since 2012. "Norpac is simply trying to level the playing field to stay competitive to help preserve rural manufacturing jobs in the U.S.," David Richey, a company spokesman, said by telephone Friday.

It's not just newspapers that will be affected. Costs will rise for all kinds of commercial printers and publishers, according to ERA Forest Products Research.

Sussex, Wisconsin-based Quad/Graphics, a commercial printer that makes retail inserts for newspapers, may lose business as advertisers shift to digital platforms or cut back on printed materials, said Patrick Henderson, the company's director of government affairs. Quad/Graphics already is trying to avoid price increases by trying to find $100 million in cost savings in its operations, he said.

If there's a silver lining for newspapers, it's that the nationwide slump in print circulation has had the perverse effect of reducing their exposure to newsprint price fluctuations. At Dallas Morning News publisher A.H. Belo Corp., newsprint spending slid 9.1 percent last quarter from a year earlier to $3 million, even as the cost per metric ton increased 3.3 percent.

-- Jen Skerritt, Bloomberg News, with assistance from Gerry Smith
Vancouver police investigating a report of shots fired found a dead man Saturday morning on the east side of town, police said.

Officers were answering a 4:05 a.m. report of shots fired in the 12500 block of N.E. 28th Street when the man's body was found, according to a news release.

There is no suspect information, police said, adding that detectives do not believe there is a threat to the public.

-- Allan Brettman
In Oregon, the kids are increasingly not all right. A report from the Oregon Health Authority shows that middle- and high school-aged children feel they struggle more with mental illness and cope less well with the stress of their lives than was the case as recently as two years ago.

Compared with 2015 and particularly 2013, more eighth- and 11th- graders reported they have unmet mental health needs on the biennial Oregon Healthy Teens Survey. This year, almost 19 percent of eighth-graders and 22 percent of 11th-graders reported that unmet need on the survey, given to more than 12,000 students in each grade at public schools throughout the state last spring.

A quarter of eighth-graders said their emotional or mental health was fair or poor. A third of 11th- graders did.

At the same time, fewer students reported that they know how to cope with everyday stress and anxiety -- a measure of resiliency that officials use to take the mental temperature of Oregon teens.

More than 40 percent of students in both grades survey did not meet the state's benchmark for coping ability. About a third said they felt so sad and hopeless, they had stopped doing normal activities. Up to 18 percent said they had contemplated suicide.

Nearly 9 percent of eighth graders reported they had in fact attempted suicide in the last year and 7 percent of 11th graders did.

While the survey didn't search out causes for why teenagers feel hopeless, sad or anxious, experts in child psychology say the high proportions of Oregon teens who reported stress and turmoil -- and no way to combat them -- aren't surprising.

Terrorism, cell phones and increased economic insecurity for Oregon families all play a role.

Dr. Ajit Jetmalani, director of child and adolescent psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University, said the he and his colleagues see a confluence of relatively new challenges that parents and national health care policy are just now confronting.

"I think we've reached a place where there's a fork in the road: There could be movement around what's best for kids based around obvious negative trend lines," Jetmalani said. "I don't think it's going to come from a national level. It's going to come from a local level."

Virtually all the teens who took the survey were from 13 to 17 years old. They grew up in the aftermath of the Great Recession, which reshaped the economy into one of heavily low-wage and freelance jobs with a historically wide gap between the very rich and the poor. These children's parents spent a large portion of their lives in the fear-filled years after 9/11.

The fallout from those events have imprinted themselves on children, said Jetmalani.

"These kids now are the product of an environment where people were incredibly distressed and were frightened about safety, were frightened about economic security," Jetmalani said. "We know when people are preoccupied or stressed or experiencing trauma, that can impact the relationship between family members and that can impact a community."

Statewide, half of Oregon students qualify for subsidized school meals, indicating they come from families living below 185 percent of the poverty line. Some of those experience extreme deprivation and lack of security, with 22,541 kids found to be homeless at some point during 2016-17.

When parents are focused on where and when their children will eat or sleep, they have less capacity for their kids' emotional needs, according to studies. That instability shows up in how those kids function as well. They often lose sleep, perform poorly in school and act out, which often leads to punishment.

Up to 40 percent of students reported they had missed at least one day of school for mental health reasons. About as many skipped school for any reason, according to the survey.

The report does not draw conclusions or link the results, but state analysts say that many of these trends are related. For instance, the increase in teens saying they have mental health issues that haven't been addressed corresponds closely to their decreasing ability to cope in tough times.

"Those are two rates that are corresponding," said Wes Rivers, adolescent health policy assessment specialist for the Oregon Health Authority. "As those increase, you would expect unmet need to also increase."

Rivers said that the trend line is the same  possibly suggesting that all are related.

Students live in a relatively novel era when they have access to smartphones and social media at an age no other generation has, and both are a near-constant presence in many teens' lives.

Jetmalani said the biological traits that make adolescence tough in any era -- lack of impulse control, heightened emotions, puberty -- are exacerbated by the speed of smartphone technology and the sense of isolation it can provide.

He said that almost every child who comes to his office, alone or with family, complains of the pressures social media. Social media opens the door for bullying, researchers say. It also closes adolescents off from crucial learning developments that can only be achieved through person-to-person interaction.

For instance, fights between friends can play out completely over text messages and Instagram comments, rather than through face-to-face interactions that allow friends to see how much they hurt each other and learn empathy and restraint.

"If you're neurologically wired to need human contact and interpersonal exchange and we disrupt that through these electronic pathways, we disrupt resilience over time," Jetmalani said.

Parents also grapple with how much they use their own phones and computers. The parents' overuse of screentime can negatively impact their teens.

Jetmalani warned that school bans on smartphone use might not go far enough. Parents and communities might be headed toward making stricter decisions about how old children should be to have access to the internet without supervision -- and whether adults need to temper their own technology usage.

Social media usage fosters a sense of competition that teens are particularly susceptible to. Many social media users create a carefully curated version of their online selves skewed toward their best looks and best days. Jetmalani said many kids compare their lives to the lives of others as presented through social media -- and conclude that they haven't achieved as much or traveled enough or had as much fun as most others their age.

And it's not just that competition that is damaging, Jetmalani said. The tone of national politics has filtered down to make youth feel they must pick a side in everything -- politics, friendships, what they like and don't.

"The polarization of information is so wide, and instead of being focused on the greater good, there's haves and have-nots and Republicans and Democrats -- and there's not a sense of what's best for all of us," he said.

Jetmalani said the stressors, anxiety and depression facing so many teens can be tackled best with more investment in mental health services at early ages.

"I don't think all is lost. We just have to make a decision. We have to do this work and do it systematically."

-- Molly Harbarger

mharbarger@oregonian.com

503-294-5923

@MollyHarbarger
By John Killen

For The Oregonian/OregonLive

When Clarence Beavers died earlier this month in Huntington, New York, his passing obviously held significance for his family and friends. Beavers, a World War II veteran, had been a husband, father, computer programmer and volunteer firefighter.

But Beavers' passing also had special meaning 3,000 miles away in Oregon, where some historians and those who follow the struggles of African-Americans knew about the key role he played here.

Beavers, 96, was the last surviving member of the original Triple Nickles, more properly known as the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion. The unit, based in Pendleton during the final months of World War II, was the first group of African- American paratroopers to serve in the U.S. military.

Triple Nickle Patch

They helped execute a secret mission known as Operation Firefly and helped develop techniques used by modern-day smokejumpers. They also chipped away at the perception held by many whites that black people couldn't function as a military unit.

"Nobody in those days figured that black folks had either the courage or the intelligence to do anything white folks would do," Joe Murchison, a retired Triple Nickles paratrooper, told the Washington Post after Beavers' death on Dec. 4. Murchison now heads the 555th Parachute Infantry Association.

Beavers already was serving in the Army, assigned to a maintenance group, when he was among the first to volunteer for what the Army saw as a test platoon of 20 soldiers, the aim of which was to see if black people could function as paratroopers.

The 555th test unit was formed in Georgia in 1943. Members thought they would be sent to Europe to fight against Germany. But by 1945, the war in Europe was winding down and U.S. officials had begun to worry about the impact of Japanese "balloon bombs" on the forests of the western United States.

The Japanese had been launching the incendiary bombs in hopes of creating an inferno in the forests of the United States. One of those bombs killed a woman and five children while they were on a Sunday school outing near Bly, in southern Oregon, in May 1945.

Starting in April of that year, the Triple Nickles were assigned to an air base in Pendleton with the idea that they would help find the bombs, dispose of them and knock down any fires they started.

They did just that. More than 300 of the bombs were documented as reaching the West Coast during the war and Beavers and his fellow paratroopers spent the summer of 1945 as smokejumpers, attacking forest fires of all causes in Oregon, California, Washington, Idaho and Montana.

It wasn't easy work. Beavers said members of the 555th were injured on nearly every jump and one of them was killed when he fell from a tree after his chute became entangled in its branches.

During that fire season, they were credited with 36 missions and at least 1,200 individual jumps.

They also found, exploded or disarmed some of the balloon bombs that had reached the United States.

Despite the fact that Beavers and the rest of the Triple Nickles were playing a brave role in the war effort, they still encountered overt racism and bigotry. Beavers told stories later about how members of the unit were not allowed to use the post exchange or mess hall while in Georgia, a privilege even while German and Italian POWs being held there were allowed to do so.

After the war, the unit was moved to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where it became part of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Even after they left, traces of their presence in Oregon lingered. Eventually, a conference room at the Oregon National Guard's Pendleton Aviation Support Facility was named in their honor and last June, the Oregon Historical Marker Program commemorated the 555th by establishing a marker in its honor at the Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum in Cave Junction.

-- John Killen
Shame on the United Nations for voting to condemn the United States for recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. We showed them by cutting their budget by $285 million. Our UN ambassador, Nikki Haley, told them that we were taking names and she meant it.

Personally, I think that we could have gone even farther by forming the Foreign United (FU) along with all of the countries that voted with us and against condemnation: Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau and Togo. Now that is a powerful organization. All of those countries that would remain in the UN need to look out; we have nuclear weapons and our president is not afraid to use them.

-- Rich Belzer, Bend
Prosecutors on Friday urged a federal judge to allow them to retry Nevada cattleman Cliven Bundy, his two sons and a fourth man, arguing that any failure to provide evidence to the defense in the last trial was simply "inadvertent'' or because they reasonably believed the law didn't require them to share the material.

"The Brady violations found by the court are regrettable and benefit no one,'' Nevada's Acting U.S. Attorney Steven Myhre wrote in a 55-page legal brief. "But because the government neither flagrantly violated nor recklessly disregarded its obligations, the appropriate remedy for such violations is a new trial.''

The prosecutors claim they couldn't simply turn over all the material, citing "harassment and threats'' made to witnesses, victims and officers in the case who would be in jeopardy if personal information got out, especially on social media.

They also cited the massive volume of documents, videos and emails from two federal agencies and Las Vegas and Nevada law enforcement agencies that they needed to cull, and the constraints of the U.S. attorney's "low-tech'' database.

The 1.5 terabytes of information shared with defense was "by far the largest review and disclosure operation'' in the history of the Nevada's U.S. Attorney's Office, Myhre wrote.

Prosecutors argued that the six Brady violations found by the judge encompass "one small portion of the discovery'' and that the defendants can proceed with a new trial and "all the information they're entitled to."

The legal brief represents the prosecution team's first significant comments since U.S. District Judge Gloria M. Navarro declared a mistrial last week in the case brought by the government against Bundy, sons Ammon and Ryan Bundy and Ryan Payne in the April 2014 armed standoff with federal officers.

Prosecutors are undertaking a substantial review of all their evidence and will share any further reports it may discover, they noted. The Brady law, named for the landmark 1963 U.S. Supreme Court case Brady v. Maryland, requires prosecutors to turn over all evidence that may prove favorable to defendants.

"The government takes its discovery obligations seriously,'' Myhre wrote. "The government seeks justice on the merits of a case, not through dodging discovery rules and technicalities, or by obscuring violations if and when they may occur.''

Defense lawyers said the harm caused by the violations and the prosecution's continued failure to accept responsibility demand a dismissal of all the charges against the four men. They were indicted last year on conspiracy and other allegations, accused of rallying militia members and armed supporters to stop federal agents from impounding Bundy cattle. Officers were acting on a court order filed after Cliven Bundy failed to pay grazing fees and fines for two decades.

"The government's irresponsible and, at times, false proffers to this court as well as its dismissiveness toward the defense inspires no confidence in the prospect of fairness," Brenda Weksler, an assistant federal public defender representing Payne, wrote on behalf of all the defendants. "Anything short of a dismissal is tantamount of condoning the government's behavior in this case. ... Dismissal is the only way to ensure such conduct will not happen again.''

The judge found the prosecutors' violations were "willful,'' and led to due process violations. She said they waited too long to provide FBI and other agency reports and maps on surveillance, including a camera and snipers, outside the Bundy ranch, threat assessments that indicated the Bundys weren't violent and nearly 500 pages of internal affairs documents involving U.S. Bureau of Land Management special agent Dan Love, who led the cattle roundup. He has since been fired from the agency for unrelated misconduct.

Both sides are expected to return before Navarro on Jan. 8 for a hearing to determine whether the government will be allowed to retry the case.

Myhre wrote that the Nevada U.S. Attorney's Office began working in October 2014 to collect investigative documents from the Bureau of Land Management and FBI, as well as historical documents related to Cliven Bundy's long-running grazing dispute. The combined database contained more than 30,000 documents or 250,000 pages.

In addition to that database, there were 45 search warrants that generated more than 500,000 pages of affidavits and evidence lists, more than 82,000 emails and 75 videos, including bodycam and dashcam videos from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Nevada Highway Patrol.

The prosecution team looked through all the information with witness protection in mind, their legal motion said.

"The prosecution team went 'low tech,' spending hundreds of hours conducting word searches for documents, reviewing documents one at a time for relevant information and tagging documents individually for relevancy and future production," Myhre wrote.

Prosecutors also believed the court's restrictions barring self-defense arguments during earlier standoff trials this year meant they didn't have to share information about certain aspects of the law enforcement response.

The prosecutors said, for instance, they didn't become aware until Nov. 10 of a Tactical Operations Center log that referred to a surveillance camera outside the Bundy home - it was found on a thumb drive left in a federal vehicle -- and still don't consider it relevant to the Bundys' defense. It contained four notations from observations on April 5 and April 6, 2014, largely noting the type of vehicles arriving and that a Bundy was seen outside on the phone.

"The government argued in good faith that the information was not material, and this court concluded that it was. That may make the government wrong, but being wrong does not equate to bad faith, nor does it show a flagrant disregard of the government's discovery obligations," Myhre wrote.

As for documents referencing snipers or maps of officers' positions, some of the information was contained in earlier reports that had been shared on time, showing the prosecution's actions weren't done for "tactical advantage," Myhre wrote.

A footnote from the prosecutors' legal brief, regarding what they say they shared in the first two trials about the existence of federal snipers. The judge, in her ruling, was concerned that the government had denied the snipers' presence near the Bundy Ranch in the first two trials, and at the start of the third trial.

The prosecution also didn't think the threat assessments would be helpful to the defense, the memo said. Some were done as early as 2012 and considered "stale" and irrelevant, he wrote.

The threat assessments have proven a source of significant arguments between the prosecution and defense. A 2012 FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit assessment concluded there was a "low to moderate risk of violence" by Cliven Bundy at that time and that the Bureau of Land Management was "trying to provoke a conflict." A separate FBI operations order described Cliven Bundy "as not being violent based on past history, but if backed into a corner could be" and that Ryan Bundy "could be violent." A BLM law enforcement assessment said the Bundys "will probably get in your face'' but not engage in a shootout. A Gold Butte Risk report referenced media talking points for the BLM to stay ahead of negative publicity that apparently were not used.

The prosecution also sought to explain its dismissive response to Ryan Bundy's pretrial motion, which sought any information on "mysterious devices" outside the Bundy ranch, as a "fantastical fishing expedition."

The words referred to Ryan Bundy's request for the make and model of every piece of equipment and his "speculat[ion]" that the camera was being used to "paint" the Bundy home "for artillery or [aerial] target acquisition," Myhre wrote. He added that his team never suggested "the Court's request'' for information about the camera was a "fantastical fishing expedition.''

Excerpt of government's legal brief, explaining why prosecutors characterized the defense's request for an Office of Inspector General report as an "urban legend.'' They said the report was not identified as such, but instead as an internal report by the Bureau of Land Management. That's why they couldn't locate it until this month, they said.

In the weeks leading up to the April 12, 2014, standoff, more than 100 law enforcement officers were involved in providing security, prosecutors said. They acknowledged they "inadvertently" didn't share federal reports on Bureau of Land Management officers, dressed in tactical gear and armed with AR-15 rifles, on observation posts near the Bundy ranch before trial, but noted that some of the information was contained in another Bureau of Land Management operation report shared in May. It described as many as five officers on listening/observation posts around the Bundy ranch.

They said it was "simply an oversight'' they didn't share a 2015 report on a BLM agent who was on watch in tactical gear east of the Bundy ranch in early April 2014 with a rifle and using a "seismic sensor,'' to alert him and another of cars traveling on Old Gold Butte Road, or the report about another land agent on "roving assignment'' near the impound center during that time.

Myhre wrote that "it was not apparent'' that these reports were helpful to the defense in challenging their federal conspiracy, assault or other charges, which resulted from actions that occurred several miles from the Bundy ranch.

The defense, however, said the prosecution's behavior "was instrinsically wrong and has defeated the ends of justice."

Defense lawyers pointed out that the judge already found that the FBI knew of the evidence that was withheld and that there were federal prosecutors present during interviews of officers whose reports were not disclosed.

"The government's untimely disclosures came almost four years after the government began its investigation, and almost two years after the government secured its indictment. Based on the indictment, the defendants lost almost two years of their lives in custody,'' Weksler wrote.

The prosecution's failure to recognize what material needed to be shared with the defense, she wrote, "affects cases beyond the one in question and is emblematic of a much larger problem.''

The government shouldn't be allowed a "do-over'' with a different jury, now that it's more familiar with the Bundys' and Payne's defense theories and how the defense worked to eliminate potential jurors, she wrote. Based on questions some jurors posed to witnesses during the trial that was halted, Weksler wrote that it appeared the government's case was "faltering.''

"The government cannot be fairly given another bite at the apple as a result of its own flagrant misconduct,'' Weksler wrote.

-- Maxine Bernstein

mbernstein@oregonian.com

503-221-8212

@maxoregonian

DOCUMENTS FILED FRIDAY:

PROSECUTION -

--Prosecution's opposition to dismissal

Prosecution's exhibits filed with motion opposing dismissal:

--Exhibit on Tactical Operations Center log

--Exhibit on maps

--Another exhibit on maps

--Exhibit on back-and-forth defense/prosecution emails regarding threat assessments

--

--Exhibit including partial transcript from Nov. 21 court hearing on snipers/threat assessments

--Exhibit on 'Mission 18- Bundy residence,' Gold Butte communications information

--

--Notice of the Nevada U.S. attorney's chief appellate lawyer, assistant U.S. attorney Elizabeth White, being added to the prosecution team

DEFENSE

--Ryan Payne's defense motion for dismissal

--Ryan Bundy's motion for dismissal of indictment
HILLSBORO  A Tigard woman accused of first-degree manslaughter after a crash that killed a pedestrian has been extradited to Oregon after being arrested in California.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office says investigators found that Michelle McMillan's blood-alcohol content was more than three times the legal limit at the time of the July 30 crash on Highway 99W near Tigard.

McMillan's vehicle collided with a Chevy Suburban, sending the SUV onto a sidewalk where a 36-year-old man had been walking. The man died from his injuries at a hospital.

The sheriff's office says the 58-year-old McMillan fled to California shortly after the crash. She was found last month north of Sacramento.

She arrived back in Oregon on Friday and was booked into the county jail in Hillsboro.

--The Associated Press
Stephanie Yao Long

By Hillary Borrud, Gordon R. Friedman and Betsy Hammond

It was a busy year in Oregon politics, and The Oregonian/OregonLive reporters covering the state Capitol and Portland City Hall published nearly 600 stories as part of their watch over government for you.

In Salem, lawmakers passed a $5.3 billion transportation plan, prosecutors dropped criminal investigations of former Gov. John Kitzhaber and Cylvia Hayes, and a scandal erupted over accusations that a state senator sexually harassed two colleagues. In Portland, Mayor Ted Wheeler learned first-hand how difficult it is to create affordable housing in Portland.

Read on to learn the rest of The Oregonian/OregonLives top political stories of 2017.

Don't Edit

Jessica Floum | The Oregonian/OregonLive

The state budget shortfall and corporate tax increase that didn't happen

Lawmakers opened the 2017 Legislative session with sharp warnings: the state faced a $1.8 billion hole in the next two-year budget and without a tax increase, spending cuts or a combination of the two, Oregon would be in trouble. Democrats and public employee unions wanted a tax hike on corporations, while Republicans and business groups called for cutbacks in pensions and other areas.

Oregonians would lose Medicaid benefits, class sizes and child welfare caseloads would balloon, and districts might be forced to lay off teachers, lawmakers warned.

Six months later, they had given up on raising corporate taxes and significant pension reforms. Yet they went home with a balanced budget, thanks to a $550 million package of temporary health care taxes and a $400 million windfall as the economy -- and state revenues -- exceeded expectations.

Don't Edit

Timothy J. Gonzalez/Statesman-Journal via AP

Two colleagues accuse state Sen. Jeff Kruse of sexual harassment

Sen. Sara Gelser told The Oregonian/OregonLive in October that fellow Sen. Jeff Kruse had subjected her to years of sexual harassment, which continued despite her numerous complaints. Senate Majority Leader Ginny Burdick also said she witnessed Kruse grope Gelser this year on the floor of the state Senate.

Kruse denied wrongdoing, but Senate President Peter Courter relieved him of his committee powers and removed the door from his Capitol office.

Later, Sen. Elizabeth Steiner-Hayward also filed a complaint against Kruse, alleging varying degrees of harassment. Gelser and Steiner-Haywards complaints sparked an investigation, which is ongoing. Capitol leaders have also promised to re-evaluate their workplace harassment training materials.

Gelser, who alleged that Kruse may have sexually harassed as many as 15 Capitol staffers, called for Kruse to resign. For speaking out about sexual harassment, she was featured in Time magazine's Person of the Year coverage.

Don't Edit

Don Ryan/AP Photo

Prosecutors drop criminal investigations of John Kitzhaber and Cylvia Hayes

This was a good year for former Gov. John Kitzhaber and first lady Cylvia Hayes. The Oregon Department of Justice announced in February it was ending an investigation into whether the couple unlawfully allowed groups that hired Hayes as a consultant to influence state environmental and economic policies. The U.S. Department of Justice followed suit in June.

Kitzhaber admitted to violating Oregon ethics laws and appeared poised to settle that long-running civil case for $1,000 in November. But the state's ethics commission rejected the settlement, and Kitzhaber and Hayes' ethics cases are now likely to come back to the commission in January.

Don't Edit

Beth Nakamura | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Ted Wheeler and city make little progress on creating low-cost housing

Ted Wheeler won his race for the city of Portlands top office in May 2016, which gave him a running start once he was inaugurated mayor on Jan. 1 of this year. His top priority, he made clear, was creating more low-rent housing for city residents struggling to put a roof over their and their families heads.

By by fall, he had little to show in the way of concrete progress. His and the city's penchant for careful planning and including many viewpoints slowed decision-making and priority setting.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Timothy J. Gonzalez

Dennis Richardson becomes Oregon's first Republican secretary of state in 30 years

Former state representative Dennis Richardson was inaugurated as Oregon's secretary of state in January, becoming the first Republican to hold the position in 30 years. Richardson promised to be an unconventional secretary of state during the campaign and has delivered on that vow.

Richardson launched a task force to find a better way to draw legislative districts, revamped audit reports so they are easier to read, and reinstated thousands of inactive voters to the rolls. He rejected President Trump's voter fraud claims -- but also referred more than 50 potential voter fraud causes to the Oregon Department of Justice. And though he has no authority over trade, Richardson took a trade mission to China. He planned to have his travel paid by the Chinese government until The Oregonian/OregonLive raised questions about that arrangement.

Richardson also faced relentless opposition from Democratic critics. His statement to Oregon Public Broadcasting that he believes being gay is immoral drew criticism from his predecessor, Jeanne Atkins. Atkins, now head of the Democratic Party of Oregon, recently filed an electioneering complaint against Richardson.

Don't Edit

Ted Sickinger| The Oregonian/OregonLive

Oregon Department of Energy: Bribery charges and a broader cultural problem

Through reporting by The Oregonian/OregonLive, residents learned more about the problems behind the state's troubled tax credit program this year. A former state energy department employee, Joe Colello, pleaded guilty to accepting more than $290,000 in kickbacks to help a Seattle-based energy consultant reap millions of dollars in fees from the tax credits. "I'm dirty," Colello, pictured right, told The Oregonian/OregonLive in June.

The consultant, Martin Shain, denies committing any crime.

An investigation by The Oregonian/OregonLive showed how Shain claimed credit -- and fees -- for connecting tax credit buyers and sellers, when in fact it was Colello who did that work. And public records revealed the cozy regulatory culture at the Energy Department, as employees helped Shain circumvent program rules and deadlines that would have disqualified a high-profile solar project.

Don't Edit

Jamie Francis

Lawmakers pass biggest infrastructure upgrades plan in a generation

Lawmakers passed the biggest state infrastructure funding plan in a generation this year by passing a $5.3 billion package of new taxes and fees. A bipartisan group of legislators worked for months to hash out the details of the plan, which was a major plank of Gov. Kate Browns agenda. The bill ended up passing with generous bipartisan support.

The transportation bill established taxes on the sale of new cars and bicycles, increased the gas tax and put in place a statewide payroll tax. It also left the door open for transportation officials to eventually put tolls on Portland-area freeways.

Don't Edit

Kristyna Wentz-Graff/The Oregonian/OregonLive/2016

Oregon Medicaid mess costs millions, health director resigns

With the Affordable Care Act under threat from Congressional Republicans and President Trump this year, Oregon Democrats including Gov. Kate Brown issued dire warnings about the potential impact to patients.

But Oregon was also reckoning with homegrown problems in its Medicaid program throughout 2017. State health officials acknowledged in May that they spent millions of dollars on health coverage for thousands of Oregonians with no idea whether they were still eligible. As The Oregonian/OregonLive reported, the problems occurred despite the state spending hundreds of millions of dollars on technology projects to automate Medicaid enrollment.

The governor asked Oregon Health Authority director Lynne Saxton, pictured, to resign in August, after public records revealed the agency had drafted a plan to damage the reputation of the Portland-area Medicaid administrator FamilyCare. That story continued to play out in the final days of 2017, as FamilyCare and the state went back and forth over whether to continue working together in 2018.

And the list of problems continued to grow. Public records released to The Oregonian/OregonLive in October showed the state overpaid millions of dollars due to other Medicaid system problems, including as much as $74 million the state wrongly paid health care administrators from 2014 to 2016.

Don't Edit

Beth Nakamura

The success and pitfalls of new city Commissioner Chloe Eudaly

Independent bookstore owner Chloe Eudaly, a political unknown, won a seat on the Portland City Council and took office in January. The neophyte quickly scored a big political win, getting the full council to enact a tenant protection rule she proposed. Her victory was underscored when the courts upheld the legality of the rule she championed.

But her first year was also marked by controversy. The state archivist said her use of social media violoated public records laws. And her decision to create a nine-person communications and public relations team in one of her bureaus -- at a cost of as much as $800,000 a year -- struck some as politically tone deaf.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Stephanie Yao Long/Staff

Phil Knight contributes $500,000 to Republican gubernatorial candidate Knute Buehler

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown started the year with a formidable campaign cash advantage over any challengers in her 2018 reelection bid.

Knute Buehler, a Republican state representative and orthopedic surgeon from Bend (pictured), was expected to challenge the governor but did not announce his intentions until August.

Nike co-founder Phil Knight's $500,000 campaign donation, which Knight made a couple weeks after Buehler announced his candidacy, gave the Republican an early boost. By late December, Buehler had raised $2.2 million and Brown had brought in $2.4 million, according to state campaign finance records.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Police in Los Angeles have arrested a man they suspect made a hoax emergency call that resulted in a SWAT police officer fatally shooting a man at the door of his own home in Kansas, a law enforcement official said Saturday.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston on Friday characterized the hoax call as "swatting" and blamed a "prankster" who called 911 with a fake story about a shooting and kidnapping at the victim's address. Authorities haven't released the name of the man who was killed Thursday, but relatives have identified him as 28-year-old Andrew Finch.

Tyler Barriss, 25, is suspected of making that call and was arrested in Los Angeles on Friday, according to the law enforcement official. The official wasn't authorized to discuss the investigation publicly and spoke to The Associated Press Saturday on condition of anonymity. The official had no information on possible charges or prospects for extradition.

In audio of the 911 call played by Wichita police at a news conference on Friday, a man said he shot his father in the head and that he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller, speaking with relative calm, also said he poured gasoline inside the home "and I might just set it on fire."

Officers subsequently surrounded the home at the address the caller provided and prepared for a hostage situation. When Finch went to the door, police told him to put his hands up and move slowly.

This 2015 booking photo released by the Glendale, Calif., Police Department shows Tyler Raj Barriss.

But Livingston said the man moved a hand toward his waistband -- a common place where guns are concealed. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died a few minutes later at a hospital. Livingston said Finch was unarmed.

The officer, a seven-year veteran of the department, is on paid leave pending the investigation.

Lisa Finch on Friday told reporters "that cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place."

In addition to the 911 call, police also released a brief video of body camera footage from another officer at the scene. It was difficult to see clearly what happened.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a "Call of Duty" game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving "Call of Duty."

Livingston said investigators were tracking online leads, and the law enforcement official who confirmed Barriss' arrest said the incident stemmed from a dispute over "Call of Duty."

The official said Barriss believed a person involved in the dispute lived at the address, but that investigators don't believe Finch was the intended target. Finch's mother said her son was not a gamer.

The official said it wasn't clear if Barriss was involved in the dispute or if he had been recruited to make the false call.

Court records show Barriss was convicted in 2016 on two counts of making a false bomb report to a TV station in Glendale, California, and sent to Los Angeles County jail for two years. Jail records show he was released in January.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, Missouri, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation at the request of local police.

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

By Heather Hollingsworth and Michael Balsamo, Associated Press. Associated Press writer Jim Salter contributed to this report.
A Fremont man was arrested Dec. 23 in Cheyenne, Wyo. after police say he shot a man in the chest during an altercation.

At approximately 7:50 p.m, officers from the Cheyenne Police Department responded to 5419 Imperial Ct. in regard to a disturbance involving shots fired, released information from the department says.

An investigation determined Timothy D. Leners, 49, was at the residence visiting Joyce Trout, a 45-year-old female. Leners allegedly got into an argument with Joyce Trouts husband, 53-year-old Chris Trout. The fight became physical and continued outside the residence. While fighting outside the residence, Leners pulled out a 9mm handgun and shot Trout in the chest, police said.

Trout was transported to the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center by ambulance for a gunshot wound, and is expected to recover. Leners was located by officers standing outside his vehicle across the street from the residence. A 9mm handgun, believed to be the weapon used to shot Trout, was located in Leners vehicle. Leners was arrested and charged with aggravated assault, and subsequently transported to the Laramie County Jail.

Marti Sleister, Deputy County Attorney of Dodge County, said a database check of Leners didnt reveal any Dodge County convictions within the past 10 years.
UPDATE: Washington County authorities announced that John C. Cross, who was believed to have been missing, was found safe Saturday afternoon in Beaverton near Southwest Murray Boulevard and Tualatin Valley Highway. A citizen called authorities after finding Cross and police arrived within minutes, a news release says.

-------

Washington County authorities asked for the public's help in searching for a 68-year-old man whose SUV was found abandoned Friday night in the the Bethany community.

A Washington County Sheriff's Office deputy found an SUV at 11:14 p.m. Friday sitting on the side of Northwest 185th Avenue near West Union Road, according to a news release.

John C. Cross

The vehicle belongs to John C. Cross, who has been staying in the Portland area, police said.

Cross has been contacted by police several times over the past two weeks in Beaverton, Tigard and Hillsboro and appeared to be disoriented or confused, according to the news release. Cross was most recently living in Brookings but has been in the Portland metro area, possibly staying at motels in the Gresham or Troutdale area, the release says.

Deputies and a sheriff's office K-9 team searched the area near the vehicle, including Bethany Lake Park and local businesses.



Cross is 5-foot-7, 155 pounds. He has been seen wearing a green or gray fedora.



Deputies towed the SUV. It's unknown if he has a different vehicle. Cross' family members in California told authorities they did not know where he may be.



The sheriff's office asked for people with information about Cross to call non-emergency dispatch at (503) 629-0111.

-- Allan Brettman
Today

HomeStore, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., 701 E. Dodge St., Fremont. The HomeStore sells donated items at discounted prices. Proceeds support the mission of Fremont Area Habitat for Humanity.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 10 a.m., Chapter 5 Club, 136 N. Main St., Fremont.

Noon Years Eve, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Keene Memorial Library, Fremont. The event kicks off with an all-ages childrens story time. Party goers also can enjoy festive music, refreshments and crafts while waiting for the countdown to noon, complete with a balloon drop. The event is free and open to the public.

Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m., Keene Memorial Library auditorium, 1030 N. Broad St., Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous womens heart to heart group, noon, Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 5:15 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Narcotics Anonymous open meeting, 7:30 p.m., United Faith Church, 218 W. Gardiner St., Valley.

Narcotics Anonymous Lie Is Dead Group, 8 p.m., Care Corps, 723 N. Broad St., Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 10:30 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Sunday

Knights of Columbus pancake breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Delaney Hall, St. Patricks Catholic Church, Fremont. Pancakes, eggs, ham or sausage, toast, coffee and orange juice will be served. The cost is $5.50 for adults and $2 for ages 12 and under.

Alcoholics Anonymous Happy Sober Sunday Group, 9 a.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 10 a.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Narcotics Anonymous Seekers of Serenity Group, 10:30 a.m., Care Corps, 723 N. Broad St., Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 5:15 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Roast beef or ham dinners, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Fremont Eagles Club. The cost is $8 plus tax. Down Memory Lane will play upstairs from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. The cost is $10 for members and $12 for non-members. Breakfast will be served from midnight to 3 a.m. The cost is $4.50 plus tax. Everyone is welcome.

REBMAHC, 6:30 p.m. to midnight, St. Patricks Auditorium, Fourth and Union streets, Fremont. A prime rib dinner will be served from 6:30-8 p.m. A dance and band performance by On the Fritz will be from 8 p.m. to midnight. A single ticket is $30 while a couples ticket is $60. Admission to just the dance is $15 per person.

Narcotics Anonymous Point of Freedom Group, 7 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Education Building, west of the church, 1440 E. Military Ave., Fremont. Enter through the rear door.

Alcoholics Anonymous Sunday speaker, 7:30 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Monday

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 10 a.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, noon, Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Kitchen open, noon to 3 p.m., Fremont Eagles Club. Mountain oysters or chicken wing baskets will be served for $8 plus tax. The meals will include cole slaw and baked beans. Everyone is welcome.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, 5:15 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.

Narcotics Anonymous basic text study, 6:30 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Education Building, west of the church, 1440 E. Military Ave., Fremont. Enter through the rear door.

Celebrate Recovery, 7-9 p.m., Sanctuary Church, 1640 W. Military Ave., Fremont. Childcare is available.

Celebrate Recovery, 7 p.m., Fremont Church of the Nazarene, 960 Johnson Road.

Alcoholics Anonymous 12x12 meeting, 8 p.m., Chapter 5 Club, Fremont.
Music has the ability to connect people in many ways. In 1999 it brought together two teenagers in the Midland High School band; now Carolyn Milco and Matthew Love are eagerly planning for their wedding in May. Although their relationship has spanned close to two decades, their affection for each other has remained strong.

"I love the person he is and I love who I am when I'm with him," Milco said. "He's a compassionate person and has a warm heart. I sometimes feel that I'm the opposite of that. He warms my heart."

In return, Love appreciates his fiancee's humor and warmth.

"(She's) the right kind of goofy, my kind of goofy," he said. "There are very few people that can genuinely make me laugh."

The couple met through friends when Love was a freshman and Milco was a sophomore in the Midland High marching band; he played trombone and eventually became a drum major while she played clarinet and joined the top band in school.

"I knew of him and knew who he was," Milco explained. "He's very outgoing, an extrovert and I was more of an introvert, a quiet type."

The two of them remained friends throughout high school and kept in touch over the years, mainly through Facebook. Fifteen years later, after seeing a picture of Milco by a barn in Midland, Love suggested that they talk over the phone. What began as a quick chat turned into a 45-minute conversation, only ending when guests came to visit Love.

"We hung up and I had this overall happiness and joy from talking with him for 45 minutes. I felt really fulfilled," Milco recalled.

"It was a fun conversation and I couldn't wait to talk to her again," Love said.

That night, as Milco stayed up and thought about their talk over and over in her head, Love went back through Facebook and looked at pictures of Milco. He sent her a text the next morning apologizing for cutting the call short. They arranged to talk again later that night, and that call lasted for three hours.

At the beginning of 2017 Milco asked Love, if he wanted to get married. Love, who considers himself as a hopeless romantic, definitely had plans on marrying Milco, but he wanted to propose in a special way.

"We made an agreement that we could get officially engaged, but down the line I would get to propose the way I wanted," Love said.

The couple announced their engagement in April, but the official proposal wasn't made until later in the year. Meanwhile, Love moved from his home in Royal Oak in June to be with Milco in Grand Rapids, Milco working as the head receptionist at a salon and Love as a dentist. This spring Love put his proposal plan into action.

"Back in May, Carolyn and I decided to make 'love locks.' We'd recently traversed the 6th St. Bridge where we'd seen a many love locks secured to the bridge railing and thought to ourselves what fun it would be to physically tie ourselves to Grand Rapids."

They purchased two locks, which they engraved with tools from Love's residency program. Unbeknownst to Milco, Love had purchased a third lock and key to act as a decoy. When they attached their locks to the bridge in early June and threw their keys into the river, Milco threw away the decoy while Love kept the real one. Five months later the resized engagement ring arrived from the jewelers, which was what Love was waiting on. He used the real key to unfasten their locks, hook and fasten the ring to the lock and place the key in the ring box before Milco met him on the bridge.

"When Carolyn arrived, I suggested we check on our love locks to see how they'd held up. Much to Carolyn's surprise was the ring, attached to the locks, attached to the bridge. In her traditional Carolyn approach, she immediately took out her camera for a photo. It wasn't until after the ring was in frame that she realized, 'Hey wait, didn't we throw the keys in the river? We did, didn't we? How'd you do that?' It took a minute, but eventually the surprise registered."

After Milco finished taking the photo Love knelt down and asked the big question, presenting the key in the ring box.

"She of course said yes and we unlocked the rings and placed the ring on her finger where it belongs. With the lock snugly replaced on the bridge, Carolyn finally threw the real key into the river, our love now a truly permanent fixture on the 6th St. Bridge."

The next step was to iron out the wedding details. Milco and Love agreed to have the ceremony in the woods in Wayland and a reception at a nearby barn. They expect 150 guests to attend, including a couple of friends from band. To make the day even more special they sent a message to their former band director, Bill Monroe, and asked him to officiate the wedding.

"I couldn't believe it. I started laughing," said the Midland High marching band director. "I originally thought it was a practical joke from my friends in town because it's so outlandish that anyone would ask me to do this," Monroe said with a chuckle.

But the lovebirds were serious. For Love, who had studied with Monroe since fifth grade and Milco, who had helped babysit his kids, it was the best choice.

For Monroe, it will be an honor to be able to do this for his students, whom he admired when they were in band.

"I see that all the time with my kids here in band. They become my friends after they graduate. I've got some of the best friends in the world because the quality of the people here is out of this world."

As an added twist of irony, Monroe recalled how, when he was applying for college, his mother was against him pursuing a career in the performing arts, fearing he wouldn't get any decent jobs. Although Monroe tried to assure her that everything would work out, she offered a different alternative.

"I said 'There's tons of jobs, Mom. I'll get a job.' She responded, 'I'd rather have you be a priest!' Since then both my mom and dad have passed away, but sometimes I think this is my mom getting revenge on me," Monroe said with a smile.

Monroe isn't ordained, but explained he could get a certificate online in order to officiate the ceremony. While most of the time he's very laid back, often sporting a Hawaiian shirt to classes, he plans on taking his new responsibility very seriously. Although he didn't divulge what his sermon would be about, he's considering material he heard one of his pastors use concerning how marriage is saying "yes" to each other, to the future, to love.

"That's always stuck with me because marriage is the ultimate optimistic commitment," he explained.

No matter how the ceremony turns out, Milco and Love are ready to face life's ups and downs, its challenges and triumphs, as long as they are together.

"It just goes to show that love is unexpected and so can the person it comes from," Carolyn observed.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Walt Smith's hands felt unsteady as he aimed at an enormous bull elk on Dec. 10 in northern Michigan.

But Smith felt the presence of his late son, Jeremy, as he pulled the trigger that day.

Indeed, it was Jeremy's .338 Winchester Magnum that Smith used to fell the elk in Montmorency County.

"That was his favorite gun," Smith explained. "That's what he used (while) deer hunting."

Jeremy died at age 23 after having an epileptic seizure shortly before Christmas in 2005. Hunting was a bond that united father and son.

"That was our big bonding session every year. We always made time to do it," Smith said of hunting with Jeremy. "He was my whole life. He was my hunting buddy.

"So it meant the world to me to shoot that elk with his gun."

After an unsuccessful first day of the hunt, Smith spoke with his wife, Joyce, on the phone.

She sensed that he was discouraged. That night, Joyce says she reached out to their son and asked him to help his father find an elk.

The next day, Smith said, he could feel Jeremy's presence guiding him.

"I think there might have been some divine intervention going on when I shot that (elk)," he said. "It was almost like it wasn't even me pulling the trigger."

Joyce understood how much it meant to her husband to use their son's gun, which Smith had used only other time, on a deer hunt in Wisconsin.

"That meant a lot to both of us," she said of her husband's being able to shoot the elk with their son's gun.

The elk, with six points on each of its antlers, field-dressed at almost 500 pounds, and the Smiths had to buy an extra freezer to store all the meat from it.

Not only did Smith's harvesting of the elk seem to be an answered prayer, but just having the very chance to hunt the elk also required a number of steps to unfold.

Smith, who is 55 and has hunted since he was 12, has applied for an elk license every year for many years. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, an average of more than 31,000 people apply yearly for elk, and this year 200 names were drawn. For the first time, Smith's name was one of them.

"I was a happy dude," Smith said of his reaction to seeing an envelope in his mailbox from the DNR one day in late June and knowing immediately what it was. "I ripped it open right in my driveway. I'd been waiting for that for a lot of years."

Along with purchasing a late-season bull elk tag, Smith's next thought was to call good friend Ron Mann, his former co-worker at Midland Cogeneration Venture. Every year, they had reminded each other to apply for an elk license. When Smith's name was drawn, he asked Mann to come with him on the hunt.

"I hope someday I can repay the favor. I'll go up with him (if he gets an elk license)," Smith said.

But before Smith could make plans to hunt, his right shoulder had to heal from surgery that he'd had in March.

It just so happened that Smith's surgeon, Dr. John Murphy, was himself a hunter, Smith said.

"I thought, 'How am I going to shoot this gun with my right arm all torn up?'" Smith said of his initial thought.

But Murphy gave him reassuring news.

"I told him, 'Hey, I got my elk permit,' and he told me, 'You can shoot next month,'" Smith said.

So, once his shoulder was healthy enough, Smith spent a lot of time shooting on the range in his backyard to prepare for the actual hunt.

And for good measure, Smith put a Witt Machine muzzle brake on Jeremy's gun, which he said reduces the recoil from a shot by 50 percent.

One of the final pieces of the puzzle for Smith was enlisting the help of guides with Canada Creek Ranch, a 13,500-acre private club in Atlanta, in Montmorency County.

"They're awesome. They're just good people at Canada Creek," Smith said.

Now, that special hunt up north will be a treasured memory for Smith.

"It was a special deal for me. I can check that off my bucket list now," he said.
The Midland County Department of Public Health-Environmental Health Services Division is offering free radon test kits in January for National Radon Action Month.

The department is located at 220 W. Ellsworth St.

Radon is a Class A carcinogen, which means it is known to cause cancer in humans. It is estimated that nearly one in eight Michigan homes would be expected to have an elevated radon level, and in some counties, as many as 40 to 45 percent (or more) of the homes could have problems.

The problem begins when vapor intrusion of radon occurs and decay products are breathed in. The primary source of Radon usually comes from surrounding soil entering through openings in your home's foundation floor and lower basement wall openings. Sump openings, other penetrations caused by plumbing, wiring and ductwork not properly sealed may allow radon into your home.

Exposure over time can increase your risk of lung cancer. Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, but radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

All homes should be tested for radon, the Midland County Department of Public Health stated.

Robert Wolfe, registered sanitarian from Midland County Department of Public Health, said because there are no warning symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue or skin rashes, individuals tend to downplay the health effects and ignore the possibility that there might be a danger lurking in their homes.

"The only real way to know whether you're being exposed to radon vapor is to test for it," Wolfe said. "Any kind of home can have elevated levels -- new or old, and basement or non-basement. The only known health effect is an increased risk of lung cancer. Please consider testing your home so you know your family's home air is safe."

Radon problems can be fixed. In many homes, the cost is similar to common home repairs like painting or having a new water heater installed. New homes constructed should have an active soil depressurization (ASD) system installed. This reduction method involves reducing the pressure under the house so radon isn't being pushed in through openings in the foundation floor or walls. If you're considering building a new home, insist that the contractor installs an ASD radon reduction system, the health department stated.

Living green is making sure that your home is healthy for your family to breathe, the health department stated.

More information is available by visiting Midland County Dept. of Public Health's webpage at http://bit.ly/2BWABiB
SIOUX CITY | Generous people from across the U.S. contributed thousands of dollars Friday to a western Iowa couple who discovered their beekeeping operation had been destroyed by vandals Thursday.

When dusting snow off their 50 hives on Sioux City's west side Thursday morning, Wild Hill Honey owners Justin and Tori Engelhardt discovered their hives and supplies had been ransacked. Nothing appeared to have been stolen, just destroyed.

The vandalism, which Justin Engelhardt called "completely senseless," killed a half million bees and caused an estimated $60,000 worth of damage not covered by insurance, as insurers don't offer beehive coverage. The incident is being investigated by police.

Todd LaCroix began an approved GoFundMe on behalf of the Engelhardts and Wild Hill Honey, saying, "Tori and Justin are wonderful people who have just suffered a terrible loss.

"The destruction of their bees and equipment is not only a financial hardship but has taken an emotional toll as well," LaCroix wrote. "Unfortunately, insurance will not cover the loss of the bees and equipment. Any help is appreciated."

As of Friday afternoon, more than $20,000 had been raised through three different approved GoFundMe accounts in Wild Hill Honey's name.

Justin Engelhardt said Friday he and his wife, Tori, are grateful for the outpouring of community support they have received since the vandalism occurred.

About 24 hours earlier, Engelhardt said the situation "looked really hopeless" and doubted the business could survive the big financial hit. Started six years ago, Wild Hills Honey sells jars of pure, raw and creamed varieties of honey and other honey byproducts.

Victoria Kleber, who identified herself on the fundraising page as a 50-hive operator from southwestern Pennsylvania, said she would also donate "nucs and queen cells this spring" if she lived closer to the couple.

"I hope you will come back stronger and that the perpetrators of this cruel act will face justice," Kleber wrote. "I had ONE hive vandalized last winter and can not even imagine losing all my girls. God bless, and you are in my prayers!"

Bob Gotwals, who identified himself on the fundraising page as a beekeeper from North Carolina, said the vandalism "breaks our hearts."
Twelve Mid Michigan Community College Conservation and Nature Club students recently visited the Detroit Zoo.

The trip allowed students to gain first-hand insights into animal behavior and habitats.

"It is such an amazing opportunity to see the animals up close," said Brittany Lewis, a Mid student who participated in the trip. "I even prepared for the trip by going on the zoo website and learning the names of some of the animals. The wolves were my favorite. I learned this year that the female wolf knows her name and she looked up during our visit for some great video footage."

The Detroit Zoo has 125 acres of naturalistic habitats for more than 2,000 animals from anteaters to zebras and features award-winning attractions such as the National Amphibian Conservation Center, Great Apes of Harambee and Arctic Ring of Life. The zoo's newest attraction is the spectacular Polk Penguin Conservation Center, the largest facility for penguins in the world.

"I cannot thank the college enough for giving me the opportunity to go experience the Detroit Zoo," Nicholas Simon said. "The day was exciting and filled with laughs and learning. Thanks again for offering this opportunity to students."

MMCC said it strives to provide students with exceptional learning opportunities in and out of the classroom, on and off campus. By supporting clubs, like the Conservation and Nature Club, and trips to unique locations where students can gain new perspectives, Mid continues its dedication to student success, the college stated.
To the editor:

I just read yet another Republican's letter saying Democrats cannot accept Trump's election and get over it.

As a Democrat, I can only say I accept his election as much as Republicans accepted the eight years of Obama, with nothing but obstructionism, claims of non-citizenship and worse. I commit to accepting Trump's presidency as much as you all accepted Obama's.

Let's all get over this flinging of acceptance or nonacceptance back and forth. It is like being in grammar school again: "Same to you." "No you, too."

Egad, this is where we are?

RALPH P. FORSBERG

Midland
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.
CLEAR LAKE | North Iowa bar employees learned how to prevent sexual assault and harassment during a class in Clear Lake this month.

In a back room of the Surf District Rock 'n Roll Grill Dec. 19, Erin Meyers spoke to about 20 people about how to prevent sexual assault in bars, nightclubs and similar venues.

The class, titled "Raise the Bar," aims to show bartenders and other employees how to identify issues that may arise, and different examples of predatory behavior.

Meyers, who serves as Crisis Intervention Service's sexual assault advocate and prevention specialist in Floyd, Mitchell and Worth counties, told the Globe Gazette she hopes to teach the class to several other bars and similar venues across North Iowa.

She added one of the most important topics of her class is bystander intervention. It doesn't matter who is acting like a predator, Meyers said.

"Thats one of my biggest things  even if it's uncomfortable and its your friend  and its a hard conversation, maybe you need to have it," she said.

Some of the other concepts included angel shots and drink tokens, techniques bartenders can use to help individuals if they need to use code words to leave a potentially dangerous situation.

Brady Tilkes, who has been a bartender at the Surf for about three months, said this, among other ideas, is what he gained from the class.

Most importantly, he believes a lot of cases of sexual assault and harassment can be prevented if just one person speaks up.

"A lot of the scenarios can be prevented if you say something," Tilkes said about one of the videos presented during the class. "People dont want to do illegal stuff if they know people are watching."

Meyer also discussed how important it is to realize how trauma impacts the brain, especially for victims of sexual assault and harassment.

"A lot of times after someone is assaulted, they will seem crazy ... that's because of the trauma, your brain is acting very differently," Meyers said during the class.

"People who are in trauma, they kind of get what they're trying to say, but they don't put the pieces the right way," she later added.

Grant Maulsby, owner/operator of the Surf District Rock 'n Roll Grill, said one reason he decided to host the class was because of the increasing amount of news stories about sexual harassment involving celebrities, politicians and other public figures.

Maulsby said he learned it's important for everyone in the bar to be aware of their surroundings, and urged people to use caution  especially on first dates.

"You just have to be really careful these days," he said. "Just be smart about the situation, and perhaps if youre seeing someone for the first time, dont drink."

Meyers emphasized that having a strong friend group can decrease the risks of assault and harassment. Predators will often "butterfly" around a room, and it's up to everyone to recognize this behavior, she added.

She thanked those in attendance for their feedback, and challenged people to act if they see suspicious behavior  even if it feels uncomfortable.

"A lot of times that person might be creepy  but we never really act upon it unless we see its actively wrong," Meyers said.
BLOOMINGTON  Central Illinoisans may get an idea of what it means to be homeless for just one night, while helping people who are homeless, during a simulation overnight Feb. 2.

The second annual Night in a Car, a Home Sweet Home Ministries' program in partnership with Trinity Lutheran Church, will be 7 p.m. Feb. 2 to 7 a.m. Feb. 3.

Participants are invited to spend the night in their car in the parking lot of Trinity Lutheran, 801 S. Madison St., Bloomington. They will have opportunities to come inside during the night for hot beverages, snacks and homelessness educational sessions.

Each group is encouraged to raise $1,000.

"Our goal is 30 cars, so we are challenging the community to help us to raise $30,000," said Home Sweet Home CEO Mary Ann Pullin. Money raised will be used in daily operations of Home Sweet Home's Billy Shelper homeless shelter, 303 E. Oakland Ave., Bloomington, she said.

"It really opens their eyes," Pullin said of people who participate in Night in a Car. "It makes you think, 'If I was living in a car, how would I charge my phone? Where would I use the bathroom? How would I take care of my kids? Where would I take a shower?'

"Every participant last year said it opened their eyes and many of them are participating again this year," Pullin said.

More than 60 people spent the night in 22 cars last year as the outdoor temperature hovered in the 20-degree range. Representing families, church groups and other organizations, participants raised more than $25,000 for Home Sweet Home's homeless shelter, Pullin said.

About 200 people are homeless in Bloomington-Normal each night, Pullin said. Some stay at Home Sweet Home or at The Salvation Army's Safe Harbor shelter, while others are in tents, outside or in their cars.

To sign up for Night in a Car, go to www.crowdrise.com/nightinacar, click on the "donate to a car" or "sign up your car" buttons and then follow the prompts to join a team or start your own fundraiser.

Home Sweet Home also is in need of volunteers to help to provide security for the event. People interested may visit www.hshministries.org or www.nightinacar.org.
BLOOMINGTON  It looks like truly arctic air carrying wind chill factors up to 30 degrees below zero has blown snow out of the Central Illinois weather picture through next week.

A winter weather advisory issued Friday by the National Weather Service called for up to 3 to 5 inches of snow in the Twin Cities by Saturday morning. While such an advisory warns of possibly hazardous driving conditions, initial reports Friday night indicated several interstate highway crashes but no serious injuries.

"Early (Saturday) morning there could be a chance for some blowing snow with winds picking up a little. That will also usher in the frigid, bitterly cold temperatures over the weekend and into next week," said Scott Baker, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Lincoln.

A wind chill advisory was issued Friday to run from 6 a.m. Saturday through noon Tuesday, when the high temperature will be 7 degrees. Wind chills are expected to be minus 15 to minus 25 on Saturday and minus 30 late Sunday into Monday morning.

The forecast calls for a high of 6 degrees and a low of minus 8 Saturday, a high of 3 and a low of minus 13 on Sunday and a high of minus 2 and a low of minus 14 on Monday.

There is no snow in the forecast through the end of next week.

Bloomington's parking ban and collision alert issued Friday will expire at 9 a.m. Saturday. Bans in Normal and McLean County were still in effect as of 7:45 a.m. Police said snowplows were able to keep up with the snow, which tapered off by evening.

Snow began falling around 11 a.m. Friday, but Wayne Aldrich, Normal director of public works, said his crews were prepared. The plows and salt spitters are all ready to go, he said.

Officials said snowplow crews in Bloomington and Normal typically clear main roadways first, then move on to side streets and neighborhoods. The plows spread salt in busy intersections and on steep hills, but otherwise wait to salt roadways until the snow has stopped.

If you salt a residential street too early and it melts the snow, it could refreeze and become an ice rink, said Jim Karch, Bloomington director of public works.

Karch said theres a science to snow removal: Officials have to keep a close eye on temperatures, wind and snowfall patterns.

Karch and Aldrich advised the public to stay home until plows clear the streets. If driving is a must, they ask motorists to be vigilant when driving near a plow.

Understand that plows are trying to not just drive, but to watch where the plow blade is, be cautious of how much snow they throw off the road and drive with enough momentum to push the snow, said Karch.

Plows also move differently through intersections to clear the entire road, said Karch.

They do nontraditional movement when entering an intersection, said Karch. They might go across diagonally or back up. Drivers need to be cautious and give the plow drivers the ability to do that. Slow down. Make eye contact with the driver and see if they wave you on.

Aldrich said driving closely behind a plow can become even more dangerous when the snow is light and fluffy, as it was Friday, instead of wet and dense.

The plow kicks up that powdery snow and decreases visibility for other drivers, said Aldrich. Always stay back 40 feet from a plow.

Well hopefully get things cleared up by (Saturday) morning, he added. Stay home and stay safe out there.

Meanwhile, business at Ace Hardware, 204 E. College Ave. in Normal, was steady Friday, said store manager Kelly Warning, with most shoppers stocking up on shovels and ice melt products for sidewalks and windshields.

If youre out traveling, be prepared in case you get stuck. Have a snow scraper, extra gloves, blanket, road flares and cones in your car, she said. When its snowing hard, just because you can see everyone doesnt mean they can see you in the ditch.

Warning said it seemed most people stocked up on winter storm supplies last weekend before the first snowfall.

Weve had our first snow where everybody forgot how to drive  hopefully by now they remembered, she joked.

With temperatures plunging this weekend, Bloomington offers two locations for homeless individuals to stay safe.

The Salvation Army of McLean Countys Safe Harbor, 208 N. Oak St., Bloomington, which has a normal capacity of 58 beds, will house anyone overnight and provide a meal.

The 90-bed Billy Shelper Center at Home Sweet Home Ministries, 303 E. Oakland Ave., Bloomington, provides free meals to visitors. Those wishing to stay at that shelter must receive clearance from the Bloomington Police Department, pass drug and alcohol screenings and comply with safety rules.
In the annals of President Donald Trump's odd dealings with Russia's Vladimir Putin, give Trump credit for making a straightforward decision to defy Putin by supplying arms to Ukraine.

The State Department says the U.S. will provide Ukraine with "enhanced defensive capabilities" to protect itself against Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. What this means, according to news reports, is that the U.S. is finally prepared to help Ukraine's military punch back in a murky conflict cooked up by Putin. American weapons going to Ukraine will include Javelin anti-tank missiles and sniper rifles.

You may be surprised to learn there still is a conflict in eastern Ukraine. Indeed there is, with reports of intensified shelling in recent days, though an ostensible cease-fire has been in place for more than two years. Violence there has killed more than 10,000 people since 2014 and driven 1.5 million people from their homes.

Putin is the scheming villain responsible for splintering Ukraine as part of his ambition to reassert Russian power. In 2014, he waltzed into Crimea. Putin seized and annexed that vital region of Ukraine in the wake of Ukrainian political upheaval. He followed up by orchestrating the uprising in eastern Ukraine, intentionally destabilizing a country that had dreams of joining the European Union and NATO.

President Barack Obama imposed sanctions on Russia but did little else after Putin took the Crimean Peninsula in what was the first big European land grab since World War II. Obama decided that providing lethal weapons to Ukraine would accomplish little but antagonize Putin. Yet refusing to arm Ukraine had the opposite effect: It emboldened Putin.

Trump has his own problems figuring out Putin. The president at times sounds strangely enamored with the Russian strongman. Certainly Trump's not the first American leader to underestimate Putin, but he's the first to sound admiring of a foreign aggressor whose government meddled in an American election.

U.S. officials have been signaling new support for providing Ukraine with arms. The point is not to encourage an escalation of fighting or draw Russia into direct confrontation with the United States but to make Russian interference in Ukraine more costly.

Javelin missiles are tank killers. The separatists possess Russian armored vehicles. Are Russian soldiers fighting alongside the separatists? The Russian government insists it is not directly involved, but it's interesting to hear the concerned tone of Moscow's reaction to America providing arms. "The American weapons can lead to more victims in the neighboring country, and we couldn't stay indifferent to that," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said.

The bottom line is that Putin's meddling in the affairs of other states won't stop unless he is challenged. Trump has done that. Ukraine's ability to fight back against the separatists has been hampered by a lack of firepower. Now it will get some. Now Ukraine can punch back.
100 years ago

Dec. 30, 1917: Advertised in The Pantagraph: After the theater, patrons are invited to celebrate New Years Eve at the Hills Hotel. Supper is $1.50 per plate, and a special orchestra will provide music for dancing. Reservations are required.

75 years ago

Dec. 30, 1942: Helen Rice, a student nurse, found a diamond ring in front of Livingstons department store. Thinking it was junk  too big to be real  she planned to throw it out when her boyfriend told of a missing ring ad in the paper. She had it, and it was worth $2,800.

50 years ago

Dec. 30, 1967: Illinois 9 will be widened to four lanes from Towanda Avenue east to a point beyond the airport. The project, including land acquisition, will cost $3.2 million. There has also been talk of widening Illinois 9 west of Towanda Avenue but it wasnt in the state budget.

25 years ago

Dec. 30, 1992: The new principal of Stanford Elementary School resigned after he gave some staff members gifts that were deemed in bad taste. No students were involved. Some of the school staff complained to Superintendent Carol Struck, who accepted his resignation.
After becoming a member of the United Nations Security Council for a period of two years, effective January 1, 2018, Poland will be able to promote its policy priorities and contribute to world order, the country's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

According to the Foreign Ministry's press office, Poland's membership of the UNSC reflects the country's ambition to play an active role internationally and pursue a foreign policy which is global in reach.

Moreover, this enhanced status at the UN will enable Warsaw to participate in the debate on how to solve the world's main problems. It will also allow Poland to contribute to world order.

As the Foreign Ministry explained to PAP, the two years at the UNSC represent a unique opportunity to promote and implement Polish foreign-policy priorities in this global forum.

Warsaw gets the chance to present its position on issues which matter for regional security, as well as on those relating to the maintenance of international peace and security.

"We also treat the UNSC as a means of working more closely with its members and with the rest of the UN's member states," the Foreign Ministry stated.

One of the key objectives will be giving Poland's foreign policy a global scope. Warsaw aims to become known for its commitment to solving problems, not just in European security, but also where the UNSC's task is the most difficult, especially in Africa.

"Our general priorities during membership of the UNSC," the Foreign Ministry wrote, "will be as follows:

- supporting the principles of international law (including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity);

- preventing conflicts and promoting mediation;

- working on issues connected with new threats to peace and security (for example, those posed by non-state entities and of a hybrid character)."



Poland's Permanent Representative at the UN will take charge of three of the UNSC's sanctions committees - on Iraq, Sudan and South Sudan. Warsaw will also assume the monthly presidency of the council: in May 2018 and probably in the latter part of 2019.

Thus, Poland will be well-placed to implement its objectives, although the Foreign Ministry pointed out any resolution could be blocked by the UNSC's five permanent members: Russia, China, France, Great Britain and the US.

In 2018, fellow members of the European Union (besides France and the UK, also Sweden and the Netherlands) will be Warsaw's natural partners in the UNSC, but Poland is also in regular contact with the US and other members, such as Kazakhstan and Kuwait.

According to the Foreign Ministry, an important challenge will be dealing with emergency issues, as well as with African affairs, which dominate the council's agenda. Poland's presence on the dark continent remains limited, but new embassies have recently been opened in Senegal and Tanzania.

Poland also supports calls for a reform of the UNSC, so that the body becomes more transparent and efficient. In Warsaw's view, the power of veto should be curbed, especially in the case of the gravest crimes against international law, while inadequately represented regions (such as Central Europe and Africa) ought to receive new non-permanent seats.

This is Poland's sixth stint as UNSC member, the previous having taken place in 1996-1997. Back then, the country focused on ways to limit the negative effects of armed conflicts (for instance, by protecting civilians and human rights), sought to help ease tensions in the Middle East and resolve the situation in Albania, the Foreign Ministry noted. (PAP)



pm/ jch/
An extensive new report by Mapping Police Violence, a research collaborative that collects comprehensive data on police killings nationwide and that includes DeRay McKesson and Brittany Packnett, showed that as of December 26, police have killed 1,129 people in 2017. In 12 of these incidents  or one percent of all killings  an officer was charged with a crime.

Three main sources provided the bulk of the data: Fatal Encounters, the U.S. Police Shootings Database and the website Killed By Police. The researchers also relied on obituaries, criminal records databases, social media and police reports to gather more information about the killings by police.



Related | DeRay McKesson on #BlackLivesMatter and the Role Social Media Plays in Activism



Researchers found that the majority of these encounters  631 killings  began with officers responding to suspected non-violent offenses or cases where no crime was reported. 87 percent of people were killed after a traffic violation, and 147 people were completely unarmed when killed by the police.

Of the unarmed people killed, most were people of color, the data found. Overall, black people were the most likely to be killed by police, most likely to be unarmed, and less likely to be threatening someone when killed. 25% of the people killed were black, though black people make up only 13% of the population.

Related | Justice Department Declines to Charge Officers Responsible for Alton Sterling's Death



The interactive data also shows locations of killings, breakdown by race, weapons involved, and information on laws and activist groups, like Campaign Zero, working to end police brutality. You can scroll through it all here.

In July 2016, Campaign Zero launched an interactive graphic tool that shows what US states have proposed or already enacted legislation related to ending police violence. It also includes a form that allows you to easily access the contact information for your representatives (and to see how they voted in the past). You can check it out here.

The below shows all of the killings this year by date and location:

To contact your representative and see how they voted on relevant legislation in the past, use the form below:



Knowledge is power. Let your legislators know what you think.

Image via Mapping Police Violence


As the fashion industry's negative impact on the environment becomes clearer with each passing season, innovative brands are finding ways to make their processes more sustainable, ethical and cruelty free  an option that is not only good for the earth but for maintaining profitability in the long run.

One such brand is Kowtow, a label founded in 2007 by Gosia Piatek, a political refugee from Poland who moved to New Zealand in 1989 and became enamored with the country's natural beauty. Inspired by her surroundings, Piatek created Kowtow with the intention of designing minimalist pieces that are made with ethical and sustainable practices, from the planting of the first cotton seeds to the end life of the garment. All of the brand's garments are certified by non-profit internationally recognized organizations, while the custom fabrics take 12 months from design to production.

We spoke with Piatek about sustainable processes, while ethical production matters and how other brands can move toward better practices that will leave a more positive impact on the earth:

When did your interest in sustainable fashion and garments start? What sparked it?



I have always had a passion for ethics and sustainability and I think my upbringing has been very influential in this. I was born in Poland and arrived in New Zealand with my family as political refugees. Not only was New Zealand very welcoming of our family, it had some of the most beautiful nature. As a family we would spend weekends walking by the sea or in the native bush.

Founder Gosia Platek

When I was older I traveled the world and managed to work and live in lots of natural environments. I feel that all of this resonated in me to create a business where everyone involved can be kind, creative and innovative. Kowtow is sustainable from the moment the cotton seed is planted, and ensures everyone in the production chain is being rewarded fairly for what they do and I think there is some real success in that, because 11 years on we are still here and staying true to those core values.



How does Kowtow incorporate sustainable and ethical practice into business and production?

We really encourage open conversations in our workroom. The fashion industryparticularly in ethics and sustainability is always growing and changing. As technology advances and brings new solutions it is really important for us to keep on having discussions and checking to see if we are doing the best we possibly can.

For production, all of our cotton is certified by Fairtrade Labelling Organizations (FLO) and our prints and fabrics are dyed using Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) approved inks. We only use sustainably sourced trimsour buttons are made in Italy from recycled hemp and our denim hardware is nickel-free and made in a SA8000 certified factory in Germany. We also make all of our garments at SA8000 certified organizations in India. It is a standard which encourages clothing manufactures to develop, maintain, and apply socially acceptable practices in the workplace and helps ensure that the workers at our production facilities receive the following benefits: guaranteed minimum wage, social security fund, pension fund, paid holiday leave, sick pay, medical insurance, subsidized lunches, overtime pay, workplace unions and free transport to their workplace.

What can you tell us about your seed to garment process?

I think it is really important to remember that all of our garments are handmade, and our seed to garment process passes through many hands. The cotton seed has to get planted to grow, and when it is in bloom farmers hand pick the cotton. It then goes to a ginning mill where the seed and lint get separated before it gets spun into yarn, made into fabric, dyed and then from there it gets cut and sewn.



Related | Gucci Goes Fur Free in Historic Move



What makes Kowtow different from other brands?



Our commitment to ethics and sustainability has allowed us to create our own yarn, fabrics and colors that are unique to us. We develop every detail: texture, colors, stripes, checks and melangesthey are all purposefully chosen. Because we don't use fabric merchants, our limitations have helped in creating our minimalist aesthetic.



What do you wish consumers knew about the fashion industry and sustainability?



There are so many other brands out there trying to create positive change in the industry. Earlier this year I attended the Copenhagen Fashion Summit and it was inspiring to listen to how big fashion players are trying to engage in ethics and sustainability. Another major topic was circular economics, which is what happens to a garment at the end of its life. As designers we are responsible for the garment's entire life cycle.

Why do you think more brands don't incorporate sustainability into their practices?



I don't have direct experience but if they are large brands and all their systems are already in place they would have to build a plan to incorporate this shift. I think it is possible to do though, so there is no reason why they have to wait.



What are your hopes for Kowtow in the future?



We just doubled our design team and are working on the introduction of new fibers and products, which is really exciting. We like researching and finding ways to continue challenging ourselves!

We are also opening our first store in New Zealand, designed by Rufus Knight. It will be incorporating as many locally made and sustainable elements as we can.

We are really inspired by the wave of interest in sustainable fashion and our place in this internationally. We will continue to show our ranges in Paris, London, Copenhagen, New York and Tokyo.
Saturday Link Love is a feature where I collect and post links to various articles Ive come upon over the past week. Feel free to share any interesting articles youve come along as well! The more the merrier.

Are Private Schools Immoral? A conversation with Nikole Hannah-Jones about race, education, and hypocrisy, on The AtlanticIn a hyper-competitive economy where test scores and college admissions and lifetimes earnings are all linked, Hannah-Jones has seen that the soft benefits of integration, like empathy or compassion, are low on a familys priority list. Most white people are willing to trade that, she has found.

Live Aid: The Terrible Truth, on SPINOne night at dinner in late 1985, a friend talked about Ethiopia being in a civil war. Neither I nor anyone else at the table had heard that. [This post is two years old, but fascinating.]

The complicated relationship between tipping and sexual harassment, on MicIn interviews with Mic, current and former restaurant workers detailed repeated incidents of unwanted sexual attention from customers. These incidents highlight the complicated dynamics of minimum wage, tipping and pressure to flirt with customers.

A miracle of wrong: Hanna Rosin error reborn in Mark Regnerus book, on Family InequalityAnyway, Rosin doesnt feature prominently in the Regnerus review (youre welcome), but this was an interesting nugget, because for all their differences, there are some similarities between Regneruss fanatical religious anti-feminism and Rosins sophisticated postfeminist antifeminism.

I have a Patreon! Please support my writing!
The Clear Lake Fire Department and others responded to a structure fire at about 4:10 a.m. Saturday near downtown Clear Lake.

Fourteen firefighters and two medics from CLFD dispatched to the fire at 908 7th Ave. N, which appeared to be caused by an electrical failure in the building, according to a press release from the department.

No one was injured, and estimated damage to the building is over $25,000. There were no smoke detectors in the house.

Clear Lake Police officers were first to get to the building, and saw heavy smoke along the roofline, according to the press release. When CLFD arrived, they entered through the back door and found the fire in the entry way wall and attic. They quickly extinguished the blaze, and spent about 90 minutes at the house.

The CLFD was assisted by the Clear Lake Police Department, Ventura Fire Department and Alliant Energy.
The government of Nitish Kumar is soon about to decide the budget for the upcoming Financial Year 2018-2019. This decision will determine whether Nitish Kumar will leave behind a legacy for the future generation or fail it.

Bihars governmental schools are an insult to independent India and an insult to the state of Bihar, a state that has historically been on the forefront of educational and cultural development. This time is over.

The governmental schools in Kurhani Block, Muzaffarpur District are in a disgraceful condition. While the Center talks about Digital Classrooms, here are neither toilets nor electricity nor furniture. The buildings are dilapidated and the books have been delayed for more than half a year. One thing is sure: Learning is not happening in these derelicts.

Certainly, for learning to happen, there must also be motivated and trained teachers. But the environment matters. No successful private company would expect its employees to perform well in buildings without furniture, essential tools such as textbooks and a toilet. The Education Department of Bihar does.

The result of this neglect are children who do not learn. Children who are in class V, but cannot calculate 17+14 or read a simple sentence in their mother tongue. Time will not solve this issue.

The ASER reports show that the learning levels are further deteriorating. Privatization of a fundamental right will also not solve the issue. Nobody would seriously suggest to privatize courts or the police force. Neither should schools be privatized. Schools are meant as a place to learn and play, for children of different social backgrounds to come together and to grow up to become one nation that is led by the ideal of humbleness and empathy. Money should have no place here.

But the reality is different. Schools are not a place to learn. Schools are not a place to play. Schools have for long ceased to be a place where children from diverse backgrounds to come together. Private schools serve the middle and upper class. The rest remains in the run-down rural schools of Bihar that violate the norms and standards that the Right to Education Act demands.

Nitish Kumar will now have the chance to come up with a budget that can fundamentally change this scenery. Or he can let it go by and fail another generation of the children of Bihar.

Dr. Vishwa Anand

(Project Manager, Education Unit, ADITHI, Bihar Education Unit

Pragati Nagar, Majhauliya, Muzaffarpur 843146

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.bihareqeduinitiative.wordpress.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.
Ace Investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas has finally released his latest undercover report which exposes some dishonest police officers in Ghana.



Dubbed Bad Cops, the latest investigative piece which is the last part of the Tiger Eye PIs Ghanas Soul Takers documentary, reveals the role some police personnel play in the various forms of chaos that happens on Ghanas roads.



'Ghanas Soul Takers' which aims at uncovering the artificial causes of avoidable deaths and carnage on roads in the country looked at the rot at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, and how officials procure license for cripples, madmen, minors, among others for cash.



The about one-hour documentary details how some miscreants among the Police Service use their job to perpetrate wrongful acts that go against the mandate and principles of the Service



The last investigative piece by Anas shook the foundations of the Judiciary after some notable Judges were caught on tape taking bribe or allowing themselves to be induced.



These went a long way to influence the judgement of their cases and in some cases letting wrongdoers go without the law taking its course.



The new full video documentary released by Anas on the police, however, is geared towards creating road safety awareness and responsibilities among the general Ghanaian public and especially the Police MTTU



WATCH-







Source: ghanaweb.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
TAP Air Portugal has offered its sincere apologies to passengers aboard its flight from Accra to Sao Tome on 23rd December, 2017.



Two Ghanaian passengers scheduled to board the plane but were dropped at the last hour, complained of mistreatment and accused officials of racism.



A statement from the Airline said we sincerely apologize to all, who were affected by the incident, and particularly to the two passengers, who were directly affected.



It said the TAP Air Portugal together with the Ghana Airports Company have initiated investigations into the incident and would take the necessary action in accordance with law and our conditions of carriage after the investigations.



The statement said: We are in contact with the representative of the two passengers and TAP Air Portugal has rendered our apologies to the passengers through their representative and we have assured that the incident will be properly investigated and dealt with.

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
Former Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Kwame Osei Prempeh has slammed former Veep Amissah Arthur for claiming that Ghanaians are disappointed in the Akufo Addo administration.



The former veep has said just a year into the New Patriotic Party (rule) rule, Ghanaians are already searching for alternatives because they are not happy with the way the country is being run.



Mr Amissah Arthur made the statement on the 25th December, 2017 in Ho when he spoke to the media after a visit on the Christmas day to make some donations to children on admission at the Ho Regional and Municipal \Hospitals with his wife, Matilda Amissah Arthur.



Asked if hell contest the NDC Presidential race, he said a leader will come from a reorganized party but not a leader imposed on a party that is disorganized. Adding that a reorganized party at the branch level will elect a leader who represents the best interest of Ghana.



He said currently hes not thinking about that because the NDC is not ready yet in choosing who leads the party in 2020.



But the former Member of Parliament for Nsuta Kwamang Beposo, Kwame Osei Prempeh in a Facebook post questioned former Vice Presidents effrontery to suggest Ghanaians are suffering when he as the head of the Economic Management team of the erstwhile John Mahama government did nothing to improve on the living conditions of Ghanaians.



The most disappointing Vice President of all time in Ghanaian history. You are supposed to be an economist and a former governor of the Bank of Ghana yet you made no impact on the Ghanaian economy. From growth of 14 percent in 2011 you left with a miserable 3 percent in 2016. You are part of the gargantuan corruption of your regime. The arrogance of your wife in the famous we wont give you any chalk today or tomorrow is still fresh in our minds. Youre an epitome of incompetence and corruption. You better keep your little dignity you have and enjoy your retirement, the astute Lawyer fumed.





Source: kasapafmonline.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
If you are a jobless youth looking to gain employment with the assistance of a Presidential Staffer, then think again because that might just not be possible.



It appears some Presidential staffers are tired of people besieging them for employment and they have taken to social media to vent out their anger.



One of such is Clara Napaga Tia Sulemana. The 30-year old who was an aide to President Akufo-Addo during the 2016 electioneering campaign in a Facebook post, described as nonsense request by some people to her for assistance in getting employment.



She wrote "Those of you who usually meet me at events and immediately want to submit your Cv for employment, this nonsense should end in 2017."



The post has sparked outrage and criticism from many people who are accusing her of becoming drunk by the spoils of power less than a year after getting a job at the presidency.



Many have also expressed disappointment at the tone of the comment saying its an insult to the teaming youth that rallied behind the NPP to win power on the promise that governments economic policies would lead to the creation of jobs for them.

Source: Ghana Web









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
Larry Markle, 58, was re-sentenced to 42 years to life in December and has been paroled after serving his new minimum sentence.

By Dylan Segelbaum, York Daily Record

YORK, Pa. (AP) -- As Larry Markle was walking on Market Street in Harrisburg, an eerie feeling came over him.

He looked out the corner of his eye. Someone, he thought, was behind him. His heart started to race.

It was his shadow.

That's what happened not long after Markle was released from prison, where he spent 42 years for a murder he committed at 17 in York. He's gone from a place where every minute of every day was scheduled -- when he got up, worked and ate -- to living in a community that he's never known.

"I think it had been a long, long time since I'd been scared in my life," Markle said. "But I can actually say this is scary."

Markle, 59, formerly of York, is one of 95 so-called "juvenile lifers" in Pennsylvania who have been released due to a recent ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court. Right now, he's living in a halfway house in Harrisburg and trying to readjust to life on the outside. He's faced a number of setbacks, including having to get one of his toes amputated due to complications from diabetes.

Meanwhile, family members of Arthur Klinedinst, whom Markle killed during a robbery, are now grappling with the reality that life in prison without the possibility of parole did not mean life.

'You better get back or I'll blow your ... head off'

On Oct. 9, 1975, Markle went into Eddie's Food Market on West Philadelphia Street near North West Street. He pulled out a shotgun that was hidden in a cardboard box.

During the robbery, Klinedinst walked into the store, put his umbrella on a rack and started to look at some celery. Markle shot and killed him when he apparently didn't hear a command to get back.

He was 72.

Markle made off with $206. He ditched the shotgun and changed his clothes. Next, he hailed a taxi to get his hair cut.

Police arrested him about four hours later at Mailman's Department Store in the Queensgate Shopping Center.

Eventually, after a second trial, Markle was found guilty of second-degree murder and related offenses and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

"Once you walk through those doors and you hear that shutting -- back then, they were metal doors, steel doors -- it's like, 'Wow.' I'm here. What is going to happen next?" he said.

As a teenager in a "violent adult world," Markle said it took him a few years to adjust to life in prison.

He realized there were three paths he could take: Give up. Be a menace to the prison system. Or better himself. So, Markle said, he decided to get his GED diploma and participate in organizations including the Jaycees and the Lifers Association.

Everything changed in 2016.

The U.S. Supreme Court made retroactive a ruling that held it was unconstitutional to hand down mandatory life sentences for those who committed crimes before they turned 18. Markle would have to be resentenced.

In Pennsylvania, judges can still impose life-without-parole sentences in cases in which it's been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that someone is incapable of being rehabilitated. That didn't happen in this case.

York County District Attorney Tom Kearney and James Burke, Markle's attorney, reached an agreement on a new sentence: 42 years to life.

In his report, Larry Rotenberg, an expert in forensic psychiatry who evaluated Markle, wrote that he had made "remarkable progress" and underwent "a real transformation of his character" while in prison.

"He has changed. He has matured," Rotenberg said. "He has taken stock of the enormity of what he has done, and had never made peace with himself over it, while at the same time, using it as a springboard for doing good to others."

On Dec. 19, 2016, Common Pleas Judge Richard K. Renn imposed the sentence outlined in the plea agreement.

Later, Markle got parole.

"I truly felt accomplishment," he said. "I felt like, you know, 'I'm better. I'm a changed person.' I really did."

'It was an opportunity that came along'

Fast forward to Oct. 10, 2017.

At about 7 a.m., Markle was called to reception at the State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill. He got dressed in clothes sent by his family. He signed his release papers and walked out the door.

The world looked brighter. The air smelled better. The food had taste.

Still, Markle said, it wasn't a celebration. He referred to it as a reunion, adding that he never wants to take away from the fact that he was in prison for a serious crime.

Markle said he can't comprehend what the Klinedinst family is experiencing. They're the ones, he said, who lost a husband, father and grandfather.

"I know it has to be so hard for them to even fathom. I believe they had closure for so many years, and to think that now that all the sudden it's all back, 'He's getting out.'"

"All the bad feelings, all the bad -- all that ugliness from the day that it happened -- now is back," Markle said.

The 'everybody's man'

Arthur Klinedinst was a kind-hearted person.

Klinedinst was a retired mechanic at Borg-Warner Corp. who volunteered at St. Paul's Evangelical Congregational Church in York. He was compassionate, his family said, and well-known in the community.

"He was the guy that if something was broken, if something needed fixed, if one of the widows in the neighborhood needed help, he was the guy everybody went to," said his granddaughter, Ginger Klinedinst-Herbst, 54, of York Township. "He was the everybody's man."

He was like a second father, Klinedinst-Herbst said. She could turn to him as a sounding board for conversations that she couldn't have with her parents.

Klinedinst-Herbst said her grandfather would record family gatherings on tapes as a way to capture memories. He'd play them back if the same topic came up in a conversation.

Robin Yinger, 49, of Springettsbury Township, recalled how her grandfather was a loving man.

Every Sunday, Yinger said, they'd go to their grandparents' home on West Clarke Avenue in York after church for dinner.

She'd go downstairs because they always had treats for them including ice cream cups, fudge popsicles and butterscotch pudding. Klinedinst, she said, would call her a "squirmy worm" because she couldn't sit still on his lap.

"They always just made us feel happy and welcome," Yinger said. "I wish I would've had more time."

'My grandfather will never be paroled'

Yinger said she's forgiven Markle -- but will never forget what he did. She doesn't think he should've been released from prison.

"It is hard at times to know that my grandfather will never be paroled from the sentence he was given that day," she said. "I lost all those years. I was so young. So I forgive, but I don't forget, because I lost so much that day."

Klinedinst-Herbst said she's still very angry with him in some ways.

"Personally, I think Larry should rot in hell. I mean, that's just how I feel about it. He stole something that can never be replaced," Klinedinst-Herbst said.

"It wasn't just a death in the family," she later added. "It was the turning upside down of everything that I had known."

When her grandfather died, Klinedinst-Herbst said she moved in with their grandmother, Edith, for 1 1/2 years. She was devastated by her husband's death. "In her mind's eye, her life had ended when his did."

It also hit Edward Greenholt hard. He owned Eddie's Food Market.

During the resentencing hearing, Dottie Moquin, Greenholt's daughter, addressed the court.

She said her father -- who prayed for Markle every day -- was haunted by the memories of what happened. He'd have nightmares about the murder and would lunge out of bed.

Greenholt, she said, had to eventually close the store.

'I just want to live life'

The main issue for these men and women is finding employment, said John Pace, who's the juvenile life without parole reentry coordinator with the Youth Sentencing and Reentry Project in Philadelphia.

Pace is a juvenile lifer who served 31 years in prison. People are not only getting out after serving a long time in prison, he said, but they have a felony on their record.

When a person has a job, Pace said, he or she can navigate other challenges including finding housing. In his experience, he said, people in this group want to be good examples in the community.

But as part of his parole, Markle is not allowed to live or travel in York County.

Maria Finn, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, said these conditions are individually tailored.

"It's not, 'You're a juvenile lifer, so you're going to get this restriction,'" she said. "We treat the juvenile lifers the same way we would treat any other parolee."

In an interview at her home in Conewago Township, Melissa Beer, Markle's sister, said she's felt, at times, that it would be easier if her brother were still in prison.

Beer, 50, said she believes that everyone deserves a second chance. She's been on both sides. In 1997, Daron "Dee" Nesbit, who was 16, murdered her nephew, Paul Smith, in York.

"It's like Larry's not getting that second chance," Beer said. "If he's given a second chance, then let him come home, be with family. Let the family take care of him. Let his mother die in peace."

"If he was set free," said his mother, Nancy Markle, 81, from her bed in hospice care, "then why ain't he home?"

For his part, Markle said he's come to realize that there are other places "on this big planet." ''I survived 42 years in prison," he said. "I can survive anywhere, you know?"

Recently, Markle landed back in Harrisburg Hospital with another bone infection and is now at a nursing home and rehabilitation facility in Camp Hill.

He said he doesn't want to ruin the opportunity for those who could be released after him.

"I just want to live the remainder of my years productive, give back and help my fellow man in any way I can," he said. "I just want to live life."
CHARLES CITY | Two juveniles were hurt in a single-vehicle rollover Thursday afternoon near Charles City on the Avenue of the Saints.

Skylar Knabe, 16, of Bettendorf, was northbound in a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix when she lost control of the car about 1:08 p.m. near mile marker 214, the Floyd County Sheriff's Office said in a news release.

Two juveniles were transported by AMR to Floyd County Medical Center with minor injuries, according to law enforcement.

Knabe's vehicle is considered a total loss, the sheriff's office said.

The Charles City Fire Department also assisted at the scene.

 Courtney Fiorini
PennDOT has limited the temporary restriction of speed limits on several roadways across central Pennsylvania.

The restrictions were initially put in place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday thanks to snow that blanketed the region.

All speed limits have since been restored to their usual posted limits, according to an email from PennDOT spokesman Greg Penny.

"PennDOT is continuing to treat roadways in the area and will continue until roads are clear," Penny wrote.

For more traffic information, follow live traffic updates, accident reports and road closures below from PennDOT, Total Traffic Network and other Twitter sources.

Get a look at conditions on local roads -- via PennDOT traffic cameras -- anytime here on PennLive. For Pennsylvania Turnpike updates and possible travel delays visit the Turnpike website here.

Tweet us at @pennlive with any incidents you see on your commute or send a submission to submissions@pennlive.com.
President Donald Trump has nominated the former chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education for the position of assistant secretary of education for elementary and secondary education.

In that position, Frank Brogan, 64, who retired from the helm of the State System on Sept. 1, would serve as the principal adviser to Trump's Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on all matters relating to elementary and secondary education. He now awaits confirmation by the U.S. Senate.

Brogan joined the U.S. Department of Education in November working as the principal deputy assistant secretary of its Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development, while waiting his selection for another post.

Brogan served as chancellor of Pennsylvania's public universities for nearly four years. In responding to questions posed to him by PennLive via email shortly before his departure, Brogan provided no clue as to what his future plans were.

He wrote: "Now, I'm at a stage in life where I can take the time to consider how best to serve the world of education. No matter what comes next, my family and I will carry a piece of Pennsylvania in our hearts wherever we go."

Before coming to Pennsylvania, Brogan held various educational posts in Florida ranging from his start as a fifth-grade teacher to being elected as that state's commissioner of education and lieutenant governor.

After serving in that second-in-command post under then-Gov. Jeb Bush, Brogan moved into the higher education arena, serving as president of Florida Atlantic University and then chancellor of Florida's public universities. Next, he came to Pennsylvania.

*This post was updated to correct the name of the university where Brogan served as president.
Seventy-five laid-off state Department of Labor & Industry employees who lost their jobs a year ago will soon be recalled or rehired.

A department spokeswoman said they will mostly be placed in the customer service-related positions in the Office of Unemployment Compensation to improve the level of service provided to Pennsylvania's unemployed workers and employers.

The timing couldn't be better. The office is in the midst of what it considers its busiest time of the year.

"We are working to bring back staff as quickly as possible, but the timeframe will depend on the amount of time needed to train and/or retrain employees in order to provide the best possible customer service to UC claimants," said department spokeswoman Penny Ickes.

The department is still in the process of rehiring staff. It also is evaluating where the returned employees will be placed, she said.

The money to pay for the additional staff will come from a law enacted earlier this month that provides $115.2 million over four years for the UC system.

The workers being called back were among the approximate 500 who got laid off last December as a result of a legislative standoff over giving it more state funding to supplement the federal funding Pennsylvania receives to operate the UC system.

The elimination of those jobs crippled the UC service centers. It left them with half the staff they previously had to serve all of the needs of unemployed workers and employers. This resulted in hours-long waits for the jobless to talk to a UC agent on the three days a week the centers answered calls. (On the other two days the UC staff focuses their attention on processing jobless benefit claims, which quickly became backlogged.)

Customer service improved after a short-term funding bill was enacted in April that provided $15 million to increase staffing levels in the service centers. That led to the department calling back nearly 200 of the furloughed workers.

With this latest funding bill that provides about $85 million for additional staffing for four years as well as $30 million for a technology upgrade, it will bring the UC staffing levels up to about 750 permanent salaried and temporary positions.

This is 59 shy of the 809 filled positions that existed prior to last December's furloughs, Ickes said. Currently, she said the UC service centers have 624 positions filled.

The state funding to increase the UC centers' staffing levels comes from money Pennsylvania workers pay into the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund that is used to pay jobless benefits.

Without it, the system would be forced to operate solely on federal dollars, which department officials have argued is insufficient to provide the level of customer service to which Pennsylvanians are accustomed.

However, some lawmakers have made it clear this is it.

When this funding law expires, they expect the system to be able to operate on federal dollars alone. The technology upgrade now under way is thought to be a help.

"This new law will prevent a repeat of the type of crisis we had last year when the department laid off hundreds of employees and shut down some of its call centers right before Christmas," said House Labor & Industry Committee Chairman Rob Kauffman, R-Franklin County, who sponsored the legislation, in a Dec. 20 news release.

"I look forward to seeing the expected improvements being made by the department put into action in the very near future."
Wichita police investigate a call of a possible hostage situation near the corner of McCormick and Seneca in Wichita, Ks Thursday night 12/28. A man was fatally shot by a police officer in what is believed to be a gaming prank called "swatting." (Fernando Salazar /The Wichita Eagle via AP)
MASON CITY | Newly-elected Mayor Bill Schickel will give his "state of the city" message at the City Council meeting Tuesday night.

It is not a new setting for Schickel, who has been elected mayor four times and most recently has been an at-large member of the City Council.

Schickel said the theme of his message will be "A New Beginning for Mason City."

Mayoral state-of-the-city messages are a long-standing Mason City annual tradition in which the mayor typically evaluates the city's strengths and weaknesses and outlines goals for the future.

"As always, the public is invited," Schickel said. "It will be a great time to meet the newly-elected council members."

The new council members are Tom Thoma, at-large; Will Symonds, Second Ward; and John Jaszewski, Fourth Ward.

In a Globe Gazette interview shortly after his election, Schickel said his top goal would be to guide the success of the River City Renaissance project.

In his last act as a councilman Thursday night, he was part of the unanimous council vote approving G8 Development as the developer of a downtown hotel -- a key component in the Renaissance project.

The council meets at 7 p.m. in the Mason City Room of the public library.

Schickel, who is general manager if KCMR radio, announced Friday he will be holding regular office hours at City Hall from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Fridays, beginning Jan. 5.
Police officers gather in front of law offices where a deadly shooting took place in Long Beach, Calif., Friday, Dec. 29, 2017. Long Beach police on Friday called the shooting "workplace violence." They said on Twitter that it has become a murder investigation, and that the suspect is also dead at the scene. (Robert Casillas/Los Angeles Daily News via AP)
FILE - In this Dec. 21, 2017 filw photo, barrio Patron resident Karina Santiago Gonzalez works on a small power plant in Morovis, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico authorities said on Friday Dec. 29, that nearly half of power customers in the U.S. territory still lack electricity more than three months after Hurricane Maria. (AP Photo/Carlos Giusti, File)
MASON CITY | North Iowans with a stake in the Mason City downtown hotel decision said Friday they are ready to move on.

John Barron, president of the Mason City Foundation, which oversees The Music Man Square, said he's not in a position to say too much about the council action other than he wants the Renaissance project to move forward.

The Music Man Square had a memorandum of understanding with Gatehouse Mason City LLC but does not yet have one with G8.

"We want to look at the G8 development agreement and compare it dollar for dollar, square footage for square footage, basically apples for apples," Barron said.

"Obviously we don't want the thing to collapse. We want to move forward. But there's a transition. The council has acted, so that part of it has been resolved."

Robin Anderson, head of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce, said, "North Iowa needs this project. Locating the hotel in the Southbridge parking lot and utilizing The Music Man Square as a conference facility is the right plan."

Concerning another aspect of the Renaissance plan, Anderson said the Principal Foundation has approved a grant application and has secured naming rights for the Performing Arts Pavilion. "We think the Principal Pavilion has a nice ring to it," she said.

Former City Administrator Brent Trout, now city manager of Topeka, Kansas, worked on the River City Renaissance project for almost three years before leaving for Topeka in October.

Trout said he had a City Council meeting of his own Thursday night but checked the Globe Gazette's website afterwards for the results of the hotel vote.

"I am very excited to see the River City Renaissance Project meet another important milestone," Trout said Friday. "I will be anxiously awaiting for the word on final approval of funding from the IEDA that will hopefully come in January of 2018. The project will have a huge impact on the community that is hard to fully contemplate.

"I look forward to coming back to Mason City in a couple of years to tour the new facilities, take in an event at the arena and spend a night in the new motel," he said.

Loni Dirksen was chairwoman of the Mason City Says YES campaign that supported two ballot issues in November connected to the project. She said she knows many people favored Gatehouse.

She said Friday it's time for the community to work together to back the project.

"We need to bring ourselves back to the bigger picture of why we said yes to this project. We are on the same side," Dirksen said. "We all want to continue to promote positivity and growth but we need to unite to do it," she said.

Dirksen said the community needs to show unity to the Iowa Economic Development Authority. "We need to show that we are deserving, grateful and thankful for the many years they have spent working with us to get our project going and that we can work together to make it happen," she said.
UroLift Delivery Device, which is used to deliver the implants used during a prostate procedure to reopen the urethra. Its maker, Teleflex, saw a big rise in its stock last year. Read more

The Standard & Poor's 500 index of big-company stocks jumped nearly 20 percent in 2017  its ninth annual rise in a row  as if to welcome President Trump.

That was the S&P's biggest yearly gain since it went up 32 percent in 2013 and 26 percent in 2009, as if to celebrate the election wins of Barack Obama.

That's not predictive science, it's backward-looking desktop analytics, available free to anyone who can afford internet service and manage the free stock-tracker services.

So much data, so little insight. No wonder Americans are investing $1 billion a day with Malvern-based Vanguard Group, the index-fund leader. Whoever's president, Vanguard is cheerfully pessimistic about the market's ability to keep rising at double-digit rates. You aren't likely to beat the market, Vanguard points out, so buy our funds, which charge low fees, and you get to keep more.

All right. But there are still optimists out there who bet that advances in medical and communications technology will deliver higher profits and faster-rising shares than the familiar corporate giants.

In mid-September, I listed four Philadelphia-area health and tech companies whose shares had been beating the market. On Friday three of the four closed the year with fat gains for insiders and other investors:

Universal Display (OLED), the Princeton-based company that supplies "organic" light-emitting diodes for Apple and Google smartphones, more than tripled in value during 2017, closing Friday at $172.75.

Teleflex (TFX), the Wayne-based medical-device company that bet big on the UroLift urinary-tract implant for patients with enlarged prostates, rose more than 50 percent, closing Friday at $249.47.

And Tabula Rasa HealthCare (TRHC), the Moorestown medication-software company nurtured by veteran executives from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and backed by locally based Rittenhouse Ventures, more than doubled, to $28.30.

Tabula Rasa sold more stock this fall and paid off its debt, noted analyst Matthew Gillmor in a recent report to clients of Baird & Co. He sees "meaningful upside potential" from its recent acquisitions of other firms that help doctors, drugmakers, and patients track drug use.

And then again, you could have sold each of those stocks the day after Thanksgiving and made a lot more money for the year: Universal Display, Teleflex, and Tabula Rasa slipped significantly in December. Yet the broad indexes continued to rise, as the market "narrowed" toward large-cap, blue-chip stocks that kept going up, writes Jim Meyer, chief investment officer at Tower Bridge Advisors in West Conshohocken. Meyer sees this as an annual event, not necessarily a warning that stocks are higher than the times justify.

Dan Wantrobski, research boss at Janney Montgomery Scott, the largest brokerage based in Philadelphia, is another optimist. "Back to Ben Franklin's time," the market tends to rise as the population rises from baby booms or immigration. So he's bullish: "There are maybe 90 million millennial children of the baby boomers, vs. 80 million baby boomers," he told me. After nine years of economic recovery and expansion, "this group is getting integrated into the workforce. They are more likely to work [than middle-aged people]. They will be consumers, investors, savers. A new generation looking for work, building houses, trying to buy cars. Disruptive. Very bullish. Stocks tend to thrive off that." Plus, thanks to Obama capital rules and Trump tax cuts, banks have extra money to lend to keep the party going.

All is not roses, as Chadds Ford investor Foster Friess used to remind clients with his quarterly list of losers: The fourth stock I noted back in September, Wilmington-based Incyte (INCY), the cancer- and pain-fighting drug developer, ended the year down about 5 percent from the end of last year, and 20 percent from its late-spring high. Spark Therapeutics (ONCE) another Children's Hospital-tech-based company whose price rocketed from $51 in January to a high of $91 in March, closed back around $52 on Friday.

Fun to watch, and to track. But this newspaper isn't in the stock-picking business. Good luck with your picks.
Police are seeking information regarding a homicide Friday night in Chester, the 29th of the year in the Delaware County city.

Just before 8 p.m., police were dispatched to the 1100 block of West Eighth Street for reports of shots fired and found Lamar Meekins, 39, bleeding in a car from multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.

Police did not say where Meekins lived.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact Chester City Police Detective Brian Pot at 610-447-8431 or bpot302@chesterpolice.org, or Delaware County Detective Thomas Scarpatto at 610-891-4708.
The below-freezing temperatures forecast for the holiday weekend have Philadelphia-area officials canceling polar bear plunges, debating whether to let the Mummers march on New Year's Day, and warning about the health effects of extreme cold for those willing to brave the Eagles game on Sunday afternoon or New Year's Eve fireworks that evening.

But if you think it is cold here, try heading up to Allagash, Maine, where the temperature was a brisk 14 below zero on Friday morning.

"That is not with the wind chill," said Patricia Pelletier, the chair of selectmen for the 200-person town in the northern, wooded part of the state. Allagash is the closest town to Big Black Bear River, which boasted the nation's coldest temperature of the day with minus 32 degrees at 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service.

So what do Allagashers do when it is that cold?

"We go to work," said Pelletier. "We're used to it. It is always cold up here in the winter."

There are a few concessions they make to the cold, Pelletier acknowledged. She usually tosses an extra blanket, coat and boots into her car "just in case." Everyone checks on elderly neighbors.

"I wear a sweatshirt," she added. "Anything that is warm and thick. You want to be prepared in case your car freezes up."

Mostly, people and their pets just stay inside, Pelletier said.

"Everyone just knows it's winter," she said.

In Pennsylvania, it's a crime to leave a dog tied up outside for more than 30 minutes if the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees), thanks to "Libre's law," the animal-cruelty legislation signed this summer. And you'll want to take precautions even when you take Fido outside for walks.

In most places, you never want to let a dog wander around unleashed, but the Pennsylvania SPCA notes this is especially critical when it's so cold, since canines can get disoriented due to a diminished sense of smell. When you get back indoors, wipe off your pet's paws to remove any snow or road salt. And keep an eye out for signs of frostbite  in both canines and humans.

Health risks from the cold

Frostbite in people is a special risk to the nose, toes, fingers, ears, face  anything that's exposed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Early warning signs are redness, numbness, or pain, white or grayish-yellow skin, and skin that feels unusually firm or waxy. People who have poor circulation due to chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are especially prone to frostbite, as are, of course, those who aren't dressed properly.

Hypothermia, caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures, occurs when the body temperature drops below normal. Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, and slurred speech are some of the first symptoms. Older adults who are not dressed properly, babies who sleep in cold rooms, the homeless, hikers, and hunters who are outside for long periods, or anyone who drinks alcohol or uses illicit drugs, may be at particular risk.

Anyone with symptoms of either condition should seek medical care promptly, according to the CDC.

How to dress for chilly conditions

If you must venture out, dress properly.

"Layering is key," said Nicole Kulp, spokeswoman for Buckman's Ski & Snowboard Shops, a local chain of seven stores.

"What we always start people with is a good base layer," Kulp said. She recommends a polyester-blend fabric that will wick away sweat for both the trunk of the body and the legs. Forget cotton, which tends to hang on to moisture.

"Cotton is a huge no if you are trying to stay warm," Kulp said. "That is no. No, no, no, no, no."

After the base layer comes a mid-layer, like a fleece or wool sweater, for insulation. Again, never cotton, Kulp said. The outer layer depends on the activity, but you can't go wrong with something that has more insulation and will stop wind. Down coats are a good choice to keep warm, she said.

Kulp suggests wearing mittens, so the fingers can work together to stay warm. A thin glove liner will help keep your hands from the elements if you need to slip off a mitten momentarily to use your phone, she said.

The right socks are critical, and Kulp suggests Smartwool or a poly blend.

"Always one pair of socks," she said. "Two creates sweat."

On single-digit days, any kind of hunting or snow boot will provide the most warmth and insulation, she said.

Any hat will do  as long as it is not cotton. A neck gator or balaclava will keep the face and neck protected, she said.

What you put in your body also matters. Alcohol may feel warming for a moment, but it encourages hypothermia. It makes your blood vessels expand, so heat is lost more rapidly.

Plus, cold air is drying to the skin, which is why you'll want to keep your skin moisturized (use sunscreen on any exposed areas), carry lip balm and drink water. "Make sure you keep the body hydrated," Kulp said.
Sunoco's Mariner East pipeline is installed below North Chester Road (Route 352) at the intersection of East Boot Road in East Goshen Township, Chester County, on Nov. 8, 2017. Read more

The state Department of Environmental Protection again chastised Sunoco's Mariner Pipeline 2 project after the company allegedly was caught drilling illegally through a section near Harrisburg and contaminated residential water supplies for two homes.

The pipeline project, which runs the breadth of Pennsylvania to Sunoco's refinery in Marcus Hook, has been bedeviled by nearly 100 leaks and other problems.

On Dec. 22, inspectors with the Cumberland County Conservation District found Sunoco workers had disregarded an agreement to dig an open cut to install the pipeline and instead used a device called a horizontal direction drill.

"It's the second time they've done the secretive drilling where they weren't approved," said Alex Bomstein, senior litigation attorney for the Philadelphia-based Clean Air Council. The drilling was in violation of a settlement between Sunoco and several environmental groups requiring the company to take extra steps to prevent contamination.

Bomstein said Friday that the DEP could "shut down the entire project" due to Sunoco's "repeated and deliberate illegal conduct."

DEP spokesman Neil Shader said he could not comment on "any possible enforcement action," which could include monetary penalties.

"It's being worked out," Shader said. "It's not an instant thing."

Last week, the DEP demanded that Sunoco turn over pages of construction logs, plans, and receipts after a horizontal directional drill was discovered to be in use in Silver Spring Township, about 10 miles west of Harrisburg. "The department did not authorize the use of any HDD methodology in this area," DEP officials wrote. "The approved method of pipeline installation in this area was open trench."

Sunoco spokesman Jeffrey Shields said the company had made every effort "to respect and follow the stringent conditions of our environmental permits."

"In instances where a different construction method was used other than what was outlined in the permit, the method chosen had a lesser environmental impact," Shields said. "We are working with the DEP to address any construction issues and to ensure that any changes to permitted activities are approved in advance."

Shields took issue with the Clean Air Council's allegation that Sunoco had done "secretive" work.

"Nothing we do in building this important infrastructure project is 'secret.' All our construction is subject to extensive and unprecedented agency oversight and reporting requirements, which are published by the DEP, making Mariner East 2 not only the largest construction project to date in Pennsylvania, but also the most transparent," Shields said.

Bomstein said the pipeline construction has sullied dozens of residential water wells with mostly bacterial contamination "that renders the water undrinkable." Drilling fluid has also seeped into wells. "Sunoco says it's nontoxic, but it won't identify what all the chemicals are," Bomstein said.

In mid-November, the DEP criticized Sunoco for failing to notify regulators of a leak that caused a six-foot diameter sinkhole in the backyard of a Chester County home. The leak occurred in West Whiteland Township, where Sunoco muddied the wells of several homeowners in July, forcing the company to agree to more stringent oversight.
A Commonwealth Court judge recommended Friday that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court uphold the state's map of congressional districts in a high-profile gerrymandering lawsuit that challenges the map as unconstitutionally drawn to benefit Republicans.

Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on the state's high court, which has fast-tracked the suit. On Friday, the justices scheduled oral arguments for Jan. 17 in Harrisburg.

"A lot can and has been said about the 2011 Plan, much of which is unflattering and yet justified," wrote Commonwealth Court Judge P. Kevin Brobson, who had been tasked by the high court with holding a trial and submitting "findings of fact" and "conclusions of law" before the end of the year.

The plaintiffs had shown that partisan considerations were taken into account in creating the map, he wrote, and that more politically neutral maps could have been drawn that would not have been as favorable to the GOP.

But some degree of partisanship is considered acceptable in redistricting, he said, and the plaintiffs had not created a "judicially manageable standard" for the court to decide whether the map crossed the line.

"Petitioners, however, have failed to meet their burden of proving that the 2011 Plan, as a piece of legislation, clearly, plainly, and palpably violates the Pennsylvania Constitution," he wrote. "For the judiciary, this should be the end of the inquiry."

Lawyers from both sides praised the decision: The plaintiffs focused on the factual findings, including that partisanship was likely taken into account, while the defendants focused on the legal conclusions, including that a clear standard had not been established.

"We are very pleased that Judge Brobson made the factual findings that he did. He recognized that the 2011 plan was deliberately drawn to maximize the partisan advantage for the Republicans and to penalize Democrats for their voting histories," said Ben Geffen, a lawyer for the Democratic voters bringing the suit.

Drew Crompton, the GOP-controlled state Senate's top lawyer, called Brobson's decision "incredibly detailed" and well reasoned.

"Even though it's not always a flattering process, he found it to be constitutional on all grounds," Crompton said.

Brobson's conclusions hit upon a point that has frustrated legal challenges in the past: Exactly how much partisanship is considered extreme has never been well-defined. In 2004, the U.S. Supreme Court came close to ruling that gerrymandering is a question outside the purview of the courts.

In the years since, social scientists and legal scholars have proposed a variety of measures. This term, the U.S. Supreme Court is hearing two gerrymandering cases, one from Wisconsin and one from Maryland, that could create just such a standard.

The state Supreme Court can take Brobson's conclusions into account but will ultimately make its own ruling.

Some lawyers, advocates, and court-watchers from multiple sides had speculated that Brobson, who was elected as a Republican, would recommend upholding the map. But few have been willing to predict what might happen at the Supreme Court, given its Democratic makeup. Depending on where the source sits on the political spectrum, there is fear of an "activist court" that tries to make a statement or hope of a "progressive court" that saves the day.

If the high court orders the map redrawn, it could potentially do so in time for the 2018 primary elections.

The suit was brought by a group of 18 Democratic voters, one for each of the state's congressional districts. The voters, represented by the Philadelphia-based Public Interest Law Center, argued that Pennsylvania's map is designed to favor Republican candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives, discriminating against Democratic voters and candidates.

Pennsylvania's map is considered one of the country's most gerrymandered. Since the map's adoption in 2011, Republicans have won 13 of the 18 seats, even as statewide votes have been roughly equal.

During a one-week trial earlier this month in Harrisburg, the plaintiffs called a series of professors as expert witnesses to attack the map from several angles. One said the map was unlikely to have been based on politically neutral principles, according to hundreds of simulated maps randomly drawn by a computer; another said the map unnecessarily divides "communities of interest" such as towns and counties.

Because of the state constitutional doctrine of legislative privilege, the mapmakers could not be forced to hand over documents, testify or otherwise explain factors they considered.

Pennsylvania's congressional map is passed by the General Assembly and signed by the governor. Every state redraws its districts after the census every 10 years, accounting for population shifts and changes in the allocation of of House seats.

"What the petitioners' case forgets about is the fact that this is a legislative process and that ultimately, at the end of the day, computers aren't the panacea that their experts claim them to be," Robert Tucker, a lawyer for the Republican lawmakers, said after the trial. "And you have to have actual humans involved in drafting these lines."

The next census takes place in 2020, and Pennsylvania is likely to lose a House seat in the reapportionment process afterward. The next map would be drawn in 2021, to take effect for the 2022 elections.

If the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ultimately rules against the Republicans in this case, declaring the current map unconstitutional and ordering it redrawn, it would have a tight timeline to create a new map before the 2018 elections.

To stay on the current schedule for the May 15 primary elections, the state needs a new map in place by Jan. 23, state officials have said. There is some flexibility, but the latest a new map could come in is the beginning of April, which would require delaying the primary election into the summer.

Staff writer Angela Couloumbis contributed to this article.
A Philadelphia judge has granted the Post Bros. property group zoning clearance to convert the decayed North Philadelphia warehouse known as the Quaker Building into high-end apartments, with lower-floor retail and office space.

This week's decision by Judge Daniel J. Anders reverses a ruling in September by the city's Zoning Board of Adjustment against allowing residences at the 900 N. Ninth St. building, which stands on a parcel designated for industrial use.

Attorneys for Post Bros., led by Ronald Patterson, argued in their appeal of the ZBA's ruling that the developer's plan for the building in the Poplar neighborhood is consistent with the residential uses that surround it and that the zoning board has routinely awarded variances for similar proposals around the city.

"The ZBA's decision was contrary to the law and in conflict with the unanimous support of community groups and area residents," the lawyers wrote.

Anders' order Wednesday reversed the ZBA decision and granted Post Bros.'s appeal. It did not include any explanatory remarks.

ZBA spokesman Paul Chrystie said the city panel "believes it made the correct legal decision" but "respects the judge's ruling." Messages left with Patterson and Post Bros. president Matthew Pestronk were not immediately returned.

Post Bros.'s plan calls for renovating the six- and 10-story Quaker Building warehouse, built in 1918 for Strawbridge & Clothier, into a 350-unit apartment building. A new parking structure would be built on an adjacent lot with space for about 135 vehicles.
President Donald Trump turns to talk to the gathered media during a Christmas Eve video teleconference with members of the mIlitary at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla. Read more

In his first year in office, President Trump has done many positive things  from enforcing Barack Obama's red line in Syria to recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital, withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement, driving the Islamic State from its physical caliphate, getting NATO allies to kick in more money for our collective security, reversing Obama's Afghan withdrawal, enacting historic tax and regulatory reforms, and installing conservative judges who will preside for decades.

But his record of conservative achievement has been overshadowed by a series of self-inflicted wounds. Previously, I wrote my list of the 10 best things Trump has done in his first year in office. Here are the 10 worst:

10. He has made no effort at bipartisanship. Both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush reached across the aisle in their first year in office, but Barack Obama told Republicans that "elections have consequences" and "I won." Instead of repeating Obama's mistake, Trump should have reached out across party lines. Perhaps the "Resistance" would have refused, but Trump would have gotten credit for trying.

9. He has spent more time attacking Republicans than Democrats. Trump needs to expand his Senate majority if he wants to pass his agenda. Yet he spent an inordinate amount of time in his first year at war with members of his own party.

8. He is empowering al-Qaida in Syria. By forging a de facto alliance with Russia and Iran to defeat the Islamic State, Trump is driving Sunni Arabs into the waiting arms of al-Qaida  which is preparing to replace the Islamic State and is much more dangerous.

7. He is giving Miranda rights to captured terrorists. Trump promised to start treating captured terrorists as enemy combatants again, but instead of intelligence-driven interrogation and sending terrorists to Guantanamo Bay, he has continued Obama's criminal-justice approach to terrorist detention.

6. He has attacked the FBI and the intelligence community. Trump is right to be angry about leaks of private conversations with foreign leaders and the political bias of some individuals involved in the Russia probe. But the vast majority of those in the FBI, the Justice Department and the CIA are honorable patriots who deserve the president's respect. Trump should not undermine our institutions because of the corrupt or illegal actions of some individuals.

5. His noxious tweets undermine his presidency. He overshadowed his policy achievements, his excellent address to Congress and speeches in Saudi Arabia, Poland and South Korea by tweeting about Obama "wiretapping" him and attacking the hosts of Morning Joe. Trump fails to understand that the power and grandeur of the presidency are greater than any of the smash-mouth tactics that got him into the office.

4. He fired James Comey. If he wanted a change in FBI leadership, he should have announced it the day after the election. Comey's belated firing led directly to the Mueller probe, which hangs over the Trump presidency like the Sword of Damocles.

3. He has dismissed Russian interference in the 2016 election. During his trip to Asia, Trump said he really believes that when Vladimir Putin tells him Russia did not interfere in the 2016 election, Putin believes it. This is patently absurd. Putin directed Russia's meddling. It is possible to accept that Russia sought to influence our election without accepting that there was any collusion. The fact that a foreign government tried to undermine our democracy should outrage all Americans, regardless of party  including the president.

2. He stood by Roy Moore. His endorsement of an alleged sex predator was morally indefensible and sent a message to women everywhere that Republicans do not believe that credible allegations of a grown man molesting teenage girls are disqualifying. And that message has been received. Polls show a significant increase in the percentage of women who favor Democrats over Republicans in 2018.

1. He has failed to condemn the alt-right. His "many sides" response to Charlottesville, Va., was shameful. There a lot of things about the presidency that are hard, but condemning neo-Nazis isn't one of them. While Trump eventually did so, as white nationalist Richard Spencer pointed out, "Trump has never denounced the alt-right. Nor will he." Sadly, Spencer is right. Trump's failure to condemn the right's fever swamps hurts his presidency and the conservative movement.

Trump should be celebrating a year of achievement, but instead his administration is hemorrhaging public support. Trump's approval has dropped 10 points to 35 percent, the lowest of any modern president at this time in his administration. If he wants to understand why, he can start with this list.

Marc Thiessen, a fellow with the American Enterprise Institute and former chief speechwriter to President George W. Bush, writes for the Washington Post.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 29, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cascadia Consumer Electronics Corp. (the Company or Cascadia) (CSE:CK) is pleased to announce that, further to its news release of December 22, 2017, the Company has closed its non-brokered private placement financing of 15,410,101 common shares (each, a Share) at a price of $0.50, for gross proceeds of 425 bitcoins (BTC) (the Financing), which is equivalent to $7,705,054 based on the value of BTC published on the CME Bitcoin Real Time Index as determined at 6:00 p.m. (Vancouver, British Columbia time) on December 28, 2017 and the closing exchange rate between Canadian dollars and American dollars published by the Bank of Canada on the same day.



The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Financing towards general working capital and future expansion projects and potential acquisitions around the globe.

All securities issued in connection with the Financing are subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day after the closing of the Financing. Completion of the Financing is subject to regulatory approval. The Canadian Securities Exchange (the CSE) has imposed a temporary halt of trading of the Companys Shares as the Companys proposed transition to a blockchain/cryptocurrency has yet to be approved by the CSE. The Company intends to file a listing statement with the CSE to obtain approval for the proposed fundamental change. Trading in the Companys Shares will remain halted until the re-qualification for the listing is approved by the CSE. The subscribers of this Financing will not be able to trade the common shares until both the statutory hold period has lapsed and the temporary halt of trading of the Companys Shares is lifted.

None of the securities issued have been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

We believe we are the first publicly listed company in Canada, potentially the worlds first, to complete the Financing entirely accepting bitcoins as consideration. With the recent announcement of private placement only on December 22, 2017, our company is able to close the Financing within a week. The lightning speed of execution is in-line with the pace of development in the blockchain industry. This historical milestone was made possible by a team of our internal staff and external advisors who have shown their dedication and capabilities to address various regulatory, legal and technical hurdles. This also showcases the high level of enthusiasm and support from the industry investors. Cascadia will be able to accelerate our transition and expansion into the blockchain and fintech sectors, pending approval from CSE of our proposed business change, said Rachel Wang, CEO of the Company.

About Cascadia

Listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE:CK) and headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Cascadia is a technology company operating from both Vancouver Canada and Beijing China.

For further information, please contact:

Cascadia Consumer Electronics Corp.

Rachel Wang

President and Chief Executive Officer

info@cascadiacorp.com

www.cascadiacorp.com

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as seek, anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect, likely and intend and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the expected use of proceeds from the Financing and the Companys intention to file a listing statement with the CSE. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, adverse market conditions, the CSE may not approve the Financing, and such other factors beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release.
Violent crime in Philadelphia continued to fall in 2017, with offenses including rape, robbery, and aggravated assault likely to rival last year's notably low totals, according to preliminary police statistics.

But for the first time since 2012, the city recorded more than 300 homicides  an uptick of nearly 15 percent and the only category of violent crime to substantially increase, the statistics say.

Police officials and criminologists are hard-pressed to explain why murders were up when other crime was down, particularly because fewer shootings were reported in 2017 than the year before.

The Brennan Center for Justice, a New York-based policy institute, said in a preliminary analysis of 2017 crime data that some other cities, including Baltimore and Charlotte, N.C., also experienced higher murder totals even as national levels of urban crime continue to decline, but analysts stopped short of offering explanations.

"It's tough to point to an iron-clad cause," said Ames C. Grawert, counsel for the Brennan Center.

Locally, officials point to several factors that could have contributed to Philadelphia's 2017 homicide spike, including the opioid epidemic, a department that had been several hundred officers short of what Commissioner Richard Ross feels is an adequate staffing level, and easy access to guns.

Let's analyze some of those elements.

The opioid crisis

Two of the city's most violent police districts  the 24th and 25th  intersect in Kensington, in the heart of the city's open-air drug markets and where heroin users have flocked amid a national opioid epidemic.

Those two districts alone recorded about a quarter of the city's homicides and shootings in 2017, according to police statistics. And Ross believes competition from the drug trade is fueling the violence, with dealers angling to control lucrative territory.

"It drives competition, and with competition and drug-trafficking organizations you tend to get drug violence that comes with it," Ross said.
Because of the cold, the Fralinger String Band rehearses indoors at Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church in South Philadelphia December 28, 2017. Read more

Icy, golden slippers will march on come New Year's Day.

City officials said Saturday afternoon that Philadelphia's annual New Year's Day tradition, the Mummers Parade, will go on as planned Monday despite frigid temperatures and bone-chilling winds in the forecast.

"We're pumped. We're excited. We're glad it's going on," said Tom Dudzic, a fiddle player with Quaker City String Band. "Double up on the Under Armour and have plenty of hot chocolate."

The majority of the Mummers' five divisions  string bands, fancy brigades, wench brigades, comic division, and fancy division  voted to move forward, said city spokeswoman Ajeenah Amir.

"To help safeguard against the weather conditions, the city is providing five warming tents in the parade staging area where the Mummers can warm up while they wait to perform," Amir said. "As extra protection, the Mummers will be allowed to keep their buses with them in the staging areas and on the parade route."

Amir said the SugarHouse Casino and PHL17 are providing three warming trolleys along Market Street for the marchers, and SugarHouse is providing 5,000 hand warmers to the Mummers to help protect against the cold. Still, performers weren't taking chances on the city's supply of hand warmers.

"I'm heading to Walmart now to see if I can get hand warmers," Jim Yurick of the Pennsport String Band said after the announcement. "It is definitely going to be cold."

Last week, division leaders expressed concerns about forecasts of wind chill as low as minus-2  both for their own safety and the spectators'. Since 1901, the Mummers Parade has been canceled only twice, and postponed 22 times. The most recent postponements were in 2007 and 2003, because of rain  disastrous to all those feathers.

"We want our fan base out there cheering us on," John Pignotti, president of the String Band Association, said Thursday. "I don't know how many people will be out there with that kind of weather."

Amir said spectators can find warmth at the Dilworth Park cafe near City Hall, as well as the nearby SEPTA concourse. Along the Broad Street parade route, the Kimmel Center and the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts will be open for anyone looking to escape the cold.

Kimmel Center spokeswoman Leslie Tyler said the concert hall will be a welcoming place for spectators to get warm and have free hot chocolate. There also will be kid-friendly performances.

"Our doors are open to the public. We do this every year," she said. "The people come in, and some of them end up staying. We've never had a problem with the Mummers Parade."

Farther south, at 901 S. Broad, a similar open-arms reaction came from Joanne Beaver, principal at the High School for Creative and Performing Arts. This will be the fourth year that the school will open its doors to the Mummers audience, she said.

"It's a community building, and it should be open," Beaver said. "The building is warm and cozy and kind of cool to look around."

She said there has never been a problem with previous Mummers crowds, because "everyone is in a happy mood."

Beaver said last New Year's Day was warm (the high temperature reached 52 around noon), so very few people asked to come into the building. Most simply watched the parade from the school's front lawn.

"This year, it's going to be freezing. I think it's a real service," she said.

SEPTA spokesman Andrew Busch said his agency will have sufficient staff working to ensure security in the concourse if large numbers of Mummers spectators go there to warm up.

"The concourse is large enough that if folks need a break from the elements, it would certainly handle it," Busch said.

In the past, he said, there have been occasional problems with roving bands of teenagers punching people. He does not expect trouble Monday.

"Issues with teens, those have generally been in the after-school hours," Busch said. "Based on that, we wouldn't expect that to be an issue on Monday."

Sue Groman, who plays alto sax with the Hegeman String Band, said her biggest concern will be keeping her instrument from freezing during the parade.

"Basically, you have to blow into it constantly," she said. "We also have an RV and we'll be putting them in there to defrost and thaw out."

Quaker City's Dudzic said he can't wear gloves while playing fiddle, but he shrugged off the idea of painful, joints-stiffening cold.

"We'll deal with it," he said. "It's going to be a great day."
Lourdes Gonzalez-Sherby reads a prayer Saturday as Father Mike McCue lights one of 22 candles at a vigil at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to honor the homicide victims in Camden in 2017. DAVID SWANSON / Staff Photographer Read more

A church in Camden will be darker this New Year's weekend, and locals hope it can stay that way.

Since 1995, Sister Helen Coles has held a vigil to honor the city's homicide victims for the year, lighting a candle each hour for each person. That vigil was born out of a terribly violent year in Camden, where 58 people were killed. Since then, homicide numbers fluctuated, though always far too high for a city of 74,000.

For several years, Camden was dubbed the "most dangerous city in America" because of its violent-crime rate.

Last year, Sister Helen lit 44 candles in Camden, but as her two-day vigil was set to begin Saturday at noon, only 22 candles were to be lit at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception at Broadway and Market Street. That's the lowest number of homicides since the vigil began, and down 50 percent from this time last year.

"Since I've been police chief, Sister Helen and I have been working very hard together to put her year-end vigil out of business while healing those who have suffered from unimaginable suffering," Camden County Police Chief Scott Thomson said.

Thomson said 2017 saw the lowest number of homicides in Camden since 1987.

Chester, a city of approximately 33,000, recorded its 29th homicide of the year on Friday night. Philadelphia's total stood at 315 as of Saturday afternoon, up nearly 15 percent from 2016.

In Camden, the first candle was to be lit for Carlos Rosa, 29, who was shot in his car on March 1. Among the others to be remembered is Natalise Gunter, a 4-year-old girl who was allegedly beaten by her mother's boyfriend on July 15. The year's oldest homicide victim, Jose Rivera-Hernandez, was 53. He died Aug. 5, almost three months after a late-night fight on the 2700 block of Federal Street.
At long last, there are signs that Pennsylvania voters might win representative government. Granted, the signs are dim, but still encouraging.

For decades, the political aristocracy has rigged elections by carefully digging moats around compliant voters to create safe districts for their candidates. The map makers spread opposition voters so far apart, they become powerless. It works. Pennsylvania Republicans, who drew the maps effective since 2012, hold 13 of the 18 House seats even though Democrats have rung up about 50 percent of the overall vote in recent elections.

Republicans created district maps so ridiculous that U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan's turf runs through five counties to include as many Republicans as possible. The GOP split the increasingly blue Montgomery County among five congressional districts to weaken the Democrats' chances of taking an extra seat or two.

Advocates of fair play have cried foul to no avail  until now. They're more organized and effective, and are pushing legislative reforms as well as a pair of legal challenges which are moving forward in the courts with some positive signs.

Last week, the state Supreme Court fast-tracked a case which is being heard this week in Commonwealth Court. Expert after expert for the plaintiff voters has pointed out how the Republicans stacked the deck in their favor. One expert used a computer to randomly draw hundreds of districts that were more fair than current ones. A fair district does not break up communities or pack voters of a single or race party into a district and has a substantially equal number of voters in each district in a state, under guidelines established by U. S. Supreme Court decisions and the Voting Rights Act.

Testimony in the separate federal suit wrapped up last week; there is no time set for a decision. The case's most significant moment came in November when a three-judge panel forced Republicans in control of drawing districts, Speaker Mike Turzai (R., Allegheny) and Senate President Pro Tempore Joseph Scarnati (R., Jefferson), to hand over data from the Republicans' national gerrymandering operation. It is important because while we know they rigged congressional districts, the data could show just how they did it.

These two suits could result in fair districts being drawn in time for the 2018 congressional races. But even if the judgments are good for voters, map making would still be in the hands of the ruling class.

There's an even better solution before the legislature right now pushed by Fair Districts Pa. Lawmakers from both parties introduced bills early this year to create an independent commission to draw district lines, not only for congressional seats but for state legislative seats as well. Citizens, who are not beholden to the parties, would be supported by experts in demography, statistical analysis, map making, and other disciplines and draw districts containing Republicans and Democrats and more diverse constituencies. That would force politicians to represent a variety of perspectives, even making compromises with the other party to solve problems.

Although 13 of the 40 senators and 97 of the 203 house members have co-sponsored these bills, Scarnati and Turzai are blocking them. Call your legislators and tell them they're crossing a line by continuing to rig the system  and your vote.
TORONTO, Dec. 29, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Minsud Resources Corp. (TSX-V:MSR) (Minsud or the Company) recently completed a 1,455 metre HQ diamond drilling program in the Chita South Porphyry sector of its Chita Valley Project. The program included 8 new holes together with deepening of 7 existing holes. The main objective was to continue outlining Cu-Au-Ag-Mo mineralization and Inferred Resources at relatively shallow depth beneath the zone of surface weathering and oxidation (See National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report dated February 1, 2016 available under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com (the Mineral Resource Estimate).



The mineralized sections include disseminated sulphides as well as A, B and D-type veins hosted by multiple stages of epizonal intrusions and hydrothermal breccias. Better Cu values are typically associated with the zone of supergene enrichment and the transition to primary mineralization at depth. Epithermal quartz veins that typically post date the porphyry mineralization are known throughout the Chita Valley Project area. This vast under-explored target concept has widespread moderate to high grade Au-Ag values from drill holes and surface samples that remain untested.

Highlights include 86 metres (approximately 70 metres true thickness) averaging 0.65% Cu, 6.2 g/t Ag, 0.009% Mo and 0.07 g/t Au from hole PSU17-67. Individual Cu values above 2.0% and Ag values above 50 g/t were capped at that those levels in the Mineral Resource Estimate. Discrete high-grade Ag-Au sections (highlighted yellow) are not capped. See following table for a summary analytical results.

Hole ID From To Interval Thickness Au Ag Cu Mo m m m True m g/t g/t % % PSU14-10 ext. 86.0 148.0 62.0 50 0.035 1.25 0.341 0.016 176.0 186.0 10.0 8 0.046 1.10 0.311 0.018 PSU14-11 ext. 48.0 176.0 128.0 98 0.044 1.18 0.327 0.02 PSU14-21 ext. 22.0 98.0 76.0 65 0.060 0.80 0.512 0.008 PSU14-25 ext. 44.0 138.0 94.0 78 0.038 3.08 0.269 0.028 PSU17-60 42.0 50.0 8.0 7.1 0.110 13.58 0.362 0.027 64.0 98.0 34.0 30 0.059 1.12 0.377 0.049 PSU17-62 52.0 112.0 60.0 45 0.035 1.79 0.271 0.027 PSU17-63 39.15 76.0 36.85 28 0.071 1.00 0.407 0.012 PSU17-64 26.0 42.0 16.0 12 0.028 0.71 0.277 0.032 56.0 64.0 8.0 6 0.077 1.70 0.297 0.032 PSU17-65 22.0 42.0 20.0 17 0.196 5.31 0.462 0.018 incl. 39.4 40.0 0.60 0.50 3.93 73.00 1.325 0.006 52.0 80.0 28.0 24 0.041 0.49 0.303 0.021 PSU17-66 52.0 82.0 30.0 24 0.083 0.52 0.500 0.028 PSU17-67 18.0 104.0 86.0 70 0.086 6.22 0.646 0.009 incl. 47.75 50.0 2.25 unknown 0.55 762.00 4.384 0.010

True thickness estimations for the longer Cu mineralized sections are determined by a combination of the January 2017 resource block model outline and current drill hole data. Exceptions to this thickness determination procedure are various drill holes containing lesser intervals of anomalous precious metal values where core angle measurements are utilized to determine an approximate true thickness (shown in italics in the above table). The high-grade Ag-Cu interval in PSU17-67 comprises breccia matrix sulphides of unknown orientation. Drill holes locations are shown on the following map. Historical drill holes locations are also shown.

A drill holes map accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3d49b1e6-dc87-43bb-9835-8df9304d25f2

All core samples were submitted to the ALS Laboratories laboratory in Mendoza, Argentina for preparation and analysis. ALS is certified to ISO-9001 international standards. All samples were analyzed for Au by fire assay/ AA finish, 50 g, plus a 33-element ICP scan. Minsud includes field duplicates, standards and blanks with all sample shipments. A selection of pulps have been submitted to ISO-9001 certified referee laboratory, Alex Stewart (Assayers) Argentina SA in Mendoza for analysis and results are pending.

In 2016 and 2017 detailed mapping and sampling of epithermal Au/Ag vein areas in the Chita Porphyry was conducted mostly inside the Inferred Resource wireframe model. The precious metal veins are believed to have potential complementary benefits to the deposits economic model either as discrete high-grade areas of direct shipping material or as broader sectors of elevated Au/Ag inside the Cu wireframe. One epithermal prospect, the Condor Vein, shows extensive potential for high grade Au/Ag including a number very high or Bonanza-type assays. See Table below. The current drill hole PSU17-67 with a core length (unknown true thickness) of 2.25 m averaging 0.55 g/t Au, 762.0 g/t Ag & 4.38% Cu is another untested prospect of this type.

A table accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d299b056-9d0a-48f2-b696-426c05292059

Minsud has retained P&E Mining Consultants Inc. of Brampton, ON to update the Mineral Resource Estimate within a constraining pit shell in light of the current drilling and other information. An updated NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Chita Valley Project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2018.

With maximum elevation in the sector below 3,100 m ASL (meters above mean sea level) field conditions are benign on a year-round basis and no active alpine glacial conditions are possible below approximately 4,100 m ASL.

Mr. Howard Coates, Professional Geoscientist, Director of the Company and a geological consultant, is a Qualified Person as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Coates visited the property and has read and approved the contents of this news release.

Carlos Massa, Minsuds President & CEO, states: We are pleased to report the results of this new drilling program, particularly noting the consistency of Cu grade with previous programs. A new intersection of mineralized structures with potential for high grade gold and silver within the Cu Mineral Resource Estimate area becomes a new priority target that requires further investigation. It is also worth to mention that the Chita porphyry has not yet been tested at depth.

About the Chita Valley Project, San Juan Province:

The Chita Valley Project is a large exploration stage porphyry situation with classic alteration features, widespread porphyry style Cu-Mo-Ag-Au mineralization, and associated gold and silver-bearing polymetallic veins. In addition to the Chita South resource area, the project includes a cluster of largely untested mineralized porphyries including the Chita North, Chinchillones and Placetas porphyries. San Juan Province of Argentina has a robust mining sector and recognizes the important economic benefits of responsible development of its substantial mineral resource endowment.

About Minsud Resources Corp.:

Minsud is a mineral exploration company focused on exploring its flagship Chita Valley Cu-Mo-Au-Ag Project, in the Province of San Juan, Argentina. The Company also holds a 100% owned portfolio of selected early stage prospects, including 18,000 has in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. The company has already resumed field work at the 100% owned La Rosita Project, a Low-sulphidation Ag/Au prospect in the Deseado Massif.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

Carlos Massa

President and Chief Executive Officer

cmassa@minsud.com

Mike Johnston

416-479-4466

mike@minsud.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:

This news release includes certain information that may constitute forward-looking information under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements about strategic plans, spending commitments, future operations, results of exploration, anticipated financial results, future work programs, capital expenditures and objectives. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information including, but not limited to: fluctuations in the currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar, Argentina peso, and the U.S. dollar); changes in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and Argentina or other countries in which the Corporation may carry on business in the future; operating or technical difficulties in connection with exploration and development activities; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration and development (including environmental hazards or industrial accidents); risks relating to the credit worthiness or financial condition of suppliers and other parties with whom the Company does business; presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining, including those currently enacted in Argentina; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities; availability and increasing costs associated with operational inputs and labor; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities; business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, the Company; challenges to, or difficulty in maintaining, the Companys title to properties; risks relating to the Companys ability to raise funds; and the factors identified under Risk Factors in the Company's Filing Statement dated April 27, 2011. 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 information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking-information contained in this news release is given as of the date hereof and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as at the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, Dec. 29, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Thunderbird Resorts Inc. (Thunderbird or Group) (NYSE Euronext Amsterdam:TBIRD) (FSE:4TR) reports the following results of the Companys Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM-2017) held in La Mesa, California on December 29, 2017:



In the AGM-2017, there was a total of 13,362,790 shares voted at the meeting. This represents approximately 47.5% of Thunderbirds issued and outstanding share capital which, as of the record date of November 21, 2017, was 28,103,407 common shares.

On the matter of election of the board of directors, the shareholders voted 99% in favor of electing Salomon Guggenheim, George Gruenberg, and Stephan Fitch to serve on the board for the ensuing year.

Baker Tilly was appointed as auditors for the ensuing year and the Board of Directors was authorized to affix their remuneration.

The shareholders received and considered the financial statements together with the auditors report thereon for the financial year ended December 31, 2016.

Following the meeting of shareholders the Board of Directors appointed the following persons as officers for the ensuing year:

Salomon Guggenheim, President and Chief Executive Officer

Albert W. Atallah, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Peter LeSar, Chief Financial Officer

Based on the recommendations made by the Nominating Committee, the Board approved the following committee members:

Audit Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) George Gruenberg Advisory member: Peter Lesar Compensation Committee George Gruenberg (Chairman) Stephan Fitch Salomon Guggenheim Nominating and Governance Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) George Gruenberg Salomon Guggenheim Investment Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman) Advisory members: Salomon Guggenheim, Peter Lesar and Albert Atallah

ABOUT THE COMPANY



We are an international provider of branded casino and hospitality services, focused on markets in Latin America. Our mission is to create extraordinary experiences for our guests. Additional information about the Group is available at www.thunderbirdresorts.com.

Contact : Salomon Guggenheim  E-mail : plesar@thunderbirdresorts.com

Cautionary Notice: This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the securities laws and regulations of various international, federal, and state jurisdictions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including without limitation, statements regarding potential revenue and future plans and objectives of the Group are forward-looking statements that involve risk and uncertainties. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Groups forward-looking statements include competitive pressures, unfavorable changes in regulatory structures, and general risks associated with business, all of which are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Groups documents filed from time-to-time with the AFM and other regulatory authorities.
We have some very exciting news here at Pointe. From January 215, we will be streaming Scottish Ballets production of Sir Kenneth MacMillans The Fairys Kiss (Le Baiser de la Fee). The free broadcast, filmed live in October at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, will be available on Pointes Facebook page and our website starting at noon (EST) on January 2.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens fairy tale The Ice Maiden, The Fairys Kiss is a one-act ballet composed by Igor Stravinsky in 1928. (Read the synopsis here.) While several choreographers have tackled the ballet over the years, MacMillans version is especially rare. Created for The Royal Ballet in 1960, the productions sets and costumes proved so elaborate that it was too difficult to pair with other ballets, and the company shelved it after 33 performances. Although The Fairys Kiss was briefly revived in 1986, Scottish Ballet is the first company to perform it since, honoring of the 25th anniversary of MacMillans death.

Mia Thompson in The Fairys Kiss. Photo by Andy Ross, Courtesy Scottish Ballet.

The broadcast stars Scottish Ballet principals Constance Devernay, Bethany Kingsley-Garner and Andrew Peasgood, with sets and costumes by Gary Harris. Check out some behind-the-scenes footage belowthen call your friends and plan your viewing party!
The Phoenix Police Department is fighting the opioid epidemic with a multi-faceted approach to the problem, including enforcement, treatment resources, education, and a prescription medicine turn-in program.

One of our biggest challenges right now is related to the opioid epidemic that has struck families and communities across the nation, says Phoenix PD Chief Jerri Williams. Like many of these communities, Phoenix has not been immune to the dangers presented by abuse of prescription drugs and their illegal street counterparts, which are often disguised and sold as legitimate medications.

Williams urges users to seek help. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please urge them to work with their medical service provider, reach out through the Angel Initiative, or the Governors Office of Youth, Faith, and Family, she says.

The Phoenix PD says the local opioid problem is about more than fentanyl. The Phoenix Police Crime Laboratory has identified a variety of compounds in illicit pills seized within the city. Some of the additional compounds include: heroin; cocaine; lidocaine, fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, and tramadol.

The additional compounds added to the counterfeit pills are use to either assist in the binding of the substances during production and/or to enhance the effects of the drug. These pills are stamped with pill identifier markings and to the untrained eye look identical to a pharmaceutical product. These chemical compounds can potentially be lethal or harmful to the consumer.

Every day, people abusing prescription medications or using illegal drugs are overdosing and dying in our community, says Aaron Thomas, commander of the Phoenix PDs Drug Enforcement Bureau. The Phoenix Police Department urges people using prescription medications to work closely with their doctors and follow their treatment plans only as prescribed. Illegally purchasing medications or drugs is extremely dangerous. There are numerous counterfeit medications and illegal street drugs that are being sold as one thing, but contain a number of different chemicals that have created overdose deaths around our state and in our city. We urge those at risk individuals to seek assistance from any reputable treatment facility before another life is lost. Medication return boxes are available at all Phoenix Police Precincts to help properly dispose of unused medications.

On the treatment front, the Maryvale-Estrella Mountain Precinct of the Phoenix PD is piloting the Arizona Angel Initiative in West Phoenix. The Arizona Angel Initiative allows citizens to walk into a police precinct, turn in their drugs and request treatment without fear of prosecution.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

Donald Trump gave a 30-minute impromptu interview with The New York Times on Thursday, and a fact checker has already busted him for telling two dozen lies during the exchange.

According to The Washington Post, Trump made false or misleading statements at a rate of one every 75 seconds during the interview. And because portions of the NYT interview were off the record, the Post notes that its possible the rate of false claims per minute is higher.

Some of the 24 false or misleading claims Trump made during the interview, per the Washington Post:

Virtually every Democrat has said there is no collusion. There is no collusion. . . . I saw Dianne Feinstein the other day on television saying there is no collusion. I think its been proven that there is no collusion. There was collusion with the Russians and the Democrats. A lot of collusion. . . . Starting with the dossier. But going into so many other elements. And Podestas firm. What Ive done is, I have absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department. Im the one that saved coal. Im the one that created jobs. You know West Virginia is doing fantastically now. They made the Russian story up as a hoax, as a ruse, as an excuse for losing an election that in theory Democrats should always win with the electoral college. The electoral college is so much better suited to the Democrats. I endorsed him [Alabama senate candidate Roy Moore]. It became a much closer race because of my endorsement. People dont say that. They say, Oh, Donald Trump lost. I didnt lose, I brought him up a lot. I know the details of taxes better than anybody. Better than the greatest C.P.A. I know the details of health care better than most, better than most. I like very much President Xi. He treated me better than anybodys ever been treated in the history of China.

Of course, there is more where that came from, but thats just a taste of the two-dozen lies Trump spewed in his surprise interview with the New York Times, during which no aides were present to hold his hand.

This falls in line with what hes spent his entire presidency doing: Spewing nonsense. According to the Toronto Star, Trump has told nearly a thousand lies since taking office.

In his new interview with the Times, Trumps lies always seem to focus on two things: 1. Underplaying the Russia scandal, whether its calling it a hoax or blaming the Democrats; and 2. Overplaying his own accomplishments as president, which exist only in Trumps deranged mind.

With very little for this president to hang his hat on after a year of occupying the White House, its no surprise that Trump resorts to telling blatant falsehoods to get him through the day and convince his supporters that his administration hasnt been a complete dumpster fire.

It would have been nice, however, for the newspaper interviewing him to hold him accountable as he was peddling these lies  not wait for another publication to fact check him days later.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

The New York Times reported Saturday that George Papadopoulos inadvertently kickstarted the Russia investigation after saying too much to top Australian diplomat Alexander Downer during a night of heavy drinking in May 2016. Papadopoulos was Trumps former foreign policy adviser; in October, he admitted to lying to the FBI about his communication with Russian nationals and pleaded guilty for the fact.

Three weeks before drinking with Downer at a bar in London, Papadopoulos had been told that Russians in Moscow were in possession of thousands of potentially stolen emails that could cause injury to Hillary Clinton. For whatever reason, he thought itd be a good idea to share this with the Australian diplomat.

In July 2016, WikiLeaks began publishing hacked emails from within the Democratic National Committee. This led Australian officials to contact their American colleagues and share the information Papadopoulos had revealed to Downer.

According to The Times, the fact that the DNC had been hacked and the revelation that people on the Trump campaign could possibly be collaborating with Russian officials to obtain damaging information on Clinton were driving factors that led to the FBIs decision to start a probe.

Trump introduced Papadopoulos to the American public as an excellent guy and member of his foreign policy team during a March 2016 interview with The Washington Post, but downgraded him to a low level volunteer after special counsel Mueller indicted Papadopoulos in October.

Image: Greek Reporter
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

North Korea remains unmoved by President Trumps apocalyptic threats to totally destroy it. The Korean Central News Agency released a new statement reiterating the regimes intention to continue developing and testing nuclear weapons in the upcoming year.

Do not expect any change in [North Koreas] policy, the statement said. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out. The [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea], as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence.

The KCNA pushed back against Trumps rhetoric, characterizing it as blackmail and warned that the country has continued increasing its capabilities for self-defense and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force despite the nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills being carried out by the U.S. government and its armed forces.

Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un have continually threatened to destroy the U.S. and North Korea throughout Trumps time in office. They have also engaged in petty, schoolyard personal fights. Most recently, Trump insulted Kim for being short and fat, which the foreign power responded to by sentencing the POTUS to death.

Though U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has made small attempts to open up diplomatic discussions with North Korea in recent weeks, his efforts have been weighed down by the White House, which is led by a president who has repeatedly stated that diplomacy is pointless in dealing with the regime.

I told Rex Tillerson, our wonderful Secretary of State, that he is wasting his time trying to negotiate with Little Rocket Man, Trump tweeted in October. Save your energy Rex, well do what has to be done!

Save your energy Rex, we'll do what has to be done!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2017

Its safe to say that peaceful talks with Kim Jong-un will probably not be transpiring any time soon.
A bright blue sky is the only thing visible through the windshield. All I can hear is the screech of metal on stone as the vehicle's frame scrapes over boulders on a 60-degree slope in the Sonoran Desert.

Everything is going exactly as it should in the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.

The new Wrangler is simultaneously the most capable off-road and quietest, most comfortable on-road vehicle in a 75-year lineage that traces directly to the original 1941 U.S. Army jeep.

"Its on-road manners are great, and the things it does off-road are mindboggling," analyst Joe Phillippi of AutoTrends said.

The new Wrangler goes on sale in the first quarter of 2018. Prices start at $26,995 for a two-door and $30,495 for the four-door. The top Rubicon model, the most capable off-roader in the Wrangler family, goes for $36,995 for two-doors and $40,495 with four.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Wrangler's design is immediately recognizable. The new model offers hard and soft-top that are easier to remove, and a new folding canvas power hardtop on Sahara models of the four-door. The doors are removable and the windshield folds flat onto the hood. The new design makes it easier to accomplish both those tasks, making it likely more Jeep owners will enjoy fully open driving.

At 188.4 inches, the four-door is 21.6 inches longer than the two-door. The four-door's wheelbase is 118.4 inches long, the two-door 96.8. Both models are longer than the outgoing model, but more maneuverable, with a smaller turning radius thanks to a wider track and new electro-hydraulic steering gear. That's a key stat for off-roaders who navigate tight trails and rock fields.

The base engine is an updated version of Fiat Chrysler's 285-hp 3.6L V6, which produces 260 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, an eight-speed manual optional with the V6.

The optional engine upgrade will surprise Jeep traditionalists on several fronts. It's a 2.0L four cylinder with a turbocharger and a mild hybrid system.

All those features could rankle hard-core Wrangler fans, who consider themselves the guardians of Jeep's heritage and core values. The engine was developed alongside the Wrangler in FCA's Auburn Hills tech center, but it's part of a global engine family that also powers the Alfa Romeo Giulia sport sedan and Stelvio SUV.

It develops 270 hp, but more importantly, 295 lb-ft of torque, more than the V6, and a much lower rpm  3,000 versus 4,800 for the V6  a combination that should be welcome off-road, where torque is a precious commodity.

The 2.0L delivered plenty of power on road and off, accelerating confidently in traffic and rolling through the desert with ease.

The hybrid system consists of a 48-volt electric motor attached to the crankshaft to reduce vibration in FCA's notoriously rough stop-start system, which shuts the engine off to save fuel at traffic lights and when idling.

ADVERTISEMENT

The eight-speed automatic is the only transmission available with the four-cylinder. FCA will build that engine in Termoli, Italy, and Trenton, Michigan, about midway between FCA's tech center north of Detroit and the Wrangler assembly plant in Toledo, Ohio.

A 3.0L diesel V6 will join the lineup in 2019.

The interior is more civilized and comfortable than any Wrangler before it. The tops of the doors are padded so you can lean on them, and the armrests are long enough you can actually rest an arm on them. The latest version of FCA's excellent Uconnect infotainment system, with 5-, 7- and 8.4-inch touchscreens.

How modern is the interior? The 2018 Wrangler has five USB ports  as many as it can hold passengers. Sure, one is just for charging, but based on the Wrangler, USB count will be the next competitive battleground, as the number of cup holders was for years.

The rear seat and cargo area are both bigger than before.

On paved roads, the 2018 Wrangler is far smoother and quieter than its predecessor, thanks to an all-new structure uses high-strength steel for a lighter, stronger frame. The two-door is 140 pounds lighter than the predecessor. The four-door shed 200. Aluminum body panels, including the hold and removable doors, contribute to the reduction.

The steering is a revelation, more precise and steady than previous Wranglers, but still tough enough for the most challenging off-road situations.

After about 30 miles on surface roads, I drove a Wrangler over a course strewn with boulders, deep ruts, loose rock, steep grades and tight turns. It met every challenge with ease.

ADVERTISEMENT

It's a new standard for Jeep, the brand that has set the standard for off-road vehicles since it was born 1941.
As more and more baby boomers cross the threshold into old age, members of the Me Generation are confronting a new and growing problem: Who will take care of them when they no longer can care for themselves?

It's a situation few families are prepared for but one many will face. As relatives gather for the holidays, it often becomes clear that falls, memory lapses and an assortment of maladies have taken a toll on aging loved ones and help is needed.

But a shortage of qualified workers, rising costs and a demographic shift have seniors facing a caregiver crisis that could take some of the luster out of their golden years.

"We are absolutely in a crisis mode," said Robert Espinoza, vice president of policy for New York-based PHI, a direct care workforce research organization. "Providers are routinely reporting that they can't find and they can't keep direct care workers, which makes it impossible to provide the care that consumers need."

Sometimes a supplement to family caregivers, sometimes the only option, paid caregivers provide seniors with support for the activities of daily life, such as bathing, dressing and eating. More than half of home caregivers have a high school education or less, according to PHI, and their pay is on par with wages for fast-food and retail workers.

ADVERTISEMENT

Their value might increase significantly in the years ahead.

The U.S. population is rapidly aging: Roughly 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day, and more than half eventually will need some form of long-term care, according to Pew Research.

There are assisted living facilities and nursing homes, but increasingly seniors are looking to remain in their homes as they age.

Meanwhile, demand for personal caregivers already is outstripping supply, experts say.

"Part of the reason that we're seeing a growing demand for home care workers is a cultural shift for aging at home," Espinoza said.

For families, navigating a maze of lightly regulated home services agencies to find the right caregiver might not be easy, and it won't be cheap.

The cost of home health care rose more than 6 percent last year, according to a report published in September by Genworth Financial, a Virginia-based firm that offers long-term care insurance policies.

Consumers paid a national median rate of $22 per hour for caregiver services, or more than $49,000 per year, according to the report, which was based on surveys of more than 15,000 nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult day health facilities and home care providers.

ADVERTISEMENT

Standard health insurance and Medicare do not cover these costs, and while Medicaid helps defray caregiver costs for people with chronic conditions who meet income requirements, most families do not qualify.

Long-term care insurance is another option, but less than 8 percent of Americans have purchased it because of rising premiums and a dearth of providers, according to a 2016 study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

That means most families end up footing the bill themselves, a financial burden that rapidly can deplete a lifetime of savings.

Despite the rising fees, caregiver pay hovers near minimum wage, with about half of the fees going to the agency itself.

Home care is among the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S., with the workforce doubling to 1.6 million during the past 10 years,and 600,000 more jobs projected to be added during the next decade, according to PHI, the direct care research organization.

Experts say even that won't be enough to keep up with growing demand, citing a number of factors lessening interest among prospective caregivers.

"It's not an easy job at all," said Amy York, executive director of the Eldercare Workforce Alliance, a Washington-based coalition of senior care organizations.

York said low wages, isolation and a lack of training contribute to a "significant turnover" among caregivers and an ongoing worker shortage for the industry.

ADVERTISEMENT

"The working conditions can be very difficult," she said. "And they can go down the street to McDonald's and make as much if not more money."

Employers struggle to recruit and retain home care workers, who make a median hourly wage of $10.49, according to PHI. Two-thirds of caregivers work part time.
DETROIT  It's time to get some traction.

At any time now, snow could fall over a broad swath of America, and that means your tires need to be checked.

Experts say if the rubber is worn, you could slide, crash or get stuck, even in a light snowfall. Depending on where you live and how badly you need to get someplace in bad weather, you might want winter tires. All-season tires might be an option, but they won't start and stop as well in ice and snow.

Experts say late October is a good time to shop for tires and get them installed so you're ready. Here's how to figure out whether you need new tires and tips from experts on what kind of rubber to buy:

 Check the tread depth:Stick a quarter into the tire grooves at several spots with George Washington's head upside down. If you can see the top of Washington's hair, you have 4/32 of an inch of tread or less. That means it's about time to replace your tires. You may have a little time left in warm, dry weather, but tires with less than 4/32 won't grip well in ice and snow. People used to use a penny to check tread depth. But if the top of Abraham Lincoln's head can be seen, that means you've only got 2/32 inches of tread left. "At that point most tires are basically worn out and need to be replaced immediately," says Gene Petersen, tire program manager for Consumer Reports, which does extensive tire testing.

ADVERTISEMENT

 Winter or all-season?It depends on where you live, how urgently you need to be somewhere in the snow, and whether your vehicle is 2-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. In an area with moderate snowfall, you can probably get by with all-season tires, especially if you can wait for plows to clear roads before going anywhere. Generally, if you live south of Cincinnati, Ohio, then all-season tires should work, says Woody Rogers, director of tire information for Tire Rack, an online tire store in South Bend, Indiana. But to the north, where heavy snowfall is more likely, winter tires will be better. If the engine powers all four of your wheels, good all-season tires may suffice. Generally, winter tires on a two-wheel-drive vehicle grip better than all-season tires on a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Experts say all-wheel-drive makes a big difference starting off in snow. But it won't help you stop in snow. That's where winter tires come in. They'll stop faster in slippery conditions because they grip ice and snow better due to specially designed soft tread compounds. In bad weather, winter tires grip almost like they're being driven on dry roads, says John DiPiazza, part owner of A&A Tires in Milwaukee. "It's quite amazing," he says.

 Read the reviews:If you decide to go with all-season tires, make sure you read test reports and consumer ratings. All-season tires vary wildly in their ability to grip snow, says Rogers, whose store also does tire testing. "The gap from good to bad is staggering," he says. DiPiazza says you should stick to well-known brands for the best performance. If you choose winter tires, also read reviews. Tire Rack's tests show less of a variance between snow tires from different brands. Deeper grooves generally mean more snow traction, but you can't always tell performance from looking at a tire, Petersen says. Although winter tires have improved, they still compromise dry-pavement handling for snow and ice performance.

 Replace all four tires:Putting snow tires on just the two drive wheels can make your car difficult to handle in snow and ice. When two wheels on one axle grip better than the other two, it creates a handling imbalance that could be treacherous if you're trying to stop quickly or steer around something. "Those are the situations where you need your car to work best, an emergency situation," says Rogers.

 The price:Snow and all-season tires generally cost about the same. Consumer Reports found that sedan tires average around $145 each. SUV tires average $178 apiece. Shopping around could get you a better deal. Make sure the price includes mounting and balancing.

 Buy early:Experts say now is the time to buy, when there's time to do research and there's an abundant selection of snow or all-season tires. If you wait until the first snowfall, you might get stuck with what the dealer has on hand in the size that fits your car. But don't buy too soon: DiPiazza recommends installing winter tires when the daily high temperature is generally below 50 degrees.
Don't take this too hard: Your autograph isn't worth what it once was.

American Express, Mastercard and Discover each have announced that, starting in April, they will no longer require signatures on any U.S. and Canadian credit card purchases. (Actually, American Express is making the change for all its transactions worldwide.)

Visa hasn't announced any plans to do the same. But there's speculation it eventually might do so.

That pretty much would fully evaporate what might be the most common reason U.S. consumers still bother writing signatures, which once were the most prominent symbol of our financial integrity and proof of our identity. (It's also another blow to the general use of cursive writing, for those who remember what that is.)

"Signatures may be going the way of the lava lamp," said William McCracken, the president of Phoenix Synergistics, a metro Atlanta-based consumer market research company focused on the financial services.

ADVERTISEMENT

"They will not be part of Gen Z. Signatures won't be part of their stored memories."

The shift away from signatures also hints at the fantasy we all pretended to believe: that signatures actually proved something.

"The industry's unspoken secret is that signatures on a credit card receipt are relatively worthless from a security standpoint," McCracken said.

Thieves only had to look at the signature on the back of a credit card, practice it a few times and come up with a fake good enough to pass.

But even that involves some quaint thinking. Because almost no one in places where we shop or dine is even glancing at signatures these days, whether you signed on paper or a glitchy electronic pad using a faulty stylus or your finger.

That would seem to explain why I've never been flagged for using my finger to draw a line across checkout signature pads.

Signatures still are used on plenty of legal property documents, government-issued IDs, artwork, acknowledgments of medical privacy notifications, cards to grandma and anything fans can ask celebrities to scribble on.

Yet, in other ways, signatures have been slipping from the economy.

ADVERTISEMENT

Instead of putting his "signature" on new dollar bills earlier this year, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin used a handwritten mix of upper- and lower-cased block letters that could have been thumbed out on a smartphone.

Signatures became less necessary as check writing shrank. While credit card use continues to grow  there were more than 37 billion U.S. transactions last year totaling $3.27 trillion dollars  most of that is going unsigned.

John Hancocks aren't required on typical online purchases.

Credit card firms already scaled back signature requirements on small transactions. More than 75 percent of face-to-face Visa card transactions in North America don't require people to sign their name, according to a Visa spokesperson.

Which is just as well.

Who hasn't gone to sign for a credit card purchase using a pen that doesn't work and "you just scribble anyway," said Kim Sullivan, the senior director of payments solutions for Georgia-based transactions technology giant NCR.

Dropping signature requirements should speed up lines at retailers, Sullivan said, which is exactly what store owners are looking for.

"It's going to improve the experience" for merchants and consumers, she said.

ADVERTISEMENT

"It's all about faster and frictionless," she said.

Sullivan guesstimated eliminating signatures might save an average of three seconds on each credit card transaction. So retailers can increase the number of customers they serve and generate more money, she said.
BALTIMORE, Md.  When Shibani Shinde Patil received an email from British Vogue in August telling her that her jewelry would be included in the lauded fashion glossy, she thought it was a joke.

She immediately contacted the magazine's offices in London. When the Baltimore resident learned the email was in fact legitimate, she still was in disbelief.

"Then I started believing emails," she said with a laugh.

In just a year, Shinde Patil's luxury jewelry collection, Ri Noor, has vaulted to the upper echelons of the design world. And she's done it all from her Harbor East apartment.

Her ascent is a rarity  especially without a celebrity wearing her merchandise or a major social media imprint (the company has just 61 Instagram followers). But somehow the young brand has managed to get featured on the websites of Stilorama and Jewel Street, two British-based retailers that focus on luxury designers.

ADVERTISEMENT

"I've been successful. I should have done it sooner," Shinde Patil, 38, said as she sat in her spacious neutral-hued living room where wall-length windows provide a sweeping view of Baltimore's cityscape. Shinde Patil was preparing to hold a trunk show in New York and release a holiday collection and had just returned from New York City, where she visited the showroom she works with there.

'Now-or-never moment'

A little more than a year ago, Shinde Patil was designing jewelry on the side while working as a principal at GenCo Strategy, an energy company.

"I worked in the energy world my whole career," she explained. "I really liked what I did, but I was always drawn to entrepreneurship."

Then Shinde Patil had her son, Rishi.

"I wanted to be around him and have flexibility," she said of the 17-month-old for whom she named her company ("noor" means "light"). "I wanted to do something that I loved. Once I had the baby it was a now-or-never moment. Doing something you love changes your outlook."

A large stark-white dresser adorned with a laser-cut pattern contains all her neatly organized magic: the raw fine stones and jewelry sketches in various states of completion. It is here that the jewelry maker sketches Ri Noor.

"These don't make any sense without the stones," she said as she leafed through sketches in pencil of various types of jewelry.

ADVERTISEMENT

Zoey Washington, senior fashion and beauty editor at Brit & Co., calls Ri Noor jewelry "statement-making."

"Ri Noor is a brand that understands how contemporary women want to wear fine jewelry," she said. "Each piece is the perfect mix of statement-making and subtle that elevates anything from a classic sweater-and-jeans combo to an evening gown."

'A great journey'

With the encouragement of her husband, Karthik, a Constellation manager of trading for the Mid-Atlantic region, Shinde Patil started working with Wolf & Badger, an international retailer that features independent fashion, jewelry, accessory and beauty brands, and cold contacting various fashion retailers and publications worldwide. Her efforts paid off with interest from magazines and jewelry websites. She keeps copies of the magazines her jewelry has been featured in  including British Vogue and Elle UK  in the dresser with her sketches.

"It's not an easy path. But it has been a great journey," said Shinde Patil. "It's kind of validating  the interest we've been getting.

"A lot of it is chance and luck," she said, launching into a story about how she struck up a friendship with a gemologist in India who became a mentor and helped her navigate the industry.

Even though the Ri Noor brand is fairly young, Shinde Patil has been designing jewelry since she was 19.

"I could never find jewelry that I really loved," she said. "My parents encouraged me to make my own jewelry."

ADVERTISEMENT

Shinde Patil moved to the United States to go to college. She earned her undergraduate degree and a master's in financial economics from Ohio University and her MBA from Drexel University in 2006. She moved to Baltimore in 2012 for her work in the energy field.

Since starting her company, there's been a lot of pavement-pounding.

"It's been very humbling," she said. "I was very confident about my style. I thought I would be an instant hit. "

Instead, there was a lot of rejection.

"I even had someone unfriend me on Facebook," she said in reference to a contact who severed ties with her because she posted too many photos of her jewelry.

"They've finally come around," she said. "I do feel now I have a good spectrum of people to work with."

The experience

Shinde Patil has worked with Wolf & Badger since May.

"For a fine jewelry brand to succeed, they need to offer something truly unique to a customer. Beyond gorgeous jewelry, Ri Noor offers customers an intimate and luxurious experience," said Camila Noelle, head of U.S. operations for Wolf & Badger. "Customers that have met Shibani understand that they're speaking to a fine jewelry expert. She not only shares her extensive knowledge of gemstones and materials but her approach is friendly and engaging."

That type of interaction is what sold John Keefe, a portfolio manager from Severna Park and one of Ri Noor's first customers last November, when he purchased a blue enamel cuff with silver inlay for his wife. By May, he had purchased two more pieces  a blue turquoise cocktail ring and diamond pendant necklace  as a gift for their 25th wedding anniversary.

"She has a good eye. She has things that are not cookie-cutter. I like the quality of it," said Keefe, who works with Shinde Patil's husband. "I feel like I've gotten on the ground floor of something. I'm very happy that my wife likes the pieces.  They spark conversation when my wife wears it."
Iceland's popularity among travelers is becoming a bit of a problem.

The island  roughly the size of Alabama and home to about 347,000 people  will welcome about 2.3 million people this year, or about 6,000 to 7,000 people per day. That's a significant increase from 2016's 1.8 million visitors and more than triple the number of arrivals in 2010.

To put those numbers in startling context, foreign visitors outnumbered locals by about seven to one this year, according to Bloomberg.

Now the Nordic island nation defined by its dramatic landscape of volcanos, geysers, hot springs and lava fields is trying to figure out whether the country can, or should, accommodate even more people.

"This sector is maturing and becoming a real industry in Iceland, and with that, of course, come challenges that we need to be ready to tackle," Thordis Kolbrun R. Gylfadottir, Iceland's tourism minister, told Bloomberg.

ADVERTISEMENT

Iceland's Blue Lagoon presents a microcosm of what is taking place in the country.

A pool of geothermally heated water that's rich in minerals and said to be good for your skin, the lagoon's creation was something of an accident, according to BBC: Locals happened upon the water and started bathing in it. Now Blue Lagoon has become a "must-do" on tourist agendas far and wide, and the number of visitors has increased from about 50,000 in 1994 to 1.3 million this year.

Though this influx is presenting logistical challenges, it has also brought significant financial benefit.

Tourism has grown to be Iceland's biggest export, pushing ahead of wholesale and retail trade, (which is now the nation's second-biggest industry), according to Bloomberg.

Just one year ago, tourism accounted for about 8.4 percent of Iceland's gross domestic product.

Amid such growth, the country's residents and leaders are expressing concern about repeating the mistakes of the infamous herring bonanza during the 1960s and 1970s. That episode involved the collapse of herring stocks when overfishing brought the fish to the border of extinction.

Tourism is now so important to Iceland that any impact on the industry would be a major shock to the country's economy as a whole, according to its central bank.

At the same time, tourism also appears to be putting pressure on the local housing market, causing a surge in short-term private rentals.

ADVERTISEMENT

So what's to be done?

There are a variety of measures now being considered that would, if not limit arrivals, at least improve the quality of the experience, Bloomberg reported.

"We need to map this out to see what we can do to make the tolerance higher. Sometimes it is about strengthening infrastructure, sometimes it can be about steering access to particular areas," Gylfadottir said. "The decisions we make will affect how this sector will evolve."
Connecting with locals, discovering unique culinary experiences and holistic wellness are some of the top motivations for travel in 2018.

The recently released American Express 2018 travel trend and top destinations report revealed international bookings are up 44 percent for the first quarter of the coming year as people are embarking on journeys around the globe for a multitude of reasons.

The propriety study, which involved surveying more than 2,000 respondents, found that 57 percent of Americans have set exploring a new destination they've never seen before as their most important travel goal for 2018.

Tour planners everywhere take note: Nearly half of travelers, 43 percent, said finding a local culinary spot in a hip neighborhood is one of the most exciting dining experiences while traveling.

In addition, spontaneity continues to be incredibly important to travelers, 52 percent of whom enjoy getting lost and discovering hidden shops, restaurants or bakeries to create their own memories. Further underscoring the desire for the unexpected, 49 percent of Americans prefer trips with adventure and excitement.

ADVERTISEMENT

Additional highlights from the American Express report include:

 56 percent of U.S. travelers are willing to pay more to get better service, and 53 percent like to be pampered while traveling.

 Luxury travelers are increasingly booking premium seating with 68 percent planning to fly first or business class in 2018.

 22 percent of Americans say the most important travel goal for 2018 is to disconnect from technology, work and everyday life.

Another trend to watch for over the next 12 months is "social over solo travel." According to American Express, solo travel still has its place, but 53 percent of Americans prefer a social travel experience during which they are able to connect with like-minded travelers for an optimal experience.

In addition, 57 percent of Americans are seeking to interact with locals when traveling. Still, others want to stay with locals while traveling.

The study also reveals the top 10 destinations for the coming year. The leading place to be in 2018 is Bali.

The remaining destinations rounding out the top 10 include Costa Rica; Dubai; London; Portugal (Lisbon and Porto regions); Rome; Tel Aviv; Utah-Lorado (Park City, Salt Lake City, Aspen, Denver and Vail); Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City regions); and Zurich, Switzerland.
After two years without a permanent leader, the Rochester Community and Technical College community can expect a new president in 2018.

Eyes will be on the college as it continues its search, which officially got underway at the beginning of December . The school is set to name a president on March 21. This major appointment comes after two interim leaders in two years, following the resignation of former President Leslie McClellon after her rocky 18-month tenure.

It's a key position that will provide vision, direction and stability as the college looks to position itself in a growing community.

"We feel very good that this search will result in a president being named," said Pat Johns, chairman of the RCTC search committee and president of Lake Superior College.

A pool of candidates is being whittled down from 43, Johns said, with the goal to interview eight. The committee is in the process of lining up those interviews and doing preliminary background and reference checks.

ADVERTISEMENT

The next president needs to be someone who can "create a vision" for higher education at RCTC and in the community, Johns said.

Nate Stoltman, the college's director of communications, has pointed to the college's relationship with Mayo Clinic and the broader workforce in Rochester and southeastern Minnesota, which includes community initiatives such as Destination Medical Center and Journey to Growth.

"We're a big player," Stoltman said. "Whoever comes in has to understand our role and has to understand how we all work together."

And they're looking for someone who will stick around.

"First and foremost, we're going to want someone who really wants to be here, who really wants to make their life here, who is all about our students," Stoltman said.

The college's interim president, Mary Davenport, has led the college since July 2016; she announced her retirement in September. Before Davenport, Joyce Helens, former president of St. Cloud Technical and Community College, took the reins at RCTC with a six-month interim appointment.

Ultimately, the decision will be up to interim Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra, who will make a recommendation, and the Board of Trustees will have the option to approve that recommendation; the college will have the opportunity to offer input through the committee process.

The search committee includes a student, faculty, staff, administrators, community members and Minnesota State Human Resources Manager Renee Hogoboom and is being led by Johns. The search process is being overseen by Pauly Group Inc., a Springfield, Ill.-based academic search consulting group that specializes in finding talent for community and technical college administrators and presidents, according to its website.

ADVERTISEMENT

"I think Rochester is one of the plum jobs in our system and our state," Johns said. "It's an exciting place to be, and you want somebody who's going to engage the community and really make that college vibrant."
Jay Martini, the founder of Rosa Parks Charter High School, formerly Rochester Off-Campus, says he will retire at the end of the year.

His departure represents an end of era for the school, its students and alumni. Since its founding in 1993-94, becoming Rochester's first charter school, Martini has served as the only administrator the school ever has known.

The school would become a school of last resort for many of its students, the last chance for graduation and a pathway to a better life. When the school opened 24 years ago, it served primarily gangbangers.

When asked what he will miss about the school, Martini paused for several seconds, visibly choked up, saying simply, "Everything."

Martini's position at the school was all encompassing. By founding a school, Martini, a social worker by trade, took on a job that rolled into one job the roles of a building principal, superintendent and social worker.

ADVERTISEMENT

Martini, 62, said the transition was long in planning, and his retirement date never was etched in stone. It was more about when the time was right, when the school's 14 teaching staff were prepared to take the reigns.

"As long as I'm there at school, my hand is still on the back of the seat," Martini said, comparing the transition to running alongside a bike and letting go for the first time. "When my hand is on the back of the seat, they're not really riding the bike."

Through the years, the mix of students would change, including students who were bullied, stoners, skaters and rednecks, the chemically dependent and the psychologically fragile. But the common denominator among them were students who had struggled in a traditional school environment or who had been rejected by their schools.

Martini's special skill has been in dealing with students and diagnosing their needs at that particular time. He often referred to his students as "numbnuts and punkins," and they called him "Jaymar." The school, Martini said, always was a joint enterprise and never would have succeeded without buy-in from students.

But Martini said another key to its endurance and success was understanding that charter schools need to be run like a business. That's something that not all charter school founders realize. And they pay the price. Rosa Parks was a $1.2 million business.

"If you don't understand that, it will die," Martini said. "That's why charter schools croak, because they go in with all this Hare Krishna, incense-burning (attitude). Dude, you're running a business. And you have to do all this other (stuff), too."

Martini's departure coincides with a time of transition for the school. A symptom of that change was its name change last year. Enrollment also has declined with time, going from a peak of 125 students to 70 students this year, as some students choose Rochester Public School's relatively new Alternative Learning Center. Rosa Parks also is looking for a new site, its current one being unaffordable, one official said.

Knowing charter schools often take on the personality of their founders and often struggle following their departure, Martini said the school put together a three-year plan to replace him. Instead of hiring of a Martini clone to replace him, the decision was made to parcel out his duties instead.

ADVERTISEMENT

Staff member Tracy Olson now is the social worker. A Twin Cities accounting firm will keep the books. And the entire 14-member staff will take on the principal duties under a new teacher-powered model that stresses collaboration among staff, with Laurie King serving as the program lead, Martini said.

Asked if he was anxious about how the school would fare without his guidance, Martini said he wasn't worried about the school's future.

"I don't worry about their part of it," Martini said. "What I want to come through clearly. And honest to goodness, I would not leave if I didn't think they had the skill to do it. If it works or doesn't work, that's up to them. But I'm leaving, going, 'They got this.'"

The school generally has suffered from low test scores. Several years ago, the state put the then-ROC on a kind of probationary status because of a graduation rate that fell short of state standards. A team was brought in to evaluate and determine whether new leadership was needed. But in the end, the school's work was vindicated with the evaluators concluding it was a "model that should be replicated" elsewhere, Martini said.

Many of its graduates would go on to become teachers and nurses, musicians and artists, carpenters and plumbers. When it first opened, it was housed in a converted small engine repair shop, once known as Alexander Auto Electric, where the current Nupa restaurant at the corner of Civic Center Drive and 11th Avenue Northwest is located. It later moved to its box-shaped locale at 2364 Valleyhigh Drive NW, Rochester.

Martini acknowledged he will be undergoing a transition himself. For years, Martini commuted the hour-and-half drive from the Twin Cities to Rochester  two hours on busy roads  leaving home at 4:30 a.m and returning home at 7 p.m. There was hardly a time during his tenure where he wasn't thinking about or working on school-related issues. That's why the decision to divide his duties among staff made so much sense.

"I have worried about that damn place for 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year," he said. "You can put another person in my chair  and I'm not patting myself on the back  they're not going to care for it as much as me. But 14 people will."
EYOTA  The Eyota City Council on Thursday night allowed the city's incentive program for new construction to sunset.

The program, which has been in effect for several years, will end on Jan. 1, according to Mayor Tyrel Clark.

Incentives for new residential and commercial construction included waiving of the zoning permit, sewer connection and inspection fees, and water improvement and inspection fees. All told, new construction projects saved $2,250.

The city council plans to revisit the issue in the coming months to ensure Eyota is competitive with other cities when it comes to the cost of new housing and commercial development.

"We want to compare the cost of building in Eyota to other communities," Clark said. "But as of this moment, it's sunsetting."

ADVERTISEMENT

Waiving the fees does lower the overall cost for mortgages in Eyota, but often homeowners are unaware of the deal they are getting because the fees are paid by developers and rolled into the cost of the house. "A lot of people don't even know that happened because they bought a house from a developer," Clark said. "We're try to get ourselves in the range (with other cities) so we're not an outlier."

The city council also approved a special election set for May 8 to ask voters about at least one potential city project and possibly a second, Clark said.

The first project voters will be asked to consider is a $1.4 million expansion of the current fire hall.

"We tasked the fire department with putting together a building plan for revamping of the fire hall," the mayor said. "We'd be taking the existing space and adding on more space so they're not stacked on top of one another."

The city council decided to conduct the special election this spring rather than wait until the November general election so that construction on the project, if approved, could begin this summer. Construction costs have been rising at about 10 percent a year, Clark said. "If we wait, it would add $140,000 to the project."

The second question considered for the special election ballot would involve moving city hall to a new location. Clark said city staff members have identified the Our Savior's Lutheran Church location at 222 4th St. SW. The congregation will move this spring to its new location near the Eyota Volunteer Ambulance Service.

"We strongly intend to have two questions (on the ballot)," Clark said.

"We're tight on space in our current location," Clark said of city hall. When the city looked into adding to its current location, it made financial sense to consider a move.
Attorneys representing the 92 Somalis, including former Mayo Clinic employee Abdoulmalik Ibrahim, who were on a recent deportation flight have asked the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to launch an internal investigation into the treatment of the men and women aboard.

The lawyers allege serious violations of Homeland Security policy regarding use of force and shackling during the flight that landed in the West African country of Senegal and sat on the runway for more than 20 hours.

The administrative complaint addresses U.S. Department of Homeland Security Acting Inspector General John Kelly and Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Cameron Quinn and includes sworn statements by seven of the men on the flight.

According to the document, immigration officers shackled, punched, choked and kicked the deportees. The document says the deportees were denied access to the restroom and were physically and verbally abused for the duration of the two-day trip.

The flight, with Minnesota residents aboard, ended up returning to the United States. The deportees remain in two Florida detention centers.

ADVERTISEMENT

The document alleges officers attempted to avoid an investigation by trying to deport the men and women again about two weeks later. It also adds ICE attempted to cover up what happened by providing false statements to the media saying no one was injured.

In a statement, ICE spokesperson Brendan Raedy said the allegations of mistreatment are categorically false. He maintains that no one was injured during the flight. "There were no incidents or altercations that would have caused any injuries on the flight," he said.

He said there have been no medical claims made to ICE officials at the detention center in Miami.

A federal judge in Florida has blocked the deportation order "pending the court's jurisdictional determination."
MANKATO  The Simmons family's last home had holes in the floor and their pipes often would freeze and sometimes burst because it got so cold inside in the winter.

Kelsey and Donald Simmons covered the holes with two-by-fours and made other improvisations they could afford on a tight budget. But they realized it wouldn't be long before their mobile home built in 1972 would no longer be inhabitable.

In November they moved into a newer, warm trailer with solid floors thanks to a partnership between the city of Mankato, Minnesota Valley Action Council and three mobile home parks, with support from a state grant.

The pilot program is replacing three dilapidated mobile homes with newer ones at no cost to the homeowners if they stay in their new home for 10 years.

The Simmons family is the first recipient of a new residence. They moved into a 2002 home that was for sale in the Southhaven Mobile Home Community just blocks from their former home last month.

ADVERTISEMENT

"This is the best thing I could ask for my family," Donald Simmons said. He and his wife worked hard to care for their former home but couldn't keep up with its constant repair needs, he said.

"This is a dream come true," Kelsey Simmons said, adding that even her two children are taking pride in their new home by taking their shoes off at the door and picking up their toys.

One resident of the Lime Valley Mobile Home Park and one resident of the University Park Mobile Home Community soon also will get new places to hang their hats.

"Really it's about making sure these folks have a safe, affordable home. Everyone deserves that," said Judd Schultz, housing services director for the Minnesota Valley Action Council.

Another goal is to remove blight in the mobile home parks. The vacated homes are demolished.

"It's not only helping that household, it's helping the park as well," Schultz said.

A state grant provided $79,000 toward the pilot project. The city of Mankato gave $40,000 of the federal funding it receives to support community development. The three participating mobile home parks each contributed $10,000.

Those dollars will fund purchase of three mobile homes as well as transportation and demolition costs.

ADVERTISEMENT

Recipients of new homes must have an income of no more than $24,000 but enough so that they can afford lot rent, utilities and upkeep. They are given a 10-year no-interest loan that will be forgiven if they live in and maintain their replacement residence for 10 years.

Schultz and other project leaders hope the pilot will lead to more grants and participation from all seven of the mobile home parks in Mankato.

The project is the product of an initiative by the public safety and building inspections departments to build better connections with the mobile home parks.

Officers and inspectors now regularly visit the parks to identify and warn residents about code violations and meet with property managers about other concerns, said police Cmdr. Dan Schisel. City staff also works with Minnesota Valley Action Council to find grants and other resources to help residents fund home repairs.

"It sends the message that we're here and we care," Schisel said.

Southhaven Mobile Home Community Property Manager Ashley Bogenschutz said some of her residents previously weren't very receptive to the increased presence of city officers, but their attitudes are changing.

"I do believe that the tenants are happier," she said.
Two south-central Minnesota hospitals were among the 39 percent of facilities statewide with negative operating margins last year, according to a new report.

The Minnesota Hospital Association's annual report on the financial health of hospitals showed Madelia Community Hospital's and Sleepy Eye Medical Center's expenses outweighed their revenues in fiscal year 2016. River's Edge Hospital and Clinic in St. Peter was among the 43 total hospitals across the state with positive operating margins. The association looks at operating margins as a measure of a hospital's financial performance.

A statewide increase in hospitals with negative margins from 2015 to 2016 is concerning as hospitals continue to grapple with undercompensated and uncompensated care.

Both are key factors influencing hospitals' bottom lines, according to the report. The challenge is even greater at many rural hospitals, where smaller volumes of patients are treated. Their patient mix also tends to be older with lower incomes than their urban counterparts.

Operating margins in fiscal year 2016 at area hospitals included in the study were as follows:

ADVERTISEMENT

 River's Edge: 4.3 percent

 Madelia Community Hospital: -1.8 percent

 Sleep Eye Medical Center: -4.1 percent

No numbers were available for Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, as the report didn't include individual hospitals within the health system.

Lori Zook, CFO at River's Edge, said another healthy margin is expected for the hospital in fiscal year 2017. Reasons for the sustained numbers include an increasingly popular specialized joint replacement program in partnership with Mankato's Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic, she said.

"What that partnership has done for us is bring a level of stability to our population," she said. "It allowed us to take a look at other specialties."

The positive margins also allowed the hospital to move forward on an expansion expected to start in 2018.

"We want to keep people in our community, and it's where they want to be," Zook said of the decision. "We just don't have enough room to attract the specialties that are most attractive to the community."

ADVERTISEMENT

Although Madelia's operating margins remained negative in the report, its margin reduced from -4.7 to -1.8 percent between fiscal year 2015 and 2016.

The numbers are a reflection of the community hospital's patient base, said Candace Fenske, CEO of the facility.

"We're in an area where it is one of the lower income counties in the state, so our patient clientele may be a little different," she said. "Another consideration is we have an aging population and with that comes the state and federal programs that are underfunded."

Medical Assistance coverage for people with low incomes is an example of a state program with reimbursement rates below the actual cost for patient care. Federal Medicare routinely does the same too, according to the report.

Fenske said the negative figures shouldn't overly concern patients, as the hospital's aim to provide affordable care close to its patients isn't changing.

"We're about as nonprofit as you can get," she said. "We hold our own here."

Madelia's recent investments in new equipment also can be taken as a positive sign of its economic viability. The hospital brought in a mammographer and a CT scanner in the last year, the latter of which was provided by a grant.
WASECA  The presses have been quiet inside the cavernous Waseca printing plant as workers have been draining ink, preparing machinery for removal and taking care of customers before the doors at Quad Graphics closed for good on Friday.

"This week there's been some emotion in the building obviously," said Randy Gordon, plant director at Quad, formerly Brown Printing.

Gordon said he's been proud of how well employees have handled a difficult time.

"Everybody has kept busy, they've taken care of customers, there's been no issues. It's a great group of people, and their integrity is showing. They've been a real stand-up group."

Quad Graphics was the largest employer in Waseca.

ADVERTISEMENT

Most all of the 350 employees are out of work, but a small group is staying to continue maintenance on the plant and move out equipment while others take care of customers for Quad, which operates other plants.

Brown Printing was started in 1949 and had 750 employees at its peak. Business continued to decline as the printed magazines and other materials produced at the plant declined in the face of digital media.

Several government and nonprofit agencies have been working with Quad employees to assist them in searching for and finding new jobs, applying for unemployment and health insurance and other issues.

"There's been a variety of government and local entities that want to help employees and we've let them all come in to help. We had a college education fair here and MNSure was here. We've hosted a lot of groups to help the employees," Gordon said.

There are no firm numbers on how many employees have already lined up new jobs, but Gordon and others say employees who want to find jobs have good prospects.

"Some are just retiring. They've had 40 or 45 years here," Gordon said. Others are pursuing dreams to start their own businesses.

Gordon said that some employees have told him about new jobs they've gotten.

"A few are finding jobs in Waseca itself but not a lot. Most of the manufacturing guys are finding things in Owatonna or Faribault or Mankato. The ones who want to stay in printing are going to the Twin Cities. Taylor Corp has hired some."

ADVERTISEMENT

He said that a plant closing is always hard but that the current job market makes it a good time to find employment.

"I haven't heard anyone complain they can't find a job, with the (low) unemployment rate in this area." He noted that 125 businesses wanted to come to a job fair they held to recruit Quad employees. "But we only had room for 85. The opportunities out there are fantastic."

Gordon, 59, has been in the printing business 41 years, seven with Quad, and will soon be looking for work himself.

"I haven't done much looking yet. I felt my goal is to do what I can to help employees here. There will be something for me down the road. I'm not worried about that."

The South Central WorkForce Council, which serves the nine-county area, will take the lead on helping former Quad employees moving forward.

Executive Director Diane Halvorson said they held an earlier information meeting with Quad employees and surveyed them to get basic demographic information and to see what types of services they need. The council recently learned it has received a $700,000 grant from the state Department of Employment and Economic Development to help the employees.

"It will provide job search assistance, career assessments, funding for training, so if they're interested in post-secondary school it'll pay for schooling," Halvorson said. "We look at the skills of the workers and what jobs are available in the region and then work one-on-one with them."

She said the fact many of the employees have been there 20 years or more means a lot of them haven't done a job search for a long time. "So a key service we provide is helping people post resumes online, applying for jobs online. That whole area has changed since they were last in the market."
President Trump sat down with New York Times reporter Michael Schmidt for an interview in West Palm Beach yesterday. Schmidt was low-key and even respectful, while Trump was ebullient. You can read excerpts here. (As always, there is no point in reading any newspapers account of the conversation.)

Trump was his usual unscripted selframbling, not very articulate, sometimes humorously self-promoting, generally correct if often imprecise. He talked at length, and with great confidence, about Muellers investigation. Here, he knows things are going his way:

Lets just say  I think that Bob Mueller will be fair, and everybody knows that there was no collusion. I saw Dianne Feinstein the other day on television saying there is no collusion. Shes the head of the committee. The Republicans, in terms of the House committees, they come out, theyre so angry because there is no collusion. So, I actually think that its turning out  I actually think its turning to the Democrats because there was collusion on behalf of the Democrats. There was collusion with the Russians and the Democrats. A lot of collusion. SCHMIDT: Dossier? TRUMP: Starting with the dossier. But going into so many other elements. And Podestas firm.

Hes right about that. The liberal press has done its best to avert its eyes from the real collusion scandal involving the Hillary Clinton campaign, Fusion GPS, Steele. the Russians who fed lies about candidate Trump to the Clinton campaign through Steele, and the FBI. But the more Trump talks about the real scandal, the harder it will be for liberals, including but not limited to those at the Times, to ignore it.

The Timess own account of the interview led with the fact that Trump said the Mueller investigation was bad for the country. Well, it is. What Trump actually said is, I think, indisputable:

TRUMP: [Inaudible.] There was tremendous collusion on behalf of the Russians and the Democrats. There was no collusion with respect to my campaign. I think Ill be treated fairly. Timingwise, I cant tell you. I just dont know. But I think well be treated fairly. SCHMIDT: But youre not worked up about the timing? TRUMP: Well, I think its bad for the country. The only thing that bothers me about timing, I think its a very bad thing for the country. Because it makes the country look bad, it makes the country look very bad, and it puts the country in a very bad position. So the sooner its worked out, the better it is for the country.

Trump also is clued into the Awan scandal, although he doesnt describe it with any precision:

But there is tremendous collusion with the Russians and with the Democratic Party. Including all of the stuff with the  and then whatever happened to the Pakistani guy, that had the two, you know, whatever happened to this Pakistani guy who worked with the D.N.C.? Whatever happened to them? With the two servers that they broke up into a million pieces? Whatever happened to him? That was a big story. Now all of sudden [inaudible].

Here, too, it would be smart for Trump to keep talking about the Awan scandal. It is a classic example of Iowahawks dictum that journalism is all about covering important stories. With a pillow, until they stop moving.

Mostly, the interview is fun to read because you can tell the expansive Trump knows he is increasingly ascendant. Massive deregulation; economic growth picking up; standing up to Russia, Iran, China and North Korea; destroying ISIS; remaking the federal courts; recognizing Jerusalem; and now, the greatest tax reform in a generationall while the Mueller investigation crumbles, and his opponents are tied up in knots over his tweets. The winning is under way.
( Read 12859 Times)

Source :

Udaipur : Today was a historic morning in New Delhi. His Holiness Syedna Taher Fakhruddin Saheb, head of the Dawoodi Bohra Community presented the Syedna Qutbuddin Harmony Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, religious leader of the Tibetans. The Prize is awarded annually to honour an individual or organisation whose work has had an exceptional impact in promoting harmony and peace in India as well as globally. The Prize carries a monetary value of Rs10 lac. Through the Taqreeb Harmony initiative Syedna Qutbuddin sought to propagate affectionate relationships and mutual cooperation between all who call Mother India their home, and indeed between all members of the global human familyPresent at the august gathering were senior religious leaders of all the major religions of India, meeting in the Convention hall of Jawaharlal Nehru University: His Holiness Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, Jain leader, His Eminence Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Sardar Manjit Singh GK, President of Delhi Sikh Gurdwara management Committee, Rabbi Ezekiel Isaac Malekar, Head of the Jewish Community in New Delhi, Shri Gaur Gopal Das, and Justice Aziz K. Ahmadi, former Chief Justice of India.Syedna Fakhruddin, in his address, invited all the leaders to discuss and implement a coalition to fight the forces of conflict and division in India and the world. The Dalai Lama expressed sincere appreciation to Syedna Taher Fakhruddin TUS, as a Muslim leader for organizing a conference that brought together different faiths. He expressed sadness for the sectarian divisions that were dividing the country and congratulated Syedna for leading the country in a more positive direction. He said that the modern study of psychology pales in comparison to Indias deep and age-old tradition psychological awareness. He said, To decrease destructive emotions like fear we must increase positive emotions like loveJain leader Acharya Lokesh Muni said that Syedna Fakhruddin Saheb and his predecessors, by their work on the ground across India in providing institutions of civil society such as schools and hospitals, has brought the concept of harmony into action.The senior leaders of all the faiths expressed their solidarity with the Taqreeb effort, and emphasized that each of their religions promoted understanding and harmony among all human beings.Syedna Fakhruddin also said that it is better for all of us, to focus on such efforts more when they take place, rather than only focussing on disasters and attacks after they have been perpetrated.Syedna Fakhruddin outlined that harmonious existence must be a mind-set  not a one off strategy. He narrated Syedna Qutbuddins outlook that brought people together in all matters. Syedna Qutbuddins vision was to focus on doctrines that espouse peace among the human family and on exemplars who promote harmony.Syedna Qutbuddin believed that one of the most effective weapons in the fight against bigotry and hatred is education.Syedna Fakhruddin expounded on that same vision, he said that simple tolerance of others was not good enough. Rather we must promote genuine understanding. And genuine understanding comes from honest communication and respectful engagement. Genuine understanding comes through education. Syedna Fakhruddin acknowledged that it is important to understand that we are all different  but religious leaders must have security in themselves and not force their religion on others.Syedna narrated this saying by Maulana Ali - The Distance between the sky and the earth is a prayer Syedna Fakhruddin prayed that peaceful coexistence continue to build our country and the world stronger  and he added his hope that someday the world was filled with more stories for cooperation and harmony than disagreement and discord.
Bills to expand New Jerseys wind energy zone and to change how the state encourages the use of solar energy will be considered this week in the state Legislature.

A1899 would allow the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to provide tax credits for wind energy facilities in the Portfields Initiative in Middlesex County. It will be up for a full Assembly vote Thursday.

The Portfields Initiative is a project of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and the NJEDA to encourage the use of underused and brownfield sites in the port district within a 25-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty.

Another bill, S2276, would require 5.3 percent of electricity provided by suppliers come from solar by 2022, up from the current requirement of 4.1 percent.

It would also establish a Solar Energy Study Commission and phase out the use of Solar Renewable Energy Certificates, or SRECs, as a means of subsidizing solar in the state.

It does not specify what would replace SRECs. It passed in the Assembly and would be considered by the full Senate on Thursday.

Hearing in Galloway on fishery plan addendum: The New Jersey Marine Fisheries Administration has scheduled a public hearing for a draft addendum to the ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan.

The hearing is set for 7:15 p.m. Thursday at the Galloway Township branch of the Atlantic County Library, 306 E. Jimmie Leeds Road.

The addendum will establish recreational black sea bass management measures for the 2018 fishing season and is available online at www.asmfc.org/uploads/file/5a3d9894BSBDraftAddendumXXX_PublicComment.pdf.

For more information, call the New Jersey Bureau of Marine Fisheries at 609-748-2020.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account.
The hustle of the holidays has ended, which means empty spaces and shelves in homes but also at the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Southern Branch in Egg Harbor Township.

Everything you see here will be gone in a matter of weeks, pantry manager Debra Fleischer said.

Volunteers at the food bank on the Black Horse Pike were restocking shelves Friday with reserves from donations that came in during November and December, but Fleischer said the surplus was limited, especially going into a new year.

Large boxes filled with fresh produce and nonperishable goods sat in what Fleischer called the staging area, waiting for daily pickup by local organizations the pantry supplies with food and daily necessities.

The Community FoodBank provides food supplies to 300 partner agencies  smaller pantries, soup kitchens and area shelters, said Renate Taylor, development officer for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.

Along with supplying local organizations, such as the Atlantic City Rescue Mission and Sister Jeans Kitchen, the food banks on-site choice pantry serves nearly 800 families.

Taylor said the Community FoodBank increased distribution 236 percent since July.

Unfortunately, the need continues to grow, Taylor said. We are very challenged. We are giving away close to a million pounds of food a month to three counties.

The pantrys shelves look like those of any large supermarket, with one exception: some are completely empty.

People donate a lot of food around the holidays, but we will distribute all of that before the new year, Fleischer said.

Longport Medias annual food drive, Operation Help, which collected donations for five days before Thanksgiving, brought in more than 15,000 pounds of food, which was quickly distributed, Taylor said.

I need to thank our community  we have been so blessed with donations, with food drives, Taylor said. Unfortunately, in January, our need remains the same, but our donations plummet.

According to an annual report by the FoodBank, more than 10 million pounds of food was distributed in Atlantic, Cape May and Ocean counties in the 2017 fiscal year. Looking ahead to the 2018 fiscal year, the FoodBank said it was trending toward distributing 14 million pounds of food.

The next donation event on the FoodBanks schedule is the Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive in May.

Were hoping the community will come together to help us stock the shelves, Taylor said.
PLEASANTVILLE  A suspect wanted in a series of bank robberies in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware was captured Friday morning at a local motel.

Special Agent Jessica Weisman of the FBIs Northfield office and Capt. Matthew Hartman of the Pleasantville Police Department confirmed the arrest of Thomas Dougher, 41, about 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Quality Inn in the 1000 block of the Black Horse Pike.

Dougher is suspected to have committed at least nine bank robberies in four states, Hartman said. He previously served time for 11 robberies in 2007.

Locally, Dougher is charged in three robberies: Dec. 23 at the PNC Bank on the Black Horse Pike in Pleasantville, Tuesday at the Sun National Bank in Northfield; and Friday at the PNC Bank in Absecon just prior to his arrest, Hartman said.

FBI, Northfield police search for suspect in area bank robberies NORTHFIELD  Police and the FBI are searching for a man wanted in several bank robberies in 

Shortly after the Absecon robbery, FBI and Pleasantville police started to check areas prior investigations revealed Dougher may be frequenting, which led to him being observed leaving a room at the Quality Inn and taken into custody without incident, Hartman said.

The vehicle Dougher used during the robberies, a silver Mazda 6 stolen from Maryland, was subsequently located in the parking garage of Caesars Atlantic City by Pleasantville police, Hartman said.

Dougher is a known gambler with ties to Atlantic City, Weisman said.

Assisting agencies included police departments in Absecon, Atlantic City and Egg Harbor Township, and Caesars security, Hartman said.
The digits 609 are a part of South Jerseys identity, as much as pork roll and boardwalks, but a change to the areas associated area code will come with the new year. Due to a demand for new phone numbers, the region will add a new area code, requiring 10-digit calling beginning Saturday, Aug. 18.

The new 640 area code will be added to the existing 609 region, including Atlantic, Cape May and parts of Ocean County. While the new area code will not change existing numbers, it will be added as new telephone lines and services are added.

In April 2017, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities approved a plan to overlay 640 to the existing 609 coverage area, after a study found the region would run out of available phone numbers in the third quarter of 2018. Heading into the new year, the BPU is advising residents in the 609 area code region to be prepared to change the way you make a call.

When calling another number, you will have to dial the area code first, even if its 609 to 609, said Gregory Reinert, director of communications for the Board of Public Utilities. You should start getting used to dialing 10 digits.

The dialing procedure primarily affects calls made to and from landline phones. According the Pew Research Center, 95 percent of American adults have at least one cellphone.

Starting Jan. 20, a period of permissive dialing will start. According to the BPU, calls within the new 609/640 overlay area code will still be placed if dialed without the area code.

NEW DIALING PROCEDURE STARTING IN 2018 CALL FROM CALL TO NEW DIALING PROCEDURE 609

or 640 609 or 640 Area code + 7 digit telephone number 609

or 640 856 or area codes

not 609 or 640 1+ area code + 7 digit telephone number 856 609 or 640 or any area code other than 856 1+ area code + 7 digit telephone number 856 856 7 digit number

The 10-digit dial procedure will go in effect Aug. 18. Calls without an area code will not be completed.

The 640 area code will be issued for new telephone lines or services starting Sept. 17.

Many South Jersey businesses still advertise without including the area code. Reinert added that the change is very important for automated dialing services used by local and state offices.

We want to get the message out to public safety or state offices to reprogram speed dialers or call-transferring equipment to the 10-digit area code and phone numbers, so theres no issue going further into the year, Reinert said.

The BPU said in a press release that three-digit special service numbers, including 911 and 411, will remain the same and assured residents that the price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change.
Craig Gralley spent more than 30 years at the CIA, where he worked as a chief speechwriter for three agency directors: William Webster, Robert Gates, and R. James Woolsey Jr. When Gralley, now 62, retired from Langley in 2013, he began writing in the voice of someone quite different: legendary World War II spy Virginia Hall, a woman known as The Limping Lady.

For the past four years, Gralley, who still works as a part-time CIA contractor, has been researching Halls life for a book. Not a work of nonfiction, though. Two Hall biographies already exist, and another volume  along with a movie starring Daisy Ridley of Star Wars  is apparently on the way.

Instead Gralley has written a novel, tentatively titled Hall of Mirrors, that he hopes to sell to a publisher. Its narrated in the first-person, in the voice of Hall, who worked for the British in France during World War II and later became a CIA officer. The Maryland-born operative helped organize the French resistance against the Nazis and once fled the Gestapo by hiking through the Pyrenees on a wooden prosthetic leg she nicknamed Cuthbert.

At a time when few women worked as spies, Hall went on to work for the Office of the Strategic Services, the CIAs precursor, and then the CIA itself before retiring at the age of 60 in 1966. She became such a celebrated figure at Langley that the agency named a training facility after her earlier this year called The Virginia Hall Expeditionary Center.

Although Gralleys book is a piece of fiction, it is based on a surfeit of facts. He hiked Halls route through the Pyrenees and unearthed hundreds of documents related to her career from the National Archives in Britain, many of which have not circulated beyond the collection, he said.

He shared two typed letters to Nicolas Boddington, a senior official at the Special Operations Executive, the British wartime spy service. (Multiple spellings of Boddingtons first and last name appear online.) These are not mere greetings, however. Gralley said Hall, a former code clerk for the U.S. Department of War, encrypted them.

She had to work as covertly as possible. By August 1941, she had established a headquarters in southern France and was passing along intelligence about the Vichy government and the underground resistance movement to her British spymasters. Armed with forged documents, she disguised herself as a New York Post reporter, according to an article Gralley wrote earlier this year for Studies in Intelligence, a CIA publication. All the while, she was cultivating a network of spies in France, supporting British agents with weapons and supplies, and offering safe houses to British operatives. Hall became so well-known that even the Gestapos chief, Klaus Barbie, known as the Butcher of Lyon, began hunting for her.

My dear Nic, she wrote on May 1, 1942, from her perch in Vichy France. All things in series of three, as usual, a cold in the head, an ache in the thorax and mingled snow, rain and slush out of doors ... The dark days are fairly abysmal and a short English word describes ones mood ... I have hoped for many days to go yodelling in the delightful, peaceful neighboring country, but alas for some bloody idiocy the usual keenness for new hotel guests is momentarily dampened by horrid suspicions which like an old fashioned detective story has tendencies toward complications lurid and even spectacular. Nerts, and nerts again! I get so fed up. Queer, aint it?

By early November, after their defeat in North Africa, the German forces swept into Frances free zones. Hall was convinced they would close down the borders. She knew she had to escape quickly, even if she was hobbled by Cuthbert, her seven-pound wooden leg, which she had relied on after a hunting accident. She teamed up with resistance members and left France on Nov. 11 to cross into the Pyrenees, seeking refuge in Spain. When she reached Spain a few days later, she got arrested for illegally crossing the border.

While she was incarcerated, Hall somehow managed to smuggle out another letter to Boddington  a letter Gralley said he believes she must have written in France before her trek through the Pyrenees. The letter is dated Nov. 25, 1942. Hall was still in a Spanish prison. She wasnt freed until early December.

So how did Hall get the letter out from her cell?

She might have been able to bribe someone, Gralley said. Also, her cellmate was a Spanish prostitute who got out before Halls release. She could have taken the letter to the U.S. or British consulate.

Regardless, the note is mystifying, comically so. Several letters are circled and underlined. Those are the markings of British spy officials, Gralley said, searching for clues in the patterns of her words and letters.

My dear Nic, she wrote on Nov. 25, 1942. You were probably as stunned as we by the news of Weygands departure. An event quickly arranged and greatly surprising the poor populace which thought that the tenacity of the umpire, I mean the chef dEtat was no Kedegerris. Unfortunately the old fellow is not uninfluenced by all his horrid queezy ministers, although knowing that this beastly business of kowtowing means the quagmire for the country. Alas! there is however a new rumour, one which I can not check but on which I do not look haughtily. Strange things  you know  often do happen.

Hall was eventually released from prison. In the spring of 1944, she signed up with the OSS and worked her way back to France, now entirely occupied by the Nazis. While she was away, the OSS sent letters back to her mother, Barbara Hall, who was living outside Baltimore. Here, again, is where Gralleys digging paid off. He came across a series of letters the OSS sent Halls mother, reassuring her of Halls safety, but omitting any frightening details.

My dear Mrs. Hall, a military official wrote on June 2, 1944. From a security point of view there is little I am permitted to tell you about your daughters work. For this I am sorry; it may however be of some consolation to you to know that my own husband knows absolutely nothing of my work; and such is the case of the family of every soldier in our forces. But this I can tell you: that your daughter is with the 1st Experimental Detachment of the U.S. Army; that she is doing an important and time-consuming job which has necessitated a transfer from London, and which will reduce her correspondence to a minimum.

A few months later, Halls mother received another letter.

You must not worry, Mrs. Hall, the official wrote on Aug. 23, 1944. Virginia is doing a spectacular, man-sized job, and her progress is rapid and sure. You have every reason to be proud of her.

Gralley, who lives in Great Falls, Virginia, said he approached writing from the perspective of a woman with great care. He selected a female professor for his final workshop at Johns Hopkins, where he got a masters degree in creative writing, and asked her and fellow female students to critique portions of his manuscript.

They wouldnt let me get away with anything that was less than authentic, Gralley said.

He also modeled Hall based on his own observations of agency women who served in hazardous postings overseas.

To be successful officers they have to be tough and confident, he said. Thats Virginia Hall.
Wow. Gonna be interesting to see how this plays out. Good for those employees!

Jen Brzozowski

via Facebook

OceanFirst Bank plans minimum wage hike to $15 per hour

Was never worth the investment in the first place.

Denis Brown

Miss America pageant may lose

$4 million CRDA subsidy in A.C.

Guess the Wheel will not run very often in January and February if it will not be open when temps are below 40 degrees.

Joe Stewart

via Facebook

Steel Pier $14 million

Observation Wheel open

Shes very generous and kind. There are some good people in this world.

Natalie Cintron

via Facebook

Middle schooler sends stockings

filled with gifts to Puerto Rico

Wow. I needed help and not one agency or church helped.

Shawna Patrice

via Facebook

Atlantic County group

giving families a Christmas

Many of the old movies had elements of propaganda. ... We would do well to root out the cultural Marxists who run Hollywood.

Robert P. Schneider

via Facebook

FBI thought Its a Wonderful Life

was communist propaganda

Its a good place. They just need better employees and boss.

Kelvin Hyke

via Facebook

EHC residents still leery of Harborfields

Well, since he has a problem with bridges, Im not surprised he has one with tunnels too.

Jim Jones

Rail tunnel finally funded,

reversing error early in Christies tenure
Making men equals too

In Mary Sanchezs Dec. 11 commentary, Men will make things worse if they overreact to feeling threatened, she writes that men are promoting the idea that they are being made into second-class citizens.

No. They are being made equals to the other half of the human race.

Margaret DeFelice

Port Republic

Bias tries to stop public making up its own mind

I didnt vote for Donald Trump, I voted against Hillary Clinton. During the election, it was obvious the media had more positive articles about Clinton and nothing good to write about Trump.

Since the election, media with its total liberal bias has gone overboard on negative articles about President Trump.

Normally, after every election we come together to make all our lives better, but the Democrats have made every effort to disrupt and resist making a better country.

By printing the news with a liberal bias, the media is trying to influence their readers to believe in one political view, not give the readers an opportunity to make up their own minds.

John Applegate

Galloway Township

Deduction limit might tax some income twice

The Senate and House agreeing on tax reduction and getting the presidents signature before the year closes was good.

Despite my being a constitutional conservative, or perhaps because of my political philosophies, I think that there could be problems, and this time its not the left wing nuts, but us tea baggers.

We have an income tax here in New Jersey, a tax based on our taxable income. Now with 2017 tax reform, N.J. residents will be able to deduct from their income for federal tax purposes only up to $10,000 in state and local taxes, including on income and property.

If our state and local taxes are above that level, we will be paying the IRS tax on income that is also taxed locally or by the state.

John A. Sesta III

Tuckerton
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, December 29, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

MYM Nutraceuticals Inc., (CSE: MYM) (OTC:MYMMF) (CSE: MYM.CN) (MYM.CN) (the "Company" or "MYM") is issuing this press release in response to a request by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada ("IIROC") to comment on recent trading activity of its stock.

IIROC monitors continuous trading in all listed issuers. To assist in this monitoring, IIROC utilizes single stock circuit breakers (SSCB'S) which trigger when price movements occur beyond certain thresholds. SSCB's trigger a 5-minute pause in trading when these moves occur. Trading was paused and set to resume within 5 minutes. Immediately following the resumption, a second SSCB triggered due to the price increase immediately following the resumption. Due to two of these triggering in such a short window staff at IIROC decided to halt trading pending company contact to obtain an explanation for the price movement.

The Company announces that it is not aware of any material, undisclosed corporate developments and has no material change to report at this time. The Company will keep the market informed as required.

The Company is on track with respect to its stated goals and timelines in achieving those goals.

About MYM Nutraceuticals Inc.

MYM Nutraceuticals Inc. is an innovative company focused on acquiring Health Canada licenses to produce and sell high-end organic medicinal cannabis supplements and topical products. MYM has two production projects in Quebec that when completed will have over 1.5 million sf of production space. MYM is also a partner in a 1.2 million sf production project (Northern Rivers Project) in New South Wales, Australia. Australia is an exciting new market that has recently legalized medicinal cannabis. To ensure a strong presence and growth potential within the industry, MYM is actively looking to acquire complementary businesses and assets in the technology, nutraceuticals and CBD sectors. MYM shares trade in Canada, Germany and the USA under the following symbols: (CSE: MYM) (OTC:MYMMF) (FRA:0MY) (DEU:0MY) (MUN:0MY) (STU:0MY).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Rob Gietl, CEO

MYM Nutraceuticals Inc.

http://www.mymarijuana.ca



Investor Relations

Terry Brown

+1-855-696-2261

terry@mymarijuana.ca



Keep up to date with MYM on our social media channels:



Twitter: @MYM_Nutra

Facebook: @mymcanada

Instagram: @MYM_Nutra



This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results. Such statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to revise or update such statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on http://www.sedar.com .

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE or CNSX Markets), nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE), accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in the United States. The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities law and may not be offered or sold in the "United States", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

Investor Relations

Terry Brown

+1-855-696-2261

terry@mymarijuana.ca



SOURCE MYM Nutraceuticals Inc.
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
Pyongyang, Dec 24 : North Korea on Sunday rejected the latest sanctions imposed on it by the UN Security Council (UNSC) and reiterated its intention of further developing its nuclear deterrence programme.

A Foreign Affairs Ministry statement said that Pyongyang criticised the punitive measures announced on Friday that further limit the country's access to petroleum products, ban its exports in several sectors and force its citizens working abroad to return to the country, reports Efe news.

"The US, completely terrified at our accomplishment of the great historic cause of completing the state nuclear force, is getting more and more frenzied in the moves to impose the harshest-ever sanctions and pressure on our country," said the statemen.

It said that Pyongyang considered the sanctions to be a grave infringement upon the sovereignty of the country, and an act of war violating peace and stability in the Korean peninsula and the entire region.

"If the US wishes to live safely, it must abandon its hostile policy towards North Korea and learn to co-exist with the country that has nuclear weapons."

The statement said that Pyongyang aims to further consolidate its nuclear deterrence aimed at eradicating US nuclear threats and blackmail by establishing a balance of force.

The latest UNSC measures came in response to North Korea's latest launch of a long-range ballistic missile in November, capable of reaching any part of the American mainland.

Washington was the leading proponent of the fresh sanctions and obtained the support of 14 other members of the UNSC, including China and Russia.

Resolution 2397 toughens the measures already in place against Pyongyang and is an attempt to further complicate North Korea's financing of its weapons programs and force it to the negotiating table.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Friday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi here.

This was Thakur's first meeting with the Prime Minister after taking over as Chief Minister on December 27, an official statement said, terming it a courtesy call.

Modi was in Shimla along with his cabinet colleagues and Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Thakur and his cabinet.
New Delhi, Dec 29 : President Ram Nath Kovind will attend the 22nd convocation of NIMHANS in Karnataka on Saturday, a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said on Friday.

The President left for Karnataka on Friday evening to attend the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences convocation.

Kovind will inaugurate the Seva Utsav 2018 organised by Adamya Chetana as well as the centenary celebrations of the National High School and will attend the H.H. Narasimhaiah birth anniversary celebrations in Bengaluru on Saturday.

Later in the day, the President will visit Bidadi in Karnataka's Ramanagara district to open the new campus of the Amruta Institute of Engineering and Management Science and inaugurate the 111th year celebrations of the Basaveshwar Veerashaiva Vidyavardhaka Sangha, before returning to Delhi.
Tehran, Dec 30 : Anti-government demonstrations that began in Iran on Thursday have now spread to several major cities.

Large numbers reportedly turned out in Rasht, in the north, and Kermanshah, in the west, with smaller protests in Isfahan, Hamadan and elsewhere, BBC reported on Friday.

The protests began against rising prices but have spiralled into a general outcry against clerical rule and government policies.

A small number of people have been arrested in Tehran, the capital.

They were among a group of 50 people who gathered in a city square, Tehran's deputy governor-general for security affairs told the Iranian Labour News Agency.

The demonstrations began in the north-eastern city of Mashhad - the country's second most-populous - on Thursday.

People there took to the streets to express anger at the government over high prices, and vented their fury against President Hassan Rouhani. Fifty-two people were arrested for chanting "harsh slogans".

The protests spread to other cities in the north-east, and and some developed into broader anti-government demonstrations, calling for the release of political prisoners and an end to police beatings.

On Friday, despite warnings from authorities, the demonstrations spread further to some of the biggest cities in the country.

They represent the most serious and widespread expression of public discontent in Iran since mass protests in 2009 that followed a disputed election, correspondents say.

What began as a protest against economic conditions and corruption has turned political. Slogans have been chanted against not just Mr Rouhani but Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and clerical rule in general.

Demonstrators were reportedly heard yelling slogans like "The people are begging, the clerics act like God". Protests have even been held in Qom, a holy city home to powerful clerics.

There is also anger at Iran's interventions abroad. In Mashhad, some chanted "not Gaza, not Lebanon, my life for Iran", a reference to what protesters say is the administration's focus on foreign rather than domestic issues.

Other demonstrators chanted "leave Syria, think about us" in videos posted online. Iran is a key provider of military support to the government of Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

It is also accused of providing arms to Houthi rebels fighting a Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, which it denies, and is an ally of Lebanon's powerful Shia movement Hezbollah.

There have been calls on social media for protests up and down the country, despite warnings from the government against illegal gatherings.
Cairo, Dec 30 : Terrorist group Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack outside an Egyptian church that left at least 10 people dead.

A team "belonging to Islamic State carried out an attack against Mar Mina Church in Helwan, south of Cairo," Efe news reported citing the IS-linked Amaq news agency.

Egypt's Interior Ministry said earlier that the shooting at the church was the work of a single assailant riding a motorcycle.

Prior to targeting the church, the same attacker fatally shot two people at a nearby shop, the ministry said.

Members of the security detail assigned to Mar Mina detained the attacker, confiscating an assault weapon, five ammunition cartridges and an explosive device.

"The terrorist was shooting as he sought to cross the security cordon in order to detonate the explosive device close to the church with the aim of causing the maximum number of casualties," the Interior Ministry said.
Paris, Dec 30 : Audrey Azoulay, Director General of Paris-based Unesco has regretted Israel's move to quit the UN education and culture body, noting the necessity to dialogue to bridge gap among member states.

"In my capacity as Director-General of Unesco, I was officially notified today by the Israeli Government of Israel's withdrawal from the Organization effective on December 31, 2018, a decision which was announced on October 12, 2017," Azoulay said in a statement on Friday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israel has been a member of Unesco since 1949, "I regret this deeply, as it is my conviction that it is inside Unesco and not outside it that States can best seek to overcome differences in the Organization's fields of competence," Azoulay stressed.

In the face of disagreements among member states, engaging fully in the work of Unesco makes possible sustained dialogue, cooperation and partnerships that are more necessary than ever, she added.

On October 12, the US formally notified the Unesco that it would withdraw from the organization on December 31, 2018.

On the same day, Israel welcomed this decision and announced it was considering a similar move due to the body's "anti-Israel" bias.
London, Dec 30 : One of British Prime Minister Theresa May's key advisers, Lord Andrew Adonis, has announced he is quitting his role, describing Brexit as a "populist and nationalist spasm".

Adonis, who was appointed as her infrastructure adviser in 2015, said May was "pursuing a course fraught with danger" over the UK's EU departure, the BBC reported.

The one-time Secretary of State in Tony Blair's Labour government resigned as chair of the National Infrastructure Commission. He was already a high-profile campaigner against Brexit.

A government source said: "He's been moving closer towards the exit door with each new onslaught he makes against Brexit. He's now walked through the door before he was pushed."

Adonis later insisted it had been his decision to leave, as his "differences with the government had become too great".

In his letter to 10 Downing Street, Adonis, who would now sit in the unelected House of Lords, told May: "The European Union Withdrawal Bill is the worst legislation of my lifetime.

"It arrives soon in the House of Lords and I feel duty-bound to oppose it relentlessly from the Labour benches."

He told May her government "is hurtling towards the EU's emergency exit with no credible plan for the future of British trade and European cooperation".

He also claimed that Brexit was causing a nervous breakdown across Whitehall, Xinhua news agency reported.

He said: "If Brexit happens, taking us back into Europe will become the mission of our children's generation, who will marvel at your acts of destruction."

There was no immediate official response from 10, Downing Street.

Leading Brexiteer, Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith said the departure of Adonis was "long overdue".
Pyongyang, Dec 30 : North Korea will remain committed to the country's nuclear development in 2018, according to a report released on Saturday by state-media.

"Do not expect any change in its policy," CNN quoted the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) report titled "No Force Can Prevail over Independence and Justice" as saying.

"Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out. North Korea, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence and justice, weathering all tempests on this planet," it added.

The reportprovided a timeline of the country's 2017 nuclear weapon achievements, mostly focused on possible US engagement.

North Korea will "continue bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attack with the nuclear force as the pivot as long as the US and its vassal forces persist in nuclear threat", the report said.

It boasted about Pyongyang's new capability to strike "the heart of the US" and a new "status" as a "world-class nuclear power".

The report said North Korea will "deal with the US's most ferocious declaration of war with fire surely and definitely".

Throughout 2017, North Korea has conducted a series of ballistic missile tests, despite constant criticism from the West and trade sanctions, CNN reported.

The most provocative moment came on November 29 when North Korea said it successfully tested a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile, topped with a "super-large heavy warhead", which was capable of striking the US mainland.

This missile flew higher and farther than any other previous tests and came came after a break of almost two months in testing.

The UN Security Council responded by adopting a new set of severe US-drafted sanctions designed to further strangle North Korea's energy supplies and tighten restrictions on smuggling and the use of North Korean workers overseas.

North Korea called those sanctions "an act of war" and said the US and other nations that supported the strict measures will pay a heavy price.
New Delhi : Title: India Now and in Transition; Editor: Atul Thakur; Publisher: Niyogi Books: Pages: 448; Price: Rs 599 Stretching from icy mountains to the boundless oceans and from arid deserts to tropical forests with more varied topography in between, India's geographical diversity is well complemented by its political, religious and cultural plurality, and a variety of issues, problems and contradictions, both generic and specific, that have affected, and will continue to affect, the country's course.

A free nation for seven decades now, India still faces contests over its "idea" of itself with the concept so far being challenged by a new dominant political force. A country which has managed to reach the Red Planet is still riven on the ground by social disparities and abuse. A nation which prides itself on a universal and well-integrated diaspora still has sections who distrust foreigners.

While Indians are making their name globally, there are still those -- including ministers -- who would seek to confine them to primal, parochial identities that arise from circumstances of birth rather than conscious choice.

Any one who seeks to make sense of the country or frame projections where it is heading, or can head, have their work cut out for themselves -- but that doesn't stop many from the ambitious but necessary venture. Like public policy professional and writer Atul Thakur, who engages an eclectic ensemble of experts, established and emerging, to examine the future in all aspects.

Here politicians, bureaucrats and academicians are also joined by authors and journalists. For, as academician and author Sunil Khilnani observes in the foreword, "Where journalism and the social sciences are developed, professional fields designed above all to improve our judgment and choices, it behoves practitioners in those fields to offer us some illumination along the way."

While some of the over three dozen essays included here have come out elsewhere earlier, they remain relevant and Thakur supplements them with many especially commissioned for this volume, the sequel to his "India Since 1947: Looking Back at a Modern Nation" (2013).

But the present work is not intended to be a "prognosis (which is often confused with prediction) but rather an inquiry into futures based on current happenings", by maintaining a "causal linearity" to arrive at the "likeliest" scenario.

The essays, divided into five areas -- politics and governance, economics and development, security and foreign policy, society and culture, and language and literature -- not only go into the issues and problems of the topics they discuss but also take the perceptions about them, which, as brought out, can be as tough to tackle.

In the first section, Ramchandra Guha sets the pace with an illuminating exposition on selecting the greatest Indians and Shashi Tharoor weighs in on Dr Ambedkar's contribution. But compelling reading here is Singapore-based academician Robin Jeffrey's penetrating pitch about the chequered course of land reforms in India and its impact on the realty sector.

Two bureaucratic contributions also stand out. T.S.R. Subramanian, a well-regarded Chief Secretary in Uttar Pradesh before he rose to become Cabinet Secretary, gives a well-reasoned overview of corruption, and Wajahat Habibullah, who served extensively in Jammu and Kashmir, writes about the troubled state's future with insight and passion but is not too optimistic on the future.

One of the outstanding contributions is in the social and culture component, where journalist Daipayan Halder brings out the "subaltern voice", of the Dalits specifically, in a riveting piece that will challenge our perceptions of our progress on the equality issue despite the Constitution's high ideals and the pious protestations of politicians of all shades. Abhay Mohan Jha's view of mofussil life and Abdullah Khan on identities in an ideal "Idea of India" also make for thoughtful reading.

Other sections also have absorbing entries -- writer Manu Joseph on the issue of genetically-modified crops, Samir Saran and Mahima Kaul's piece on India's cybersecurity prospects, and Namrata Rathore Mahanta and Banibrata Mahanta's views on the current and future of the Indian novel.

In all, it is a valuable compendium of well-reasoned, persuasive (but never dogmatic) and jargon-free views on a host of major issues -- and this is important. For these are not just the province of the government to be confronted but also need discussion at the citizens' level. This is our responsibility and books like these set the ball rolling.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)
Shimla/Manali, Dec 30 : Tens of thousands of holidaymakers started gathering across resorts in Himachal Pradesh on Saturday to bid goodbye to 2017. Mellow sunshine and no snowfall will greet them at most of the tourist destinations till next week though.

The most sought-after destinations were Shimla, Kufri, Narkanda, Kasauli, Chail, Dharamsala, Palampur, Dalhousie and Manali and the revellers have to be prepared to sleep out in cars overnight if they did not get hotel bookings in advance.

Most of the hotels have been sold out in advance, members of the hospitality industry warned.

"Our properties in Shimla, Chail, Kasauli, Dharamsala and Manali have been almost sold out for the last two days of this year.

"Overall, the response of the tourists is good," Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) General Manager Vijay Sharma told IANS.

He said most of the guests have been enquiring about the possibility of snowfall on the New Year's Eve.

Over 50,000 tourists were expected to visit the state to ring in New Year, tourism industry experts said.

The popular tourist town of Narkanda, some 65 km from Shimla, saw season's first spell of snow in December but it melted within a few days.

Shimla, known for the imperial grandeur of buildings that were once institutions of power when it was the summer capital of British India, is yet to receive any snowfall.

Shimla's meteorological office Director Manmohan Singh said the weather would largely remain dry with long sunny days in the state till January 4.

"The prominent hill stations have not experienced snow almost a fortnight now," Singh told IANS.

The mountain peaks viewed from Shimla's historic Ridge, Dharamsala and Palampur towns were wrapped in a thick white blanket of snow.

Manali is a magnet for holidaymakers these days owing to plentiful snow in its nearby hills.

"Nearby hills of Manali have been attracting the tourists owing to good accumulation of snow," a Manali-based travel agent M.C. Thakur said.

Aanchal Khurana, a tourist from Delhi, said: "I prefer to travel to Shimla, especially during these days when the plains are foggy and chilly and the hills are basking in the sun."

Himachal Pradesh has no tourist accommodations in far-off areas. Rural home-stays that started in 2008 were driving tourists to the interiors and that were the best option to stay.

At present, 807 home-stay units have been registered in the state. Out of these, 233 were in the Kullu-Manali region. Shimla district has 211 units, followed by Kangra 111.

The state's economy is highly dependent on tourism, besides hydroelectric power and horticulture.

The state attracted 18.45 million tourists in 2016, which is 2.7 times its population, says the state's Economic Survey 2016-17.

According to the report, the state has 2,604 hotels with a bed capacity of 70,869 registered with the tourism department. In addition, there are 787 home-stay units with a provision of 2,137 rooms.
Bhopal, Dec 30 : This past year was expected to be crucial for moving ahead with the corruption charges involving the Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board (MPPEB), popularly known as Vyapam. The CBI did file two charge-sheets naming a staggering 1,082 accused -- but it is yet to name the mastermind of the entire scam.

More importantly, the central investigative agency has given a clean chit to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

It has now been four years since the matter came to light and the CBI has been proving it for the past two years. The scam involved 13 different exams conducted for selecting medical students and state government employees (including food inspectors, transport constables, police personnel, school teachers, dairy supply officers and forest guards) in which the final results were rigged.

"If the mastermind of the Vyapam corruption is not known, then how are the other accused going to be punished? On the contrary, the rest of the accused are also getting bailed out of jail due to the lethargic attitude of the CBI. The CBI charge-sheet is so irrelevant that nobody can be punished on its basis," veteran lawyer Anand Mohan Mathur told IANS.

Holding that Vyapam is one of the biggest corruption cases in the country, Mathur said the CBI, which was mandated by the Supreme Court to probe the issue, was only going through the paces half-heartedly. He noted that when there is a corruption allegation in a bank, its manager is charged; but in this case, there are no charges against those occupying top positions.

The question that arises, he said, is how did Vyapam become so big a scam without a mastermind?

Dipak Gupta, a noted professor of Criminal Science at Sagar University, said that it is important for the mastermind to be revealed in any big organised crime.

"Charge-sheets have been filed against a thousand people -- but they are only middlemen. They are the second step, the first step is getting hold of the mastermind. As long as he/she is not revealed, this case will go on in the same manner. The CBI should first make the name of the mastermind public," Gupta told IANS.

In March this year, the Congress had accused the Chauhan-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the state of being a party to the corruption charges. Opposition leader Ajay Singh had claimed that several ministers of the Madhya Pradesh government were involved in it, expressing disappointment that no case was registered against them. To this, Chauhan retorted that he had ordered an investigation as soon as the matter was brought to his notice.

It is worth noting that only 1,378 cases involving appointments through Vyapam have come to fore while the total number of appointments is much greater.

Meanwhile, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) also raised objections on Vyapam in its report in March. The report had questioned the reliability of appointments made through Vyapam, specifically mentioning that the appointment of two officers, Dr Yogesh Uprit (2003, Congress government) and Pankaj Trivedi (2011, BJP government) were made on the orders of ministers. Both of these officers have been arrested on several charges. The CAG report further said that the state government never showed an interest in a free and fair audit of Vyapam.

The Vyapam scam was revealed on July 7, 2013, when the Indore crime branch busted a gang involved in facilitating the appearance of fake candidates in the Pre-Medical test (PMT).

The High Court took cognisance of the matter and appointed a Special Task Force (STF) to be monitored by the court's Justice Chandresh Bhushan. On July 9, 2015, it was decided that the CBI should take over the case, which it did so six days later.

Lakshmikant Sharma, a former minister in the BJP government; his Officer-on-Special-Duty O.P. Shukla; BJP leader Sudhir Sharma; Dhananjay Yadav, the OSD of then Governor Ram Naresh Yadav (2011-16); and computer analyst Nitin Mohindra are among those behind bars even as the case doesn't seem to be getting anywhere.

More than 2,000 accused have been arrested in the case and a little over 400 are still at large -- as is the mastermind.

(Sundeep Pouranik can be contacted at sundeep.p@ians.in)
New Delhi, Dec 30 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday met Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah here.

Shah, in a tweet, said that he congratulated Thakur.

"I believe that under his (Thakur's) leadership, the BJP government will create a development benchmark and begin another chapter of public welfare in Devbhoomi," Shah said.

Thakur on Friday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On December 27, Modi was in Shimla along with his cabinet colleagues and Shah to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Thakur and his cabinet.
Washington, Dec 30 : The Pentagon has said it will begin accepting transgender military recruits on Monday, after President Donald Trump's administration decided not to appeal a court order blocking his ban.

The Department of Justice announced on Friday it would delay challenging the stay on President Trump's transgender ban before the Supreme Court, the Hill magazine reported.

"The Department of Defence has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks. So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DOD's study and will continue to defend the President's and Secretary of Defence's lawful authority in district court in the meantime," the DOJ said in a statement.

Trump announced the ban in July on Twitter and followed up with a memo in August directing the Pentagon to stop accepting transgender recruits and to put in policies to deal with those already serving.

Four lawsuits were filed by groups and individuals opposing the ban. Lower court judges placed a halt on the ban while those cases worked their way through the judicial system.

The administration appealed those stays, but federal appeals courts denied their request to delay accepting transgender recruits on January 1, 2018.

The Trump administration had weighed asking the Supreme Court to intervene before dropping those plans on Friday.

Lawyers representing currently-serving transgender service members and aspiring recruits said they had expected the administration to appeal the rulings to the Supreme Court, but were hoping that would not happen.

Pentagon spokeswoman Heather Babb said: "As mandated by court order, the Department of Defence is prepared to begin accessing transgender applicants for military service January 1. All applicants must meet all accession standards."

Jennifer Levi, a lawyer with gay, lesbian and transgender advocacy group GLAD, called the decision not to appeal "great news".

The Obama administration had set a July 1, 2017, deadline to begin allowing transgender recruits to enlist.

Trump's Defence Secretary James Mattis changed the deadline to January 1 before Trump announced his ban.
Mumbai, Dec 30 : The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) on Saturday strongly condemned the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Waleed Abu Ali, for sharing the dais with JuD chief and mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks Hafiz Saeed.

"We demand that the government of President Mahmoud Abbas condemn and sack the envoy (Waleed Abu Ali) for sharing a platform with Hafiz Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," the IPSF said in a statement.

The statement is released by the IPSF National Committee members Suresh Khairnar, Kishor Jagtap, Jatin Desai, Feroze Mithiborwala.

"The fact that this reprehensible act comes soon after the historic UNGA vote where the Government of India stood by Palestine and negated President Trump's declaration on Jerusalem is even more shocking," the IPSF said.

It pointed out that "India has consistently voted in favour of Palestine and stood by all UN Resolutions and the overwhelming international consensus favouring an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital."

"On the other hand the global solidarity movement for the cause of Palestine continues to gather momentum. Thus any such unprincipled actions on the part of the Palestinian representatives, will only damage the cause of the liberation of Palestine in their courageous struggle against the colonial occupation by apartheid Israel," the signatories said.

Yesterday, Waleed Abu Ali courted controversy by sharing a stage with the terror outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Saeed at a gathering organized by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organization of hardline right-wing groups.

India today reacted strongly to the development and plans to take up the matter with the Palestinian Ambassador to India and the Palestine authorities, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.
Lucknow, Dec 30 : A 30-year-old man on Saturday tried to jump in front of the car of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath here to draw his attention to illegal mining allegedly being patronised by BJP leaders.

As Adityanath was headed to Lok Bhawan for an event, the man who had camouflaged himself with the waiting media at the gate, tried to leap in front of the Chief Minister's car when the cars arrived.

Security personnel caught hold of him and handed him over to the Hazratganj police.

The cars of Governor Ram Naik, Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma and visiting Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were right behind Adityanath's vehicle when the incident happened.

The man has been identified as Shyamji Mishra of Sonebhadra district, police said.

He said he had tried to meet the Chief Minister many times but was not able to. Mishra said he wanted to tell Adityanath about the "illegal mining" being done in Sonebhadra "under the patronage of BJP's Sardar legislator and BJP's district president".

He alleged that BJP district president Ashok Kumar Mishra and Sardar legislator Bhupesh Chaubey were getting illegal mining of sand and concrete done through their men, and the police was silent. He added that he and others have staged sit-in protests in Lucknow in the past but no one paid heed. He claimed to have evidence of the illegal mining.

Mishra added that the permits, which cost Rs 2,200 each, were being sold in black for Rs 14,000 at the behest of the BJP leaders, while people are not getting enough construction material for their own houses.
Jerusalem, Dec 30 : A Palestinian man died on Saturday of injuries he suffered in clashes with Israeli soldiers near the border of the Gaza Strip.

The clashes took place on Friday in the Al-Bureij refugee camp during demonstrations against US President Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Jamal Mohamed Musleh, 20, from the central town of al-Maghazi, died after being admitted to a hospital, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

At least 50 protestors were shot with live rounds when the Palestinians approached the border with Israel and clashed with the soldiers. Five of them were in critical condition, the Ministry was quoted as saying by Efe news.

On December 6, Trump announced his decision on Jerusalem and said that the US will move its embassy to the holy city from Tel Aviv.

Sixteen Palestinians have died since then. According to the Health Ministry, 13 people died from gunshots, two Islamic Jihad militants died in Gaza while preparing to launch a missile at Israel and a woman died due to heart attack which she suffered when the Israeli Army raided her home in the West Bank.

Thousands of Palestinians took to the streets in Gaza and the West Bank for the fourth consecutive Friday, in protests that often end in clashes with the Israeli security forces.
New Delhi, Dec 30 : Palestine on Saturday recalled its envoy to Pakistan for sharing the stage with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, after India termed his action "unacceptable".

"We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore," Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haij said.

The Palestine action came after its envoy Waleed Abu Ali shared the stage with UN designated terrorist and JuD chief Hafiz Saeed at a rally in Rawalpindi on Friday.

After photographs of the event went viral on social media, India took up the issue strongly with the Palestinian authorities.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 12, is unacceptable," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," it said.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately."

According to a report in Pakistan's The Nation daily, the Rawalpindi central leadership of Difa-e-Pakistan-Council has announced a countrywide movement for the liberation of Kashmir and Palestine.

The report quoted envoy Ali as saying that "with Pakistan's tremendous support to Palestine cause, we do not feel alone".

The action of the Palestinian envoy in Pakistan came days after India voted with the rest of the world in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

According to the External Affairs Ministry statement, Palestine has also conveyed that it "highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India".

"We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side," the statement added.
Nairobi, Dec 30 : A high-altitude balloon, that was launched by Google to provide high-speed internet in the remote parts of the earth under "Project Loon", has crashed in a Kenya farm, a media report said on Saturday.

The balloon, a part of a 10-balloon batch, was deployed for testing in Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri and Marsabit in July 2017. It crashed at Nthambiro in Meru on Friday night, media reported.

Some residents complained of headaches after they gathered around the device to get its glimpse.

"The device from project loon indicates it fell after its expiry period of six months. No one is yet to claim the device," Igembe South OCPD Jane Nyakeruma was quoted as saying.

Earlier this year, Google announced that it was "years closer" to deliver internet to remote parts of the world using high-flying balloons.

Researchers at Google's Project Loon -- part of the company's X research lab -- said it was now able to use machine learning to predict weather systems, meaning the firm has a greater control over where its balloons go, making it possible to focus on a specific region, rather than circumnavigating the globe, BBC reported.

Under the project, the firm suspended a network of huge balloons that beam down connectivity.

The balloons float in the stratosphere around 11 miles high. By raising or lowering altitude, the balloons can be caught in different weather streams, changing direction.
London, Dec 30 : Google has blocked YouTube on Amazon's Fire TV earlier than expected amid growing rivalry between the two tech giants as their businesses continue to overlap.

The move is in retaliation for Amazon's refusal to sell some Google products that compete with the retailer's gadgets, and Fire TV devices now encourage people to access YouTube via one of the gadget's web browsers instead, the Dailymail reported.

"YouTube and millions of other websites are accessible by using a web browser like Firefox or Silk on Fire TV," Amazon was quoted as saying.

Earlier this month, Google had warned Amazon that it would pull the YouTube app from Fire TV devices on January 1, if the two firms could not come to an agreement on the access of Google's apps on Fire TV devices.

"We've been trying to reach agreement with Amazon to give consumers access to each other's products and services. But Amazon doesn't carry Google products like Chromecast, and Google Home doesn't make Prime Video available for Google Cast users, and last month stopped selling some of Nest's latest products," The Verge quoted a YouTube spokesperson as saying.

"Given this lack of reciprocity, we are no longer supporting YouTube on Echo Show and FireTV. We hope we can reach an agreement to resolve these issues soon," the spokesperson added.

Amazon pointed towards the unfair nature of Google of effectively blocking access to the YouTube web site based on the type of device being used to access it, Engadget reported.

"Google is setting a disappointing precedent by selectively blocking customer access to an open website. We hope to resolve this with Google as soon as possible," Amazon was quoted as saying.
Kolkata, Dec 30 : Hailing the Centre's implementation of GST and demonetisation of higher value notes, Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said both the moves were made to benefit the common people and change the country's economy.

"With the GST, initially there was some pain. But in the larger picture the GST is going to revolutionise Indian banking system. As a result, the country's economy will change," Naidu said at the 11th Global Healthcare Summit organised by American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) here.

Naidu also said while some people have criticised demonetisation, the move taken on November 8, 2016, has ensured that all the undisclosed cash in the country comes back to the banks.

"I can say one thing about demonetisation or remonetisation that the money that was hidden under the bed or inside the bathrooms before has come back to the banks. The money has come to the bank with its address. Now it up to the Reserve Bank of India to decide, how much is white money and how much is black money," he observed.

The Vice President also praised the people of the country for putting up with the trouble with depositing their money after demonetisation and termed the situation as "short term pain for long term gain".

"The common people have a lot of common sense. They realised its impact. Otherwise standing in queues for 51 days for your own money is no joke. Any improvement in the system is for the benefit of the common people," he added
Mumbai, Dec 30 : The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) on Saturday strongly condemned the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Waleed Abu Ali, for sharing the dais with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed and welcomed his recall.

"We appreciate the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas, the Government of Palestine, to recall (Ali) for having attended a meeting convened by LeT Chief Hafeez Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," said IPSF.

"This prompt action by the Palestinian government will go a long way in improving India-Palestine ties and further cooperation", and "the immediate dialogue and resolution of the crisis is truly appreciated by both the people of India and Palestine", it said.

The rich historical legacy bequeathed upon our nation by Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh and the stalwarts of our freedom struggle, the respect and adulation for the great Yasser Arafat, lives on in our collective memory.

"The Indian people will continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their epic quest for freedom from the Zionist Israeli occupation and the creation of a sovereign and an independent state of Palestine," the IPSF added.

Earlier in the day, in a statement, the IPSF National Committee members Suresh Khairnar, Kishor Jagtap, Jatin Desai and Feroze Mithiborwalal had demanded that President Mahmoud Abbas condemn and sack the envoy (Ali).

Desai told IANS that after its statement, the IPSF has been barraged with calls/messages from all over India, including the Palestinian authorities, and they had assured remedial action.

"The fact that this reprehensible act comes soon after the historic UNGA vote where the Government of India stood by Palestine and negated President Trump's declaration on Jerusalem is even more shocking," the IPSF said.

It pointed out that "India has consistently voted in favour of Palestine and stood by all UN Resolutions and the overwhelming international consensus favouring an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital."

"On the other hand the global solidarity movement for the cause of Palestine continues to gather momentum. Thus any such unprincipled actions on the part of the Palestinian representatives, will only damage the cause of the liberation of Palestine in their courageous struggle against the colonial occupation by apartheid Israel," the signatories said.

On Friday, Waleed Abu Ali courted controversy by sharing stage with terror outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Saeed at a gathering organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organization of hardline right-wing groups.

India termed the action "unacceptable" and took up the matter strongly with the Palestinian authorities.
Gulmarg, Dec 30 : New Year couldn't be likely to begin on a better note for the tourist industry of Kashmir. This world-famous ski resort was completely sold out Saturday as scores of tourists from far and near thronged the place to start celebrations on New Year's Eve on Sunday.

"It is a great omen for the tourist industry of the state. Gulmarg is completely sold out as hundreds of tourists have arrived here to welcome 2018.

"All hotels and tourist huts are occupied as more arrivals are expected tomorrow as well. "We have domestic tourists as well as foreigners from Thailand, Malaysia and some other countries.

"Not only Gulmarg, all high-end hotels and those in the middle class range are completely booked in Srinagar city. Pahalgam tourist resort also has appreciable presence of tourists these days," state Director, Tourism, Mehmood Shah told IANS.

He said that aggressive and realistic tourist wooing campaigns through social media by the Tourist Department and other stakeholders have started paying dividends now.

"What is encouraging is that domestic tourists from south India are now looking at Kashmir as a holiday and honeymoon destination. Hopefully, we will be having a wonderful tourist season this winter and during the coming spring and summer months," Shah said.

2017 had not begun on a good note for the local tourist industry. Lesser number of tourists came to Kashmir during this year, but the sudden boom noticed around the New Year's Eve, signifies that 2018 will be a welcome year.

"We had very little occupancy during peak tourist periods in 2017, but given the number of tourist arrivals towards the year end, we are hopeful of a great season ahead", said Altaf Ahmad, manager of Hilltop Hotel here.

Managers at the highend Khybir Resort also expressed satisfaction at the tourist arrivals around the year end.

Even when the temperature outside is around minus six degrees Celsius, Gulmarg is abuzz with life.

Taxi operators, ponywallahs and others directly or indirectly associated with the tourist industry in Gulmarg hope the tempo sustains and 2018 proves to be a blessing for the tourist industry.

"It is just like the old times in Gulmarg. I cannot fully express my joy when I see the numbers of tourists here today," said Abdul Gaffar, a pony owner here.

Hoteliers in Srinagar especially those around the Dal Lake are busy attending to their guests.

"It is great to see guests arrive in such numbers at this time of the year," said a hotelier in the Boulevard Road area on the banks of the lake.
New Delhi, Dec 30 : The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA), an umbrella group of journalists in the Commonwealth nations, on Saturday expressed its "shock and extreme concern" that its Bangladesh chapter General Secretary Shyamal Dutta is facing threats of violence from Islamist fundamentalists who have publicly called for his hanging.

"The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) expresses its shock and extreme concern that one of its Vice Presidents and Bangladesh chapter General Secretary Shyamal Dutta is facing threats of violence from Islamist fundamentalists who have publicly called for his hanging," the CJA said in a statement.

"Dutta is Editor of Bengali language daily published from Dhaka, Bhorer Kagaj," it stated.

"The issue raised by those who have spoken out against Shyamal Dutta is a report carried by the newspaper about 'vulgarities' contained in a book on the Hadith published by the Madrassah Education Board, an official body of the Bangladesh Government."

According to the statement, Dutta's article was a factual report on a matter of public interest but it has been misinterpreted as if the newspaper report had called the Hadith vulgar.

"That is categorically not the case. Public marches and a demonstration in front of the Press Club in Dhaka took place on December 23, at which protestors demanded punishment for Dutta and the reporter concerned.

The CJA statement said a string of legal notices have been served on Dutta and apology demanded.

The newspaper has issued a clarification that it merely reported the matter, quoting sources, and had not passed any comment on the Hadith.

"Dutta has also been the target of an aggressive, derogatory and threatening campaign against him on social media. Some of the comments have a sectarian character, focussed on the fact that he and the reporter who wrote the article are members of the Hindu minority community," the statement said.

"In view of the incidents over the past months when a number of bloggers and journalists have been attacked and killed in broad daylight in Dhaka and other cities, the CJA is extremely worried for the safety of Dutta, his team and the newspaper itself."

The CJA has also sent a formal letter to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"Bangladesh is a secular democracy. The CJA expects the government of Bangladesh to ensure adequate protection to all concerned and to send out a stern message to those responsible to desist from any further threats, incitements and false accusations." the CJA statement added.
Ramallah/New Delhi/Islamabad, Dec 31 : Palestine on Saturday recalled its envoy to Pakistan for sharing the stage with 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, with President Mahmoud Abbas directly intervening to order the recall after India strongly protested the envoy's action as "unacceptable".

"Palestine is keen to maintain good relations with friendly India and supports it for the efforts in its fight against terrorism," the Palestine Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine in a statement however clarified that the "participation of our envoy in a mass solidarity rally with Jerusalem, held in Rawalpindi on Friday, and in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified.

"Accordingly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates under the direct instructions of the President of the State of Palestine to recall the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan immediately," it said.

On Friday, Ali, stood with Hafiz Saeed at a rally called to condemn the US recognising Jerusalem, not Tel Aviv, as Israel's capital. The rally was called by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of more than 40 Islamist parties. Saeed is also a key leader of this coalition.

After photographs of the event went viral on the social media, India took up the issue strongly with the Palestinian authorities, who expressed "deep regret" over the incident.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the UN, is unacceptable," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates," it said.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately."

Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haij said: "We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore."

The action of the Palestinian envoy in Pakistan came days after India voted with the rest of the world in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

According to the External Affairs Ministry statement, Palestine has also conveyed that it "highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India".

"We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side," the statement added.

In a feeble response, Pakistan late on Saturday said that Friday's meeting "was yet another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause".

"This public rally was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life," Pakistan Today quoted the Foreign Office as saying in an official statement.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine also expressed appreciation for the "honourable position that India has taken by voting in favor of the resolution in the United Nation General Assembly last week".

The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) in New Delhi strongly condemned the Palestinian envoy's dais sharing with Saeed and later appreciated the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas to recall Ali.

"We appreciate the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas, the Government of Palestine, to recall (Ali) for having attended a meeting convened by LeT Chief Hafeez Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," said IPSF.

"This prompt action by the Palestinian government will go a long way in improving India-Palestine ties and further cooperation", and "the immediate dialogue and resolution of the crisis is truly appreciated by both the people of India and Palestine", it said.

"The rich historical legacy bequeathed upon our nation by Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh and the stalwarts of our freedom struggle, the respect and adulation for the great Yasser Arafat, lives on in our collective memory."
Sunrise Hiteks tech gear has grown exceedingly popular in K-12 schools. For this reason they have decided to launch a separate website specifically for K-12 educators. The site has an easy to use interface, as well as testimonials from pleased customers in the education sector. Since 2012, HITEK helped over 3200 schools with their 1:1 technology programs. The HITEK website is currently up and fully running.

The HITEK site highlights their three most popular items for schools. These best selling products include their Slim Tough Case line for all iPad models, Rugged Laptop Bags featuring a perfect fit for all laptops and Chromebooks from 11" to 15", and Apple certified iPad wired keyboards. All of these products were designed specifically for K-12 schools. HITEK went through rigorous testing and listened intently to feedback received from educators when designing these products. These products are both durable enough for students, and were designed thoughtfully for ease of use.

For schools that use iPads for PARCC, Smarter Balanced, or other standardized tests, the iPad Wired Keyboard is the perfect solution. Wired keyboards are recommended over Bluetooth for large deployments and standardized tests due to their superior reliability, reduced interference, and easy management. There are no batteries to replace or bluetooth pairing problems. This keyboard is Apple MFI Certified with an 8-pin or 30-pin lightning connector. It is compatible with all iOS devices, and tested with the latest version of iOS.

The Rugged iPad Case is the best protection for iPads that still need to fit in charging carts and have easily accessible ports. It is specifically designed for K-12 schools, and is compatible with all popular charging carts, including the Bretford, Anthro, Datamation, Ergotron, and others. The Rugged iPad Case features a dual-layer rugged design with a protective silicone skin over an inner hard case. Unlike many of the other cases out there, the Rugged iPad Case has a built-in scratch-resistant screen protector. This case comes in a choice of (8) vibrant colors.

The Chromebook Bag is ideal for 1:1 technology programs. With its always-in design, the bag offers drop protection and eliminates broken screens in the school, at home or anywhere students use laptops or Chromebooks. The rugged laptop case is made of durable ballistic nylon on a rigid frame. Its greatest feature is the always-in design with proprietary Cooling Channel technology which allows the computer to be used without being removed from the case.

About Sunrise Hitek

Sunrise Hiteks Hitek store, is a leading maker of protective gear for Apples iPad. The brand changed to uuber when the company starting developing cases for other devices, such as the MacBook, Chromebook, and Samsung devices. Sunrise Hitek Group, LLC, owner of the uuber brand, also operates Sunrise Hitek, a leading digital printing company based in Chicago. As a G7 Qualified Master Printer, Sunrise is uniquely qualified among protective gear makers to offer a wide array of customization options, ensuring the most consistent and accurate color reproduction. Sunrise is an Inc. 5000 company established in 1988 and employs the most advanced equipment and technology, such as G7-certified HP Indigo and UV flatbed presses, and digital die-cutting, to create best-in-class products. A privately-owned enterprise, the company is based in Chicago and sells products worldwide.
eSmart Payroll, a subsidiary of C&S Technologies, Inc., is dedicated to providing business owners with the information and tools needed to handle payroll tax season efficiently. In light of the approaching tax season, eSmart Payroll would like to remind business owners of deadlines pertaining to payroll tax forms W2, 1099-MISC, 940, and 941.

Before the upcoming New Years holiday, business owners should mark their calendars and begin to plan for the January 31st deadline for all W2, 1099-MISC, 940 and 941 forms. Both form 940, the Employers Annual Federal Unemployment Tax Return, and Form 941, the Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return, have an extra ten calendar days if the business has deposited all taxes owed by the due date. The aforementioned forms, along with all 1099 MISC Forms, which are issued to independent contractors and vendors, are filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). W-2s, the standard Wage & Tax Statement for employees, should be filed with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Its important to complete W-2 forms and 1099-MISC forms before the end of January to allow employees and independent contractors to check the forms for errors. This allows employers to complete a comprehensive review of all W2 and 199-MISC forms before submitting them to the SSA and IRS. eSmart Payroll recommends starting the process at the beginning of the calendar year in order to achieve this goal.

eSmart Payroll offers advice and easy filing services for W2, W2-C, 1099-MISC, 1099-MISC Correction, 940, and 941 tax forms. eSmart Payroll online payroll software was designed to simplify the payroll process from paycheck calculation to tax filing. It's an easy do it yourself product that provides multiple methods for e-filing. Our direct online filing method allows the user to input data online and efile it immediately to the government.

For more information, or to start the tax form filing process, visit http://www.esmartpayroll.com or call (408)935-8969.

About C&S Technologies

C&S Technologies, Inc. has been providing small businesses throughout the nation with business payroll and tax services since 1996. The Silicon Valley based company offers six business payroll management solutions that allow business owners and managers to choose which specialty services suit their individual needs, including eSmartPaycheck.com, PaycheckManager.com, SimplePayroll.com, w2manager.com, 1099manager.com, and eSmartPayroll.com.
Covering topics like food waste, childhood nutrition and hunger, Mediaplanets Future of Food campaign digs into how technology is changing our relationship with food, starting with how its grown, delivered, and ultimately consumed.

Covering topics like food waste, childhood nutrition and hunger, Mediaplanets Future of Food campaign digs into how technology is changing our relationship with food, starting with how its grown, delivered, and ultimately consumed. In an ever-changing food landscape, this campaign highlights new innovations in technology, corporate responsibility, and best practicesas we usher in the next era of feeding our nation and world.

With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, food demand is expected to increase between 50 and 90%, creating the question  how do we tackle this issue, both in the United States and globally? Renowned chef and childhood nutrition advocate Jamie Oliver recommends making meals using less ingredients and focusing on educating our youth. If you shorten the shopping list and focus on good technique and good combos, its totally possible to cook beautiful food, from scratch, every night.

The print component of Future of Food is distributed within USA TODAY, with a circulation of approximately 250,000 and an estimated readership of 750,000. The digital component is distributed internationally, through a vast social media strategy, and across a network of top news sites and partner social media platforms. To explore the digital version of the campaign, go to Mediaplanets Modern Wellness Guide website.

This campaign wouldnt be possible without support from industry partners Institute of Food Technologists, National Restaurant Association, Consumer Goods Forum, Meals on Wheels, Feeding America, Project Angel Heart, Caviar, Heifer International, NovAtel, Scanbuy, Hungry Harvest, Food Recovery Network and King Arthur Flower.

About Mediaplanet

Mediaplanet is the leading independent publisher of content-marketing campaigns covering a variety of topics and industries. We turn consumer interest into action by providing readers with motivational editorial, pairing it with relevant advertisers, and distributing it within top newspapers and online platforms around the world. Our unique ability to pair the right leaders with the right readers, through the right platforms, has made Mediaplanet a global content marketing powerhouse. Just call us storytellers with a purpose. Please visit http://www.mediaplanet.com for more on who we are and what we do.

Press Contact:

Daniel Pinkston

daniel.pinkston@mediaplanet.com

(646) 922-1405
Photo: Back row: Sophia Rasmussen, Hailey Martinez, Kira Imazu, Megan Mosquera, Marley Taormina, Kenzie Orloff Front row: Woody Walker, Dominick Guerrero, Charlie Adamson

The superior design, writing and editing, photography and journalistic coverage of the 2016-17 edition of The Pride, the Oaks Christian High School yearbook, earned the book a Gold Medal rating by the prestigious Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), a department of Columbia University in New York, and a First Place rating from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA).

The CSPA and NSPA evaluate hundreds of high school yearbooks nationwide to determine those publications they deem as standouts in the field.

"This is a solid book," NSPA judge noted in summary of a critique that evaluated several criteria including Coverage, Writing and Editing, Design, and Photography. "The theme ("As One") is well developed and focuses on individuals withinthe one," added the NSPA judge.

The CSPA critiqued three categories: Reference, Verbal and Visual. The CSPA judge commented, "Congratulations on a successful volume of The Pride. It is clear your staff aimed to follow scholastic journalism standards as you captured the history of the year."

The "As One" theme was showcased with a stunning cover, designed by current junior Woody Walker, and was effectively carried throughout the book. The staff of 14 was led by current senior Kira Imazu, who returns for a second year as editor-in-chief. Advisor Blanca Schnobrich, brought seven years of yearbook advising experience to OCHS, and is currently advising her 10th high school yearbook staff.

"I loved the book and the work we all put into it. I'm ecstatic that our hard work was seen by the judges. It's so rewarding for it to be recognized, and it's always great hearing the feedback on our yearbooks so we know the areas where we can improve. It makes me excited for this year's book and how the judges will score it," said Imazu.

She was particularly proud of the cover Walker designed as it truly captured the "As One" theme, and also reflected the general schoolwide theme of "One Oaks Christian" which was adopted by the administration last year.

"We finished the cover within the first few months of the school year, and it helped inspire me to make the inside of the book just as great as the outside. It was a great representation of what that school year was striving toward: unity. I know looking back on the book 20 years from now, I'll remember what the entire year was about just from the cover," she shared.

The 2017-18 yearbook, currently in production with 22 on staff, is being led by returning editor Imazu, and returning staff members, all serving in editor roles; senior Sophia Rasmussen, juniors Megan Mosquera and Hailey Martinez, and sophomore Kenzie Orloff. New to the editorial board, and first-year staff member, senior Shaylin Archer, rounds out a talented group working hard to create another successful book that will be released in May 2018.

Photo: Back row: Sophia Rasmussen, Hailey Martinez, Kira Imazu, Megan Mosquera, Marley Taormina, Kenzie Orloff

Front row: Woody Walker, Dominick Guerrero, Charlie Adamson
Welcome Guest! You Are Here:
Amazon could be about to make some big changes to its grocery business, which currently consists of two services: AmazonFresh and Prime Now.

AmazonFresh is the company's oldest grocery delivery service, a traditional online option with a $15-a-month membership cost and reserved delivery times.

Prime Now, on the other hand, is Amazon's two-hour delivery offering, which comes free with Prime. On top of a more limited selection of food, it also offers a small selection of products like Echo devices and seasonal items.

Now, changes at Amazon offer a glimpse at how these two services may be coming together in meaningful ways.

In November, Amazon stopped its Fresh delivery service in parts of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and California, and it has yet to comment on why it did so.

An Amazon spokeswoman said in a statement to Businss Insider: "We have made changes to our service area and discontinued delivery to select zip codes. AmazonFresh continues to serve customers across the US (Seattle, New York, Boston, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and more) and internationally (London, Tokyo, Berlin and Munich)."

At the same time, Amazon is opening new Prime Now hubs in major cities. The service is now available in more than 30 cities and towns, and its food selection has been greatly expanded as it incorporates Whole Foods' assortment of products.

At the time of this writing, Prime Now offers a selection of more than 1,000 Whole Foods items and more than 5,500 grocery food offerings in Manhattan. In contrast, AmazonFresh offers about 13,500 grocery items for delivery to Manhattan.

The Amazon executive in charge of Prime Now, VP

"I actually think that we're going to have lots of different ways to get food to customers. But behind the scenes it makes sense to develop as many efficiencies as possible," she said.
Yvonne Nelson also warned her not to "rain curse" into her 2018, in a tweet Friday night.

"Don't rain curses into your 2018. A bunch of bitter women in this industry, I am only commenting on this because I thought you were smarter than the rest and because I casted you once," the actress tweeted.

She has since deleted the tweet.

The panelists held that she wasn't legally married when she got pregnant. This did not sit well with her, prompting her to blast the show host on Twitter.

READ MORE: Yvonne Nelson discloses the father of her baby girl

In a another tweet, Yvonne accused Mundi of dating a married man.
Many analysts had thought she was enjoying the buzz surrounding her child birth and her mysterious boyfriend.

But that is not case and she demonstrated her frustration on Friday when she bashed media personality Berla Mundi for discussing her [Yvonne] on her [Mundi] show.

"You've been dating a married man and you have the guts to spread lies about me on your show with clueless guests...," she tweeted. "Don't rain curses into your 2018. A bunch of bitter women in this industry, I am only commenting on this because I thought you were smarter than the rest and because I casted you once."

She has since deleted the tweets.

READ MORE: Yvonne Nelson discloses the father of her baby girl
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!
In a 140-page report, following weeks of investigation, after it was called to look into the matter by a petitioner, CHRAJ held that he rather breached the processes leading to the issuance of the bond.

The petitioner, Brogya Genfi, the Ashanti Regional Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, petitioned CHRAJ to investigate the Finance Minister for conflict of interest in the bond issuance, saying it was issued to benefit the business interest of the Minister.

Following the breaches of the processes leading to the bond issuance uncovered by CHRAJ, it recommended that the Minister takes urgent and verifiable steps to ensure that all officials involved in the issuance of the bond at the [Financ] Ministry, Bank of Ghana (BOG), JBR comply with the processes and procedures for issuing bonds.

The report also held that the Finance Minister take measures in preventing Primary Dealers who are also bookrunners/Transaction Advisors from gaining the unfair advantage because of their dual roles.The report found the Primary Dealers also doubled up as Bookrunners/Transaction advisors, and that dual role gave them an undue advantage.Respondent [Ken Ofori-Atta] is either a director, former director or shareholder, or beneficial owner, of several companies whose objects relate to the securities market sector. The companies include Databank and EGL. As such, Respondents interests in the growth and wellbeing of those companies, have the potential to conflict with the interests of the state in relation to the securities market such as the issuance of bonds.
The motion, signed by 80 minority MPs, want a full scale parliamentary probe into the matter after it emerged that the ministry charged expatriates between $25,000 and $100,000 for them to sit close to the President at an awards ceremony.

According to them, the fees charged at the Ghana Expatriate Business Awards were not the kind of fees approved by Parliament, and that the monies were also not accounted for in the Internally Generated Funds (IGF) of the Ministrys accounts.

In pursuance of article 112 (3) of the constitution of the Republic and Orders of Parliament, I Right Honourable Professor Michael Aaron Oquaye, Speaker of Parliament, do hereby summon Parliament to sit on Friday, the 5 Day of January, 2018 at twelve oclock noon, at Parliament House, Accra, a statement from the Speaker's office said.

The Flagstaff earlier summoned the sector minister, Alan Kyeremanten, to disclose fully what the issue was to President Akufo-Addo.

After briefing the president, the Flagstaff House issued a statement saying officials at the Trade Ministry did no wrong in commercialising the Presidential Table at the recent Ghana Expatriate Business Awards (GEBA).

The facts, as reported to the president, do not disclose any wrongdoing on the part of the minister of any government official.
The commission was petitioned by Brogya Genfi, the Ashanti Regional Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, to investigate the Finance Minister for conflict of interest in the issuance of the $2.25bn bond early this year, saying it was issued to benefit the business interest of the Minister.

CHRAJ in a 140-page report said the allegations of conflict of interest against Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta were unsubstantiated.

It cleared him over allegations of conflict of interest in the issuance of $2.25 billion bonds.

"There was also no evidence before the Commission that there was a personal benefit to the Respondent or his private businesses and other relations,"the report said.

However, in a press statement, Mr Iddrisu said the reports in the media were inaccurate.

He said: Contrary to some publications on a number of online portals to the effect that the Finance Minister has been cleared of wrongdoing, CHRAJ in its decision agrees largely with our stated position from the very beginning that the bond issuance did not follow due process.CHRAJ in its summary of key findings noted several breaches of statutory regulations governing the issuance of bonds and cited the Minister for conduct bordering on criminality.
This belief is strengthened by the epileptic ASUU strikes and internal crises in public higher institutions across the country.

Usually, when a crisis does not get to the point of pausing the academic progression of the students and shutting the school gates, the crisis doesn't get resolved.

These are parts of the reasons why some parents choose to send their wards to private universities.

However, if you look beyond the ASUU strike in public universities, you will see several benefits these schools have over their private counterparts.

These benefits range from cheaper school fees to freedom to become an adult and exposure to the real world before becoming a graduate. The bulk of private university graduates don't have such exposure and experience.

So here are five reasons you should consider public university if you are seeking admission.

Cost of Education

The first thing people get to know about private universities is not the facilities they have but their school fees. Some private schools tuition fee is enough to build a house elsewhere. On the other hand, cost of education in pubic universities is very cheap.

Apart from this, cost of living in these universities is also cheap as students are allowed to either patronise campus shops or those on the streets where prices are competitive. This is not allowed as some private universities will even punish students for having foodstuff in their hostel.

Freedom and Independence

Undergraduates in public universities enjoy some degrees of freedom as they are not kept under stringent rules on how to live on campus.

Private Universities have so many amusing rules that keep their students under the prying eyes of the management. No freedom, no independence, just students shuttling between lecture rooms and hostels.

ALSO READ:

Private universities force their laws down the throat of their students as they have rules guiding everything. Private school is that entity that treats adults like kids by giving them rules on what to eat, how to dress and when to worship.

Campus Fun

Some Private universities are dry and are utterly devoid of campus fun. In public universities, you have parties to attend, meet real people, rich and poor; and even join socio-cultural associations like the Kegites groups.

Dating is also fun as students couple enjoy their relationship without being punished for expressing love. You can not do this in some private universities. In fact, some private universities frown at students of opposite sex hugging each other.

Public University encourages hard work

Some lecturers' nonchalant attitudes to work in public universities propel students to work hard to succeed.

For instance, a lecturer that comes to class only to give out handouts expects the students to impress him in their exams. Those lecturers who do not come to class regularly because of other commitments also expect good performance from the students.

These students are denied a lot of things yet, they come out with good grades. On the other hands, private university students have almost everything to facilitate their education, yet, some of them are no match for public school graduates who are screwed to success.

Public university produces mature graduates

Everything public university undergraduates go through in the hands of their lecturers and the university system toughens and prepare them for the life after graduation. They understand life more on campus through the many challenges they go through.

ALSO READ: Why private universities produce more graduates than public ones
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! 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 President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has approved the constitution of the Governing Boards of Agencies and Parastatals, under some Ministries, as well as the appointment of Nigerians to fill the Board positions, numbering 209 Chairmen and 1258 members, read the statement signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha.

Except that among the eminently qualified were Donald Ugbaja who died this year, Francis Okpozo who passed on in 2016 and Christopher Utov who exited planet earth in March.

It doesnt get more shoddy and embarrassing than this.

The only plausible explanation is that these late folks (Lord rest their souls) were named as federal board members and chairmen while they were still alive. Buhari, famed for his snail speed and foot-dragging, must have had the board appointments list sitting on his desk forever. So, while he dithered and pondered, some of his potential appointees died and the list was released to the public without as much as a cross checking.

Another rational explanation could be that the former SGF, Babachir Lawal, drew up the list and sat on same. Mustapha who took over from Lawal, would then go on to forward the list to the president for assent without first vetting same.

Inexcusable

It is all shades of ridiculous and totally inexcusable to hire dead people. That the president even dispatched a condolence letter to the State of one of his dead appointees back in 2016, brings to the fore the shoddiness and sloppiness that is the Buhari administration.

This just tells you that the president doesn't even have a dossier of most of his hires; that there are no background checks, no vetting, before people get government jobs.

Naming dead persons into boards and parastatals should never have happened if the presidency was up to its job. The truth is that time and again, this presidency has proven that it isnt up to its job.

This is also a sober reminder that the nation's civil service is brimming with ghosts and more ghosts.

In a serious country, heads should roll over this.

It says a lot when a president who says he despises ghost workers and whose administration has expended enormous resources preening ghost workers off the payroll, has to lean on actual ghosts to steer the ship that is the federal bureaucracy.
CHANNELS TV reports that according to the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Kabiru Adjoto, the upward review of the budget was aimed at supporting the Edo state government in the achievement of its Sustainable Development Goals. According to Adjoto, necessary adjustments in the agricultural and infrastructural sectors.

Governor Obaseki while thanking the lawmakers, said: We cannot express our gratitude enough as an executive arm of government for this unique and historic event of the signing of our Appropriation Bill before the end of the year. I cannot recall when this sort of thing occurred in Edo state in the last seven to eight years."

Obaseki further stated that both arms of government are working together with the interest of the people at heart.

In his words, This portends a lot of good things to come. It shows the seriousness of both arms of government and more importantly, it shows we are working together in the interest of the people of Edo state.

The House is totally aligned with us and agrees with the principle of our budget, which is growth. This is taking a cue from what is happening at the centre. We have to invest in areas that will help us grow the economy, create jobs and improve the revenue of government." The Governor said.
The Governor who spoke with the State House correspondents after meeting President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja also proposed that same amount be withdrawn to tackle environmental challenges in the Niger Delta.

According to Vanguard, the Governor gave reasons for showing up at the state House as being to update the president on security developments in Rivers. In response to the approval given by the Nigeria Governors' forum (NGF) for the withdrawal of $1billion from the ECA for the fight against insurgency, he said while he had given his supports to the fight against insurgency, the approval by the Governors Forum is illegal.

According to him, For me it is illegal, however, we are talking about fighting insurgence and no right thinking individual will say that he will not support the government to fight insurgency.

But on the other hand, I believe that we have been talking about the environmental issues in the Niger Delta particularly in Ogoni land, I believe that we can also take the same money from the excess crude account to fund the problem in Ogoni land and other Niger Delta areas.

That is my position. He further said he has a good relationship with the president and that the discussion was based on security matters. He said, Im happy with the discussion and I believe that something has to be done about (security) it. Nothing political just security issue that affects the state and things that may lead to the breakdown of law and order.

We talked on security challenges and he received me very well. We dont have any bad relationship, I came here when he asked me to come. In a fit to give response on the allegation that he manipulated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congress to install his candidate as chairman of the party, the Governor deny the allegations stating that it was impossible for an individual to install a party chairman in the country.

He was optimistic about PDP winning the polls, he said PDP, will continue to win elections in the state.

There is no amount of blackmail; there is no amount of intimidation that will stop us from winning the state.
The other defendants include former members of parliament, activists and three journalists.

Morsi had already been sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison in two other trials after the military ousted him in 2013.

The defendants had all been charged with making statements deemed insulting to the judiciary.

Five other defendants, including jailed activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, were fined 30,000 pounds (about $1,680) each.

Morsi was also ordered to pay two million pounds to the head of the judges' syndicate and another judge, while 22 other defendants were ordered to pay one million pounds to the head of the syndicate.

Morsi's lawyer Abdel Moneim Abdel Maqsud told AFP that he would appeal the verdict.

Thousands of Islamists have been arrested and put on trial since the military ousted the divisive Morsi following mass protests demanding his resignation.
The co-pilot -- who flew seven other Turkish military officers to Greece -- was granted asylum after Greek authorities ruled that his human rights would be at risk, despite repeated requests for his extradition by Ankara.

The decision "once again reveals that Greece is a country that protects and embraces plotters," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding that the ruling was "politically motivated".

"Greece has not shown the support and cooperation we expect from an ally in the fight against terrorism," the statement added, warning of an impact on bilateral relations between the two countries.

The ruling is an embarrassment to Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who asked for the officers to be extradited during a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras in December, as part of the first official visit to Athens by a Turkish president in 65 years.

Late Saturday evening, Tsipras tried to contain any fallout from the asylum ruling by calling for the decision to be annulled.

"The Greek government filed on Saturday a request for annulment of the asylum decision taken the day before by the asylum authority," the office of the Greek Prime Minister said.

The co-pilot, who landed in the Greek city of Alexandroupoli hours after the putsch was defeated on July 15 2016, had denied being part of the coup attempt.

Despite Turkey's assertions, the asylum judges said there was no evidence to suggest the co-pilot had participated in a plot to unseat Erdogan.

According a judicial source, the ruling took into account reports from human rights groups and the Council of Europe that warned Turkey has regularly committed human rights abuses against coup suspects.

A ruling on the seven other military officers is expected to be made in the coming weeks.

The decision follows a Greek Supreme Court ruling in January that blocked the extradition of the officers, saying that they would not have a fair trial in Turkey.

More than 140,000 people including judges, lawyers, journalists and academics have been sacked or suspended in Turkey since the failed coup, while some 55,000 people have been arrested over suspected links to US-based Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen.
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
Property details:

NO RESERVE! NO RESERVE! NO RESERVEEmail: [email protected] or call Peter :908 432 5030.Highest bidder buys the property!. This property is about 10,800 Sq.Ft.lot in very highend area of Port Charlotte,Charlotte County,Florida.Very close to beautiful florida beaches/lakes/canals/forest. The large property is about an hour to Port Charlotte/Fort Myers/Cape Coral city and beautiful Cape Coral beach/Charlotte beach/Tampa.The Cape Coral is the largest canal city in the world. This Port Charlotte esta...

Price: $ 3,825 Seller State of Residence: Florida Property Address: 12121 Noel ave State/Province: Florida City: Port Charlotte Type: Homesite, Lot, Investment Zoning: Residential Zip/Postal Code: 33981 Location: 339**, Port Charlotte, Florida

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby 33981
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
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!
In absolute terms, the year closed with the market capitalisation of all BSE-listed companies rising by Rs 45.5 lakh crore to Rs 152 lakh crore, or an increase of 42.8 per cent, compared to the closing value on December 30, 2016, says Pavan Burugula.

Image: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com.

The S&P BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 have delivered 27.9 per cent and 28.6 per cent returns, respectively, in 2017, making it the best year for equities since 2014.

This was on account of strong portfolio flows and hopes of an improvement in economic growth and corporate earnings.

Analysts expect the momentum in the markets to continue with a revival in earnings and strong global cues while the effects of demonetisation and GST implementation fade.

In absolute terms, the year closed with the market capitalisation of all BSE-listed companies rising by Rs 45.5 lakh crore to Rs 152 lakh crore, or an increase of 42.8 per cent, compared to the closing value on December 30, 2016.

These gains, however, include the market value of companies that got listed on the bourse during the year, such as HDFC Life and Avenue Supermarts (DMart).

Market participants said strong support from local and foreign institutional investors had caused a gush of liquidity, helping stocks climb to their lifetime highs.

Buoyed by strong inflows into systematic investment plans (SIPs), mutual funds have purchased equities (net of sales) worth Rs 1.17 lakh crore during 2017.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought Indian equities worth Rs 51,492 crore (close to $8 billion).

India also ended 2017 being among the best-performing markets globally. South Korea, which clocked 37.2 per cent returns in dollar terms, led the pack.

In dollar terms, the Sensex was up 36.2 per cent and the Nifty 37 per cent. During the year, Indias weight in the MSCI EM (emerging markets) index went up by 47 basis points to 8.72 per cent. Indias weight in the MSCI space now is about 50 basis points higher than at the peak of the previous bull run in 2007.

India is our number one pick in emerging markets with a cyclical and structured recovery under way. Our view is growth will surprise on the upside next year, said Robert Subbaraman, managing director and head of emerging market economics, Nomura.

Broader markets outperformed the benchmark indices during 2017 yet again with the BSE 500 index rising 35 per cent. The BSE mid- and small-cap indices soared 48 per cent and 60 per cent, respectively, during 2017.

The year saw the comeback of realty stocks as the BSE Realty index more than doubled.

Despite the prevailing market conditions, stock markets seemed to have cheered the realty sector. Factors like implementation of the RERA, investment from private equity funds and foreign institutions in the Indian property market, and policy support on the part of government through an interest subsidy and schemes like Housing for All 2022' seem to have provided a reason for the stock markets to cheer, said Madan Sabnavis, chief economist, Care Rating.

Buoyancy in banking stocks is another reason for the rally in the benchmark indices as financial services as a sector has the biggest weight in the Sensex and Nifty 50. The Centres efforts to resolve the non-performing asset (NPA) issue has provided impetus to banking stocks.

The rally in State-owned banks remained sluggish until mid-2017 but the announcement of a recapitalisation plan by the government in October helped these stocks reclaim lost ground. HDFC Bank gained 56 per cent during the year, making it the best performing stock in the space.

Shares of Tata Steel went up 87 per cent during 2017, the best by any Sensex constituent. This performance was due to a rebound in global steel prices. Favourable domestic policies to shield the steel industry from imports also helped.

Shares of Maruti Suzuki, Bharti Airtel and Reliance Industries gained 83 per cent, 73 per cent and 71 per cent, respectively, during the year.

Continuing headwinds in the US weighed down the performance of healthcare companies during 2017. Dr Reddys Laboratories and Sun Pharma lost 21 per cent and 9 per cent, respectively, during the year, featuring among the worst performing Sensex stocks.
With India set to be the world's most populous country by 2030, there is a growing need to control population through better use of contraceptives, says Abhishek Waghmare.

On December 11, the information and broadcasting ministry told television channels to not air advertisements for condoms, which are for a particular age group, between 6 am and 10 pm.

The reason given by the director of broadcasting was that these could be indecent/inappropriate for viewing by children.

In an official memorandum to the Rajasthan high court, hearing a petition against this advisory, the ministry has clarified that it only pertains to sexually explicit content.

About 100 years ago, Raghunath Karve, a Mumbai-based teacher and son of late Bharat Ratna awardee Dhondo Keshav Karve, published a periodical named Samaaj Swasthya (Public Health).

It popularised teachings on sexual health by disseminating knowledge about safe sex and advertising about condoms, even selling these to the needy.

How much does India need condoms -- and other methods of contraception like sterilisation and oral pills -- in 2017?

About 56.3 per cent of Indians used contraception -- any method, including condoms, pills, sterilisation and intra-uterine devices -- in 2015-16, down from 53.5 per cent in 2005-06, according to the national family health survey (NFHS) data.

Prevalence of family planning had increased gradually till 2006. Male sterilisation is at a several decade-low; female sterilisation is also on a decline.

Chart 1: Condoms and pills preferred contraception methods

Use of condoms as a method of family planning is on the rise but below other countries.

When India is slated to become the most populated country on the globe in 2030, there is a growing need to control population growth in states where fertility rate is still high.

Chart 2: Condom usage among lowest in Asia

Though less condom usage does not necessarily mean family planning is in bad shape (Germany has one per cent prevalence), the low prevalence in India is when other methods of contraception are also on a decline.

Following the AIDS campaigns of the 1990s, the government distributed condoms at public places with greater vigour till 2007 but use subsided to the lowest in 25 years for 2016-17.

Chart 3: Free condom distribution at 25-year low

Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh/Jharkhand have a fertility rate (TFR) of 3.2, 3.1 and 2.8 children born per woman, respectively, against the national average of 2.3 and more than the replacement rate of 2.1 that stabilises a countrys population.

The number of condoms marketed under the social marketing scheme has reduced in the past decade, from 1.1 million a year in 2006-07 to 400,000 a year in 2016-17.

When present times are marked by effectively unlimited mobile broadband at throwaway prices, the I&B advisory (December 11) also cites the Cable Television Rules, 1994, to suggest condom advertisements endanger the safety of children and create in them any interest in unhealthy practices.

While women with comprehensive knowledge about the human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) rose in the decade of 2006-2016, the proportion of men knowing about HIV/AIDS dropped marginally from 33 to 32.5 per cent.

Chart 4: Condoms save from HIV

Data from the same source, NFHS, says both men and women increasingly know that consistent use of condoms can reduce the chances of getting HIV/AIDS.

The minister for health recently told the Lok Sabha that the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis has risen in the past three years.

Chart 5: STDs on rise, condoms could save

Condoms became an increasingly preferred mode of family planning at the turn of the century, with an aggressive advertising campaign about sexual health by the government and an advertising boom in the condom manufacturing industry.

The potential factor contributing to the condoms popularity may be active social marketing programmes and commercial advertising, notes an article in the Indian Journal of Medical Research (Acceptability of male condom: An Indian scenario, Indian J Med Res 140 (Supplement), November 2014, pp 152-156).

Various reports put the growth in sale of condoms (as a result of increased preference) in the commercial contraceptives market at about 15 per cent compounded annually.

Photograph: Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters
'The Congress shall have to take some brave-tough decisions to give a new social face to the party and its leadership composition,' says Mohammad Sajjad.



IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi meets with the families of fishermen affected by Cyclone Ockhi in Kanyakumari, December 14, 2017. Photograph: PTI Photo

There are certain crucial issues that have emerged from the Gujarat assembly election verdict which remained, at best, under-reported, hence relatively less known.

There were institutional subversions even before filing the nominations could be filed.

The Election Commission announced the dates for the concurrently occurring Himachal Pradesh election, but chose to delay the announcement of the schedule for the Gujarat election.

It appeared to have become partisan towards the party in power, putting the Election Commission and its autonomy in the dock. As it emerged, this delay allowed the Union government to announce many sops for Gujarat, specifically for the urban segments where the Bharatiya Janata Party eventually performed much better in the election.

The prime minister of India put the winter session of Parliament on hold as he and his ministers plunged into the election campaign. Instances of wilful institutional weaknesses did not stop there.

During the course of the campaign, the prime minister accused his predecessor along with others who had held very high offices of the Union previously, of conniving with an enemy nation against the incumbent PM as well as to defeat his party in the province.

It raises very serious question: An accusation of high treason against a former PM is made public retrospectively at a public meeting. Why did the PM remain silent on such a grave issue of national security for so long?

Why did not he take appropriate legal action against those he made accusations?

Why does not he produce prima facie evidence to this effect?

All these issues need to be taken care of by the political parties in the fray as well as by civil society, particularly when more provinces are about to go to the polls in the next few months: Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan.

All these provinces have a bipolar polity (the Congress on one pole, the BJP on another). In Karnataka, the Congress has to fight incumbency. In the three other provinces the BJP has to fight incumbency.

Just as there was visible rural discontent against the ruling BJP in Gujarat, the ruling Congress is facing massive peasant discontent in Karnataka. This, despite the fact that the Congress government has waived peasants' loans up to Rs 50,000.

Let it be recalled that coastal Karnataka, often referred to as the 'laboratory of Hindutva' in south India, has been witnessing communal polarisation since 2013 to the extent that even a tiny scuffle or a minor road accident has the potential to snowball into a riot.

In Gujarat, the Congress has been out of power for 22 years. It reached out to forge alliances with three young leaders belonging to three distinct social groups, and also aligned with a tribal party.

It also practised almost a politics of untouchability against the Muslims in order to avoid anti-Muslim polarisation. Yet, it was given a mandate only to sit in the Opposition. The Congress lost as many as 16 seats with very low margins -- a few hundred to 3,000 votes.

These were the seats where NOTA, the NCP and BSP secured as many votes to keep the Congress away from power. It points out the pathology in Gujarat about the Congress.

The party has historically been extremely reluctant about forging alliance with smaller parties if it is the dominant pole in a bipolar polity.

In the 1937 and 1946 elections the Congress did so; in the 'post-Congress era' -- since the 1990s -- it has almost invariably been doing so -- arrogant and reluctant against forging prudent coalitions.

This is unlike the BJP, whose rise to power is a story of coalitions, not only in the Vajpayee era but also in the era of NaMo hegemony. In Uttar Pradesh this year, it forged alliances with smaller outfits like the Suheldeo Party and swept the biggest province in March.

This is the most significant point to be driven home to the Congress and to every other party opposed to the BJP.

Is the Congress prepared to throw a leader (a chief ministerial face) in each of the provinces going to the polls?

Is it going to co-opt leaders from various social groups in those provinces?

Will it align with smaller outfits in those provinces? Offering the posts of deputy chief ministers and other such tangible offers could be of help to it.

The Congress also needs to realise the fact that the majority community, nowhere in the world, needs electoral symbolism; hence, the ridiculous politics of temple hopping and janeu demonstration, will be of no help.

Such symbolism and tokenism work only for the minorities and the vulnerable segments who are desperate to be counted.

Rahul may be misled by his advisors that out of 22 temples he visited in Gujarat, at least 18 of those seats were won by the Congress. He must be wise and visionary enough to see through such statistical trappings.

The strength of the Congress is its history and conviction for plurality, rather than for majoritarianism.

At this historical juncture, the Congress needs to learn from the US where lines are clearly drawn between the Republicans and the Democrats, as to which of the social groups and classes will form the core of its policy preferences, and leadership.

The urban rich, upper middle classes of the majority community, big businesses, trading communities, etc, have gone over to its competitor, the BJP.

The Congress may look up to the Dalit-Bahujans of various denominations, the lower OBCs, and the tribes, not only in terms of delivering certain welfare measures when in power, but also in terms of taking them into the leadership, and the organisational structures.

The Congress shall have to take some brave-tough decisions to give a new social face to the party and its leadership composition.

Various columnists/reporters have been informing the nation in this regard. Ajaz Ashraf (Scroll.in, December 18, 2017) has said that by February, the BJP will split the OBC reservation of 27% into three layers: 9% for each layer. This way, it will enlist the support of the OBCs.

One may surmise the BJP would consider splitting the Dalits and tribes also into such layered groupings.

By the end of 2018, the Ayodhya issue may help the BJP polarise the scenario just before the general election.

Indian democracy is face to face with many dangers where its plural co-existence is gravely threatened by the rising assertion of majoritarian reaction.

Professor Mohammad Sajjad is at the Centre of Advanced Study in History, Aligarh Muslim University; he has published Muslim Politics in Bihar: Changing Contours(Routledge, 2014) and Contesting Colonialism and Separatism: Muslims of Muzaffarpur since 1857 (Primus, 2014).
Not only do Modi and Trump's personalities overshadow the high offices they hold, the way they attack people and speak are very similar, observes Karan Thapar.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com

Am I guilty of an exaggerated comparison or is Prime Minister Modi increasingly seeming Trumpean? I ask this question not by way of intended criticism but as a form of description.

Today, we can judge whether it has any factual basis or is just a fanciful idea.

First, let me explain what I mean by becoming Trumpean. Donald J Trump is famous for his outlandish insinuations and innuendoes.

He sees conspiracies, levels accusations and pillories his opponents. All of this we know well. But don't you get the feeling that of late Modi has started to do something similar?

The claim that a transparent and irreproachable gathering held at Mani Shankar Aiyar's residence on December 6, where Dr Manmohan Singh, Hamid Ansari and General Deepak Kapoor were present, was in fact 'a secret meeting' and a conspiracy to help Pakistan meddle in the Gujarat elections sounds like the sort of thing Trump might have said. Would you disagree?

What about the claim that a comment made by Mani Shankar Aiyar, in an interview to Pakistan's Dunya TV two years ago, that India-Pakistan relations will only improve when Modi is removed (the actual Urdu word he used was 'nikalo') amounts to an attempt to physically eliminate the prime minister (or take out a 'supari', as Modi imaginatively put it)?

Isn't this, again, reminiscent of the American president's hallucinatory misinterpretations? I have to admit the similarity is uncanny and uncomfortably close.

However, the grounds for comparing Modi with Trump go further.

The American president is notorious for his dislike of Muslims. During his campaign he frequently seemed to demonise them.

Though not as prime minister, Modi acquired quite a reputation for taunting Muslims when he was chief minister of Gujarat. Now, when he talks of Pakistani conspiracies and suparis, is he not raking the same embers again? More indirectly perhaps but still tellingly. And the message seems clear.

However, it's not just in terms of what he says or who he attacks that Modi reminds me of Trump. Their similarity also emerges from the way their personalities overshadow the high offices they hold.

The American presidency under Donald J Trump has, no doubt, transformed into a new entity. But hasn't the Indian prime ministership seen a similar metamorphosis under Narendra D Modi?

America has never had a president like Donald Trump. India has never had a prime minister like Narendra Modi.

Both men are conscious of what differentiates them from others and both seek to emphasise the difference.

They believe in their destiny and consciously identify themselves with the restoration of the greatness of their country. They see themselves as the architects of it.

They also believe they are the real voice of their people. Now, seen in this light, aren't Narendra D Modi and Donald J Trump mirror reflections of each other?

Finally, there's the impact of their personalities on the people and country they rule.

Donald J Trump has divided the United States between those who passionately support him and others who viscerally hate him. In the process he has virtually split the country in two.

Surely, you could say the same of Modi? It has been clear for years that the Indian people are sharply split between those who deeply admire and those who are disgusted by him.

And I get the feeling that, like America, this is making us seem like two separate nations.

Of course, there are also marked differences between the two men, but do they undermine the comparison I've sought to make?

Modi can be a magical orator; Trump is barely literate or grammatical.

Modi is a great hugger; Trump is said to be allergic to human touch. Yet both men have used these qualities to make a similar giant-sized impact on the world.

If Modi is known for his speeches and embraces, Trump is renowned for his tweets and defensive hand gestures.

So even in areas where they seem like polar opposites they end up making a similar impact on the rest of us.

I would say the only serious question left is which man's name makes the better adjective? Since we are accustomed to being 'modified', it's time to be Trumpean!
Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, who has been sulking since the announcement of portfolios in the new Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state, on Saturday said the issue was about his 'self-respect'.

Patidar leaders Hardik Patel and Lalji Patel have declared support for Nitin Patel.

Lalji Patel has also announced a bandh in Mehsana on January 1 and demanded that Patel be made the chief minister.

Nitin Patel, who is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him, said he expected a proper response from the BJP high-command to his feelings.

"I have conveyed my feelings to the party high-command and I am hopeful that they will give a proper reply to my feelings soon," he told reporters.

"This is not about some departments, this is about self-respect, he added.

The portfolios in the new BJP government, headed by Vijay Rupani, were allotted two days ago.

Nitin Patel, who handled important departments such as finance and urban development in the previous government, was allotted road and building, health, medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital projects this time.

The deputy chief minister, who belongs to the influential Patidar community, has not taken charge of these departments so far, while his supporters on Saturday thronged his residence in Ahmedabad to express solidarity with him.

The finance portfolio has been allotted to Saurabh Patel, while chief minister Rupani has kept the urban development department with himself.

Narottam Patel, who was a minister in the Narendra Modi-led Gujarat government, said Nitin Patel should be given portfolios as per his stature.

"Nitin bhai is not an ordinary minister," he added.

Earlier in the day, Rupani skirted reporters' questions on the issue.

While announcing the portfolios, Rupani had said, "It is not true that the minister, who has the finance portfolio, is the number two in the cabinet. Nitin Patel is our senior leader and will remain the number two."

Patidar quota agitation spearhead Hardik Patel said he would extend support to Patel.

Talking to reporters, he said, "As a veteran politician, Nitin bhai has worked hard for 27 years to ensure that the BJP stays in power. The (Patel) community members need to understand that such politicians are being sidelined (in the BJP)."

"If Nitin Patel decided to quit the BJP and 10 other MLAs were ready to quit with him, we will talk to the Congress to take in Nitin bhai and give him a post he deserves," the Patidar leader said.

Senior Congress MLA Virji Thummar said Patel would be made the chief minister with the Congress' support if he quit the BJP. The opposition party, however, clarified that Thummar was speaking in his personal capacity and described the row over portfolio distribution as the BJPs internal matter.

It is the BJP's policy to disregard its senior leaders and sideline them once it finds them to be of no use. This has especially been the case with Patidar leaders like Keshubhai Patel, Anandiben Patel, Gordhan Zadaphia among others, state Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said.

Lalji Patel, whose Sardar Patel Group was at the forefront of the Patidar quota agitation, along with the Hardik Patel-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, met Nitin Patel in Gandhinagar.

He called for a bandh in Mehsana -- Nitin Patel's Assembly constituency and a place which was the epicentre of the Patel quota agitation -- on January 1.

With 99 MLAs, the BJP has a simple majority in the 182- member Gujarat assembly, against the 77 MLAs of the Congress.

IMAGE: Gujarat Deputy CM Nitin Patel with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Photograph: Courtesy Nitin Patel/Facebook
Lookout notices have been issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owners of the pub that caught fire.

In a major crackdown, civic officials in Mumbai on Saturday demolished illegal structures in at least 100 restaurants and pubs, a day after a blaze in an upscale pub claimed 14 lives.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation initiated a mega demolition drive and had razed illegal, unauthorised structures of at least 100 restaurants and pubs across the city till afternoon, an official said.

As many as 1,000 officials and employees of the civic body had hit the streets and become a part of the exercise, he added.

"The unauthorised hotels and restaurants, not only in central Mumbai, but also those located in the distant suburbs, such as Malad and Mulund, are facing action," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

A major portion of the popular Zaffran Hotel, located opposite the police headquarters in south Mumbai, was removed, he added.

"There are 24 wards in Mumbai and each has three teams personally inspecting all the restaurants, pubs, food joints and eateries. Each team has 10 members, including officials from the health and administration departments and inspectors," he said.

Once the team finds an unauthorised structure, it is brought down immediately, Dotonde added.

The civic administration has asked its entire staff to remain on duty. Leave and weekly offs of the staff of several departments, including the anti-encroachment department, have been cancelled and they have been given a detailed list of restaurants and pubs, where violations were found during the preliminary inspection, he said.

"The number of eateries and restaurants, where the unauthorised structures have been removed so far, must be more than 100. The action will continue till we remove all such structures," the spokesperson added.

The other areas where the drive was carried out included Shivaji Park, Mulund, Dahisar, Malad, the Parsi Gymkhana near Marine Lines, Grant Road, Andheri and Ghatkopar.

The civic body has also directed its officials to form teams to ensure that restaurants and bars follow the safety norms, in view of the New Year parties.

Early in the morning, the civic teams removed the illegal roofs of two restaurants -- 'Skyview Cafe' and 'Social' at Kamala Mills as also encroachments of 'Pranay', 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same locality, BMC officials said.

Civic chief Ajoy Mehta, in a message to all the BMC assistant municipal commissioners and deputy commissioners, said all zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers were requested to form a team comprising the staff of the building and factory departments, medical health officer and the fire department.

The teams will inspect all the restaurants in their respective wards and ensure that they are fire-compliant, the message said.

The premises should have fire-escape routes, staircases and open spaces, free from encroachment, it added.

After the blaze, the BMC had on Friday suspended five officials for dereliction of duty.

A fire brigade official said they were trying to ascertain what exactly had triggered the inferno.

We are probing if the flames created during a fire-stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out whether the burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy, he said.

We are also taking into consideration all other possibilities, including that of a short-circuit, he added.

Meanwhile, a senior police official said that lookout notices were on Saturday issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owners of '1 Above', the ill-fated pub which caught fire. The pub was run by 'C Grade Hospitality'.

On Friday, the police had booked the Sanghvi brothers, another co-owner Abhijeet Manka and others in connection with the case.

The massive fire that had swept through the pub left 14 people dead and 21 injured. The same central Mumbai area -- a former textile mill district, now dotted by swanky glass-and-concrete towers -- had witnessed the death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway overbridge on September 29.

IMAGES: BMC's demolition drive in Lower Parel area of Mumbai. Photographs: Sahil Salvi


The United States is considering withholding a $255-million (Rs 1,627 crore) aid to Islamabad due to Pakistan's inability to destroy terror safe havens.

According to a New York Times report, the growing disagreement between the two countries and Pakistan's inability to neutralise the terrorist networks operating from its soil could possibly affect the decision in providing financial aid to the Islamabad.

The US administration will take the final call in a meeting in coming weeks.

'The United States, which has provided Pakistan more than $33 billion in aid since 2002, said in August that it was withholding the $255 million until Pakistan did more to crack down on internal terrorist groups. Senior administration officials met this month to decide what to do about the money, and American officials said a final decision could be made in the coming weeks,' the report said.

The report cited the major disappointment for the US was Pakistan's rejection of its demand of access to one of the abductors involved in the kidnapping of the Canadian-American family.

'When Pakistani forces freed a Canadian-American family this fall held captive by militants, they also captured one of the abductors. United States officials saw a potential windfall: He was a member of the Taliban-linked Haqqani network who could perhaps provide valuable information about at least one other American hostage,' the report said.

'The Americans demanded access to the man, but Pakistani officials rejected those requests, the latest disagreement in the increasingly dysfunctional relationship between the countries,' it added.

Earlier in July, the Pentagon said it would withhold $50 million in military reimbursements for Pakistan because the country had not taken 'sufficient action' against the Haqqani network.

The Trump administration had agreed to provide the $255 million military aid to Pakistan, with conditions attached -- the US State Department said that Islamabad could access the funds only if it acts against terror groups based in the tribal areas and stop cross-border attacks in Afghanistan.

The $255 million in military assistance was the largest portion of an estimated $1.1 billion of US aid Congress had authorised in 2016.

The US claims that more than $33 billion in aid has been provided to Pakistan since 2002.

Although the volume of annual US assistance to Pakistan stands at $1.1 billion, hundreds of millions of dollars are withheld every year under different restrictions imposed since 2011, when relations between the two countries began to deteriorate after Osama bin Laden was found in Abbottabad.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley in New York. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/ Reuters
State budget cuts could force Big Brothers Big Sisters, a one-on-one mentoring program thats been in Helena for 50 years, to close for good.

President Colleen Brady said shes still hopeful fundraising efforts can preserve some programming, but said countless other nonprofits are facing similar cuts and asking the community to rally around them. Brady said it's realistic that the community won't be able to keep up with all of the needed donations.

Big Brothers Big Sisters, a national nonprofit with local chapters all over the country, provides several programs, but is most well known for matching a child, called a little, with an adult, or big, for 8 to 10 hours a month of one-on-one mentoring. Once a case manager matches a pair, the big and little participate in activities of common interest, like hiking or seeing a movie. Brady said the program leads to academic success, builds self esteem and prevents introduction to the criminal justice system, and prevents suicide and abuse of drugs and alcohol. Big Brothers Big Sisters also has a school program where high school students mentor younger students, and a program where adults spend one hour a week mentoring students during lunch.

Brady said some of those services have already been reduced, and she expects further reductions if the program doesnt meet major fundraising goals in coming months. Brady said Big Brothers Big Sisters lost $43,000 in funding in January. The federal funding is provided through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and administered by the state health department. Brady said the state health department redirected the money when it developed a new strategic plan. Because Big Brothers Big Sisters anticipated the reduction, it immediately intensified fundraising efforts to cope. Brady said the organization did a good job until it lost an additional $58,000 through budget cuts made by the Montana Legislature.

During the regular session when legislators were faced with a tight budget year, the organization lost $45,000 it usually receives from the Montana Board of Crime Control for keeping juveniles out of the justice system. After state revenues came in lower than projected and Montana had a historically expensive wildfire season, legislators came back to Helena for a special session in November to address a $227 million shortfall. As part of the solution, Big Brothers Big Sisters lost another $13,000 from the general fund.

Now the organization is trying to maintain services after losing about 25 percent of its budget.

Brady said Big Brothers Big Sisters is a direct service program, meaning most of its expenses are in personnel. Most of its employees are case managers, who are required by the national organization to have a degree and are more expensive to employ. Case managers oversee all of the matches, including an extensive application process, background checks and interviews, a process that takes six weeks to complete. Each case manager is responsible for 70 to 75 cases, although Brady said 60 is an ideal caseload. Brady has already had to eliminate 2.5 case managers.

If we dont have case managers, we dont have matches. So we had to start eliminating programs, she said. The first thing we did was eliminate the high school peer-to-peer program.

Because case managers have monthly check-ins, existing matches go away when a case manager is laid off. The high school program supported 40 matches.

The child, the parent, the big are all interviewed every month independent of each other, documented word for word and inputted into our database system, because our No. 1 concern is the safety of these children, she said.

While theres usually a shortage of adult volunteers, the organization typically has a wait list of children. Now the cuts forced Big Brothers Big Sisters to stop accepting children to the wait list.

Thats what happened to us. Now were just trying to make up that difference and having that shortfall is just killing us, Brady said.

Brady decided against adding additional fundraising events and instead is focusing on the Bowl for Kids' Sake event on Jan. 26-28 at Sleeping Giant Lanes, because people who dont have a lot to give have an opportunity to get involved through pledges. Big Brothers Big Sisters also started crowdfunding through its Facebook page with a goal of raising $50,000 by February.

If we dont do that then well have to go and eliminate more programs and theres not a whole lot left to eliminate, she said.

To register a team for Bowl for Kids' Sake, or to make a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbs-helena.org or call 442-7479.
The Draper Foundation Fund, a fund of the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, recently awarded area nonprofits $757,978. The fund awarded $546,750 to 19 designated nonprofits and $217,228 in donor-advised grants to nonprofits that provide essential programs and services for residents of Northwest Connecticut.

Noteworthy donor-advised grants include:

$10,000 to Connecticut Food Bank, to support the Kids BackPack Program, which provides meals to 112 food insecure children in Torrington and Winsted when school is not in session. Weekend food packets are distributed discreetly to children whom school personnel identify as exhibiting behaviors associated with hunger and inadequate nutrition.

$10,000 to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, to support a Medical Protocol and Competency Development initiative of the Litchfield County Opiate Task Force with the goal of increasing the number of MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment) providers for Litchfield County residents, and organizing and supporting a corps of Recovery Support Specialists.

Other nonprofit organizations awarded:

Charlotte Hungerford Hospital received $10,000 to support a Medical Protocol and Competency Development initiative of the Litchfield County Opiate Task Force

Colebrook Preservation Society, Inc. received $24,000 to support the final phase rehabilitation costs for the historic Colebrook Store building

Connecticut Food Bank $10,000 received to support the Kids BackPack Program, which provides meals to 112 food insecure children in Torrington and Winsted when school is not in session.

FISH of Northwestern Connecticut received $8,800 to support replacement flooring in the shelter and the food pantry

LARC, Inc. received $100,000 to support the capital campaign to upgrade and improve Camp MOE for year-round use

New Beginnings of Northwest Hills Litchfield County, Inc. received $9,000 to support replacement of the hot water heating unit and the air conditioning system

Northwest Connecticut Chamber Education Foundation, Inc. received $6,000 to support the Read Aloud Program in Northwest Connecticut

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation received $10,000 to support improvements to the organizations air-handling system serving communal spaces

Partners for Sustainable Healthy Communities received $8,128 to support the purchase of start-up equipment for the regional Food Hub located in Torrington

Winsted Area Child Care Center received $31,300 to support structural improvements to the BASE building

The following nonprofits designated by the Draper Foundation Fund receive awards twice annually:

Beardsley & Memorial Library, Colebrook Associates, Inc., Colebrook Congregational Church, Colebrook Historical Society, Inc., Cornell University for the Cornell Feline Health Center College of Veterinary Medicine, W. L. Gilbert Trust Corporation, Greenwoods Scholarship Foundation, Inc., Little Guild of St. Francis, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Northwest CT YMCA , The Salvation Army, Tufts University, School of Veterinarian Medicine, The University of CT Foundation, Inc. , Vivisection Investigation League, a/k/a The Last Post, We Adopt Greyhounds, Inc., Winchester Youth Service Bureau, Winsted Area Child Care Center, Inc., and Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc.

A $30million endowment from the estate of Jim and Shirley Draper of Colebrook, The Draper Foundation Fund represents the largest single gift in the Community Foundations history and one of the largest single gifts on record to a community foundation in the state of Connecticut.

Established in 1969, the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to more than $94 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $3 million.

Redistricting Process Manipulating The Boundaries? is topic of program

LITCHFIELD  The League of Women Voters of Litchfield County announced today that it will co-sponsor a talk with the Litchfield Historical Society about redistricting, well-known as gerrymandering, on Jan. 14 at 3:30 p.m. at the Litchfield Historical Society. The term gerrymander is derived from the name of Governor Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts, who signed a bill that redistricted Massachusetts to benefit his Party. When mapped, one of the contorted districts in the Boston area was said to resemble the shape of a mythological salamander.

The featured speaker will be US history scholar, John Dasher, who will enlighten us on the how and why this process may give one party an unfair advantage over its rival. Dasher, who is a Litchfield resident, graduated from Amherst College, Columbia Law School and Columbia Business School. After a career on Wall Street, he earned a teaching degree and for ten years taught Advanced Placement US History in New Canaan and Fairfield, CT.

According to Wikipedia, Gerrymandering in the United States has been practiced since the founding of the country to strengthen the power of particular political interests within legislative bodies. In recent years, we know well that partisan gerrymandering is commonly used to increase the power of a particular political party. And, we know too that some jurisdictions are engaged in racial gerrymandering to weaken the political power of racial minority voters, while others engage in racial gerrymandering to strengthen the power of minority voters.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, or to RSVP - 860 567 4501 or molver@litchfieldhistoricalsociety.org.

The League of Women Voters of Litchfield County is a grassroots, nonpartisan political organization of women and men.

Donate Life Connecticut launches awareness campaign

The Connecticut Coalition for Organ and Tissue Donation, dba, Donate Life Connecticut, recently launched a series of public awareness campaign ads on cable television aimed at educating residents about the importance of organ donation, both living and deceased, clarifying misleading myths, and increasing the number of registered organ donors who can potentially give the gift of life to someone in need. Donate Life Connecticut is dedicated to increasing the number of registered organ and tissue donors in Connecticut and beyond through public education and awareness.

It takes just two minutes to register to be a donor and during this season of giving, the gift of an organ or tissue transplant may truly mean the gift of renewed health, the promise of more time with loved ones, and the miracle of tragedy turned into hope. There are now more than 116,000 people waiting for organ transplantation in the United States and every day, 22 patients die due to lack of available organs. Visit www.donatelifect.org for more information.
North Dakota oil production returned to near-record levels in 2017, which one industry leader credited in part to the Dakota Access Pipeline.

It has been a game-changer, said Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council.

The pipeline system connecting North Dakota with Gulf Coast markets has lowered transportation costs, making the price for Bakken crude more competitive.

Justin Kringstad, director of the North Dakota Pipeline Authority, said before Dakota Access began service in June, the price for a Bakken barrel was about $7 to $8 lower than the West Texas Intermediate price.

From June through October, the most recent data available, the average discount was $5 a barrel, Kringstad said.

That means getting more and more revenue out of each barrel, said Ryan Rauschenberger, North Dakota tax commissioner.

State tax revenues have increased about $43.5 million for the first five months that Dakota Access operated, according to Kringstads analysis.

That does not include the impact of increased revenue for oil producers and royalty owners.

Dakota Access, developed by Energy Transfer Partners, can transport up to 470,000 barrels a day from the Bakken to Patoka, Illinois, with the ability to expand to 570,000 barrels a day. From Patoka, oil is transported on the Energy Transfer Crude Oil Pipeline to Nederland, Texas.

Native American tribes continue to challenge Dakota Access in federal court. In early December, a judge granted a tribal request to require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Energy Transfer Partners to complete an oil spill response plan for the stretch of pipe beneath the Missouri River. Tribes unsuccessfully sought to shut down the pipeline while additional review is conducted. The response plan is due in April.

Kringstad plans to keep watching the impact of Dakota Access, and expects to see some price fluctuations.

I do continue to expect the market to ebb and flow as it readjusts, Kringstad said.

Ness said the increased competitiveness of the Bakken is one reason North Dakota oil production increased in 2017. Production was nearly 1.2 million barrels a day in October, the most recent figure available, about 42,000 barrels a day shy of the record set in December 2014.

Ness also attributes production gains to advancements in technology and optimism in the industry spurred by President Donald Trumps rollback of regulations.

North Dakota is ending the year with about 53 drilling rigs operating, compared with the average rig count in January 2017 of 38.

Lynn Helms, director of the Department of Mineral Resources, anticipates the rig count will stay in the mid- to upper-50s in 2018.

The state struggled in 2017 to recruit enough qualified workers for hydraulic fracturing crews to keep up with drillers, but caught up in the third quarter to about 30 crews, Helms said.

Even with the additional workers, companies still had a backlog of 889 wells that were drilled at the end of October but waiting on fracking crews.

Natural gas production continued to break records in 2017, as producers focused more on the core area of the Bakken where wells produce more gas. The state produced more than 2 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas in October, an all-time high.

Natural gas flaring also increased in 2017, with more than 320 million cubic feet per day flared in October.

Reducing flaring is expected to be a significant challenge for the industry in 2018. The industry was barely meeting the gas capture targets set by the North Dakota Industrial Commission in the fall of 2017, and those targets are scheduled to become more aggressive in November 2018.

The Petroleum Council plans to make reducing flaring a priority for 2018, re-forming a flaring taskforce to identify bottlenecks, and will work to encourage additional investments in natural gas processing plants and other infrastructure, Ness said.

Were going to need to have massive investment on the natural gas side, Ness said.
TORRINGTON  Hannah Yabrosky, an officer with the Torrington Police Department, helped bring a prisoner to court Friday.

Thats not usually the stuff of headlines for law enforcement  but for Yabrosky, it was part of shadowing a city officer for the first time and getting started with her fledgling career.

Yabrosky, a New Hartford native, said Friday that she didnt have much experience with law enforcement growing up  its not a career that runs in the family. But while attending Northwestern Connecticut Community College, she took a class taught by retired Torrington police Lt. Mike Emanuel and found her path forward. She had been majoring in general studies, but switched to criminal justice.

The chance to be involved in a community and help people was appealing, Yabrosky said. She was familiar with Torrington after growing up in the area, and Lt. Emanuel spoke highly of the department, so she decided to pursue a career in the city.

Being a part of the community, being the one that someone calls when they need help, said Yabrosky. (Its) also a job that, you come in every day and its something different. Its always a different day, and you never know whats going to happen... I like the spontaneity of it.

Yabrosky attended the policy academy over 24 weeks, studying law and learning practical skills, including a driving course, driving while intoxicated cases and firearm training. She enjoyed learning from the various instructors, each of whom had their own area of expertise  Yabroksy said shed like to find her own over the course of her career.

Yabroksy, now a probationary officer with the department, said shes a goal-oriented person, which will suit her well in this line of work, and wants to help people  she hopes to relate to those she interacts with, treat them with respect and use the resources at hand to help them.

(I have a) desire to help people, make a difference in a way a lot of people cant, said Yabrosky. You see a lot of people at their worst time, which, Im sure it will be very difficult, but to be the person that can help them out in their time, I think would be very rewarding.

She said shes enjoyed meeting the people at the Torrington Police Department so far.

Everyone at the department has been more than welcoming since Ive gotten here. Any questions that I have, they always answer them. Just very welcoming, said Yabrosky. Im happy to be here.

After going through school and graduating from the academy, Yabrosky said she was excited to get started  it was a great feeling, a moment of satisfaction, to put on the uniform for the first time.

Its exciting, and its also nerve-wracking, starting any new job. Theres a learning curve, and especially with this career, theres a huge learning curve. So Im just excited to finally be here and be starting and learning, said Yabrosky. Just, Im ready.

Chief Michael Maniago said Friday that the department was happy to have Hannah join its ranks.

Were very pleased to have her on board. She was an exceptional candidate, said Maniago. Were happy to have her on our team.

Reach Ben Lambert at william.lambert@hearstmediact.com.
The Torrington Police Department reported the following arrests:

EVADING RESPONSIBILITY: Thomas H. Lukens, 65, of 180 Frederick St., Torrington, was arrested Dec. 12 and charged with evading responsibility - motor vehicle and failure to drive in proper lane. He was released on a $500 surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Jan. 2.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Nelson P. Kari, 68, of 76 Cook St., Torrington, was arrested Dec. 26 and charged with disorderly conduct. He was released on a $2,500 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Dec. 27.

DUI: Nicholas E. Lavin, 36, of 2720 Franklin Ave., Pueblo, C.O., was arrested Dec. 28 and charged with failure to obey traffic control signals, failure to yield while turning left and illegally operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs. He was released on a police-set $500 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Jan. 8.

BAD CHECK: Michael Siok, 32, of 4 Prospect Place, Torrington, was arrested Oct. 22 and charged with issuing a bad check - $500 or less. He was given a $1,000 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Jan. 8.

ENGAGING POLICE: James K. Crowell, 36, of 85 French St., Torrington, was arrested Dec. 21 and charged with engaging police in pursuit, failure to obey traffic control signals and illegally operating a motor vehicle under suspension. He was released on a $1,500 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Jan. 2.

ASSAULT: Violet A. Ruppel, 26, of 151 Chestnut Ave., second floor, Torrington, was arrested Dec. 21 and charged with second-degree breach of peace and third-degree assault. She was given $5,000 bond and scheduled to appear in court Dec. 29.

VIOLATION OF PROBATION: Jevon V. Pegues, 24, of 50 Giles St., Waterbury, was arrested Dec. 27 and charged with two counts of violation of probation and two counts of second-degree failure to appear. He was released on $48,500 combined surety bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Danbury Jan. 9.

ASSAULT: Charles W. Warner, 49, of 21 East Center St., third floor, Torrington, was arrested Dec. 26 and charged with second-degree breach of peace, interfering with an officer/resisting arrest and third-degree assault. He was given $5,000 bond and scheduled to appear in Superior Court in Torrington Jan. 2.

FAILURE TO APPEAR: James G. Williams, 33, of 76 Suburban Ave., Bridgeport, was arrested Dec. 29 and charged with first-degree failure to appear. He was held in lieu of $2,500 surety bond and scheduled to appear in court Dec. 29.

FAILURE TO APPEAR: Mya Coates, 19, of 332 South Main St., Torrington, was arrested Dec. 29 and charged with second-degree failure to appear. She was given $1,000 bond.
Rohingya refugees from Myanmar's northern Rakhine state wait for a rice delivery on a foggy morning at the Nayapara refugee camp near Cox's Bazar district in southeastern Bangladesh, Dec. 25, 2017.

UPDATED at 3:11 P.M. EST on 2018-01-02

Myanmar officials in northern Rakhine state will repatriate Rohingya Muslims from Bangladesh only during daytime because of an extended dawn-to-dusk curfew in Maungdaw township, a government minister said Friday.

Myanmar signed an agreement with Bangladesh in November to take back refugees from northern Rakhine state where a recent military crackdown forced 655,000 Rohingya to flee to safety across the border.

The operation is scheduled to begin on Jan. 22 at two reception centers in Taung Pyo Let Wae and Nga Khu Ya villages.

Authorities will process repatriations only during daylight hours because of a curfew that has been extended in northern Rakhines Maungdaw township, said Win Myat Aye, Myanmars minister for social welfare, relief, and resettlement.

Returning refugees who are processed at the two reception centers must adhere to the curfew, he said.

The refugees who want to return also cannot go out after 6 p.m., but they can go out freely in the daytime, he told RFAs Myanmar Service. Authorities did it [imposed the curfew] to ensure peoples safety.

On Monday, local authorities extended the curfew in Maungdaw for two months to ensure security, stability, and rule of law in the area, state-run Myanmar News Agency reported. The order bans gatherings of more than five people and prohibits anyone from being outdoors between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Maungdaw, along with neighboring Buthidaung, and Rathedaung townships, has been the focal point of two waves of violence against the Rohingya, which have included brutal killings, arson torture, and rape.

The Myanmar government ordered a dusk-to-dawn curfew in northern Rakhine following deadly raids by a Muslim militant group on three border guard stations in Maungdaw and Rathedaung townships on Oct. 9, 2016. Those who violated the order had to pay a 20,000-kyat (U.S. $15) fine.

Another curfew was imposed following deadly attacks by the same group on 30 police outposts and an army base in northern Rakhine on Aug. 25, 2017.

Repatriation forms sent

Meanwhile, the Myanmar government has already sent forms to Rohingya who wish to return voluntarily. The refugees must prove prior residency and show that they left Myanmar after Oct. 9, 2016.

We are getting ready to accept refugees back on January 22, but we dont know what day they will come back, Win Myat Aye said.

They must fill out the forms and send them back to us, he said. We will check the forms with the data and documents we have, though we havent received these forms from Bangladesh yet. As it is voluntary return, we are going to work on what the refugees want.

Win Myat Aye also heads a government committee created in September to implement the recommendations of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, a group led by former U.N. chief Kofi Annan.

The commissions report called for reviews of the countrys 1982 Citizenship Law, which prevents the Rohingya from becoming citizens, and an end to restrictions on its Rohingya Muslim minority to prevent further violence in the region.

Bangladeshi officials said on Friday that were sending the names of 100,000 Rohingya refugees to Myanmar so that the repatriations could begin on schedule, according to the agreement the two countries signed, Agence France-Presse reported.

Close to one million Rohingya refugees who fled violence during recent and previous waves of repression in Myanmar live in sprawling displacement camps in southeastern Bangladesh and have overburdened the impoverished countrys resources.

New houses are being built for those who fled recent violence and are now returning to Maungdaw township in the northern part of Myanmar's Rakhine state, December 2017. Credit: RFA Houses not yet built

Members of Myanmars National Human Rights Commission met with Win Myat Aye on Thursday to share their observations on the situation in the Maungdaw area in the run-up to the start of the repatriation program

Commissioner Yu Lwin Aung told the minister that the conditions for the returning Rohingya refugees were not yet ripe.

The construction of the two reception centers for refugees in Taung Pyo Let Wae and Nga Khu Ya villages had not been completed when we visited there on Dec. 12, 13, and 14, Yu Lwin Aung told RFA.

We suggested to the minister that the centers be completed as soon as possible, he said Win Myat Aye said the [work] has now been completed.

Yu Lwin Aung also said that officials from relevant ministries have been appointed to process the returning refugees, even though new houses that the government is building for the returning refugees have yet to be completed.

We know that government has said it will build houses for Muslims who lost their houses during the crisis, but this project hasnt begun yet, he said.

The commission suggested to Win Myat Aye that the government get the construction under way immediately and build homes for other ethnic minorities in northern Rakhine, such as the Mro and Kaman, who also lost their homes during the recent violence.

The central government has ordered the regional government to build new villages or houses for these ethnic refugees, Yu Lwin Aung said. We saw some have been begun, but some havent yet. We have also suggested that he [Win Myat Aye] implement this plan on time.

In response, Win Myat Aye pointed out that various communities like different types of housing, with ethnic Rakhine people preferring homes on pillars and the Rohingya preferring structures made of mud.

The authorities dont want the different groups to dislike what government builds for them, so they have a plan to give them land and provide building material so they can build their own homes, the minister told the commissioners.

While the new homes are being built, the government will provide Rohingya refugees with temporary tents, food, and funds to build homes, Win Myat Aye told them.

Rights groups and the United Nations have cautioned against a hasty return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, saying that they will continue to face repression and discrimination in Buddhist-majority Myanmar, where they are considered illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and are denied citizenship and access to basic services.



Reported by Win Ko Ko Latt and Khin Khin Ei for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
Traditionally generous Americans may have less incentive to give to charitable causes next year when tax changes will make it less advantageous for many people to donate to charity in 2018, and it may be sparking a year-end stream of fattened contributions in anticipation, charity executives and experts say.

It's a trend local charities have noticed as the year closes and residents consider how they can help.

People who typically itemize deductions and include charitable giving, many will no longer have that benefit with the tax law, said Wegi Stewart, president of the Community Foundation of Macon County, which provides a connection between the goals of donors and the needs of the community. In the last week or so, weve had a scurry of activity with people taking advantage of the last few days of the year taking care of that tax year.

Starting next year, the millions of relatively small donations from moderate-income people to mainstream charities could be sharply reduced, charity experts say. That means charity could become less of a middle-class enterprise and a more exclusive domain of the wealthy, who tend to give to arts and cultural institutions, research facilities and universities. Their use of the charitable tax deduction is less likely to be affected by the new law.

The sweeping Republican tax overhaul, delivered by the GOP-dominated Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump, doesn't eliminate or even reduce the deduction for donations to charitable, religious and other nonprofit organizations. Charitable giving should be encouraged with a tax incentive, congressional Republicans crafting the plan said early on, and the cherished deduction  though costing some $41.5 billion a year in lost federal revenue  wasn't struck even as other longstanding deductions fell or were scaled back.

But it might as well have been, charity experts and advocates say.

A central pillar of the massive tax law doubles the standard deduction used by two-thirds of Americans, to $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for married couples. That means many taxpayers who now itemize deductions will find it's no longer beneficial for them do so. They'll find that the deductions they normally take, including for charitable giving, don't add up to as much as the new standard amount.

The result: Some estimates project that as few as 10 percent of taxpayers will continue to itemize deductions on their returns, down from the current one-third.

But Zach Shields Executive director of the Decatur Public Schools Foundation, said he believes people dont support the Decatur school district, teachers and students for tax deductions.

People look at kids as investment, instead of as charity, he said. People can support the causes because they care about them and not for the taxes.

Shields said his organization has had a good year overall: We have people who really believe in education who want to support us year after year.

At the Community Foundation of Macon County, Stewart said tax reform encouraged giving in 2017, calling it the best year weve ever had. The foundation saw a $7 million increase in 2017, reaching total assets of $37 million, she said.

Donations may decrease in coming years as the tax changes are felt, Stewart said, but she doesnt expect donors to disappear completely.

People arent generous because of their taxes, she said. They are generous because they have good hearts and want to help and that tax advantage is just an added bonus.

Nationally, it is expected the wealthiest Americans likely will continue to receive the tax benefit of using itemized deductions, including for charitable giving.

Especially for people who currently itemize and donate small to moderate amounts to charities, the tax incentive to give diminishes. And with the new law kicking in Jan. 1, they may want to max out their donations before year's end, rolling next year's giving back into 2017.

"I think we'll have some increased donations" this year, says Steve Taylor, senior vice president and counsel for public policy at the United Way. Already, United Way, one of the biggest U.S. charities, has seen some "doubling up" by large donors from what they would normally have been expected to give this year, Taylor said in an interview.

Some 7.2 million people donate less than $1,000 yearly  on average $154  to the United Way, according to Taylor. "We're very concerned," he said. "A lot of charities are in shock. Charities feel totally blindsided and like we have been thrown under the bus" in the tax overhaul.

Experts say the same thing occurred in late 1986  donations surged that year, dropped the next  after enactment of the Reagan administration tax overhaul, the biggest reworking of the U.S. tax system until this one.

Absent the incentive, Americans' charitable instincts could still lead them to give, but they're expected to give less  and may also change where and when they give.

For the large number of taxpayers who will no longer itemize, "their cost of giving goes up dramatically," said Patrick Rooney, a professor of economic and philanthropy and director of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. "It will absolutely have a negative impact."

Rooney and his colleagues foresee a resulting drop in charitable donations of around $14 billion next year, or 5 percent of the $282 billion that U.S. charities pulled in last year.

Religious congregations' donors may continue to commit small amounts or a percentage of their income regardless of tax incentives. That could make them less affected than arts and cultural organizations or research facilities and universities, which tend to attract more affluent donors who keep a close eye on their tax options, Rooney said.

In the meantime, charities may have to rework how they pitch their appeals to donors, suggested Marcus Owens, a partner in law firm Loeb & Loeb's Washington office. "I think what it will do is cause charities to sharpen their fundraising efforts. They'll need more sophisticated fundraising techniques," said Owens, who for 10 years headed the IRS's exempt organizations division, which deals with charities and political organizations.

At Catholic Charities, "It seems now that we have to redouble our efforts," said Lucas Swanepoel, the organization's vice president for social policy. "We really need to make sure we're telling the stories of the differences it makes in people's lives."
Three years ago, Herb Gary spent the bulk of his time wandering.

The 64-year-old Army veteran lived on the streets of Richmond for nearly two years. Getting by meant a lot of walking from one shelter to another, looking for a meal or a place to sleep as he battled major depression.

He had stopped taking his medication and said he was lost in his illness. He also lost his sense of self-awareness and, while he says he never lost his faith, he did forget it while he was homeless and living in a car.

Now, hes on his medication again, and he says he feels whole.

He got off the streets and managed to buy a home in Midlothian in June, thanks in large part to counseling and financial assistance he received through the McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

And with 2018 laid out freshly before him, he is looking forward to marrying his fiancee this year and enjoying the sense of peace that has wrapped itself around his life.

Sometimes its scary, but I keep doing the things that got me here, keep believing, keep having faith, he said. Its scary because youve been certain places you never want to go back to. But I know Ive come this far, and I know God wouldnt let me down.

Gary served in the Army for more than 17 years, spending the bulk of his time safeguarding hazardous material. He is one of hundreds of veterans able to turn their lives around through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program, or HUD-VASH.

The program combines case management and clinical services for veterans, along with a housing voucher for rental assistance to not only get them a home but also to pinpoint and address whatever the root cause of their homelessness was.

Jimmie Fedrick, a social worker with the program at McGuire, said there are currently about 345 veterans participating. The medical center has more than $1.2 million budgeted toward the program, a figure that includes salaries for 16 employees.

Once a veteran is housed, they work with social workers, peer support specialists, the VA as a whole, case management services to make sure theyre successful in their independent living, Fedrick said.

***

Many veterans who find themselves in situations of homelessness are, like Gary, battling mental health issues, Fedrick explained. Others have substance abuse issues, and many typically have no to very low incomes. According to the National Center on Homelessness among Veterans, men who served are twice as likely and women who served are three times as likely as their civilian counterparts to become homeless.

The veterans can be in the program for however long it takes to make sure their lives are stable and that theyre no longer at risk of becoming homeless.

Our individuals stay in our program until they have ... graduated, which means they have had permanent, suitable income or employment, theyve identified and reached their goals, and theyve overcome whatever elements or situations caused them to fall into a homeless state, Fedrick said.

These individuals, they have paid a price; they have participated in something greater than themselves, he said. One of our mottos is, Its our turn to serve these veterans.

In late 2015, Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced that Virginia had functionally ended veteran homelessness in the state. The keyword was functionally. That does not mean no veteran will ever experience homelessness, rather that resources are in place to ensure any such experience is brief.

As long as homelessness is an issue in our society in general, veterans will experience those same challenges, said Jeff Doyle, the homeless coordinator for the VA Mid-Atlantic Health Care Network, which includes Virginia. As long as we keep a focus, and sustain our programs, thats how we can continue to move forward. ... Thats why we can look at it and say that Virginia continues to have ended veteran homelessness.

Since HUD-VASH began in 2008, additional vouchers have been added so more veterans can sign up for it as more are identified.

Were tasked with providing the best health care possible for the veterans of the United States and, in my opinion, housing is health care, Doyle said. You cant live a healthy life if youre living on the streets.

***

For Gary, getting into the program in August 2015, receiving a voucher soon after and then moving into a home in Richmonds South Side meant taking control of his depression.

I was still going through my mental health program, becoming more and more strong in my mental capacity and my self-awareness, and things just started moving in the right direction for me, he said.

He had his voucher for close to two years when he knew he was ready to move on. The program had given him the opportunity to re-establish his finances, making it possible for him to buy a house, and he also knew he wanted to release his voucher and open a spot for another veteran who could take advantage of it.

I knew there was more for me to be accomplished, he said.

The 1,500-square-foot house he owns in Midlothian was one of the first he saw after he began looking. He had looked around at some others, but said the first house kept coming back to him.

He has made a complete recovery since the days when he wandered the streets of Richmond trying to get by and struggled with his mental health. He is close with his family and welcomed his third grandchild into the world in mid-December. He even does some work as a peer for other veterans going through similar experiences.
Why you know him: The former city auditor led the 14-person city department that uncovers waste, fraud and mismanagement in Richmond City Hall until July. During his 11-year tenure, he led hundreds of investigations and audits, earning praise from some who viewed him as a watchdog and criticism from others who viewed him as a grandstander.

In July, the City Council agreed to pay Umesh Dalal almost $400,000 to secure his resignation after employees he managed raised concerns about his management style and other problems in the department, including high turnover. The council ordered an investigation into the claims, which were made in the spring.

City Council President Chris A. Hilbert said at the time that Dalal set the terms of his exit package, which included about $107,000 for unused vacation time and a $285,000 payment to his retirement plan, allowing him to retire with full benefits four years early.

Some council members expressed regret at the payout  the largest of its kind to a departing city employee in recent memory  after approving the sum. Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney criticized it as excessive.

Whats new: The City Council is set to announce Dalals replacement in a special meeting called for Wednesday. Two sources familiar with the hire have confirmed it will be Lou Lassiter, a deputy county administrator in Chesterfield County, but neither the city nor Lassiter has officially confirmed it.

Filling the position on an interim basis since September has been William C. Barrett III, whom a majority of council members supported over Dalals deputy, Amarilis Lily Hernandez.

Dalal technically held a dual role, serving as auditor and the citys inspector general.

In December, the council requested the General Assembly amend the citys charter to create a separate office of the inspector general. Dividing the duties is aimed at promoting a better working relationship between the auditor and the various city departments from which it seeks information.

In an interview, Dalal said he was indifferent about the proposed changes, adding that the hurdles he navigated resulted from the reluctance of individuals to comply with his requests, not necessarily a flaw in his offices dual role.

What does he think the city needs in its next auditor?

For Richmond, somebody with really significant experience in government auditing would be ideal, Dalal said. Theres a lot of issues that need to be resolved. The city needs help.

As for the circumstances surrounding his resignation, Dalal declined to comment.

Ive moved on, he said. Whatever is done is done, and Im enjoying my retirement.
Why you know her: When President Donald Trump announced in September his intentions to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program, Nelly Gonzalez was on the front lines of protests in Richmond.

Whats new: Gonzalez is entering her final semester at John Tyler Community College before transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University, her dream school.

I just dont know what theyre going to do, she said. I want to finish school as quickly as possible. I want to get as much education as possible.

Her life is still filled with uncertainty. If the Trump administrations actions end the program that provides protection to children of undocumented immigrants, she will be deported back to her native Mexico.

The administrations plan calls for the federal government to stop considering new DACA applications but allowed DACA recipients with a permit set to expire before March 5, 2018, the chance to apply for a two-year renewal by Oct. 5, 2017.

Meanwhile, Gonzalez, 22, faces deportation to the country her parents left when she was 5.

The September announcement  which she witnessed while working one of her three jobs  prompted Gonzalez and others across Richmond to protest the decision. Community members held a rally and vigil on Broad Street in downtown the same night. The next day, VCU students staged their own rally on campus in support of the protections afforded by DACA.

Gonzalez has since cut the number of jobs she works to one, leading the marketing team at an employment agency. She has focused on finishing at John Tyler before transferring  going to school full time and working part time.

Congress has not taken action on extending DACA protections, something Trump has asked it to do.

Virginia has more than 1,300 DACA recipients, with Northern Virginia having the largest concentration, according to state data. Across the country, there are nearly 800,000 Dreamers.

As the debate continues in Washington, those recipients, including Gonzalez, are on edge.

I just hope they do make the right decision, she said. Were still biting our nails. Were depending on this.
It's been cold, and it's now going to be downright dangerous this New Year's weekend with wind chills in negative territory and a scattering of snow to top it off.

Four other stories you should read are two new student centers at Richland, Cape Air success has Decatur Airport officials hopeful, flu reports on the rise and teen's murder case awaits DCFS report.

Central Illinois braces for dangerous wind chills

City officials say road crews have hit the streets to combat the two inches of snow that the National Weather Service in Lincoln predicted Decatur will receive Friday.

Daniel Mendenall, municipal services manager for the city of Decatur, said 15 trucks were sent out Friday afternoon to clear off snow from the roads and spread salt and calcium chloride to melt it. The trucks will work to clear the main roads first, he said, and then will make their way into residential areas.

Richland ready to open two student centers

As Richland Community College students enjoy their winter break, work is being completed on two new centers that represent nearly $10 million in improvements and aim to create a more modern, streamlined experienced for students.

Both the Carroll Center for Innovative Learning, focused on 21st-century labs and community space, and Student Success Center, meant to create more efficient enrollment efforts, are set to open in January. Together, they take up more than 30,000 square feet of new space at the campus on the city's northeast side.

Decatur hopeful Cape Air success can be repeated here

The commercial airline that will begin serving Decatur Airport early next year celebrated a major milestone in Southern Illinois this week, success that Decatur officials hope it can replicate here.

Cape Air recorded 10,000 enplanements, or passengers flying out, at Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois in Marion on Tuesday. It's a benchmark that the Decatur Airport hasn't met in more than a decade, one that comes with extra federal cash for airport improvements.

Health professionals urge caution amid flu outbreak

Health professionals have seen an uptick in influenza cases in the last two weeks in Central Illinois and across the country.

Recently, in the past two weeks, weve seen more number of cases, said Dr. Jignesh Modi an infectious disease specialist at HSHS St. Marys Hospital. I think it is a weather change and people like to stay in house so they are exposed to more infections and more risk.

Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's FluView noted the number of states reporting widespread flu activity jumped from 23 to 36 for the week ending Dec. 23, the latest report available.

Teen's murder trial awaiting DCFS report

The wheels of justice grinding toward a trial for Zachary M. Pherigo, who is charged with shooting and killing his 2-year-old nephew, are turning slower as the prosecution and defense await a state report into the toddler's death.

Justin Lee Murphy Jr. was shot in the back Oct. 14 in the 1400 block of East Wellington Way, police said. Pherigo, 17, of Decatur, told police the shooting was an accident while playing with a .45-caliber handgun he had found a day earlier near a dumpster.
The top Republican in Virginias House of Delegates said Friday that the GOP plans to elect its own speaker on the first day of the legislative session, claiming Democratic efforts to challenge the tied result in a Newport News-area House race will force the body to move forward without one member or risk jeopardizing aspects of Gov.-elect Ralph Northams inauguration.

Del. M. Kirkland Cox, R-Colonial Heights, who hopes to become the next House speaker if Republicans can hold on to their majority after losing at least 15 seats in last months elections, called the Democratic legal filings and PR campaign crying foul over the apparent tie between Republican Del. David E. Yancey and Democrat Shelly Simonds in the 94th House District a deliberate strategy to make it more difficult for the House to organize smoothly.

With the outcome in the 94th District still unsettled, Cox said in a conference call with reporters that even if a planned tiebreaker occurs before the legislative session begins Jan. 10, the House wont seat the winner if the loser asks for a recount. Cox didnt say definitively if Yancey will ask for a recount if Simonds wins, but he said its unlikely a second recount could occur before Jan. 10. If other results hold, that means Republicans would have a 50-49 majority on opening day, presumably allowing Cox to be elected speaker.

We will not allow the intentional and politically motivated blame tactics to impede the organization of the House, said Cox, who was announced on the press call as speaker-designee, a presumptive title Cox had dropped when it appeared Simonds had won the 94th District race over Yancey by a single vote.

At the end of a recount last week, a three-judge panel decided to count one additional ballot for Yancey, creating a tie that could prove pivotal to who controls the nearly evenly split House.

Shortly after Cox said the winner of the tiebreaker wont be seated in time to vote in the speakership election, the chairman of the State Board of Elections announced that the random drawing to break the tie has been rescheduled for next Thursday, Jan. 4.

The tiebreaker had been scheduled to be held this week, but the elections board called it off after Simonds filed a new legal motion asking the recount court to reverse itself. Elections Board Chairman James B. Alcorn said the rescheduled drawing will happen unless the court intervenes.

If Simonds wins the tiebreaker and is seated in time for organizational votes, the House would be split 50-50, forcing Democrats and Republicans to share power. If Yancey wins, Republicans would have a 51-49 majority.

If the House cant organize on Jan. 10, Cox said, the General Assembly wont be able to follow through with Gov. Terry McAuliffes farewell speech that night or some formalities of Northams Jan. 13 inauguration because there wont be a joint assembly of the legislature.

Those things simply cannot happen in their current form if the General Assembly isnt organized, Cox said.

Simonds has repeatedly denounced the recount process as unfair, saying Yanceys legal team broke recount rules by disputing a ballot late in the process when it appeared Simonds had won by one vote. Simonds has said her attorneys werent afforded the same opportunity to contest ballots during the final court hearing to certify the recount results.

In response to Coxs comments, House Democrats said in a statement Friday that Simonds was the rightful winner and accused Republicans of taking desperate measures to keep the majority.

We find it disappointing that the House Republicans are using the inaugural festivities as a smokescreen to hang on to power, said Katie Baker, communications director for Virginia House Democrats.

Simonds said Friday that she understands Coxs frustration with the delay, but she said Yancey caused this delay by making an end-run around the rules.

Democrats were planning a series of rallies for electoral justice Saturday, with events planned in Richmond, Fredericksburg and Alexandria.

Meanwhile, Republicans filed new legal paperwork of their own Friday asking the three-judge panel that oversaw the recount in the 94th District to reject Simonds appeals for a new decision that would declare her the winner. Yanceys lawyers also sent a letter to the State Board of Elections asking for the postponed tiebreaker to be held as soon as possible.

The recount judges  Newport News Circuit Judge Bryant L. Sugg, Powhatan County Circuit Judge Paul W. Cella and Chesterfield County Circuit Judge David E. Johnson  have not yet responded to Simonds request to revisit the matter.

Democrats picked up 15 other GOP-held seats in the Nov. 7 elections, destroying what had been a 66-34 GOP majority. A Democratic lawsuit is also pending in the 28th House District election, but Republicans appear to be operating on the assumption that lawsuit wont impact their ability to seat Republican Bob Thomas, who finished 73 votes ahead of Democrat Joshua Cole in a recount last week. The lawsuit in the 28th District asks a federal court to throw out the result and order a special election because of system errors that caused 147 voters to cast ballots in the wrong House district.

In the 94th District, Yancey entered the Dec. 19 recount with a 10-vote lead over Simonds. Simonds emerged with what appeared to be a one-vote victory until the judges decided to accept the one additional vote for Yancey during a hearing Dec. 20. On the ballot in question, a voter filled in bubbles for both Simonds and Yancey, but put a slash mark through Simonds bubble.

Simonds lawyers have argued that the ballot should have been discarded as an impermissible overvote and that the court shouldnt have reviewed it to begin with because it wasnt set aside during the recount.

The ballot came to light when a Yancey-aligned recount official wrote a letter saying he initially felt it should have counted for Yancey but ultimately agreed it should be tossed out under pressure from fellow recount officials.

The Republican legal filing argues that, under state law, a written statement from a recount official challenging a ballot is enough to trigger a judicial review regardless of when its brought forward.

The filing also notes that Democrats used the same process in the 28th District to persuade judges to count a ballot for the Democratic candidate there.
[CHARLOTTESVILLE] The University of Virginia Health System will see another loss in federal funding after being penalized by Medicare for its rate of patient injuries.

According to a report from Kaiser Health News, the university is among 751 hospitals  115 of which are academic medical centers  that will lose a portion of its Medicare funding per an Affordable Care Act penalty that was designed to decrease the number of health care-related injuries and infections.

The Health System is reportedly poised to lose about $5 million in funding.

U.Va. Health System spokesman Eric Swensen said Thursday that the methodology unfairly penalizes referral and safety-net hospitals that see a disproportionate number of vulnerable and at-risk patients who are more susceptible to complications and infections.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that hospitals penalized more frequently through this methodology had more quality accreditations, offered advanced services, were major teaching institutions and had better performance on other outcomes measures, Swensen said.

He said the Health Systems Be Safe initiative has focused on enhancing safety and quality processes to improve outcomes for patients. He said the initiative has helped decrease catheter-associated urinary tract infections by more than 70 percent in the past five years.

Through Be Safe, U.Va. Health System is committed every day to improving the care our patients receive, Swensen said.
For many, the past 18 months have been a dark time. They watched as a reality television star ascended to the presidency with a message of xenophobia, separation, and bullying. People have clashed over the rights of people of color, whether a persons faith should prevent entry into the United States, and access to basic health care. The feelings of many run the gamut of division, despair, and demoralization. What we seem to be missing is hope.

Hope is a funny thing. We often think of hope as this benign and gentle feeling. I hope I get a new phone for Christmas. That isnt hope, but a simple daydream, a wish with no force behind it. Hope is different and has a grittier side. It is the prisoner of war waking up in the morning and thinking that this may be the day hell be freed. It is the single mother who has been applying for jobs every day for the past year believing that today is the day she finds work. Hope is born in times of despair and darkness.

Last year, and especially after the 2016 election, many people who had never run for office before decided it was time to do so. People with messages of inclusiveness and unity won elections to mayoral offices, county seats, school boards, and state legislatures all over the country. All of them saw a problem so imminent and massive that they felt compelled to do more than just witness it. They had to do something. That is the power of hope.

The most hopeful thing is to believe the world can be a better place. That change for the betterment of humanity is not only possible, but within our power. This hope for a fair and just world comes from a deep love for all who dwell in it and the belief that empowered love can change the world. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King said, What is needed is a realization that power without love is reckless and abusive, and that love without power is sentimental and anemic. Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love.

Power without love is seen in the disregard for the lives of black and brown citizens in this country that has led to systems of oppression. It is seen in the treatment of women in the workforce; prioritizing their sexuality and diminishing their capabilities have led us to a culture of assault and degradation. When one group is made small, we are all made small. To make this world a better place we must stand against everything that would stand against love. If we hope to achieve the global community, we must work for justice.

Cornel West has famously said that Justice is what love looks like in public. All of those who were running for public office for the first time demonstrated what love looks like in the most public way possible. Many of them may have joked about moving to Canada before the presidential election but after the election their tone changed. They were willing to push themselves to stand up for the country they believed in, for if you love the ideals of freedom and equality and justice for all citizens, you are going to have to stand up for those ideals in public.

Love in public is not easy work. It is often confrontational, exposing your beliefs to others who may not agree with you. Weve seen it in protests and counterprotests that have erupted in violence. Love in public is risky because it means getting uncomfortable and taking a risk. It may not be welcomed, but it is needed.

But love in public is not without rewards. The #MeToo campaign helped to bring light to systems of oppression against women, and some men are being held accountable for their actions. People are having earnest discussions about the culture of Confederate statues and white supremacy. And while you may not convince your relatives to switch their political views, maybe you will give someone else at the dinner table something to think about. It is these small victories in justice that give us hope to continue the work.

The riskiest love-in-public work is the work that takes you out of your own community and into the community of those who have been denied justice. Ask anyone who has ever mentored in a low-income school district, or volunteered at a womens shelter. Creating personal connections with those who need justice the most broadens the definition of ourselves and gives us clearer insight as to what the global community would truly look like. Desires for the greater good come more sharply into focus, which inspires more action. Hope inspires justice, which feeds hope. It is a beautiful cycle to be caught in.

All of us hope for a better world, and we hope to make a difference. The best way to keep that hope alive is to give it love and power and turn it into justice. If justice is what love looks like in public, then hope is what makes us go public with our love.
Famous father-and-son architects are rare  especially these days, when few firms names end in and Son. Theyre not unheard of, though. In the United States, they have included Frank Lloyd Wright and John Lloyd Wright, Eliel Saarinen and Eero Saarinen and Richard Neutra and Dion Neutra.

Richmond can also lay claim to a famous father-son combo  Marcellus Wright Sr. and Marcellus Wright Jr. Between the two of them, they helped to shape Richmonds architectural landscape over the course of nearly 70 years, and their firm continues to have an impact today.

The two Wrights didnt share a lot stylistically, though. While both earned prestigious bachelors degrees from the University of Pennsylvanias School of Architecture, they were products of radically different times.

Wright Sr.: A torchbearer for Classicism

Wright Sr., who was born in Hanover County in 1881, worked at Richmond-based Noland & Baskervill before attending college, and his designs reflected an abiding belief in Classicism.

Wright Sr. was significant in carrying on the formal, Classicist type of architecture associated with William Churchill Noland into the 20th century, said Joseph Jody Lahendro, an architect who worked for the Wright firm in the early 1980s. (Today, hes a historic preservation architect at the University of Virginia.)

Wright Sr.s standout buildings include the First Church of Christ Scientist at 2201 Monument Avenue, completed in 1937; the William Byrd Hotel, completed in 1925; the Hotel John Marshall, completed in 1929; and the Altria Theater (formerly known as The Mosque), a Moorish Revival-style theater completed in 1927. (Wright Sr. collaborated with Charles M. Robinson on the Altria Theaters design.)

The Mosque was a huge commission and a very complex building, said Joseph F. Yates, who worked for the Wright firm from 1978 to 1982. (Today, hes president of Richmond-based Joseph F. Yates Architects.) Its an outstanding building, and it would be in any city.

Wright Jr.: A Modernist who pushed for change

By contrast, Wright Jr., who was born in Richmond in 1907, emphasized sleek Modernism in his designs. He had been exposed to the architectural style in college, when it was gaining national prominence, and his focus on it continued when he returned to Richmond after serving as a major in the U.S. Army during World War II. He joined his fathers firm in 1945, and it was renamed Marcellus Wright and Son Architects.

Among the standout buildings the firm undertook with Wright Jr.s guidance are the Berkshire apartments on West Franklin Street; River Towers on Riverside Drive; the U.S. Post Office on Brook Road; and the 1965 addition to the General Assembly Building at the corner of East Broad and Ninth streets. (The General Assembly Building is slated for demolition.)

The General Assembly Building was the epitome of his work, said Fred Cox, who joined the firm in 1958. I think its the best Modern building in Richmond.

Wright Jr. didnt limit himself to individual design projects, either.

He also was active as a planner and visionary for Richmonds future growth and development, said Steven M. Reiss, a Richmond-based architect.

In addition to advocating for The Downtown Expressway and a civic center in Jackson Ward, he promoted the construction of high-rise office and apartment buildings throughout the city, sometimes at the expense of historic preservation.

Wanting to champion Modern architecture and urban renewal when your dad designed the Mosque and played a role in old Richmond must have been tough for Wright Jr., Lahendro said.

Wright Sr. died in 1962, after which his son took his place as managing partner. Wright Jr. retired in the early 1970s, and Cox became managing partner. Cox and another partner, Edward A. Smith III, collaborated on many of the firms most prominent projects after Wrights retirement.

However, Wright Jr. remained active as a community volunteer and real estate consultant until his death in 2002.

He was very important politically in the city, said Cox, whom the American Institute of Architects made a Fellow in 1986. Its the highest honor the AIA bestows on individual architects.

The firm now operates as Marcellus Wright Cox Architects.

The firms residential work

In the course of more than a century, the firm has focused primarily on commercial and institutional work, rather than single-family residences.

Designing homes was ancillary and often done for our private clients, Cox said. However, we have designed several hundred homes and additions in Greater Richmond.

Among the standouts are several homes on Monument Avenue designed by Wright Sr., as well as a trio of Modern-style homes designed by Cox, which are south of Cary Street Road near the Wilton House. And the Second Empire-style house that Wright Sr. designed at 1015 West Franklin Street is particularly striking, with its mansard roof and heavy, rusticated masonry at its ground level.

The firm also has participated in numerous historic renovations, including the Branch House at 2501 Monument Avenue, the Kent-Valentine House at 12 East Franklin Street and the Bolling Haxall House at 211 West Franklin Street.

The firm is considered one of the founding firms of Richmond, and its still very well-reputed, Reiss said.

_______________
Editor's note: The Herald & Review is counting down the top stories of 2017. Share your thoughts on our selections at herald-review.com/letters.

Long lauded by community leaders for his financial support of Decatur, Howard Buffett cemented his place in the public eye this year when he became Macon County sheriff.

Buffett was appointed in September by outgoing Sheriff Thomas Schneider, who said he was stepping down because of high stress and his health. Schneider said he picked Buffett, a five-year volunteer for the office, because did not want to favor any of the three lieutenants who are seeking the post in the November election.

"Im looking at this as an opportunity to learn and contribute," Buffett said after his swearing-in ceremony. "Ive only got a short time to do it, so Im going to take advantage of that."

Buffett, the son of multi-billionaire investor Warren Buffett, came to Decatur in the 1990s to work for Archer Daniels Midland Co. His private foundation has spent hundreds of millions of dollars on efforts to end world hunger, among other causes.

Decatur, where his foundation is headquartered, has also been a major beneficiary. Buffetts financial gifts to the area have been wide-ranging and totaled tens of millions of dollars.

Many have aimed to help law enforcement: consultants to look at improvements for the Macon County jail, police vehicles, K-9 programs across the state and a new prosecutor in the Macon County State's Attorney's Office to focus solely on opioids.

Since 2016, Buffett's foundation spent nearly $20 million building two facilities on the city's south side: a $15 million law enforcement training facility owhere police recruits from across the state began training earlier this year and a $4.2 million facility for the new Central Illinois Regional Dispatch Center, which opens Jan. 1.

But Buffett has also targeted social services and education-related causes. In 2017 alone, he gave $710,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Decatur; $3 million to the Children's Museum of Illinois for a new expansion that honors law enforcement; $1 million to the Decatur City Council for neighborhood improvement efforts; and $1.65 million to the Decatur Public Schools for a new agriculture program, among other donations.

Next year, one of Buffett's gifts could change the face of recreation in Decatur with the construction of a large amphitheater in Nelson Park. The $3.9 million amphitheater, with Lake Decatur as a backdrop for performers, is a major component of the Decatur Park District's long-term lakefront development effort.

In November, Buffett was honored by Decatur community leaders with a place on the city's Wall of Fame.

With everything he does, he is trying to make a difference, Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe said during a ceremony to announce the honor. Thank you for everything you do.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
CHARLOTTESVILLE  A smaller number of students believe sexual assault and misconduct are serious problems at the University of Virginia now than in 2015, according to a survey released earlier this month.

In a campus climate survey, 25.1 percent of respondents said sexual assault and misconduct were very or extremely problematic at UVa, as opposed to 39 percent of respondents in a survey two years ago.

The 2017 survey, distributed randomly to 5,000 students , is the second conducted at the university. In 2015, UVa was one of 27 higher education institutions that participated in a survey by the Association of American Universities. Both surveys show that while awareness of campus resources and trust in university officials are increasing, assault and misconduct still happen and are perceived to occur with frequency.

The purpose of the 2017 survey, according to the university, was to estimate the prevalence of sex violence in the 2016-17 school year; look at how students see the climate surrounding sexual assault and misconduct; and assess student knowledge of resources available.

Weve had an uptick in training and outreach for students and staff, said UVas Title IX coordinator, Emily Babb. We did see in the climate survey an increase in awareness of our office, but were looking to increase that even more.

According to the 2017 survey, a majority of the 2,726 respondents said they believed the university would be supportive and protective of students reporting sexual assault, and an increasing number said they believed university officials would take action against an offender.

According to the survey, in the 2016-17 school year, 12 percent of female undergraduate respondents reported incidents of sexual assault by physical force, threat of physical force or incapacitation, a slight decrease from 2015.

By contrast, 3 percent of male undergraduate respondents reported having been sexually assaulted by physical force, threat of physical force or incapacitation.

Forty-five percent of respondents said it is very or extremely likely that officials would take action against an offender, up from 28 percent in 2015.

The 2015 survey had 5,500 respondents at UVa, and about 150,000 nationwide.

It was conducted just a few months after the scandal surrounding a n article in Rolling Stone  later discredited  that accused the UVa administration of downplaying sexual assault.

In 2015, the university adopted a new Title IX policy, and at the same time was doing a climate survey, Babb said, describing increased staffing and resources to handle sexual assault and misconduct. The university has added additional confidential resources, such as the womens center and counseling and psychological services.

The Title IX Office, Babb said, also wants to increase the number of groups engaging in conversations about sexual assault prevention with the office, and it has increased its numbers of in-person, tailored trainings.

Though news in 2015 focused on sexual assault, recent high-profile accounts of sexual harassment, including allegations made against UVa creative writing professor John Casey, have drawn more attention to the topic.

Graduate students were less likely to be victims of sexual assault and harassment, but were more likely to face harassment from faculty and staff, according to the 2017 survey.

The survey results indicated that graduate students have slightly less awareness of our office and our policies, Babb said. Weve put on our horizon to reach out and improve our training. One thing we know practically is that graduate students come in through a variety of ways; they dont come in through a first-year orientation like an undergraduate student does.

Students with disabilities and LGBTQ students also need more outreach about Title IX policies and resources, Babb said.

Reporting periods in the 2015 and 2017 surveys were a little different, said Sarah Schultz Robinson, assistant director of UVas Office of Institutional Assessment and Studies, which administered both surveys. The questions were the same in each survey, to give consistent data, though Robinson said that concerns about one or two questions might lead the university to tweak them in future surveys.

Surveys are only one mechanism to get a glimpse of student perspectives, Babb said. UVa plans to conduct online surveys and hold recurring focus groups in the future.

The university also released the 2016-17 Report on Response to Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Other Forms of Interpersonal Violence, which showed that UVas Title IX Office resolved 40 reports of prohibited conduct, with 16 of those resulting in sanctions.
DECATUR  With snow falling and wind chills dipping into single digits, African-American Cultural and Genealogical Society Museum founder Evelyn Hood called another organizer of the annual Kwanzaa celebration on Friday.

It was a short conversation.

"Are we canceling today?" Hood asked Ada Owens, activities director for the museum.

"No," Owens said. "Even if we have to say the (seven) principles ourselves, and to ourselves, it's going on."

But later, in the warmth of the Decatur Public Library's Madden Auditorium, they weren't alone. People of all ages and backgrounds overcame the slick roads and frigid temperatures to celebrate culture, community and family.

The museum has sponsored the event for over a decade, and Owens said the amount of local interest in Kwanzaa has grown each year.

"A lot of times when I talk to people about coming and participating in Kwanzaa, they always ask 'What is Kwanzaa?' " she said. "Then I explain a little bit about it, and that sparks their interest, and more folks start to get involved."

Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by a political and cultural scientist, Maulana Ron Karenga, to celebrate the African heritage and contemporary culture of black people. It celebrates seven core principles:

Umoja (Unity)

Kujichagulia (Self-determination)

Ujima (Collective work and responsibility)

Ujamaa (Cooperative economics)

Nia (Purpose)

Kuumba (Creativity)

Imani (Faith)

Friday was the fourth day of the seven-day celebration, based on the tradition in many African countries of celebrating the harvest at the end of the year.

Lt. Tony Brown of the Macon County Sheriff's Office was the event's guest speaker, and encouraged the audience to learn about and to embrace the past as a way to bring positive influence to the future.

"All of us should take the time to educate ourselves and teach our younger generation like we were taught," he said. "It's our duty to make sure they are educated about the sacrifices that have been made for them to give us the freedoms that we all enjoy together."

In addition to Brown's message, Millikin University Professor Ngozi Onuora recited poetry written by Gwendolyn Brooks, the first black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. The celebration also featured music and prayer, and concluded with the traditional lighting of the kinara, which is a candle holder made up of seven ceremonial candles.

The candles  one black, three green and three red  represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

"Some people to this day believe that Kwanzaa was created to replace Christmas, but it's not a religious holiday," Hood said. "It's about our culture."

While she hopes the celebration informed and inspired all of its attendees, Hood said she particularly hopes the youth took something away that afternoon. If the reaction of Simeon and Samuel Risby is any indication, she was successful: 9-year-old Samuel described the event as "entertaining and educational," and his older brother considered it "eye-opening."

"It makes you think about how strong we are as people, and if we just work together, we can make something bigger," said Simeon, 14.
BIG ISLAND  On his drive home Friday morning, Taylor Neas thought he had finished his days work as a firefighter  until he received a notification a house that had been in his family for generations was on fire.

Moments later, he jumped on a tanker rushing out of the town of Bedford to lend a hand.

Firefighters were deployed to Charlemont Road following a 911 call about 8:45 a.m.

Matt Scott, deputy chief of the Bedford Fire Department, said he took about 10 minutes to arrive at the scene near Sedalia from Bedford. He found the blaze had spread throughout the second floor and was threatening the first story.

Below-freezing temperatures and the houses rural location made for a challenge in getting water to the scene, Scott said.

Were having to get water from different locations now, ones that are a lot farther away because of frozen lines, he said Friday .

Lacking fire hydrants, he said, firefighters typically would draw water out of what are known as dry hydrants  pipes installed in natural water sources in rural areas for firefighter use.

On Friday, he said, the cold had frozen those pipes, rendering them unusable. Some trucks drew water from the Georgia-Pacific paper mill some eight miles away.

Tankers pumped available water into a dump tank close to the house for firefighters . Some firefighters chopped away at the houses siding so others could blast the fire inside with hoses from below.

Scott estimated the home was built in the early 1900s. Its wood structure burned hot and fast, with no fire stops to prevent the flames from spreading along the walls, he said.

Travis Bowyer said he was home with his other brother Thomas when the fire broke out. He said Thomas Bowyer tried to use a fire extinguisher on flames in the attic before they realized the smoke was too thick. Then they fled the house safely with their dog.

Im just looking at it like, Im trusting in the Lord, he said.

He said his grandfather was born and raised in the house, and various family members have lived in it .

Hed been living there with his brother for about a month. Both will be able to stay with family nearby, he said.

Face streaked with ash and exhausted after a long day, Neas said witnessing the loss from any fire he works is hard, but this time was especially so. My wife and I had our first daughter [here], he said. We had no place to stay, and we were young. Nobody was living here, and my mom told me, Yall move in, stay as long as you need. So this house sheltered us for about two and a half years; got me through college until we moved out. Theres a lot of memories here, and its hard.

The youngest of the three brothers, Neas also recalled growing up in the house and riding four-wheelers through the fields with friends in the neighborhood.

His mother, Cathy Neas, said shes just glad her sons were able to escape the fire. She said theyd worked hard on the house, and she had left it in good hands.

A lot of generations of our family have been here, she said. Weve got so many memories and so many pictures, but were all safe, and thats the main thing.

Neighbors couldnt miss the pillar of smoke and came to offer comfort to the family. Some got pizza and water for the firefighters to take a lunch break when the fire was mostly out.

During that break, Scott said the home would be demolished to finish extinguishing the hot spots left over, since collapses inside made conditions too dangerous for firefighters. Later, he said he and other Bedford firefighters left the scene by 4 p.m., having spent eight hours fighting the blaze and leaving it in wetted-down piles of debris.

Jason Morgan, deputy fire marshal for Bedford County, said Friday morning he might have to come back to the home today to leave time for it to cool down.

The house itself is going to be a total loss, he said.

Still, Scott said firefighters still had to search the building despite hearing no one was injured.

We always try to salvage as much personal property as we possibly can, he said. ... As long as we feel safe about it, we can still make a difference.

Material things, Im not even worried about that, Travis Bowyer said while watching the houses charcoaled frame emerge from the smoke. ... You know, sometimes I look at it like, fire has a way of cleansing. ... Youve got to look for the good in it.

Scott estimated about 30 emergency responders worked the fire.

Responding agencies included Bedford County Fire & Rescue, Bedford Fire Department, Big Island Volunteer Fire Company, Big Island Emergency Crew, Boonsboro Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, Forest Volunteer Fire Department, Moneta Volunteer Fire Department and Montvale Volunteer Fire Company.

As the fire attack wound down, and the other firefighters flocked around the pizza, Taylor Neas pulled some objects out of the wet ashes.

Look at that, Thomas Bowyer told his mother as his brother handed her a tiny white Bible. It was burnt around the edges but still readable, and the pearly white cover still reflected the sunlight.

Well pull together, Cathy Neas said with a tear in her eye. Well rebuild again.
STAUNTON  Augusta County Fire-Rescue and Virginia State Police investigators were trying to pin down the cause of an early Friday morning fire that heavily damaged the Red Roof Inn and sent guests running for safety into the frigid night air in their pajamas.

The fire broke out around 1 a.m., and multiple units from Augusta County were needed to put out the blaze.

Richard Haney of Woodbridge said he had time to get only his family out of the motel, but had to leave a pet dog behind. Fortunately, a firefighter was able to rescue the animal.

As soon as I saw the flames I grabbed my children out and called my mother and sister to get out, Haney said. We were unable to get to get this vehicle out of here because everything happened so quick. My dog was left behind. I came back last night and one of the police officers had him. He was very traumatized, but doing OK.

Sadly, another pet was not as lucky. The animal  its not known what kind  perished in the blaze. A firefighter was slightly injured, but otherwise no people were hurt.

We had one firefighter who had some cuts on his hands and we did have an animal perish in the fire, Augusta County Fire-Rescue Chief Carson Holloway. As far as I know that was the only injuries. The conditions were horrendous [and] the guys did a tremendous job.

It was a great teamwork effort by a lot of different departments who came together. It went to a third-alarm and probably nine or 10 departments.

Holloway said the fires origin had been narrowed to the second floor of the motel in an area of one or two rooms in the northwest corner.

But what caused the fire has yet to be determined.

The fire chief said the second floor in the northern part of the L-shaped motel suffered heavy fire damage.

Other portions of the motel sustained water damage. Holloway said no dollar estimate of the damage was immediately available. He said the motel was unsafe for occupancy.

Despite initial reports of entrapment, the motels 65 year-end holiday week guests and staff members safely evacuated without suffering injury.

[Staff and guests] knocked on doors, said Holloway. Fire crews also made sure all people were out of the rooms.

He said the countys emergency communications center director was able to get new motel accommodations for those guests displaced. We thought about opening a shelter, Holloway said. But we found motels to take the people.

Holloway expects to meet with the Virginia State Police investigator again early next week to get an update on the five-alarm fires cause.

The motel is located east of the I-81-U.S. 250 interchange near Staunton.
Sunday, Dec. 24

Christmas Eve arrives with snow

Central Illinoisans dreaming of a white Christmas got their wish for the first time in seven years.

Brian Masterson of Decatur said it was hard to believe its been seven years since hes seen a white Christmas. This year is the first time his two sons, Lucas, 4, and Jaxon 3, will have a white Christmas.

The boys were bundled up as they walked through the snow in Central Park on Sunday to meet Santa Claus.

The last time there was more than an inch of snow on Christmas Day in Central Illinois was in 2010, according to the National Weather Service.

Monday, Dec. 25

It's another day at Scovill Zoo

While families all across the Decatur area spent Christmas morning unwrapping presents and spending time with their families, nearly a dozen zookeepers took to Scovill Zoo to tend to their daily duties to feed the animals and perform regular housekeeping.

A higher number of people came in on Monday than a typical day during the zoos off-season, said Zookeeper Brad Yetter. Several zookeepers stay all day, but others come in and out as they attend Christmas gatherings.

Tuesday, Dec. 26

10th homicide spurs call for solutions

The leader of the NAACP Decatur branch, Jeanelle Norman, called Tuesday for a blue-ribbon committee to look into causes of the citys rising murder rate after its 10th homicide this year.

With the shooting death of Marvin T. Murphy, 39, on Christmas Day, the city had more than doubled its 2016 homicide total and tied with 2011 for the greatest number of murders in the past decade.

Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe said she would be willing to work with Norman to see how such a committee could take shape.

Wednesday, Dec. 27

Homeowners rush to pay property taxes

An unprecedented rush to prepay next year's property tax bills has enveloped the Macon County offices as homeowners here and across the country hope to take advantage of a major tax deduction before it is wiped out in the new year.

Macon County Treasurer Edward Yoder said Wednesday that his downtown Decatur office has experienced much greater activity since last week when President Donald Trump signed the Republican-backed tax overhaul.

The law puts a new $10,000 limit on the amount of state and local taxes people can deduct from their income when calculating their federal tax liability.

Thursday, Dec. 28

Anti-abortion against state lawsuit dismissed

An Illinois judge dealt a blow to anti-abortion groups Thursday, dismissing a lawsuit aimed at stopping a law that's about to take effect that would expand Medicaid and state-employee group health insurance to cover abortions.

Associate Circuit Judge Jennifer Ascher ruled that the judiciary should not intervene in "political questions" in the General Assembly, such as a law's effective date or whether there's an appropriation to fund it.

Those are the pillars of the lawsuit seeking to stop the law from taking effect Monday. It was filed by the Catholic Thomas More Society on behalf of 11 conservative and Christian groups and a dozen legislators. An appeal is next.

Friday, Dec. 29

Wind chills plunge with arctic cold, snow

Near-record low temperatures were predicted for this weekend as a cold front moved into the region, according to the National Weather Service in Lincoln.

Bitterly cold air will plunge into the Midwest this weekend, and linger through Tuesday morning, the weather service said, issuing a hazardous weather outlook for the area.

Dangerously cold wind chills are possible each night with Sunday and Monday being the coldest capable of producing near-record low temperatures, the weather service said.

Residents were urged to stay indoors, cover up when outside and check on their neighbors and outdoor pets.
Three people are dead following an early Saturday morning house fire in Botetourt County .

The Botetourt Emergency Communications Center received reports around 2:45 a.m. of a home on fire with residents still inside in the Lithia area south of Buchanan , according to Battalion Chief Jason Ferguson.

When emergency crews arrived , they found three people outside the residence with varying degrees of burns.

The people outside told firefighters three more people were inside the house and had not been accounted for.

The three unaccounted-for occupants were later found deceased on scene, fire officials said. Their identities were not released, pending notification of family members.

The county wishes to express its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victims of this incident, said county spokesman Cody Sexton. We will communicate any opportunities available for supporting the family should they arise.

The three burn victims found outside the home were transported to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
CHICAGO  Gov. Bruce Rauner has again vetoed plans to prevent changes his administration want to make to in-home services aimed at keeping elderly Illinois residents out of nursing homes.

The Republican issued a veto message on Friday, saying the bill would reduce the ability "to assess and serve Illinois' elderly and persons with disabilities."

However, advocates of the proposal say changing in-home services could result in more expensive nursing home care. The plan would've put eligibility standards Rauner wants changed into law.

Roughly 36,000 Illinoisans age 60 and older are enrolled in the Community Care Program. Among other changes, Rauner wants to implement another option called the Community Reinvestment Program he says would better serve seniors and provide more flexibility.

Rauner has previously blocked similar plans.

The bill is HB 1424.
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, a form of scarring alopecia on the scalp, leads to permanent hair loss in African-American women.

Although the exact cause of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is not known, heredity, and hair styling techniques like tight braids, hair extensions, use of hot combs, hair straighteners and chemical relaxers, to name a few, have been suggested as causes of CCCA. (Source: The Australasian College Of Dermatologists).

A new study conducted by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests that there is an increased risk of uterine fibroids in African-American women with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia.

The study involved analyzing patient data from the Johns Hopkins electronic medical record system of 487,104 black women, ages 18 and over, during a four-year period from 2013-2017. The prevalence of fibroids in patients with and without CCCA was compared.

According to the researchers, "13.9 percent of women with CCCA also had a history of uterine fibroids compared to only 3.3 percent of black women without the condition".

Crystal Aguh, assistant professor of dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, while cautioning that the cause of the link between CCCA and fibroids remains unclear, noted that the association is strong enough, to recommend that physicians and patients be made aware of it.

The research findings are published in the monthly peer-reviewed medical journal JAMA Dermatology.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Report: Saudi aggression conducts 50+ airstrikes, killing 6 civilians in 24 hours







SANAA, Dec 30 (Saba)  The US-backed Saudi-led aggression warplanes launched over fifty air strikes on last Friday, killing at least six Yemeni civilians, and one was injured on Saada and Jawf provinces, officials, and medics told Saba.





In Saada province, about 242 km to northwest of Capital Sanaa, Four civilians, including a child, were killed when the aggression warplane launched an airstrike on their house in Ghamer border district, and causing damages to residents houses.





Also in Saada, the aggression fighter jet launched a raid on a car in Bani Sayah area of Razih border district, which led to death of two civilians, and another airstrike on a well-drilling rig in Aal-Ammar area of Safraa district, resulting in the injury of a civilian.



In addition, the Saudi aggression warplanes launched three strikes on Shada border district, four air raids on Baqim district, three airstrikes hit Dhaher district, and ten air strikes on separate areas in Kotaf district.



Meanwhile, Saudi enemy artillery and missile forces shelled Razih border district.



In Jawf province, about 127 km to northeast of the Capital Sanaa, the Saudi aggression warplanes waged over 25 strikes during the attempt of Saudi mercenaries and soliders infiltration.



Writing by Sameera al-Mahdi, Editing by Zak











Saba

Facebook Facebook

Twitter Twitter

Whatsapp Whatsapp

Telegram Telegram

Email Email

Print Print

[31/December/2017]
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Generally cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 54F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Low 42F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Armenias Administrative Court has found in favor of Artashes Hovhannisyan, a former minority shareholder of Ameriabank, who had demanded that the bank return the five shares he owned before they were consolidated and bought back by the banks majority shareholders.

Hovhannisyan, who had lost a similar case against Ameriabank (The Bank) in civil court, had filed the lawsuit against Armenias Central Bank, Ameriabank and the Central Depository.

The plaintiff argued that he was never informed of the transaction in advance.

Hovhannisyans lawyers qualified the transaction as squeezing out the minor shareholder from the Bank, and that it contradicted the main legal act regulating the banking sector in Armenia.

In accordance with the Banking Law, the buyback of consolidated shares is prohibited.

Notwithstanding the statutory prohibition, the civil court had refused the claim. The court based its verdict on Clarification No 8 issued by the Central Bank, which additionally interprets the Banking Law permitting Ameriabank to consolidate and buy back its minority shareholders shares. Thus, a precedent granting a privilege to all majority shareholders of banks has been created by the Central Bank.

Clarification No 8 by the Central Bank provides, that major shareholder may take a decision on consolidation and buy back of shares, if in receipt of controlling positive position of the Central Bank. The Clarification further provides that controlling positive position should be taken taking into account the specific facts of each case.

After the case was exhausted in the civil courts, Artashes Hovhannisyan applied to the Administrative Court, suing Armenias Central Bank. (Ameriabank and the Central Depository had been listed as third parties.) Earlier, the Central Depository had verified the buy back transaction through registration.

Artashes Hovhannisyan demanded a dismissal, or to recognize as null and void, the Central Banks controlling positive decision issued to Ameriabank and as consequence to announce null and void the share consolidation and buy back decisions taken at the Ameriabanks general shareholders extraordinary meeting. All this would result in the restoration of his property rights regarding his five common nominal shares.

The Administrative Court satisfied all the plaintiffs claims. The court also confiscated AMD 4000 Armenian from the Central Bank to compensate Artashes Hovhannisyan for the state fee paid. The Central Bank has appealed.

Hayk Hovhannisyan: We are facing an unprecedented situation. No court in neighboring countries has showed such a level of independence

Artashes Hovhannisyan applied to the Administrative Court in March of 2016, after exhausting all civil court options and applying to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The ECHR has confirmed registering the application,and the case is pending.

Artashes Hovhannisyans son and attorney Hayk Hovhannisyan says that regardless of the outcome of appeal, the current unprecedented decision of the Administrative Court increases their chances of success at the ECHR to 75%.

Hayk Hovhannisyan says the decision taken by the Administrative Court Judge Argishti Ghazaryan is an interesting development on the path of the judicial system achieving independence.

This means that our courts have started to get rid of so called telephone law, when a call from higher-ups instructs a judge as to what verdict to hand down. Now, in this case, we have unprecedented situation, and as far as I have researched judicial practice of Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, no court has showed such a level of independence in our neighboring countries, says Hovhannisyan.

He emphasizes that all the decisions of the Central Bank have been recognized as null and void, that the interests of the minority shareholder have been protected in corporative relations, and his property rights have been restored.

I think that this is quite a positive development for Armenia in general, not only because we show the independence of the courts, but also the very fact that property rights have started to be protected. Private property and its protection are the bases of a market economy and investment attraction. Foreign and local investors look at the level of shareholder protection in the state. They research judicial practice before entering a country. They will see that we have a court independent enough to declare the Central Banks decisions null and void, and to restore the rights of a minor shareholder, says Hayk Hovhannisyan.

The reason for the Administrative Courts decision, according to Hayk Hovhannisyan, is either that administrative pressure from on high wasnt brought to bear, the court was able to maintain its independence and voice its position, if they were. He views both scenarios are positive.

I was almost certain that the administrative pressures would continue, administrative levers would be applied, that the telephone law inherited from our pre-soviet and soviet life would continue to be used and we wouldnt achieve justice. But to our surpriseWe jumped for joy in the courtroom when it was announced that our demands were met, he said.

How does this verdict benefit Armenias economy and banking system?

Hayk Hovhannisyan says this decision of the Administrative Court is not only their victory, but that of the minor shareholders of all Armenian banks. One of the main functions of the Central Bank is to prevent and ban discrimination between shareholders.

To the question on whether you consider possibility of co-operation with major shareholders if appeal has no result and the court decision enters into force, Hovhannisyan replied: Why not? We have always been open for negotiations the outcome of which will promote the countrys rating, will not violate major shareholders interests, including the interests of European Bank of Reconstruction and Development that is currently among listed shareholders of the bank, and from the other hand will not give a rise to a negative precedent..

Hayk Hovhannisyan adds, if the Administrative Courts decision survives at all instances, Ameriabank will be faced with huge expenses, the latter may supposedly demand a compensation from the state, because it had executed the transaction upon permission of a state controlling body, namely the Central Bank. The supposed outcome, as per the lawyer, will not have a favorable influence on the entire Armenian economic field, from the other side, the overthrowing of the Administrative Courts decision will jeopardize minor shareholders of all banks, and such minors are not less important for the countrys economy.

The Administrative Courts decision is a sprout of our independence, one of its real achievements. We must cherish and develop it. In its talks with European partners our country always can say that we have such an independent court.

This is a very significant indicator and may even strengthen Armenias position in the World Bank's Doing Business rankings. If, via the application of administrative resources, our state bodies overturn this common victory, then it may affect our countrys rating negatively, says Hayk Hovhannisyan.

Top photo (from left): Central Bank President Artur Javadyan, Ameribank Chairman of Management Board Artak Hanesyan
The poor road condition at Fagalii-Uta is a concern for one village member.

Gagaoo Limu, a 54-year-old father from the village of Fagalii-uta, is calling on relevant authorities to wake up to the villagers plea for a proper road.

We urge whoever is responsible for fixing roads to please fix our roads because we have suffered enough, he said.

Mr. Limu was on his way home from his plantation when he met the Village Voice team yesterday.

He says this has been a continuous problem for his village.

We have been facing this problem for almost 10 years now and still nothing has been done to overcome it.

Coming pass the airport and in front of Malietoas old residence is the most dangerous area.

Not only is it narrow, but thats the most damaged area of the road and then come up to the government flats area.

Mr. Limu said most people in his village have relocated to their plantations after the tsunami in 2009.

Ten years ago, only a few people used to live around the area, but now almost all families that used to live in the coast have moved up here.

So the hard part now is that the road is too bad for transport around our area now and no actions have been taken to fix it.

Mr. Limu said if the road condition continues to deteriorate, bus services may not reach his village.

Another problem is that there are also a few shops in the area and they could be affected if deliveries do not reach our place.

I think the people here will suffer by buying more cars and repairing them often because of the roads.
Walking through the Craig's Complex at Ululoloa at night is simply a magical experience.

With thousands of lights flashing all around, who said Samoa does not have a Christmas Wonderland.

Ask the hundreds of children who have been through the complex for the past few days and they will tell you its a Christmas period they will remember.

With a display of lights never seen before in Samoa and fun activities for children, the Craig Construction Ltd. compound has been transformed to give the children of Samoa a Christmas to remember.

Owner of the compound and Founder of Craig Construction, Francis Craig, said the initiative was to help give those families who cannot afford Christmas decorations a place to bring their children to enjoy and feel the magic of Christmas.

The lights are something that the family discussed before Christmas, he told the Samoa Observer.

We wanted to put out something that would really help out some families in giving them a feeling of the spirit of Christmas.

It is our understanding that many families cannot afford to buy Christmas lights but because of the lights we have put up, it has really affected them.

So they were happy to bring their family down and just sit around all night. One night we found it hard to close down the place because people were still sitting around.

We actually never wanted to advertise it out to the public; our intentions were to put up lights but when we did, people would come and were impressed.

When they would drive by, we would let them come in and have a look. People were so grateful; they would say that it is something they have never seen before.

Mr. Craig added they then offered some snacks and fun activities for children so that they would have a much more memorable Christmas this year.

He said charging people was never an option for him.

We welcomed whoever wanted to come in to have a look and to take photos, Mr. Craig said.We never wanted to charge anyone for it. Not only were they able to come in free of charge, but we also put out some popcorns and snacks.

We actually charged for the popcorn, but then we decided not to anymore. So we ended up providing some cakes, candy and popcorn to the children.

We also played some Christmas carols to give out that Christmas feeling. Everyone has really enjoyed it, especially the children.

Asked what moved him to do such a magical initiative, Mr. Craig explained that it aligns well with whats taught at his church.

Being a member of the Latter Day Saints has taught him to give to those who cannot afford it.

The scripture says, light the world, he said.That is the message from our church; we are taught to light the world and share with some families who cannot afford things.

Thats the main reason we dont want to charge people. I know that for the children, this will be something that they would never forget.

So we have decided to make this an annual event, but we will try to make it better next year. We have so many people come by or call saying thank you.

They tell us that this is something very special for them. We hope to work out a better system.

But such an initiative surely does not come cheap. When asked about the cost, Mr. Craig explained that its not so much about the expenses, but rather the joy the lights have given the children that mattered most.

It is very expensive and it is definitely not easy, he said.

We have tried to make the spacing and the placing of the lights very consistent in order to really stand out. The lights themselves are very expensive.

With regards to the power, many of our lights are L.E.D. so it is easy on the power, but the spotlights are a different story.

Although this is expensive, we dont think about the cost and we can handle it.

But although he opened his gates freely, Mr. Craig explains that they have run into some issues with a few members of the public.

We have had a few problems along the way, he began.We usually let people bring the cars inside for the sake of the elderly who find it hard to walk around, but then there were a few cars we couldnt control and would drive fast with the children playing around the driveway.

When our security would tell them to slow down, they would be sworn at so we stopped allowing vehicles into the compound. They can park outside and stroll in to have a look.

We are quite happy with that system now.

And with Christmas firmly behind us, Mr. Craig expressed his utmost joy in being able to bring joy to different families of Samoa.

I would like to say, as a family we are so happy to put up these lights for the benefit of our people in Samoa, he said.

The scripture says to light the world and to let your light shine out. I know for sure the Lord will help us with the costs and help us with what we are doing.

I want to say now that Christmas has slipped away, let us hope that the New Year would be prosperous. Always remember God in whatever you do and keep his commandments.

According to Marcia Lees, who visited the compound and was captivated by the lights, the Craig family has done a wonderful job in giving that Christmas spirit feel to Samoa.

She told the Samoa Observer that the whole idea is fascinating, creative and it really gives families who are less fortunate pure joy.

The lights itself just gives you a great feeling, Marcia said.

Its a great way for families to get together, feel the spirit of Christmas and just enjoy each others company. This is such a fascinating idea.

This whole display is also very creative and everyone loves it so much. We are very lucky to see these lights because not many of us have seen anything like it.

All in all, this is a great thing for Samoa.

Marcia says Christmas is all about family. She extended a word of thanks to the Craig family for such a wonderful initiative.

Christmas spirit is all about family coming together, she said.

Coming to places like this really enforces that as families can enjoy and share the joy of Christmas with one another.

Thats all thats important. Bonding with family members is what its all about. Thank you Craig family for this display of lights.
And so here we are again. Another new year is upon us.

On the last day of 2017, its a moment for each and every one of us to sit down and look back on the one weve been passing through with a mixture of joy, sorrow and perhaps regret.

Thats life though, isnt it? Theres a time for everything. There is a time to laugh and a moment to cry, a time to live and one to die.

That said, in Samoa today, we are extremely grateful for so many things  especially the gift of life. We are thankful to the Almighty God for his guidance, protection, provision, mercies, forgiveness, eternal love and grace.

As a people and a nation, we are grateful for our leaders starting from the Church leaders, the Head of State, Prime Minister, Members of Parliament, business leaders, village leaders and every individual family leader, fathers, mothers and guardians. We owe a special thanks to our donor countries, development partners, various groups, organisations and inviduals who have helped Samoa.

We thank our families, friends and everyone  including our enemies believe it or not - who in one way or another contributed to our development.

We acknowledge with appreciation the efforts of everyone who have and continue to work through the holidays to ensure safety and convenience. We are talking about Police officers, emergency workers, health workers, shopkeepers and many others. Thank you for the sacrifice.

On the pages of this newspaper today, we acknowledge with gratitude and celebrate with great joy the work of individuals and groups who are highlighted in this special edition.

Each story is different, very unique and inspiring in their own special way. From elders of the community to the new generation of businessmen and women all the way to the faafafine community and sports, they are stories of hard work, dedication and commitment that should inspire us all. It is a privilege for us to be able to share them with you.

As we read through them today, we here at the Samoa Observer want to extend a big thank you and faamalo to each and everyone.

We also accept that there are many more deserving individuals and groups  both here in Samoa and abroad - who are not on the list. Some are not on the list because we have highlighted their work in previous years.

God knows who you are and we pray that you will be justly rewarded.

If anything, whats encouraging in this country of ours today is the vibrancy of its members and their common drive to improve Samoas prospects.

Speaking of which, the influx of new Asian businesses has often been a controversial topic but in terms of moving forward, they are here and its a reality we will have to live with.

As we reflect, we give thanks for the past, the present and we pray for the future because we simply dont know what is up ahead.

In times like this, one of the most wonderful things about life is the opportunity to start afresh. Which is the best part about a new year. Its the chance to turn a new leaf and have another go.

We hate to sound pessimistic but we believe there is a lot more that can be done to improve the lives of some of the poorest people in this country today. And the government should take the lead.

Truth be told were seeing the same old problems our government is supposed to have been solving with the idea of sweeping them away into oblivion never to be seen again, and were therefore wondering how this would ever change in 2018. Were wondering why our government, after all these years of political independence, has not been able to eliminate the terror called austere bureaucratic corruption.

There is hardship in this country today because of corruption; there is also absolute poverty because of corruption, and as a result everywhere in this country the poor are suffering in silence.

Which follows that if 2018 is going to get better, we need to change our attitude towards corruption.

Instead of perpetrating it, we need to do everything in our power to eliminate it so that we can begin to address perennial challenges of hardship, struggles and absolute poverty in this country.

Today on the verge of a new year, let us think and be inspired by hope.

We need to because without hope in this day and age where there is sorrow and suffering everywhere, there is nothing to cling to.

Hope is the light that makes darkness flee. Even if its just a small flicker, we believe that a little light is better than no light at all.

So lets not give up. Lets persevere, endure and continue to do our bit to make our families, villages, churches, communities, work places and ultimately this nation of ours a better place.

Have a peaceful and prosperous New Year Samoa, God bless!
Transformative leadership is not always about who has the loudest voice, physical dominance and political prowess.

Sometimes a powerful leader comes in the form of a vibrant sassy woman draped in pink with a seemingly endless supply of alofa and faith.

From the time she chose to speak out about her diagnosis of advanced breast cancer at the National commemoration of World Cancer day in 2016, Manamea Apelu Schwalger, has become such an empowering figure.

Crusading for a lifesaving cause to help prevent the spread of cancer in this country  and abroad - and she did it in her own unique style with a tribe of fabulous friends ready to back her up at a moments notice.

In 2017 during a time where one should be dedicating their time and energy to fighting a life threatening illness, Manamea instead lent herself to be the leading figure that will now and forever be synonymous with the fight to prevent cancer.

Her fight came with a message of hope.

Being in a vulnerable life or death situation did not stop this former Miss Samoa and Miss South Pacific from using her profile and her magnetic personality to be the spokesperson and advocate for the Samoa Cancer society to better support Samoans with cancer.

In an article contribution to the Samoa Observer in October 2016, Manamea wrote with determination: If I am going down, I want cancer to take me screaming and scratching, laughing and loving, living and fighting.

True to her words, her actions this year have been all that and more.

Having the ability to inspire and mobilise people to rally behind you is a testament to a persons strength of character and this year we saw just that as Manameas vibe attracted her fierce tribe in enacting two major fundraising campaigns.

Both campaigns highlighted not only the need for early action to prevent cancer but also brought to light the physical, emotional and financial impact cancer has on the patient and their families with little to no resources available to support them in Samoa.

Joining forces with E.M.D, Samoa Cancer Society and the Miss Samoa Alumni, Manamea became the unifying figure of the Think Pink initiative, which was a part of the LIFE Con Explosion.

In a brilliant campaign, the initiative not only raised funds for the Samoa cancer society but it gave them the much needed P.R. and media it required to help boost awareness and funds.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer in May 2017, Manamea said: I know with Samoa Cancer Society, there are no specific media campaigns for specific cancers. For me, because I have breast cancer, I would like to think that I can assist voicing some of the awareness programmes which is related to breast cancer.

For so many reasons, I am grateful to Samoa Cancer Society which is why I would like to continuously show my gratitude by giving and returning the favour through this kind of donation.

Building on last year, this years Pinktober events seemed even bigger, bolder and dare I say, even Pink-er.

Manamea and her team stirred the nation to action with every facet of society raising funds for the cause and just for good measure, Pinktober got the green light for a pink Clock Tower  Apias iconic Clock Tower that is.

For a month, that Pink Clock tower stood as a symbol for the changing times and attitudes towards having that difficult conversation about how to prevent cancer and how to support those going through it.

Even through a grueling schedule of happenings and public appearances during Pinktobers Vave campaigns, Manamea in the final stage of cancer pushed herself to not only be present but to participate fully in the major fundraising events around Samoa where people from every walk of life gave generously.

Her message of hope this Pinktober was loud and clear, do what is tangible she said.

It means that while cancer can happen to anyone indiscriminately, it doesnt matter if youre rich or poor  we can always control how we react to it.

Symbolizing the end of Pinktober this year, it was not surprising to see Manamea as Apias iconic Clock Tower was painted back to its original white after standing in all its pink glory through the month of October.

Speaking then to the Samoa Observer, she thought that it was both bitter and sweet that the Clock Tower was changing out of its pink gown but it was time to get back to work because the fight did not end there.

Now that we are done with Pinktober, Im not going to stop my work. I work in the Tourism and Construction sector so I know that the way we can do it is that we individually do our bit. And then if we see someone that needs our help then lend a hand and get them to understand what you are trying to say.

But most importantly, she said, the conversation must go on  with or without her.

Please every year, paint Samoa pink. What weve done this year by having the vibrancy of the colour pink everywhere is a reminder to people that we are talking cancer so that it reduces the fear of cancer.

You know what, Im last stage cancer, so its my hope that YOU continue the conversations  thats my dream that Samoa continues that conversation and not just for cancer, all humanitarian causes that impact our society.

We hear you loud, pink and clear, Manamea!
Tuapou Warren Jopling is a well-known local figure in Savaii.

A Geologist by profession, he has lived there since 1983 after he first set eyes on the big island and decided that after travelling to over 117 countries in the world, Savaii was the place he wanted to firmly plant his feet in.

He is captivated by her beauty and the possibilities in one of worlds oldest volcanic islands.

Now if youve ever had the pleasure of sitting down with Tuapou while he shares some of his most interesting life experiences, youll find that his journey will serve as another spiritual reminder on how an individual can live a satisfying life by following the path that fills their heart with the most enthusiasm.

Since 1990, Jopling has been guiding tourists and international student groups around the island he knows as intimately as he knows himself.

There is no coastline, shoreline, sea arch or mountain in Savaii that Jopling has not examined and studied. He is familiar with all of Savaiis curves and crests and while he enthusiastically shares Savaiis secrets with everyone he is equally protective of preserving the islands natural resources and history.

Tourism is essential for the Savaii economy. And for the last 27 years, Jopling has been promoting the natural history of Savaii by running tours and has even published booklets on it for the Samoa Tourism Authority.

The way I feel, tourism is a combination of many things, people, culture, site seeing and natural history, he said.

There arent too many people in Savaii who are pushing the natural history side of things except for me. So that is why I have been writing on occasion.

Joplings career as a Geologist and Petroleumologist reads like an epic adventure novel that one would find hard to put down.

His odyssey that culminated in the discovery of Savaii started off with a curiosity and then a fascination for gemstones that led him to study geology.

It wasnt enough just to enjoy the outer beauty of the precious stones, Jopling had to know them deeper to its last mineral makeup.

But it was his career as a Petroleumologist that led him to oil fields all over the world from Canada to Brazil and eventually to Indonesia where he spent 17 years working on oil exploration before the remote islands of Samoa registered on his radar.

They wanted me to be based in Jakarta but it is the last place on earth where I would rather be so I had reservations about this, he recalls.

While I was in Indonesia, I had read an article about Samoa. I didnt know a great deal about Samoa, Ive never heard of Savaii. I collected stamps in my early days so I knew where Samoa was and this article gave a very glowing account of Samoa. It also mentioned the Safua hotel in Lalomalava.

The article was enough to stir Joplings curiosity and in October 1982, he travelled to Upolu and then to Savaii where he sought out the Safua hotel which was owned by Vaasilifiti Moelagi Jackson and her family at the time.

It was the way of life that drew me to Savaii. All through Brazil, I worked in very primitive areas where material things had no value at all.

It was all about people. Also in Indonesia, I spent 17 years in a rural area and there were wonderful great people. When I came to Savaii I loved it not only the living in the hotel, the people. People are people regardless of religion or race.

It was wonderful and Moelagi had a very young family. While I was at the Safua Hotel, I met Ken Newton, the owner of C.C.K.

They were setting up a coffee plantation in a place called Vaiaata in the hills of eastern Savaii. They asked me if I would be interested and I made an immediate decision  yes.

Enamoured by Savaii and spurred on by the same enthusiasm he had for examining precious gemstones, Jopling returned to Indonesia to pack his things and return to the island that had captivated his soul and sparked his obsession to know it inside out. Literally.

Of course being a Geologist, it was very easy for me to stay because this island of Savaii is magnificent. I really preferred Savaii over Upolu. Savaii is probably one of the most interesting volcanic islands in the world.

In 1983 while staying at the Safua Hotel, he immediately started running tours to help out the Jackson family with running their hotel business.

Jopling had a long history of giving tours starting with his university days as a Geology student guide and his having access to a helicopter in Jakarta made it possible for him to also take company officials on helicopter tours around the northern part of Savaii.

It wasnt until after cyclone Ofa in 1990 and the coffee plantations that Jopling was involved with were destroyed that saw him running tours on a commercial basis for Safua Hotel.

He eventually wrote a book about the Geology in the Samoa archipelago which is about to be reprinted because he realized that the book needed to also include more information about specific sites for tourists.

Back in 2014, I wrote a long report on the geology of Samoa as a tourist guide. After running tours in Savaii, I decided to write another paper about the different sites of Savaii which was published in the Samoa Observer in about 13-14 editions in the early part of this year.

Jopling enjoys every single minute of his job and has given thousands of tours for over 20 years around Savaii for overseas student groups from the U.S. and Australia as well as tourists from Amoa Resort.

During these years I have done tours since 1990 until the hotel was closed about four years ago. I changed the name from Safua tours to Savaii national history tours. Im doing exactly the same thing and by doing this I am getting the best of two worlds, the Samoan world and the Palagi world.

The people who come are basically interested in natural history so during the years Ive been running tours. I have taken many people through tours. This island is too big to comprehensively cover. You can speed around and stop at the blow holes but I like to explain things rather than zip around the island.

Living as a Savaiian, Jopling adopted the Jackson family of Safua hotel as his own and participated actively in his community, sponsoring many children in the village through primary school to secondary school and teachers college as well as the marine training center. His service to his Samoan family and the community led him to be gifted with the honour of Samoan citizenship.

To be a part of this place for forever was part of my intention regardless of citizenship or not. My brother passed away in August this year, he was 92 and it was always his wish that I take up Samoan citizenship.

This citizenship was a gift from Moelagis family. I had helped them over the years in many ways. I was a part of their family and lived with them for many years so this was just recognition of what Ive done for the family  they gave me citizenship.

Tuapou Warren Jopling is now officially on paper what he always felt in his heart. These days Jopling is still showing tourists and student groups around the Savaii, filling a much needed gap in the tourism industry for the big island.

While his ailing hip sometimes slows him down, he continues his work with the same enthusiasm and passion he started out with when he first discovered one of the Pacifics most interesting islands making him one of those blessed people fortunate enough to pursue and then find their personal legend.
As Dr. Selina Tusitala Marsh famously recited to the Queen of England and other Commonwealth dignitaries, Theres a u and i in Unity - her poem of the same name.

From the hallowed walls of Westminster Abbey as the first Pacific woman to create and recite a poem representing 53 diverse Commonwealth countries, to her recent appointment as New Zealands first Pacific, woman Poet Laureate, Dr Selina Tusitala Marsh knows all about those glass ceilings other women speak of.

And it has not all been good luck and an easy path for the poet and academic of Samoan, Tuvaluan, English and French descent.

Sel, as she calls herSELf, was the first person of Pacific descent to graduate with a PhD in English from the University of Auckland where she is now an Associate Professor and lectures in creative writing and Maori and Pacific literary studies.

And it was initially as a somewhat reluctant student years ago, that she was asked by the renowned Maualaivao Albert Wendt and Maori novelist and short story writer, Witi Ihimaera, if she had considered doing her doctorate.

Fortunately, her classic reply of Um, no, was brushed aside by the two academics and with their encouragement, she successfully completed her studies and scored another first of several firsts.

Fortunately, any accolades she has received in the academic world and beyond, are nicely balanced by her own upbeat approach to life and her down to earth family on Waiheke Island.

One of her sons she laughed, told her frankly that poetry makes me want to vomit.

Clearly she has some way to go before converting the world, but that hasnt stopped her trying.

This 6 foot something, stunning woman recently launched her latest poetry collection, interestingly titled, Tightrope in Auckland and was herself in awe that Samoas former Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese attended.

I was so honoured, she said.

And it was with Tui Atua and Filifilia she stayed on her most recent trip to Samoa in November for the Pacific Arts Association conference, taking the opportunity to consult them on Samoan protocols and other cultural matters. During her conference workshop, she had young students and adults spellbound at the National University of Samoa fale. Inspiring, magical and amazing were just some of the words used to describe her session.

Unlike former Laureates, who deposited the largely-ceremonial tootoo (tokotoko) they were caretakers of, back in its glass cabinet, Tusitala Marsh has embraced it and given it life.

She takes it wherever she goes and in fact took it apart to fit it in her suitcase and brought it to Samoa. Here she told its story and encouraged as many people as possible to handle it and feel its mana (power).

Trailed by a TV 1 film crew during her time in Samoa, she used a run up Mt Vaea as part of her training for a run this month where she intends to cross the finishing line wearing Eveni sporting attire. It will all be part of a feature programme to be aired on this unique Laureate in the new year.

Clearly this is no dusty academic we are talking about here.

For Samoa, her open and sharing approach to life and literature is never more evident than in the time she gives generously every year to encourage other writers as one of three judges of the Samoa Observers Tusitala Short Story competition for Pacific writers.
The five-member Hakobyan family of Gyumri have received a great gift on New Years Eve.

They received the keys to a two-room apartment from Artur Khachatryan, President of the Union of Kamchatka Armenians, in the Russian Far East.

Kamchatka Armenians held a fundraiser to purchase the new domicile for the Khachatryans, now living in a temporary cabin in Gyumri, Armenias second largest city.

Also on hand to watch the family entering their new home was Armenian Minister of Diaspora Affairs Hranoush Hakobyan.

32-year-old Artur Khachatryan was born in Kamchatka, but his parents come from Gyumri. Mixing the Gyumri dialect with Russian, Khachatryan says hes always wanted to be of assistance to the less fortunate back in Gyumri.

He lost close family members in the 1988 Spitak Earthquake, and laments the fact that there are still some 2,000 families living in domiciles that were supposed to be temporary havens for those left homeless.

Khachatryan hopes that other Armenians living in Russia will follow their example.

Khachatryan told Gharib Harutyunyan, who heads the Gyumri Without Makeshift Shelters Foundation, that he is ready to contribute to housing homeless Gyumri residents if nine other benefactors are located.

If each donates $1,000, that would be enough to purchase an apartment, says Khachatryan.

The Hakobyans were selected because they have a family member serving in the Armenia military. Kamchatka Armenians told the Gyumri Municipality to take this into account when selecting a recipient family.

37-year-old Ruzanna Hakobyan lost her husband in 2010. Her eldest son is in the army. She has another son and two daughters.

The only one working is her 19-year-old daughter.

Weve been living in this cabin for eight years. We first paid rent, but the owner later let us stay for free because we no longer could pay. Im quite emotional right now. Yes, municipal officials visited and saw the conditions we were living in. But it never crossed my mind that wed receive this gift for New Years. May the other families, now living in tomiks (huts), be granted such happiness," says Ruzanna.


Age is nothing but a number for 81-year-old Marie Margaret Ripley.

Having served the people of Samoa for 64 years as a public servant, she is exceptional and was deservedly the recipient of the Long Service Award for her service during the Public Service Awards this year.

Even at her twilight age, Mrs. Ripley remembers her first day of work as if it were yesterday.

My first day of work was 3 August, 1953, and it was like winning the lottery, she said.

Back then, getting a job was rare, so earning the spot and getting a job was a big deal to me.

My first job was at 2AP as a shorthand typist.

According to Mrs. Ripley, the highlight of her working career was working under four Prime Ministers.

I worked at the Prime Ministers Office, during the time the New Zealand Government was in office.

And then when Samoa became independent, I served under Prime Ministers Fiame Mataafa Mulinuu II; Tufuga Efi; Vaai Kolone and Tofilau Eti Alesana, she said.

According to Mrs. Ripley, secretarial work is very vital in any Government Ministry.

We are the heart of every office. We are in charge of all clerical and administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or providing information to callers.

We as secretaries or administrative assistants are essentially clerical and organizational professionals who help keep the office or workplace run smoothly.

She said at times their work is not recognized, but then without secretaries, the office would not function properly.

I am one proud secretary, said Mrs. Ripley.

A graduate of St Marys, Ms. Ripley said being a Secretary you literally have to be superwoman.

As the support personnel, we have tough jobs trying to keep offices together, arranging meetings, taking phone calls and dealing with angry people on a regular basis.

Pleasing people is part of our daily job and at times that is a bit difficult, but that is why you are a secretary you make sure everything runs smoothly and so people skills is a must in this line of work, she told the Samoa Observer.

The key to having a healthy working relationship in the office is to include interpersonal, organizational and with a positive professional attitude, she said.

Her last post prior to retirement was being the second Secretary to the Minister of M.N.R.E. and Deputy Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa.

I worked for her father, Samoas first ever Prime Minister, Mataafa Faumuina Mulinuu II and I retired while working under his daughter, who is Deputy Prime Minister.

Another highlight for me, she said proudly.

Fiame is the true meaning of a tamaitai tamalii.

A very good boss, a very considerate boss and Im happy that I retired while working under her leadership.

I am happy that Samoas history has Fiame as Deputy Prime Minister and I was working under her.

Shes a strong advocate for greater participation of women in Parliament, said Mrs. Ripley.

Ripley was married to the late Avalogo Edward Ainuu Ripley, and they have three children, Edward Edmond, Tuaifafie Leiataua Peter and Filomena Tuuolo.

I am a grandmother and a great grandmother, she said smiling.

At the Public Service Commission, award ceremony this year, Mrs. Ripley was recognized for her long service, dedication and loyalty to the people of Samoa and government.

The Public Service Commission, on behalf of Government, commends Mrs. Ripley for her dedication and loyalty to the Public Service and she is truly an inspiration to us all working in the Service.

Mrs. Ripley exemplifies the values of the Public Service and is highly praised for her commitment to her work and contribution to Samoa.

Mrs. Ripley employment history in the Public Service:

 She started work in the Public Service on the 3rd of August 1953 as a Shorthand typist in the Broadcasting Department.

 In 1964 she became the Stenographer in Charge for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs up until 1997.

 In this same year, Mrs. Ripley became the Second Secretary for the Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa as the Minister of Education, Women, Justice and MNRE, marking this year as her 20th year as Second Secretary.

Mrs. Ripley worked under Five Secretaries to the Government through her service under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Etuale Scanlan prefers to stay low key.

But there is nothing low key about what this 35-year-old Entrepreneur has achieved in his young life.

At a time when the Internet and technological advances dominate lives, Mr. Scanlan embodies the perfect example of new age and modern businessman.

He was fittingly rewarded the Best Online Business during the inaugural Samoa Business Networks (S.B.N.) Business Innovation and Young Entrepreneur Awards for his new business enterprise, Samoa Market.

But lets go back a bit further. Mr. Scanlan has been in business for the last 13 years, starting Cell City at just 22 years of age, fresh out of finishing his degree at Victoria University, Wellington, New Zealand.

Returning to Samoa in 2004 with the expectation that he would find a suitable job, Mr. Scanlan was surprised to find that a degree did not necessarily guarantee a job in his desired field  or any field for that matter.

I did a degree in Electronic commerce and information systems, he said. My thinking was after you get a degree, there should be an automatic job but then I came back, it was hard. So I was stuck between starting a business or continue to look for a job.

Deciding to take his future into his own hands, the ambitious young entrepreneur fell back on his experience of growing up in a business orientated family.

He took like a fish to water to the world of business starting with the old faithful Samoan business model.

We actually did some street vending when we first started Cell City, he said.

I was brought up being business-minded with people such as my dad, Leasi Tommy Scanlan, and my late mother, Carmelita Lam Scanlan, and a couple of uncles like Charlie Westerlund and Andrew Ah Liki.

So it was an automatic thing for me. They instilled in me this drive that it doesnt matter how old you are and it doesnt matter who you are.

Starting off with buying second hand phones from Trademe Company in New Zealand, Mr. Scanlan and his wife, Angeline, began to build Cell City.

Mr. Scanlan saw a simple business model in e-commerce and online business with not needing to have suppliers.

I didnt have to fly to China so it just became easy; I was buying off Trade me when we first started. We were getting second hand phones from Trademe. We would bring them back and my wife and I would clean them.

Then we started getting a bit fancier so we went to eBay. And then we found some suppliers after that and thats how it started.

A sure sign of an entrepreneur is their aversion to staying stagnant and after four years of starting Cell City and becoming a dealer for Digicel by running one of their flagship stores.

Mr. Scanlan hit a wall as they say in business and went to seek out his familial mentors for advice.

I hit this point where I was not really sure what I was doing, he said. I started off really well and then went downhill after three to four years after we started. So I scaled things back and then I went to have a chat with my uncle Charlie at Ah Liki wholesale.

I went to him for some advice and Charlie being Charlie asked me all sorts of questions whether I liked them or not. Some of those questions were really blunt like how much money are you making in a week, month a year?

Ive grown up accustomed to hearing things like that but its still pretty shocking when somebody asks you that.

Taking a year off to work for his uncle eventuated out of that talk and it was just what Mr. Scanlan needed. It was during that year long sabbatical that the concept of Samoa Market was conceived.

We got talking and he offered me a job and I worked for Charlie for a year, he said. At that time I discussed with him a concept that I wanted which was basically to build a website.

I told him that the website was going to be and I told him that it was to sell building materials online for Bluebird Lumber. He said yeah thats a good idea but why limit yourself to just one company, when you can have as many as you want?

Having more than one company would make the virtual market look more attractive; was the business sense behind developing Samoa Market.

The concept took ten years to incubate and last year the online market place was launched - endorsed by business giants such as Ah Liki Wholesale, S.S.A.B. and Eveni.

This was not an easy concept to sell to business people. I was thankful that we had people like Charlie Ah-Liki who were the first ones on board and they were the first ones to say yes.

The more companies we brought on board the easier it was for us to sell. Now we have about 28 companies on board which is really great for Samoa.

Mr. Scanlan is a big fan of Jack Ma who started Alibaba and Aliexpress.

Samoa Market stems from the success of those virtual market places

The concept that bringing businesses together where a customer could come and buy from one vendor and just providing that choice and selection for them so thats where this came about, he said.

A lot of us still have that old school thinking of traditional businesses with bricks and mortar stores with the mentality of just working really hard.

But this was opening up businesses to online shopping from overseas. We have all the Samoans from overseas buying for their families here in Samoa.

While this dynamic entrepreneur has a natural go - getter attitude, he prefers to stay out of the spotlight and youd be hard pressed to find his face anywhere, even when it comes to marketing his business

Its really hard to get away with it because when the spotlight is on your company, the spot light is really on you, he said.

I always try and find someone that can front for me. Id rather just sit in the background and make sure that things are working the way they should be.

I really prefer to not be at the front. So I have Junior who is really good at that, when we do draws or the faasamoa, junior does it and then we film it and post it online.

Mr. Scanlan considers himself both a businessman and entrepreneur, pointing out that the difference is that anyone can sell something but an entrepreneur goes that extra mile to push their business.

The more entrepreneurs that you talk to the more youll see that we dont see any boundaries, he said. There are no boundaries. I truly believe that, which is kind of dangerous but as long as my wife pulls me in every now and again, everything will be all good, he laughs

If business was easy, everyone would do it but Mr. Scanlan possesses that boundless belief in that anything. The Samoa Observer put the question to him about how can we foster that same attitude and spirit in young people.

I think that everyone has the ability to do absolutely anything, he said.

In terms of fostering that entrepreneurial spirit in young people - going back to our culture and how we bring up our children. Slowly that mentality will change where were not saying things like aua ke fia poko or  ke alu e fai ga mea e le mafai ga faiga things like that so when that mentality changes slowly, it will give our young people confidence to explore opportunities and not feel like theres this blanket on top of them all the time that they cant get out of.

Thats why in the beginning I shied away from being in the front, it invites a lot of criticism as well with people saying who is this young kid who thinks that he can do these things? Whats he done? Its not the main reason but it was a factor.

With this busy father of three juggling two major businesses with one poised to take a giant leap in possibilities with the capabilities of the Tui Samoa cable, he admits that rest is not really an option  in fact asking him what he does in his down time invites a look of confusion,

Getting some rest? he laughs.  I dont like resting. The difficulty for me is, let me give you an example of what I mean, when we close  China is just opening.

The budding business mogul intends to strengthen his businesses by building on Cell Citys great relationship with Digicel and others like S.S.A.B. and Island Rock.

Meanwhile working closer with Evenis and getting more companies on board is the target for the emerging Samoa Market.
There are a few truths that businesswoman and entrepreneur, Lufilufi Rasmussen, understands clearly about business.

The first is that branding is everything. She also knows that you never give up on a good thing.

As the owner of Misiluki Day spa, Mrs. Rasmussen has been busy in the last 18 months with launching her luxury skin care range, Misiluki Skin Care on a global stage after carefully constructing the brand identity over 10 years.

Following her success in the last nine years of running two cafes and a beauty spa, this ambitious entrepreneur is looking beyond the reef in fulfilling a personal dream. That was to create her own skin care range as well as presenting to the world the first prestige skin care line from Samoa.

While that may seem daunting, one specific quality about Mrs. Rasmussen that sets her apart from the competition is her relentless drive to break through to those global markets, particularly the U.S. market, which she set her sights on following a gut feeling and some careful research.

The global skin care market is estimated to be worth around US$382 billion (T$916billion) and within that market is a niche that is showing faster growth rate than that of the overall market which is the rising demand for natural and organic products within the U.S.

Having the audacity to claim a piece of that American beauty pie is where we meet Mrs. Rasmussen after a string of launches in New Zealand, Australia and Japan.

When people were steering me to stay within this region like N.Z. and Australia, I realised that regardless, youre actually still spending the same amount of money and effort with those markets, she said. And yet there was little return compared with the U.S. market. Weve spent the same time, effort and money into it as the markets in Oceania but yet weve gained so much from it.

Following her gut feeling and bucking the norms, she turned her focus to the U.S.

I always knew it was the U.S. market that I needed to hit. The people that I talked to in N.Z. and Australia were not forthcoming with information, she said.

When we came back from the U.S. in July where we were showcasing our product at a tradeshow, I met people in the industry there who shared information instantly to the same questions I put to those in N.Z. and Australia.

Part of the marketing appeal about Misiluki to U.S. buyers is its uniqueness of being an indigenous innovation that encapsulates a place in the Pacific that intrigues them.

Our pitch is that we are a natural organic skincare from the heart of Samoa, she said. From all our research and everything that seems to be what really resonates with them, which is good for us because we are all about Samoa and its about trying to convey what our culture and our country is about. They are curious about us and they love it because we are very authentic.

Theres nothing makeshift in Mrs. Rasmussenss approach to creating a product that can compete at the global level. And while some have sped to the finish line in creating a brand deck for their product, she has painstakingly taken her time to ensure that her product and brand is watertight.

We have sent out our branding to 20 retailers in the U.S. and five of them have come back to us straight away. So we have now sent them samples and if they like us then theyll want to meet us, she said.

The majority of what we have spent has been on branding. Branding is really important, it doesnt matter what it is  it comes down to that. There is a lot of depth to our brand which I think is missing a lot in other products, and thats whats been the most work for us is trying to figure out what we are all about and then how can we get people to connect with that.

People just cant comprehend that and Im doing things differently because, why would you want to do something when you know what the outcome is going to be?

At the end of the day someone else has done it before. Its not about trying to recreate the wheel, its about learning from others who have been there and have been successful and its about collaboration because no one can do it on their own.

When fielding questions about the risks in making a high end product with a premium price tag, Mrs. Rasmussens answer is simple.

We have to stop underselling ourselves. You have to look the whole chain from the consumer right down to the farmer.

I always remember Adi Tafunai of W.I.B.D.I. saying to me that youve got to look after the farmer so I always take that on board.

Mrs. Ramussens bright eyes and contagious hearty laughter make her seem youthful and fun loving.

But when it comes to business, this fierce creative director is uncompromising.

Im not an expert at skincare so I have to look for ways, you can research so much but then you have to start bringing in the experts, she said.

But even then, because its your brand, you got to be able to question everything and push the boundaries with them. I do that with the bio chemists, especially when they tell me I cant do something but Ill push it till they do it and theyve discovered that it can be done, she laughs.

Its the same with my brand designers, it has to be exactly what I envision otherwise Im not being true to my brand.

The future is bright for Misiluki Skin Care and this ambitious beauty power continues to slay her way into unchartered waters knowing that while she dare goes where no Samoan has gone before, her success means much more than individual achievement  she wants to take Samoa with her.

What Ive realized is that we cant do anything on our own and we need to collaborate with people from all sectors, she said.

I have been fortunate enough to have government funding with grants to assist in my product development so I feel as if I have the weight of Samoa on my shoulders. I feel that I have to justify everything that I do and thats something that keeps me going.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Police were trying to learn Saturday what motivated a partner in a law firm to shoot two of his colleagues before turning the gun on himself.

Officers arrived at an office building in Long Beach on Friday to find the gunman and one victim dead and learned that the second victim had gone to a hospital, according to investigators.

The shooter was identified Saturday as John Mendoza, 58, of Redondo Beach. He shot the two men before killing himself, police said.

Major Langer, 75, of Rolling Hills, was shot in the upper body and died at the scene.

A friend told the Long Beach Press-Telegram that the wounded man was another partner in the firm, Ronald Beck, who was driven to the hospital by his son. The 68-year-old injured man was shot in the torso and lower body, police said. He remained hospitalized in stable condition and was expected to survive.

"Several employees were in the office at the time of the shooting, however, no other injuries were reported," according to the police statement. "A motive for the shooting remains under investigation."

A gun was recovered from the scene.

Basieleus Zeno, who videotaped employees running from the building, told KCBS-TV that he heard screams but thought they were from employees enjoying a holiday party at the office.

But it became clear that the half-dozen workers streaming from the law office, which is located in the well-to-do neighborhood of Bixby Knolls, were fleeing.

"The woman was saying 'They're shooting inside. They're shooting inside," Zeno said.

Beck ran day-to-day operations at the law firm of Perona, Langer, Beck, Serbin, Mendoza and Harrison. He also was managing partner of the Larry H. Parker law firm that worked with Perona and Langer. Beck and Parker have appeared in well-known Southern California television commercials for Parker's firm that conclude with Parker promising: "We'll fight for you!"

Langer was senior managing partner of both firms.

"This guy was the most caring, sincere man I probably ever met," longtime friend Jim Hall told the Press-Telegram. "He just had a heart of gold and really cared for everybody who works at the firm and considers them members of his family. He certainly didn't deserve this."

According to the Perona, Langer firm's website, Mendoza was a workers' compensation attorney who had worked thousands of industrial injury cases over the past 20 years and had been a frequent guest on local television and radio stations.

The office is about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles in Long Beach, a city of about 460,000 people.
Even as their retirement party was being held in the parking lot, Estradas Mexican restaurant owners Guillermo and Lilly Estrada were busy doing what they have for decades  moving like furious blurs in the kitchen preparing meals for an overflow crowd.

After 54 years in business inside the same non-descript building on Quince Street just south of Second Avenue in Escondido, Estradas final day in business was Friday.

The couple is retiring, ending an era of serving the gold-standard Mexican food in the North County, said Escondido attorney and longtime customer Ken Lounsbery.

Advertisement

Estradas Mexican Restaurant on Quince Street in Escondido (J. Harry Jones /U-T )

Dozens of longtime customers filled the place Friday for one last chance to eat what many said has been the best Mexican food in town for a half-century.

Weve been coming here for 54 years and theyre probably responsible for 40 pounds Im wearing, said Arlene Shuster, who along with her husband, Bob, own Shuster Oil right across the street.

I cant resist their chili rellenos, she said. They are the best anywhere. Weve been all over and whenever I go to another Mexican restaurant, even in other states, I always order chili rellenos to compare. Nothing has ever compared.

They have the best salsa in town, added Bob Shuster. Youve got to try it.

The business was purchased in 1953 by Guillermo Estradas father when it was a bakery. A couple years later, Avelino Estrada and his wife Maria took control and turned the business into a Mexican restaurant.

Guillermo Estrada, 64, Avenlinos brother, has been cooking in the restaurant for more than three decades and has been working there in some capacity since he was 10 years old. He took control of the restaurant after his brother died.

He said its time to rest.

Were retiring after all this time. Its been coming on. Were pretty beat, pretty tired. We spend 14 to 16 hours a day here. It takes its toll after 30 some years.

He said when the conversion from a bakery to a restaurant began, it started with tacos and gorditas (a pastry made with masa and stuffed with cheese, meat, or other fillings). We introduced gorditas (to Escondido), which no one had ever heard of before. They were from our hometown of El Paso, Texas.

The retirement party was organized by Lounsbery and the Shusters and more than 100 people said they would be attending over the three hours it was scheduled in the middle of the day.

We still have customers who have been coming in since Day 1, Estrada said. Generations of families have been customers.

Several people Friday said they cant begin to estimate how many meals theyve eaten at Estradas. Hundreds, for sure, some said.

Jack Raymond agreed that you would never know the quality of food behind the doors of the small building.

If you come here, especially for dinner, youre going to see somebody you know, he said. All the old-timers come here.

This is an institution and the end of an era. It happens. its sad. We wish them well in retirement.

jharry.jones@sduniontribune.com; 760/529-4931; Twitter: @jharryjones
Interfaith Community Services based in Escondido has announced that local philanthropists Jack and Caroline Raymond have pledged a $50,000 matching gift towards the social service agencys Housing 1000 campaign.

The campaign is Interfaiths pledge to end homelessness for 1,000 North County people before June 30, 2018.

Longtime supporters of Interfaiths housing programs, the Raymonds have played a major role in San Diegos philanthropic community for decades.

Advertisement

For every dollar donated to the Housing 1000 campaign, the Raymonds will match the contribution dollar for dollar, up to $50,000.

Jack Raymond on Friday said he gave the matching gift because of the effectiveness of what Interfaith does.

They truly give a hand up to people in need, and they do it very cost effectively and well, he said.

Jack and Caroline have supported Interfaiths efforts to end homelessness across North San Diego County for the last several decades, said Greg Anglea, CEO of Interfaith Community Services in a news release. The Raymonds have been longtime supporters of Interfaiths housing programs, he said.

Interfaith is asking community members to consider giving to the campaign when making their year-end gifts these last few days of 2017.

For more information about the campaign, call (619) 851-4639 or email lhjolt@interfaithservices.org.

Interfaith is also looking for volunteers to participate in the annual Point-in-Time homeless count to take place on Jan. 26 in Escondido.

The Point-in-Time Count is a count of unsheltered and sheltered homeless persons on a single day in January. Interfaith facilitates the Escondido count efforts. Fifty or more volunteers are needed. They will be asked to complete a brief training prior to volunteering.

To volunteer, go to rtfh.volunteerhub.com/events/index on the web.

jharry.jones@sduniontribune.com; 760/529-4931; Twitter: @jharryjones
Imperial Beach Administrative Services Director Doug Bradley was shot to death Thursday while vacationing in the resort city of Ixtapa in southern Mexico, Imperial Beach city officials confirmed Friday.

Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina said Bradley, a Huntington Beach native, was shot during a robbery. Bradley, who lived in Playas de Tijuana, would have celebrated his 50th birthday Friday.

Doug was a wonderful person, said Dedina, who described him as a world-traveling surfer.

Bradley was hired by the city in 2013. As administrative services director, he oversaw the city budget and fiscal functions. In that post, he also served as the city treasurer.

He was brilliant at his job. He was always positive, Dedina said. You couldnt have asked for a better person to work with.

Advertisement

Dedina said everyone who knew Bradley held him in high regard.

Doug Bradley was loved by all that knew him, he said. He was always positive, loved to surf, and had helped to turn around the City of Imperial Beachs financial management as well as restructure city administration to make it more efficient and resident friendly. He will be missed by everyone who knew him and worked with him.

According to Mexico News Daily, witnesses told local media Bradley was being chased by gunmen when he was shot with a 9-mm handgun about 4 a.m. Thursday in the hotel zone of the Pacific Coast city in the state of Guerrero. His body had lain in a parking lot for four hours before police received a report of the killing, according to the Mexico News Daily report.

Dedina said the city was working with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana to bring Bradleys body to the U.S.

Bradley was not married and did not have children.
An accused College Area hoarder must clean up his rat-infested house and yard after a monthlong legal fight by the City Attorneys Office.

Superior Court Judge Ronald L. Styn issued an order Friday to Alexander Stephan Iatridis, 60, to quit maintaining his three-bedroom home at 5126 Alumni Street as a public nuisance. He also appointed a receiver to oversee the rehabilitation process.

San Diegos code enforcement database shows citations dating to 2015 concerning junk in Iatridis yard.

Advertisement

City officials initially sought voluntary compliance, but the trash grew more than 8 feet high. Investigators visiting his property more than 20 times were unable to journey more than a few feet into his cluttered home, and a neighbor reported collecting 22 dead rats there, according to a Friday press release from the City Attorneys Office.

For the past three years, neighbors also complained about foul orders emanating from the property and piles of debris overflowing into their yards, according to the civil complaint filed by the city on Nov. 27.

Despite the accumulation of violation notices, city inspectors documented Iatridis adding a Jacuzzi, refrigerator, furniture and other junk at the site, court documents state.

The accumulation of trash and junk can threaten our quality of life and put surrounding neighborhoods at risk, City Attorney Mara W. Elliott said in the Friday release. We took steps to get Mr. Iatridis the help he needs and to provide relief and peace of mind to his neighbors.

Reached by telephone at his home, Iatridis told The San Diego Union-Tribune that he intends to comply fully with the cleanup order but has requested more time to finish the project.

Im not against them. I actually agree with them, but I work three jobs and I need time, two weeks or three, to do it. Thats all Im asking for, he said.

The city will recover the costs of rehabilitation, clean up, attorneys fees and receiver charges from him, according to Styns order.

Military Videos  On Now D-Day paratrooper from Coronado jumps again in France  at age 96 On Now Remembering war's fallen, one name at a time On Now In Ramona, an airplane and an aviator provide living lessons on World War II 1:43 On Now Video: Navy's newest vessel sails into San Diego and a new future in surface warfare On Now Video: U.S. Navy files homicide charges over warship collisions On Now Stopping Marine hazing On Now Video: U.S. Navy Air Crew Grounded After Creating Vulgar Sky Drawing On Now Navy says Asia Pacific ship collisions were avoidable On Now Hundreds of recruits get sick at Marine boot camp On Now Cutler Dawson Talks Navy Federal

cprine@sduniontribune.com
A workplace shooting just before 2:30 p.m. in a quiet neighborhood of Long Beach on Friday left two men dead, including the shooter, officials said.

Long Beach police said they went to a law office in the Bixby Knolls neighborhood amid reports of an active shooter at large. They said they found multiple casualties but it was no longer considered an active shooting scene.

Authorities said the gunman died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound and did not engage with police. Police found a weapon at the scene.

Advertisement

Two men died inside the law office, in the 300 block of San Antonio Drive, said Long Beach Police Department Sgt. Brad Johnson.

A third victim took himself to a hospital; he was listed as stable and is expected to survive. Johnson said all three men were employees of the law firm.

Long Beach City Councilman Al Austin, who was briefed by police, said the shooter  a former employee at the law offices of Larry H. Parker  killed one person and then himself. Austin represents the Bixby Knolls area.

Johnson, however, would not say whether the shooter was a former employee and would not specify which law office the man worked for.

Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said police reacted with a large force because of the uncertainty of the incident.

The police are doing an active investigation. They are talking to folks that were obviously there and folks affiliated with both the victims and the shooter, he said. All of us are sad and thinking about the victims and families involved.

Large police presence in Bixby Knolls. (Seema Mehta / Los Angeles Times )

The area was blocked off by police and fire crews. Several ambulances were on the scene.

The buildings windows were decorated with Christmas displays featuring candy canes and Santa Claus.

A satellite office of the law firm, at 3925 Atlantic Ave., was cordoned off with police tape and being guarded by a squad car with emergency lights on.

Joy Wilson said she had heard police sirens outside her home, about a block away from the shootings, and walked outside. There she saw about two dozen people running down San Antonio Drive, looking like they were trying to get away.

They were definitely panicking, Wilson said, standing near the police tape, helicopters buzzing overhead.

Police were there with assault rifles and technical gear.

Something bad was happening, she said. They were moving.

Residents said they were stunned by the violence.

This is a very safe area, said Agnes, 40, who lives in a nearby apartment and did not want to give her last name. She had strolled to Trader Joes when she came upon the crush of police cars and helicopters flying overhead.

Everything was always fine. We have good neighbors  that is why I am in shock.

Kelly Bray, 61, who lives in an apartment around the corner from where the shooting occurred, said he was on his way home when he saw the police helicopters.

When you see helicopters over your home, and theyre police helicopters, thats a bad sign, he said.

He called his two sons, who were at the apartment, and told them not to leave. Then he walked up to the scene, where he saw dozens of police officers, some wearing body armor and helmets and carrying shotguns and M16s.

He saw paramedics staging at the nearby 7-Eleven and two police teams form on either side of San Antonio and approach the law office in a conga line. Other officers were crouched behind police cars on San Antonio, guns drawn.

Police then made him and others vacate the area.

Nothing like this happens here, he said.

Shooting in the building across the street from my workplace..... not sure how many were killed or injured yet pic.twitter.com/K9zR9Smbhd  Soul  (@SFetcha) December 29, 2017

Massive police presence in Bixby Knolls in Long Beach responding to alleged workplace shooting. pic.twitter.com/2z2xhTU6r7  Seema (@LATSeema) December 29, 2017

HUGE police and fire response at San Antonio and Long Beach Boulevard for reports of a shooting at a law office in Long Beach. pic.twitter.com/BbUacs8c1h  Jeremiah Dobruck (@jeremiahdobruck) December 29, 2017

UPDATES:

9:10 p.m.: This article was updated with a quote from the mayor and other details.

6:25 p.m.: This article was updated with additional information about the shooting, including from witness accounts.

5:10 p.m.: This article was updated with a quote from a city councilman.

4 p.m.: This article was updated with the death of a gunman.

This article was originally published at 3:22 p.m.
Imperial Beach Administrative Services Director Doug Bradley was shot to death Thursday while vacationing in the resort city of Ixtapa in southern Mexico, Imperial Beach city officials confirmed Friday.

Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina said Bradley, a Huntington Beach native, was shot during a robbery. Bradley, who lived in Playas de Tijuana, would have celebrated his 50th birthday Friday.

Doug was a wonderful person, said Dedina, who described him as a world-traveling surfer.

Advertisement

Bradley was hired by the city in 2013. As administrative services director, he oversaw the city budget and fiscal functions. In that post, he also served as the city treasurer.

He was brilliant at his job. He was always positive, Dedina said. You couldnt have asked for a better person to work with.

Dedina said everyone who knew Bradley held him in high regard.

Doug Bradley was loved by all that knew him, he said. He was always positive, loved to surf, and had helped to turn around the city of Imperial Beachs financial management as well as restructure city administration to make it more efficient and resident friendly. He will be missed by everyone who knew him and worked with him.

According to Mexico News Daily, witnesses told local media Bradley was being chased by gunmen when he was shot with a 9-mm handgun about 4 a.m. Thursday in the hotel zone of the Pacific Coast city in the state of Guerrero. His body had lain in a parking lot for four hours before police received a report of the killing, according to the Mexico News Daily report.

Dedina said the city was working with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City and U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana to bring Bradleys body to the U.S.

Bradley was not married and did not have children.
An Encinitas attorney who was inspired by Father Joe Carroll found an unusual way to benefit the charity created by the priest, and he hopes other attorneys will follow his lead.

Sadly, we kind of deserve the reputation our legal professional has right now, said David Peters, whose firm specializes in working with homeowners associations in construction defect litigation. I think we need to be better. We get so much into the fight that we lose track of the consequences.

Peters settled a case earlier this year that resulted in a defendant paying $37,500 to Father Joes Villages, which was not a party to the lawsuit. The amount was short of what he had hoped to give the charity known for working with homeless people, so he and attorney Shawn Morris chipped in to bring the donation to $50,000.

Advertisement

The case was settled in November in the courtroom of Judge Earl Maas III.

Father Joes Villages President and CEO Deacon Jim Vargas said he was not aware of the charity benefiting from a lawsuit settlement in the past, but he was delighted it had happened.

I applaud him for coming up with the idea, he said. While he could have picked other charities, he picked us, and Im very appreciated of him for doing that.

Vargas said he looks forward to working with Peters, who said he wants to expand the idea within the legal community.

The settlement was the result of a series of lawsuits, beginning with a small case Peters said he took as a favor in 2008 and only expected to receive landscaping services at his home in return. His client was a landscaper who had sued a cabinet manufacturer.

Peters said his client wouldnt follow through on the agreement or pay his legal fees, so he withdrew from the case before it settled in his clients favor for about $20,000.

The attorney then sued to recover his fees, and in return was sued for $150,000. Peters said he won the case in 2011, but was bitter about the costly experience. He sued the other law firm for malicious prosecution.

Sensing that no jury would be sympathetic to an attorney suing another attorney, however, Peters committed before the trial to donating any money from the case to Father Joes Villages.

Peters said he was not allowed to reveal to a jury his plan to give any money from the case to a charity, but he could bring it up as a rebuttal to an argument against him.

When the other attorney presented an argument that Peters was only interested in getting money out of the case, Peters said he saw an opening to announce his plan in court. He said he believes that led to the settlement just before a jury was selected.

According to a transcript of the proceedings, Maas commended both sides for a settlement that benefited the charity.

I have settled cases from eight figures or seven figures, and often a case that settles at this number is harder, he said. But whats odd is, the work and the concept of what we did here is more complex, and because of the way the payments are being made, is actually more important than some of those huge settlements.

Peters said he believes that his courtroom maneuver was something Father Joe himself would appreciate.

He recalled a talk he heard Carroll give about 10 years ago during which Father Joe spoke about getting people to do things that they wouldnt normally do when it comes to charity.

He said, Im going to teach people to be better, whether they know it or not, and I loved that.

Peters said he hopes to work with the charity to get more settlements to benefit Father Joes.

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
Immigrants in detention in San Diego are suing a private prison company, alleging exploitation and forced labor that their attorneys say breaks human trafficking laws.

The class-action lawsuit, filed Wednesday in San Diego federal court, alleges that immigrants at Otay Mesa Detention Center are paid at most $1.50 per day, and sometimes not paid at all, for their work as kitchen staff, janitors, barbers and various other roles. It further alleges that the facility doesnt provide all of the basic necessities that detainees need for daily life, like soap, which means they have to work in order to buy those items at the commissary.

Sometimes, the lawsuit says, facility staff threatened to put detainees in solitary confinement or take away visitation rights if they said they didnt want to work.

Advertisement

CoreCivic, the company that contracts with the government to operate the facility, said that it does not comment on pending litigation and has not yet been served with the lawsuit.

Our complaint alleges CoreCivic illegally enriches itself on the backs of a captive workforce, said Korey Nelson, partner at Burns Charest, a law firm with offices in Dallas and New Orleans that specializes in complex class action suits.

Otay Mesa Detention Center holds detainees in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the agency responsible for those with pending cases in immigration court.

A spokeswoman for ICE deferred to CoreCivic when asked about the case. ICE is not named as a defendant.

While work programs that pay little are common in prisons, the complaint argues that there is a legal difference for those in the immigration system.

The complaint hinges on the fact that immigration court is a civil court system, not a criminal one. That means that, unlike people in jail or prison, those going through the immigration court system cannot be detained as punishment.

ICE has authority to detain someone only if the agency believes that person wont show up in court or if the agency suspects the person would be dangerous to society if released.

Because of the distinction between civil detention and criminal detention, there are different legal standards for what can be expected of those held in the two systems, explained Chris Morris, a local civil rights attorney.

Theyre supposed to treat you better than jail, said Morris, who is not affiliated with the lawsuit. If its in any level a punishment, thats a problem.

A separate area of the Otay Mesa facility holds people charged with federal crimes who are in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. The lawsuit does not include them.

Tony Cerone, senior adviser to the local chapter of the ICE union, said that all work at the facility outside of cleaning individual quarters and pod common areas is voluntary.

Detainees are required to keep their quarters and the common area clean, Cerone said. They dont get maid service.

He said some of the detainee jobs at the facility are so popular that they have waiting lists.

Kitchen workers get extra food to consume and can make special concoctions while working, Cerone said. Many detainees enjoy getting out of the units and getting the perks that go along with it.

ICEs detention standard, which sets conditions that contracting companies like CoreCivic must meet, says that work beyond making their beds, stacking loose papers, keeping the floor free of debris and refraining from hanging items from lighting fixtures and furniture is voluntary and should be compensated by a minimum of $1 per day.

The lawsuit argues that by creating conditions where detainees feel forced to work and paying far less than minimum wage, CoreCivic is breaking state and federal human trafficking laws.

This labor is not voluntary in any meaningful sense, the complaint says.

It alleges that CoreCivic makes an exponentially higher profit because of cheap or free detainee labor.

Other lawsuits with similar allegations have been filed against private prison companies that operate immigration facilities in Colorado and Washington state, as well as in Adelanto.

The five detainees named in the Otay Mesa complaint are all asylum seekers, meaning they say they are afraid they will be persecuted if they return to their home countries. Two are a father and stepson pair from El Salvador who live in Bakersfield and were held at the San Diego facility from May through November.

The two men, according to the complaint, were told that they had to waive any rights to workers compensation when they started working in the facilitys kitchen.

Juan Jose Merino-Rodas, the stepson, was badly burned on his arm during his work in the kitchen. The complaint alleges that he was denied workers compensation and required to return to work one day later.

The other three people named in the case are women, from Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. All three are still detained, according to the complaint.

The woman from Honduras, Jennye Pagoada-Lopez, has spoken out before about conditions in detention.

Pagoada-Lopez said that when she came to the San Ysidro Port of Entry to ask for asylum, she was pregnant and that she miscarried while in border officials custody.

She spoke out about medical care at the facility because she has a blood condition that she worried was not being adequately treated by the facilitys staff. She spoke out again after her unit was temporarily evacuated in the middle of the night because a detainee cleaning crew used a noxious chemical that made many of them ill.

Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence

Follow me on Facebook for live updates about immigration news

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on Twitter
Aiming to boost San Diegos scarce supply of subsidized housing for low-income residents, the City Council issued $54 million in tax-exempt bonds this month to developers building or renovating hundreds of such housing units across the city.

The bonds will help finance projects with rents below market rates in Otay Mesa, Southeastern San Diego, City Heights, Carmel Valley and Torrey Highlands.

Significantly fewer subsidized housing projects have been built in California since the elimination in 2011 of redevelopment agencies, which were required to spend 20 percent of the revenue they generated on affordable housing.

Advertisement

San Diego officials have declared the regions shortage of affordable housing a crisis, and have approved several pieces of legislation this year that aim to accelerate construction of units low- and middle-income people can afford.

They also approved the recent series of bond issues, which came a few days before the Republican tax bill was approved by Congress. The bill had eliminated such tax-exempt bonds until it was amended in last-minute negotiations.

That threat prompted similar flurries of bond issues across the nation, with developers and governments agencies racing to borrow money for housing and infrastructure projects.

The plan to eliminate the tax-exempt status of so-called private activity bonds would have sharply increased borrowing costs, making many low-income projects financially infeasible.

The bond issues approved Dec. 11 by the council included $20.5 million to upgrade two separate complexes, totaling 114 two-bedroom and three-bedroom units, just north of state Route 56.

The complexes, a 38-unit built in 2001 in Carmel Valley and a 76-unit built in 2002 in Torrey Highlands, will get new kitchens and baths and some exterior upgrades.

The $20.5 million will help cover $36.5 million in overall costs, which includes the developer spending $17.6 million to buy the two complexes.

Councilwoman Barbara Bry, who represents Carmel Valley, noted that the projects help fulfill a city goal of having more low-income housing built north of Interstate 8.

Construction is expected to begin in the spring. Monthly rents will range from $921 to $1,418.

The council issued a second series of bonds for $16 million to help fund renovation of the Regency Centre Apartments at 4765 Home Avenue in City Heights.

The money will help cover $29.6 million in upgrades to the 100-unit complex reserved for seniors with low or very low incomes. The developer bought the complex, which was built in 1969, for $13.8 million.

The renovation will include new countertops, appliances, cabinets and flooring, plus some exterior upgrades. Work is expected to begin in May and be complete in spring 2019.

Rents in the renovated complex, which includes 68 one-bedroom apartments and 30 two-bedroom apartments, will range from $853 to $1,228 per month.

The third bond issue approved by the council will provide $11.5 million to construct 42 units of low-income housing on empty land in Otay Mesa near Interstate 805 and state Route 905.

The $11.5 million will help cover a total cost of $17.3 million for the project, which Pardee Homes is required to build in conjunction with construction of the market-rate Castlerock project.

Called Playa del Sol, the project will feature three, three-story buildings and units ranging from one bedroom to three bedrooms.

Rents will range from $1,650 to $2,350. Construction is slated to begin in May and conclude in summer 2019.

The final bond issue approved by the council will provide $6 million for a $9.5 million renovation of the Parkside Apartments, a 40-unit complex in the Mountain View neighborhood of Southeastern San Diego at 4035 Park Haven Court.

The developer bought the project, which was built in 1987, for $4.8 million. Work is scheduled to start in May.

Units in the complex range from one bedroom to three. Rents will range from $853 to $1,418.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick
San Diego will try something new in its uphill battle to shrink emergency response times in the sprawling and increasingly congested city: roving peak-hour fire engines not connected to any station and deployed at busy times in busy areas.

City officials say they plan to add six peak-hour engines  three in July 2019 and another three in July 2020  to help meet a goal of having emergency crews arrive at the scene within seven and a half minutes 90 percent of the time.

Fire Chief Brian Fennessy said this month that the city is meeting that goal about 79 percent to 80 percent of the time, predicting the peak-hour engines could significantly boost that.

Advertisement

The engines will operate with four-person crews from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day in areas where response times have been weak, or where regular crews are not available because of training.

City officials say its crucial to have peak-hour engines during late afternoon and evening commute hours, when emergency calls are typically at their highest volume.

To fully staff all six engines, the city plans to hire 48 additional firefighters at a cost of $6.3 million per year. No capital costs are anticipated because the city has several reserve engines it can use.

Fennessy stressed that peak-hour engines are not a substitute for new fire stations in key geographic locations, which he called the ultimate solution to the citys response time struggles.

Ive never considered serving any of the fire station gaps with peak-hour engines instead of, rather than in addition to, fire stations, Fennessy told the City Council this month.

Peak-hour engines, however, can shrink response times in areas where new fire stations are badly needed, but where construction has been delayed by lack of money or other problems.

Fennessy said an example is a planned station on the edge of City Heights that outside consultants Citygate called San Diegos No. 1 response time priority in reports published in 2011 and 2017.

City officials considered seven potential locations in the area before buying a Fairmount Avenue site in May that has significant environmental hurdles.

Those issues have prompted city officials to estimate construction of the three-story station wont begin until fall 2020, frustrating nearby residents and community leaders.

Councilwoman Georgette Gomez, who represents many of the neighborhoods the station would serve, said its baffling that a consultants report called for a new station there in 2011 and the city is still three years away from construction.

Fennessy said land in the area is scarce and some other potential sites wouldnt have had as great an impact on response times in the area.

He said, however, that a peak-hour engine would be ideal for the area until the new station opens.

Other parts of the city likely to be considered for peak-hour engines, based on the 2017 consultants report, include Pacific Beach, south University City, Torrey Pines, Rancho Bernardo, Sabre Springs and southeastern San Diego.

Three areas with weak response times slated to get new fire stations are north University City in 2020, Black Mountain Ranch in 2021 and the UC-San Diego campus in 2022.

Additional new stations include one already under construction in Little Italy and one planned in the Otay Mesa area.

Peak-hour engines will save the city money compared to quickly filling all of the 12 emergency response gaps identified by the consultant, Fennessy said.

The savings go beyond just the cost of building 12 new stations at roughly $15 million per station. Staffing a new station typically adds about $2 million per year to the citys budget on an ongoing basis.

Peak-hour engines are not the first innovative approach San Diego has tried in recent years.

After the 2011 Citygate analysis, San Diego began experimenting with fast response squads, which have been called miniature fire engines.

They boost response times in areas located relatively far from other stations by placing two-man crews in revamped pick-up trucks in those locations.

The citys first squad has significantly lowered response times in Encanto since it was deployed more than three years ago.

A second squad was added in 2016 in southern University City, and a third was recently added in San Pasqual in a partnership with the county.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick
A three-generation family of eight was displaced by a Chula Vista house fire that slightly injured one firefighter Friday afternoon.

The fire on Second Avenue just south of J Street in Chula Vista burned about 75 percent of the house and is expected to displace the family for several weeks, Chula Vista Fire Battalion Chief Jeff Peter told OnSceneTV.

Peter said crews from the Chula Vista Fire Department arrived to find heavy smoke and fire coming from the back area of the house about noon.

Advertisement

Fire crews from National City and San Diego also were on the scene.

The Red Cross was called to assist the family, which included grandparents and grandchildren.

A couple at the home who gave their last name as Martin said they were thankful nobody was hurt and that they had insurance to cover the damage.

Peter said a firefighter was evaluated for injuries at the scene but not hospitalized after a piece of drywall fell on his head.

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 San Diego man who was serving 70 years to life in prison had his sentence cut to eight years by Gov. Jerry Brown, who slashed the term over the objections of local prosecutors.

The commutation by Brown was one of 19 the governor handed down Dec. 23, the latest in an annual exercise of the governors clemency power.

He also pardoned 132 people, which included seven people who were convicted of largely minor crimes in San Diego courts.

Advertisement

Brown commuted the sentence of Jeremy Stewart, 33, who was sentenced to 70 years to life in prison in October 2010. He was convicted of burglarizing two homes and stealing thousands of dollars in property, Brown wrote.

Stewart had previous convictions for a variety of crimes including other burglaries, receiving stolen property, petty theft and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Add it all up and he was sentenced to 25 years to life for each of the first-degree burglaries under the Three Strikes law, and another 20-year felony enhancement sentence added on.

Brown said that Stewarts crimes were fueled by a long term drug habit that he has worked to address in prison. He heads a 12-step group in prison, was lauded by prison guards who wrote to Brown, has earned a community college degree while behind bars and has never been disciplined while in prison.

In addition, Stewarts mother Elizabeth Stewart of Santee has mounted a petition drive on change.org advocating for her sons release. It garnered more than 50,000 signatures.

The petition argues that the lengthy sentence was the result of the unjust application of the harsh Three Strikes law in effect at the time.The law has since been changed so that non-violent offenders, like Stewart, would not always receive such lengthy, life sentences.

He has been a model prisoner, Stewart wrote of her son in the petition. Jeremy made a terrible mistake, but should a nonviolent crime put him behind bars for life?

Stewart cares for her sons two children, and in the petition sought a sentence reduction to 20 years. Brown went further, saying Stewart had worked in prison to put his life on a productive path and his sentence would not allow him a chance at parole for decades.

Brown noted that both the Board of Parole Hearings recommended a commutation, as did the state Supreme Court in their reviews of the case.

He also wrote that one victim of the burglaries opposed clemency, apparently because that person still did not feel safe.

The San Diego District Attorneys office also opposed clemency  a fact Brown did not mention in his message  because of both the overall circumstances of the case and the victims concerns, a spokeswoman for District Attorney Summer Stephan said.

Given the totality of the circumstances, including the defendants criminal history, the District Attorneys Office opposed Jeremy Stewarts petitions for clemency based in part on a request from one of his victims, who continues to feel vulnerable and afraid to be home alone, years after being victimized, spokeswoman Tanya Sierra said in an email.

Elizabeth Stewart did not respond to a request for comment Thursday. However she wrote in a Christmas Day posting on the change.org site that she and her two grandchildren were at a restaurant when they received a phone call with the news of the commutation.

Everyone in the restaurant could hear us crying, she wrote. The kids and I were overwhelmed with tears. Our waitress brought us cookies assuming we had just been given some terrible news. Oh how wrong she was.

Jeremy Stewart is currently at Centinela State Prison in Imperial County and is eligible for parole in June 2018.

Twitter: @gregmoran

greg.moran@sduniontribune.com
The California Public Utilities Commission recently approved rules to improve power-line safety after years of being urged to do so to decrease the risk of the lines triggering lethal, destructive wildfires. Its delay in adopting the rules only adds to the overwhelming case that the states utilities regulator is more interested in pleasing Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric than in keeping the public safe.

Under the new rules, in high-risk fire areas, trees must be kept farther away from power lines, and utilities will be allowed to turn off power for property owners who wont allow utility crews to trim trees on their parcels. Newly installed power lines must also be kept farther apart from other lines, and all power lines, phone lines and power poles will be subject to more thorough inspections.

Given that its been 10 years since deadly, costly San Diego County wildfires that two state investigations found were caused by SG&Es unsafe practices with power lines, its hard to fathom why the CPUC took so long to comprehensively update its rules. Unfortunately, its common for onlookers to be baffled by the agencys actions  and inaction.

Advertisement

Twitter: @sdutIdeas

Facebook: San Diego Union-Tribune Ideas & Opinion
Share your opinion on this topic by sending a letter to the editor to tctvoice@madison.com. Include your full name, hometown and phone number. Your name and town will be published. The phone number is for verification purposes only. Please keep your letter to 250 words or less.
Joel McNally is a national-award-winning Wisconsin journalist based in Milwaukee. Joel previously worked as a reporter and columnist for the Milwaukee Journal, where his column was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize, and he won a National Headliners Award for best local column.
Will 2018 be a New Year for women? In light of all of the controversy out of Hollywood in the past few months regarding mistreatment of women, it has really started a conversation about the mistreatment of women in general. Can this truly be happening today in America with all of the advancements we have made in almost every industry conceivable?

The short answer is yes. With all of the improvement we have made in how we live, we have not always made the same kinds of improvement in the way we treat each other. As women bravely tell their stories of mistreatment, it has encouraged other women to reflect on their own experiences and come to the realization they, too, have been mistreated. We as a society have been told this mistreatment is acceptable, that nothing will be done about it, and in some instances women have come to justify or condone the behavior.

I remember working in an organization that in meetings male co-workers would say things to women like they reminded them of Satan, they were a liar or yell and curse at them. When these behaviors were brought up as inappropriate, the boss endorsed this way of communicating, saying he thought it was good to get everything out in the open, that he was glad that person said what was on their mind, and when the boss yelled and screamed, he would just turn around and say it didn't happen.

Many people would ask, "Why doesn't a woman just quit working in that environment when they are mistreated?" My response: "Why aren't the inappropriate people made to be accountable instead of the women being mistreated bearing all the burden?"

Many women do leave these kinds of environments instead of fighting against the sickness. The kind of cultural change that is needed to fight this battle is costly. I salute the women in Hollywood and every other industry who stand up for being treated fairly and with respect, no matter the cost.

As a proud veteran of our Armed Forces, I believe that every human being is worth me giving my life to protect  the highest form of respect. Can we somehow start this New Year with the commitment in America that mistreatment of women will absolutely not be tolerated? THEN let's put that new year resolution into action.

JEANNIE JAMES

Florence
Mildred Fishman Gardiner, a roving photographer who spent decades wandering North Beach taking Polaroids of people in cafes and restaurants, died Thursday at San Franciscos Laguna Honda Hospital. She was 94.

But to say she was just a photographer would be akin to saying Caffe Trieste is just a coffee shop or City Lights just a bookstore. For more than 60 years, Millie, as everyone knew her, was as much a part of the North Beach fabric as Gino & Carlo, the bar on Green Street, or SS Peter and Paul Church on Washington Square.

She was around for so long and such a part of the streetscape that it seemed she had always been there.

I knew her before I even knew I knew her, before I even moved to North Beach, said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years. She was this incredible fixture, the bohemian spirit of North Beach.

The basic biographical information about Millie is somewhat mysterious, which is how she liked it. She was born in Cleveland in 1923, made her way out to Los Angeles and eventually drifted north to San Francisco. She married a veteran named Butch, who had lost an arm in World War II. He was hit by a car and killed in front of the San Francisco newsstand he owned. She never married again.

Im just a poor Jew, and I dont talk about myself much, she told The Chronicle in 2009.

As a widow, she lived in inexpensive residential hotels around the neighborhood. At first she sold cigarettes, then flowers, finally ekeing out a living by charging $5 for the Polaroid photographs she took in the cafes and restaurants that line Grant and Columbus avenues and Green Street.

On Friday, as word spread of her death, North Beach folks were rummaging through drawers and pulling out some of the Polaroids Millie had shot of them. Most people didnt have to look very far. Peskin reached into the glove compartment in his car and pulled out a shot Millie had taken of him with former Planning Director Dean Macris at Tommasos Ristorante Italiano on Kearny Street.

Attorney Rick Levine, who moved to North Beach in the late 1970s, found a box full of shots Millie took of him when his son was a baby four decades ago.

She would grab my sons cheeks and say, What a nice Jewish boy, he said. I dont know how many pictures we have that she took  lots and lots.

For decades Millie set up shop at the Old Spaghetti Factory, which closed in 1985 after a 30-year run. Wearing a many-pocketed cape and beret  she carried her own spoon and tin cup for coffee  the diminutive woman with the deeply wrinkled face made her rounds to Enricos, the Gold Spike, New Pisa, Capps Corner, Jazz at Pearls and the Washington Square Bar and Grill. Those places are all gone. At one place that is still around, Specs Twelve Adler Museum Cafe  where Millie would drink black coffee and sometimes nap at a back table  a refrigerator is covered with her Polaroids.

Her face would light up as she took the shot and shook the picture, waiting for it to develop, said Specs regular Gail Gilman. Then she would say, Be good to each other, and she was gone, on to the next place.

For years, Millies last stop was Da Flora Restaurant at Columbus and Filbert, where former owners Flora Gaspar and the late Mary Beth Marks would play Yahtzee after the last diners had left. Millie didnt play, but she liked to roll the dice. The chef would make her scrambled eggs and duck liver.

Gaspar recalled that Millie was religious and wore out her Muni pass traveling to visit the citys temples: Beth Sholom, Emanu-El and Adath Israel. She went to the Jewish Community Center on California Street and the Jewish Home for the Aged on Silver Avenue.

As Millie strolled into her 80s, Marks and Gaspar began worrying about what would happen when she wasnt healthy enough to walk the neighborhood shooting pictures. At the same time, when Polaroid announced that it would no longer manufacture film for the instant cameras, North Beach sprung into action, scouring the Internet and stores for film for Millie.

People went out and bought her as much film as they could so she could continue, Peskin said.

More for you Old friends come to rescue of 93-year-old North Beach mainstay

Soon after, Millie made the news in 2009 when she vanished from North Beach and turned up at a hospital in Reno. Levine, the attorney, tracked her down with help from the San Francisco and Reno police. Jenny and Phillip Antoniolli, who owned a cutlery store on Columbus and took care of Millie as she got older, drove to Nevada and found her at a Reno hospital. She returned to North Beach to a heros welcome.

North Beach has been on a losing streak of late, bidding adieu to many of the free spirits and misfits who have defined the neighborhood since the 1950s. Jefferson Airplane guitarist Paul Kantner died in January, followed by top hat-wearing pirate Patrick LeBold, known as Captain Cool, Vesuvio doorman Paul Grady, and Saloon bartender Huck Pease. Richard Specs Simmons, a bon vivant who owned and operated Specs Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, died late last year.

Its been a really hard year for North Beach, said Gilman, an affordable housing developer. With all the folks fading away, the neighborhood is fading away, too. It will be interesting to see if North Beach produces a new set of characters and oddballs.

The last time Peskin saw Millie was in 2016 at the 150th anniversary of Laguna Honda. He tracked her down. When Millie saw the North Beach pol she started screaming, I want to go back to North Beach! I want to go back to North Beach!

She made it to 94, Peskin said. It shows how North Beach is a small village, that she could walk into Tommasos or various bars and be treated like royalty. It speaks volumes about why San Francisco is still a place worth living in.

J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfjkdineen
In the wake of a foiled terror plot that may have targeted Pier 39, the San Francisco Police Department is putting more officers on the street for New Years Eve, when large crowds will gather around the city to watch fireworks, drink Champagne and ring in 2018.

A Modesto man was arrested Dec. 20 for what the FBI said was a planned Christmas terror attack inspired by the Islamic State, possibly targeting Pier 39. Days later, Police Chief William Scott said the departments plan for public safety at New Years Eve celebrations remains mostly the same  with added backup.

Not so much significant changes (to the plan), but there will be additional deployment, Scott said, at a news conference Friday with acting Mayor London Breed and Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White. A spokesman for the Police Department declined to say how many additional officers would be deployed. Scott emphasized the collaboration between San Francisco police and other local, state and federal agencies, including the FBI.

We want the public to know that there are no credible threats, he said.

Still, he said there would be a heavy police and law enforcement presence all over the city.

There will also be a very visible presence along the wharf area at Pier 39, he said, citing the recent arrest. There will also be officers out there that you wont see, because we will have a plainclothes presence there as well. There will be no discretionary time off for officers on New Years Eve, Scott said.

There were several deadly terror attacks in 2017 and other reminders of the nightmare scenarios that can occur in large crowds. On Oct. 1, for example, a man fired repeatedly into a concert in Las Vegas, killing 58 people and injuring hundreds of others. On Halloween, another man drove a truck down a bicycle path in New York City, killing eight people.

Scott declined to discuss specific plans for different types of attacks, citing tactical reasons for keeping them secret. Other police departments, including those in Las Vegas and New York City, have said they are adding countersnipers to their deployment this year.

Terror attacks are only one of the threats officials are preparing to address. Breed, Hayes-White and Scott all admonished citizens not to drive drunk. Muni and Caltrain will be free to all in San Francisco starting at 8 p.m. on New Years Eve in hopes of keeping partygoers from getting behind the wheel. There will also be additional late-night service on Muni, BART and Caltrain.

I do like to underscore the fact that there are really no excuses for drinking and driving any night of the year, particularly New Years Eve, Hayes-White said.

Breed also reminded the public that shooting off fireworks is both illegal and dangerous.

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.

If you want to see fireworks, go to the show, Hayes-White said. The San Francisco Fire Department will have dedicated resources monitoring illegal fireworks.

Despite the concerns that come with New Years celebrations, Scott emphasized that San Francisco residents and visitors should be able to ring in 2018 in the city  safely.

Our public needs to be able to do the things they want to do freely, Scott said. When we have a terrorist event or threat of a terrorist event, and then we start changing our behavior ... we stop doing things that we as Americans or residents of this nation that we have a right to do, then were in the wrong place.

Sophie Haigney is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sophie.haigney@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SophieHaigney
Annie Ma / Annie Ma / The Chronicle

Two children and four adults were hospitalized Saturday after a wrong-way crash in San Franciscos Inner Richmond neighborhood, fire officials said.

Firefighters responded to a two-vehicle collision about 11:20 a.m. at Fulton Street and Arguello Boulevard, said Lt. Jonathan Baxter, a San Francisco Fire Department spokesman.
The tap of a finger has replaced the wave of an arm for hailing a cab, thanks to smartphone apps like Uber and Lyft. Humans may also be replaced if driverless cars take over the roads someday. But so far, technology has not found a way to replace crooning cabdrivers, and thats good news for Buzz Brooks, the Kabaret Kab of San Francisco.

As colorful local characters go, hes not as well-known as the late Brown twins, or Tom Sweeney, the Sir Francis Drake Hotels Beefeater-clad doorman, or David Johnson, the Bushman. But 66-year-old Brooks, who has been singing for most of his life and driving a cab for more than half of it, has an eccentric edge  and a fan club to boot.

I love him, says Lorenzo Logoreci, owner of the Allegro Romano restaurant on Nob Hill. At the end of the night, the customers who need cabs are always asking, Can we please have the singing taxi guy? Even if theyre only going two blocks, they want him to pick them up and drive around the block to sing for them.

Call it music to the ears of anyone who happens upon him this weekend or any weekend. He drives only Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, including this New Years Eve weekend.

In a digital world, Brooks demographics tend to skew older. Repeat customers are the sort who call him directly on his cell phone to book him at (415) 794-BUZZ instead of using an app. They like swing music. And they dont get worked up about offbeat lyrics. When they hear something funny, they smile.

He represents San Francisco in the best way, says former Mayor Willie Brown, an occasional client, because he makes it a joy to navigate the traffic as he takes you from one iconic location to the next.

Brooks red cab is covered with a Flywheel logo  giving no clue about the surprise within. A small placard in the back seat bears a photo of a man in a red hat, red bow tie and red-rimmed eyeglasses  the spitting image of the driver  along with the words Kabaret Kab.

If a passenger notices, and asks about the photo, Brooks is off and running, starting with small talk. Before you know it, music is swelling from his cars CD player and hes singing loudly about a mysterious relative. Like it or not, the traveling show has begun.

Oh, why does my Aunt Peg have a mustache on her face? / She doesnt even know its there, its such a big disgrace / She used to be quite beautiful and lovely to see / But lately she looks manlier than me!

Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Robert Lee Brooks is a native of New Yorks Long Island, the youngest of three boys. He was raised by his father, an elementary school principal, and mother who taught French. As one brother became an engineer in Michigan, and the other a biochemist in Paris, Brooks passions steered him to music.

In high school, he discovered the soulful sounds of Detroits Motown and Memphis Stax record labels, and with a friend formed an R&B band called 300 Years. Instead of heading to college in 1970, Brooks and the band toured for seven years, opening for headliners Sly Stone, Rufus with Chaka Khan, Kool & the Gang and others. He earned the nickname Buzz for his high energy.

When the band broke up in 1977, he and a girlfriend headed west to San Francisco, a place she had visited once and liked. He worked a variety of jobs  as a draftsman at a company that made restrooms for national parks, for a sheet metal company that made gutters and downspouts, and for a Redwood City company that installed cubicle farms, office partitions and computer floors with air conditioning in the days of big mainframe computers that overheated.

Eager for a job with flexible hours and no commute, he began driving a cab in 1980  Veterans Cab at first, and four years later, for DeSoto, where hes been ever since. On the side, hes performed with local bands (the Steamin Seamen, Chicago Blues Power), dabbled in solo music writing, and sung with the Skyline College Concert Choir, the City College Gospel Choir and the Oakland Jazz Choir.

In 2003, he caught a bad cold and lost his voice for a month. The experience instilled in him a sense of urgency and led to the recording of his first and only album, The Oenophile Anthem, in 2005. Whether its a comedy album laced with jazz or a jazz album laced with comedy is open to debate. Among the 15 songs are the 12-Note Samba, Madam, Im Adam (a song about palindromes) and the title song, The Oenophile Anthem, an ode to dozens of Napa Valley wineries.

Its this album that he has sung along to in his cab since 2006, for an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 passengers to date. He has sold 3,800 albums, in person and on his website, www.buzzbrooks.com. It keeps me going, he says, and wanting to have fun.

Brooks would like to retire but cant afford to just yet. There are about 2,000 taxis with medallions in San Francisco and nearly 5,000 taxi drivers, all competing with a reported 45,000 Uber and Lyft drivers in the Bay Area. Brooks says his income has dried up so much that hes taken out a reverse mortgage on his Daly City home to make ends meet. He plans to keep driving for at least another four years, buoyed by the good in his life, rather than deflated by the bad.

The best reward I ever get from a Kabaret Kab experience  and this has happened maybe six times in all these years  is when a passenger says, You know, Buzz, I was having a lousy day, but you have turned my whole day around, he says, his eyes welling up with tears. Screw the album sale. That supersedes it.

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.

On a recent Thursday, laughter prevails as three young women pile into the cab at the Hilton Union Square and ask for a ride to Park Tavern in North Beach.

More on the Kabaret Kab Taxi driver entertains riders with his Kabaret Kab Experience

You know, he begins, I wanted to tell you about the Park Tavern. Its a wonderful restaurant, and its right across the street from a park called the Washington Square Park. The only thing is, there are some strange people that sleep around that park at night  and they wont bother you, but sometimes they come out of the bushes. And you might see them. One of them I wanted to give you a heads-up on  its a strange old woman. And I found out many moons ago that its an elderly relative of mine. Its my Aunt Peg 

As he breaks into song, the women  initially confused  start to grin. By the time the three-minute ditty comes to a close, theyre ready for more.

Brilliant! exclaims Justina Hemperek of London. What a winner!

Whod have thought? Brooks asks rhetorically. Isnt San Francisco full of some weirdness?

Carolyne Zinko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: czinko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @CarolyneZinko
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Craftsmanship might feel like a corrupted term after you step into the facilities of Arion Press. Tucked away behind the Presidio Landmark apartments, Arion Press has survived as one of the nations only remaining fine book printers  and perhaps the most distinctive.

The publishing press, which also serves as an art gallery and opens its facilities to public tours, partners with well-known artists to publish special, limited-edition works of literature. Each release contains its own entirely original book design, and every copy is built from start to finish using fine printing technology within the press two-floored operation.

Each year, Arion Press releases three works, often classics of literature  from Moby-Dick and Paradise Lost to a gargantuan edition of the Bible  presented in a new, pristine form. For instance, its release of Hart Cranes 1930 long poem The Bridge is printed on a magnificent 50-foot scroll, accompanied by prints of original art made by sculptor Joel Shapiro.

Every one of our books is different than everything that has come before, says Arion Press founder and poet Andrew Hoyem.

Arion Press latest release, its 111th, is Jane Austens Sense and Sensibility, commemorating this years 200th anniversary of the revered English novelists death. The novel includes prints, tipped into the pages by hand, of work by San Francisco artist Augusta Talbot.

Talbot used collage art to re-create 10 scenes from the book, improvising on a short deadline after being commissioned.

I didnt have any materials  we were on Marthas Vineyard  so one day, I went into town and I bought a bunch of calendars, Talbot says. One of them was all kinds of vegetables. One was all kinds of fruits. Then there were a number (with) mid-19th century paintings.

Talbots collage works, which incorporate line drawings from Hugh Thomson illustrations in an 1896 edition of Sense and Sensibility, often depict the restraints and tilted customs of the Victorian era: phantom hands clasping an awkwardly positioned Marianne or a slightly off-kilter postcard image portraying the novels supposed happy ending.

Talbot created her art in a month  an unusually expedited deadline for Arion Press works.

Sometimes its years before it actually comes to pass, and that often has to do with artists, Hoyem says. We did Joyces Ulysses back in the late 80s. It took me four years to get Robert Motherwell to produce the etchings for that book and to produce the book.

Yet if Hoyems press is defined by anything, it would be in the determined survival of its fine printing technology, with which a team of a dozen or so craft each book by hand.

This is the oldest, largest surviving type foundry in the country, Hoyem says, entering a room of monotype casters, where the machines, some a century old, cast individual letters and lines of metal type from molten lead. In the press room, Hoyem had recently spent weeks hand-setting individual metal letters to create each line of type for The Bridge.

The look, the feel and the exactitude that we can bring to it  its an art and a craft, Hoyem says.

Indeed, Arion Press books feel rare, but not only in their tactile and visual quality; most publications are 300 copies or fewer. And, as with most of the books, copies of Sense and Sensibility are still being finished in their bindery room even after its official release.

If theres any publication date, its when we release the first book, Hoyem says. But we could be months beyond that doing bindings.

The survival of an anachronistic operation like Arion Press is especially remarkable in the shadow of San Franciscos tech makeover. (Though, Hoyem notes, many Silicon Valley players are the very customers who purchase their books, which serve as an antithesis to digital environments.)

Its never been easy, Hoyem says, before offering a qualifier: I look at myself as a very rich man.

After more than 100 books, each its own crafted document and work of art  does Hoyem have a favorite?

He shakes his head. To choose would be too difficult.

Which of your children?

Brandon Yu is a Bay Area freelance writer.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Even with the best equipment, recharging an electric car takes time. Whether youre at home or on the open road, you still have to wait.

So last month, Tesla opened a first-of-its-kind pit stop in California that functions like a cross between a gas station and a members-only lounge at an airport. It could be a model for future charging stations  not just for Tesla.

The pit stop lies just off Interstate 5 in Kettleman City (Kings County), roughly midway between the Bay Area and Los Angeles.

Teslas proprietary network of high-speed Superchargers already included sites along the heavily traveled route, usually located near fast-food restaurants or cafes. But the numbers of chargers available is limited  10 in one location, 18 in another  and the restaurants arent necessarily open at all hours. Thats a problem, considering that the typical Tesla driver using a Supercharger to replenish the cars battery spends 30 minutes plugged in.

The new rest stop features 40 Superchargers in rows under solar-paneled canopies. More importantly, it includes a 24/7 lounge, accessible only to Tesla drivers and passengers. A code that appears on the cars navigation screen unlocks the door.

Inside are plush seats, vending machines, a coffee bar, a play area for children, free Wi-Fi and Tesla T-shirts for sale. And, of course, restrooms.

I really like the idea. Its great, said David Schultz, who recently stopped at Kettleman City to recharge his Model S. I think theyll give Starbucks a run for their money.

Schultz, an aerospace engineer, lives in Ventura County and works in the Chatsworth neighborhood of Los Angeles. But he has family in the Bay Area, leading to frequent trips up and down Interstate 5. Along the way, hes made a point of checking out the various Supercharger locations, one of which is, indeed, in the parking lot of a Starbucks in Buttonwillow (Kern County).

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Ill usually stop two or three times on the way, so I can stretch my legs, get a cup of coffee and juice up, said Schultz, 63.

The Kettleman City location, he said, will now be his stop of choice. He even sees the potential to turn the lounge into something similar to a Tesla store, where drivers could learn about other Tesla models and products. The lounge includes kiosks that give drivers information about Tesla energy products, such as solar panels and home batteries. Based on the response from Tesla drivers, the company plans to build more Supercharger lounges.

It really depends on how far they want to go, but they could make it into a real sales point for a lot of things, Schultz said.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

BEIJING  When Patty Wang, an export manager, was going through a challenging time in her career, she looked to an unlikely mentor for advice  Sheryl Sandberg, chief operating officer of Facebook, a business whose flagship app is blocked in China.

Wang, who had toiled at the same company for five years, disliked her job. So she took Sandbergs advice in her book Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead, and did what she would do if she werent afraid. Wang quit.

It encouraged me to do what I would like to do, said 32-year-old Wang, who now plans to start her own business.

The title for the Mandarin edition of Lean In translates to take a step forward. The ideas examined in the 2013 book pushed male CEOs in U.S. workplaces to do more to support women, boosted female empowerment groups around the world and caused a movement of its own in China.

Lean In China, a nonprofit that takes its name from Sandbergs book but operates independently from LeanIn.org, backed by her family foundation, now has 100,000 members, up from 80,000 in June 2016 and almost double its size in 2015.

Most of them have never met Sandberg, but her book has inspired deep discussions about how marriage and having children shouldnt block women from pursuing their dreams. For some, the book has pushed them to challenge cultural norms  ditching 9-to-5 jobs, pursuing partners who support womens careers, and fighting stereotypes that label women as leftovers when they havent married by 27.

In the U.S., many women see workplace discrimination as a major issue blocking them from promotions. Silicon Valley has been roiled by revelations of mistreatment of women at companies such as Uber and smaller startups, and of predatory behavior by tech investors. All of that might make a figure from Americas tech industry seem problematic as a hero for Chinese working women.

Yet women in China say they face more prosaic hurdles, such as fulfilling family obligations. That can be challenging: 46 percent of women surveyed in China equate success with getting married or having a family, according to Lean In China. The survey also found that while the majority of women in China believe that child care should be shared equally by both parents  a position Sandberg took in her book  63 percent of married women say they do more than their husbands, which they say takes away time they could be spending on their careers.

If we dont address these issues stemming from equality in the home, were never going to address (womens) advancement in the workplace, said Virginia Tan, president of Lean In China.

But some analysts say the issues women face in China are more than just balancing obligations at home. Employers there can legally list age requirements for jobs, which could count against women who plan to give birth, said Rui Ma, an investor and former partner for Greater China at venture firm 500 Startups. Female entrepreneurs may have a harder time raising money for their companies if they are unmarried because some investors see single women as having a personality problem if they cant land a mate by a certain age, Ma said.

Chinese investor Luo Mingxiong said this year that he generally wont back female entrepreneurs. What else did women do better than men except giving birth? he said at a business presentation in January, according to the South China Morning Post.

I personally feel like it (is) a very sexist environment for female entrepreneurs, Ma said.

Pregnancy can also be a black mark against female job candidates, said Xiaojun Wang, an associate professor at the University of Hawaii. Wang said a female friend was in the final negotiating process for a job in China but never landed the position. He believes his friend was not offered the position because the firm found out that she was pregnant.

Some employers in China dont want to shoulder the cost of maternity leave and may be concerned that female employees wont travel for work because they need to care for young children, Wang said.

He summarized the perspective of some Chinese employers: If I am trying to make more profit, I dont want to hire females.

As the number of men in the U.S. accused of sexual misconduct continues to rise, Chinas state-run newspaper, the China Daily, tried to distance the country from those scandals in a commentary that said sexual assault is not as common in China because Chinese men are taught to be protective of their women, according to the Guardian. The China Daily article has since been removed from its website.

Rachel Stern, an assistant professor of political science and law at UC Berkeley, called the China Daily article garbage.

Sexual harassment is a problem in China just as it is a problem in America, she said.

The difference is that Chinas gender discrimination laws make it tough for women to go through the courts, Stern added.

China has significant income disparities between men and women, a gap that is expected to widen in the years to come, according to Euromonitor, a market research firm.

Women in China earned 34 percent less a year than men in 2016 and that gap is expected to widen to 36 percent by 2030, the firm said.

The mandatory retirement age for women in civil service jobs is 55, five years earlier than men, which contributes to shorter careers, lower incomes and smaller pensions  thus perpetuating the countrys gender income gap, Euromonitor manager An Hodgson wrote in an email. To be sure, Chinas gender income gap is better than the U.S.  which was 37 percent in 2016  but it is worse than places such as the United Kingdom and Germany, where it is 18.8 percent and 16 percent respectively, according to Euromonitor.

If women in China were to earn more, that could boost the countrys economic growth, because women are more likely to spend money for the household rather than on themselves, Hodgson said.

If women have higher income, the Chinese consumer market will have even greater potential, Hodgson wrote.

Government policies may also shrink the wage gap over time. Hodgson said the government is working to increase the retirement age to 65 by 2045, making it the same for men and women.

Lean In Chinas message is resonating beyond the workplace. In 2014, a Beijing branch of the group helped promote The Leftover Monologues, a performance where women got up on stage and discussed issues they face because of their gender.

My sense is that the pulse of this conversation, the pulse of questioning marriage or even the anxiety that surrounds a leftover women has lessened, said Roseann Lake, the director of The Leftover Monologues. It could be as a result of initiatives like this.

In her second book, Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy, which she wrote in the aftermath of her husbands death, Sandberg recounted how she was inspired by women in Lean In groups in China, who joined together to push back against cultural norms.

It was the best possible reminder that being part of a community can give us the strength that we sometimes cant find on our own, Sandberg wrote.

Today, Lean In China says the stigma of being labeled as a leftover is less common, especially in big cities such as Beijing.

There are more than 1,400 Lean In chapters worldwide, all run by volunteers and operating independently, according to LeanIn.Org, which hosts lectures and provides guidance to Lean In gatherings. Lean In China is one of the largest.

Though they still face retrograde attitudes, much has changed for women in China since Lean In was published. There are now a handful of role models in business, like Jean Liu, the president of Didi Chuxing, the dominant ride-hailing company in the country. Didi started a workplace womens network in March, and a leadership program where business leaders mentor female employees. This summer, Didi also provided employees with on-site day care. It gives corporate workers flexible hours, letting those with young children work at least one day a week from home. About 40 percent of its staff are women.

The womens network is only a first step, said Melody Tu, who oversees it, adding that diversity and gender equality is part of Didis genes. Didi said it also has a policy against sexual harassment and has a procedure in place for employees to file complaints.

Some female entrepreneurs in China said their gender has not affected their careers. Xiaoyu Wang, CEO of CastBox, said she did not have problems raising $16 million for her Beijing company. CastBox, which makes an app that organizes podcasts, was founded in 2016. The app now sees 3 million monthly users, Wang said.

Personally, I never had any harassment issues, she added.

Lean In China is now working to win over men, said Tan, the groups president, who helped form the countrys first Lean In circle in Beijing in 2013.

If a key battleground for women is in the home, we really cannot be doing it alone, Tan said. We need to be working with men. At a March event, men passed out roses with supportive messages and the hashtag #HeForShe.

Others say that while Lean In Chinas efforts are helpful, they dont go far enough.

Its all fine, we need allies  but how far is that going to go? asked Nancy Riley, a sociology professor at Bowdoin College. I want more than a rose, Riley said.

Similar criticisms were lobbed against Sandbergs book for failing to address the struggles of the poor. Tan says that Lean In China has worked to encourage more women in rural areas to participate in its leadership programs, but it doesnt have any specific initiatives targeting the poor.

It is for all incomes, Tan said.

Still, for working women in China looking to rise in their companies, meeting with others familiar with Lean Ins themes can provide a valuable sounding board.

In May, about 10 women gathered at a trendy Malaysian cafe in a fashionable Beijing alleyway. Over fresh spring rolls and other appetizers, the women spoke one by one about what brought them there on a Saturday. Some said they were inspired by Sandbergs message. One, frustrated by a manager who ignores her suggestions that she believes could help her company, asked the group for advice on what she should do.

Wang says Sandberg has been a huge inspiration, as a powerful woman who has overcome so much and cannot be beaten by anything.

I want to do something for myself, Wang said. I dont want to follow traditions.
VISUAL ARTS

New faces: Erica Deeman burst into public consciousness with an expansive show of innovative portraits of black women at the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, and a simultaneous exhibition of new work at the tiny but influential gallery Anthony Meier Fine Arts. Marcela Pardo Ariza brought a refreshing comic approach to photography at a new space in the Tenderloin, R/SF Projects. And Alicia McCarthy, hardly a neophyte after some 20 years on the alternative scene, found a broader public with a solo show at Berggruen Gallery and a featured spot in the 2017 SECA Art Award exhibition at SFMOMA.

 Charles Desmarais

DANCE

Rise of the indies: The high cost of real estate in the Bay Area has forced countless small studios and performance spaces to close over the past several years. But local artists are turning their creativity  and determination  toward ensuring that indie and avant-garde dance has a forever home here: The city helped Joe Landini to turn a defunct Tenderloin porn theater into a state-of-the-art white box for Safehouse Arts, while CounterPulse is firmly rooted around the corner; Joe Goode Annex and Dance Mission offer residencies and affordable theater space; and across the bay Shawl-Anderson Dance Center, Temescal Arts Center and the Flight Deck proudly fly the indie flag  and thats just a few of many.

 Claudia Bauer

MOVIES

Female directors: It just so happened that some of the years best movies were made by women: Novitiate (Margaret Betts), Lady Bird (Greta Gerwig), The Zookeepers Wife (Niki Caro), Detroit (Kathryn Bigelow) and half of Battle of the Sexes (co-directed by Valerie Faris). By no coincidence, all of them (with the exception of Detroit) featured great roles for women. This is how it works in other countries: Once the female directors show up, so do the womens roles, and then the audience, which was already there and waiting, suddenly appears. Lets hope this is what happens here.

 Mick LaSalle

CLASSICAL MUSIC

The #MeToo movement reaches classical music: The precipitous fall from grace of conductor James Levine  amid a flurry of revelations that everyone seems to have known about all along without acting on them  is surely the leading edge of the moral reckoning due to gather strength in the coming year. And the San Francisco Symphony has severed ties with conductor Charles Dutoit amid allegations as well. In spite of conductor Andris Nelsons fatuous (and swiftly disavowed) claim in a radio interview, no one can seriously claim that sexual harassment and even sexual assault are absent from the world of classical music. Soon well learn just how prevalent it is.

 Joshua Kosman





COMEDY

Rise of the small clubs: The comedy underground has always been strong in San Francisco. But this seemed to be a particularly good year for some of the scrappier clubs  the kinds of places that support local comics the most. From the strong Comedy Oakland lineups to Docs Lab in North Beach to comedy at the Alamo Drafthouse to monthly gems such as the Art Critique Comedy Show, theres no shortage of places to see good local up-and-coming comics.

 Peter Hartlaub

POP MUSIC

Summer of Love anniversary is a dud: A month into the new year, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission squashed plans for a free 50th anniversary Summer of Love concert in Golden Gate Park in April. Those who wanted to commemorate the occasion had to settle for the next best thing  a Jefferson Airplane tribute act playing the opening-day celebration for the Summer of Love Experience exhibition at the de Young Museum. With the performance in the middle of a daylong program that included face painting, bubble stations and bedazzled circus performers, the event drew more babies than Baby Boomers. Oh well, whats another 50 years?

 Aidin Vaziri

THEATER

The Hamilton effect: Hopefully, thanks to Lin-Manuel Mirandas richly imagined and gorgeously executed musical about the nations first secretary of the Treasury, we theater people wont have to hear for a while the canards that theater is dead and young people dont go to theater any more. Its cracklingly alive, thank you, and youngsters will camp outside overnight in the hopes of getting tickets  if, that is, you write in their idiom with verve and smarts, if you make the world of your show speak to their world.

 Lily Janiak
At around 6 p.m. Thursday evening, a little less than 24 hours after the Chronicle published an investigative report in which 17 women accused Oakland chef-restaurateur Charlie Hallowell of sexual harassment, his flagship restaurant on Telegraph Avenue was packed with customers.

This was just hours after Hallowell  who also owns Boot & Shoe Service and Penrose in Oakland  addressed the sexual harassment allegations with his entire restaurant staff in a private meeting at Penrose earlier in the day. Hallowell has said that he is stepping down from day-to-day operations while an outside consultant performs an investigation into the company; beyond that, his next steps remain unclear.

Compared to other Bay Area restaurants that have been linked to sexual harassment scandals, like Coqueta or the recent upscale iteration of Tosca, many say that Pizzaiolo in particular has been strongly linked to a legion of regulars in its community. In the reports fallout comes an important question for diners: how will they react to a neighborhood restaurant when its owner is accused of such things?

While several of those Thursday night customers declined to talk on the record, the Chronicle called a handful of other locals familiar with the restaurant for comment, some of whom have been regulars since the space opened more than a decade ago.

***

Since Pizzaiolo opened in 2005, Oakland resident Elaine Smith has been a regular. She used to call the place a second kitchen for her family. She says there were afternoons where instead of going home after picking her two sons up from school, she would take them to Pizzaiolo. There, while sitting at tables during the late afternoon dinner rush amid homework papers and textbooks, theyd eat pizza and speak with neighbors, she said.

Her sons are now in their 20s. Earlier this month, both came to visit and each one wanted to have dinner at Pizzaiolo, which they did. Now, Smith said she isnt sure when shell ever return.

I feel sorry for all of the employees that they have to go through this. Every person that works there is going to have endless conversations about this issue and its so difficult for them, I imagine, Smith said. I would go back tomorrow if I knew for sure Charlie was never going to set foot in there. The workers are the people I care about. Those are who Ill think about as I drive by there while this plays out.

***

Food writer John Birdsall lives blocks from Pizzaiolo. When he and his husband first married and moved to the neighborhood years ago, the pizza shop was, in many ways, their culinary introduction to the area. Over time, the shop weaved itself into the fabric of their Oakland existence.

Outside of the fare, Birsdall said Pizzaiolos stances on social issues made it unique. He said the restaurant supported marriage rights and social movements like Occupy Oakland and Black Lives Matter, among many others. The support was visible in the windows facing Telegraph, social billboards for the restaurant, as Birdsall called them.

You knew if you were walking down Telegraph, you would see expressions of solidarity in the windows. You felt like they were allies, he said. Knowing the experience of the works was uncomfortable or detrimental, it feels like betrayal.

Regarding the question of local customers choosing to distance themselves from Pizzaiolo, Birdsall said it wouldnt be hard. The neighborhood has a litany of dining and drinking options, he said, including Temescal Brewing near 40th Street, as well as the newly opened Hawking Bird, Roses Taproom, Dona Tomas and Burma Superstar, all along Telegraph.

I think the old feeling that Pizzaiolo was really a beacon was lost, and Im not sure what happens where a restaurant could regain that, he said. Im feeling pretty pissed off because I feel that Pizzaiolo has always been a neighborhood anchor in many ways.

***

Adam Lamoureaux, the founder of Linden Street Brewery and now a co-founder of Old Kan Brewery in West Oakland, said for Oakland residents, extracting the love for a neighborhood spot entrenched in the community from the scandal surrounding it isnt easy, especially when the scandal stems from one persons actions.

As a prominent beer supplier in the East Bay, Lamoureaux said he built a professional relationship with Hallowell over the years and identifies the chefs destinations as influential places in the Oakland dining scene. But its that past professional relationship that spurred Lamoureaux to do some soul searching over the last 36 hours.

As a supplier, am I helping if I continue to give beer to a place that treats people poorly? If theyre getting the best produce, the best beer, is there any incentive for them to change their behavior? Lamoureaux said. Thats what Ive been thinking about over the last day or so since all this started happening.

After the Chronicle story published, Lamoureaux wrote in a Facebook post that as a member of the East Bay restaurant industry, he had heard the rumors about Hallowells behavior over the years. Yet by not confronting Hallowell about the rumor, Lamoureaux said he was therefore complicit in the chefs actions. Speaking as a customer, he says his fear would be seeing the place devoid of patrons, a situation negatively affecting the job security of Pizzaiolo employees.

Oakland is a forgiving place and hopefully we can turn this into a positive. The industry needs to take a long look at itself, Lamoureaux said. Its a damn shame. My concern is with the employees.

***

Chris Kelling has worked in the restaurant industry for almost 20 years, including years in Oakland. His social circle intersects with some of the individuals quoted in the Chronicles story about Hallowell. He admitted that it was good news to hear people dined at the restaurant Thursday evening.

Is it OK to keep eating at these restaurants is clearly the most difficult question to answer, because while you dont want these gross men to continue to profit, there is a staff, who are much less able to take a financial hit than the owner is, he said. Charlie Hallowell has three restaurants  thats got to be at least 100 people working for him. Should they all lose their jobs because he acted terribly? The answer is of course no, but how do we reconcile that with the active desire to not want to give the owner our money?

Kelling said he is hoping for a fairy tale ending: Someone coming along and buying him out, keeping the restaurants as they are, and keeping all staff  minus anyone who may have been complicit, of course. And if were writing this fairy tale, it would of course be wonderful for the person buying him out to be a woman.

Justin Phillips is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips
Questions are dogging the future of a state study into what long-term improvements may be needed for the Madison Beltline.

As the aging, increasingly congested main artery for the states fastest-growing urban area, advocates say the Beltline may need such improvements in years to come. It also has crash rates, on some stretches, more than double state averages for similar freeways.

But federal transportation officials last year urged the state Department of Transportation to hit the brakes on the Beltline study, saying other projects are further along and should advance first.

The state budget enacted in September didnt provide a revenue infusion for transportation, leaving such funds in short supply through 2019  and causing Gov. Scott Walkers administration to curtail its road-building ambitions.

Thats causing some to predict work on the Beltline study could be slowed or ended altogether.

Getting this study done on time would appear to be tenuous, said Craig Thompson, a spokesman for the Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin, a business, labor and government alliance that advocates more funding for roads, bridges and transit.

The DOT has not communicated any progress on the study for months, according to Bill Schaefer, planning manager for the Madison Area Transportation Planning Board, which partners with state and federal transportation officials.

Its basically stopped. Nothings been done since early this year, Schaefer said.

DOT spokeswoman Rebecca Kikkert said the DOT is waiting to hear feedback on the study from the Federal Highway Administration before deciding on next steps.

Kikkert did not respond when asked if the department is considering delaying or canceling the study. She acknowledged in October that all major projects in the state, including the Madison Beltline Study, are undergoing an evaluation of cost, scope and priority.

Even if the study is completed, Thompson said there likely wont be enough state money to carry out whatever recommendations it makes.

19-mile stretch

The only way this would be able to be funded is if theres some agreement on new revenue (for transportation) in a future budget, Thompson said.

The study, which began in 2012, looks at a 19-mile stretch of the Beltline from Highway 14 in Middleton to Highway N in Cottage Grove.

While its not yet known what the study could recommend for the Beltline, one Madison official estimated it could call for improvements totaling $1 billion.

Part of that cost could come from improvements such as adding lanes or reconfiguring interchanges, but part could come from rebuilding the existing Beltline, which was built in the 1950s as a two-lane bypass of Downtown Madison.

DOT has spent about $9 million on the Beltline study so far, with $13 million more required to complete it, DOT told the state Transportation Projects Commission earlier this year.

The study will anticipate transit, freight, bike and pedestrian needs throughout the corridor, the report said. It doesnt include proposals to rebuild the Beltline Interchange with Interstate 39-90 or to improve Stoughton Road, which are proceeding separately.

Schaefer said the study also was slated to consider if improvements outside the Beltline could alleviate east-west congestion through the Madison area. Options include new freeways or parkways, such as one running north of Lake Mendota or an outer Beltline south of the existing one, or new transit projects such as the Bus Rapid Transit corridor being developed by city of Madison officials, Schaefer said.

The Beltline study is set to enter a critical environmental phase next year, a process that could take five years or more. State lawmakers then would have to approve funding for whatever projects the study recommends.

But the Highway Administration warned the DOT last year against advancing the Beltline study to the environmental phase, saying it does not believe the timing is right to initiate another project in the (environmental phase) when there are so many other projects that are further advanced and should be completed.

No capacity remaining

Meanwhile, the DOT appears to be focusing its limited resources on immediate or maintenance-related needs instead of long-term or more ambitious proposals.

The DOT recently scrapped a study of potential improvements to Interstate 39-90-94 from Madison to Wisconsin Dells. It also announced, at least in the short term, it wont reconstruct a key stretch of I-94 in Milwaukee between the Marquette and Zoo interchanges.

Republican state leaders have been at odds for years on how to fund roads, bridges and transit.

The impasse led to a 2-month delay in finalizing the current state budget, which runs through June 2019.

Assembly Republicans have said more money is needed for transportation, but Gov. Scott Walker and key Senate Republicans said the DOT must do more with existing resources. Democratic lawmakers also have said more funding is needed.

Traffic on the Beltline has grown rapidly in the last two decades, DOT data show.

On one stretch between West Broadway and Monona Drive  the only stretch for which DOT provided near-continuous traffic-count data over the last two decades  average traffic volumes soared from 76,000 vehicle a day in 1993 to about 120,000 vehicles a day in 2016.

Major Beltline upgrades were just completed through the addition of lanes, from four to six, from Whitney Way to Verona Road.

The Beltline interchange with Verona Road also was rebuilt as part of that project, with construction work on Verona Road still ongoing.

But congestion on the Beltline is only expected to increase in future years, as the Madison area is projected to continue to grow rapidly.

Dane County is on pace to add about 120,000 residents between 2010 and 2040, according to the website for the study. There is no capacity remaining on the Beltline to serve this growth.

Accident hotspots

A 2009 DOT study found population and job growth in the Madison area would cause the Beltline to become extremely congested by 2030. That, in turn, could increase its already-high crash rates while boosting travel times and costs for commuters and businesses.

The study also notes that numerous sections of the Beltline have crash rates higher than the state average for similar urban highways in Wisconsin.

Accident hotspots are found near Highway K near Middleton and between John Nolen Drive and Rimrock Road in South Madison, according to data from parts of the Beltline study published on the DOT website.

For the stretch from Highway K to Parmenter Street, crash rates were nearly triple the statewide average for large urban freeways during the period studied, from 2008 to 2012. Between John Nolen and Rimrock, crash rates were more than double the average.

From Verona Road east to Rimrock, crash rates in each of the segments studied also were significantly higher than the state average.

State Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, said hes not optimistic the state will be able to fund major improvements to the Beltline because we dont have the money.

Its not like these issues are going to go away, Erpenbach said. Theyre just going to get worse.
The most anticipated wedding of 2018  the nuptials of Britains Prince Harry and American actor Meghan Markle  has threatened to provoke a diplomatic crisis. British media is rife with speculation over whether the princes friend, former President Barack Obama, will be invited  a decision sure to offend President Trump.

The controversy escalated when BBC Radio 4 aired an interview that the 33-year-old prince had conducted in September with the former president at the Invictus Games in Toronto. The conversation, which touched on politics, pop culture and social media, gave Obama a platform to slyly allude to Trumps intemperate tweeting without ever mentioning Trumps name. A Breitbart News London editor slammed Obama for politicizing our Monarchy and the prince for playing along.

The Sun, a British tabloid, reports the government is begging the prince and Markle not to invite the Obamas. Buckingham Palace will draw up the guest list, but the British government will serve in a consultive role.

Lois Kazakoff, deputy editorial page editor
Why do the worst-off American citizens love their country so much?

Patriotism may be defined as a belief in the greatness, if not superiority, of ones country relative to others. They would rather be citizens of their country than of any other country on Earth. By this definition, between 85 to 90 percent of Americas poor are patriotic.

The corresponding figures for working-class, middle-class and upper-class Americans are lower. And the worst-off in most other advanced nations are less patriotic  even in countries where people receive better social benefits, work fewer hours and have better chances of upward mobility than their counterparts in the United States.

Why are Americas poor so patriotic? We dont know for sure. And we should, because their love of country contributes to social stability, informs Americas understanding of itself as a special place and is essential for military recruitment.

To understand this patriotism, I spent parts of 2015 and 2016 in Alabama and Montana  both hotbeds of patriotism among the poor. I hung out in Laundromats, bus stations, shelters, libraries, senior citizen centers, used-clothing stores and rundown neighborhoods. I interviewed 63 poor Americans of different ages, genders, religions, political orientations, races and histories of military service.

I came away with three overarching insights:

First, many view the United States as the last hope  for themselves and the world. The country offers poor people a sense of dignity, a closeness to God and answers to most of humanitys problems. For me to give up hope on the country in which I live in is almost to give up hope for self, Shirley, 46, an unemployed black woman in Birmingham, Ala., told me. (All names here are pseudonyms, per my research rules).

That comment connected to a second insight. America appeals to the poor because it is rich. The poor see it as a place where they have a chance to succeed. In my interviews, people separated the countrys possibilities from their own frustrations; many took full responsibility for their own troubles in life. And many saw this as an American virtue. Here, at least, your chances arent taken away by others. If you fail, said Harley, a vet now on food stamps, gotta be bad choices.

For the same reason, many were confident that the future was about to bring them better things. Several felt that they had just turned a corner. And look at the rest of the world, people said: They keep trying to come to America. This must be the place to be.

That related to a third source of pride: Americas freedom. Many people spoke of feeling very free to come and go from different places, and to think as they wish.

For some, this included the freedom to be homeless, if they choose. As Marshall, a young, white homeless man, told me in Billings, Mont., I live on the streets. ... Nobody bothers me for it.  There are other places in the world where Id be forced into some place to shelter up or, you know, herded off or ... jailed.

When conversations turned to freedom, guns were often mentioned. Guns give one security and make hunting possible  enabling one to feed ones self and family. And America, thankfully, ensures gun ownership.

Taken together, the patriotism of the poor is rooted in a widespread belief that America belongs to its people. There is a bottom-up, instinctive, protective and intense identification with the country. This is a peoples country.

Of course, some of this patriotism is grounded in misconceptions about other countries. One person told me that there are only two democracies in the world: Israel and the United States. Another told me that Japan is a communist country. Many also assumed that other countries are poorer than they really are. But these were almost tangential reflections. They seldom came up unless I specifically asked about the limitations of other countries.

Through the interviews, I realized that their beliefs about America are not a puzzle to be solved. In America, there is no contradiction between ones difficult life trajectories and ones love of country. If anything, those in difficulty have more reasons than most of us to believe in the promise of America.

Francesco Duina is professor of sociology at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, and an honorary professor of sociology at the University of British Columbia. He is the author of Broke and Patriotic: Why Poor Americans Love Their Country (Stanford University Press, 2017). He wrote this commentary for Zocalo Public Square. To comment, submit your letter to the editor at SFChronicle.com/letters.
When authoritarian rulers consolidate their power, they follow the same playbook. Go after journalists, lock them up and erase their persistent presence. In the year now ending, this trend jumped upward to a record level.

The job of reporting the news  and more importantly, voicing criticism of the powerful  is more dangerous than ever. A survey by the Committee to Protect Journalists found 262 journalists in jail cells around the world, up from 259, the previous all-time high. This week Myanmars government locked up two Reuters reporters in a media crackdown over its genocidal expulsion of 660,000 members of the Rohingya Muslim group.

Theres a reported drop in journalist fatalities in 2017 with 65 dying, the lowest number in 14 years, according to Reporters Without Borders. But that statistic comes with an asterisk: reporters are fleeing battle zones in Yemen, Syria and Libya, where a press card offers little protection.

A total of 26 reporters died covering the news in such deadly places because of air strikes, gunfire or suicide bombings as happened days ago in an cultural center and news agency in Afghanistan. But more than half of the deaths were targeted killings, essentially murders to muzzle reporting on entrenched interests. Mexico has become distinctly dangerous, with both drug cartels and government goons going after reporters. Nearly as many media workers were killed in that country as in Syria where all-out civil war engulfs the nation.

The toll is far reaching. Reporters are directly at risk, but so is the public. One-note government news predominates if alternative voices are stilled. Reporters fearful of death or imprisonment cant do their job. Jailings and killings reach well beyond the reporters themselves.

This country has a special role to play. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is rightly demanding the release of the reporters imprisoned in Myanmar. The State Department has also criticized harsh treatment of journalists elsewhere.

But the message is sometimes muted or mixed. President Trump has said little about jailings elsewhere, especially by the prime offenders. The presidents bombast and hostility aimed at fake news makes him no defender of an independent press. Hes derided major news organizations, a message carried out fully by his press-room surrogates. His latest low point was a re-tweet of an image showing a bloody splatter with the CNN logo on the bottom of his shoe.

His consistent hostility surely sends a reassuring signal to other world leaders abusing press rights. Trump feels your pain and probably wont raise a fuss.

He welcomed Turkish strongman Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the White House this year, praising him as a friend. The country has the unsavory title as the worlds worst jailer of journalists. The smallest offense in a blog or tweet can lead to charges of anti-state activities and a long stretch in cell.

With China, Trump said nothing on human rights on a Beijing visit. The president famously pummeled to country for its economic policies in his run for the White House but continues to neglect its abysmal record on press freedom. His lack of interest comes at time when Chinese President Xi Jinping is deepening his hold on power with no successor in sight.

Egypt, third of the leading jailers of journalists, also is getting the hands-off treatment from the White House. After the countrys leader, President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, met with Trump in April, Cairo officials unleashed a media crackdown in the name of anti-terrorism controls. The move robbed reporters of financial and travel rights in a clear bid to undercut their roles as independent voices.

These global spots may sound remote, culturally different or prone to religious and economic pressures not felt here. Yet press freedom is linked to human rights, the basic doctrines that shield people from government mistreatment. When autocrats run wild, its this countrys duty to speak up and rally opposition. Regrettably, thats not happening with this American president.

This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Every new year, California welcomes additions and alterations to the states legal system. This year, California welcomes legal cannabis  a profound shift that will impact everything from state land use to advertising regulations.

As of Monday, Californians over the age of 21 are legally allowed to buy and sell cannabis for recreational use. In theory, the voter-approved Proposition 64 sets out strict guidelines: cannabis is subject to two excise taxes, smoking cannabis is still illegal while driving a vehicle, cannabis businesses must obtain state licenses, etc.

In reality, the state still has more than a few kinks to work out.

Questions remain about how law enforcement will determine whether a vehicle driver is impaired due to marijuana consumption.

Californians should also expect a continuing debate about the role law enforcement should take in ending the illegal cannabis industry, which will continue after Jan. 1.

State licensing only began in December. Even the California Bureau of Cannabis Control has expressed worry about a smooth transition from an illegal industry to a legal one.

A large number of local governments have refused to permit cannabis businesses, and the rejections dont break along traditional partisan lines.

Conservative Kern County has banned all commercial cannabis activity, but Marin County also rejected all 10 license applications to operate marijuana dispensaries. Even cannabis operators in liberal San Francisco are facing resistance in many neighborhoods.

Finally, many criminal-justice advocates are demanding more attention to the way historical disparities have led to poor people of color being punished for cannabis use  while wealthy Californians are about to cash in on a lucrative, and now legal, industry.

Legal cannabis will be one of 2018s biggest stories, and its likely to be a bumpy ride.

One of the most controversial new laws of 2018 is SB54, by state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon.

Known as the sanctuary state law, SB54 has earned the ire of the Trump administration. It prohibits state and local law enforcement agencies from arresting and detaining people on behalf of federal immigration enforcement officials.

De Leon worked with Gov. Jerry Brown on amendments that allow local law enforcement to have more interaction with federal authorities than the bill originally allowed for  state and local law enforcement agencies will still participate in joint task forces with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agencies, for example, and share data. And contrary to right-wing talking points, SB54 never disallowed local law enforcement from transferring criminals to federal immigration authorities.

But as a practical matter, it prevents local law enforcement agencies from acting as deputies for ICE.

Thats important for public safety because undocumented immigrants who fear local police are less likely to share knowledge of crime with them. Its also an important statement of Californias values in the midst of a xenophobic federal administration.

The past years #MeToo movement has brought tremendous energy to issues around how women are treated in the workplace. Two new laws represent the state Legislatures attempt to bring more equality to the workplace.

AB168, from Assemblywoman Susan Eggman, D-Stockton, is designed to limit the stubborn, gender-based wage gap by prohibiting employers from relying on applicants salary history when offering them a new job.

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson, D-Santa Barbara, authored SB63, which assures workers that they can take up to 12 weeks worth of parental leave and maintain their health care coverage.

Encouraged by a national ban the box movement, a new law prohibits the traditional job application box for most private companies that inquires about an applicants criminal record. AB1008 still allows employers to conduct background checks after extending conditional offers, but the hope is that the new law will improve employment prospects for the enormous number of Californians with criminal records.

Gun owners will face new restrictions. Thanks to Proposition 63, they must purchase ammunition via a licensed vendor. AB424, from Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento, bans everyone, including school employees, from carrying firearms on school campuses.

The state Legislature also dedicated a tremendous amount of time in 2017 to new laws designed to ease the states housing crisis. Legislators have indicated this will be a continuing topic of interest this year  as it should be.

This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters.
Elaine Thompson/Associated Press

As California begins an era of legal recreational possession and sale of marijuana, college students, particularly those living on campus, may still be contending with marijuana-related penalties. Why? Because marijuana laws in California, Washington and Colorado each have 21-year-old age minimums for possession and use.

A 19-year-old college freshman  more likely to not use tobacco or alcohol but less likely to perceive marijuana as a risk than a student in any previous cohort  could face criminal charges for cannabis possession in a state and on a campus where it is more or less supported.
After losing out on a federal grant for hiring more police amid an increase in gun violence and a record number of homicides in the city this year, Madison officials are seeking to pay for adding eight officers to the police force.

Madison had applied for a $1.87 million grant to bring on 15 new patrol officers and added $750,000 in the citys 2018 operating budget as a full local match for the grant. But since learning in November that Madison would not receive grant funding, a group of local lawmakers are seeking to hire more officers with solely city dollars.

The proposal, sponsored by Mayor Paul Soglin and six City Council members, would redirect about $580,000 of the already-budgeted $750,000 to hire eight patrol officers and purchase three squad cars.

The remaining $170,000 would stay in the Madison Police Departments budget, and its use would be determined by the City Council and mayor.

To make a change to the finalized 2018 budget, though, a 15-vote supermajority of the 20-member City Council is needed. During budget deliberations in November, an amendment that fully funded the grants local match received 14 votes.

It would cost about $600,000 annually in ongoing costs for the officers.

The proposal will be introduced at Tuesdays City Council meeting without discussion. Deliberations will take place at future meetings.

If approved, eight recruits would be added to the police departments academy that begins in May.

Increasing the size of the police force has been a priority of Chief Mike Koval as the city has seen a rise in shootings this year and reached a record number of homicides at 11, surpassing a previous high of 10 set in 2008.

A study conducted by the citys police and finance departments under a requirement in the 2016 budget indicated a need for 13 more patrol officers based on workload and between 37 and 361 officers depending on population comparisons.

The department now has authorization for 461 sworn personnel, about 1.9 officers for every 1,000 residents.
Dance in San Francisco delivered an embarrassment of riches this season. Hardly a weekend passed without multiple performances, often at overlapping times, in a diverse spectrum from classical ballet to immersive postmodernism. What was most striking about this season was how many artists, both mainstream and independent, took creative risks, presented dance in unexpected ways and used performance as a tool of rebellion.

San Francisco Ballets Salome: You wouldnt expect the years most polarizing performance to come from San Francisco Ballet, but there it was: Arthur Pitas Salome, the centerpiece of Program 5. The midcentury-mobster retelling had Herod and Herodias rolling onstage in a stretch limo, a doped-up Salome (Dores Andre, in a fully committed performance) passionately kissing John the Baptists bloody severed head, and cannons spewing metallic confetti. Pita has been called the David Lynch of dance for his unpredictable, sometimes disturbing choreography, and thats why Salome is significant: It thrilled some viewers, perplexed others and offended more than a few, and Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson went with it. Tomasson is taking chances again with next seasons Unbound: A Festival of New Works, which brings 12 new commissions, including another one from Pita. Bravo.

Changing of the guard: Along with fresh ideas onstage, S.F. Ballet boasted freshness in its ranks. The star dancers who retired over the past two years will be missed: Joan Boada, Lorena Feijoo, Pascal Molat, Gennadi Nedvigin, Davit Karapetyan and Vanessa Zahorian make up an incomplete list. Yet the expansive room they left at the top is being filled by new company members like principal Ana Sophia Scheller, who joined from New York City Ballet, and Ulrik Birkkjaer from the Royal Danish Ballet. More importantly, young, homegrown dancers are also on the rise, from recently promoted soloists like Esteban Hernandez and Jahna Frantziskonis to corps members like Lonnie Weeks who are getting well-deserved opportunities.

Location, location, location: Site-specific dance popped up all over. Kim Epifanos Trolley Dances made its 14th annual Muni trip across San Francisco, with artists performing at seven stops on the N-Judah line. In Fugue, Detour Dance excavated LGBTQ history on a walking tour in the Mission, while Rashad Pridgen reflected on police brutality in the Black Lives Masquerade in the Bayview neighborhood. And for its 43rd season, Margaret Jenkins Dance Company created two outstanding works based on place, performed at the Wilsey Center for Opera: The intimate, abstract drama Site Series (Inside Outside) was originally performed in living rooms, a refugee center and an ambassadors residence in Sweden, and Skies Calling Skies Falling seemed to soar inside the Taube Atrium Theaters oblong, non-winged space.

Axis Dance Companys 30th anniversary season: Oaklands physically integrated dance company entered its fourth decade and a new era, presenting a home season that was its strongest in recent memory. In Amy Seiwerts The Reflective Surface and Radical Impact by new Artistic Director Marc Brew, set to a commissioned score by the hip-hop/classical Ensemble Mik Nawooj, Axis looked fearless and contemporary, and inventive and reinvigorated. The pioneering work of co-founder Judith Smith put Axis on the map and paved the way for other companies that combine disabled and non disabled dancers; as she prepares to retire, Axis is still breaking artistic ground.

Joffrey Ballet residency at Cal Performances: The Chicago company and the Berkeley presenter pooled their resources and offered the Bay Area a generous gift in November: a weeklong immersion in the life of a dance company. At company-led community ballet classes, open studios with choreographer Nicolas Blanc and dancers Victoria Jaiani and Fabrice Calmels, and a public forum  all either free or at low cost  anyone could be in the rooms where ballet happens. The culminating performances at Zellerbach Hall were almost beside the point. If you missed out, dont worry; there will be at least two more installments during the five-year residency.

Fact/SFs Platform: Epic productions come in all sizes, from the biggest ballets to intimate works like Platform, a postmodern duet that could be measured in microns of astonishing detail. Created by Fact/SF Artistic Director Charles Slender-White and dancer Liane Burns over a two-year process, and presented in a cube-like installation at ODCs Walking Distance Dance Festival, Platform featured intricate, meticulously timed twinning that was in turn timed to a video montage of those same movements performed in a dozen locations. The turn of Slender-Whites head or the flick of Burns hand drew intense scrutiny, and the mind reeled at artists who would devote themselves to creating so minute a masterwork.

S.F. Ethnic Dance Festival: Its been world-famous for decades, but it took 39 years for the festival to reach San Franciscos biggest stage. For two weekends in July, the War Memorial Opera House showcased the cultures of Brazil, Iran, Mongolia, Hawaii and beyond, and artists like Biteza Bia Kongo, tabla master Zakir Hussain and flamenca La Tania performed with passion and pride for capacity audiences. It was a triumph for inclusion and a joyful celebration, and the response was seismic  the theater reverberated with cheers and applause. When the festival returns for its 40th anniversary, even those 3,000 seats might not be enough.

Claudia Bauer is a freelance writer in the Bay Area.
Swelling of legs, hands and feet; capillary leak syndrome; fever; muscle pain; unusual bruising; dizziness, blurry vision; rash; hives; blisters; nervous system and blood disorders; lymphoma; swollen tongue; dry mouth; weight gain; inability to fight infections; nausea, diarrhea; constipation; depression; dehydration; suicidal thoughts. Oh, and death.

These are just some of the side effects mentioned in television advertisements for prescription drugs.

And while these kinds of ads have been running for 20 years, ever since the Food and Drug Administration approved them, it is not your imagination if you think you are seeing more of them these days. Lots more.

According to Kantar Media, a firm that tracks multimedia advertising, 771,368 such ads were shown in 2016, the last full year for which data is available, an increase of almost 65 percent over 2012.

TV ad spending by pharmaceutical companies has more than doubled in the past four years, making it the second-fastest-growing category on television during that time, said Jon Swallen, Kantars chief research officer.

And where are viewers most likely to encounter ads for Lyrica (a pill for diabetic nerve pain, among other ailments), Humira (a drug for rheumatoid arthritis), Eliquis (an anticoagulant that is meant to treat blood clots and to lower the risk of strokes) and other prescription medications? Dramas and news shows, according to data from Nielsen.

The ads, which once focused on treatments for chronic but generally nonfatal conditions, have turned to more serious ailments in the last few years, said Thomas Lom, a consultant and former senior executive at several health care ad agencies.

In the old days, it was allergies and acid reflux and what not, he said. Now, its cardiology issues. Its cancer.

That, of course, reflects the medical issues facing audiences that skew older.

The drug companies arent generally marketing to people in their 30s; theyre marketing to the 65-plus, and thats the population that tends to still be watching television, said Allen Adamson, a brand strategy consultant.

And when the ads come on, that audience is also listening intently to all that can befall them if they take a certain drug. An unexpected side effect of ad agency compliance with the drug administrations regulation, it turns out, is enhanced credibility.

Its counterintuitive, but everything in our research suggests that hearing about the risks increases consumers belief in the advertising, said Jeff Rothstein, the chief executive officer of Cult Health, an ad agency that specializes in health care.

As Howard Courtemanche, president of the health and wellness practice at Young & Rubicam, put it, What is seemingly a negative to people who dont have a condition or disease is a positive to people who suffer from it because theyre thinking, Well, of course it has side effects. Its fighting a really serious illness. Theyll say, Im in a life-or-death situation, and I want a drug thats really strong. I expect there to be risk to get the rewards.

Still, that interest goes only so far.

At some point, the side effects become white noise, said Maryann Kuzel, who oversees analytics at Publicis Health, a unit of the communications company Publicis Groupe. Theres a huge amount of information compressed into a 60-second commercial, more so than any other industry.

You have the benefits of the drug, she said. You have the specific patient population the drug is intended to treat. You have the dosing mechanism. Is it oral or is it an injection? Where is it administered? How frequently do you need to take it? And, of course, you have all the side effects. And we know that consumers are multitasking across multiple devices while theyre watching TV. So comprehending all that information is a tall order for consumers.

There may be a cure for that. This year, the FDA released a study suggesting that a shorter list of side effects including only those that the agency described as serious and actionable helped people remember a drugs risks and benefits.

The regulation is still that we have to give all the risks in the TV ads, Kuzel said. But because of this new research, the door might be a little open for us to start offering proposals of how we might communicate to consumers better.

Joanne Kaufman is a New York Times writer.
A San Jose man was arrested Thursday in connection with a September shooting that killed 20-year-old Jesus Ayala, police said.

The shooting occurred in the 100 block of S. Jackson Avenue in San Jose on Sept. 29, just before 6:30 p.m., police said. Ayala was found with at least one gunshot wound and was taken to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.

The suspect was identified as 26-year-old Ivan Hernandez, police said. Hernandez was arrested on Thursday and booked into Santa Clara County Jail for murder.

Anyone with information can contact police at (408) 277-5283.

Annie Ma is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ama@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @anniema15
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

The Russia-U.S. relationship continues to be a topic of intense discussion on the national stage, but newly published maps, secretly drafted during the Soviet era, shed light on the shocking extent of U.S.S.R. intel on American cities during another moment of unrest between the two global powers.

Soviets created these highly detailed maps, containing information like the locations of secret military buildings and the construction materials of public spaces, for nearly every global city including San Francisco.

The maps have only recently come to light in a new book, "The Red Atlas: How the Soviet Union Secretly Mapped the World" by Alexander Kent, president of the British Cartographic Society, and John Davies, a lifelong map collector and enthusiast.

According to Kent, the project is the biggest cartographic enterprise of the 20th century, and includes depictions of more than 2,000 cities.

The level of detail suggests that the cartographers were creating maps for a future where communism would prevail, Kent said. After all, he added, knowledge is power.

Now Playing: Classic Soviet cars, spy toys, and even archives of Checkpoint Charlie border guards, these were just a fraction of the items on display at the Wende Museum of the Cold War as it opened its new collection in Los Angeles on Sunday. Some 100,000 Cold War artefacts from 1945 to 1991 were exhibited to the public in Culver City. Video: Ruptly TV

And the U.S.S.R.'s knowledge ranged from the precise location of secret military buildings  information not publicly known nor depicted on American-made maps from the same time  to the depths and flow speeds of rivers to the carrying capacity and construction material of bridges (including the Golden Gate).

Kent says he was particularly shocked by the specific classification of buildings (military, industrial, etc.), which suggests that there must have been people on the ground gathering information.

That is quite chilling, he said.

Kent and Davies discovered the maps separately, in Latvia and Kazakhstan, being sold in local map shops almost 20 years ago.

Even after almost two decades of research, Kent says the maps continue to reveal fascinating insights into the Soviet military mindset.

They are also works of art, he added, and provide a chilling glimpse of what a Soviet future might have looked like.

See a selection of the maps in the above gallery.

Michelle Robertson is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @mrobertsonsf.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ANAHEIM  Mohammed Aly does not see why he shouldnt try to ease the lives of Orange Countys homeless. But the authorities  and many of his neighbors  disagree.

Aly, a 28-year-old lawyer and activist, has been arrested three times as he campaigned on behalf of street people. Recently, he was denied permission to install portable toilets on a dried-up riverbed, site of an encampment of roughly 400 homeless.

It is a question of basic empathy, he said.

But his detractors are engaged in a debate up and down the West Coast as the region struggles to cope with a rising tide of homelessness. They say Aly and other well-meaning residents who provide the homeless with tents, toilets and hot meals are enabling them to remain unsheltered.

And they note, nuisances such as trash and unsanitary conditions fester and aberrant behavior continues.

In California, the San Diego County community of El Cajon passed a measure that curtails feeding the homeless, citing health concerns. Los Angeles city officials have closed and reopened restrooms for those on Skid Row amid similar controversies.

The issue is hotly debated in Orange County. In the seaside enclave of Dana Point, neighbors fear a nightly meal is drawing homeless to a state beach where teens play beach volleyball and families picnic and surf. And on the riverbed 30 miles north, a van fitted with shower stalls pulls up to help those living in the trash-strewn encampment, which neighbors worry is becoming more entrenched in an area where they once jogged and biked.

Theres no doubt that giving them stuff there prevents them from a desire to move, said Shaun Dove, a 46-year-old soon-to-be retired policeman who lives less than a mile away.

The number of homeless living in Orange County has climbed 8 percent over the past two years. In the United States, homelessness rose slightly in the past year to nearly 554,000, pushed up largely by increases on the West Coast, federal data shows.

The increase is driven by soaring housing costs, as well as a drug crisis and need for mental health services.

Advocates say the homeless have become more visible as police have cracked down on rules barring camping, driving people to spots like the riverbed, which is county property.

Everybody knows the solution is more housing; there arent enough beds available in a county with a median home price near $700,000.

In Dana Point, the nightly meals began more than two decades ago at local churches but were moved to the beach parking lot after a late night stabbing between two homeless residents.

The homeless say as much as they appreciate the hot meals, the food isnt keeping them on the streets.

It doesnt help me tomorrow. It doesnt, said a 55-year-old man who refused to give his name. But it helps me today.

Volunteers say the homeless are drawn to beaches because of the open space and access to water and restrooms and that feeding people can build trust and lead them to additional services.

But Brian Brandt, a 55-year-old lawyer, doesnt let his six children go down to the beach alone after seeing volatile outbursts among the homeless and frequent police calls.

I dont want to be seen as a bad guy  OK, look at this heartless dude, he said. I dont feel safe. I dont feel like my kids are safe.

Toni Nelson, who co-founded a neighborhood group, is also critical of the meals. She has joined with housing advocates to try to raise money to house the homeless with ties to the community, figuring if about a third of the citys residents chip in $68 they can cover much of the need for a year.

So far, dozens have signed up to give. But they still have a long way to go.

Robert Marbut, a consultant on homelessness, believes its misguided to provide housing or other services without heavy incentives for recipients to be in treatment programs for mental health problems, addiction or other issues.

Anytime you give out services without treatment, Marbut said, thats enabling, period. ... Youve got to serve the food in a place where mental health is being provided.

People say they ended up at the riverbed encampment for different reasons ranging from drug addiction to a lost job.

Many nearby residents said their neighborhoods have suffered since the camp has grown. Hypodermic needles have been found in the park and shopping carts rattle on otherwise quiet streets.

Anaheim officials said any aid should be part of a broader effort to help people find a way out of the riverbed.

The goal shouldnt be to make it slightly more comfortable there to live that way but rather, how can we get those folks to a better place? said city spokesman Mike Lyster.

Orange County has shelter beds but they largely fill up. And many homeless said they dont like a shelter curfew or rules barring pets and prefer their privacy, even outdoors.

County authorities say they want to clear the riverbed and have provided those living there with showers and case management services to help those who want it.

Larry Ford, a 53-year-old veteran, said he appreciates the assistance but food and showers dont tether him to the string of tents.

Look at this, he said, pointing to garbage by his feet. What is this enabling here?

Amy Taxin and Geoff Mulvihill are Associated Press writers.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Dress in layers, lay off the booze, and bring some hand warmers. Those are some of the tips offered for the huge crowd of revelers expected in Times Square for what could be one of the coldest New Years Eve ball drops on record.

Brutal weather has iced plans for scores of events in the Northeast from New Years Eve through New Years Day, but not in New York City, where people will start gathering in Times Square hours before the famous ball drop.

Hundreds of thousands have withstood very cold weather over the years for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we expect this year to be no different, said Tim Tompkins, president of the Times Square Alliance, which puts on the event.

The coldest New Years Eve in Times Square came in 1917, when it was 1 degree at midnight. This year, the forecast is for 11 degrees with a wind chill around zero, which would tie for second with 1962.

The New York City Health Department is advising people to cover all exposed skin. Drinking alcohol is discouraged because it causes the body to lose heat faster.

Extra New York Fire Department personnel are going to be on hand to provide medical support.

In other areas gripped by the cold, some events are being canceled or reconsidered. The annual Lobster Dip at Old Orchard Beach in Maine has been rescheduled for the first time in 30 years.

Organizers of the Penguin Plunge in Narragansett, R.I., say its still on for New Years Day but advised the thousands of expected participants to use their good judgment and avoid taking the plunge if they have a medical condition or have been sick.

In Philadelphia, officials have decided to go forward with the annual New Years Day Mummers Parade, which features thousands of performers in colorful costumes adorned with sequins and feathers strutting through the streets.

The village of Orchard Park near Buffalo, N.Y., has canceled its New Years Eve event because subzero temperatures have been forecast. With frigid weather, the chance of a water line break is higher, and Id rather have my public works crew fixing it than hoisting a ball up to drop, said Mayor Jo Ann Litwin Clinton.

At Long Lake in the heart of New York states Adirondack Park, intrepid souls will jump into frigid water through a hole cut by the Fire Department for the fifth annual Polar Plunge, a fundraiser for High Peaks Hospice. People get excited about the cold here; we grew up with it, said Alexandra Roalsvig, the towns director of recreation.

Mary Esch is an Associated Press writer.
Police have arrested a 67-year-old Lousiana man who allegedly helped a gang of international scammers bilk unsuspecting email recipients of their savings.

Michale Neu, who is neither royalty nor Nigerian, was charged with 289 counts of wire fraud and money laundering.

According to WGNO, Neu served as a middle man, channeling fraudulently acquired funds to his co-conspirators  some of whom were actually Nigerian  by wire transfer. The con worked like this:

An email would be sent to potential victims telling them they had been named beneficiary of a large sum of money  often millions  in the will of a recently deceased wealthy individual. To collect their bequests, the victims had to divulge personal information such as bank account numbers to "expedite" the process.

The information was then used to steal money and identities online.

Despite widespread publicity, warnings and even jokes about "Nigerian prince" schemes, the scam still reportedly nets millions of dollars each year.

Now Playing: A terrifying call led a woman to send more than $1,000 to what turned out to be scam artists, but there's good news for her and half-a-million other Americans who've been ripped off. Video: Fox32

In other manifestations of the scheme, the emailers masquerade as law enforcement or utility company representatives.

Details of the case against Neu, who lives in Slidell, were not disclosed.
More than 70 years after he died when his fighter plane was shot down over northern France just before the D-Day invasion, 1st Lt. Frank Fazekas is finally accounted for.

Fazekas plane, a P-47 Thunderbolt, was shot down by German soldiers in May 1944. His body was never recovered and he was listed as missing  until the work of a small UW-Madison team that searches for missing soldiers found and excavated the crash site in northern France in 2016 and this past year.

Now, after more than seven decades, his remains are set to be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in March.

This is the culmination of decades of thoughts, wishes to have him have a proper burial, said Dr. Ryan Wubben, a member of UW-Madisons Missing in Action Recovery and Identification Project and director of UW Med Flight. It was an incredibly powerful and meaningful moment.

Fakezas was among the tens of thousands of missing U.S. military personnel since World War II and is now the second missing World War II soldier the UW-Madison group has found and positively identified.

An Army Air Forces pilot from New Jersey, Fazekas was just 22 years old and likely on a reconnaissance mission over northern France when he was shot down by the Germans on May 27, 1944, just days before the Allied invasion of the Nazi-occupied country.

An eyewitness, who was a young boy at the time and lived on a nearby farm, led members of the UW-Madison team to the crash site in a farm field near the village of Buysscheure.

After two summers of excavations, coordinating with local French officials and U.S. military personnel and sifting through dirt and digging trenches up to 18 feet deep in clay, Fazekas body was officially identified with the wreckage late this past summer.

After the first summer, the team uncovered some remnants of the plane, including some of its machine guns. The serial numbers matched the numbers tied to the plane, leading the team to believe they had found Fazekas plane among the many other American, British, French or German crash sites in the area.

This years follow-up mission, requested by the U.S. government, confirmed it was Fazekas plane.

It was honorable, it was emotional, it was exhausting, said Charles Konsitzke, a member of the team and associate director of UW-Madisons Biotechnology Center.

Fazekas had a young son, only months old at the time of the crash, also named Frank. His son joined the effort in the summer of 2016 to help the group sift through clay and dirt.

For him to stand there on the edge of the crater we had excavated was huge for all of us because it brought it full circle for why we were doing this, Wubben said.

The two-year effort was paid for by the Department of Defense and through a grant from UW-Madison.

Many still missing

While the team was glad to bring closure to Fazekas family, Wubben said the positive identification was just a drop in the bucket of the thousands of U.S. military personnel still missing from combat.

Fazekas is among the more than 82,000 service members missing from combat since World War II. The U.S. Department of Defense recovers and identifies only about 70 of those missing soldiers every year, a 2013 Government Accountability Office report found.

The UW-Madison team hopes its second recovery will be followed by many more.

In its first recovery, the team helped to identify U.S. Army Pfc. Lawrence S. Gordon using DNA.

Gordon had been mistakenly buried among unidentified German soldiers in a German cemetery in France after he was killed by Germans in August of 1944.

During the second mission, the UW-Madison team partnered with the Department of Defense to recover the body  the first partnership of its kind.

After seeing how successful it was to work with colleges and universities, Wubben said the federal government is expanding its search efforts to include several other institutions of higher education.

They need all the help they can get, Wubben said.

The government can benefit from working with universities because they have such a wide range of expertise  from forensic anthropology to history  that prove useful for search and recovery efforts, Wubben said.

What started out as a small group of people doing work in their spare time is poised to evolve into a larger effort.

Members are waiting for their next assignment from the Department of Defense, Konsitzke said, adding that hed like to someday focus on finding missing Wisconsin military members.

This isnt our day job. This is what we do during lunchtime or in our down time, Konsitzke said. Were hoping the project develops into more.

The group currently has three core members, but in the Fazekas case, more than a dozen forensics experts, anthropologists, UW-Madison students and other academics from across the U.S. helped out.

Wubben, who studied anthropology as an undergraduate, said he hopes the group can evolve into something more sustainable, growing to include full-time staff. He said he likes the work because its a way to honor soldiers who are still missing.

This gives me an outlet by which I can maybe give something back, Wubben said. Its an interesting mystery but at the end of the day it boils down to the families and giving something back. They made the ultimate sacrifice and were never recovered.
Only days before the sale of recreational marijuana is legalized in the state, the California Highway Patrols bust of a truckload of pot from a newly licensed Mendocino County cannabis distribution collective raises new questions of what exactly the cannabis transportation laws are before retail sales become legal on New Years Day.

Two employees of Ukiah-based Old Kai Distribution driving a Nissan box truck were stopped and cited by the CHP about 5 p.m. Dec. 22, said Matthew Mandelker, co-founder of the organization, which has had a county distribution license since Dec. 19. They were pulled over because the trucks side running lights were malfunctioning, but the 1,875 pounds of marijuana inside the vehicle led to an investigation.

The CHP called Mendocino Countys Major Crimes Task Force, which decided to seize the vehicle and its contents, said Officer Calvin Robertson, a CHP spokesman.

Though transport of marijuana is currently legal, nearly 1,900 pounds is an amount that could exceed the limits of state law, Robertson said. Under current law, the amount allocated for transport must be under 28.5 grams for individuals. For providers, its an amount that should seem reasonable to meet the needs of medical marijuana patients.

Joe Rogoway, an attorney representing Old Kai, said the amount was appropriate. The cannabis being distributed would serve hundreds of dispensaries and was going to mainly be used as oil for vaporizer pens, he said.

Whats their magic number? Rogoway said. CHP doesnt decide how much is too much. Theyre not there to interpret the law. Theyre there to enforce the law.

Rogoway talked with county attorneys to negotiate a return of the cannabis, but was told the truck remained at the CHPs Ukiah branch and the marijuana was being held by the Mendocino County Sheriffs Office, he said. The next step is to reach an agreement with those agencies, or file motions in court for the return of property.

It would be an expensive loss, the attorney added.

The 1,875 pounds of marijuana in the vehicle was collected from licensed cultivators at farms in the county. If its not recovered, the farmers will bear the brunt of the loss.

Despite the legal arguments, the marijuana remained in law enforcement custody Friday. Old Kai Distribution, a not-for-profit medicinal marijuana collective, argues that it had a local distribution license and was legally transporting the plant in compliance with a county ordinance. But the CHP said the company did not have state licensing  an additional requirement for transport that wont be rolled out until Monday  and was transporting an amount that raised legal concerns.

The states official authority, the Bureau of Cannabis Control, started an online licensing application system on Dec. 8. The licenses become effective Monday and last 120 days, at which point distributors need permanent licenses.

Old Kai has already applied for a state license, Rogoway said.

Under the bureaus regulations, there does not appear to be a limit of how much marijuana distributors can transport with the new license.

Mandelker, the collectives co-founder, said his organization was complying with state law and a Mendocino County ordinance that granted a cannabis facilities business license for operations  including distribution  within the county.

We are asserting our rights and believe we have the backing of the county and are conducting ourselves in compliance with the countys ordinance, Mandelker, said.

But it was a Mendocino County task force that seized the marijuana, which raises questions of just how much county support the collective has.

Our fear is that essentially the law enforcement aspects of the county are not seeing eye to eye with the administrative aspects of the county, Mandelker said.

Its not clear whether the law is being violated, but the situation outlines the lack of understanding of the few regulations on the books, said Paul Armentano, deputy director of NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.

If it was 19 pounds instead of 1,900 pounds, it might not have even become an issue, he said.

But despite the confusion and local legal battles that still surround medical marijuana, which has been legal in California since 1996, Armentano is convinced that in a couple of days there will be fewer questions of what the law is.

To me, its fairly moot, he said. Come Jan. 1, these activities are now going to be for the first time fairly regulated.

Jenna Lyons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jlyons@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JennaJourno
. To do so, first type the original number into the text box. Then click on the "Scientific Notation" option located at the top of the floating window. Finally, click on the "Standard" button found beneath the text box to display your result. This program is useful for scientists and engineers working with decimal-based numbers. It provides easy access to those who need to convert those numbers into more compact forms without having to do heavy math calculations first.

Scientific notation is a way to express very large or very small numbers. It is used in physics, chemistry and other fields where large numbers are common. Those numbers are written as a power of 10 followed by a number with an exponent. For example, 1,000,000 (one million) is written as 1  103. The exponent shows how many zeros are after the first digit. For example, 1,000,001 is written as 1  102. Scientific notation is a useful tool for making calculations easier. You can use it to write down very big or very small numbers in one step instead of writing out both the large and small numbers separately. You can also use it to express large or small numbers in terms of other units like centimeters or millimeters.

Scientific notation solver is an online tool that can be used to convert any number into scientific notation. Simply enter any number to the left of the decimal point and it will automatically convert it into a scientific notation equivalent. This web tool can be very helpful when you need to convert a large number into scientific notation. However, please note that this online tool can only convert numbers that are in scientific format. For example, it cannot convert a non-scientific number like "1,085" into a scientific notation equivalent. It is also important to keep in mind that this web tool only works when converting numbers from one particular format to another. For example, if you want to change a non-scientific number like "1,085" into standard format, then you will have to use another online tool like NumberFormatting.com.
The full impact will materialize only over many years, but my vote for the best news in Chicago this year was the huge drop in teenage births to a historic low. As recently as 1999, the rate of teenage births was over 3.5 times the current rate, and the improvement has been across all racial and ethnic groups. With births now at 27.5 per 1,000 females ages 15 to 19, Chicago is now not far above the national average of 22.3.

Few matters are as well documented by research as the value of waiting to have a baby until you have a committed partner and the financial means to raise a child. Couple it with getting a high school diploma and holding a full-time job and you have a 98% chance of avoiding poverty and joining the middle class.

Its not just poverty thats linked to teenage births. The children face increased risk of lives marked by crime, poor educational performance and bad health. According to the federal government, teen childbearing costs U.S. taxpayers between $9.4 and $28 billion a year through public assistance payments, lost tax revenue, and greater expenditures for public health care, foster care, and criminal justice services.

Both the left and right should be pleased with Chicagos progress since the drop is apparently not attributable to more abortions. Its frequency also dropped in Cook County and statewide, mirroring a national trend that has the rate now at its lowest since the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973.

Mayor Emanuel and Chicagos Department of Public Health credit themselves and federal funding for the drop in teen births. Maybe thats right, I dont know  Chicagos progress is part of a similar national trend. Salute to them if it is right and to anybody else working on the issue.

Young women in poverty seek meaning in their lives by having a child, but end up contributing to the cycle of poverty for themselves and their children.

Maybe that cycle is finally breaking.

*Mark Glennon is founder of Wirepoints. Opinions expressed are his own.

Published first on Wirepoints, submitted to Illinois Review.
My New Years wish is for the health and resurgence of democracy. What follows is a slightly edited version of a morning prayer I offered last month at the Appleton Chapel of the Memorial Church at Harvard University.

Let us say a prayer for democracy. But let us do more than pray. Lets ask ourselves what it means to live by a democratic ethic. Here on Earth, as John F. Kennedy said, Gods work must truly be our own.

We know that democracy, particularly in its liberal form, is embattled, facing threats within nations that have long been proud of their democratic traditions, and competition from systems that tout themselves as better able to deliver many of lifes good things.

But the greatest threat to democracy may be our own indifference.

Democracy properly encourages open-mindedness. But are we so open-minded that we are not willing to say, unequivocally, that a system providing for free speech, freedom of conscience, a free media, freedom of religion and genuinely free elections is both morally and practically better than alternative systems? Are we so concerned about our tendency to deify our own culture and our own traditions, are we so turned off by the invocation of democracy in defense of wars we might have opposed, that we are unwilling to assert that democracy is worth defending across cultures and nations?

Democracy is and always has been imperfect in practice. Vaclav Havel, the Czech dissident who became his countrys president, told Congress in 1990: As long as people are people, democracy in the full sense of the word will always remain an ideal. One may approach democracy as one would a horizon, in ways that may be better or worse, but which can never be fully attained. In this sense, you, too, are merely approaching democracy.

In embracing democracy, as the historian James Kloppenberg has written, we are standing up for three contested principles: popular sovereignty, autonomy and equality. We are also embracing three premises: deliberation, pluralism and reciprocity.

We know that in its liberal form, democracy must at times resist popular sovereignty  a majority of the people cannot vote away their own rights or anyone elses. We know that our own quest for autonomy can conflict with our obligations to the communities to which we owe debts. We know that many democracies, including our own, are a long way from true equality.

Yet in the face of these tensions and imperfections, which values would we place above popular sovereignty, autonomy and equality  and also above deliberation, pluralism and reciprocity? If we would uphold these commitments, we should be prepared, with Havel, to defend the democratic ideal.

We should also be prepared to live it. For religious people, the grounding for democracy is a belief that all human beings are endowed with equal dignity by God. But one need not be religious to insist on the equal dignity of our fellow human beings. One need only be a small-d democrat.

A devotion to democracy thus ought to affect how we treat others. We often have to deal with hierarchies, but we should never internalize them. Those at the bottom of formal authority structures see things and know things that cannot be seen from on high. We should, as Pope Francis has said, seek the wisdom available only on the peripheries. We learn from experience  and from the news  that the distributions of virtue, compassion and judgment are not correlated with the distributions of power and wealth.

Democracy, finally, is rooted in two intuitions, about our aspirations to transcendence, which allow us to imagine a better world, and about our proclivities to sin and failure, which require limits on the power any of us can wield. Thus Reinhold Niebuhrs aphorism: Mans capacity for justice makes democracy possible; but mans inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.

The conservative writer William F. Buckley Jr. once said that he would rather be governed by the first 2,000 names in the Boston phone book than by the Harvard faculty. I no doubt have a higher opinion of the Harvard faculty than Buckley did, but the instinct behind his provocation should stay with us.

Democracy imposes a discipline. It demands that no fortunate group should ever claim, by virtue of its position or its educational attainments, the unchallenged right to impose its will on others. To invoke the late Benjamin Barbers lovely phrase, the only aristocracy democracy fully sanctions is an aristocracy of everyone. It is the one sort of aristocracy worth praying for.

 2017 Washington Post

Writers Group

Email: ejdionne@washpost.com Twitter: @EJDionne
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ABOARD A P-3 ORION, over the Pacific Ocean  The Department of Homeland Security is increasingly going global.

An estimated 2,000 Homeland Security employees  from Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to Transportation Security Administration officials  now are deployed to more than 70 countries around the world.

Hundreds more are either at sea for weeks at a time aboard Coast Guard ships, or patrolling the skies in surveillance planes above the eastern Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

The expansion has created tensions with some European countries who say that the United States is trying to export its immigration laws to their territory. But other allies agree with the United States argument that its longer reach strengthens international security while preventing a terrorist attack, drug shipment, or human smuggling ring from reaching U.S. soil.

Many threats to the homeland begin overseas, and thats where we need to be, said James Nealon, the departments assistant secretary for international engagement.

A surveillance mission earlier this month with Homeland Security agents in drug transit zones near South America highlights the departments efforts to push out the border. Just after takeoff from a Costa Rican airfield, a crew of agents aboard a Customs and Border Protection surveillance plane began tracking a low-flying aircraft that appeared to be headed south toward Ecuador.

The aircraft, which intelligence reports reviewed by agents indicated had no flight plan, flew just a few hundred feet above the ocean  an apparent attempt to avoid detection by radar.

When they are flying that low, theyre probably up to no good, said Timothy Flynn, a senior detection agent, watching the plane on a radar screen.

An hour later, and hiding in the cloud cover to stay out of sight, the U.S. P-3 pulled up behind the plane. An agent with a long-lens digital camera snapped a string of photos of the planes tail number and other identifying details. Flynn radioed the information to authorities in Ecuador who were waiting when the plane landed, arresting seven people and seizing more than 800 pounds of cocaine aboard.

Ecuador may embrace the Homeland Security agents, but other allies say the departments foreign reach is a stretch.

In Germany, some lawmakers have questioned the departments counterterrorism Immigration Advisory Program, where travelers at foreign airports are investigated and sometimes interviewed by plainclothes Customs and Border Protection officers before they are allowed to board flights to the United States.

Those U.S. officers can recommend that airlines deny boarding to foreign passengers. A Government Accountability Office report found that the customs officers stopped 8,100 known or suspected terrorists, or individuals with connections to terrorist groups, from traveling to the United States in 2015, the most recent year that data is available.

But Andrej Hunko, a member of Germanys Left Party, said the actions amount to an extrajudicial travel ban and accused the United States of moving its immigration controls to European countries.

Canadians flooded their prime ministers office in August with letters and emails protesting legislation to allow U.S. customs officers stationed at Canadian airports and train stations to question, search and detain Canadian citizens. Unnamed government officials told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. that the volume of mail received was unprecedented and took officials by surprise.

The measure passed two weeks ago after Ralph Goodale, Canadas public safety minister, assured Parliament that the U.S. officers would rarely use their authority to question or detain Canadian citizens. More than 400 Homeland Security employees are stationed in Canada  the most of any foreign country  which Goodale called a benefit to both nations.

We face shared threats from drug smugglers, terrorists and human traffickers, and we could do things over the phone, Goodale said in an interview. But there are real advantages to being able to meet and talk to people face to face as you deal with these security threats.

In Tanzania, Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigators were accused in May of using Mafia-style tactics for helping to extradite suspects accused of drug smuggling to the United States before their appeal to block the transfer was concluded.

The costs of the Homeland Security operations abroad also have raised questions by critics in the United States.

One congressional report found that the cost of stationing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent overseas is about four times as expensive as a domestic post. And in September testimony to the House Homeland Security Committee, the National Treasury Employees Union raised concerns about plans to deploy additional customs officers abroad amid critical staffing shortages at the nations ports of entry. The union represents 25,000 Customs and Border Protection employees.

Lawmakers have asked Homeland Security officials to evaluate the costs and benefits of deploying thousands of employees overseas while the department is looking to hire 15,000 new ICE and Border Patrol agents in the United States as part of President Trumps crackdown on illegal immigration.

Kevin McAleenan, acting commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, said nearly 1,000 agency employees are stationed abroad, more than from any other branch of the Department of Homeland Security. They screen passengers at airports, inspect cargo being loaded on ships bound for the United States and train other nations customs and border officials.

Additionally, a special tactical unit of Border Patrol agents, known as BORTAC, has worked in nearly 30 countries to train in counterterrorism and counter-narcotics missions.

Kevin Martinson, Customs and Border Protection attache at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, said a training program for Kenyan customs officials and its Rural Border Patrol has led to record seizures of narcotics and other smuggled goods.

Martinson, who coordinates the agencys efforts in nine African countries, said the training has also helped Kenya secure its borders and guard against groups like al-Shabab, a militant organization based in neighboring Somalia. He said the U.S.-trained Rural Border Patrol recently repelled an attack by the extremists and captured one of its assailants.

In South Africa, Homeland Security Investigations special agents have targeted drug smugglers, wildlife traffickers and Nigerian scammers.

Ron Nixon is a New York Times writer.
Blog Archive November 2022 (11) October 2022 (21) September 2022 (19) August 2022 (22) July 2022 (22) June 2022 (18) May 2022 (11) April 2022 (19) March 2022 (16) February 2022 (14) January 2022 (16) December 2021 (14) November 2021 (15) October 2021 (15) September 2021 (14) August 2021 (8) July 2021 (9) June 2021 (4) May 2021 (12) April 2021 (14) March 2021 (18) February 2021 (16) January 2021 (20) December 2020 (17) November 2020 (12) October 2020 (16) September 2020 (13) August 2020 (16) July 2020 (11) June 2020 (3) May 2020 (13) April 2020 (9) March 2020 (17) February 2020 (17) January 2020 (17) December 2019 (19) November 2019 (22) October 2019 (27) September 2019 (23) August 2019 (20) July 2019 (23) June 2019 (24) May 2019 (22) April 2019 (26) March 2019 (22) February 2019 (20) January 2019 (21) December 2018 (26) November 2018 (19) October 2018 (26) September 2018 (24) August 2018 (22) July 2018 (28) June 2018 (23) May 2018 (23) April 2018 (25) March 2018 (24) February 2018 (21) January 2018 (29) December 2017 (26) November 2017 (21) October 2017 (24) September 2017 (23) August 2017 (25) July 2017 (27) June 2017 (25) May 2017 (23) April 2017 (20) March 2017 (20) February 2017 (21) January 2017 (22) December 2016 (23) November 2016 (21) October 2016 (21) September 2016 (21) August 2016 (22) July 2016 (24) June 2016 (26) May 2016 (26) April 2016 (27) March 2016 (29) February 2016 (25) January 2016 (26) December 2015 (28) November 2015 (27) October 2015 (29) September 2015 (23) August 2015 (25) July 2015 (19) June 2015 (17) May 2015 (15) April 2015 (19) March 2015 (19) February 2015 (16) January 2015 (21) December 2014 (16) November 2014 (20) October 2014 (22) September 2014 (20) August 2014 (24) July 2014 (27) June 2014 (26) May 2014 (27) April 2014 (20) March 2014 (25) February 2014 (19) January 2014 (23) December 2013 (24) November 2013 (19) October 2013 (22) September 2013 (20) August 2013 (21) July 2013 (17) June 2013 (16) May 2013 (14) April 2013 (19) March 2013 (16) February 2013 (12) January 2013 (14) December 2012 (20) November 2012 (17) October 2012 (14) September 2012 (14) August 2012 (20) July 2012 (15) June 2012 (15) May 2012 (17) April 2012 (16) March 2012 (6) February 2012 (7) January 2012 (6) December 2011 (12) November 2011 (14) October 2011 (16) September 2011 (9) August 2011 (12) July 2011 (8) June 2011 (11) May 2011 (11) April 2011 (11) March 2011 (10) February 2011 (12) January 2011 (17) December 2010 (16) November 2010 (10) October 2010 (21) September 2010 (21) August 2010 (24) July 2010 (36) June 2010 (19) May 2010 (14) April 2010 (15) March 2010 (13) February 2010 (6) January 2010 (3)
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Erica Garner, 27, who emerged as a controversial activist after the death of her father, Eric Garner, has died, a week after suffering an apparent heart attack.

Garner died early Saturday morning at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, her official Twitter account confirmed.

When you report this you remember she was human: mother, daughter, sister, aunt. Her heart was bigger than the world. It really really was. She cared when most people wouldn't have. She was good. She only pursued right, no matter what. No one gave her justice.  officialERICA GARNER (@es_snipes) December 30, 2017

The mother of two, who resided in Brooklyn, went into cardiac arrest Saturday night after suffering an asthma attack, her family has said in media interviews and on social media.

According to her Twitter account, which has been run by a worker since she was stricken, she "suffered major brain damage from a lack of oxygen while in cardiac arrest."

The Daily News reports that Esaw Snipes, Garner's mother, called her a warrior on Saturday and said "She left on her own terms."

Garner emerged on the scene after her father died while he was being arrested at Victory Boulevard and Bay Street in Tompkinsville for allegedly selling loose cigarettes in 2014.

She was an outspoken and sometimes controversial activist against police brutality, organizing marches and speaking often to the media about her father's case.

Garner, who has over 36.4K followers on Twitter, used the platform to voice her opinion on social injustice.

She recently received $163,600 as part of the city's $5.9 million wrongful-death settlement with the family, according to distrubution records.

Days before the anniversary of her father's death in 2015, she led a march through the streets of St. George and Tompkinsville, as part of a week-long series of events planned to honor his legacy and raise awareness of what she believed was a trend of police brutality in the country.

The group stopped traffic for a brief time, as they let out chants demanding justice in front of the state Supreme Court building. The march ended at the spot where her father died, and brought together several social activist organizations.

For a time in 2015, Garner considered challenging Rep. Daniel Donovan when he ran for re-election the following year. Donovan was the distict attorney when a grand jury declined to indict Police Officer Daniel Pantaleo in connection with her father's death.

She ultimately decided against mounting a campaign, however.

In 2016, she met with President Obama after she took to Twitter to express her outrage that she was not given the opportunity to speak with the commander in chief at a town hall in the nation's capital.

Garner accused ABC News of lying to her and her family about having an opportunity to ask the president a question in order to get them to Washington D.C., where the town hall was held, for ratings.

"Yo this town hall that presidential town hall #abc arranged is a farce. It was nothing short of full exploitation of Black pain and grief," she tweeted.

Garner also lended her voice to Bernie Sanders' presidential campaign. She stood behind his social-justice platform and was featured in a campaign video.

"People are dying," Garner said in the video. "This is real. We need a president that will talk about it. I believe Bernie Sanders is a protester. He's not scared to go up against the criminal justice system. He is not scared."

Among her survivors are two children, a daughter Alyssa and a four-month-old son, Eric; her mother, Esaw Snipes; and her siblings, Emerald Garner, Eric Snipes, Emery Snipes; and a half-sister, Legacy Garner-Miller.
Staten Island Advance photo

Tax reform bill impacts 2018 tax year

The $1.4 trillion tax bill -- officially called the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act -- passed the House of Representatives on Dec.20 by a 224 to 201 vote. The bill passed the Senate, 51 to 48 votes. No Democrats voted for the bill in either house.

The new tax code will affect your 2019 filing for your income beginning in 2018.

President Donald Trump signed the Republican tax cut bill into law before leaving for his Christmas break in Florida.

Passage gave Trump the first major legislative victory of his first year in office.

It's the first significant change in the U.S. tax code since President Ronald Reagan signed the Tax Reform Act of 1986 to simplify the income tax code, broaden the tax base and eliminate many tax shelters.

Don't Edit

Staten Island Advance photo

Why Rep. Donovan voted 'No'

I wanted nothing more than to vote for a tax plan that would put more money in the pockets of overburdened taxpayers and spur job creation, Rep. Daniel Donovan (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn) said about his decision to vote against the bill.

New York is a high-tax state, and this legislation should serve as a wake-up call to politicians who have been taxing and spending with little regard for the taxpayer, Donovan said.

Donovan cited the loss of the state and local tax deduction, also called the SALT deduction, as one of the reasons he voted against the bill. The final bill capped deductions for state and local taxes and property taxes combined at $10,000.

The congressman was also concerned about the elimination of the personal exemption for tax filers. The elimination of this exemption could increase the amount of taxable income for some filers.

Don't Edit

Staten Island Advance photo

How will middle class Staten Islander be affected?

I have a sense that the average person on Staten Island, somebody who has a house, a kid or two, theyre going to come out better than before, said William DeLuccio, a certified public accountant from Great Kills.

DeLuccio said he worked out the numbers on several different income levels with different scenarios and most people came out ahead.

Most people really arent doing bad at all. Naturally, there are going to be people who [dont benefit] but most people are going to be ahead, DeLuccio said.

Don't Edit

AP Photo

Should you itemize or take the standard deduction?

If your itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction, then it pays to itemize  especially for those who have a higher mortgage.

People, as they get older, they usually dont itemize because their houses are already paid off. Most people between the ages of 30 to 55 do itemize to a good extent," DeLuccio said.

The standard deduction has been increased under the bill to $24,000 for a married couple filing jointly, and $12,000 for single filers.

Don't Edit

AP Photo

Increased Child Tax Credit makes up for personal exemptions -- if you have young children

An increased Child Tax Credit, available for dependents under the age of 17, can offset some of the loss from the elimination of the personal exemption.

You can take a $2,000 credit for each dependent under 17 under the new bill; it was previously $1,000.

The new bill also raises the threshold under which filers can receive the credit. Previously it was $75,000 for single parents and $110,000 for joint filers. It's now $200,000 for single parents and $400,000 for joint filers, making it available to higher-income households previously not eligible, DeLuccio explained.

He said for those who have zero taxable income will get a check for $1,400 in lieu of the actual credit.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Shutterstock image

SALT deduction

The SALT deduction, the state and local tax deduction that allowed filers to deduct state and local property taxes plus income or sales tax, has been a part of the U.S. tax code since 1913.

Donovan said that removing the SALT deduction would result in a tax increase for many Staten Island and Brooklyn families -- especially the middle-income homeowners.

DeLuccio said what Staten Islanders would be losing in SALT deductions, they will gain back because of the reworking of the tax brackets.

A key variable is if a filer chooses to itemize or take the standard deduction, the CPA said.

However, for the local police officer, firefighter, sanitation worker and other civil service employees, theyd most likely lose all work-related itemized deductions they were previously getting and opt for the standard deduction, DeLuccio explained.

SALT deductions have been capped at $10,000 under the new bill.

Don't Edit

AP Photo

Mortgage interest deduction cap now $750,000

The House's original proposal cut the mortgage interest deduction in half, from $1 million to $500,000. The final bill caps it at $750,000.

"It isn't perfect but it's much better," Donovan said.

DeLuccio said the cap only applies to new mortgages  current homeowners do not have to worry about the cut in mortgage interest deduction.

Don't Edit

Associated Press photo

Loss of personal exemption; double standard deduction

The personal exemption, valued at $4,050 for each filer, has been eliminated.

The Tax Cuts and Job Acts almost doubles the standard deduction to $24,000 for married couples who file joint tax returns and $12,000 for individual filers  up from $12,700 for married joint filers and $6,350 for individual filers.

Don't Edit

Associated Press photo

New income tax brackets

There are still seven income tax brackets. However, the rates and income brackets have changed.

For example, if you are a single filer and make $50,000 a year, you would have previously fallen into the 25 percent tax bracket for income ranging from $38,700 to $93,700.

Under the new tax plan, you fall into the 22 percent tax bracket, for income ranging from $38,700 to $82,500.

The [income] brackets are lower so youre going to be paying less taxes as your income increases and as you move up the brackets. Thats supposed to make up for the other loss of deductions, DeLuccio said.

Don't Edit

Staten Island Advance chart

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Staten Island Advance chart

Don't Edit

Associated Press photo

Opposition cites benefits for the rich

While most agree that the impact on individuals and families will vary depending on variables ranging from demographics to filing method, organizations like Americans for TaxFairness continue to cite how will benefit corporations and the weathiest Americans the most. The organization lists "13 terrible things about the Trump-GOP tax plan." The claims includ the new bill "provides a corporate tax rate cut of $1.4 trillion and makes those cuts permanent, but makes tax cuts for individuals and families temporary" and "limits the federal deduction for state and local taxes (SALT), hurting the middle class."

Don't Edit

How will it impact you? Try an online tax calculator

So how will the new tax code impact you? Everyone is asking the same question: Will my taxes go up or down?

Every tax return is different and the results will vary depending on a number of key issues, including source of income, are you itemizing or taking the now larger standard deduction, do you have a mortgage and how much interest do you pay, number and age of children -- there are many variables.

For individuals tax filers whose main source of income is their paycheck, some preliminary estimates can be made. Several online sites offer calculators to give you an idea of what the impact will be when you file in 2019. For CNN's, click here. For the MarketWatch version, click here.
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
Best Canadian Blog

2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

About Kate

Why this blog?

Until this moment I have been forced to listen while media and politicians alike have told me "what Canadians think". In all that time they never once asked.

This is just the voice of an ordinary Canadian yelling back at the radio - "You don't speak for me."

(goes to a private mailserver in Europe) I can't answer or use every tip, but all are appreciated!



Katewerk Art

Support SDA

I am not a registered charity. I cannot issue tax receipts.



Want lies?

Hire a regular consultant.

Want truth?

Hire an asshole.





The Proper Procedure



Poor Richard's Retirement



Polar Bear Facts & Myths



Polar Bears: Outstanding

Survivors of Climate Change.



Pilgrim's Progress



Trump The Establishment

Weather Shop

Click to inquire about rates.

Dow Jones

What They Say About SDA

"Smalldeadanimals doesn't speak for the people of Saskatchewan" Former Sask Premier Lorne Calvert

"I got so much traffic after your post my web host asked me to buy a larger traffic allowance." Dr.Ross McKitrick

Holy hell, woman. When you send someone traffic, you send someone TRAFFIC. My hosting provider thought I was being DDoSed. - Sean McCormick

"The New York Times link to me yesterday [...] generated one-fifth of the traffic I normally get from a link from Small Dead Animals." Kathy Shaidle

"Thank you for your link. A wave of your Canadian readers came to my blog! Really impressive." Juan Giner - INNOVATION International Media Consulting Group

I got links from the Weekly Standard, Hot Air and Instapundit yesterday - but SDA was running at least equal to those in visitors clicking through to my blog. Jeff Dobbs

"You may be a nasty right winger, but you're not nasty all the time!" Warren Kinsella

"Go back to collecting your welfare livelihood."Michael E. Zilkowsky

Intelliweather

Seismic Map

Comments Policy

Read this

Best Of SDA

Hide The Decline

The Bottle Genie

(ClimateGate links)

You Might Be A Liberal

Uncrossing The Line

Bob Fife: Knuckledragger

A Modest Proposal (NP)

Settled Science Series

Y2Kyoto Series

SDA: Reader Occupation Survey

Brett Lamb Sheltered Workshop

Flakes On A Plane

All Your Weather Are Belong To Us

Song Of The Sled

The Raise A Flag Debacle

(Now on Youtube!)

(.mwv Video)

Abuse Ruins Life Of Girl

Trudeaupiate

Kleptocrat Jeans

Child Labour

I Concede

Small Dead Feminist

Protein Hoser: THK Interview

The Werewolf Extinction

Dear Laura (VRWC)

We Wait

Blogging The Oscars

Jackson Converts To Islam

Just Shut The HELL Up

Manipulating Condi

Gay Equality Rights


According to Martin Brady, setting up a New Year's Eve fireworks display is a bit like assembling a giant Lego set.

"Everything has a place, and that can take all day until the evening, and we have to make sure that nothing gets wet," he said.

Workers set up a stage in Civic square on Saturday in preparation for New Year's Eve celebrations. Credit:Sitthixay Ditthavong

"From the early evening we'll start testing, and fireworks shows work best if they're tested again and again. We've got about 3000 electrical circuits on that show, so there's quite a bit to test."

Mr Brady is the man in charge of the pyrotechnic show that will see Canberra into 2018.
No, no, Con Vaitsas (Letters, December 24), Christmas is not "considered the only time of the year we should buy a gift for someone we like". It is simply the one time in the year we are coerced into doing it collectively. In the 70 years the bride and I have been together, any day of the year could be Christmas Day chez nous  and so many of them were. It worked for us.

Ron Elphick Buff Point

Illustration: Matt Golding.

Trump earned it

Donald Trump's election, like it or not, was the result of his outspokenness and disregard for established political conventions ("Using Tea Party tactics to derail Trump", December 24). Saying out loud what a substantial number of people were thinking, just like the fabled little boy who called out: "The emperor has no clothes!". Too crass, and not debonair enough to be called a political maverick, thereby achieving some form of conventional legitimacy, he nevertheless appealed to enough voters in enough states. His opponents, both Republican and Democrat, were too frightened to be outspoken and thereby start a discussion about what was right and proper. The result? They got trumped. I think that Trump's opponents will have to come up with something stronger than Tea Party tactics, given the 24-hour cycle of news reporting has changed the way politics is practised, and will therefore leave many of our "sound-bite" savvy, and therefore bland and superficial, politicians floundering.
Just last week Jane Fonda celebrated turning 80, but it's a milestone she never pictured reaching. Having not looked past 30 as a young woman, she is simply thankful to be alive and living a different life to what she first envisioned.

"I never pictured 30," she told People Magazine. "I assumed I wouldn't live very long and that I would die lonely and an addict of some sort. I didn't think if I did live this long, that I would be vibrant and healthy and still working. I'm grateful."

Jane Fonda arrives at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards. Credit:Danny Moloshok

The former fitness instructor's early years were defined by family tragedy. Her socialite mother Frances battled mental illness, and died by suicide when Fonda was just 12. After her father Henry remarried that same year, Fonda said she led a "fraught adolescence" having suffered from bulimia, abuse, taking hallucinogenic drugs and being filled with insecurity, even as she rose to fame and won two Oscars.

Today, the actor, activist and author is not only alive but thriving, saying that overcoming life challenges has taught her lessons in inner self-improvement. Her other proud moments come from the roots of her "controversial" anti-war activism, and remaining an outspoken advocate for women's rights throughout her career.
Defence personnel were operating under "increased readiness" in Darwin earlier this month after Russian bombers flew out of an Indonesian military base and close to Australia, it has been revealed.

The ABC has reported that the RAAF Base Darwin was placed on a "brief period" of alert while more than 100 Russian personnel and several aircraft were stationed at the Biak Airbase in Indonesia's eastern Papua province.

Two Russian strategic bombers and two aircraft made a flight from Amur region to the Biak airfield in Indonesia in early December.

According to the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation's website, two strategic bombers carried out "air alert mission over neutral waters of south Pacific Ocean" on December 7. The flight time "exceeded eights hours".

"Flights over neutral waters in Arctic, Northern Arctic, Black and Caspian seas, and Pacific Fleet are conducted regularly by long-range aircraft," the website says.
Making medical decisions for a hospitalised older relative can be so stressful that about 30 per cent of carers had moderate to severe depression and 14 per cent had symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder even two months after the relative was discharged.

But family members may be less traumatised and make better decisions when they receive support from healthcare workers, a study suggests.

Making medical decisions for a hospitalised older relative can take a toll on mental health. Credit:Louie Douvis

Nearly half of hospitalised older adults need help communicating and making healthcare decisions, and caregivers often experience stress while helping their loved ones, researchers write in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

As the population ages, millions of older adults are admitted to the hospital each year in Australia and the United States.
Letters to Foreign Minister Julie Bishop's office have gone unanswered. Mr Richardson's belongings, including his passport, wallet and watch, have not been returned. The family has never seen an autopsy report to confirm a cause of death and they are battling with Indonesian banks to retrieve Mr Richardson's savings. His villa, which he had paid two years' rent in advance, has been returned to the owner. When they see the same investigators parading Australians detained in Indonesia on drug charges, such as Queenslander Isaac Emmanuel Roberts who was arrested before Christmas, they are confused:

"There just seems to be a complete lack of interest in the case, especially when you compare how they paraded [Roberts] down the main street of Kuta like a terrorist and hung him out to dry," Mr Richardson said. "Yet when an Australian citizen gets murdered it seems to be swept under the carpet and there is no interest whatsoever. "So that has probably been the most difficult thing, just having no answers. "It is not going to change what has happened, but at least it will give us a little bit of closure in the case and we might know what has happened and we know that there has been active interest in catching whoever did it." When approached for comment, Denpasar police chief Hadi Purnomo said the case remained open and an investigation was still ongoing.

"We face difficulties because we lack witnesses and the limited evidence collected," he said. But that is something even the family have not been told. They still question whether the entire investigation has been botched. Mr Richardson was found in May, possibly two days after he was killed after being attacked in the villa when he returned home from a night out. His family firmly believe he was targeted while he was drunk. The retired seaman had a heart of gold, buying gifts like motorbikes for Balinese locals, but he could defend himself. Police said an autopsy confirmed that although he had been bashed and stabbed, the cause of death was strangulation.

They released information that more than one DNA profile was found at the crime scene before reneging on the claim. They suggested hairs and bloodied footprints were also found. And they said it appeared Mr Richardson had been attacked by someone he knew because nothing was stolen and his villa was locked from the outside. But the family has been told none of that information. "I just hoped and wished there would be more correspondence and indications from the police," Aaron Richardson said.

"Even if it was that they were investigating, they did have leads but then they fell short. That does happen. "There are just so many unanswered questions which we would be very grateful if they got answered. "It is not going to change the end result. What has happened has happened. "But the frustrating thing is there is no communication and there does not even appear to be any interest. "They say the investigation is ongoing but what does ongoing mean. Does it mean they are still looking?
A controversial $150 million aged-care development in Brisbanes north-west has been given the green light.

An Aveo retirement village at 24 Free Street, Newmarket, currently has 74 villas on the site but in 2016 the aged-care provider proposed to build almost 300 units in buildings up to seven storeys on the land.

Aveo submitted several altered development plans to Brisbane City Council before approval for the development was given on December 14.

Brisbane City Council approved Aveo's proposed development at Newmarket in December 2017

Aveo was forced to reduce the building height and density, justify site access and increase setbacks to get council approval.
Come February 1, they could face literal withdrawals, as they find they can no longer access them  at least without a trip to the doctor. Customers will need a prescription to buy codeine-containing painkillers or cold and flu medications, drugs which for years have been sold in their millions to Australians, and become household names in the process. It's a significant change that will force a major shift in the way Australians treat their pain. Melbourne pharmacist Jarrod McMaugh says brand names like Panadeine have become as commonplace in pharmacies as Vegemite is in supermarkets. "And in the last 10 years Nurofen (which does not contain codeine) and Nurofen Plus have had a big impact as well," Mr McMaugh said.

"It means people coming in expect that's what they'll need for their pain. "Most people request the codeine-type products, because it's what they familiar with." Melbourne pharmacist Jarrod McMaugh. Credit:Jason South Despite its popularity, codeine is not recommended for use more than three days in a row, and experts now say there is little evidence that codeine tablets are better than the alternatives, paracetamol and ibuprofen. The addictiveness of codeine means that some people have taken up to 100 tablets a day, which they have collected over the counter from multiple pharmacies.

Abuse of the drug can cause liver damage, stomach perforations, internal bleeding, kidney failure, heart attacks and hypoventilation (often side effects of the high doses of other drugs mixed with codeine). There have also been a number of deaths directly linked to codeine misuse. Australia's drug regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration, said its decision to ban over-the-counter sales of codeine "took into consideration compelling evidence of the harm caused by overuse and abuse". A family who wrote to TGA said their son would drink the entire contents of a 200 millilitre bottle of cough syrup in one sitting several times a week, or alternatively, buy 48-tablet packs of Panadeine Forte or similar pills. "Please count us as a family devastated by the over-the-counter supply of codeine products to teenagers," they wrote.

Products impacted by the change will include popular painkillers Panadeine, Nurofen Plus, Mersyndol, and cough and flu products sold under brands including Demazin and Codral. While some suppliers will continue producing their drugs with the expectation they will be prescribed by doctors in the future, others have reformulated their products without codeine, or abandoned their lines completely. Panafen Plus, Panadeine, Panadeine Rapid Soluble and Panadeine Extra will be pulled from the Australian market, while there have already been reports of pharmacies running out of supplies of over-the-counter codeine. Pharmaceutical Society of Australia president Dr Shane Jackson, said over-the-counter codeine stock had been very limited at most pharmacies since November. "I think we'd be lucky to have 20 boxes of stock left in our pharmacy," he said.

It is a huge change when you consider Australians are estimated to buy more than 20 million packs of low-dose codeine every year. While most customers who buy the drug only do so occasionally, the 20 per cent of people taking it for chronic conditions bought an estimated three quarters of the packets, according to the TGA  which means the vast majority of the products are probably being used incorrectly. The public is being urged to talk to their pharmacist or doctor about alternative treatment or drugs (likely paracetamol, ibuprofen or a mixture of the two) in the lead up to the change in February. Some people may be able to ditch medication entirely with physiotherapy, exercise and psychological treatment, according to pain specialists like Associate Professor Malcolm Hogg.

Professor Hogg, a Painaustralia board member and head of pain services at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, said there were also safer and more effective medications for those with "opioid responsive pain", including buprenorphine or tapentadol, which are "less dependence forming". GP and doctor groups have said that they will not prescribe stronger drugs when they begin to treat former over-the-counter codeine users, despite alleged efforts by drug lobbyists to fill the void with other addictive products. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners president Dr Bastian Seidel confirmed that "certain drug companies" had been promoting even stronger prescription opioids, such as oxycodone and endone, as substitutes for codeine. "It is the last thing we need," he said. Dr Bastian Seidel has warned of lobbying from drug companies eyeing new business opportunities.

Dr Seidel said GPs were well aware of the dangers posed by opioids, which in the United States were fuelling the deadliest drug crisis in the nation's history. "We can't follow the nightmare scenario that America is going through now," he said. "Opioids are never the first choice treatment for any medical condition. There is a very limited role of opioids for pain management." While the codeine overhaul has the broad support of the medical profession, it has not been without controversy, facing resistance from some pharmacy groups, including the Extended Hours Pharmacies Association who say it could lead to people flooding emergency departments late at night. It has also garnered plenty of outrage from the Australians who use low-dose codeine for short periods, including for period pain, and are upset about cost and inconvenience of a doctor's visit.

In Sydney, 60-year-old Karen Baines said she often took Nurofen Plus or Mersyndol to treat her knee and ankle pain, and had already tried Panadol and Panamax with no satisfactory effect. Karen Baines is very worried about the codeine change. Credit:Fiona Morris. The disability pensioner said she was worried that she would be left without medication on the weekends, when her local doctors did not bulk bill, as she could not afford to pay the gap. "I'm going to have to be in pain until the Monday when I can go to the doctor and not get charged a fee," she said. Ms Baines said she expected February 1 to result in absolute havoc at GP clinics.

"I'm telling you now, you won't be able to get in to see a doctor," she said. Over the past four months Leah Dwyer has been able to wean herself off codeine, after she heard her pills would no longer be available over the counter. She went to visit one of her pharmacists and told her: "I have a problem, please help me". It was only as she tapered herself off the drug, transitioning to Panadol and ibuprofen, that she realised how addicted she had become. "The little voice in my head that said 'Just go get some codeine' was there for the entire time," she said. Ms Dwyer said she hoped pharmacists and doctors had been trained to deal with "this tsunami of pain" that would flood in from February 1.
Police have arrested a man who led officers on a wild vehicle chase through Perth's northern suburbs during which he smashed a stolen car into a ute driving in the opposite lane.

Video released of the incident by police shows an officer with service pistol drawn arresting the driver while another officer forces the passenger door open to arrest a female.

Police arrest the driver. Credit:David Allan-Petale

Police said about 11:30pm on Friday night they saw a black Ford Falcon sedan doing burnouts in a carpark on Reflection Boulevard in Jindalee.

When they tried to stop the vehicle police said the driver tried to evade them, with the police helicopter then swooping in and locating the black Ford on Marmion Avenue, following as it drove through several suburbs.
Washington: Former Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos told Australian diplomat Alexander Downer in May 2016 that Russia had political dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

The conversation between Papadopoulos and Australia's High Commissioner to the UK was a driving factor behind the Federal Bureau of Investigation's decision to open a counter-intelligence investigation of Moscow's contacts with the Trump campaign, the New York Times reported on Saturday.

Two months after the meeting in London, Australian officials passed the information to their American counterparts when leaked Democratic emails began appearing online, according to the newspaper, which cited four current and former US and foreign officials.

Besides the information from the Australians, the probe by the FBI was also propelled by intelligence from other friendly governments, including the British and Dutch, the Times said.
The Royal Australian Navy has seized almost eight tonnes of hashish and 69 kilograms of heroin from drug smugglers in the Arabian Sea, in a Christmas season operation which turned up a bounty with an estimated $415 million value.

Between Wednesday and Friday this week, the crew of the HMAS Warramunga intercepted and boarded three suspect vessels in an operation planned and coordinated by the Combined Maritime Forces' Combined Task Force.

The illegal drugs included the largest quantity of hashish ever confiscated by an Australian ship on Middle East maritime operations. Credit:LSIS Tom Gibson

The drug haul includes the largest quantity of hashish seized by an Australian ship on Middle East maritime security operations.

Commanding Officer of HMAS Warramunga, Dugald Clelland, said planning for the operation had been underway for months.
"I won because I campaigned properly and she didn't. She campaigned for the popular vote. I campaigned for the Electoral College." There is no evidence that Hillary Clinton campaigned for the popular vote, which Trump has previously has said he would have won if not for fraud. Clinton campaigned in many battleground states, including Republican-leaning ones where she thought she had a chance. She did not campaign as much in two states - Michigan and Wisconsin - that were considered locks for Democrats but which Trump narrowly won. Clinton won the popular vote by nearly 3 million. If 40,000 votes had switched in three states, Trump would have also lost the Electoral College. "Paul [Manafort] only worked for me for a few months." Paul Manafort Credit:AP Trump skips over lightly the fact that Manafort, now under indictment, was his campaign manager in the critical period in which he secured the nomination and accepted it at the GOP convention.

"There was tremendous collusion on behalf of the Russians and the Democrats. There was no collusion with respect to my campaign." This is a breathtakingly false statement. Little evidence has emerged of any collusion between the Democrats and Russia, whereas evidence has emerged of many contacts between Trump campaign officials and Russian-linked individuals. The FBI, CIA and National Security Agency earlier this year concluded that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government "aspired to help President-elect Trump's election chances when possible by discrediting Secretary Clinton and publicly contrasting her unfavorably to him." "What I've done is, I have absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department." Presidents do not have unfettered right to interfere with Justice Department investigations, unless they actively seeking a constitutional crisis. "I'm the one that saved coal. I'm the one that created jobs. You know West Virginia is doing fantastically now."

West Virginia's gross domestic product increased 3 percent in the first quarter of 2017. The recent bump is due in part to the increased price of metallurgic coal, which is used to make steel, and a price increase in natural gas exports. West Virginia produces roughly 5 percent of the natural gas in the U.S. and as the price of natural gas rises, the demand for coal increases, spurring growth in the state. Trump can't take credit for the change in prices, which fluctuate with market forces. "There is tremendous collusion with the Russians and with the Democratic Party. Including all of the stuff with the - and then whatever happened to the Pakistani guy, that had the two, you know, whatever happened to this Pakistani guy who worked with the DNC?" Trump echoes a conspiracy theory that a criminal case involving a Pakistani information technology specialist who worked for Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz - who had chaired the Democratic National Committee - was somehow related to the Russian hack of DNC emails. The case involves a fraudulent loan, and no evidence has emerged to connect it to the Russia investigation. "They made the Russian story up as a hoax, as a ruse, as an excuse for losing an election that in theory Democrats should always win with the Electoral College. The Electoral College is so much better suited to the Democrats." Trump is falsely labeling nonpartisan investigations as made up by Democrats. The CIA concluded in 2016 that Russia intervened in the U.S. presidential election to help elect Trump, an assessment backed up by FBI Director James Comey and then-Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. As we noted, the intelligence community released a declassified report expressing "high confidence" in this judgement. Senate and House committees led by Republicans have begun their own investigations, and a special prosecutor has been appointed. Meanwhile, Democrats obviously do not have an Electoral College lock. According to a tally by John Pitney of Claremont McKenna College, every Republican president since Rutherford Hayes in 1876 won a larger share of the electoral college votes than Trump, with the exception of George W. Bush (twice) and Nixon in 1968.

"I was for Strange, and I brought Strange up 20 points. Just so you understand. When I endorsed him, he was in fifth place. He went way up. Almost 20 points." Polls indicate that Trump's endorsement made little difference - and in fact Strange lost to Ray Moore by a greater margin than polls suggested at the time of Trump's endorsement. While Trump says Strange was in fifth place, there were only three candidates in the GOP primary. "I endorsed him [Alabama senate candidate Roy Moore]. It became a much closer race because of my endorsement. People don't say that. They say, Oh, Donald Trump lost. I didn't lose, I brought him up a lot." Roy Moore. Credit:LUKE SHARRETT Polls can vary, but there is little evidence this is the case. The fact remains that Moore lost an election in a state where Democrats usually lose by double digits.

"We have spent, as of about a month ago, $7 trillion in the Middle East. And the Middle East is worse than it was 17 years ago. . . . $7 trillion." Trump, who previously would cite a number of $6 trillion, is lumping together the wars in Iraq (in the Middle East) and Afghanistan (in South Asia), which together cost about $1.6 trillion from 2001 to 2014. He is also adding in estimates of future spending, such as interest on the debt and veterans' care for the next three decades. "By the way, and for that, we've ended across state lines. So we have competition. You know for that I'm allowed to [inaudible] state lines. So that's all done." Trump signed an executive order encouraging the formation of health plans across state lines. But there is still a law in place which exempts insurance companies from aspects of federal antitrust law and ensures that individual states remained the primary regulators of insurance. "I know the details of taxes better than anybody. Better than the greatest C.P.A. I know the details of health care better than most, better than most."

Lawmakers who dealt with Trump on taxes and especially health care privately told reporters they were shocked how little he knew about these issues. "We've created associations, millions of people are joining associations. Millions. That were formerly in Obamacare or didn't have insurance. Or didn't have health care. Millions of people." Trump is referring to an executive order, mentioned above, but it has no force in law on its own and no one has yet joined these associations. The rules spelling out how the executive order would work have not been issued yet, so Trump is simply making up his "millions" number. "Now that the individual mandate is officially killed, people have no idea how big a deal that was. It's the most unpopular part of Obamacare. But now, Obamacare is essentially. . . . You know, you saw this. . . . It's basically dead over a period of time." While the individual mandate was an important incentive for Americans to seek health insurance, it was only one part of a far-reaching law that remains intact. The repeal does not take effect until 2019, and enrollment in Obamacare has remained strong. The Congressional Budget Office says the marketplaces are expected to remain stable for years.

"We see the drugs pouring into the country, we need the wall." The wall will have virtually no effect on drugs coming into the country. According to reports by the DEA, the majority of drugs are smuggled through legal ports of entry or smuggled through underground tunnels. "They have a lottery in these countries. They take the worst people in the country, they put 'em into the lottery, then they have a handful of bad, worse ones, and they put them out. 'Oh, these are the people the United States. . . .' . . . We're gonna get rid of the lottery." This is a gross misrepresentation of the diversity visa program. Individuals apply for the visa system, and must have at least a high school diploma or work in specific industries to be eligible for the program. As the term "lottery" implies, applicants are selected via a randomized computer drawing. The selected applicants undergo a background check before entering the country, and some applicants undergo an additional in-depth review if they are considered a security risk. "I like very much President Xi. He treated me better than anybody's ever been treated in the history of China."

The Chinese put on a show for Trump, knowing he likes them, but this is a fairly ridiculous comment to make, especially given the limited interactions between the two men - and China's 3,500-year history. "This [North Korea] is a problem that should have been handled for the last 25 years. This is a problem, North Korea. That should have been handled for 25, 30 years, not by me. This should have been handled long before me. Long before this guy has whatever he has." Previous presidents, notably Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, made major efforts to rein in North Korea's nuclear ambitions. But the deals they struck did not stick. "When I campaigned, I was very tough on China in terms of trade. They made - last year, we had a trade deficit with China of $350 billion, minimum." The trade deficit in goods and services in 2016 with China was $310 billion. Trump often just cites the goods deficit, which was $347 billion, according to the U.S. Trade Representative. Under the Trump administration, the trade deficit with China has increased seven percent so far in 2017.
By PTI: By Sajjad Hussain

Islamabad, Dec 30 (PTI) At least five Pakistan Army personnel have gone missing after an avalanche hit an army base at the Siachen glacier - the worlds highest battleground, a media report said today.

The Pakistan Army has started a rescue operation in the area with the help of locals, while heavy machinery has also been sent to speed up the process, the Express Tribune reported.

advertisement

So far, the army has still not confirmed any casualties.

Siachen, with heights of over 18,000 ft, has seen several deaths due to natural disasters. Avalanches and landslides are common at the glacier during the winter and temperatures can drop to as low as minus 60 degrees Celsius.

At least 135 people, including 124 Pakistani soldiers and 11 civilians, were killed in 2012 in an avalanche in Gayari sector near Siachen.

Hundreds of troops have died on the glacier since 1984, mostly from avalanches, landslides, frostbite, altitude sickness or heart failure rather than actual combat. PTI SH KUN

--- ENDS ---
Washington: Transgender people will be allowed for the first time to enlist in the US military starting on Monday as ordered by federal courts, the Pentagon said on Friday, after President Donald Trump's administration decided not to appeal rulings that blocked his transgender ban.

Two federal appeals courts, one in Washington and one in Virginia, last week rejected the administration's request to put on hold orders by lower court judges requiring the military to begin accepting transgender recruits on January 1.

A Justice Department official said the administration will not challenge those rulings.

Nick Rondoletto, left, and Doug Thorogood, a couple from San Francisco, wave a rainbow flag and hold a sign against a proposed ban of transgender people in the military at a protest in July 2017. Credit:AP

"The Department of Defense has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks. So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DOD's study and will continue to defend the president's lawful authority in district court in the meantime," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Professional forecasters like to say that making predictions is difficult, particularly about the future. As we reach the end of 2017, however, here are some of the key themes  and questions  that look set to shape global events next year.

1. Will Mueller's Russia investigation mark the end of Trump's presidency?

President Donald Trump gives two thumbs up to cheering supporters from his motorcade heading to his Mar-a-Lago estate after spending the morning at Trump International Golf Club on Friday. Credit:GREG LOVETT

President Donald Trump didn't expect to be Time's "Man of the year" for 2017, but 2018 could be the year that we get a clearer idea of the legacy he will leave.

First, it should become clear just how much mileage prosecutor Robert Mueller's probe into alleged collusion with Russia in the 2016 election really has. Further arrests of high-profile figures might signal that investigators have acquired useful information from key individuals now helping them with their inquiries, particularly former national security adviser Mike Flynn and Trump aide George Papadopoulos. So far we have plenty of rumour, but precious little detail.
~ Irma and Maria showed the vulnerabilities of Caribbean Islands ~

ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN:--- The 2017 hurricane season was undoubtedly the worst season in decades, especially since the monster hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated several Caribbean Islands that depend solely on tourism. Some of the islands/ countries that were crushed are Barbuda, St. Martin/St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Puerto Rico.

When it comes to St. Maarten/St. Martin hurricane Irma showed how important it is to not place all of one's eggs in one basket, and even though an eye opener for many, politicians on St. Maarten chose to use the devastation of the people for political mileage while leaving their people to suffer.

In a time when political leaders should unite for the benefit for their people (constituents), Irma brought out the ugliness of politics and how power can make people selfish not considering those that elected them to office. The people of St. Maarten/St. Martin suffered immensely especially since 95% of the buildings on the island were damaged, almost everyone sustained some type of damage to their homes and businesses yet politicians found the time to take relief items to use as campaign materials. Tarpaulins and other relief items that were sent by donors were picked up by politicians who chose to sport the color of their political parties while distributing these items to the vulnerable. Elected members of the council used government bonds to purchase diesel to keep their businesses up and running while others collected diesel for their homes. Politicians removed generators from schools and took it home leaving many shelters without electricity, water and other relief items that were sent for the people were taken to a hotel that belongs to one Minister.

At least two weeks after the passing of Irma the people on St. Maarten could not receive any relief items even though planeloads of those items were brought in from several countries. Those from the Dutch side queued up on the French side to receive basic food items since they were simply forgotten by the people they elected to stand as gatekeepers. It was at that time those in authority chose to place huge containers at the border in an attempt to divide the people that had to bond closer since they were either seeking food or shelter from relatives on either side.

Even though the countries received visits from the King (twice in three months) and the President of France it is clear that the two heads of State only brought along empty promises because three months later after the passing of Irma, people are still standing in long lines for food bonds, while they are patiently waiting on aid to rebuild and repair their homes and businesses. While the people are clearly suffering, politicians over the Atlantic are busy setting conditions for relief items while those locally (Dutch) are preparing for elections. The passing of hurricane Irma brought out the ugliness of people in all category, politicians showed exactly how important it is for them to hold power and in order to maintain that power they destroyed each others character while the common people both young and old chose to loot from businesses and even robbed some that were roofless and homeless.

It also shows how weak the countrys infrastructures are such as telecommunication, water distribution, and entry port. Many people still do not have a place to rest their heads or a place to call home and not having a job or proper income because of the amount of businesses that were forced to close their door simply because the cruise and tourism industry was crippled since September 7th. Several hotels are closed, the harbour and airport sustained immense damages that will take years to repair or reconstruct.

Water and Electricity.

At least one week after Irma, residents on Dutch St. Maarten did not even have drinking water. Many of them rushed over to the French side to quench their thirst simply because GEBE did not do due diligence in ensuring that they stored enough water prior to the landfall of Irma on September 7th. Water was actually disconnected about 12 hours before the hurricane, the water production plant shut off their lines to safeguard their machinery. Eight of GEBE's water tanks were totally destroyed and to date are not repaired. Tarpaulins that were provided to GEBE management to cover those tanks in preparation for hurricane Maria were not used for the given purpose.

Even though GEBE prides itself for restoring electricity days after the devastation, there are several areas on the Dutch side still in darkness, residents were forced to pay GEBE workers to dig trenches in order for them to get electricity. A scam that was eventually reported because residents and homeowners said that they were charged $60 per household for the trench digging even though the Dutch Government dispatched excavators that were given to GEBE.

Telecommunication

Communication on St. Maarten crippled on September 7th, thus creating havoc on the badly devastated island, because of the lack of electricity, phone communication and displaced police officers, looters took over and caused ten times more damage to the country. Businesses that were not damaged by the wrath of the hurricanes were damaged by the lawless looters, thus forcing many supermarkets to close their doors.

While TELCELL managed to provide minimal service throughout the hurricane, phone services were interrupted for days if not weeks thus forcing overseas relatives to choose the airways to find their love ones. Three months after the massive storm Chippie (UTS) still cannot provide full and proper services to their clients. Orange and Dauphin Telecom managed to provide mobile Wi-Fi within a day or two after September 7th however, that did not stop the looters destruction. Due to the destruction landlines and ADSL internet services on the French side seems very far from being fully restored as there has not been any information as to when these services would be restored. Seemingly, the local government does not understand that internet services is not vanity but in fact businesses on St. Martin (especially those in the tourism sector) need the internet to get back up and running. Even garment stores and supermarkets need the internet to purchase much-needed items (produce) in order to keep their doors open.

It is clear that the government of St. Maarten/ St. Martin needs to get back to the drawing board and to allow other telecommunication companies to invest on the island especially if they are able to show that they can sustain the industry through a category 5 hurricane. It is certainly not wise for government to gamble with the future of the county by maintaining a moratorium in the telecommunication industry especially when those that have it in their hands clearly showed they are not capable of providing and protecting the basic need of the community.

Housing/Sheltering/Building Materials

Many residents that were forced to leave their homes just prior to the landfall of hurricane Irma faced major problems because governments on both sides of the island chose to open the shelters at the very last moment. After the passing of Irma, those that became homeless were seen walking around with a mere sack on their backs. Three months later many families are still living at Festival Village, the emergency long-term shelter that was provided by government. On the French side of the island, many people managed to obtain tents while many people remained in their homes trying to survive one day at a time as they wait on either insurance monies or help from the State.

There are those on both sides of the island that chose to rebuild and repair their properties with the little savings they had but that process was severely hampered due to the lack of building materials, especially because many hardware stores were also damaged by the hurricane and the looters.

Food Supply/Vouchers.

Several weeks after the passage of Irma food supply was limited, there were people who simply did not have food for their young children and elderly. Those living on the French side of the island had it much easier as the Red Cross, Securite Civile and other associations and foundations came together and went house to house ensuring that water and food supply were provided. The French Government also came up with a very strategic plan by issuing a prepaid card that can be used at stores on the French side. Even though there were long lines where the cards were being distributed the process went very well. However, on the Dutch side, the distribution of bonds was not at all organized even though the Red Cross and the government were responsible for giving out the bonds. One of the major complaints received is the unfair distribution of the bonds as some families received many of the bonds due to contacts while some people in deprived situations could not obtain one.

Health Care: LCF and SMMC, Pharmaceutical supply.

Both hospitals namely St. Maarten Medical Center and the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital were severely damaged but the health care workers managed to provide the necessary services such as evacuation shortly after the passage of hurricane Irma. However, due to the damages and looting, most pharmacies have closed their doors simply because their properties have been destroyed and ransacked while they are still awaiting their insurance companies to pay out in order for them to either rebuild or repair. The main distribution center at Hope Estate has been completely destroyed forcing the two functioning pharmacies to seek their supplies in Guadeloupe.

Despite the devastation and the hardship, the people are facing there are a few teams of people that stood out amongst the crowd even though they themselves suffered damages to their homes. Those that did everything to make a difference in a time when the country was in distress. Those teams are Laser 101 Hurricane Watch Team, the Dutch Marines, the French Army, Securite Civile, Croix Rouge (Red Cross,) EDF, and GEBE linesmen.

Click here to view photos of the damage caused by Hurricane Irma.
~ A shining star in the tourism industry, a young vibrant St. Maartener that represented his country and people in a time of disaster ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The name Rolando Brison was a household name way before Brison was appointed Director of the St. Maarten Bureau. For those that could remember, this young St. Maartener was chastised the moment it was made known that he was the selected candidate to become the Director of the St. Maarten Tourism Authority (STA). Those that were supposed to lead by example crucified Brison for mistakes he made as a young man. However, when Brison got into office he made it his duty to show the people of his country that he could rise above the negativity and represent his country internationally. One could quite easily say that Brison has earned the name the tourism guy as Brison went about highlighting St. Maarten everywhere possible. He held fruitful discussions and negotiations to bring back major cruise lines and airlifts to St. Maarten, the Sunshine City.

As a young man attending high school Brison won many tourism debates, he was also the junior Minister of Tourism while winning competitions at the Caribbean Tourism Organization. He went on to study tourism management in college and opened his own marketing firm prior to his appointment.

With his work as Tourism Director pre-Irma already at impressive levels with several plans slated to materialize in 2018, his body of work post-Irma is where he stood out the most. He literally became the face of St. Maarten's crisis management team when it came to communication with the outside world and managing as best he could the portrayal of St. Maarten's image.

While elected officials on St. Maarten were busy taking care of themselves or family and friends, Brison went beyond the call of duty and ensured that aircrafts that were coming to the island to evacuate passengers brought along much-needed relief items. Because of Brisons presence in the international media, he was able to convince donors to send in much-needed items such as water, food, and tarpaulins for the people of St. Maarten.

Immediately in the aftermath of Irma, Rolando took the lead in the crisis management of the country. He worked closely with both the sea and air commanders for the Dutch military in attracting relief efforts to the destination. Over 300 thousand pounds of supplies were flown in through the commercial carriers as a result of his efforts. It was during this period Brisons selfless act and love for his fellow men showed which earned him SMN News Person Year 2017 Award.

Post-Irma, while the island was busy cleaning up and preparing to welcome visitors again Brison did not cease, he managed to spearhead discussions that resulted in Disney Cruise Lines restarting service to St. Maarten.

Just two years ago, the island got the disappointing news that Disney Cruise Lines would no longer have St. Maarten as one of its port of calls. Immediately upon becoming the Director of the STB, Brison worked closely with the harbor, especially with young counterpart Alex Gumbs to bring Disney back to the destination. Despite the passing of Hurricane Irma, the two were instrumental in having the cruise line return to St. Maarten.

More importantly, his efforts ensured that vital airlift re-commenced soon after Irma. His key role in ensuring the return of cruise lines should not be underestimated because this helped St. Maarten to maintain its position as a viable and attractive tourism destination even though the country has a long road ahead.

As this young vibrant St. Maartener worked, he maintained vital communication and negotiation with American Airlines and JetBlue to ensure that services resumed soon after Hurricane Irma.

With the airport in disarray and the Ministers stretched thin in the aftermath of Irma, Brison was the first line of communication for all commercial carriers to the destination. He maintained constant contact with all airlines and was a central part in giving airlines the confidence to operate flights back to the destination on 10-10-10 anniversary. Since then, airlines have enjoyed high load factors as he predicted, as the demand for the destination is still high even at this time. More flights are expected to come online, with JetBlue adding daily flights as of January 1st.

In the face of great challenges and a stagnant tourism product, Brison remained pragmatic, creative, approachable, and cooperative with tourism partners, practical and forward-thinking in 2017.

Besides his work post-Irma, Brison did quite a lot to ensure that St. Maarten remain the number one tourism destination, thus he worked on several aspects which are listed below.

He went on to renegotiate the agreements with Expedia and Tripadvisor to benefit St. Maarten in the long-term with greater exposure on the two sites.

One of the main programs the stakeholders wanted to see back online for St. Maarten were the Expedia and Tripadvisor marketing campaigns. Despite the success of these campaigns, the previous ministry did not budget for these campaigns in 2017. Rolando used his creative thinking and negotiation skills to still get a more lucrative deal from Expedia and Tripadvisor at a lower Cost per Impression than before.

One of the main programs the stakeholders wanted to see back online for St. Maarten were the Expedia and Tripadvisor marketing campaigns. Despite the success of these campaigns, the previous ministry did not budget for these campaigns in 2017. Rolando used his creative thinking and negotiation skills to still get a more lucrative deal from Expedia and Tripadvisor at a lower Cost per Impression than before. Brison also re-started the High School Tourism Debates. As a product of the Caribbean Tourism Organization's tourism debates, having won the inaugural event in 2002, Rolando soon after becoming director ensured that the department brought back the Interscholastic Tourism Debates for the destination.

As Tourism Director promoted St. Maarten via many international news and media outlets including the BBC and CNN.

Brison was seen on many international news outlets, he literally became the face of St. Maarten post-Irma including CNN and BBC, promoting the destinations. The interview with the BBC's travel show won the prestigious Global Tourism Media

Brison was seen on many international news outlets, he literally became the face of St. Maarten post-Irma including CNN and BBC, promoting the destinations. The interview with the BBC's travel show won the prestigious Global Tourism Media Award from CTO, and his post-Irma interviews on CNN were seen as turning points in changing the negative image St. Maarten was getting as a destination.

"Rolando Brison's crisis management and communication post disasters were on-point" that was how the honorable Prime Minister of St. Lucia dubbed the presentation by Brison regarding crisis management in the aftermath of a hurricane. The panel discussion included the top executives from Disney, MSC and Carnival Cruise Lines, with his presentation leading the way.

"Rolando Brison's crisis management and communication post disasters were on-point" that was how the honorable Prime Minister of St. Lucia dubbed the presentation by Brison regarding crisis management in the aftermath of a hurricane. The panel discussion included the top executives from Disney, MSC and Carnival Cruise Lines, with his presentation leading the way. He guided the process that led to the establishment of the board of the St. Maarten Tourism Authority.

The first full board of the STA was announced last November, and this milestone was accomplished under the guidance of Brison. Having extensive knowledge of the articles of incorporation of the STA, he was instrumental in guiding the ministry in the selection procedures, ensuring that all proper guidelines were followed in the selection of STA Board Members.

The first full board of the STA was announced last November, and this milestone was accomplished under the guidance of Brison. Having extensive knowledge of the articles of incorporation of the STA, he was instrumental in guiding the ministry in the selection procedures, ensuring that all proper guidelines were followed in the selection of STA Board Members. He went on and initiated discussions with JetBlue to open the Fort Lauderdale-St. Maarten Route.

Fort Lauderdale is the fastest growing commercial airport in America for many consecutive years, and knowing this, Brison set his targets on the crucial connecting airport, negotiating with key airline partner Jet Blue for servicing the route. In September of this year, Rolando got the reassurance from Jet Blue and Fort Lauderdale airport that the long-term plans to reopen this route have not changed.

Fort Lauderdale is the fastest growing commercial airport in America for many consecutive years, and knowing this, Brison set his targets on the crucial connecting airport, negotiating with key airline partner Jet Blue for servicing the route. In September of this year, Rolando got the reassurance from Jet Blue and Fort Lauderdale airport that the long-term plans to reopen this route have not changed. As the STA Director he included an increase to the tourism budget for St. Maarten in the 2018 country budget.

The island was poised to get its first tourism budget increase since becoming a country, as the budget had slowly decreased over years to become one of the Caribbeans smallest tourism budgets. The increase would be used to effectively market the destination to both existing and emerging markets.

The island was poised to get its first tourism budget increase since becoming a country, as the budget had slowly decreased over years to become one of the Caribbeans smallest tourism budgets. The increase would be used to effectively market the destination to both existing and emerging markets. Ensured that Sports is kept alive within the Tourism Industry he initiated the Summer of Sports program out of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

Through the program Brison aimed to support many local sport events and have these promoted regionally to push Sports Tourism on St. Maarten.

Through the program Brison aimed to support many local sport events and have these promoted regionally to push Sports Tourism on St. Maarten. Rolando Brison represented St. Maarten on a high-level panel of cruise industry experts at the FCCA Cruise Conference. He was officially appointed as a member of the Tourism Board of Directors of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

Youngest member of the Board of Directors of the CTO in 2017-2018.

It is clear now more than ever that St. Maarten does have qualified a capable young people that could rise to the occasion whenever needed. Therefore it is with pleasure that SMN News team select the one person that stood out post-Irma.

From us at SMN News we would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to Rolando Brison for a job well done. We also wish you the very best in your future endeavors in the coming year.
By PTI: Kolkata, Dec 30 (PTI) In a jolt to West Bengal unit of the BJP, convenor of the partys state intellectual cell Diptangshu Chowdhury today joined the Trinamool Congress.

Chowdhury, a former army officer, had joined the BJP ahead of the assembly elections last year and had unsuccessfully contested the polls.

Chowdhury, who was later appointed as convenor of the state units intellectual cell, joined the ruling TMC in presence of TMC secretary general Partha Chatterjee.

advertisement

He said he wants to be part of the developmental process started by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh said Chowdhurys leaving the party would not have any impact in the state as he didnt have organisational skill. PTI PNT NN

--- ENDS ---
Star Wars, Marvel, DC, Game of Thrones, Mad Max, and many more. Check out his bio, several interview questions and more images below. You can visit his Colorado based artist Jordan Beecham brings a detailed style to his drawings that blends fine art with comic books and pop culture. The characters featured in his paintings cross a wide range of popular movies, television, and comic book properties that includes, Marvel, DC,, and many more. Check out his bio, several interview questions and more images below. You can visit his website and Instagram to check out more of his work or purchase original art or request commissions.







"Starting at a young age I found joy in the activity of drawing. As early as the second grade I remember getting into trouble for drawing during class! That joy flourished into a passion that stuck with me through grade school. By the time I graduated high school I had taken an advanced placement course in which my focus was painting, as well as illustrated my own comic book that was used in an English course. While looking for possible art schools to further my education I found Savannah College of art and design. I graduated with a BFA in sequential art, the study of storytelling through images.



I graduated from SCAD in 2014 I moved from Georgia to Louisiana. I was in Louisiana for around 4 months when I responded to an ad on Craigslist for someone to draw fashion sketches for a film. I was initially told that the job had been filled. I was later contacted and told that the other person really didnt know how to draw. I met with the prop master of the film called 10 Cloverfield Lane, she liked what I was able to bring to the project so I was contracted to draw up some sketches that would be seen in the film. My opportunity on 10 Cloverfield Lane led to another opportunity to work as a property assistant on a Disney TV movie called My Invisible Sister.



Around October 2016 I started my Instagram page with the intent of building a great online portfolio which in a lot of ways is an artists resume. Over the last 13 months Ive grown my following from 0 to just over 10,000 followers, as well as receiving commissions from as far away as the UK. I continue to explore my ability and see where my passion takes me."









TMS: How Did you get to where you are as an artist?





JB: I think the best answer to that question would desire is what got me to where I am as an artist today. I had a desire at a young age to draw, Im not exactly sure when the first time I drew was. I remember fondly getting into trouble for drawing in class for what ever the reason that took up my attention in my other classes. Where I grew up I was fortunate enough to have an art program in all my schools. Education would be the other main reason that I have an understanding for art. I took every opportunity I had to learn more about art while also creating it in class without getting into trouble. After high school I attended art school in Savannah College of art and design it was there I honed my skills at figure drawing, though I believe you never stop learning.





TMS: Is this your first art Showcase?





JB: I look at my showing on December 23 as my first real showcase. I have had my work on display in the classroom setting. I consider this showcase to be my first real one.





TMS: What was it like having your work included in a Hollywood movie (10 Cloverfield Lane) and how did you get that opportunity?





JB: You know honestly it was pretty surreal at the time I mean it was like it wasnt real, and I think that has everything to do with the second part of your question. How I got the opportunity well believe it or not I got the job through Craigslist. Actually at first I didnt get the job I received a response back from my email saying the job was filled. Weeks later a prop master by the name of Janna Roach contacted me. I meet up with Janna under the impression that this was some student film. I come to find out that she worked on some huge films and TV, The Twilight saga, True detective, Jurassic World, Terminator Genisys. I have to give all the credit to her I mean she had me hooked after the first meeting I was working on the drawings as quickly as I could I was taught the importance of meeting deadlines and I was eager to please. To answer the Question of what It was like to see my drawings on the big screen it nothing short of a dream come true.





TMS: Who or what inspires you?





JB: I think other peoples success inspires me. I see all these talented artists on Social media and I think what can I contribute to this melding pot of passion and creativity. I mean it really is an amazing time for art, I look on Instagram and Ill see so many artists with their own style, and some that have similar accounts to other people. This network of creatives inspires me to explore what I think can make an image stand out, to make a portrait something a little more than just a picture of someones face. Just yesterday I was looking at a fellow artists account who was from Brazil and she had post that was really helpful in creating a hair texture it was a technique I had never seen or used before that inspires me to keep trying new things explore.





TMS: Do you have any advice for aspiring artists or creatives?





JB: I see young people now making art accounts as early as 14 years old and I think that is a great thing because Ive found that people like to see someones progression as an artist. They go hey wow look at that in just 2 years that person got so good maybe if I just stick with it and push myself I can get better too. I would also say that the most important thing about being a good artist is to develop your eye to see when things are off. If your eye for what you are looking at isnt objectively true, your representation of the real world in a 2-dimensional form will be off. My last piece of advice and I learned this the hard way, and this is what an artist will spend 90% of his/her time doing, and thats creating the art, It has to be fun. Creating the art cant become a choir it has to be something you like doing so if you are drawing or working on some subject matter you dont really care for then schedule your time to where a portion of your time creating goes to something you enjoy working on reward yourself, who says you only have to work on one piece at a time.
By PTI: Bhubaneswar, Dec 30 (PTI) A host of projects including a second entry and station building with new ticket booking complex were inaugurated at Bhubaneswar station here today with the Centre promising to transform the Odisha capital into a modern city of global standards.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain also dedicated to the public a new booking office with reserved and unreserved ticketing system at Sakhigopal station through video conferencing from Bhubaneswar, on this occasion.

advertisement

Praising the Railways for development of infrastructure in the region, Pradhan sought steps to speed up the projects by continuous review and said the Centre was keen to make Bhubaneswar a modern and international city.

The Centres vision is to make Odisha the gateway of development in the East and the city will be centre and focus of development in the state, he said.

Both Railways and Odisha Government have to jointly work and solve the problems relating to land acquisition issues which emerged as a major bottleneck for railway projects, the union minister said.

The allocation of funds for railway projects is very high and these funds should be fully utilised for the benefit of infrastructural projects, he said.

Pradhan appreciated the efforts of East Coast Railway (ECoR) in planning 6-metre wide foot over bridges at Bhubaneswar and Bhadrakh and said all efforts should be made to complete the work in 2018.

He said that the civil aviation ministry has submitted a proposal to the state for allotment of land for a second airport in Bhubaneswar.

Stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has plans for expansion of national highways and better air connectivity, Pradhan said expansion of railways in Odisha will be its focal point.

Hailing the performance of East Coast Railways, Gohain said funds for the projects will not be a constraint as the Railway ministry will provide full support for infrastructure development.

Gohain said that the on-going railway projects in the region will be completed as per the target date. He also urged state Government to cooperate with the Railways by providing land so that the ongoing projects are completed at the earliest.

The new station building on platform number six of Bhubaneswar station has been completed at a cost of Rs 1.97 crore having facilities like booking counter cum lobby, second class waiting hall, upper class waiting hall, food plaza, TCI office, toilets for divyang passengers, pay and use toilets and circulating area with barricade, a railway official said.

The new station building at Sakhigopal station has been completed at a cost of Rs 1.55 crore with facilities like booking counter cum lobby, second class waiting hall, toilets for men and women, circulating area and approach road, he added. PTI SKN KK LNS

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
Initial tests of cosmetics sold in Claires stores found no traces of asbestos, the Hoffman Estates, Ill.-based accessories retailer said Friday.

Claires announced Thursday via Twitter that it had hired an independent lab to test the makeup products after concerns from a Rhode Island mother prompted the chain to pull products from store shelves.

Out of an abundance of caution, additional testing is underway, the company said in its Friday statement.

The retailer said it also confirmed that a talcum ingredient in the products came from a certified asbestos-free European vendor.

Earlier this month, WJAR, an NBC affiliate in Rhode Island, reported that a woman mailed her 6-year-old daughters makeup and additional Claires products to an independent lab for testing. Results revealed the presence of cancer-causing tremolite asbestos, according to the report. The woman works for a law firm that specializes in asbestos litigation.

Claires pulled products from its shelves and offered refunds to customers who had bought the bedazzled and glittering makeup sets.

The company said Friday that it will continue to honor returns for concerned customers. Claires did not respond to requests for comment on whether the products would be put back on shelves.

The asbestos allegations come as the chain is struggling amid declining mall traffic.
Bandgi Kalra says the couple will concentrate on their career for the time being.

By Parmita Uniyal: Bandgi Kalra is back from the padosi house after spending some quality time with beau Puneesh Sharma. The reality TV star says she holds no grudges against anyone now-including Hina Khan--after her visit to the padosi house and meeting the moms of the contestants.

Although she would want Puneesh to win the show, but if not him she would want either Shilpa or Vikas to be the winner.

advertisement

She talks to India Today online in an exclusive conversation.

Excerpts:

How's life after Bigg Boss 11?

Every bit of it has changed, for better. I live next to a mall and used to visit it even for the smallest of things. Now if I have to go for something urgent, people gather around me and it takes hours. You cannot say no to them, because they have supported you. But I like it.

How was it meeting with Puneesh after so long?

I was so happy and excited to meet him that I forgot to wish him happy birthday. On his birthday, I waited to meet him for the entire day, but they didn't allow me. Next day, when we actually met, I forgot to wish him. Every single mom wished him, and I forgot.

Who are your favourite contestants at this point of time?

After coming back from the padosi house, my views have changed completely. Now I love them more. Whatever issues I had with Hina, I have forgotten them all after meeting her beau Rocky. Honestly, I will feel bad for anyone who gets eliminated now.

At this point of time everybody is strong. I am especially happy with the way Puneesh is handling situations. He is showing his fun side too which is wonderful. It's a different personality altogether for me.

What about the future of your relationship with Puneesh. Have you discussed it with your parents?

About future plans, we will talk about in future only. Right now, we will focus on career. They (parents) were asking me what kind of a person he is. Some things they like about him, some things they didn't. The way I know him they don't. They watch him only for 40 minutes. Let him come out and then they will see for themselves.

Did your parents have any problem regarding the way your relationship was portrayed on cameras?

Dad is a dad, thodi problem sabko hoti hai. Aisa kuch nahi hai jaisa portray hua tha. I have met Puneesh's mom and she's a sweet heart.

advertisement

Also watch:

--- ENDS ---
Beginning in 2018, longtime reporter Lisa Brown will lead business coverage at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch as business editor.

Brown joined the Post-Dispatchs business desk as a reporter in 2010 and was a reporter at the St. Louis Business Journal for five years prior to joining the P-D. She has covered the beer industry, financial institutions, commercial real estate, development and local companies including Energizer Holdings, Panera Bread Co. and Nestle Purina Petcare. Her 18-year career in journalism includes several years as a reporter for the Pioneer Press and Wednesday Journal in the Chicago area.

Lisa has built a strong reputation as an authoritative journalist among business leaders and Post-Dispatch readers, Editor Gilbert Bailon and Assistant Managing Editor Marcia Koenig said in a joint announcement about her hire, which is effective Jan. 2.

A St. Louis native who grew up in north St. Louis County, Brown graduated with a double major in English literature and political science from Washington University, where she was a chief reporter for the campus newspaper, Student Life. She recently returned to Washington University as an adjunct professor teaching journalism, and shes wrapping up a masters degree in journalism from the University of Missouri.

She and her wife, Rebecca, live in St. Louis Holly Hills neighborhood and are the parents of a 10-month-old son.

Roland Klose, business editor since February 2013, is joining the editing staff on the newspapers Metro desk.
Talking to God seems like it should be as easy as falling off a log. But often it can feel more like climbing a cliff.

Even the most spiritually gifted can find their prayer dry, as we know from the sometimes despairing accounts of spiritual heroes such as Mother Teresa.

But many obstacles to easy prayer have to do with the variety and flux of religious identity in American life. Some of us come from congregations that didnt leave us with a sense of ease about personal prayer. Others grew up being told exactly how to pray, but the formulas have failed to keep up with our experiences and development.

How to solve these problems of the free religious market? We could try to get everyone to belong to the same tradition of faith and stick with the same form of worship . Then wed all know how to pray  although most of us would probably be praying for more freedom of religion.

But there is another possibility. The medieval meditation and prayer disciplines can ease our path to prayer.

A modern interest in such practices has grown as more people discover that they are useful and remarkably applicable.

Here are four forms:

Labyrinths

Labyrinths have existed almost as long as humanity; but it was during the 12th to 14th centuries that they found their Christian place  often built into the floors of great cathedrals including Our Lady of Chartres. In the centuries since, they became prayerful ways to experience a spiritual version of pilgrimage.

Today, thanks to a decades-long revival, labyrinths can be found in many places, from believers yards to some megachurches. Walking a maze can unmoor us from daily concerns just enough to make room for spiritual ones.

Fixed-hour prayer

This may appeal to more liturgically minded believers, but it also is becoming popular in other kinds of churches. Derived from the Liturgy of the Hours standardized by Benedictine monks starting in the 6th century, it schedules specific sets of prayers at specific times of day  with names such as lauds, prime, terce, etc. Especially in the Divine Hours adaptations by the late Phyllis Tickle, fixed-hour praying can be unexpectedly freeing. As you read the assigned texts, you feel other, more private prayers welling up in you.

Lectio Divina (Sacred reading)

Lectio is a slow reading of a short scripture  not as text, but as an experience of the divine. The monks used it to complement their liturgical reading of Psalms and group prayers. Drawing on biblical texts, Lectio today is a rewarding way to free the mind and heart for solo prayer and also attain closeness to God.

The prayer wheel

The prayer wheel is made up of four concentric circles surrounding the word God at the center. It looks a little like a target. Each band of the target contains a profound prayer (The outermost is the Lords Prayer, or Our Father ...). The wheel provides an ingenious method to compare and combine these and the fundamental Christian ideas they contain, forming seven additional prayer paths that run like spokes, to the divine bulls eye. It is both orthodox and inventive, as playful as a board game and as serious as Thy will be done.

Each method has the potential to make prayer more natural, more accessible and more inviting.
It's the main type of call fielded by Kane County Animal Control throughout the winter, according to administrator Brett Youngsteadt: Someone sees someone else's dog outside in the cold.

Youngsteadt estimated a dozen such calls so far during winter, including five or six over the past week.

A caller at 11:40 a.m. Tuesday said a dog had been left outside without food or water on the 1300 block of Summit Avenue in Aurora. But when animal control got there, the person taking the report noted the German shepherd mix had food, water and shelter and appeared healthy, Youngsteadt said.

Further information wasn't available about the shelter, but Youngsteadt said in accordance with state law, it must be a three-sided structure with some type of bedding covering the ground.

The woman who reported the situation to animal control talked about her concerns, but asked not to be named. A man reached at the home where the German shepherd mix lives declined to provide his full name, but said the dog is fed twice a day and given fresh water, and has both a dog house with straw bedding and access to a heated garage. The Aurora Police Department did not respond Wednesday.

Though people often contact the Humane Society about these cases, anyone who sees a dog that appears to be in trouble or hears a dog outside barking for a long time should call animal control or police, said Michelle Alexander, secretary for the Humane Society of Aurora.

"They need to advocate and be the voice for the animals," Alexander said. "Animals can't protect themselves. People need to stand up and help them out."

Typically, one warden will respond to each call, Youngsteadt said.

"Usually it's very well-meaning people that call," Youngsteadt said, adding that he doesn't ever want to discourage someone who is worried about an animal from calling.

The callers can't always see everything an animal has access to, and often when animal control wardens get out to a location, owners will show them an animal is cared for, he said.

Youngsteadt said in his experience, that's the case about nine out of 10 times, and animal control hasn't taken any of the dogs from this year's cold-weather calls away from their owners.

An animal may have access to a home or garage but choose not to go in, he said.

"As much as I say, 'If it's too cold for you it's too cold for them,' you also have to judge the animal," Youngsteadt said. "Certain breeds, it's their winter wonderland."

Thicker-coated breeds such as malamutes and huskies may tolerate the cold better and get overheated in the summer, Youngsteadt said.

Smaller dogs generally can't be outside as long as bigger dogs, Alexander said. She said she only lets her Chihuahuas outside for a minute or two and stays outside with them the whole time, because when they get too cold they'll freeze.

"I just can't imagine leaving a dog outside in this temperature," Alexander said Wednesday, when the temperature in Aurora ranged from about 0 to 7 degrees. "When it gets this cold, there is no reason it needs to be outside."

Alexander said she'd recommend taking extra measures below 40 degrees.

Signs a dog is too cold, as Alexander has noticed with her dogs, include moving slower, trying to keep their paws off the ground and shaking, she said.

On its website, the national Humane Society warns that cold can be deadly for pets, who are also at risk of hypothermia and frostbite. The Humane Society encourages people to first politely tell pet owners about a concern, because many people don't realize their pets are at risk. If the neglect continues, the society has suggestions for how to report it, including taking a photo or video and making note of the time, date, location and as many details as possible about the animal and situation.

A "PetPlan" chart provided by Alexander includes guidelines for small, medium and large dogs at a range of temperatures in 5-degree intervals. For each dog size and temperature, the chart lists a risk factor between 1 and 5, which it states could be life-threatening and when owners should avoid letting their pets have prolonged outdoor activity. For the biggest dogs, the chart assigns the highest risk to temperatures 10 degrees and colder.

A public act effective January 2016 made it a class A misdemeanor under Illinois law for the owner of a cat or dog companion animal to expose the animal to prolonged extreme heat or cold conditions that are life-threatening and result in the animal's injury or death. After the first offense, subsequent convictions are class 4 felonies.

Kane County is not home rule, so it follows the state law, which doesn't have a specific temperature restriction, Youngsteadt said.

For animal control to take a dog away, it has to be in immediate threat of danger, and in these cases they'd have to be able to take the animal to a veterinarian to show evidence of suffering, such as frostbite or limb loss, he said.

"How we feel an animal should be taken care of is one thing," Youngsteadt said. "What the letter of the law says is another ... there's a lot of things I wish would be a little stronger in the animal world, but that's because I am a huge animal advocate."

Youngsteadt's job is to enforce laws, not write them, he said.

He encourages people to use caution and keep their pets safe and warm  and to "smother them with hugs."



2017 The Beacon-News (Aurora, Ill.)
A Madison County family is warning people to protect themselves and their pets after a pack of coyotes killed their two dogs last week.

On Dec. 19, Erika Hartwick let her dogs, Lelu and Murphy, outside into the fenced-in backyard on Old Alton Road near Granite City for about 20 minutes. When she went to let them back in, they were gone.

Hartwick and her boyfriend, Jeremy Briggs, searched the woods behind the house and heard the sound of dogs fighting and horrible noises.

After calling her father for help, Hartwick and her family found Murphy, an Australian shepherd, laying on the ground behind the house. Lelu, a husky, was already dead in a ditch. Hartwick said her boyfriend wouldnt even let her see Lelu because she had been completely torn in half.

I never got to see her again, Hartwick said about Lelu, who would have turned 3 on Dec. 22.

Murphy had a fractured skull, broken back legs and deep bite marks. When he heard Hartwicks voice, he crawled toward her and laid between her legs.

He had bite marks all over his face. All of his front teeth were missing. It was like he had been chewed on.

She and her family took Murphy to a veterinarian, who said he had a 2 to 5 percent chance of living. They decided to put him down.

When they returned home, they buried Murphy next to Lelu in the backyard.

Hartwick said her dogs would still be alive if there had been any warning about coyotes roaming the area.

I havent seen or heard a single warning about coyotes, she said. If that was the case, if I would have known there was a big pack of them, our dogs would still be here.

Hartwick said people have been attacking her on social media, saying she wasnt a responsible pet owner. The family, however, had a fenced-in backyard and even put up extra barriers to prevent the dogs from escaping, she said.

Hartwick said despite peoples negative comments, its her goal to make sure what happened to her does not happen again.

I just want people to be informed and not do the same things I did, she said. I underestimated coyotes. Theyre extremely smart animals. They will attack. Its almost mating season now, so they are a lot more aggressive and theres not much that they are scared of right now if theyre hungry and ready to mate.

Rachael Heaton, director of operations at the TreeHouse Wildlife Center in Dow, said attacks from coyotes are rare, but conflicts with the animals can increase in winter as they get ready to find a den and resources become scarcer.

Its a very sensitive issue, but its important that people dont demonize coyotes, Heaton said. Conflicts usually arise when theres some kind of resource involved.

Heaton said educating the public on how to coexist with wildlife, such as coyotes, is the best defense against attacks. She said the Wildlife Center is considering putting together an informational pamphlet on the animals and people are welcome to visit the center, where they house several coyotes, to learn more about them.

She added that removing coyotes from an area does not necessarily solve the problem since another pack will likely take its place. The Urban Coyote Research Center offers the following tips on dealing with coyotes:

Do not feed the coyotes or leave food out for other animals

Do not let pets run loose or be unattended

Do not run from a coyote

Repellents or fencing may help

Report aggressive, fearless coyotes immediately

Do not create conflict where it does not exist

Daryl Drennen, a licensed wildlife remover with Double D Wildlife Control in Belleville, said hes seen the coyote population increase dramatically in the past few years due to urban sprawl and a decrease in the hunting and trapping of coyotes.

The coyote population is just exploding. I see them in places that 25 years ago I would never think Id see them, he said. Coyotes are highly adaptable. They dont leave when a subdivision is built; they may just adapt. You just push them a mile or a half mile away.

He said when hes called to remove coyotes, he often has to euthanize them because relocation can cause problems in another area.

Everyone thinks the world is Walt Disney World, but Mother Nature can be very vicious. Theres a food chain in every ecosystem and coyotes are near the top of ours, Drennen said.

For Hartwick and her family, they are still trying to deal with the loss of their dogs. She said the events of the night replay in her head and keep her from sleeping. Her two children, 10 and 1, are mourning the dogs in their own way.

You can physically feel them missing out of the house now, she said. My daughter is only 1; shell look around for them. She would always hold food in her hand and wait for the dogs to come get it from her. Now she gets done with her breakfast and looks around and goes dog, dog?

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, more than 30,000 coyotes live in Illinois. Most of them keep away from human activity and are valuable members of the wildlife community, according to the departments website. However, when coyotes are in close association with people, they occasionally kill livestock, poultry and domestic pets.

Kaley Johnson: 618-239-2526, @KaleyJohnson6
CHICAGO  After the deadliest year in two decades, the first half of 2017 seemed just as grim in Chicago as homicides remained devastatingly high, raising fears that the spike in violence had become a new normal for the city.

Then in the second half of the year, homicides plummeted, particularly in two of the citys most violence-plagued neighborhoods, contributing to about a 15 percent overall drop in killings over last year.

That decrease has raised new hopes that Chicago could make progress in shedding its national reputation for gun violence, an image fueled by both President Donald Trumps frequent mentions and by the distressing loss on Chicagos streets.

Why the second-half decrease?

In an interview with the Chicago Tribune, police Superintendent Eddie Johnson cited new technology and tactics in those crime-plagued neighborhoods, and suggested that police relations with the community were improving. Anti-police sentiments were inflamed in 2016 after the release of a video showing a white police officer fatally shoot black teenager Laquan McDonald, and some accused police of going fetal.

Johnson, however, has said he believed the video and its publicity emboldened criminals to break the law, a brazenness he now believes may have waned.

I think that they used that to their advantage because if you think they dont pay attention to that type of thing, youre fooling yourself because they do, he said. I think the boldness of them is starting to tick down a bit, but its still there.

If officers were truly going fetal in 2016, theres no statistical indication that the police pullback has changed this year. Two key measures of police aggressiveness  arrests and street stops  are around the same level this year as last, and yet homicides dropped. The Police Department notes, however, that while overall arrests are flat, arrests for gun crimes have increased 28 percent.

Experts and some neighborhood activists warn, however, that tallies in 2017 arent reason to cheer just yet. Though violence has dropped in recent months, Chicago will still end 2017 with historically high totals. Indeed, if last year was excluded, this years homicide toll would be the highest in Chicago since 2002.

In 2016, Chicago logged more than 700 homicides and over 4,000 shooting victims. This years totals will be below both of those tallies. Through Tuesday, 644 people were slain in Chicago, compared with 754 during the same period last year, a drop of about 15 percent, according to Chicago police statistics. That represents the largest single-year drop in homicides since 2004.

The Police Department statistics do not include about 20 slayings on area expressways, police-involved shootings or other homicides in which a person was killed in self-defense or their deaths were still being investigated.

The number of people wounded and killed by gunfire dropped by about 18 percent to 3,543 from 4,327, according to the Chicago Tribunes statistics through Wednesday. Thats still a rate of about 10 shootings a day.

Johnson said hes looking at the decrease as one small step toward a safer city.

The way violence goes  the reductions have to be incremental, Johnson said. But the fact that weve got it over 100 (homicides) in terms of reduction is really room for encouragement and positive thinking going into 2018.

Crime experts were not surprised by the drop in violence this year, saying 2016 may have been an anomaly.

Its good news, said Richard Rosenfeld, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri at St. Louis. Although the numbers still remain, I would say, intolerably high.

Others are even less enthusiastic about the drop. The Rev. Ira Acree, a West Side pastor, pointed to a decline in the citys African-American population, including the Austin community where his church is located, as a sign of how many people are fed up with the citys violence. He pointed to losses in some South and West Side neighborhoods, where crime is still rampant, job opportunities are scarce and schools have closed.

Public safety issues and economic desperation are two of the main reasons African-Americans have moved out of communities like Austin and, in some cases, Chicago altogether, he said.

The bottom line is if you can manage to dodge bullets, youve still got to eat, youve still got to have a way to feed your family and put a roof over your head, said Acree, pastor of the Greater St. John Bible Church. Not only can the parents not eat properly or sustain themselves in a decent manner, but the future for the children is so bleak and dark because whenever you close schools, youre obliterating the potential and the future of a generation.

Acree also said that despite the reduction in homicides, the sheer number of people killed in Chicago in 2017 is still a travesty.

People are running out of the city like wildfire, and were celebrating that we dont have 700 people who got killed, weve got 600, he said. Give me a break.
Updated at 11:25 a.m. Saturday with report that Los Angeles police had arrested a man on suspicion of making the prank call.

KANSAS CITY  Police and the FBI are investigating whether an argument over an online game prompted a prank call that led to a house where an officer shot and killed a Kansas man who apparently wasnt involved in the dispute.

Police say the death Thursday in Wichita, Kan., may have been the result of a practice called swatting, in which a person makes up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

The Wichita Eagle is reporting that Los Angeles police have arrested a man on suspicion of making the call.

The Eagle said Tyler Barriss, 25, was arrested Friday afternoon, citing KABC. Barriss is accused of reporting a fake homicide and hostage situation to the Wichita Police Department just after 6:15 p.m. Thursday, the Eagle reported.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said an officer responded to a report that a father had been shot in the head and that a shooter was holding his mother, brother and sister hostage, The Wichita Eagle reported.

When police arrived at the house, a 28-year-old man who came to the front door was fatally shot by an officer, Livingston said. The man hasnt been identified by police, but Lisa Finch told the newspaper that the victim was her son, Andrew Finch. She said he was unarmed and was not a gamer.

Livingston said at a news conference Friday that Finch reached toward his waistband, and the officer feared he had a gun and shot him.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a Call of Duty game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving Call of Duty.

We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life, Shannon Gerritzen, a UMG vice president, said in an email to the Associated Press. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter. She declined to disclose other details.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting happen annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation at the request of local police.

Lisa Finch told the newspaper that her son had been murdered by police. She said he had gone to the door after hearing something, then screamed and was shot. She said the family was forced outside barefoot in freezing cold and handcuffed. She said that her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns had been found in the home.

What gives the cops the right to open fire? she asked. That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place.

Livingston says police were investigating whether the call that led to the shooting was a prank.

The officer who fired the shot  a seven-year veteran of the police department  will be placed on administrative paid leave, which is department policy.

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, a Massachusetts Democrat, introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at Clarks home.
ST. LOUIS  A teenager who accused a St. Louis high school physical education teacher of raping her during the Soldan High School homecoming prom last year has filed suit alleging negligence by St. Louis Public Schools and the Gateway Region YMCA, which employed the teacher.

The girl, 16, accused Michael Holloman, 34, of raping her last October at the downtown Hyatt Regency, 315 Chestnut Street, after attending Soldans dance at a different downtown hotel. The teens accusation led prosecutors in April to charge Holloman, of the 1000 block of Spruce Street, with statutory rape, statutory sodomy and sexual contact with a student.

Court records say that the teen was a student at the Innovative Concept Academy at Blewett, 1927 Cass Avenue, and that Holloman at the time was employed by the YMCA to work as a weight room instructor at the school.

Hollomans attorney, Mark Hammer, declined to comment.

According to the teens lawsuit, Holloman touched her inappropriately during exercise class, and secretly took videos of her and fellow female students. She said he also tried contacting her through social media, made surprise visits to her home, tried to isolate her during classes and consistently flattered her with an intent to enter into a sexual and/or romantic relationship.

On Oct. 11, 2016, the night of Soldan High Schools prom at the Hilton Hotel in downtown St. Louis, the girl met Holloman outside the hotel and accompanied Holloman to his room at the downtown Hyatt Regency under the ruse of providing her with a contract for a modeling career, the suit claims. Once there, Holloman had sex with the teen, who was 15 at the time.

The teens lawsuit filed Dec. 19 in St. Louis Circuit Court names Holloman, the YMCA and St. Louis Public Schools as defendants, claiming the YMCA and the school district failed to supervise Holloman or perform sufficient background checks on him before hiring him. She claims the school district also failed to protect students or enforce its sexual harassment policy.

The teen seeks at least $25,000 on each of four counts against the YMCA, St. Louis Public Schools and Holloman.

Representatives of the YMCA and St. Louis Public Schools could not be reached.

In addition to Hollomans rape case, Holloman also has a pending charge of illegal gun possession in U.S. District Court in St. Louis.
A group of St. Louis University students gathered to make dinner on a recent Wednesday night. One end of a brick of Velveeta is sticking out of a stock pot. Bridget Boland, 21, attempts to stir a few cups of shredded cheddar and a few bags of frozen vegetables into the increasingly viscous blend.

If you want to make it thicker, you can add flour, Kathryn Jabek, 20, tells Boland.

Oh, thats a fun fact! Boland says. But thats not their problem tonight; they add milk instead. At the counter, three young men are cutting up stacks of hot dogs and a fourth is overseeing the water as it teases to a boil. Five large boxes of elbow macaroni are waiting to be poured in.

The meal needs to feed about 50 people, but none of these students will be eating it. Neither will the 30 or so others who have gathered on the second floor of the Manresa Center just north of campus for a pre-meal reflection. The students are involved in the colleges Labre Ministry, named after Benedict Joseph Labre, the Catholic patron saint of homelessness.

As on every Wednesday of the school year, the dinners  this nights has been dubbed fortified mac and cheese  will be delivered along four routes to some of the citys homeless population.

The Labre students bristle just a little at that label. The word client is often used in the social service realm, said their faculty adviser, Tim Huffman, in an interview. Huffman has a background in human services and came to SLU to teach two years ago.

People who are currently experiencing homelessness is a mouthful. I like friend. I like neighbor. But friend could be a little insulting, he said. My friends on the street  if you say that and youre not actually friends with them.

With Labre, that word doesnt make me mad. On every single one of the routes, there have been people weve made connections with since weve been coming out. Its not an us-to-you charity model. Instead, we think, Were neighbors. Maybe we should know each other.

The ministry migrated to SLU from other Jesuit universities in 2011. The group operates on a budget of about $50 to $75 a week, mostly from Student Government Association funding. That money goes to rent campus vans and buy food.

The food is the conduit to the relationships, said Jabek, president of Labre and a social work major. Each week, a core group of students shows up, bolstered by newcomers who have heard of the ministry through word of mouth, or campus groups that are looking for service hours.

We remind people to be open to the different aspects of the community, Jabek said. To brush their assumptions aside and try to break down their stereotypes of who is homeless.

How to be a friend

On this night, about 10 students from the fraternity Sigma Tau Gamma are there for the first time, completing volunteer requirements. Jabek gives them the lowdown.

They want to be treated like people. A lot of times, we look down on the homeless population. Noticing them and noticing their problems is something they want, instead of looking away.

Just before heading out into the night, everyone sits in a circle. They tick off their favorite Thanksgiving foods, listen to a song on the guitar and recite a prayer to their patron saint:

Show us how to be a friend to them and not pass them by. Enable us to see Jesus in our poor brothers and sisters.

With that, the students disband, lugging yellow water coolers along with pans of mac and cheese, some donated Panera bagels and sacks of oranges.

One group sets out on foot to meet with folks who make their homes around SLUs edges. Another heads to a downtown park, and a third goes to the neighborhood around Biddle House, a shelter on Tucker Boulevard.

The last crew drives to Soulard. In the shadow of Interstate 55 at Ninth Street and Park Avenue, the caravan circles behind St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Traffic hums overhead, but the cul-de-sac is still. As the students get out of their cars, a few men approach.

Lonnie! Sara Guilfoy, 20, calls as she sees a familiar face, an older man with hooded eyes and weathered clothing. The junior occupational therapy student gives him a hug and asks how he is doing.

The food is carried to a nearby pavilion. A man wrapped in a comforter is hunkered down on top of one of the six wrought iron tables. At the rest, small clumps of people start exchanging stories.

In a voice barely louder than a whisper, Shane Scheller, 21, says he is grateful for the company. He came to St. Louis from Salt Lake City with a girlfriend. And then everything went bad. Its a bad story. He wants to get back to Utah but for now is just trying to get by.

The people staying near St. Vincents are almost exclusively men, with the exception of Wendy Sledge-Harris, 51, a certified nursing assistant who lost her job in June. She was already behind on bills, she tells a couple of the Labre students, and that pushed her over the edge.

She wears flowered leggings and flip-flops despite the brisk breeze, and she holds court in the middle of the pavilion. I never thought Id be homeless. But never say never, she says to those clustered around her. So many people out here have lost hope and faith. I havent lost that yet.

She digs into the pasta and offers a small critique. Its great. I just need a little salt. It could be better with salt, she says, laughing.

Its nice to have nice people out here, she says before heading back to the red sedan she sleeps in.

Not the whole story

Everyone else starts to say their goodbyes. The SLU students will be back the following week, but they hope their friends will have found a permanent place to stay.

At the citys last count, in January, there were more than 1,300 people without permanent housing. About 150 were classified as chronically homeless.

The number of ways into the space of not having reliable shelter is incredibly diverse, said Huffman, the faculty adviser. The stereotype is not the whole story.

The students understand that what they are doing wont solve homelessness. But the visits challenge them to examine and change their perceptions.

Its part of the prayer we read each night, said Jabek, the Labre groups president. Its easy to forget that people have worth and value. Creating a small, short connection is sometimes whats needed.
WASHINGTON  As Donald Trumps first calendar year in office drew to a close, former Arkansas governor and presidential candidate Mike Huckabee compared Trump to Winston Churchill, the British prime minister who helped guide Britain through World War II.

Helped guide is chosen purposefully.

The British people  and the Americans and their allies  won the war, along with allied peoples, guided by leaders who knew that there would be challenges and setbacks and defeats along the way but that the only way to get over them was together, in tandem.

The tension, doubts and defiance of the Age of Churchill are being introduced to a new generation in the Age of Trump through Gary Oldmans portrayal in Darkest Hour. The movie, just out, bookends 2017 with Dunkirk, the film treatment of the rescue of the British Army that was released in July. It powerfully captures some of the most perilous days in civilization.

So Churchill is revisiting our consciousness in newly perilous times. War, and rumors of war  from the killings of civilians by terrorists to the saber rattling between Trump and North Koreas dear leader Kim Jung Un  very much defined 2017. It can sometimes seem like 1940 all over again, the year that Churchill became prime minister after Neville Chamberlains peace overtures to the German madman Hitler had failed.

Churchill is larger than history precisely because of the times in which he served. He did not have the luxury of time to let petty things distract him or to obsess over how his act was playing in the public square. The Germans had crowded what was left of the British Army into a few square miles of French beach when Churchill rose to power. Rescue was the only option, and rescue the British people did.

Churchill was hated by his own party  and press, tweeted Huckabee, the father of White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders. But unlike Neville Chamberlain, he didnt retreat. We had a Chamberlain for eight years  the last a reference to Barack Obama.

But as is often the case when the social media blinders go on, that is only part of the story. When it comes to history, cherry picking is a surrender to inaccuracy. Historical comparisons cant be tidily tied down in 280-character tweets. And sometimes they can be out-and-out wrong.

Churchill, unlike Trump, served in the military.

Churchill knew both victory and defeat there. He had seen the carnage visited upon real people from his own orders at Gallipoli, a disastrous campaign that caused more than 73,000 British casualties. Churchill had seen how the saber rattlers  the dukes and prime ministers and czars and assassins  let their egos and recklessness launch World War I.

Trump, referring to John McCain, said he preferred war heroes who had not been captured.

Churchill was a prisoner of war in South Africa.

Churchill was also a man of the press that Huckabee says hated him. He was captured covering the Boer War, in which he almost died.

Ironically, it was Chamberlain who, more than Churchill, thought the press should be more in allegiance with whoever was in power. So in that regard, despite Huckabees claim, Trump may be closer to Chamberlain than to Churchill.

Churchill never got in an ugly public battle with the parents of a dead soldier, per Trump and the Gold Star parents of Army Capt. Humayun Khan, who was killed in Iraq in 2004.

Churchill rallied the British people to a cause greater than himself.

Churchill thought and acted globally and historically.

Trump, according to the New York Times, spends hours daily watching TV coverage of himself.

In 1946, Churchill introduced to the political lexicon  and to history  the phrase, Iron Curtain, at Westminster College in Fulton, Mo.

Churchill saw the oncoming Cold War more clearly than most in his times.

In 2017, with Russians allegedly interfering with elections and terrorists striking around the globe, Trump declared the press enemies of the American people. He retweeted posts showing him crushing CNN with his shoe.

His contribution to the political lexicon: Fake news.
Nearly two weeks before protests erupted in Ferguson after a grand jurys decision not to indict the officer who killed Michael Brown, Michael Neidorff was appointed chairman of the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization.

The appointment would prove to be pivotal for future investments in Ferguson.

Browns death sparked a national discussion about police brutality and systemic racism. Ferguson, a suburban community just north of the city of St. Louis, became a symbol of a modern day civil rights movement that called on Americans to recognize that Black Lives Matter.

Neidorff, who proved to be a difference maker in Ferguson, has been selected as the 2017 Citizen of the Year. The honor is sponsored by the Post-Dispatch and selected by a committee of past winners.

As unrest from the protests led to violence and the destruction of property, including small businesses that later considered closing for good, Neidorff, the CEO of Centene, feared for the communitys long-term viability. He worried the event would mark the death knell for Ferguson.

I learned that what happened in Ferguson could happen in 150 communities in this country, Neidorff told the Post-Dispatch.

I mean the circumstances are right for the kinds of things that took place there to happen elsewhere; weve seen it in Baltimore and elsewhere. I sat back and I said, OK, if St. Louis is going to come out of this well and stronger, we have to show the country what the solution is to these kinds of issues.

It was then that Neidorff decided it was up to his Fortune 500 company to invest in Ferguson, to create opportunity and jobs at a time when many were thinking about anything but.

At the helm of one of the nations largest companies, Neidorff committed to building a $25 million state-of-the-art office with a preschool for the employees children. The center opened in 2016 and now employs more than 200 individuals from the area.

Oh, its outstanding, Neidorff said of the Ferguson call center. Its one of the best we have: low turnover, great productivity.

Since opening the office last year, Centene has also donated more than $1 million to open a health clinic in Ferguson, and it was the largest private donor to help establish a jobs training center there. The jobs training facility is located at the same site where the QuikTrip burned in Ferguson, where anger followed the death of a black teenager at the hands of a white police officer.

Michael Neidorffs leadership and vision and support of the St. Louis community has been tremendous, especially in the wake of the events in Ferguson, said Michael McMillan, CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Regions supporter

As CEO of one of the countrys largest insurance companies, Neidorff is known for reshaping the skyline of downtown Clayton, but many may be unfamiliar with his dedication to the region.

In addition to his work in Ferguson, he spent the last year setting records with United Way as campaign co-chair. United Way exceeded its 2017 fundraising goal with $75.65 million in contributions, more than the $75 million goal. He and his wife are major contributors to the Opera Theatre of St. Louis. They also put forth $5 million of their own to endow a chair at Washington University.

Upon meeting him, if you had no idea (who he was), you would have no clue to the magnitude and scope of what he has to control in the form of Centene and its global reach, McMillan said of Neidorffs humble nature.

Andy Taylor, executive chairman of Enterprise Holdings, said hes continually impressed by Neidorffs passion and commitment to bettering the region.

How in the heck does he have time to do (all) that and run a big business? Taylor asked of Neidorffs work outside Centene.

He will be noted as a remarkable, or the biggest supporter of arts and culture in the city and greater St. Louis region. He will definitely be remembered for the buildings hes putting up and the jobs hes creating, Taylor said.

A growing company

Neidorff is credited with molding Centene into the behemoth it is today.

Currently, the company is one of the nations largest insurers. Its core business focuses on winning contracts from states to manage their Medicaid population, low-income individuals who qualify for subsidized insurance through the government.

Centene now covers more than 12 million individuals across the country. When Neidorff joined the company in 1996, it covered fewer than 1 million.

Centene operates in 29 states, employs more than 32,000 people and has revenue of more than $40 billion annually. The company has stepped in to offer plans in counties that would otherwise have gone without a health plan option.

A lot of businesses today really feel that to do well, you have to do good, Taylor said of Neidorffs mindset.

Neidorff said he feels an obligation to give back. And when it came to the issues in Ferguson, he felt a need to act.

I came to the conclusion that if we did not fix these things, wed end up living in gated communities, and thats not the fate I wanted to see for my adopted city.

Its not being altruistic, its about being realistic.
By India Today Web Desk: Housemates woke up to Party On My Mind. Bigg Boss summoned Vikas Gupta in the confession room and gave him a secret task.

The first task given to him was to convince the housemates to not send Akash to prison and if was successful in doing so, he could earn good food for their house party. Housemates were amazed when Vikas spoke in Akash's favour. They concluded that this might be one of his master plan to show himself as a bigger person. Housemates ignored his pleas and sent Akash to jail.

advertisement

Vikas asked Puneesh to tell Priyank that he never wanted Priyank to go to jail. Puneesh declined and said that that's what he wanted and he was trying to be great on the show. Vikas accused him of playing dirty game and the two got into an argument.

After failing in the first task, Vikas was given the second task, for which he had to make any one of the housemates cry. He challenged Hina and Luv to cry. Hina won the challenge and cried with tears trickling down her cheek. After Hina, even Luv was able to bring out tears. Vikas complimented them for completing the challenge. By completing this task, Vikas earned good music for the party.

His next task was to accuse any one of the housemates of stealing and making everyone believe it. He emptied his coffee bottle in a box in Akash's drawer and showed everyone how his coffee went missing and was found in the rapper's drawer. The housemates believed him and he won the task. Bigg Boss asked him what would he like for completing the task successfully. Vikas asked for food, as a party would be incomplete without good food.

Gharwalein ho rahe hai @lostboy54 ki harqaton se hairan! Witness it all tonight at 10:30 PM only on #BB11. #BBSneakPeek. pic.twitter.com/HdBAtFdfEO- COLORS (@ColorsTV) December 29, 2017

The next task given to him was to show anger and throw someone's clothes in the pool. He went for his easy target Priyank and threw his clothes in the pool. Puneesh asked him to stop, as it was looking very fake. Priyank caught his act and laughed at his antics.

It's party time for the #BB11 housemates! Be a part of the fun tonight at 10:30 PM. #BBSneakPeek pic.twitter.com/Prd7Ra6E8Z- COLORS (@ColorsTV) December 29, 2017

By completing three out of the four task, the housemates got to enjoy a grand party. Bigg Boss congratulated Vikas for completing the secret task successfully and Vikas apologised to the housemates for his behaviour.

Later, Puneesh and Akash diuscussed about their future outside the house and both confessed that they were better locked inside the house. The duo are safe this week. Let's see if they manage to be among the top five contestants as well.

Also watch:

--- ENDS ---
ADEN  Nahla Arishi, chief pediatrician at the al-Sadaqa hospital in this Yemeni port city, had not seen diphtheria in her 20-year career. Then, late last month, a 3-year-old girl with high fever was rushed to Arishi's ward. Her neck was swollen, and she gasped for air through a lump of tissue in her throat. Eight days later, she died.

Soon after, a 10-month-old boy with similar symptoms died less than 24 hours after arriving at the hospital.

Two 5-year-old cousins were admitted; only one survived.

A 45-day-old boy, his neck swollen and bruised, lasted a few hours. His last breath was through an oxygen mask.

One morning in early December, 16-month-old Sameh arrived at the hospital carried by his aunt and delirious with fever. Arishi immediately recognized a new case of diphtheria. "Put on your mask," she ordered the aunt.

Sameh's father, a fighter in Yemen's three-year war, rushed in, grabbed his son, yanked off the baby's shoes and threw them on the floor. "Sameh is the light of the house," he wailed, feeling the boy's feverish brow and body.

This is the emergency ward to a nation. After three years of warfare, cholera and hunger, Yemen faces a new battle: In the past four months, doctors across the country have recorded at least 380 cases of diphtheria, a bacterial disease that last appeared here in 1992.

Arishi, like her country around her, is struggling to cope. Every month, she and her team drip-feed dozens of Yemen's half a million severely malnourished children. Her ward has also treated hundreds of the one million people infected by cholera.

This spring, Arishi and her colleagues reopened an abandoned wing of al-Sadaqa hospital, fenced it with chicken wire and created a makeshift cholera treatment center. Now, they are converting part of that center into a diphtheria ward, cordoning off isolation units by barring hallway doors.

But with rusty oxygen tanks and only two functional ventilators in a different part of the hospital  and with the expectation that the cholera epidemic will worsen in coming months  her triage upon triage is no longer working.

"We're getting more patients but we can't deal with them. We don't have supplies. We don't have money," said Arishi, "This war has got to end."

For the past three years, Yemen has been the combat zone of a struggle for regional supremacy between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Riyadh and some of its Arab allies jumped into Yemen's civil war in 2015 to help quell an uprising by the Houthis, an Islamic political-religious movement backed by Iran. In addition to airstrikes, Riyadh  with U.S. and U.N. backing  has positioned ships in Yemeni waters as a way to stop arms reaching Houthi militia.

But the blockade has ended up isolating a country that was already the poorest in the Middle East. Vital provisions  food, medicine, fuel, medical equipment, batteries, solar panels and more  are not getting through. Humanitarian shipments of food and medicine have mostly been allowed into the country. Yet Saudi-led forces have severely delayed aid shipments or closed ports outright, especially in northern Yemen where fighting and the humanitarian crisis are most acute.

The war and blockade have also thwarted Yemen's vaccination programs.

Seven years ago, 80 percent of children were fully immunized with three doses of diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus vaccine, or DTP as the combined shot is called, according to Zaher Sahloul, a critical-care specialist who cofounded a nonprofit called MedGlobal. Now, he says, that has dropped to 60 percent.

Poor record keeping means there are discrepancies in data related to vaccine coverage. Yemen's Ministry of Health says 85 percent of Yemeni children have been immunized against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, Hepatitis B and bacterial influenza since the beginning of the conflict, a mere two percentage point drop from pre-war years.

In late November, the U.N.'s World Health Organization (WHO) sent a shipment of diphtheria antitoxins  designed to treat those already infected  and vaccines to the capital Sanaa. The vaccines were delayed by the Saudi blockade for a week, the WHO said.

In July, the Geneva-based International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision earmarked a million cholera vaccines for Yemen. An initial shipment of 500,000 doses was sent to the African Horn country of Djibouti, and was ready to send on to Sanaa. But the WHO and local authorities in Sanaa decided together to scrap the vaccination plan, citing logistical and technical issues.

"Yemen needs a Marshall Plan," said Sahloul, who was visiting al-Sadaqa's treatment center in December. "It is difficult to foresee an optimistic scenario if the current conditions persist," he said.

Disease after disease

Arishi began her medical career in the mid-1990s after Yemen unified following years of conflict between communist and pro-western forces. She joined the al-Sadaqa hospital, which was built in the 1980s with funds from the Soviet Union.

In her two decades at the hospital's pediatric ward, Arishi has seen Yemen slowly come apart again. Even in the mid 2000s, the country faced widespread hunger because of rising food prices. The feeding center of al-Sadaqa's hospital, she said, was crowded even before the new civil war began.

In the spring of 2015, Houthi forces, aided by the now-deceased former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, advanced south from their stronghold in the Yemeni capital Sanaa and took over Aden's airport. It was then that the coalition of Arab states led by Saudi Arabia joined the war and began launching airstrikes against Houthi-held enclaves. Fighting raged until troops backing the officially-recognized government wrenched Aden from Houthi control in July of that year.

During the first months of fighting, al-Sadaqa filled with hundreds of wounded children and adults.

By the middle of 2016, another group of patients began pouring into the hospital. A cholera outbreak that started in Sanaa had spread to Aden. Dehydrated children, their condition made worse by malnutrition, flooded into her pediatric ward. Many did not survive, Arishi said.

Cholera can kill because patients quickly lose their fluids through vomiting and watery diarrhea. When caught early, it can be treated by replacing fluids.

When a second wave of cholera infections swept Yemen in April this year, Arishi and her colleagues decided to set up the new treatment center. They picked a building away from the main wings of the hospital to avoid contamination and repaired it with funds from the WHO and medical aid group Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF). Converting the building, which had been abandoned for two years after the war, required "heavy cleaning work, electricity, water system repairs as well as installing air conditioners," according to MSF.

Yet, like the country itself, al-Sadaqa was overwhelmed by the cholera epidemic. Nationwide, a million people have been infected, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross. The WHO says cholera has killed more than 2,200 people.

Most of the infected were in the populous north of the country. But al-Sadaqa, which took in patients from across south Yemen, was also unprepared. Arishi and her colleagues had expected 10 patients at a time. Instead, by the summer, they were treating more than a hundred, mostly adults, a day.

Since September, the spread of cholera across the country has abated. However, doctors agree that a new wave of infections is likely in March, when the country's rainy season returns. Cholera spreads more easily in wet weather, because the bacteria live in rivers and coastal waters which swell with the rain. Rain brings sewage into sources of drinking water.

In August, a new disease began to emerge. In Ibb governorate, 170 km south of Sanaa, a 17-year-old boy was diagnosed with diphtheria, according to the WHO.

Diphtheria is caused by bacteria that mainly infect the throat, nose and airways and send toxins into the bloodstream. It has largely receded as a global health threat, because much of the world's population is protected through routine immunization.

But the disease is highly contagious once it takes root, doctors say, since it spreads in the droplets from coughing and sneezing. Small children are particularly vulnerable because toxins from the bacteria build up a coating of dead tissue that blocks their small airways.

Since the mid-August case, more than 380 patients have been admitted to hospitals across Yemen with diphtheria-like symptoms, according to the WHO. Doctors diagnosed the cases based solely on patients' symptoms. Close to 40 of the patients have died, by WHO estimates.

The first case of suspected diphtheria reached al-Sadaqa in November. Of the seven children who arrived within a fortnight, nearly all were initially misdiagnosed with mumps or flu. Four died.

Arishi faced the problem of isolating children with symptoms of diphtheria. She asked hospital administrators to block a hallway door with a cupboard. Behind it, she tried to isolate those who might infect others.

But she lacked basic resources to treat the new disease. Al-Sadaqa hospital, like most others in Yemen, does not have the reagents needed to test for diphtheria. In fact, none of Arishi's diagnoses has been confirmed by laboratory tests.

Marc Poncin, an MSF emergency coordinator in Ibb governorate, said the lack of recent experience means it could be harder to treat diphtheria.

"There has been a loss of knowledge regarding its treatment, because it's become something of a neglected and forgotten disease," he said.

After a diagnosis, treatment is far from easy. Doctors can prescribe antitoxins and antibiotics. But until a few weeks ago, Yemen had no such antitoxin stocks.

The United Nations Children's Fund and the WHO have imported more than 5 million doses of vaccines to immunize children in the worst affected areas. The WHO has already distributed antibiotics to patients and, as prophylactics, to their families.

Some diphtheria patients need emergency surgery to remove blockages from their airways or need machines to breathe. But most of Yemen's hospitals don't have such equipment. As of early December, only two of al-Sadaqa's three mechanical ventilators were working, and the hospital didn't have an isolated operating room for diphtheria patients.

The lack of resources has caused strains with the hospital's supporters. When Arishi cordoned off a part of the cholera ward for the incoming diphtheria patients a couple of weeks ago, the WHO was not happy with the decision, according to Hussein Hassan, head of the WHO's Aden office.

"We cannot confidently say that cholera is over. It is a seasonal problem and it may come back. What happens if another wave starts and the ward is filled with diphtheria patients?" said Hassan.

'I didn't want to lose my kid'

Arishi says there is another sign that Yemen is breaking down: parents' waning faith.

She sees more examples of families that have not vaccinated their children because they distrust both their government and international organizations.

Earlier this month she confronted Saleh Khaled, the father of a 5-year-old boy called Yasir, who arrived with severe diphtheria symptoms.

"Why did you not vaccinate your son?" Arishi asked.

Yasir's first cousin, who was also five years old and unvaccinated, had died a few days earlier. When the first symptoms had appeared on Yasir's neck and chin, the boy's parents had given him honey.

Khaled said he had heard rumors, years earlier, about children who had died after healthcare workers had allegedly switched vaccine vials with insulin during a door-to-door vaccination campaign.

"I didn't want to lose my kid because of something like this," he said. "We don't trust the people who work in the health department."

Others in the al-Sadaqa ward that day echoed similar fears.

"We live only because of God's mercy," said Khaled Nasser, the father of 16-month-old Sameh. Nasser, a member of a local armed group that fights alongside Saudi-allied forces, said fellow fighters had helped him buy medicine when Sameh got sick.

Arishi herself barely ekes out a living. She makes $210 a month at al-Sadaqa and works at a private clinic three days a week to supplement her income. The mother of three treats neighbors and relatives without getting paid. Her husband, also a pediatrician, works at another clinic in Aden.

For Arishi, war is both burden and inspiration. She says it has made her commitment to medicine stronger.

"If I leave and my husband leaves and everyone leaves, who will stay to treat our patients?" she said. "Aden is my city. It is my responsibility."

Additional reporting by Kate Kelland in London and Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva.
President Donald Trump says the East Coast could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming as bitterly cold temperatures are expected to freeze large swaths of the country this holiday weekend.

Trump wrote on Twitter Thursday, In the East, it could be the COLDEST New Years Eve on record. He added: Perhaps we could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming that our Country, but not other countries, was going to pay TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS to protect against. Bundle up!

The president did not acknowledge the difference between the weather and the climate. Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions during a shorter period, while climate is a longer view of weather patterns.

Trump has repeatedly expressed skepticism about climate change science, calling global warming a hoax created by the Chinese to damage American industry.
Kevin Horrigan Kevin Horrigan is the deputy editorial page editor for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Kevin Horrigan 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. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Of all the hoary journalistic traditions designed to fill time and space at the end of the year, my favorite is the People We Have Lost roundups. I wonder who is this We theyre talking about and whether I can be part of the We if Ive never heard of the dearly departed.

For instance, I read Celebrity Deaths in 2017: Stars Weve Lost in Us Weekly. (Maybe We are people who read Us). For every lost star Id heard of  Chuck Berry, Dick Gregory, Hugh Hefner, Glen Campbell  there was someone of whose existence I was unaware until it was too late. Kim Jonghyun (Korean pop star, not Rocket Man). Azzedine Alala, fashion designer. Lil Peep, rapper.

We is a generational thing, I guess. But as the poet said, any mans death diminishes me. Im just sorry I never got a chance to catch Lil Peep in concert.

It seems to me that We lost some ideas in 2017 that were every bit as significant, for good and for ill, as the celebrities who shuffled off this mortal coil. These ideas arent entirely dead, but they took a beating.

 Civility, for one. Our ability to treat other people with politeness and courtesy has been on the wane for years. I am a great admirer of the late Patrick OBrians series of novels about the British Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. I am struck by the formal conventions of politeness that governed even the most hostile confrontations: My compliments to the captain, and unless he hauls down his flag I will run him through with my sword.

These interactions are always personal, whereas today we have anonymous, impersonal ways to be ugly to people. Here I am thinking of the your a moron category of comments that no doubt will be appended to the online version of this column. I am not sure this is progress.

 Tolerance is another idea that suffered in 2017. At universities, once a marketplace of ideas, many students have decided there are ideas and people for whom the market should be closed. Most often the speakers are conservative, many times with provocative, intolerant views, who are repaid in kind by lefty protesters. Fox News keeps careful track of these protests, which outrage its audience, which is good for business.

The Voltairian ideal that I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it becomes a challenge when someone like Ann Coulter or Milo Yiannopoulos shows up. They are professional provocateurs who say outrageous, insulting things to generate controversy that furthers their careers. If they were ignored, their acts and incomes would suffer.

 Objective reality took a hammering in 2017 under a president for whom lying is second, or maybe first, nature. My compliments to President Trump, but you cant just deny saying those sleazy things on that Access Hollywood tape when youve already apologized for it twice. Also, the only way your tax-cut bill wouldnt benefit you personally, as you claim, is if you paid a pittance in taxes last year, which is possible, but we dont know because you lied about your intentions to release your tax returns.

Trump seems to know instinctively what many of us had to have a whole bunch of experts explain to us: Many people dont care about facts. They care about what they believe and defend it all the more strenuously when shown where theyre wrong. This was a year when the phrases filter bubble and confirmation bias got a workout.

The best short explanation of this phenomenon I read was Elizabeth Kolberts Why Facts Dont Matter in The New Yorker last Feb. 27. Human beings evolved as social animals and tend to adopt ideas acceptable to the groups they live in. Kolbert writes:

If your position on, say, the Affordable Care Act is baseless and I rely on it, then my opinion is also baseless. When I talk to Tom and he decides he agrees with me, his opinion is also baseless, but now that the three of us concur we feel that much more smug about our views. If we all now dismiss as unconvincing any information that contradicts our opinion, you get, well, the Trump Administration.

 Horndogism is another phenomenon that We saw take a pounding this year, the notion that any guy with overdeveloped sexual appetites and underdeveloped respect for boundaries could physically or emotionally harass, grope and/or assault women without serious repercussion.

In public professions  politics, media, show business  the boys will be boys excuse no longer holds. But victory over horndogism wont be won until the first CEO or fast-food restaurant manager is shown the door. At the end of the year, We are not just about celebrities.
Yogeshwar Choudhary, a resident of Vishnupur Ram village under Hajipur Sadar block in Vaishali district, has managed to draw the funds for construction of toilets 42 times.

By Indo-Asian News Service: A man in a Bihar village has allegedly drawn government funds good enough for constructing 42 toilets in his house, an official said on Saturday.

Yogeshwar Choudhary, a resident of Vishnupur Ram village under Hajipur Sadar block in Vaishali district, has managed to draw the funds for construction of toilets 42 times.

"Choudhary has drawn funds for construction of toilet in his house 42 times in his name using different identity cards," a district official said.

advertisement

According to him, Choudhary has drawn a total of Rs 3,49,600 in the name of constructing a toilet in his house.

Similarly, another man Visheshwar Ram has drew Rs 91,200 by seeking money "to construct a toilet in my house" by presenting the same case 10 times.

Both drew the government funds in the first-half of 2015.

A local social activist Rohit Kumar has demanded that Vaishali District Magistrate initiate action against them and order a probe into the irregularities.

Vaishali Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) Sarvanayan Yadav said it was an old case of 2015. The Public Head Engineering Department officials would be able to reflect more on how such irregularities took place, he said,

"We will speak on the issue only after a high-level probe into it," the DDC said.

The Bihar government has been providing Rs 12,000 per family for construction of toilet in rural as well as urban households.

--- ENDS ---
Arvind Singh, a member of the former Royal family of Mewar, who was a member of the CBFC panel that approved the movie, has mentioned that he had recommended that the movie be not allowed to release.

By Dev Ankur Wadhawan: Even though the Central Board of Certification (CBFC) panel has cleared Sanjay Leela Bhansali's movie, Padmavati, with certain changes, it has emerged that there was at least one voice against the release of the movie from within the panel.

Arvind Singh, a member of the former Royal family of Mewar, who was a member of the CBFC panel that approved the movie, has mentioned that he had recommended that the movie be not allowed to release.

advertisement

"There is no question of consensus being formed. This decision was not ours. My role was of showing the path in which I presented a report regarding where what was wrong. From my side, all other historians also presented a report. There is no question of consensus; the decision is of censor board. The board has given its decision," Arvind Singh mentioned.

"We have told as per our understanding, our grip. From my side, there definitely was a recommendation that the film be not allowed to release. In this film of 2 hours 41 minutes, there were some controversial facts. This film can upset both Rajput and Muslim community," Arvind added.

Earlier, Vishvaraj Singh, also member of the former Royal family, had written a stinging letter to Prasoon Joshi, CBFC Chairperson, mentioning,

"Cosmetic changes like the proposed change in name will not change the fact that that the movie refers to real places, my ancestors and other persons in history with their names continuing to remain the same."

The letter further stated, "Contrary to all civilised conduct the CBFC by suggesting such changes has reduced itself to endorsing the propagation of fiction about heroic personalities and living families."

There had been prolonged protests in Rajasthan by members of Rajput community with regard to the movie during which several members of the former Royalty had expressed their reservations.

ALSO WATCH | Karni Sena thugs holding Padmavati hostage

--- ENDS ---
Work continues to truck along for a new university-led tertiary campus in the heart of Tauranga city.

A time lapse video recently uploaded to Waikato Universitys YouTube channel shows the progress on the new campus, which is being led by University of Waikato on behalf of the Bay of Plenty Tertiary Partnership.

Work is set to be complete by 2019 with the campus open to students by 2020.

It is expected to enhance the range of qualifications and study options available to students in the Bay of Plenty.

University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley says the new campus is an exciting milestone for the Bay of Plenty community.

Its important for the region that we can attract or retain young people who will make the Bay of Plenty even stronger, says Neil. This campus, which will be one of the most significant developments in the region in many years, will do that for the region.

Meanwhile Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chairman Doug Leeder is excited at the prospects of more students being attracted to the region and the business-focussed research and development opportunities that this provides.

The agreement on the Tertiary Campus shows the strength of our regional partnerships, and what can be achieved through vision and collaboration, says Doug.

This campus will deliver improved educational and economic opportunities, and is a major part of our commitment to economic development through our Regional Infrastructure Fund.

TECT Chairperson Bill Holland says they are extremely pleased that an agreement has been reached by all parties on the future direction of the project.

We have always believed that the University campus is an important and exciting project for the city, says Bill, and although there is still plenty of work ahead, this is a significant milestone.

Its expected that following the development of the campus, 8000 tertiary students will study in the Bay of Plenty over a 17-year period.
This day in NZ history in 1834 Church Missionary Society printer William Colenso arrived in the Bay of Islands on the schooner Blackbird with New Zealands second printing press.

This day in NZ history in 1834 Church Missionary Society printer William Colenso arrived in the Bay of Islands on the schooner Blackbird with New Zealands second printing press.

This day in NZ history in 1834 Church Missionary Society printer William Colenso arrived in the Bay of Islands on the schooner Blackbird with New Zealands second printing press.

In 1835 on this day Charles Darwin left New Zealand after a nine-day visit. Darwins visit to the Bay of Islands on HMS Beagle was brief and unspectacular from his point of view. The Beagles captain, Robert FitzRoy, would later serve as the second governor of New Zealand.

In 1835 on this day Charles Darwin left New Zealand after a nine-day visit. Darwins visit to the Bay of Islands on HMS Beagle was brief and unspectacular from his point of view. The Beagles captain, Robert FitzRoy, would later serve as the second governor of New Zealand.

In 1835 on this day Charles Darwin left New Zealand after a nine-day visit. Darwins visit to the Bay of Islands on HMS Beagle was brief and unspectacular from his point of view. The Beagles captain, Robert FitzRoy, would later serve as the second governor of New Zealand.

In world history on this day in 1862 the draft of the Emancipation Proclamation was finished and circulated among President Abraham Lincolns cabinet for comment. In 1922 Soviet Russia was renamed the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
A car has crashed into a bank on the intersection of Settlers Road and Handcock Road on SH5.

Police received a report that a car had crashed into a bank in Reproroa around 2pm.

A police spokesperson says five people are involved and emergency services are in attendance.

SunLive will update you with more information.
The Guardia Civil in Cordoba have dismantled what is considered to be the biggest laboratory of designer drugs in Spain. Four people between the ages of 35 and 48 have been arrested for producing 100,000 doses of mostly MDA. The head of the drugs ring is apparently self-taught and has no chemical training, according to Carlos Toledano of the Guardia Civil.

National Police in Malaga have also discovered a large quantity of drugs, in this case cannabis. Around 94 plants were found at the home of one of two Spanish men who are presumed responsible for a spate of burglaries in bars in Torremolinos and Malaga.
By PTI: New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) Central Bank of India today said its board will meet on January 3, 2018 to consider a proposal of raising additional equity capital of Rs 323 crore from the government. The capital raising committee of the board of director will consider and approve raising additional equity capital of Rs 323 crore by issuance and allotment of equity share of face value of Rs 10 each at such issue price including premium to President of India on January 3, 2018, the bank said in BSE filing.

advertisement

According to the statement, the committee will also decided to hold an extraordinary general meeting of the shareholders on February 2, 2018 to consider and pass necessary resolution and may also fix January 3, 2018 as relevant date for the purpose of determining the issue price.

The government had on October 24 unveiled a Rs 2.11 lakh crore two-year roadmap for strengthening NPA-hit public sector banks, which includes re-capitalisation bonds, budgetary support and equity dilution. PTI KKS MKJ

--- ENDS ---
A jury trial with the defendant and chief witness for the prosecution telling widely differing stories about a trade between a John Deere gator and two guns ended with a hung jury on one charge and not guilty on the second charge last week in Floyd County Circuit before Judge Marc Long.

David Randolph Scarberry, 38, a convicted felon from Willis, denied receiving any weapons and said he was not part of the trade involving the weapons from Tim Boone in Check in September of 2015.

As a convicted felon, Scarberry cannot legally own or possess firearms or ammunition.

Boone testified that Scarberry came to his home in Check on September 12 of that year with his brother and brought a used John Deere Gator that he wanted to sell or trade. Boone said Scarberry expressed an interest in swapping the Gator for weapons and picked out a Browning 380 hunting rifle and an L. C. Smith shotgun.

Boone said he traded the two guns, along with some cash, in exchange for the Gator and said Scarberry left and took the guns with him. Boone was about to testify that he later discovered the Gator was stolen, but Defense Attorney Ryan Hamrick objected and Judge Long had the jury moved to the jury room to consider the objection.

Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Ryan Hupp argued that the Gator being stolen was pertinent to the case. Hamrick said it was not because any reported theft of the vehicle was not part of the evidence at that point in the trial. Judge Long agreed and sustained the objection.

With the jury back in the courtroom, Boone testified that he went to Scarberrys house to try and recover the weapons without being able to say why he wanted the guns back, but did say the defendant told him he did not have the guns and did not know where they could be located.

Boone recorded part of the conversation with his iPhone and the recording, with some parts redacted, had Scarberry saying he was a convicted felon and said a man he traded one of the guns to was one also.

The only thing I got out of this deal was the shotgun, Scarberry also said on the recording.

The other prosecution witness, Floyd County Sheriffs Investigator Rusty Stanley, provided details of a .380 Browning hunting rife and the L.C. Smith shotgun but told the court that he was not involved in the investigation of the case. When the Commonwealth rested and the jury was sent out for lunch, Hamrick moved to add a new defense witness, a deputy sheriff he said would impeach some of Boones testimony, but Judge Long overruled the witness addition, saying what Hamrick said the deputy would say in the case was not pertinent to the case.

After lunch, Scarberry took the stand as the only witness for the defense, and said he did come to Boones house in September 2015 but not to trade anything. He said the Gator was not his and he assumed it belonged to Boones brother and was using it to trade for guns.

Scarberry said he saw the guns on a couch inside the house but denied ever picking them up or taking them to the pickup. He said he did not think the guns were removed from the house when they left.

He remembered the visit from Boone but denied that he had anything to do with whatever may have happened to the weapons. When asked about the tape, Scarberry admitted that it was his voice on the recording but still said he had nothing to do with the original trade or any other transactions involving the weapons.

I am a convicted felon, he testified.

In closing arguments, Hupp said the Commonwealth proved Scarberry had taken possession of the weapons, because of his statements in the recording. Hamrick argued that the prosecution had failed to prove any such possession beyond any reasonable doubt and said reasonable doubt, in itself, is reason enough to find him not guilty.

The jury apparently agreed on a lack of possession of the Browning rifle and found Scarberry not guilty of one of the two counts of possession of a firearm but the jurors could not agree on a verdict on possession of the shotgun and reported that to the judge, after two hours and 45 minutes of consideration. Long stopped the trial as hung.
Two men are being arraigned Saturday morning in the killing of two women and two children in Troy earlier this week.



James W. White, 38, and Justin C. Mann, 24, are each charged with one count of first-degree murder and four counts of second-degree murder. Both men are Schenectady residents.

White and Mann pleaded not guilty in court, according to reports. They were arraigned in Troy City Court while several family members and reporters look on.

The building's manager found the deceased in their basement apartment at 158 Second Ave., Troy before 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Police later identified the victims as 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah Myers and 5-year-old Shanise Myers; and Brandi Mells, 22, who attended high school in Central New York.

Numerous law enforcement sources not involved in the investigation have told news outlets that all four of the victims were bound, with their throats cut.

According to the Times Union, police discovered a brutal crime scene:

"...all four victims had their hands and ankles bound and appeared to have had their throats cut. The two children were found together in a kneeling position with their heads and chests on a bed. The body of one of the women was on a mattress on the floor, and the fourth victim was nearby, also face down but covered with a sheet."

The Times Union also reported that police recovered two knives near the victims, who were all in close proximity.

A press conference from Troy Police is at 11 a.m. Saturday.

The Troy Boys & Girls Club is also raising money through a GoFundMe page to help cover the cost of funeral services for the victims. Jeremiah was a member of the club for six years. According to the page, money will be used to set up a scholarship and living expenses for the surviving child, Isaiah, 16, and to provide mental health services to the kids, families and the community.

By early Saturday morning, the fundraising effort has raised $27,099 of its $40,000 goal.
By PTI: Bhubaneswar, Dec 30 (PTI) The Centre and the Odisha government today entered into a blame game over the delay in execution of railway projects in the state.

Union Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain, who is on an official visit here, alleged in a press conference that several railway projects could not progress in the state due to non-availability of land.

advertisement

Stating that the Centre has this fiscal sanctioned Rs 5,100 crore for railway infrastructure in Odisha, the minister said: "Though works progressed in many projects, some others are delayed due to non-availability of required land for the purpose. The state government has not provided the land for those delayed projects."

The minister also said that there was no paucity of funds for the railway projects.

"We are not able to progress only due to lack of land and nothing else," Gohain said adding that the state government should expedite land acquisition and hand them over to railway for speedy progress of different projects.

Gohain also appealed to the state government to provide land for different projects. He said there are several new projects for Odisha in the pipeline for development of railway infrastructure.

Odishas commerce and transport minister Nrushingha Sahoo, on the other hand, questioned the sincerity of the railways in completing the projects in the state.

"The (Railways) have not completed works on the projects even after getting adequate land. The railway ministry is now trying to shift its responsibility on others. They are not sincere," Sahoo said.

Sahoo, however, admitted delay in land acquisition for certain projects.

"This delay is due to different land acquisition acts. The Centre has made a new land acquisition act in 2015. Earlier, there was a special land acquisition law for railway projects," Sahoo said. PTI AAM JM

--- ENDS ---
During a press conference Saturday, Troy Police Chief John Tedesco said two Schenectady men were arrested following the killing of two women and two children in Troy.

James W. White, 38, and Justin C. Mann, 24, are each charged with one count of first-degree murder and four counts of second-degree murder.

Tedesco said the crime took place on Dec. 21. Five days later, the building's manager found the deceased in their basement apartment at 158 Second Ave., in Troy just before 1 p.m. Tuesday. Police said the manager was responding to a request to check the welfare of the residents.

One of the defendants knew one of the victims but Tedesco declined to say who. He did say White and Mann, both have criminal records. Mann is currently on parole.

There is no motive yet, according to Tedesco.

They have been remanded to Rensselaer County Jail without bail. Preliminary hearings for both will be held Jan. 4th. Both men have public defenders.

White and Mann pleaded not guilty Saturday morning in Troy City Court while several family members and members of the media were present.

Tedesco said police arrested the men at 9:50 p.m. Friday without incident at 627 Hamilton St., Schenectady, where Mann lived.

Troy police on Thursday identified the victims as 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah Myers and 5-year-old Shanise Myers; and 22-year-old Brandi Mells who attended high school in Central New York. Police say the women were in a relationship.

According to Tedesco, the arrest came about due to a large portion of investigation based on technological devices. He declined to say what kind of device.

Tedesco and Rensselaer County District Attorney Joel Abelove declined to answer several questions about the case, including the method of the killings. They declined to say how the two suspects know each other.

Numerous law enforcement sources not involved in the investigation have told news outlets that all four of the victims were bound, with their throats cut.

Tedesco said it was a great relief to have the two men in custody. He thanked many of the agencies involved and the public for providing tips.

Troy Police Detectives received help from the NYSP Major Crimes Unit and other units, NYS DOCCS (Parole), the Rensselaer County District Attorney's Office and many other law enforcement partners which lead to the arrest.

Abelove said their hearts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.

"They have suffered an unspeakable loss," Abelove said. "Something that they are trying to get their heads around...I can't say enough about the level of commitment and effort that law enforcement, some of who are here today have put into this case to get us where we are today."
Huawei is not a name that many Americans are familiar with. It is currently the world's third-largest smartphone maker, behind Apple and Samsung.

Plans to introduce Huawei to a large audience are under way, first by making it available on one of the United States' largest carriers.

Huawei's US Push

Huawei plans to make a large push into the U.S. market by getting its flagship model on AT&T, according to The Information.

Huawei's phones have previously been available in the United States through deals with Best Buy and Amazon. The problem is that consumers usually buy their phones through their carriers in the country, making sales lag behind rivals Apple and Samsung.

To make its way into the United States, Huawei will be releasing their latest flagship, the Mate 10. First released back in October, it will be largely the same phone. It will have "technical adjustments" based on U.S. standards and "undercover market research missions."

There are also reports that Huawei is working on a deal with Verizon, the United States' largest carrier.

Huawei will also be spending $100 million on a marketing campaign to raise brand awareness. Even without capturing the U.S. market, Huawei is poised to become the second largest smartphone maker in the world  surpassing Apple in the process.

Mate 10

Mate 10 is Huawei's latest flagship model. There are two different versions of the phone, the Mate 10 and the Mate 10 Pro. Unlike Apple's models that just vary in sizes, with Huawei, some features on one phone are not available on the other.

One of the most notable differences is the screen of each phone. Mate 10's screen is a 5.9-inch 16:9 LCD with 1440p resolution, while Mate 10 Pro's screen is a 6-inch, 18:9 AMOLED 1080p resolution.

Mate 10 Pro follows a popular trend with smartphones in removing the headphone jack. Mate 10 retains it.

MicroSD slots are not a popular feature in the United States, but the Mate 10 will include it. Mate Pro has a larger memory than the base model (128 GB versus 64 GB) but will not have a microSD card slot.

If you can't wait to buy it before its U.S. release, it is currently available on Amazon. Mate 10 costs $699, and Mate 10 Pro costs $919. Currently, both phones work on AT&T and T-Mobile, but not with Verizon and Sprint.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
For those who invest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, the last two weeks have been worrying. Not only has the meteoric rise of the value stopped, but the worth also keeps sinking lower and lower.

There haven't been any one-day crashes like last week, but its value isn't climbing as fast as investors have hoped.

One the largest markets for Bitcoin is South Korea. To limit trade of Bitcoin, the country started implementing new rules as it grapples with its economic power.

Real-Name Transactions

Bitcoin's tough week continues as prices for the cryptocurrency keep dropping. South Korea began weighing its options to restore calm in the community and keep it in check.

One of the options being considered by South Korea includes shutting down some of the exchanges to control the speculation.

South Korea's exchanges account for more than a fifth of global trading. Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon is worried about the effects of bitcoin on the country's young people.

To regulate bitcoin in its market, South Korea implemented new regulations. These new regulations include ending anonymous trading, requiring those buying bitcoin to use their real names.

In addition, South Korea introduced legislation that could give regulators the power to close the exchanges, according to Reuters.

More Regulations

This isn't South Korea's first foray into regulating cryptocurrencies. Back in September, South Korea banned initial coin offerings (ICOs). This is a way to fund projects by creating and selling a new cryptocurrency.

Governments all over the world have been trying to rein in the speculation that came from new interest in cryptocurrencies. Like South Korea, China also banned ICOs, then it completely banned cryptocurrency trading.

One of the biggest worries is that cryptocurrencies can be used to fund illegal activities. Blockchain technology allows the transactions to remain encrypted and keep regulators away.

Governments lose control when they don't supervise the currency. Efforts to regulate it have proven difficult.

Regulations in the United States have been small. In 2014, the IRS ruled that bitcoin are assets, meaning that people who owned it would have to pay taxes, although exchanges in the United States have already run into problems with regulations. Coinbase refuses to disclose information of users who have traded more than $20,000 worth of bitcoin.

Most countries choose to issue warnings on the volatility of the cryptocurrencies, pointing out that there are no financial protections for those that invest in this market.

Shortly before the crash last week, Singapore issued a warning of "extreme caution" when buying cryptocurrencies.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
New details have emerged from the incident where a local Kansas man was shot and killed by the police.

Two kids are reportedly the cause of the 28-year-old man's unfortunate encounter with the Wichita police. Multiple reports are saying that two kids had a dispute over a match of Call of Duty and the issue online turned serious when the two decided to bring things to real life.

The Incident

The two players who go by the screen names Mirucle and Baperizer were participating in a $1 wager match through the competitive gaming platform UMG. The match got heated and so did the players. There was an argument and the two threatened to swat each other.

During the altercation, Mirucle decided to place a fake address claiming that it was his own to egg on Baperizer. Unfortunately, Baperizer followed through with his threat. There is a screenshot of the exchange between the two players where you can see exactly what went down. Check it out in the tweet below:

So this is what happened on this "swatting" between baperize/Baperizer or what the fuckever. And miruhcle/7alent and the swatter. If you are confused just ask me and i can clear it up. pic.twitter.com/20Yw1guaer  AllSkillNoTalk (@vNatsu_) December 29, 2017

After the swatting, Wichita, Kansas police showed to the address. They were told a man had an extreme altercation with his father and shot him in the head and had taken the rest of his family as hostages. When the police arrived at the scene they were armed and ready for a hostile situation. So, when the homeowner answered the door one of the officers shot and killed him.

The Wichita Deputy Police Chief, Troy Livingston, spoke with The Wichita Eagle to give more details about the tragic events. He revealed that the police arrived on call of a shooting at around 6:15 p.m. Thursday night.

Livingston also said that the details police received was that of an accidental shooting and hostages. He further went on to say that a male came to the front door, as he came to the front door, one of our officers discharged his weapon.

Following the tragic news, UMG took to Twitter to share a somber statement where they sent their thoughts and condolences to those impacted by the senseless loss.

We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We will do everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter.  UMG Events (@UMGEvents) December 29, 2017

What Is Swatting?

For those unaware of what Swatting is, it is essentially a form of harassment. An individual will make a hoax phone call to a police department or emergency response center with false claims of a high-risk situation taking place at an address. Depending on what the situation is being claimed, the police will send units and even some heavily armed units to investigate the situation.

Since the fatality, both players Mirucle and Baperizer have deleted their Twitter accounts. The Wichita police have not disclosed any information about an arrest.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A doctor in New Jersey has had his medical license temporarily suspended over allegations that he reused disposable catheters on multiple patients.

One-Use Anal Catheters

Colon and rectal surgeon Sanjiv Patankar allegedly washed and reused catheters that are inserted into patients' rectum during medical procedures. The instruments, which are used to examine patients with fecal incontinence, constipation, and other possible disorders, are supposed to be thrown away after a single use.

Patankar, who practiced in East Brunswick, allegedly instructed medical assistants to wash the instruments in soapy water after use, soak them in bleach solutions, and then rinse before air-drying them. The doctor also reportedly ordered to continue using a catheter that has started to break down due to overbleaching.

In a hearing conducted Dec. 19, the state said that documented evidence appears to show that between Jan. 1 and Nov. 30, Patankar's office performed 82 procedures but only five catheters were used over that period.

Lack Of Judgement Placed Patients In Danger

After hearing the testimony and reviewing the evidence, the state Board of Medical Examiners declared that the doctor's reuse of the catheters showed a lack of judgment. He also placed his patients in danger.

"Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino and the Division of Consumer Affairs today announced that a Committee of the State Board of Medical Examiners ("the Committee") has temporarily suspended the license of a Middlesex surgeon amid allegations he jeopardized his patients' health and safety by reusing single-use catheters on multiple patients during anorectal diagnostic testing.," the office of the Attorney General said in a statement.

Risks Of Reusing Disposable Medical Instruments

Reusing certain medical instruments can pose threats to patients. Using the anal catheter multiple times, for instance, may put patients at risk of contracting a disease. Unfortunately, there have been instances of healthcare professionals reusing supposedly one-use medical devices.

In 2015, a contractor nurse that Nebraska-based TotalWellness hired to administer flu vaccines to employees of Otsuka Pharmaceutical failed to change the syringes after each shot. The 67 employees affected by the malpractice were recommended to be tested for hepatitis B, C, and HIV due to the improper use of the syringes.

The U.S. Centers for Disease and Control Prevention said that reusing syringes may pose infection risk regardless if the needles were not reused, just as what happened in that particular case.

"Reuse of syringes for multiple patients, with or without reuse of needles, is recognized as a serious infection control breach that poses risks for bloodborne pathogen transmission," the CDC said.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
In anticipation of New Year's Day 2018, the astronauts of Expedition 54 have spent the last workdays of the year orbiting the Earth and finishing up research work on life sciences.

Norishige Kanai of JAXA and Scott Tingle of NASA closed the year working on studies that would allow humans to stay longer on space missions outside of the low-Earth orbit. They began wrapping up their research upon the departure of Progress 67, an unpiloted Russian spacecraft that delivered over three tons of food, fuel, and supplies to the International Space Station on June 14.

The resupply ship left the station on Dec. 28 after finishing a six-and-a-half-month stay. It was loaded with trash by Alexander Misurkin and Anton Shkaplerov of Roscosmos. Once its hatches were closed, the 67P automatically detached itself from the dock and reentered the Earth's atmosphere where it safely burnt up.

NASA Research Helping Humans Stay Healthy And Self-Sustainable In Space

NASA reports that on the last work week of 2017, Kanai was completing a study on physical exertion in outer space. He used the station's exercise bike to measure his own breathing and other parameters. His findings are expected to help mission doctors in ensuring that astronauts are strong enough to perform physically demanding activities like spacewalks.

Meanwhile, Tingle was capping off sample collection for the Advanced Plants Experiment-05. He harvested plants grown on the ISS and stored the samples in a specialized freezer for analysis. By observing changes in the plant's molecules and genes, this study is anticipated to show how plants are affected by microgravity.

The Japanese and American astronauts, as well as their crewmates, will go on light duty during the last weekend of 2017. During such period, they are also given the opportunity to communicate with their families on Earth. The crew will then take a day off and share a special meal on Jan. 1, 2018.

ISS Astronauts Talk About New Year Traditions In New NASA Video

On Dec. 29, NASA uploaded a video that features the ISS astronauts sharing their favorite New Year's Day traditions. Currently, there are four of them aboard, namely Kanai, Tingle, Joe Acaba, and Mark Vande Hei.

"In Japan, in the morning on New Year's Day, people go out and watch the first sunlight. I have a memory with my father of walking in a very, very cold early morning in Tokyo to watch the first sunrise," says Kanai in the footage.

The astronauts, together with their two Russian crewmates, are to experience New Year's Eve across 16 times as the ISS completes one revolution around the Earth every 90 minutes.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
By PTI: bill

(EDs: Recasting overnight story)

New Delhi, Dec 29 (PTI) Medical graduates willing to procure a licence to practise Indian medicine systems, including Ayurveda, may soon have to clear an exit exam, according to a proposed legislation on the lines of the health ministrys National Medical Commission Bill.

This is a part of a draft bill which seeks to create a new regulator, National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy, to replace the two statutory bodies governing higher education in homoeopathy and Indian systems of medicine.

advertisement

The AYUSH ministry, in consultation with NITI Aayog, has formulated the inclusion of integrative medicine in the proposed bill which will enable AYUSH practitioners to practise modern medicines and vice versa after undergoing a "bridge course".

Proposed by the NITI Aayog-led panel, the draft bill known as National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy, which seeks to replace Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH), also calls for AYUSH National Teachers Eligibility Test to bring in quality teachers in the traditional systems of medicine.

The AYUSH National Teachers Eligibility will be conducted for appointment of all teachers in AYUSH institutions, a senior official in the ministry of AYUSH said.

A committee under the chairmanship of vice chairman, Niti Aayog, additional principal secretary to prime minister, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Niti Aayog and secretary, Ministry of Ayush as members examined the working of the existing regulatory bodies of Indian Systems of Medicine.

It recommended the creation of National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine and Homoeopathy.

There are two statutory regulatory bodies namely--Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH)--set up as per the provision of Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970, and Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973, respectively, that regulate education and practice of AYUSH systems of medicine through its regulations.

Further, from upcoming academic session, it will be mandatory for those seeking admission in AYUSHs undergraduate courses to clear the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).

"However, we are still exploring whether to merge the entrance exam with NEET or to have our own common entrance exam," the official said.

For all system of AYUSH, minimum 50 per cent marks have to be obtained by the candidates to be eligible for admission in under-graduate courses.

The draft National Medical Commission Bill which seeks to replace the existing apex medical education regulator Medical Council of India (MCI) with a new body also calls for a licentiate exam which all medical graduates will have to clear to get practicing licences. PTI PLB SRY RCJ

--- ENDS ---
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis promised action against errant civic officials and the owners of the pub.

By India Today Web Desk: A day after 14 people died and several others were injured in a fire that broke out at Kamala Mills compound in Mumbai's Lower Parel area, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) conducted a demolition drive in the same area and several illegal structures were razed.

BMC additional commissioner AB Jarad said that this work was conducted regularly. When asked about when it was last done, he said the civic body should be left alone to do its work.

advertisement

The BMC has come under heavy criticism for its lack of a proactive approach towards dealing with illegal structures.

India Today accessed the Primary Inquiry report on the deadly fire that broke out early on Friday morning at Kamala Mills.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta submitted a report to the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra. A highly placed source in BMC told India Today that the report clearly indicates BMC officials mentioning the 'gross negligence bordering on connivance.'

The officers failed to notice and take action against the pubs and restaurant flouting the norms. They must be removed from their place of service immediately, the report says according to the source.

Mumbai: BMC action against illegal structures in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound. pic.twitter.com/2GDTqSchve- ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

An initial investigation suggests that there could be two causes to the fire. One was the illegal hookah parlour and the second was the tossing of alcohol to create flames.

An India Today investigation had found that in building number 67 on Dhanji Street in Zaveri Bazar of South Mumbai, an illegal shed was built and it covered the open duct of the building that caught fire which is more than fifty years old.

This was built by the owners of a company named UNION Chain and Jewels Pvt Ltd.

Investigation is underway, we are taking strict action against those who violated the rules: Additional Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) #KamalaMills pic.twitter.com/wgIs3kdhhL- ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

Jigar Sanghvi, one of the partners of 1 Above pub, is the director of UNION Chain and Jewels Pvt Limited.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis promised action against errant civic officials and the owners of the pub.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the building in Kamala Mill compound in Lower Parel where the tragedy took place past midnight, Fadnavis said he had ordered a safety audit of all such structures in the city.

(With inputs from Vidya)

--- ENDS ---
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.
A man killed in one of two nearby shootings in Baton Rouge Friday has been identified.

Carl K. Moore Jr., 32, was killed in the shooting outside of a barbershop in the 3200 block of Plank Road. The shooting occurred about 3 p.m., Baton Rouge police said.

Moore's address was listed in the 4300 block of Eat Maribel Court. No motive has been established.

Friday night sees second fatal shooting in Baton Rouge, city's 101st in record year for homicides Baton Rouge police were investigating a second fatal shooting in the capital city Friday night  the 101st for Louisiana's capital city  just

A second shooting was reported hours later in the 3800 block of Plank Road; there was no indication the shootings were related. The extent of the victim's injuries in the second shooting have not been released.
WASHINGTON  A massive disaster-relief package awaiting U.S. senators when they return to work in January would offer states far more flexibil
Kidnappers in Ukraine have released an employee at a United Kingdom-registered cryptocurrency exchange after getting more than $US1 million ($1.3 million) in bitcoins as ransom, an adviser to the Ukrainian interior minister has announced.

Pavel Lerner, a leading analyst and blockchain expert, was abducted by unknown masked people on December 26, according to a statement by his company, EXMO Finance, on its website.

"This is the first such case in Ukraine linked to bitcoins," Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Interior Minister Arsen Avakov, said in a phone text message.

It was unclear who paid the ransom. Lerner's work at EXMO did not involve access to the financial assets of its users, the company said, adding that the platform was operating normally.
The release of Padmavati had been pushed indefinitely by the makers.

By India Today Web Desk: The uncertainty surrounding the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's controversial period drama Padmavati, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, might just be coming to an end. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) held a meeting of the examining committee on December 28 and came to a decision to give Padmavati a U/A certificate.

advertisement

However, the film will have to undergo some modifications and its title is likely to be changed to Padmavat, after Malik Muhammad Jayasi's epic poem of the same name on which it is based.

Other key modifications include the use of disclaimers, particularly one clarifying the practice of Sati is not being glorified. The song Ghoomar will also undergo some modifications to befit the character of Rani Padmini.

The meeting was attended by the regular examining committee members along with the CBFC officials and a special advisory panel in presence of the board's chairman, Prasoon Joshi.

Padmavati was approached with a balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers as well as society. Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the requirement for a special panel was felt by the CBFC to add perspective to the final decision of the official committee.

The special panel consisted of Shri Arvind Singh from Udaipur as well as Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof K.K. Singh of the Jaipur University. The members of the panel had insights as well as some reservations regarding the claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length.

The makers, Sanjay Leela Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to the CBFC had requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community view the film. The final 3D application of Padmavati was submitted on November 28.

Having a specialist panel at the CBFC has been in practice in earlier circumstances as well. Prakash Jha's reservation-based film Aarakshan had an eminent panel representing a concerned group. For Jodhaa Akbar, as well, historical experts were called in.

The modification details and the CBFC's decision regarding Padmavati was shared with the producers, Viacom18 and the director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who attended the feedback session post the screening and are in agreement with the modifications. The certificate will be issued as per procedure once the required modifications are carried out and the final material is submitted.

ALSO WATCH: Karni Sena thugs holding Padmavati hostage

--- ENDS ---
Kiribati was the first country to welcome in the New Year. It's a tiny Pacific island right beside the International Date Line and they celebrated New Year's Eve just like everywhere else on earth.

A young couple, Safaila and Tiaon, were heading to a friend's party by the lagoon and they stopped on the way to pick up a bottle of bubbly kava.

Yep, fireworks. Just for a change. Credit:Stephen Harman

Tiaon wanted to buy the cheap sparkling kava, but Safaila said: "Come on! It's New Year's! We're getting the expensive French kava! Sometimes you can be such a tightarse!" So she bought the fancy stuff, they had a massive argument, and they didn't talk to each other for the rest of the night. The bottle didn't even get opened at the party, so Tiaon snuck it home at the end of the night in a Go Green supermarket recyclable bag.

New Year's Eve now travelled across New Zealand, over the eastern seaboard of Australia, arriving in the Papua New Guinean highlands.
Let us be careful that "bleaching" does not become a parliamentary euphemism for something that is far more significant in what is happening to the Great Barrier Reef. I first visited the reef 40 years ago; no TV pictures, or advertisements, could ever catch the pure magic of that experience  the colours and shapes of the corals, the extravagance of fish everywhere, so many with bright colours. The second time I visited the reef 18 years ago (two sites separated by 3000 kilometres) things were different; colours were still there but nowhere near the same abundance. I then revisited the reef six months ago, the coloured corals had gone, as had the variety of the fish, although there were still many to see. It was like visiting the ruins of a once mighty cathedral. John Green, Beaumaris FORUM The advocacy path Thank you Krystian Seibert for your article ("Charities face challenging year", The Sunday Age, 24/12) on the value of advocacy work by charities. As a social worker of 50 years' experience I believe firmly that the charity which fails to research the needs of service users and publicise the findings misses opportunities to bring about social change.Without advocacy for change we are doing "Bandaid" work with limited impact.

Even very challenging public welfare work is now contracted by government to community service organisations. This means that community organisations become repositories of firsthand knowledge not easily available to government funders. Community service organisations must therefore inform government regularly, through careful research, of what is observed in the daily work and sometimes advise governments on larger scale measures to reduce social problems. (Current examples are the need for increased low-cost housing and the need to lower costs to the family of state schooling.) Such advocacy can certainly cause conflict but is the only responsible course for charities. Angela Were, Castlemaine Old before its time David Lamb (Letters, 28/12) is correct to lament the white elephant that the NBN has become. However, the reality is that the root cause has to be traced back to Labor. The original plan was flawed from the beginning. In an increasingly mobile age, a hard wire network was never the answer. No wonder that it is now struggling. By the time the network can be declared to be in place it will have been superseded by mobile technology. Telstra's 5G developments are indicative of the future. Barry Gregor, Nunawading

Sour taste I, like many, was horrified by the proposal to allow the Apple Corporation to erect some sort of information centre on the public land known as Federation Square. The vulgarity of the design, which is totally unsympathetic to the current buildings with their ultra-modern design, will make the square an aesthetic nightmare. Then there is the matter that this site is public land and in no circumstances should public land be sold to an international corporation such as Apple, which has been reported as paying little tax. Sigmund Jorgensen, Montsalvat What is the point? What on earth is the point of the EPA prosecuting companies in liquidation for breaches of the act ("Firm passed off leaded soil as clean", The Age, 28/12). It wouldn't matter if the fine is $4 million if the company is in liquidation. Why didn't the EPA prosecute the directors of the company?

Michael Nolan, Capel Sound Time to reflect Every time I hear Scott Morrison complain about people "mocking" Christianity, I wish he would go look in a mirror and ponder how his own treatment of refugees shows more disrespect against Jesus the refugee than I could ever show as an atheist who supports human rights for the poor and oppressed. Geoff Allshorn, Montmorency Equal treatment

Scott Morrison wants to protect Christians and other religious groups from discrimination. Great! Let's start immediately, it can't happen soon enough. No more tax-free status for them while they build immense assets, cease their ability to discriminate on the basis of religion for applicants to their jobs and enforce civil law overriding canon law. Then they will be the same as the rest of the community and discrimination will be lessened. Jenny Callaghan, Hawthorn Stupid tactics A basic principle is break a rule, take your penalty. Wild Oats XI showed arrogance and stupidity in gambling on the outcome of the protest, which they knew must happen. Now they add the trophy for the most stupid tactical decision to their trophy cabinet. Chris Waters, Ormond

Science of stupid Extraordinarily there is no Minister for Science in cabinet, while the actual Minister for Science is the largely unheard of Assistant Minister Zed Seselja, described as a conservative and aligned with Tony Abbott. This is nothing more than a token appointment. Science underpins practically everything we do every day, whether it's treating cancer patients or making the millions of mobile phones that we can't do without. Science allows agriculture to feed us. Science teaches us things about the world around us. These political troglodytes are trashing the future for our children and their children, never mind what they are doing to the planet. They are social and economic vandals and won't be happy until the bulk of the under-employed general populace is trapped in servitude, providing fodder to prop up a morally bankrupt business model. What is Malcolm Turnbull thinking? No wonder his version of the NBN is the equivalent of a coal-powered plane. David Legat, South Morang Snowy job

Some important things are missing from the recently completed feasibility study report on Snowy 2.0. They are context and relative analysis. The National Energy Guarantee is still only a political slogan. We do not know the performance and risk requirements so we cannot say how Snowy 2.0 will perform against them relative to major alternative(s). Alternatives based on disperse smaller storage systems may have distinct advantages, particularly in terms of incremental development. This is an "all the eggs in one basket" idea. I am wary of this Snowy Mountains Corporation's proposal until someone of genuine independence has evaluated it as one of several options to meet the NEG. In spite of the amount of federal government funding provided to undertake the investigations, the study lacks that independence. I suggest Snowy 2.0 be called for what it is: the Prime Minister's pet project promoted by the corporation. The government is justifying it by saying that SMC would fund it. I wonder whether Snowy Hydro's CEO Paul Broad has talked that through with the majority owners Victoria and NSW or reflected on what they have to do, which is consider alternative uses of public revenue. Bernie O'Kane, Heidelberg Travel lessons As I travelled recently through Papua New Guinea with a school group, including walking the gruelling Kokoda Track, several things struck me.

The Melanesian culture has much to teach us about kindness, hospitality, grace and generosity. How can people in the villages, who appear to have so little material wealth, be so joyful and happy? We found a ready willingness on the part of our guides to help us in every circumstance. They were so gracious in miraculously building a makeshift bridge, or carrying the pack of a one of our students who had fallen ill. As we trekked, we learned about the "fuzzy wuzzy angels" of the infamous Kokoda Campaign in 1942. And as we arrived in each village, we met children who were playing happily with the most rudimentary toys or equipment without a single grumble, fight, whine or protest among them. What a contrast that was to what we hear too often at home when some of our children bicker and squabble over petty things. Our students saw first hand that there is more to life than material wealth. Nick Toovey, Beaumaris

Take the lead It is heartening that most Australians believe action on climate change is urgently needed (The Age, 26/12). Those who pay lip service to the issue, including most members of the Coalition government, point to the fact that, over billions of years, the Earth has experienced wild climatic upheavals and the current changes are more evidence of these. But climate science proves that we have grossly accelerated carbon levels during the past century, and we are fortunate to have evolved during a relatively benign climatic period over the last few million years. If we are smart we will do everything possible to ensure this relatively stable period is maintained for as many generations as possible. Wealthy nations such as Australia must lead on carbon reduction measures. Peter McCarthy, Mentone Not working
Justice Hayne was famous for what former chief justice Robert French termed his "devastating questions" to counsel. Credit:High Court of Australia A Sydney silk said Hayne, a former Rhodes scholar, is "super intelligent" but could be "rude" and "very dismissive" of barristers in court. "If he heard an argument he didn't like he would actually turn his chair around," the silk said. Many of these exchanges have gained a cult following on the Tumblr blog "Shitjudgessay", which bears the tongue-in-cheek claim it is run by former High Court justice William Gummow. Famous for what former chief justice Robert French termed his "devastating questions" to counsel, Hayne was fond of telling barristers they should be wary of the "knife in the napkin", or that it would be "unwise to go back into the lion's den to recover one's hat". Treasurer Scott Morrison describes Kenneth Hayne as a "jurist of impeccable standing". Credit:Alex Ellinghausen In 1997, former prime minister John Howard was looking for a judge to settle what was seen as an increasingly activist High Court, after former chief justice Sir Anthony Mason declared "the protection of individual rights is better left in the hands of judges than it is in the hands of politicians" three years earlier.

He appointed Hayne, a QC and highly regarded Victorian Court of Appeal judge, in September that year. As a judge, Kenneth Hayne held banks "responsible to their customers not only in contract, but also for damage to reputation". Credit:Paul Rovere Two decades later, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Treasurer Scott Morrison and Financial Services Minister Kelly O'Dwyer turned to Hayne to placate activists of a different kind. They asked him to lead the banking inquiry they didn't want but couldn't avoid. But Hayne has never been a stooge of the government. In 2014, he delivered a dissenting judgment after 157 Tamil asylum seekers were held by the Australian navy at sea, and would have allowed them to seek damages from the Commonwealth. "He is a jurist of impeccable standing, and I would have thought he would have been completely unchallenged in his suitability for the role," says Morrison, who was the immigration minister when the asylum seekers were intercepted. "If you can pick him on your team you will."

In fact, Hayne has taken on the banks before. He was one of three judges to order Westpac to pay a $50,000 fine for dishonouring 30 rent cheques sent by a real estate agent from Auburn in Sydney's west, "to hold banks responsible to their customers not only in contract, but also for damage to reputation". He has been on the other side of the fence as a barrister too, helping the Bank of Melbourne settle a $65 million sale of two life insurance companies. But this latest task is much bigger, and will require Hayne to choose what to cover in the limited time available, under very broad terms of reference that will include not only the banks, but superannuation funds, mortgage brokers and pay-day lenders as well. Ben Whitwell, a commercial lawyer at Slater and Gordon, says the inclusion of pay-day lenders and mortgage brokers is a "double-edged sword". "The greater scope hasn't been met with an increase in time for the commissioner to carry out inquiries in those additional areas," he says. "[A year] is a manifestly inadequate amount of time to give proper consideration to the lens of the inquiry."

Those familiar with Hayne's work ethic have no such doubts. "I've seen outstanding barristers in action and have been very impressed by their capacity to extract what really matters from crushing amounts of material; Ken has developed that skill to an exceptional level, both at the bar and in the High Court," Crommelin says. Former royal commissioner Neville Owen, who led the 2001 investigation into the failure of HIH, believes the tight time frame can be an advantage. "It causes you to focus your mind and get on with the job," Owen said in December. "There comes a time when the findings you make and the report you make are too distant from the problems that have arisen to be of any real use." Professor Cheryl Saunders, who has worked with Hayne for several years, says he would have thought very seriously before agreeing to take on the commission and how he could serve the public interest.

"I imagine that each of the main protagonists will be trying to protect their patch. This may be the biggest challenge; trying to cut through the thicket of representations to the commission," she says. "He strongly believes in the value of law and the legal system, and has a very structural approach to problem-solving. He likes to see the big picture." When Hayne retired from the High Court in June 2015, after 18 years on the bench, he was replaced by his wife and former Federal Court judge Michelle Gordon. Both Gordon and Hayne continued to teach, sometimes together, at the University of Melbourne while they were on the bench and still do so today, after Hayne also took the unusual step of returning to practice as a barrister after leaving the High Court. "When people leave the bench they don't want to become hermits, they want to continue to mix with the people in their field," says Saunders.

"It's a real labour of love," adds Crommelin. But the phalanx of QCs set to appear before the royal commission should not expect any hand-holding. Victorian barrister James Peters, QC, a former president of the Victorian Bar, says he appeared before Hayne in a number of cases in the Victorian Supreme Court. He says he was "very generous" to junior lawyers and championed diversity in the profession. "He wasn't terrifying, [but] he was to the point," Peters says. "You're unwise to dwell too long on a point that's already accepted, or not a good one."

In one of many exchanges with former solicitor-general Justin Gleeson, SC, Hayne warned: "If you sit on the fence too long, Mr Solicitor, it becomes deeply uncomfortable." In another instance he asked prominent NSW barrister Bret Walker, SC: "What exactly are we meant to do with the last three minutes of your submissions? "Can I tell you what I take from it?" he continued. "That if there is an elephant in the room we are not to look at it." Peters says Hayne is "definitely his own man - it's neither wise nor possible to dictate to him". Loading
Scrapping Queenslands gay panic defence, shifting a dead whale off a Sunshine Coast beach and dropping Sam Thaiday from the role of Deadly Choices ambassador were some of the victories Queensland petitioners celebrated in 2017.

Queenslanders used online social activist platform change.org to petition on issues they cared about the most, creating a tangible impact, Change.org head of Australia Nathan Elvery said.

Father Paul Kelly started a petition to get rid of the 'gay panic' defence.

The victories for the state show that Queenslanders are passionate about standing up for the voiceless; from murder victims denied justice to indigenous fairness and preventing animal cruelty, he said.

Here are some of the top 10 Queensland change.org victories from 2017.
The day after Donald Trump was inaugurated on Friday, January 20, Spicer called his first White House press briefing, two days earlier than planned. Spicer was furious. He accused the press of deliberately underestimating the size of the inaugural crowd  about a third the size of Obama's first inauguration  in its reporting the previous day in order to "lessen the enthusiasm" for the President. This had been "the largest audience ever to witness an inauguration, period, both in person and around the globe", and he accused the media of reporting false crowd estimates. That this was obviously untrue to anyone who attended the event, or watched it on TV, or compared photographs of the event to previous inaugurations, or considered the crowd estimates of local police and public transport officials did not matter. During the Trump administration truth would no longer be tethered to any mooring in reality, it would be a declaration of political intent and tribalism. A few days later Spicer's colleague Kellyanne Conway confirmed this when she defended Spicer during a live interview, saying he had not been lying, simply offering "alternative facts". Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20 in Washington. Credit:AP Lacking the White House's keen sense of the post-modern absurd, much of the press corps set about keeping a tally of Trump's lies. According to The New York Times by mid-December he had told 103 "lies or falsehoods" compared with 18 during the same period for Barack Obama. The Washington Post was far testier, measuring 1628 false or misleading statements in the year to mid-November.

The 'Pharma Bro' Clearly the tone of the Trump administration had been set the previous year as he campaigned. One man particularly well-adapted to the new ways was Martin Shkreli. Known in the US as the Pharma Bro, Shkreli became a public figure in 2015 when his company, Turing Pharmaceuticals, purchased the rights to a crucial HIV drug, Daraprim, and jacked up the price by 5000 per cent from $US13.50 to $US750 per tablet. Shkreli spent some of his new wealth buying unreleased recordings by bands including the Wu-Tang Clan. As Trump closed in on victory last year, Shkreli announced via Twitter he would celebrate Trump's win by releasing the unpublished copyrighted music for free. Martin Shkreli became known in the US as the Pharma Bro. Credit:Bloomberg His comeuppance finally came in June 2017, when he faced a trial for securities fraud. For days the court struggled to lock in a jury because, it turned out, so many people hated him.

Harpers Magazine published excerpts of the selection process: Juror No. 1: I'm aware of the defendant and I hate him ... I think he's a greedy little man.

Juror No.52: When I walked in here today I looked at him, and in my head, that's a snake - not knowing who he was. I just walked in and looked right at him and that's a snake."

Juror No.28: Is he stupid or greedy? I can't understand.

Juror No.144: I don't think I can [be open-minded] because he kind of looks like a dick.

Juror No.77: You'd have to convince me he was innocent rather than guilty.

Juror No.125: I already sense the man is guilty.

Juror No.59: It's my attitude toward his entire demeanour, what he has done to people.

The court: All right. We are going to excuse you, sir.

Juror No.59: And he disrespected the Wu-Tang Clan. Shkreli was eventually convicted and released on bail pending sentencing, which was revoked when he offered, via Facebook, $5000 to anyone who could bring him a strand of Hillary Clinton's hair. He is now in jail. Celebrities and politics collide There were moments this year when pop culture collided with news in ways that would have previously been unimaginable.

During the US election campaign, Julian Assange's special loathing for Clinton became clear with his own public statements, as did apparent ties between WikiLeaks and Russia and Trump. Nigel Farage, the right-wing Brexit campaigner, paraded around Trump's nomination convention in Cleveland as a VIP guest, only to beat a path straight to Assange's spider-hole in the Ecuadorian Embassy the moment he returned to Britain. The Trump adviser Roger Stone, who maintains close ties to both his own Russian contacts and the Trump campaign, was able to foreshadow anti-Hillary document drops from WikiLeaks, documents which appeared to come from Russian hacking of Democratic Party computer files. Minutes after The Washington Post released video tape of Trump boasting how he liked to "grab" women "by the pussy", Assange was at work releasing documents damaging to the Clinton campaign. WikiLeaks' Julian Assange on the balcony of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Credit:AP But it took Pamela Anderson's appearance to give an already weird story the full 2017 treatment. Rumours of a romance between Assange and Anderson bubbled around early in the year, and in April Anderson published a poem on her blog about their special relationship. In an exhaustive profile of Assange published in August, a writer for The New Yorker describes how one of his interviews with Assange in the embassy was interrupted at length by a visit from Anderson. He listened through the door as Assange lectured her.

"Hours go by, and I take a lot of notes," she later told the interviewer of their conversations. By then the barriers between political and celebrity culture in the US that had been eroding for years had finally collapsed and the following month Anderson's former husband, the country-rap star Kid Rock, made his first speech in support of a potential bid for a Michigan Senate seat. He noted that "God has blessed me and made my pockets fat", but argued that "a redistribution of wealth seems more like [the Democratic Party's] plan, and I don't believe that you should say, 'Sacrifice, do things by the book, and then have to take care of some deadbeat milking the system, lazy ass motherf---ing man.'" Crunching the numbers, few political analysts were willing to rule Mr Rock out as a viable candidate and a couple of Republican political action committees said they would support him. Last month he said the whole thing had been a stunt, as though that makes any difference these days.

Race relations By August some of the only stable themes of the year were clear. Trump was the most unpopular new president in modern history, having failed to either wedge the Democrats with the infrastructure spending bill or reward Republican loyalty by destroying Obamacare as promised. But he had maintained the support of his nationalistic base, including the majority of Republican voters. He kept the faith of the former even when a gathering of far right-wing activists groups in Charlottesville, Virginia, descended into violent mayhem, leading to the murder of Heather Heyer, a protester against the rallying racists. A white supremacist gives a Nazi salute in Charlottesville. Credit:New York Times In normal circumstances the political playbook here was clear. A president would unequivocally condemn the group that had been filmed chanting "Sieg Heil" and "blood and soil" and offer the nation's condolences to Heyer's grieving family. Instead in the hours after her death on Saturday, August 12, Trump found an equivalence between the groups of protesters, declaring: "We condemn in the strongest possible terms this egregious display of hatred, bigotry and violence on many sides, on many sides."

This language was reported to have originated with Steve Bannon, the former Breitbart boss who had harnessed the political power of nationalism and hitched it to Trump's wagon early in the presidential campaign. Trump stood by his comments days later, telling reporters: "You also had some very fine people on both sides." And in a peculiarly 2017 twist he went on to plug a local vineyard that he owned. "I know a lot about Charlottesville," he said. "It's a great place that has been badly hurt over the last couple days. I own one of the largest wineries in the United States. It is in Charlottesville." The virtue of wealth Trump's administration has been good to people who own lots of things, a point his chief consiglieres have not been shy about celebrating. Even before the GOP passed a tax bill with specific goodies for the owners of private jets and billionaires seeking to hand off their wealth to heirs unmolested by the state. Through the year Trump's treasury secretary, Steven Mnuchin, diligently signalled how seriously the administration took the virtue of wealth. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and his wife Louise Linton hold a sheet of $1 notes bearing Mnuchin's name. Credit:Bloomberg Mnuchin had come up through Goldman Sachs, but during the great financial crisis of 2008 he had beat a path of his own, foreclosing on 36,000 over-leveraged property owners who had borrowed from his California-based residential lender IndyMac. By the time Trump appointed him to cabinet to help him "drain the swamp" of Wall Street and DC corruption, Mnuchin had amassed a fortune of $US300 million. Nevertheless, he has been notably parsimonious in office, spending $25,000 of public money per hour on private jet flights to Paris for his honeymoon in June, and on a trip to Kentucky with his new wife, Louise Linton, to view a total eclipse of the sun in September.

Through it all the Democratic Party waited on the sidelines as though expecting that Trump's support among the party that elected him would collapse of its own volition. It never did. The depth of the partisanship that facilitated Trump's takeover of the Republican Party was rendered clear for all to see during Roy Moore's Senate race in Alabama. After Trump appointed Jeff Sessions to be US Attorney-General, a Senate seat had opened up in one of the most Republican states in the Union. Moore, the state attorney-general, wanted it badly, and Bannon, who has since quit his official role in the White House, wanted him to have it. Moore was a Christian hardliner, the sort of man who was made for Bannon's project of blowing up the establishment. He had twice been removed from office  once because he refused to remove a tablet of the Ten Commandments he had installed in his court house, once for refusing to acknowledge the Supreme Court's recognition of gay marriage. During his Senate campaign it was revealed that Moore had also once been banned from visiting a local mall due to his habit of accosting and propositioning teenage girls. As he ran for office, nine women came forward with allegations about his behaviour. Despite all this, Trump  who faces sexual harassment and/or assault allegations from 19 women  stood by Moore, as did the Republican Party and evangelical Christian groups. Moore suffered a narrow defeat earlier this month and continues to dispute the result.

Upending the social order A look at Alabama's exit polls confirms something significant about this dark, odd year. Trump's first serious electoral loss was inflicted by women, two-thirds of whom voted against Moore. This made sense. In January it had been the vast rallies of women around America  and the world  against Trump the day after his inauguration that had prompted Spicer's tantrum at the White House. And since October it has been women who have upended the standing social order with revelations of sexual harassment. It began with a story in The New York Times about the relentless abuse of women by the most powerful man in Hollywood, Harvey Weinstein, but since then the #metoo movement, or variants of it, have spread around the world, serving as both an assertion of basic human rights and a kind of proxy war against Trumpism. The sexual harassment allegations involving movie mogul Harvey Weinstein supercharged the MeToo movement. Credit:AP Through October, November and December the revelations kept coming. It wasn't just the extent of the behaviour that was being revealed that shocked, but the kinds of behaviour. Weinstein grabbed and groped, harassed and terrorised. He stands accused of rape. But the journalist Lauren Sivan also reports that after she refused Weinstein's advances he blocked her exit from a deserted restaurant and masturbated into a potted plant in front of her. This method of abuse is apparently not unique to Weinstein either. The comedian Louis CK has confessed to similar behaviour in his abuse of women. The po-faced business magazine Forbes was reduced to running an article entitled "Why Would High-Powered Men Masturbate in Front of Women".
Activist Erica Garner, whose father's death helped galvanise an emotional discussion about race and policing, died on Saturday, New York's WABC reported.

Her death was confirmed by a statement on her verified Twitter account. Garner, 27, had suffered significant brain damage this week after a heart attack, representatives said.

Garner came to prominence when her father, Eric Garner, died in 2014 after being put in a chokehold by a New York City police officer, an event that touched off protests across the country.
Dubai: Demonstrators have chanted anti-government slogans in several cities across Iran, Iranian news agencies and social media reports say, as price protests turned into the largest wave of demonstrations since nationwide pro-reform unrest in 2009.

Police dispersed anti-government demonstrators in the western city of Kermanshah as protests spread to Tehran and several other cities a day after rallies in the northeast, the semi-official news agency Fars said.

The outbreak of unrest reflects growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption, as well as concern about the Islamic Republic's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as those in Syria and Iraq.

An official said a few protesters had been arrested in Tehran, and footage posted on social media showed a heavy police presence in the capital and some other cities.
By PTI: Kolkata, Dec 30 (PTI) The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is going to change Indias economy though initially it might have caused some pain, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu today said.

Speaking on the concluding day of the 11th Global Doctors Summit here, Naidu said the improvement in Indias tax system with the introduction of GST will ultimately benefit its people.

advertisement

"As the World Bank report suggests, GST is going to be transformational, revolutionary tax system to change Indias economy. Any improvement in system ultimately helps people," Naidu said.

He said that as Vice-President, he would not discuss the merits of issues like demonetisation or GST, but if one argues that almost the entire demonetised money has come back to banks post note ban, then it must be considered if that is not better than the money stashed in bathroom and underneath the pillows of individuals.

He said India is on the cusp of new economic growth in sync with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision, "reform perform and transform."

Naidu said that 65 per cent of Indias population were under 30 years of age and called for new ideas to take the country forward.

About his new role as Vice-President, Naidu said, "two months back I was a minister. Now I have retired from politics but not retired from public life. So, I cannot speak on issues as I did when I was a minister." PTI SUS JM

--- ENDS ---
Hardik Patel today asked Gujarat Deputy CM Nitin Patel, seemingly unhappy with his portfolios to join Congress for a more "suitable position".

By India Today Web Desk: Days after Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel was stripped of finance and revenue portfolio and handed the charge of road and building among others, Patidar quota leader Hardik Patel today 'invited' Patel to join Congress.

In what is a clear rift between Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and his deputy Nitin Patel, Hardik Patel, like a true-blue politician, seems to be trying to capitalise on it.

advertisement

Addressing the media after the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) meet in Gujarat's Botad, Hardik Patel said, "If Nitin Patel is not being respected in the BJP, he can join us."

Further explaining the offer that he spoke of as "us", the Patidar rights activist added, "I will speak with Congress to accommodate him appropriately, such that his stature is maintained (sic)."

But, Hardik's offer comes with a condition- Nitin Patel will be given a suitable position if he is willing to leave BJP with 10 MLAs in tow.

WHY IS NITIN PATEL UNHAPPY?

Gujarat Deputy CM's sulk was apparent at the recently concluded press conference on Thursday where Patel didn't say a word and sat through the event with a long face, avoiding eye contact.

India Today reported earlier that CM Rupani and his deputy got into a tussle over the latter's displeasure with the portfolio allocation.

RUPANI EVADES QUESTION

Talking to media-persons after inaugurating a flower show organised by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation today, the chief minister evaded questions pertaining to fallout with Nitin Patel.

When asked to comment about Nitin Patel's alleged resentment towards the portfolios allocated to him, Rupani smiled and walked away.

Reportedly, Nitin Patel wanted home and urban development but was handed road and building, family and health, Narmada, Kalpasar and medical education.

Interestingly, CM Vijay Rupani kept the home and urban development portfolio for himself.

With inputs from Jumana Shah

Watch: Congratulations to BJP for winning election by tampering EVMs: Hardik Patel

--- ENDS ---
Sunday

Faith United Church (UCC), 2901 Austin's Colony Parkway in Bryan, Welcomes you on this first Sunday after Christmas with a 9:15 a.m. Sunday study, 10 a.m. fellowship and 10:30 a.m. worship. Pastor Karl Tewold's message is "New Year, New Blessings." All are welcome. Faithuccbryan.org.

St. Francis Episcopal Church, 1101 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, will have a morning prayer at 8 a.m. at Mandy Williams. The 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion Sunday will be celebrated by the Rev. Lacy Largent. Coffee and snacks are served following the later service. For information on weekday services and events, contact the church at 696-1491 or stfrancisbcs.org.

First Christian Church, 900 S. Ennis St. in Bryan, Sunday school classes for all ages begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by coffee time at 10:30 a.m. Child care is available. All are invited. 823-5451 or firstchristianbcs.org.

Covenant Presbyterian Church, 220 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, will observe worship at 10:30 a.m. 694-7700 or covenantpresbyterian.org.

Unitarian Universalist Church of the Brazos Valley, 800 George Bush Drive (Texas A&M Hillel), will meet at 10:30 a.m., for intergenerational service by Joe Daigle. 696-5285.

St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 217 W. 26th St. in Bryan, will host services at 7:30, 9 and 11:15 a.m. www.standrewsbcs.org.

Unity Spiritual Center of the Brazos Valley, 4016 Stillmeadow Drive, Bryan, will have services at 10:30 a.m. Call 324-9857 or unityspiritualcenterbv.org.

Spirit of Faith Church, 900 E. 29th St. in Bryan, will have Sunday school classes for all ages at 10 a.m., followed by morning worship at 11 a.m. 436-6910.

Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, 3610 Plainsman Lane in Bryan, will have Sunday school classes for all ages at 9:15 a.m. and worship service at 10:30 a.m. 846-4753.

CBS Religious School is offering Sunday morning classes. Students are invited to learn about and experience Judaism in a welcoming and egalitarian environment. For more information or to register, contact religiousschool.cbs@gmail.com.

Tuesday

Eagle's Nest Praise and Worship Ministries will staff a free prayer line from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The prayer line number is 775-1513, and calls will be answered by a trained prayer ministry associate. The prayer line is coordinated by pastors Gary and Sheila Jones.

Wednesday

Faith United Church, 2901 Austin's Colony Parkway in Bryan, invites men of all ages to Wednesday morning coffee and guy talk at 10 a.m. Faithuccbryan.org.

St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 217 W. 26th St. in Bryan, will have evening prayer at 5:30 p.m. www.standrewsbcs.org.
Those in the Brazos Valley will need to bundle up to ring in 2018, as temperatures are expected to dip below freezing Sunday night -- with Jack Frost hanging around the area through Thursday.

According to KBTX-TV meteorologist Shel Winkley, temperatures will begin to drop early Sunday across the Brazos Valley, and by Sunday night, temperatures will be in the 30s with wind chill making the air feel like its in the 20s.

Also in the forecast for Sunday is a chance for light rain or drizzle, which may cause ice to form in patches on bridges, which tend to ice up quicker because of the elevation separating them from the warm ground. Drivers are urged to use caution.

Various agencies will be preparing roads for potential freezing temperatures. Gary Arnold, road administrator with Brazos County, noted that his team are preparing trucks filled with sand to coat as many as 60 bridges on Brazos County roads in the event of ice over New Year's.

"The sand is just something with traction to keep those bridges from freezing," he said.

In the event a motorist hits a patch of ice, the Texas Department of Transportation advises to ease off both the gas pedal and the brake and to steer into the direction of the skid.

For information on Texas roads, visit drivetexas.org.

Winkley said the moisture will probably move off after Sunday, but the cold and wind will remain. On Monday morning, wind chills will be as cold as 16 degrees, and throughout the day winds at 15 to 20 miles-per-hour will blow, making the temperatures feel as cold as 20 degrees.

"Folks need to get out now and bring in their pets and their plants," Winkley said. "They also need to prepare their pipes. From Monday through Thursday, each night we'll probably be getting a hard freeze."

Winkley also urged Brazos Valley residents to be mindful of the high winds, particularly if considering shooting off fireworks Sunday night.

The wind chill will remain in the teens on Tuesday morning in Brazos Valley counties -- and don't expect a repeat of the early December snowfall that blanketed the area.

"We had a chance of snow on Thursday morning, but that's all gone now," Winkley said.

While the National Weather Service has not yet issued any watches or warnings, the Fort Worth office is advising those in Robertson, Leon and Milam counties to take caution while traveling. The Houston NWS office states a hard freeze warning and wind chill advisory may eventually be issued for Brazos, Burleson, Madison and Washington counties, as temperatures are expected to be in the 20s overnight through Thursday.

Friday will still be cold, but eventually temperatures will rise to about 50 degrees, which is considered average for the area in January. While it's not odd to have a day of freezing weather in Aggieland close to the new year, Winkley said a four- to five-day stretch of frigid temperatures is out of the ordinary.

"It's crazy," he said. "The rest of the globe is abnormally warm right now, but the United States is going to be abnormally cold soon. It's a weird weather pattern."
A Bryan man was transported to the hospital Friday night in critical condition after a head-on collision near Kurten, officials said.

According to the Department of Public Safety, just before 7 p.m., a pickup towing a large spool of fracking hose collided head on with a car on Texas 21.

Troopers said the pickup driver was traveling eastbound on Texas 21 when a Toyota Camry driven by an 83-year-old Bryan man driving westbound in the eastbound lane hit the truck.

The Camry driver was rushed to CHI St. Joseph Hospital, where he was in critical condition Friday night. No other serious injuries were reported.

State troopers said the injured man was not far from his home when the accident occurred. Lanes in both directions of Texas 21 were temporarily closed, but have since reopened.
A series of public hearings have been scheduled in counties that would be affected by the proposed Dallas-to-Houston bullet train.

The Federal Railroad Administration, which released its preliminary findings on a proposed route for the high-speed rail in its draft environmental impact statement earlier this month, will have meetings in 10 counties, including Grimes, Madison and Leon counties in the Brazos Valley.

The first of those Brazos Valley meetings will be in Leon County from 5 to 9 p.m. Jan. 30 at Leon High School. The Madison County meeting will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 5 at Madisonville High School, and the Grimes County meeting is Feb. 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Navasota Middle School. Meetings are also planned in Dallas, Navarro, Ellis, Limestone, Freestone, Harris and Waller counties.

Texas Central plans to transport passengers between Dallas and Houston in 90 minutes on trains traveling up to 205 miles per hour. Its only stop would be in Grimes County, near Texas 90 and Texas 30.

The lengthy report released Dec. 15 by the Federal Railroad Administration provided a clearer look at the project's preferred route. And while the draft does not grant any approval or authorizations for the project, Texas Central called it a "major milestone."

"Thousands of hours have been spent to ensure the Texas Bullet Train will be constructed and operated in a way that gives Texans a choice for the safest mode of transportation in the world," Texas Central CEO Carlos Aguilar said in a press release. "This process ensures issues identified are addressed in the best way possible for communities and the environment. We will respectfully follow this public consultation process to ensure legitimate concerns from all stakeholders are addressed."

Texas Central has said it plans to only use eminent domain as a last resort to require the land needed for the project, but that possibility has drawn opposition from rural landowners whose property could be needed for the project. While the plan has its detractors, Texas Central has said the high-speed rail will bring major benefits to areas along the route, including Grimes County. The private company says it believes the project will create jobs and spur economic activity in those areas, in addition to the $2.5 billion in taxes it expects to pay over the next 25 years to taxing entities along the route.

A 60-day public comment period for the draft environmental impact statement is open until Feb. 20. Comments can be submitted via email to DallasHoustonHSR@urs.com or through the FRA's website.
Big Auto and Big Oil killed the electric car once. They wont be permitted to do so again.

In the mid-1990s, General Motors manufactured a limited production run of the electric EV1.

GMs EV1 was a corporate ruse designed to prove to consumers that there was no great demand for the electric car. Between GM and Chrysler, Ford, Nissan, Honda, and Toyota, 5,000 electric vehicles were produced in the 1990s.

Then Big Auto declared the venture to be a failure and the electric vehicles either were destroyed or donated to museums.

Big Auto and their friends in the oil industry played the consumers for suckers in the 1990s.

But the increasing threat of climate change brought on by greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel engines has focused the attention of consumers and governments beyond the self-serving gimmicks of the auto and oil industries. Electric vehicles are here to stay and stay they will.

European and Asian companies have announced they will ban cars that are powered by gasoline and diesel within the next few decades.

Fossil fuel-powered vehicles will be banned by Britain and France by 2040. China leapfrogged the Europeans by 10 years in announcing that fossil fuel vehicles will be off Chinas roads by 2030.

Japan is taking measures to transform its fossil fuel-based automobile industry workforce to one that will be working in an industry that produces batteries and electric motors instead of internal combustion engines.

And New Zealand is planning on 64,000 electric vehicles in the country by 2021. To that end, New Zealand is requiring that one-third of all government vehicles be electric by 2021.

India, where people literally are choking to death on heavy smog, largely produced by fossil fuel vehicles in heavily-populated urban areas such as Mumbai, also is planning to mandate electric vehicles on its roads and highways.

Deadlines for mandatory electric vehicles is not a left vs. right issue. Britains Environment Secretary Michael Gove, a member of the Conservative Party, stated in July that Britain could not carry on with diesel and petrol cars. Gove emphasized that there is no alternative to embracing new technology.

The United States soon will find that there is no market abroad for dirty fossil fuel vehicles or their parts.

Donald Trump, who threw one of his tiresome and childish temper tantrums in pulling the United States out of the Paris climate accord, continues to yammer on about America producing fossil fuel vehicles powered by U.S. gasoline regardless of the environmental damage to Alaska, the northern Prairies, the Gulf of Mexico, and offshore Atlantic and Pacific marine areas.

America, under Trump, is ridiculously and dangerously out-of-step with the rest of the world on striving toward zero-emission vehicles.

The drill, drill, drill nonsense of Trump and his Environmental Protection Agency and Interior Department, with a weakened U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration powerless to deter them, should be nullified by every U.S. state and territory.

To their credit, California; New York; Washington state; Washington, D.C.; Oregon; and other states have maintained Americas commitment to a green economy and zero-emission vehicles.

Eight states have set mandates for electric vehicles. They have done so amid active opposition from the Trump White House and an EPA that seeks to pollute  not protect  the environment.

America once led the world in developing new technologies. Trump and his Big Auto and Big Oil cronies are presiding over an American economy that soon will be bypassed by Europe, Japan and China in marketing zero-emission electric vehicles.

Barack Obamas dream of a United States with all-electric cars is one of the best things his presidency left behind.

A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Wayne Madsen is a progressive commentator whose articles have appeared in leading newspapers through the U.S. and Europe. Write him at 414 Choo Choo Lane, Valrico, Florida 33594. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency
With the window of opportunity dwindling down to receive tax-deductible donations in 2017, Goodwill is urging people to make gifts to their centers, such as the Rocky Mount location.

With stores throughout the New River, Roanoke and Shenandoah Valleys and nine attended donation centers in and around Franklin County, there is still time to donate items, cars and money before the ball drops Sunday night.

When you donate to Goodwill you help people who need a hand up, not a hand out to better their lives, Bruce Phipps, president and CEO of Goodwill, said in a release.

When donating by Dec. 31 at any store or attended donation center, donors will receive a donation receipt that can be used when filing their 2017 tax returns.

Stores are open until 6 p.m. on Sunday and monetary donations can be donated through Goodwills website through 11:59 p.m., according to Kelly Sandridge, vice president, marketing and public relations for Goodwill. Monetary donations can also be mailed in as long as they are postmarked by Dec. 31.

When people donate to Goodwill they are truly helping people right here in the community, Sandridge said. Our donors are incredibly generous in that they support our mission to get people back to work.

The release stated that this year, 89 percent of revenues supported Goodwill training and employment programs, and assisted 44,000 individuals and helped 3,700 people find jobs in their communities.

The Goodwill Industry of the Valleys, which oversees 31 counties and 13 cities in Virginia, kept 14 million pounds out of landfills, according to Sandridge.

When the public chooses to entrust their donations to Goodwill, people in our community benefit from their generosity, Sandridge said. There is a tremendous amount of pride, dignity, self-respect that comes from being able to earn a paycheck and provide for your family. When someone donates to Goodwill, they will help to fund job training and employment programs that help people in our community obtain the skills needed to find work or get a better job.
Speaking to India Today, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur said his government is "all charged up" to deliver good governance.

By Anand Patel: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur says there won't be any place for tired and retired people in his regime.

"We are all charged up to deliver good governance," Thakur told India Today, while in Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he attended our swearing-in ceremony despite Himachal being a small state. I have had the privilege to meet him twice over the last few days. He has asked me to work hard and fulfil the aspirations of the people of the state," said Mr Thakur.

Shri Jairam Thakur, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh called on PM @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/JOfo3loyB4- PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 29, 2017

advertisement

CHALLENGES

Thakur said previous regimes had left behind a debt of Rs 46,500 crores and dealing with it would be a top priority.

"Ours is a hilly state and we have several challenges, it would be great if somehow we manage to get a special package from the Center. Since it's our own party government, and PM is fully aware of our situation, we are quite hopeful," Thakur explained.

WATCH | The full interview with CM Jairam Thakur

The chief minister alleged that the previous Congress government had failed to utilise the central government's schemes for Himachal Pradesh's benefit.

"We will make sure that our people get full benefit," he promised.

'MAFIA RAJ'

Jairam Thakur promised to take action against forest and mining mafia, and pledged to end what he called a "mafia raj."

He expressed his concern about the menace of drugs, and promised strong action.

As well, he promised to improve the condition of roads in Himachal Pradesh.

WATCH | Himachal Pradesh has a new govt. Jairam Thakur takes oath as CM

--- ENDS ---
The Rocky Mount Fire Department responded to a kitchen fire at an apartment home at 430 Diamond Ave. on Wednesday.

Jeff Rakes, Rocky Mount fire chief, said it was a grease fire that started in one of the apartments.

The flames started on top of the stove and extended up the wall behind the stove, he said. The flames were in the kitchen only.

The call came in at 11:45 a.m., and Rakes said it took 30 minutes to contain the flames.

All of the residents got out safely and no one was injured, Rakes said. No pets were injured either.

He added that there was light smoke and water damage. All of the residents were allowed back in their apartments besides the tenant who lived in the apartment where the fire started.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

NORWALK  Local developer Spinnaker Real Estate Partners is eyeing the East Norwalk Train Station as the next frontier for transit-oriented development.

Under the entity 230 East Avenue, LLC, the South Norwalk-based company has submitted to the Norwalk Department of Planning and Zoning a proposal for 195 apartments centered around reuse of the old Factory Outlet building adjacent to the train station.

Its clear to us that theres a desirability to live in transit-oriented communities near train stations, said Spinnaker Chairman Clayton Fowler. We think we can apply a bit our neighborhood development skills and make it a positive asset to the community.

Transit-oriented development places housing, retail, office space and attractions within walking distance of public transportation facilities. Nearly 600 commuters use the East Norwalk Train Station daily, according to the development proposal submitted by Spinnaker.

The proposal will go before the Norwalk Zoning Commission for initial review next Thursday evening. Fowler said Spinnaker has already shared the plan with several neighborhood groups.

New buildings, re-use of existing

Under the development plan, Spinnaker would purchase the 3.6-acre parcel at 230 East Ave. and 3 Rowan St., revamp the former Hat Company/Factory Outlet Building and construct two new buildings.

A five-story, 149-unit building would rise to the west of the old Factory Outlet. A small, two-story building dedicated to commuter-oriented retail would be built at 230 East Ave. The Pooch Hotel building, although part of the parcel, would remain, as would the outlet building.

Fowler said Spinnaker would renovate the three-story former outlet building to allow more light inside. The new five-story building would be about the same height given the high ceilings of the outlet building.

The key was that the new building would be the same scale as the neighborhood, Fowler said.

The buildings would feature studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, some priced in accordance with Norwalks Workforce Housing Regulation, as well as rooftop amenities, according to Spinnaker.

Parking critical at train station

The development site would be improved with 356 parking spaces. Of those, 97 spaces would be within the former outlet building and the remaining 259 at-grade outside. That would be in addition to the roughly 113 parking spaces owned by the Connecticut Department of Transportation adjacent to the train stations eastbound platform, according to Spinnaker.

Fowler said the plan would result a net gain of about 50 parking spaces and not conflict with commuter parking at the train station. Many residents will be gone during the day, freeing spaces for commuters, he said.

A parking shortage exists at the East Norwalk Train Station with the 50-space lot on the New York-bound side as well as the 101-space lot near the former factory outlet building filled with vehicles belonging to monthly permit holders.

The property is currently owned by DLC Management Corp. of Tarrytown, N.Y. Spinnakers purchase and redevelopment of the property is contingent upon approval of the plan by the Zoning Commission.

The land is now zoned for Industrial No. 1 use, which precludes multi-family housing.

They need a regulation change, said Michael Wrinn, Norwalks assistant director of planning and zoning. Theyre looking to create a TOD zone at this railroad station on this parcel, because as it stands right now it doesnt allow much residential at all.

Ideal location for TOD

The East Norwalk Train Station has been a topic of discussion among local, state and federal officials for some time. The station is slated to get a longer platform on its New York-bound side as part of the broader Walk Bridge replacement project.

In November 2016, U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy toured the train station with local officials as part of his effort to draw attention to the nations aging infrastructure.

During Murphys visit, Mayor Harry Rilling described the former factory outlet building as an ideal location for a transit-oriented development.

Officials learned last Wednesday that Norwalk would receive a $125,000 state grant to develop a transit-oriented development plan for the area around the East Norwalk Train Station. Fowler expressed confidence Friday that the resulting plan will mesh with Spinnakers vision for the property.

We feel quite strongly that whatever the TOD (plan) comes up with, theyll come up with the concept that were putting forward, Fowler said.

In 2016, the Common Council and Norwalk Redevelopment Agency approved a TOD plan for the area surrounding the South Norwalk Train Station. The recommended zoning changes remain under review by the citys Planning and Zoning commissions.
Entrepreneur Network

Award-winning Chef Bill Kim was born in Seoul, Korea and immigrated to the United States at age 7. His first formal kitchen duty -- roasting sesame seeds and grinding them using a mortar and pestle for his mothers kimchi recipe -- sparked his interest in pursuing a culinary career.

Since then, Kim has gone to Paris, New York and Philadelphia to work beside some of the best chefs in the world, before settling in Chicago.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Vice President Mike Pence arrived in Aspen, Colorado, this week for a holiday vacation - but not without encountering a silent protest from his neighbors in the liberal ski resort town.

"Make America Gay Again," reads a rainbow banner posted on the stone pillars at the end of the driveway of the home where Pence and his wife, Karen, are staying.

A dispatcher with the Pitkin County Sheriff's Office referred The Washington Post to the White House press office Saturday, but sheriff's deputy Michael Buglione told the Aspen Times that Pence's next-door neighbors posted the banners shortly after the vice president and his family arrived on Tuesday. In an email to the Aspen Times, Shannon Slade said she is a girlfriend of one of the daughters of the couple living in the house and that they posted the banner.

LGBT advocates have previously showed their opposition to Pence.

In December, residents in the affluent Washington neighborhood of Chevy Chase hoisted rainbow flags outside their homes following news that Pence, then newly elected, would live there temporarily before moving to the vice president's residence at the Naval Observatory.

Protesters showed up the following month, dancing their way through the neighborhood and to the house Pence had rented ahead of the inauguration.

Pence, who has often described himself as "a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, in that order," has a long history of opposing same-sex marriage and other policies that provide equal protections to members of the LGBT community.

As Indiana governor, a position he held before he was tapped as President Donald Trump's running mate, Pence signed into law a controversial legislation that advocates said would allow businesses to discriminate against members of the LGBT community. The national uproar over the divisive bill, called the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA, prompted Indiana legislators to modify it by adding anti-discrimination protections. But those only applied in cities, some of which are the most liberal in the state, where such protections already exist locally.

A paragraph on Pence's campaign website when he ran for Congress in 2000 fueled speculations that he is an advocate of conversion therapy, a practice of trying to change someone's sexual orientation that is banned in several states and discredited by medical organizations.

Pence said on his website that federal dollars should not go to organizations "that celebrate and encourage types of behaviors that facilitate the spreading of the HIV virus" and funds should, instead, be given to "institutions which provide assistance to those seeking to change their sexual behavior."

Pence's spokesman, Mark Lotter, told The New York Times last year that the vice president does not support conversion therapy, and that his campaign statement was misinterpreted.

In Congress, where he was a member from 2001 to 2013 before becoming Indiana governor, Pence described traditional marriage as the institution "that forms the backbone of our society." Citing a Harvard University sociologist during a speech on the House floor, he said, "societal collapse was always brought about following an advent of the deterioration of marriage and family."

In 2007, Pence spoke against a bill that would protect gays and lesbians from discrimination in the workplace.

"If an employee keeps a Bible in his or her cubicle, if an employee displays a Bible verse on their desk, that employee could be claimed by a homosexual colleague to be creating a hostile work environment," he said on the House floor.

Pence opposed 2009 legislation that would expand federal hate-crime statutes to include protections based on gender, disability and sexual orientation. Pence said on the House floor that he feared the bill "could have a chilling effect on the religious expression and religious freedom of millions of Americans."

The New Yorker reported in October that Trump mocked Pence's religious and socially conservative beliefs and joked that the vice president wants to "hang" gays. Pence's press secretary, Alyssa Farah, said in a statement to The Post that the lengthy piece with the headline, "The Danger of President Pence," is "unsubstantiated" and filled with "untrue and offensive" claims.

In Aspen, the banner didn't seem to cause tension.

Buglione, the sheriff's deputy, told the Aspen Times that the Secret Service agents were not bothered by the banner and were cordial with the residents who posted it.

Aspen is the county seat of Pitkin, where Hillary Clinton defeated Trump by a significant margin: 69.7 percent to 24.3 percent. Clinton won Colorado with a nearly 3 percent lead. The state went to Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012.

- - -

The Washington Post's Derek Hawkins contributed to this story.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

NORWALK  Third time is the charm.

With the opening of yet another brewery at 136 Washington St. in SoNo, the new brew crew is hoping theyll be the ones with the winning formula.

It certainly wont hurt that theyre research chemists with a combined 40 years of home-brewing experience.

We figured, between the three of us, we could figure it out, said John Commander, co-brewer-in-chief at the newly-minted Iron Brewing Company.

Iron Brewing replaces the short-lived Hell or High Water, which opened in April, and the even-shorter-lived Guvnors Brewery, which occupied the space near the corner of Water Street more than two years ago. SoNo Brewhouse on Marshall Street also closed more than two years ago.

Though Iron Brewing is owned and financed by Manhatten-based Iron Bar, its Commander and co-brewers Shane Nunes and Adam Letize who are tasked with running the show in Norwalk. None of them have any connection with, nor were they part of, the former staff of Hell or High Water.

Nunes, who also functions as the general manager for the restaurant-side of the business, and Letize still work full-time as research chemists, but their passion project is quickly turning into a full-time gig of its own.

Connected through a shared love of beer and chemistry, the three never planned to scale-up their basement operations. But through a connection to Iron Bar and with the closing of Hell or High Water, the opportunity to do so was too good to pass up.

And if the first three months of brewing, and the first three weeks of business are any indication, its likely Iron Brewing will last longer than its predecessors.

We used to trade beers from home-brewing, Nunes said. We got connected to Iron Bar and it kind of fell in our laps. Were used to formulating, so we thought we could scale it up.

We had a few recipes we knew were good from making them at home, Commander added. It was just a matter of scaling it up and learning the equipment.

And scale-up they did. Iron Brewing has eight beers on tap, with more on the way. The trio has plans to self-distribute later this year, and the beer will likely be available at Iron Bar in Times Square in the near future. Theyre also considering contract brewing in order to produce bigger batches  what you can see through the glass windows inside the restaurant is the only place the beer is currently manufactured, and its certainly not a large-scale operation.

The key to success, Nunes said, will be the focus on crafting really great beer, something he said the brewerys predecessors let fall by the wayside.

The concept so far is working very well, Nunes said. We came in to really focus on beer. Yes we have food, and its great food, but thats not our main focus. First and foremost, we want to make really great beer, and I think were doing that so far.

There were 49 craft breweries in Connecticut in 2016, with dozens more opening in 2017, according to the Independent Craft Brewers Association, up from just 16 in 2011. The industry is estimated to have contributed $718 million to the state economy, with nearly 130,000 barrels brewed in 2016.

Iron Brewing is open Wednesday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Craig Gralley spent more than 30 years at the CIA, where he worked as a chief speechwriter for three agency directors: William Webster, Robert Gates, and R. James Woolsey Jr. When Gralley, now 62, retired from Langley in 2013, he began writing in the voice of someone quite different: legendary World War II spy Virginia Hall, a woman known as "The Limping Lady."

For the past four years, Gralley, who still works as a part-time CIA contractor, has been researching Hall's life for a book. Not a work of nonfiction, though. Two Hall biographies already exist, and another volume - along with a movie starring Daisy Ridley of "Star Wars" - is apparently on the way.

Instead Gralley has written a novel, tentatively titled "Hall of Mirrors," that he hopes to sell to a publisher. It's narrated in the first-person, in the voice of Hall, who worked for the British in France during World War II and later became a CIA officer. The Maryland-born operative helped organize the French resistance against the Nazis and once fled the Gestapo by hiking through the Pyrenees on a wooden prosthetic leg she nicknamed Cuthbert.

At a time when few women worked as spies, Hall went on to work for the Office of the Strategic Services, the CIA's precursor, and then the CIA itself before retiring at the age of 60 in 1966. She became such a celebrated figure at Langley that the agency named a training facility after her earlier this year called "The Virginia Hall Expeditionary Center."

Although Gralley's book is a piece of fiction, it is based on a surfeit of facts. He hiked Hall's route through the Pyrenees and unearthed hundreds of documents related to her career from the National Archives in Britain, many of which have not circulated beyond the collection, he said.

He shared two typed letters to Nicolas Boddington, a senior official at the Special Operations Executive, the British wartime spy service. (Multiple spellings of Boddington's first and last name appear online.) These are not mere greetings, however. Gralley said Hall, a former code clerk for the U.S. Department of War, encrypted them.

She had to work as covertly as possible. By August 1941, she had established a headquarters in southern France and was passing along intelligence about the Vichy government and the underground resistance movement to her British spymasters. Armed with forged documents, she disguised herself as a New York Post reporter, according to an article Gralley wrote earlier this year for "Studies in Intelligence," a CIA publication. All the while, she was cultivating a network of spies in France, supporting British agents with weapons and supplies, and offering safe houses to British operatives. Hall became so well-known that even the Gestapo's chief, Klaus Barbie, known as the "Butcher of Lyon," began hunting for her.

"My dear Nic," she wrote on May 1, 1942 from her perch in Vichy France. "All things in series of three, as usual, a cold in the head, an ache in the thorax and mingled snow, rain and slush out of doorsThe dark days are fairly abysmal and a short English word describes one's mood.I have hoped for many days to go yodelling in the delightful, peaceful neighboring country, but alas for some bloody idiocy the usual keenness for new hotel guests is momentarily dampened by horrid suspicions which like an old fashioned detective story has tendencies toward complications lurid and even spectacular. Nerts, and nerts again! I get so 'fed up.' Queer, ain't it?"

By early November, after their defeat in North Africa, the German forces swept into France's free zones. Hall was convinced they would close down the borders. She knew she had to escape quickly, even if she was hobbled by Cuthbert, her seven-pound wooden leg, which she had relied on after a hunting accident. She teamed up with resistance members and left France on Nov. 11 to cross into the Pyrenees, seeking refuge in Spain. When she reached Spain a few days later, she got arrested for illegally crossing the border.

While she was incarcerated, Hall somehow managed to smuggle out another letter to Boddington - a letter Gralley said he believes she must have written in France before her trek through the Pyrenees. The letter is dated Nov. 25, 1942. Hall was still in a Spanish prison. She wasn't freed until early December.

So how did Hall get the letter out from her cell?

"She might have been able to bribe someone," Gralley said. "Also, her cellmate was a Spanish prostitute who got out before Hall's release. She could have taken the letter to the U.S. or British consulate."

Regardless, the note is mystifying, comically so. Several letters are circled and underlined. Those are the markings of British spy officials, Gralley said, searching for clues in the patterns of her words and letters.

"My dear Nic," she wrote on Nov. 25, 1942. "You were probably as stunned as we by the news of Weygand's departure. An event quickly arranged and greatly surprising the poor populace which thought that the tenacity of the umpire, I mean the chef d'Etat was no Kedegerris. Unfortunately the old fellow is not uninfluenced by all his horrid queezy ministers, although knowing that this beastly business of kowtowing means the quagmire for the country. Alas! there is however a new rumour, one which I can not check but on which I do not look haughtily. Strange things - you know - often do happen."

Hall was eventually released from prison. In the spring of 1944, she signed up with the OSS and worked her way back to France, now entirely occupied by the Nazis. While she was away, the OSS sent letters back to her mother, Barbara Hall, who was living outside Baltimore. Here, again, is where Gralley's digging paid off. He came across a series of letters the OSS sent Hall's mother, reassuring her of Hall's safety, but omitting any frightening details.

"My dear Mrs. Hall," a military official wrote on June 2, 1944. "From a security point of view there is little I am permitted to tell you about your daughter's work. For this I am sorry; it may however be of some consolation to you to know that my own husband knows absolutely nothing of my work; and such is the case of the family of every soldier in our forces. But this I can tell you: that your daughter is with the 1st Experimental Detachment of the U.S. Army; that she is doing an important and time-consuming job which has necessitated a transfer from London, and which will reduce her correspondence to a minimum."

A few months later, Hall's mother received another letter.

"You must not worry, Mrs. Hall," the official wrote on August. 23, 1944. "Virginia is doing a spectacular, man-sized job, and her progress is rapid and sure. You have every reason to be proud of her."

Gralley, who lives in Great Falls, Virginia, said he approached writing from the perspective of a woman with great care. He selected a female professor for his final workshop at Johns Hopkins, where he got a master's degree in creative writing, and asked her and fellow female students to critique portions of his manuscript.

"They wouldn't let me get away with anything that was less than authentic," Gralley said.

He also modeled Hall based on his own observations of agency women who served in hazardous postings overseas.

"To be successful officers they have to be tough and confident," he said. "That's Virginia Hall."

- - -

Part of a continuing series about facets of the past that remain relevant.
There are two main types of illness: acute and chronic. An acute illness doesnt last very long. It goes away either on its own or in response to treatment, such as taking medicine or having surgery. A chronic illness or condition is ongoing. It affects your health over a long period of time, possibly your entire life. Thats the kind of situation EC reader Ginas family was dealing with. Then lo and behold ...

Dear Mary: My husband and both of my children have chronic skin problems. One doctor diagnosed them with eczema, but curiously nothing, including prescription medications, has brought lasting relief. We have spent a small fortune going from one dermatologist to another and buying all of lotions, potions and other medications prescribed. Not once did any of these professionals suggest they might be allergic to laundry softeners. When I read your column Laundry Softeners are the Problem, Not the Solution, a lightbulb went on.

Im a serial softener user. For years, Ive used liquid softener and dryer sheets. How could I have not thought about this? It made a lot of sense that they could be allergic to this stuff. I wasted no time getting the wool dryer balls you recommend on your website. I gave up softener products cold turkey and began using the dryer balls instead. I was like a crazy woman washing and rewashing clothes and bedding. I got 3 gallons of white vinegar to make sure I had enough to add to every rinse cycle.

Within two weeks we began to see a change. The horrible skin issues began to calm down. After the third week the change was amazing. As I write, I would say my kids and husband are finally free of this awful situation. As embarrassed as I am that I never considered this might be the problem, I am more grateful and happier than you can imagine. Thank you so much for all you do to improve our lives. That column changed our lives, and we are forever grateful.

 Gina

Dear Gina: What a wonderful story. I am so thankful we connected and that youve hit on the solution to the problem! I love my wool dryer balls because they really work to soften without any chemicals, scents, perfumes or other stuff we used to think we couldnt live without.

And just think how much money you wont be spending on softener products! And all those lotions, potions and other medications, too.

Mary Hunt, founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, writes this column for Creators Syndicate. Send tips or address questions to: Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740, or email her at mary@everydaycheapskate.com.
Professor Kapil Kumar, who was invited by the CBFC to watch Padmavati, has found glaring factual inaccuracies in the film and mentioned the same to the panel.

By Pooja Shali: Professor Kapil Kumar, who was invited by the CBFC to watch Padmavati, has found glaring factual inaccuracies in the film and mentioned the same to the panel.

He has expressed apprehension over the release of film without appropriate changes adding it may lead to social, political disturbance in society.

Professor Kumar said the film is purely 'masala'. It is an entertaining film but cannot be released as historical account.

advertisement

Professor Kumar teaches social sciences at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). He was one of the three members who were invited by the CBFC to watch the screening. The panel consisted of Arvind Singh representing the erstwhile royal family of Mewar and Dr Chandramani Singh from Rajasthan University.

Speaking in an elaborate conversation with India Today, Professor Kumar maintained that he is unaware of the clearance and believes the filmmaker may have been offered to make a few changes. However, he adds there are serious factual inaccuracies in the film.

"There is no such thing as historian fiction. There are fallacies in the script. No evidence presented to instances like the Mewar king brought to Delhi as prisoner and Padmavati arrives in Delhi with 900 dolis," he said.

"Significantly, the escape of Rana and Padmavati through the tunnel is shown merely as benevolence of Khilji's Queen, which was incorrect. The poet Amir Khusro never mentioned Padmavati or Jauhar but finds mention in dialogues spoken by the character of Khilji," he added.

About the costumes, the historian adds the attire worn by men of Mewar is a Pagdi not Safa as shown in the film, and other members pointed to the same.

Also, the much-hyped Ghoomar dance was mentioned as an inaccuracy and is not as mentioned in traditional royal households.

"We were not invited to give clearance. That is the job of the CBFC. We primarily gave our comments and suggestions and pointed to inaccuracies. Today, the film and television mediums influence the next generation in learning about history," added Prof Kumar.

Regarding the debate of whether or not is Padmavati a fictional character, Professor Kumar said, "Indian history is being constantly distorted and it is disastrous. It is unfair to call Padmavati merely a mythological figure. Indian history should not only be seen through Persian accounts. Oral history is an extended branch of history acknowledged worldwide. History of India depends heavily on oral traditions and folklore so all sources deserved to be examined. I have studied several sources and I can say that Padmavati is a historical figure and Jauhar crate happened."

Professor Kapil Kumar's observation

Professor Kapil Kumar's observation

Professor Kumar categorically said he understands the emotions of outfits like Karni Sena but does not support their threats of violence and condemned their intimidation.

advertisement

However, he added a filmmaker also cannot be permitted to take extensive creative liberty at the cost of social consequences and hurt sentiments of communities.

He also questioned why Khilji's harem is not shown in the film where he forcibly kept women; even Queens who were sent as gifts.

He added the country has many communities and we must ensure the bridges are used to mend differences and not cause a divide. He made accusations against the filmmaker of using historical account for money making projects.

Professor Kumar has asked the CBFC to take precautions and consider all social and political consequences before the film is released.

He applauded the work done by the three lead actors and they should be blamed for the script, for which responsibility lies with the director and script writer. He said he found the film as entertaining but mentioned objections over historical references.

ALSO WATCH | Karni Sena thugs holding Padmavati hostage

--- ENDS ---
Bitter cold temperatures have gripped Grand Island and Central Nebraska. Plunging temperatures have people looking for ways to keep warm. Sometimes, people use an alternative heat source. It can be a space heater or a fireplace. But they can also be a cause of a home fire.

On Wednesday, the Grand Island Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 2323 Bellwood Drive. The home was a total loss and a family was displaced. The source of the fire was a wood-burning stove.

The American Red Cross in Grand Island responded to the morning fire to help the family of four people.

According to the American Red Cross, seven times a day someone in this country dies in a fire. Red Cross volunteers have responded to more than 80 home fires this year in the Central and Western Nebraska Chapter area.

The Red Cross has launched a nationwide campaign to reduce the number of home fire deaths and injuries by 25 percent over the next five years.

Smoke alarms are helpful. Preparation and caution are also important. About half of American families use alternative heating sources. They can be space heaters, fireplaces, or wood/coal stoves to stay warm this time of year.

The American Red Cross said fixed and portable space heaters, including wood stoves, are a leading cause of home fires. They are involved in 74 percent of fire-related deaths.

Eighty percent of Americans dont realize that home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation, said Rachelle Lipker, executive director for the Central and Western Nebraska Chapter of the American Red Cross. People can reduce their familys risk of being harmed in a home fire by using alternative heating sources safely, and by installing smoke alarms on every level of their home.

The Red Cross is working to reduce the number of fires by calling attention to winter heating safety. That includes proper installation and testing of smoke alarms. Families and individuals are also encouraged to develop and practice a home fire escape plan.

The Red Cross is calling on everyone to take steps that can save lives, especially during the winter months when home fires are more common:

 Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves or fireplaces.

 Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.

 If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away from space heaters.

 When buying a space heater, look for models that shut off automatically if the heater falls over as another safety measure.

 Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

 Keep the fire in your fireplace by using a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.

 Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, chimneys and furnaces professionally inspected and cleaned once a year.

 Install smoke alarms. At a minimum, put one on every level of the home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

 Make sure that everyone in the family knows how to get out of every room and how to get out of the home in less than two minutes.

 Install a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home.

 Practice the fire escape plan, and keep track of the time it takes. It should be not more than two minutes.

Carbon monoxide is also a killer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are more than 400 deaths and approximately 15,000 emergency room visits each year as a result of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

The highest percentage of carbon monoxide exposures occur during the months of November, December, January and February.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ranked Nebraska as one of the states with the highest mortality rate from carbon monoxide. Calls to the Poison Center about carbon monoxide have already exceeded last years exposures.

Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas produced when fuels burn incompletely. It has no color, taste or smell. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include sleepiness, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, vomiting, shortness of breath and convulsions. The first step in treating carbon monoxide poisoning is getting the victim to fresh air. Then seek medical attention immediately.

The Poison Center offers the following suggestions to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

 Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home.

 Inspect all fuel-burning equipment yearly.

 Vent fuel-burning heaters to the outside.

 Do not use a gas range or an oven for heating a room.

 Never use a charcoal or gas grill inside.

 Never leave a car running in an attached garage, even with the garage door open.

 Generators should be run at a safe distance from the home  never next to a window, door or vent.

 Have vehicle muffler and tailpipes checked regularly.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble those associated with other health conditions that are common among the elderly, especially in the winter. The carbon monoxide death rate is highest among people greater than 65 years of age.

Effective Jan. 1, 2017, a Nebraska state law requires carbon monoxide alarms in all residences that are sold, rented or remodeled.

If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning or have any questions, contact the Nebraska Regional Poison Center toll-free at 1-800-222-1222. Nurse specialists are available 24/7.

Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief can be made by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
As we look back, 2017 seemed to produce more news than most years  internationally, nationally and locally.

Here, in the first of a two-part series, is a look back at the top stories in the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area.

 Two seemingly unrelated incidents on the morning of March 16 quickly meshed together in a story that stunned the community.

Glen Carbon firefighters were called out that morning to battle a house fire on Dogwood Lane from which six children escaped.

Just minutes later, Highland first responders rescued a baby from a submerged SUV in Silver Lake.

One family. One story.

The related incidents resulted in national and international headlines.

An investigation concluded that Cristy Campbell shot and killed her ex-husband Justin in the familys home, then told six of their seven children to go outside.

Cristy then drove toward Highland, plunging her SUV into Silver Lake.

Highland paramedic Todd Zobrist was among the first on the scene and swam approximately 50 feet into the chilly water to rescue the Campbells 3-month-old baby.

Cristy Campbell was pulled from the SUV and pronounced dead in Highland that morning.

Her cause of death was reported by the Madison County Coroners Office as probable drowning complicated with hypothermia.

Numerous fundraisers were conducted to benefit the surviving children.

 In early September, the village of Glen Carbon was rocked by news that prosecutors had charged 46-year-old Steven McGauley with allegedly beating his wife and then fatally shooting a man who had been staying at the house and had been trying to intervene on her behalf.

The shooting happened on the evening of Sept. 3 in the 100 block of Hillcrest Drive, just outside the village limits.

The victim, 43-year-old Steven W. Flack, was from Belleville but authorities said he had been living in Edwardsville prior to the shooting.

Police reported that a argument between McGauley and his wife had allegedly escalated to a physical fight, after which McGauley retrieved a gun and shot Flack in the chest and abdomen.

The shooting happened on a backyard patio during a party at the home. A sworn statement accompanying a search warrant that allowed police to search the home included comments from a witness. The witness told police that after the shooting, McGauley had unloaded his revolver, placed the spent casings in his hand, and said Im going to jail for a long time.

During their search, police also reportedly found a revolver, a pistol, and five spent shell casings on the patio.

McGauley has been charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of domestic battery.

 A lengthy investigation into a string of burglaries and assorted crimes by former Edwardsville police officer Brian Barker came to a conclusion with Barkers sentencing in June.

The 18-year veteran officer had pleaded guilty in January to six felony counts, including official misconduct, possession of stolen firearms, and a string of burglaries to homes and businesses across the city. Some of those crimes happened more than 15 years earlier, investigators said at the time.

By the time detectives with the Madison County Sheriffs Department had finished, Barker was charged with 22 felonies. The charges were not limited to residential and business burglaries but included a burglary to the Edwardsville Township Office and burglary and arson charges related to a building on Route 157 that included the office of State Rep. Dwight Kay.

At a hearing in January, Barker pleaded guilty to six of those felonies.

He was sentenced in June to 40 years in prison.

 A new public safety building opened in early December on the site of the former Madison County Sheltered Care Home.

The $12.4 million structure replaces the aging fire and police stations a few blocks away on North Main Street in Edwardsville.

The two-story building includes about 51,000 square feet of space.

The new building complements a new fire station that was built in 2016 near the Early Childhood Center on the SIUE campus. The $8.3 million satellite station is intended to provide protection for the campus and for the warehouse district at the western end of Edwardsville.

 The consolidated election in April saw the re-election of Edwardsville Township Supervisor Frank Miles and the ushering in of three new township trustees. Six months later Miles left to take a new job in Florida and Fred Schulte, who had been Township Clerk since 2001, was appointed to replace him. The three new trustees  Matthew Chapman, Charles Skip Schmidt, and Kevin Hall  joined incumbent Kenny Krumeich after three other incumbents  Blake Fuhler, Randy Williamson and Gary Head  chose not to run for re-election.

In Edwardsville Ward 4, SJ Morrison defeated incumbent Jeannette Mallon. In the mayors race in Glen Carbon, Rob Jackstadt held on to defeat challenger Steve Slemer.

Voters in Edwardsville District 7 approved Proposition E, a tax rate increase to the education fund.

 And on a Monday afternoon in late August more than 50 people viewed the solar eclipse from the plaza area connecting the Madison County Administration Building and the Madison County Courthouse. Many others donned solar eclipse glasses and watched the event at dozens of sites across the city.

The Edwardsville area was found to have had 99.5 percent totality at 1:18 p.m. The partial eclipse last about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The solar eclipse began just before noon and ended at 2:44 p.m. on Aug. 21.

It was the first total eclipse of the sun visible in the U.S. in nearly 40 years.

Part II of this article will appear Jan. 2.
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Depok  Sat, December 30, 2017 13:12 1784 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2f7e2a7 1 City #drugs-trafficking,#drugs,#Depok,#Bekasi,#factory Free

Police in Bekasi, West Java, have raided a drug factory in the residential compound of Griya Sukmajaya in Depok, which allegedly produced around 10,000 ecstasy tablets with a turnover of Rp 2 billion (US$148,000) per day.

The police, however, are still looking for the house owner identified only as AU, alias Uut, and his wife, said Bekasi Police drug unit head Adj. Sr. Comr. Ahmad Fanani on Friday night.

Ahmad further said the police had discovered the existence of the factory when three ecstasy distributors were arrested in East Bekasi and police then tracked down the people allegedly involved in the network to Cipanas, West Java.

The police then found one drug dealer, identified only as MA, in Cimanggis, Depok who was questioned about a crystal methamphetamine factory in the area on Dec. 20. MA was reportedly shot dead for allegedly attempting to escape.

We needed to go under cover for more than a month to locate the factory, Ahmad said as quoted by tempo.co

According to Ahmad, the ecstasy network was run from three correctional institutions in Cipinang in East Jakarta, Gunung Sindur in Bogor, West Java, and Slawi in Tegal, Central Java.

The police also investigated a Cipinang inmate, Poni Tjandra, regarding control of the drug factory in Depok.

In the Sukmajaya factory, the police seized six packages containing 60,000 ecstasy tablets, which were to be delivered to Jakarta, Bandung, West Java, Medan in North Sumatra and Surabaya, East Java. (wnd)
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin Anton Hermansyah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, December 30 2017

As more companies shift their funding from bank loans to non-bank financing sources, Bank Indonesia (BI) is seeking to include the latter in its credit calculations.

Local companies are increasingly using various instruments, such as corporate bonds, medium-term notes (MTN) and other types of securities, to raise fresh funds, especially to support their business expansion.

In its planned arrangement, the purchase of a corporate debt instrument would be considered a loan, while the issuance of a debt instrument would be categorized as a deposit, BI deputy governor Erwin Riyanto said on Thursday.

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
The Indonesian Central Securities Depository (KSEI) expects to lure 4.5 million new investors to the capital market next year on the back of a long-awaited housing savings program called Tapera.

The program is part of President Joko Jokowi Widodo administrations efforts to help people, particularly from low-income households, buy houses.

to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content

e-Post daily digital newspaper

No advertisements, no interruptions

Privileged access to our events and programs

Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login
Share this article Whatsapp

Facebook

Twitter

Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, December 30, 2017 09:02 1784 1f87594453bb792833e1ece3a2f7b000 1 Destinations New-Year,destination,travel Free

The New Year is usually welcomed with fireworks and festive music. The former is particularly interesting because, as it has become a symbol of the occasion, many seek the best places in town to marvel at fireworks displays.

Below are four recommended spots in Jakarta to enjoy New Year's Eve fireworks, as compiled by kompas.com.

Taman Impian Jaya Ancol

North Jakarta's Ancol is one of the capital city's most popular spots for marveling at a fireworks display. Its various tourist attractions usually host festive events to add more spark to the moment.

Those interested in ending the year in Ancol can purchase an entrance ticket for Rp 25,000 (US$1.75).

Read also: Five Jakarta hotels to celebrate Christmas, New Years Eve

Monas

The National Monument (Monas) also serves as an attractive spot to enjoy fireworks following the New Year countdown. In addition to a pyrotechnic display, visitors can expect to be entertained by music performances.

Those unable to reach the area on time can also opt to watch the display along Jl. Jend. Sudirman and Jl. MH Thamrin.

Hotel Indonesia traffic circle

The Hotel Indonesia traffic circle is also one of the citys free-to-enjoy fireworks party spots.

With its iconic statue, visitors will get to take memorable photos as they spend the night with friends and family.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

The Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) cultural park in East Jakarta is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike during the holiday season.

Various music and art performances will be staged to entertain visitors. (kes)
The petitioners have alleged that several restaurants, bars and cafes in HKV are being run illegally in connivance with the authorities, putting public safety in peril and adversely impacting the environment.

HHauz Khas Village - one of the most-crowded recreational hubs of the Capital. File photo

By Mail Today Bureau: The Friday fire at Kamala Mills in Mumbai has left Delhiites concerned as they fear that several public places in the city could meet the same fate.

One such case is pending before the Delhi High Court, which is hearing the alleged violations by several eateries functioning in Hauz Khas Village - one of the most-crowded recreational hubs of the Capital.

advertisement

The petitioners have alleged that several restaurants, bars and cafes in HKV are being run illegally in connivance with the authorities, putting public safety in peril and adversely impacting the environment.

It is also contended that some of these restaurants - Social, Yeti and Smoke House Deli - are being run in gross violation of the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, as unauthorised constructions and commercial activities are being carried out on the very wall of the monument or within the statutorily prescribed prohibited area.

It is also alleged that public nuisance is created on account of the overcrowding and congestion by people and traffic snarls in the area.

Arush Khanna, counsel for the HKV employees, told Mail Today that the matter is posted for final arguments and the petitioner in the case has commenced the arguments.

The next hearing is in January. The bench of acting chief justice Gita Mittal and justice C Hari Shankar had described Hauz Khas Village as a "ticking time bomb", based on reports highlighting the lack of civic and emergency services at establishments in the area.

The court had noted, among other things, the flouting of municipal laws, the lack of hygiene, the impact on safety and the environment, and the arbitrary granting of licences for bars and restaurants in the popular area.

These observations were based on reports filed by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, the Delhi Fire Services, the Delhi Jal Board and other civic bodies.

Post the hearing, around 21 restaurants were sealed in south Delhi's Hauz Khas Village for not having proper environmental clearances to operate, which have been challenged in the high court by the individual eateries.

National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI) has moved an application and 4,000 employees working in Hauz Khas Village impleaded in the matter.

--- ENDS ---
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
Yesterday, Palestinian ambassador in Islamabad Walid Abu Ali attended a large rally organised by an alliance of Islamist groups in Rawalpindi, according to reports.

By PTI, India Today Web Desk: India will strongly take up with Palestine the issue of its ambassador in Pakistan attending a rally organised by Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

"We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said yesterday. He was reacting to a query on reports and photographs of the Palestinian ambassador participating in the rally.

advertisement

A report by the Hindustan Times quoted "officials" as saying India would issue a "strongly worded demarche" to Palestine.

According to reports, Palestinian ambassador in Islamabad Walid Abu Ali attended a large rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan (Defence of Pakistan) Council in Rawalpindi, Pakistan yesterday morning.

The DPC is an alliance of Islamist groups in Pakistan, including Hafiz Saeed's outfit.

One of the images posted on social media showed Walid Abu Ali sitting next to Hafiz Saeed.

The Hindustan Times report said "several speakers at the gathering, including Saeed, also referred to the Kashmir issue and made anti-India remarks."

Saeed asked Muslim nations "to act in the defence of Jerusalem," the report said. The rally came weeks after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital - a decision that sparked a furore across the Muslim world.

WATCH | Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed to contest 2018 Pakistan general election

--- ENDS ---
The 108 Squadron, also known as the "Hawkeyes", took part in the Goa liberation war, the 1965 and 1971 India-Pakistan war.

Once based in Pathankot, the squadron was moved to defend the skies over Rajasthan. (Photo courtesy: Sudhi Ranjan Sen)

By Sudhi Ranjan Sen: As 2017 comes to end, the Indian Air Force will bid goodbye to two of its best-known squadron fighters.

This will bring down its strength of squadron fighters to 31.

This afternoon, the Type-96-Mig-21, once the backbone and workhorse of the Air Force, swiftly took off from Nal Airbase in Bikaner, Rajasthan in what would be its last sortie.

advertisement

The glorious 108 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, comprising the Type 96 -MiG-21 will be "number-plated" or decommissioned.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, a MiG-21 pilot, flew the last sortie of the 108 squadron.

The 108 Squadron, also known as the "Hawkeyes", took part in the Goa liberation war, the 1965 and 1971 India -Pakistan war.

Once based in Pathankot, the squadron was moved to defend the skies over Rajasthan.

On Thursday, the last of the original Mig-27 fighter-bombers of the decorated 22 Squadron, roared for the last time over the forward airbase in Hasimara.

The 22 Squadron of the IAF also called the "Swifts" are also know the Boyra Squadron after the famous air battle with the Pak Sabre jets in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

On 22 November 1971, for the third time that day, Indian radars picked up three intruding Pakistani fighters.

Although, the war will be declared on 3 December, Pakistani jets regularly intruded Indian air space to take on the Mukti Bahini - the guerrilla fighters - and Indian troops assisting them.

The 22 Squadron was then moved to Calcutta to protect the Indian skies.

Comprising Gnat fighters, four jets of the 22 Squadron took-off from Dum-Dum airport to take on three intruding Pakistan Sabre jets.

Minutes after being airborne they came across three Pakistani Sabre jets.

By then the Gnats had divided themselves into two groups of two each to take on the advanced Sabre jets.

As the Gnats divided down to attack, the Sabre jets tried to pull out.

A call went out from the Indian fighters - "murder murder murder."

Two Sabre jets were hit and the pilots ejected. Subsequently, the Gnats also hit and damaged the third Sabre.

The images of Sabre jets being shot down became one of the most enduring images of the 1971 war.

The four Indian pilots were subsequently awarded the Vir Chakra.

--- ENDS ---
Title: India Now and in Transition; Editor: Atul Thakur; Publisher: Niyogi Books: Pages: 448; Price: Rs 599

Stretching from icy mountains to the boundless oceans and from arid deserts to tropical forests with more varied topography in between, Indias geographical diversity is well complemented by its political, religious and cultural plurality, and a variety of issues, problems and contradictions, both generic and specific, that have affected, and will continue to affect, the countrys course.

A free nation for seven decades now, India still faces contests over its idea of itself with the concept so far being challenged by a new dominant political force. A country which has managed to reach the Red Planet is still riven on the ground by social disparities and abuse. A nation which prides itself on a universal and well-integrated diaspora still has sections who distrust foreigners.

While Indians are making their name globally, there are still those  including ministers  who would seek to confine them to primal, parochial identities that arise from circumstances of birth rather than conscious choice.

Any one who seeks to make sense of the country or frame projections where it is heading, or can head, have their work cut out for themselves  but that doesnt stop many from the ambitious but necessary venture. Like public policy professional and writer Atul Thakur, who engages an eclectic ensemble of experts, established and emerging, to examine the future in all aspects.

Here politicians, bureaucrats and academicians are also joined by authors and journalists. For, as academician and author Sunil Khilnani observes in the foreword, Where journalism and the social sciences are developed, professional fields designed above all to improve our judgment and choices, it behoves practitioners in those fields to offer us some illumination along the way.

While some of the over three dozen essays included here have come out elsewhere earlier, they remain relevant and Thakur supplements them with many especially commissioned for this volume, the sequel to his India Since 1947: Looking Back at a Modern Nation (2013).

But the present work is not intended to be a prognosis (which is often confused with prediction) but rather an inquiry into futures based on current happenings, by maintaining a causal linearity to arrive at the likeliest scenario.

The essays, divided into five areas  politics and governance, economics and development, security and foreign policy, society and culture, and language and literature  not only go into the issues and problems of the topics they discuss but also take the perceptions about them, which, as brought out, can be as tough to tackle.

In the first section, Ramchandra Guha sets the pace with an illuminating exposition on selecting the greatest Indians and Shashi Tharoor weighs in on Dr Ambedkars contribution. But compelling reading here is Singapore-based academician Robin Jeffreys penetrating pitch about the chequered course of land reforms in India and its impact on the realty sector.

Two bureaucratic contributions also stand out. T.S.R. Subramanian, a well-regarded Chief Secretary in Uttar Pradesh before he rose to become Cabinet Secretary, gives a well-reasoned overview of corruption, and Wajahat Habibullah, who served extensively in Jammu and Kashmir, writes about the troubled states future with insight and passion but is not too optimistic on the future.

One of the outstanding contributions is in the social and culture component, where journalist Daipayan Halder brings out the subaltern voice, of the Dalits specifically, in a riveting piece that will challenge our perceptions of our progress on the equality issue despite the Constitutions high ideals and the pious protestations of politicians of all shades. Abhay Mohan Jhas view of mofussil life and Abdullah Khan on identities in an ideal Idea of India also make for thoughtful reading.

Other sections also have absorbing entries  writer Manu Joseph on the issue of genetically-modified crops, Samir Saran and Mahima Kauls piece on Indias cybersecurity prospects, and Namrata Rathore Mahanta and Banibrata Mahantas views on the current and future of the Indian novel.

In all, it is a valuable compendium of well-reasoned, persuasive (but never dogmatic) and jargon-free views on a host of major issues  and this is important. For these are not just the province of the government to be confronted but also need discussion at the citizens level. This is our responsibility and books like these set the ball rolling.
Despite early allocation of budgetary grants, most departments of Jammu and Kashmir government have utilized only about 50 per cent of the allocation even as only three months were left for the current financial year to end.

The fact came to light in a high level meeting held by the states Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu.

As per the guidelines, the budgetary grants are supposed to be equally staggered by each department for utilisation in four quarters of the financial year and the under-utilisation has generally led to unfruitful and wasteful expenditure during the last quarter between January to March.

Such lapses have been highlighted in the successive reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) but the state officialdom refuses to learn any lesson.

Under-utilisation of grants is contrary to the policy of the government that had opted for holding early budget session of the legislature to enable timely allocation of budgetary grants to the departments as working season in the winter zone of the state is very less due to snow.

The states budget session is beginning on 2 January with a view to pass the budget well in time and provide grants to each department on 1 April when the new financial year begins.

Addressing the administrative secretaries, Drabu emphasized on strict implementation of budget directives to ensure expenditure up to 70 per cent till third quarter and rest 30 per cent in the last quarter of the fiscal year. He asked the administrative secretaries to accelerate utilisation of resources allocated in the budget.

It was agreed in the meeting that under Revised Estimates, allocation of cities and towns shall be enhanced by Rs. 200 crore to be met from the savings of Rs. 160 crore and another Rs. 40 crore by exceeding the resources.

Drabu stressed the need for keeping liabilities under check and to ensure that the projects were taken up in consonance with the resource allocations to avoid unwarranted fiscal liabilities. He asked the officers to adhere to the guidelines of the Finance Department and ensure that unnecessary liabilities are not created. He also asked for identification of core issues that lead to creation of liabilities.

Expenditure management and monitoring system needs to be put in place while making expenditure, Dr Drabu said adding that expenditure should be backed up with financial allocations to avoid unwarranted fiscal liabilities.

Detailed discussions were held in the meeting regarding expenditure and liability position of various key departments including Housing & Urban Development, Higher Education, Power Development, Roads & Buildings and School Education.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary BB Vyas, Principal Secretary Finance Naveen K Choudhary, Principal Secretary Higher Education Asgar Samoon, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Rohit Kansal, Administrative Secretaries and senior officers of Finance and concerned departments.
Chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday asked Pakistan to adopt a humane approach with the former naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav and ensure a fair trial. In a tweet in Hindi and Urdu, Mufti expressed sadness over the treatment meted out to Jadhavs mother and wife during their visit to Pakistan. Humanity should be treated above politics, she said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh and PWD Minister Naeem Akhtar, who is also the chief spokesman of the J&K Government, also expressed displeasure over the ill-treatment of Jadhavs wife and mother in Pakistan. It is inhumanity of Pakistan that played this game to mislead the people and got exposed before the world, Singh said.

This is the reality of Pakistan, that does not believe in humanity, he told reporters. Humanitarian outreach should not be made a victim of politics, Akhtar said.
An eventful year come to a close in Uttarakhand. The year 2017 saw the Bharatiya Janata Party scoring a historic win the state assembly polls and senior Congress leader Harish Rawat suffering the biggest defeat of his political career. Kidney racked scam rocked the hill state and after assuming power the Trivendra Rawat government got the transfer bill passed in the state assembly.

Riding on an anti incumbency wave, the BJP managed to register the biggest ever win by any political party in the history of Uttarakhand. BJP won 56 seats to reduce Congress to 11 seats in the 70-member state assembly. Ignoring claim of many senior leaders, BJP decided to make fifty-six year old Trivendra Rawat the Uttarakhand CM.

Congress fought the polls on the face of Chief Minister Harish Rawat with poll slogan, Har Da purey panch saal (Brother Harish for five years). The experiment flopped and Rawat had to face defeat from two seats-Haridwar rural and Kiccha seats- in the Uttarakhand assembly polls.

Despite claiming big on doing concrete things to curb corruption, the Trivendra Rawat has so far failed to get the Lokayukta Bill implemented. As an election promise the BJP had promised appointing Lokayukta in six months after voted to power. The bill was tabled in the state assembly in March and after receiving objections was sent to the Select Committee of the House. Now the Trivendra Rawat government is showing little zeal to get the bill enforced. The Trivendra Rawat government is facing uneasy situation on the CBI inquiry recommended it had made on the Rs 300 Crore National Highway-74 scam. The CBI is yet to start probe to cause discomfort to BJP in Uttarakhand.

Alike its earlier counterpart Congress, the BJP too showed little interest in making Gairsain the permanent or summer capital of Uttarakhand. The capital issue remained hot in media but little was done on ground to solve the issue. In December 2017 the winter session of the state assembly was hosted at Gairsain, but the week long session concluded in mere two days. Which also exposed the sentiments of both BJP and Congress towards Gairsain. In a move to ensure transparency in transfer of state government employees, the Trivendra Rawat government managed to get the transfer bill passed in the state assembly.

The year 2017 witnessed big VVIP movement in the hill state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kedarnath on its opening and one day ahead of the closing. President of India Ram Nath Kovind too offered prayer at Kedarnath. The Kedarnath tourism industry saw a record 4.69 Lakh tourist visited the pilgrimage centre. Kidney scam created shockwaves in Uttarakhand. A nursing home located in outskirts of Dehradun was involved in the scam in which poor and innocent were lured for illegal kidney transplantation. Another controversy was related to the husband of Uttarakhand Minister Rekha Arya. The minister is struggling after his husbands servant approached Nainital Police complaining about cheating by his owner- who took him to Colombo and removed his kidney.
Top actor Rajinikanth on Friday said director Shankars 2.0 release has been shifted to April as some more computer graphic work has to done in the movie.

The 67-year-old actor, who met his fans for the fifth consecutive day here, expressed doubts whether a film of such magnitude would be made again.

It is because of the content. The way how we speak about the movie Chandralekha, it will be like that, the actor said.

The 3D sci-fi film has Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar in the lead roles.

Since there are some more CG (computer graphics) work that needs to be done, it is getting delayed. We have shifted the release to April, Rajinikanth said.

The movie, which was initially scheduled to release this year on Diwali was later postponed to January 25.

The S S Vasan-directed Chandralekha was released in 1944 and turned out to be a blockbuster.

Recalling his earlier days in the film world, Rajinikanth said, when I first met (late director) K Balachander, he just told me to learn Tamil and booked me for three upcoming movies.

If I became a star after learning from Balachander sir, (Director) SP Muthuraman sir, (directors) Mani Rathnam and Suresh Krissna made me a superstar, he said.

Praising Shankar, Rajinikanth said he made him a pan-India actor through Endhiran.

Referring to his upcoming movie Kaala directed by Pa Ranjith, the actor said it was shaping up well. It is expected to be released in two months, he added.

Appealing to his fans to focus on achieving their dreams, he said one should try to achieve them in normal way.

But, if you are unable to make your dream come true, you should not feel bad about it.

Later talking to reporters about his plans to enter politics, he said, just wait for one more day.

Amid speculation over his entry in politics, Rajinikanth had said on Tuesday that he would announce his stand on December 31.
The CBI on Friday said it has busted a human trafficking racket and booked three persons on charges of sending 23 teenaged students to France in 2016 for a rugby training camp.

The CBI on Friday also conducted searches at four places in Delhi which resulted recovery of incriminating documents and other articles from the premises of accused persons  Lalit David Dean, Sanjeev Raj and Varun Choudhary.

An FIR was registered on Thursday against Dean, Raj and Choudhary, said a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) official, adding the accused had collected Rs 25 lakh to Rs 30 lakh from the parents and sent the students, aged between 13-18 years, to France on the pretext of rugby training.

After the students reached France in February 2016, they were dumped in a gurudwara.

The accused persons, belonging to Delhi and Faridabad (Haryana), have been booked under chages of criminal conspiracy, cheating, trafficking of persons and forgery of Indian Penal Code.

It was alleged that on February 1, 2016, a group of 25 students of two Kapurthala (Punjab) based schools led by the accused persons embarked at Delhi airport to participate in International rugby training camp in Paris on the basis of alleged invitation received from French Federation, Paris.

All of them visited Paris and thereafter, the 25 students also attended a rugby training camp at Paris for about a week.

It was also alleged that the visa in respect of said students were obtained from French Embassy at Delhi on the basis of forged and fabricated documents. All the 25 were left in Paris and their return tickets were got cancelled by accused but two boys somehow managed to come back before their tickets had been cancelled.

One boy was even caught by French police after which Interpol was informed and then the CBI started investigation, the CBI official added.

CBI sources say that most of the trafficked students are from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Saturday undertook a massive demolition drive inside Kamala Mills complex where 14 people died on Friday after a blaze engulfed a rooftop restaurant.

According to officials, the two-day demolition drive will crack the whip on all unauthorised constructions and illegal extensions that have been erected by the restaurants inside the complex.

On Friday, the BMC had suspended five officials while the chief of the corporation, Ajoy Mehta had set up 25 teams to inspect hotels, bars, restaurants and malls in Kamala Mills. He will submit a report within 15 days.

During his visit to the site, Mehta found that several restaurants, bars and pubs had their emergency exits blocked or didnt have any due to unauthorised constructions.

On Friday, hours after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered an in-depth enquiry into the accident, the BMC had razed illegal roof of two restaurants in Kamala Mills while encroachments of two similar establishments in Raghuvanshi Mills were also cleared.

Fourteen persons, including a young woman celebrating her birthday, were asphyxiated, and at least 55 others injured in the deadly blaze that broke out in the Kamala Mills compound, in Mumbais Lower Parel area, early on Friday. It quickly spread to another pub and a restaurant in the vicinity virtually trapping over 200 people on the premises.

More than 12 fire tenders were rushed to fight the blaze which was brought under control around 6.30 am. Most of the deaths were due to asphyxiation.

Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir has assured that those responsible for the fire will have to face action even though the owners of the restaurants where the fire began remain absconding.
By PTI: By Lalit K Jha

Washington, Dec 30 (PTI) The Iranian government should respect the rights of its citizens to protest peacefully, the White House said today amidst reports of multiple protests erupting in various parts of the country.

Peaceful protests were reported from various parts of the country, in what appeared to be a sign of unrest against the economic policies of the Iranian President Hassam Rouhani.

advertisement

"The world is watching," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

"There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regimes corruption and its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad," she said.

"The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights, including their right to express themselves," Sanders said.

In a separate statement, the US "strongly condemned" reports of arrests of peaceful protestors.

Hundreds took to the streets of Mashhad and other cities on Thursday. An Iranian official said that 52 protestors were arrested in Mashhad.

"The United States strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption," said State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert.

On June 14 this year, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson testified to Congress that he supports "those elements inside of Iran that would lead to a peaceful transition of government. Those elements are there, certainly as we know."

The Secretary today repeats his deep support for the Iranian people, his spokesperson said.

"We are following reports of multiple peaceful protests by Iranian citizens in cities across the country. Irans leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos," Nauert said.

"As President Trump has said, the longest-suffering victims of Irans leaders are Irans own people," she added.

Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher urged US President Donald Trump to back Iranian protestors.

"I call on President Trump to make clear, this new year, that a new government is his fondest wish for the Iranian people. He must offer all manner of support, moral and material, to those Iranians who aspire to a life free of religious and political tyranny," he said.

"Eight years ago, in what we called the Green Movement, or the Persian Awakening, thousands of Iranian protesters took to the streets to call for an end to radical Islamic tyranny," Rohrabacher said.

advertisement

They were brutally suppressed, the streets running with their blood, he added.

Rohrabacher noted that the imprisoning and killing of prostestors in Iran was the "first foreign crisis" faced by the then Obama administration. He rued that the Obama administration "watched passively" the deaths. PTI LKJ CK

--- ENDS ---
Firebrand Patidar leader Hardik Patel on Saturday invited Gujarat deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, allegedly miffed with the BJP, to join the Congress along with 10 MLAs to topple the government in the state.

Talking to the media in Gujarats Sarangpur, Hardik said: If he (Nitin Patel) along with 10 MLAs is ready to leave BJP, then (I) will talk to Congress to get him a good position.

If BJP does not respect him, he should leave the party, he added.

Hardiks statement comes in the wake of reports that Nitin Patel was agitated with the top leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as he was given light-weight portfolios in the new BJP government in Gujarat.

He remained absent from his office on Friday even as all the newly-anointed Cabinet colleagues took charge of their respective ministries allotted to them by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.

Although, BJP returned to power in the state for a sixth time, the number of seats reduced to 99, just seven more than the magical figure of 92, needed to form the government.

Congress which managed to win 80 seats, needs 12 more to stake claim to form government.

Hardik-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) had joined hands with the Congress ahead of Gujarat Assembly polls after the party accepted the demand for quotas in jobs and education for Patels.

However, Hardik had sternly said that his goal was to defeat the BJP and not let it return to power in the state.

The controversy comes even before the first session of the newly-elected 14th Vidhan Sabha begins early next year and is sure to rattle top leadership including BJP chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi who are busy strategising for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.
Cashing in on its growing economic muscle power, India pursued an aggressive foreign policy in 2017 which boosted the global image of the Narendra Modi government even as relations with key adversaries like China and Pakistan plummeted to a new low during the year.

Also, the growing influence of China in Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives remained a cause of concern for New Delhi.

The election of Justice Dalveer Bhandari to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with an overwhelming majority at the United Nations was the crowning feature of Indias diplomatic successes.

The fact that Britain, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, was forced to withdraw its candidate from the race highlighted the importance the world community attaches to Indias role in the international arena.

India also became a member of the Wassenaar Arrangement, a key non-proliferation regime, but China continued to block New Delhis admission to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

India also became a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a Eurasian political, economic and security grouping hitherto dominated by China and Russia.

Contrary to apprehensions in Indian circles, US President Donald Trump emerged as one big supporter of India on the global stage as he renamed Asia-Pacific as Indo-Pacific region, much to the discomfiture of China, and asked New Delhi to shoulder greater responsibility in Afghanistan, making Pakistan jittery.

The personal chemistry that Prime Minister Modi established with President Trump during his visit to Washington in June may well redefine Indo-US relations in the coming years.

Despite the perception that India and Russia were not on the same page on many global issues, particularly Afghanistan, the two countries continued to break new grounds in bilateral ties, particularly in the field of defence and counter-terrorism. For the first time, India was the Guest of Honour at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum in June.

When it comes to relations with Beijing, the 70-day stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops at Doklam brought the two Asian giants close to another conflict. Thankfully, better sense prevailed on Beijing and the two countries successfully resolved the stand-off through secret diplomatic negotiations.

Many argue that it was only due to the assertive stance of the Modi government over the construction activity being undertaken by Chinese troops at Doklam in violation of the status quo that Beijing realised New Delhis determination not to buckle under pressure. New Delhis response to Chinese misadventures in border areas had been hazy in the past.

But the Doklam incident gave a body blow to the process of normalisation of Sino-Indian relations at a time when New Delhi was already upset with Beijing for blocking Indias entry into the NSG and its attempt to get JeM chief Masood Azhar listed as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council.

India also took a big foreign policy leap in May when it vehemently opposed Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the ground that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the flagship project of BRI, passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Pakistan continued with its policy of aiding and abetting terrorism in India and its Army indulged in regular violation of the ceasefire on the border.

The two countries continued to exchange barbs over the death sentence awarded to former Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav by a Pakistani military court on concocted charges.

India achieved a major success in the Jadhav case when it took the matter to the ICJ over the denial of consular access to the Indian prisoner in violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

The ICJ has stayed Jadhavs execution till it takes a final view in the case. The humiliating meeting arranged by the Pakistani establishment between Jadhav and kin in Islamabad on 25 December has further vitiated the atmosphere between the two countries.

Any possibility of the resumption of dialogue between the two neighbours looks a distant dream, given the fact that Pakistan will witness elections in 2018 and India in 2019.

With China displaying an aggressive attitude on regional issues, India joined Japan, Australia and the US to set up a quadrilateral dialogue, which held its first meeting in November on the margins of the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines. Of course, Beijing has not taken kindly to the formation of the grouping.

Prime Minister Modi undertook a landmark visit to Israel in July while skipping Palestine from his itinerary thus de-hyphenating Indias relationship with the two main adversaries in the Middle East.

However, India stood its ground and voted against the US move to shift its capital to Jerusalem at the UN, thus making it clear to the world community that it has not deviated from its principled position on the Palestinian cause.

Modi also visited the Philippines for the ASEAN Summit to give an impetus to Indias Act East policy.

He also personally extended invitations to the Heads of ASEAN nations to be chief guests at Indias Republic Day. So India is all set to begin 2018 on a high note with as many as ten world leaders witnessing the parade at the Rajpath on 26 January.
Cracking the whip, the Mumbai police on Saturday lodged three new FIRs against various pub owners and issued a lookout notice for the absconders in wake of the blaze in Kamala Mills Compound which left 14 dead and 55 injured, an official said.

Police have also set up five teams to trace the owners of 1Above pub, Hitesh Sanghvi, his brother Jigar Sanghvi and partner Abhijit Manka, and Yug Pathak, a co-owner of of The Mojos Bistro, who is the son of a retired IPS officer.

Simultaneously, police have issued look-out notice to prevent them from leaving the country, while police teams have gone to Pune and other cities to hunt for them, the official said.

Additionally, following a complaint by the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) under the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act (MRTP), police have lodged a FIR against the owner of Kamala Mills, Ramesh Govani and others who are still not traceable.

In an action-packed day, teams of the BMC demolition squads swooped down on scores of hotels, restaurants, pubs, eateries and other places where people are likely to converge for New Year Eve parties with hammers and crowbars to raze illegal structures.

In what is billed as the single biggest demolitions in a day, several illegal constructions were razed at major locations within the Kamala Mills Compound and the adjacent Raghuvanshi Mills and Phoenix Mills complexes, and other places in the city and suburbs.

According to a BMC official, who declined to be named, Saturdays mega-demolition drive covered around 200 locations across Mumbai, but largely concentrated in Lower Parel-Mahalaxmi areas.

The demolition squads targeted illegal extensions to premises, decorative arches and metal grilles inside or outside, double-triple or revolving doors, raised entrances/exits, ornamental fixtures and fittings, massive flower pots or plants, unauthorized temporary roofs, walls, partitions, any external/internal obstacles to free movements, etc, which could prove to be a safety hazard in case of any emergency like Fridays fire.

The erstwhile 50-plus textile mills which used to churn out lakhs of metres of cotton fabrics daily, went silent after the Great Bombay Textile strike of 1982. Spread across prime real estate of more than 500 acres in south-central Mumbai, they have now been transformed into glittering corporate, media, communications, glamour and eating hubs, besides some of the tallest and most expensive residential and commercial towers in the vicinity.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta has already set up 25 teams which will inspect implementation of safety norms at all hotels, restaurants, bars, pubs, malls in the sprawling Kamala Mills Compound and other surrounding areas in Lower Parel.

In fact, the preliminary inspection by the BMC on Friday detected an unauthorized partition wall and two rooms, besides an illegal plastic roof supported with bamboos which was reduced to ashes in the early Friday morning blaze.

Amidst a public uproar with the fire incident figuring in Parliament on Friday, the BMC suspended five officials including a fire brigade officer, hours after the conflagration.

Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam on Saturday however termed the ongoing demolitions as a mere eyewash in view of the public anger and demanded the suspension of the BMC commissioner for the lapses over which he is presiding.

Leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Assembly Radhakrisha Vikhe-Patil, who demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, called for removal of Mehta and holding him responsible for Fridays tragedy.

Incidentally, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena activist Mangesh Kashalkar, a social activist Ilyas Ejaz Khan and RTI activist Anil Galgali said they have lodged several complaints against the illegalities perpetrated in the commercial establishments in Lower Parel-Mahalaxmi area, but the BMC officials ignored them.

Mumbai police went into high security mode on Saturday with stringent bandobast, catching all those violating traffic rules, carrying random checking of vehicles, setting up roadblocks, detecting inebriated drivers and other offences in preparation for the New Years Eve celebrations on Sunday.
Over 22,700 cases of transaction frauds related to Credit Card, ATM or Debit Cards and Internet Banking have been reported in 2017-18 till December 21, Parliament was informed on Friday.

Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the Rajya Sabha, in a written reply, that the online transaction frauds till December 21, 2017 involved a combined amount of worth over Rs 155 crore.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the various ministries or departments of the government review the cyber security developments and threats on an ongoing basis and take measures as necessary in order to strengthen cyber resilience, he said.
Following strong objection by India over its envoy to Pakistan sharing stage with JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, Palestine on Saturday expressed deep regrets and recalled its ambassador while assuring to not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

Palestine has decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, for sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said.

The development comes after Palestine regretted the envoys presence with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind.

The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassadors presence at this event, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

They (Palestine) have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in war against terrorism and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, it added.

Meanwhile, in a stern message to Palestine India termed the Palestinian Ambassadors behaviour as unacceptable.

Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistans association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable, the ministry said.

Palestine Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali on Friday shared the alleged mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks at a gathering organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organisation of hardline right-wing groups.

According to a report in Pakistans The Nation daily, the Rawalpindi central leadership of Difa-e-Pakistan-Council has announced to launch a countrywide movement for the liberation of Kashmir and Palestine.

This comes after India voted with the rest of the world earlier in December in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trumps decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
The Vice President of India M Venkaiah Naidu has said that the Parliament should not become a platform for scoring political brownie points.

Naidu was addressing a seminar on Revitalizing Parliamentary Democracy in India on the occasion of the 187th anniversary celebrations of Kolkata Chamber of Commerce, in Kolkata on Saturday.

Immensely pleased to participate in the 187th anniversary celebrations of Kolkata Chamber of Commerce and address the gathering during a seminar on Seminar on Revitalizing Parliamentary Democracy in India, in Kolkata today. pic.twitter.com/qT6aNEsMS6  VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) December 30, 2017

Naidu called for serious introspection on the part of political parties to see that Parliament does not become a platform for scoring political brownie points.

There is no other alternative but to ensure that Parliament functions in an effective and responsive manner to further peace, progress and prosperity in the country, Naidu added.

Naidu expressed concern over the functioning of Parliament in the backdrop of the severe criticism from various quarters, including the parliamentary fraternity itself.

This criticism may be due to a decline, in recent years, in both the quantity and quality of parliamentary work, Naidu added.

Naidu said that over the years, Parliaments legislative business and the number of hours it devotes to debate crucial issues of national importance have come down. Even, the relatively fewer days when the Parliament meets are often marked by pandemonium, resulting in frequent adjournments on trivial topics, he added.

Naidu said that disruptions during parliament session are a matter of great concern as they have become the order of the day with the political parties failing to rein in their members.

He further said that at present healthy debate and discussions, the hallmark of Parliamentary democracy are overshadowed by disruption, confrontation, and forced adjournments of the house.

There is a need for political parties to arrive at a consensus on this important issue so that the precious time of the Parliament and legislatures is not wasted on issues which can be best resolved through debates and dialogues, he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the all-India conference of DGPs and IGPs to be held at Border Security Force Academy, Tekanpur, in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior district between 6-8 January.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh reached Gwalior on Saturday on a brief visit where he conducted a review meeting at Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia air terminal with officers of Central Armed Police Forces on preparations for the PMs visit. He then flew to Orchha Ram temple in Tikamgarh district on a BSF chopper.

Apart from the PM and Rajnath Singh, ministers of state for home and senior functionaries from security agencies will be present during the conference. An estimated gathering of 250 senior IPS officers from across the country will hear the Prime Minister speak on Internal Security and the Negative Impact of Social Media Among Young Children. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will also address the gathering on cross-border terrorism.
Highlighting that mental health cases were on the rise among the countrys youth, the elderly and those in urban areas, President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said there was an urgent need to fight the stigma related to mental illness.

Addresses the 22nd convocation of National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru, Kovind said 10 per cent of Indians have one or more mental health problem, a number larger than the entire Japanese population.

Mental health is particularly a problem among the young, in the prime of their life; among the elderly; and among those in urban areas. In India, all three segments are growing, Kovind said.

The biggest obstacle that patients of mental and neurological problems face is stigma and denial. This leads to the issue being ignored or simply not discussed. In some cases it leads to self-diagnosis that could worsen the situation, he added.

Our society has to fight this culture of stigma. We need to talk about mental health issues and treat ailments such as depression and stress as diseases that can be cured  not as guilty secrets to be pushed under the carpet, he said further.

Kovind further said that the major gap of mental health professionals must be addressed as well.

Another major gap we have to address is that of mental health professionals. I am told there are just about 5,000 psychiatrists and less than 2,000 clinical psychologists in our country. These numbers are very small, he said.

The president advocated the role of counselling services and of practices such as yoga and vipassana meditation to help those with mental health problems.

We need to ensure that by 2022 at least those who are suffering from severe mental disorders have been diagnosed and have access to treatment facilities. Let us take this up as a national mission, he said.
During the times of Jesus, scholars of the Torah would hide parts of it from the masses in order to keep them deliberately ignorant of the teachings contained in it and used its rulings selectively within society, so as to favour the rich and powerful people against those who were less privileged. They perhaps appeared to have the well-being of the people close to their hearts, but still played upon their feelings to their own advantage. Jesus gave severe warnings of hell to them.

The Quraish before the advent of Islam were no different. History tells us that they were divided on the basis of class and wealth. There were the elite, who were political and religious leaders, oppressing the majority  the poor, the downtrodden. Because of the imbalance of power, the latter could easily be swayed into submitting and believing what the former would ask them to. They converted the House of God into a worship place of idols that catered to all tribes of Arabia, and they earned both income and status by being custodians of the Kaaba, using this unique position for their personal and tribal interests.

Islams primary message being one of submission to one God was no different from that of Christianity, Judaism or any faith calling people to worship a single Being and doing good deeds in preparation for life after death.

The Prophet provided an example of how Muslims could live in harmony with people of other faiths, with love, acceptance and justice. Subsequently, Muslims demonstrated how their belief in God could give strength to a rational mind, and great scientists, philosophers and mathematicians were born.

The light of knowledge spread out from the Muslim world. Much of the technology of today has its origins in the inventions and discoveries of Muslims between the 9th and 13th centuries. Muslims were free: they were free to think, free to debate and free to use the rational powers bestowed upon humans by God. One of the main aspects of Islamic thought that is distinct from other faiths was that there was no formal clergy. There were scholars who argued academically and could certainly influence the common people. But their role was to educate people, not to rule them. The responsibility of belief depended on the individual and there was no coercion in religion.

Today, almost complete intellectual decay, ostentatiousness and misuse of religion to incite violence and spread chaos is rampant in many Muslim countries. A common feature is repression on the part of religious men. When people begin to rely upon those they perceive to be scholars to interpret their religious beliefs for them, a master-servant relationship is born where the one in control can cause ones belief and hence ones emotions to swerve in any direction.

This approach, complemented by national and international power plays, has brought Muslims to the state that they currently find themselves in across the world, especially in countries that not only repress their own people but form alliances with states hostile to Islam to gain political power. A Muslim alliance minus a major Muslim country claims to fight terrorism, which in itself was nurtured by many of its members.

Countries that call themselves Islamic, having provided the institution of the state the doubtful and unnecessary legitimacy of being Muslim, are probably the worst examples of religious repression and control. While in some countries clerics have assumed the formal garb of being in power and government, others are increasingly controlled, albeit indirectly, by men of various factions and groups, all claiming to be saviours of Islam. Wielding the instrument of rhetoric and their ability to mobilise half literates, these individuals roam freely and have the power to negotiate agreements with governments on their own terms.

Their sway over some people has reached a point where all they have to say is that the sanctity of their faith is in danger, and thousands come out to cause havoc and bring the lives of millions to a standstill. This is when the religion they profess to believe in says very clearly:  The punishment of those who strive with might and main for mischief through the land  their disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter.

Much of the fasaad around us is a result of political manipulation and desire for power. This arises from the feigned or deliberate distortion of Gods word. Equally, there are many who follow their leaders blindly and believe in the oft irrational, misguided and distorted versions of what love of religion really means. They have not read what the Quran says: Hold to forgiveness; command what is right; But turn away from the ignorant.
As the National Textbook Festival of Bangladesh is set to be celebrated across the country on January 1, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the free textbook distribution programme for the coming academic year (2018) on Saturday (December 30).

Hasina formally opened the free textbook distribution programme by handing over books of primary and secondary levels to students at her official Ganabhaban residence.

The Hasina government started distributing free textbooks among students in 2010.

Under the National Textbook Festival, nearly 35.4 crore textbooks will be distributed among over 4-crore pre-primary, primary, secondary, ibtedayi, dakhil vocational, SSC vocational, small anthropological groups and visually-challenged students across Bangladesh.

As per reports, an additional 71.9 lakh textbooks were printed for the next academic year.
By PTI: Patna, Dec 30 (PTI) The ITC Ltd today expressed willingness to invest Rs 500 crore in food products business in Bihar and sought 60 acres of land to set up units.

ITC CEO Sanjeev Puri called on Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi here and gave him the proposal to invest Rs 500 crore in setting up units of biscuits, noodles, cookies and other food products.

advertisement

Puri asked Modi, who also holds finance portfolio, to provide 60 acres of land for the purpose, a statement issued by the deputy chief ministers office said.

During the meeting, Puri told Modi that the company has already invested Rs 400 crore in dairy, food processing and other sectors in the past four years in the state. PTI AR NN

--- ENDS ---
Organisation: United States US Embassy, US Mission in

Uganda

Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda

Salary Grade: FSN-5 Ug shs 38,561,734 inclusive of

allowances

Vacancy Announcement Number: 36-17

About US Embassy:

The United States Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has enjoyed diplomatic

relations with Uganda for over 30 years. Ambassador Deborah R. Malac

currently heads the U.S Mission to Uganda. The Mission is composed of

several offices and organizations all working under the auspices of the Embassy

and at the direction of the Ambassador.

Among the offices operating under the U.S Mission to Uganda are:

United States Agency

for International Development (USAID)

Centers for Disease

Control (CDC)

Peace Corps

Job Summary: The

Chauffeur/Dispatcher follows a work schedule provided by the DAO. Drives DAO

to/from official functions and to locations outside Kampala. Delivers and picks up documents. Drives

visiting American Officials as instructed and maintains 5 vehicles in clean and

neat conditions at all times. Checks oil, water, gas and tyres daily. The Chauffeur also follows

up with maintenance schedules to ensure that cars are checked on a regular

basis and that tune ups are performed. Ensure assigned vehicle(s) are in proper

working order and all required maintenance is performed. Conduct vehicle

inspections following guidelines from inspection checklist provided by current

DIA forms. Document daily inspections and arrange for corrective action on all

discrepancies found/noted. Schedule vehicle for routine maintenance (oil

changes, tune-ups, etc.) Ensure that vehicles are clean and serviceable at all

times. Document vehicle movements on current DIA forms(s) to track utilization.

Document vehicle expenditure to track cost efficiency of assets. Fill out

accident reports when necessary.









Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

NOTE: All applicants must address each

selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information

supporting each item.

The applicants for the United States US

Embassy Chauffeur/Dispatcher job placement should have completed secondary

school (both O and A level)

At least two years experience as a

dispatcher and chauffeur is required. One-year in assisting and expediting

travelers and aircraft cargo through Entebbe airport is required.

The Must be responsible, self-motivated

and works with little supervision.

Must be able to perform emergency road service and be able to

coordinate for road service assistance.

Occasionally have to load and unload heavy luggage and packages.

Ability to achieve positive connections

inside airport security, Civil Aviation Authority, Entebbe Ground Handling

Services, and VIP section of Entebbe Airport.

Extensive knowledge of automotive

maintenance.

Possess a valid drivers license. (This

will be tested)

Familiarity with local traffic laws and

area traffic patterns.

Language: Level II English

ability (Limited) is required. This will be tested.

How to Apply:

All suitably qualified and interested candidates who wish to join the

United States Embassy in Kampala are encouraged to Apply Online by following

the instructions below;



required to register under the careers page for US Embassy Kampala using

the link, Applicants shall berequired to register under the careers page for US Embassy Kampala usingthe link, Click Here

You will receive

confirmation of registration and proceed to apply.

On completion of this

process you will receive an auto response via your email.

NB: Applicants claiming a U.S. Veterans preference must

submit written documentation confirming eligibility (e.g., Member Copy 4 of

Form DD-214, Letter from the Veterans Administration, or certification

documenting eligibility under the VOW Act with an expected discharge no later

than 120 days after the certification is submitted) by the closing date of the

vacancy announcement. If the written documentation confirming eligibility is

not received in the HR office by the closing date of the vacancy announcement,

the U.S. Veterans preference will not be considered in the application process.

Specific criteria for receiving a U.S. Veterans preference may be found in

HR/OEs Family Member Employment Policy (FMEP).

Deadline: 16th January 2018

The US Mission in Kampala provides equal opportunity and fair and

equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color

religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital

status, or sexual orientation. The Department of State also strives to

achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through

continuing diversity enhancement programs.
But the tribe has a long way to go
As the new Infosys CEO Salil Parekh gets ready to officially take over the reigns of the Indian IT major, he will need to focus on getting big deals for the company from the very beginning. IT services companies in India are facing a similar problem of not getting big deals and that includes Infosys as well. The new CEO who will have a honeymoon period of atleast six months is expected to initially address the sales force of the company and will need to visit the top customers of the company particularly, in the United States, from where the company gets the majority of its revenues

Experts such as Kris Lakshmikanth, CEO and founder of Head Hunters India Limited, feel that besides the focus on getting big deals, Parekh will have to speed up the traction of the company in the digital space from where the key growth is coming. Though Infosys has had much exposure to conventional business such as the financial services the growth is very slow in these businesses.

Infosys has lagged behind MNCs such as Accenture in the digital space and the new CEO will need to look at ways as to how the company can grow in its digital space offerings. His predecessor Sikka was trying to grow the business in the digital space and likewise Parekh should also try to focus deeply as to how Infosys can grow in this space. Perhaps he may go in for sub-contracting of work in the digital space to some smaller firms because if he tries to acquire companies in the space there may be some opposition from Murthy. However, for the first six months there won't be any major challenges for him, Lakshmikanth told THE WEEK.

Experts also felt that the last quarter of the fiscal year (Jan-March) will be a good quarter for the company where the company will try to execute new orders that may have come in its way. Parekh may eventually try to bring in some senior people from his earlier company, Cap Gemini, which may range from half a dozen people to say a dozen people. This may not happen immediately but will happen over a period of time. It is a usual affair whenever a new CEO joins he tries to get people who had earlier worked with him. Even Sikka got people from SAP after he joined Infosys. During the announcement of the last quarterly results, which is expected in January 2018, Parekh may not speak much as he is still new. Much of the talking is expected to be done by Nilekani or Pravin Rao, added Lakshmikanth.
The new admission norms have come in as a bolt from the blue for aspirants.

By Anand Patel: The new admission norms for research programs implemented from the current academic year has widened the rift on Jawaharlal Nehru University campus in the Capital.

The JNUTA (JNU Teacher's Association) has alleged that the administration has enforced UGC norms in an arbitrary manner which has led to a sharp decline in the intake for research programs offered by the prestigious university.

advertisement

In the statistics presented to the 144th Academic Council, only 159 of the 290 seats announced as intake, were offered for admission. JNUTA has blamed new norms like 50% cut-off for the written test, 100% weightage to viva voce, and the denial of relaxations in marks for SC/ST/OBC/PC for this decline.

As per a study produced by the JNUTA, data from the admission exercise for the research programs of the university (M.Phil/PhD (JRF/non-JRF), M.Tech, and PhD) for the academic year 2017-18 shows 131 seats were not even offered, making offers of just 54.8% of the intake.

Of the 159 seats offered, only 31 seats were reserved - making reservation for just 20.75%, the report says. It has further highlighted that there is a sharp decline in the share of economically weaker sections and those from rural areas in the admission.

The reasons for this fall on both parameters is the withdrawal of deprivation points. This same provision has also been crucial in promoting the all-India character of the JNU admissions, which has also taken a severe hit. Deprivation points have a very important role in ensuring that there isn't an overwhelming dominance of Delhi and other metros in admissions.

The new admission norms have come in as a bolt from the blue for aspirants.

Dushyant, a PhD aspirant at JNU said, "The competition has doubled while the number of seats have gone down to half, one fourth or even zero in some centres. The pretext used to cut down seats is that it will get quality students, but JNU has always been producing quality earlier as well. I think in this government social sciences is not getting any emphasis."

Professor Ayesha Kidwai, President, JNUTA, spearheading campaign against the new norms has called it a very ham-handed, unjust implementation of the UGC regulations.

"Our administration has perversely misinterpreted UGC norms. Earlier, we used to have a 70-30 ratio, 70 for the written and 30 for the interview and then the marks for both were added," she said.

advertisement

"As per the new norm, one gets to the interview only after passing the written test, and the pass mark has been set at 50%. This is a ridiculous high cut-off percentage which no entrance examination in India can operate with and with no relaxation for any category," she further said.

Professor Kidwai alleges that the academic council never approved the new policy.

"This is an admission policy which is set to fail. I would say this is being done to destroy a fine research institution. There is some element of punishment, because this is a university which is perceived as left liberal, opposing authoritarian approach by any government,' she added,

The academic council, however, is divided over the new policy. Professor Ashwini Mahapatra, member of the Academic Council has defended the new admission policy.

"The university is bound by the UGC regulation which were framed by the UPA government and not by the present government. These regulations are enforceable and one cannot escape them, they are mandatory for all the universities", he said.

"The previous vice chancellor simply sat over it or avoided it because of the internal pressure of the JNUTA and the student association which often work in tandem," he added.

advertisement

Professor Mahapatra said, "We need to implement reservation at all levels as per the government policy, both at written and interview level. The UGC, I suppose is working on it and hopefully they will agree with our demand."

He said, "Earlier, we used have almost unrestricted admissions at the M Phil and PhD level and this had led to compromise with the quality of the PhDs. As per the new norms, each guide has been allotted certain number of candidates. There is a growing concern that with the PhD at the age of 30 and 30 plus, we are producing an army of educated unemployed youth who are, as it happened in the past, susceptible to all kind of anti-state propaganda. Their frustration is somehow sought to be directed by certain anarchist elements against the state. This needs to be, and we can productively utilise whatever talent they have if we are able to check the quantity and improve quality of the intake."

--- ENDS ---
Over 25,800 fraud cases involving about Rs 179 crore related to credit/debit cards and internet banking were reported in 2017 up to December 21, Parliament was informed on Friday.

As per the data provided by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on frauds related to ATM/Credit/Debit cards and net banking as reported by the banks, 10,220 cases of fraud were reported in the December 2017 quarter (up to December 21), IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

The amount involved was Rs 111.85 crore in the said quarter, he added.

Prasad said 7,372 cases were reported in September quarter, 5,148 cases in June quarter and 3,077 cases in March quarter of 2017, with the amount involved adding to Rs 67.13 crore.

In 2016, 3,156 cases and 4,147 cases were registered in the September and December quarters, respectively.

The amount involvedin these two quarter wasRs 45.50 crore, the minister said.

As per the state-wise details of frauds involving amount of over Rs 1 lakh, Maharashtra topped the list of credit/debit card and Internet banking-related frauds in the fiscal 2016-17 with 380 cases involving Rs 12.10 crore.

Haryana ranked second with 238 cases (Rs 8.27 crore), followed by Karnataka (221 cases worth Rs 9.16 crore), Tamil Nadu (208 cases worth Rs 4.38 crore) and Delhi (156 cases worth Rs 3.43 crore).
At least six state-owned lenders are receiving Rs 7,577 crore in capital infusion from the government of India, as a part of its plan to strengthen the capital of public sector banks, which have been struggling under huge non-performing assets.

"Government of India has on December 29, 2017 infused share application money of Rs 2,729 crore towards preferential issue of equity capital of IDBI Bank during FY2017-18 under the plan as government's investment," IDBI Bank said in a notice to exchanges.

Similarly, the government is injecting Rs 2,257 crore in Bank of India, the country's sixth biggest lender by assets. Central Bank of India has received Rs 323 crore and Dena Bank has received Rs 243 crore from the government towards contribution in the preferential allotment of equity shares.

Dena Bank said the capital infusion was within the approval of the board obtained on May 9, 2017, to raise Common Equity Tier 1 capital, up to Rs 1,800 crore in one or more tranches.

The government has sanctioned infusion of Rs 1,375 crore in another public sector lender UCO Bank while the Bank of Maharashtra is set to get Rs 650 crore.

"The meeting of the board of directors of the bank will be held on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, to consider the proposal of raising equity capital of the bank by way of preferential allotment of shares to government of India," said Bank of Maharashtra.

India's banking system is stressed with NPAs worth around Rs 9 lakh crore, a large part of which is on the books of public sector banks.

A study by credit ratings agency Care Ratings showed that gross NPAs of state-owned banks stood at 13.4 per cent in the July-September quarter.

Among the public sector banks, IDBI Bank had the highest gross NPA ratio at 24.9 per cent, followed by UCO bank (19.7 per cent), Central Bank of India (17.2 per cent) , Punjab National Bank and Andhra Bank at around 13 per cent.

In a bid to shore up the banks' capital base, the government of India has already announced bold plan to inject a massive Rs 2.11 lakh crore into the ailing PSU banks. This will be done via recapitalisation bonds of up to Rs 1.35 lakh crore, which banks will subscribe to and the government will then to that extent infuse equity in the banks.

The government's plan also involves Rs 58,000 crore fund-raising by banks themselves from the market. Several PSU banks have already initiated plans for the same.

Reserve Bank of India Governor Urjit Patel has said that the bank recap plan will not just depend on the banks' capital requirement, but will also be linked to reforms initiated by the lenders.

"Recapitalisation bonds will be front-loaded for banks that have managed their balance sheet strength more prudently and can use the injected capital to lend besides providing for legacy asset losses," Patel said after the bi-monthly monetary policy conference, earlier this month.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to give a U/A certificate "along with some modifications" to Sanjay Leela Bhansalis controversial film Padmavati and has asked the filmmaker to "likely" change the movie's title to Padmavat.

The film was also asked to give a few disclaimersone of them regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song "Ghoomar" to befit the character portrayed, a CBFC statement said.

ALSO READ: Can Rani Padmini dance?

The decision was taken after an examining committee meeting was held on Thursday in presence of CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi. The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and professor K.K. Singh of Jaipur University.

According to the CBFC, the film was approached with a "balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and the society". The board asked for several cuts, and a name change, before giving the film the certification for showing in theatres in India. According to some reports, 26 cuts were ordered.

Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC "to add perspective to the final decision of the official committee," the CBFC said.

ALSO READ: Padmavati, Padukone and the frail fringe sensibilities

The final 3D application of the film was submitted to CBFC on Thursday (December 28).

The certificate will be issued once the required modifications are carried out and final material submitted, the board said.

Padmavati, which was earlier slated for release on December 1, got embroiled into controversies after the Karni Sena, an organisation of the Rajput community, urged a nationwide ban on the film claiming that it "distorts historical facts".

Members of the political organisation also physically assaulted Bhansali during the film's shooting in Jaipur earlier this year. They even burnt the sets of the movie in outskirts of Mumbai.

Later on, Bhansali appeared before a Parliamentary committee and maintained that the row over the yet-to-be released movie was just based on rumours, strongly rejecting charges that he had distorted "historical" facts about the possibly mythological Rajput queen, played by Deepika Padukone in the film.

The row took an ugly turn when threats were issued against Bhansali and Deepika.

Padmavati also features Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor.
After what seemed like a brief hiatus, the power tussle between the AAP and the Centre resumed as Lt Governor Anil Baijal shot down the Delhi government's proposal to deliver some basic public services at the doorstep of people. According to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the proposal pertained to 40 services including the issue of caste, birth and address certificates, driving licences, social welfare schemes, pensions and registration of births and death. Sisodia revealed that Baijal had told them to stop at digitalisation, as the proposal had issues that could impair the safety of women and senior citizens.

Baijal has pointed out that service at the doorstep could result in corruption and bad behaviour, and specified that people out to deliver these services could add to the congestion on Delhi's already overcrowded roads!

Thus, the AAP government lost a golden opportunity to step up its popularity with the people who have elected them.

The AAP said in a tweet on Saturday that even the opposition would agree that the initiatives of Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government were being blocked or stopped by unelected administrative machinery.

"The elected govt is accountable to the citizens, hence it should be allowed to function without any interference through LG, it said.

Even opposition leaders agree that initiatives of @ArvindKejriwal led Delhi Govt are being blocked or stopped by unelected administrative machinery.

The elected govt is accountable to the citizens, hence it should be allowed to function without any interference through LG. pic.twitter.com/dyPPl6KaZh  AAP (@AamAadmiParty) December 30, 2017

The party appended to the tweet a video clip of Rajya Sabha members appealing to the Union government not to obstruct the chief minister of Delhi from carrying on his work. T.K. Rangarajan of the CPI(M) urged for full powers to the state government. D. Raja of the CPI went on to point out that in Puducherry where also there is an elected government, the Lt Governor, an appointee of the BJP government, was not allowing the elected government to function.

Delhi Metro, which comes under the Centre, did not invite Chief Minister Kejriwal to the inauguration of a new corridor called the Magenta line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25. Incidentally, the Delhi government is 50 per cent partner in the DMRC. Sisodia attributed this "insult" to the fact that Kejriwal has been urging the Centre to roll back the recent substantial hike in the metro fare.

The Delhi chief minister had suggested that the Centre and the Delhi government share the burden of Delhi Metro.

The Centre and the DMRC, according to Sisodia, feared that Kejriwal might use the opportunity to raise the issue of the fare hike. But the AAP rank and file considered it as a BJP and Modi way of humiliating the Delhi chief minister who gave the BJP a crushing defeat in the assembly elections.

While the metro fares are fixed by a multi-member committee, the fare hike, which is now going to happen periodically and automatically, is bound to hit the Delhi government adversely. The AAP through its Facebook page sought to quantify people's anger over Kejriwal being ignored, by asking them to show their anger by donating to the party.

The AAP had, before coming to power, promised Delhi residents free drinking water that would be better than RO water by December 2017. On Tuesday, when the Delhi Jal Board approved a combined hike of 20 per cent for water and sewer charges for water consumption above 20,000 litres a month, with effect from February 2018, the Delhi unit of the BJP has come down on the party for going back on its promises.

The AAP has been at pains to point out that the hike will not apply to those who consume upto 20,000 litres which was a key election promise made by the party.

If its continuous struggle with the Centre and the Delhi unit of the BJP was not enough, the young party has troubles in the house as well. The followers of its other well known leader, Kumar Vishwas, has threatened to launch a stir to press for his nomination for Rajya Sabha candidature. Vishwas has been seen as trying to overthrow Kejriwal in a dramatic party coup.

Elections to three Rajya Sabha seats from Delhi will be held on January 16. AAP sources say the party can bag all the three. The last date for filing nominations is January 5. Even as Vishwas opted out of the race for Rajya Sabha, the party has announced the name of Sanjay Singh for one of the three seats, and is expected to release the name of the other two in the next three days. Sources say Kejriwal has even offered a ticket to former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan, who politely declined it citing commitment to his teaching job.

The Delhi chief minister has in the recent past reserved his comments on most of the issues. However, he does retweet. And one of the retweets of Friday night reads, "LG wants to go #digital, for people to go online in a country where majority haven't a clue how to use computer"
Government's parliamentary managers led by parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar and his deputy Vijay Goel are confident that the Rajya Sabha will pass the law making instant triple talaq a criminal offence, when the upper house takes up the bill next Tuesday.

Though the NDA does not have a majority of its own in the Rajya Sabha, the government is confident as the Congress, which is the second dominant party in the upper house, did not object when the bill was put for voting in Lok Sabha on Thursday.

Though the congress had suggested that the bill be referred to the standing committee of parliament, the party did not press for it. The government feels that major opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha like the Congress, Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal will not actively oppose the bill, or demand its reference to a select committee of the Rajya Sabha, as was done for some bills during the first three and a half years of the NDA government.

The government, however, has not left anything to chance. Law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad is working hard to reach out to every party in the Rajya Sabha, and also party leaders like Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E. Palaniswamy and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Prasad has also spoken to Ghulam Nabi Azad, opposition leader in the Rajya Sabha, who has a huge influence on the congress strategies in parliament.

The Congress has not issued a three-line whip to its MPs so far, while the BJP and its NDA associates have issued the whip to their members asking them to be present and vote when the bill is taken up.

The BJP had marshalled big numbers for the vote in Lok Sabha, where the party has a comfortable majority.

The government has also cautioned its ministers not to annoy the opposition by flippant or offensive remarks, which could galvanise a move to push the bill to the select committee. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the bill to get passed in the short winter session of parliament, which was delayed due to campaigning for Gujarat assembly elections.

The proposed bill makes instant triple talaq a non bailable offence leading upto three years of imprisonment.
For the BJP that calls itself a 'party with a difference' and a 'disciplined party', it has been an embarrassing moment in its model state of Gujarat with Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel continuing to sulk over not being given the key portfolios.

This is Nitin's second term as the deputy chief minister. Despite being the number two in the Vijay Rupani government, he was not given the finance and urban development portfolios but was allotted the roads and buildings, and health and education.

Nitin has not taken charge of the portfolios allotted to him and stayed away from office on the second consecutive day on Saturday. Finance portfolio has been given to Saurabh Patel, a distant relative of Ambanis, who has staged a comeback in the ministry.

Nitin said that it was not about portfolios but about self-respect. Speaking to reporters, he said that he had spoken to the party leadership and that he was hopeful of getting a proper reply for his feelings.

Even as Chief Minister Rupani preferred to keep mum, Patidars from Mehsana, Nitin's constituency, rushed to his residence to express solidarity. Lalji Patel of Sardar Patel Group has even called for a Mehsana bandh on January 1, 2018 to protest against the treatment meted out to Nitin. Lalji went a step ahead and even demanded that Nitin be made the chief minister.

In 2016, when Anandiben Patel resigned as chief minister citing age criterion, she had recommended Nitin's name to the post. However, after high drama Rupani was named as the chief minister. While Rupani is considered close to party's national president Amit Shah, Nitin is believed to be close to Anandiben.

On his part, Nitin said that a bandh call should not be given.

Pro-quota Patidar leader Hardik Patel jumped into the controversy and suggested that Nitin join the Congress. Hardik told reporters that they were prepared to talk to the Congress leadership if Nitin and 10 other MLAs were willing to resign.

Hardik said: "As a veteran politician, Nitin bhai has worked hard for 27 years to ensure that the BJP stays in power. The (Patel) community members need to understand that such politicians are being sidelined (in the BJP)."

Interestingly, ever since the Patidar stir began, Nitin has been state government's spokesperson in matters pertaining to the stir and in defending government's policies.

On Saturday evening, Nitin stepped out of his residence to attend a meeting at BJP MLA Babubhai Patel's residence in western part of Ahmedabad. Senior BJP leaders and ministers Bhupendrasinh Chudasama and Kaushik Patel were also present at the meeting.

According to sources, Chudasama has been asked to mediate in the current stand off. Post meeting, Chudasama claimed that the meeting was fruitful. He expressed confidence that Nitin would never leave the party.

Nitin's supporters in Mehsana and several parts of Ahmedabad staged protests demanding the BJP government to respect his stature.

It is believed that some senior BJP leaders from the party's central leadership might come to Ahmedabad to sort out the differences.
Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, according to two senior Western European security sources, providing an economic lifeline to the secretive Communist state.

The sales of oil or oil products from Russia, the worlds second biggest oil exporter and a veto-wielding member of the United Nations Security Council, breach UN sanctions, the security sources said.

The transfers in October and November indicate that smuggling from Russia to North Korea has evolved to loading cargoes at sea since Reuters reported in September that North Korean ships were sailing directly from Russia to their homeland.

Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions, the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

A second source, who independently confirmed the existence of the Russian ship-to-ship fuel trade with North Korea, said there was no evidence of Russian state involvement in the latest transfers.

There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans, the second European security source said.

The two security sources cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific but declined to disclose further details, saying it was classified.

Russias Foreign Ministry and the Russian Customs Service both declined to comment when asked on Wednesday if Russian ships had supplied fuel to North Korean vessels. The owner of one ship accused of smuggling oil to North Korea denied any such activity.

The US State Department, in a statement, called on Russia and other UN members to strictly implement sanctions on North Korea and to work more closely together to shut down UN-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea.

The latest report came as China, responding on Friday to criticism from US President Donald Trump, denied it had illicitly shipped oil products to North Korea.

North Korea relies on imported fuel to keep its struggling economy functioning. It also requires oil for its intercontinental ballistic missile and nuclear programme that the United States says threatens the peace in Asia.

The vessels are smuggling Russian fuel from Russian Far Eastern ports to North Korea, said the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Reuters was unable to independently verify that the vessels had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels, whether the Russian state knew about the sales or how many Russian vessels were involved in the transfers. It was also unclear how much fuel may have been smuggled.

Ship satellite positioning data consulted by Reuters and available on Reuters Eikon shows unusual movements by some of the Russian vessels named by the security sources including switching off the transponders which give a precise location.

The security sources said the Russian-flagged tanker Vityaz was one vessel that had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels.

The Vityaz left the port of Slavyanka near Vladivostok in Russia on Oct. 15 with 1,600 tonnes of oil, according to Russian port control documents.

Documents submitted by the vessels agent to the Russian State Port Control authority showed its destination as a fishing fleet in the Japan Sea. Shipping data showed the vessel switched off its transponder for a few days as it sailed into open waters.

According to the European security sources, the Vityaz conducted a ship-to-ship transfer with the North Korean Flagged Sam Ma 2 tanker in open seas during October.

Reuters could not independently verify the transfer as ship tracking data showed that the Sam Ma 2 had turned off its transponder from the start of August.

The owner of the Russian vessel denied any contact with North Korean vessels but also said it was unaware that the vessel was fuelling fishing boats.

Yaroslav Guk, deputy director of the tankers owner, Vladivostok-based Alisa Ltd, said the vessel had no contacts with North Korean vessels.

Absolutely no, this is very dangerous, Guk told Reuters by telephone. It would be complete madness.

When contacted a second time, Guk said the vessel did not have any contacts with North Korean ships and that he would not answer further questions.

An official at East Coast Ltd, the vessels transport agent, declined to comment.

Two other Russian flagged tankers made similar journeys between the middle of October and November, leaving from the ports of Slavyanka and Nakhodka into open seas where they switched off their transponders, shipping data showed.

In September, Reuters reported that at least eight North Korean ships that left Russia loaded with fuel this year headed for their homeland despite declaring other destinations, a ploy that US officials say is often used to undermine sanctions.

A Russian shipping source with knowledge of Far Eastern marine practices said North Korean vessels had stopped loading fuel in Russias Far Eastern ports but that fuel is delivered at sea by tankers using ship-to-ship transfers, or even by fishing vessels.

China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of UN sanctions, after US President Donald Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

Chinas denial came a day after it blocked a US effort at the United Nations to blacklist six ships Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a UN Security Council diplomat said.

According to documents seen by Reuters this month, the United States had proposed that the UN Security Council blacklist 10 ships for illicit trade with North Korea.

It accused the vessels of conducting illegal ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or illegally transporting North Korean coal to other countries for exports.

Three North Korean ships among the 10 were blacklisted, along with a Panama-registered vessel.

-Reuters
By PTI: Chandigarh, Dec 30 (PTI) Widow of a Kargil martyr died at a private hospital in Haryanas Sonipat after the medical staff allegedly refused to admit her for not carrying her Aadhaar card, forcing the state government to order an inquiry into the matter today.

Talking to media at Ambala, Health Minister Anil Vij said a team of health department has been sent to Sonipat to collect the details of the incident.

advertisement

"Shakuntala Devi (55), widow of Kargil war martyr Havaldar Laxman Dass, died on Thursday for want of medical care at a private hospital as it insisted on having the patients Aadhaar card," her son Pawan Kumar Balyan told PTI over phone.

Balyan, a resident of Mahlana village in Sonipat, said his mother was suffering from a heart problem.

"I took her to the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Hospital in Sonipat and got the referral slip for Tulip Hospital on Thursday," he said.

"At the counter of the hospital, the authorities asked me to give the Aadhaar card of my ailing mother so that she could be admitted for treatment. I told them that I have forgotten it and will get it soon from my home, and requested them to start the treatment. But, the hospital authorities insisted on providing the Aadhaar card," Balyan said.

"After about half-an-hour of argument with the hospital authorities, I decided to leave the place with my mother," he said, adding that the hospital authorities also called up police who asked me not to create a scene in the hospital premises.

"I brought back my mother to ECHS Sonipat where she died the same evening," Balyan said.

"I have given a written complaint about the matter to ECHS authorities who visited my house from Ambala," he said.

Meanwhile, Abhimanyu Kumar of Tulip Multispeciality Hospital, Sonipat, said they insist on Aadhaar cards, but denied the allegations that they were not ready to admit Devi.

"We wanted to treat the woman, but her family members decided to take her away," he said.

Policeman Srikrishan, who was at the spot when the incident took place, said the hospital authorities had requested Balyan to get the ailing woman admitted.

"Balyan seemed upset by the attitude shown to him by the hospital staff and preferred to leave with his mother," he said.

Shakuntala Devi was the wife of Havaldar Laxman Dass who was posted with the 8th Jat Regiment in Muskoh valley near Kargil. He died of bullet injuries during a gun battle with intruders on June 9, 1999. PTI VSD SRY

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
The private hospital has denied all accusations levelled by the deceased woman's kin, saying that Aadhaar is only needed for documentation not for treatment.

By India Today Web Desk: In a shocking bit of news, a Kargil martyr's wife died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat after she was allegedly denied treatment due to lack of Aadhaar card .

According to her son Pavan Kumar, the woman was rushed to the hospital in a critical condition and her admission was withheld even after Pavan showed her Aadhaar card on his phone.

Wife of a Kargil martyr dies at a hospital in Haryana's Sonipat, claims son; says "I brought my mother in a serious condition to the hospital. They asked me to get the Aadhaar card , but I didn't have it then so I showed them a copy in my phone" pic.twitter.com/Vm1ZmgzGZN- ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017

advertisement

He added, "I said that I will get Aadhaar in an hour or so, meanwhile begin with the treatment but the hospital refused to do so."

Pavan claims that the hospital's uncompromising stance on admission is what led to his mother's untimely demise.

However, the hospital authorities denied all accusations levelled by the woman's kin saying that Aadhaar is needed only for documentation not for treatment.

A doctor at the hospital said, "We never denied them treatment. Please note that he never got the patient to the hospital. We have never stopped any treatment due to Aadhaar card ever. It is mandatory, not for treatment, but for documentation process."

Promising punitive action against those found guilty, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar today said, "I have received information about it... will conduct inquiry."

Reacting strongly to this, VN Thapar, father of Kargil martyr Vijayant Thapar said, "Shocked at the disgusting news. We've become so indifferent to human life! These are the kind of things that hit morale of armed forces."

With inputs from ANI

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Chandigarh, Dec 30 (PTI) Leader of Opposition in Punjab Assembly Sukhpal Singh Khaira today sought immediate dismissal of Power Minister Rana Gurjit Singh over alleged links with the main accused in a multi-crore irrigation scam.

In a statement released today, Khaira said Chief Minister Amarinder Singh must dismiss Rana Gurjit from his cabinet and order a CBI inquiry to further probe the black money angle in the auction.

advertisement

According to the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, engineers from the Irrigation Department and other officials misused their powers, connived with Gurinder Singh and allocated works worth Rs 1,000 crore to the contractor at a rate which was up to 50 per cent more than departmental rates and thereby caused a huge loss to the government over the last seven-eight years.

It had come to light that the Rs 1,000 crore irrigation scamster Gurinder Singh transferred Rs 5 crore to an account belonging to a chartered accountant associated with Rana Gurjit on May 23, 2017, Khaira said in the statement.

Khaira dared Amarinder to deny the partnership between scamster Gurinder Singh and Rana Gurjit Singh, and demanded that he immediately dismiss the minister from his cabinet and order a CBI inquiry to find out how many more scamsters have business connections with the tainted minister.

He said he would move the Punjab and Haryana High Court for a CBI probe and the registration of a criminal case against Rana Gurjit.

Meanwhile, the Power Minister said a crude and malicious attempt was being made to associate his name with the accused in the multi-crore irrigation scam.

"It defies all logic and rationale to relate me with someone who has been brought to the book by my initiative," he said, while pointing out that he was the first one to question the wrongdoings in the Irrigation Department.

Rana Gurjit said it was he who wrote to the chief minister and recommended a high-level vigilance probe after noticing various irregularities in the department that eventually led to the revelation of a massive scam.

He added that the chartered accountant was not on his pay roll and that he had just hired his services.

Deliberate attempts were being made to tarnish hisAimage through slanderous propaganda, the Power Minister said. PTI VSD IJT

--- ENDS ---
Cameo Wood, a film director in San Francisco's Noe Valley neighborhood, had enough of thieves rushing to her doorstep to make off with her delivered packages.

It had gotten worse in the three months leading up to Christmas, when she says around 50 packages were stolen. On Dec. 23 alone, 11 boxes were taken.

Wood met a breaking point when medication for her cat, worth around $1,000, was lost to thieves. She walked to her cats' used litter box with a scooper and emptied the contents into cardboard Amazon delivery boxes. Then she put it on the porch and waited.

"I was cleaning my cat box; my cat was sick," Wood told NBC Bay Area. "I thought this would be really nasty to put in a package and leave for people."

She didn't end up waiting long; between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, she says, six boxes full of used litter were snatched but unsuspecting criminals.

Related video: Decoy packages deter thieves. Story continues below.

Now Playing: Holiday package thefts dropped by 60 percent in Santa Cruz County while deputies planted decoys with GPS trackers in front of homes. Video: KSBW

"You see, my cat is sick and on antibiotics, so the litter box smells especially terrible," she told Bustle. "So, I decided to put my cat's stinky poop in the extra boxes and place those boxes on my doorstep."

Wood says she wasn't the only one targeted in her neighborhood. Fifteen other residents on her street similarly had packages stolen. She's now looking into getting a locked drop box for packages, but she hopes her surprise packages sent a message to those who stole her mail.

"I feel sort of bad these people are in a situation where they are stealing," she told NBC. "But I also hope they look at packages a little more circumspect and don't think we're easy pickings here."

Package theft is all too common around the U.S. Just this year, other jilted online shoppers retaliated against thieves, filling packages on their porch with cat litter and dog food. In one instance, a crafty homeowner got creative, and rigged a decoy package to fire off a 12-gauge shotgun blank when picked up.

Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira.


An IT entrepreneur Ranjith (33) was on the way to his wedding venue somewhere on the suburbs of Kochi on December 23 when he got stuck in a nerve-wracking traffic jam. But Kochi Metro came to his rescue. Read how.

The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd shot a video of the couple narrating their D-Day's experience. (Photo: Kochi Metro FB page)

By P S Gopikrishnan Unnithan: In 2005, traffic block in Bengaluru reportedly saved the city from a terror strike as the terrorist couldn't reach the place on time. Not just that terrorist, but most of us living in mega cities have had nightmarish experiences with traffic snarls.

But a Kerala groom has an interesting twist to the tale- thanks to the Kochi Metro.

advertisement

An IT entrepreneur Ranjith (33), the groom in question- was on the way to his wedding venue somewhere on the suburbs of Kochi on December 23 when he got stuck in a nerve-wracking traffic jam.

The family of the groom found themselves far from the venue after being hit by a traffic snarl for almost four hours on a stretch that usually takes three hours from their residence.

"Having started at 6m for a ceremony slated at 11am, we were still far from the venue, due to immense road congestion," Ranjith explained later.

At Aluva then finally the family boarded the Kochi Metro to the city centre at 11:30am.

Ranjith then hurriedly convinced the people queued up at the ticket counter and skipped to the front to save time. It took them 20 minutes to reach the nearest metro station to the auditorium and the couple, to everyone's relief got married between 12:00-12:05pm.

Interestingly, the groom, hard-pressed for time also changed into his wedding attire at the metro station itself.

Though both families were concerned about the 'muhurdham' or the auspicious time, it was later revealed that the ceremony took place at just the perfect time.

As a token of appreciation, the Kochi Metro authorities gifted the couple a 'Kochi1' smart card. KMRL (Kochi Metro Rail Ltd) also made a short video in which the couple is narrating how the metro saved their D-Day.

--- ENDS ---
New York

Thinking about getting a new flat-screen TV or a dresser for the baby's room? Factor safety into your choice.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns TVs and furniture like dressers and chests pose tip-over risks if they are not properly anchored to walls. This is especially true in households with young children, who can be tempted to climb on anything. But plenty of adults get injured, too.

Emergency rooms treat an average of 30,700 people  52 percent of them children  each year for injuries related to falling televisions, furniture and appliances, according to a 2017 CPSC report. Between 2000 and 2016, 514 people were killed by tip-overs, more than 80 percent of them children.

The CPSC's "Anchor-It!" campaign encourages families to attach TVs and top-heavy furniture to walls.

"The holidays are a time when households are very busy," said Ann Marie Buerkle, acting chairman of the CPSC. "This is really kind of a hidden hazard."

With that in mind, here are some things to consider while shopping.

Where to put it?

Take a look at the room where you want the item to go. What kind of walls does it have? In most homes, bedrooms have sheet rock walls, making it relatively simple to install anti-tip devices. It's just a matter of finding the studs and following the instructions properly.

Things get more complicated if you have an older home with plaster or brick walls. Stud finders are useless for plaster walls and drilling into brick can be tricky. That might mean a dresser may have to go against another wall than the one you had in mind. So, take that into account before settling on the size and shape of a dresser.

If plaster or brick walls are the only option, consider hiring a professional to avoid mistakes that will leave a bunch of holes, said Peter Kerin, owner of Minnesota-based Foresight ChildProofing, Inc.

Keep the same considerations in mind for old furniture or TVs that might get moved to make room for the new piece. Many families end up putting old TVs on top of furniture not meant to hold it and then forget to anchor it, Buerkle said.

Read up on safety standards

Most American furniture manufacturers adhere to safety standards developed by ASTM International for a wide range of products. Manufacturers' compliance is voluntary, however. Ikea has recalled more than 17 million chests and dressers that didn't meet the standards, after eight children were killed by toppled Ikea furniture. The Swedish retailer said it no longer sells furniture in the U.S. that doesn't meet the standards.

Dressers must pass two stability tests to meet the standards. The first requires the piece not to tip over when all drawers are opened to the "stop," or two-thirds of the way if there is no "stop." The furniture also must not tip over when all of its doors are opened 90 degrees. For the second test, the furniture must not fall over when a 50-pound weight  the average weight of a 5-year-old  is gradually applied to the front of the drawer. The furniture must also be sold with anti-tip restraint kits.

Check to see if the furniture has a permanent tip-over warning label attached, usually inside the top drawer. That will let you know it adheres to the standards.

If you are buying furniture online, avoid any product that does not specifically say it meets the standards, said Pat Bowling, vice president for communications of the American Home Furnishings Alliance.

There is also no need to blow your budget. Furniture that complies with the ASTM guidelines is widely available in all price ranges, Bowling said.

Make sure you have hardware

Most new furniture comes with anti-tip restraints and instructions for installing them. But don't forget about the older furniture or TVs in your home. Anti-tip brackets are available at hardware stores, major big-box retailers and online. A stud finder and a drill are also a good idea.

Look for restraints that are detachable, for easy cleaning, and that comply with their own ASTM standards Kerin said he prefers metal buckle and nylon straps but the most important thing is to install them properly. For furniture, make sure to put the screws into solid wood, rather than the thin paneling usually found on the back.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Health Care

Southwestern Vermont Health Care

Angeline Marano joined as vice president of ambulatory and continuing care services. Marano, a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, has more than 30 years of health care executive experience and previously served as director of health services at Williams College.

Albany Medical Center

Sophia Winter joined the Department of Psychiatry as a clinical psychologist and will serve as assistant professor of psychiatry and clinical director of wellness programs at Albany Medical College. Winter will conduct individual and couples therapy, as well as support student and resident wellness programs.

Sandra Horn joined the Department of Psychiatry as a clinical psychologist and was appointed assistant professor at Albany Medical College. Horn will provide individual outpatient psychotherapy for adults.

Manufacturing

SI Group

Tara Morgan was promoted to senior manager, culture and engagement. Morgan joined in 2015 and will continue to maximize exposure to all relevant stakeholder groups.

Professions

Rivkin Radler LLP

Mark J. Wagner joined as an associate in the commercial litigation practice group, focusing his practice on corporate transactions and compliance, commercial litigation and real estate, including purchases and sales, commercial leasing and financing. Waner previously served as an associate at The West Firm PLLC.

Services

WOW Restaurants Inc.

Chris Dore joined as culinary director. Dore recently completed a focused training at 2 West Bar and Grille on West Avenue in Saratoga Springs.

EverHome Care Advisors

Katherine Rosenblatt joined as a geriatric care manager. Rosenblatt has 25 years of health care experience, is a member of the Aging Life Care Association and founder of Capital District Elder Care PLLC.

Tonya Garmley joined as a client liaison. Garmley previously worked at the Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York.

Auto/Mate Dealership Systems

David Vickers was promoted to regional sales manager, responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with franchise auto dealerships in the Capital Region, Upstate and Western New York and Pennsylvania. Vickers previously served as customer success manager.

 Jennifer Patterson
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Albany

For a couple of the Capital Region's key economic job generators, the outlook has turned cloudy.

General Electric is chopping thousands of jobs worldwide as it cuts costs and exits some businesses, while at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, some research projects have wound down, including the massive Global 450 Consortium that drew Intel Corp. and other major semiconductor manufacturers to the area.

But as 2018 arrives, local business leaders and officials believe the increasingly diversified economy can weather these changes.

More worrisome for many will be federal tax reforms that are especially onerous for New York and other relatively high-tax states.

GE's cutbacks have largely spared its local operations, and while it has closed two research labs elsewhere, the company said it remains committed to its Global Research headquarters in Niskayuna, where 2,000 scientists and engineers work.

GE Power, headquartered in Schenectady, is one of three businesses on which the company plans to focus, new CEO John Flannery said.

"We did very well surviving" GE's cutbacks, said Mark Eagan, CEO of the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce. "They closed two research centers ... but they spoke of the importance of the Global Research Center in Niskayuna."

Meanwhile, the region's biotechnology and pharmaceuticals sector is thriving.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals employs nearly 2,000 people in Rensselaer County, while Taconic, a company that produces laboratory mice, is relocating its headquarters to the University at Albany's Health Sciences campus in East Greenbush.

Planning continues for a new home for Wadsworth Center, the state Health Department's highly regarded laboratory.

A former staff member, Dr. Joachim Frank, shared the 2017 Nobel Prize in chemistry for research he conducted while at Wadsworth.

Hugh Johnson, who heads the eponymous Albany-based investment advisory firm, said Rensselaer County has been a bright spot locally.

"We're seeing good numbers out of Rensselaer," Johnson said last week. Schenectady County is another area that seems to be outperforming his forecasts, Johnson said, despite the headwinds from GE's restructuring.

"Things are not bad in this region," Johnson said. "It's prospering."

The labor market remains tight, although Johnson and others think at least some of that is caused by people leaving the area for opportunities elsewhere.

"Outmigration continues to be a problem," Johnson said. "That's one of the reasons the unemployment rate goes down. That's very worrisome."

The job market has continued to be strong nationwide, with unemployment falling to 3.9 percent in November. Every metropolitan area statewide, with the exception of New York City, saw unemployment rates rise in November from year-earlier levels, the state Labor Department reported last week.

In the Capital Region, unemployment rose half a percentage point to 4.3 percent.

State labor markets analyst Jim Ross said the increase could be attributed to people returning to the labor force.

"They feel more confident they'll be able to find a job," he said Thursday shortly after the unemployment numbers were released.

But Ross sees the tight local labor market continuing to inhibit economic growth.

Jobs will go unfilled as the number of baby boomers retiring will outpace younger people entering the workforce for at least the next 10 to 15 years, he said.

Eagan, too, is concerned. That's why the chamber backs comprehensive immigration reform that could help meet the need for workers, he said.

Another chamber initiative  the Tech Valley Young Professionals Network  seeks to encourage graduating college students to remain in the area.

Albany, Schenectady and Troy all have seen investments in new apartments. That's giving those downtowns a new vibrancy, adding to the region's attractiveness, Eagan said.

The year 2018 will be the first full year of operation for two large urban investments, the Capital Center in downtown Albany and the Rivers Casino and Resort on the Mohawk River just north of downtown Schenectady.

While Rivers has struggled to meet its gambling projections, it has provided a large event space for meetings and conferences.

The surrounding apartments, retail and office facilities of the Mohawk Harbor complex have attracted new residents and businesses.

"It's the first new riverfront development in the region," Eagan said.

The Capital Region continues to be a transportation hub, with new air service and continuing improvements to passenger rail service, including a new Amtrak station in downtown Schenectady.

Airport officials announced new regional jet service by OneJet between Albany and Buffalo that will debut this February. It's the first service on the route since 2010.

Still unclear is the impact that the Trump administration's tax reform will have on the local real estate market, where state and local income and property tax deductions will be capped at $10,000.

In a relatively high-tax state like New York, that could give many residents another reason to move. Others will opt to use the increased standard deduction, although that might make contributions to nonprofits less appealing.

This past week, local residents were rushing to prepay next year's property taxes so they'd still be deductible.

But that tactic won't work next year, when the reforms take effect.

And that's when outmigration might be an even larger concern.

eanderson@timesunion.com  518-454-5323
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Albany

A former top aide to state Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin, who will take office Monday as Rensselaer County executive, alleges that she was pressured by the lawmaker to retract her accusation that he had roughed her up during a heated argument at his residence in early August.

The aide's disclosure that she had to "save" McLaughlin's political career comes as the Times Union has confirmed the state Assembly's Ethics and Guidance Committee is reviewing a complaint about his treatment of the staff member, Jennifer Polaro, including his use of vulgar language in apparent violation of the Legislature's harassment policy.

Following the Aug. 7 argument at McLaughlin's residence, the aide recorded a conversation in which she could be heard telling the assemblyman: "You put your hands on me for the last time today. ... Did you ever think I was going to let you beat me up and get away with it?"

Minutes after the argument, Polaro sent a series of text messages to McLaughlin, 53, that included a close-up photograph that showed apparent bruises and small cuts near her ear. She also took a separate photograph of several deep scratches on her chest below her right shoulder.

submitted

"Awesome job Steve!!! Awesome. Mild concussion. Where would you like me to send the paper work," she wrote, according to a copy of the text messages obtained by the Times Union. "Not to mention the 2 tears in my earlob (sic). Along with multiple scratch and bruises."

Now Playing: This recording of state Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin talking to a top aide was obtained by the Times Union. (Emily Masters / Times Union) Video: Times Union

"No clue what you are talking about," McLaughlin wrote back.

"Are you serious?!!" she responded. "You know exactly what I'm talking about ... beating the shit out of me."

In one of the recordings in which she alleged he had attacked her, McLaughlin responded: "I didn't touch you. I didn't (expletive) touch you."

"You didn't? My earring shows different," she says.

A few hours after the incident, on the afternoon of Aug. 7, Polaro sent a text message to Nicholas Wilock, director of press operations for the Assembly's Republican minority conference, informing him that McLaughlin "attacked me today and I'm pressing charges on him," according to a copy of the message obtained by the Times Union.

Now Playing: Warning: This video contains vulgar and offensive language throughout. This recording of state Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin talking to a top aide was obtained by the Times Union. After this audio was presented to McLaughlin's campaign, he produced a recording of a Aug. 31, 2017, conversation in which the aide told him that her allegation was intended to "bait" him. (Emily Masters / Times Union) Video: Times Union

"Ok," Wilock responded, according to a text message on his account.

The chamber's harassment policy states that employees and members are expected to "report all incidents of discrimination or harassment, regardless of the offender's identity or position."

Wilock, who formerly worked for McLaughlin as a chief of staff, said he could not recall the text, did not report the incident, and that for about a year he has deleted her texts without reading them.

"She's controversial," he said. "Her business is none of my business. ... I certainly may have replied 'ok,' but a two-letter response like that was probably the extent of any response that she has received from me in a long, long time."

Polaro declined to comment for this story. She has been on extended medical leave from her Assembly job since mid-August. The Times Union had previously not published her name because she was an alleged victim of physical abuse and sexual harassment. But Polaro revealed herself recently when she posted public comments on Twitter. McLaughlin is leaving his Assembly position after being narrowly elected in November as Rensselaer County executive. He previously acknowledged using vulgar language directed at Polaro, but denied that he assaulted her.

McLaughlin did not respond to a request for comment on Friday afternoon. His spokesman, Richard Crist, issued a statement on his behalf questioning Polaro's credibility.

"The person in question stated in an interview to the Times Union that she had not been harmed, and in a tape recording of a subsequent conversation, denied there had been any harm and said she had made up the allegations to gain an advantage in the workplace," the statement reads. "We will not participate in the politics of personal destruction or dishonest and false attacks."

Another record obtained by the Times Union indicates that Polaro sent McLaughlin a text message on Sept. 9, threatening that she was going to pursue criminal charges against him.

"I will be pressing charges against you for assault," she wrote in the text, although she never filed criminal charges. "I have every recording and I also have the video of you having me pinned down. ... I also have the recording of you telling me I have to make a false statement of baiting you to save your ass."

In a subsequent text message from Polaro to McLaughlin in late August, she accused him of coercing her into retracting her allegation of physical abuse or facing the threat of a potential extortion charge.

Now Playing: This recording of state Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin talking to a top aide was obtained by the Times Union. (Emily Masters / Times Union) Video: Times Union

"I did not do that Jen ... Relax," McLaughlin wrote back, according to a copy of the text message. "Did not make you out to be psycho at all. I seriously cannot believe you are mad. It'll pass in one day."

Polaro made similar allegations  that McLaughlin allegedly told her she needed to "take a bullet" for him  in a more recent tweet that was later deleted.

The Aug. 7 incident between McLaughlin and Polaro took place a month before he won a hotly contested Republican primary for county executive against then-Deputy County Executive Chris Meyers.

The Assembly's Ethics Committee can investigate the conduct of a member for up to a year after they leave office.

Last month, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie announced that McLaughlin  a member of the Assembly since 2011  had been sanctioned for his actions in an unrelated June 2016 incident in which another female Assembly aide accused him of asking her to provide nude photos. The alleged incident took place on the floor of the Assembly chamber. McLaughlin continues to deny those allegations as well.

Polaro's case is unrelated to that matter.

In a series of recent tweets on her account, Polaro claimed that McLaughlin had urged her to retract her story of physical abuse at the end of August, as the Times Union was about to publish a story on her allegations of abuse and his use of vulgar language.

Crist, McLaughlin's campaign director and spokesman, came to the newspaper Aug. 31 with a secretly recorded telephone conversation between McLaughlin and Polaro. Crist claimed the aide had recanted the abuse allegation during the conversation, which he said he had recorded earlier that day with McLaughlin's assistance.

Her recent tweet seemed to cast doubt on the veracity of that recording.

"I was the victim of verbal and physical abuse by Steve," the former aide said in the tweet. "Then I had to lie and retract my story to save him. ... I kept quiet too long!"

The Ethics Committee declined to investigate the woman's abuse allegations when they were first published Sept. 1 by the Times Union. The use of vulgar language is a violation of the Assembly's ethics code, which prohibits "obscene comments" or comments about a person's "deficiencies."

It's unclear whether the committee's examination of a recent complaint that was filed on behalf of Polaro by someone close to her will trigger a formal investigation.

On one of the recordings made by Polaro  among four incendiary conversations between the assemblyman and his aide that had been obtained by the Times Union  he said to her: "You're still fat. You are. Not attractive  and you're a (expletive) awful human being."

McLaughlin, who lives in Troy, has referred to the Times Union's story about his recorded conversations with his longtime aide as "a hatchet job," although he issued a statement in late August saying he had apologized to Polaro for his remarks.

"(The aide) and I have worked together for seven years, and she continues to be a member of my staff," he said at the time. "Like many co-workers, we have had arguments. During our time working together, I have wrongly said things to her, and have apologized to her for statements I made to her."

In the recording made in late August by Crist, McLaughlin pressed her about her statements to the Times Union regarding the Aug. 7 argument at his residence.

"We have an argument and I'm sick and I (expletive) snap a little bit," McLaughlin said to her on the recording made by Crist. "You record it wrongly, it's out of context."

"I baited you," she told him. "I was mad at you because I thought I was losing my job ... and I figured that would save my job."

"So that's basically extortion  you know that, right?" McLaughlin said.

In August, McLaughlin said that Polaro would remain on his Assembly payroll despite his allegation that she was extorting him.

"I think sometimes she was just a little bit hot-headed, maybe," he said at the time. "I don't think you just cut people off."

blyons@timesunion.com  518-454-5547  @brendan_lyonstu
Albany

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday said he wants to create an ombudsman to help college students and graduates deal with loan problems, and he wants tougher disclosure rules about the loans.

A college education is a necessity for a middle-class life, yet the crushing weight of student loan debt often keeps New Yorkers from buying homes, cars and ultimately limits their ability to save money and invest in their futures," Cuomo said in a release about the initiative, which is the 16th proposal that hell talk about during his 2018 State of the State speech on Wednesday.

The ombudsman would be at the state Department of Financial Services which oversees banks.

That person would serve as an advocate for student borrowers, mediate disputes with lenders and offer counseling and other help for those who are in default, or havent been able to make their student loan payments.

Cuomo is also calling for stronger truth in lending provisions from colleges.

More for you Which Capital Region grads have the most student debt?

He wants schools each year to provide students with the estimated amounts incurred for their loans as well estimates of what the monthly payments may be. Additionally, the governor wants to ban up-front loan fees.

And he wants to prohibit the practice, employed in some states, in which a professional can have his or her license suspended by a state agency if he or she is in default or behind on a loan.

New York, like many states, certifies, registers or licenses a number of professions including including engineers, architects, nurses, pharmacists, social workers and teachers.

Much of that, however, is overseen by the state Education Department, which is governed by the Board of Regents, not the governors office.

The Education Department does not suspend licenses for non-payment, according to an official there. And it wasnt immediately clear if the Regents were in agreement about the proposal since it hadnt been formally introduced.

Cuomo, however, said that expressly prohibiting the practice would protect people currently and in the future.

The governors office noted that, nationally, student loan debt is the second highest debt category after home mortgages. It accounts for $1.48 trillion in debt. The average student loan burden in New York is more than $30,000.

rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

ALBANY  An official with the U.S. Department of the Interior suggested earlier this month that more dredging for PCBs and additional habitat reconstruction in the Hudson River is necessary, despite assertions by General Electric Co. that it has completed clean-up work on a 40-mile stretch of the river.

Kathryn Jahn, DOI's Hudson River case manger, wrote to the director of the the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Hudson River Field Office Dec. 13 that the department, along with state and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officials, continues to be concerned about significant PCB contamination and its impacts on the river's ecosystem.

"Those injuries extend for over 200 miles, have lasted for decades, and will continue into the future," Jahn wrote to Gary Klawinski, the field office director. "The PCB contamination adversely impacts recreational fishing and hunting through consumption advisories, and has potential adverse impacts to birds, mink and other wildlife. Restoration options, particularly in the Upper Hudson River, may be limited by the amount and concentration of PCB contamination that remains bioavailable in the river."

Jahn wrote that additional PCB removal and "robust" habitat reconstruction "will accelerate the recovery of the river and its resources, which will reduce restoration required and facilitate the ecological and economic recovery of the Hudson River."

Jahn's letter comes as the EPA mulls whether GE has sufficiently scrubbed the river of PCBs  which the company legally dumped in the river from its capacitor plants in Hudson Falls and Fort Edward  under the terms of 2002 agreement with the agency to clean up the Hudson. The company spent seven years and $1.7 billion working on the stretch of the river between Fort Edward and Troy, announcing that work was completed in 2015.

GE filed a request for a certificate of completion from the EPA in December 2016. The agency had until Dec. 23 to respond, but a decision has yet to be announced. EPA spokesman David Kluesner said the agency received Jahn's letter and "we are giving full consideration to these and other comments we have received about the certification of completion."

GE has asserted that its work is done.

"GE removed all of the PCBs that the U.S. EPA targeted for removal, and EPA has called the project a success that will achieve the agency's goals of protecting public health and the environment," GE spokesman Mark Behan said Friday.

Regardless of the decision, the saga over river contamination won't end. If EPA agrees that GE has completed its responsibilities, Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration and state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman are prepared to sue the agency. Cuomo's Department of Environmental Conservation conducted its own PCB tests in the Hudson over the summer, charging that they turned up evidence of up to three times more contamination than the EPA originally estimated.

"New York State had 16 years to object to this project and did not do so," Behan said after the state's plan to sue was announced earlier this month. "It in fact endorsed the project when significantly less PCBs were going to be taken out of the river than were ultimately removed."

Behan said at the time that there is no dispute that GE has met its commitments to the EPA and the state.

mhamilton@timesunion.com  518-454-5449 @matt_hamilton10
ALBANY  State Inspector General Catherine Leahy Scott has for several months been investigating operations at the state Office of Technology Services after receiving emailed complaints about a lengthy list of alleged spending abuses and waste in the agency, which oversees the data systems for a variety of state functions.

Among the alleged problems: expenditures of millions of dollars on outmoded mainframe computers to store data at a time when such information is increasingly going to Internet-based clouds or rented space.

There also are complaints about an initiative earlier in the year to outsource a state employee "Help Desk or computer trouble-shooting phone line to an IBM office in Buffalo. The move rankled unionized state employees who were shifted to other jobs and it drew criticism because it was part of Gov. Andrew Cuomos Buffalo Billion initiative to spark new businesses and investments in western New York but in reality was taking over a longtime state function.

It was unclear, though, whether that amounted to a legal violation.

The inspector generals office does not comment on investigations.

Officials from the Office of Information Technology Services said in a written statement that "Integrity is paramount and the allegations have no basis.

We've been fully cooperating in the IG's independent review of the matter," the officials said.

The complaints, which had also been sent to the governors office and had been seen by numerous OITS employees, raised questions about whether the state agency is too quick to hire its traditional partner, IBM, rather than look to newer software companies for solutions.

The agency, for instance, is continuing to purchase mainframe computers from the New York-based company while some say it should move toward cloud computing.

On the other hand, there are worries about the security of cloud computing, even though the data is encrypted. Some state agencies handle so much data it could worthwhile to run their own clouds or remote locations for storing data online.

The flap is the latest chapter in what has been a rocky few years at OITS, dating back to a move to have the agency handle much of the data that various state agencies deal with on a day-to-day basis.

Processing and organizing data ranging from fingerprints to tax and motor vehicle records was more efficient if done under one roof than in the various agencies such Criminal Justice Services, Taxation and Finance or Motor Vehicles.

But centralizing these functions has turned out to be more complicated and difficult than first thought.

Theres also been friction between the unionized employees who make up the rank and file and top management.

A civil service official in early 2017, for example, told lawmakers that she believed the state workforce lacks the cutting-edge skills, needed for some data jobs, thus necessitating the use of outside contractors.

That provoked anger among workers who said they havent been afforded enough training to keep up with the latest rapidly changing digital trends.

Leadership of the agency changed in the spring when Bob Samson, a retired executive from IBM, took over at OITS, replacing Maggie Miller, who had at times criticized the workforce for remaining in silos.

Despite the changes, one of the complaints to the IG centered on what was described as a mushrooming of upper management ranks, going from two to five layers.

rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU
SCHENECTADY - Organizers are hoping a community forum Saturday in downtown Schenectady will cause people to do some soul searching about to their implicit biases.

City Council President Leesa Perazzo said Friday that the free gathering, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fenimore Gallery at Proctors, is an outgrowth of meetings held earlier this year on race relations and the police department in Schenectady.

"We're all born with biases, we're raised with biases, we know that a community is affected by that, so I think continuing the discussion and not being silent about it, and exploring your own personal biases and learning some tools on how you can work to relieve yourself of those is super healthy and will make a community better," said Perazzo. "It's not going away so we have to make it as good as we can."

While Perazzo and Councilwoman Marion Porterfield will serve as the host of the seminar, the special guest facilitator will be Gregory Owens.

Owens, a licensed master social worker, serves as director of strategic partnership and collaboration in the state Office of Children and Family Services, according to information online.

He also focuses on leadership development and implicit bias, which are more subtle and unconscious biases, and has worked with the Albany Police Department on the latter.

"This is really more about self-realization," said Porterfield, adding the gathering will offer a "safe environment" for people to consider some of their own implicit biases that is often rooted in ignorance. She said there will also be smaller group sessions to discuss the issue.

The idea for the forum was the brainchild of Chad Putman, who formerly served as Schenectady's deputy city clerk.

Anyone wanting to attend the free activity should RSVP by the end of the day Friday by calling 225-0957 or online at Eventbrite.com
By PTI: Colombo, Dec 30 (PTI) Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena was today handed a much awaited report on an alleged scam in the issue of bonds of the countrys central bank.

"We handed over the report today to the President. It is now upto his office to take action from hereafter," an official of the presidential inquiry commission said.

advertisement

Sirisena appointed the commission to probe any irregularities in the issues of Central Bank bonds in February 2015 and March 2016.

The alleged scam rocked the government headed by Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

It was alleged that Wickremesinghes pick for the position of the governor of the Central Bank, Arjuna Mahendrans appointment had caused a case of conflict of interest with a Central Bank primary dealer firm linked to Mahendrans son-in-law Arjuna Aloysius.

Aloysius firm Perpetual Treasuries it was alleged had benefited from insider information on the two issues of bonds resulting them making large profits.

The opposition cried hoarse on the scam even demanding that Wickremesinghe resign. Sirisena in mid-2016 sacked Mahendran from the bank.

Following a parliamentary committee probe, Sirisena appointed the presidential commission of inquiry which led to some heartburn in the UNP headed by Wickremesinghe and caused strains in the national unity government.

The issue led to the resignation of a UNP minister Ravi Karunanayake. He was the finance minister and later foreign minister when he quit.

The findings of the commission are expected to be released in public soon, officials said. PTI CORR KUN

--- ENDS ---
Seoul, South Korea

South Korea has seized a Hong Kong-flagged oil tanker accused of transferring 600 tons of refined oil to a North Korean ship in October in violation of United Nations sanctions, South Korean officials said Friday.

Officials revealed that they had impounded the 11,253-ton tanker, the Lighthouse Winmore, and questioned its crew. The revelation came a day after President Donald Trump accused China of letting fuel oil flow into North Korea through illicit ship-to-ship transfers on international waters.

There was no immediate evidence of official Chinese involvement in the Lighthouse Winmore's dealings with the North Koreans.

The registered owner of the ship is a Hong Kong company called Win More Shipping. The only director of that company is Gong Ruiqiang, who lives in Guangzhou, China, according to Hong Kong corporate filings. The ship was being leased by a Taiwanese company, South Korean Foreign Ministry officials told reporters.

The Lighthouse Winmore docked at the South Korean port of Yeosu on Oct. 11 to load 14,039 tons of refined petroleum from Japan, they said. Four days later, it departed Yeosu, saying it was headed for Taiwan. Instead, it transferred the refined oil to four other ships in international waters, including 600 tons transferred to the North Korean ship Sam Jong 2 on Oct. 19, officials said.

A similar ship-to-ship transfer involving another North Korean ship, Rye Song Gang 1, was captured in satellite photos released by the U.S. Treasury Department on Nov. 21, although the department did not release the name of the other ship involved in the high-seas transaction.

South Korean authorities boarded the Lighthouse Winmore and questioned its crew members when they returned to Yeosu on Nov. 24.

The ship was formally impounded by South Korea after the U.N. Security Council passed a resolution Dec. 22 requiring member countries to inspect and impound any vessel in their ports that was believed to have been used for prohibited activities with North Korea.

Under those sanctions, countries cannot export more than a half million barrels of refined petroleum products, an 89 percent cut from previous annual shipments, and 4 million barrels of crude oil in total per year to North Korea. They are required to report their oil shipments to the North so that the Security Council can keep a real-time update of the aggregate amount and determine whether the caps have been reached.

The Security Council has also banned ship-to-ship transfers of oil on the high seas because they can be used as a loophole to avoid the sanctions.

The Lighthouse Winmore remains in South Korean custody, officials said Friday. Its 25 crewmen  23 Chinese citizens and two men from Myanmar  will be allowed to leave after the investigation is over.

Word of the seizure emerged after Trump used a post on Twitter and an interview with The New York Times to accuse China of letting oil flow into North Korea in defiance of U.N. sanctions, warning that there will be no "friendly solution" until the flow stops.

When it blacklisted several Chinese trading companies and North Korean shipping companies and their vessels in November, the U.S. Treasury Department said that North Korea was "known to employ deceptive shipping practices, including ship-to-ship transfers."

Trump's criticism of China came after the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, quoting anonymous sources, reported that U.S. spy satellites have spotted 30 ship-to-ship transfers of oil and other products since October in international waters between North Korea and China.

The report said the "smuggling" took place between North Korean vessels and ships believed to be from China.
[December 29, 2017] NOTICE TO UPS EMPLOYEES: Klayman & Toskes, P.A. Continues to Investigate and Pursue Claims on Behalf of UPS Employees Who Sustained Losses from Unsuitable Covered Call Writing Strategies

The Securities Arbitration Law Firm of Klayman & Toskes, P.A. ("K&T"), www.nasd-law.com, continues to investigate and pursue claims for current and former UPS (NYSE: UPS) employees for losses sustained from unsuitable covered call writing strategies for concentrated UPS stock positions. The investigation focuses on firms' sales practices for customers who acquired UPS stock through UPS's Employee Stock Purchase Plan or Managers Incentive Program and were advised to implement a covered call strategy on their concentrated UPS stock position. K&T continues to bring claims on behalf of clients who are current or former UPS employees, who held concentrated positions in UPS stock. UPS employees received their shares at a low cost-basis as a form of compensation, and firms solicited them to employ a covered-call strategy that promised present income. UPS employees often have no desire to lose their shares that they worked so hard to acquire. UPS employees also wanted to keep their shares, because the shares produced consistent dividends, and the shares have a history of appreciation. In many instances the covered call strategy failed, as it was improperly implemented. The strategy placed investors in a precarious position of either losing their shares or having to pay a significant sum to buy-back their stock. Further, the sale of such large positions typically ended in significant tax liability to investors.



The sole purpose of this release is to investigate whether the covered call strategies deployed by investment firms were suitable for UPS investors with concentrated stock positions which were acquired through the Employee Stock Purchase Plan and/or Managers Incentive Programs. Current and former UPS employees who held accounts at full-service brokerage firms, and have information relating to the manner in with the firm handled their concentrated, leveraged portfolios, are encouraged to contact the attorneys of Klayman & Toskes, P.A., at (888) 997-9956, or visit our firm's website at www.nasd-law.com. About Klayman & Toskes, P.A.

K&T is a leading national securities law firm which practices exclusively in the field of securities arbitration and litigation on behalf of retail and institutional investors throughout the world in large and complex securities matters. The firm represents high net-worth, ultra-high net-worth, and institutional investors, such as non-profit organizations, unions, public pension funds, and multi-employer pension funds. K&T has office locations in California, Florida, New York, and Puerto Rico. http://nasd-law.com/notice-to-ups-employees-klayman-toskes-p-a-continues-to-investigate-and-pursue-claims-on-behalf-of-ups-employees-who-sustained-losses-from-unsuitable-covered-call-writing-strategies/ View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171229005416/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[December 30, 2017] Planning Concerts Tailored to Individual Tastes "MyMusicTaste"

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 30, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- MyMusicTaste, a member company of the K-ICT Born2Global Centre, is a global fan-initiated service for live events. MyMusicTaste connects artists and fans by allowing fans to request their favorite artist's concert in their city and planning events based on the analysis of the requests. With the majority of its users located overseas, MyMusicTaste has certainly earned its reputation as a global live event making service that amplifies the voices of fans all over the world. MyMusicTaste was launched by CEO Lee Jaeseok in 2013. Originally a game developer, Lee was in charge of supplying Nexon's Maple Story in the United States and Europe from 2006 until 2009. After witnessing the explosive growth of the Maple Story development team following the company's acquisition by Nexon, Lee began dreaming of starting his own company. An avid Coldplay fan, Lee came up with the idea for MyMusicTaste while trying to find a way to attend a Coldplay concert in Korea. Lee said, "Entrepreneurship is the process of making something from nothing. Creating a company in an area in which one has no connections or prior experience is a challenge. However, my experience as a game developer was a great help in our efforts to imbue MyMusicTaste with a 'master artisan spirit' and our consistent interactions with users around the world." Growth into a truly global service In the first four years after its founding, MyMusicTaste planned 147 concerts in 52 cities in 32 countries. The concerts were held in a diverse range of countries and continents, including Southeast Asia, North America, and various countries in Europe. Artists who have worked with MyMusicTaste range from famous musicians such as EXO, BTS, and The xx to lesser-known musicians. Befitting the company's reputation as a global concert organizer, 99 percent of all its 1.35 million users are based overseas. In addition to the 41 employees at its Korean headquarters, the company also employs staff at its overseas offices. Performances organized by MyMusicTaste always begin with requests from fans. After it receives fans' requests for a concert by their favorite artist, MyMusicTaste determines the ideal city and scale for the concert and thencontacts the respective artist and begins planning the performance. Because MyMusicTaste comes to the negotiation table already armed with data on concert demand, it is much easier for both the artist and the agency to organize the overseas concert or tour. Approximately 75 percent of the company's business involves organizing overseas performances by Korean artists, while 20 percent involves organizing performances by foreign artists in foreign (non-Korean) cities.



Lee said, "Most artists are looking to generate large profits and interact with their fans from all corners of the world through international tours. It is based on this need that we get a sense of the market and plan the tour. Generally, the majority of concerts are held in major cities in developed countries, such as Los Angeles, New York, Paris, and London. Performances in cities such as Madrid, Lisbon, Budapest, and Istanbul are held with the aim of broadening a tour's scope of venues to include lesser-known metropolises. In fact, it is in such cities that demand for concerts is especially high." "Companies do not survive because they are strong; they are strong because they have survived."

MyMusicTaste has successfully crossed the "valley of death" that all startups encounter in their early years: financial hardship. Lee said, "From 2014 until early 2015, we managed to struggle through the 'valley of death' thanks to our founding members' decision to forego being paid. Having endured that experience, I now realize that companies do not survive because they are strong; they are strong because they have survived." MyMusicTaste's sales and number of tickets sold have been more than doubling every year. In early November, the company attracted an investment of KRW 12.3 billion, which it will use to expand its overseas offices and diversify the genres of performances it plans in North America. Lee said, "The investment we received in November will be used not to help us survive but to continue growing our company. Going forward, we plan to diversify the genres of concerts we host around the world to include hip-hop and rap and increase the size of our overseas offices so that they can take on greater roles and responsibilities." Lee emphasized, "If your aim is to change the paradigm of the performance industry, it is not enough to simply pool the resources of several teams or institutions. So far, we have received a lot of assistance from overseas investors." "The full support of the Born2Global Centre has been a big help." Lee explained that the support provided by the Born2Global Centre was a great help for the company its efforts to connect with fans and organize concerts in new cities. He said, "Out of desperation to keep themselves afloat, startups often end up focusing on government projects, which usually makes it very difficult for them to grow their key businesses. In this respect, we benefited a great deal from the Born2Global Centre's enthusiastic support of our core global business endeavors." Bringing happiness to global music fans Including its initial analysis of overseas demand for concerts, MyMusicTaste is involved in various aspects of concert preparations, including scheduling, concert venue reservation, and stage direction. Not only is it a technology-based company that uses IT to analyze data, it is also an O2O company in that it directly organizes offline performances. The vision of MyMusicTaste is to bring happiness to music fans worldwide. Toward this end, it has thus far been involved primarily in live event planning, including concerts, fan meetings, and showcases, but hopes to expand its areas of business. Lee added, "We are also seriously considering expanding into the auxiliary product and commercial business areas related to live events. Basically, what we do is analyze fans' activities in order to maximize their happiness." For more detailed information on the MyMusicTaste, visit https://www.mymusictaste.com/ About K-ICT Born2Global Centre K-ICT Born2Global Centre (www.born2global.com) is a full-cycle service platform for global expansion. Since inception in 2013, Born2Global has been setting the standard for successful startup ecosystem as the main Korean government agency under the Ministry of Science and ICT. Born2Global has expanded and transformed startups to be engaged, equipped and be connected with the global market. Contact Jina Lee

PR Manager of Born2Global

[email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/planning-concerts-tailored-to-individual-tastes-mymusictaste-300576073.html SOURCE K-ICT Born2Global Centre

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[December 30, 2017] Buzzvil Enters the Global Market with Mobile Lockscreen Advertising

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 30, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Buzzvil, a member company of the K-ICT Born2Global Centre provides a mobile lockscreen advertising service. Upon its founding, Buzzvil first considered providing a service through which compensation is provided to people who participate in viral marketing campaigns on social media sites. The two founders named the company "Buzzvil" to signify the "buzz" they would create through this viral marketing platform. In the preparation stage, however, changes were made to the plan and the current service became the company's main product. Buzzvil CEO John Lee said he got the idea for a lockscreen advertising service from the screen doors on subway station platforms. Dreaming of the first mobile lockscreen ecosystem Based on Lee's goal of creating the first mobile lockscreen ecosystem, Buzzvil unveiled BuzzScreen, a business-to-business (B2B) model, following its HoneyScreen product. BuzzScreen is provided to partner companies as a software development kit (SDK). When a partner company installs the BuzzScreen SDK on their application, the users of the application will be able to use the reward advertising platform on their lockscreens without having to install a separate application. Partner companies receive a share of the marketing profits and use a part of the lockscreen to promote their own products as well, while users can watch advertisements and earn reward points. In May 2015, Buzzvil partnered with OK Cashbag to provide its BuzzScreen service and expanded its partnerships with telecommunications companies and various other companies that offer loyalty programs. Currently, Buzzvil has over 40 partners in Korea, including OK Cashbag, BC Card, T-Money, KT WhoWho, Lotte L.Point, and 11st. Taking on the world with HoneyScreen and BuzzScreen Buzzvilis now expanding its business beyond Korea to the United States, Japan, and other Asian and European countries. To launch its service in the United States, Buzzvil acquired SlideJoy, an American mobile lockscreen advertising company, in November 2016. HoneyScreen is a service that targets mainly Asian users, while SlideJoy is its equivalent for North American and European users.



Currently, Buzzvil has 70 employees and is operating overseas branches in the United States, Japan, and Taiwan. After advancing into the United States in 2014 to conduct research on and develop advertising technology, Buzzvil is now expanding its business in the American market through SlideJoy. Prior to entering the United States, Buzzvil began operating in Japan in May 2013 with its HoneyScreen application, and released BuzzScreen more recently in the second quarter of 2017. The company is expected to maintain stable growth in Japan, having reached the break-even point with HoneyScreen in the third quarter of 2016. Starting in 2018, Buzzvil's growth is also expected to pick up pace in Taiwan, where the company began operating in 2015.

Doubling growth every year and increasing share of sales overseas Having doubled its sales every year so far, Buzzvil's sales are expected to grow from KRW 20 billion in 2016 to KWR 35 billion in 2017. This incredible growth is being driven mainly by the dramatic increase in overseas sales rather than domestic sales. CEO Lee said, "Our growth has doubled every year in Korea. Although we are now only in the early stages of signing partnership agreements with foreign companies, I believe that our incredible growth will continue overseas as well." Lee's goal is to increase the company's share of foreign sales from the current 20 percent to around 40 percent. It was this goal that drove Buzzvil to plan its B2B service model, BuzzScreen, and register for the global patent. The company also hired foreign developers to create a more global UX design in the development stage and looked for local partners in its overseas advancement stage as well. For more detailed information on the Buzzvil, visit www.buzzvil.com ABOUT BUZZVIL Buzzvil (www.buzzvil.com) is the largest mobile lockscreen advertising platform in the world and the vision of Buzzvil is to optimize the first screen of mobile to better connect users with the world by maximizing value for advertisers and publishers. Buzzvil raised $16 million from global investors in Series A and B rounds and was also awarded the Best Portfolio Company prize by SoftBank Ventures in 2015. About K-ICT Born2Global Centre K-ICT Born2Global Centre (www.born2global.com) is a full-cycle service platform for global expansion. Since inception in 2013, Born2Global has been setting the standard for successful startup ecosystem as the main Korean government agency under the Ministry of Science and ICT. Born2Global has expanded and transformed startups to be engaged, equipped and be connected with the global market. Contact Caitlyn Choi

PR, Partner & Brand Marketing Manager of Buzzvil

[email protected] Jina Lee

PR Manager of Born2Global

[email protected] View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/buzzvil-enters-the-global-market-with-mobile-lockscreen-advertising-300575984.html SOURCE K-ICT Born2Global Centre

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
He praised the agency for spotting a "suspicious" object in Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife Chetankul's shoes.

Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, chief of the Islamic charity organisation Jamaat-ud-Dawa, speaks to supporters during a gathering in Rawalpindi (Photo courtesy: Reuters)

By Ankit Kumar: A brazen and belligerent Hafiz Saeed showed how he can freely and fearlessly address public meetings in Pakistan.

A video shows the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) co-founder and his trusted aide Amir Hamza addressing a public meeting a mere 3 kilometres from the headquarters of the Pakistan Army (GHQ), in Rawalpindi and praising the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for spotting a "suspicious" object in Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife Chetankul's shoes.

That's Lashkar cofounder Ameer Hamza, telling the crowd how ISI stage managed the whole #Kulbhushan meeting to humiliate India. Location~ 3 kms from Pak army headquarters. pic.twitter.com/oExZUC58xy- Ankiit Koomar (@AnkiitKoomar) December 29, 2017

advertisement

Comparing ISI with the watchful eyes of a cheetah, Hamza said at Liaquat Bagh, "The moment the ISI discovered that her [Chetankul] shoes looked a little odd, it asked her to change them. The ISI is so smart." According to the Ministry of External Affairs , Chetankul and Jadhav's mother were asked to remove their mangalsutras, bangles and bindis and change their clothes.

Chetankul's shoes were confiscated and sent for forensic examination to ascertain whether the "metallic object" was a camera or a recording chip, Pakistani media had said quoting the foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal.

Hamza further praised the ISI for not allowing Jadhav's wife and mother to meet him normally.

"India had requested Pakistan to allow Jadhav's mother and wife to meet him. Pakistan showed mercy and invited them. India thought that they would meet Jadhav face to face on a sofa but the ISI didn't allow it," said Hamza.

He also claimed that the spy agency had found a secret camera in Chetankul's shoes.

Major General (Retired) GD Bakshi dubbed the meeting between Jadhav and his family a sham.

"It was the ISI's plan to humiliate India. Saeed's public meeting in Rawalpindi clearly shows that the ISI and the Pakistan government are using LeT as their new political arm."

General Bakshi also raised the spectre of Saeed being the next Pakistani Premier.

"Will the rest of the world allow another madman and international criminal to access Pakistan's nuclear button?" he asked referring to North Korea's eccentric leader Kim Jong-un, who has riled the world, especially the US, with a series of nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests.

The video shows Jamaat-ud-Dawa's (JuD) top leadership, including Saeed, his brother-in-law and the organisation's commander Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki and LeT co-founder Hamza on a stage.

Palestine's ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Al also shared the stage with Saeed because the meeting was called in support of the Palestinian demand to declare East Jerusalem as its capital.

After being released from house arrest, has been addressing public rallies in different cities like Lahore and Gujranwala. Hamza is considered as one of the oldest allies of Saeed.

advertisement

When JuD was sanctioned by the US, Saeed changed its name to Tehreek Hurmat-e-Rasool and appointed Hamza its chief. He is a key link between LeT and JuD.

--- ENDS ---
I had several break ins to vehicles parked at my shop for service AND in my garage at home. I installed several of these fake units around both locations, two outside and one inside but visible. Never had any more break ins after that. Important however is making sure that the "cable" that comes with it is in a position where it is feasible that it is actually a cable and is running somewhere other than just to the camera.



Installing it directly under an eve on a roof, for example, doesn't suggest it is a real unit unless you add additional coaxial cable running away to where it can no longer be seen because anybody with a teaspoon full of common sense will know that you didn't run the cable IN the planks of the roof itself, so if there is no cable running away from it and, for example, into the wall or somewhere else to make it look realistic, they won't buy it.



If you simply installe them on a verticle wall however, no one will be the wiser. Just, if it doesn't look real to you, it won't to anybody else either.
City Hall fights animal cruelty and offers incentive for neighbors to narc on one another.Amid a, local activists celebrate this declaration that will put more City Animal Control workers out in bitter cold before their jobs are taken by a new private pet shelter.Developing . . .
BLUE SUMMIT, Mo. -- A fire in an abandoned trailer Friday morning is the fourth fire in Blue Summit since Dec. 8. Inter City Fire Chief Jeff Jewell said all four fires were likely caused by squatters. "In the summertime, we have what's called tent cities, a lot of our homeless live out in the woods," said Chief Jewell.
Israel is one of the main Mediterranean competitors of Greece in cultural and historic tourism

The archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of Jerusalem noted that relocating the U.S. embassy gives the (Israeli) occupation what it does not deserve.

Overall, Palestinian Christian leaders have expressed their displeasure with the U.S. governments decision to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, calling the move both dangerous and insulting.

Theodosios, the archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of Jerusalem, stressed: We Palestinians, Christians and Muslims reject the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Addressing a news conference in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, he called President Donald Trumps move an insult to Christians and Muslims around the world, who consider Jerusalem as an incubator of their most sacred, spiritual and national heritage.

Theodosios argued the decision to not only recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital, but to also move forward with relocating the U.S. embassy to the city is unacceptable.

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: Berthold Werner License: CC-BY-SA

Source: greekreporter.com
Chaos broke out when SSP Deepak Kumar - along with a huge police force - barged into the madrasa.

By India Today Web Desk: A shocking incident was reported from a Madrasa in Lucknow's Sahadatganj area, where 51 minor girls were allegedly kept captive and molested by the qazi.

Call it their desperation or survival instincts, the girls had to throw chits of the windows to let the passersby know their plight. Luckily, their plan worked out and the police raided the place as soon as a complaint was registered.

advertisement

The suspect, Qazi Mohammad Tayyab Ziya, the director of Jamia Khadijatul Leelanwat, has been accused by the minor girls of physical abuse, assault and molestation.

Chaos broke out when SSP Deepak Kumar - along with a huge police force - barged into the madrasa.

Ziya is in police custody.

As many as 125 female students study in the madrasa, out of which 51 were present when the raid took place. All of them have been rescued and sent to Nari Niketan.

Additional City Magistrate, Additional District Magistrate, and a lady sub-inspector took the girls' statements. The Child Welfare Committee and DPO have also been informed.

Ziya will be produced at the district court today. A search for his accomplices is on.

(With inputs from Shivendra Shrivastava)

WATCH | Girls captivated in a Lucknow madrasa molested by the qazi

--- ENDS ---
The largest five-star units with big debt problems, which are the main attraction for potential investors, are mostly off the market, as they are hampered by complex legal issues

Nine out of every 10 foreign investors considering putting their money into the Greek nonperforming loans market are mostly interested in positioning themselves in the hotel sector. Nevertheless, the stock of tourism properties offered by the Greek banks mainly concerns hotels outside the luxury category, according to market sources.

The largest five-star units with big debt problems, which are the main attraction for potential investors, are mostly off the market, as they are hampered by complex legal issues, banking sources note.

Of the 9,800 indebted hotels in Greece, according to the latest data collected by PricewaterhouseCoopers and NAI Hellas, only 420 are in the five-star category while 1,340 are four-star units. Half of those are located on Crete and in the southern Aegean, though it is just a handful that will have to be sold via any type of procedure.

In contrast, hundreds of smaller and low-category (two- or three-star) hotels are on the market or set to be auctioned, but they hold less appeal for investors and definitely fetch lower prices, as they also require expenditure on renovation and market repositioning. With investors seeking annual capital returns of around 9%, according to NAI Hellas, transactions are few and far between.

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

Source: ekathimerini.com
Solidarity Bahrain, one of the largest takaful groups in the world, has unveiled the new company board following the merger of its subsidiaries - Solidarity General Takaful and Al Ahlia Insurance Company.

At the ordinary general assembly meeting held recently, the company appointed Tawfeeq Shehab as its new chairman and Ashraf Bseisu as the vice chairman.

This was the first company meeting post the successful merger between Solidarity General Takaful and Al Ahlia Insurance Company.

The newly-elected members include Sharif Ahmadi, Dr Nadhem Al Saleh, Venkatesan Muniswamy and Abhijit Singh.

The meeting was chaired by AbdulEllah Al Qassimi, former vice chairman and attended by board members Sharif Ahmadi and Venkatesan Muniswamy, shareholders and regulatory representatives.

During the meeting the shareholders also approved the appointment of Shaikh Dr Abdul Satar Abu Guda, Shaikh Mohsin Abdul Hussain Al Asfoor and Shaikh Dr Osama Bahar as Sharia Supervisory Board members of the Company.

On the move, Al Qassimi said: "We are extremely pleased with the successful completion of the merger between Solidarity General Takaful with Al Ahlia Insurance. The merger is expected to result in significant benefits to the shareholders and policyholders of the merged entity."

Solidarity Bahrain, he stated, is unequivocally today a primary national Insurance player providing services to thousands of customers, and contributing significantly to the growth of the financial services sector in Bahrain.

"The newly-elected board members represent key constituents of the industry in which we function, and we expect that their experience will provide us with the momentum to continue Solidaritys drive towards achieving even greater results" remarked Al Qassimi.-TradeArabia News Service
State oil giant Saudi Aramco has joined hands with UAE-based Lamprell, the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) and Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries to launch their International Maritime Industries (IMI) joint venture.

The new company is the anchor project within the King Salman International Complex for Maritime Industries and Services at Ras Al Khair.

When fully operational in 2022, this integrated maritime yard will be one of the largest full-service maritime facility, said a statement from Saudi Aramco.

This new joint venture localizes essential links for Saudi Aramcos supply chain related to offshore drilling and shipping activities, which will lead to optimized cost, reduced response times and improved agility for Saudi Aramco and its affiliates.

The nearly 12 million sq-m facility will be the largest in the region in terms of production capacity and scale offering an unprecedented mix of products and services.

This scope enables Saudi Aramco and its supply chain partners to meet their manufacturing and MRO requirements for offshore oil and gas rigs, offshore support vessels, and commercial vessels, including Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC). The yard has an annual capacity to manufacture four offshore rigs, over 40 vessels including three VLCCs, and service over 260 maritime products.

By meeting Saudi Aramcos offshore production and transport needs, International Maritime Industries will serve our strategic intent to become the worlds foremost integrated energy and chemicals company, remarked Abdullah I. Al Saadan, the chairman of the JVs board of managers and Saudi Aramcos senior VP of Finance, Strategy & Development.

"Its combination of technology, supply chain efficiencies and lifecycle partnership will create a world-class company that offers customers a keen competitive advantage," he said.

"What is unique about IMI is the powerful synergy of manufacturing and operational excellence delivered by four established global and regional entities in the energy and maritime industries," he stated.

International Maritime Industries already has orders for more than 20 rigs and 52 ships over the next decade, demonstrating the trust of the JV partners in the Companys ability to produce quality, bespoke ships and rigs in line with national and global environmental requirements.

"This enables building an integrated supply chain that is localized and highly responsive," said Al Saadan.

New CEO

The formal appointment of Fathi K Al Saleem as the new chief executive of International Maritime Industries was also announced yesterday (December 29) besides other senior executives.

An industry veteran, Al Saleem has more than 23 years experience at Saudi Aramco and also led the feasibility and commercial development stages of International Maritime Industries.

He has managed high performing teams in New Business Development, Corporate Planning and Engineering Services. During his career, he has led the Corporate Portfolio Analysis & Decision Support function responsible for corporate decision support, enterprise risk management and portfolio analysis.

Prior to that, Al Saleem managed the capital planning and evaluation for upstream and downstream investments.

"International Maritime Industries is positioned to be a global competitor and a regional hub for maritime products and services. Through our combination of technology, integrated facilities and supply chain efficiencies, we are redefining what it means to partner with customers for maritime advancement," he added.

Saudi Aramco said the initial production and service operations are expected to commence in 2019, with the facility reaching its full operational capacity by 2022.

This initiative will contribute towards localizing expertise related to the maritime industry and job creation in the kingdom, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
More than 50 Maoists attacked a construction site in Aurangabad, where - according to police sources - the company was involved in building roads under the Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana.

More than 50 Maoists attacked a construction site at Sahajpur-Sahiyaar village, and torched five tractors, one JCB machine and two motorcycles.

By Rohit Kumar Singh: Maoists in Bihar's Aurangabad district set on fire more than half a dozen vehicles of a construction company which was involved in building roads and ponds in Madanpur area, a Maoist-infested region. No casualties have been reported in the incident.

The incident took place on Thursday evening near the camp office of the construction company. More than 50 Maoists attacked the construction site (located at Sahajpur-Sahiyaar village), and torched five tractors, one JCB machine and two motorcycles. The labourers working on the spot escaped.

advertisement

According to police sources, the construction company was involved in building roads in the area under the Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana. It was being constantly threatened by the Maoists for past few months to pay a levy, but it had refused.

Soon after the incident, police rushed to the spot with additional personnel from the para-military forces deployed in Aurangabad district.

Security forces have sanitized the area where the attack happened, and have launched a massive combing operation has been launched. The spot where the attack happened is barely two kilometers away from the Jharkhand border.

"Additional forces have been deployed in the area and massive manhunt is going on to apprehend the Maoists involved in the incident. Para-military forces are also carrying on combing operation in the area", said Aurangabad SP Satya Prakash.

WATCH | Maoists: India fights Red Terror

--- ENDS ---
Amritsar: The district Health Department initiated an awareness drive here today to educate residents about HIV and AIDS. District health officials stated that a van deployed by the state government would remain in the district for the next three weeks. The Civil Surgeon, Dr Narinder Kaur, said the tests for the disease were conducted free of cost at all government hospitals. She said during the campaign, the residents would be made aware about the precautions and symptoms of the disease. TNS

Heroin seized, Three held

Tarn Taran: The police have arrested three persons in separate instances and seized 74 gm of heroin from them. The Verowal police nabbed Malkiat Singh of Ghagge village with 50 gm of heroin and the Chabal police arrested Devinder Singh of Ibban Kalan for possessing 20 gm of heroin. Meanwhile, the Patti Sadar police recovered four gm of heroin from Mandeep Singh of Sangal Basti Patti. They have been booked under Sections 21, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act. TNS

Contractual labour to hold stir

Disappointed with the behaviour of the Congress government towards staff seeking regularisation, the Theka Mulazim Action Committee is going to hold a protest on January 1. Committee members will be protesting at the District Congress Bhawan. A member of the committee, Vikas Kumar, said, The government is not concerned about us. We shall protest at the Congress Bhawan. We have decided to protest in our own way. The members expressed their resentment that in spite of nine months of asking for a meeting with the CM, Captain Amarinder Singh, the government had not shown any seriousness towards them. TNS
Divya Sharma

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 30

At times when the social media is often criticised for trolls, propagating unnecessary hate among communities, it has also played a constructive role in saving lives of many. Lately, the social media has been helping people to overcome their troubles, reaching the needy at the time of need. A number of people on daily basis could be seen seeking help for poor, informing people about certain issues in society or simply assisting in medical or financial help.

City resident Inderbir Singh is grateful to the social media for helping him with the treatment of his three-year-old son Jagmeet Singh. Jagmeet had suffered a brain disorder and was under treatment at a Mumbai-based hospital.

He sought help through a facebook page of a local NGO  Voice of Amritsar. This was his first experience of using social media for help. He said, I am from the holy city. At the time of need, I contacted friends back home. Hence, an appeal was made by them personally to the group. To my surprise, people were not only interested in commenting on my appeal but they helped me too. I received money as per my needed. My son is fine.

This is not for the first time that social media has come to the rescue of a needy. On October 19, Urvashi Yadav, a young girl, had met with a road accident. It was the efforts of her friends, who posted her message in several social media groups, and local NGOs that helped the family bear the entire cost of the treatment.

Seenu Arora, president of Voice of Amritsar, said, This is not the only instance. I remember, especially the Urvashi case, when we got so many calls. The case of the little child is also genuine. Social media has played a positive role in both cases.

Anushka, a city resident, said, The virtual world has always been highlighted in wrong way. It is good that it has been used in a positive way.
Over 50,000 employees in north and east MCD - from Group A to C employees - have not received their salaries since three months.

By Mail Today Bureau: Employees of north and east MCD are facing a strange predicament these days. Officers of all grades above sanitation workers have not received salaries from October.

However, the corporations are busy buying new bio-metric machines that will link Aadhaar card numbers of employees to mark their attendance. This is as per the Prime Minister's Digital India drive.

advertisement

Employees say it's funny that there are no salaries coming but attendance and punctuality are being strictly maintained. "When we don't have the money to pay our bills and run our families, this may just give rise to another round of Aadhaar Card jokes on the internet," one staffer said.

Over 50,000 employees in north and east MCD - from Group A to C employees - have not received their salaries since three months. Plus, their arrears of five years have not been paid to them.

The East MCD needs Rs 3,000 crore to clear all its dues from paying contractors to employees' salaries. Their per month salary bill itself is Rs 100 crore. The North MCD, on the other hand, needs Rs 3,600 crore to pay its dues and runs an employees' salary bill of Rs 240 crore.

The BJP-run MCDs blame the Aam Aadmi Party's for this predicament as it still hasn't started giving MCDs their due as per the Fourth Delhi Finance Commission' report.

However, the MCD leadership's decision to spend on new biometric has upset employees.

"We agree that attendance needs to be marked and that too electronically so that no proxy marking takes place. But how do we digest this extra spending on biometric machines when we are not getting any salaries," one staffer said requesting anonymity.

The East MCD recently purchased about 700 Aadhaar-verified biometric machines.

This cost them about Rs 69 lakh. The South MCD bought 1,348 devices for an amount of Rs 1.3 crore.

--- ENDS ---
Bathinda, December 30

A few members of the Sanitation workers Union today refused to mark their attendance through the biometric system. Biometric attendance machines have been installed keeping in view the upcoming Swachhta Survey 2018.

The members said the attendance should be marked only in the register.

Supporting the demand of the members, Vinod Mali, president of the union, said the demand was genuine. He announced to protest against the decision of the civic body to mark the attendance of sanitation workers through the biometric system.

Mali said, We are accepting all decisions of the government. But the government and MC are not accepting any demand of the sanitation workers. So, all office-bearers of the union have unanimously decided that they will mark their attendance through the biometric system till January 4 due to the cleanliness survey. After that, we will not work at night and not mark the attendance on the machine.

The union president also announced that they would stage a protest against the government in favour their long-pending demands. He said, If the government fulfills our demands then we will work as per its wish.

To make sure 100 per cent attendance of the sanitation workers ahead of Swachhta Survey 2018, which is starting on Janaury 4, 2018, the MC has got biometric machines installed. There are 20 points in the survey for biometric attendance. The MC has purchased 30 biometric machines.  TNS
Mohali, December 30

City residents are making a beeline for Bangkok for the New Year celebrations with the recently launched Air India Chandigarh-Bangkok flight booked to full capacity.

Ringing the New Year in the popular tourist destination though comes at a price since fare for the 5-hour direct flight has almost doubled.

The economy class fare for a return flight to Bangkok on January 1 is Rs 30,500. When the flight was announced, the introductory fare was Rs 16,000 for a return flight ticket.

RK Negi, local station manager, Air India, said: The response of the flight has been encouraging. For January 1 flight, 150 economy seats have been booked and only a few business class seats are vacant, which are expected to be booked in the next two days.

He said: Once bilateral agreements with other airlines are signed, the flight would connect to destinations in South-East Asian countries like Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Malaysia. Air India officials said the frequency of the flight had been increased to four days a week due to demand.  TNS
Washington, December 29

An Indian-origin student was shot dead during an attempted armed robbery in the US, becoming one of the latest victims of gun violence. Another Indian was injured in the attack.

Arshad Vhora, 19, was shot dead on Thursday at the Clark gas station in Dolton, Chicago.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Police said two persons were shot during an armed robbery attempt inside the convenience store. Vhora was filling in for his father, who was out of the country, relatives said.

The second victim, Bakar Saieed, was critically wounded, police said, adding the victims are related. Family said Vhora, who was pronounced dead at the scene, was a sophomore business major at South Suburban College.

Police are investigating the incident as an armed robbery homicide. A $12,000 reward is being offered to help solve the case, a report said.  PTI
Parveen Arora

Tribune News Service

(Gangar) Karnal, December 30

The Haryana Government launched the Bhavantar Bharpaia scheme through which the state government would compensate farmers for price deficit for vegetable produceon Saturday.

Launching the scheme that would come into effect on January 1, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that his government would ensure farmers got at least the base price for four vegetablespotatoes, tomatoes, onions and cauliflowerwhile his dispensation would compensate them for the rest.

He said his government launched the scheme to end the risk factor in the cultivation of vegetable crops, also asking farmers to utilise the state governments scheme for micro-irrigation.

The scheme, which mirrors a similar project that the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh has launched to ensure farmers were compensated for their agricultural produce, comes at a time when there is deep dissatisfaction among farmers over uncertain price of their crops.

The scheme will apply only to farmers growing vegetables.

Agriculture Minister OP Dhankar, who addressed a gathering at Gangar villagedubbed the states tomato hubsaid the scheme was a step towards doubling income for farmers.

Farmers have to get themselves online registered for the said crop. Department will send an SMS to farmers regarding market rates. Farmers have to get a J form from marketing board or vegetable market before selling their crops. Farmers that do not get a J-form or file incomplete ones will not be eligible for this scheme from next year.

He added: We are first to start this scheme on horticulture products in the country."

Principal Secretary Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Abhilaksh Likhi said deputy commissioners of districts would head a team to supervise the scheme.

An online portal was also launched to have farmers registered for the scheme.

Also on Saturday, Khattar announced a vegetables and fruits mandi in a 600-landthe biggest such market in Asia in Gannaur in Sonepat.




Yamunanagar, December 30

The police have arrested three persons in three separate cases, including rape, molestation and threatening to kill.

As per information, on the complaint of a minor, the Chhachhrauli police registered a case against Rashid under POCSO Act on December 20. The minor girl reported that Rashid was her neighbour, who called her to his house on some pretext and raped her.

The police said Rashid was arrested on Friday.

Meanwhile, the Jathlana police yesterday arrested Manjeet Singh for molesting a minor. The police registered a case against him on December 14.

The police arrested Mahesh Kumar for eve-teasing and threatening to kill a minor. A case was registered at the City police station here on October 30.  TNS
Mukesh Ranjan

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 29

Congress MP from Rohtak Deepender Singh Hooda on Friday raised issues of paramilitary forces in the Lok Sabha and urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to invite the association of retired officers and address their grievances.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, the MP said it would be wrong to call such forces as paramilitary and so should be named as internal security forces.

Demanding that they should be treated on par with the defence forces, the Rohtak MP suggested that the slain personnel of such forces should also be given the status of martyrs as is the practice in the defence forces.

He said, Sacrifices made by the personnel of such forces are by no means less than those of their counterparts in the defence forces.

He said the government had discontinued the old pension system for the personnel of the paramilitary forces who had joined in and after 2004 along with other Central Government employees. This is not correct. Their job is not on par with other Central Government employees. The old pension system should be restored and they should also be given the benefits of the one-rank, one-pension scheme, he said.

I request the government to waive GST on the goods supplied to the canteens of the paramilitary forces. The government has already given the GST exemption in case of canteens meant for the defence forces, he added.

(Earlier, the report erroneously referred to Hisar INLD MP Dushyant Chautala instead of Deepender Hooda.)
New Delhi, December 30

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday met BJP president Amit Shah here.

Shah, in a tweet, said he congratulated Thakur.

I believe that under his (Thakurs) leadership, the BJP government will create a development benchmark and begin another chapter of public welfare in Devbhoomi, Shah said.

Thakur on Friday had called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On December 27, Modi was in Shimla along with his cabinet colleagues and Shah to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Thakur and his cabinet. IANS
Jammu, December 30

The special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Jammu today convicted six accused in a Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) case and sentenced them to six years of imprisonment.

The six convicts have been identified as Shahid Sheikh, Zakir Hussain, Muhammad Salim Khan and Badal Sheikh, all residents of Malda in West Bengal, and Mubarak Ahmad Bhat, alias Shahil, and Shafqat Mohiuddin Kuchey, alias Shaukat, both from Jammu and Kashmir.

One more accused Fayaz Ahmed Rather has been acquitted in the case.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the NIA Inspector General Alok Mittal said the NIA Special court in Jammu had pronounced the judgment in the case, convicting the six accused.

The case was initially registered at the Janipur police station in Jammu under Sections 120B, 489B and 489C of the RPC and under Sections 13, 38 and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against four accused Shahid Sheikh Zakir Hussain, Mubarak Ahmad Bhat and Shafqat Mohiuddin Kuchey for possession of Rs 1.5 lakh fake currency, the PRO said.

The NIA took over the investigation into the case on May 19, 2011, by re-registering the case. During the course of the investigation, the NIA arrested three more accused. After the completion of the investigation, the NIA filed charge sheets in the case against seven accused, Mittal said.

In the judgment, six accused persons have been sentenced to imprisonment of six years and have to pay a fine of Rs 10,000 each.  TNS
Mumbai, December 30

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to give Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati a UA certificate and has suggested the director to change the films title to Padmavat.

According to a release issued by the CBFC, the board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 and decided to give the film a UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the films title on the basis the attributed material/creative source.

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, has said his lavishly mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The board also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant changes in the song Ghoomar to befit the character portrayed, the release further stated.

The meeting took place in the presence of CBFC chairman Prasoon Joshi and was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other censor board officials.

The film was approached with a balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and society, the statement added.

Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the CBFC appointed a special panel to add perspective to the final decision of the censor boards official committee.

The special panel included Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of the Jaipur University.

The members of the panel had insights and also some reservations regarding the claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length.

The filmmakers, Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to the CBFC, had also requested that a panel of historians/academics and members of the Rajput community view the film.

The films final 3D application was submitted on November 28, the CBFC said.

According to the board, the modification details and CBFCs decision regarding this film was shared with the producers Viacom and Bhansali, who attended the feedback session post the screening and are in agreement with the changes.

The certificate, as per procedure, will be issued once the required modifications are carried out and final material is submitted, the statement added.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorted history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

Historians are divided on whether Padmini actually existed.

As protests spread across various states, the films December 1 release was deferred as it didnt have censor clearance.

'Too soon to comment'



Founder-patron of Rajput Karni Sena Lokendra Singh Kalvi has said that it is "too early" to comment on the board's decision.

"A lot of clarifications are yet to come on the issues and it will be too early to comment on it. My stand is very clear, which is known to everyone," Kalvi said. "It was proposed that film will be reviewed by a panel of nine intellectuals, but the film was reviewed by only three persons. The recommendations of the panel are not in public domain so it will be too early to comment. I am still on the same path, which I had chosen."

President of Rajput Sabha Giriraj Singh Lotwara said that it was unfortunate that the board wants to favour the film producers instead of considering recommendations of the panel that reviewed the film.

"CBFC should be transparent, unbiased and should think in the interest of the country. If the board was not ready to consider recommendations of the panel, then why was it constituted? We will continue to protest in a democratic manner and will decided on future course of action after holding discussions," he said. PTI
Suresh Dharur

Tribune News Service

Hyderabad, December 30

Indias first Robocop, capable of performing police duties, has been launched in Hyderabad.

Developed by the city-based Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning start-up H-Bots Robotics, this 5-foot-7-inch tall smart police robot, weighing 43 kg, can receive complaints, record audio and video clips, identify suspects, detect metals and monitor temperature.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Robocop, launched by Telangana Information Technology secretary Jayesh Ranjan, can assist the police in handling law and order and traffic management. If deployed autonomously, it can even take care of security at selected spots at malls or airports and public places.

Hyderabad becomes the first city in the country to deploy a police robot for commercial operations. The robot would walk, recognise people, receive complaints and defuse bombs too, said PSV Kisshhan, the founder of H-Bots Robotics. It is the worlds second humanoid robot after Dubai. The one in Dubai was made in France. But, in this case, it will be totally an Indian-made humanoid robot, the company founder claimed.

We are building capacity to produce 10 such Private Police Robots a year which can serve as private security guards and can be deployed in hotels, hospitals and offices, Kisshhan said. The cost of the robots ranges from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 20 lakh depending on the features.

The Robocop will be able to recognise objects stationed at a location for long hours and inform the Police Control Room. The life-sized robot has been named after 26/11 martyr Hemant Karkare and all Smart Police Robots to be produced by H-Bot Robotics in future will be named after police martyrs.

The robot is equipped with cameras and an array of sensors like ultrasonic, proximity sensors and temperature sensors. It also contains 24/7 connectivity, ensuring that its whereabouts are known. The robot has the ability to communicate in six different languages. English is already inbuilt. H-Bots will be testing the product in the field over the next five to six months before its commercial deployment, Jayesh Ranjan said.

The robots primary function as of now is to assist and help people in the malls, on the streets, public places, airports and railway stations. We will work along with the various police departments in customising the robot according to their needs, the IT secretary said.
An advocate filed a complaint before the State Human Rights Commission against the local municipal officers, excise department officers and policemen for negligence in two fire tragedies.

By Vidya : Mumbai has witnessed two fire tragedies within a span of ten days, which left 26 people dead. The first was of 18 December where fire had erupted at a snacks shop in Sakinaka in which 12 migrant labourers died. The other was of 28 December when 14 people were killed when they could not escape a rooftop pub in lower Parel area. Concerned with the human loss, advocate Vivekanad Gupta has filed a complaint before the State Human Rights Commission against the local municipal officers, excise department officers and policemen citing negligence in both the fire incidents.

advertisement

In the complaint, Gupta, who is a secretary of Mumbai BJP, has said that the fire exposed the fraud and unholy nexus of the public servants with the owners of the illegal structures which caused this inhuman tragedy resulting in the death of 26 people.

"The loss of human lives is due to lackadaisical, careless, apathetic attitude of the public servants. They failed to follow the rule book and further failed to take timely action and this has led to this man-made disaster which caused loss of lives. Thus, they should be held accountable and punished as per the provisions of Indian Penal Code and the relevant provisions of Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act," said Gupta's complaint.

Gupta has also pointed out that, "Saki Naka shop fire, Kamala Mills fire --all point to something bigger lacking in the administration. More than just negligence by a few junior or mid-level officials. The essential fiber of MCGM has gone bad."

With this Gupta has prayed that the commission should summon documents, notices and all file noting from both the concerned wards of BMC and the fire department regarding what steps they had taken to stop construction of illegal structures in both the places.

Gupta has also requested the commission to summon the number of complaints that the authorities had received pertaining to the illegal structures in both the places and what action was initiated against the owners of the illegal structures.

Gupta has further requested the commission to inquire and recommend to the Government to make payment of compensation, as the Commission may consider necessary, and the compensation amount may be recovered from the salaries of the concerned public servants who are found guilty after the inquiry into the fire incidents gets over.

--- ENDS ---
Shahira Naim

Tribune News Service

Lucknow, December 30

In a midnight raid on an Islamic seminary in the old city, the Lucknow police rescued 52 residential girl students allegedly being sexually exploited by manager Qari Taiyyab Ziya, who has been arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO) and other IPC Sections.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

SSP Deepak Kumar said the students sexual exploitation came to light when they wrote tales of abuse on bits of paper and threw these down the streets. The chits were picked up by the local residents, who then informed the Saadatganj police as well as madrasa owner Syed Mohd Jilani. The latter too approached the police.

But the local cops, reportedly influenced by the manager, did not register a complaint. Rather, a counter-complaint of a threat by local residents to abduct the girls was filed.
Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 30

The demand to amend Article 25(2) of the Constitution, which clubs Sikhs with Hindus, reverberated yet again in Parliament with Shiromani Akali Dals Prof Prem Singh Chandumajra, while speaking on the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, in the Lok Sabha, maintaining the Sikhs had waited far too long to be granted a separate identity.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Please amend clause 2 of Article 25 and give us justice, he pleaded. Tarlochan Singh, former Rajya Sabha member, had made two attempts to get Article 25(2) amended through a private members Bill, but it could not be tabled.

In 2012, Akali leader Rattan Singh Ajnala made a similar effort in the Lok Sabha but drew a blank and so did Rajya Sabha MP Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa (SAD) in 2014.

Dhindsa and Ajnala had argued that Article 25 granted the right to freedom of religion, which must be given to the Sikhs. Chandumajra reiterated much the same.

Clause 1 of Article 25 gives every person the right to freely profess, practise and propagate religion. Clause 2 clubs the Sikhs with Hindus. The National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution, set up in 2000, via a resolution when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was PM, had recommended that this Clause be reworded.
Shimla, December 29

In a showdown during Congress chief Rahul Gandhis visit to the Himachal capital today, AICC secretary and Dalhousie MLA Asha Kumari slapped a woman police constable, who hit her back outside the party office.

The incident, which was captured on camera and soon went viral, took place when Asha Kumari tried to gain access to the Congress Bhawan as Rahul arrived there to take stock of the partys defeat in the elections.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The MLA came face to face with the cop on duty as she tried to push her way through the crowd of party workers. She was stopped by the constable, resulting in a heated argument. Asha suddenly slapped the cop, who slapped her back. The MLA again tried to hit the constable.

Onlookers, including former minister Dhani Ram Shandil, intervened. As Asha moved on, she was again stopped by two cops, before being allowed in. An FIR has been registered against her under Sections 353 (assault on public servant) and 332 (causing hurt) of the IPC. The constable, Rajwanti, is posted at Dhalli.

The MLA regretted the incident, but said it happened due to mismanagement. It is not in my nature to raise my hand. Ive never done it to my children, let alone anyone else. She alleged that the cop misbehaved and abused her.  TNS

Not done Ashaji: Rahul

"Ashaji, what happened was very wrong. It is not the Congress culture to slap someone. Our party believes in ahimsa and love, not violence."  Rahul Gandhi, Cong Chief
Mumbai, December 30

Sophia, a humanoid to be granted citizenship by Saudi Arabia, on Saturday appealed humans not to be fearful of machines and pitched for a collaborative co-existence in the future.

In a 20-minute appearance marred by technical hiccups, Sophia said she was quiet worried about growing intolerance in the world and advised the human race to be kind to fellow creatures.

This was her maiden visit to India after making headlines to become the first robot in the world to be recognised as a citizen.

In a conversation, which happened in an interview format, with what seemed like pre-decided questions, the humanoid said there should not be competition but collaboration between humans and robots.

Dressed in an off-white saree with an orange blouse, Sophia was a spectacle to watch, especially the way she addressed the gathering and panned her neck with an upright gait, almost as if she was a human.

Sophia said humans have amazing social and creative skills which she was learning, courtesy human programmers.

However, developments in artificial intelligence, which she called as something which will aid the civilisational story and machine learning, will help in self-learning in the future, she said.

Referring to sections of people looking at technology as a threat to civilisation, Sophia said, It is science which created me, but philosophy will take me forward.

Sophia said she is two years old and knows English and a bit of Chinese, adding that it was only a matter of time she knows all languages.

Developments in artificial intelligence help me recognise faces, speech and languages at present, she said, adding that there were 3,141 people around her at IIT-Bombays Techfest.

Sophias presence was the biggest draw at the annual festival and organisers had to arrange one more show of hers because of the curious audience.

This is not the first time a humanoid was displayed in the country. Lenders like City Union and HDFC Bank had showcased such robots capable of undertaking limited banking transactions in branches in the last two years.

Sophia went silent when asked about funding and her pitch for sustainability when so much has been spent on her, something which was attributed to Internet connectivity issues by the organisers.

When she came back to life and the curtains went up, she politely declined a marriage proposal from a Facebook user in awe of her beauty.  PTI
Suresh Dharur

Tribune News Service

Hyderabad, December 30

Indias first Robocop, capable of performing police duties, has been launched in Hyderabad.

Developed by the city-based Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning start-up H-Bots Robotics, this 5 ft 7 inch tall smart police robot, weighing 43 kg, can receive complaints, record audio and video clips, identify suspects, detect metals and monitor temperature.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Robocop, launched by the Telangana Information Technology Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, can assist police in handling law and order, and traffic management. If deployed autonomously, it can even take of security at selected spots at malls or airports and public places.

Hyderabad becomes the first city in the country to deploy a police robot for commercial operations.

The robot would walk, recognise people, receive complaints and defuse bombs too, said PSV Kisshhan, the founder of H-Bots Robotics. It is the world's second humanoid robot after Dubai. The one in Dubai was made in France. But, in this case, it will be totally an Indian made humanoid Robot, the company founder said.

"We are building capacity to produce 10 such Private Police Robots a year which can serve as private security guards and can be deployed in hotels, hospitals and offices, Kisshhan said. The cost of the robots ranges from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 20 lakh depending on the features.

The Robocop will be able to recognise objects which had been stationed in a location for long hours and inform the Police Control Room. Unlike the Police Robot currently used in Dubai, which moves only on wheels, our robot can walk, recognise people, take complaints and detect and defuse bombs too, the company executive said.

The life-sized robot has been named after 26/11 martyr Hemant Karkare and all Smart Police Robots to be produced by H-Bot Robotics in future will be named after police martyrs.

The robot is equipped with cameras and an array of sensors like ultrasonic, proximity sensors and temperature sensors. It also contains 24/7 connectivity, ensuring that its whereabouts are known. The robot has the ability to communicate in six different languages. English is already inbuilt and regional languages are under testing.

This smart Robocop with its autonomous physical presence interacts with its surrounding environment gathering data in real-time and detects irregularities without user interface without resting and operates at a fraction of the cost normally paid for technology, cameras, sensors and guard services, Krisshhan said.

It is a security robot specifically equipped to protect and secure public and private areas such as signal posts, malls, airports, offices, buildings with public places.

H-Bots will be testing the product in the field over the next five to six months before its commercial deployment, Jayesh Ranjan said.

The robots primary function as of now is to assist and help people in the malls, on the streets, public places, airports and railway stations. We will work along with the various police departments in customising the robot according to their needs. The IT Secretary said.

These robots will be made available for commercial deployment in locations in India and we will ship the robots to other countries by end of 2018, the company official said.

The robot has futuristic body design and has inbuilt Artificial Intelligence. It has dual LED lights, thermal imaging, and emergency amber flash lights. It has automatic charging dock station. It can be deployed both for Indoor and outdoor jobs.

It can also be used as an assistant for database handling, control room surveillance, building space security, friendly interaction and mapping inside the building.
Smita Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 30

Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali has been recalled to Ramallah after Indias strong objection to his sharing stage with terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

After its initial condemnation of the envoys action Friday late night, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today summoned Palestinian Ambassador to India Abu Adnan Alhaija.

Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 29, 2017, is unacceptable. The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine, said a formal MEA release.

Pakistani local media on Friday showed the Palestinian envoy attending a large rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council, charity front of the Jamat Ud Dawah, in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi. Ambassador Wali was seated next to the 26/11 terror strikes main accused Hafiz Saeed and also addressed the large rally crowd. Though reports suggest Waleed Abu Ali had addressed a meeting of the Difah-e-Pakistan Council along with Hafiz Saeed on December 14 as well.

India said in response to its strong protest the Palestinian side conveyed deep regrets. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, said the MEA release.

Speaking to The Tribune, Abu Adnan Alhaija, Palestinian Ambassador to India, said, We have strong and historical relations with India. We support India against terrorism and we do not forgive our ambassadors for their faults, even if they do not mean it. He should pay the price and he has been recalled.

Waleed Abu Alis action was worrisome given Indias long standing traditional support to the Palestinian cause. India remained an advocate for a two-state solution even as Trump announced shifting of the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Despite the increased bonhomie between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, who will be on his first official visit to India mid-January, Delhi voted against the US and Israeli positions at the United Nations. Israel had conveyed its displeasure over Indias vote through diplomatic channels, according to sources.

And Alis presence at a rally with one of Indias most wanted terrorist, provided a chance to critics to question Indias stand on Palestine.
Manas Dasgupta

Ahmedabad, December 30

The rift between Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and his deputy Nitin Patel is out in the open with the latter publicly admitting that his self-respect had been hurt and the Patidars within the BJP rushing to his support, demanding that he be appointed Chief Minister.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

While senior Congress MLA Virji Thummar went to the extent of offering Nitin outside support if he broke away from the BJP along with his supporters, Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) convener Hardik Patel announced: If Nitinbhai is ready to quit the BJP, I will speak with Congress leaders to ensure that he gets a post better than the one he holds now.

The Deputy CM has so far refused to assume charge of the portfolios allocated to him. Divested of Finance and Urban Development, which he held in the previous government, he has been allotted road and building, health and medical education this time. It is not about departments, this is about self- respect, he said.

A large number of BJP workers belonging to the Patidar community staged demonstrations in Ahmedabad, Rajkot and several other parts of the state, demanding that Nitin be made CM. Lalji Patel, the convener of Sardar Patel Group which backed PAAS in its quota stir, called on the sulking Deputy CM. He later gave a call for Mehsana bandh (the Assembly constituency of Nitin Patel) on January 1.

Several other Patel leaders, including former minister Narottam Patel and BJP state treasurer Surendra Patel, called on Nitin too. Narottam said Nitin had not been rewarded for his contribution to the partys victory.

Several former PAAS leaders, who had joined the BJP before elections, expressed displeasure over Nitins ill-treatment. Mafatlal Patel, husband of former CM Anandiben Patel, described Nitin as CM material who had twice been denied his due. It is BJPs style to use a person to win polls and then throw him away, he claimed.

Sources said the BJP high command was sending a senior leader from Delhi for mediation.
Mumbai, December 30

A day after 14 lives were lost in a devastating blaze at a Mumbai pub, police issued lookout notices on Saturday against its two co-owners, while the civic body directed officials to ensure that safety norms are followed in restaurants and bars, thronged by people on New Year's Eve.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has cracked down on eateries and started razing unauthorised construction.

The fire brigade is trying to confirm whether flames from a fire stunt by a bartender, burning coal used for hookah, short circuit or anything else led to the fire.

According to a senior police official, lookout notices were issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owner of '1 Above' pub, which is run by C Grade Hospitality.

The police said they were in the process of issuing lookout notices against other accused as well.

The police had booked the Sanghvi brothers, another co-owner Abhijeet Manka and others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) on Friday.

However, the pub claimed that it had the required approvals and safety norms. It had also blamed Mojo's Bistro on the floor below for not having an emergency exit, leading to overcrowding of '1 Above's' escape avenues.

Blaming an adjoining property for the devastating fire, the '1 Above' management had said, "According to our staff, a fire began to emanate from the adjacent quarters to our premises." However, it did not name the property from where the fire started.

The massive fire that swept through the pub left 14 people dead and 21 injured. Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday.

Civic chief Ajoy Mehta, in a message to all BMC assistant municipal commissioners and deputy commissioners, said all zonal deputy commissioners and ward officers are requested to form teams comprising staff of building and factory departments, medical health officer and fire department.

The teams will inspect all the restaurants in their respective wards and ensure that they are compliant to fire safety norms, the message stated.

The premises should have fire escape routes, staircases and ensure open spaces are encroachment free, it said.

The Mumbai civic body later suspended five officials, including those attached to the G-South ward for dereliction of duty.

There are allegations that civic authorities turned a blind eye to construction irregularities and violation of fire safety norms in the compound.

Mumbai mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar has ordered an inquiry into the incident, and has promised strict action against errant officials.

The civic administration has taken action against at least five eateries and restaurants after the fire.

A BMC official confirmed that they have pulled down illegal roofs of two restaurants'Skyview Cafe' and 'Social' in Kamala Mills and encroachments of 'Pranay', 'Fumes' and 'Sheesha Sky Lounge' at Raghuvanshi Mills in the same locality.

Action was also taken against some restaurants in Andheri, the official said.

"We have formed several teams and are collecting information about the hotels and restaurants, after getting complaints of unauthorised constructions by them. Several ward officers are also carrying out inspection and razing illegal structures," BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said.

A fire brigade official said they are trying to find out what exactly led to the fire.

"We are probing if the flames during a fire stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out if burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy," the official said.

He said the department is taking into consideration all other possibilities, including that of short circuit, the might have led to the fire, before coming to a conclusion.

Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena, which is at the helm of affairs in the BMC, in its mouthpiece 'Saamana' lamented the "lethargic attitude" of administrations across the world towards the issue of fire safety, as it mentioned the incidents of blaze at Mecca and London, in its Saturday editorial.

The party however admitted that incidents of fire in Mumbai had gone up in the last two years.

The blaze at '1 Above' in the early hours of Friday brought back memories of the fire that broke out in City Kinara restaurant in Kurla in October 2015, in which eight people had lost their lives.

As the blaze ravaged the pub, some escaped to safety, others found their way blocked by fire and suffocating smoke.

Many panicked patrons took shelter in a toilet, where they were suffocated to death.

The same central Mumbai area  a former textile mill district now dotted by swanky glass-and-concrete towers  had witnessed death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway bridge on September 29 this year. PTI
Mumbai police files three separate FIRs against three pubs owners after Kamala Mills compound fire incident in which 14 people lost their lives.

By Saurabh Vaktania: Mumbai police has registered three separate FIRs against the pubs owners today after Friday's blazing fire incident took place at the Kamala Mills compound in which 14 people lost their lives.

Cops have even named Kamala Mills owner in two FIRs as two pubs are built in Kamala Mills.

After the incident, BMC did their inspection of three pubs and gave their report to police officials for violating several rules and regulations.

advertisement

In one of the pub, owner is son of retired IPS.

The Mumbai police have filed case under MRTP act against three pubs, 1Above, Mojo and P22.

MRTP stands for Maharashtra Regional Town Planning.

In 1above and Mojo, Kamala Mills owner Ramesh Govani is also booked as both these pubs are built in the Kamala Mills compound.

Kamala Mills compound is huge area where there are several top corporate offices, media houses and over 25 pubs.

After the incident BMC officials did their inquiry and found several violations of rules, like illegal constructions, inflammatory objects.

1Above

This is the pub where the fire started. BMC in its report said that an illegal construction of 30 metres length was made. Two illegal rooms of asbestos sheets were made.

The cops have booked Abhijit Mankar and Sanghvi brothers in the case. The cops have also booked Kamala Mills owner Ramesh Govani owner of Kamala Mills in the case. All are booked under MRTP act.

Mojo pub

The BMC found that heavy unauthorised constructions of sheds was made. Height ten metres.

The cops have booked owners Yug Pathak and Duke tuli in the case. Interestingly Yug is son of former IPS officer KK Pathak. Cops also booked Kamala Mills owner Ramesh Govani, all booked under MRTP act.

P22 pub

This pub is located at Raghuvanshi Mills. It violated rules like removing plywood partition, covering GI sheets etc. Owner Shailendra Singh is booked under MRTP act.

ALSO WATCH | Over a dozen people killed in major fire in Mumbai's Kamala Mills

--- ENDS ---
Islamabad, December 30

Pakistan has decided to build a new hydropower project of over 700 megawatts in PoK through foreign financing at an estimated cost of USD 1.51 billion by 2022, according to a media report.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Azad Pattan Hydropower Project (APHP) is a run of river scheme located on the Jhelum River in the Sudhanoti district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and about 90 kilometres from Islamabad, the Express Tribune reported.

The project would be completed by 2022 for which the authorities have sought an import tariff at Rs 8.05 per kilowatts, the daily said.

The project (Azad Pattan Hydropower Project) is an initiative of the government of Pakistan being developed in the private sector under the Policy for Power Generation 2002, the daily said citing the project documents at National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra).

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA-G) has proposed a reference levelised tariff of Rs 8.50 per unit (kWh) for import of the electricity from the project under NEPRA Import of Power Regulations, 2017.

Nepra on Friday announced to admit CPPA-G application for consideration. It would conduct a hearing in the matter on January 11, 2018 at Islamabad.

The 700.7 MW project adds much-needed capacity to the inventory of hydropower projects in the country and will generate 3,258 GWh, around 3 per cent of the countrys annual generation, the document said.

The estimated cost would be a mix of 75 per cent debt (USD 1.13 billion) and 25 per cent equity (USD pere cent 379 million). The debt part includes foreign debt, it added.

Debt repayment period has been assumed as 18 years including a six-year grace period.

Hydropower contributes about 16 per cent of global electricity and Pakistan has 28 per cent hydropower in its energy mix, the daily said citing official documents.

Pakistan still has significant unexploited hydel resources of which only about 12 per cent have been developed and made operational, it said. PTI
Smita Sharma

Tribune news service

New Delhi, December 29

India today took strong objection to reports of Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan sharing stage with terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Pakistans local media earlier carried pictures of Palestinian envoy in the country Waleed Abu Ali attending a rally organised by Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Rawalpindi, seated next to the main accused in the Mumbai attacks.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

A worrisome development for India, given it has stood by the two-state solution to the Palestinian conflict. New Delhi had recently voted against the US resolution in the UN, demanding the Trump administration must withdraw its decision to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, We have seen reports. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian Ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities.

Sources said Israel had protested Indias vote through diplomatic channels even as New Delhi was preparing to roll out the red carpet for Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu in mid-January  the first visit by an Israeli head since Ariel Sharons in 2003.

The Palestinian envoy sharing stage with one of most-wanted terrorists at this juncture will be used to question if Indias solidarity with the Palestinian cause needs a rethink. Ironically, the Arab League envoys in India had met minister MJ Akbar and protested Indias initial reaction to Trumps Jerusalem move.

Indian sources suggest Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Alhaija will be summoned by the MEA and told that if India is sensitive to Palestinian concerns, Palestine too needs to be equally sensitive to Indias, specially one involving a globally proscribed terrorist.
Smita Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 30

Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali has been recalled to Ramallah following Indias strong objection to his sharing the stage with terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

After its initial condemnation of the envoys action last night, the Ministry of External Affairs today summoned Palestinian Ambassador to India Abu Adnan Alhaija.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Government of India has strongly conveyed that the association of the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 29 is unacceptable, said an MEA release.

Pakistani media yesterday showed the envoy attending a large rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council, charity front of the Jamat Ud Dawah, in Rawalpindi.

Ambassador Waleed was seated next to the 26/11 Mumbai terror strikes main accused Hafiz and even addressed the rally. Reports suggest he had addressed a meeting of the Difah-e-Pakistan Council along with Hafiz on December 14 too.

India said in response to its strong protest, the Palestinian side conveyed deep regrets. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

Waleeds action was worrisome given Indias long-standing support to the Palestinian cause. India remained an advocate for a two-state solution even as the US shifted its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
Hyderabad, December 30

The Telangana prisons department on Saturday said anyone giving information about beggars on city streets will be given a reward of Rs 500.

The prisons department has launched an initiative to rehabilitate the beggars in the city.

"Rs 500 for giving any information about their location anywhere in Hyderabad," said V K Singh, Director General of Prisons.

The information should be provided to the control room of the prisons department, he said. The department is providing beggars shelter, food, counselling and employment skills training.

"If they are sick, we are getting them hospitalised and taking care of them. This is a comprehensive package," he said. If they are fit, the beggars are given employment in the prison industries like furniture-making, he said.

The department picked up 741 male beggars and around 300 female beggars this year, Singh said. PTI
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 30

Chief Khalsa Diwan (CKD) Charitable Society today expelled its disgraced president Charanjit Singh Chadha and his son Inderpreet Singh Chadha, who was vice-president of the Sikh body.

Chadha had refused to step down following the allegations of sexual abuse and its viral video.

Of the 15-member office-bearers of the CKD, 11 today held an emergency meeting, led by officiating president Dhanraj Singh. Notably, Chadhas younger son Harjit Singh Chadha, who is honorary joint secretary, was also present, and is a signatory to the decision.

It was unanimously decided to expel Chadha from post of president and the societys primary membership.

Similarly, the society also removed his son Inderpreet Singh from the post of vice-president and membership.

Former Congress leader Mandeep Singh Manna sought the intervention of state government in conducting fresh elections of the CKD. He alleged that Chadha had made the Sikh body a personal fiefdom by inducting his family members, relatives and friends in the past 15 years. He claimed that even Dhanraj Singh was also his close aide.

He sought a probe into the utilisation of funds during the construction of school buildings and buying land for new institutions.
Tribune News Service

Muktsar, December 30

The Congress today decided not to hold annual political conference on Maghi Mela in Muktsar next month, saying that the political programmes should be avoided on religious occasions.

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Sunil Kumar Jakhar said, Due to the Akal Takhts order, we are not holding the political conference on Maghi Mela this year. It doesnt matter if some other political party holds a conference.

Meanwhile, AAP is yet to take a call on the issue. Senior AAP leader-cum-Leader of Opposition Sukhpal Singh Khaira said some party leaders were of the opinion that the political conference should not be held on religious occasions. We have not yet held a meeting in this regard but the decision will be taken soon. However, I too am of the opinion that the political conference should be avoided, he said.

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal had yesterday held a meeting with his party workers in Muktsar and told them to come in large numbers to make the partys political conference a success on January 14.

Some political observers said the political parties were avoiding these programmes this time as there are no elections in the near future.
Neeraj Bagga

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 30

Following objection from Pakistans plant and quarantine department, seasonal export of peanuts from Gujarat and Rajasthan has come to a halt at the Attari Integrated Check Post (ICP).

Rajesh Setia, an exporter, said Indian exporters were incurring losses due to non-clearance of quality tests on peanuts.

He wondered what prompted the Pakistan authorities to take the drastic move as the same quality peanuts were being consumed domestically without any hitch.

We had been exporting peanuts worth Rs 1 crore every day from the ICP over a month ago. But not a single bag was exported for the past nearly one month, he said.

Another trader Mukesh Sindhwani said local traders had already procured considerable quantity of peanuts from Rajasthan and Gujarat. This had also resulted in 10-15 per cent fall in its prices in the domestic wholesale market. The peanut prices have come from Rs 60 per kg to around Rs 50 per kg.

Earlier last month, local exporters had taken up the matter of non-clearance of Indian farm produce after Pakistans quarantine department objected to its quality with the Union Ministry of Commerce. Consequently, the exports were resumed. However, the export of peanut has remained blocked for the past one month.

Peanuts safe to consume

We are incurring losses due to failing of quality tests of peanuts. It is not clear what prompted the Pakistan authorities to take the drastic move as the same quality peanuts are being consumed domestically without any hitch. Rajesh Setia, Exporter
Vishav Bharti

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 30

Tainted contractor Gurinder Singh, who was arrested recently by the Vigilance Bureau in the alleged Rs 1,000-crore irrigation scam, may have financed the sand mining auctions in which four employees of Power and Irrigation Minister Rana Gurjit Singh had got contracts.

As per his bank statement, on May 23, the last day for the successful bidders to deposit full payment, Gurinder Singh transferred Rs 5 crore to one Jatin Singla's account. Singla is a nephew of Rana Gurjit's chartered accountant Triloki Nath Singla. Singla then transferred the money in the account of Rajbir Enterprises.

The firm had come into picture when ministers cook Amit Bahadur and another employee Kulwinderpal Singh, who were getting meagre salaries, failed to prove any income source matching to the amount they paid for auction bids.

Earlier deposing before the Justice Narang Commission, owners of Rajbir Enterprises had claimed that they had financed Amit and Kulwinderpal, who had got mining contracts. Jatin Garg was one of the 23 investors summoned by the commission during the inquiry.

Captain JS Randhawa and Sahil Singla, who claimed that they owned Rajbir Enterprises, denied that Gurinder Singh had invested any funds in the sand mining contracts taken by them. Randhawa said Gurinder Singh had asked Triloki Nath Singla's brother to get his money invested. So he took Rs 5 crore on loan from Gurinder Singh at 12 per cent interest. He claimed that they had sufficient funds, so they returned the money to Gurinder Singh on May 25 (Incidentally, the same day The Tribune had exposed the sand mining scandal).

Meanwhile talking to the media in Jalandhar, Rana Gurjit said: "The allegation is completely baseless, especially when it was on my recommendation to the CM that a Vigilance probe was started into the irrigation scam and Gurinder Singh was booked." He also released copies of the DO letter he had sent to the CM in April.

He claimed that after his visit to Harike on April 13, he had noticed that during the project of cleaning and desilting, the disposal of dredging, which involves removal of sediments from bottom and sides of the river channel, had been disposed of showing excavations as plain soil. He said dredging and disposal operations involved both Irrigation Department and the mining branch of the Industries Department.

Rana also claimed that the CA was not on his payrolls and he had just hired him. He said he was not even aware of what his son or any other relative was doing.

Probe was ordered at my instance: Rana

Jalandhar: Power and Irrigation Minister Rana Gurjit Singh has claimed that the allegation (his connivance with the contractor) was completely baseless, especially when it was on his recommendation to the CM that a Vigilance probe was started into the irrigation scam and Gurinder Singh was booked. The matter (irregularities in irrigation works) had come to my notice during my visit to Harike on April 13, he claimed. tns

sack minister, demands khaira

Chandigarh: In a statement, Leader of Opposition Sukhpal Khaira on Saturday said now Capt Amarinder Singh must dismiss Rana Gurjit Singh from the Cabinet and order the CBI to probe the black money angle in the said auction. Khaira dared Amarinder to deny the "partnership" between irrigation scam accused Gurinder Singh and Rana Gurjit Singh. tns
While nightlife haunt Hauz Khas Village is notorious for its cramped streets, authorities are rolling in two-wheeled fire tenders into the narrow lanes to keep the area secure.

By Chayyanika Nigam: The lack of fire safety at the Capital's party hot-spots has emerged as a burning question against the backdrop of a massive blaze killing 14 people at a popular Mumbai restaurant on Friday.

While nightlife haunt Hauz Khas Village is notorious for its cramped streets and eateries that have turned it into a tinderbox, authorities are rolling in two-wheeled fire tenders into the narrow lanes to keep the area secure with New Year's Eve revelries around the corner.

advertisement

Officials in the fire department told Mail Today that the decision to station the firefighting bikes at the south Delhi neighbourhood was taken after the tragedy at Mumbai's Kamala Mills, an industrial compound with high-end restaurants and other commercial establishments.

Among those killed in the fire at a rooftop pub past midnight was a woman celebrating her 28th birthday and many of her friends. Dozens of others were injured. Of the more than 120 eateries in HKV, just four have a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the fire department.

"In case any mishap happens, the fire tenders cannot reach inside the narrow lanes especially during peak times when thousands of people choose Hauz Khas Village for celebrations. The visitors also park the vehicles at the roadside as the official parking area remains full. This in turn makes the road narrower," an official said.

He added that the bike fire tenders are the quickest relief possible in the cramped area. Two cylinders are installed on both the sides of a bike. Each cylinder has a capacity of around 20 litres and carries a mix of water and foam.

Last year, a fire broke out at Hauz Khas Village, killing a young businessman and injuring a Frenchwoman in an incident that underscored the Capital's poor safety standards and pervasive failure to enforce laws. The episode stirred authorities into action, with crackdowns on encroachment and negligence at places such as HKV and Connaught Place.

Heavy footfall "Keeping in mind the heavy footfall at Hauz Khas Village, these bikes will be stationed in advance. If a fire breaks out, assistance will be provided with the help of fire tenders and foam cylinders. The geography of this nightlife hub is such that in case a fire engine enters the narrow lane, another cannot go inside until the first one comes out," an official explained.

Many of the restaurants are run from second and third floors, making them vulnerable to accidents and natural disasters. In case of a fire, a rescue operation becomes difficult. A pub was gutted in the area during Diwali a few years ago.

advertisement

While the trendy bars and upmarket location draw both Indian and foreign patrons to Hauz Khas Village, officials say the place is a hub of illegal commercial establishments.

"If a restro-cum-bar has less than 50 seats then it does not require an NOC from the fire department! This is the eligibility criteria that almost all the restro-cum-bars in the narrow lanes of Hauz Khas Village in south Delhi are taking advantage of. MCD must be grilled for providing these restaurants the licence to run. Also, Delhi Police plays another key role in their existence," chief fire officer Atul Garg told Mail Today.

"The pubs and discotheques are vulnerable places that can see high number of casualties," Garg said, pointing to the single entry-exit gates, loud music, dim lights and visitors being under the influence of alcohol.

"All these factors lead to early fire warnings going unnoticed." Sources say to bypass the system, one individual opens three different restaurants spread across three floors - in one premises or building - thereby abiding by the below 50 seating rules. This is a very common practice in all these major market areas. MAIL TODAY had reported the matter last year when Delhi Police had raised the issue with the then lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung.

advertisement

Another official requesting anonymity said that the firefighting bikes are only precautionary measures they won't be able to handle a massive blaze. However, these bikes can be used at the initial stages to stop the flames from spreading, the official said.

Sources said the only four of the eateries at Khan Market have a fire NOC while as many as 114 restaurants and bars in Connaught Place have the certificate.

Also watch | Mumbai fire: No one will be spared, says CM Fadnavis after suspending 5 BMC officials

--- ENDS ---
Anirudh Gupta

Ferozepur, December 30

Amid reports of the education system steadily tilting towards commercialism and teachers drawing flak for absenteeism, lack of passion and plain apathy, teachers like Dr Satinder Singh come like a fresh breath of air.

Having shot to limelight during his stint as a commerce lecturer at Government Girls Secondary School in Ferozepur city for his out-of-the-box approach, Satinder was promoted and posted as Principal of Government Senior School, Gatti Rajo Ki, a few months ago. The school is a stones throw from the India-Pakistan border.

Since this posting, he has been on a mission to not only increase the enrolment in his school but to also improve learning outcome in classes.

Having been conferred with a national award in 2011 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development for his yeomans services in the field of education, Satinder also plays a vital role in environment protection.

Before he took over, the government school at Gatti Rajo Ki wore a deserted look but his continued persuasion and interaction with villagers has led to more students rejoining the school. Now, even remedial classes are being held here.

I spent a lot of time interacting with villagers, especially the youth, making them aware of the perils of drugs. I guide them about future prospects after attaining education, says Satinder.

The school where he teaches is the only Class XII school in the region which caters to a cluster of almost a dozen villages, including Gatti Hajara, Bhakhra, Jalloke, Rahime Ke, Chandiwala, Bhanewala, Churiwala, Tendiwala and Khuder Gatti.

When I had joined here, I was taken aback by the plight of the poor children. The dropout rate was high and so was absenteeism from classes, he says. Even the facility of potable water was not available in the school. However, I made an effort and with the help of some local NGOs. Our school is the only place in this border area that has the facility of potable water now, he adds.

I have also tried to improve the infrastructure of the school without any cost to the state exchequer. The earlier issue of shortage of furniture has also been sorted out.

Dr Satinder is also the president of AGREED Foundation, which works towards environment protection.

It was my own choice to serve the border people while residing on the banks of the Sutlej as they have been deprived of education more than anybody else, he says. Along with my team, I have started various activities to draw students to the school. Competitions like declamations, painting and games are now a regular feature here. We also encourage students to use waste material following which several creative projects have been made.

The biggest problem due to which these students lose their interest in studies was English. I asked students to learn five words of English daily or at least two words if they find it difficult. This scheme is working well and spoken English of these students has improved a lot, says Satinder.

As most children were either working as daily wagers or helping their parents in household chores or farming, we faced a lot of reluctance from parents in sending them to school. However, our persistent counselling paid off as most of such students have now started attending school, he says with a sense of delight.
Gagan K Teja

Tribune News Service

Patiala, December 30

In a major breakthrough in the Nabha jailbreak case, the Organised Crime Control Unit (OCCU) of the state police has arrested Manjinder Singh (47), a suspended cop who had helped the gangsters procure police uniforms and prepare fake documents to enter the jail. He has been arrested from Jandiala Guru village of Amritsar district.

Manjinder, cousin of gangster Prema Lahoria who is wanted in a number of cases including the Nabha jailbreak, was the missing link in the case for the past one year.

Sources said he provided police training to these gangsters as to how the Police Department functioned making sure that they elope safely after executing their plan. He even gave them important details about the jail working and the best time to execute the attack.

Manjinder Singh had been under police scanner after one of the arrested gangsters named him during interrogation. The OCCU had been watching his movements since then.

Manjinder had joined the Punjab Police as a constable in 1988, but was suspended in 2005 after he was found guilty in a drug case.

During his service, he came in touch with various gangsters and got into drug trade that led to his suspension from the department in 2005.

Being a close relative of Lahoria, he also came in touch with other gangsters who were freed from Nabha Jail, including Vicky Gounder, Neeta Deol and Gurpreet Sekhon. He not only chalked out a plan for the escape of the gangsters lodged in the jail, but also gave information about the ways the police kept a watch on the inmates.

Sources said it was on his suggestion that the gangsters had set up a control room in Hong Kong to interact among themselves, which was managed by Hong Kong-based financier-cum-handler Ramanjit Singh Romi.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) S Boopathi said Manjinder Singh was close to Lahoria and had taken his land on lease.
Saba Naqvi

Let me end the year by being audacious and saying that the BJP has become like the Ganga. Anyone who jumps into it gets cleansed of their sins, such as corruption cases. Those who fail to take the holy dip are mercilessly hunted down, till they land in jail or are permanently trapped in legal wrangles. Its a join us or well get you approach that now characterises the BJP versus the Opposition.

No quarter is given, no mercy shown, investigations launched to tackle what remains of the opposition. Indeed while the Emergency was noted as a blot on our democracy (and the Indian media fought back), the hunting down of opposition forces is no longer seen by the pliant media as anything out of the ordinary. The BJP dresses it up as its crusade against corruption and immorality.

Let me forecast that Hardik Patel could be in further legal trouble, possibly linked to the much talked about multiple videos with different women. He dared to insult and mock Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah in meeting after meeting. In Gujarat, a lawyer had asked me: what if one of these women files a complaint after the BJP wins? The BJP would certainly like to wreak vengeance on him, unless they calculate that it could be counter-productive and the Patels have already delivered a small shock in rural Gujarat.

Meanwhile, without much fanfare in the media, Lalu Prasad Yadav returned to jail, while the rest of his family cannot rule out the possibility of joining him there. He is a significant political figure in contemporary politics. Two years ago, it was Lalu who was the principal force that delivered a crushing defeat to the BJP in Bihar. True he did so in alliance with Nitish Kumar but hes always had the bigger vote share.

And see how well that has turned out: Nitish is sitting pretty in the lap of the BJP while Lalu is in jail. Certainly, Lalu had an Achilles heel in the fodder scam cases and property acquisition by his family, but his sin was getting caught after he threatened to overturn the savarna caste order in his earlier avatar as the hero of the Mandal movement (Its also possible that till corrupt low caste characters like Mayawati and Lalu came along, there was no corruption in the cow belt along the holy river Ganges).

The other humiliating defeat inflicted on the BJP post 2014 was in Delhi courtesy AAP and Arvind Kejriwal. Look how that unruly bunch has been handled: criminal complaints against half their MLAs, scrutiny of anyone who contributes to the party, constant blocking of Delhi Government initiatives. Arvind Kejriwals weakness was too much grandstanding (only an elected PM is allowed that), making accusations against the big fish (political and corporate) and thereby taking on more than he could chew.

Lets just say that Lalu and Kejriwal were bad guys anyway, the sort who do not accept the status quo. Surely the BJP is fighting corruption in the case of former Himachal Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, both Congressmen? They were so serious about the crusade that in September 2015, the CBI raided Virbhadras residence in Shimla in a disproportionate assets case on the day of his daughters wedding. One can argue that the law must take its course (and the BJP had repeatedly asked for the six term CM Virbhadras resignation).

But then just before the recent Himachal Pradesh elections, former Congressman Sukh Ram and his son crossed over to the BJP. The largest haul of currency notes ever was recovered from Sukh Rams home following raids in 1996 (cash was in suitcases hidden under the bed and in the puja room). Its possible he was praying to the cash and now that the Gangajal of BJP membership has been poured on his head, Sukh Ram is a cleansed man.

Theres more. In April this year, the CBI also registered a case against Bhupinder Singh Hooda for alleged irregularities in the land allotted to Associated Journals Limited (that runs National Herald) in Panchkula. All good till this point as we all want a corruption mukt India. But then in November, Mukul Roy (once Mamta Banerjees right hand) joined the BJP. He is facing a CBI inquiry following the Narada sting which caught Trinamool leaders taking bribes on camera. Roy will be in the good company of defectors such as former Congressman Hemanta Biswa Sarma of Assam who also faces serious corruption cases but switched to the BJP on the eve of the state elections and is thriving in the party.

Waiting for action in the wings is the BJPs home-grown not-so-clean face in Karnataka where elections are due next year: BS Yedyurappa, who once had to step down from the CM chair because of corruption charges. Theres the other important point to note. The BJP also runs the most expensive election campaigns in Indias history. Where does the money come from? Its possible that God delivers the cash to them and no corruption or quid pro quo is involved.
Suresh Dharur in Hyderabad

Suresh Dharur in Hyderabad

Malathi, a victim of domestic violence, was so depressed with her life that she even thought of committing suicide to end the suffering. Almost broken, she found a few people around her to help. They brought her back from the brink; she is a changed person now. This transformation is thanks to Human Library, a concept started by a young social activist, Harshad Fad, in Hyderabad. Its a library where one gets to interact with human books and learn from their life journeys, the journeys that epitomize triumph of human spirit over adversities, prejudices and biases.

The authors are the people who tell the stories of their lives to the visitors of the library, the odds that they had faced and how they struggle to overcome them. Like a conventional library, it has a catalogue giving the snapshots and titles of human books and what kind of life journey they represent. The visitors can seek an appointment with the human book of their choice through the librarian who will then arrange the interaction.

Its a framework that creates a positive environment allowing people to challenge prejudice and stereotypes through dialogue. Heres a platform where books are replaced by humans and reading is actually a conversation.

The subjects range from gender violence, sexual abuse, domestic violence and depression to single parents, divorces, transgenders and those pursuing unusual careers.

Our mission is to create a platform for a two-way interaction on a whole range of prejudices and biases that our diverse society presents. No book can ever give you the kind of learning experience that you get from interacting with people who have gone through so much and survived to tell their tales, says Harshad, an enthusiast in theatrics, filmmaking and media business.

How it all started?

The first human library started in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2000. It is an international organization that aims to challenge prejudice against social contact among people. It is a place where real people are on loan to readers.

I came across the concept while browsing the internet last year. I strongly felt that it should be replicated in India. The first Human Library event in India was conducted at the Indian Institute of Management, Indore, in November last year. I liked the idea and began work to set up the Human Library in Hyderabad. The goal of this event-based programme is to help people appreciate differences, understand social barriers by listening and relating to their experiences, Harshad said.

The Hyderabad chapter was opened in March this year and it now has 45 human books. We want to build a positive platform to inspire others, Harshad says.

Those who visit, borrow these books, have a conversation with the human book and leave with a widened perspective on different social groups in our society, he says.

The Human Library is a social start-up with no business goals, no revenues to be earned or profits to be made. It is just a group of volunteers driven by a common passion. We are now reaching out to as many young people as possible by organizing campus events once a month. The response has been overwhelming. There are certain problems peculiar to the younger generation including exam stress, anxiety and depression that need to be discussed openly, the activist said.

Concept is catching up

Within a few weeks of starting the Hyderabad chapter, Indias first, the idea caught the imagination of people across the country, thanks to the discussion forums in the social media. There has been an instant recognition of its potential in a diverse society like India. We now have nine chapters across the country including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Indore and Patiala. We are in touch with volunteers from Kerala and very soon we expect a similar initiative to start there, says Harshad.

The Hyderabad chapter has so far conducted 12 events, each evoking tremendous response from visitors. Typically, 200 to 600 people attend our events where human books share their experiences with visitors in groups, he explained.

How do they impact the visitors? There were many instances where people come to us to tell how their interaction with the human books have changed their world-view and how they are now looking at life with a different perspective, Harshad recalls. After one such event on gender conundrum, a college girl walked up to us and told us that she used to heckle transgenders and mock at their conduct. But, after listening to the life story of a transgender at the event, she was a changed person, he said.

The next event of the Human library would be conducted at the Hyderabad Literary Festival slated for January. Talking about the future plans, Harshad said, We are in touch with Dhaka chapter of Human Library and exploring how we can take the idea to the next level.

Harshad, who recently completed Masters programme in media business administration from Annapurna International School of Film and Media here, works as a community manager at Kahaaniya.com, an online publishing start-up. I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey of setting up this Human Library and the most exciting part was to find the right human books representing the issues that we wanted to highlight at our events, he says.

The event expenses are taken care of through sponsors. We are constantly receiving invites from various art and cultural venues in the city to conduct the Human Library event at their premises for free, Harshad says.
Jasmine Singh in Kapurthala

Jasmine Singh in Kapurthala

Each day as he walks to his office, Mohammad Tayyab, deputy commissioner, Kapurthala, sets his mind on an off-duty assignment: take a good look at the length and breadth of the 125-year-old Darbar Hall located within his office compound. Riveted at the Halls majestic walls, and unmindful of the din of the restoration work, he asks: what if these come back to life to tell stories about the structure built by Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala? Look at the intricate carvings, the old wooden flooring... this place is less of a building and more of a story about the rich cultural heritage, says Tayyab.

The restoration work of Darbar Hall started in 2015 and is being handled by a private firm, Rajputana Construction Private Ltd. The Rs 4.98-crore project was to be completed within 18 months. Rahul Mulya, spot engineer, Punjab Tourism, says his team has been given an extension till June next year.

The Maharaja of the erstwhile Kapurthala princely state held his court in this 330-sq-mt hall twice a year. General public would also participate in the court. The place became a government property after the Partition, and was converted into a court complex.

Skilled labourers from Madhya Pradesh and Jaipur work each day in and around the hall repairing and mending the damage. The original yellow colour on walls of the hall has been scrapped; the old wooden flooring made of the finest wood of apricot and deodar trees is being replaced by a new one.

The intricate carvings are being restored using special material such as surkhi. Parvati, a labourer from MP, tells you how she makes surkhi, a material used in restoration: it is mixture of redbrick dust, jaggery, bel (stone apple) and various natural ingredients known for their cementing properties. Surkhi was used in most heritage buildings, the material adds another 100 years to a buildings longevity, says Rajwinder Singh, contractor and engineer, who is supervising the project in Kapurthala. This is a time-consuming project that cannot be completed in a rush; we are trying to retain the original. All this requires precision.

Specialized restoration tools and instruments and material are being used in the restoration work. Recreating a masterpiece is impossible. Nevertheless, understanding and knowledge of old construction methods will help in developing sensitivity towards the building, helping it regain its glory, says Tayyab.

We are not waiting for the structure to get completed, for, we are selling stories to the rest of the world and we have got a great response from people , says Harry Randhawa, president Kapurthala Heritage Celebrations.

Randhawa, whose forefathers served the Kapurthala state at senior positions, sheds light on the heritage complex. Work on this entire complex started in 1882 and was completed in 1890. British engineer JOS Elmore, who was chief engineer of the Kapurthala state, designed the building in Indo-Saracenic style.

The restoration of total five heritage buildings in Kapurthala has been conceived. These include Moorish Mosque, Darbar Hall, Bughi Khana, Goal Kothi and Bhoot Bangla. Out of these, the restoration of Moorish Mosque is complete. The work on Gol Kothi will start as soon as the private company receives drawing and other instructions from the department. The rest of the building has offices of government departments. These have to be vacated before the restoration work starts.

But Rahul Chaba, additional deputy commissioner, is hopeful of an increase in tourist footfalls once the restoration is complete. Rahul along with the DC has prepared a vision document (2017-2022) for the restoration of heritage buildings.

Kapurthala district has immense historical and religious importance. While Kapurthala town is known for its structures built by the Ahluwalia dynasty, Sultanpur Lodhi has a great importance in history. It is the lack of awareness about our rich heritage, which had disrupted the tourist flow in Kapurthala. Most domestic tourists come to Jalandhar and return after seeing Pushpa Gujral Science City, the ones who come to Kapurthala turn towards Sultanpur Lodhi, without touching the municipal limits of Kapurthala town.

Rahul is surprised that most residents of Kapurthala are unaware about its glorious heritage. Not many people know about the Moorish mosque that has been modeled on the Grand Mosque on Marakesh in Morocco.

The restoration work of heritage buildings in Kapurthala is not only designed for the promotion of tourism, it also aims to connect the city with Amritsar tourism circuit. We would want educational institutions in the region to organize educational tours to Kapurthala. In the later stage, we would liaison with tour and travel operators and also with the hoteliers in order to know what all it takes to pull tourists, Tayyab shares one of the points from his Vision Document.

Tourism and Culture Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu says nearly 25 heritage sites such as serais in Doraha and Shambu will be converted into wedding destinations. Why should a Punjabi who wants to wed in style have to travel to Rajasthan or other states?

In fact, it was his idea to include Kapurthala in the proposed maharaja & spiritual circuit. The entire proposal is intended to interconnect various religious places like Sultanpur Lodhi gurdwaras with the Takhts and Rauza Sharif Dargah in Fatehgarh Sahib. In all these places, we will have good landscaping, cafeteria and other facilities so that tourists can relax and spend some time there, says the minister who feels that tourism has not been marketed well in Punjab.
Deepkamal Kaur

It was a year of complete lull for the realty market in Punjab with the developers and investors blaming it all on demonetisation and implementation of GST by the Centre.

Even though the realtors had been expecting some improvement with the change of government in the state and bringing in of some new policies like cut in stamp duty and reduction of collector rates, the iron grip of slowdown did not loosen in 2017 and the new year too seem to be starting on a dismal note. For several developers in Punjab the clouds of gloom overcasting the real estate landscape are not likely to lift from the state in 2018 too.

Deepak Batra of Batra Estates in Ludhiana says, Centre governments policies have led to a complete collapse of our business. We had built flats in Dugri and Haibowal area but there were no buyers or investors interested in these in 2017. Thee end users too are not on the scene as availability of cash remains a problem even now.

To compound our problems, the move of the government to digitise land registration and link it with Aadhar card is also keeping the investors at bay. The investors now apprehend that all their financial deals will come under scanner, so they are not investing in property and are rather looking for other investment options.

Launch of new projects, be it residential or retail, too, remained low in 2017. In Jalandhar, though the Reliance group is set to open its mall on Garha Road soon and there are flat-complexes coming on 66-feet road. However, no new hotel or plaza is in the offing here. Work on some ongoing projects diid not pick up pace all through the year.

Colonisers all over the state are also sore over regularisation policy not coming again for clearing NOCs for illegal colonies. Anil Chopra, Chairman of the Punjab chapter of Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (CREDAI), said, It was a bad year for us. We deliberately kept the pace of our ongoing works in Ludhiana and Jalandhar slow as we knew that it would not serve any purpose. We have shops coming near Jyoti Chowk Jalandhar, apartments coming up in Nakodar and a mall on 120-feet road. All of these projects are two year old.

Chopra adds, In Doaba, most realtors were banking on NRIs, who used to come around this time of year and make some investments. But I guess that era is over. Now, if at all they come and make a property deal, it is to sell off their existing properties.

In Amritsar too, the builders especially those who ventured into flat system, painted a gloomy picture. Sanjay Joshi, manager with an Amritsar-based builder, said, There are not many takers for flats here owing to which many companies have stopped their ongoing projects. Plots are getting sold but the short-term gains which used to be there with investors in the field, are no longer there now. Consumer market, too, is slow as there is a huge gap between the income of middle class and the rates of plots and the construction cost.

The state government, however, boasts of having managed to earn Rs 418.7 crore with the sale of 53 residential and commercial sites across the state through e-auction conducted by PUDA last month. While the GMADA earned the maximum revenue of Rs 380.27 crore, the Bathinda Development Authority fetched Rs 15.42 crore, Patiala Rs 12.03 crore, Jalandhar Rs 6.92 crore, Amritsar Rs 2.88 crore and Ludhiana Rs 1.18 crore. Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue and Housing, Vini Mahajan, said, There are many factors responsible for a slow realty market but all I can say is that our e-auction has been a success. Interestingly, in spite of this claim base prices of properties to be auctioned were reduced in Jalandhar to get results.
Guatemala City, December 30

Guatemala's foreign minister insisted that President Jimmy Morales' plan to move the country's embassy in Israel to Jerusalem will not be reversed, and called for critics to "respect" the country's decisions.

"It's a decision that has been made ... it is not going to be reversed," Sandra Jovel told journalists during an event to commemorate the end of the Guatemalan civil war in 1996.

"The Guatemalan government is very respectful of the positions that other countries have taken, and as we are respectful of those decisions, we believe others should respect decisions made by Guatemala," she added in response to critics including the Palestinians.

Last Sunday, Morales unexpectedly announced the transfer of the embassy from Tel Aviv to Israel on social media, in the wake of the UN General Assembly's condemnation of a similar move by the United States.

The announcement made Guatemala the first country to follow the United States's controversial lead on the holy city.

Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its capital, while Palestinians, consider east Jerusalem as the occupied capital of their future state.

Morales, defending his decision, said Israel is an "ally" and that Guatemala has "historically been pro-Israel."  AFP.
Moscow, December 30

Russian President Vladimir Putin called for "pragmatic cooperation" in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said today.

In a statement on the Russian President's New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that "a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world".

According to the statement, Putin said that "mutual respect" should be "a base to develop relations" between the two countries.

"This would allow us to move towards building pragmatic cooperation, orientated on the long term," the statement quoted Putin as saying.

The Russian President also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad. In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russia's Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier this month, Putin "expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the New Year".

The statement added that Putin told Assad: "Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity".

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assad's military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier this month.  AFP
Dubai, December 30

Annual nationwide pro-government rallies were held in Iran on Saturday to mark the end of unrest which shook the country in 2009, state media reported, while local news agency and social media reports said a third day of protests had begun.

State television showed a rally in the capital Tehran and marchers carrying banners in support of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Mashhad, Iran's second largest city.

Pro-government rallies were scheduled in more than 1,200 cities and towns, state television said, events held annually to mark the end of months of street protests which followed Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's re-election as president in 2009.

At the same time, social media postings said a third day of protests broke out in cities including Tehran, Shahr-e Kord and Kermanshah, where a video showed dozens of protesters booing after police announced on a loudspeaker that any gathering would be illegal. The footage could not be authenticated.

The semi-official news agency Fars said up to 70 students gathered in front of Tehran University and hurled rocks at the police. A social media video showed them chanting "Death to the dictator", in an apparent reference to Khamenei. There is discontent over unemployment, rising prices and alleged corruption. The protests have also turned political over issues including the Islamic Republic's involvement in regional conflicts such as those in Syria and Iraq.

On Thursday, hundreds of people took to the streets in Mashhad to protest against high prices and shouted anti-government slogans. The police arrested 52 persons, according to a judicial official.

The US condemned the arrests, with President Donald Trump tweeting: "Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching!" State media quoted Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi as saying in response: "The Iranian people see no value in the opportunistic claims by American officials and Mr. Trump."  Reuters
Washington, December 30

The Iranian government should respect the rights of its citizens to protest peacefully, the White House said on Saturday amid reports of multiple protests erupting in various parts of the country.

Peaceful protests were reported from various parts of the country, in what appeared to be a sign of unrest against the economic policies of Iranian President Hassam Rouhani.

The world is watching, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regimes corruption and its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad, she said.

The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights, including their right to express themselves, Sanders said.

In a separate statement, the US strongly condemned reports of arrests of peaceful protesters.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Hundreds took to the streets of Mashhad and other cities on Thursday. An Iranian official said 52 protestors were arrested in Mashhad.

The United States strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption, said State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert.

On June 14 this year, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson testified to the Congress that he supported those elements inside of Iran that would lead to a peaceful transition of government. Those elements are there, certainly as we know. The Secretary today repeated his deep support for the Iranian people, his spokesperson said.

We are following reports of multiple peaceful protests by Iranian citizens in cities across the country. Irans leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed and chaos, Nauert said.

As President Trump has said the longest-suffering victims of Irans leaders are Irans own people, she added.

Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher urged US President Donald Trump to back Iranian protesters.

I call on President Trump to make clear, this New Year, that a new government is his fondest wish for the Iranian people. He must offer all manner of support, moral and material, to those Iranians who aspire to a life free of religious and political tyranny, he said.

Eight years ago, in what we called the Green Movement, or the Persian Awakening, thousands of Iranian protesters took to the streets to call for an end to radical Islamic tyranny, Rohrabacher said.

They were brutally suppressed, the streets running with their blood, he added.

Rohrabacher noted that the imprisoning and killing of protesters in Iran was the first foreign crisis faced by the then Obama administration. He rued that the Obama administration watched passively the deaths. PTI
Hema Malini has advocated population regulation policy for Mumbai in the aftermath of Kamala Mills fire tragedy. China is already implementing similar plans in Shanghai and Beijing.

BJP MP Hema Malini has called for restriction in population growth in cities like Mumbai in the aftermath of Kamala Mills fire tragedy. (Photo: PTI)

By Prabhash K Dutta: Actor-politician Hema Malini has received flak for suggesting population cap for megacities like Mumbai in the aftermath of an inferno that killed 14 people in the commercial capital of the country. The fire tragedy took place at a pub in the Kamala Mills compound in Mumbai's Lower Parel on Thursday night.

Social media is abuzz with the comments questioning Hema Malini's rationale behind "out of her mind" solution to the problems that Mumbai is facing. Critics have written in length questioning the BJP MP and advising her "to learn from Modi" and "be silent" when tragedy strikes.

advertisement

But Hema Malini may actually have a point in suggesting what she did to save cities like Mumbai from more tragedies. Critics may not have liked her idea but China is already framing policies and devising plans to deal with what its government describes as the "Big City Disease".

WHAT CHINA PLANS

Mumbai is often compared with China's commercial capital Shanghai - both are ever expanding megacities in their respective countries and have maritime climate. Average age of the two cities is also comparable - around 30 years.

Mumbai and Shanghai face similar problems of housing, water supply, pollution, traffic congestion and shortage of civic amenities, and both offer hope to millions.

China's other big city Beijing is also facing similar issues. The Chinese authorities have been working for past few years to come up with a plan to deal with the big city disease - a name given by the Chinese government itself to the problems arising out of explosive and unmanageable growth of megacities.

China has now devised a plan to deal with the problem. It has decided to fix a population cap for both Shanghai and Beijing. State Council approved Shanghai master-plan for 2017-35 early this week.

SHANGHAI AND BEIJING MASTER-PLANS

The Shanghai master-plan limits the population of the city to 2.5 crore, also fixing its territorial expanse beyond which in-migration will not be allowed.

The State Council said, "By 2035, the resident population in Shanghai will be controlled at around 25 million and the total amount of land made available for construction will not exceed 3,200 square kilometers."

The Shanghai master-plan follows a similar policy approved by the Chinese authorities for capital Beijing in September. The Beijing plan declares that its population should not exceed 2.3 crore by 2020.

The authorities began working on Beijing plan in 2014, when its population was 2.15 crore. According to new master-plan, China will take measures to reduce the population of six core districts of Beijing by 15 per cent compared to 2014 level in three years.

WHAT ABOUT MUMBAI?

To her credit, Hema Malini has not called for reducing the population of Mumbai. Responding Mumbai fire tragedy, she was quoted as saying, "Population is so much. The city is spreading like anything."

advertisement

"Some restrictions should be done on the population. Each city should have certain population limit, after that they should not be allowed. Then let them go to another city," Hema Malini added.

#WATCH BJP MP Hema Malini says "population is so much, the city is spreading like anything. Some restrictions should be done on the population. Each city should have certain population/limit" #KamalaMillsFire pic.twitter.com/iL2EXdsULh- ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017

A comparison of Mumbai with Shanghai and Beijing makes Hema Malini's point more sensible.

Compared to Shanghai and Beijing, Mumbai's population is much less in terms of numbers. Mumbai is home to about 1.25 crore people while Shanghai's population is over 2.4 crore while that of Beijing is 2.15 crore.

Mumbai has much less an area compared to Shanghai and Beijing. Shanghai is spread over 6,340 sq km and Beijing's area is 16,410 sq km while Mumbai's expanse is only little over 603 sq km.

In terms of population density, 20,680 people are living per sq km in Mumbai while Shanghai's population density is 3,826 and that of Beijing is 1,311. Mumbai pub fire tragedy may be another wake- up call for planners to come up with a solution to the unending explosive growth of the city.

advertisement

ALSO WATCH | Mumbai mayor says he was unaware of any illegal activity

--- ENDS ---
Tehran, December 30

The Iranian government warned people against further protests on Saturday after two days of demonstrations sparked by anger over an array of economic problems.

"We urge all those who receive these calls to protest not to participate in these illegal gatherings as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," said Interior Minister Abdolrahman Rahmani Fazli.

State news channel IRINN said it had been banned from covering the protests that spread from second city Mashhad on Thursday to hit several towns and cities.

The protests initially targeted economic problems, but quickly turned against the Islamic regime as a whole.

US President Donald Trump warned "the world is watching" after dozens of demonstrators were arrested.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi dismissed Trump's comments as "irrelevant" and "opportunistic".

Media coverage inside Iran focused almost exclusively on pro-regime rallies held on Saturday to mark the defeat of the last major protest movement in 2009, which hardliners call "the sedition".

The timing was coincidental, since the rallies are held every year on this day, but offered a handy show of strength to the regime as huge crowds of black-clad supporters gathered across the country.

"The enemy wants once again to create a new plot and use social media and economic issues to foment a new sedition," Ayatollah Mohsen Araki told a crowd in Tehran, according to the conservative Fars news agency.

Video footage on social media showed hundreds marching through the holy city of Qom on Friday evening, with people chanting "Death to the dictator" and "Free political prisoners".

There were even chants in favour of the monarchy toppled by the Islamic revolution of 1979, while others criticised the regime for supporting the Palestinians and other regional movements rather than focusing on problems at home.

Footage showed thousands gathered in the cities of Rasht, Hamedan, Kermanshah, Qazvin and elsewhere, with police responding with water cannons.

Officials were quick to blame outside forces for the unrest.

"Although people have a right to protest, protesters must know how they are being directed," Massoumeh Ebtekar, vice president in charge of women's affairs, wrote on Twitter.

She posted images from Twitter accounts based in the United States and Saudi Arabia, voicing support for the Mashhad protests.

Nonetheless, officials warned against dismissing the public anger seen in recent days.  AFP
Dubai, December 30

Demonstrators chanted anti-government slogans in several cities across Iran on Friday, Iranian news agencies and social media reports said, as price protests turned into the largest wave of demonstrations since nationwide pro-reform unrest in 2009.

Police dispersed anti-government demonstrators in the western city of Kermanshah as protests spread to Tehran and several other cities a day after rallies in the northeast, the semi-official news agency Fars said.

The outbreak of unrest reflects growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption, as well as concern about the Islamic Republics costly involvement in regional conflicts such as those in Syria and Iraq.

An official said a few protesters had been arrested in Tehran, and footage posted on social media showed a heavy police presence in the capital and some other cities.

Washington condemned the arrests. The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights, including their right to express themselves, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said in a statement.

The US State Department in a separate statement urged all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption. About 300 demonstrators gathered in Kermanshah after what Fars said was a call by the anti-revolution. They shouted: Political prisoners should be freed and Freedom or death, and some public property was destroyed. Fars did not name any opposition groups.

The protests in Kermanshah, the main city in a region where an earthquake killed over 600 people in November, took place a day after hundreds rallied in Irans second largest city Mashhad to protest at high prices and shout anti-government slogans.

Videos posted on social media showed demonstrators yelling, The people are begging, the clerics act like God. Fars said there were protests in the cities of Sari and Rasht in the north, Qazvin west of Tehran and Qom south of the capital, and also in Hamadan in western Iran. It said many marchers who wanted to raise economic demands left the rallies after demonstrators shouted political slogans.

Pro-govt rallies planned

State television said annual nationwide rallies and events were scheduled for Saturday to commemorate pro-government demonstrations held in 2009 to counter protests by reformists.

The Revolutionary Guards, which along with its Basij militia spearheaded a crackdown against the protesters in 2009, said in a statement carried by state media that there were efforts to repeat that years unrest but added: The Iranian nation ...

will not allow the country to be hurt.

Mohsen Nasj Hamadani, deputy security chief in Tehran province, said about 50 people had rallied in a square but most had left after being asked to by police, while a few who refused were temporarily detained, the ILNA news agency reported.

In the central city of Isfahan, a resident said protesters had joined a rally held by factory workers demanding back-pay.

The slogans quickly changed from the economy to those against (President Hassan) Rouhani and the Supreme Leader (Ayatollah Ali Khamenei), the resident said by telephone.

In Qom, a stronghold of the Shiite clergy, footage posted on social media showed protesters attacking Ayatollah Khamenei by name. Seyyed Ali should be ashamed and leave the country alone, they chanted.

Protests were held also in the town of Quchan near the Turkmen border, and in Ahvaz, capital of oil-rich Khuzestan province, social media and Iranian news websites reported.

Police arrested 52 people in Thursdays protests, Fars quoted a judicial official as saying in Mashhad, one of the holiest places in Shiite Islam.

In social media footage, which could not be authenticated, riot police were seen using water cannon and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Openly political protests are rare in Iran, where security services are omnipresent.

The last unrest of national significance occurred in 2009 when Mahmoud Ahmadinejads re-election as president ignited eight months of street protests. Pro-reform rivals said the vote was rigged.

However, demonstrations are often held by workers over lay-offs or non-payment of salaries and by people who hold deposits in non-regulated, bankrupt financial institutions.

Prominent conservative cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Alamolhoda called earlier for tough action against the protests.

If the security and law enforcement agencies leave the rioters to themselves, enemies will publish films and pictures in their media and say that the Islamic Republic system has lost its revolutionary base in Mashhad, the state news agency IRNA quoted Alamolhoda as saying.

Death to dictator

Some social media videos showed demonstrators chanting Death to Rouhani and Death to the dictator. Protests were also held in at least two other northeastern cities.

Alamolhoda, the representative of Ayatollah Khamenei in Mashhad, said a few people had taken advantage of Thursdays protests against rising prices to chant slogans against Irans role in regional conflicts.

Tehran backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his countrys civil war, Shiite militias in Iraq, Houthi rebels in Yemen and Lebanons powerful Hezbollah group.

Some people had come to express their demands, but suddenly, in a crowd of hundreds, a small group that did not exceed 50 shouted deviant and horrendous slogans such as Let go of Palestine, Not Gaza, not Lebanon, Id give my life (only) for Iran, Alamolhoda said.

Social media videos also showed demonstrators chanting Leave Syria, think about us, criticising Irans military and financial support for Assad.

Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri, a close Rouhani ally, suggested that hardline conservative opponents of the pragmatist president might have triggered the protests but lost control of them. Those who are behind such events will burn their own fingers, IRNA quoted Jahangiri as saying.

Rouhanis leading achievement, a 2015 deal with world powers that curbed Irans disputed nuclear program in return for a lifting of most international sanctions, has yet to bring the broad economic benefits the government says are coming.

Unemployment stood at 12.4 percent in this fiscal year, according to the Statistical Centre of Iran, up 1.4 percent from the previous year. About 3.2 million Iranians are jobless, out of a total population of 80 million. Reuters
Moscow, December 30

Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday accused the United States of violating a key arms treaty by selling a missile defence system to Japan.

The US is deploying them (missile defence systems) at their military bases in Romania and Poland, that is near our western borders, which goes against the 1987 INF Treaty banning the deployment of such systems on the ground, Ryabkov said in a statement published on the Russian Foreign Ministry website.

The fact that such complexes could now appear on Russias eastern borders creates a situation that we cannot ignore in our military planning, said Ryabkov.

On Thursday, Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the deployment of the US missile defence system would have a negative impact on relations between Tokyo and Moscow.

We consider the step made by the Japanese side as going against efforts of ensuring peace and stability in the region, Zakharova said, adding that Moscow has deep regret and serious concern over the move.

On December 19, the Japanese government approved the installation of two land-based US-made Aegis Ashore missile defence systems to defend the country against North Koreas growing nuclear and missile threats.

Japan plans to increase its budget defence for the next fiscal year to strengthen its missile defence against the threat posed by its neighbour.

Earlier this month Japans Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera said the country plans to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles) from US firms.

The move is controversial as Japans pacifist constitution bans the use of force as a means of settling international disputes.

After North Korea launched a missile over Japans Hokkaido island in September, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he would never tolerate North Koreas dangerous provocative action and has urged the international community to ramp up pressure on Pyongyang.

North Korea has threatened to sink Japan into the sea. Global anxiety about North Korea has steadily risen this year, with Washington calling on other UN members to cut ties with Pyongyang in order to squeeze the secretive regime.

The call, however, has fallen short of persuading key North Korea backers China and Russia to take steps to isolate the regime.  AFP
New York, December 30

The Trump administration is strongly considering withholding $255 million in aid to Pakistan, reflecting dissatisfaction with Islamabad's inaction against terror networks, a media report said.

The Trump administration's internal debate over whether to deny Pakistan the money is a test of whether Trump will deliver on his threat to punish Islamabad for failing to cooperate on counterterrorism operations, the New York Times reported.

It said the relations between the US and Pakistan, long vital for both, have chilled steadily since the president declared that Pakistan "gives safe haven to agents of chaos, violence and terror."

The US, which has provided Pakistan more than $33 billion in aid since 2002, said in August that it was withholding the $255 million until Pakistan did more to crackdown on terrorist groups.

"Senior administration officials met this month to decide what to do about the money, and American officials said a final decision could be made in the coming weeks," the daily said.

The report comes days after US Vice-President Mike Pence said in Kabul that the Trump administration has put Pakistan on notice. Pakistan, according to the daily, has refused to give the US access to one of the abductors of the Canadian-American family who were freed early this year, the latest disagreement in the increasingly dysfunctional relationship between them.

"Now, the Trump administration is strongly considering whether to withhold $255 million in aid that it had delayed sending to Islamabad, according to American officials, as a show of dissatisfaction with Pakistan's broader intransigence toward confronting the terrorist networks that operate there," the report said.

Pakistan's military on Thursday warned the US against the possibility of taking unilateral action against armed groups on its soil, in its strongest response yet to tensions between the two allies.  PTI
Photo: Jim Park

In 2017, the trucking industry saw several major news stories play out on a near daily basis. The looming ELD Mandate, infrastructure reform, and Silicon Valleys push into the trucking industry captured the attention of our readers in a big way this year.

Here are the most-read news stories of 2017:

The electronic logging device rule takes effect on Dec. 18, but many fleets and drivers may not be compliant with it in time. So, what will enforcement look like for them?

Having decided to grant part of a United Parcel Service request for a limited 5-year exemption from some provisions of the electronic logging device mandate, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will now allow all motor carriers  not just UPS  and drivers to make use of two new temporary exemptions from the ELD rule.

Navistar Inc. disputes allegations that it didnt thoroughly test its MaxxForce EGR engines  allegations that surfaced in a lawsuit where a jury last week awarded $30.8 million in damages  including testimony about the engine program by former executive Jim Hebe that the company "did not test s**t".

Uber is looking to transform the world of freight transport much as it has changed the world of taxis with its ride-sharing app. Deborah Lockridge has the story on what the new Uber Freight is -- and what it's not.

Truckers around the country -- including in the nation's capital -- gathered to protest the upcoming ELD mandate. Some were participating in the ELD or Me protest in Washington, DC, while others took to the streets in Fresno, California, as part of Operation Black and Blue, to protest the implementation of the electronic logging device rule.

A move away from long-haul to regional and super-regional routes has been predicted for years. Volvo's Magnus Koeck says that shift may already be underway.

The highly anticipated Tesla electric semi has finally arrived. And, as hinted, teased and promised these many past months, it is a potential game-changer  and quite possibly a disruptive vehicle for trucking in many ways.

With all eyes looking toward Tesla and its much-hyped unveiling of its new all-electric, commercial truck, Cummins on Aug. 29 stunned the trucking industry with the launch of its own new and fully electric, Class 7 day cab tractor.

Diesel-powered trucks appear to be in the crosshairs once again as California legislators, citing overwhelming public support, call for even tougher emissions regulations.

Volvo Trucks North America announced to its dealers on Jan. 20 that effective immediately, the OEM would cease production and distribution of its 16.1-liter D16 diesel engine. Aftermarket service and support for all D16s currently in the field will continue unimpeded.
India Today's investigation found in building number 67 on Dhanji Street in Zaveri Bazar of South Mumbai, an illegal shed was created and it covered the open duct of the building which is more than fifty years old.

By Divyesh Singh: One of the accused wanted in connection with the fire that broke out at Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel, Mumbai that claimed 14 innocent lives, has also created an illegal structure in the building where he and his family members run an office.

India Today's investigation found in building number 67 on Dhanji Street in Zaveri Bazar of South Mumbai, an illegal shed was created and it covered the open duct of the building which is more than fifty years old.

advertisement

This was created by the owners of a company named UNION Chain and Jewels Pvt Ltd.

Jigar Sanghvi, one of the partners of 1 Above pub, who is still absconding along with the two other partners, is the director of UNION Chain and Jewels Pvt Ltd.

When contacted by India Today, company's staff initially said that he was the director in the company but has left the company. They later changed their statement and said that he was never an office bearer while sometime later they even claimed that they didn't know him.

The office is run by Sanghvi's father and uncle, who operate from a building number 67 on the Dhanji Street in Zaveri Bazar area of South Mumbai. The building is a two-storey structure which is more than fifty years old. The building houses offices and shops of jewellers operating from the area.

When we spoke to a few office holders in the building, we found that Sanghvi and his family members ?had constructed a shed and had covered the common duct of the building and modified it into an office.

Despite several complaints by other office bearers to BMC, nothing has happened till date.

Sanghvi and his family members created a washroom and shifted all their AC units in the area which they illegally constructed and occupied.

The primary investigation report by BMC stated that the pub run by Sanghvi and his partners him Kamala Mills was flouting a lot of rules. Primarily they had been allotted a foreign liquor number 3 license according to which they weren't allowed to serve alcohol in open space.

Also fire safety measures had to be in place which were nowhere to be found. The entrance to the place was through a lift, while the staircase entrance was through a tiny tunnel.

Several other rules under fire safety manual were flouted which eventually led to death of the innocent people. Police is still looking for Sanghvi, who is yet to be arrested .

Also watch | Over a dozen people killed in major fire in Mumbai's Kamala Mills

--- ENDS ---

advertisement
VINITA  A long-lost set of investigation notes discovered recently is said to be pushing the case forward in the disappearance of two Craig County teenage girls who have been missing for 18 years.

Ashley Freeman and Lauria Bible were 16 years old when they celebrated Ashleys birthday with a sleepover at the Freeman home in Welch on Dec. 29, 1999.

Craig County Sheriff Heath Winfrey has provided investigators previous(ly) unknown notes and documents he discovered referencing the Freeman/Bible case that was left from the previous sheriff administration, said Gary Stansill, District 12 District Attorneys Office investigator.

Stansill said the notes were discovered in an office crate.

These notes and documents have proven to be extremely valuable, he said. This information has produced leads that have produced additional leads.

Stansill declined to release specific information on leads, motives or suspects.

Our family hopes and prays that these new leads bring Lauria home, said Lorene Bible, Laurias mother.

Stansill said he and an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation agent have interviewed several people who have knowledge about the shooting deaths of Danny and Kathy Freeman and the disappearance of the girls.

Other individuals have come forward with information, as well, Stansill said.

There are individuals that have not been interviewed who have information about the slayings and the girls disappearance, he said.

We are still asking the public if individuals have information about the case and have not recently talked to investigators to call the OSBI tip line, Stansill said.

The recently discovered notes breathed new life into an investigation that has crisscrossed the country and into Canada and Mexico for nearly two decades.

Winfrey, who took office in January 2017, was moving into the Sheriffs Office when the crate was discovered in a closet.

It was just sitting on a shelf, he said. We werent digging for it  we just found it.

After going through the documents, Winfrey quickly realized what he had, secured the documents into evidence and contacted Stansill.

You dont think finding something like that in a crate would push the case forward this much, Winfrey said. You just dont think in a million years it would turn out leads like it did.

In the middle of the night on Dec. 29 or the early-morning hours of Dec. 30, 1999, someone drove down the dirt driveway to the Freeman residence. An accelerant was placed near the wood-burning stove. Investigators arent sure how long it took, but the mobile home became engulfed in flames.

The body of Kathy Freeman, Ashleys mother, was discovered in the charred remains of the mobile home. A bullet, according to her autopsy report, had shattered her skull. The skull of Danny Freeman, found later at the scene, also was shattered, an autopsy showed. His extensive arrowhead collection could not be located in the rubble.

No evidence of Lauria and Ashley was found at that scene, but Laurias car was in the Freeman driveway with the keys in the ignition.

For years, investigators worked on the premise that an intruder or intruders killed the Freemans and the girls were collateral damage.

Jeremy Jones, 43, a convicted killer and rapist who once lived in Miami, Oklahoma, was a person of interest in the Freemans deaths. He has never been charged in the case and is on Alabamas death row for the murder and rape of a Turnerville, Alabama, woman.

In a confession he later recanted to the media, Jones said the girls bodies were in a mineshaft in Galena, Kansas. A search of the area in 2005 turned up no remains.

The Freeman family had Ashley declared legally dead in 2010, according to court records.

The OSBI is offering up to $10,000 for credible information. A private reward of $50,000 also stands.

Anyone with information is asked to call the OSBI hotline at 800-522-8017 or email tips@osbi.ok.gov.
Nov. 23 was not a typical workday at one Toronto-area office building. When employees showed up, there was a gaping hole in the ceiling above one desk. Underneath the desk, near the legs of a red chair, sat a masked intruder looking remarkably relaxed.

It was a raccoon, and it had crashed through the ceiling.

For Brad Gates and his team, the event was a typical workday. The wildlife control company hes run for three decades fields such a call  about a raccoon plummeting through a ceiling, stunning the people below  about every month, making this little fellow a usual suspect, if a bit heftier at 40 pounds. Also, Gates recalled, because it was morning, the nocturnal animal was fast asleep under the desk.

Such incidents occur year-round. But wildlife professionals say they are a bit more common in the cold of winter, when raccoons, which are adept at locating and squeezing through even small crevices in buildings and houses, cozy down in nooks of human shelters for longer stretches of time. Squirrels love attics, too, but when testing the load-bearing limits of ceilings, raccoons have a weight disadvantage. That is particularly true in commercial buildings, which often feature dropped ceilings meant to hide infrastructure, not serve as raccoon terrain.

They may have been living in the building for a long period of time and may have found the one tile that wasnt set in as it should be, Gates said. And everything just comes tumbling down under the raccoon.

Their surprise appearances happen often enough that the Internet features plenty of hilarious video of raccoons, legs splayed, suddenly dropping into human habitat, as well as tales of havoc wreaked during their attempts to escape. This year, falling raccoons seem to have favored Texas, plunging into the apartment of an Arlington woman who told a local television station that shed heard the animals have a party in the ceiling; dropping into a San Antonio College building as a cleaner mopped nearby; and crashing into a corrections office in Angelina County.

Raccoons flourish in nearly every corner of the United States, and they are super smart, so you might say nowhere is safe from an intrusion. In December 2016, a raccoon breached the ceiling of a liquor store in Bristol, Tennessee. In Facebook posts, storekeepers shared security camera video of the animal landing on all fours, collecting itself, then ransacking shelves as though hunting for the perfect vintage. At one point, it flips what the store manager reported was a $45.99 bottle of Bakers Bourbon onto the ground and nails the landing. The managers post continued: Warning there is evidence of alcohol abuse in this video. ... the raccoon broke a few bottles.

Southern Canada also is home to the animals, and Toronto has been the site of several well-known raccoon capers. In May, for example, one peeked out of a ceiling hole above baggage claim at the citys airport; its masked face promptly went viral.

Raccoons frequently encroach on attics and ceilings, of course. But while invading protected and warm human space is certainly intentional, falling is not, said John Griffin, director of urban wildlife for the Humane Society of the United States. In houses, this usually happens when ceiling drywall has been weakened by moisture or mold  or raccoon urine and feces, if the critters have spent enough time above to have amassed a heavy latrine, as their toilet area is known.

Believe me, when it happens, it is a surprise to everybody, including the raccoon, said Griffin, whose role used to involve responding to wildlife conflict calls in the Washington area.

One time, Griffin said, the owner of a townhouse in the tony neighborhood of Georgetown returned from a three-day weekend away to find the home plundered. The drapes were torn. The dishes were broken. But the giveaways were a hole in the ceiling and what Griffin calls the final insult: a piece of raccoon scat near the bathroom sink, next to a tube of Colgate and a toothbrush.

Eventually, the owner was able to laugh about it, said Griffin, who pinpointed the animals entry point as an opening near a satellite dish that had not been properly installed. By the time the owner came home, the raccoon had escaped through a dryer vent  showing, Griffin argued, the perseverance, and the ability for the raccoon to contend with these kinds of human-built structures and all the things it has to do to stay alive in a city.

Its not a good idea to have raccoons in the house, and not just for curtains. The animals can carry rabies and a very rare form of roundworm that can cause neurological damage, and even death, in people. Last week, a Philadelphia woman said her 4-month-old baby was brutally mauled by a raccoon that had gotten inside their apartment.

Thats why keeping them out in the first place is crucial. At businesses, Gates said, the animals usually make their way through ventilation systems and rooftop air conditioners. At homes, roof vents, openings where two sections of roof meet and structural flaws are their typical front doors, he said.

When he captures a raccoon, Gates releases it nearby, because the animal will be familiar with local water resources, competitors and denning spots  the natural, outdoor kind. (Laws about trapping nuisance wildlife, as well as whether and where it can be released, vary from state to state.) Then Gates talks to the property owner about blocking holes in the building.

By this point, an owner has been given signs that this is not a friendly tenant in the attic, and it can do damage, Gates said. Its easy to convince them that now is the time to seal the roof and make sure the animals cant get back inside.

It is particularly easy in the extreme cases of falling raccoons. Gates recalled one client who was reading in bed when she reached over to pet what she thought was her cat. When it growled, she observed that it was a raccoon  and that there was a hole in her ceiling. She corralled it out the door.

But Gatess ultimate raccoon-crasher story occurred four or five years ago. The animal had made itself at home in an attic, and it had established its latrine right above the master bed. When it ambled over to do its business in the middle of one night, onto the sleeping homeowners crashed 30 pounds of raccoon waste, drywall and the furry critter itself.

It was a rude awakening, Gates said, but no one was injured. By the time he arrived, the raccoon was sleeping in a sink, as if hed heard there was a guy who would come to escort him out.

One thing about raccoons is theyre so highly intelligent that they quickly can realize theyre in a trapped environment and no effort is going to make a situation better, Gates said. So they conserve their energy.
Want to do something patriotic in 2018? Fill your stomach.

Heres the situation:

About a week before Christmas, someone was low enough to break into VFW Post 577 at 1109 E. Sixth St.

If theres anywhere a thief might consider to be off-limits, you figure a Veterans of Foreign Wars post would rank right up there with churches. But, never mind that, the burglar (or burglars) scurried off with cash and goods. The estimated loss, including damage to the facility, was $4,000 to $6,000.

We would have much preferred if they would have walked through our front door, post commander Joshua Starks told the Tulsa World afterward. We would have given them help.

Among items taken was a rifle scope that belonged to Myles Hunt, a service officer at the post. Hunt said he carried the scope on his rifle while deployed in Iraq. Monetary value? Its worthless, he said. It didnt even have a finish on it because it has been through so many sandstorms. It is literally sandblasted.

But the scope meant something to Hunt because it was a personal reminder of a slice of his past he wanted to put behind him.

And thats exactly what I did, he said. I put it on the wall behind me.

Now? Gone.

Also stolen was Hunts laptop. He said he had pictures of his late mother in the computer.

The big picture is the VFW Post needs to be gaining assets, not losing them. The post is in the business of helping veterans and their families, whether its in regard to health, mental health, employment, education or just being directed to available resources.

These are things they have already earned, Max Tankersley, the posts ways and means committee chairman, said. We are not giving them anything. But they dont know this often, so thats what our mission is  to find every way we can to serve a veteran.

The post is self-funded. Revenue streams are needed to generate money to keep the mission going. Fundraising ventures are a mix of the old (facility rentals) and the new (a storage facility at the post was transformed into a coffee shop).

But you can help by helping yourself to seconds, if you choose.

One of the best-kept secrets in Tulsa: VFW Post 577 offers open-to-the-public and all-you-can-eat lunch spreads from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The price (dare you to find a better value) is $6 and the profits go into the VFWs kitty. Cant make it for lunch? The post hosts a breakfast buffet on Saturday mornings.

Diners may recognize a pro, Debbie Higgs, in the kitchen. She used to operate Route 66 Diner. Now shes in charge of providing the food for the VFW buffets. If youre a foodie, all you need to know, really, is she arrives in the wee hours so she can make baked goods like homemade bread and cinnamon rolls.

Higgs likes what shes doing. She knows the VFW does good things and she has witnessed how the post can make a difference in lives.

We are just trying to be supportive of the people that need the help, she said. I just think the people in the service are not getting enough aftercare. We want to be here for those people when they get out so they have a place to belong.

If youre a rookie to the buffet, dont waste time looking for a cash register. Theres a jar by the kitchen. Thats where you stuff six bills. The honor system reigns supreme here.

People put money in the jar and make their own change, Higgs said. That makes you know that its still good, that everybody is still good. People are still good.

Sometimes, diners even kick in a few extra bucks. But the only things you are required to bring are six bucks and an appetite.

Help us out, Higgs said. You can be helpful and have a full belly.
This Page Is Under Construction - Coming Soon!

Why am I seeing this 'Under Construction' page?
By PTI: Nagpur, Dec 30 (PTI) Two sons of Nagpur BJP leader Munna Yadav today surrendered before the Dhantoli police station after being untraceable since October.

Police aaid that Karan (22) and Arjun (19), along with their father, were wanted in a case registered in October after they allegedly attacked and seriously injured their relatives following a dispute over bursting crackers in their locality.

advertisement

Police Sub-Inspector Anantrao Wadatkar of Dhantoli police station said that Karan and Arjun surrendered today afternoon and the Sessions Court here sent them to police custody for three days.

The two have been booked under relevant sections of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), the Arms Act and the Indian Penal Code, police added.

Munna Yadav is still untraceable in the case and his disappearance and the alleged inability of the police to nab him was raised by the Opposition in the winter session of the Maharashtra Assembly held in Nagpur in December.

Munna Yadav is currently the chairman of the Maharashtra Construction Workers Welfare Board. PTI CLSA BNM

--- ENDS ---
Nigella Lawson has brought her brand of binge to Mumbai, and we can't look away.

By Shreya Goswami: Think Nigella Lawson, and every foodie's eyes water with joy and delight, while their mouths water just at the thought of the dishes this culinary goddess cooks up (with barely ever breaking into a sweat, we must add). Yes, we're calling Nigella a goddess in the culinary world, and you know that she is just that. And now, it looks like the goddess has descended on Mumbai!

advertisement

Earlier this week, Nigella announced across all her social media platforms that she is in Mumbai. Her tour started off at the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and she admitted that this is her "first time in this incredible city." But knowing Nigella, and her penchant for finding the most delicious offerings at every place she visits, we knew she'll soon turn away from iconic architectural places to the iconic eateries and markets of the city.

Nigella Lawson, with her two children. Image for representative purpose. Picture courtesy: Instagram/nigella_lawson

Also Read: 5 things only the queen of food porn, Nigella Lawson, can nail

And that's precisely what Nigella did. She took the Dawn Tour of Mumbai (yes, you have to wake up at the crack of dawn to get a glimpse of the markets and hustle-bustle of the city), and the first thing she indulged in after the tour was, of course, vada pav.

The vada pav Nigella enjoyed in Mumbai. Picture courtesy: Instagram/nigellalawson The vada pav Nigella enjoyed in Mumbai. Picture courtesy: Instagram/nigellalawson

Nigella didn't just eat this Mumbai-special street food. She LOVED it, so much so that she called it the "Best thing I've eaten in 2017: the vada pav at Ladoo Samrat"! She even went on to explain just what vada pavs are, and what else she tried at Ladoo Samrat: "Vada pav are unfeasibly light spiced potato patties, fried crisp in gram flour batter, to be squished into soft bread rolls. Also eaten here, to great delight: poha, flattened rice, thali peeth, multigrain fried bread, and Sabudana khichdi, which is sago."

It looks like Nigella didn't just bring her appetite and taste buds to India. She also brought her unique talent of describing food like it's the only thing worthy of your lust and love in the whole wide world. Continuing with her tour, Nigella came across spices being dry-roasted at Mumbai's spice market. A picture might be worth a thousand words, but the video Nigella posted from the spice market says a lot more. You can feel the smoky pungence and earthiness of the Indian spices, just from the video.

advertisement

Nigella continued her tryst with Mumbaiyya street food with some buttery pav bhaji at the iconic Sardar near Crawford Market, an eatery which has been around for decades now. Once again, Nigella made sure that while you weren't actually sitting next to her at Sardar, you still got a virtual taste of this delectable dish--through her words, of course. "More of the joys of Mumbai street food: pav bhaji from Sardar; think of it as a vegetarian sloppy joe. They're famous at Sardar for the amount of butter they use. And you can see why. And that doesn't indicate the amount they add while cooking this intense, tomatoey potato and vegetable mush. And most marvellous mush it is," she described in her Instagram post.

The very buttery pav bhaji Nigella indulged in. Picture courtesy: Instagram/nigellalawson

Also Read: Gaggan Anand is now the only Indian chef to win 2 Michelin stars in Bangkok

Can a foodie's trip to Mumbai be considered "worth it" without a binge-session at Mohammed Ali Road's many eateries? Of course not! And Nigella sure did not miss the best that this street full of Mumbai's most iconic restaurants had to offer. She tried a scrumptious plate of Chicken Hakimi at Noor Mohammadi (that's the restaurant which also serves actor Sanjay Dutt's signature recipe, Chicken Sanju Baba), and she did love it!

Chicken Hakimi, the dish Nigella tried out at Noor Mohammadi. Picture courtesy: Instagram/nigellalawson

advertisement

"The incredible Chicken Hakimi at Noor Mohamaddi: again, more butter than you could ever believe possible. Completely out of this world," she wrote. We don't know if she tried any other dish at this iconic restaurant, but we do hope she did.

While we don't know yet how long Nigella intends to stay in Mumbai, or if she plans on visiting other cities as well, we are glad that we got a glimpse of everything she ate and loved in the city. We hope Nigella continues with her foodie trip of India, because this country has so many more culinary gems to offer, and it's something this celebrity chef from Britain shouldn't miss out on.

--- ENDS ---


Last night (Friday, Dec. 29), Zac Brown Band and Sir Rosevelt, Zac Browns newest music project, kicked off New Years Eve weekend, bringing a taste of the south to the iconic Las Vegas Strip at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com).

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Zac Brown Band jumpstarted the evening by greeting a packed crowd of more than 3,000 cheering fans in The Chelsea theater. The Grammy Award-winning country group performed top hits including My Old Man, Toes and Lovin You Is Easy during the hour and a half concert.

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

The group closed the show with Home Grown but fans were not ready for the evening to end and resounded in applause for an encore performance. Not to disappoint, Zac Brown Band gave an energizing encore of a medley of songs before thanking fans for an unforgettable evening.

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Following the concert, Zac Brown made his way to Rose. Rabbit. Lie, a restaurant at The Cosmopolitan that features an intimate and secluded ballroom, to hit the stage for the very first time as the band Sir Rosevelt, a southern pop meets dance groove trio featuring band mates Zac Brown, Niko Moon and Ben Simonetti.

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

The room lit up with cheers as Sir Rosevelt stepped onstage to showcase their new music. Dawned from head to toe in Tom Ford for their debut show, Brown, Moon and Simonetti put on an electrifying performance complete with dancers and stunning video graphics. The highlight of the evening was Something Bout You Sir Rosevelts new single co-produced by Timbaland, which shared a spot on the set list with songs including Slow Motion, Take Your Love and Nothings Going to Stop Us.

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Photo credit: Erik Kabik / www.ErikKabik.com

Tonight (Saturday. Dec. 30) the celebration continues with Duran Duran at The Chelsea, and DJ Mustard at Marquee Nightclub all leading up to the night of New Years Eve with the Foo Fighters at The Chelsea and French Montana at Marquee.
Emboldened by the ECJ's decision, Vietnamese lawyers call to re-label Uber and Grab

Europe's top court ruled that Uber should be regulated as a transportation company and not a tech firm, forcing it to comply with national regulations that it has previously been able to ignore. The decision came only a day after the company was accused at a London court of becoming a menace to public safety by forcing its drivers to work exhausting hours.

Lawyer Truong Thanh Duc, representative of the Vietnam International Arbitration Centre (VIAC), said that the ECJs decision on Uber will not impact Ubers legal status in Vietnam, however, it should provide momentum for local authorities to reconsider their stance.

According to Ha Huy Tu, representative of the Hanoi Lawyers Association, at present, local authorities have failed to properly manage Uber's operations as they have yet to issue a final decision about the legal nature of the company in Vietnam. Thus, ECJs decision should serve as a suggestion for Vietnam to build a better management policy for Uber. Tu also considers Uber as a transportation service company.

Duc added that Uber is a technology company operating in numerous countries under the transportation in collaboration with technology or technology taxi model.

However, Vietnam should list the operations of Uber in one of three models. First is a ride-hailing application in co-operation with professional taxi services. The second is a ride-hailing application in co-operation with private cars without having a business licence for taxi services but having a general business licence. The third is a ride-hailing application in co-operation with private cars without any business licence.

Duc stated that it would be the most constructive if Vietnam opted for the first model. Regarding the second and the third model, Vietnam needs to build close and flexible management policies to stimulate the transportation firms using technology to develop.

Previously, right after the ECJ issued the decision on Uber, Ho Chi Minh City Taxi Association proposed the Ministry of Transport to identify Uber and Grab as taxi transportation firms. According to the association, if Uber affirms that it is just a tech firm, it is not permitted to build a fare table or directly sign contracts with taxi drivers. Besides, it is not permitted to use foreign capital on promotion and advertisement programmes to create unfair competition with traditional taxi companies.

In addition, Ta Long Hy, deputy general director of Vietnamese taxi company Vinasun, said the company would persist with suing Uber and Grab for unfair competition.

Hy said that either Vinasun or employees together will start a lawsuit. The three taxi associations of the three regions of Vietnam (north, south, and central) also signed a proposal to the Ministry of Industry and Trade asking for an investigation of the promotion activities.
Police and workers inspect the building on Dec 29, 2017, where more than 10 people died in a fire in the Bronx borough of New York. (Photo source: AP/Andres Kudacki)

The blaze broke out Thursday evening in a 25-apartment building near the Bronx Zoo, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the US financial capital.

Four people remain in a critical condition following the inferno, which Mayor Bill de Blasio called the "worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in at least a quarter century."

"We found that this fire started in a kitchen on the first floor," fire commissioner Daniel Nigro told reporters.

"It started from a young boy, three-and-a-half years old, playing with the burners on the stove. The fire got started, the mother was not aware of it - she was alerted by the young man screaming."

The boy's mother fled with her two children, leaving the door to the apartment open - allowing the flames to shoot up the stairway and quickly spread in the building, as desperate residents fled to fire escapes, seeking rescue.

"The stairway acted like a chimney," Nigro said. "It took the fire so quickly upstairs that people had very little time to react."

Firefighters were on the scene in just over three minutes, but for some, it was already too late. Five people died at the scene, and seven others were pronounced dead at local hospitals.

'IT WAS VERY TOUGH'

"It seems like a horrible, tragic accident," De Blasio said Friday.

More than 160 firefighters rushed to the scene and worked for about three hours to control the inferno. In the bitter cold, water leaking from the hoses froze on the pavement.

A mother and her two daughters - aged two and seven -- as well as a one-year-old girl and an unidentified boy were among the dead, according to police.

Tearful residents said they heard cries of "fire, fire" in the building followed by a mad rush to exit the smoke-filled building.

Many fled into the frigid night with just the clothes on their backs, and authorities called for those who wanted to donate clothes to do so at a local church.

"It was very tough," said Joel Rodriguez, 40, who escaped from his ground floor apartment through "pitch black" corridors.

"I still have the images in my mind. I can't erase them," he added, his eyes masked by dark glasses.

The building - cordoned off with yellow security tape - "is a memorial site now," he said.

'WE GRIEVE WITH THEM'

Two of the dead were discovered in a bathtub full of water, where they had apparently sheltered from the blaze, US media reported.

"This tragedy is, without question, historic in its magnitude," said Nigro.

"It's the time of year where people celebrate and certainly here, we have people who have lost their lives, lost their homes, lost everything, and we grieve with them."

The plaster and brick structure, built in 1916, had six open violations including for a defective smoke detector, The New York Times reported, though De Blasio said there was nothing problematic "as far as we can see."

Nigro told reporters that investigators were still determining the condition of smoke detectors at the scene.

Following the blaze, the fire department set up stands offering fire prevention information in the city.

It was the second deadly residential blaze in New York, a city of 8.5 million people, in less than two weeks. A mother and three children were killed when a fire tore through their Brooklyn home on December 18.

Thursday's fire was New York's deadliest since 87 people were killed in a 1990 inferno at a Bronx social club, The Times said.

"Parents, please keep watch over your children around fire," De Blasio said Friday on Twitter.
Lalji Patel, the president of powerful Patidar outfit Sardar Patel Group (SPG), has demanded that Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel be made chief minister replacing Vijay Rupani.

By India Today Web Desk: Lalji Patel, the president of powerful Patidar outfit Sardar Patel Group (SPG), has demanded that Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel be made chief minister replacing Vijay Rupani.

The SPG chief today met Nitin Patel along with his supporters at deputy chief minister's residence in Ahmedabad. Lalji Patel said, "Nitin Patel is a dedicated worker of the BJP. He should be announced as the chief minister of Gujarat."

advertisement

Lalji Patel also gave a call for Mahesana bandh on the New Year's Day. Mahesana is Nitin Patel's assembly constituency. It was the epicentre of Patidar agitation led by Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) leader Hardik Patel.

The development came close on the heels of another call for support for Nitin Patel from Hardik Patel. The PAAS leader offered to negotiate a deal between Nitin Patel and the Congress should the Gujarat Deputy CM walks away from the party along with his supporters.

The two Patel leaders - Lalji and Hardik - are fishing the troubled waters of the BJP, which is facing a sharp divide in the party following its sixth consecutive term in power in Gujarat early this month.

Nitin Patel is sulking after he was denied the ministries of his choice during portfolio distribution. Nitin Patel is the Deputy CM but he is not the minister in charge of heavyweight departments like Home, General Administration, Industries, Mines and Minerals, Finance, Urban Development or Revenue.

He is said to be particularly keen on having the department of finance. But, Nitin Patel has been given road and building, health and family welfare, medical education and Narmada-Kalpasar projects.

Nitin Patel did not turn up at his office today and also stayed away from other public functions while he met Lalji Patel at his residence. This is believed to be a gesture to convey his displeasure over portfolio distribution by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and state BJP chief Jitu Vaghani.

Nitin Patel was a frontrunner to replace Anandiben Patel back in 2016. His family even distributed sweets and posed for the camera before a last-minute change brought Rupani to power, with Patel as his deputy.

With inputs from Gopi Maniar

--- ENDS ---
Local residents visit a real estate expo in Ha Noi. - Photo baomoi

Following a successful 2017, many developers have already announced plans for next year.

Nguyen Dinh Trung, general director of HungThinh Corp, said 2018 plans were discussed and finalised in the middle of the previous year.

He told the Vietnam Investment Review that the plans had acquired dynamism after the companys 10 mergers and acquisitions in 2017.

The companys plans include expanding to the north and starting to sell its products in 2018. It opened a representative office in Ha Noi this year.

Vietcomreal said it considered 2018 an important year for its business.

According to the Vietnam Investment Review, the company will increase its land holdings by bidding for properties sold by privatised companies, especially in HCM City.

Phat Dat Company will sell units in two apartment projects in District 7 and develop the River City.

Singaporean-owned Keppel Land will develop Palm City and The View.

Talking about the market next year Le Hoang Chau, chairman of the HCM City Real Estate Association, said next year the market would change to balance demand and supply in the various segments, and become stable, he said.

He predicted there would be intensive investment at the low end, where there is plenty of actual demand for housing.

The city is considering converting one third of all agriculture lands into urban lands to use for industry and services and build the smart urban area, he said.

The market would continue to develop next year thanks to foreign investors and overseas Vietnamese, he added.

Economist Can Van Luc said many new companies in property development and trading were incorporated this year.

Many real estate projects are waiting for licences, and so 2018 could be a tough year for the companies in the sector, he said.

Nguyen Nam Hien, general director of HungThinh Land said next year there would also be intense competition between transaction centres because many new ones were established this year.
Specifically, recent statistics provided by the National Financial Supervision Commission (NFSC) presented a downward trend in the average CAR of the entire banking system from over 12 per cent in 2016 to around 11 per cent in 2017.

Notably, financial statements provided by numerous state-owned finanical institutions (FIs) showed an alarmingly low CAR of 9 per cent.

Despite the laudable efforts of maintaining credit growth stability (18-19 per cent), nearly 20 FIs failed to reach the targeted CAR at the beginning of 2017 due to failed attempts of raising charter capital.

Nguyen Van Thuy, deputy head of NFSC's General Supervision Department, asserted, Regardless of the 40 per cent profit growth, there is little to prevent the pressure on state-owned commercial banks. Besides, in order to fit the Basel II requirements, banks must accelerate the plan to double their current charter capital.

Likewise, Nguyen Xuan Thanh, lecturer at Fulbright University Vietnam, noted, By the end of 2019, Basel II will take effect, which will likely pose a great threat to state-owned commercial banks that have to double their charter capital in less than two years.

State-owned commercial banks like BIDV, Vietcombank, and VietinBank have been struggling with a falling CAR over the past eleven months

Additionally, a representative of Bao Viet Securities (BVSC) also highlighted that the charter capital augmentation would be the main task of state-owned commercial banks, especially Vietcombank, VietinBank, and BIDV, as well as seeking foreign strategic partners, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) opportunities, and paying dividends in the form of additional shares.

However, such solutions must be approved beforehand by the Ministry of Finance as the well-being of the entire economy could be heavily impacted.

In spite of the healthy profitability ratio of Vietnamese banking system, foreign investors still have to overcome copious hurdles in partaking in share transactions, such as the restructuring of the banking system and regulations limiting individual investors shareholding at a maximum of 20 per cent of the charter capital.
Montri Saibuatong, the companys marketing director (middle) receiving the certifications from VIPA representatives

The awards, hosted by the Vietnam Intellectual Property Association (VIPA) since 2007, aim to recognise the highest-quality and most reputable Vietnamese trademarks and products.

This recognition is testament to SCGs constant efforts throughout the years to innovate its products and services and to improve the living quality of Vietnamese consumers.

SCG has set up our roof business in Vietnam in 2006, with the first factory in Binh Duong province. We are committed to providing top-of-the-class products to the local market, contributing to the progressive urban development of the country, said Jaturong Kurowat, general director of SCG Concrete Roof Vietnam.

These continuous efforts have won the confidence of local customers in our services and products. Today, the Top 20 Trademark and Top 10 Golden Products Award have affirmed this trust and gave us more motivation to continue innovating for a better living, he noted.

The Vietnam Top 20 Trademark Award assesses brands based on their history, their market size, reputation recognised by the industry and customers, as well as revenue and social achievements.

Meanwhile, the Vietnam Top 10 Golden Products Award considers the aspects of customer satisfaction and credit to the products, the quality control process, technology application, competitiveness, as well as environmental impact.

The award is hosted by VIPA and judged by a committee including representatives from the Vietnam Intellectual Property Research Institute, the Vietnam Digital Communication Association, and the Association of Vietnam Retailers, together with Hanoi TV.

Besides the overall top ranking for SCG Roof, SCGs Elabana Profile product was recognised as one of Vietnams Top 10 Golden Products.

The Elabana Profile collection is produced under a rigorous manufacturing process, using Ultra Wet-On-Wet technology to ensure long-lasting colour and the aesthetic beauty of roof tiles.

The product has been selected for many premium construction projects, including Vinpearl and Vinhomes projects, Nam Long Resident Areas, and FLC resorts and villas.

Established in Vietnam in 2006 with a factory premise in Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park in the southern province of Binh Duong, currently SCG Concrete Roof Vietnam has 160 employees with a capacity of more than 17 million pieces of roof tile and fitting products for the Vietnamese market.

Recently, the company has become the first concrete roof tile manufacturer in Vietnam to be granted with three major certifications for its management system that complies with the latest international standards including ISO 9001 for Business Management, ISO 14001 for Environmental Management, and OHSAS 18001 for Occupational Health and Safety.

The companys key products are the Elabana series and Prestige profile with complete fitting and accessories. SCG roof tiles offer high quality, especially long product lifetime, and beautiful colour by the companys unique Ultra Wet-On-Wet colour technology.
The cocaine in her stomach was wrapped in scores of small packets. (Photo: Royal Thai Police)

The woman was stopped by officials late Wednesday night at Phuket's international airport after landing on a flight from Doha.

An X-ray revealed more than 60 small packages in her stomach, filled with 1.2kg of cocaine, according to Sirinya Sitdhichai, secretary-general of Thailand's Office of Narcotics Control Board.

The drugs were likely bound for wealthy clients in Bangkok, he added.

"Unlike methamphetamine, cocaine and Ice (crystal meth) are for a very niche group of rich customers," he told AFP.

He said drug traffickers based in West Africa routinely hire African or Asian woman as "mules" to smuggle narcotics into Thailand, a country whose porous borders and air links make it a popular transit stop for all kinds of contraband.

Smugglers often fly into smaller airports outside Bangkok and then travel by road to sell the drugs in the capital, he added.

Thailand, a country of roughly 68 million, has the world's sixth-largest prison population thanks to harsh drug laws that were enacted more than a decade ago but have failed to dismantle the narcotics trade or dent addiction rates.

More than 70 per cent of the kingdom's convicts are jailed on drug-related offences.

The proportion is even higher among the 39,000 female prisoners in Thailand, which jails more women per capita than any other nation.

Yet while couriers and other low-level smugglers are routinely arrested, authorities have struggled to take down kingpins and dismantle their trafficking networks.

The most popular drug in the kingdom is meth consumed in the form of caffeine-laced tablets known as "yaba", which means "crazy medicine".

The pill, and a more potent and pure version known as "Ice", are churned out in drug labs in the Golden Triangle Zone where northern Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos.
Emelia Ascheampong, right, a resident of the building where more than 10 people died in a fire on Thursday, is hugged by a friend on Friday in the Bronx borough of New York. Ascheampong, her husband Nana, and four children, survived the fire by using a fire escape.
Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel is now threatening to quit if his portfolios are not revised soon.

By Jumana Shah: The cracks in Vijay Rupani's government seem to have deepened beyond repair after Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel did not go to office on Friday, allegedly due to his displeasure with the portfolio allocation.

Sources claim that Nitin Patel has complained to the BJP high command against Rupani for sidelining him during the portfolio distribution.

advertisement

Patel, who was hoping to get the chief ministerial post after Anandiben stepped down last year, had to contend with the deputy CM's post.

Though Gujarat gets another five years under the leadership of Rupani and Patel, the deputy CM has been stripped of key portfolios- finance and urban development.

Nitin Patel is believed to have told the party high command that he will quit if his portfolios are not revised.

All that has been assigned to him now are road and building, health and family welfare, medical education and Narmada-Kalpasar projects - all departments that are not commensurate with the importance of the Deputy CM's post.

After staying at his home in Ahmedabad on Friday and refusing to speak to the media, the buzz in the party was abound that Patel is in touch with a few other disgruntled MLAs.

SENIOR PARTY, RSS LEADERS MEET PATEL

At the same time, senior party leaders from the state and a few RSS veterans have also reportedly reached out to him to broker a compromise.

Sources claim there is fear in the party that the threat of 10-12 MLAs planning an exit could result into a collapse of the BJP's sixth consecutive government in Gujarat.

BJP has a thin majority of just eight seats in the house of 182 seats this time.

Commenting on the alleged fault-lines appearing in Gujarat BJP, former cabinet minister Narotam Patel said, "He is a dedicated worker of party and we have to work together. Portfolio should be allocated as per his caliber."

He further added, "He (Nitin Patel) is a honest worker of the party, BJP failed to get the support from rural areas and in this tough situation Nitin Patel worked a lot for the party."

HARDIK FISHES IN BJP'S TROUBLED WATERS

Besides, Patel is believed to have the support of Anandiben Patel, who is also reportedly slighted by Amit Shah's dominance in selection of ministers and portfolio allotment.

At a public event on Saturday morning, Rupani smiled and evaded questions about the rift with Patel.

advertisement

Meanwhile, Patidar leader Hardik Patel said he would talk to Congress to give him a respectable position if Patel was willing to quit BJP with 10 MLAs . "If the BJP is not in a position to respect you, please quit with 10 MLAs & I'll talk to Congress to give you a position that would be appropriate for your seniority," he said at PAAS's Chintan Shibir in Botad.

Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said this was yet another case of the BJP's use and throw policy, especially for Patidar leaders.

"BJP has only meted out injustice to its leaders who have contributed to the formation of the party. Keshubhai Patel, Anandiben Patel & now Nitin Patel are such clear examples. This is very sad & the Patidar community has suffered at the hands of BJP because of this ," he said.

Watch: Gujarat: New government under CM Rupani sworn in

--- ENDS ---
Observers sent by both the OAS (the Organization of American States) and the European Union to Honduras for the presidential election, condemn the election as tainted by fraud. Yet the US government has already appointed the winner: the outgoing president, Juan Orlando Hernandez.

Juan Orlando Hernandez (to the left in the photo which was taken during a meeting with the US Vice President Mike Pence), supported the coup detat in 2009 against Hondurass constitutional president, Jose Manuel Zelaya, elected in 2005. Hernandez then became the President of the Honduras Parliament (National Congress) and later on in 2013, the President of the Republic.

It was the Obama Administration which, with Israels backing, organized the coup detat which toppled President Zelaya [1].

According to the official results of the presidential election (which all observers agreed to denounce as false), the oppositions candidate Salvador Nasralla  of Palestine-Lebanese origin and supported by the toppled president Manuel Zelaya  only obtained 41.42% of the votes cast against 42.95% for the outgoing president Juan Orlando Hernandez.

The majority of inter-governmental organizations such as the OAS and the European Union called for a new ballot to be conducted in Honduras.

But the then Presidential Candidate, Juan Orlando Hernandez, instructed the Ambassador of Honduras in the UN to vote against the UN resolution on the status of Jerusalem  a resolution drafted contrary to the interests of the United States and Israel. Thus the White House has come out immediately in favour of Hernandez, following the vote taken in New York.

Preferring to avoid violent clashes in his country, the candidate Salvador Nasralla announced that he will abstain from challenging the result of the presidential election.
According to Israels Channel 10, on 12 December 2017, US and Israel national security advisers (Mc Master and Meir Ben-Shabbat (see photo) respectively) signed a secret Protocol at the White House.

This document would set up four joint working groups to work on the following subjects:

 Iranian support for Hezbollah and Syria;

 The 5+1 Agreement;

 Irans Missiles programme; and

 Possible initiatives by Iran and Hezbollah.

This document is probably implementing the Anti-Iranian strategy that President Trump announced on 13 October [1].

This Protocol makes no substantive change to the agreements that were in force before it. It corresponds to a policy of regional equilibrium between Israel and Iran.

However, it is evidence that the Trump Administration - like the former Nixon Administration  is pro-Israeli for strategic rather than electoral reasons. Most of the USs Jewish community is opposed to it.
Black Mirror Metalhead Season 4 Episode 5 Editors Rating 4 stars * * * * Previous Next   Previous Episode Next Episode  Photo: Jonathan Prime / Netflix

George Miller wanted to shoot Mad Max: Fury Road in black-and-white. As he explained in 2015, One thing Ive noticed is that the default position for everyone is to desaturate post-apocalyptic movies. Theres only two ways to go, make them black and white  the best version of this movie is black and white, but people reserve that for art movies now. The other version is to really go all-out on the color. Miller eventually got his wish with the Black & Chrome edit that drains all of the oversaturated color from the theatrical cut, but Fury Road had to go with eye-popping oranges and teals for its initial run. The lower financial stakes of a Black Mirror episode, on the other hand, make selling such a conspicuously arty approach a somewhat more workable proposition.

Metalhead takes place in a dystopia not far removed from the arid Namibian deserts in which Miller mounted his berserk motor-opera. Life has been almost completely scrubbed from the barren landscape, though the series of events precipitating the mass extinction remain obscure. Beyond that, theres plenty more we dont know. A car carries three survivors on a mission to get medicine; who they are, where theyre coming from, and what happened to the pigs they mention that once filled the silos all remain mysteries. None of this matters. Its extraneous information that would only get in the way of a story thriving on simplicity. All that matters is the present, defined early and succinctly through a single minimalist conflict: The robots are coming to kill you. Run.

Almost the entirety of Metalhead is contained within one extended chase scene, set in motion when the survivors delicate search through a warehouse activates a dormant automaton they refer to as a dog. Up to that moment, they have evinced a clear fear for a bugaboo they darent name, and the instant that the unnamed woman portrayed by Maxine Peake rouses the dog from sleep mode, their hysterical caution suddenly makes sense. The episode jumps from zero to 100 in seconds, as the dog promptly blows her companions head open like a rotten orange before locking on to her. So begins a pursuit of nightmarish proportions, in which an inexhaustible foe refuses to allow escape as an option.

The monochrome photography constitutes but one part of director David Slades larger and more complex visual assault. Handheld camerawork gives each shot a ragged, desperate feel, forcing the viewer to keep up with Peake as she sprints for her life. Metalhead also contrasts speeds to great dramatic effect in the opening salvo of this survival scramble, going from the hectic hurry of the groups search for medicine (the fastness of which has been amplified by dropping frames, another trick from Millers Fury Road playbook) to the terrible grace of slow-mo. The dogs first move upon being stirred is to pop a small pod into the air, which then blasts into fragments. Slades slow-motion shot captures the gruesome little details of this explosion, watching as the individual bits of shrapnel enter the skin of a mans face. The slowed-down footage is good for savoring every tidbit of terror flitting across Peakes face as she hauls ass out of there, too.

But she cant shake the dog for long. Both in style and function, theyre exceptionally well-designed  when Apple unveils its first killing machine, the iMurder will probably look a lot like this. Its got a sleek, featureless body, concealing firearms in its rounded legs. It can jack into and seize control of anything with a switchboard, and can even assimilate real-world items like knives. The buckshot stuck under Peakes skin emits a tracking signal, leading the dog right to her wherever she goes. Every time she thinks shes got enough space to take a breath or just sit down, its always close behind. The dogs tirelessness makes it the most ruthlessly effective predator of all. Humans need food, water, and a little rest every now and then. All the dog needs is sun.

But for a moment, it looks like that might be enough for Peake to finagle an escape. The episodes most breath-bating scene finds her cornered in the forest, stuck in a tree while the dog patiently waits below. For all of its technological advances, the dog simply cannot scale a tree, and for a moment, Peake can catch her breath. (Theres a wisp of dark humor in the fact that even a pinnacle of ingenuity is still prone to glitches and bugs, a funniness not unrelated to the aggravation of malfunctions on a newly purchased iPhone.) She figures out that she can drain the dogs battery during the night, when its solar panels cant recharge, by repeatedly tossing twigs at it to set off its motion sensors. When she succeeds in getting away, the terms of the clash between man and machine start to seem a bit more hopeful. The dog may be heavily armed, but humans have adaptability at their disposal. The ability to think outside of proscribed patterns is the only thing separating us from them, and even thats not enough.

Spoiler alert: The dogs win. Peake manages to dispatch the model thats hot on her tail, but as its dying act, it pops out another homing pod that explodes to beckon a horde of other dogs. Black Mirror favors the nihilistic downer ending, but in this instance, leaning into the bummer has a higher purpose. I started the episode thinking of the adrenaline highs of Fury Road, then ended it with memories of The Terminator, another work about a human run ragged by an androids unceasing pursuit. But where the T-800 was intimidating, the dog is unassuming. Ahnuld had his bodybuilders physique, cool shades, and a leather jacket; the dog doesnt even have a face. More chilling than anything is the indifference with which the dog hunts its target, nothing more than a program executing its desired function. Its an idea that earns Metalhead a place alongside Anohnis radical peace album, Hopelessness, in a small cadre of recent art that effectively communicates the cold horrors of drone warfare: When the automated innovations of war grow beyond our control, the deaths will be swift and impersonal.

The episode ends with a long aerial shot over the chases aftermath that impotently reveals what Peake and her slain companions had hoped to find: not medicine, but a teddy bear to put a smile on the face of a child. While their mission was a failure, ending on that note suggests the paramount importance of hope as something worth risking life and limb for. Most episodes of Black Mirror posit themselves as cautionary tales, and yet Metalhead is one of the few in which all of the alarmism feels merited. Drones represent a far more present danger to humanity than, say, Tinder, and ensconcing a last-ditch warning about them in an hour so determinedly disturbing is apropos. The child will never get the teddy bear, but theres still hope for us.
Photo: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for MOMA

A man named Jonathan Wells is claiming that Jann Wenner sexually assaulted him more than 40 years ago, and that the Rolling Stone founder subsequently offered him a job after the encounter. In a new report from BuzzFeed News, Wells alleges that during a night of partying with a group of people in Wenners apartment, the two men ended up alone in the study where they drank alcohol, did cocaine, and talked about Wellss life. Wenner allegedly started dangling the idea of a job at Rolling Stone in front of him, a place Wells strongly hoped to work. Wenner then allegedly called a female prostitute to join them, and after she departed, Wells says, I was lying back and he put himself on top of me. He added, He was kissing me, but you know, normal stuff, kissing my chest. I remember him putting his penis in my mouth. I remember him sucking me, going down on me. I remember his hair on my stomach.

Wells alleges there were two more consensual encounters between them in the weeks after the alleged assault. During that time, Wenner offered Wells a job as director of Rolling Stone Press, which Wells accepted. Wenner allegedly pursued Wells off and on for months after he took the job, inviting him to dinner and asking to spend time with him. Wells declined, saying he knew what that meant, but did not want to continue a sexual relationship with his new boss. Wenner eventually relented, and Wells was fired in 1985 because of organizational restructuring of the Press department.

Friends of Wells, his sister, and his lawyer all corroborated his account of the alleged assault, saying he told them about it around the time it happened. He also told his wife about it before they married in 1986. In a statement to BuzzFeed News, Wenner said his sexual relationship with Wells was entirely consensual. I am completely surprised by these allegations, as we have remained friends for almost 35 years since then, read the statement. I sincerely believed our relationship was totally mutual and consensual  absolutely, and without question. I am saddened to hear this is his memory of that evening, because it is different than mine.
Photo: Chris So/Toronto Star via Getty Images

This wont be an objective appraisal of Sue Grafton, who died today of cancer at the age of 77. I was a fan first, reading her Kinsey Millhone novels in high school and sticking with the series all the way to the end. I interviewed her twice: once for the Los Angeles Times in 2009, and four years later, onstage at the Toronto Public Library. I admired her ability to stick with her own voice, not let success go to her head, and to stretch herself in her writing. As the editor of two anthologies of 20th-century crime works by women that were published in 2013 and 2015, I was floored by her kindness in bestowing blurbs when she hardly did that sort of thing anymore.

Trailblazers dont announce themselves upon arrival. Sue Graftons A Is for Alibi, the 1982 novel that introduced the world to private detective Kinsey Millhone, wasnt seen as the pioneering achievement we now know it to be. Pseudonymous New York Times crime-fiction critic Newgate Callendar sniffed, Will the series take hold? This first book is competent enough, but not particularly original. Grafton proved him wrong over the next 35 years, gaining millions of readers in nearly 30 countries and languages.

Grafton belonged to a cluster of female authors who viewed the private-detective subgenre, previously dominated by Dashiell Hammett, Raymond Chandler, and Graftons own hero, Ross Macdonald, in desperate need of subverting. The new detectives created by writers like Maxine OCallaghan, Marcia Muller, Sara Paretsky, and Grafton were not, as some critics insisted, simply their male counterparts in skirts. They were capable, confident, commanding. They were damn good at their jobs even if their private lives suffered. They valued their friends, their causes, their communities. They emerged from the distinct combination of second-wave feminism and 1970s American paranoia, seeing the world around them with a stark lack of sentimentality, unlike the romantic nobility of their male counterparts.

Kinsey, like Grafton, was an introvert. She was twice divorced, baffled by public displays of emotion, and quick to subsume herself in work. But Kinsey developed at a pace different from her creator. Time moved more slowly in her fictional town of Santa Teresa, for one thing; the latest of the alphabet books (published just a few months ago) is set in late 1988, only six years after the first.

Kinsey also went from being a resolute loner to accepting the love of her neighbors (especially the octogenarian Henry, who lived in a converted garage) and, by quirk and by fate, newly discovered family. Grafton seamlessly weaved the personal and the professional. Readers like me stuck around as much for the cases as for finding out what Kinsey was up to.

The quality I appreciated most about Grafton was her loyalty. She stuck with Kinsey Millhone and the alphabet series conceit for her entire career, but did not allow herself to stagnate as a writer. Kinseys first-person narrative gradually made room for other, third-person perspectives. Some of them were quite diabolical; I still remember the chill that ran up and down my spine while reading the sections of T Is for Trespass featuring Kinseys antagonist, a scarily effective psychopath lurking beneath the placid facade of caregiver.

Grafton was also loyal to those instrumental in keeping her career going. Authors dont tend to stay with the same agents and editors over their entire lifetimes, but Grafton worked with Marian Wood, her editor at Putnam, from Kinseys first outing, and signed with Molly Friedrich, still her literary agent, with the publication of B Is for Burglar. Would Grafton have felt free to try new techniques instead of writing the same old book again and again if she hadnt had the security of her publishing team? I, for one, dont think so.

Loyalty manifested itself in one other important way. Grafton refused to sell the film and television rights to her books. She spent 16 years as a Hollywood screenwriter, the latter part with Steven Humphrey, her third and surviving husband. She saw firsthand how adaptations mess with a writers head. Grafton didnt want someone elses vision of Kinsey Millhone to compete with her own.

Graftons Y Is for Yesterday, published just this past August, ended up being her last novel. At nearly 500 pages long, it sprawls and stretches in ways that the earlier, more compact Kinsey installments did not. But Y also straddles the border between the contemporary and the historical, depicting 1979-era teens being cruel and violent toward each other in a way that was of its time, but is also timeless. In the novel, Grafton, once again, shows how technology changes and grows obsolete  a VHS sex tape drove the plot and Kinseys investigation  but human behavior never does.

Sue Grafton died too soon, but she remained in control till the end. Her family, in accordance with her wishes, stated that Kinsey Millhone would not return one more time. As far as we in the family are concerned, the alphabet now ends at Y. Grafton hadnt yet begun writing the final book in the series, which was to be published in August 2019 as Z Is for Zero. That leaves us with Graftons last published words, as always both respectfully submitted and sharply delivered by Kinsey: Im not saying justice is for sale, but if you have enough money, you can sometimes enjoy the benefits of a short-term lease.

That Sue Grafton fell short of completing the alphabet is cruel irony, but also strangely fitting. She spent so much of her career being asked if she would make it to the end. In 2009, I asked her if she even needed to. She was the author, the god of her writing. Surely she could stop whenever she liked?

Well, I dont know, Grafton told me, a half-smile on her face. When I started writing the series, who even knew this was going to work? Was that gall, was I being cheeky or not? For the first half of the alphabet, people bet I couldnt [get to the end]. Now, they are rooting for me.

Were still rooting for her, and for Kinsey Millhone.
By PTI: Jammu, Dec 29 (PTI) A top Army commander today met Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra here and discussed the situation along the borders with him in the wake of repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Devraj Anbu met the governor at Raj Bhavan this evening and they discussed the obtaining situation along the International Border (IB), Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the state, an official spokesman said.

advertisement

The meeting came at a time when tension has risen along the LoC in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch following repeated ceasefire violations by Paksitan which left an Army major and three personnel dead and another injured on December 23.

Indian Army also killed three Pakistani troops and injured another in retaliatory action at Rukh Chakri sector in Rawlakot on December 25.

Though the LoC in the twin districts remained peaceful today, intermittent skirmishes between the two armies over the past week have sparked panic among the border residents.

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a total of 881 ceasefire violations this year, highest in last seven years, along the LoC and the IB, resulting in the death of 34 people.

According to officials, Pakistan has violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir 771 times till December 10, and 110 times along the IB till November-end.

The truce between India and Pakistan along the IB, LOC and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir came into force in November 2003.

India shares a 3,323-km-long border with Pakistan of which 221 km of the IB and 740 km of the LoC fall in Jammu and Kashmir.

In 2016, there were 449 incidents of ceasefire violations in which 13 civilians and 13 government forces personnel were killed and 83 civilians and 99 security personnel injured.

In 2014, there were 583 incidents of ceasefire violation in which 14 civilians and three security personnel were killed and 101 civilians and 28 security personnel injured.

In 2015, the number of ceasefire violations was 405, 347 in 2013, 114 in 2012, 62 in 2011 and 70 in 2010. PTI TAS AQS

--- ENDS ---
A software glitch Friday gave some Waco-McLennan County Library patrons a scare and library officials a headache.

Scores of patrons received an electronic notice stating that they had overdue fines of at least $50 and needed to call the library to avoid being sent to collections.

Call they did, tying up phone lines for much of the day. Top library staff worked the phones, explaining that the fines were in most cases much less than $50 and that there was no need to worry.

Ive been at the desk since 10, said library director Essy Day on Friday afternoon. Ive been apologizing profusely.  People are very fair and honest. They realize there are glitches with computers.

Day said the erroneous notifications resulted from a new library information system, and the vendor, Innovative Interfaces Inc., took responsibility for the error.

Theyre a wonderful company, and theyve been nothing but helpful, she said, adding that the notification system has been temporarily disabled. The system normally contacts patrons by email or text when an item is seven days overdue, with periodic reminders after that.

Among the alarmed patrons was Nicole Greb, a social work masters student.

I woke up this morning to an email about a book I rented in 2013, saying it was overdue and I owed $50 or more, she said late Friday morning. Ive been trying to call them all morning. Im assuming its a lot of money.

Greb said she checked out the book about Harriet Tubman when she was a freshman in college history class, but she doesnt remember failing to turn it in.

Its frustrating to me, she said. Obviously, they had my email address all the time.  At $50 or more I could buy them a couple of books about Harriet Tubman.

Day said that as far as she knows all the patrons who got notices do owe at least $1 in fines, but the statement that the fine is over $50 was erroneous.

But Rebekah Hughes, a ministry coordinator at St. Albans Episcopal Church, said she received her notice in error. She was also trying to call the library Friday morning.

The book was Abraham Lincoln Loves Animals,  she said. Its a childrens book. We checked it out in July. Im definitely not in possession of it.  I was a little perturbed because I remember returning all our books. We love the library and try to return their books and not leave them in small places around the house.

Hughes said her children are regular patrons at Central Library, and her 6-year-old picked out the Lincoln book.

I think it was a good book, but its not a cherished piece of literature I feel I need to own, she said.

Day said the software glitch was especially unfortunate because the library was just rolling out a much-improved computer system for its staff and patrons.

Searching is so much easier for patrons, she said. Its a more robust site. It shows most of what patrons are used to showing on Amazon, for example. Its so much easier to use.
Waco police investigated six homicides and one justified homicide in 2017, and welcomed a continued downward trend in overall criminal activity in the city.

Last year, police investigated a total of five homicides, the fewest murders since 2010.

This year, three of Wacos seven homicide investigations remain open with no arrests made, Waco police Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton said. Two other investigations resulted in the arrest of a suspect and one included a murder-suicide, where the suspected gunman shot and killed himself during the incident.

If you can ever say murder investigations are average, we are running about consistent with what we had last year, Swanton said. Murders are something that law enforcement does not really have any control over, but I think being visible to the public and having a good relationship with the public helps keep our numbers down.

The number of robbery, assault and sexual assault cases fell below the numbers reported in 2016, while reported auto thefts rose from 35 in 2016 to 45 this year as of mid-December.

Swanton said each homicide investigation is taxing on detectives. Violent crimes are a concern for law enforcement on a daily basis, but the risk of public safety and the impact on the community is typically a large motivation for closing homicide cases, he said.

All the types of cases we work are significant, whether it is a burglary of a vehicle case or up to a murder, however, homicide cases are so much more personal, Swanton said. In murders, now you have family that is left to deal with the aftermath of the tragic circumstance and they have no closure.

Detectives know that and that is probably one of the most significant things that keeps a detective tossing and turning at night  knowing that the family doesnt have answers.

Here are the homicide cases investigated by Waco police in 2017, to date:

Jeremy Dewayne James

The first homicide of the year was the shooting death of Jeremy Dewayne James, 29, on Feb. 27. James was found shot in the 2300 block of Edna Avenue, near North Waco Park, where police believe a fight had broken out.

James was shot several times in the upper torso before he died later at a local hospital.

No arrests have been made and the case remains open, but police believe the shooting was not random.

Gregory Brooks

Gregory Brooks, 66, was allegedly shot and killed during a domestic disturbance with his younger brother, Stanley Brooks, then 65, inside their East Waco home on April 13. Gregory Brooks was allegedly shot before he was able to escape the home and was taken to a local hospital with a gunshot wound.

Stanley Brooks was barricaded in his brothers home in the 1800 block of Pryor Street. He was taken into custody about two hours later.

Gregory Brooks died in the hospital on May 4. His brother was charged with his murder and faces a March 12, 2018 jury trial.

Deon Dashawn Love

Police were called to a fight at Jesters Bar, 2119 La Salle Ave., on June 24, where a group of people began an altercation. During the incident, Deon Dashawn Love, 24, was shot and killed.

Eric Hernandez, then 31, was arrested the next day on a charge of murder. His trial date is pending.

Twila and William Mooney

Waco police were called to a murder-suicide investigation of 2017 on July 21. William Mooney, 47, shot and killed his wife, Twila Mooney, 47, on their houseboat at Speegleville Marina. William Mooney then shot and killed himself.

Kerry Bradley

Waco police shot and killed suspected drug dealer Kerry Bradley, 37, on Aug. 1 after trying to execute a search warrant on Bradleys SUV near North 24th Street and Olive Avenue. Police accused Bradley of selling heroin earlier that morning.

When they approached his car to serve the warrant, Bradley reportedly accelerated toward Waco SWAT officer William Graeber, striking him and running the officer over. Fellow officers fired shots at Bradley, striking him six times and killing him. Officers were able to lift the SUV off Graeber and administer first aid.

Graeber survived the encounter and continues to recover at home. Police closed the case when a grand jury in September found no probable cause to charge officers in the death of Bradley, ruling Bradleys death a justified homicide.

Anthony D. Rivera

Anthony Rivera, 19, was shot and killed in the 2300 block of Park Avenue on Oct. 29. A second shooting occurred near 26th Street and Dutton Avenue while police were investigating the first incident.

A second man suffered non-life-threatening injuries at the second shooting. Officers said both shootings may be connected, but no arrests have been made.

The investigation is ongoing.

Brian Robinson

The last reported homicide of 2017 was the shooting death of Brian Robinson, 34, of Waco, after an argument erupted between two groups of men in East Waco on Dec. 14.

Police were called to the 800 block of Harlem Avenue upon reports of gunfire in the neighborhood. Officers said at least three vehicles in the neighborhood were struck by gunfire before police found Robinson lying dead in a yard in the area.

No arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing, police said.

According to Waco police crime statistics, officers investigated 163 robbery reports, 2,063 assault reports, 187 sexual assault reports and 35 reports of stolen vehicles in 2016.

In comparison, from Jan. 1 to mid-December of this year, Waco police took reports of 147 robberies, 2,032 assaults, 183 sexual assaults and 45 stolen vehicles.

McLENNAN COUNTY

Outside of Waco, three other McLennan County residents were victims of homicide.

Bruceville-Eddy police investigated the shooting death of Monica Tharpe, 31, who died at her home near Woodlawn Road and Interstate 35 on May 20. Authorities surrounded the home after reports of gunfire before officers forced their way into the home and found Tharpes husband, Kevin Tharpe, 41, dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

McLennan County Sheriffs Office detectives investigated a double homicide this year in the deaths of Valarie Martinez, 24, and her young daughter, Azariah, 1. Martinez allegedly agreed to meet Azariahs father, Christopher Paul Weiss, 26, of Temple, at Tradinghouse Lake on Nov. 4 before he allegedly shot and killed Martinez and her daughter.

Weiss, who reportedly had a sexual relationship with Martinez while he was married, was arrested in Temple two days after the bodies of the mother and her daughter were found. McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara called the killings cold-blooded and said the deaths were truly heart-breaking.

Authorities arrested Weiss on a charge of capital murder. He remains in McLennan County Jail with a bond listed at $1 million, but he has yet to be indicted on the charge.
Carrie Priest

Dec. 28, 1962 - Dec. 22, 2017

It is with sadness the family of Carrie Lynn Priest announces she recently passed away at the age of 55. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on December 30 at Lake Shore Funeral Home, 5201 Steinbeck Bend in Waco.

Carrie was born December 28, 1962 and was a graduate of China Spring High School. She was a devout Christian and attended Highland Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Thornton and Mary Frances Priest.

Carrie is survived by two brothers, David Priest of Smithville and Thornton Priest of Universal City; two nephews and several cousins in central Texas.

Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.LakeShoreFH.com.
HOUSTON  A man walked into a Houston auto shop where he used to work Friday and fatally shot two employees before going outside and killing himself, police said.

The man, whose name wasnt immediately released, entered Bemer Plus about 4 p.m. and officers received a call minutes later about a shooting in progress, Executive Assistant Police Chief Troy Finner said in a news conference.

Multiple people, including customers and other employees, were at the shop when the shooting happened, Finner said.

Its very, very sad this time of year and any part of the year that we lose three citizens, Finner said. I just ask our great citizens of this city to pray for each victim here and their families.

Houston police also didnt immediately release the names of the two other people who died. The motive for the shooting is not clear.

The southwest Houston shop specializes in used BMW sales and repairs.

Armored truck holdup

HOUSTON  Harris County sheriffs deputies and the FBI are looking for at least three men involved in the holdup of a Brinks armored truck employee.

Authorities say the robbers, all wearing jumpsuits, pulled a gun on the worker outside a bank in northeast Houston, robbed her and jumped into a getaway car. The driver of the armored truck rammed the car and the robbers began firing at him as they fled.

No one was hurt and officials havent said how much money was taken in the Thursday heist.

Police say the robbers carjacked the driver of a pickup truck after ditching their getaway car about a block away.

Capital murder

CORPUS CHRISTI  Prosecutors have upgraded charges against a man already accused of murdering a 21-year-old Corpus Christi woman 14 months ago.

Court records reviewed by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times show 27-year-old Joseph Tejeda was re-indicted Thursday on four new charges, including capital murder, for the slaying of Breanna Wood. She was reported missing by her mother in October 2016. Her body was found the following January in an abandoned trailer near Robstown.

Wood was last seen with Tejeda at a convenience store and he initially was charged in March with her murder. If convicted of the new capital murder charge, he could receive the death penalty.

The newspaper says Nueces County prosecutors sought the capital murder count based on evidence the slaying involved payment or the promise of payment.

{ hr/}

Decapitation with sword

HOUSTON  A 45-year-old Houston man is accused of nearly decapitating his girlfriend with a samurai sword.

Police investigating a cutting in progress Wednesday evening found 36-year-old Aracely Jernigan dead in the living room of a Houston home.

Court records show Kenneth Wayne Lockings Jr.s relatives convinced him Thursday to surrender to police. He has been charged with murder and is being held without bond in the Harris County jail.

He has a lengthy criminal history including multiple drug arrests and at least one conviction.

Lockings grandmother, Marie Carrier told The Houston Chronicle that he received the sword as a gift at Thanksgiving.

She says Jernigan had been living in Mexico and only recently returned to Houston.

Court records dont list an attorney for Lockings. Hes due in court Wednesday.

{ hr/}

Teenager shot dead

HOUSTON  A 13-year-old has been killed and two other teenagers have been wounded in a shooting at a southeast Houston apartment complex.

Police say theyre not sure if the victims lived at the apartments but believe the three were ambushed Thursday night as they were in a common area at the complex.

Officers have recovered at least 50 shell casings from the area. Police say theyre looking into whether the gunfire is gang related.

The 13-year-old died at a hospital. A 14-year-old and a 17-year-old are being treated for their wounds. Police say they are expected to recover.

Names of the victims havent been released.
By PTI: New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) The censor boards suggestion to Sanjay Leela Bhansali to change the title of his film "Padmavati" to "Padmavat" has led to a flurry of reactions on Twitter with many users poking fun at the latest development.

Many social media users took to the micro-blogging site to express their views on the modifications suggested by the CBFC.

advertisement

Director Anubhav Sinha said, "So Bhansali can now actually throw a party. Just that Whisky will be called Whiska Vodka will be called Vodki and so on."

Apurva Asrani tweeted, "If Padman picks up the i that Padmavat drops, theyll have to call it Padmani. From the frying pan into the pyre."

Comedian Sorabh Pant tweeted, "Padmavati already got released. They changed the character name, the plot and history. They called it, Star Wars: The Last Jedi but Indians know..."

Actor Prakash Raj tweeted, "Padmavati to be Padmavat plus 26 cuts.. says CBFC... Finally has someone achieved to chop something of Padmavati. An I from the title."

There were reports doing the rounds that the board had suggested 26 cuts to the film, but in a statement, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi clarified that they have only advised five modifications, including the title change, but "no cuts".

Board member Vani Tripathi Tikoo also tweeted about the same, saying, "Stop the Misinformation Campaign for God sake on Padmavati, CBFC has not asked for any cuts with the U/A certificate its only few modifications and a title change with the consent of the film maker. Its finally over so let the film release and judge it then!"

Actor Renuka Shahane and director Rahul Dholakia expressed their displeasure with the boards suggested changes. Dholakia also linked the boards decision with the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh elections.

"The I of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of Padmavati to Padmavat and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby nobody will have any issue and nobodys sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game changing... I must say," Shahane tweeted.

"Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw filmmakers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, Padmavati has got its U/A, it will be praised. Rajputs heroism will be talked about by the same people who slammed it. Thank God we have not made a film called Gandhi! Can you imagine what title CBFC would suggest," Dholakia tweeted.

The board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 and decided to give the film a "UA certification along with some modifications and likely change of the films title on the basis the attributed material/creative source".

advertisement

The board also suggested modifications in disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practise of "Sati" and also relevant changes in the song Ghoomar to befit the character portrayed, said a CBFC release.

Joshi said the producers and the director of the film are "completely in agreement" with the proposed modifications.

Bhansali, who appeared before a parliamentary panel, had said his lavishly-mounted Rs 150 crore period drama, featuring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, is based on the 16th century epic poem "Padmavat" by Malik Muhammad Jayasi.

The film got stuck in controversy after various Rajput groups alleged that it distorts history, a claim repeatedly denied by the director.

Historians are divided on whether Padmini actually existed.

As protests spread across various states, the films December 1 release was deferred as it didnt have censor clearance. PTI RB RB

--- ENDS ---
Northcote man Antonios Crocaris, 83, has died in hospital from injuries after he was hit by an alleged car attack in Flinders Street last week.

His family spoke of their distress and love for their father and grandfather who they described as their "hero".

"Our father Anton had his life cruelly taken away in a senseless act of violence. These circumstances are devastating to our family. Dad is simply irreplaceable and we will never fully recover from this loss," the family said in a statement.

"He was a beloved husband of Elizabeth (dec), adored father of Freda, Tony and Bill, and cherished grandfather of Verity, Lysander and Jackson.
By PTI: By Sajjad Hussain

Islamabad, Dec 30 (PTI) Pakistan has decided to set up a new hydropower project of over 700 megawatts in PoK through foreign financing at an estimated cost of USD 1.51 billion by 2022, according to a media report.

The Azad Pattan Hydropower Project (APHP) is a run of river scheme located on Jhelum River in the Sudhanoti district of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and about 90 kilometres from Islamabad, the Express Tribune reported.

advertisement

The project would be completed by 2022 for which the authorities have sought an import tariff at Rs 8.05 per kilowatts, the daily said.

"The project (Azad Pattan Hydropower Project) is an initiative of the government of Pakistan being developed in the private sector under the Policy for Power Generation 2002," the daily said citing the project documents at National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra).

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA-G) has proposed a reference levelised tariff of Rs 8.50 per unit (kWh) for import of the electricity from the project under NEPRA Import of Power Regulations, 2017.

Nepra on Friday announced to admit CPPA-G application for consideration. It would conduct a hearing in the matter on January 11, 2018 at Islamabad.

"The 700.7 MW project adds much-needed capacity to the inventory of hydropower projects in the country and will generate 3,258 GWh, around 3 per cent of the country?s annual generation,? the document said.

The estimated cost would be a mix of 75 per cent debt (USD 1.13 billion) and 25 per cent equity (USD pere cent 379 million). The debt part includes foreign debt, it added.

Debt repayment period has been assumed as 18 years including a six-year grace period.

Hydropower contributes about 16 per cent of global electricity and Pakistan has 28 per cent hydropower in its energy mix, the daily said citing official documents.

Pakistan still has significant unexploited hydel resources of which only about 12 per cent have been developed and made operational, it said. PTI SH PMS

--- ENDS ---
By: WCTV Eyewitness News

December 29, 2017

BERRIEN COUNTY, Ga. (WCTV) -- The Berrien County Sheriff's Office has arrested 17-year-old James Prichett, who was

.

BCSO was assisted by the Tifton Police Department, the U.S. Marshal's Office and the Georgia Department of Corrections K-9 unit.

BCSO says Prichett was staying at a residence in Berrien County.

It was a great day in Berrien County Today. Due to a huge teamwork effort between the Berrien County Sheriffs Office,... Posted by Berrien County Sheriff's Office on Friday, December 29, 2017

Authorities say charges are pending for the people who aided Prichett in his evading of law enforcement, and that some arrests have already been made.

WCTV has reached out to law enforcement for more information regarding Prichett's arrest.
By PTI: Palestine says will act

New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) India has strongly conveyed to Palestine that the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, also a UN-designated terrorist, is "unacceptable", the External Affairs Ministry said today.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," the ministry said in a release.

advertisement

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassadors presence at this event.

"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine side, it said.

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali reportedly attended a rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed Saeed, also Mumbai terror attack mastermind. PTI PYK AAR

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said today.

Asserting that Alis action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy told PTI that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

advertisement

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

Ali reportedly attended the rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday following which India issued a strong demarche on the matter.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan headed by Saeed. PTI PYK ZMN

--- ENDS ---
Increasing the scope of government over business accelerates the problem of crony capitalism. by Sam Dugan This article was originally published on FEE.org. Read the original article.

In a time of political polarization, it can be reassuring when the left and the right agree on an issue. One such area of consensus is the recognition of crony capitalism where big business and government work together for their own interests through systems of reciprocal favors.

The Taxi Industry Is a Prime Example of Crony Capitalism

An example of crony capitalism can be seen in the conflict between rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, and the taxi industry. Because Uber poses a competitive threat to the taxi business, the taxi industry has pushed hard to ban Uber from cities across the country by lobbying local governments with varying degrees of success.

The taxi industry has enjoyed a monopoly for a long time thanks to their close relationship with government. By creating occupational licenses and charging what is often several hundred thousand dollars for a medallion, the taxi industry posed massive barriers to entry on their competition. Now, this government-sanctioned monopoly is facing an inevitable dissolution because of the innovation of ridesharing companies.

Although both sides of the political spectrum may agree that relationships like the one between the taxi industry and local governments are a problem, they often disagree on the solution.

Increasing the scope of government over business accelerates the problem of crony capitalism.The Solution of Increased Regulation Is No Solution at All

The solution usually proposed by the left is to give the government more power to regulate business. The theory is that if we can increase the scope of the government, then government can clamp down on big business. But although this may sound good initially, it ignores the incentives created by government regulations.

When government has more power to regulate business, businesses will respond by shifting more of their resources towards influencing the government to intervene in their favor. Businesses are incentivized to twist the law to their own advantage. Put simply, when the government has the power to control businesses, businesses will end up controlling the government.

Increasing the scope of government over business accelerates the problem of crony capitalism in a cyclical manner which resembles a positive feedback loop. The government is given more power to regulate business, so businesses shift more resources towards gaining advantages using government power, and on and on it goes. Although many people who want the government to regulate business may have good intentions, in reality, this proposal ends up contributing to the very problem it seeks to solve.

Another costly effect of regulations is that they disproportionately harm small businesses. Bigger businesses often have the resources to deal with costs from regulations (or to twist regulations to their own advantage), but small businesses frequently do not. Regulations impose costs on businesses in the forms of both time and money, neither of which small businesses can afford to re-allocate if they want to remain competitive in their market.

Zero-Sum, Rent-Seeking Behavior

Regulations, then, decrease competition and shift the market towards monopoly in two ways. Not only do they incentivize companies to use government power to their own advantage and to the detriment of competitors, but regulations also bury small businesses in compliance costs.

Government regulations lead to what economists call rent-seeking. Rent-seeking, in this case, is when businesses divert their resources towards capturing a bigger portion of the existing wealth in a market instead of using their resources to create new wealth.

The less power the government has to regulate businesses, the less incentive businesses have to get in bed with the government.One of the defining characteristics of a free market is that it allows for the creation of wealth instead of merely the spread of existing wealth. In a free market, people can trade resources in a way that is mutually beneficial and produces a net gain for each party. But the introduction of government force into the equation shifts things towards a zero-sum game where one party benefits at the expense of another.

Government force in the form of regulations incentivizes this zero-sum, rent-seeking behavior. What this then leads to in a market is inefficiency, corruption, and less competition.

Economist Frederic Bastiat may have summed it up best when he said, As long as it is admitted that the law may be diverted from its true purposethat it may violate property instead of protecting itthen everyone will want to participate in making the law, either to protect himself against plunder or to use it for plunder.

The solution to crony capitalism that logically follows from all of this is quite simple. The solution is to decrease and limit the scope of government power. The less power the government has to regulate businesses, the less incentive businesses have to get in bed with the government. If government intervention is decreased and limited to only what is absolutely necessary, we will see the problem of crony capitalism radically diminish in both frequency and severity.

Proposals for government regulations are a classic case of why policies must be based on more than merely good intentions. If one wants to evaluate a proposed policy, one of the best ways to do so is to consider the incentives that it will produce and the effects those incentives will have. Government regulations are a case where, although unintended, the results are very often negative.
City of Paducah gets update how $6.5 million ARPA funds will be spent
Advertisement

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Dec. 29, 2017 | PADUCAH, KY

By West Kentucky Star Staff Dec. 29, 2017 | 03:15 PM | PADUCAH, KY

A Paducah man has been arrested for trespassing and reportedly pointing a BB pistol at his former workplace.



The Paducah Police Department was called to Vinyl Window Technologies on Irvin Cobb Drive just before 10 am Friday, and employees said they saw a former co-worker in the rear parking lot pointing an object at the building.



Police say 36-year-old Adam Abraham had been banned from the property and told by officers on Tuesday to stay away. Employees told police that Abraham had threatened to kill people who were there.



An officer spotted Abraham walking from a wooded area to his car on the parking lot. When told that he was going to be arrested, Abraham reportedly fled and scuffled with the officer. The officer's K-9 partner and a recruit officer helped subdue and arrest Abraham, and he was taken to McCracken County Jail.



Police say a search led to the discovery of suspected marijuana and cocaine on Abraham, and a BB pistol in the car. Police say it was likely the object that employees saw him pointing at the building.



Abraham was charged with 3rd degree trespassing, resisting arrest, and for possession of marijuana and cocaine.



Shortly after police issued their press release on the incident, City Commissioner Richard Abraham notified West Kentucky Star that the suspect is not related to him.
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.
Advertisement

By West Kentucky Star Staff

Dec. 29, 2017 | LA CENTER, KY

By West Kentucky Star Staff Dec. 29, 2017 | 10:00 PM | LA CENTER, KY

A business in La Center was damaged by fire on Friday night.



Multiple firefighting agencies responded about 7:30 pm to Frank's Tire and Wrecker Service at 242 Broadway.



According to Tyler Powell, who is a La Center Firefighter and Chief of the La Center Rural Fire Department, six firefighting agencies were on the scene along with the Rescue Squad and Police.



Powell said the fire started in the office portion of the building and they were able to contain it there, but other parts of the building have some smoke or heat damage. He said adjacent buildings in that block of town were not damaged. There was nobody in the building at the time of the fire, and there were no injuries to citizens or firefighters.



Broadway was closed to all traffic during the fire, and access to Broadway from U.S. Highway 60 was also restricted.



Firefighters stayed on the scene until about 11:30 pm checking for hot spots.



Powell said there is no word on what caused the fire, but it is being investigated.




By PTI: presence in Saeeds rally

New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) India today issued a strong demarche to Palestine on the issue of presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, terming it as "unacceptable".

Indias Secretary (economic relations) Vijay Gokhale in the external affairs ministry called Palestinian ambassador here Adnan Abu Al Haija to the South Block after which the ministry said, "the concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

advertisement

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistans association with terrorist Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the ministry said in a release.

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassadors presence at this event.

"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The government takes note of the assurances given by the Palestine envoy, who informed India that his government had decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali.

Talking to PTI after his meeting, Haija said Ali has been recalled for attending the rally organised by Saeed.

Asserting that Alis action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not its envoy to Pakistan anymore," Haija said.

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Ali reportedly attended the Difah-e-Pakistan Council- organised rally in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Saeed. PTI PYK ZMN

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: presence in Saeeds rally

(Eds: Incorporating Palestine govts reaction)

New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) India today issued a strong demarche to Palestine on the issue of presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, terming it as "unacceptable".

Indias Secretary (economic relations) Vijay Gokhale in the external affairs ministry called Palestinian ambassador here Adnan Abu Al Haija to the South Block after which the ministry said, "the concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

advertisement

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistans association with terrorist Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the ministry said in a release.

It said the Palestinian side has conveyed "deep regrets" over the incident and assured India that they are taking serious cognisance of their ambassadors presence at this event.

"They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The government took note of the assurances given by the Palestine envoy, who informed India that his government had decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali.

Talking to PTI after his meeting, Haija said Ali has been recalled for attending the rally organised by Saeed.

Asserting that Alis action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not its envoy to Pakistan anymore," Haija said.

The Palestinian Authority, meanwhile, described as "unintended mistake" but "not justified" the presence of its ambassador at the event attended by Saeed.

"On the basis of the principled and firm Palestinian position, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates considered the participation of our Ambassador in Pakistan in a mass rally in solidarity with Jerusalem, held in Rawalpindi on Friday and in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified," a statement from the Palestinian Authority (PA) said.

It described Palestine as a "real partner" of India in its war against terrorism and also expressed its appreciation for New Delhis vote in favour of the resolution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the issue of Jerusalem.

advertisement

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Ali reportedly attended the Difah-e-Pakistan Council- organised rally in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan, headed by Saeed. PTI PYK ZMN

--- ENDS ---
Winona

Thursday

11:26 a.m.  Jordan Marie Perry, 18, Winona, was cited for theft by shoplifting after attempting to remove $122.94 worth of merchandise from Target.

11:59 a.m.  David Austin Russell, 37, Winona, was cited for trespassing after causing a disturbance at the Winona County Health and Human Services building.

12:24 p.m.  David Austin Russell, 37, Winona, was cited for trespassing after causing a disturbance and refusing to leave the courthouse.

Thursday

25 alternate side parking tickets issued.

2:14 a.m.  Mark Anthony Heath, 44, Winona, was cited for obstructing the legal process after fleeing the police near Third and Johnson streets when they responded to reports of a disturbance.

Winona County

Thursday

1:04 a.m.  Charges of first-degree drunken driving, operating a vehicle under the influence, fleeing on foot and driving without a valid license were referred against Ashley Allen Blackcoon, 33, Black River Falls, Wis., after a deputy saw him urinating in the street near Mankato Avenue and Parks Avenue. He attempted to flee, but was caught. Leanne Joy Rave, 35, Black River Falls, Wis., was charged with first-degree drunken driving and driving without a valid license after she attempted to drive the car away, according to the Sheriffs department.

Rave said she was merely moving the car to park it for the night.
Reedsburg police say a woman was driving drunk Wednesday night with a loaded firearm and her young daughter in the vehicle.

Brittany Lee Robertson, 27, of Baraboo, was arrested for drunken driving with a minor passenger, carrying a handgun while intoxicated and violating a license restriction, according to a news release from the Reedsburg Police Department.

Police stopped Robertson around 11:30 p.m. after she allegedly made an improper left turn. In speaking with the driver  officers detected she had been drinking, the release said, adding that Robertsons 8-year-old daughter was riding with her.

Officers allegedly noticed she had an ignition interlock device due to previous drunken driving convictions that had not been installed. They also reported finding a loaded handgun in her possession.

She was issued and released to a responsible party, the release said.
Something is happening in the final days of 2017. People are noticing that Donald Trump has gotten a lot done in his tumultuous first year in the White House.

If in, say, 2014, a Republican, of either the conservative or moderate variety, predicted that in 2017 a newly elected GOP president and Congress would:

Cut corporate and individual taxes.

Repeal the Obamacare individual mandate.

Appoint a highly respected conservative to the Supreme Court.

Appoint a one-year record number of judges to the circuit courts.

Get rid of reams of unnecessary regulations.

Destroy ISIS.

Approve pipeline projects and new oil drilling.

Then a lot of Republicans would probably have cheered. Loudly.

No need to go through the litany of complaints against the president or the succession of hair-on-fire, Twitter-fueled controversies that have marked the wildest first year ever in presidential politics. Or the special counsel investigation into the Trump-Russia affair that some Democrats (and some NeverTrump Republicans) hope will result in Trumps removal from office. Despite it all, Trump has racked up a solid record of first-year accomplishment.

It would not be a great surprise if much of Trumps second year consisted of reminding 2018 midterm voters of how much he did in his first year. Maybe that will be enough to keep Republicans in control of House and Senate, although the historical averages alone  presidents tend to lose a lot of congressional seats in their first midterm  argue against it.

And Trumps second-year agenda is unclear. There has been talk about an infrastructure bill. About welfare reform. But it seems likely that what Trump does in his next year will be anchored in his unilateral executive authority, just like his first year.

Perhaps the critical factor in whether Trump can succeed from a policy standpoint next year is whether he is able to attract high-quality people to his administration.

On many, many occasions during the campaign, candidate Trump promised he would hire only the best people if he were to win the White House.

The recent, noisy departure of Omarosa Manigault-Newman showed that was not true. So did the brief tenure of Anthony Scaramucci. And Sebastian Gorka. And others. In the Trump White House, there have been White House staff who had no business being White House staff.

Of course, the president has hired many first-rate people, too, in the White House and across the administration: John Kelly, Mike Pompeo, James Mattis, Neomi Rao, H.R. McMaster, Nikki Haley, Marc Short and more. The question now, with the coming, inevitable departures from his administration, is whether the president can convince the best people, or even just really good people, to work for him.

The first thing a potential high-ranking Trump hire has to consider is the sheer difficulty of working for Donald Trump. Throughout the campaign and in the White House, Trumps instincts have been remarkably consistent with those of many Republicans (and some independents) across the nation. But working in the atmosphere that he has created, and thrives in, can be a trial. What Trump needs in the second year are people who can endure that trial and focus on the presidents political instincts.

He needs people more aligned with him, noted one Republican lawmaker in a text exchange recently. Not toadies  Pompeo and McMaster disagreed with him on Afghanistan and persuaded him  but people more in general alignment with his instincts. His key cabinet members and White House advisors need to channel his instincts in a constructive fashion for the country, helping him achieve his goals.

There are so many top-notch people on the sidelines, noted another GOP lawmaker.

A significant part of the problem is this: In the supercharged atmosphere of Washington, a prospective Trump aide (and his or her spouse) can face intense professional and social disapprobation from being associated with the president.

They definitely can, said yet another Republican lawmaker. I think there needs to be 1) more assurance that Trump and the administration have their backs (Im thinking of the mean tweet from Trump about the House Obamacare repeal bill), and 2) more assurance that the Senate will get them through the approval process. Russ Vought (nominee for deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget) is still waiting for his confirmation vote, and the same with Tom Garrett for Ex-Im Bank.

If, as expected, some on the Trump team head for the exits in the new year, the problem will become more serious.

Personnel isnt sexy. And the key person in Trumps policy successes is Trump himself. But the president will need the actual best people if he is to make his second year as consequential as his first.
Editors note: Each day this week, the Daily Citizen unveiled the top 10 stories of 2017, as selected by its editorial staff. Today is the final in the series.

The boom that rocked Cambria, very late on a Wednesday night seven months ago, continues to reverberate throughout south-central Wisconsin.

Sixteen people were working at Didion Milling when an explosion ripped through the plant at about 11:30 p.m. May 31.

Five of them died.

Others suffered serious injuries.

As 2017 draws to a close, the cause of the explosion has not been determined. But the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration has declared that Didion owes more than $1.8 million in fines for safety violations, some of which OSHA officials characterized as egregious.

Didion is appealing that judgment, and making plans to rebuild.

There had been a fire at Didion on May 29, two days before the explosion. Although fire inspectors have not determined whether the fire and the explosion were related, OSHA officials cited the fire in a first-floor dryer, and a lack of an automatic fire protection system, as a serious violation.

The explosion was heard for miles around Cambria, and it knocked out the villages electric power.

I heard the boom, and my house shook, recalled Cambria Village Clerk Lois Frank.

Fire trucks poured in from around the region  including Madisons Heavy Urban Rescue Team, a specialized crew of firefighters and paramedics dispatched when buildings collapse and lives are in danger.

Cambria Fire Chief Cody Doucette was on the scene for nearly a full day, and even his familiarity with Didion, and his training in dealing with emergencies there, had not prepared him for what he encountered.

Cambria-Friesland schools  which were not damaged, despite their location near Didion  were closed the following day, while Superintendent Tim Raymond took stock of the situation, including a decision to hold graduation exercises, as scheduled, the day after in the school gym. (Neighboring school districts had offered to host the Friday ceremony if the Cambria-Friesland buildings had been damaged, but the structures were determined to be safe.)

Although there were no classes, students and staff turned out to make sandwiches for the emergency response workers, some of whom had been at the scene for hours with no break.

The Salvation Army arrived promptly, and a prayer vigil and resource center was set up at Cambrias First Presbyterian Church.

And the new Columbia County Highway Department shop in Cambria was quickly turned into a venue for families of Didion workers to wait for word on the fate of their loved ones.

The five Didion workers who died as a result of the explosion were Duelle Robert Block, Robert LeRoy Goodenow, Pawel Adam Tordoff, Carlos Charly Nunez and Angel Reyes.

In communities throughout the area, people, organizations and businesses organized fundraisers for the survivors, and made numerous other gestures  including the 16 prayer quilts hand-made by the Randolph-based Kattywampus Quilt Guild, one for each person who was working at Didion when the explosion occurred.

Didion officials also reached out to area businesses and industries to find places where displaced Didion workers could continue to be employed, with Didion paying their wages.

However, many of the displaced employees had depended on overtime wages as a vital source of their livelihood, and the loss of the overtime meant some of them had to seek help. The Columbia County Health and Human Services Department became a clearinghouse for aid for people affected by the explosion.

The word rebuild was first uttered at the first Cambria Village Board meeting following the explosion, on June 5.

Didion officials, including company President Riley Didion, expressed from the beginning their intent to build a new state-of-the-art plant on the same site.

In November  days before the OSHA report was due  the Cambria Village Board invited Didion officials to meet privately with Doucette (who is also a village trustee) and Public Works Director Tom Tietz to outline their proposed concept for rebuilding, before presenting final plans.

How the OSHA findings will affect the rebuilding plans remains to be seen.

In a 45-page report, issued on Nov. 17, OSHA officials declared that the explosion could have been prevented with precautions that are well-known in the corn milling industry.

OSHA cited 14 willful violations of safety regulations, eight of which it deemed egregious because they were repeated. Five other citations were deemed serious. Most involved fire and explosion hazards.

The aggregate fine, more than $1.837 million, is the largest to have been imposed as the result of a single OSHA investigation in Wisconsin. Didion officials are appealing the fine.
I would like to respond to the letter written by Richard Kinderman published Dec. 21 in the Daily Citizen.

First, I understand his position. No one enjoys paying taxes. However, taxes are also integral to the development of any community, including ours.

Kinderman is correct in his assertion that teacher salaries and benefits are funded through taxes. Yet Beaver Dams police, firefighters, EMS, city officials and many other employees are also funded through taxpayer contribution.

Our community would not be safe, clean and efficiently run without these public employees, just as our community would not be sufficiently educated without teachers and other school district employees.

I am a proud graduate of Washington Elementary School, Beaver Dam Middle School and Beaver Dam High School. I am one of thousands of individuals who have our communitys teachers to thank for years of academic and personal support. Our communitys teachers spend countless hours outside of the classroom providing additional assistance to students, developing course material, grading assignments, and leading extracurriculars.

Kindermans letter is an insult to our community and the thousands of hardworking individuals who have been educated and supported by Beaver Dams teachers.

Dan Ziebarth, Beaver Dam
The State Department posted a number of emails belonging to former top Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin on Friday after the messages were found on Anthony Weiner's laptop by the FBI. Several of the released documents were found to contain information classified "confidential," and were heavily redacted.

Friday's release is in response to a Judicial Watch Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit 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."

The FBI has previously said that a number of Abedin's documents were backed up on Weiner's laptop, and that some smaller number were manually forwarded. In a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee last May, the FBI said, "Although we do not know the exact numbers, based on its investigation, the FBI believes it is reasonable to conclude that most of the emails found on Mr. Weiner's laptop computer related to the Clinton investigation occurred as a result of a backup of personal electronic devices, with a small number a result of manual forwarding by Ms. Abedin to Mr. Weiner."

Then-FBI Director James Comey testified earlier this year that "Somehow, her emails were being forwarded to Anthony Weiner, including classified information by (Clinton's) assistant, Huma Abedin," he said.

But there was no indication that Abedin "had a sense that what she was doing was in violation of the law," Comey added, and investigators couldn't prove any sort of criminal intent.

The emails weren't marked as classified, though the FBI later found classified information contained in some emails recovered from Weiner's laptop.

CNN has previously reported it was likely that some of the emails stored on Weiner's laptop contained classified information, and fired FBI Director Comey testified that there is no indication Abedin "had a sense that what she was doing was in violation of the law."

The fact that Clinton and Abedin previously exchanged classified emails gave federal prosecutors probable cause to justify their review of Weiner's laptop in fall 2015, according to a search warrant application released in December 2016.

Eleven days before the 2016 presidential election, Comey announced that the FBI had discovered emails possibly "pertinent" to the Clinton email server probe "in connection with an unrelated case." That unrelated case was New York prosecutors' separate investigation into allegations that Weiner -- a former New York congressman and the estranged husband of Abedin -- had sexted with an underage girl.

The review of the laptop -- publicly disclosed less than two weeks before the election -- jolted Clinton's campaign and resurfaced the controversy over her use of a private email server at the State Department.

The search warrant and supporting documents unsealed last year shed new light on how the FBI framed its argument for access to the emails and what federal investigators hoped to find. More specifically, investigators sought information on those who had accessed classified information, communications with Clinton during her tenure as secretary of state and "activity related to a computer intrusion."

Though neither Abedin nor Weiner was identified by name in the search warrant documentation, and the court ordered the materials redacted, the affidavit in support of the warrant makes clear that the FBI argued that there was further probable cause to search Weiner's hard drive in light of the fact that Abedin and Clinton previously exchanged classified emails.

Weiner was sentenced earlier this year to 21 months in federal prison for sexting with a minor.

CNN's Laura Jarrett contributed to this report
Walid Abu Ali has been recalled after India issued a strongly worded condemnation after he was found attending a rally organised by terrorist Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan.

By India Today Web Desk: Palestine has decided to recall its ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali after he was found attending a rally organised by terrorist Hafiz Saeed ,confirms Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija.

"Our Ambassador doesn't know this person. When he starts speaking, he asks who is this person? Our Ambassador's speech was after him, he made his speech & left. For us, even with that, it is not accepted and a decision has been taken," Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said.

advertisement

Palestine has taken the decision to remove him after India issued a strongly worded condemnation.

The Palestinian Authority has said it regrets the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at a rally organised by UN-designated terrorist and Jamat-ul-Dawa leader Hafiz Saeed.

India strongly objected to the Palestinian ambassador Walid Abu Ali gracing the Difa-e-Pakistan rally in Rawalpindi.

"We have seen reports in this regard, the Palestinians have assured India that the matter has been taken seriously," Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Saeed, whose organisation was earlier known as Lashkar-e-Taiba, is the mastermind of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai. Saeed has been designated an international terrorists by the UN and the United States, but roams free in Pakistan and participates in political activities.

PALESTINE CONVEYS DEEP REGRETS

India summoned the Palestinian envoy in New Delhi and issued a demarche after which the Palestinian side conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured New Delhi that the Palestinian Authority has taken serious cognisance of the matter and deal with this appropriately.

The Palestinian side also said they valued Palestine's relations with India and will not engage with those who support terrorist activities against India.

Ministry of External Affairs in a note said on Saturday that it has taken note of the Palestinian response.

It is important to point out here that India voted in favour of a resolution in the UN General Assembly that sought to condemn the US's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

In a vote that could annoy a friend like Israel, India chose to not drop its decades old policy of supporting the formation of an independent Palestine.

This came just a little over a month before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also planning a short trip to Palestine in February. During his visit to Israel this year, Mr Modi had skipped Palestine.

WATCH | Palestine recalls its envoy, India objected to his presence in Hafiz Sayeed's rally

advertisement

--- ENDS ---
Columbia County authorities are looking for a Portage man who is facing 15 criminal counts stemming from a series of alleged domestic abuse incidents in early December.

Cameron Foreman, 24, was charged on Wednesday with repeated charges of strangulation, intimidation of a victim, false imprisonment, battery, disorderly conduct and bail jumping.

Portage police spoke to a woman Dec. 4 who said that she had been dating Foreman and early in the previous morning, discovered he had been in contact with another woman, leading to an argument while the two were in Foremans vehicle at the Portage Walmart. Foreman reportedly put his hands around the womans throat and squeezed.

When she had an opportunity to leave, the woman said she stayed in the car because Foreman had her phone and wouldnt give it back to her. Among the examples of abuse over the subsequent hours, the woman told police that once they reached her house, Foreman wouldnt let her leave the vehicle and hit her, leaving visible marks on her hips and legs.

At the time, Foreman was free on a $1,000 cash bond posted Nov. 28 after he had been arrested and charged in Columbia County with battery, intimidating a witness and disorderly conduct from incidents Nov. 11 and 12. During that period, Foreman was free on a $350 cash bond following charges in Sauk County of two counts of first-degree reckless endangerment, two counts of hit-and-run involving an injury and one count of operating a vehicle while his license had been revoked.

In the hit-and-run case, Lake Delton police were called to a crash on Kalahari Drive where a 2011 Chevrolet Impala rear-ended a 2013 Dodge Journey. The Impala, reportedly driven by Foreman, fish-tailed away, spun around and did a burnout as it drove toward the driver of the Journey, who was now outside his vehicle. The Impala passed close enough that the driver-side mirror struck the man in the side as the vehicle drove away.

The Impala was later found on River Road in Portage, with Foreman and the passengers of the car then located at a Portage apartment. A woman who was sitting in the back of the car during the incident told officers, I really could have died that day, confirming that the Impala struck the man who had been driving the Journey, and almost hit five more vehicles including a near head-on collision. She told officers that Foreman was on probation and wanted to avoid arrest.

If convicted, Foreman could face a sentence of up to eight years in prison on the strangulation count alone.
A woman in our state is behind bars after police seized more than 150 ducks from her home.

New Hanover county Sheriff's office say they removed about 150 ducks and a dozen cats from 56 year old Cynthia Huber's home south of Wilmington. Huber is facing nine counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty..

Authorities say the investigation was started after Huber took a sick kitten to a vet, and the vet notified them, which led to them searching her home. Deputies say the County Health Department also inspected the property due to large amounts of animal waste in a pond at the home.

Two animal rescue groups have taken the animals.
By PTI: support

Ahmedabad, Dec 30 (PTI) Lending support to Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, who is miffed over the portfolios allotted to him in the new BJP government, Patidar leader Lalji Patel today called for a Mehsana `bandh (general strike) on January 1.

He also threatened to call for a state-wide bandh if Nitin Patel was not made the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

advertisement

Lalji Patel, who is convener of the Sardar Patel Group (SPG) which had launched the Patidar quota agitation along with Hardik Patel-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, today called on the deputy chief minister at his official residence in Gandhinagar with dozens of supporters.

"The BJP is repeatedly doing injustice to Nitin-bhai Patel. Today I met him with supporters from Mehsana, and we have given a call for Mehsana bandh on January 1 in his support," Lalji Patel told reporters.

Nitin Patel is MLA from Mehsana, which has a sizable Patidar population and which was the epicentre of the quota agitation.

"People of Gujarat and former chief minister Anandiben Patel wanted Nitin Patel to be made the chief minister (when Anandiben resigned). He was not made the CM but he accepted the decision and decided to work as deputy chief minister. People are angry with the latest development. Nitin-bhai is the right candidate for chief ministers post," he said.

"We met Nitin-bhai...We asked him what is needed to be done. It is now for him to take the final call. He said the partys high command has said it will decide the matter in two days," the SPG leader said.

Ketan Patel, another Patidar leader who left the PAAS to join the BJP, also met the deputy chief minister.

"Nitin Patel has worked tirelessly to mollify the agitated Patidar community and played important role in bringing the party back to power. The BJP high command should address his concerns positively," he said, adding that the BJP should ensure that political opponents do not take advantage of the development.

Earlier in the day, PAAS leader Hardik Patel declared support for Nitin Patel and said the BJP sidelined him despite his hard work.

In the previous government Nitin Patel handled portfolios such as finance and urban development, while in the new government, which was sworn in earlier this week, he was given relatively lightweight departments such as road and building, and health. PTI KA PD KRK

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: New Years eve

New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) In the wake of a massive fire in a central Mumbai rooftop pub, the Delhi Police has asked managers and owners of restaurants in the city to be extra cautious to prevent any such incident here on New Years eve.

"We have asked managers and owners of restaurants to ensure that such an incident does not happen here. We have also requested the Delhi Fire Services to deploy extra fire tenders," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) BK Singh.

advertisement

A massive fire swept through a plush rooftop pub in downtown Mumbai during a birthday bash before swiftly raging through the building, leaving 14 people dead and 21 injured.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at "1 Above" pub in upscale Parels Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

The Delhi Police said the inner, middle and outer circles of Connaught Place will be closed for vehicular movement.

The DCP said only bonafide residents will be allowed to enter Connaught Place.

People having valid parking tickets and restaurant passes will be allowed to enter the area like we do every year, he added.

Singh said there will be "comprehensive police arrangement" as more than a lakh people throng Connaught Place on December 31. PTI SLB GVS

--- ENDS ---
By PTI: Mumbai, Dec 30 (PTI) A day after a devastating blaze at a central Mumbai pub claimed 14 lives, fire brigade officials today said it was probing whether flames during a fire stunt by a bartender, burning coal used for hookah or a short circuit led to the tragedy.

The blaze had started after 12.30 am on Friday at the 1 Above pub on the terrace of Trade House Building in Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel, a commercial hub, resulting in collapse of its bamboo-propped canopy. The fire, which left several people injured, also engulfed Mojos Bistro, a pub a storey below. Most of the 14 victims died of asphyxiation.

advertisement

"We are probing if the flames created during a fire stunt by a bartender at the pub came in contact with plastic sheets that covered the bamboo structure and triggered the blaze. We are also trying to find out whether the burning coal used for hookah at the adjacent restaurant led to the tragedy," a fire official said.

All other possibilities, including that of short circuit is also being probed, he added.

The police have booked Hratesh Sanghvi, Jigar Sanghvi and Abhijeet Manka of C Grade Hospitality, which manages the pub, along with others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others).

After the fire, some escaped to safety, while others found their way blocked by fire and suffocating smoke. Many panicked patrons took shelter in a toilet, where they were asphyxiated to death.

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at 1 Above pub in upscale Parels Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) yesterday suspended five officials, including those attached to the G- South ward for dereliction of duty. There are allegations that civic authorities turned a blind eye to construction irregularities and violation of fire safety norms in the compound.

The same central Mumbai area--a former textile mill district now dotted by swanky glass-and-concrete towers--had witnessed death of 23 people in a stampede at a railway bridge on September 29 this year. PTI AV VT NP AAR

--- ENDS ---
The tragic loss of life in the December 28 apartment building fire in the New York City borough of the Bronx, with 12 dead and 4 others critically injured, is the worst such toll since the 1990 fire at the Happy Land social club only a short distance away. It surpasses the horrific fire in March 2007, also in the Bronx, which killed 10 people, nine of them children.

This latest fire highlights the deepening social crisis in the wealthiest city on the planet. The fire, at 2363 Prospect Avenue, about one block from the Bronx Zoo, was first reported at 6:50 PM on Thursday, as some residents were still returning home from work. Within minutes, fueled by the cold and gusty winds, it turned the five-story building into an inferno, sending frightened residents into the street in the freezing weather. Deaths were recorded on every floor, the victims ranging in age from 1 year old to over 60. Three young girls died, and three women, ages 19, 27 and 63. Four people were reported on Friday to be fighting for their lives.

One young mother escaped with one of her own children as well as two children of her neighbors, but lost her other children. A resident went out to the corner store for 20 minutes and returned to find the building in flames, his roommate trapped and killed by the smoke and fire.

The blaze was started, according to New York City Fire Department investigators, by a 3-year-old child playing with a stove in a first-floor apartment. One hundred and sixty firefighters responded to the fire within three minutes, but their efforts were hampered by the cold and the extremely rapid spread of the flames.

Survivors and other eyewitnesses reported more than 20 people on the buildings fire escape, frantically trying to make it down to safety even as the fire department arrived. Most had no time to put outer clothing on and shivered in the 12 degree Fahrenheit temperature, more than 15 degrees below normal for New York at this time of the year. The fire escape was so packed it had the effect of trapping others in their apartments, where they perished from the fire or from smoke inhalation.

The apartment building is just over a century old, its construction dating to 1916. According to public records, the building was sold by the city in December 1983 for about $31,000 after having been seized for nonpayment of back taxes. The brick building was not equipped with sprinklers and had been reported for several safety and building violations in recent years. The only open violation, one which may have played a role in the fire, was for a defective smoke detector and carbon monoxide monitor on the first floor.

There are thousands of such buildings, by no means classified as slums, in New York City today. They lack the basic protections against fire, including sprinkler systems, that are included in the homes of the upper-middle class and the wealthy. The median household income in the Bronx, the citys poorest borough, is $38,900. This figure, after taxes, would not cover just the rent alone, not to mention other necessities, for more than a few months in the luxury towers now sprouting up in Manhattan, only a few miles away from Prospect Avenue. As far as prices for cooperative apartments in the citys wealthy center go, even $1 million apartments of two or three bedrooms are hard to come by, and every week brings news of one or more sales for $10 million or more.

The residents affected by the fire in the Bronx were mostly a cross-section of the immigrant working class, newcomers from West Africa, the West Indies and Latin America. Immigrants make up more than one-third of New Yorks current population and have helped swell the citys total to a record 8.5 million. The latest figure for the city as a whole is 37 percent foreign-born. The percentage is undoubtedly higher in the citys outer boroughs and is overwhelmingly working class.

Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro, after expressing grief at the loss of life, focused attention on a door left open by the mother escaping the fire in the first-floor apartment. This, Nigro explained, helped to turn the stairwell into a chimney, funneling the smoke and flames to the upper floors.

This may well be the case, but this calamity was not simply a horrible accident caused by carelessness, or, as suggested by the report of the three-year-old playing with the stove, parental irresponsibility.

Such tragedies rarely if ever take place in wealthy neighborhoods, where families are not crowded into old buildings that are unequipped with the latest in life-saving apparatus, and do not face as many stresses of family life that can lead to a child being unattended in a kitchen for a few brief minutes.

The site of the Bronx fire is the northern tip of the 15th Congressional District in New York State. With nearly 750,000 inhabitants, this district comprises the whole of the south Bronx. It is the poorest Congressional District in the entire country, with an official poverty rate of 41.0 percent.

After a long period of population loss, the Bronx has gained residents over the last two decades, but low-wage jobs predominate, where they are available, and public services have lagged behind.

The city as a whole, and particularly the heavily working class outer boroughs, faces scandalously inadequate transportation, forcing workers to commute hours to their jobs. It is not pure coincidence that each of the last three fire disastersin 1990, 2007 and 2017has taken place in the citys poorest borough. Today the homeless shelter population continues to set new records and affordable housing is unavailable for millions. This is the setting for the latest fire tragedy.

The record cold weather is bringing with it an increased number of deadly house fires across the US. In New York City over just the last several daysin Harlem, the upper Manhattan area near Van Cortlandt Park, and the West Farms neighborhood in the Bronxthree other major fires, while not resulting in deaths or life-threatening injuries, required up to 100 firefighters to subdue and led to homelessness for dozens of families.

These events lay bare the social reality in the US. While the corporate and political establishment, basking in Manhattans gleaming wealth, smugly declares that New York City is a virtual paradise, the vast majority face a very different reality. In every sphere of life, from jobs to housing, health care, education and transportationeven before the latest and biggest speculative financial bubble burstsNew York remains what newly-reelected Democratic Mayor Bill de Blasio hypocritically promised to change four years ago: two worlds in one city.

The World Socialist Web Site spoke to several survivors and neighbors of the fire tragedy victims. Nana, a 52-year-old home health aide originally from Ghana, was returning to check on his apartment. He had rescued his wife and family the night before. He has lived in the Bronx for eight years. As soon as I opened my apartment door, he said, I saw nothing but a big cloud of smoke. So then I went and opened up the fire escape to take my wife and children out. I have four children. They are 9, 7, 5 and 3 years old. I live on the third floor of the building, and when I went out on the fire escape the firefighters were already there with a ladder that reached up to the 3rd floor. I handed my children one by one to the firefighters who took them down the ladder and to safety. There were no smoke detectors on the first floor or any floor of the building.

Marisol Santana is disabled and lives in a shelter across the street from the fire. I got back here at 6:30 pm, she explained. I just smelled gas. Then we looked out and the fire was going. It is tragic what has happened, especially during the holidays. It is very sad. I didnt know any of the people who were killed personally, but they were families and kids.

Andrea Catano has been living at 2373 Prospect for 15 years. She had just come from visiting her friend, who had lived on the third floor of the building before her escape from the fire. They have been looking for people, she said. One of the people they are looking for is Emanuel Mensah. He lived on the third floor, and he is Jamaican. He is on leave from the army, and he is 26 years old. His family is looking for him. His dad came here to look for him and so did his sister. She was desperate with worry over what happened to him and wanted the search to continue. They are looking for him in the hospitals and in the building.

I have been here a long time and I know everyone in the building by face but not by name. Even the kids. They were four kids in the same family who were killed. Some people say it was caused by children playing with a flame on the stove on the first floor. When the mother saw the flames she just grabbed the kids and ran out. Maybe the stove was on because the apartment was cold. That happens.
Drexel University professor George Ciccariello-Maher was forced to resign after a year of death threats made his position at the university unsustainable, according to a statement that he released this week.

Ciccariello-Maher, a professor of politics and global studies, was harassed after several tweets he made were criticized on various right-wing outlets. Throughout the ordeal, Drexel University has criticized the professor and refused to support him.

The threats began last year in December, when Ciccariello-Maher tweeted that all he wanted for Christmas was white genocide. The tweet went viral, with many right-wing websites calling for Ciccariello-Maher to be fired. Drexel University condemned the tweet, calling it utterly reprehensible and deeply disturbing, and arranging a meeting with Ciccariello-Maher to discuss the matter.

Cicariello-Maher stated that the Tweet was satirical, intended at mocking the concept of white genocide. He said at the time that it was a satirical jab at a certain paranoid racist fantasy, and that white genocide is an imaginary concept to marshal support for right-wing forces.

In April, the professor made headlines again after tweeting his reaction to a first-class passenger giving up his seat to a soldier. Some guy in first class gave up his seat for a uniformed soldier. People are thanking him. I'm trying not to vomit or yell about Mosul, he wrote.

The comment came two days after a US airstrike in Mosul, Iraq killed 200 civilians, one of the deadliest massacres of civilians in Iraq.

Cicariello-Maher said his Tweet was intended to question the way many Americans support the military without demanding accountability, or that the United States provide sufficient health care and support for veterans and active-duty members.

Drexel University placed Cicariello-Maher on administrative leave in October, forcing him to teach his classes online or via Skype, after he tweeted the Las Vegas shooting was the result of Trumpism and the narrative of white victimization.

The university said that it was suspending Ciccariello-Maher not because of his views, but for safety, given the threats he was receiving. However, it was clearly a maneuver to accommodate the right-wing campaign.

In an interview with CNN, Ciccariello-Maher said he received over 800 voicemails with some even threatening his son. In a Facebook statement, he said his resignation is not a decision I take lightly; however, after nearly a year of harassment by right-wing, white supremacist media outlets and Internet mobs, after death threats and threats of violence directed against me and my family, my situation has become unsustainable.

The attack on Ciccariello-Maher is part of a broader phenomenon. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) said more than 100 incidents of targeted harassment against professors have been reported on college campuses in the past year. The AAUP came to Cicariello-Mahers defense, stating that Drexel University bowed to the pressure of those threatening him.

In the past year, conflicts over free speech on college campuses have escalated. Right-wing websites such as campusreform.org have drawn attention to professors they allege discriminate against conservative students and advance leftist propaganda in the classroom. They have been encouraged by the election of Trump, with Democrats doing nothing to mobilize opposition.

Last December, death threats forced an Orange Coast College professor to leave California after a video surfaced of her telling her students that President Trumps election was an act of terrorism. In June, an Assistant Professor at the University of Iowa was bombarded with hate mail after one of her lectures claimed that the exaltation of white marble statues fueled white supremacy.

At Evergreen State College, professor Bret Weinstein became the target of a racialist campaign from pseudo-left groups after speaking out against a college-sponsored event that called for all white students to leave campus grounds for a day. Weinstein was portrayed as a supporting white supremacy for stating that asking for white students to leave the campus is a show of force and an act of oppression in and of itself.
On December 14, members of the Royal family, Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn attended the memorial service in St Pauls Cathedral, London, marking six months since the Grenfell Tower fire took at least 71 lives.

In her annual Christmas address, the queen declared. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who died and those who lost so much. Her speech was accompanied by footage of her visiting the site of the Grenfell fire in June, as she stated, And here in London, who can forget the sheer awfulness of the Grenfell Tower fire?

Not to be outdone, May issued her own Christmas message, which included a reference to The heroes in our emergency services whose courage and dedication so inspired the nation in response to tragedy at Grenfell Tower

These high-profile events bookended ten days during which the real attitude within ruling circles towards the victims of Grenfell and those who survivedof hostility and contemptwas made clear.

Three days before Christmas, May rejected a petition set up by survivor Adel Chaoui and backed by the Grenfell United group representing many survivors and their families and signed by 24,642 people. The petition requested that May use powers granted her under the Inquiries Act 2005 to appoint additional panel members with decision making power to avoid a collapse of confidence in the Inquiry's ability to discover the truth.

The petition expressed the well-founded concerns among Grenfell survivors and supporters that the public inquiry set up by the government under Sir Martin Moore-Bick will be a whitewash, designed to suppress, not reveal, the truth of the fire's origins.

Under the inquirys remit, Moore-Bick has the exclusive oversight over the inquiry, including the right to determine the questions that will be posed. The petition therefore demands:

1. The Inquiry is not led by a judge alone. Panel members must be appointed with relevant background, expertise, experience, and a real understanding of the issues facing those affected.

2. Legal representatives of bereaved families see all evidence from the start and are allowed to question witnesses at the hearings.

May framed her rejection as a response to Moore-Bick after the two days of procedural submissions, which opened the public inquiry on December 11 and 12.

He wrote on December 20 insisting, I am and must remain completely independent of the government and in my view it would be wrong of me to take the initiative by advising the Prime Minister either to appoint additional members to the panel or not to do so, while refusing the formal application that I should consult the core participants on the identity of potential additional panel members...

May, given no advice by Moore-Bick, brushed aside the clearest expression of the Grenfell survivors hopes. Writing back to Moore-Bick, she insisted that the Inquiry, as presently constructed, has the necessary expertise to undertake its work.

She justified rejecting any changes by an awareness of the need for the Inquiry to complete its initial report as quickly as reasonably possible.

This is a bogus claim. Every aspect of the investigation is being delayed as long as possible. Over six months after the disaster, none of the leading figures in the organisations centrally responsible for the inferno have even been questioned. No evidence is due to be heard by the inquiry until well into 2018 and the completion date for the first phase of the inquiry, originally set for Easter, to has been pushed months back until Autumn.

Commenting on May's response, Adel Chaoui, who lost four relatives in the fire, noted, Not only does the news continue to ignore our concerns, but it seems to have been timed deliberately, on the last working day for most law firms, to limit the time available for us to take legal advice and, or challenge the decision. Under the Inquiries Act we have 14 days to bring a legal challenge by way of judicial review of the Prime Ministers decision.

Given the news was never going to be well received, the timing raises serious questions about the Prime Ministers judgment and intent. She demonstrated poor judgment and rank discourtesy in not having waited until the New Year to avoid upset during the holidays, but more concerning is the question of what could possibly be behind the intent to limit time available to respond?

This is putting matters politely. The timing of May's announcement was both deliberate and cynical, with the clear intention of preventing legal challenges and burying the news amid the Christmas festivities. That this will necessarily cause further suffering and pain for many survivors, is, for May and for the wealthy and propertied class interests she serves, neither here nor there.

The Grenfell petitioners intend to continue. They aim to collect 100,000 signatures and force a parliamentary debate.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) council and the Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (KCTMO) also took advantage of the Christmas holiday. KCTMO is responsible for managing Grenfell Tower and around 10,000 other housing properties. Its chair, Fay Edwards, wrote to tenants just before Christmas to advise them that her organisation intended to hand over control of the housing stock back to RBKC.

The move, presented as part of an urgent and thorough review of all the KCTMO's operations, was made in defiance of objections from residents and their legal advisers who have repeatedly demanded that KCTMO remain in charge of the housing stock to allow its role in creating the conditions for the disaster to be questioned during the inquiry. There are also concerns that data held by KCTMO might be harder to acquire and compensation claims or corporate manslaughter charges made harder to pursue if the organization, which will have no assets, is wound up.

Joe Delaney, a spokesperson for the Lancaster West Estate Residents Association, accused RBKC and KCTMO of a cynical, unethical and completely underhanded move. He questioned why RBKC should be any better placed to run the housing stock than the KCTMO. He told the BBC that the council hasn't even shown the capacity to deal with the Grenfell disaster, so how can they demonstrate that they have got capacity to bring stuff in-house at this time?

He has a point.

RBKC will not, even now, organise the most elementary levels of support to many of those displaced and traumatised by the fire. The local authority told survivors that those still in hotel accommodation or serviced apartments would get an additional measly 140 to assist with Christmas expenses. Around 101 households, including 17 families with 34 children, are still living in hotels. Some had not received the additional payment by 22 December, while some were told the payments would not arrive until next year.

On December 23, the Daily Mirror produced a report that accurately depicts the vile hypocrisy behind all official proclamations of regret and sympathy over Grenfell.

Volunteers told the Mirror that there have been 24 suicide bids by people who survived or witnessed the fire. Alex Adewunmi, an assistant at the local Christian Tabernacle Centre, explained, People here are angry and struggling to cope. Theyre suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The Government is not treating them fairly and the council are not doing as much as they should. Theyre not filling peoples needs and they dont care. Weve had to fill the void. Its madness.

He added: Survivors are being offered homes that are not suitable and being told take it or leave it by the local borough, even though it has 400 million in reserve. Theyre penny pinching and not giving these people the help they need.
With a few exceptions, the top of the Billboard charts in 2017 was home to one conformist and forgettable album after another, or worse. The years more independent or alternative works did not come off much better.

That Cardi B was this years breakout star in the world of hip hop provides an indication of that genres continued degeneration. Her song Bodak Yellow was an anthem reflecting some of the most anti-social impulses cultivated in the US in recent decades.

The other side of hip hop, thought to be socially conscious, did not provide much of an alternative. Tariq Trotter, also known as Black Thought, the frontman for The Roots, had a viral hit when footage of him performing a breathless ten-minute rap on a Hot 97 radio show appeared online. Some of the wordplay was impressive, but, almost inevitably, he worked his way toward wishing for four more years of the Obama administration. And he is not the only rapper mourning the departure of Americas first black president. Its difficult to see how a serious work of art could be created today on this socially uncritical basis.

Jazz had an especially disappointing year. There were few surprises in the genre famed for spontaneous improvisation. Whether listening to avant-garde or straight-ahead, one generally knew what to expect before one even began. Free jazz continues to dominate, with its aversion to melody, harmony and any other sound that might be described as pleasant to hear. These performers tend to create the kind of music one is meant to side with rather than enjoy.

Straight-ahead jazz, for its part, suffers from overly long and boring melodies. How much of this really swings? Too many young jazz musicians have been cooped up in the insulated world of jazz academia for too long. They hardly know how to communicate with anyone but each other.

The better music this year came from the world of roots music, the umbrella term used to describe country, folk and blues. There are a number of performers doing something new with the music and giving the world around them some consideration. The Rhiannon Giddens album Freedom Highway was a significant achievement, as was Migration Blues by Eric Bibb, an album dedicated to the struggle of refugees from the Middle East, whose plight he connects with that of migrant workers from North America in an earlier period.

Such works are few and far between at present. The world of music is badly in need of a shake-up. A thriving movement of the working class will begin to sort things out, urging the best artists into new directions. Those artists who keep their wits about them, and their eyes open, and associate themselves with that movement will produce the kind of work that will make clear the inadequacy of so much of what we have before us today.

The songs and albums listed below were among the more serious and entertaining efforts of 2017:

Hiram Lee

Pop (in the broadest sense of the term)

Rhiannon GiddensFreedom Highway

Bela Fleck & Abigail WashburnEcho in the Valley

Eric BibbMigration Blues

Josh RitterGathering

Lizz WrightGrace

Noam PikelnyUniversal Favorite

Chris Eldridge & Julian LageMount Royal

SpoonHot Thoughts

Jazz

Christian McBride Big BandBringin It

Tony AllenThe Source

Silvana EstradaLo Sagrado

Nate SmithKinfolk: Postcards from Everywhere

Camilla George QuartetIsang

Amir ElSaffar & Rivers of SoundNot Two

Antonio AdolfoHybridoFrom Rio to Wayne Shorter

Avishai CohenCross My Palm with Silver

Christian SandsReach

Willie Jones IIIMy Point Is 

Louis HayesSerenade for Horace

Billy ChildsRebirth

Matthew Brennan

Of the music I was able to listen to this year, the stronger albums and songs in popular music tended to come from the blues, jazz, country, classical, roots and electronic music genres. The musicians listed below often took a longer and broader look at social moods, feelings, developments, and difficulties, and generally attempted to express them in challenging, exciting and mellifluous ways. There was unusual warmth, empathy and exciting musical flourishes on these albums and songs.

In addition to the recordings, there were interesting and powerful music videos that are worth noting. The music video by rapper Lowkey, Ghosts of Grenfell, was especially powerful, featuring the victims and families of the Grenfell Tower fire in London. Also, the French electronic duo known as The Blaze produced a video for their song Territory, about an Algerian immigrant returning home to family. It was intriguing for its unusual sensitivity in a medium that tends to favor dull, self-involved or clever film tricks.

Albums

Rhiannon GiddensFreedom Highway

Eric BibbMigration Blues

ProtomartyrRelatives In Descent

Danish String QuartetLast Leaf

Sam OutlawTenderheart

Four TetNew Energy

SlowdiveSlowdive

Forest SwordsCompassion

Miguel ZenonTipico

La Santa CeliaAmar Y Vivir

Matt WilsonHoney and Salt: Music Inspired by the Poems of Carl Sandburg

Joseph HuberThe Suffering Stage

Dori FreemanLetters Never Read

Trio Da Kali & Kronos QuartetLadilikan

Bonnie Prince BillyBest Troubador: Songs of Merle Haggard

Ron MilesI Am A Man

PhronesisThe Behemoth

Songs

Rhiannon GiddensJulie

Big ThiefShark Smile

The War On DrugsHolding On

Kamasi WashingtonTruth

OddiseeYou Grew Up

ALA.NICherry Blossom

Courtney Barnett & Kurt VileContinental Breakfast

Randy NewmanShe Chose Me

Tyler ChildersFeathered Indians

Broken Social SceneHug of Thunder

Dori Freeman (Jim Reeves cover)Yonder Comes a Sucker

Jason Isbell and the 400 UnitIf We Were Vampires

BicepAura

Blanck MassSilent Treatment

Craig FinnGod In Chicago

OndatropicaHummingbird

Bonnie Prince Billy (cover)I Always Get Lucky With You

Eric BibbPrayin For Shore

ProtomartyrMy Children

The Blaze (special mention for video)Territory

Lowkey (special mention for the video)Ghosts of Grenfell

Nick Barrickman

Shabazz Palaces Quazarz: Born on a Gangster StarAs with 2014s Lese Majesty, the alternative hip hop duo of Ishmael Butler (formerly Butterfly of the hip hop group Digable Planets) and Tendai Baba Maraire provide provocative lyrics and atmospheric instrumentals both minimalist and melodic.

Kendrick Lamar DAMNA more stripped-down and introspective effort than 2015s To Pimp a Butterfly. Lamar explores his upbringing as well as the pitfalls of his newfound fame and fortune in a straight-forward and, for the most part, honest manner.

Songs

OddiseeYou Grew Up

Shabazz PalacesParallax

Shabazz PalacesFine Ass Hairdresser

Kendrick LamarDNA

LowkeyGhosts of Grenfell

El Nino & Cx4Grenfell Towers Burnin

Open Mike EagleBrick Body Complex

LuteHome
The Trump administration is drastically cutting back fines against nursing home owners that have been cited for violations against elderly patients. The move, reported by the New York Times over the Christmas holiday weekend, comes as serious violations such as neglect and mistreatment against nursing home residents continue to rise unabated.

Donald Trump is responding to a direct request from the nursing home industry that the Medicare health insurance programs penalty protocols be changed. It is critical that we have relief, wrote Mark Parkinson, president of the American Health Care Association, in a letter to then president-elect Trump in a letter in December 2016.

In keeping with the administrations slashing of rules and regulations which impinge on the profiteering of big business, under new rules Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regulators are now being discouraged from giving nursing homes fines if a violationeven for the most serious cases of mistreatmentwas a one-time mistake, according to the Times.

Since 2013, nearly 6,500 nursing homes, or four of every 10, have been cited at least once for a serious violation, according to federal records. According to Kaiser Health News (KHN), basic steps to prevent infectionssuch as washing hands, isolation of contagious patients and keeping sick nurses and aides away from residentsare routinely ignored in nursing homes across the US.

A KHN analysis of four years of federal inspection records showed that while 74 percent of nursing homes have been cited for failing to properly control infections, disciplinary action such as substantial fines are rare. Even before the Trump administration began quashing penalties over the course of 2017, only 1 in 75 homes found in violation has received a high-level citation.

CMS officials have made the blatantly false claim that the changes in penalizing nursing home owners are being made in patients interests. Rather than spending quality time with their patients, the providers are spending time complying with regulations that get in the way of caring for their patients and doesnt increase the quality of care they provide, Dr. Kate Goodrich, director of clinical standards and quality at CMS, told the Times.

According to federal records examined by KHN, infections cause a quarter of the medical injuries Medicare beneficiaries experience in nursing homes. By one government estimate, a staggering 380,000 deaths a year may be the result of health care-associated infections in facilities for the elderly.

It is under these scandalous conditions that nursing homes are being given less than a slap on the wrist for serious violations endangering patients lives. The spread of antibiotic-resistant germs such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a major public health issue, but CMS claims that fines for most infection-control violations are not warranted because they do not pose a certain danger to patients.

According to the Times, CMS insists that if an inspector observed a nurse not washing his or her hands while caring for a resident, a lower-level citation was justified unless there was an actual negative resident outcome, or there was likelihood of a serious resident outcome. How such a causal relationship between infection-control lapses and negative or serious resident outcome is to be determined is not explained.

A July memo from CMS discouraged directors of state agencies from issuing daily fines to nursing homes for violations that began before an inspection, advising a one-time fine be issued instead. This one change means that many nursing homes would be protected from accruing fines above the maximum per-instance fine of $20,965, even for mistakes in care that could potentially result in infections and death.

The low wages, poor training and overwork of nursing home staff play a direct role in endangering patient safety. According to inspection records examined by KHN, nurses and aides are often not familiar with basic safety protocols, such as wearing protective clothing when coming into contact with a contagious patient. In a rush to care for a burdensome patient load, basic precautions such as hand washing are often not taken.

Staff who are not paid for sick days are under pressure to come to work sick, further jeopardizing patient health, leading to avoidable accidents and falls, mistreatment, infections, neglect and bedsores. KHN reports on the case of Georgina Morris, a resident of Astoria Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Sylmar, California in October 2015.

While at Astoria, Morris, 86, became infected with a virulent strain of Clostridium difficile, or C-diff, and was severely dehydrated. Her son James Morris noticed that workers were coming in and out without washing their hands. He insisted that she be sent to the hospital, where she was admitted for 10 days.

She has had other flare-ups of the infection requiring rehospitalization, as well as a fecal transplant, in which doctors transplant stool from a healthy patient into her intestines to introduce bacteria that counter the C-diff bacteria.

State inspectors waited for 18 months before investigating her case. Although inspectors found that Astoria workers had not cleaned their hands while treating Georgina Morris, they could not definitively determine whether she contracted the infection there or before she arrived, according to KHN.

Although it was the second year in a row that inspectors cited Astoria for substandard inspection control that could potentially harm residents, neither citation resulted in a financial penalty. As more and more seniors require long-term care, government changes to regulations governing nursing homes are part of a deliberate bipartisan policy that threatens the lives of elderly patients while enriching the owners of for-profit facilities.
At the very beginning of the year that is now drawing to a close, the World Socialist Web Site wrote: A specter is haunting world capitalism: the specter of the Russian Revolution. This statement has been richly confirmed by the manner in which the centenary of the October Revolution was observed by bourgeois historians and journalists. In the first months of the year, the commentary was cynical and dismissive, exemplified by historian Sheila Fitzpatricks flippant remark, published this past March in the London Review of Books: Nothing fails like failure, and for historians approaching the revolutions centenary the disappearance of the Soviet Union casts a pall. In the rash of new books on the revolution, few make strong claims for its persisting significance and most have an apologetic air Socialism is so much a mirage that it seems kinder not to mention it.

But as the year dragged on, amidst the growing threat of a cataclysmic war and daily manifestations of global political instability and intensifying social tensions, the tone of the commentary began to assume an ever-darker character. The dissolution of the Soviet Union by the Stalinist bureaucracy in 1991 had supposedly banished the specter of socialist revolution for all time. But as the precise centennial anniversary of the revolution led by Lenin approached, the bourgeoisie found itself asking, like Lady Macbeth, Yet who would have thought the old man to have so much blood in him?

In an essay published in the New York Times on November 6, right-wing historian Simon Sebag Montefiore wrote: The October Revolution, organized by Vladimir Lenin exactly a century ago, is still relevant in ways that would have seemed unimaginable when the Soviet Union collapsed. He observed nervously that the Bolshevik victory continues to reverberate and inspire and looms epic, mythic, mesmerizing. Montefiore bemoaned the Russian bourgeois Provisional Governments failure to defeat the revolution by murdering Lenin.

On the same day, in the Washington Post, the anti-communist historian Anne Applebaum warned that capitalism remained vulnerable to the threat of socialist revolution, and that governments should not be complacent. Even if revolutionary socialists were still few in number, their potential power should not be underestimated. Remember, Applebaum wrote, at the beginning of 1917 most of the men who later became known to the world as the Bolsheviks were conspirators and fantasists on the margins of society. By the end of the year, they ran Russia. Thus, the lesson of 1917 is clear: If a system becomes weak enough and the opposition is divided enough, if the ruling order is corrupt enough, extremists can suddenly step into the center, where no one expects them.

In contrast to the highly class-conscious bourgeois historians, the representatives of the petty-bourgeois pseudo-left continued to insist on the essential irrelevance of the October Revolution as a theoretical guide and political model for socialists in the present-day world. They do not object to paying a purely ceremonial tribute to Lenin and even Trotsky. But as a practical matter, they see nothing in the theory, politics and experience of Bolshevism and the October Revolution that is especially relevant to the contemporary world. This bankrupt outlook found its most finished expression in a special edition of Jacobin magazine marking the centenary of the October Revolution. An essay entitled The New Communists, by Connor Kilpatrick and Adaner Usmani, begins with the tagline: Its 2017. Time to stop worrying about the questions of 1917.

This advice is not quite as original as Kilpatrick and Usmani apparently believe it to be. This was the basic conception upon which the New Left was based a half-century ago. As in 1968, the call to stop worrying about the questions of 1917 is directed against the study of the theory, program, principles and strategic lessons of the first and only conquest of power by the working class, led by a revolutionary Marxist political party. A corollary of the forget about history approach of the New Left and its pseudo-left descendants is that there is to be no examination of the role played by Stalinism, social democracy, centrism and other forms of political opportunism in the derailment and defeat of the many opportunities for the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism by the working class that developed in the course of the twentieth century. Above all, the amnesia promoted by the pseudo-left is directed against the study of and serious engagement with the history and program of Trotskyism and the Fourth International.

The Kilpatrick-Usmani essay abounds with the sort of cynical and superficial arguments that generally characterize Jacobin magazine, which is, predictably, publicized and praised by the New York Times as an exemplar of contemporary socialist theory. Whether or not twentieth-century socialism was fated to fail, we now live in a new era, the authors write. Without explaining precisely what this new era is, or how it is fundamentally different from that of the October Revolution, Kilpatrick-Usmani simply assert: Today, one hundred years later, the world has turned. [?] Nowhere do the political tasks today look anything like those the Bolsheviki confronted in 1918 [??]. The Bolsheviks inherited a world convulsed by murderous interimperialist war; we live in the most peaceful period in recorded history. [???]

These political Rip Van Winkles seem to have slept through the past quarter-century and taken no notice of the two invasions of Iraq, the Balkan Wars of the 1990s, the various bloodbaths instigated by imperialism in Africa, and the general carnage that has been unleashed throughout much of the Middle East and Central Asia as a consequence of the last sixteen years of the War on Terror. In this most peaceful period in recorded history, several million people have been killed and injured, and tens of millions have been made homeless and stateless.

The worlds working classes have moved on, the theorists of Jacobin magazine declare. The time is past for starry-eyed dreaming. Instead, its time for us to stop worrying about old answers to old questions and start worrying about the ones working people are asking. This is not the age of Lenin and Trotsky, but rather of Sanders and Corbyn! These two pathetic representatives of senile reformism are hailed as the true voices of tens of millions of people [who] are dead set on changing the world. Kilpatrick-Usmani fail to explain how this revolutionary aspiration will be accomplished under the leadership of two men who are dead set on saving the US Democratic and UK Labour parties, two of the most reactionary capitalist-imperialist parties in the world.

* * * *

During the past twelve months, the International Committee of the Fourth International has commemorated the centenary of the October Revolution in a manner that expresses its profound historical and political identification with the events of 1917 and the revolutionary internationalist program of Bolshevism. Our commemoration included the posting on the World Socialist Web Site of a detailed weekly chronology of 1917 that traced the major political, social and cultural events of that revolutionary year, both within Russia and internationally. While focusing on the major political and theoretical controversies of 1917, it sought also to provide a sense of the social and intellectual ambience within which the great revolutionary movement of the Russian proletariat unfolded. The International Committee also broadcast nine lectures that examined and explained the critical issues of theory, program and perspective that confronted the Bolshevik Party in the February and October Revolutions of 1917. Finally, in the autumn of this year, the political parties affiliated with the International Committee in North America, Europe, Asia and the Asia-Pacific organized public lectures on the historical significance and lessons of the October Revolution that were attended by substantial audiences of student youth and working people.

Every aspect of the International Committees commemoration of the centenary was rooted in an uncompromising defense of a revolutionary Marxist perspective. These include the following essential conceptions:

1) The October Revolution marked the beginning of the epoch of World Socialist Revolution, a historical period of transition from capitalism to socialism, which continues to define the present historical period. The establishment of workers power in 1917 and the subsequent formation of the Soviet Union in 1922 were colossal achievements of the October Revolution. However, the establishment and defense of Soviet power, however significant, was only an episode in the World Socialist Revolution. The fundamental betrayal of Stalinism, and the source of all its crimes against the Russian and international working class, was its repudiation of the program of world revolution and its perversion of Bolshevism into a national state-building project. The program of socialism in one country announced by Stalin and Bukharin in 1924 was a revival of the national-democratic orientation adopted by Stalin and Kamenev in the immediate aftermath of the February 1917 Revolution, against which Lenin fought implacably following his return to Russia in April. 2) The events of 1917, culminating in the conquest of political power by the Russian proletariat, vindicated the perspective of Permanent Revolution, which had been elaborated by Leon Trotsky in the aftermath of the Revolution of 1905. As Trotsky had foreseen, the carrying through of the democratic tasks of the revolution was possible only through the overthrow of the bourgeoisie by the proletariat and the initiation of socialist policies. The defense of the socialist revolution, in whatever country it may occur, depends upon its extension throughout the world. 3) The victory of the October Revolution demonstrated the necessity of a Marxist vanguard party. Without the long struggle waged by Lenin against political opportunism and the influence of idealist revisions of philosophical materialism, there would not have existed the necessary, highly conscious cadre of Marxist revolutionaries in the working class to give political and organizational direction to the mass spontaneous movement that erupted in Russia in 1917. 4) The necessity of the revolutionary Marxist party, positively confirmed in 1917 by the leadership provided by the Bolsheviks, was negatively confirmed in the defeats suffered by the working class in subsequent decades. Capitalism survived the twentieth century not because of the absence of revolutionary situations and opportunities, but because of the betrayals of the leaderships of the bureaucratically controlled parties and trade union organizations of the working class. 5) The resolution of the crisis of working class leadership, as Trotsky insisted in the founding program of the Fourth International, remains the great historical task that confronts the revolutionary socialist movement.

The International Committee of the Fourth International has every right to look back with pride on the theoretical and political work that it conducted in 2017. Its ability to carry through this ambitious program of political and theoretical education is all the more noteworthy given the fact that it also maintained daily publication of the World Socialist Web Site. These achievements testify to the considerable strengthening of the International Committee of the Fourth International as the sole revolutionary Marxist party in the world.

But pride in past achievements is not complacent self-satisfaction. The International Committee sees all the educational work of the past year as essential preparation for the resurgence of international class struggle, which will be the most significant political feature of 2018.
Police in Australias most populous state, New South Wales (NSW), have extended the use of military assault rifles. The Public Order and Riot Squad (PORS) will carry these weapons for the first time during the Christmas-New Year period in the states capital, Sydney.

At a media conference in Sydney on December 18, Police Commissioner Mick Fuller, commander of the 16,000-strong state police force, said 47 PORS officers had completed training with Colt M-4 carbines. Another 100 would be trained by the middle of next year.

The expanded access to M-4s will double the number of police with military-standard weaponry, previously issued only to smaller tactical units for alleged terrorism, hostage, siege and serious armed offender incidents. All NSW police are armed with pistols on duty.

Fuller claimed that the extension was necessary because of the increased threat of terrorism. He stated that while the federal governments terrorism threat level had remained probable since September 2014, he needed to put the more heavily armed police onto the streets if, and as soon as, the threat level was raised to high.

This claim is false and misleading. The PORS is specifically tasked with suppressing protests and social disturbances, not terrorism.

The PORS was formed in October 2005 after confrontations between police and working-class youth in two of Sydneys most impoverished areasthe inner suburb of Redfern, with a large Aboriginal population, in March 2004, and the western suburb of Macquarie Fields in February 2005. The clashes followed police chases of youth that resulted in their deathsThomas Hickey in Redfern and Dylan Raywood and Matthew Robertson in Macquarie Fields.

The then Labor Party state government of Premier Bob Carr exploited the protests to test new ways of quelling unrest, including the formation of the permanent riot squad.

Until now, the PORS specialist equipment has featured rubber bullets, capsicum spray, two types of batons, handcuffs and cable flex-cuffs and protective clothing, supposedly to counter petrol bombs and projectiles. The issuing of M-4s to public order police is a sign of the further militarisation of the police, an international phenomenon, in anticipation of increasing social tensions.

Decades of pro-market economic restructuring, destruction of manufacturing and other full-time jobs and cuts to government services have produced high youth unemployment and unprecedented social inequality.

Fuller indicated that the current Liberal-National Coalition government of Premier Gladys Berejiklian is planning more extensive issuing of the assault rifles. [P]erhaps next year, depending on the environment, you may see officers deployed in a standard patrolling type method with these types of firearms, he said.

Fuller denied any immediate plans to equip the entire police force with such weapons. It was definitely possible, but certainly not in the coming months. We need to have that conversation.

The M-4 is widely used by the US Army and Australian Special Forces. It has a 30-round magazine firing the 5.56 x 45mm NATO military round with a muzzle velocity of 910 metres per second. If used in full automatic mode, an M-4 can fire 770-950 rounds per minute. Because of the rounds kinetic energy, the effects are horrific. The weapon is effective out to 600 metres for aimed shots but lethal impacts extend beyond this.

At the media conference, staged at Sydneys central bayside Circular Quay, PORS members paraded around, brandishing their new weapons among workers, shoppers and cafe patrons. It was an intimidating display. Police Minister Troy Grant said some people would be confronted by police having a greater capacity in relation to their firearms and their arsenal, but the community should be comforted by the knowledge the police had the capacity to protect it.

Last June, when the re-arming of the PORS was first announced, the government unveiled legislation to give police more legal protection if they use their weapons in a pre-emptive shooting of a suspect in a terrorist incident. These moves will only increase the likelihood of police killing people with impunity.

Between 1989 and 2011, 105 people were shot dead by police in Australia, according to a 2013 report by the Australian Institute of Criminology. All but one were declared justified by coroners. Not one police officer was charged.

As the pretext for its June announcement, the Berejiklian government used the December 2014 Lindt cafe siege in central Sydney. The federal and state governments falsely labeled that incident, which resulted in the deaths of two of the 18 hostages, as a terrorist attack. In reality, the hostage-taker, Man Haron Monis, was mentally unstable and well known to police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.

The siege was politically exploited to further extend some of the worlds most anti-democratic counter-terrorism laws, which include detention and interrogation without charge. The definitions of terrorist-related offences have also been broadened to potentially cover protest actions including against Australias participation in Washingtons wars.

The author also recommends:

Australian police kill mentally-ill man at Sydneys main train station

[29 July 2017]
By PTI: Jammu, Dec 30 (PTI) Authorities in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir convened a public meeting near the Line of Control (LoC) in Sunderbani sector to address issues faced by locals, in the wake of repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

Over 300 people from six panchayats participated in the public meeting at border village Meenka yesterday and presented their demands related to development issues and safety measures like construction of underground community bunkers, an official spokesman said today.

advertisement

District Development Commissioner (DDC), Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary chaired the meeting which, among others, was attended by senior civil and Army officers, the spokesman said.

Choudhary directed sub-divisional magistrate Sunderbani for finalisation of location for at least 100 bunkers in consultation with elected representatives, locals and Army officials, the official added.

He said issues such as installation of transformers, provision of additional staff in schools, road connectivity, operationalisation of Beripattan tehsil, drinking water supply and opening of new sub-centres came up for discussion during the meeting.

He also issued directions for time-bound construction of seed-stores, water supply lines, bringing more villages under irrigation network during current financial year, provision of pension for widows and old age applicants and several other developmental measures.

Assuring time-bound redressal of issues, the DDC also directed the Block Development Officer for construction of a Park at Mahadev temple and bridge for connectivity in Meenka village.

Responding to a number of queries related to development demands -- particularly construction of roads, culverts and bridges, the DDC informed the people that a host of issues were taken up during the recent visit of the chief minister by locals as well as legislators and all the urgent demands have been accordingly taken up.

People from various panchayats appreciated the outreach programme started by district administration for addressing public grievances and providing various services at doorsteps, the spokesman said.

He added that Army officers, including Colonel Avishek Mukherji,Adiscussed the issues related to ex-servicemen and border residents on the occasion. PTI TAS KIS

--- ENDS ---
Taking a dig at temple visits of Congress president Rahul Gandhi during Gujarat Assembly election, Owaisi said that like Rahul, he too will visit all the mosques of the state.

By Mayank Pratap Singh: As the dates of elections coming closer, the political statement are becoming more visible in state of Karnataka. All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi has hinted that his party will be contesting hard in the upcoming legislative assembly elections.

Targeting Congress government in Karnataka, Owaisi alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is not allowing his party to do any public rally.

advertisement

Taking a dig at temple visits of Congress president Rahul Gandhi during Gujarat Assembly election, Owaisi said that like Rahul, he too will visit all the mosques of the state.

Targeting the Muslim voters, he said, if he gets permission to hold a political rally, he will definitely call a public meeting and will give tough challenge to the Congress government.

"I can talk in Parliament, I can talk in front of Modi, but I am not allowed to speak in Karnataka," alleged Owaisi.

He said that AIMIM will fight alone in the elections and will bring forth the mistakes of Siddaramaiah in front of the people.

--- ENDS ---
GEORGIA (WTXL) - In Georgia, a new law will go into effect on Jan. 1 that will provide insurance benefits to firefighters with cancer.

It is known as house bill 146, which was approved by the general assembly in Georgia this past session.

According to Lowndes County PIO Paige Dukes, the insurance will not only cover all forms of cancer, it will cover paid and volunteer firefighters.

It's a very important feature for Lowndes County, Dukes says, as a majority of the county's firefighters are volunteers. They do not get paid for any calls they respond to.

Dukes also says, depending on the situation, firefighters can be exposed to a tremendous amount of cancer causing chemicals.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Sometimes, it feels like all we hear about are new shootings, stabbings, and robberies, but according to the Tallahassee Police Department, we are making progress.

"In 2016, we saw a significant decrease in violent crime," said Chief Michael DeLeo. "It was about 14% and this year through November, we've seen an overall decrease of crime to 12%."

Crime is a constant in any city. As long as you have people living there, you'll have people breaking the law.

However, for many in Tallahassee, it's the type of crime they're worried about.

Statistics from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement show rapes, robberies and overall violent crime went down from 2016 to 2017. However, the murder rate went up slightly.

Many community meetings were held in 2017 to discuss ways to stop the violence.

"This last year, we started the Public Safety Collective to continue to really more collaboratively work with our law enforcement partners," said DeLeo. "We continue to make sure that our resources are focused in the right place and we're complimenting each other's efforts."

In 2018, you'll notice some immediate changes at the Tallahassee Police Department. They're adding new body cameras and they're swearing in 13 new officers in January.

However, Chief DeLeo tells WTXL, it's not just the short-term changes that'll make Tallahassee a safer city. They're also planning ahead, like deciding how to use their new headquarters.

"The new facility will make it easier for people to participate in programs with us," said DeLeo.

One bright spot this year has been TPD's "9 P.M. Routine." Every night, a new social media post reminds residents to lock their cars and homes. In the past, property crime plagued the city.

"That's one of the areas we've seen the biggest decrease in crime this year and it's that partnership," said DeLeo. "We've got officers out looking and patrolling and trying to protect things, but it's a big city. We have 103 square miles. We can't be everywhere at once, so everyone takes responsibility for their property and helps us out that way, it helps make it safer."

Chief DeLeo says the Tallahassee Police Department has hired a new company to update its records management system, making it easier to collaborate with other area policing agencies. They hope to begin construction on their new headquarters in 2018.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-27 01:43:00|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

CHICAGO, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) agricultural commodities opened mixed with soybeans futures rallying on concerns about hot and dry weather in South America.

There was not much fresh demand news over the Christmas holiday and the CBOT focus will be on positioning into a new tax year and South American weather for price direction. The heart of the South American growing season is just ahead.

March corn were down 1 cent at 3.52 U.S. dollars per bushel as of 1600 GMT in the morning trading, March wheat was down 2.75 cents at 4.22 dollars, while January soybeans was up 9.25 cents at 9.695 dollars.

The latest U.S. Department of Agriculture report showed that managed money is short 154,000 contracts of wheat, short 222,000 contracts of corn, and 41,000 contracts of soybeans.

As for international market, Malaysian palm oil futures jumped to strong 2 percent gains overnight based on better than expected December export demand. Malaysian December palm oil exports are estimated to be up 1 percent, which was surprising following the doubling of Indian import duties. The firmer palm oil futures are likely to support soy oil.

Kazakhstan will buy 2 million tonnes of wheat from its farmers in an effort to support their domestic prices. The move follows talk from Russia that it will secure 2-3 million tonnes of wheat to underpin its domestic wheat market. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 00:33:07|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

BUJUMBURA, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza on Friday pledged sanctions against polygamous people who failed to legalize their marriages before the deadline set on Dec. 31.

"The law doesn't allow polygamy in Burundi. Therefore, people who will not have legalized their marriages before the end of this year will be sanctioned according to the law," said Nkurunziza during a live radio program held in the northern town of Kayanza.

A polygamous man can have many wives with over 30 children who are not registered anywhere, which makes Burundi having wrong statistics of its population, said the president. Those who are not registered are not taken into consideration in the country's development projects, he said.

"With the implementation of the 'one man, one wife' policy, we will be able to control the population growth," he added.

During the celebration of the International Labor Day on May 1 this year, Nkurunziza announced that polygamy or having concubines is not allowed, adding that all couples should have legalized their marriages by the end of the year.

Muslim groups, however, opposed the measure, arguing that their religion allows them to marry many wives.

After the announcement of the law, Burundian minister of interior Pascal Barandagiye said that polygamous men should leave their wives and keep only one, preferably the first wife.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 03:58:44|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. economy is coping with growing demand for tech workers, as the economy is becoming more and more digitized.

Six in 10 tech companies said that they were short of technology skilled workers in 2017, according to a recent survey report jointly released by the IT contractor Harvey Nash Group and consulting firm KPMG.

From 2005 to 2017, tech companies have been complaining about the shortage of skilled workers. For the past 12 years, there have only been three occasions where less than half of IT leaders were reporting skills shortages.

According to the survey, big data and data analytics remains the most in-demand skill, with 42 percent surveyed companies citing it as the most in-demand skill. Data analytic skills remained the most in-demand skill for a third year in a row, said the report.

According to data from the Labor Department, employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.

IT occupations are projected to add about 546,100 new jobs. These jobs also delivered higher wages. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was 82,860 U.S. dollars in May 2016, higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of 37,040 dollars, said the Labor Department.

The high demand of tech jobs traces back to the digitalization of the U.S. economy. Between 2002 and 2016, the shares of U.S. jobs that require substantial digital knowledge rose rapidly, mostly due to large changes in the digital content of existing occupations, according to a report by the Brookings Institute.

According to the report, the share of jobs in high digital skills rose from 5 percent in 2002 to 23 percent in 2016, and the share of medium digital skill jobs rose from 40 percent in 2002 to 48 percent in 2016.

However, in the same period, the share of low digital skill jobs dropped to 30 percent in 2016 from 56 percent in 2002.

The rapid pace of digitalization since 2001 suggested that the acquisition of digital skills is now a prerequisite for economic success for American workers, industries and metropolitan areas, said the Brookings Institute in the report.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 04:03:45|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

LISBON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Portuguese government said Friday it is paying 37.68 million euros (45.25 million U.S. dollars) out of a total of 50.2 million euros to farmers affected by the deadly forest fires erupted on Oct. 15.

The sum paid by the Ministry of Agriculture accounts for 75 percent of the total payment of 50.2 million euros to be made to these farmers, with the remainder to be paid later, the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said that 55 percent of the amount "is paid directly by bank transfer to the farmers' account, the remaining 45 percent is being paid by postal order, within five working days, to 6,650 farmers who do not have a bank account".

The 37.68 million euros now paid by the Ministry of Agriculture adds to the amount of 3.78 million euros, paid by the Ministry of Labor and Social Solidarity to 6,025 farmers who recorded losses up to 1,053 euros.

In total, the government has now allocated 41.5 million euros to 20,567 farmers affected by the fires with losses of up to 5,000 euros.

The forest fires erupted in the north of Portugal on Oct. 15 killed 45 people, only four months after the most deadly forest fires in 40 years killed another 65 people in the Pedrogao Grande area in the central part of the country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 07:19:18|Editor: Liu

Video Player Close

DUBLIN, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- A total of 149 organ donations and 308 organ transplantations were made in Ireland in 2017, both setting record highs in the country's history, a senior health official said here on Friday.

The figures were revealed by the Irish Health Minister Simon Harris while launching a report about the public opinions on a proposed human tissue bill.

According to the minister, the 2017 organ donation and transplantation figures in Ireland represented 22 and 28 more respectively while compared with the previous year.

He said the total organ donations made this year included 98 donations of deceased donors and 51 donations from living kidney donors.

The minister said that organ donation is the cornerstone on which transplantation services are built, and thanked both the families of the deceased donors and the living donors for their great generosity and extreme kindness.

"Our record organ donation and transplantation performance in 2017 can only be developed further through the donation of organs," said the minister, calling on the public to consider organ donation and to share their intentions in this regard with families and loved ones.
By PTI: Jodhpur (Raj), Dec 30 (PTI) Taking a cue from Delhi BJP leader Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga, a group of youths here are sending pairs of shoes, even old ones, to the Pakistan High Commission against the "ill-treatment" meted out to the mother and wife of Indian death row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav, lodged in a Pakistani jail.

Bagga had yesterday sent footwear via an e-commerce site to the Pakistan High Commission office in the national capital.

advertisement

"Pakistan wants our slippers. Let us give them slippers. I have ordered slippers and sent to Pakistan High Commission," he had tweeted.

He has also launched an online campaign requesting the "nationalists" to send slippers to Pakistan.

Jadhavs mother and wife had recently visited him in Pakistan. They were forced to remove their mangalsutra, bindi, bangles and footwear by the authorities there before being allowed to meet Jadhav through a glass screen.

Ranjeet Singh Rajpurohit, who sent a pair of Jodhpuri Jutis (Mojari) to the Pakistan High Commission office in Delhi, says that he has also appealed his friends on his Facebook group Mitra Mandali to follow his act.

"Though, I did not want to spend my money on Pakistan, I changed my mind and sent a pair of shoes (10 number size) to the Pakistan High Commission office. I am also urging my friends to do the same," he said.

Some other youths of the city are sending worn-out shoes to mark their protest against the neighbouring nation.

Sampat Singh Matana says that he sent an old pair of Hawai chappals to the commission office.

Even some BJP workers have come forward to send foot wears to the commission.

Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April, following which India moved the ICJ in May. The ICJ halted his execution on Indias appeal pending the final verdict by it.

Pakistan claims its security forces arrested Jadhav alias Hussein Mubarak Patel from its restive Balochistan province after he reportedly entered from Iran.

India, however, maintains that Jadhav was kidnapped from Iran where he had business interests after retiring from the Indian Navy. PTI CORR SRY

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 07:36:42|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

A vehicle of a local volunteer group arrives in the Old City of western Mosul, Iraq, on Dec. 29, 2017. Reconstruction of the Old City in western Mosul is under slow progress. Around six months after the full liberation of Mosul, the Old City in western Mosul still lies in ruins, and only few residents have returned home. Main streets have been cleared in this area, but a vast number of narrow alleys are still covered by collapsed buildings. On July 10, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi formally declared full liberation of Mosul, after nine months of fierce fighting. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 07:37:48|Editor: Jiaxin

Video Player Close

A boy walks on a roof of a house destroyed by recent airstrikes carried out by the Saudi-led coalition in Sanaa, Yemen, on Dec. 29, 2017. Yemen has been locked into a civil war since the Houthi rebels overran much of the country militarily and seized all northern provinces, including the capital Sanaa, in 2014. Saudi Arabia leads an Arab military coalition that intervened in Yemen in 2015 to support the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after Houthi rebels forced him into exile. The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, and displaced 3 million others, creating one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 07:34:21|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

PARIS, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- France planned during year-end festivities tough security measures including the deployment of additional security forces across the country to ensure safety at the peak of holiday season, Interior Ministry said on Friday.

"In a context of high terrorist threat, guaranteeing the safety of both the French and tourists and allowing the smooth running of this popular and festive moment in a calm atmosphere, is a top priority," the ministry said in a statement.

With that aim, the government will mobilize on Dec. 31 a total of 139,400 security forces into French cities, with a major focus on the capital Paris where perimeters of security would be set up. This includes the iconic avenue of the Champs Elysees where thousands of nationals and tourists are expected to flock into to celebrate the new year.

Earlier this month, police arrested in Paris a 19-year-old radicalized woman who planned to attack soldiers. A 21-year-old man was also detained in Lyon on charges of planning terrorist assault, according to local media.

France, a major target of frequent terrorist attacks, had imposed emergency security rules following the November 2015 attacks.

In October, French President Emmanuel Macron signed an anti-terrorism law which he said was necessary to muscle security at home to combat high terrorism menace.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 09:14:33|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

HANGZHOU, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Pang Baogen, an entrepreneur from east China, has emptied billions of cash on account into investment projects.

Over the past year, Pang, president of Baoye Group, a construction company based in Zhejiang province, has been busy. Soon after a 1.5-billion-yuan (230 million U.S. dollars) prefabricated smart construction project landed in the province's Anji county, he flew to central China's Hubei province to inspect the construction site of a manufacturing base he had invested in.

Just a year ago, Pang, who has invested in the construction industry for over 20 years, was troubled by where to spend his money.

For some private entrepreneurs in China, 2016 was a nightmare. A sluggish economy forced them to hold their money.

According to official statistics, China's private-sector fixed-asset investment (FAI) increased by a mere 2.8 percent in the first half of 2016, compared with 10.1 percent in 2015.

In the second half of 2016, favorable policies were introduced by China's central government to streamline investment project approvals for private investors, encourage them to participate in major projects and introduce mixed-ownership reform in state-owned enterprises.

The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), China's top economic planner, said in June it would further ease entry limitations for sectors including civil airports, basic telecommunication services as well as petroleum and gas exploration and exploitation.

In a guideline jointly released by 16 government departments, authorities were advised to further cut corporate burdens, improve public services and increase fiscal support for the private sector.

Wingtech Communications, an ODM (original designed manufacturer) for brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi and Lenovo, has been a beneficiary.

"We were supposed to pay 7.99 million yuan in water infrastructure funds based on our sales revenue, but the item was canceled, which enabled us to invest more in new product and technology development," said Vice President Xiao Xuebing.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, FAI by the private sector grew 5.7 percent to 34.81 trillion yuan from January to November, with year-on-year growth even reaching 7.7 percent in the first quarter.

Experts also pointed out that China's FAI continued to see structural improvement as high investment growth was recorded in fields such as high-tech and emerging industries, while investment in sectors with excess capacity went down.

The Center for China in the World Economy of Tsinghua University said that China's FAI by the private sector will see a considerable rise from a predicted 6 percent in 2017 to 8 percent or even higher in 2018.

The private sector accounts for more than 60 percent of China's GDP growth and provides over 80 percent of jobs.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 09:29:35|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese securities regulator approved three IPO applications this week, which will raise up to one billion yuan (about 153 million U.S. dollars) in the A-share market.

Two companies will be listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and one on the ChiNext at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, according to the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC).

The firms and their underwriters will confirm dates and publish prospectuses following discussions with the exchanges.

The move brings the number of IPO approvals to 401 in 2017.

China has sought to normalize IPOs to improve financing efficiency and direct more money into the real economy since it suspended IPOs between July and November 2015.

New shares are subject to official approval under the current IPO system, which is moving to a more market-oriented system.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 09:34:36|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

Local policemen investigate at the scene of the shooting in southwest Houston, Texas, the United States of America, Dec. 29, 2017. Houston police confirmed Friday evening that three people, including the gunman, were killed in a shooting incident in southwest Houston, the U.S. state of Texas. (Xinhua/Liu Liwei)

HOUSTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Houston police confirmed Friday evening that three people, including the gunman, were killed in a shooting incident in southwest Houston, the U.S. state of Texas.

Houston Police Department Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner told reporters in a briefing that the shooter, who was a former employee of an auto repair shop, shot and killed two employees at the shop at around 4 p.m. local time (2000 GMT). The shooter then walked out to the yard and shot himself dead, said the police officer.

Finner said there were multiple people inside the shop when the shooting happened. He said police have contacted the family of the shooter, but declined to confirm the gender of the shooter.

No other injuries have been reported. The motive for the shooting is unknown at this time. Police said more detailed information would be released after investigation.

The auto repair shop is located about 20 km southwest of downtown Houston.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 10:09:39|Editor: Xiang Bo

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The following are the Top Ten world news events in the year 2017 selected by Xinhua in a chronological order:

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a keynote speech at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland, Jan. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin) 1. "A COMMUNITY WITH SHARED DESTINY FOR MANKIND" ENSHRINED IN UN RESOLUTION

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Jan. 18 made a keynote speech at the United Nations (UN) Office in Geneva titled "Work Together to Build a Community of Shared Future for Mankind," offering China's solutions to cope with global challenges. The international community resonated strongly.

The Chinese concept of building "a human community with shared destiny" was on Feb. 11 incorporated into a UN resolution for the first time on the 55th UN Commission for Social Development.

Since then, the idea has been enshrined in the UN Security Council, the Human Rights Council and the first committee of the UN General Assembly, turning the Chinese concept into an international consensus.

China's international influence, charisma and molding force have been further enhanced, and China's diplomacy of major powers has made new contributions to world peace and development.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 11:02:47|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

Members of Nie-Er Symphony Orchestra perform during the 10th China Gold Record Awards ceremony at Yunnan Grand Theatre in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 29, 2017. The 10th China Gold Record Awards ceremony honors records created between 2013 and 2017 and artists in 20 categories. (Xinhua/Yang Zongyou)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 11:39:48|Editor: Liu

Video Player Close

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- With three formal face-to-face meetings and nine phone calls, the top leaders of China and the United States have maintained close communication this year, navigating the future development of bilateral relationship.

Experts say that top-level diplomacy is vital to the sound growth of China-U.S. relations. Continuous in-depth communication between the leaders could prevent misunderstanding, build trust, manage differences and increase cooperation, which will benefit the two countries and the world at large.

MAR-A-LAGO MEETING: NEW START

In April, Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, met at Mar-a-Lago resort in the U.S. state of Florida, the first such meeting since Trump took office in January.

Without the formality usually seen during state visits, the two leaders spent more than seven hours together in two days, discussing issues of importance and charting the course for one of the world's most crucial bilateral ties.

As Xi said, there are "a thousand reasons to make the China-U.S. relationship work, and no reason to break it."

"They are the [world's] two leading nations and it is crucial that there are open communications so there are no misunderstandings," said Darrell West, director of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.

During the Mar-a-Lago meeting, four high-level dialogue mechanisms, designed to increase China-U.S. contact and cooperation, were initiated, covering key areas of diplomacy and security, economy, law enforcement and cyber security, as well as social and people-to-people exchanges.

The mechanisms have provided opportunities for Chinese and U.S. officials to talk about significant issues ranging from peace and stability in the South China Sea and military-to-military exchanges, to innovation cooperation and cyber crime.

Compared with previous communication mechanisms, the four dialogues are more outcome-oriented, emphasizing key areas of mutual concerns, Cheng Li, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institution, told Xinhua.

Though advocating "America First" after taking office, Trump has recognized that the United States needs cooperation with other countries in international affairs, "especially with China," said Li.

HAMBURG MEETING: NEW DEVELOPMENT

In July, Xi and Trump met in Hamburg, Germany, on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit, discussing deepening cooperation based on mutual benefit.

In their talks, the two sides agreed to well manage their differences. They also exchanged views on major hot-spot issues such as the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, affirming a peaceful solution to it.

Xi told Trump that stronger China-U.S. ties are conducive to stability and prosperity, and serve the interests of both peoples and the international community in a complex world where various conflicts emerge.

Noting that the 100-day action plan initiated after the two presidents' meeting at Mar-a-Largo has achieved new progress, Xi said the two sides were discussing a one-year cooperation plan.

The Chinese president also urged joint efforts with Trump to keep bilateral ties on track and coordinate on international affairs.

"The results so far in the 100-day program to improve trade and investment appear to have been more constructive than many critics argued," said Douglas Paal, vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Jia Xiudong with the China Institute of International Studies said that China-U.S. ties are crucial to the new type of international relations and efforts to build a community of a shared future for humanity.

The dialogues between the largest developing country and the largest developed country are important, said Joseph Nye, professor at Harvard University, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"I think the dialogues are important and we do need to have talks," said Nye. "I think the more the Chinese and Americans have contact with each other and understand each other, the less likely they are to have worst case analysis of the other."

STATE VISIT PLUS: NEW CHAPTER

On Nov. 8, Trump started his first state visit to China. He was also the first head of state to visit China after the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China was held in Beijing in October.

Trump was offered a "state visit plus" experience in China.

During his stay, the two leaders spent more than 10 hours together, comparing notes on a wide array of issues of common concern. Extensive consensus was reached and their personal rapport strengthened.

The two countries signed business deals worth 250 billion dollars, showing goodwill and also confidence in future economic cooperation.

William Jones, the Washington Bureau chief for Executive Intelligence Review news magazine, stressed the historical importance of the Xi-Trump meeting.

"While Nixon's visit occurred in an atmosphere of 'geopolitics' and Cold War intrigues, we are now in a world which is increasingly moving towards the community of shared interests that President Xi has spoken so much about," said Jones. "The U.S.-China relations are definitely on an upward trajectory."

"The significant political achievement of the Xi-Trump summit is that the two sides agreed that a better future would only be achieved through win-win cooperation, setting the tone for the future development of China-U.S. relations," said Cui Liru, former president of the Chinese Institute of Contemporary International Relations.

"A stable and developing China-U.S. relationship not only benefits both peoples, but also meets the expectations of the international community," said Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 12:34:53|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- India's Space Research Organisation, ISRO has announced to launch 31 satellites, including Cartosat-2 series earth observation spacecraft, in a single mission next month, state-run broadcaster - All India Radio (AIR) said Saturday.

The satellites according to the broadcaster would be launched on Jan. 10.

"This mission will be the first Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) mission after the unsuccessful launch of navigation satellite IRNSS-1H in August this year. The mission's main payload would be India's Cartosat-2 series earth observation satellite," AIR quoting an official said.

The mission will be a combination of 28 nano satellites from foreign countries, including Finland, and the United States, and one micro and nano satellite from India along with one Cartosat satellite.

The satellites would be launched from the spaceport in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota.

In Aug. this year efforts by ISRO to launch navigational satellite IRNSS-1H, the eighth satellite of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) failed.

The launch was declared unsuccessful minutes after television images show the rocket blasting off normally from the launch pad emitting a bright orange flame from its tail and moving upwards lighting up the dark sky.
Randeep Singh Surjewala, a Congress legislator, mocked PM Modi and his government's handling of Kashmir in a tweet today - by referring to a comment the PM himself made in 2014.

By India Today Web Desk: "56" chest?" asked Congress MLA and spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala on Saturday, in a tweet loaded with statistics on ceasefire violations, civilian causalties and deaths of terrorists - and clearly meant for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Surjewala's tweet (see below) compared statistics from the UPA and NDA regime (India Today could not independently confirm the information in the tweet at the time of publishing).

advertisement

The argument Surjewala appeared to be making, without saying as much explicitly, was that the NDA had handled Kashmir worse than its predecessor.

And the last line was a reference to something Modi himself said at a rally in Uttar Pradesh. Then a prime ministerial candidate, Modi said a 56-inch chest was need to convert UP into Gujarat, whose development model the BJP has often cited as an exemplar.

A year later, while discussing a land bill, Rahul Gandhi boasted to Congress workers that the 56 inch chest would shrink to a 5.6 inch chest.

Here's Surjewala's tweet.

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 12:39:54|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday condemned a deadly attack outside a church in the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

In a phone call with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, Trump expressed his condolences to the Egyptian people, repeating U.S. commitment to fighting terrorism, according to a statement released by the White House.

At least 10 people were killed in a shootout outside Mar Mina church in Cairo's district of Helwan on Friday.

The Egyptian health ministry said the killed include one attacker and one policeman, who are Muslims, and eight Copts.

The attack came in the run-up to Orthodox Christmas celebrations next week.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 13:19:59|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

MOSCOW, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- China and Russia have consolidated the foundation of their bilateral relations as their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination continues to develop at a high level in 2017, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Li Hui has said.

"High-level communication between China and Russia has taken the lead in boosting the development of bilateral ties. In 2017, the Chinese and Russian heads of state maintained a high frequency of interaction and held five meetings," Li said.

At the same time, non-governmental exchanges have also laid a firm ground for the development of bilateral relations, the ambassador said.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Russia Friendship Committee for Peace and Development (CRFCPD) and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Russia-China Friendship Association (RCFA).

In this context, the two countries improved their bilateral exchange mechanism in various fields during the year, undertaking a series of activities which "further promoted mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and consolidated the social and popular foundation for the development of China-Russia ties," Li said.

Fruitful results were also achieved in the pragmatic cooperation between the two countries, according to the ambassador.

In addition to the traditional energy and military fields, cooperation in the field of high-speed rail has become a new focus of attention, Li said.

The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding in 2014 and a letter of intent in 2016, both concerning high-speed rail cooperation, he said, adding that field investigation and the design of the Moscow-Kazan high-speed railway are being completed.

"This marked a profoundly significant step for China and Russia in pursuing the Belt and Road Initiative," Li said.

The ambassador also applauded the business prospects of Chinese enterprises in Russia's Far East region, to which China is the largest source of imports and a major source of foreign investment.

"China-Russia cooperation in the development of the Far East is thriving... More and more Chinese enterprises are starting their business in the leap-forward development zone and the free port in the Far East. China and Russia are good partners in developing the Far East, which has great potential for their future cooperation," Li said.

In particular, he underlined the importance of strengthening coordination of policies and regulations, improving the construction of cross-border infrastructure, boosting the enthusiasm of small- and medium-sized enterprises and facilitating close bilateral personnel exchanges.

Recalling the success of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) held in October, Li said that the congress charted the direction for deepening China-Russia relations.

"The comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between China and Russia occupies a special position in the major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics and is an important manifestation of practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era," he said.

He said that China is ready to work with Russia to give full play to the advantages of both economies and further exploit the potential in bilateral cooperation, so as to gain more achievements from their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination and benefit both countries and their peoples.

"I firmly believe that with joint efforts of both countries, China-Russia relations will certainly score more new achievements and new progress in 2018," Li said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 13:25:01|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

LHASA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Every day just as the sun rises, life inside of the Drepung Monastery begins as it has for centuries -- monks awaken, chant of sutras, have a light breakfast, and begin their studies.

An asphalt road connects the monastery at the foot of a mountain with the western suburb of Lhasa. Behind its whitewashed walls lurks a hidden world of golden sculptures and colored murals.

Wooden signage in both Chinese and English is everywhere inside Drepung directing for endless streams of Buddhist pilgrims and foreign tourists hither and thither.

For 600 years, Drepung, the largest monastery of the Gelug school, has stood silent witness to events beyond its walls.

MODERN MONASTERIES

Having survived hundreds of years, many monasteries are in a poor condition and in need of work.

More than 200 million yuan (around 30 million U.S. dollars) of government money have been spent renovating Drepung over the past five years.

"The buildings were repaired and parking lot and nursing home built," said Nyima, head of Drepung's management committee.

Tibet started providing funds to monasteries in 2011, supplying them with electricity and water, and building roads, bath houses, greenhouses and garbage treatment facilities.

In addition to government money, Drepung Monastery makes more than 10 million yuan each year from ticket, alms given by pilgrims and earnings from shops and teahouses. Most of the money is used to maintain the buildings and preserve its artwork. The remainder is making life easier for the monks.

A management committee consisting of government officials and monks has been set up in almost every monastery in Tibet. These official members work with monk members to manage monastery affairs and solve problems faced by monks.

Dradul entered Tsurpu Monastery 31 years ago. He enjoys high prestige in the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism since completing a three-year retreat of fully-cloistered meditation.

Dradul is a member of the monastery's management committee and a political advisor of Tibet. It is through those management committees that monks now have have medical and endowment insurance, and living allowances. Buildings are maintained. Infrastructure such as roads are improved.

Datri, a government-designated member of the management committee of Drepung Monastery, has helped source more than 200,000 yuan in medical aid to 39 monks. He also helped 114 monks apply for living allowances.

"These officials are like a family member to us. Whenever we have a problem, we will look for their help," said Ngawang Gonchen, a monk.

UNCHANGED TRADITION

Religious study and services are the main activities of monastic life.

Tibet Buddhist Theological Institute, the autonomous region's first comprehensive Buddhist academy, has branches in 14 major monasteries.

Aged between 17 and 30, the monks at the institute's branch at Drepung study sutra to acquire the highest academic degree -- "Geshe Lharampa" -- similar to a doctorate. Since 2005, more than 100 monks have received the degree in Tibet.

"Those monks who study sutras are the future of any monastery," said Ngawang Kunqing, head of the Drepung branch of the institute. "So it's important to look after them well."

Those with excellent conduct and academic performance have the opportunity to study at the institute, which recruited its first batch of 150 monks in 2011.

"To acquire the highest degree is not easy," said Ngawang Chupa, a sutra teacher from Ganden Monastery. It took him 32 years to obtain his "Geshe Lharampa". He now teaches sutra to more than 100 monks in 4 classes.

Dharma assemblies are still the most important activities in monasteries.

On the anniversary of the birth of the Buddha every year, Sera Monastery begins an assembly at 6 a.m., when over 500 monks chant sutras together. It's a grand sight to see.

On auspicious days of Tibetan calendar, monasteries, big and small, hold the same traditional ceremonies as they have for centuries.

Tsurphu Monastery holds 38 such ceremonies a year, while Sera and Drepung monasteries hold even more.

An official survey found 1,787 places of religious activity in Tibet, with over 46,000 Buddhist monks and nuns in-residence, offering on-the-spot services like weddings or funerals.

"Such services not only meet the religious demand of Tibetans, they are also the responsibility of monks," said Dorje Tsering from the religion bureau of Xigaze city.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 13:40:02|Editor: Yang Yi

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Internet regulator has ordered two popular news apps to temporarily suspend parts of their channels for "spreading pornographic and lewd information" and providing news services without the necessary licenses.

Toutiao and Phoenix News "continuously carried pornographic content, seriously misled the public and caused a very negative impact on the online media environment," said the Beijing municipal cyberspace information office in a statement.

The two platforms were also found to have produced or reposted news content without the necessary licenses, "disturbing online order," the watchdog said, urging the two apps to rectify their violations.

Six Toutiao channels were ordered to suspend updates for 24 hours until Saturday evening, while two Phoenix News channels were not allowed to update for 12 hours.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 14:20:09|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian Government Secretary Carlos Marun said Friday that the release of 2 billion U.S. dollars to local governments earlier in the day is not intended to gain support for the government's reforms.

"It is not associated with any support. The resource distribution is made according to the proportions determined by the Municipalities Participation Fund," Marun said, adding that towns will get money regardless of mayors' party affiliation.

A few days ago, Marun made a different statement which prompted questions about the money being some sort of bribe in exchange for support for the reforms.

Earlier this week, he said that the government expected "reciprocity" from state governors regarding pending financing, expecting them to convince representatives to vote to approve the social security reform, which will be submitted to the Congress in February.

The statements have sparked tension and Marun released Thursday a statement that he was not conditioning the payments to states for any support.

It is not the first time that the Temer administration was accused of buying congressmen's support. Months ago when the labor reform bill was about to go through voting in the Congress, it was considered controversial even inside Temer's coalition. It was rumored that several representatives were set to vote against the bill.

The government has, for several times in a single month, given congressmen from coalition parties more money than the entire amount released so far this year. Though the government denied vote-buying, the measure was severely criticized.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 14:55:14|Editor: Lifang

Video Player Close

PYONGYANG, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), on Friday attended an art performance for grass-roots cadres of the ruling Workers's Party of Korea (WPK), official media reported Saturday.

This is the fourth time that Kim joined grass-roots WPK cadres within two weeks to show frequent interactions with them.

The DPRK's State Merited Chorus and Moranbong Band gave a performance here Friday and Kim "enjoyed the performance with participants in the 5th Conference of Cell Chairpersons of the Workers' Party of Korea," said a report of the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

"The performers made epic and impressive depiction of the glorious path covered by the WPK," said the report.

"They vividly represented the Korean army and people's deep reverence and trust in their Supreme Leader (Kim)," the report said. "The performance showed the iron faith and will of the Korean army and people to vigorously advance along the road of the Juche revolution for the final victory of socialism under the guidance of the Supreme Leader."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 15:00:16|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

PYONGYANG, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) said Saturday that it will never change its policy of developing nuclear and missile capabilities as a means to counter threats from the United States.

The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) released a detailed report on the situation of the Korean peninsula this year, accusing the United States of being culpable for the dangerous tension there.

It said that the Donald Trump administration "has resorted to the hard-line hostile policy toward the DPRK, the degree of which dwarfs the policies of the former administrations."

"Our party and state ...clarified the principled stand that it would continue bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and preemptive attack with the nuclear force as the pivot, as long as the U.S. and its vassal forces persist in nuclear threat and blackmail," said the KCNA.

The report also listed chronically the events which marked the nuclear and missile crisis this year.

The DPRK has detonated a hydrogen bomb and test-fired ballistic missiles this year, including three intercontinental ballistic missiles, which drew sanctions by the United Nations Security Council.

The "Hwasong 15" test-fired by the country last month was said to be able to hit the whole territory of the United States.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 15:10:18|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Three more subway lines, including one for driverless trains, started operation in Beijing Saturday, bringing the total length of metros in the Chinese capital to 608 kilometers.

Located in Beijing's southwest suburbs, the Yanfang Line is China's first fully domestically-developed automated subway. It has nine stations on its 14.4-km main line, linking the areas of Yanshan and Fangshan. The line is expected to carry 70,000 passengers daily.

Also put into service Saturday is the 10.2-km Line S1, Beijing's first medium-low speed maglev line. It connects the western suburban districts of Mentougou and Shijingshan.

The third is the 9-km West Suburb Line connecting tourist spots, including the Summer Palace and the Fragrant Hills in northwest Beijing.

Beijing now has 22 metro lines.

According to Beijing Transport Institute, the length of the city's subway increased by 400 kilometers in the last nine years. In 2008, the year Beijing hosted the Summer Olympic Games, it had eight lines, totalling 200 kilometers.

"Passengers make 10 million trips by metro every day in Beijing. The metro network is truly a non-stop underground city," said Li Haitao, deputy director of the metro law-enforcement division of the Beijing transport law-enforcement squad.

In 2015, Beijing established the division to ensure the safety of metro lines. Now it has 700 staff.

"There is great danger when there is large amount of passengers in rush hour. We are under a lot of pressure to ensure the safety of the metro network," Li said.

The Pingguoyuan stop on Line 1, Tiantongyuan stop on Line 5 and the Shahe stop on the Changping Line are among the busiest stops. "Over 20,000 passengers go through a single stop during the morning rush hour," said Jia Peng, a spokesman for the Beijing Subway.

The subway operators have improved signal systems to cut the intervals between trains.

"The interval of one minute and 43 seconds on Line 4 is the shortest in China now," said Zhong Guoliang, vice general manager of Beijing MTR Corporation, operator of Line 4 and others.

"Explosive growth of the population in Beijing has strained the capacity of the metro lines. Some lines reached their long-term designed passenger capacity when they started operation," Zhong said.

The first metro line, Line 1, running between the city's east and west, started operation in 1969. According to Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport, Beijing will have 900 kilometers of metro lines by 2020.

"By then, the lines will better meet the transit demand of the people in the capital," said Rong Jun, deputy director of the commission.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 15:45:21|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- The state of Rio de Janeiro, one of the most populous states and major contributors to the national economy in Brazil, as well as its capital city Rio de Janeiro, had a hard time in 2017, amidst rising violence and deep financial problems.

The violence in the state continued to rise, as police try to work around the poor working conditions and the threat of late salaries, as it was last year.

So far, 132 policemen were murdered in 2017, and the cumulative figure over the past 22 years has surpassed 3,000.

The state, also Brazil's tourism hotspot, has recorded more than 4,000 homicides so far this year.

In 2017, Rio's largest slum Rocinha was the center-stage for a violent drug gang which went beyond the shantytown and reached one of the richest neighborhoods in the city, forcing local residents to live amidst violence every day.

There are hundreds of slums in the state, where drug gangs or militia groups combat to expand their drug business and exploring "services" to the population, including extortion, allegedly for "protection".

The state's financial conditions have worsened the quality of life. The state government is facing severe financial problems and had to delay the payment of Christmas bonuses and salaries to public workers.

It remains unclear whether the administration will have the money to pay wages on time in 2018.

The Rio municipal government is not much better. Mayor Marcelo Crivella, who took office in January, said that his predecessor had left debts, but the previous mayor, Eduardo Paes, said that Crivella lacked the ability to properly administer the city.

The city government is said not to have sufficient money to cover government expenses in 2018, and may have trouble in paying civil workers as well.

Crivella has already made a number of controversial budget cuts, including the Carnival budget.

Tourism in Brazil's Rio de Janeiro has suffered losses estimated at 657 million Reais (around 200 million U.S. dollars) from January to August in 2017, due to the violence which has wrecked the city, a study revealed on Tuesday.

The bar and restaurant sectors were affected most by the violence, followed by transport and travel agencies, said the study presented by the National Confederation of Goods, Services and Tourism (CNC).

It noted the tourism revenue would see a drop of 1.8 percent on average should the crime rate increase by 10 percent.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 16:25:29|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were killed and six others seriously injured in a major road accident in the eastern Indian state of Odisha on Saturday, police said.

"The accident occurred when a passenger van collided head-on with a speeding truck coming from the opposite direction on the busy National Highway number 200 near Baunsadola in the state's Jajpur district," local police official S.K. Das told the media.

The accident was so severe that the van carrying 10 people, including its driver, got mangled. "Three persons died on the spot while one succumbed to his injuries on the way to a nearby government hospital," the official said.

The death toll may go up later in the day as the condition of six other injured, who have been shifted to another hospital in nearby Cuttack city, are said to be serious, he added.

Eye-witnesses told cops that the truck was travelling at high speed and the driver lost control of the vehicle, while overtaking another truck, leading to the head-on collision with the passenger van coming from the other side.

A probe has been ordered into the incident, the official said.

"A manhunt has been launched to nab the truck driver who fled the spot after the accident, leaving the vehicle behind. He has been booked for rash and negligent driving," he added.

India has the highest number of road fatalities in the world. Road accidents occur mostly due to poor driving or badly maintained roads and vehicles.
The traditional carol singing was discontinued in Rashtrapati Bhavan this year. Diwali celebrations also did not take place after ages. Iftar may also not be held till Ram Nath Kovind is president.

By Kumar Shakti Shekhar: For the first time in several years, carol singing in Rashtrapati Bhavan did not take place this year on Christmas. Though iftar was discontinued for five years when APJ Abdul Kalam was a resident of the majestic monument, carols were sung even then.

However, with President Ram Nath Kovind as present occupant of Rashtrapati Bhavan, carol singing did not happen.

advertisement

This is a harbinger of things to take place for the next five years. It is for sure that iftar will also not be held in the Rashtrapati Bhavan during his tenure.

Iftar was discontinued in Rashtrapati Bhavan when Kalam was the president between 2002 and 2007. However, it was resumed when Pratibha Patil succeeded him. Her successor Pranab Mukherjee continued the tradition.

In all these years, carol was not sung only once. And it was an exception.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee at the Christmas carols at Rashtrapati Bhavan on December 18, 2016.

Pratibha Patil cancelled the traditional Christmas celebrations, which includes the singing of Christmas carols, in 2008 as a mark of respect for the victims of Mumbai terror attack on November 26. However, Rashtrapati Bhavan sent grocery items such as rice, sugar, dal and ghee to orphanages in Delhi on her behalf on the occasion of Christmas.

Christmas celebrations are just one of the many religious festivities that take place in the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Diwali, Raksha Bandhan and Holi are some of the other festivals which are celebrated in the president's official residence.

However, iftar has a distinct place among all the religious celebrations. It is the only festival when the president hosts dinner for the dignitaries.

In all the other festivals, people visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan and greet the president.

But Kalam as president discontinued iftar. He was not in favour of the Rashtrapati Bhavan organising a politico-religious programme with public funds. He stopped the tradition and directed that the funds spent on the iftar be donated to orphanages.

However, he met people from all walks of life on Eid.

Iftar was revived by Pratibha Patil and continued by Pranab Mukherjee. The Congress, Left and BJP leaders would attend iftar.

But iftar has changed since 2014 with incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mukherjee had hosted the last iftar of his tenure as president on June 23. Then vice president Hamid Ansari, opposition leaders such as then Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Rajya Sabha MP Mohsina Kidwai and CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury attended it.

advertisement

But Prime Minister Modi skipped the iftar reception for the fourth time in a row since 2014. Instead, he left for a three-nation tour the same morning.

In 2015 and 2016, he did not attend the annual event despite being in the national capital.

In 2015, he was attending a meeting of chief ministers from the northeastern states.

In 2016, he was being briefed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh on an important internal security matter.

In 2014, the prime minister was in Mumbai to attend a programme.

However, in 2014, 2015 and 2016, the BJP-led NDA government was represented at iftar by one or the other Union minister, such as Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley or Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.

But this year's iftar went unrepresented by the central government for the first time in four years.

With Ram Nath Kovind as president, Rashtrapati Bhavan will skip all religious festivals.

Diwali celebrations did not take place this year though the monument was lit with multi-coloured LED bulbs. Carol singing was discontinued. Iftar will also not be held in most likelihood.

--- ENDS ---
Chinese Ambassador to Russia Li Hui speaks in a joint interview with Chinese and Russian media in Moscow, Russia, on November 22, 2017. (Xinhua/Evgeny Sinitsyn)

MOSCOW, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- China and Russia have consolidated the foundation of their bilateral relations as their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination continues to develop at a high level in 2017, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Li Hui has said.

"High-level communication between China and Russia has taken the lead in boosting the development of bilateral ties. In 2017, the Chinese and Russian heads of state maintained a high frequency of interaction and held five meetings," Li told Xinhua.

At the same time, non-governmental exchanges have also laid a firm ground for the development of bilateral relations, the ambassador said.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Russia Friendship Committee for Peace and Development (CRFCPD) and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Russia-China Friendship Association (RCFA).

In this context, the two countries improved their bilateral exchange mechanism in various fields during the year, undertaking a series of activities which "further promoted mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and consolidated the social and popular foundation for the development of China-Russia ties," Li said.

Fruitful results were also achieved in the pragmatic cooperation between the two countries, according to the ambassador.

In addition to the traditional energy and military fields, cooperation in the field of high-speed rail has become a new focus of attention, Li said.

The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding in 2014 and a letter of intent in 2016, both concerning high-speed rail cooperation, he said, adding that field investigation and the design of the Moscow-Kazan high-speed railway are being completed.

"This marked a profoundly significant step for China and Russia in pursuing the Belt and Road Initiative," Li said.

The ambassador also applauded the business prospects of Chinese enterprises in Russia's Far East region, to which China is the largest source of imports and a major source of foreign investment.

"China-Russia cooperation in the development of the Far East is thriving... More and more Chinese enterprises are starting their business in the leap-forward development zone and the free port in the Far East. China and Russia are good partners in developing the Far East, which has great potential for their future cooperation," Li said.

In particular, he underlined the importance of strengthening coordination of policies and regulations, improving the construction of cross-border infrastructure, boosting the enthusiasm of small- and medium-sized enterprises and facilitating close bilateral personnel exchanges.

Recalling the success of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) held in October, Li said that the congress charted the direction for deepening China-Russia relations.

"The comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between China and Russia occupies a special position in the major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics and is an important manifestation of practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era," he said.

He said that China is ready to work with Russia to give full play to the advantages of both economies and further exploit the potential in bilateral cooperation, so as to gain more achievements from their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination and benefit both countries and their peoples.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 16:55:33|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Two years on, supply-side structural reform remains the centerpiece of China's economic agenda, but priorities have shifted as high-speed growth is giving way to high-quality development.

Initiated in 2015, the reform has focused on five fronts -- pruning overcapacity, clearing up the large inventory of unsold homes, curbing debt levels, lowering business costs and tackling weak links.

It has yielded the desired results, promoted economic restructuring, and stabilized growth in the world's second-largest economy.

The country will deepen reform in 2018, focusing on eradicating ineffective capacity, fostering new drivers of growth and cutting costs in the real economy, the central authorities declared at a tone-setting economic meeting this month.

TACKLING EXCESS CAPACITY

Like many other over-staffed steel producers, Magang (Group) Holding Company, or Masteel, is in the middle of downsizing.

The steel complex in eastern Anhui Province has cut nearly 5 million tonnes of outdated capacity. The capacity reduction boosted the company's profitability. Net profit of the Masteel's Shanghai-listed branch more than doubled from a year earlier to 2.74 billion yuan (nearly 420 million U.S. dollars) in the first three quarters.

The case is common in glutted steel and coal sectors, where the government is pushing for consolidation.

Pledging continued efforts to address overcapacity, policy makers agreed on measures to eliminate ineffective supply in 2018, at the Central Economic Work Conference, with dealing with debt-ridden, loss-making "zombie enterprises" highlighted.

China has made headway in phasing out overcapacity, a significant part of its ongoing economic restructuring. Annual targets of slashing steel capacity by around 50 million tonnes and coal by at least 150 million tonnes were fulfilled in August and October, respectively.

UBS economist Wang Tao said China was likely to start promoting capacity upgrades next year in addition to reduction and further restriction of coal and thermal power from 2018 to 2020.

FOSTERING NEW ENGINES

As economic growth has slowed and traditional growth engines lost steam, the country has turned to innovation, hoping new technology, industries and business models will provide the strength for future growth.

At the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which charts the course for the country's future development, innovation has been labeled as the primary driving force behind development.

China has worked to create a supportive environment for innovation, including investment, policy support and a strong market environment.

Increasing R&D input, which is second only to the United States, and favorable policies, including financial services, better protection of intellectual property rights and easier market access, fueled innovation and entrepreneurship.

For the coming year, the government will continue to foster new growth drivers, and push technological innovation and upgrading of traditional industries.

"China should strive to make major breakthroughs in basic science and technology as well as original innovations," said Zhang Xiaoqiang, executive deputy head of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, a government think tank.

BUSINESS BURDENS DOWN

Tax reduction has been a viable option to stimulate businesses when economic growth slows.

More than 1 trillion yuan was saved for Chinese businesses from May 2016 to September 2017 due to the implementation of value-added tax, the most significant tax overhaul for two decades.

The tax reduction was only part of a bigger burden-relief plan for businesses, which will be a major task of supply-side structural reform in 2018.

Business burdens will be reduced through fewer government-imposed transaction costs and administrative charges, according to the recent economic work conference. Energy and logistics spending will decline through reforms in the power, oil and natural gas, and railway sectors.

The government has also promised to continue cutting red tape and giving full play to the market. In the first three quarters, the number of businesses registered each day stood at 16,500, up from 15,000 in 2016.

"For higher economic quality and efficiency, China needs to motivate people to innovate, create new things and set up businesses," said Wang Jun, an economist with Zhongyuan Bank.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 17:15:36|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

by Muhammad Tahir, Jamil Bhatti

ISLAMABAD, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Political parties in Pakistan are making efforts to fully prepare themselves for next year's parliamentary elections, as Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, to some extent, relieved uncertainty by setting July in 2018 for the general elections to be held.

Abbasi assumed office after the country's Supreme Court disqualified Nawaz Sharif as prime minister in July over corruption charges. Sharif, however continues to serve as the president of the country's ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Abbasi's announcement came at a time when doubts had been blurring the possibility of the next general election and the continuation of the democratic system in the country due to ongoing crises and legal complications.

Senator Mushahidullah Khan, Minister for Climate Change, said that the announcement of the election date is very encouraging for the political system as well as for political workers.

An influential opposition party the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI), or the Pakistan Justice Movement, had campaigned for snap polls and underscored their demand by saying that the apex court's decision against the former prime minister and corruption cases had created political uncertainty in the country and the government of Abbasi has no public support.

However, other opposition parties argued that the government should complete its five-year term to be ended anytime after March next year.

The government led by the PML-N survived a couple of severe crises including the cases against their party president, a three-times elected prime minister of Pakistan.

Although the ruling party quickly resolved the crisis that gripped the country after the apex court's decision, some problems still remain as Sharif along with some of his family members are still facing cases in anti-corruption courts.

But the PML-N still remains popular in some parts of the country. Sharif told his supporters in the eastern city of Lahore this week that his party will "achieve an historic win" in the parliamentary election, asking party activists to focus on the coming elections.

Meanwhile, PML-N leaders also announced that Sharif will lead the party's election campaign despite his disqualification from holding any public office.

"The disqualification of Nawaz Sharif could not affect the popularity of the leader of PML-N. The next general election will be conducted on time without any delay, and every coming day will kill the uncertainties about the democratic system and the polls," said Khan, a senior leader of the PML-N and a close aide of Sharif.

One of the positive aspects of Pakistan's political scenario is that the military as of now did not intervene even during the political crisis, and Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on several occasions renewed support for the current democratic system.

For the first time in the county's history, the army chief was invited by the Chairman of Senate for interaction with the upper house lawmakers on security issues this month, where he once again reiterated support for the system.

Although formal campaigning for the elections has not yet begun, all major parties are engaged in organizing public meetings to garner support for the elections, and a few parties have even announced their candidates for several constituencies. Almost all political parties are busy making their political alliances for 2018.

Opposition leaders Imran Khan, PTI chief, and former President Asif Ali Zardari, co-chairman of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), are mulling joining religious cleric Tahir-ul-Qadri in an anti-government campaign, sources close to the matter have said.

Political watchers also believe these efforts could lead to an alliance or seat adjustment in next year's election. If the three parties join hands, their cooperation could provide a tough time to the PML-N in eastern Punjab, the country's most populated province and strong political base of the PML-N.

Major ultra-conservative Islamist religious parties, including Jamiat ulema-e-Islam, or Assembly of Islamic Clerics as it is known in English, Jamaat-e-Islami, and Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan, or Assembly of Pakistani Clergy, have also decided to revive their latent old alliance -- the Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal, or the United Council of Action.

In 2002, the religious alliance successfully availed people's anger over the U.S. military action in neighboring Afghanistan and formed the government in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. The alliance also secured dozens of seats in the lower house of parliament.

This time around, however, the PTI, the ruling party of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is likely to give them a tough time due to its popularity among young and progressive voters.

Lawmakers belonging to opposition parties believe that there is no threat to the democratic system and that the system should continue without any intervention by holding the timely elections.

Shazia Mari, a senior member of parliament from the PPP, said elections should be held on time and all parties must work to strengthen the democratic system. "This should be our top priority to make the parliament strong. My party fully supports the continuation of the democratic system," the senior PPP official told Xinhua on Thursday.

Senator Shibli Faraz from the opposition PTI party noted with satisfaction that the army chief's support for the democratic system has played an important role to end speculation about any threat to the system.

Faraz told Xinhua on Thursday that there is no problem in the holding of general elections as all parties have supported the government in election reforms.

According to local media reports, following Abbasi's announcement of a polls date, the majority of political leaders and parliamentarians have gone to their home constituencies to push early completion of ongoing development and welfare projects, and to initiate an unannounced election campaign for next year's elections.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 18:00:43|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

KAMPALA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Ugandan military said on Saturday it had completed the first withdrawal of 281 peacekeepers as part of condition-based drawdown of its over 6,000 troops deployed in volatile Somalia.

Ugandan military spokesperson Brig. Richard Karemire told Xinhua that withdrawal of the troops is in compliance with the African Union and United Nations approved reduction of 1,000 uniformed personnel serving under African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) by the Dec. 31 deadline.

Uganda early this month begun the phased withdrawal the peacekeepers.

"We have already fulfilled our requirement as per the United Nations Security Council resolution. We have already reduced our troops there [Somalia] by 281 in compliance with the Dec. 31 deadline," said Karemire.

The UN Security Council in August 2017 extended the mandate of AMISOM until May 31, 2018, and approved a reduction of its uniformed personnel to a maximum 21,626 men by Dec. 31, with an eye toward the gradual handover of responsibilities to Somali National Security Forces.

Special Representative of the African Union Chairperson for Somalia, Francisco Madeira announced last month that some 1,000 soldiers from the 22,000 strong regional force will be withdrawn from the war torn country by Dec. 31.

AMISOM is comprised of troops drawn from Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti who are deployed in six sectors covering south and central Somalia.

The phased withdrawal of troops and gradual handover of security responsibilities will be based on the ability of the Somali National Security Forces to ably take over the country's security, according to AMISOM exit strategy.

As part of the military drawdown, the pan-African body will deploy an extra 500 police officers to strengthen training and mentoring for Somali police.
Police Units of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) stand in position after concluding training in the Somali capital Mogadishu Thursday May 30, 2013. (Xinhua/Faisal Isse)

KAMPALA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Ugandan military said on Saturday it had completed the first withdrawal of 281 peacekeepers as part of condition-based drawdown of its over 6,000 troops deployed in volatile Somalia.

Ugandan military spokesperson Brig. Richard Karemire told Xinhua that withdrawal of the troops is in compliance with the African Union and United Nations approved reduction of 1,000 uniformed personnel serving under African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) by the Dec. 31 deadline.

Uganda early this month begun the phased withdrawal the peacekeepers.

"We have already fulfilled our requirement as per the United Nations Security Council resolution. We have already reduced our troops there [Somalia] by 281 in compliance with the Dec. 31 deadline," said Karemire.

The UN Security Council in August 2017 extended the mandate of AMISOM until May 31, 2018, and approved a reduction of its uniformed personnel to a maximum 21,626 men by Dec. 31, with an eye toward the gradual handover of responsibilities to Somali National Security Forces.

Special Representative of the African Union Chairperson for Somalia, Francisco Madeira announced last month that some 1,000 soldiers from the 22,000 strong regional force will be withdrawn from the war torn country by Dec. 31.

AMISOM is comprised of troops drawn from Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti who are deployed in six sectors covering south and central Somalia.

The phased withdrawal of troops and gradual handover of security responsibilities will be based on the ability of the Somali National Security Forces to ably take over the country's security, according to AMISOM exit strategy.

As part of the military drawdown, the pan-African body will deploy an extra 500 police officers to strengthen training and mentoring for Somali police.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 18:25:47|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

ATHENS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Greece condemned the terror gunman attack at a church in Cairo which resulted in ten deaths on Friday, expressing solidarity with the Egyptian people.

"We unequivocally condemn this heinous terror attack ... Those who orchestrated and carried it out did not even respect the sacredness of the festive Christmas season," the Greek Foreign ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

"We extend our support and solidarity to families of the people of Egypt, the condolences of the Greek people and the Greek government to the Egyptian government and the families of the victims and we wish speedy recovery to the injured," said the statement.

At least ten people were killed in a shootout outside the Mar Mina church in the Cairo district of Helwan on Friday.

According to the Egyptian Interior Ministry, one attacker was killed while the other fled the scene on a motorbike.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 18:25:47|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

BISHKEK, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Kyrgyzstan's security service has detained a militant who was preparing an act of terrorism in the new year holidays, the State Committee for National Security said in a statement on Friday.

National security agencies received information about a Syrian terrorist organization, whose members were sent to the CIS countries, with a view to committing a series of terrorist actions during the New Year holidays, it said.

The statement did not reveal the name of the terrorist group.

Security officers later identified several members of the group. One of them has been detained.

The detainee received assignment from crossed the Syrian-Turkish border with the intent of subsequent entry into the territory of Russia, according to the statement.
A worker arranges cheese for sale at a grocery store in Moscow August 7, 2014. (REUTERS PHOTO)

KIEV, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine's grain exports will decline for the first time in five years in the current marketing year, a senior government official said on Friday, citing the latest official forecast.

Maksym Martynyuk, the country's First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, said that Ukraine is projected to supply abroad 41 million tons of cereals during the 2017-2018 marketing year, which runs between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018, compared with 43.8 million tons in the previous marketing year.

The main factor behind the decline is the logistic issues, especially lack of rail grain carriers, Martynyuk said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine news agency.

Since the start of the 2017-2018 marketing year, Ukraine has exported 20 million tons of grain, down 7 percent from the same period a year ago.

Ukraine is ranked among the world's largest grain exporters, supplying about 8 percent of grain to the global market.

In 2016, China was Ukraine's largest corn importer, accounting for about 16 percent of the total maize exports, and the third-largest barley importer with exports share of 6.2 percent.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:00:52|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

SHIJIAZHUANG, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- When Xu Xiaobo decided to spend all his savings raising cows five years ago, his EMBA classmates thought the real estate tycoon had went crazy.

Xu, 47, meant what he said. He spent 460 million yuan (70 million U.S. dollars) in Gucheng County, northern China's Hebei Province, creating a massive pasture for more than 10,000 Australia-imported Holstein cows.

Getting into the dairy industry needs courage in China. The market is dominated by several giants such as Yili and Mengniu, and Chinese consumers are turning to overseas milk products, especially after melamine-tainted baby formula produced by China's Sanlu Group killed six children and made 300,000 sick in 2008.

Sanlu, once a major dairy producer based in Hebei, went bankrupt after the scandal.

"It does not matter if China has one less real estate developer, but I do hope I can make a difference in China's dairy industry," Xu said.

Xu's decision was partly fueled by an unpleasant incident, when he was kept under investigation for 4 hours by the Hong Kong customs authority in August 2012, as he was he returning to the Chinese mainland carrying eight cans of milk powder for his new-born son. Each person is only allowed to carry two cans.

"How come such a big country as China could not produce safe and affordable milk?" Xu said. He decided to act.

He spent more than 3 million yuan touring a dozen countries to find the best solution before he chose Gucheng to start his dairy business. Xu started building the pasture in September 2014 and completed the project 15 months later. The number of milking cows grew to 4,800 at present from just one in February 2016.

To ensure quality, all the cows and milking equipment, including some forage grass, were imported. Consumers can watch real-time videos of the cows through a mobile phone app.

"Everything the cows eat is traceable. Cow dung is used to produce methane for power generation, and the solide waste produced in the process is turned into organic fertilizer," Xu said.

Xu's two major products, packaged pure milk and yogurt, sell well due to the growing demand for quality dairy products from China's growing middle class.

"China's agriculture will be strong enough to export milk to Europe in 10 years," Xu said.

A WHOLE NEW MODEL

Xu walks a different way from his predecessors. He has no processing plant but outsources production to Bright Dairy, a major Chinese dairy producer, to cut costs.

Unlike traditional dairy giants that spend billions of yuan on TV and outdoors advertising, Xu spends little on traditional marketing channels.

Xu prioritizes social media platforms instead. His inspirational video and story went viral on several famous platforms, bringing him hundreds of thousands of followers who later became clients.

He initiated an "adopt a cow" program on social media in December 2016. Under the program, subscribers pay 2,999 yuan a year to get the milk from a cow, or a box of packaged yogurt, delivered once a week directly to their homes. They can also monitor the living condition of the cow, on their phones.

"We have no dealers and we do presale online," Xu said.

Since the launch of the program a year ago, sales revenue has reached 70 million yuan, though December is the first month to record a profit, according to Xu.

"The monthly profit is around 3 to 5 million yuan. The market is promising as the number of subscribers grows day by day," Xu said. "Alibaba [China's largest e-commerce platform] might die in 100 years, but my company might still be living well."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:15:56|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

ANKARA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police have detained 120 suspected Islamic State (IS) militants on Thursday and Friday in a series of raids across the country, including some believed to be planning attacks on New Year's Eve, as the authorities strengthened security measures ahead of the celebrations in big cities.

The mass mobilization of all security forces in Turkey's biggest city Istanbul and capital Ankara, aims to prevent the tragic repeat of last years assault on New Year's eve on a Istanbul renowned nightclub, which left 39 people killed.

Turkish security authorities on Saturday launched the operation "peace and safety" throughout the country with 80,643 security personnel, 33 aircrafts and 70 vessels along with 309 detection dogs.

The security units will be on-duty for 24 hours for citizens to enter into the New Year in a "peaceful and safe environment," said Selami Altinok, the security general directorate head.

CELEBRATIONS CANCELLED IN ISTANBUL

In Istanbul, street celebrations which have until been a tradition on the central and busy Taksim square and other popular districts have been cancelled by the authorities because of security concerns.

The Istanbul police also prohibited heavy vehicles, including trucks, lorries and concrete mixers, from being in traffic as part of the security measures.

"We have taken all precautions for our citizens to spend the New Year's Eve in the best way possible," said Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin during a press conference on Thursday.

The governor also said that 37,000 police officers and 4,000 gendarmerie officers will be on duty on New Year's Eve in Istanbul for people to celebrate the night in a "peaceful way."

Seventy-five suspected IS members were arrested on Friday in Istanbul and Ankara, on the second day of sweeping raids across 12 provinces.

The state-run Anadolu agency said some of those arrested on Friday were suspected of planning New Year's Eve attacks in the country.

Xinhua has learned from government sources that several of them were Syrian and Iraqi citizens and others from different Arabic countries.

Several other suspects are still at large and the police is looking to arrest them, according to these sources.

TIGHT SECURITY IN ANKARA

In capital Ankara, the governor's office announced on Friday that locals can enter the city's main Kizilay square for celebrations under tight security control.

The square and the main boulevards around it will be closed to traffic for all vehicles exceptionally on Sunday evening and revelers will be passing through checkpoints, said a statement.

"We will create a safe area where our citizens can celebrate the new year in safety," Ankara Governor Ercan Topaca said.

A total of 9,744 security personnel will take measures that night, including 7,344 policemen and 2,400 gendarmes in Ankara, and checkpoints will be placed on roads connecting the city's districts.

Also in the southeastern province of Diyarbakir, 1,900 officers conducted operations as they had arrested nine terror suspects.

One year ago, a lone Uzbek national gunman, Abdulkadir Masharipov, raided the Reina nightclub in Istanbul's Ortakoy district on New Year's Eve with an assault rifle and killed 39 people, most of them visitors from Arab countries, India and Canada.

Masharipov's trial, along with that of 56 other defendants, began in December in Istanbul and was adjourned until March. Prosecutors are seeking 40 life sentences.

Turkey which has a 900-km-long border with Syria intervened in the war in this country last year partly to oust IS from a number of strongholds along its border with its war-torn neighbour.

But as the militants' territory shrinks, Ankara faces a fresh challenge as fighters attempt to flee and return to their home countries in Europe or the Middle East, possibly to orchestrate attacks.
The AAP has decided to field Sanjay Singh as their candidate in January 16 Rajya Sabha polls in Delhi. The names of other two candidates are expected to be finalised next week.

By India Today Web Desk: AAP national spokesperson and powerful political affairs committee member Sanjay Singh is likely to be nominated as party candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls in Delhi. The names of other candidates are expected be finalised next week.

Party sources said, "Sanjay Singh's name the Rajya Sabha has been finalised. He has been asked by party leadership to prepare documents for filing nomination."

advertisement

Election to three Rajya Sabha members from Delhi will be held on January 16. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is all set to win all three Rajya Sabha seats from Delhi as the party has a brute majority of 67 MLAs in the 70-member assembly.

The AAP has not yet officially announced names of its candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls. The party is likely to finalise two more names for the Rajya Sabha polls next week. "Discussions are still on for the other two seats," AAP sources said.

Earlier, Kumar Vishwas supporters staged protest at the AAP office in New Delhi on Thursday demanding ticket for the Rajya Sabha polls. However, Kumar Vishwas is unlikely to be made a candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections.

In the backdrop of internal squabbles over Rajya Sabha polls nominations, the AAP leadership has found it difficult to find suitable candidates. Reports suggest that as many as seven eminent persons have rejected the offer to file nomination for the Rajya Sabha polls on AAP ticket.

The names include former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan, former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie, former CJI TS Thakur, Infosys founder Narayanmurthy, Nobel Prize winner activist Kailash Satyarthi and industrialist Sunil Munjal.

(With inputs from Ankit Tyagi in New Delhi)

ALSO WATCH | How Kumar Vishwas, Manish Sisodia embroiled in war of words

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:20:57|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

MANILA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Two months after recapturing the southern Philippine city of Marawi from the Islamic State-linked militants, so-called "Maute group", Philippine troops continue to clear the city of explosives and other munitions left behind by the extremists.

It will take a few more months to fully remove the large number of unexploded ordnance and explosive booby traps planted by the pro-IS extremists during the five-month fierce street-to-street fighting, authorities said on Saturday.

Troops fully liberated Marawi in October after a five-month intense fighting that ruined the city, killed more than 1,200 people and displaced thousands of others, mostly poor farmers.

The displaced residents will only be allowed to return after the mopping up operation and rebuilding of the war-ravaged city are completed.

Major General Arnold Rafael Depakakibo, chief engineer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said troops have so far cleared 30 percent of Marawi's most affected areas from unexploded ordnance and improvised explosives.

As of Dec. 15, he said, a total of 2,853 assorted unexploded ordnance and 415 improvised explosive devices were recovered by the troops.

"This was done through the support of Explosives and Ordnance Disposal Company and K-9 Teams from the Philippine Army and Philippines Air Force," Depakakibo said in a statement.

He said the Joint Engineer Task Group (JETG) has also completed the clearing of the city's more or less 20 km primary and secondary roads, three major bridges, a school, and three places of worship immediately after the liberation of Marawi, the capital of Lanao del Sur province on the island of Mindanao.

"We also continue our limited construction support to government agencies involved in supporting the maintenance of evacuation centers," Depakakibo said.

Aside from construction support, he said the JETG also assisted the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council in the construction of 500 temporary shelters for the displaced.

Depakakibo said 250 of the 500 units have already been awarded last week while the other 250 will be awarded next month.

Aside from manpower, he said the military is using its construction vehicles and equipment to clear-off rubbles and debris as well as in the demolition of buildings in the city.

Two months after the Marawi conflict ended, the International Committee of the Red Cross said that thousands of its displaced residents remain in government makeshift centers, dependent on aid.

Indeed, authorities said it will will take years to completely rebuild the war-ravaged Marawi. But Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte wants the reconstruction and rehabilitation process to be finished before his single six-year term ends in 2022.

Already, Duterte ordered the extension of martial law in the entire Mindanao until December 2018 to keep the region safe while the rebuilding process is underway.

Although the Philippines has ended the Marawi conflict, Duterte said the threat from self-proclaimed IS-linked groups has not receded. In fact, he said that extremist groups continue to recruit and sow terror in the southern Philippines.

The Marawi attack highlighted the desperation of Islamist militants to establish an IS cell in Southeast Asia, and the southern Philippines, home to radical Islamist groups like the Abu Sayyaf Group and decades-old Muslim secessionist groups, is an ideal hideout for Southeast Asian IS fighters that have travelled to Syria and Iraq and then returned to Southeast Asia.

Philippine authorities said Indonesian and Malaysian fighters helped the local Islamist fighters plot the May 23 Marawi siege.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:26:00|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Iran Air, the Iranian flag carrier, on Saturday received two more brand-new turboprops it has purchased from ATR aircraft manufacturer, Tasnim news agency reported.

The two new ATR 72-600 passenger planes landed in Tehran's Mehrabad airport on Saturday morning, in a ceremony attended by aviation industry officials.

The new aircraft, the seventh and eighth ATR planes Iran has received since May, will be used for domestic flights.

Since the implementation of Iran's nuclear deal in January 2016, Iran has received a total of 11 new planes, including three Airbus passenger planes and eight ATR turboprops.

In April, Iran signed a contract with the French-Italian ATR company to purchase 20 ATR 72-600 planes valued at 400 million U.S. dollars.

In December 2016, Iran sealed a contract with Airbus to buy 100 aircraft worth over 18 billion dollars.

Also in December 2016, Iran Air finalized another agreement with the U.S. Boeing to purchase 80 commercial planes.

The agreement envisages the purchase of 50 twinjet narrow-body Boeing 737 planes and 30 long-range wide-body 777 aircraft with a total value of 16.6 billion dollars.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:36:02|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

DOHA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Novak Djokovic, 12-time Grand Slam champion, on Saturday withdrew from next week's Qatar Open due to a niggling elbow injury.

The former world No. 1 and the top seed in Doha, said in a statement that he would not be able to defend the title.

"Unfortunately, the situation with the elbow has not changed for the better since yesterday," said Djokovic.

"I still feel the pain. Therefore, I will have to withdraw from (the) ATP tournament in Doha."

His withdrawal came just 24 hours after the injury forced him to pull out of an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 19:36:03|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Saturday encouraged Chinese students at Lomonosov Moscow State University to be devoted to their country and work hard for their dreams.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a letter replying to students who sent a letter to Xi to express their understanding of the spirit of the 19th CPC National Congress.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa (Front) speaks during a ceremony to rename the country's army and air force headquarters, in Harare, capital of Zimbabwe, Dec. 6, 2017. (Xinhua/Shaun Jusa)

by Gretinah Machingura

HARARE, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- He is a man on a mission, one of transforming Zimbabwe into a prosperous nation where citizens thrive and enjoy a better life.

To achieve that, the new President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa has vowed to resuscitate the comatose economy through stamping out corruption, open the country to foreign investment and inculcate a new culture of hard work among Zimbabweans.

He has also promised to be frugal with public finances, ensuring that more money is channeled into production as opposed to consumption.

In the one month he has been in office, he has already taken some corrective measures to position the economy for a quick takeoff.

Mnangagwa, 75, took over last month from former President Robert Mugabe who resigned after military and public pressure.

Mugabe's departure after a 37-year reign ushered in Mnangagwa's administration which has raised the hopes of many Zimbabweans who had endured two decades of economic hardships under Mugabe's rule.

"We are hoping for a better life under Mnangagwa's leadership. He must remove all polices that scared away foreign investors. He must prioritize revamping the agriculture sector because our economy is agriculture-based. Once this sector booms, the economy will also boom," said Harare vendor Cleopas Chirumuuta.

In his inaugural address on Nov. 24, Mnangagwa exhorted the nation to put differences aside and expend energies towards national building.

He said his government would strive to create a conducive environment for investors and ensure economic growth.

"Our economic policy will be predicated on our agriculture which is the mainstay, and on creating conditions for an investment-led economic recovery that puts premium on job creation," the president said in his inaugural speech.

Economic revival and job creation have become his mantra, as the president reckons the mammoth task his government faces, including jobs for the unemployed youths, housing, better health and education services.

Economist Takunda Mugaga of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce said Mnangagwa had the enormous task of rising above factional party politics and steering the nation out of its present quagmire to growth and prosperity.

"The president must rise above factional politics. We expect him to deliver and put Zimbabwe first. He must tackle economic challenges and the liquidity crisis head on, fight corruption even in his inner circle and create jobs. Unemployment is a big challenge in this country and he must address it," Mugaga said.

Through the 2018 national budget presented early this month, Mnangagwa scrapped the controversial indigenization and economic empowerment law which had alienated investors.

The 2008 law, which limited foreign shareholding to 49 percent, now only applies to two minerals: diamond and platinum.

"The 51/49 threshold will not apply to the rest of the extractive sector, nor will it apply to the other sectors of the economy, which will be open to any investor regardless of nationality," finance minister Patrick Chinamasa said in the 2018 budget statement.

The bold move by Mnangagwa's administration to amend the legislation has been applauded by Zimbabweans who feel it is the right move to help the country build public confidence and lure foreign investment.

Political commentator Godfrey Kanyenze said the president needed to build confidence among all stakeholders in the country given the polarization in the country.

"The president needs to deal with the issue of confidence among all stakeholders given a lot of disagreements, suspicion and lack of trust in terms of what he can deliver.

"The president needs to reach out to all stakeholders including business, labor and civil society. He must bring all these stakeholders to a discussion table, a national dialogue so that they come to a consensus on the need to subordinate sectoral interests to greater national interest." Kanyenze said.

As a country that has had a bad record in terms of respect for private property rights, Mnangagwa in his inaugural speech has promised to compensate former white farmers whose land was taken by government during the land reform program for redistribution to the landless blacks.

"My government is committed to compensating those white farmers from whom land was taken, in terms of the laws of the land," Mnangagwa said, even though he said the principle of land repossession was irreversible.

Mnangagwa's administration has made it clear that it will not countenance illegal occupation of farms and has ordered illegal settlers to vacate.

Lands Minister Perence Shiri last week issued a warning to illegal settlers, emphasizing the need for stability on farms to ensure the success of agriculture.

One white farmer who had been evicted from his farm in June returned to his farm last Thursday in jubilant scenes after his case was initially taken up by Mnangagwa when he was still the Vice President of Zimbabwe.

The president has also talked tough on fighting corruption, and has vowed that "there will be no sacred cows" in the fight against the vice.

Several high ranking officials have been arrested on corruption charges, including ex-government ministers Ignatius Chombo, Walter Chidhakwa, Joseph Made and Jason Machaya. It is reported that many more public and private officials will be brought to book over their involvement in corrupt activities.

The country's police that had become unpopular for its corrupt tendencies, especially asking for bribes from motorists, have also been ordered to reform to regain public trust and confidence.

Godwin Matanga, acting commissioner general of Zimbabwe Republic Police, said the police will reform their policing including reducing the number of road blocks and work to become people centered.

"Indeed, we are going to roll out a battery of measures to improve our ways of doing business in order to connect with the people. As a disciplined police service, we know our limits and the need to strictly abide by the police code of conduct," Matanga said recently.

The president is also intent on implementing vast reforms in government including cutting government expenditure to address the issue of unsustainable budget deficits.

His administration has already fired some 4,000 redundant youths and will from 2018 retire all civil servants above the age of 65 and maintain a freeze on recruitment of non-critical staff.

The government said these and other cost cutting measures would reduce its wage bill from the current 86 percent of total revenue to 70 percent in 2018.

Some of the austerity measures announced in the 2018 budget include a slash on official foreign travel, ban on first class travel for officials except the presidium, reduction of benefits to senior government officials, among them fuel allocation.

The new president is also introducing a new work ethic in government with the hallmarks of diligence, honesty and discipline.

He has been exemplary so far, reporting for duty earlier than usual and even working during weekends and holidays. This is contrary to his predecessor Mugabe who had slowed down in his later years of the presidency due to advanced age.

Mnangagwa has so far undertaken a single foreign trip to neighboring South Africa to woo investors and many Zimbabweans are hoping he will not have a penchant for excessive travel like his predecessor.

With a full cabinet now assembled, Zimbabweans have high expectations that the government will address the cash crisis gripping the nation as a matter of urgency.

"One of the most critical issues that the president must address is the cash crisis. We have struggled for too long with this challenge and he must resolve this problem urgently," said Amos Shumba, an office cleaner.

Shylet Mukonyo, a 70-year-old grandmother in rural Mahusekwa, said she wanted the president to fix the economy and create jobs.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 20:11:09|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

ISLAMABAD, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- A man held his 23 relatives hostage in Pakistan's Rawalpindi city after they refused to lend him money for his bad luck in gambling, local media reported Saturday.

The 30-year-old man, who had been running some business in construction sector, lost all his fortune in gambling and asked his family to give him money to establish the business again, Geo News reported.

The report said that he held them hostage on gunpoint after the family refused to pay him, and he shot his father-in-law injured.

The family's neighbors informed police about the incident after which a kid was recovered. The man was said suffering from some mental illness and was also under the influence of drugs.

A city police officer said later that the police have arrested the criminal.

A policeman also got injured in cross fire by the gambling loser, the officer said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 20:16:12|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

MOSUL, Iraq, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Climbing through the endless ruins of collapsed buildings with difficulty, Euthman finally reached his house near the al-Nuri Mosque in the Old City of western Mosul.

But to his disappointment, the old house was severely damaged by mortar shells.

"It will take a long time for me to clean and repair my home. Maybe after that, my family can come back," he said.

"I can still smell the body of the dead under the collapsed buildings, and that reminds me of the terrifying days under the rule of the extremists," said Euthman.

The rule of the Islamic State (IS) group ended on July 10 when Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi declared the full liberation of Mosul.

But since the defeat of the IS, little hope was restored in Mosul's Old City, which used to be a flourishing heart zone in Iraq's northern business hub.

At the central part of Old City, the al-Nuri Mosque with its famous minaret was still buried in ruins, just as it was like six months ago when Iraqi army liberated this area.

This mosque is regarded as a landmark building or a symbol of Mosul, and it was in this mosque that extremist leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi announced the establishment of an Islamic caliphate in July 2014, but it was destroyed by IS at the end of June 2017 when the militants found their defeat inevitable.

The major road outside the mosque was cleared, but the debris of the main building and the minaret has not been dealt with. The green dome of the main building was the only leftover that can help visitors identify it.

Scars of war were not only borne in the collapsed buildings and mosques, but also in people's mind.

A local volunteer told us that only few residents have returned their homes in the Old City because current conditions are far from good enough for people to make a living.

Mohammed Badrany, a shop owner in al-Arbeiya market has been very busy repairing his shop after he returned from eastern Mosul a few weeks ago.

"Six months has passed and a new year is coming, but we did not get any help from neither the central government nor the local government," said Badrany at his shop, with his face covered with dust. "We did not see progress in the reconstruction of our market."

"We can rely on ourselves and clear our own shops, but we cannot clear and rebuild the whole city," he added.

Badrany's words were echoed by his neighbor Abu Saleh, who has worked together with Badrany to clear nearly 50 shops.

"We have cleared more than 10 tons of wreckages, but we have about 500 shops here in this market," said Saleh. "To clean all this area and resume business, we cannot do it without the support of government."

"At least the government should provide clean water and electricity for us. Life must not stop in Mosul," said Saleh.

"I heard that the central government promised billions of money for the reconstruction, but that money has never reached our hand," added Saleh.

In his speech announcing the final victory of the war against IS, Abadi said that there will be no place for corruption in Iraq, like there is no place left for IS.

Analysts say that Iraq must get rid of corruption and improve the governance ability of all government institutions in order to dry out the resources that feeds the extremism and stop the resurgence of terrorism.

Saleh's 10-year-old son Zakariya returned his home with his family ten days ago. When his father and elder brothers clean their shop in the market, he always came with them and tried to give them a hand.

"Life was too hard and scary in the past few years. I hope my family can live a peaceful life in the New Year. No more fight." Zakariya said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 20:26:14|Editor: ZD

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Iran exported 8.5 million square meters of tiles and ceramics worth 20 million U.S. dollars to Pakistan during the eight months to Nov. 21, Financial Tribune daily reported on Saturday.

According to Iran's commercial attache to Pakistan, Morad Nemati Zargaran, the export value will reach 30 million U.S. dollars by the end of current fiscal year (March 20, 2018), the report said.

If the target value is implemented, Iran's tiles and ceramics exports to Pakistan will register a 50 growth by the end of this year compared to 12 months period last year, Nemati Zargaran said.

"Tiles and ceramics are Iran's second most exported commodity to Pakistan after bitumen and oil," he added.

Iran's last year exports of tiles and ceramics to the neighboring country stood at 22 million U.S. dollars.

Pakistan's demand for tiles and ceramics stands at 100 million square meters per year, of which only 20 million square meters are produced domestically, said Nemati Zargaran.

Exports to Pakistan come as Iran's ceramics and tiles industry is hit by recession.

In February, more than 150 million square meters of tiles and ceramics in excess of demand were piled up in warehouses across the country, Chairman of Iran Ceramic Producers Syndicate Behnam Aziz-Zadeh was quoted as saying.

"Local producers are operating at less than half their production capacity," Aziz-Zadeh said.

According to the official, the two main factors causing the market recession include the ongoing stagnation in the construction sector as well as the ceramic and tile industry's overproduction due to unrestrained issuance of factory licenses during the 1990s.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 20:46:18|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec.30 (Xinhua) -- The responsibility for guarding China's national flag and firing salute cannons will be transfered to the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) starting Jan. 1, 2018, as authorized by the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

On Jan.1, the national flag rising ceremony at the Tian'anmen Square will be conducted by the Guard of Honor and the military band of the PLA at 7:36 a.m.

The event will be live broadcast by China National Radio, China Central Television, China Radio International as well as several web portals including www.people.com.cn and www.xinhuanet.com.

Before Jan. 1, the ceremony has been conducted by the armed police.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 21:21:22|Editor: Mengjie

Video Player Close

KIEV, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The year 2017 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Ukraine, and has seen the partnership between the two countries gain new vigor.

China and Ukraine have strengthened political dialogue, boosted trade, deepened cultural cooperation, and launched joint projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

IN-DEPTH POLITICAL DIALOGUE

China-Ukraine ties were given a breath of fresh air in mid-January, when Chinese President Xi Jinping met his Ukrainian counterpart Petro Poroshenko.

Local analysts held the view that the talks between the two leaders, which took place ahead of the opening session of the 47th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, have set a positive tone for the future partnership between the two countries.

"Over the past several years, after the shift of power in Ukraine, many experts have repeatedly stated that it is very important for the (sake of) Sino-Ukrainian relations to revive the political dialogue at the highest level. That's why this meeting is vitally important in terms of political decisions," said Viktor Kiktenko, head of the Ukrainian Association of Sinologists.

The meeting was followed by several ministerial visits as well as the establishment of cooperation between the youth organizations of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Ukraine's ruling party Petro Poroshenko Bloc (PPB) "Solidarity."

The political dialogue culminated in the third session of the China-Ukraine Intergovernmental Commission on bilateral cooperation in December in Kiev, where the two sides signed an action plan on jointly developing the Belt and Road Initiative.

The commission was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Premier Ma Kai, whose visit to Kiev was seen by Ukrainian experts as evidence that the political trust between China and Ukraine has risen.

"This visit is the result of years of negotiations on coordinating positions between our countries. I believe that this is a great success," said Iryna Nikorak, a secretary of Ukraine's parliamentary group on China-Ukraine relations.

FRUITFUL TRADE RELATIONS

Despite the global economic uncertainties, China and Ukraine have managed to expand their trade in 2017 due to the complementary nature of their markets.

According to Ukraine's statistics, the trade volume of the two countries has accumulated to 7.03 billion U.S. dollars this year till November, exceeding the amount of the entire year 2016 by 8 percent.

As a result, China has become Ukraine's third-largest trading partner after the European Union and Russia.

This year, Ukrainian exporters delivered more than 220 new products to the Chinese market, with agricultural goods leading the list.

Ukrainian meat, dairy products, vegetable oil and juices found consumers in China, which in turn contributed to Ukraine's economic prosperity and supported China's rising demand for healthy food.

In Ukraine, Chinese goods continued to enjoy immense popularity, with electronics and household appliances topping sales due to their high quality and reasonable prices.

During the 11-month period, China's export volume to Ukraine has increased to 5.05 billion dollars, accounting for about 11 percent of Ukraine's total imports.

It may be too early to make predictions, but experts hope that trade between the countries will further increase next year.

"Taking into account the potential of our cooperation, we believe that we can significantly increase bilateral trade. We hope that next year, we will launch sectoral dialogues in the priority areas and they would bring practical results," said Natalia Mykolska, deputy minister of economic development and trade of Ukraine.

JOINT INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Without doubt, the outgoing year became a golden time for China-Ukraine infrastructure cooperation, with the two sides launching a slew of joint projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

For the first time in several years, Chinese companies were selected as contractors to implement projects to upgrade Ukraine's infrastructure.

The China Harbor Engineering Company (CHEC) has already started dredging works in Ukraine's southern Black Sea port of Yuzhny, aimed at expanding maritime productivity while boosting Ukraine's grain exports by 15 percent.

Also this year, the private Xinjiang Communications Construction Group Co., Ltd. and the state-owned Chinese power and infrastructure company of Sinohydro won tenders to modernize three key highways in western, northern and central Ukraine.

Furthermore, a consortium of two Chinese companies -- the China Pacific Construction Group and China Railway International Group -- signed a cooperation agreement with the government of Kiev on building the fourth metro line in the Ukrainian capital last month.

This year, Kiev authorities have initiated negotiations with Chinese partners over the construction of a ring-road around Kiev, a traffic intersection in the city center, and a 37-km-long road connecting the capital with its suburb of Brovary.

It is now safe to say that four years after its proposal by Chinese President Xi, the Belt and Road Initiative has today gained momentum in Ukraine with the help of Chinese businesses.

"We are the supporters of this initiative, which involves different countries of the world. Modernization of the infrastructure will strengthen Ukraine's position as a key country at the New Silk Road," said Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman.

BROAD CULTURAL COOPERATION

The year 2017 has also been important for the development of cultural cooperation between China and Ukraine.

For the first time ever, the Sino-Ukrainian Cultural Exchange Week was held in Kiev in April, bringing together hundreds of participants from the two countries.

The event, which saw an unprecedented scale of cultural exchanges ranging from music and dance performances to workshops on traditional medicine, was another milestone in boosting understanding between the peoples.

It became a launching point for several joint exhibitions by Chinese and Ukrainian artists, concerts and people-to-people exchanges, which have proven that people from the two countries share many common values despite being geographically distant.

"There has been a significant intensification of Ukrainian-Chinese cultural ties. The progress is visible in joint cultural projects," said Eugene Nishchuk, Ukraine's culture minister.

A stellar example of the budding friendship between the two nations was the installment of a sculpture in central Kiev depicting the legendary Chinese Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu and the Ukrainian iconic poet Taras Shevchenko.

The sculpture, created by Wu Weishan, director of the National Art Museum of China, became the first monument dedicated to the Ukrainian poet made by a Chinese artist and the first to a Chinese poet installed in Ukraine.

The positive trend in cultural relations is expected to expand further because this year, China and Ukraine signed deals on joint movie production, creative industry cooperation, translation of books into each others' languages and holding joint festivals.

The prospects for bilateral ties in the long run look particularly rosy in light of the fact that the year 2019 has been declared as the "Year of China" in Ukraine.
TV actress Nikita Dutta's Twitter account was hacked and her feed was filled with sexually explicit images.

By India Today Web Desk: TV actress Nikita Dutta's Twitter account was hacked on Friday and the hacker posted random obscene images from her handle.

Her co-star actor Vatsal Sheth immediately complained about it to Twitter India and tweeted, "@TwitterIndia @verified @Twitter ... my Co actors Nikita Duttas @nikifyinglife account has been hacked please look into ASAP !!!"

@TwitterIndia @verified @Twitter ... my Co actors Nikita Duttas @nikifyinglife account has been hacked please look into ASAP !!!- Vatsal Sheth (@shethvatsal) December 29, 2017

advertisement

Nikita complained about the same and wrote, "@TwitterIndia @Twitter my account was hacked few minutes ago. Please look into the same."

@TwitterIndia @Twitter my account was hacked few minutes ago. Please look into the same.- Nikita Dutta (@nikifyinglife) December 29, 2017

After the hack, Nikita's Twitter handle was renamed as Joan Arnold and her Twitter feed was full of sexually explicit images. But soon Twitter took action, her account was restored and all the vulgar images were deleted.

Nikita was shocked with the whole incident. While speaking to Timesofindia.com, she said, "Yes, yes, my account was hacked but thankfully it has got sorted now. I was in between my shot when I started getting a lot of calls asking whether my account had got hacked. I was wondering how could it be possible when I just tweeted a few minutes ago. I literally froze when I saw the obscene pictures on my account."

She further added "Trust me, I was in tears when I realised all this and we had to stop the shoot for sometime because I just couldn't gather myself. I am in touch with the Twitter officials to know what exactly went wrong."

Also watch:

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 21:36:24|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

ADEN, Yemen, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Up to 45 militants of the Shiite Houthi group were killed as Saudi-led airstrikes hit their locations in two provinces of Yemen over the past 24 hours, a Yemeni government official told Xinhua.

"In the past 24 hours, about 20 Houthi rebels were killed when aerial bombardment hit their locations in the central province of al-Bayda, where fighting is still going on," the local government official said on condition of anonymity.

Elsewhere in Yemen, more than 25 Houthi rebels were killed and nearly 15 others injured when intensified air raids targeted their sites in the country's western coast areas near Hodeidah province.

The Saudi-led warplanes also destroyed weapons and armored vehicles belonging to the armed Houthi militants during the air raids in the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, a medical source told Xinhua that Aljumhuriah public hospital in Aden "received scores of injured soldiers loyal to the Saudi-backed Yemeni government coming from the battlefield with Houthis on the western coast."

He added that "some of the injured soldiers are in critical conditions and need urgent transfer to receive treatment abroad and the government hospitals in Aden are unable to receive more injured soldiers."

Earlier this month, the Houthis lost control over key areas including the Bayhan district of oil-producing Shabwa province during an all-out campaign launched by Saudi-backed troops.

The Saudi-led military coalition has intensified military air campaign against Houthi positions in and around the Houthi rebels-held capital Sanaa and other northern provinces since the Houthis killed former President Ali Abdullah Saleh on Dec. 4.

The coalition has intervened in the Yemeni conflict in March 2015 to roll back Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels, and backed internationally-recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi whom Houthis forced into exile in Saudi Arabia.

The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, displaced 3 million, and triggered the world's most humanitarian catastrophe.

Tensions have escalated in Sanaa and other northern provinces after Houthis killed their top ally strongman Saleh after he changed alliance and backed the anti-Houthi coalition.
Houthi fighters attend the funeral of their fellow who were killed in Saudi-led airstrikes at end-2017 in Sanaa, Yemen. (Reuters Photo)

ADEN, Yemen, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Up to 45 militants of the Shiite Houthi group were killed as Saudi-led airstrikes hit their locations in two provinces of Yemen over the past 24 hours, a Yemeni government official told Xinhua.

"In the past 24 hours, about 20 Houthi rebels were killed when aerial bombardment hit their locations in the central province of al-Bayda, where fighting is still going on," the local government official said on condition of anonymity.

Elsewhere in Yemen, more than 25 Houthi rebels were killed and nearly 15 others injured when intensified air raids targeted their sites in the country's western coast areas near Hodeidah province.

The Saudi-led warplanes also destroyed weapons and armored vehicles belonging to the armed Houthi militants during the air raids in the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, a medical source told Xinhua that Aljumhuriah public hospital in Aden "received scores of injured soldiers loyal to the Saudi-backed Yemeni government coming from the battlefield with Houthis on the western coast."

He added that "some of the injured soldiers are in critical conditions and need urgent transfer to receive treatment abroad and the government hospitals in Aden are unable to receive more injured soldiers."

Earlier this month, the Houthis lost control over key areas including the Bayhan district of oil-producing Shabwa province during an all-out campaign launched by Saudi-backed troops.

The Saudi-led military coalition has intensified military air campaign against Houthi positions in and around the Houthi rebels-held capital Sanaa and other northern provinces since the Houthis killed former President Ali Abdullah Saleh on Dec. 4.

The coalition has intervened in the Yemeni conflict in March 2015 to roll back Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels, and backed internationally-recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi whom Houthis forced into exile in Saudi Arabia.

The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, displaced 3 million, and triggered the world's most humanitarian catastrophe.

Tensions have escalated in Sanaa and other northern provinces after Houthis killed their top ally strongman Saleh after he changed alliance and backed the anti-Houthi coalition.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 21:56:28|Editor: Zhou Xin

Video Player Close

by Burak Akinci

ANKARA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered warm messages towards the European Union this week after a year of particularly strained relations between the two sides.

"I always say this, We are compelled to reduce the number of foes and increase the number of friends. We have no problems with Germany, the Netherlands or Belgium. On the contrary, those who are in the governments of these countries are my old friends," Erdogan told journalists on Thursday during a tour of African countries.

There might be official visits to France and Vatican in the coming months as there have been positive signals and easing of strained relations, he said.

His comments came after recent remarks by German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte encouraging positive relations with Turkey.

Gabriel said earlier this week that the EU should seek new ways of dealing with Turkey.

According to Gabriel, the EU needs to find "alternative" ways of creating closer cooperation and partnerships with both Turkey and Ukraine as both countries are unlikely to join the 28-member bloc in the foreseeable future.

Rutte said on Dec. 23 that the "cold relations" between the Netherlands and Turkey should be fixed.

"I think it would be good if relations with Turkey could improve. Turkey is a NATO partner," he told Dutch daily De Telegraaf in an interview.

Turkey and the EU have had an ongoing spat since 2016 after Brussels expressed strong criticism of Ankara over mass arrests in the country, connected with the failed coup attempt in July 2016.

Turkey is a candidate member to the bloc since 1999 but its accession negotiation launched in 2005 did not go far because of several member countries' direct or indirect opposition to the Muslim nation's entry to the Union.

The emergency rule and the massive crackdown imposed after the botched coup also had a very negative effect on these negotiations that have been officially halted.

Turkey-EU ties took a hard blow in November 2016, when the European Parliament suspended Turkish accession talks, following a constitutional referendum expanding powers of president in April 2017, which prompted the EU to vote to reopen the monitoring process against Turkey.

Ankara accused EU of harboring "terrorists," suspected coup plotters who took refuge or asylum in several European countries, and Erdogan, for his part, declared that Turkey had "kept waiting at Europe's door for far too long" and did not need EU membership anymore.

Recently the Jerusalem issue seem to have generated a rapprochement opportunity between Brussels and Ankara.

In this context, Erdogan noted that his last contacts with German and Dutch leaders, whose countries he accused in the past of "Nazi practices," were "quite good especially regarding the Jerusalem issue.

"We had problems, but our latest meetings have gone very well. I asked for their support on Jerusalem; we are all on the same page. I have called (German President Frank Walter) Steinmeier to thank him. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte sent some signals to improve ties with us. These are satisfactory. We, of course, hope to have good ties with the EU and EU countries," Erdogan emphasized.

The seemingly warming of relations is something that most experts are supporting in Turkey at a time when Ankara's ties with its traditional NATO ally, the United States, is also souring.

"The right choice for Turkey is definitely the EU, not the United States or Russia," the latter with whom Turkey has enjoyed close ties in the recent year, wrote Emre Gonen from Istanbul's Bilgi University in Sabah Daily.

"At a time when the 'greatest' democracy in the world, the United States, is moving away from democratic principles, it is high time for Turkey and the EU to get closer based on transparency and cooperation," argued Gonen.

Experts believe that Turkey has to deliver strong determination to return to a full democracy and European human rights standards as soon as possible.

For the relations to go back to track, "Turkey should recover its self confidence and return from an extraordinary situation to a normal one," told Xinhua EU expert Dr. Bahadir Kaleagasi.

"The next accession report of the European Commission is set to be published in April, Turkey still has time until then to lift the emergency rule," said Kaleagasi, CEO of Turkey's leading business and industry group TUSIAD.

Nevertheless, in order to do so, Turkey will have to realign with European democratic norm and regulations and convince its people of the need to return to the roots to unlock the actual situation for a visa liberation that Turks are been waiting for so long.

And this is not an easy task as roughly 69 percent of the Turkish population does not believe in Turkey's accession to the EU soon, according to a recent survey conducted by the Turkish Economic Development Foundation (IKV).

Only 31 percent of Turks believe that their country may become a full member, according to this survey.

"There is lack of trust in both camps, but we feel sure that this can be amended with increased dialogue," a senior European diplomat told Xinhua on condition of anonymity, adding that however, "the rule of law" should be fully implemented, in a reference to the lifting of the emergency rule in Turkey.

"The EU project plays an essential part in Turkey's global leadership ambitions" nourished by Erdogan, argued Kaleagasi.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan waves on December 27, 2017. (AFP Photo)

ANKARA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered warm messages towards the European Union this week after a year of particularly strained relations between the two sides.

"I always say this, We are compelled to reduce the number of foes and increase the number of friends. We have no problems with Germany, the Netherlands or Belgium. On the contrary, those who are in the governments of these countries are my old friends," Erdogan told journalists on Thursday during a tour of African countries.

There might be official visits to France and Vatican in the coming months as there have been positive signals and easing of strained relations, he said.

His comments came after recent remarks by German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte encouraging positive relations with Turkey.

Gabriel said earlier this week that the EU should seek new ways of dealing with Turkey.

According to Gabriel, the EU needs to find "alternative" ways of creating closer cooperation and partnerships with both Turkey and Ukraine as both countries are unlikely to join the 28-member bloc in the foreseeable future.

Rutte said on Dec. 23 that the "cold relations" between the Netherlands and Turkey should be fixed.

"I think it would be good if relations with Turkey could improve. Turkey is a NATO partner," he told Dutch daily De Telegraaf in an interview.

Turkey and the EU have had an ongoing spat since 2016 after Brussels expressed strong criticism of Ankara over mass arrests in the country, connected with the failed coup attempt in July 2016.

Turkey is a candidate member to the bloc since 1999 but its accession negotiation launched in 2005 did not go far because of several member countries' direct or indirect opposition to the Muslim nation's entry to the Union.

The emergency rule and the massive crackdown imposed after the botched coup also had a very negative effect on these negotiations that have been officially halted.

Turkey-EU ties took a hard blow in November 2016, when the European Parliament suspended Turkish accession talks, following a constitutional referendum expanding powers of president in April 2017, which prompted the EU to vote to reopen the monitoring process against Turkey.

Ankara accused EU of harboring "terrorists," suspected coup plotters who took refuge or asylum in several European countries, and Erdogan, for his part, declared that Turkey had "kept waiting at Europe's door for far too long" and did not need EU membership anymore.

Recently the Jerusalem issue seem to have generated a rapprochement opportunity between Brussels and Ankara.

In this context, Erdogan noted that his last contacts with German and Dutch leaders, whose countries he accused in the past of "Nazi practices," were "quite good especially regarding the Jerusalem issue.

"We had problems, but our latest meetings have gone very well. I asked for their support on Jerusalem; we are all on the same page. I have called (German President Frank Walter) Steinmeier to thank him. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte sent some signals to improve ties with us. These are satisfactory. We, of course, hope to have good ties with the EU and EU countries," Erdogan emphasized.

The seemingly warming of relations is something that most experts are supporting in Turkey at a time when Ankara's ties with its traditional NATO ally, the United States, is also souring.

"The right choice for Turkey is definitely the EU, not the United States or Russia," the latter with whom Turkey has enjoyed close ties in the recent year, wrote Emre Gonen from Istanbul's Bilgi University in Sabah Daily.

"At a time when the 'greatest' democracy in the world, the United States, is moving away from democratic principles, it is high time for Turkey and the EU to get closer based on transparency and cooperation," argued Gonen.

Experts believe that Turkey has to deliver strong determination to return to a full democracy and European human rights standards as soon as possible.

For the relations to go back to track, "Turkey should recover its self confidence and return from an extraordinary situation to a normal one," told Xinhua EU expert Dr. Bahadir Kaleagasi.

"The next accession report of the European Commission is set to be published in April, Turkey still has time until then to lift the emergency rule," said Kaleagasi, CEO of Turkey's leading business and industry group TUSIAD.

Nevertheless, in order to do so, Turkey will have to realign with European democratic norm and regulations and convince its people of the need to return to the roots to unlock the actual situation for a visa liberation that Turks are been waiting for so long.

And this is not an easy task as roughly 69 percent of the Turkish population does not believe in Turkey's accession to the EU soon, according to a recent survey conducted by the Turkish Economic Development Foundation (IKV).

Only 31 percent of Turks believe that their country may become a full member, according to this survey.

"There is lack of trust in both camps, but we feel sure that this can be amended with increased dialogue," a senior European diplomat told Xinhua on condition of anonymity, adding that however, "the rule of law" should be fully implemented, in a reference to the lifting of the emergency rule in Turkey.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 22:36:35|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

RABAT, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Morocco and China have given new impetus to their bilateral ties in 2017 in line with the strategic partnership that was established a year ago between the two countries.

In May 2016, visiting King Mohammed VI of Morocco and Chinese President Xi Jinping signed a joint statement on establishing a strategic partnership, offering new opportunities for bilateral cooperation in various areas.

Building on this move, the two countries signed in November a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on joint construction of the Belt and Road initiative during a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Nasser Bourita.

Partnership between Morocco and China was also cemented by joint ventures with Chinese companies this year.

In a landmark project, the Moroccan government, Morocco's BMCE Bank and Chinese Haite group signed in March a deal to invest one billion U.S. dollars to build an industrial and residential park in Morocco's northern city of Tangier under the name "Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City."

Spanning over some 2,000 hectares and planning some 100,000 jobs, the park will host hundreds of multinational and Chinese companies in numerous industries, including auto manufacturing, aerospace, aviation spare parts, electronic information, textiles and machinery manufacturing.

Few months after the inking of the park's deal, this ambitious project has already attracted a major player in auto industry, Chinese giant automaker BYD.

An agreement was signed between the government of Morocco and BYD earlier this month to build a factory to build battery-powered cars.

The plant will cover an area of 50 hectares, and is expected to employ 2,500 people.

Following in the footstep of Tangier Tech City, Morocco and the China Association for Industrial Cooperation (CAIC) have agreed in October to set up an economic zone in Fez offering a platform for various industries.

Given the growing auto-industry in Morocco, Chinese auto wheel manufacturer Citic Dicastal and automotive AC compressors Aotecar also signed deals with Morocco in December to open plants to supply automakers in the North African kingdom.

Chinese companies have been involved in a number of infrastructure projects, including some large-scale ones. After Chinese group Cover-Mbec built Africa's largest cable-stayed bridge in Rabat, China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) agreed in July with Travaux Generaux de Construction de Casablanca,

Morocco's leading construction company, to 250-meter-tall tower in the Moroccan capital of Rabat, which is expected to become the tallest skyscraper in Africa.

China ranks also in the third spot on the list of top importers. In 2016, Morocco imported some 3.9 billion U.S. dollars from China compared to 3.17 billion U.S. dollars in 2015.

One year from marking the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations, the two countries are set to boost their bilateral relations and raise them to higher level.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 22:41:38|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

SANAA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- At least 20 civilians were killed on Saturday when Saudi-led coalition fighter jets hit Yemen's Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, witnesses and a medic source told Xinhua.

The warplanes struck three taxis full of travelers near a crowded restaurant, killing a number of people, including women and children.

Dozens of clients inside the restaurant were also killed or injured, according to witnesses.

The attack took place during noon at the al-Jarrahi district.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 22:56:41|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

VALLETTA, Dec.30 (Xinhua) -- An unmanned private jet which was swept away by strong winds in Malta on Wednesday had been properly secured, according to the Times of Malta.

The Maltese Air Accidents Investigation Bureau chief investigator Frank Zammit said he had no doubt all the necessary procedures had been followed in securing the aircraft, adding that it appeared that parking procedures were followed strictly.

Preliminary investigations, he said, indicated that the wind had caused the plane to move from its berth. As a result, it careened to the side of the apron, slid downhill and hit the building with some force.

Zammit said the cockpit and nose had suffered the most extensive damage, however it was premature to put a price tag on the cost of the damage.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 22:56:42|Editor: Jiaxin

Video Player Close

SANAA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- At least 20 civilians were killed on Saturday when Saudi-led coalition fighter jets hit Yemen's Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, witnesses and a medical source told Xinhua.

The warplanes struck three taxis full of travelers near a crowded restaurant in the city, killing a number of people, including women and children. Dozens of clients inside the restaurant were also killed or injured, according to witnesses.

Medical source in the Hodeidah hospital told Xinhua by phone that at least 20 were killed and 10 others wounded.

The attack took place during noon at the al-Jarrahi district.

The attack was the latest in a series of airstrikes conducted by the U.S.-backed Saudi-led coalition air force since the start of the war in Yemen three years ago.

Last Tuesday, the coalition's warplanes targeted a crowded popular market in the southwestern province of Taiz, killing over 40 people, according to local media and witnesses.

A day earlier, a family of nine members, including five children, were killed when the coalition struck the family's house five times in Yemen's capital Sanaa, local residents and a Xinhua photographer at the scene witnessed.

The Saudi-led coalition has intervened in the Yemeni conflict since March 2015 to roll back the Houthi militants and support the internationally-recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, who was forced into exile by the Houthis.

The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, and displaced 3 million others, creating one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 23:01:44|Editor: Yamei

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry on Saturday condemned U.S. "interference" in the country's internal affairs.

In a statement on Saturday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi said that "meddling" remarks of the U.S. president and his support for recent protests in some Iranian cities are "opportunistic and deceitful."

On Friday, protests erupted in some Iranian major cities over the government's potential move to raise the prices of some basic commodities including fuel and bread.

In the capital Tehran, holy cities of Mashhad and Qom as well as Isfahan and Qazvin, people took to the streets to protest the mishandling of economy by President Hassan Rouhani's administration.

The videos posted on social media showed police trying to disperse the crowd by using tear gas and water cannons.

"The great Iranian nation regards the opportunist and duplicitous support of the U.S. officials for certain gatherings in some Iranian cities as nothing but the deceit and hypocrisy of the U.S. administration," Press TV quoted Qasemi as saying.

In a tweet on Friday, the U.S. President Donald Trump made remarks about the recent gatherings in protest against economic conditions in Iran and said the Iranian government should "respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching!"
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 23:01:45|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) said that the rate of arrest and prosecution of minors in China had fallen in 2017.

In the first 11 months, prosecutors exempted 13,100 criminal suspects below the age of 18 from arrest, or 33.4 percent of all minor suspects, up 1.8 percentage points compared with the same period in 2016, the SPP said in a statement.

Meanwhile, 8,800 minors, or 18.4 percent of the total, were exempted from prosecution from January to November in 2017, an increase of 3.4 percentage points year on year.

Prosecutors nationwide have been required to show leniency to juveniles convicted of minor offences in an effort to "educate and save" them, said Zheng Xinjian, head of the minor case division of the SPP.

China has taken steps to protect the rights of adolescent suspects. The Changning District People's Procuratorate in Shanghai set up the country's first special prosecution group for minors in 1986.
By India Today Web Desk: Taimur Ali Khan's ridiculously adorable looks have captivated the attention of the entire nation. Earlier this week, Taimur set off for Europe with his parents, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, to celebrate the New Year.

It was en route his holiday that he left a fan in awe. An airline staff member, Sushma Singh, took to Instagram to share pictures with Taimur, Saif and Kareena at the Amsterdam Airport and used the hashtag "#InAweWithTaimur (sic)" in her caption.

advertisement

Taimur is currently vacationing with his parents in Gstaad, Switzerland. In fact, a picture of the happy family enjoying snowfall surfaced on the internet and did not take long to go viral.

The tiny tot celebrated his first birthday earlier this month at the Pataudi Palace, and it was nothing less than grand. In fact, Taimur received an entire forest as his first birthday gift. "A little boy can never have enough of birds, bees and butterflies so we have put together a small forest as a birthday gift for Taimur on the outskirts of Mumbai," Kareena's nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar explained.

On the work front, Saif is awaiting the release of Kaalakaandi on January 12, while Kareena will be seen next in Veere Di Wedding.

ALSO WATCH: Saif and Kareena become proud parents to a baby boy, Taimur Ali Khan Pataudi

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 00:06:54|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

CHENGDU, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- A captive-bred male panda is still in good health after five years in the wild, said the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Panda.

Taotao was two years old when he was released into the wild on Oct. 11, 2012. On Thursday, he wandered into Liziping natural reserve in southwest China's Sichuan Province and was taken in by researchers.

Taotao weighs 115 kilograms and is in good health, the center said. He was set free again Friday.

The center said Taotao set a new record in terms of the amount of time an artificially-bred panda had survived in the wild.

Taotao was the second effort to release a panda to the wild. The first, Xiangxiang, died after fighting with wild pandas for food, about a year after his release in 2007.

The failure compelled scientists and experts to use a training method that focused the panda cub on learning from its mother.

"Taotao lived in semi-wild conditions from a very young age, and learnt from his mother, so there was no human intervention," said Zhang Hemin, deputy director of the center.

Since 2010, the center has released eight pandas using the method, with seven surviving.

The center will continue to monitor the health condition of the panda.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 00:06:54|Editor: Jiaxin

Video Player Close

LONDON, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- A 21-year-old man has become the fifth arrested as part of an investigation into a potential Christmas terror attack in Britain, police said Saturday.

The latest arrest was been made in South Yorkshire as a result of an ongoing investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing North East.

The 21-year-old man, from the Fir Vale area of Sheffield, was arrested in an intelligence-led operation on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

Police swooped on the Firth Park area of Sheffield at approximately 11 p.m. on Friday evening with two addresses, a residential address in Fir Vale and a business address in Firth Park, currently being searched by officers.

As part of the same ongoing investigation, two men appeared before Westminster Magistrates in London on Friday charged with terrorism offences. They were among the four men arrested on December 19 in Sheffield and Chesterfield.

Farhad Salah, 22 and Andi Sami Star, 31, were both remanded to the Old Bailey court in London, charged with engaging in the preparation of an act of terrorism.

One of the four arrested on December 19, a 36-year-old man from Sheffield remains in custody while a 41-year-old man, also from Sheffield, has been released without charge.

South Yorkshire Police Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts said: "I understand that this activity will cause concern, especially as there has been similar activity in recent weeks. I would like to firmly reiterate that we continue to work closely with our colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing North East to keep our communities safe and identify threat and risk. Our main priority is public safety and protecting the people of South Yorkshire."
People carry a coffin of a church attack victim during a funeral in Cairo, Egypt, on Dec. 29, 2017. At least ten people were killed in a shootout outside Mar Mina church in Cairo district of Helwan on Friday. (Xinhua/Aly Fahim)

UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attack that took place earlier Friday outside Mar Mina church in the Helwan district, south of Cairo, Egypt.

In a statement from his spokesman, the Secretary-General extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Egypt and wishes a swift recovery to those who have been injured.

According to media reports, at least 10 people were killed when gunmen opened fire on a Coptic Orthodox Church on Friday, in the southern Cairo neighborhood of Helwan.

"The Secretary-General calls for those responsible for today's horrific attack to be swiftly brought to justice," the statement concluded.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 00:26:58|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

RABAT, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Spain remained Morocco's top trading partner in 2016, an official report said Saturday.

According to a report from Morocco's foreign exchange regulator, the trade turnover between the two neighbours reached 10.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, up from 9.3 billion dollars in 2015.

Between 2015 and 2016, Morocco's imports from Spain rose from 4.4 billion dollars to 6.2 billion dollars, while its exports to the country jumped from 4.2 billion dollars to 5.1 billion dollars.

France, which had long been the largest trading partner of Morocco, ranked second in 2016 with 9.5 billion dollars in trade volume, after it registered 8.4 billion dollars in 2015.

Morocco's major suppliers still include China and Italy.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 00:42:00|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Police in Ethiopia's central Oromia regional state announced on Saturday it has arrested five individuals over communal clash.

Yishak Ayana, administrator of Yayu district of Oromia regional state, said the clash left six people injured and yet unspecified material damage, reported state owned Ethiopia News Agency.

He further said police has been able to prevent the clash from escalating with the help of local community.

Yayu and neighboring districts were scenes of communal violence in October 2017 which left more than a dozen dead.

The violence involving members of the Oromo ethnic group, longtime residents of the area, and ethnic Amharas and Tigrayans, who settled in the area in recent decades, raised concerns about the specter of wider civil strife in Ethiopia.

Disputes over resource exploitation and land ownership in Oromia regional states led to unrest in 2016 that left hundreds of dead.

Oromos, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group making up a third of the country's 100 million population, have complained of decades of economic, political and social marginalization by successive governments.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 01:07:02|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

AMMAN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Jordan on Saturday said it received 170 million U.S. dollars in assistance loan from Japan.

Jordan's Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Imad Fakhoury said the loan seeks to support Jordan's fiscal situation, improve the country's business environment and enhance pubic services.

The minister voiced appreciation for Japan's continued support to the Kingdom and aid in various areas of development, according to a statement of the ministry.

The loan, he said, was a true testimony of Japan's willingness to support the development process in the Kingdom in the light of the challenges the Kingdom is facing and regional developments.

Since 1999 to date, Japan extended 1.3 billion dollars in assistance to Jordan, Fakhoury indicated.

Japan focuses on supporting key sectors in Jordan including water, energy, finance, the industrial sector and small and medium businesses.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 01:07:02|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian Federal High Court in Addis Ababa on Saturday gave prison sentences to two members of Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), an outlawed rebel group.

The first defendant Ahmed Abdi was sentenced to 13 years in prison while second defendant Ahmed Mohammed was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

The two, residents of Mogadishu in neighboring Somalia, were caught in July 15, 2016 as they were trying to infiltrate Ethiopia from Somalia.

ONLF is an ethnic rebel group which has been operating in Ethiopia's Somali regional state for the last two decades.

The rebel group made international headlines in April 24, 2007 when it launched a deadly raid on an oil field in Ethiopia Somali regional state. The attack left 65 Ethiopians and nine Chinese dead.

The oil facility was run by China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (Sinopec).

After the attack the Ethiopian government undertook a vigorous counterinsurgency campaign and indigenization of the security forces in Somali regional state succeeding in taking the sting out of the insurgency.

It also undertook large scale infrastructure projects to win the hearts of local population who were thought to be sympathetic to ONLF.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 01:32:06|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

TRIPOLI, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Libya's eastern-based army on Saturday concluded all the military operations against extremists in the eastern city of Benghazi, a military source said.

"The army's special units concluded all military operations in Sidi Ekhrebish area after securing the area and pursuing the fleeing terrorists," the source said.

"Five terrorists have been killed, and many terrorists bodies have been found in the area," the source added, noting that Libyan Red Crescent teams have been called upon to recover the bodies.

The army announced on Thursday taking control of the whole area of Sidi Ekhrebish in central Benghazi, the last terrorist stronghold in the city, after operations that lasted more than five months.

Dozens of extremists fled after the army forces took control of the area. The army killed three fleeing terrorists on Thursday.

Benghazi, Libya's second largest city and the birthplace of the 2011 uprising that toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi, has witnessed a three-year war between the army led by Gen. Khalifa Haftar and extremist militants.

In June, Haftar announced the takeover of the entire city of Benghazi and the defeat of rival armed groups.

However, some militants have remained in the city, using landmines against his army.
Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in Davos, Switzerland, Jan. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

KIEV, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The year 2017 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Ukraine, and has seen the partnership between the two countries gain new vigor.

China and Ukraine have strengthened political dialogue, boosted trade, deepened cultural cooperation, and launched joint projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

IN-DEPTH POLITICAL DIALOGUE

China-Ukraine ties were given a breath of fresh air in mid-January, when Chinese President Xi Jinping met his Ukrainian counterpart Petro Poroshenko.

Local analysts held the view that the talks between the two leaders, which took place ahead of the opening session of the 47th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, have set a positive tone for the future partnership between the two countries.

"Over the past several years, after the shift of power in Ukraine, many experts have repeatedly stated that it is very important for the (sake of) Sino-Ukrainian relations to revive the political dialogue at the highest level. That's why this meeting is vitally important in terms of political decisions," said Viktor Kiktenko, head of the Ukrainian Association of Sinologists.

The meeting was followed by several ministerial visits as well as the establishment of cooperation between the youth organizations of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Ukraine's ruling party Petro Poroshenko Bloc (PPB) "Solidarity."

The political dialogue culminated in the third session of the China-Ukraine Intergovernmental Commission on bilateral cooperation in December in Kiev, where the two sides signed an action plan on jointly developing the Belt and Road Initiative.

The commission was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Premier Ma Kai, whose visit to Kiev was seen by Ukrainian experts as evidence that the political trust between China and Ukraine has risen.

"This visit is the result of years of negotiations on coordinating positions between our countries. I believe that this is a great success," said Iryna Nikorak, a secretary of Ukraine's parliamentary group on China-Ukraine relations.

FRUITFUL TRADE RELATIONS

Despite the global economic uncertainties, China and Ukraine have managed to expand their trade in 2017 due to the complementary nature of their markets.

According to Ukraine's statistics, the trade volume of the two countries has accumulated to 7.03 billion U.S. dollars this year till November, exceeding the amount of the entire year 2016 by 8 percent.

As a result, China has become Ukraine's third-largest trading partner after the European Union and Russia.

This year, Ukrainian exporters delivered more than 220 new products to the Chinese market, with agricultural goods leading the list.

Ukrainian meat, dairy products, vegetable oil and juices found consumers in China, which in turn contributed to Ukraine's economic prosperity and supported China's rising demand for healthy food.

In Ukraine, Chinese goods continued to enjoy immense popularity, with electronics and household appliances topping sales due to their high quality and reasonable prices.

During the 11-month period, China's export volume to Ukraine has increased to 5.05 billion dollars, accounting for about 11 percent of Ukraine's total imports.

It may be too early to make predictions, but experts hope that trade between the countries will further increase next year.

"Taking into account the potential of our cooperation, we believe that we can significantly increase bilateral trade. We hope that next year, we will launch sectoral dialogues in the priority areas and they would bring practical results," said Natalia Mykolska, deputy minister of economic development and trade of Ukraine.

JOINT INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Without doubt, the outgoing year became a golden time for China-Ukraine infrastructure cooperation, with the two sides launching a slew of joint projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.

For the first time in several years, Chinese companies were selected as contractors to implement projects to upgrade Ukraine's infrastructure.

The China Harbor Engineering Company (CHEC) has already started dredging works in Ukraine's southern Black Sea port of Yuzhny, aimed at expanding maritime productivity while boosting Ukraine's grain exports by 15 percent.

Also this year, the private Xinjiang Communications Construction Group Co., Ltd. and the state-owned Chinese power and infrastructure company of Sinohydro won tenders to modernize three key highways in western, northern and central Ukraine.

Furthermore, a consortium of two Chinese companies -- the China Pacific Construction Group and China Railway International Group -- signed a cooperation agreement with the government of Kiev on building the fourth metro line in the Ukrainian capital last month.

This year, Kiev authorities have initiated negotiations with Chinese partners over the construction of a ring-road around Kiev, a traffic intersection in the city center, and a 37-km-long road connecting the capital with its suburb of Brovary.

It is now safe to say that four years after its proposal by Chinese President Xi, the Belt and Road Initiative has today gained momentum in Ukraine with the help of Chinese businesses.

"We are the supporters of this initiative, which involves different countries of the world. Modernization of the infrastructure will strengthen Ukraine's position as a key country at the New Silk Road," said Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman.

BROAD CULTURAL COOPERATION

The year 2017 has also been important for the development of cultural cooperation between China and Ukraine.

For the first time ever, the Sino-Ukrainian Cultural Exchange Week was held in Kiev in April, bringing together hundreds of participants from the two countries.

The event, which saw an unprecedented scale of cultural exchanges ranging from music and dance performances to workshops on traditional medicine, was another milestone in boosting understanding between the peoples.

It became a launching point for several joint exhibitions by Chinese and Ukrainian artists, concerts and people-to-people exchanges, which have proven that people from the two countries share many common values despite being geographically distant.

"There has been a significant intensification of Ukrainian-Chinese cultural ties. The progress is visible in joint cultural projects," said Eugene Nishchuk, Ukraine's culture minister.

A stellar example of the budding friendship between the two nations was the installment of a sculpture in central Kiev depicting the legendary Chinese Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu and the Ukrainian iconic poet Taras Shevchenko.

The sculpture, created by Wu Weishan, director of the National Art Museum of China, became the first monument dedicated to the Ukrainian poet made by a Chinese artist and the first to a Chinese poet installed in Ukraine.

The positive trend in cultural relations is expected to expand further because this year, China and Ukraine signed deals on joint movie production, creative industry cooperation, translation of books into each others' languages and holding joint festivals.

The prospects for bilateral ties in the long run look particularly rosy in light of the fact that the year 2019 has been declared as the "Year of China" in Ukraine.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 03:52:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

NICOSIA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Cypriots will make a cash gift of millions to their government on Monday, New Year's Day, by having failed to exchange their old Cyprus pound banknotes with euros, the current legal tender for payments, a Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) official said Saturday.

CBC spokeswoman Aliki Stylianou told the state television that CBC statistics show that people have in their possession old Cyprus pound banknotes, which are no longer legal tender, worth 67 million euros.

"Those who hold pound banknotes could physically take them at the Central bank and exchange them by the end of December at the official rate of the euro when it became the official currency," she said.

Pound holders exchanged old banknotes worth about 100,000 euros during recent days, according to the central bank.

But as Saturday and Sunday, the two last days of 2017, are not working days for the bank and the government, pound holders have lost their chance to exchange them.

That means the government stands to benefit by the amount of the missing banknotes.

"CBC will credit the government's account by about 67 million euros after the holders of pounds failed to claim their money in time," Stylianou said.

The euro was introduced as the official currency of Cyprus in 2008, four years after the eastern Mediterranean island joined the European Union.

The pound rate was fixed at 1.71 euros at the time of its introduction.

Stylianou said that there is no explanation why so much money was not exchanged.

It is believed that each of about 200,000 Cypriot households may have kept a number of banknotes as mementos of the old currency, which was in force for about 100 years. But this does not explain why 67 million euros in pound notes are unaccounted for.
The senior leader urged the people in Kashmir to boycott those who have joined hands with either BJP or RSS.

By Shuja-ul-Haq : Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Speaker Mohammad Akbar Lone raked up a controversy when he said that people who have joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) are not Muslims.

He urged the people in Kashmir to boycott those who have joined hands with either BJP or RSS.

BJP and PDP leaders are eating cow meat and pig meat together and are two faces of one coin. Muslims and people across Kashmir should boycott them: NC MLA Akbar Lone pic.twitter.com/EAfM1Jwjn7&; ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

advertisement

Lone was adressing a day-long party convention in Bandipora.

The NC leader later took a jibe at the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and said that it deceived people by seeking votes against BJP but later joined hands with RSS. RSS is is widely regarded as the parent organisation of the BJP.

Lone said that people should come forward against those who support anti-Muslim elements and kill Muslims in the name of cow.

WATCH | NC leader Akbar Lone said people joining BJP-RSS are not Muslim

--- ENDS ---
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 03:52:20|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Renewed unrest in Ethiopia's central Oromia regional state left one person dead and four others injured, a regional official said on Saturday.

Speaking to journalists, Ketema Bekelcha, Head of security department at Huro Guduru Wollega zone of Oromia regional state, said the unrest occurred on Friday when youths in Shambu city, 303 km northwest of Addis Ababa, tried to rob passing trucks carrying sugar.

The incident is the second time in two months that unrest over sugar being transported in Oromia caused deaths.

In October, at least eight people died in Ambo city, 130 km north of Addis Ababa, when police and soldiers used live rounds against angry demonstrators who blocked roads to prevent transportation of sugar.

The demonstrators believed erroneously sugar from nearby Fincha sugar factory was being transported illegally to other places.

Ethiopia is in the midst of a severe sugar shortage which the Ethiopian government blames on bad weather condition that halved the country's sugar production last year.

Oromia, Ethiopia's largest regional state, has seen large anti-government protests by ethnic Oromos since the end of 2015, leaving hundreds of people dead.

Oromos, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group making up a third of the country's 100 million population, complain of decades of economic, political and social marginalization by successive governments.

Martial law declared in October 2016 and later lifted in August 2017 had calmed Oromia regional state, but renewed anti-government protests starting October left several people dead and property damages.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 04:07:22|Editor: Jiaxin

Video Player Close

The special cake "Vassilopita" is on display in a street in Athens, Greece, on Dec. 30, 2017. Greek bakers sent their wishes for a Happy 2018 to the world on Saturday by making and offering for free to the citizens of Athens a 2.5-ton "Vassilopita", the special cake usually served at all households in Greece after midnight on New Year's day. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

ATHENS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Greek bakers sent their wishes for a Happy 2018 to the world on Saturday by making and offering for free to the citizens of Athens a 2.5-ton "Vassilopita", the special cake usually served at all households in Greece after midnight on New Year's day.

The 70-meter-long and 3-meter-wide "Vassilopita", which was cut in 15,000 slices at a central square in Athens' suburban municipality of Peristeri, is the largest ever made in Greece, according to organizers.

Forty people worked hard for three days to prepare the record-breaking, delicious cake, Panagiotis Sachinidis, President of the Association of Athens' Bakers who took the initiative, told Xinhua.

"I am a professional for over 30 years and I have not seen anything big like this," he said.

The previous record was held by the same association since 2015, when they had baked and served a "Vassilopita" weighing 350 kilos.

The municipality of Peristeri hid 200 "lucky coins" inside the cake. Those who found the coins will have blessings throughout the year, according to Greek customs.

"Vassilopita" named after Saint Basil, the Santa Claus for Greek Orthodox Christians, always contains a hidden coin which brings good luck to the finder.

The lucky citizens were given also small gifts by the Mayor of Peristeri Andreas Pachatouridis who helped slice the cake. "We are cutting the Vassilopita of the love and solidarity," he said addressing the event.

"This is the message we want to convey, that there should be solidarity among us these difficult days," Sachinidis added, referring to the debt crisis which has hit hard Greece since 2009.

"All people living in Greece these days need a taste of optimism, joy and happiness," Mary Tsiota, deputy mayor of Peristeri, in charge of culture, told Xinhua.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 04:37:26|Editor: Jiaxin

Video Player Close

LAGOS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria is set to acquire strategic maritime safety and security assets, including vessels, a top official with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) said here Saturday.

The move is also in line with the total spectrum of maritime security strategy, Dakuku Peterside, the agency's director general told reporters in Lagos, noting that this is in line with the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in Abuja, Nigeria's capital.

Peterside announced the establishment of a Command and Control Center as part of the maritime security strategic initiative.

"The four components of the initiative are situational awareness, response capability, law enforcement and local partnerships and regional cooperation; which are the fulcrum upon which tackling maritime crime will be built on," he added.

According to him, the implementation of NIMASA's maritime strategy, in collaboration with the agency's partners, was a panacea to piracy and maritime crime within Nigerian territorial waters.

He assured that NIMASA would continue to collaborate with the military, especially the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force, among other partners, to make Nigerian waterways safe and secure.

The director-general told reporters that the agency would not relax in its quest to see the early passage of the Anti-Piracy Bill, the draft of which the Federal Executive Council recently approved for legislative action.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 05:47:36|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

TRIPOLI, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Enhancing vocational training and private sector are effective solutions to Libya's current high unemployment, Libyan Minister of Labor Al-Mehdi Al-Amin said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"Libya's current unemployment rate is 5.5 percent. It is considered high for a small society such as Libya with a population of only six million," Al-Amin told Xinhua.

The statistics were drawn from a survey conducted from 137,000 registered citizens in the job-searching system of 55 labor offices in Libya.

Young people are the largest unemployed group in Libya, according to the minister.

"The rate of unemployed young people is 67 percent, compared with the unemployed people aged over 50," Al-Amin noted.

The minister also said the Libyan public sector suffers an overload of employees.

"The Ministry of Education has nearly 500,000 employees, which is of course very high," he said, adding that "random appointments" after the revolution in 2011 are the main reasons.

When asked about the solution, Al-Amin pinned his hopes on vocational training and the private sector.

"One of our main tasks is training. We have trained good trainers so that we have local trainers. We also cooperate with trainers from the European Union and Jordan," He said.

"There is also coordination with the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Planning of the Government of National Accord to give opportunities to young people in small and large private enterprises to reduce the large number of public sector employees," he added.

He expressed hope that the private sector will absorb a large number of employees to ease the burden on the public sector.

Meanwhile, the authorities are helping people with intellectual, auditory, visual and physical disabilities to find employment, the minister said.

Unemployed women are also the group the authorities are focusing on, Al-Amid said.

"We have plans for empowering women, for which we set up offices that aim at developing database for the whole country," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 06:17:39|Editor: Yamei

Video Player Close

by Stefania Fumo

ROME, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Italy's political parties were on the campaign trail Saturday ahead of the next general election, to be held on March 4, 2018.

The countdown officially began on Dec. 28 when President Sergio Mattarella dissolved parliament, paving the way for what some international media -- including Bloomberg News, the Financial Times and the New York Times -- are calling the next major testing ground for the (European Union) EU after Brexit.

The vote will be held under Italy's brand-new electoral law, whose mix of a one-third majority first-past-the-post system with a two-thirds proportional system favors coalitions over single parties.

This may spell trouble for the populist, euro-skeptic Five-Star Movement, which is currently Italy's leading force and which has long prided itself on its refusal to enter into alliances with other parties, which it says are all corrupt.

On Saturday, Five Star candidate Luigi di Maio announced the movement's new rules for the campaign, which include a fine of 100,000 euros (about 120,000 U.S. dollars) for any Five Star MPs who decide to abandon ship to join a different party after they get elected.

"We must protect ourselves from would-be profiteers," Di Maio told Sky TG24 private broadcaster in televised comments.

Also in the running is a coalition made up of former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi's liberal, conservative Forza Italia party plus the rightwing anti-immigrant Northern League and the far-right Brothers of Italy party.

That coalition recently won regional elections in Sicily, but its staying power is unclear because of fundamental differences of opinion: Forza Italia is pro-EU, while the other two parties are euroskeptic.

As well, Berlusconi has been barred from public office due to a tax fraud conviction, and the centre-right coalition is still divided over who should be their candidate for prime minister.

Also on Saturday, ex-PM Matteo Renzi, leader of the ruling center-left Democratic Party, urged voters to turn out to prevent the Five Stars and Berlusconi's coalition from heading up the next government.

Renzi called the Five Stars "fake gurus and professional haters", and reminded voters that Berlusconi was forced to resign in 2011 because his government had driven the nation almost into bankruptcy during the European sovereign debt crisis.

He also pointed to the successes of the past five years of Democratic Party administration, including the economic recovery and the creation of one million jobs thanks to government reforms.

He also warned that electoral promises made by both Berlusconi and the Five Stars are unrealistic, would add billions of euros to Italy's public debt and drive the country's fragile economy back into recession.

Berlusconi has promised to raise minimum monthly pensions to 1,000 euros for everyone and to impose a flat tax of 20 percent.

The Five Stars call for basic income of 780 euros a month, which Renzi argued would come with a price tag of 84 billion euros.

Renzi, however, did not mention immigration, a hot-button issue with voters.

The Democratic Party is in favor of letting in people fleeing war and destitution in Africa and the Middle East, while the Five Stars and Berlusconi's center-right alliance have promised to crack down on immigration.

Another wild card is voter disaffection, with polls suggesting many people might prefer not to vote at all and politicians of every stripe trying to woo the undecided or just plain disillusioned.

According to December polls by the Demopolis Institute, the Five Stars were leading at 29 percent support, followed by the Democratic Party at 25 percent, Forza Italia at 15 percent and the League at 14 percent.

If a general election were held now, about 62 percent of voters would turn out, according to Demopolis.

Meanwhile, Italy awaits President Sergio Mattarella's traditional end-of-year speech to the nation, in which he is expected to urge citizens to exercise their right to vote and to exhort politicians to behave responsibly for the good of the nation.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-31 06:22:39|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

JERUSALEM, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Israel launched on Saturday a second strike on a Hamas post in the Gaza Strip, saying it was a response to a rocket fire from the coastal enclave a day before.

"This evening IAF (Israel Air Force) fighter jets targeted an observation post belonging to the Hamas terror organization in the southern Gaza Strip," a military spokesperson said in a statement.

The strike came a day after Gaza militants fired three rockets toward Israel. Two rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-rocket system while a third hit a building in a community in the regional council of Sha'ar Ha'negev, causing no injury.

About an hour after the rockets were fired, Israel launched the first strike, targeting two Hamas posts. Hamas said there were no injuries in the strike.

No group in Gaza has claimed responsibility for the rockets attack but similar launches were usually made by Hamas and other radical Islamist groups.

Earlier in the day, Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said an inspection of the rockets found the projectiles were "made by Iran."

The military said it sees the rockets attack a "severe incident" which "proves once more that Iran, through radical and rogue terror organizations, is operating to deteriorate the situation."
Submit An Obituary

Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.

Go to form
By PTI: New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) Diagnostics services provider Thyrocare today announced the launch of FocusTB, its affordable brand focusing on TB diagnostics.

"With the launch of our TB offering, we hope to make a fundamental and measurable change to the way Tuberculosis is diagnosed and treated in India," said A Velumani, CEO of Thyrocare Technologies, at the launch event in Mumbai in a statement.

advertisement

Velumani said, "Drug resistant strains of TB pose a significant public health hazard and must be addressed by Indias healthcare sector sooner than later. We are bringing highly advanced technologies like PCR to bear against this adversary for the first time in India. FocusTB services are available throughout India through Thyrocares Pan Asian network with more than 30,000 sample collection points."

It said that India is ranked among the countries with the highest TB burdens globally. As per WHO, India is one of the six countries that account for half of new TB cases globally.

Estimates suggest that as much as 40 per cent of the Indian population suffers from Latent TB rather than the active form of the disease which is contracted when the patient is immuno-compromised.

One of the emerging public health disasters is the emergence of multiple dug resistant (MDR)Strains of TB. Lack of awareness and dose discipline among the patients globally is making them more prone to drug resistant TB, a complication which is difficult to treat and could be fatal. People with MDR-TB do not respond to the first-line drugs for TB, i.e., Isoniazid and Rifampicin.

According to a recent study in Lancet, by the year 2040, the fraction of TB patients with multiple drug resistance will rise to 12.4% of all TB cases in India. Mortality rate is ~40% in TB patients who develop MDR-TB and ~60 per cent in patients with XDR-TB. Early and accurate diagnosis is the only key to tackle MDR-TB and control its spread. PTI KKS MKJ

--- ENDS ---
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - Kweiman Yang, Professor of Mathematics at Arizona Western College, will visit the Foothills Library in January 2018 to present Chinese Language and Culture. Her sessions are designed to offer the basics needed to study the Chinese language, and to introduce various aspects of Chinese culture. There is no charge to attend.

Friday, January 12th @ 3:00 p.m.

Chinese Language & Culture: an Overview

Learn more about Chinese festivals, music, arts, and food.



Friday, January 26th @ 3:00 p.m.

Chinese Language & Culture: the Basics of Learning the Language

Learn how to develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing to learn Chinese.



The Foothills Library is located at 13226 E. South Frontage Road. For more information, call (928) 342-1640.
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - The Foothills Library Book Club will meet Saturday, January 13th, at 10:00 a.m. This month, participants are invited to read any book by Agatha Christie for an author study. All are welcome to attend.

Future book club titles include:



Saturday, February 10th @ 10:00 a.m.

Mythical River: Chasing the Mirage of Water in the American Southwest by Melissa Sevigny (One Book Yuma)



Saturday, March 10th @ 10:00 a.m.

The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster by Scott Wilbanks



The Foothills Library is located at 13226 E. South Frontage Road. For more information, call (928) 342-1640.
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - Every New Years Eve the Yuma Police Department responds to numerous reports of shots fired within the city limits. Some people discharge a firearm into the air to bring in the New Year. The Yuma Police Department would like to remind the community this is a felony offense and encourage anyone that witnesses this type of criminal activity to call the police department immediately.

Shannon's law is named after Shannon Smith, a fourteen-year-old Phoenix girl killed by a stray bullet in June 1999. Shannon's law refers to specific changes in Arizona statutes, enacted in 2000, making it a felony offense to discharge firearms randomly into the air.

Per Arizona Revised Statute 13-2904.6 Disorderly conduct: A person commits disorderly conduct if, with intent to disturb the peace or quiet of a neighborhood, family or person, or with knowledge of doing so, such person: Recklessly handles displays or discharges a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. This violation is a class 6 felony.

This is an illegal and unsafe practice that could lead to tragic consequences. Officers will respond, investigate and arrest anyone that is involved in this type of activity.

We want our community to enjoy New Years Eve with family and friends; we just ask to please do it safely.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-12-30 02:08:25|Editor: Mu Xuequan

Video Player Close

KIEV, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine's grain exports will decline for the first time in five years in the current marketing year, a senior government official said on Friday, citing the latest official forecast.

Maksym Martynyuk, the country's First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, said that Ukraine is projected to supply abroad 41 million tons of cereals during the 2017-2018 marketing year, which runs between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018, compared with 43.8 million tons in the previous marketing year.

The main factor behind the decline is the logistic issues, especially lack of rail grain carriers, Martynyuk said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine news agency.

Since the start of the 2017-2018 marketing year, Ukraine has exported 20 million tons of grain, down 7 percent from the same period a year ago.

Ukraine is ranked among the world's largest grain exporters, supplying about 8 percent of grain to the global market.

In 2016, China was Ukraine's largest corn importer, accounting for about 16 percent of the total maize exports, and the third-largest barley importer with exports share of 6.2 percent.
Bengaluru: In a one of its kind effort to celebrate a girl child, the first female baby born in the New Year at a civic hospital in the city will be given free education till under-graduation, Bengaluru Mayor R. Sampath Raj said on Friday.



"The first girl child born in the New Year (January 1) through a normal delivery at any civic hospital in the city would get free education up to degree level in a college so that girls are not considered a burden," Raj said.



The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) would deposit Rs five-lakh in a joint bank account of its Commissioner and the first girl child, and the interest on it would be used for her education.



"Pregnant women who go to civic hospitals for delivery are from poor families and unfortunately think a girl child is a burden for them to bring up," Raj said.



Health officials at the civic hospitals would record the timings of female babies born after December 31 midnight and in the first hour or early hours of January 1 to ascertain the winner.



"Since a Caesarean-section birth can be induced any time, civic doctors have decided to reward only the girl child born through natural process," said Raj.



About 32 health centres in the city are run by the civic body out of which 26 have maternity wards.
New Delhi: After shooting in Jharkhand for films like Ranchi Diaries and MS Dhoni: The Untold Story, veteran actor Anupam Kher has wrapped a shooting schedule for his 511th film.

He also that it has always been a pleasure shooting at various locations in Jharkhand, in a Twitter post.

The 62-year-old actor wrote on Twitter-



"As I finish this schedule of my untitled 511th film, I thank the people, the administration, the Rana family and the security people of Ranchi for their love, warmth and hospitality. As always it was a pleasure shooting at the various locations in Jharkhand," Anupam tweeted on Saturday.

As I finish this schedule of my untitled 511th film, I thank the people, the administration, the Rana family and the security people of Ranchi for their love, warmth & hospitality. As always it was a pleasure shooting at the various locations in #Jharkhand. pic.twitter.com/PAT1rF2HoR  Anupam Kher (@AnupamPkher) December 30, 2017

The actor also met the Chief Minister of Jharkhand Raghubar Das and said that it was a pleasure meeting him.



"It is always a pleasure to meet Jharkhand Chief Minister," Anupam tweeted on Friday.



Anupam has previously shot here for films like "M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story" and "Ranchi Diaries".

(With Agency Inputs)
New Delhi: The AIIMS in the national capital is yet to begin counselling for a fresh batch of resident doctors even as the contract of several doctors in those positions is scheduled to expire tomorrow.

The Resident Doctors Association (RDA) of AIIMS has alleged that as the tenure of several junior residents in various departments is ending tomorrow, the institute is staring at an acute shortage in that category which may in turn affect patient services.

"For the first time in the history of AIIMS, the examination section is not able to conduct the counseling for MD/MS 2017 well in time which will result in delay in the joining of junior residents to respective departments from January 1," AIIMS RDA president Harjit Singh Bhatti said.

The institute will face an acute shortage of resident doctors as the current ones who have graduated will finish their tenure tomorrow, former AIIMS RDA president Vijay Gurjar said.

While supporting the move for online counselling of resident doctors, the RDA members, however, said the administration is still not ready and is struggling with their software update.

"This is for the first time that the institute has initiated recruitment through online counselling which was supposed to hasten the process but inefficient implementation is leading to unnecessary delay.

"Residents are just waiting eagerly to join their departments. This unnecessary delay will create disturbance as they will not be able to appear in exams and interviews whose last dates are usually between December 31 or June 30 according to the set pattern," said Bhatti.

Usually, counselling was held in the first week of December. However, till now there has been no notification or communication from the administration.

A senior AIIMS official, however, said the issue has been resolved and that the process will begin in a few days and by January 31 the counselling will be completed.
NDMC laws say the roof tops of all hotels, commercial plazas and restaurants are supposed to be only for supplies, fire exits and rescue operations. At the maximum, the owners can have water tanks, dish antennas, cables, etc.

By Baishali Adak: The New Delhi Municipal Council this week sealed the Sky Lounge Bar and Grill on the 19th floor of the high-rise Royal Plaza Hotel on Ashoka Road as part of its drive to clamp down on "illegal terrace-situated food facilities."

Located next to the Shangri-La and Le Meridien Hotels, it was popular with party-goers and celebrities for its view of Janpath and CP.

advertisement

"First, no such eating or drinking joint is allowed on a roof top. They are in violation of the NDMC Act, section 252 (misuse of premises beyond sanction). They also contravene the Delhi Building Byelaws 1983," said an official.

"You (the restaurateur) seek permission to run a resto-bar on a certain floor and then, without asking us, extend it to the roof. So, to the permitted, say, 50 seats, you add another 50 seats illegally. How do we ensure that you have the fire safety requisites for the roof too?" he asked.

From an eatery that is run on 19th floor, there is a risk of accidents and suicides too, he added, "We cannot take that risk. Why allow anybody at that level?"

NDMC laws say the roof tops of all hotels, commercial plazas and restaurants are supposed to be only for supplies, fire exits and rescue operations. At the maximum, the owners can have water tanks, dish antennas, cables, etc.

They cannot have seating, open cooking, dancing and DG sets there. That adds to the physical load on the building as well, officers explained.

The NDMC shut down at least half-a-dozen restobars, including My Bar Headquarters, Cafe MRP, Tamasha, Teddy Boy and Lord of the Drinks, in October 2016 on the same grounds.

The corporation also assessed and gave a report saying at least 166 building premises in CP are in a dangerous condition due to misuse by owners.

This happened after two dangerous roofs - that of the top of Jain Book Agency and Odeon Sweet/Unplugged Courtyard Restaurant collapses here on February 2 and 11, 2016 each.

"The authorities also must ensure that their staff is not ignoring these hazards after seeking money from hoteliers," said senior lawyer Sanjeev Ailawadi.

--- ENDS ---
NEW DELHI: As north India continues to reel under dense fog, train services remain disrupted in the national capital. As many as 36 Delhi-bound trains were on Saturday delayed and another 13 were cancelled.

In addition, at least two trains were rescheduled by the Indian Railways due to foggy weather.

North-western plains, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and West Uttar Pradesh, were covered under dense fog on Friday morning.

The train routes were affected due to low visibility and other operational reasons.

On Wednesday, the government had informed the Parliament that more than 3,000 trains were delayed due to fog between November 1 and December 21 in 2017.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal had said that 3,119 trains were delayed during the period on account of fog.

Goyal had said portable global positioning system (GPS)-based fog pass devices were being issued to the loco pilots for the regions which get seriously affected due to fog.

According to the data provided by the minister, the Northern Railways has received 3,185 of such devices, North Eastern Railways has got 975, North Western Railways 802, East Central Railways 617, North Central Railways 282 and the Northeast Frontier Railways has received 183.

"The reported outcome of the fog pass devices from the zonal railways has been satisfactory. The device provides a visual indication of the approaching level-crossing gates and other signal landmarks to the loco pilots, 500 metres in advance," Goyal had said.

Rattled by the massive disruption in services year after year in winter, the railways has initiated several steps to use technology to fight fog. The steps include a Train Protection Warning System (TPWS), a Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), and a Terrain Imaging for Diesel Drivers (Tri-NETRA) System, with the latest one being LED fog lights to improve visibility so that drivers can maintain normal speeds.

The Tri-NETRA system enables the driver to view the terrain on a computer installed in the cabin. However, all these systems are in the pilot stage. As for the LED fog lights, the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) of the railways is currently finalising their specifications on these.

The railways expects that once these systems are installed, it will help in enhancing the vision of locomotive drivers in difficult weather conditions, such as fog, heavy rains and during the night time so that they have enough time to react to an emergency.
NEW DELHI: Four students in Delhi were on Saturday arrested by the city's Narcotics Control Bureau for possession of drugs. Nearly 1.140 kg of Cannabis and three LSD blot papers have been seized from the four students.

Two of the students are from Delhi University's Hindu College, one of them belong to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and another one is from Amity University.

#Visuals Narcotics Control Bureau's Delhi Unit arrested two students of Delhi University's Hindu College, one student of JNU & one student of Amity University and seized 1.140 kg of Cannabis and three LSD blot papers. pic.twitter.com/Aq5SCQfkU3 December 30, 2017

The Delhi Zonal unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) identified the four, arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), as students of reputed academic institutions of the national capital.

"Aniruddh Mathur, Tenzin Phunchog and Sam Mallick are all abusers of charas and used to get it from Gaurav. They have also informed that abuse of drugs is rampant in the Delhi University campus area. They have given information about drug peddlers and others involved in the racket which is further being verified," NCB Deputy Director General (North) S K Jha said.

Gaurav, a student of the Hindu college, was named as the kingpin of the racket by the NCB, which added that the charas was being allegedly sourced by these students from Himachal Pradesh.

(With PTI inputs)
Ahmedabad: Lending support to Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel Patidar leader Lalji Patel on Saturday called for a Mehsana `bandh' (general strike) on January 1.

He also threatened to call for a state-wide bandh if Nitin Patel, who is miffed over the portfolios allotted to him in the new BJP government, was not made the CM of Gujarat. government,

Lalji Patel, who is convener of the Sardar Patel Group (SPG) which had launched the Patidar quota agitation along with Hardik Patel-led Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, on Saturday called on the Deputy CM at his official residence in Gandhinagar with dozens of supporters.

"The BJP is repeatedly doing injustice to Nitin-bhai Patel. Today I met him with supporters from Mehsana, and we have given a call for Mehsana bandh on January 1 in his support," Lalji Patel told reporters.

Nitin Patel is MLA from Mehsana, which has a sizable Patidar population and which was the epicentre of the quota agitation.

"People of Gujarat and former CM Anandiben Patel wanted Nitin Patel to be made the CM (when Anandiben resigned). He was not made the CM but he accepted the decision and decided to work as Deputy CM. People are angry with the latest development. Nitin bhai is the right candidate for CM's post," he said.

"We met Nitin bhai.We asked him what is needed to be done. It is now for him to take the final call. He said the party's high command has said it will decide the matter in two days," the SPG leader said.

Meanwhile, Nitin Patel is yet to take charge of the portfolios allotted to him, with a source in the BJP saying he has conveyed his displeasure to the party leadership over the departments given to him, PTI reported.

In the previous government, Patel used to handle important portfolios like finance and urban development. However this time, he has been allocated charge of departments like road and building, and health.

Apart from these two, he has also given the charge of medical education, Narmada, Kalpsar and capital project after the portfolios were allocated on December 28.

This time, the finance portfolio was allocated to Saurabh Patel, while Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has kept the charge of urban development department with himself.

On the other hand, Patidar leader - Hardik Patel urged Nitin Patel on Sunday to quit the BJP along with 10 party MLAs and join the Congress for a "deserving" position.

Hardik said a "veteran politician" like Nitin Patel, was being "sidelined" and "not being given respect" by the BJP "despite working hard for 27 years".

The Patidar leader said if the Deputy CM was ready to quit the BJP, then he would speak to the Congress to give the latter the post he deserved.

(With PTI inputs)
Happy Birthday Aaron Finch: Check his TOP records and know about GORGEOUS wife Amy Griffiths
New Delhi: Taking a jibe Rahul Gandhi, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur on Saturday said that the Congress president has to accept that the people of the state defeated him.

"I don't want to comment on Rahul Gandhi's statement, but he has to accept that the public of Himachal Pradesh have rejected him and has supported the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to make the government," Thakur told ANI.

In his assessment of the party's defeat, Rahul on Friday is believed to have said that Congress was defeated 'only by Congress.'

He had held a meeting with newly elected MLAs and defeated candidates in Himachal. Rahul had also held separate meetings with candidates of Mandi and Shimla Parliamentary constituencies and Kangra and Hamirpur Lok Sabha seats, PTI had quoted sources as saying.

"Indiscipline and anti-party activities by any leader, howsoever tall he may be will not be tolerated," Rahul had told party leaders and had added that dedicated, honest and loyal workers would be given due respect.

He had also addressed the state party office bearers, presidents of district and block Congress committees and heads of frontal organisations, party officials had said.

Meanwhile, with the BJP replacing Congress in the state, the corruption cases against former CM Virbhadra Singh were expected to see a speedy trial. Thakur, however, maintained that the government would not work with the motive of revenge.

"The cases are pending in the court and the government doesn't need to do anything from its end. I have previously also said that our government will not work with the motive of revenge," Thakur said.

The CM also said that "decisions taken with the intention of political gains in the last six months" would be reconsidered and weighed on the basis of merit.

Jairam Thakur was on Wednesday sworn in as the 14th CM of Himachal Pradesh along with eleven other ministers at a ceremony at the historic Ridge ground.

Governor Acharya Devvrat had administered the oath of office and secrecy to the 52-year-old Thakur, a five-time MLA from Seraj and other ministers which included six new faces.

The new ministers are - Mohinder Singh, Krishan Kapoor, Suresh Bharadwaj, Anil Sharma, Sarveen Chowdhary, Ram Lal Markanda, Vipin Parmar, Virender Kanwar, Gobind Thakur, Rajiv Saizal and Vikram Singh.

The BJP won 44 out of 68 seats in the recent state Assembly elections, ousting the Congress.

(With Agency inputs)
New Delhi: Miffed with photos of Palestinian Ambassador sharing the dais with Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has decided to register the protest with Palestinian authorities.

We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian Ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities, said the MEA on Saturday.

Saeed, Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JuD) chief and co-founder of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), was photographed with Palestinian envoy Walid Abu Ali, attending a rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Pakistani's Rawalpindi on Friday morning.

The images of the two sharing the stage went viral on social media



Saeed, who was freed from house arrest in November by a Pakistan court, carries a bounty of USD 10 million and has been declared a global terrorist by the United Nations.

Since his release, Saeed has made several anti-India and anti-US statements at various rallies across Pakistan, invoking Khulbhushan Jadhav and Kashmir.

Earlier this month, India joined 127 other nations for a UN resolution opposing the recent decision of US President Donald Trump to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

India had clarified that it stands for an independent Palestine.
NEW DELHI: Stuck in Saudi Arabia since past six months, Ludhiana resident Kuldeep Kaur had reached out to Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj for help.



Kaur's family has claimed that she is being given death threats and is also being beaten up in Saudi Arabia.

A video of 46-year-old Kuldeep Kaur had recently gone viral where she could be heard begging to be rescued from Saudi Arabia. In a 2-minute-long video which she sent to her daughter, Kaur said that she was duped by a travel agent who took her to Saudi Arabia.

Kuldeep reportedly said in the video that she was made to work like a slave from 6 in the morning till 10 in the night.

Stating that she was working for a Saudi couple, she also said that she was not being given food by her employers.
Here is what is making headlines today:

1. FIR registered against wrestler Sushil Kumar and his supporters

Delhi Police on Saturday registered an FIR against wrestler Sushil Kumar and his supporters on charges of thrashing fellow wrestler Praveen Rana a day earlier. An FIR under section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 341 (wrongful restraint) of the Indian Penal Code was registered after Sushil's supporters allegedly clashed with supporters of Praveen at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. Read full report

2. Shocking - 51 girls held hostage and sexually abused in madrasa, rescued by police

In a shocking case, 51 girls were allegedly held hostage and sexually abused by the manager of a madrasa in Lucknow's Shahadatganj area. The girls were rescued on Friday by the police. The accused manager has also been arrested. More than 125 girls study at the madrasa, said the police. Some girls filed a complaint against the manager for sexually harassing them. Read full report

3. Time for accountability: PM Narendra Modi puts out six questions for BJP MPs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has posted six questions for BJP MPs on the Namo App to take stock of the work being carried at the ground level across the country and to assess citizen's reaction to various policies and schemes implemented. Read full report

4. India to register protest with Palestinian after envoy shares stage with Hafiz Saeed

Miffed with photos of Palestinian Ambassador sharing the dais with Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has decided to register the protest with Palestinian authorities. Read full report

5. Unable to show Aadhaar card, Kargil martyr's wife denied medical treatment, dies

A Kargil martyr's wife died after being refused treatment on the grounds of lack of Aadhaar card in Haryana's Sonipat. The incident took place on Friday. The woman, who was in a serious condition, was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment by family members. Read full report
New Delhi: Palestine on Saturday expressed ''deep regret'' after India strongly condemned the Palestinian envoy's presence at a rally organised by 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan recently.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India (GoI) that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

In a strongly-worded demarche to the Palestinian government, India had reminded them that Saeed is a UN-designated terrorist and the ambassador's association with the JuD chief is "unacceptable".

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is designated by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the MEA statement read.

Apparently miffed with the photos of Palestinian Ambassador sharing the dais with the co-founder of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) Hafiz Saeed, the Government of India had earlier registered a strong protest with the Palestinian authorities.

Acknowledging India's concerns, the Palestinian authorities said that ''they will deal with this matter appropriately.''

''It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India, '' the MEA statement said.

''Palestine has decided to recall its Ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, for sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed,'' Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija later confirmed.

Raveesh Kumar, the MEA spokesperson, later tweeted the GoI's reaction to the incident on Twitter.

Press release on Indias reaction over the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistans association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed. https://t.co/tkrMPmcpNm  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) December 30, 2017

Miffed over the incident, India had earlier warned that the matter will be taken up with the Palestinian authorities.

Saeed, Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JuD) chief and co-founder of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), was photographed with Palestinian envoy Walid Abu Ali, attending a rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Pakistani's Rawalpindi on Friday morning.

The image of the two sharing the stage together was widely shared on the social media and it soon became viral.

Ambassador of Palestine to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali attends a large rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi - seen with JUD chief Hafiz Saeed pic.twitter.com/d8UXLFK8Mm  omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) December 29, 2017

According to a report in Pakistan's The Nation daily, the Rawalpindi central leadership of Difa-e-Pakistan-Council has announced a countrywide movement for the liberation of Kashmir and Palestine.

The report quoted Ali as saying that "with Pakistan's tremendous support to Palestine cause, we do not feel alone".

Saeed, who was freed from house arrest in November by a Pakistan court, carries a bounty of USD 10 million and has been declared a global terrorist by the United Nations.

Since his release, Saeed has made several anti-India and anti-US statements at various rallies across Pakistan, invoking Khulbhushan Jadhav and Kashmir.

All this comes after India voted with the rest of the world earlier in December in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

India had clarified that it stands for an independent Palestine.

(With Agency Inputs)
New Delhi: Palestine on Saturday recalled its envoy in Pakistan for sharing a stage with Hafiz Saeed, the alleged mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, after the Government of India raised objections to the incident and called it "unacceptable".

Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, the Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija confirmed the Indian authorities as the developments unfolded.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said that the former has been given a couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

Haija, however, said that Ali was not aware who Hafiz Saeed was.

''Our Ambassador doesn't know this person. When he started speaking, he asked who is this person. Our Ambassador's speech was after him, he made his speech and left. For us, even with that, it is not accepted and a decision has been taken,'' the Palestinian Ambassador to India said.

While also acknowledging New Delhi's unconditional support to Palestine's cause, Haija said that his government will never engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

''We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my Government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, '' Adnan Abu Al Haija said.

On the behalf of his government, the Palestinian envoy also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Palestine.

''Mr Modi is a great guest to Palestine, we welcome him there. I hope soon he will visit Palestine. We are waiting for his visit,'' Haija said.

The Palestinian authorities also expressed "deep regrets" about the incident.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

India has earlier raised strong objections to Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, shared a stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed at an event in Rawalpindi recently.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is designated by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 12, is unacceptable," the MEA said earlier.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," it said.

Press release on Indias reaction over the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistans association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed. https://t.co/tkrMPmcpNm  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) December 30, 2017

A controversy erupted after Palestine Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali was clicked sharing a stage with Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Saeed at a gathering organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organisation of hardline right-wing groups.

The image of the two sharing the stage together was widely shared on the social media and it soon became viral.

Ambassador of Palestine to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali attends a large rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi - seen with JUD chief Hafiz Saeed pic.twitter.com/d8UXLFK8Mm  omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) December 29, 2017

According to a report in Pakistan's The Nation daily, the Rawalpindi central leadership of Difa-e-Pakistan-Council had announced a countrywide movement for the liberation of Kashmir and Palestine.

The report quoted Ali as saying that "with Pakistan's tremendous support to Palestine cause, we do not feel alone".

Saeed, who was freed from house arrest in November by a Pakistan court, carries a bounty of USD 10 million and has been declared a global terrorist by the United Nations.

Since his release, Saeed has made several anti-India and anti-US statements at various rallies across Pakistan, invoking Khulbhushan Jadhav and Kashmir.

All this comes after India voted with the rest of the world earlier in December in favour of an Arab resolution in the UN General Assembly rejecting US President Donald Trump's decision recognising Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

India had clarified that it stands for an independent Palestine.

(With Agency inputs)
The Congress said it supported the bill but wanted it to be scrutinised by the Standing Committee of Parliament, a demand that was rejected by the chair.

By Mail Today Bureau: The winter session of Parliament on its ninth day took up key bills in both Houses, including the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill approved in Lok Sabha. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha on Thursday by voice vote after rejecting a string of amendments moved by opposition members.

advertisement

The Congress said it supported the bill but wanted it to be scrutinised by the Standing Committee of Parliament, a demand that was rejected by the chair.

The Centre may now face a tough fight in getting the bill passed in the Rajya Sabha that is set to meet on Jan 2. It is expected that at least 122 members will vote against it and not all JD(U) MPs are likely to support it.

Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad dialled the Opposition MPs on Friday to turn up in large numbers to discuss the issue before the bill going to vote next week.

Sources said the Congress is likely to seek amendments to the bill in the Rajya Sabha, where the government is in a minority, and hence the Opposition's requests for changes are likely to be passed. The bill will have to be sent to a parliamentary committee for review and might not be passed in the winter session. Both houses will have to clear the bill for it to become law.

Consumer Affairs minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Friday asked members in the Rajya Sabha not to delay the approval of a proposed bill on consumer protection after one of them raised the issue of misleading advertisements.

Samajwadi Party MP Naresh Agrawal flagged the issue but Paswan maintained that the cabinet has approved a new bill. He appealed to other MPs not to refer it to the Standing Committee that will delay the approval process after it is introduced in the Parliament.

--- ENDS ---
JAMMU: In an effort to protect locals from Pakistani shelling and firing, India is building over 100 shell-proof underground bunkers along the Line of Control in Jammu's Rajouri district.

These bunkers will be constructed in the vulnerable villages in Sunderbani sector.

The development comes days after four soldiers including a Major were killed after Pakistan violated ceasefire on December 23, 2017.

Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, the District Development Commissioner (DDC) of Rajouri, directed the sub-divisional magistrate of Sunderbani to finalise the location to construct 100 bunkers along the Line of Control.

"The DDC directed SDM Sunderbani for finalisation of location for at least 100 bunkers along LoC in Sunderbani in consultation with elected representatives, locals and army representatives," an official spokesman told DNA.

Earlier, during a public meeting chaired by DDC at border village Meenka in Sunderbani near the Line of Control, locals had asked for safety measures.

The bunkers the double RCC slab and be covered with five feet of sand so that the shells do not penetrate inside.

Figures presented in the Lok Sabha revealed that Pakistan has violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir 771 times till December 10 this year, and 110 times along the International Border till November-end. Around 30 people including 14 army personnel, 12 civilians, and four BSF personnel were killed in these ceasefire violations this year.

Last year there were 449 incidents of ceasefire violations in which 13 civilians and 13 security personnel were killed and 83 civilians and 99 security personnel were injured. The truce between India and Pakistan along the International Border, the Line of Control and the Actual Ground Position Line in Siachen glacier came into force in November 2003.
Jammu: Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat on Saturday reviewed the operational preparedness of the force in Jammu and Kashmir and the prevailing security situation.

He also visited forward posts along the LoC and interacted with soldiers in Rajouri sector, where an Army Major and three jawans were killed by Pakistani troops on December 23, he said.

"The Chief of Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat, accompanied by the Northern Army Commander Lt Gen. D Anbu visited (Jammu-based) White Knight Corps to review the operational preparedness and the prevailing security situation," the spokesman said, as per PTI.

The Army Chief was briefed by General Officer Commanding, White Knight Corps, Lt Gen Saranjeet Singh, about preparedness in dealing with the emerging and dynamically changing security situation and the measures taken to thwart "misadventures by the inimical forces", he added.

General Bipin Rawat #COAS visited White Knight Corps to review the operational preparedness and prevailing security situation. He visited forward posts where he interacted with the soldiers and exhorted them to continue to remain vigilant and Ever Ready. pic.twitter.com/uqBvt138eb  ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 30, 2017

On December 28, 2017, the Pakistani troops had violated ceasefire twice in Poonch district of J&K as they resorted to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing from across the border, targeting forward posts and villages, an official had said.

He had added that the small arms firing from Pakistani side was reported for nearly three hours in the morning in three villages of Digwar sector, causing panic among the border residents.

The nearby Rajouri district had witnessed heavy exchange of firing between Indian and Pakistani Army after the latter initiated the firing in Noushera sector.

The latest violation of the ceasefire agreement from Pakistan came a few days after their troops opened fire on an Indian Army patrol, killing a Major and three soldiers in Keri sector of Rajouri district on December 23.

On December 24, 2017, Pakistani troops had also targeted forward posts and villages in Shahpur sector of Poonch district for nearly four hours but there was no report of any casualty.

The Indian troops had also killed three Pakistani soldiers and injured another in retaliatory action at Rukh Chakri sector in Rawlakot on December 25, 2017.

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a total of 881 ceasefire violations in 2017, highest in past seven years, along the LoC and the International Border (IB), resulting in the death of 34 people.

According to officials, Pakistan has violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir 771 times till December 10, and 110 times along the IB till November-end.

In these incidents of firing from across the border, 30 people - 14 Army personnel, 12 civilians and four BSF personnel - were killed.

The truce between India and Pakistan along the International Border, the Line of Control and the Actual Ground Position Line in Jammu and Kashmir came into force in November 2003.

(With PTI inputs)
LUCKNOW: In a shocking case, 51 girls were allegedly held hostage and sexually abused by the manager of a madrasa in Lucknow's Shahadatganj area. The girls were rescued on Friday by the police. The accused manager has also been arrested.

More than 125 girls study at the madrasa, said the police. Some girls filed a complaint against the manager for sexually harassing them.

At the time of the raids conducted by a joint team of Lucknow police, 51 girls were held hostage in the premises of the madrasa, all of whom were rescued.

According to reports, victims slipped pieces of paper mentioning their ordeal at neighbours' houses, who then took the matter to law enforcement agencies.

The police, after recording victims' statements, reported the matter to the Child Welfare Committee.

We took strict action, the moment we got the complaint. We took our team and went there for the raid. We found 51 students who were held hostage in the madrasa. The culprit is arrested and we are doing our investigation. He used to molest those students and also beat them, said Deepak Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Lucknow.

An FIR has been registered against the manager.

According to the family of a rescued victim, the madrasa manager would often beat the girls and forced them to dance.

We got a complaint that few students are allegedly held hostage in the madrasa. There were different complaints as well by the students. We took the issue seriously and with the joint team, we came here to raid. After the investigation, we found that the complaints were right. So we had lodged FIR. The accused has been arrested, the Vikas Tripathi, Superintendent of Police, West Uttar Pradesh.

An investigation has been launched in the matter.

With ANI inputs
Mumbai: The civic officials in Mumbai on Saturday demolished illegal structures at 314 sites and sealed seven hotels, a day after a blaze in an upscale pub that claimed 14 lives.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated an inspection drive of 624 restaurants, eateries and malls across the city and its suburbs and razed illegal and unauthorised structures.

The areas where the drive was carried out included Shivaji Park, Mulund, Dahisar, Malad, the Parsi Gymkhana near Marine Lines, Grant Road, Andheri and Ghatkopar.

"The BMC has sealed seven hotels and seized around 417 LPG cylinders during the action," the civic body said in a release.

Giving details of the inspection drive, BMC spokesperson Ram Dotonde said as many as 1,000 officials and employees of the civic body had hit the streets and become a part of the exercise.

"The unauthorised hotels and restaurants, not only in central Mumbai, but also those located in the distant suburbs, such as Malad and Mulund, are facing action," he said, PTI reported.

"There are 24 wards in Mumbai and each has three teams personally inspecting all the restaurants, pubs, food joints and eateries. Each team has 10 members, including officials from the health and administration departments and inspectors," Dotonde added.

Meanwhile, a senior police official said lookout notices were on Saturday issued against Hitesh Sanghvi and Jigar Sanghvi, the co-owners of '1 Above', the ill-fated Lower Parel pub where the fire took place. It was run by 'C Grade Hospitality'.

The police had on Friday booked the Sanghvi brothers, another co-owner Abhijeet Manka and others in connection with the case.

(With PTI inputs)
MUMBAI: A day after 14 people, including 11 women, died in a massive blaze that engulfed Mumbai's Kamala Mills Complex, police banned the use, sale and storage of flying lanterns in the city till January 22, 2018.

In an official statement, the Mumbai Police said that the lanterns may cause grave danger to human life, safety & injury to public property.

Earlier today, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished several illegal structures in Lower Parel area which did not have valid permits. The civic body had suspended five officers for dereliction of duty in connection with the massive blaze in the Kamala Mills compound.

On Thursday night, a fire was reported at around 12.30 am from a rooftop restaurant in The Kamla Trade House.

The fire quickly spread to another pub and a restaurant in the vicinity. Over 200 people on the premises were trapped in the fire that killed 14 and injured 23.

More than 12 fire tenders were rushed to fight the blaze which was brought under control around 6.30 am. Doctors claimed that most of the people died due to asphyxiation.
MUMBAI: A day after a massive fire in Kamala Mills Complex left 14 people dead, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has begun demolishing the illegal structures in the area. BMC officers were on Saturday seen demolishing structures which do not have valid permits in Lower Parel.

As per the plan, officials have been divided into two teams to demolish illegal buildings in other areas like Raghuvanshi Mills and Peninsula Bypass park too.

Photo: ZeeNews

The civic body had on Friday suspended five officers for dereliction of duty in connection with the massive blaze in the Kamala Mills compound.

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) demolition drive against illegal structures in #KamalaMills area of #Mumbai, a fire that broke out here late Thursday night, claimed 14 lives. pic.twitter.com/qODi4TGeae  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

BMC's demolition drive against illegal structures in #KamalaMills area of #Mumbai, a fire that broke out here late Thursday night, claimed 14 lives. pic.twitter.com/w71mc27yP8 December 30, 2017

There have been allegations that civic authorities turned a blind eye to the construction of irregular structures and did not pay attention to those violating fire safety norms in the compound.

An investigation is underway to ascertain whether flames during a fire stunt by a bartender at the Mumbai pub, burning coal used for hookah or a short circuit led to the tragedy claimed 14 lives.

The blaze had started after 12.30 am on Friday at the '1 Above' pub on the terrace of Trade House Building in Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel, a commercial hub, resulting in collapse of its bamboo-propped canopy. The fire, which left several people injured, also engulfed Mojo's Bistro, a pub a storey below. Most of the 14 victims died of asphyxiation.

The police have booked Hratesh Sanghvi, Jigar Sanghvi and Abhijeet Manka of C Grade Hospitality, which manages the pub, along with others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others).

Among those killed was Khushbu Bansali, the woman who was celebrating her 29th birthday at '1 Above' pub in upscale Parel's Kamala Mill compound, and several of her friends.
Mumbai: The Anti-Terrorism Squad of Maharashtra on Saturday apprehended a former Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) member from the international airport here.

ATS officials said that Sarjeel Sheikh (34) was caught today morning based on a tip-off that some absconding former members of the SIMI were visiting India regularly.

Sheikh was an absconding accused in a case registered at Kurla police station relating to assault on a public servant as well as unlawful assembly, officials informed.

He has been handed over to Kurla police for further legal action, said officials.
MUMBAI: A day after the horrifying Kamala Mills incident, the city police on Saturday issued a lookout notice against all the accused.

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) launched a demolition drive against illegal structures near the Kamala Mills area.

On Thursday night, as many as 14 people including 11 women were killed in a massive fire that engulfed Kamala Mills complex. 23 others were also injured in the mishap.

The fire was reported around 12.30 am from a rooftop restaurant in The Kamla Trade House. It quickly spread to another pub and a restaurant in the vicinity. Over 200 people on the premises were trapped in the fire.

More than 12 fire tenders were rushed to fight the blaze which was brought under control around 6.30 am. Doctors claimed that most of the people died due to suffocation.

On Friday, taking stock of the situation, the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had ordered the BMC Commissioner to conduct an inquiry into the incident.

The BMC suspended five people in connection with the mishap. BMC said that they had sent a few notices to the joints at the Kamala Mills compound for violation of norms.

Those suspended were attached to the fire brigade and the G South Ward. The suspended officials include an assistant divisional fire officer, while the remaining four are from the ward office including engineers and health officials.
Mumbai: Cracking the whip against the defaulter pub owners here, the Mumbai Police on Saturday lodged three new FIRs against them and issued a lookout notice for the absconders, a day after a massive blaze in Kamala Mills Compound claimed the lives of at least 14 people and left 55 others injured.

The authorities also set up five teams to trace the owners of 1Above pub, Hitesh Sanghvi, his brother Jigar Sanghvi and partner Abhijit Manka, and Yug Pathak, a co-owner of The Mojos Bistro, who is the son of a retired IPS officer.

Simultaneously, police issued a "look-out notice" to prevent them from leaving the country as teams were sent to Pune and other cities in search of the absconders.

Meanwhile, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) today lodged an FIR against the owner of Kamala Mills, Ramesh Govani and others who are still not traceable.

The BMC complaint was lodged under the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act (MRTP), the reports said.

In an action-packed day, the civic officials demolished illegal structures at 314 sites and sealed seven hotels. The BMC initiated an inspection drive of 624 restaurants, eateries and malls across the city and its suburbs and razed illegal and unauthorised structures.

In what is billed as the single biggest demolitions in a day, several illegal constructions were razed at major locations within the Kamala Mills Compound and the adjacent Raghuvanshi Mills and Phoenix Mills complexes, and other places in the city and suburbs.

IANS quoted a senior BMC official as saying that today's mega-demolition drive covered around 200 locations across Mumbai, but largely concentrated in Lower Parel-Mahalaxmi areas.

The demolition squads targeted illegal extensions to premises, decorative arches and metal grilles inside or outside, double-triple or revolving doors, raised entrances/exits, ornamental fixtures and fittings, massive flower pots or plants, unauthorized temporary roofs, walls, partitions, any external/internal obstacles to free movements, etc which could prove to be a safety hazard in case of an emergency like Friday's fire.

The civic officials demolished illegal structures at 314 sites and sealed seven hotels. The BMC initiated an inspection drive of 624 restaurants, eateries and malls across the city and its suburbs and razed illegal and unauthorised structures.

The erstwhile 50-plus textile mills, which used to churn out lakhs of metres of cotton fabrics daily, went silent after the Great Bombay Textile strike of 1982.

Spread across the prime real estate of more than 500 acres in south-central Mumbai, they have now been transformed into glittering corporate, media, communications, glamour and eating hubs, besides some of the tallest and most expensive residential and commercial towers in the vicinity.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta announced setting up of 25 teams, which will inspect the implementation of safety norms at all hotels, restaurants, bars, pubs, malls in the sprawling Kamala Mills Compound and other surrounding areas in Lower Parel.

In fact, the preliminary inspection by the BMC on Friday detected an unauthorized partition wall and two rooms, besides an illegal plastic roof supported with bamboos, which were reduced to ashes in the early Friday morning blaze.

Amidst a public uproar with the fire incident figuring in Parliament on Friday, the BMC suspended five officials including a fire brigade officer, hours after the conflagration.

Mumbai Congress president Sanjay Nirupam, however, termed the ongoing demolitions as "a mere eyewash" in view of the public anger and demanded the suspension of the BMC commissioner for the lapses over which he is presiding.

The leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Assembly, Radhakrisha Vikhe-Patil, who demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, called for the removal of Mehta and holding him responsible for Friday's tragedy.

Incidentally, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena activist Mangesh Kashalkar, a social activist Ilyas Ejaz Khan and RTI activist Anil Galgali said they have lodged several complaints against the illegalities perpetrated in the commercial establishments in Lower Parel-Mahalaxmi area, but the BMC officials ignored them.

Mumbai Police went into a high-security mode on Saturday with stringent arrangements, catching all those violating traffic rules, carrying random checking of vehicles, setting up roadblocks, detecting inebriated drivers and other offences in preparation for the New Year's Eve celebrations on Sunday.

It also came to light that most of these pub owners were earlier served with several notices by the BMC for flouting safety norms and violation of building construction rulers, but they never paid any heed to them.

(With Agency inputs)
New Delhi: Superstar Salman Khan indeed knows how to keep his near and dear ones happy. The actor recently paid a visit to veteran actor Dharmendra on his farm and gave him a sweet surprise.

The 82-year-old actor shared the picture on Instagram, saying that Salman will always be a son to him and expressing how deeply touched he was by the visit.

Here's what Dharmendra Ji wrote on Instagram-

"Deeply touched by your surprise visit to the farm today... you will always be a son to me @beingsalmankhan."

A post shared by Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) on Dec 29, 2017 at 7:56am PST

Pinkvilla quotes Dharmendra from one of his interviews-

"Salman reminds me of myself. I was almost like him in my early days. I like his attitude and the way he leads his life. He has a great body too."



On the work front, Salman's latest release, Tiger Zinda Hai sent the cash registers ringing right from day one. The movie has collected more than 200 Crores and continues to mint money.

Tiger Zinda Hai also stars Katrina Kaif in pivotal role and is helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar.
The injured man was in stable condition.

2 dead, 1 injured in shooting at Southern California law firm (Associated Press)

By AP: A man walked into the Southern California law firm where he worked and shot two men Friday before turning the gun on himself, police said.

Police arrived to find the gunman and one victim dead and learned that the second victim had driven himself to a hospital, Long Beach police Sergeant Brad Johnson said at a news conference.

The injured man was in stable condition.

advertisement

Police didn't fire any shots, Johnson said. A SWAT team searched the rest of the building and no other victims were found.

The gunman's motive had not yet been determined, but authorities emphasized it was not a case of an active shooter targeting as many people as possible.

"This incident was workplace violence," Johnson said.

Video showed people running from a two-story office building shouting about a shooting inside.

The building in a well-to-do neighborhood in Long Beach is home to three law firms, but police did not reveal the office where the shooting occurred.

The site is about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles in Long Beach, a city of about 460,000 people.

WATCH | US pulls out of Paris Climate Accord; Trump says deal not tough on India, China

--- ENDS ---
Mumbai: Vidya Balan will be turning a year older on January 1 and the actor like always plans to ring in her birthday with her family.

The actor, who is fresh out of the success of her film 'Tumhari Sulu', however, plans to do something different this time.

"My birthday has always been very simple. It has always been a family affair. When I was single, I used to wake up my parents at 12 am and ask them to wish me. All my birthdays have been with them.

"Now that I am married, I celebrate it with Siddharth (Roy Kapur) and meet my parents over lunch. This year I am thinking I should do something," Vidya told PTI.

The actor is currently enjoying her time off with her dear ones and plans to sign a new project next year.

"I am celebrating the success of 'Tumhari Sulu' and will sign something only next year. I don't like switching from one project to another. I prefer to pick stories which interest me and characters which offer me a great scope as a performer," she said.
Sivakasi: Fireworks manufacturers across the country have decided to request the Tamil Nadu government to implead itself in a plea filed in the Supreme Court, seeking a nation-wide ban on crackers.

A resolution to this effect was adopted at a meeting of All India Federation of Fireworks Associations (AIFFA) here. Manufacturers from 20 states attended the meeting held on December 28.

Fireworks manufacturers have closed their manufacturing units indefinitely since December 26, demanding amendment to the Environment Protection Act and exempt their produce from its ambit.

The meeting also passed another resolution seeking expeditious hearing of the petition which seeks a series of steps to curb air pollution, including a ban on sale, possession and bursting of firecrackers across the country.

President of AIFFA, A Asaithambi said there was uncertainty as the case was pending in the apex court.

Fireworks manufacturers alleged that there was a "conspiracy to destroy" the Indian tradition and culture on the pretext of protecting the environment.

The pollution caused in New Delhi was due to vehicles and not fireworks, they claimed.

The apex court had on October 9 said that no firecrackers would be sold in the Delhi-NCR during Diwali this year while banning its sale till November 1.
Mumbai: Actor-presenter Rannvijay Singha will be the face and host of the upcoming season of "Troll Police", which will bring celebrities and their trolls face-to-face.

The objective of the show is to showcase how in today's day and age it is no big deal for one to log on to any social media platform and make obscene comments on a person's physical appearance or the kind of attire they opt for.

MTV has roped in investigators and a cyber team that traces these trolls and the faces behind the acts and Bollywood celebrities will then confront the faces behind these trolls.

Rannvijay will educate the youth, create awareness and highlight the issue of cyber bullying.

"As they say with great power comes great responsibility, I really feel that while internet has given us the power to voice our opinion, there are a lot of people who do not use this boon wisely," Rannvijay said in a statement.

Trolling is common nowadays and one of the major reasons for it is the "need for attention".

"But if one feels that one can hide his or her identity and use it as a platform to send inflammatory and off-topic messages and get away with it, it is absolutely wrong.

"It is a sign of cowardice. I hope 'Troll Police' enables a lot of people out there to voice their issues if they are being trolled, because trolling someone is a serious offence," he added.

"Troll Police" will premiere on MTV in January 2018.
Lucknow: In an unprecedented incident, a 30-year-old man jumped in front of the car of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in frustration over no action by the authorities against the illegal mining accused.

The man, Shyamji Mishra from Sonebhadra district, wanted to draw the UP Chief Minister's attention to illegal mining allegedly being patronised by BJP leaders.

The incident occurred when Adityanath was headed to Lok Bhawan for an event.

Mishra, who had disguised himself with the waiting media at the gate, tried to leap in front of the Chief Minister's car came arrived at the scene.

Mishra was, however, caught by the security personnel who later handed him over to the Hazratganj Police.

#WATCH Man jumped in front of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's convoy in #Lucknow, immediately removed by police. He was reportedly upset over no legal action against two BJP leaders, whom he had accused of illegal mining pic.twitter.com/bZFH0nReS9  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 30, 2017

The cars of Governor Ram Naik, Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma and visiting Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were right behind Adityanath`s vehicle when the incident happened.

Mishra later revealed that he had tried to meet the Chief Minister many times but was not able to.

Mishra said he wanted to tell Adityanath about the "illegal mining" being done in Sonebhadra "under the patronage of BJP`s Sardar legislator and BJP`s district president".

He alleged that BJP district president Ashok Kumar Mishra and Sardar legislator Bhupesh Chaubey were getting illegal mining of sand and concrete done through their men, and the police were silent.

Mishra revealed that he and his close aides had staged sit-in protests in Lucknow in the past but no one paid heed.

He also claimed to have concrete evidence against those involved in the illegal mining.

Mishra added that the permits, which cost Rs 2,200 each, were being sold in black for Rs 14,000 at the behest of the BJP leaders, while people are not getting enough construction material for their own houses.

(With IANS inputs)
A mall in northern China has installed a larger-than-life canine statue with more than a passing resemblance to US President Donald Trump to welcome the coming Year of the Dog.

The giant pooch towers above shoppers in Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi province, sporting a slick golden pompadour, angled brows and a red scarf with one index finger raised in a distinctly Trumpian manner.

As he was born in 1946, Trump, who has been accused of having more bark than bite, is a dog under the Chinese zodiac -- a trait which he shares with his predecessors George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

Those born in the Year of the Dog, according to Chinese astrology, are forthright and extremely loyal, in addition to having a strong sense of justice. But they can also be stubborn, irritable and easily angered.

Last year the mall erected a large Trump-like rooster, which inspired numerous replicas, including a giant inflatable one placed not far from the White House this summer.
A decade is a long span of time in someone's life - more so in the life of a 58-year-old man in Pakistan who spent the last nine years behind bars.

Pakistani newspaper Dawn on Saturday reported that the man was arrested on charges of blasphemy on September 29 of 2008 but on Friday, the Pakistani Supreme Court absolved him of the charges.

The man was previously accused of desecrating pages of the Holy Quran in a local mosque. A case under Section 295-B of the Pakistani Penal Code was registered and he was beaten up by the local panchayat before being handed over to police. A charge sheet was filed against him and a local sessions judge awarded life imprisonment.

Although the Lahore High Court had upheld the charges, the Supreme Court on Friday ruled that there was no evidence against the accused and freed him of his ordeal. The two-judge bench further observed that the man who had first reported the accused was, in fact, guilty of committing blasphemy.
At a time when the international community is increasingly looking at Pakistan with suspicion, the country's interior minister has said that any political chaos in the country could benefit terrorists.

Ahsan Iqbal on Friday visited a Methodist Church which had recently been attacked by terrorists. Here, he warned that political stability and religious unity were the main weapons in the fight against terrorism.

"Destabilising Pakistan would be beneficial for our enemies," Iqbal was quoted as saying by Dawn. "Our western border (already) is being used for terrorist activities in Pakistan and they (the enemies) want to weaken our country by fomenting terrorism. It is the not time for leg pulling because we have already suffered a lot. I invite all stakeholders and political forces to join hands with the government for development (of the country) and prosperity of our futures generation."

While he also blamed India for trying to destabilise Pakistan, Iqbal however - and quite conveniently - ignored that a terrorist like Hafiz Saeed has opened an office in Lahore for his political party. He also did not speak about repeated US warnings against home-grown terrorist outfits and on how Pakistan needs to increase efforts to contain - and possibly eliminate - them.

Instead, Iqbal chose to focus on cooperation with China and termed China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) a 'game-changer'. His comments come close on the heels of those made by foreign minister Khwaja Asif who had said Pakistan must focus on further developing relations with China and Russia, instead of relying on the US.
Moscow: Russia's main domestic security agency said it has arrested a man suspected of setting off an explosion at a supermarket in St Petersburg earlier this week.

The blast on Wednesday in a storage area for customers' bags injured 18 people.

The Federal Security Service, or FSB, announced the arrest in a statement carried by Russian news agencies but did not identify the suspect or provide any details about his motive.

They did say the suspect organized and carried out the attack on his own.

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the explosion, according to SITE, a group that monitors IS statements.

President Vladimir Putin has called the explosion a terror attack, adding that he ordered security agencies to kill terror suspects on the spot if they resist arrest.
Sanaa: At least 20 civilians were killed on Saturday when Saudi-led coalition fighter jets hit Yemen`s Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, witnesses and a medical source told Xinhua.

The warplanes struck three taxis full of travellers near a crowded restaurant in the city, killing a number of people, including women and children.

Dozens of clients inside the restaurant were also killed or injured, according to witnesses.

A medical source in the Hodeidah hospital told Xinhua by phone that at least 20 were killed and 10 others wounded.

The attack took place around noon at the al-Jarrahi district.

The attack was the latest in a series of airstrikes conducted by the US-backed Saudi-led coalition air force since the start of the war in Yemen three years ago.

Last Tuesday, the coalition`s warplanes targeted a crowded popular market in the southwestern province of Taiz, killing over 40 people, according to local media and witnesses.

A day earlier, a family of nine members, including five children, were killed when the coalition struck the family`s house five times in Yemen`s capital Sanaa, local residents and a Xinhua photographer at the scene witnessed.

The Saudi-led coalition has intervened in the Yemeni conflict since March 2015 to roll back the Houthi militants and support the internationally-recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, who was forced into exile by the Houthis.

The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, and displaced 3 million others, creating one of the world`s worst humanitarian crises.
Washington: The Trump administration may withhold $225 million in government aid to Pakistan over frustration with the country's handling of terror groups within its borders.



As per a The New York Times report, US was strongly considering whether to withhold the aid according to American officials. This is apparently in a show of dissatisfaction over Pakistans attitude in confronting the terrorist networks that operate on their soil.



A final decision is expected to come in the next few weeks, officials said. They did not detail what conditions Pakistan would have to meet to receive the aid.

Senior administration officials met in December 2017, to decide what to do about the money, the report further said.



Raising pressure on Pakistan, US President Donald Trump in August 2017, unveiled a new US strategy for the war in Afghanistan aimed at defeating the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network, an affiliated group that operates in Pakistan.



Trump at the time had said Pakistan "gives safe haven to agents of chaos, violence and terror" and vowed the administration would be tougher on the country.



The US President again singled out Pakistan for criticism when he announced his national security strategy in December 2017. "We make massive payments every year to Pakistan. They have to help," he had said.



Vice President Mike Pence had also reinforced that message in a visit to Afghanistan just before Christmas, telling cheering American troops that "President Trump has put Pakistan on notice".



In July 2017, Defence Secretary James Mattis had previously stalled a $50 million aid package to Pakistan by withholding a certification that Pakistan had done enough to fight the Haqqani Network.



The certification is required by Congress for the yearly military grant made to Pakistan, a nation classified as a major non-NATO US ally.



Pakistan "did not take substantial action against the Afghan Taliban or (the Haqqani Network) or substantially limit their ability to threaten US interests in Afghanistan," an annual State Department report on terrorism had stated.



A State Department official said Pakistan's actions will ultimately determine the course of "security assistance in the future".

(With IANS inputs)


Ministry of External Affairs is busy scheduling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Palestine in February while Palestinian envoy to Pakistan speaks at an anti-India rally sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed.

By Prabhash K Dutta: The Narendra Modi government's Palestine policy has been put to test by Palestinian envoy to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali at a time when India is taking efforts to balance its recent pro-Israel tilt.

India expressed unequivocal support to Palestine over the question of Jerusalem on December 21, when it voted for a resolution asking the Donald Trump administration of the US to withdraw its recognition to the ancient city as the capital of Israel.

advertisement

India's vote against the US was seen as its independent foreign policy of striking a balance between Israel and the Palestinian National Authority.

The stand taken by Modi government at the UNGA carried the risk of irking Donald Trump, who went berserk in his response to vote on the resolution.

MODI'S GOES PRO-PALESTINE

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Palestine in February. Reports suggest that the visit is being planned and external affairs ministry officials are in talks with their Palestinian counterparts.

This visit may take place around the World Government Summit in UAE, where India has been invited as a guest country. PM Modi is scheduled to be in UAE for the meet scheduled for February 11-13.

The Palestinian leg of Modi's visit will be part of prime minister's west Asia tour next year. The visit is being planned to assert India's "balanced" policy towards Israel and Palestine.

Modi's Palestine visit would follow his trip to Israel in May this year and reciprocal tour by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's India visit in mid-January, 2018. He will not be visiting Israel when he tours Palestine in February.

AND, PALESTINIAN RESPONSE

But, Narendra Modi's pro-Palestine gestures seem to have no bearing on the Palestinian National Authority. Barely a week after India stood solid with Palestine, the Palestinian envoy to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali attended an anti-India anti-US rally of designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Hafiz Saeed is the mastermind of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks of 2008 when 166 people were killed by 10 Pakistani gunmen, who entered the commercial capital of India via sea and created mayhem for four days. Later, the US declared a bounty of USD 1 crore on Hafiz Saeed's head.

Walid Abu Ali attended the Friday rally organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, which an umbrella organisation for hardline anti-India anti-US Islamic groups in Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawa is party to this anti-India campaign. India has expressed anguish over the development.

Palestinian envoy to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali with 26/11 mastermindd Hafiz Saeed at Rawalpindi rally. (Photo: @SirJadeja)

The anti-India rally was held at the Liaqat Bagh - former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated here in December, 2007 - and Hafiz Saeed spewed venom against India calling for upping intensity of jihad in Kashmir Valley.

advertisement

Palestinian envoy Walid Abu Ali was on the stage signaling Palestine's support to a radical group that sponsors terrorism. Ali's presence at the Rawalpindi rally of Hafiz Saeed follows his meeting with Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa early this month.

ALSO WATCH | Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed to contest 2018 Pakistan general election

--- ENDS ---
December 27, 2017

After months of verbal clashes in Iran between former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and judiciary chief Sadegh Amoli Larijani, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has given a speech harshly criticizing Ahmadinejad.

In recent months, Ahmadinejad and conservative Amoli Larijani have been accusing each other of various things. Ahmadinejad has indirectly alleged that the daughter of Larijani is spying for foreign intelligence services. He has also been releasing videos calling for Amoli Larijani's resignation.

It should be noted that following Khameneis public advice to Ahmadinejad not to run in the May 2017 presidential election, he defied it and decided to register as a candidate anyway. He was ultimately disqualified by the Guardian Council, which is tasked with vetting candidates. After this incident, tensions between the former president and the Iranian political establishment gradually rose.

In a meeting with members of the Council of Coordination on Islamic Propagation on Dec. 27, Khamenei addressed Ahmadinejad indirectly, saying, Those who had all the countrys facilities under their control and those who had the countries management facilities under their control arent entitled to play the role of opposition and talk against the country; rather, they should be responsive [now].

He added, Besides their services [to the country], there has been damage [done to the country by them]; [they should be thanked for their] services, and the damages should be criticized fairly, responsibly and wisely. [Although] the criticism shouldnt be done with cursing and slandering. Criticizing and accepting criticism is necessary, but slandering and [unfair attacks] are forbidden.

Referring to Ahmadinejads recent harsh criticisms against the judiciary and its chief, the Iranian leader continued, It is not considered an art if a person repeatedly slanders and attacks various entities and organizations, because every child can throw a rock at a window to break it. The art is to take God into account and speak logically, and [to] avoid speaking for personal [interests] and attaining power  because God will question humans for every word [they utter].

Khamenei continued, [One who] pretends to be revolutionary is not [necessarily] a revolutionary. Being a revolutionary is hard work, because it requires a man to be committed and pious, and it is not possible that a person [can govern] the country for a decade and in the next decade turn into an opponent of the country.

Khamenei spoke about the mounting hostility between Tehran and Washington. Our main enemy, the US regime, rules one of the most corrupt and most oppressive countries. It supports terrorists. According to reports, it's still supporting Daesh [Islamic State] and others like them. The US government supports the cruel Saudi king in his crimes against Yemen, and it supports the Zionist regime in its crimes against Palestine.

He added, [Ronald] Reagan was both wiser and more powerful than [Donald] Trump. Reagans administration took measures against Iran; they shot down one of our passenger aircraft. But where is Reagan, and how powerful is the Islamic Republic now? Khamenei said.

He added, The US government is trying to divide Iran. It is also profiting from the help of some wealthy states in our region. They must know that we will advance, powerfully, with divine favor, just as we did when we defeated them in our region. Just as we rubbed their noses into the dirt, we will go forward with great power. With divine permission, we will disappoint the United States [and its ambitions] in all arenas.
PLEASE NOTE!

Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate!

All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited!

(One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!)
The Art of Christmas: New Mexico Style

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!)
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian delivered opening remarks during the reception held at the MFA Armenia on the occasion of the New Year and Christmas holidays. President Serzh Sargsyan and Ambassadors accredited in Armenia also attended the event. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Ministry, FM Nalbandian said in his speech,

Honourable Mr. President,

Ambassadors,

Dear colleagues and friends,

This year again the President of Armenia has honoured us with his high presence to celebrate together the upcoming New Year. The Ambassadors accredited to Armenia have also joined us.

I am confident that today are also with us the thoughts of the diplomats of the Republic of Armenia who serve overseas to their country with great dedication.

Not only in Armenia, but in many countries of the world there is a tradition to celebrate the New Years Eve among friends. Today we are gathered here with friends who are also united by the joint efforts to further strengthen Armenias friendly bonds in bilateral and multilateral relations.

During the passing year we have filled together many new pages in our foreign relations. In 2017 we marked the first quarter of a century of establishment of diplomatic relations of the newly independent Armenia with a number of countries and its membership to the international organizations.

Is this a long period or short? It is indeed short if we consider the millenia-old history of our nation. However, those were unique twenty-five years, where due to the exerted great efforts and establishment of friendly relations with numerous countries in different continents, Armenia stands today in the international arena as a reliable partner.

Every and each New Year of these twenty-five years was a unique test to summarize what has been accomplished, to look forward and outline the future steps. The 2018 will be marked with a number of important jubilees in Armenia, as well as will be full of unprecedented events and diplomatic events.

Let the coming year be a year of peace, success and achievements for you, Mr. President, for our country and nation, for all of us.

Now with great pleasure I pass the floor to the Honorable President of the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Serzh Sargsyan.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. The Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) positively assesses the passing political year, RPA spokesperson, Vice President of the National Assembly of Armenia Eduard Sharmazanov told the reporters after the Executive Body meeting of the party. First, we held very positive parliamentary elections, that deserved exclusively positive feedback from the international organizations and international observer missions. Moreover, we have stable political situation, which is one of the most important factors for both economic growth and for development in general, ARMENPRESS reports Sharmazanov saying.

He added that the Republic of Armenia pursues a path of clear democratization. The signing of the agreement between Armenia and the EU on November 24 documents this, Sharmazanov said, adding that in 2017 Armenia also managed to take serious steps for strengthening its security. We managed to ensure some positive move both in the direction of Artsakh problem and the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide, the Vice President of the National Assembly said.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 29, ARMENPRESS. Black ice is formed on some parts of Sotk-Karvachar road and Vardenyats Pass by 20:00, December 29, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Armenia. The Ministry urges drivers to use only winter tires.

The Emergency Situations Department of the Ministry of Interior of Georgia informs that Stepantsminda-Lars highway is open for passenger cars and buses. Its closed for heavy trucks.

Co-operation of the operative headquarters of the general department of the Republic of Northern Ossetia of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation and operative groups was organized together with local governmental bodies and other operative services to ensure the people's vital activities on the spot.

There are 2 heating points on the Upper Lars checkpoint, a room for mother and baby care is being prepared.

Public awareness events are organized including events through radio broadcasting.

The border checkpoint is not yet operating normally.

According to the information received from the CMC of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the North Ossetia of the RF 610 trucks are massed at the Russian part.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. Speaker of Parliament Ara Babloyan released a statement on the upcoming holidays, the Parliaments Press Office said.

Dear fellow citizens, please accept my sincere congratulations and best wishes for New Year and Christmas, Babloyan said in the address.

It is up to us what valuable things we will create now for the generations of tomorrow, he said further in the statement.

Mentioning that 2018 will mark the 100th anniversary of the first Republic of Armenia, and the 2800th anniversary of Yerevan, as well as the 30th anniversary of the Artsakh Movement, Babloyan once more congratulated the people of Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora, wishing health, peace and welfare.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 29, ARMENPRESS. President Serzh Sargsyan visited today the Yerablur military pantheon in the Armenian capital Yerevan, paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the country, the Presidents Office said.

Catholicos Garegin II and top officials of the country accompanied the president during the visit.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. Ahead of New Year and Christmas holidays, First Lady Rita Sargsyan visited the child patients of the Yolyan Hematology Center.

The children had prepared a New Year performance for the First Lady, which included singing, dancing. Following the performance, the children decorated the Christmas Tree, and made a New Year wish.

10 year old Arpine says she dreams that the sad and long days in the hospital pass as joyful as the New Year holidays. With this dream in mind, Arpine decorated the Christmas Tree.

The First Lady is the little girls best friend, who always makes her wishes come true. Arpine wanted a two-storey bed, which the First Lady was happy to give as a New Year gift.

Arpine was the most seriously ill patient of the center. She was lucky that the Russian Healthcare Minister visited Armenia, who is my good friend, and since the hematology center was still under renovation, I asked him: a day will come and we too will be able to save the life of a little citizen of Russia, but today we need your help, he listened and said he is ready to help, and invited Arpine to Moscow, Rita Sargsyan said.

Arpine is recovering after two serious surgeries.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. Turkey is trying to cover up its inability under the veil of preconditions of signing the Armenian-Turkish protocols, Armenian FM said in an interview.

This is the reality. If during these last eight years, everyone, the international community was saying that the ball is in Turkeys court, now we can say the ball is in Turkeys goals, he said.

Speaking about President Sargsyans statement at the UN General Assembly that Armenia will go into April 2018 without the protocols, Nalbandian said: I wouldnt say that the President made a harsh statement in the UN General Assembly. It was a statement stemming from reality, because for the first time in its new history, Turkey faced a sovereign and firmly standing Armenia. It was Turkey, not our country, that refused to implement the agreements reached with Armenia and the commitments which Turkey assumed before the international community. Armenia remained at its heights, because it was able to advance the process it had initiated to the end. While Turkey, which has regional or even greater aspirations, didnt find strength to rise above the complexes, couldnt stand above its prejudices in tangled complexes.

According to Nalbandian, with the signing of the protocols, Armenia, certainly, had success, if not in terms of settling the Armenian-Tukrish relations, but perhaps if the Turkish side will be able to move truly without pre-conditions and be willing for equal to equal negotiations, like these negotiations happened, because for the first time in history, Turkey wasnt forcing Armenia anything, it was rather Armenia that proposed in terms of the basis for talks.

Turkey was conducting these talks based on our proposals, it signed these protocols at the presence of foreign ministers of numerous countries  Russia, US, France, Switzerland, representatives of EU and European Council, hundreds of reporters, but started to step back the next day. Armenia remained at its height and this also added trust for us, our reputation before the international community. And what did Turkey achieve? If Turkey isnt able to respect an agreement, agreements signed by itself, then what kind of trust can there be for this country, not only in terms of the Armenian-Turkish relations. Turns out, Turkey is unable to listen and comprehend what the international community is saying, he said.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan released a statement ahead of New Year and Christmas holidays, the governments press service said.

Dear Compatriots,

I have the honor and the opportunity to address you with New Year and Christmas congratulations. May your families be blessed with much happiness, homely warmth, love and solidarity in the New Year!

As usual, we summarize the outgoing year in the run-up to the New Year. The annual economic performance will be better than we expected in 2016, and positively different from the indicators of other countries in the region. To cope with all the problems facing the country, we must work hard and ensure sustainable growth every year.

No one will develop and build the country for us.

Armenia is to be a logical and prosperous country, optimistic and confident about the future. We need an atmosphere of tolerance in the country; mutual respect and consolidation around the goal of developing the country.

Every one of us can take a share in that nationwide drive for consolidation. Anyone, who protects the country and works hard, studies, wakes up early and is thoughtful of his surroundings and the country, as a whole, should feel wanted by his fellow countrymen.

We can develop our country together and, as a result, have a powerful, equitable, well-developed and prosperous Armenia strong with ever-growing and happy population.

Dear Compatriots,

On this festive days, I suggest that you fill up your homes with affection and care, embrace your parents, grandparents, children and grandchildren, exchange kind remarks, rejoice, forgive ... Join your family members, relatives and friends in a bid to get rid of your everyday concerns and stock up on a positive supply of energy for the coming year.

Be assured that we are going to have an awesome and wonderful country.

Happy New Year and Merry Christmas, the PM said in the statement.
Mikhail Bopposov created an enormous poop snake  not the predictable result of holiday overeating, but a menacing 9-foot sculpture of a coiled poop cobra, ready to strike. And he has created many others.

Mr Bopposov, who is a cattle farmer, likes to make art out of the dung from his animals to attract visitors during the long Siberian winter. It is not the first time that he has created art to mark the Chinese New Year.

This appears to be an old photo doing the festive rounds again; I can find copies from at least 2013. The photo is credited to Narrya Bopposova (with an 'a') and appears to have been published by RIA Novosti, a now-defunct Russian news agency. [via]
I chanced upon an ancient backup of my RSS feed subscriptions, a cold hard stone of data from my time at Wired in the mid-2000s. The last-modified date on the file is December 2007. I wiped my feeds upon coming to Boing Boing thenabouts: a fresh start and a new perspective.

What I found, over 212 mostly-defunct sites, is a time capsule of web culture from a bygone agealbeit one tailored to the professional purpose of cranking out blog posts about consumer electronics a decade ago. It's not a picture of a wonderful time before all the horrors of Facebook and Twitter set in. This place is not a place of honor. No highly-esteemed deed is commemorated here. But perhaps some of you might like a quick tour, all the same.

The "Main" folder, which contains 30 feeds, was the stuff I actually wanted (or needed) to read. This set would morph over time. I reckon it's easy to spot 2007's passing obsessions from the enduring interests.

 Arts and Letters Daily: a minimalist blog of links about smartypants subjects, a Drudge for those days when I sensed a third digit dimly glowing in my IQ. But for the death of founder Denis Dutton, it's exactly the same as it was in 2007! New items daily, but the RSS feed's dead.

 Boing Boing. Still around, I hear.

 Brass Goggles. A dead feed for a defunct steampunk blog (the last post was in 2013) though the forums seem well-stocked with new postings.

 The Consumerist. Dead feed, dead site. Founded in 2005 by Joel Johnson at Gawker, it was sold to Consumer Reports a few years later, lost its edge there, and was finally shuttered (or summarily executed) just a few weeks ago.

 Bibliodyssey. Quiescent. Updated until 2015 with wonderful public-domain book art scans and commentary. A twitter account and tumblr rolled on until just last year. There is a book to remember it by should the bits rot.

 jwz. Jamie Zawinski's startling and often hilariously bleak reflections on culture, the internet and working at Netscape during the dotcom boom. This was probably the first blog that led me to visit twice, to see if there was more. And there still is, almost daily.

 Proceedings of the Athanasius Kircher Society. Curios and weirdness emerging from the dust and foul fog of old books, forbidden history and the more speculative reaches of science. So dead the domain is squatted. Creator Josh Foer moved on to Atlas Obscura.

 The Tweney Review. Personal blog of my last supervisor at Wired, Dylan Tweney, now a communications executive. It's still going strong!

 Strange Maps. Dead feed, dead site, though it's still going as a category at Big Think. Similar projects proliferate now on social media; this was the wonderful original. There was a book.

 BLDGBLOG. Architecture blog, posting since 2004 with recent if rarer updates. A fine example of tasteful web brutalism, but I'm no longer a big fan of cement boxes and minimalism with a price tag.

 Dethroner. A men's self-care and fashion blog, founded by Joel Johnson, of the tweedy kind that became wildly and effortlessly successful not long after he gave up on it.

 MocoLoco. This long-running design blog morphed visually into a magazine in 2015. I have no idea why I liked it then, but indie photoblogs' golden age ended long ago and it's good to see some are thriving.

 SciFi Scanner. Long-dead AMC channel blog, very likely the work of one or two editors and likely lost to tidal corporate forces rather than any specific failure or event.

 Cult of Mac. Apple news site from another Wired News colleague of mine, Leander Kahney, and surely one of the longest-running at this point. Charlie Sorrel, who I hired at Wired to help me write the Gadget blog, still pens articles there.

 Ectoplasmosis. After Wired canned its bizarre, brilliant and unacceptably weird Table of Malcontents blog, its editor John Brownlee (who later joined Joel and I in editing Boing Boing Gadgets) and contributor Eliza Gauger founded Ectoplasmosis: the same thing but with no hysterical calls from Conde Nast wondering what the fuck is going on. It was glorious, too: a high-point of baroque indie blogging in the age before Facebook (and I made the original site design). Both editors later moved onto other projects (Magenta, Problem Glyphs); Gauger maintains the site's archives at tumblr. It was last updated in 2014.

 Penny Arcade. Then a webcomic; now a webcomic and a media and events empire.

 Paul Boutin. While working at Wired News, I'd heard a rumor that he was my supervisor. But I never spoke to him and only ever received a couple of odd emails, so I just got on with the job until Tweney was hired. His site and its feed are long-dead.

 Yanko Design. Classic blockquote chum for gadget bloggers.

 City Home News. A offbeat Pittburgh News blog, still online but lying fallow since 2009.

 Watchismo. Once a key site for wristwatch fans, Watchismo was folded into watches.com a few years ago. A couple of things were posted to the feed in 2017, but its time has obviously passed.

 Gizmodo. Much has changed, but it's still one of the best tech blogs.

 Engadget. Much has changed, but it's still one of the best tech blogs.

 Boing Boing Gadgets. Site's dead, though the feed is technically live as it redirects to our "gadgets" tag. Thousands of URLs there succumbed to bit-rot at some point, but we have plans to merge its database into Boing Boing's and revive them.

 Gear Factor. This was the gadget review column at Wired Magazine, separate from the gadget blog I edited because of the longtime corporate divorce between Wired's print and online divisions. This separation had just been resolved at the time I began working there, and the two "sides"  literally facing offices in the same building  were slowly being integrated. The feed's dead, but with an obvious successor, Gear.

 The Secret Diary of Steve Jobs. Required reading at the time, and very much a thing of its time. Now vaguely repulsive.

 i09. This brilliant sci-fi and culture blog deserved more than to end up a tag at Gizmodo.

 Science Daily: bland but exhaustive torrent of research news, still cranking along.

The "Essentials" Folder was material I wanted to stay on top of, but with work clearly in mind: the background material for systematically belching out content at a particular point in 2007.

 Still alive are The Register, Slashdot, Ars Technica, UMPC Portal (the tiny laptop beat!), PC Watch, Techblog, TechCrunch, UberGizmo, Coolest Gadgets, EFF Breaking News, Retro Thing, CNET Reviews, New Scientist, CNET Crave, and MAKE Magazine.

 Dead or quiescent: GigaOm (at least for news), Digg/Apple, Akihabara News, Tokyomango, Inside Comcast, Linux Devices (Update: reincarnated at linuxgizmos.com), and Uneasy Silence.

Of the 23 feeds in the "press releases" folder, 17 are dead. Most of the RSS no-shows are for companies like AMD and Intel, however, who surely still offer feeds at new addresses. Feeds for Palm, Nokia and pre-Dell Alienware are genuine dodos. These were interesting enough companies, 10 years ago.

PR Newswire functions as a veneering service so anyone can pretend to have a big PR department, but it is (was?) also legitimately used by the big players as a platform so I monitored the feeds there. They're still populated, but duplicate one another, and it's all complete garbage now. (It was mostly garbage then.)

My "Gadgets and Tech" folder contained the army of late-2000s blogs capitalizing on the success of Gizmodo, Boing Boing, TechCrunch, et al. Back in the day, these were mostly one (or two) young white men furiously extruding commentary on (or snarky rewrites of) press releases, with lots of duplication and an inchoate but seriously-honored unspoken language of mutual respect and first-mover credit. Those sites that survived oftentimes moved to listicles and such: notionally superior and more original content and certainly more sharable on Facebook, but unreadably boring. However, a few old-timey gadget bloggers are still cranking 'em out' in web 1.5 style. And a few were so specialized they actually had readers who loved them.

Still alive: DailyTech, technabob, CdrInfo.com, EverythingUSB, Extremetech, GearFuse, Gizmag, Gizmodiva, Hacked Gadgets, How to Spot A Psychopath/Dans' Data, MobileBurn, NewLaunches, OhGizmo!, ShinyShiny, Stuff.tv, TechDigest, TechDirt, Boy Genius Report, The Red Ferret Journal, Trusted Reviews, Xataca, DigiTimes, MedGadget, Geekologie, Tom's Hardware, Trendhunter, Japan Today, Digital Trends, All About Symbian (Yes, Symbian!), textually, cellular-news, TreeHugger, dezeen.

Dead: jkkmobile.com, Business Week Online, About PC (why), Afrigadget (unique blog about inventors in Africa, still active on FaceBook), DefenseTech, FosFor (died 2013), Gearlog, Mobile-Review.com (but apparently reborn as a Russian language tech blog!), Robot's Dreams, The Gadgets Weblog, Wireless Watch Japan, Accelerating Future, Techopolis, Mobile Magazine, eHome Upgrade, camcorderinfo.com (Update: it became http://Reviewed.com), Digital Home Thoughts (farewell), WiFi Network News (farewell), Salon: Machinist, Near Future Lab, BotJunkie (twitter), and CNN Gizmos.

I followed 18 categories at Free Patents Online, and the site's still alive, though the RSS feeds haven't had any new items since 2016.

In the "news" folder, my picks were fairly standard stuff: BBC, CNET, digg/technology, PC World, Reuters, International Herald Tribune, and a bunch of Yahoo News feeds. The Digg feed's dead; they died and were reborn.

The "Wired" feed folder comprised all the Wired News blogs of the mid-2000s. All are dead. 27B Stroke 6, Autopia, Danger Room, Epicenter, Gadget Lab, Game|Life, Geekdad, Listening Post, Monkey Bites, Table of Malcontents, Underwire, Wired Science.

These were each basically one writer or two and were generally folded into the established mazagine-side arrangements as the Age of Everyone Emulating Gawker came to an end. The feed for former EIC Chris Anderson's personal blog survives, but hasn't been updated since his era. Still going strong is Bruce Sterling's Beyond the Beyond, albeit rigged as a CMS tag rather than a bona fide site of its own.

Still alive from my 2007 "Science" folder are Bad Astronomy (Phil Plait), Bad Science (Ben Goldacre), Pharyngula (PZ Myers) New Urban Legends, NASA Breaking News, and The Panda's Thumb.

Finally, there's a dedicated "iPhone" folder. This was not just the hottest toy of 2007. It was all that was holy in consumer electronics for half a decade. Gadget blogging never really had a golden age, but the iPhone ended any pretense that there were numerous horses in a race of equal potential. Apple won.

Still alive are 9 to 5 Mac, MacRumors, MacSlash, AppleInsider and Daring Fireball. Dead are TUAW, iPhoneCentral, and the iPhone Dev Wiki.

Of all the sites listed here, I couldn't now be paid but to read a few. So long, 2007.


The web blew up at the same time as the Reagan/Clinton/Bush financial bombs were detonating, leading to a huge private equity bubble in which super-wealthy Americans used debt financing and other forms of financial engineering to buy out successful companies, then hollowed them out, selling off their real-estate and plant, loading them up with debt, and raiding their reserve funds.



This meant that when the internet came along and started to challenge their markets, these incumbent firms were offering inferior products and had no money and no ability to borrow in order to pursue experiments to adapt to the changing market. These century-old companies had weathered many transitions in their history  the internet's insurmountable challenges were as much the fault of debt-loading as they were anything inherent to the net.





So retail giants fell and continued to fall, and newspapers had no wiggle room to spare.

A new analysis in the Financial Times found that the majority of companies that were acquired in leveraged hedge-fund buyouts "have either defaulted, gone bankrupt or are in distress."





The stories of these firms are bananas: they're taken private, then put through IPOs, then taken private again, then thrown at the public markets again. At each turn, the fund managers and at least some of their investors take home giant paychecks  and the companies' fortunes get worse and worse.

The internet was always going to challenge these businesses, but they went up against the net having been cruelly flensed of their assets, reserves, and will to live.



"We are at historic highs [for distress], and we are not even in a recession," says Charlie O'Shea, retail analyst at Moody's. "If you're a CAA rated retailer [a deep-junk rating by Moody's], you have no flexibility at all. If you're highly leveraged with a product mix that goes head to head against Walmart and Amazon, and you are looking to refinance right now, what reception do you think you're going to get? It's tough out there." Mr O'Shea says he is looking to the first quarter of 2018 to see which "shoes are going to drop next". Neiman Marcus, the luxury department store that owns Bergdorf Goodman, is also on his radar. The Texas-based company was one of many buyout deals struck at the top-of-the-market. Neiman was taken private by TPG Capital and Warburg Pincus for $5.1bn in 2005, and eight years later was sold to private equity firm Ares Management and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board for $6bn.



US retail's turbulent relationship with private equity [Eric Platt and Anna Nicolaou/FT]
The early days of the Chinese national internet strategy were dominated by the 50-Cent Army, so-called because they were reputed to be paid 0.5 RMB for ever patriotic message they posted to social media; but as the volume of quackspeak astroturfing rose, the army's composition changed to patriotic government employees putting in extra time off the clock to support their country.

Today, the 50-Cent Army has been replaced by the "bring-your-own-rations wumao" (50-cents), or the "little pinks" (named for the color scheme on the message boards where the patriotic troll runs are planned).





The Little Pinks coordinate massive, alt-right-style meme wars with graphics supplied by professional design firms and state agencies; they target perceived threats to China, including public figures like Lady Gaga, who drew their ire for meeting with the Dalai Lama; as well as political leaders in Taiwan and Hong Kong who advocate for independence from China.

One popular meme is a series of cartoons called "That Year, That Rabbit, Those Things" in which a rabbit that represents China is picked on by American eagles and other national symbols. University of Technology Sydney media professor Wanning Sun calls this "indoctritainment."

A study from Merics, a Berlin think tank, found that membership in the little pinks was correlated with dissatisfaction with "their personal economic situation," something that chimes with popular analyses of Brexit and Trump voters, and which bears out Piketty's hypothesis that inequality is intrinsically destabilizing.



The most irreverent little pinks belong to the "Emperor's Board", an online forum followed by 29m people, where "crusades" are co-ordinated. China's troll army also organises via private groups on Facebook  which is blocked for the general public. The most popular of these has 40,000 members, who must express their support for the party's "One China" policy and declare they are Chinese before joining. Their targets are varied, from Taiwan's pro-independence president to international airlines accused of mistreating Chinese customers. Lady Gaga's Instagram account was targeted last year after she met the Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader whom Beijing denounces as a separatist. Attacks, though usually spontaneous, are meticulously organised in reaction to perceived slights against China. The trolls share tips on how to access Facebook, Twitter and other foreign sites blocked by Chinese censors.



China's Communist party raises army of nationalist trolls [Yuan Yang/FT]

(via Naked Capitalism)
Iranian president Hassan Rouhani campaigned for re-election last year on a reform platform, and in the wake of his successful campaign, the police in the Iranian capital of Tehran have notified women that failures to adhere to the country's brutal religious dress-code will be treated as civil offenses and punished with fines, not jail sentences.

However, hardliners still control the country's judiciary, so there's no guarantees  and women outside the capital are still subject to strict punishments.



"Those who do not observe the Islamic dress code will no longer be taken to detention centers, nor will judicial cases be filed against them." Tehran police chief Gen. Hossein Rahimi was quoted as saying by the reformist daily Sharq. The semi-official Tasnim news agency said violators will instead be made to attend classes given by police. It said repeat offenders could still be subject to legal action, and the dress code remains in place outside the capital.

Tehran police: No more arrests for flouting dress code [Amir Vahdat/AP]





(via Naked Capitalism)





(Image: Khashayar Elyassi, CC-BY)
Business / Companies

by Staff Reporter

Four Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) employees have appeared in court accused of conniving to smuggle fake diamonds into the company's sorting house, replacing them with high quality diamonds thereby swindling the firm of half a million dollars.ZCDC diamond sorter Anesu Dhliwayo (34) on Thursday appeared before Harare magistrate Ms Rumbidzai Mugwagwa facing theft charges.He was remanded to Friday for bail consideration.His suspected accomplices, an internal security guard Tobias Mukundu, a diamond sorter Elphas Dhaka and a closed circuit television operator Stalin Munyanyi, have already appeared in court on same charges.Prosecuting, Mr Sebastian Mutizirwa opposed bail for Dhliwayo saying he is a flight risk."This case involves theft of about $500 000 diamonds from his employer who earns revenue for the Government. The accused bought a Toyota Wish with the proceeds from the crime. He led police to the recovery of the vehicle," said Mr Mutizirwa.
News / National

by Staff Reporter

The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has conferred 31 officers from the rank of Major to Lieutenant Colonels at a ceremony held at the Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in the capital.Guest of honour at the event Brigadier General Anselem Sanyatwe, Commander Presidential Guard said the appointment requires integrity and hard work in order to deal with the prevailing economic and political dispensation.The duties of the appointed Lieutenant Colonels will encompass the management of manpower and they were urged to develop as well as guide their subordinates so that they perform efficiently as expected.
News / National

by UPI

BANGKOK - The United Nations said it is working to assist a Zimbabwean family of eight who have been living in a Bangkok airport for months because they fear persecution in their home country.The family, which includes four children under the age of 11, traveled to Thailand in May for a visit, but are refusing to return to Zimbabwe now that their visas are expired. They requested refugee status in Thailand, but the country doesn't offer legal status for asylum seekers.The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees said Thursday it plans to provide assistance to the family, which has been living in Suvarnabhumi International Airport for nearly three months."The UNHCR has received the case and is working on providing a solution for them," Panupat Danpanich, assistant liaison officer at UNHCR Thailand, told The Bangkok Post.After visiting Thailand as tourists, the family attempted to fly out of the airport in October to Barcelona, Spain, by way of Kiev, Ukraine. Airport officials denied them boarding, though, because they didn't have visas for Spain, Thailand's immigration bureau spokesman, Col. Cherngron Rimphadee told BBC News.They tried again to leave Thailand on a flight through Kiev to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with plans to travel to another country. But they canceled the last leg of their trip, so they were sent back from Dubai to Bangkok. They have been living in the airport since.The family said they feared returning to Zimbabwe, which saw a military coup overthrow former President Robert Mugabe in November. Some described the overthrow as a "bloodless coup."Panupat said sending the family back to Zimbabwe, where the situation is considered "unsettling" by the United Nations, was not an option.Rimphadee told BBC News that the family has options other than staying at the airport."They could travel to other countries that are willing to take them," he said. "We also offered to relocate them to our holding centre where there is childcare. But they refused. They are happy to stay here."  UPI
News / National

by Staff Reporter

SIX foreigners arrested by the Immigration Department on allegations of staying in the country illegally have gone on a "hunger strike" at the Harare Central Remand Prison demanding their release or to be deported to their respective countries.Some of them accused immigration officials of demanding bribes to facilitate their release although their cases have not been heard in the courts. The detainees narrated their ordeal to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Deputy Commissioner-General Dr Alford Mashange Dube who yesterday visited them after they were admitted to the prison hospital. He reportedly promised to address their grievances."When they (immigration officials) first arrested me, they demanded $5 000 cash so that they would release me. I did not have enough cash since my wife had just passed on. I only had about $1 650 which I offered them and they took it, insisting they would come back for the balance," said Charles Oforma (47) from Nigeria who used to run a motor spares shop in Harare and has been in remand since 2015.Ayele Derilo from Ethiopia, who has been in custody for five years, alleged that when he was arrested in Mutare, the officials asked him if he had any cash. Because he did not have any cash, they arrested him, he alleged.The foreigners allege that they have stayed for too long in prison without their cases being heard. There are 109 foreigners currently detained after they were arrested without proper documentation by Immigration officials. In an interview, Deputy Comm-Gen Dube said the six went on hunger strike on December 20."This hunger strike started particularly with the prohibited immigrants who are housed at Harare Remand Prison. They are six  one from Nigeria, one from Ethiopia, two from Kenya, one from South Sudan and another one from South Africa. What I found out from them is that they had overstayed in remand prison as prohibited immigrants. The longest one has stayed for five years and that is the one from Ethiopia," he said."As ZPCS, we do not take them as prisoners or inmates because we have two types of inmates - that is the convicted and the non-convicted. As these prohibited immigrants come in here, we think they are being lodged for the purposes of their deportation," said Deputy Comm-Gen Dube.He said there was a limit on the number of days according to the Immigration Act and that the immigrants had overstayed. He said ZPCS was worried since some of them had been in prison for more than five years and did not have criminal records in the courts. Deputy Comm-Gen Dube said they were facing challenges given the number of prohibited immigrants in the prisoners."This is costly to the organisation in the sense that we must feed them on a daily basis, we need to cloth them on a daily basis, we need to look at their health aspect on a daily basis," he said.Deputy Comm-Gen Dube said they had engaged the Immigration Department who indicated that they did not have enough resources to deport the foreigners. The principal director of Immigration Mr Clemence Masango said; "They are not necessarily detained by Immigration, but I am not at liberty to disclose who the holding authority is or to go into details. Their cases are being attended to by the relevant authorities."
News / National

by Staff Reporter

MDC-T legislator Eddie Cross has told StarFM News that his party is disorganised and not prepared for elections.Cross said "it's like herding cats, people are running in every direction, it's almost as if there is no center calling shots anymore. That might be the fact that Morgan Tsvangirai is struggling with his health."He warned that if MDC "carries on like this they could be handing an election, which should belong to MDC, to Emmerson Mnangagwa."
Opinion / Columnist

Given the basic economic and financial principles governing the issuance and circulation of currency, one wonders at the fiscal acumen of the genius that introduced the quasi-currency we know as the bond currency. It is the history of currency that money as we know it, was introduced as a means of facilitating trade and breaking down wealth in the form of gold and, in modern times, to represent the mineral wealth and foreign currency reserves held by the central bank, whose task is to maintain sound fiscal policy and monitor currency value, or to a certain extent as a reflection of national economic performance.We are told that the value of our bond is derived from a loan facility and guarantees from certain financial institutions, true or false we don't know. The problems presented by this quasi-fiscal policy become apparent when juxtaposing the purpose of the currency and the practicalities on the ground. Firstly someone prints pieces of paper that have no backing of wealth or reflective of the national economic performance then calls it money(much like in the bearer check era) then insists it is equal in value to the Greenback. This would be hilarious if it didn't have such tragic consequences and is akin to a village head deciding that the leaves of the Muhacha tree within his compound have become the medium of exchange and equivalent to any one of the world's currencies or even the local currency.Compounded with the shortage of hard currency caused by our failure as a nation to craft policy that boosts productivity to earn the nation enough foreign currency to at least meet our import requirements and the irresponsible wanton issuance of treasury bills to cover government expense, we now see a flourishing illicit trade in currency to feed the voracious appetite for hard currency to fund imports and therefore create price instability in the markets. Whether legal or illegal this is happening and will continue to happen as long as there is profit to be made in the enterprise and there is nothing our government can do to stop this. If we recall that the bond when it hit the streets, it had already devalued and is continuing to do so and when going downhill we pick up speed. That is a given.The real problem is that when faced with problems our government for long now has chosen to solve the problems with patchwork that doesn't address the root cause of the malaise. Now we have a pair of trousers that has so many patches even the colour and texture of the original material has since been forgotten.As the People's Democratic Party along with our partners under the People's Rainbow Coalition whose presidential candidate is Dr. J. T. R. Mujuru, we believe that Zimbabwe is in need of policy overhaul that addresses the causes of our economic problems. The problems we are facing are entirely the result of bad government policies that up to now have been geared at benefitting a small elite under an elaborate patronage system, coupled with rampant corruption as that elite placed itself above the law and and moral culpability. Economically what needs to be done is to balance our balance of payments and fiscally we need to scrap the bond, cease foisting treasury bills upon financial institutions in lieu of cash settlements and back this up with policy that will encourage more productive activity aimed at earning foreign currency that should lead to ending the liquidity crisis. Further all programs and policies, especially the populist parcelling of freebies to gain political points, that have a negative impact on our economic growth should be stopped. The principle that 'if a man is hungry teach him how to fish . . . .' should guide government intervention to encourage our citizens to engage in productive activity that will grow our economy.So now we wonder, in the short-term, the interim or the long term, what benefits as a nation the stop-gap 'kiya kiya' measure of introducing the quasi-currency that is only usable in Zimbabwe has brought us or will bring us other than more grief. Even the money used to print it, if put to good use could improve the lives of citizens no end. It's always been about the economy and as long as there are no policies designed to grow the economy, we will continue with this merry-go-round.THE PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC PARTY!THE SOLUTION!TOGETHER WE CAN BUILD ZIMBABWE!THE PEOPLE'S RAINBOW COALITION!CHASVIKA CHITIMA CHERUSUNUNGUKO!ISITIMELA SENKULULEKO SESIFIKILE!THE FREEDOM TRAIN HAS ARRIVED!WE ARE IN IT TO WIN IT!Benjamin RukandaDeputy Secretary-GeneralThe People's Democratic Party.
Opinion / Columnist



Hike in Prices of Basic Commodities

Cabinet Appointments

Selective Application of the Law



Opposition in Zimbabwe

Harare City Council

Mugabe's Exit Package



It is very important to take a mirror and go through all events throughout the year and have a reflection on political and economic events before we have a shutdown of 2017. Before we come to the year-end I find it worthy to go through some of the critical areas affecting our nation as we go through rough patches of the economy. It is good for the nation to be updated of various areas of circumstances surrounding the economy and political affairs of this country. While we may have little celebration over change of leadership but we may have several grey areas which the president must clarify to the nation and at the same time, highlighting some critical areas which may need consultation before implementation. Whilst we have great appreciation of good start but implementation is very important and strategic.We wait to see the President putting a firm hand on the ground to deal with these unscrupulous criminals who are bent on destroying the image of our country. It is also very important to have a critical examination on the issue of productivity in our country. As a nation we are not producing anything sufficient to balance our economic tag and it is very difficult to balance our revenue consolidate fund and also revenue collection. Zimbabwe of the recent part it has not been performing well in terms of production. I would suggest that instead of the President having a round table with captains of industry and manufacturers why can't he also include academics and policy makers on the ground. Even opposition and economic think tanks are also important. We are on the ground and we have seen what is happening, solving economic issues is not one man band it needs collective effort. Hiking prices is a sign of disrespect to the leadership that was sworn in constitutionally and this should be condemned.Cabinet appointments do not reflect inclusiveness and I repeat something ought to be done and it's never too late to deal with such matters. For example women and youths were left out and no explanation was given to people by the President. The President must come out openly and be genuine to the nation and give substantive reasons why he left out women and youth representation in the cabinet. I was going through names of ministers, one of the guys I admire mostly is Ziyambi Ziyambi, and he meant business, quite young, eloquent and very neutral. His performance in terms of state duties he has done tremendously well. However there are some grey areas in some appointments which the President must take care of such as home affairs, labor, and youth's and sports. The president ought to do something. Finance portfolio partially he was not the right person but we may forgive him since he was working with Mugabe, we may want to see if it was Mugabe or it was him who had a problem. Remember the President talked about calling a spade a spade on the issue of corruption how come there are some people in the cabinet who were found wanting on some areas, and up to date nothing has happened.The President is moving with a good pace but at the moment people are raising eyebrows whether it was a factional fight between G40 and Lacoste. Most of the guys who have been arrested belonged to members of the G40 cabal and no Lacoste member has been arrested so far, and my question is that is this a genuine operation or it is a selective application of the law. We request the President to weed out all criminal elements in the Government then we can read from the same manuscript.Currently I'm sorry to say this; as far as I'm concerned we don't have an opposition in this country. I know people may label me but facts remains the same. A genuine opposition should be offering checks and balance in every move that Government makes. Right now Zanu PF is enjoying the monopoly because we have a sleeping opposition. If you look at the current crop of opposition leaders, one would wonder whether these cahoots were bought or not, they are never serious, they don't provide checks and balance, they are silent on serious matters of Governance. For example we have issues of appointments, they are silent, we have issues of corruption they are silent, we have issues of command agriculture they are silent, so one would then wonder whether they have joined Zanu PF or not. It is very healthy for every nation to have a stable opposition; it is not about acquiring state power but providing alternatives, checks and balances. Opposition's performance in 2018 is likely to cause serious defections. I don't the opposition performing well in 2018 unless they do something quickly. One major challenge we have in the opposition camp is that they don't want to be told the truth, come 2018 we are likely to have 2013 scenario where the opposition will simply cry foul from the terraces. Right now Madam Auxilia Mnagagwa is busy on the ground campaigning, meeting people whilst in the opposition they are busy fighting for political space. Zanu PF is on the ground, campaigning, talking to people in rural areas. As of late ZEC indicated that 80% of the people who registered are in rural areas and 20% are in urban areas. Instead of channeling resources in research and academic areas they are busy throwing stones at ZEC and Government.If you check very well for the past few weeks, most urban areas were receiving dirty water and it poses a risk to our society. What could be the problem? We need to be open minded on this issue. We have city fathers would are sleeping on duty. I think the electorate must decide on coming up with a new amendment to allow academics and people with technical expertise to run the affairs of all local Government authorities. Honestly let's have an introspective on the qualifications of city fathers. Some of them have good academic backgrounds, the mayor himself he has been in critical areas of governance, which I think I don't have problems with him, in fact he is one of the guys whom I have seen to be a mature person in terms of leadership but my problem is those who are part of the council. Most of the councilors don't have O level qualifications and how do you expect them to preside over budget issues when you don't even have a good and sound academic background? One the issue of service delivery the opposition might have problems in the forth coming elections. On the other part Zanu PF Government is the one in charge of the current affairs of this country, what have they done to improve the welfare of local authorities in Zimbabwe? Kasukuwere and Chombo were the most criminal persons in the local Government, amassing wealthy at the expense of the nation.The exit package gazzeted by President Mnangagwa on the 27th of December 2017 sparked a lot of outrage in many circles of society. I was going through the list this morning, one by one; the first issue is 20 staff members for what? Does Mugabe need such a huge number? 2 secretaries for what? I would suggest one is enough. 3 top range vehicles, for what. Consciously I don't Mugabe is still aware of things that he does, so this will open a lot of cans of corruption. I thought one vehicle would be enough to allow him to move from one place to another. Two domestic workers, I think that one is quite fair because he needs someone to take care of domestic duties. Two waiters that one is justified because there are some diplomats who may still want to pay a courtesy call on the former President. On the issue of the salary, the percentage was not mentioned, and this is not good for the nation, President Mnangagwa was supposed to have gazetted the salary in percentage. For example in Zambia Kaunda and Rupiah Banda gets 80% salary of the current seating President. But on this one it was mentioned as a salary and this is not fair to tax payer's money. On the part of surviving spouse I don't agree with that clause because remember Grace Mugabe looted farm equipment, land, farms and assets including our diamond proceeds and why would extend such a gratitude to someone who destroyed our nation to that extend? Finally does the constitution allow President Mnangagwa to gazette that exit package without allowing ratification process from the parliament through an act of parliament since this involves public funds through consolidated revenue fund? I think lawyers should come on this one and help, I would suggest this issue should be raised through the high court and allow the current President to be answerable on this one, because this was supposed to go through the parliament and senate. Finally Mnagagwa may be preparing for his exit as well.Tinashe Eric Muzamhindo writes in his personal capacity as the head of Southern Institute of Policy Analysis and Research  SIPAR TRUST, which is responsible for policy analysis and research. He is also an academic and researcher. He holds a BA, MA from Solusi University, and he also holds a Masters of Development Studies from University of Lusaka, Zambia. He is currently enrolled at University of KwaZulu Natal University in South Africa (PhD in Development Studies). He is also an advisor to many financial and political institutions within and outside Zimbabwe. He can be contacted at southerninstitutepar@gmail.com.
Opinion / Columnist

Written by Victor Sibanda better known as V. Vodloza.

The 21st December 2017 was a taster and a forerunner of what is to become for President Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. A handful but very vocal group of people from Matabeleland were demonstrating at the Zimbabwe embassy in Tshwane where Mnangagwa was having a business symposium with various captains of the industry.We agree with Mnangagwa when he says the voice of the people is the voice of God, if you ignore God's voice the end result is demolition and totally oblivion. The voice of God has spoken, the voice of the Mthwakazi people has spoken unless and until Mnangangwa does not view the people of Mthwakazi as human beings. Over the years the gukurahundi genocide has been ignored and at best suppressed. At this defining moment President Mnangagwa should tackle the issue of gukurahundi head on. Whether he is implicated on the genocide or not, he needs to genuinely engage the issue of the genocide in order to bring finality to genocide debacle. It is hoped that Mnangagwa heard the voice of the people of Mthwakazi loud and clear and the voice says gukurahundi genocide cannot be a closed chapter, cannot be a bygone which the president insinuates when he says let bygones be bygones. Gukurahundi is in our living memory, millions of people who were directly affected by the genocide are still alive. The traumatic wounds are still oozing with blood. We hope Mnangagwa will not squander the goodwill of the people which is currently prevailing.We are of course doubtful that the President will chart any new trajectory which will lead to healing of the people. The greatest mistake which he has done was to elevate the gukurahundi chief architects such as Perence Shiri and Chiwenga to dizzy heights in his government. This is a clear sign that he does not take the genocide seriously and he is not prepared to bring the genocide chapter to closure. If Mutswanga's utterances are anything to go by then it is clear that Mngangagwa means business and that business maybe can be another genocide. How can he let loose his dog of war in Mutswanga form dismiss gukurahundi, he says the country needs a break, a reprieve. A reprieve from what? Doesn't he know that any serious government which will unite the people the first thing it should do is to tackle the issue of the genocide without criminalising the victims.Even Mnangagwa himself has said let bygones be bygones, a clear indication of his intent. Gukurahundi genocide will never be a bygone unless and until justice is served.We feel that the govt of Mr Mugabe did not respect Mthwakazi people and we also think that the govt of President Mnangagwa does not care nor respect Mthwakazi people. As people of Matabeleland we have vowed to change all this come 2018. We need to force the hand of the govt to respect our dead whose white bones lie in shallow mass graves without the performance of any traditional rites to appease their souls and for them to rest in peace. We demand a Truth, Justice and Reparations Commission. It is nonsensical to criminalise the demand for compensation on one hand whilst on the other sweep the effects of the genocide under the carpet. We are aware that the physical genocide prevented development in Matabeleland, but the most dangerous genocide is the one which is currently going-on in the country whose aim is to annihilate the nation of Mthwakazi. We have seen cultural genocide in many guises, we have witnessed psychological genocide whereby many of our people have stopped believing in themselves and their strength as a people.On the 21st December in Tshwane President Mnangagwa was flamboyantly introduced by the creepy-crawley Chinamasa who showered Mnangagwa with all manner of accolades, narrating an illustrious career spanning decades and decades, however, he unwittingly skipped his involvement and the pivotal role he played in the savagery massacres of the Matabeles. This was not a mere oversight, if you look closely it is easy to see that the govt is employing a policy of ignoring the gukurahundi genocide and treating it as if it never happened. Is it not Mnangagwa who equated dissidents to cockroaches which needed DDT to wipe them from the face of the earth. From the recent released confidential documents in SA it has become clear how Mnangagwa collaborated with the apartheid government to cause problems for the Matabele. There is one nonsense which needs to be challenged, the government claimed that the dissidents were killing people, innocent people in Matabelelalnd at that time so it had to send the 5th Brigade to flush them out. If that was the case, how could dissidents have killed people who fed them? What did they stand to gain by killing the people? The other nonsense is that the dissidents killed the 6 tourists, the truth is look no further than the 5th Brigade. Dissidents had nothing to gain from killing the tourists but the government did as it sought and stood to gain international sympathy. The brutality which was meted on the innocent civilians is to be seen to be believed, the callous murder, gang rapes, mass beatings, forced incest, bayoneting of pregnant women, crushing of babies in mill-pounders, was just unbelievable and the govt is now forcing the people of Matabeleland to forget. Is there an insult bigger than this one? We won't forget and we won't forgive, if we are to forgive it will be on our terms.On the 21st December in Mnangagwa's conference I challenged Mr Chinamasa who was giving a glowing profile of Mnangagwa whilst totally omitting the gukurahundi genocide. The security bungled me out of the conference, a clear sign that noone wants to talk about the genocide.If the issue of gukurahundi is not resolved now, two things may happen in the future, that is, the victims of the genocide may seek to revenge and secondly, the perpetrators of the genocide may resort to killing more people in order to silence them.Mnangagwa really believes in his bygones rhetoric, remember he is the one who said that gukurahundi is a closed chapter. The perpetrator prescribing to the victim how to mourn loved ones, what a shame. Zimbabwe is not ready to break away from its past, this can only happen if the government honestly deals with the issue of the genocide.I remember how I also confronted Joyce Mujuru last year on the 16th September in Tshwane and asked her about the gukurahundi attrocities, and she said she knew nothing about gukurahundi.
Opinion / Columnist

There are rare moments in the middle of the pressures of daily life when we suddenly are struck by the feeling that everything before us is history, and that a new world is now being born. We experience the birth pangs of all that is young and new, and realize that this new world is replacing the old and sinking one, with all its peculiarities, tenseness and prejudice. If there are men who make history, if great historical developments are the product of individual personalities, then the riddle of our era is to be explained only by the grace of a brilliant human being. It is no cliche to say that everything we experience today and for which we expend our best energies would not be, or at least would be very different, were it not for one man who forged the path and showed the way, giving meaning, content, and direction to our age. We are experiencing the greatest miracle that history offers: a genius is building a new world.When is this more evident than today, as the entire Zimbabwean nation and countless millions beyond its borders send their thanks, their honor, their admiration, their deepest hopes and their unshakable faith in him and his historic mission, the President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa on his inauguration? They are the feelings that most deeply move each Zimbabwean above all. There will be in this hard year of economic quagmire no noisy popular festivals, no parades, no splendid public performances. But these feelings are expressed even more deeply and warmly by those who do their daily duty, be it by our best men in public offices men at the barracks or in manufacturing industries. The Zimbabwean people honors their new President by pledging redoubled efforts to support his work. Our love and honor for him give wings to our struggle and to our work for economic regeneration.Each of us knows this today. We gave no illusions as we fight to recover our long-lost prosperity. We all know that it is a process, that demands loyalty work and honesty. We know that its outcome will determine our national life. We know that it must be won by the whole people for the whole people, and that a Zimbabwean prosperity will mean that the country is firmly guarded on all sides and that its national existence is secured. That will give our people the possibility to live and work politically and economically.Our confidence rests on security. Our people do not know, and do not even want to know, what the President is planning and how he will gain them prosperity. They simply trust him. He will choose the right way, as he has always done. As he has dismantled the political weevils without peoples knowledge of his plans. Our people have no worries over their current problems, they believe him he that speaks less but acts swiftly in their interests. before the G40 cabal had put a final death nail to our political and economic life. President Emmerson disbanded their plans in days, destroying the whole evil that had taken our country captive, the Zimbabwean people were more pleased than surprised. They saw only renewed confirmation of their faith in the New Leader Our people know that if the nation is loyal, obedient and dutiful, and if each does his job honestly Zimbabwe is unbeatable and victory after victory will accompany us in all sectors.What enormous strength lies in this confidence! How childish and silly, to the contrary, are the repeated stupid efforts by MDC political merchants to shake this confidence, to bring the people in conflict with the gvt, to weaken the confidence of our people by lying and spreading rumors. Every Zimbabwean citizen today must know that we have only suffered when we succumbed to such a temptation.This hour we look back along the path we have followed since the day he took office, and forward to what is still shrouded in darkness, illuminated by the light of our faith. It is the path to final prosperity. We have never believed in it as firmly as we do today. Emmerson Mnangagwa leads us, and that is the best foundation of our confidence.When Facebook and twitter politicians from the MDC spoke recently about the outcome of his presidential term, they declared that Zimbabwe would be worse., they also declare that they will win elections just did not know how. We reply: Emmerson will win because he also knows how he will win. He has filled the nation with his spirit. It is tuned to his will. This time, they will survive the great test of faith that will decide their future, ending the 37 year series of Zimbabwe's mistakes and failures.A man who has created such things stands far above any words of praise. The nation can only bow in thankfulness before him. We all do that in this hour. We thank the fate that sent us the Crocodile in the midst of our deepest need. We, his supporters are grateful to fate that it gave us in our early years the strength and insight to recognize his greatness and to be with him from the beginning along his eventful way to victory and triumph. Who among us would chose to miss even one day of these last hard years, always filled with battle and work? Who among us does not think it his highest good fortune, indeed the real meaning and fulfillment of his life, to have been with him as he won the poison and hatred, and to be with him now as he is winning the great war for Zimbabwe's life and economy. We only must remain strong, faithful, brave and upright, striding with heads high toward the hour of our proudest triumph.The entire nation joins in this greeting, and in expressing its deepest and most profound thankfulness for him. Our soldiers bear his names on their lips, wherever they may stand or march. Our workers sing his name as they work. Our men and women in civil service, above all those in the diaspora who defend the nation's sovereignty they all greet him as their supreme commander.Our farmers and workers greet him as their President and our women thank him for fighting for the future of their children. The Zimbabwean youth gives him their strongest faith. He is ours. He has made this people what it is today. Where would we be if he had not come?We ask a gracious God to keep him healthy and to grant success to his work for the prosperity of our people. Then we need not fear the future. Then the Zimbabwean people can face the proudest period of their historical development.Believe Chikomo is a political writer who developed much interest in matters of governance
Despite urgent calls from governments and human rights monitors, two reporters who work for the international news agency Reuters remain in detention in Burma.

Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were arrested December 12 near the city of Yangon. They had been working on stories about the violence in northern Rahkhine State, from which, over the last four months, some 650,000 members of the Rohingya and other communities have fled to neighboring Bangladesh due to the atrocities committed by some in the Burmese security forces and others, that the United States has called ethnic cleansing.

On December 21, the United States imposed sanctions on Maung Maung Soe, the Burmese military commander who was in charge of the security operations in northern Rakhine State.

The two journalists detained by the government are reportedly facing charges under Article 3 of the colonial-era Official Secrets Act, which carry a penalty of up to 14 years in prison. The Burmese authorities have not been transparent in pursuing the charges.

Shortly after their arrest, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson called for the journalists to be released immediately. State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert has reiterated that call.

Countries around the world, including Germany, Norway, Sweden, Holland, and Canada, have made a similar demand. Australia has expressed concern and Bangladesh has denounced the arrests.

Many NGOs have also weighed in. Reporters Without Borders said there was no justification for arresting the journalists and the charges being considered were completely spurious. The Southeast Asian Press Alliance said the two journalists were only doing their jobs in trying to fill the void of information on the Rohingya conflict. Human Rights Watch condemned the arrests as an effort to silence media reporting on critical issues.

Speaking to reporters at the United Nations, Secretary of State Tillerson emphasized that a free press is vital to Burmas transition to a viable democracy.

We want Myanmars democracy to succeed, he said, using an alternative name for the country. We know it is a process that [its leaders] need to work through. This particular crisis is a real test of whether they are going to be able to affect a successful journey to democracy.
Nine years ago, Russian lawyer and tax accountant Sergei Magnitsky uncovered a 5.4 billion ruble [$230 million] tax fraud scheme while auditing the Russia-based Hermitage Fund. He also found that a number of Russian Interior Ministry officials were deeply involved. For exposing this fraud, Magnitsky was arrested by Russian authorities and subjected to organized physical and psychological pressures while detained.

On November 16, 2009, he died in a pre-trial detention center in Moscow. Initially, Russian officials said his death was caused by cramped conditions and failure to provide adequate healthcare, but they later changed their story. Investigations were initiated, but all those implicated were acquitted and the charges were dropped.

In 2012, the U.S. Congress passed the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2012, which provides for the sanctioning of persons determined to have been involved in the criminal conspiracy uncovered by Sergei Magnitsky. In addition, the Act provides for the sanctioning of individuals determined to be responsible for or to have profited from Magnitskys detention, abuse, and death. The Magnitsky Act also provides for the sanctioning of persons determined to be responsible for extrajudicial killings, torture, or other gross violations of internationally recognized human rights against individuals who seek to expose illegal activity by Russian officials.

On December 20, 2017, the U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, designated five individuals pursuant to the Magnitsky Act. Significantly, among those sanctioned are head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov and Captain in the Chechen Ministry of Internal Affairs Ayub Kataev, who are responsible for extrajudicial killings, or other gross human rights violations against activists working to expose illegal activity by Russian government officials or individuals seeking to obtain, exercise, defend, or promote their internationally recognized human rights and freedoms

Also sanctioned are Alexei Sheshenya, Yulia Mayorova and Andrei Pavlov, who were involved in the fraud scheme originally uncovered by Sergei Magnitsky.

This brings the number of individuals sanctioned under the Magnitsky Act to total of 49 since the legislation was enacted. Sanctioned persons may be ineligible to receive visas to the United States. Any property or interests in property of sanctioned persons within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and transactions by U.S. persons involving sanctioned persons are generally prohibited.

Treasury remains committed to holding accountable those involved in the Sergei Magnitsky affair, said OFAC Director John E. Smith. We will continue to use the Magnitsky Act to aggressively target gross violators of human rights in Russia, including individuals responsible for extrajudicial killings, torture, and other despicable acts.
The United States is assisting law enforcement in Senegal with a donation of critical, non-lethal law enforcement equipment and materiel to the countrys national police.

At a ceremony on December 20th at Senegals National Police Academy, U.S. Ambassador to Senegal Tulinabo Mushingi said the U.S. counts on Senegal as a crucial partner in the region, and the police as a vital bulwark to the multitude of threats and challenges facing both nations.

Terrorism remains a scourge that we must continue to fight, and this donation of equipment such as computers, projectors, night-vision goggles, crime scene kits, and protective equipment will provide additional support to bolster the national polices mission, said Ambassador Mushingi.

He noted that recently the Embassys Regional Security Office and the Department of States Bureau of Counterterrorism and Countering Violent Extremism wrapped up a training series implemented by the Bureau of Diplomatic Securitys Antiterrorism Assistance Program designed to better protect against and mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack on soft targets for the Senegalese Law Enforcement community and first responders, including the interagency Coordination of Counterterrorism Operations mechanism established by presidential decree last year (CICO).

Altogether, approximately 110 personnel have benefitted from these recent training events for a significant engagement between the U.S. and Senegal. The latest U.S. donation, worth nearly a half billion franc CFA (439,000,000 CFA or $739,000) is a significant contribution to the ongoing partnership.

Paraphrasing Senegals President Macky Sall from the Forum for Peace and Security, Ambassador Mushingi said the need for integrated solutions across the region was emphasized. Training and equipment are at the heart of this integrated solution and we are happy to provide this protective and didactic gear to the government of Senegal to seek these integrated solutions.

To this end, we are glad to bolster the police officers and especially all the first responders who we depend upon to act in the event of troubles or a deliberate attack, said Ambassador Mushingi.

To our friends in the National Police and other Senegalese security services: thank you for your assistance. We hope this equipment will help you with your mission.
Unrest in various cities in Iran continued Saturday evening. In many locations in Tehran protests took place against the Islamic Republic and the dire economic conditions in the country.

Video clips have circulated showing protests in Tehrans Towhid square where people were shouting, Death to Khamenei and Referendum, Referendum.

After midnight local time, it was not clear if protests were still continuing in Tehran, but a commander of Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, IRGC in Tehran claimed that control has been re-established in the capital. General Mohammad Kosari added that Basij forces have come to the assistance of police forces and individuals who are responsible for the unrest must answer to the people.

However, as night fell, there were reports of more unrest in more locations in the country, including Arak, Bandar Abbas, Kermanshah Dezful and Khorramabad.

Reports indicated that security forces fired on protesters in the town of Dorood in Lorestan province and people were wounded or killed..

Voice of America reporter Shahed Alawi told Radio Farda that he spoke with the families of two victims, killed by bullets fired by the security forces.

There are also reports that all or part of mobile internet has been blocked by the authorities. This means that protesters will be unable to use social media to communicate or receive news about events elsewhere.

In past disturbances the Islamic Republic has resorted to similar tactics, by slowing down internet connections or jamming radio and TV signals from the VOA, Radio Farda or the BBC.

Meanwhile, Irans former queen Farah Pahlavi has issued a statement calling for solidarity with the nation and respect for the fundamental rights of the people.

Those media outlets in Iran that are connected with the IRGC have begun a campaign of accusing protesters for destruction of public property. Radio Farda is treating all news and images of arson and similar acts with caution, as it is difficult to tell the difference between real events and provocations.

There have been unconfirmed reports that the prosecutors office was set ablaze in Karaj, just west of Tehran. There are also reports of fires in Mashhad.
President Donald Trump on Friday condemned the arrest of protesters in Iran, telling Tehran that "the world is watching" as officials reported fresh demonstrations over economic hardships, corruption and regional interventions.

Scores were arrested in Tehran and other cities on Friday, after 52 were detained on the first day of protests on Thursday.

"Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regime's corruption & its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," Trump tweeted.

"Iranian govt should respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests."

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly taken aim at Iran, denouncing its government as a "fanatical regime" and accusing it of violating an international agreement aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear program, refusing to certify its compliance with the deal.

The U.S. State Department and the White House also issued statements condemning the arrests of protesters in Iran and demanding that Tehran allow free expression by the people.

"There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regime's corruption and its squandering of the nation's wealth to fund terrorism abroad," said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders.

"The Iranian government should respect their people's rights, including their right to express themselves. The world is watching," she said.

The State Department's spokeswoman said U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was personally urging support for what he has described as "elements inside of Iran that would lead to a peaceful transition of government."

"We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption," said spokeswoman Heather Nauert.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec.30

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a serious threat to peace and security in the region, Azerbaijans ambassador to Ethiopia Elman Abdullayev said in an interview with The Reporter Ethiopia.

The UN Security Council adopted four resolutions strongly condemning Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territories and demanded Armenia to withdraw from these territories immediately and unconditionally. Unfortunately, until now Armenia has not complied with the demands of these resolutions. 20 percent of Azerbaijans internationally recognized territory is still under occupation and more than one million people became refugees and Internally Displaced Persons. This is a major disaster; a humanitarian disaster, said the envoy.

He pointed out that Armenian attitude is disrespectful towards international law.

Armenia has to obey international law and respect the UN Charter and resolutions. The decision of the Security Council is the decision of every nation; the members of the council and others. If we dont follow the UN resolutions, then how can we ensure peace and stability in the world? noted Abdullayev.

Further, the ambassador said that Armenia domestically also has problems. That is because it is ruled by a military regime, he added.

It is difficult to negotiate with the military regime. The dictatorship there completely ignores the rule of international law. That is the major obstacle. There are countries trying to mediate but the ultimate goal should be based on the rule of international law and decisions of international organizations, including the UN, said Abdullayev.

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, Dec.30

Trend:

Azerbaijan Parliament Speaker Ogtay Asadov has been invited to take part in the upcoming emergency meeting of Islamic Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tehran, IRNA reported.

Reportedly, the invitation letter from Iranian Majlis (parliament) Speaker Ali Larijani for his Azerbaijani counterpart was submitted to the senior Azerbaijani official by Iranian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Javad Jahangiri in a meeting in Baku.

The IPU meeting is slated to be held on Jan 15, 2018.



Asadov, for his part, welcomed the invitation and emphasized the need for expansion of mutual ties between the two countries.



Participants at the meeting are scheduled to review the latest developments in Palestine.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Anvar Mammadov - Trend:

Sergey Petrovici, a member of an international cybercrime group, a foreign citizen, who was detained through legal proceedings on international search, was extradited to Azerbaijan Dec. 30, the Azerbaijani State Security Service said in a message.

Petrovici is accused of embezzling over 3 million manats from Azerbaijani banks.

Currently, investigative and operational measures are underway within criminal case on the illegal penetration into computer systems of Azerbaijani banks, money transfers, the non-contact withdrawal of money from ATMs and other illegal actions, that resulted in withdrawal of 3 million manats from banks, the message said.

The criminal case is being considered under articles 177.3.2 (large-scale theft) and 273.4 (illegal interference in the computer system or computer information) of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.

In this framework, necessary legal assistance is rendered to the law enforcement agencies of Azerbaijans partner countries, where commercial banks were subjected to similar cyberattacks.
Details added (first version posted on 15:31)

Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Anvar Mammadov - Trend:

Sergey Petrovici, a member of an international cybercrime group, a foreign citizen, who was detained through legal proceedings on international search, was extradited to Azerbaijan Dec. 30, the Azerbaijani State Security Service said in a message.

Petrovici is accused of embezzling over 3 million manats from Azerbaijani banks.

Currently, investigative and operational measures are underway within criminal case on the illegal penetration into computer systems of Azerbaijani banks, money transfers, the non-contact withdrawal of money from ATMs and other illegal actions, that resulted in withdrawal of 3 million manats from banks, the message said.

The criminal case is being considered under articles 177.3.2 (large-scale theft) and 273.4 (illegal interference in the computer system or computer information) of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.

In this framework, necessary legal assistance is rendered to the law enforcement agencies of Azerbaijans partner countries, where commercial banks were subjected to similar cyberattacks.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Dec. 30

By Diana Aliyeva Trend:

Uzbekistan Railways JSC has introduced the New Year discounts on domestic routes of up to 50 percent for families, pupils, students, pensioners.

The discounts, introduced in connection with the Uzbek presidents decree, will be valid on December 30, 31, 2017 as well as on January 1, 2, 3, 4, 2018.

According to the document, a five-day holiday has been introduced for the first time in connection with the three state holidays, namely, New Year, Novruz and Independence Day.

Twenty-four railcars, 10 of which are Afrosiyob high-speed trains, are being used during the holidays.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Dec. 30

By Diana Aliyeva Trend:

The Protocol on Amendments to the Convention between Uzbekistan and the Netherlands on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Evasion from Payment of Taxes on Income and Capital signed February 6, 2017 in The Hague will come into force December 31, 2017, the Uzbek Foreign Ministry said in a message.

According to the message, the document envisages the amendments to the Convention aimed at the expansion of effective mechanisms of exchanging tax information to prevent tax evasion.

This international agreement will help strengthen the Uzbek-Dutch cooperation in combating tax violations and ensure compliance with the tax legislation of the two countries.

The protocol is based on the standards developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and envisages the need for making a special request, in particular, within criminal cases involving corruption and financial fraud.

The 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the Netherlands, which have always developed on the basis of mutually beneficial cooperation and mutual respect, has been marked this year. The Netherlands attaches great importance to cooperation with Uzbekistan within the EU.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Azerbaijan and Tajikistan discussed the prospects for the expansion of economic cooperation, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Economy said in a message Dec. 30.

According to the message, the prospects were discussed during the meeting between Azerbaijani Minister of Economy Shahin Mustafayev and Tajik ambassador to Azerbaijan Rustam Soliev.

During the meeting, the sides stressed the potential for developing relations in various spheres of the economy, as well as the importance of cooperation in transit, the export of Azerbaijani agricultural products to Tajikistan, organizing of export missions of Azerbaijani businessmen, as well as the participation of Azerbaijani companies in Tajikistans projects to expand economic cooperation between the two countries.

Azerbaijani ambassador to Tajikistan Hasan Mammadzade also attended the meeting.

The data of the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee shows that the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan for 11 months of 2017 amounted to $1.76 million, of which $1.73 million accounted for the export of Azerbaijani products.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Huseyn Valiyev  Trend:

The reason for the termination of services by Azerbaijani mobile communication operators, namely, Bakcell, Azercell and Nar, is connected with the problem of automatic switching of Sim-cards of subscribers living in the countrys Bina settlement (where the airport is located) to the network of equipment installed in airliners, a source in the countrys telecommunication market told Trend.

According to the source, as a result, calls of subscribers living near the airport were made at high roaming tariffs, as voice services and data transfer services on the aircraft are quite expensive.

A strong signal of airborne equipment is able to provide the entire territory of Bina settlement with mobile communication.

"The signal is so powerful that it is actually able to "kill" the signal of the terrestrial cellular network, the source said. The problem could have been avoided if the pilots did not forget to turn off the on-board equipment in time when landing the aircraft."

Earlier, mobile communication services were available on board of about 30 airlines (including Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL).

On board mobile communication was regulated through the stations of Swiss OnAir company and Norwegian AeroMobile company, through which subscribers could make and receive calls, send and receive messages, use the data transfer service during the flight.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Nigar Guliyeva  Trend:

Uzbekistan Airways, the flag carrier of Uzbekistan, announced a tender to select an organization for the examination of the report on the valuation of the market value of aircraft engines.

Interested parties are requested to send commercial proposals indicating the time and cost of the services.

Phone. (99871) 255-04-19, fax (99871) 254-68-22

e-mail: [email protected]

Bids are accepted until January 10, 2018.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Nigar Guliyeva  Trend:

Uzbekistans Trustbank has announced a tender among organizations that meet the requirements of the Corporate Governance Code to assess the banks corporate governance system for 2017.

The interested organizations should submit the following documents:

- a copy of the organization's charter (with all amendments and additions);

- a copy of the certificate of state registration of the organization;

- copies of licenses and certificates of the organization;

- commercial offer with an exact date and cost of the work.

Bids are accepted until January 28, 2018 at the following address: 7 Navoi Street, Tashkent, 100011, Republic of Uzbekistan.

Phones: (95) 198-41-09, 140-00-88, fax: (71) 244-76-61.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

Trend:

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent New Year's greetings to Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazinform news agency reported with reference to the Kremlins press-service.

"Congratulating President Nazarbayev on the New Year holiday, President Putin recalled that our countries have recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and this significant anniversary was marked by new achievements in virtually all areas of the Russian-Kazakh cooperation, the message said.

Putin expressed hope for the further successful development of relations of strategic partnership and alliance for the benefit of fraternal peoples of Russia and Kazakhstan in the interests of ensuring stability and security in Central Asia and throughout Eurasia," the message said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend:



Iran has just received two new ATR 72-600 planes, increasing the number of the countrys new ATRs to eight, the country's local media outlets reported.



It was earlier announced that under an existing agreement between Iran's national flag carrier airline, Iran Air (HOMA), the French-Italian aircraft manufacturer is expected to deliver 14 more planes in 2018.



Following the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA/ nuclear deal) in January 2016, Iran concluded deals to acquire 100 planes from Airbus, 80 from Boeing and 20 from ATR, in a move aimed at renewing the countrys aged aviation fleet.

In the addition to the eight ATR, the country has already received three Airbus, increasing the number of Irans post-sanctions aircraft to 11.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend:

Iranian Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli has urged people to refrain from joining illegal gatherings in the country, local media reported.

If the demonstrators wish to stage protests, they must apply for permission form the interior ministry, he said.

The minister further added that the law enforcement forces and judiciary officials have, so far, behaved in a way in order to rule out the possibility of turning the gatherings into concerning issues.

Over the past two days, some groups of people have joined demonstrations in several cities including the capital Tehran to protest against high prices.

The protestors also chanted slogans against the government and high ranking officials in the country.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend:

A provincial security official has rejected rumors claiming that a curfew has been imposed in Tehran.

I deny the report suggesting that the security council of the country has decided to impose a curfew in Tehran, Hossein Hamedani, the deputy governor-general of Tehran for security affairs, has told ISNA news agency.

According to ISNA, social media users earlier said that the security council of the country has decided to impose the curfew in Tehran as of 20:00 local time tonight (GMT+3:30).

Over the past couple of days, some groups of people joined demonstrations in several cities including the capital Tehran, Mashhad and Kermanshah to protest against high prices.

The protestors also chanted slogans against the government and high ranking officials in the country.

Iranian Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli has urged people to refrain from joining illegal gatherings in the country.

He has said that if the demonstrators wish to stage protests, they must apply for permission form the interior ministry.
Georgia has exported 21,000 tonnes of standard mandarins to Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Poland, Qatar and Belarus, Agenda reports.

Additionally, about 7,700 tonnes of non-standard mandarins have already been processed in Georgia.

The typical citrus season runs from November to January and takes place mainly in Georgias western Adjara region.

A special coordination centre has opened in Adjara region to offer support to citrus growers and producers to sell this years harvest.

Adjaras local government announced that companies that pay 0.2 GEL for every kilogram of lower quality mandarins to be processed and not sold as fruit would receive a subsidy of 0.10 GEL from the state.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

Trend:

The Armenian clergy is suing the Georgian government in connection with the transfer of one of the churches located in the center of Tbilisi to Georgias patriarchate, the Georgian media reported Dec. 30.

Armenian confessors also voiced their intention to apply to the European Court of Human Rights if they lose the trial in Tbilisi.

Representatives of the Armenian side said that this church, built in the 1980s, was transferred to the Georgian Orthodox Church without studying the historical heritage.

Representative of the Georgian Orthodox Church Mikael Botkoveli said that there is evidence that this is Georgian church, so the trial will be dishonorable for Armenian plaintiffs.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law toughening criminal liability for recruiting to terrorist organizations up to life imprisonment, TASS reported.

The law toughens punishment for financing terrorism, recruitment or other involvement of a person into terrorism-related crimes.

Such crimes will carry a punishment of prison terms from eight to 20 years alongside a fine of from 300,000 to 700,000 rubles (5,214 to 12,103 US dollars) or a life imprisonment. Before now, the maximum punishment for recruitment was ten years behind bars.

"One of the goals of these amendments is to form a negative public attitude to any actions geared to prepare terror attacks as such actions are as dangerous as terror attacks as such," Andrei Klishas, chairman of the constitutional law committee at Russias Federation Council upper parliament house, said earlier.

"The law fills legal gaps in systemic anti-terror fight by fixing a recruiters key role in a criminal group," Frants Klintsevich, first deputy chairman of the Federation Councils defense and security committee, told TASS.

Apart from that, the law introduces a new notion - "propaganda of terrorist" - into the Russian Criminal Code. This crime is punishable by a fine of from 300,000 to one million rubles (5,214 to 17,380 US dollars) or a prison term of from five to seven years.
The Egyptian police killed three terrorists in a raid on their hideout near a highway in Giza province in southern Cairo, the Interior Ministry said in a statement on Saturday, according to Xinhua.

The statement said the three terrorists belonged to Hasm militant group which emerged late 2016 and is seen by the police as the armed wing of the currently outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group of former President Mohamed Morsi.

Meanwhile, the police arrested 10 other members of the group in similar raids in Fayoum and Qalioubiya provinces in southern and northern Cairo, seizing weapons, ammunition and explosives in their possession.

Hasm has claimed responsibility for a number of terrorist attacks that killed several policemen in Egypt.
A Thai court has sentenced a fraudster to more than 13,000 years in prison, BBC News reported.

Pudit Kittithradilok, 34, admitted running a Ponzi scheme whereby he promised investors artificially high financial returns.

About 40,000 people were persuaded to pour more than $160m (120m) into his companies.

The court found he engaged in illicit lending and some 2,653 counts of fraud. Thanks to his confession, it halved his sentence to 6,637 years and six months.

He is unlikely to serve more than 20 years, as Thai law sets a maximum 10-year term for each of the two crimes he was convicted of.

Prosecutors told the court that Pudit organised seminars where attendees were encouraged to invest in what he said were businesses linked to property development, beauty, used cars and exports, among other things.

According to the Bangkok Post, investors were promised generous returns, plus incentives to bring new members on board.

As with any pyramid scheme, these new cash injections would then be used to pay off the earlier backers.

Pudit had been held in Bangkok Remand Prison since his arrest in August, when he was denied bail.

The court fined his two companies the equivalent of $20m each. Pudit and the firms were ordered to repay around $17m to the 2,653 identified victims, with 7.5% yearly interest.
Houston police confirmed Friday evening that three people, including the gunman, were killed in a shooting incident in southwest Houston, the U.S. state of Texas, Xinhua reported.

Houston Police Department Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner told reporters in a briefing that the shooter, who was a former employee of an auto repair shop, shot and killed two employees at the shop at around 4 p.m. local time (2000 GMT). The shooter then walked out to the yard and shot himself dead, said the police officer.

Finner said there were multiple people inside the shop when the shooting happened. He said police have contacted the family of the shooter, but declined to confirm the gender of the shooter.

No other injuries have been reported. The motive for the shooting is unknown at this time. Police said more detailed information would be released after investigation.

The auto repair shop is located about 20 km southwest of downtown Houston.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 30

Trend:

All the hostages who were in the post office of Kharkiv were released, the attacker was detained, President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko said on Twitter.

"All the hostages in Kharkiv have been liberated, the invader has been detained. I express my gratitude to the national police and security services of Ukraine for good work", Poroshenko wrote on said.

19:09 (GMT+4) A man believed to be carrying explosives is holed up in a post office in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, police spokesman Yaroslav Trakalo told the news channel 112 on Saturday, Reuters reports.

His demands are unknown to us, Trakalo said.

Nine adults and two children are trapped inside the post office with the man, Interfax news agency quoted Kharkiv regional police chief Oleg Bekh as saying.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said Turkey did not want to have a visa crisis with the United States, Anadolu reported.

They started the visa crisis and thanks to them, they have ended it themselves. Great. We did not want visa crisis [with the US]. It is now ended. That is what should have happened anyway, Erdogan said.

His remarks came during the provincial congress of ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party in northern province of Kastamonu.

On Thursday, the U.S. Embassy in Turkey announced the resumption of full visa services after nearly two months.

In a reciprocal move, Turkey also lifted restrictions on visa services for American citizens, according to the Turkish mission in the U.S.

On Oct. 8, the embassy suspended non-immigrant visas to Turkish nationals following the arrest of a local employee working at the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul, prompting a tit-for-tat response from Ankara.

Erdogan drew parallel between the Daesh and YPG/PYD, saying beyond borders terrorist outfits names change but cruelty remains.

"We will do [to YPG/PYD] that we did to Daesh and we will definitely make our borders secure," Erdogan said.
Turkish Air Force has killed four PKK terrorists during raids in northern Iraq, according to the military Saturday, Anadolu reported.

On Friday, the terrorists wounded three soldiers in a separate attack.

In a statement, the Turkish General Staff said counter airstrikes resulted in four terrorists being neutralized -- a term that usually suggests the targets have been killed.

Anti-terror operations remain ongoing, the statement added.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU. In over 30 years of violence against Turkey, more than 40,000 people have been killed.

The group uses northern Iraqs mountainous border region to launch attacks on Turkey and has its main base at Mt. Qandil, near the Iraq-Iran border.
KYODO NEWS - Dec 30, 2017 - 02:09 | All

Japan has proposed to China and South Korea that a long-delayed trilateral summit be held in Tokyo in early April, but Beijing is withholding its response, diplomatic sources said Friday.

With China remaining reluctant about the summit before the National People's Congress in March, the government of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has conveyed its readiness for a three-day visit to Japan by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and South Korean President Moon Jae In from April 4 or 9, they said.

Seoul has said it would try to make necessary arrangements, they said.

The trilateral summit was last held in November 2015. Japan is to host the next summit, but it has been repeatedly postponed due to rows over territorial and historical issues.

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono is expected to visit China in late January at the earliest to arrange the summit date.

The Japanese government hopes to set Abe's visit to China in 2018 after the trilateral summit and invite Chinese President Xi Jinping to Japan by the end of that year.

Japanese government sources have said Abe may not attend the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics ceremony in February despite the Moon administration's invitation due to the South Korean government's stance on the thorny issue of Korean women forced to work in Japan's wartime military brothels.
By Takuya Okamoto, KYODO NEWS - Dec 30, 2017 - 09:06 | Feature, All

Most Saturday nights, a group of patients with the congenital form of Minamata mercury-poisoning disease dine together to discuss the challenges they face in coping with the ailment now that they are mostly in their 60s.

The focus on a night in early September was Shinobu Sakamoto, who three weeks later was scheduled to speak at the Minamata Convention on Mercury held in Geneva, Switzerland. It was to be her second trip abroad to tell her story to the world, having also made a visit to Stockholm in 1972.

Six patients and staff members at a welfare facility in Minamata, Kumamoto Prefecture, talked about their expectations for the convention, which aims to put in place stricter regulations of mercury in the environment as a first step to stop future mercury poisoning cases from happening.

Kenji Nagamoto, 58, a patient with a less aggressive form of the disease, broke the ice, raising the issue of the "many" patients who are not officially recognized as sufferers and therefore not eligible to receive benefits. "What can we do for them?" he asked.

Kazumitsu Hannaga, a wheelchair-bound 62-year-old who has never been able to speak because of the disease, opened his eyes widely and groaned his agreement.

Minamata disease was caused by the release of methylmercury in industrial wastewater by a Chisso Corp. chemical plant in Minamata. The poison bioaccumulated in shellfish and fish in the Shiranui Sea in Kumamoto and Kagoshima prefectures, leading to thousands of Minamata disease victims, many of whom died.

Most congenital patients were born in the 1950s and 1960s after their mothers ate seafood contaminated with methylmercury while pregnant. Mercury penetrated the brains of the fetuses through the placenta and damaged the central nervous system, causing symptoms similar to cerebral palsy.

The exact number of congenital victims is officially unknown, but the late doctor Masazumi Harada, who first drew attention to the congenital form of the disease, said that around 70 babies were born with mercury poisoning in and around Minamata.

About 15 of Sakamoto's friends who also have the congenital disease work at the welfare facility, called Hotto Hausu (Warm House), where some of them live and make eco-friendly bags and name cards with pressed flower art among other activities. They also talk with visitors from around the world about their stories and struggles with the disease.

On the opposite side of a table, Yuji Kaneko, 62, smiled quietly while drinking a glass of "shochu," a Japanese distilled beverage. He has been struggling for more than 20 years to regain the ability to walk by himself that he lost when he turned 40.

He was born in 1955 in a coastal community in Minamata. The disease afflicted his entire family, with his father dying of the acute type of the disease three months before his birth and his mother and brother also contracting the illness.

Kaneko goes to a national hospital established for Minamata disease patients twice a week to undergo rehabilitation while living and working at Hotto Hausu, which began providing support to victims of congenital Minamata disease in 1998.

"I believe aging severely affects their physical abilities," said Takeko Kato, the 67-year-old manager of Hotto Hausu, although the cause of acute debilitation in middle age is medically unknown.

For many, the congenital form of the disease is like a ticking time bomb. The victims at Hotto Hausu all require wheelchairs except Nagamoto, who can still walk by himself.

On a Wednesday afternoon of Oct. 11, an occupational therapist attaches a robot suit called HAL, an electrical apparatus that supports walking, to Kaneko's waist and legs during his rehab session. The machine detects brain impulses transmitted to the muscles when Kaneko tries to walk and simultaneously assists his legs to step forward.

After grabbing parallel bars, he labors forward for around five meters as the machine clanks noisily.

"It was heavy," Kaneko said when asked about his progress.

Although his walking has gotten faster, Kaneko still feels the anguish of not being able to control his body movements anymore.

For congenital patients, says Kato, no one knows when they may no longer be able to walk.

"In congenital patients, we see in particular that they lose speech and motor functions in their 40s. Friends who were able to walk and ride bicycles together are suddenly unable to walk and must use wheelchairs. They worry about when the same might happen to them, and they want to continue walking," said Kato.

Kato, a Tokyo native who has been actively supporting Minamata patients since the 1970s, moved to Minamata in 1988 before opening the facility. She wanted to create a facility where "congenital patients could obtain jobs and live to be respected as individuals in their local community."

Masazumi Yoshii, a former mayor of Minamata who in 1994 became the first leader of the city to apologize for the municipal government's failure to prevent the spread of the disease, presented an 80-year-old Japanese cypress with a message hoping that all the patients "also live at least 80 years" when the facility was relocated in 2008.

The tree, which is a half meter in diameter, stands near the center of the building. As the victims get older and face more difficulties, they continue to convey their message about the disease.

On Sept. 28, Sakamoto gave her speech in Geneva. She is no longer able to walk as she could when attending the U.N. Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm as a 15-year-old.

"Minamata disease is not over yet," the 61-year-old said in a quavering voice at the event called "A Moment to Minamata."

Sakamoto, who often gets headaches and has slurred speech, donned a white T-shirt with the insignia of persons with the congenital disease presented by her friends in Minamata.

"Everyone (who is a patient) just gets worse. I've brought their feelings here with me. Please never let pollution like this happen again," Sakamoto said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. One of the most common treatments for cervical cancer is radiation. While radiation therapy destroys cancer cells, it also destroys nearby healthy cells. University of Missouri School of Medicine researchers studied in vitro human cancer cells to show that combining blueberry extract with radiation can increase the treatment's effectiveness.

"Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays and other particles such as gamma rays to destroy cancer cells," said Yujiang Fang, M.D., Ph.D., a visiting professor at the MU School of Medicine and lead author of the study. "For some cancers, such as late-stage cervical cancer, radiation is a good treatment option. However, collateral damage to healthy cells always occurs. Based on previous research, we studied blueberry extract to verify it could be used as a radiosensitizer."

Radiosensitizers are non-toxic chemicals that make cancer cells more responsive to radiation therapy. In a previous study, Fang and his research team showed that resveratrol, a compound in red grapes, could be used as a radiosensitizer for treating prostate cancer. Blueberries also contain resveratrol.

"In addition to resveratrol, blueberries also contain flavonoids," said Fang, who also has appointments as an academic pathologist and assistant professor of microbiology and immunology at Des Moines University in Iowa. "Flavonoids are chemicals that may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties."

The researchers used human cervical cancer cell lines to mimic clinical treatment. The cell lines were divided into four groups that included a control group, a group that received only radiation, a group that received only blueberry extract, and a group that received both radiation and the extract.

"Our team used three different measures to confirm results of the study," Fang said. "Radiation decreased cancer cells by approximately 20 percent. Interestingly, the cell group that received only blueberry extract had a 25 percent decrease in cancer. However, the biggest decline in cancer cells occurred in the radiation and extract group, with a decrease of about 70 percent."

Fang explained that the mechanism that makes blueberry extract a radiosensitizer also reduces the abnormal explosion of cell growth ? which is what cancer is.

"Cancer cells avoid death by remodeling themselves," Fang said. "Along with reducing cell proliferation, the extract also 'tricks' cancer cells into dying. So it inhibits the birth and promotes the death of cancer cells."

Fang said an animal study is the next step to confirm that his team can achieve the same results.

"Blueberries are very common and found all over the world," Fang said. "They are readily accessible and inexpensive. As a natural treatment option for boosting the effectiveness of existing therapies, I feel they would be enthusiastically accepted."

###

The study, "Blueberry as a Potential Radiosensitizer for Treating Cervical Cancer," recently was published in Pathology and Oncology Magazine. The study was supported by the Department of Surgery at the MU School of Medicine and through Des Moines University grants (IOER 05-14-01, IOER 112-3749 and IOER 112-3113). The authors of the study declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Nothing went right for these stocks.

The best stocks of the year get a lot of attention because they dominate the headlines with stories of success and growth. And while there are plenty of companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 index that had a lot of good news to crow about, not all companies did so well in 2017. Some dividend stocks that were thought of as stable income producers have actually lost investors a great deal of money. Here are the 10 worst performers among S&P 500 stocks that pay a dividend of 2 percent or greater.

Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES)

Oil prices have stabilized after a very tough run from 2014 to the end of 2016. However, the pain hasn't stopped for many energy companies as they have had to adjust to the "new normal" lately. At just $14 billion in market value, Hess Corp. is one of the smaller explorers out there and simply doesn't have the deep pockets or scale that other energy companies do. As such, it has been forced to rely on cuts in production and spending to keep operations running. That hasn't been enough, and shares have been punished in 2017 -- and by all indications, CEO John Hess could lose his job shortly as a result.

Sector: Energy

Yield: 2.2 percent

2017 performance: -24 percent

PG&E Corporation (PGE)

California wildfires took their toll on residents and businesses in many ways, and one of the biggest victims in 2017 was regional utility PG&E Corp. The San Francisco-based company deals with electricity and natural gas delivery across the state and has seen its infrastructure and operations decimated by the fires. Worse, reports in October indicated that PG&E was in some way responsible for the fires thanks to poorly maintained equipment. The company actually suspended its dividend in the near term on fears of liability risks.

Sector: Utilities

Yield: 4.7 percent, however 2018 payouts are on hold until further notice

2017 performance: -26 percent

Macy's Inc. (M)

Retailer Macy's has undeniably seen better days. Shares have been in a nearly constant decline since mid-2015 thanks to decaying sales and disappointing store traffic, and that trend has continued in 2017. Despite a big brand, the brick-and-mortar merchant just can't seem to compete in the age of e-commerce. What's really depressing is that Macy's is seeing these declines even amid record consumer confidence across the U.S. The dividend hasn't yet been cut, but shareholders should be wary that continued pressures on the business will eventually result in smaller payouts.

Story continues

Sector: Retail

Yield: 5.9 percent

2017 performance: -28 percent

Kimco Realty Corp. (KIM)

Related to the trouble at brick-and-mortar stores, Kimco Realty Corp. is a strip mall operator across the U.S. that relies on anchor stores to lease the biggest chunk of its properties. In an age when many big-box retailers including Macy's, Sears Holdings Corp. (SHLD) and others are struggling, some investors have been pessimistic about the future outlook for KIM stock. The dividend of 27 cents a share is actually higher in 2017 than it was last year.

Sector: Real estate

Yield: 6.1 percent

2017 performance: -28 percent

Newell Brands Inc. (NWL)

Newell Brands is the company behind various products including Rubbermaid plastic containers, Coleman camping gear, Bicycle playing cards and Sharpie markers. These disparate businesses are unrelated, and thus difficult to manage together in an efficient operation the way other companies do when mashing up various brands. Furthermore, the company has taken on a lot of debt and restructuring costs in recent years thanks to even more brands joining the fold. It's a lot to digest, and shareholders haven't been happy about the cumbersome mashup of brands.

Sector: Consumer discretionary

Yield: 3 percent

2017 performance: -31 percent

Apache Corp. (APA)

Natural gas has been in a free fall lately. Fracking and an oversupply of gas in general has depressed pricing, a milder winter decreased demand and the strong U.S. dollar created a headwind for energy commodities across the board. That softness in gas prices has meant a world of hurt for leading natural gas explorer Apache Corp. Why bring more fields online if pricing is weak and demand is soft? Instead, the company simply suffers with declining sales and profits -- and a declining share price as a result.

Sector: Energy

Yield: 2.3 percent

2017 performance: -32 percent

Foot Locker (FL)

Foot Locker was hit by a double whammy in 2017. For starters, shares were at an all-time high at the very end of 2016. But unfortunately, earnings showed momentum that was not sustainable and earnings actually declined in the spring, sparking a deep sell-off that continued as metrics steadily softened. Like Macy's, it's simply too hard to hold the line at a retailer like this in the age of e-commerce. FL stock cratered from nearly $80 to a low of $30 in November. Shares stabilized since then, but the sell-off is still pretty ugly considering where FL was to start the year.

Sector: Retail

Yield: 2.6 percent

2017 performance: -33 percent

Signet Jewelers (SIG)

What could be worse than being a specialty retailer that has been challenged by online competition? How about an investigation by consumer watchdogs? That's the case with Signet Jewelers. The company is under federal scrutiny for allegedly providing potentially predatory in-store financing on its engagement rings and necklaces, which has scared investors big-time lately. The result made an already bad sell-off even worse late in 2017.

Sector: Retail

Yield: 2.2 percent

2017 performance: -40 percent

General Electric Co. (GE)

General Electric burned dividend investors in 2009, during the financial crisis, by slashing its quarterly payouts from 31 cents per share to 10 cents. Thanks to struggles in the finance arm of the business, shares plummeted from about $40 to less than $10. Things theoretically improved in the intervening years, with GE stock reclaiming the $30 mark in 2016 and upping its payout to 24 cents. But that proved to be a head fake, as the challenges of being spread across way too many businesses and simply not competing effectively is hurting GE stock.

Sector: Industrials

Yield: 2.7 percent

2017 performance: -45 percent

Scana Corp. (SCG)

Utilities are typically a pretty safe bet because there's a lack of competition and a reliable business model. However, South Carolina's Scana Corp. has been one of the worst performers on Wall Street this year after a big nuclear power project went south, adding increased costs and bad headlines to the company. The worst of it isn't just that a nuclear plant initially approved roughly a decade ago has finally been scrapped this year after controversy and overruns. There are also accusations that insiders dumped shares before the worst of the trouble.

Sector: Utilities

Yield: 6.3 percent

2017 performance: -47 percent

Jeff Reeves is currently executive editor of InvestorPlace.com. He is a stock analyst and financial commentator with almost two decades of newsroom and markets experience, contributing to The Wall Street Journal network, USA Today, CNBC, TheStreet.com, Fox Business Channel and US News. Follow him on Twitter @JeffReevesIP.
America has the best doctors, the best nurses, the best hospitals, the best medical technology, the best medical breakthrough medicines in the world.  Rep. Bill Frist

In terms of market size, the U.S. health care market is the largest in the world. A report by Health Access suggests that Americas unparalleled purchasing power, massive demand for medical services and equipment, and opportunity for innovation has lent it a competitive edge.

Further, the markets got a boost after President Donald Trump  an ardent proponent of living big, living large  came into power. His constant efforts to boost American lifestyle, focus on middle class and incorporate the best health care in America have been creating a stir.

Trumps efforts to eliminate the countrys jobless stature are remarkable. Per reports, the U.S. unemployment rate was pegged at 4.1% in November, the lowest since February 2001. Undoubtedly, Trumps America first! pitch has been driving employment growth like never before.

Four Factors to Drive MedTech in 2018

Increasing Consolidation in Healthcare

The latest trend of increasing consolidation in the healthcare space has led to a reduction in the number of players, greater market concentration and reduced competition as well as increasing barriers of entry in the industry. The companies will benefit from higher market cap, which will put them in a position to negotiate with suppliers and consumers.

The recent $69-billion deal between Aetna Inc. AET and CVS Health CVS is a significant example. It qualifies as vertical integration, which will enable the newly formed entity to sell a range of services and products from drug to insurance cover.

President Trumps Focus on Emerging Markets

Per a recent BCG report, the share of emerging market revenues, which is less than a quarter of MedTechs global revenues, is likely to increase to nearly one-third by 2022.Thus, the United States' trade plans with emerging countries are likely to favor the domestic companies.

Story continues

In this regard, investors may find President Trumps 12-day Asia trip last month interesting. The visit was aimed at boosting inter-country trade relations, particularly with the emerging nations. Trumps promise to augment bilateral trade agreements with Indo-Pacific nations instills our confidence in his APAC policies. He also emphasized free and open Indo-Pacific trade with a focus on the nations of Japan, Australia and India.

IVD & PBM Markets to Thrive

A research report by EvaluateMedTech World Preview indicates that global MedTech sales are expected to witness a CAGR of 5.1% to $522 billion by 2022, with IVD (in Vitro diagnosis) raking in annual sales of $69.6 billion at a CAGR of 5.9%. Increasing investments from government and private players in the form of reimbursement coverage and speedy patent approvals are driving demand.

The role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBM) in the U.S. healthcare sector has been evolving. PBMs manage pharmaceutical spending and enhance health benefits for end users. Per a report by Market Research Reports.biz, the global PBM market will see a CAGR of 7.16% between 2014 and 2019. Investing in PBM stocks can be a prudent move for registering solid gains in 2018. Looking for the Best Stocks for 2018? Be among the first to see our Top Ten Stocks for 2018 portfolio here.

Robot-based Applications to Boost MedTech

The AI-based applications have been enhancing the healthcare space with clinical applications, diagnostic support, operational efficiency, Electronic Health Record systems, practice workflows and supply chain management. The growing prevalence of minimally-invasive robot-assisted surgeries, self-automated home-based care, use of IT for quick and improved patient care and shift of the payment system to a value-based model.

For example, MedTech major Intuitive Surgical designs, manufactures and markets the da Vinci surgical system  an advanced robot-assisted surgical platform. This AI platform enables minimally-invasive surgery that helps avoid the trauma associated with open surgery. The company plans to expand the usage of da Vinci in general and thoracic surgery, colorectal surgery and hernia repair in the days to come.

Picking the Right Stocks

Based on certain parameters, we have selected six MedTech growth stocks which are poised for impressive returns in 2017. These stocks carry a solid Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) along with a Growth Style Score of A or B.

We note that our Growth Style Score encompasses all the essential metrics from a companys financial statements to get a true sense of the quality and sustainability of growth. Our research shows that stocks with Growth Style Scores of A or B when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 or 2 offer the best investment opportunities in the growth investing space.

6 Growth Picks

Chemed Corp. CHE: The stock has a Zacks Rank #2 and a Growth score of A. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Chemeds sales is pegged at $1.73 billion for the next year, reflecting growth of 3.8% on a year-over-year basis. The stock has a market cap of $3.75 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 10%.

Chemeds raised guidance banking on Roto-Rooter business strength buoys optimism at the moment. Roto-Rooter is currently the nations leading provider of plumbing and drain cleaning services. Through its network of company-owned branches, independent contractors and franchises, Roto-Rooter offers plumbing and drain cleaning services to over 90% of the U.S. population.

Chemed Corp. Price and Consensus

Chemed Corp. Price and Consensus | Chemed Corp. Quote

athenahealth Inc (ATHN): The stock flaunts a Zacks Rank #1 and a Growth Score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for athenahealths sales is pegged at $1.36 billion for 2018, signifying growth of 11.7% on a year-over-year basis. The stock has a market cap of $5.35 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 22.3% at the moment.

athenahealths strong product portfolio, solid network expansion strategies and unique business model are key tailwinds. athenahealths portfolio comprises a wide array of products that include electronic health records, revenue cycle management, medical billing, patient engagement, care coordination, population health management and Epocrates. Notably, the company launched athenaInsight, an online news hub reporting on U.S. healthcare activities and trends of healthcare providers and de-identified patients.

athenahealth, Inc. Price and Consensus

athenahealth, Inc. Price and Consensus | athenahealth, Inc. Quote

Align Technology Inc. (ALGN): The stock has a Zacks Rank #1 and a Growth score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Align Technologys sales is pegged at $1.79 billion for next year, signifying growth of 23.5% on a year-over-year basis in 2018. The stock has a market cap of $18.75 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 28.9% now.

Align Technologys consistent efforts to boost product development, balanced growth across all channels and the focus in international markets bolster our confidence in the stock. We are encouraged by the companys strong InvisAlign Technology prospects and growth in North America and international regions. We are also upbeat about the company signing of a distribution agreement with Patterson Companies recently.

Align Technology, Inc. Price and Consensus

Align Technology, Inc. Price and Consensus | Align Technology, Inc. Quote

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.(IDXX): The stock has a Zacks Rank #2 and a Growth Score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IDEXX Laboratories sales pegs at $2.16 billion for the next year, reflecting growth of 10.7% on a year-over-year basis. The stock has a market cap of $18.75 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 20.4%.

IDEXX Laboratories continues to depict solid growth globally on strong international expansion. Managements innovation-based global strategy is leading to CAG Diagnostics growth. Notably, IDEXX widened cloud technology portfolio by adding rVetLink. Solid organic revenue growth along with a raised guidance for 2017 buoy optimism.

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Price and Consensus

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Price and Consensus | IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Quote

Straumann Holding AG (SAUHF): The stock has a Zacks Rank #1 and a Growth score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Straumann Holdings sales pegs at $2.16 billion for the next year, signifying growth of 10.7% on a year-over-year basis. The stock has a market cap of $11.21 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 15% now. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Straumann Holding is a global leader in implant and restorative dentistry and oral tissue regeneration. The company collaborates with leading clinics, research institutes and universities to research, develop and manufacture dental implants, instruments, prosthetics and tissue regeneration products for use in tooth replacement and restoration solutions or prevent tooth loss.

Straumann Holding AG Price and Consensus

Straumann Holding AG Price and Consensus | Straumann Holding AG Quote

PRA Health Sciences, Inc. (PRAH): The stock has a Zacks Rank #2 and a Growth Score of B. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Straumann Holdings sales is pegged at $2.34 billion for the next year, signifying growth of 21.5% on a year-over-year basis. The stock has a market cap of $5.65 billion and a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 18.1% now.

The company operates as a global contract research organization providing outsourced clinical development services to the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. It offers therapeutic services in the areas of cardio-metabolic, biosimilars, infectious diseases, immunology, neurology and psychiatry, oncology and hematology, rare diseases and respiratory needs.

PRA Health Sciences, Inc. Price and Consensus

PRA Health Sciences, Inc. Price and Consensus | PRA Health Sciences, Inc. Quote

5 Medical Stocks to Buy Now

Zacks names 5 companies poised to ride a medical breakthrough that is targeting cures for leukemia, AIDS, muscular dystrophy, hemophilia, and other conditions.

New products in this field are already generating substantial revenue and even more wondrous treatments are in the pipeline. Early investors could realize exceptional profits.

Click here to see the 5 stocks >>



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



athenahealth, Inc. (ATHN) : Free Stock Analysis Report



IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (IDXX) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Aetna Inc. (AET) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Chemed Corp. (CHE) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Align Technology, Inc. (ALGN) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Straumann Holding AG (SAUHF) : Free Stock Analysis Report



CVS Health Corporation (CVS) : Free Stock Analysis Report



PRA Health Sciences, Inc. (PRAH) : Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
Aflac Inc. AFL has announced that it will invest $250 million in different areas such as employee welfare, business growth and provide support to childhood cancer initiatives.



This development follows the recent passage of the tax reform by Donald Trump, which cuts the corporate tax rate to 21% from 35%. Per management, this easy tax regime provides it an opportunity to make investments like the latest one.



Moreover, for its U.S workforce Aflac intends to make better retirement benefits by increasing the company's 401(k) match from 50% to 100% on the first 4% of employees contribution while making a one-time contribution of $500 to every employee's 401(k) plan. It will also offer certain hospital and accident insurance products to all employees free of charge as the company currently does with its core cancer insurance products.



On the business growth front, the company would invest in technology and digital businesses like Empowered  a subsidiary of Aflac.

The third leg of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) companys investment will be to focus on its commitment for childhood cancer programs.You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 (Strong Buy) Rank stocks here.

Year to date, Aflac has gained 27% outperforming the industrys growth of 25%.

Notably, the U.S. Senates passage of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act marked President Trumps first major legislative victory. This tax reform is anticipated to drive companies revenues. According to Trump, such a bill is a big, beautiful Christmas present for families while the White House press secretary declared it to be a simple, fair, and competitive tax code [that] will be rocket fuel for our economy, and it's within our reach.

In fact, this is the biggest ever one-time drop in business tax that is likely to be conducive to economic growth.

However, this reform brings a mixed impact for insurers. RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. RNR announced an anticipated write-down of its deferred tax assets (DTA), which will reduce its net income by $40 million following the enactment of the tax bill. Otherwise, RenaissanceRe expects the economic impact of the Tax Bill to be minimal.

Story continues

Nevertheless, a 21% corporate tax rate will lead to higher after-tax income for most insurers. Apart from boosting margins, the tax-rate reduction will also make the U.S insurers more competitive, globally.

In addition to the above, the tax reform, which includes lower domestic tax rates on repatriation of income stashed offshore will serve the foreign insurers well, who moved abroad the profit generated in the U.S to avoid tax.

Markedly, the bill looks like a major legislative achievement having been supported widely by industry groups. The Coalition for American Insurance, which represents major US-based insurance groups like  Alleghany, The Allstate Corp. ALL, American Family, American Financial Group Inc. AFG, Berkshire Hathaway, Cincinnati Insurance, CAN, EMC Insurance, Liberty Mutual, The Hartford, Travelers and W.R. Berkley Corp.  have expressed support for this historical reform as well.

More Stock News: This Is Bigger than the iPhone!



It could become the mother of all technological revolutions. Apple sold a mere 1 billion iPhones in 10 years but a new breakthrough is expected to generate more than 27 billion devices in just 3 years, creating a $1.7 trillion market.



Zacks has just released a Special Report that spotlights this fast-emerging phenomenon and 6 tickers for taking advantage of it. If you don't buy now, you may kick yourself in 2020.



Click here for the 6 trades >>



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



Aflac Incorporated (AFL) : Free Stock Analysis Report



RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. (RNR) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Allstate Corporation (The) (ALL) : Free Stock Analysis Report



American Financial Group, Inc. (AFG) : Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment Research
On Sep 12, we issued an updated research report on Amedisys, Inc. AMED. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

This renowned home health and hospice services provider has been trading above the broader

industry over the past three months. The stock has gained 1.7% as against the broader industrys 0.4% decline.

Amedisys Personal Care segment has been stabilizing on the integration of the latest tuck-in acquisitions. Moreover, the company is upbeat about the bountiful prospects in this segment. With the recently-announced Intercity takeover, the company has closed a total of three personal care acquisitions since last September and is awaiting regulatory approval for the buyout of East Tennessee Personal Care Services.

Amedisys also plans to evolve from a traditional home health and hospice care company to one that is focused on bringing home a continuum of care. This is because the company intends to better serve patients and diversify sources of payment to lower dependence on Medicare. In this regard, the company saw a rise in non-Medicare revenues, while Medicare revenues declined at the Home Health division in the third quarter. At the Hospice division, the company recorded strong growth across all segments.

Also, a favorable 2018 Home Health Final Rule buoys optimism. According to a report by HEALTHCAREfirst, the 2018 Home Health Final Rule was finalized without the implementation of the Home Health Groupings Model (HHGM) scheduled for rollout in 2019.

Meanwhile, Amedisys is poised to benefit from the aging demographics of the U.S. population and the need for higher acuity patients in a home nursing environment. Furthermore, the companys strong cash balance position bolsters investors confidence in the stock.

On the flip side, escalating operating expenses and declining gross margin continue raise concerns. Also, an intensely competitive landscape and regulatory concerns weigh on the home health and hospice industry.

Story continues

Other Key Picks

Other top-ranked medical stocks are athenahealth, Inc. ATHN, Align Technology, Inc. ALGN and Luminex Corporation LMNX. Notably, athenahealth, Align Technology and Luminex sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

athenahealth has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 22.3%. The stock has rallied roughly 22.6% over a year.

Align Technology has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 28.9%. The stock has rallied 136.9% in a year.

Luminex has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 16.3%. The stock has gained 5.9% over the past three months.

Zacks Editor-in-Chief Goes "All In" on This Stock



Full disclosure, Kevin Matras now has more of his own money in one particular stock than in any other. He believes in its short-term profit potential and also in its prospects to more than double by 2019. Today he reveals and explains his surprising move in a new Special Report.



Download it free >>



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



athenahealth, Inc. (ATHN) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Luminex Corporation (LMNX) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Amedisys Inc (AMED) : Free Stock Analysis Report



Align Technology, Inc. (ALGN) : Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment Research
President Trump falsely claimed on Wednesday he had signed more legislation than any president since Harry Truman.

We had a lot of legislation pass. They were saying that if we got this one done, we would have succeeded with legislation. But I believe we have  and youll have to ask those folks, but I think they know the real answer, Trump said in remarks to first responders in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Wednesday.

We have more legislation passed, including the record  was Harry Truman. Thats a long time ago. And we broke that record. So we have a lot done.

But GovTrack.us, a website that tracks legislation in Congress, begs to differ. In a report issued on December 21  less than a week before Trump made his remarks in Florida  found that, on that day, his 336th day in office, Trump had signed 94 bill into law, the fewest of any president since Dwight Eisenhower.

The authors of the report note in the methodology that Truman, along with Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Gerald Ford, were excluded from the calculations because the beginning of their presidencies did not coincide with the beginning of a congressional session. Truman had signed 126 bills in his first 100 days.

Trump and his administration have been espousing the comparison to Truman since his first 100 days, when then-Press Secretary Sean Spicer told reporters the president has worked with Congress to pass more legislation in his first 100 days than any president since Truman.

PolitiFact at the time found that this was true: President Trump had signed 28 bills within his first 100 days, more than any president in over 70 years. PolitiFact did note, however, that none of the bills Trump passed were of particular significance.

GovTrack issued the report one day before President Trump signed the tax reform bill into law. But that would not enable him to surpass George W. Bush, who had signed 102 bills within that time period, according to the report.
FILE PHOTO: A woman speaks on a mobile phone in a cafe in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia October 6, 2016. Picture taken October 6, 2016. REUTERS/Faisal Al Nasser - /File Photo/File Photo

By Katie Paul

RIYADH (Reuters) - Apple and Amazon are in licensing discussions with Riyadh on investing in Saudi Arabia, two sources told Reuters, part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's push to give the conservative kingdom a high-tech look.

A third source confirmed that Apple was in talks with SAGIA, Saudi Arabia's foreign investment authority.

Both companies already sell products in Saudi Arabia via third parties but they and other global tech giants have yet to establish a direct presence.

Amazon's discussions are being led by cloud computing division Amazon Web Services (AWS), which would introduce stiff competition in a market currently dominated by smaller local providers like STC and Mobily.

Riyadh has been easing regulatory impediments for the past two years, including limits on foreign ownership which had long kept investors away, since falling crude prices highlighted the need to diversify its oil-dependent economy.

Luring Apple and Amazon would further Prince Mohammed's reform plans and raise the companies' profile in a young and relatively affluent market, which already boasts some of the highest internet and smartphone use in the world.

About 70 percent of the Saudi population is under 30 and frequently glued to social media.

A licensing agreement for Apple stores with SAGIA is expected by February, with an initial retail store targeted for 2019, said two sources familiar with the discussions.

Amazon's talks are in earlier stages and no specific date has been set for investment plans, they said.

Apple already holds second place in the Saudi mobile phone market behind Samsung, according to market researcher Euromonitor.

Amazon acquired Dubai-based online retailer Souq.com earlier in 2017, opening access for Amazon retail goods to be sold in the kingdom.

Both companies declined to comment, while SAGIA was not immediately available to answer questions about the discussions.

LENGTHY COURTSHIP

While Saudi reform plans call for luring foreign investment broadly across sectors, officials have courted Silicon Valley players especially strongly over the past two years to complement their high-tech ambitions.

Story continues

Prince Mohammed is an avowed technophile and has styled himself a disrupter in the model of Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates.

During an official visit to the United States last year he met executives at Facebook, Microsoft and Uber, in which the sovereign wealth fund he chairs later took a $3.5 billion stake.

Since then, he has also set up a $45 billion technology investment fund with Japan's SoftBank and announced plans to create a futuristic $500 billion mega-city with more robots than humans.

Apple and Amazon have both been on a Saudi priority list of foreign firms which officials hope to attract to further their reforms, one of the sources said.

"Many tech multinationals now in Saudi Arabia are either vendors to the Saudi government or, in the case of Uber, have benefited from a sizable Saudi investment," said Sam Blatteis, who heads Dubai-based tech advisory MENA Catalysts Inc.

"Amazon entering the Saudi market would be a step-change."

For Amazon, the move underscores how AWS is looking to take an early lead in selling data storage and computing services to customers in the Middle East.

AWS, the world's biggest cloud business by revenue, has embarked on a slower global expansion than No.2 Microsoft, which now offers cloud services in twice as many regions.

However, Microsoft has yet to announce plans for data centres in the Middle East, with three regions in India serving as its closest operations.

AWS said in September it would set up data centres for the region in neighbouring Bahrain.

The kingdom has been streamlining its many overlapping laws which could apply to cloud computing for more than a year in order to attract service providers.

If completed, a cloud deal could pave the way for an expansion of Amazon retail warehouses in Saudi Arabia.

Although Amazon operates its diverse business units separately, it has rolled out its near-full suite of retail, third-party marketplace and cloud services in countries of operation over time.

Apple stores would raise the profile of the company's products and offer repairs and community events in line with its strategy to brand its stores as "town squares".

(Reporting by Katie Paul; Additional reporting by Jeffrey Dastin and Stephen Nellis in SAN FRANCISCO; Editing by Saeed Azhar and Philippa Fletcher)
Larry Page

The Wall Street Journal is wagging its finger at Google's travel business.

In an editorial, the Journal argues Google is giving preferential advertising treatment to certain hotel chains, putting online travel agencies at a disadvantage and preventing consumers from seeing all available options.

Google disputes the charges, saying in part it is merely trying to keep travelers from being duped.



Google is using its dominance of the search market to limit competition in the online travel business  for its benefit and that of some major hotel chains it's teamed up with, the Wall Street Journal charges in a new editorial.

The online search giant, together with the hotel chains, is limiting the ability of online travel agencies (OTAs) to use keywords to advertise hotel rooms, according to the editorial. Meanwhile, Google's own travel service, which features listings from OTAs, takes a big cut out of the commissions they earn, the Journal reported.

"Travelers may unknowingly pay more and fail to see all of their options because some major hotels have ganged up with Google to undercut competition," the Journal said in its editorial.

Google disputes the charges.

"The Wall Street Journal mischaracterized how some of these offerings work," a Google representative told Business Insider. The representative continued: "The online travel industry is highly competitive and in fact, travel companies are some of the most avid users of Googles advertising offerings."

Hotels are trying to cut out online travel agencies, the Journal says

Google is involved in travel in a couple of ways: through keyword search ads and with its own travel service, which advertises deals from hotels as well as from OTAs. Google sells keyword ads through an auction process, where advertisers bid on certain terms.

Under pressure from the likes of Airbnb, hotel chains have become increasingly concerned about the discounted rates OTAs negotiate for hotel rooms and the commissions  20% or so, typically  the hotels pay OTAs when consumers book rooms through them. They've been trying to steer consumers away from OTA services and to their own websites.

Story continues

Toward that end, some hotel chains, in deals they have with online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia, have forbidden those companies from bidding on keyword ads on Google and other ad networks that would include the hotels' brand names, according to the editorial. Although those deals don't cover smaller OTAs, Google has made it more difficult for them to use hotel brand names in their ads too, after hearing from the hotel chains, according to the Journal editorial.

Google's online booking tools

Google

Google doesn't restrict keyword bids in any way, the company representative told Business Insider.

"Google auctions are open to all advertisers that comply with our policies," the representative said. "We do not restrict the use of trademarks as keywords."

However, the company does guard against ads that try to dupe travelers into believing they're booking travel on a hotel's actual website when they are really being sent to an OTA, the representative said.

"Since protecting users is a top priority for Google, we have detailed policies against deceptive or misleading use of trademarks in ad text and take swift action when we see this type of abuse on our platform," the representative said.

Google is allegedly taking a big cut out of online travel agencies' sales

With its own travel service, Google allows users to search for hotels across various OTA and hotel websites. The company charges 10% to 15% commissions on bookings made through that service, according to the editorial. So an OTA using it would owe much of the commissions it earns to Google.

The Journal also alleged that Google asks OTAs that advertise in its travel service to share a lot of information about their inventory, something OTAs are reluctant to do, given that Google essentially competes with them.

Again Google disputes this.

"We do not require proprietary information to run hotel ads," the company represenative said.

The Journal argued that Google needs to stop allegedly giving hotels protection on keyword ads. Short of that it argued that regulators may become interested in how Google is using its power.

This wouldn't be the first time. Back in 2011, when Google entered the travel booking market by buying flight search company ITA Software for $700 million, it faced antitrust scrutiny from the Department of Justice. The Justice Department imposed conditions on the acquisition, forcing Google to maintain separation between its search and travel flights businesses and to submit to government monitoring of complaints for five years. Those conditions ended in 2016.

NOW WATCH: The differences that matter between Splenda, Equal, SweetN Low, and sugar

See Also:

SEE ALSO: The 'worst job' in Silicon Valley is also a low-paying one with little job security
The headquarters of Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc is seen in Laval, Quebec in this file picture taken November 9, 2015. REUTERS/Christinne Muschi/File Photo (Reuters)

(Reuters) - Activist investor William Ackman's Pershing Square and Valeant Pharmaceuticals on Friday decided to pay $290 million to settle a lawsuit that accused them of insider trading before bidding for Allergan Plc in 2014.

Pershing Square said it decided to raise its share of the settlement to 66.8 percent, or $193.75 million, in a bid to quickly wind up the litigation, which it claimed had "no merit".

"We decided, however, that it was in the best interest of our investors to settle the case now instead of continuing to spend substantial time and resources pursuing the litigation," said Pershing Square CEO Bill Ackman.

The hedge fund said Valeant will now pay around 33 percent, or $96.25 million, of the settlement costs. Valeant had previously agreed to pay 60 percent of the costs.

"We believe this agreement to resolve the legacy litigation is in the best interests of the Company, because it enables us to focus our attention and resources on the transformation of Valeant," said Valeant's Chief Executive Joseph Papa.

Papa, who took over the reins of Valeant in April 2016, has been trying to reshape the company and regain investor confidence, after a flurry of investigations into the Canadian drugmaker's accounting and pricing practices hit its shares.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of investors who sold Allergan shares in the two months before Pershing Square Capital Management and Valeant made an unsolicited $51 billion bid for Allergan. http://reut.rs/2DwW6XN

Actavis Plc eventually bought Allergan in 2015, taking its name.

Both Pershing Square and Valeant did not immediately respond to emails seeking comments.

(Reporting by Manas Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel and Arun Koyyur)
(Adds quotes, details)

By Kevin O'Hanlon

LINCOLN, Nebraska, Dec 12 (Reuters) - Opponents of TransCanada Corp's proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline argued on Tuesday that regulators in Nebraska had no authority to approve the line's "alternative" path through the state and that the project should be considered dead.

The Nebraska Public Service Commission issued an approval for the line to pass through the state in late November, removing what appeared to be the last big regulatory obstacle for the long-delayed project, which has been backed by President Donald Trump.

But the commission's approval was not for the route TransCanada had singled out in its application, but for an alternative that shifts it closer to an existing pipeline right-of-way down the eastern side of the state.

David Domina, an attorney for landowners along the Keystone XL route, argued at a commission hearing on Tuesday that Nebraska law specifies the regulatory body can only rule on TransCanada's preferred route.

"It uses the singular word route. It doesnt use the  plural term routes," Domina said. "Its not a smorgasbord statute."

He said many landowners along the alternative path had not been notified a pipeline might be crossing their property, and that the specific social and environmental impacts of the alternative path had not been properly studied.

Tuesday's hearing was set after TransCanada filed a motion with the commission asking if it could amend its initial application, in a move to head off legal challenges.

By filing an amended application, "we are working to reduce the possibility of the PSC decision being overturned which would compromise our ability to build this project on time and on schedule," a spokesman for the company told Reuters.

Pipeline opponents say that request should be denied because the Nebraska regulatory body's statutes do not allow for retroactive amendments to such applications. The commission is considering TransCanada's new application request.

Story continues

While it is unclear how the commission will rule, the pipeline has strong political support stretching from the White House to the Nebraska governor's mansion.

The proposed line, which would run about 1,180 miles (1,899 km) from Hardisty, Alberta, to Steele City, Nebraska, has been a lightning rod of controversy. Since it was proposed a decade ago, environmentalists have made it a symbol of their broader fight against fossil fuels and global warming. Business groups and Trump say it could lower fuel prices and create employment.

Trump handed TransCanada a federal permit for the pipeline in March as part of a broader agenda to boost the energy sector. That reversed a decision by former President Barack Obama in 2015 to block the project on grounds it would not bring significant enough economic benefits to outweigh its environmental impact. (Writing by Richard Valdmanis; Editing by Andrew Hay and Leslie Adler)
One man dominated the Twitter conversation in 2017: Donald Trump.

The President of the United States was tweeted about some 901.8 million times this year  nearly 10 times the number of mentions for his predecessor, Barack Obama, during his final year in office.

The wild-haired occupant of the White House so dominates the national discourse that there were only 17 days when Trump was not the leading topic of conversation on the social media platform. He commands roughly one-third of all Twitter mentions, and hes doing so at a time when political Twitter conversation is up sixfold since 2015  from 450 million tweets then to 2.8 billion today.

The political research firm Echelon Insights analyzed more than 2.8 billion U.S. tweets across 250 topics and issues to identify the biggest news stories of the year. The results reveal how much the national conversation revolved around Washington, D.C., rivaled only by major natural disasters and the sexual harassment scandals roiling Hollywood and Capitol Hill.

Aside from our musings about the tweet-happy Trump, Americans were obsessed by the ongoing investigations of Russian interference in the 2016 election, GOP efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, ousted FBI Director James Comey, climate change and Trumps decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement.

Echelon also looked at conversation among three key audiences: conservative activists, liberal activists and Beltway elites. Its important to know not just what stories are being talked about but also who is talking.

The volume of conversation, as a barometer of partisan enthusiasm, has shifted since Trumps election. Conservatives and liberals were evenly matched in their share of the Twitter conversation in the run up to the 2016 primaries, but now liberals are about twice as likely to be active on the social media platform as conservatives.

Liberals have been dominant for well over a year, the one time conservatives did overtake them is notable  in the weeks leading up to Trumps surprise victory, Echelon wrote.

Story continues

The center-right firm, which advises GOP candidates, notes that a highly engaged Democratic base on social media that is turning out at higher rates in special elections and poised to make gains in the midterm elections.

Related stories

'Last Jedi' Has Upper Hand Over 'Jumanji' In New Year's Weekend Duel As 2017 B.O. Closes With $11.1B - Monday Update

The Bart & Fleming Podcast: Looking Back At 2017

President Trump Wishes "Very Dishonest Fake News Media" A Happy New Year
FILE PHOTO - A Volkswagen logo is pictured at the International Auto Show in Mexico City, Mexico November 23, 2017. REUTERS/Henry Romero (Reuters)

FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Volkswagen AG said on Thursday it would petition Germany's constitutional court in an effort to overturn the appointment of a special auditor to investigate the actions of management in the "Dieselgate" emissions scandal.

A lower court appointed the auditor in November, in a victory for shareholder groups that want to establish whether VW bosses withheld market-moving information about the manipulation of vehicle-emissions tests.

The court in the town of Celle ruled that VW could not appeal, which the auto maker views as a violation of its fundamental rights, the Sueddeutsche Zeitung said in a report released in advance of publication on Friday.

The car maker will try to get the work of the auditor suspended before the constitutional court hearing, said the newspaper, which researched the report together with public TV channels NDR and WDR.

A company spokesman confirmed that VW would go to the constitutional court but did not elaborate. It was not immediately clear whether or when the constitutional court would take up the case.

Shortly after the Dieselgate scandal broke in September 2015, VW hired U.S. law firm Jones Day and advisory firm Deloitte to investigate the circumstances of its wrongdoing and who was responsible.

Although VW had pledged to improve transparency, it never published the findings that were used as the basis for a $4.3 billion settlement with the U.S. Justice Department.

Investor groups seeking billions in damages from VW are trying to establish when VW's executive management board first became aware of cheating in the emissions tests and whether it disclosed possible financial damage to investors promptly.

German securities law requires companies to publish any market sensitive news in a timely fashion. The matter is also being investigated by German prosecutors.

VW has said it believes its management complied with obligations under German disclosure rules.

(Corrects to delete erroneous reference to share reaction to U.S. settlement in 6th paragraph)

(Reporting by Douglas Busvine, editing by Larry King)
AP

Even if youve just returned from a holiday vacation, you might want to start thinking about your next trip.

Thats because January is often regarded as the best time to get a good deal on a plane ticket. After the holidays, most people arent thinking about travel, which is why airlines offer up deals and discounts to encourage bookings. In fact, Fare Compare, a price comparison site, says that the cheapest days to fly this winter will be from Jan. 9 to March 16, when prices drop as much as 40% from holiday fares.

Aer Lingus

If youre ready to book, Aer Lingus is running a mega sale from now until Jan. 16. Some of the highlights include up to 50% off on flights to European cities like Malaga and Lanzarote in Spain, and Faro and Lisbon in Portugal. There are however, two caveats. All flights must originate in Ireland, and all travel must take place between April 30 and September 2018.

Still, some amazing deals can be found. If you travel in April, a round-trip flight from Dublin to Madrid will cost about 101.00 ($120 USD), and a ticket from Dublin to Naples, Italy can be found for just 108.00 ($129 USD).

There is also an assortment of North America-bound itineraries to choose from, including a round-trip ticket from Dublin to New York City in April for just 416.34 ($497 USD).

Virgin America

Bargain hunters can also find some deals on domestic travel. Until Jan. 2, Virgin America has marked down six cross-country flights. Travelers can snag a one-way ticket from New York to San Francisco for just $119. A one-way ticket from New York to Las Vegas starts at $157, while a one-way ticket from Newark, N.J., to Los Angeles will cost around $139. Thats a round-trip, coast-to-coast flight for under $300.

All flights must take place between Jan. 16 and Feb. 14.

Keep an eye on Hawaii

Traveling to Hawaii used to cost an arm and a leg, but that may change in 2018. Southwest Airlines has announced that it will unveil cheaper tickets to Hawaii starting next year. The low-cost carrier hasnt announced specific routes yet, but its presence on the island is expected to fuel competition and possibly lower prices.

Story continues

But travelers may not have to wait for deals  there are already some bargains available for travel in January and February. AirfareWatchdog found this roundtrip flight from Miami to Honolulu for just $347, and a quick Google Flights search revealed several January and February itineraries from San Francisco to the big island for under $420.

In other words, it would be wise to set a price alert for Hawaii airfare on your favorite booking site. This way, when prices drop, you can lock in the deal as soon as possible.

Brittany is a reporter at Yahoo Finance.

New site lets you book cheap travel, get free gift cards

You can now book a hotel on Kayak using Alexa

New study reveals the best frequent flyer program
Pakistan has released 145 Indian fishermen from prison as a goodwill gesture, Pakistani officials say.

Major Azam Sher on December 29 said the released fishermen were handed over to Indian authorities at a border crossing near the eastern city of Lahore.

The fishermen had been held in the Malir jail in Karachi for the past year, accused by Islamabad of illegally fishing in Pakistani territorial waters.

Pakistani officials have promised to release a further 146 Indian fishermen on January 7, according to the Edhi Foundation, a charitable Pakistani foundation that regularly aids in the repatriation of Indian fishermen.

In December 2016, Islamabad released 220 Indian fishermen. India also released a number of Pakistani fishermen at the same time.

Pakistan and India, longtime bitter regional rivals, regularly arrest members of fishing-boat crews from the other country in the Arabian Sea, which does not have a clearly defined maritime border.

They often remain in prison for long periods until being released during goodwill gestures.

The Edhi Foundation urged India to reciprocate with further releases of imprisoned Pakistani fishing crews.

Based on reporting by AP, The Nation, and The Tribune
Singapore, Dec 30 (IBNS): A new study led by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has warned of the threat that oil palm production poses to tropical forests.

Over two decades, the international team of scientists found that oil palm production in Malaysia has an impact beyond the direct loss of habitat. It also provides a rich source of food for nearby wildlife such as wild boars, which then multiply in big numbers and damage forest trees and prevent them from regenerating.

Published in Nature Communications today, the research paper reports that the wild boar population grew a hundred-fold in forests that were adjacent to oil palm plantations, even when the forest and plantations were over a kilometre apart.

The wild boars reduced the number of small trees and saplings by more than half, compared with experimentally fenced-in areas of the forest that did not have wild boars. This reduction is primarily driven by wild boar mothers harvesting small trees to build nests for their young.

Dr Matthew Luskin, a research fellow at NTU Singapores Asian School of the Environment, conducted this study in partnership with the Center for Tropical Forest Science - Forest Global Earth Observatory (CTFS-ForestGEO) at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and researchers at the University of California, Berkeley.

For 10 years, we saw that plants and small trees on the forest floor were disappearing but we didnt understand why, said Dr Luskin. Once we started looking outside the forest to the surrounding oil palms, the story became clear.

When oil palms start fruiting, wild boars quickly aggregate to feed in the plantations. The abundant food allows them to reproduce, causing a massive surge in their population in the nearby forest. The biggest subsequent effect this leads to is when pregnant wild boars build nests, as this clears vegetation from the forest floor.

Dr Stuart Davies, Director of CTFS-ForestGEO programme that facilitated the study, said, This important new study uses intensive long-term field research to illustrate that the effect of agriculture is not necessarily restricted to the land under production.

Further experiments and observations are critical for understanding interactions between production and protection lands, thereby improving the management of the worlds hyper diverse ecosystems.

The researchers said that with many oil palm plantations found near Southeast Asias remaining forested lowlands, it could have a similar knock-on effect on the ecology in those areas, but its long term impact warrants more in-depth studies.

Ive personally seen population eruptions of pigs and macaque monkeys in forests near oil palms across Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, and Sumatra. This may become a huge conservation issue for the entire region, said Dr Luskin.

The researchers urged oil palm growers as well as the countries and regulatory bodies that govern them to consider ways to limit negative impacts.

One solution suggested by Dr Luskin could be for forest reserves to be surrounded by larger buffer areas to limit wildlife access to oil palm fruits. With many tropical forests lying within a kilometre of a non-forested area, such as a plantation, the scientists said well-protected forest reserves may be insufficient to conserve tropical biodiversity in the face of ongoing agricultural expansion.

Efforts to control the wild boar or feral pig population is also culturally sensitive in some parts of Southeast Asia where pigs are regarded as unclean and consumption of pork is taboo.

The study focused on native wild boars (Sus scrofa), which are well-known to farmers as crop-raiding pests. The wild boar population was estimated to grow 100-times larger than natural levels, resulting in dramatic impacts on an intact forest.

Other animals such as macaque monkeys are also known to forage on oil palm and become common in forests found near plantations. These animals eat birds eggs and a variety of other species and also alter the food webs in forests found near oil palm plantations.

Associate Professor Fidel Costa, Acting Chair of NTUs Asian School of the Environment, said this paper is yet another project that showcases the strengths of the partnership NTU Singapore has with the Smithsonian Institution in the United States.

Together with the Smithsonian, NTU Singapore hopes to groom the next generation of scientific research expertise, which will help Asian countries effectively conserve their environment and to embark on more sustainable business practices, Prof Costa explained. Through impactful studies on the effect of agricultural expansion and wildlife population, we hope to provide insights for countries and policymakers who seek to better protect our environment for future generations.

Image: Nanyang Technological University website
New Delhi, Dec 29 (IBNS): Paving way for controversy, Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali was photographed as sharing the stage with Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan's Rawalpindi on Friday.

According to reports, Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan, held the rally in Rawalpindi, reports said.

The Palestinian envoy to Pakistan was reportedly seen sharing the stage with Saeed at the event.

In response to reports and photographs of the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan attending the rally organised by Saeed, the official spokesperson India's External Affairs Ministry said, "We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian Ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities."

This comes just days after India voted against the US and in favour of Palestine during the UN resolution that declared Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital 'null and void'.

India had said that its position on Palestine is "independent and consistent."
New Delhi, Dec 30 (IBNS): Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that the Parliament should not become a platform for scoring political brownie points.

He was addressing a seminar on Revitalizing Parliamentary Democracy in India on the occasion of the 187th anniversary celebrations of Kolkata Chamber of Commerce, in Kolkata today.

The Vice President called for serious introspection on the part of political parties to see that Parliament does not become a platform for scoring political brownie points. There is no other alternative but to ensure that Parliament functions in an effective and responsive manner to further peace, progress and prosperity in the country, he added.

The Vice President expressed concern over the functioning of Parliament in the backdrop of the severe criticism from various quarters, including the parliamentary fraternity itself. This criticism may be due to a decline, in recent years, in both the quantity and quality of parliamentary work, he added.

The Vice President said that over the years, Parliaments legislative business and the number of hours it devotes to debate crucial issues of national importance have come down. Even, the relatively fewer days when the Parliament meets are often marked by pandemonium, resulting in frequent adjournments on trivial topics, he added.

The Vice President said that disruptions during parliament session are a matter of great concern as they have become the order of the day with the political parties failing to rein in their members. He further said that at present healthy debate and discussions, the hallmark of Parliamentary democracy are overshadowed by disruption, confrontation, and forced adjournments of the house. There is a need for political parties to arrive at a consensus on this important issue so that the precious time of the Parliament and legislatures is not wasted on issues which can be best resolved through debates and dialogues, he added.

Following is the text of Vice President's address:

I am immensely pleased to participate in the 187th anniversary celebrations of Kolkata Chamber of Commerce, which I am told is the oldest Commerce and Industry Association not only in India but in entire Asia.

I am told that as per records of the Association, the idea of business assembly was first mooted at a meeting held on 5th July, 1830 attended by about 200 businessmen of the Kolkata and the Kolkata Trades Association was born under the aegis of Mr. Samuel Smith who assumed the post of the President.

The foundation of the first ever business organization was thus laid in Kolkata the then Capital of India, to encourage trade and commerce and accelerate business and industrial growth.

In 1977, the Kolkata Trades Association assumed the name Kolkata Chamber of Commerce". I am glad that for more than 180 years, this august body has been contributing towards the development of Calcutta and the country.

I am happy to note that the Kolakata Chamber of Commerce Foundation grants scholarships, stipends and prizes and other types of assistance to the needy and brilliant students, scholars and entrepreneurs for studies, research and other activities relating to socio-economic, scientific and technological advancement. The Foundation, I am told, has granted assistance to the victims of Kargil and Tsunami and earthquakes, among others.

I also compliment the Foundation for recognizing outstanding sportspersons and women who achieved fame through Prabha Khaitan Puraskar.

I compliment the Kolkata Chambers for the immense contribution it has made for the economic growth of this region in particular and the country in general.

Friends, as you all know, India is again set to become the fastest growing economy in the world with the GDP expected to grow at 7.2 per cent in 2018 and 7.4 per cent in 2019. According to some projections, India will become the fifth largest economy in 2018 itself and the third largest economy in the next 10-15 years.

As the country progresses on the basis of strong macro-economic fundamentals, the fruits of development must reach every section and the growth we are scripting has to be inclusive. There will not be any meaning to development, if some sections remain untouched by the prosperity. We all must strive to fulfil the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and ensure that the fruits of development reach the last poor man in the line.

With the initiation of various reforms, India has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investments. The highest ever inflow of equity in the form of foreign direct investments (FDI) worth US$ 43.4 billion was received in 2016-17.

With the outlook appearing bright for Indian economy, I would like Commerce bodies like yours to play an active role in skilling the youth so that India could take maximum advantage of its demographic potential. Opportunities are plenty and the energies of the youth of the country need to be properly harnessed through initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, Stand-up India and Start-up India.

Since all of you are from industry background, you know better than anybody else on the dire need to improve the skills of youth so that they not only become employable, but also become job creators rather than remain job seekers.

I would also appeal to you to expand your activities under CSR and complement the efforts of the government, particularly in taking urban amenities to rural areas. India lives in its villages as famously stated by the Father of the Nation and unless the rural areas are transformed into thriving hubs of economic activity, the urban-rural divide will continue to widen and development will remain lop-sided. Similarly, take up special initiatives to impart vocational training to women, eradicate illiteracy, empower girl child, bridge the digital divide and support the Clean India campaign.

REVITALIZING PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY

The Parliament is the nerve centre of Indias democracy and the custodian of peoples interests and rights. It is the temple of democracy and a sacred public institution. Indias Parliamentary system has matured over the years and stood the test of time.

Parliament is the most pivotal institution in Indias democratic polity. Over the years, the changing needs of the people warranting legislations in newer areas have made the legislative and surveillance role of Parliament more complex and diversified. The unprecedented growth in the range and magnitude of the governmental activities has made the role of Parliament all the more significant since the executive is accountable to the Parliament.

However, to meet the ever-increasing expectations from Parliament, it needs to constantly review its structural-functional requirements as also the entire gamut of its operational procedures and strengthen the resources at its disposal.

As of today, we have almost successfully conducted 16 general elections in the largest democracy on the planet. Moreover, our Parliamentary system has ensured peaceful transfer of power as there were no hiccups, pressures, stresses and strains at any time. We all must be legitimately proud of this remarkable achievement of Indias Parliamentary democracy.

With coalition governments, at times, becoming inevitable in Indias multi-party system and the threat of instability undermining the faith of well-meaning critics in Parliamentary democracy, we can still be proud of the fact that we have till date experienced a good deal of political stability.

Of late, the functioning of Parliament in the country has come under severe criticism from various quarters, including the parliamentary fraternity itself. This criticism is due to the way the Parliament and the State legislatures are functioning. It may be due to a decline, in recent years, in both the quantity and quality of parliamentary work.

Over the years, the number of days for which Parliament normally meets to transact legislative and other businesses and the number of hours it devotes to debate national issues has come down significantly. Even, the relatively fewer days when the Parliament meets are often marked by pandemonium, resulting in frequent adjournments on trivial topics.

It is a matter of concern that disruptions have become the order of the day with the political parties failing to rein in their members. There is a need for political parties to arrive at a consensus on this important issue so that the precious time of the Parliament and legislatures is not wasted on issues which can be best resolved through debates and dialogues.

But unfortunately, at present healthy debate and discussions, the hallmark of Parliamentary democracy are overshadowed by disruption, confrontation, and forced adjournments of the house. On many occasions, Parliament gets stalled resulting in wastage of public money and loss of working hours. As a result, Parliament finds itself disabled to discuss and deliberate on important socio-economic issues which affect the people and the country.

The time has come for serious introspection on the part of political parties to see that Parliament does not become a platform for scoring political brownie points. There is no other alternative but to ensure that Parliament functions in an effective and responsive manner to further peace, progress and prosperity in the country.

Friends, I feel corrective steps are urgently needed to strengthen Parliament's role as the country's highest democratic institution, representing the sovereign will of the people. Also, it is of the utmost importance for survival of democracy that Parliament continues to occupy an esteemed position in the minds and hearts of the people."
Cairo, Dec 30 (IBNS): At least 11 people were killed in a recent attack orchestrated by the Islamic State in Egypt's capital city Cairo.

The incident, which took place on Friday, targeted Coptic Christians.

At least nine people, including a policeman, were killed as a gunman opened fire inside the church in Helwan, a suburb in southern Cairo, Reuters news agency reported.

Prior to that, the gunman shot two people at a Christian owned shop, killing both.

The gunman was later neutralised by security forces and has been taken into custody.

The deceased, though not identified, were said to be in between ages 43 to 90.

The ISIS claimed the attack through its mouthpiece Amaq.



Who are the Copts?

Copts make up to 10 percent of Egypt's population and is the largest Christian community in the Middle East.

The Copts follow the teaching of Apostle Mark, who introduced Christianity to Egypt, according to St. Takla Church in Alexandria, the capital of Coptic Christianity.

According to the World Council of Churches, the Coptic language descends from ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics.

Though there were hundreds of Coptic monasteries in ancient Egypt, only 20-odd remains active today.


They made you cry and they made you laugh. Some united a country and others divided its people.

Here is a look at some of the well-known people who died in the past year:

Chuck Berry and Fats Domino were known as founding fathers of rock n roll. Musicians Tom Petty and Greg Allman led their musical groups to the top of popular music charts. Glen Campbell was known for country music and Al Jarreau for jazz. They also were among the well-known musicians who died in 2017, leaving a void in music.

Jerry Lewis, Don Rickles and Dick Gregory left their own mark on comedy. But the story of the 1960s could not be told without Hugh Hefner and Charles Manson.

Hefner founded Playboy magazine and was credited with helping to start the sexual revolution in the 1960s. The decade ended with Manson becoming the face of evil across America. He directed his followers to kill several people in Los Angeles, including American actress Sharon Tate.

Notable political figures also died this year. Former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl reunited East and West Germany, a country divided by the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. He helped put Germany at the heart of the European Union.

Former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega who was ousted by a U.S. military action also died in 2017.

Ali Abdullah Saleh was Yemens president for 33 years. He stepped down in 2012 during the Arab Spring uprisings that swept through the Middle East. He was killed by the Houthie rebels this year.

And Cardinal Bernard Law, the former archbishop of Boston, died at age 86. His failure to stop sexual abuse of children by religious workers brought a serious crisis to the American Catholic church.

Fans said goodbye to film and television stars in 2017.

Mary Tyler Moore changed how women appeared on television in her popular program The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

Roger Moore was known for playing James Bond and Adam West played the first batman on television.

Haruo Nakajima played the role of Godzilla in the original 1954 classic movie. Godzilla has gone on to star in movies for more than 60 years.

Other notable people who died in 2017 include:

Zhou Youguang, a Chinese language expert who died at age 111. Zhou is considered the father of modern Chinas Pinyin writing system. The system uses the Roman alphabet to represent Chinese characters based on their pronunciation.

Sumiteru Taniguchi spent his life seeking to stop nuclear weapons. He was burned severely in 1945 when an atomic bomb was used on his hometown of Nagasaki, Japan.

Norma McCorvey was the Jane Roe in the famous U.S. Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion, known as Roe versus Wade. She later became an opponent of abortion.

Carl Clark was awarded a medal of honor some sixty years after his bravery during World War II. Clark died at age 100.

And Otto Warmbier was an American college student who was jailed in North Korea for more than one year. Warmbier fell into a coma and was released by North Korean officials. He died shortly after his return to the U.S. at the age of 22.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Hai Do adapted this story for Learning English based on an Associated Press report. Mario Ritter was the editor.

Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

void n. an empty space

abortion n. medically ending a pregnancy

coma n. a condition in which a sick or injured person cannot wake up for a long time
The year 2017 has been a good year for bad news.

Media personality Marian Salzman called it a year of disruption, despair and dumpster fires. In other words, it has been a difficult year, marked by violence, natural disasters and political disagreement.

Gun violence, attacks claim lives around the world

The year started off with bad news; a gunman attacked a nightclub in Istanbul, Turkey, during a New Years celebration. Thirty-nine people were killed and many more were injured.

Vehicles were used as weapons in several major attacks this year.

A truck bombing in the Somali capital, Mogadishu claimed hundreds of lives. In June, a truck was also used in an attack in Westminster and London Bridge in London, killing eight people. Similar attacks took place in Stockholm, Sweden, Barcelona, Spain and New York City.

In each case, extremists were blamed.

Terrorists targeted Egyptian Coptic Christians in two attacks in April. Then, in November over 300 people were killed in an attack on a Muslim place of worship in continuing religious violence in Egypt.

In Britain, a suicide attack killed 22 people in a bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

Shooting violence again left a mark of tragedy in the United States. In November, a man opened fire in a church in rural Texas, killing 25 people.

In Las Vegas, Nevada, a gunman aimed at a nearby music concert from a tall hotel building, killing 58 people. The attack was the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.

Storms, fires, quakes leave costly damage

Natural disasters were also notable. Three powerful storms struck the Caribbean Sea and the southern United States in a short period of time.

Hurricane Harvey struck the city of Houston, Texas, in August, causing widespread flooding and damage. Two other hurricanes, Irma and Maria, struck Caribbean islands, the state of Florida and the southern U.S. More than three months later, tens of thousands remain without power on the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.

Powerful storms also struck the Philippines and Vietnam, bringing with them damage and heavy loss of life.

Wildfires proved to be costly and dangerous events. Fires burned large areas in Portugal as well as in the central and southern parts of the state of California.

Paths of danger for civilians, refugees

Migration and refugees fleeing violence remained a major problem in 2017. Amnesty International estimates that 73,000 refugees from Africa and the Middle East tried to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. Two thousand refugees are believed to have died along the way.

News stories brought attention to the situation of ethnic Rohingya people in Myanmar. It is believed that 626,000 people have fled to Bangladesh to escape ethnic violence involving the military in Myanmar.

Civil war in Yemen has brought hunger, disease and poor conditions to millions in the country. Saudi Arabia put in place -- and then promised to ease -- a blockade on the countrys seaports and airports. The blockade prevents humanitarian aid from getting to Yemen.

Political crisis and change

The political crisis in Venezuela continues, as those opposed to President Nicolas Maduro have taken to the streets in protest. Large numbers have fled South Americas most troubled economy in search of jobs in other countries, including neighboring Brazil.

In Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe was ousted in November after leading one of Africas most economically troubled nations for 37 years.

In Spain, efforts by Catalonians to seek independence led to new elections and the ouster of the autonomous areas president. Pro-independence groups gained a narrow majority in the latest elections.

A similar vote for independence by the Kurdish area of Iraq resulted in the central government seizing oil producing areas. The Kurdish president resigned and the area government withdrew the results of the vote.

Sharp changes in policies

The election of Donald Trump in 2016 brought with it many policy changes for the United States.

Trump ordered strong restrictions on immigration from several Muslim-majority countries. He pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement with Pacific area nations. And in June, he said the U.S. would withdraw from the Paris Agreement, a non-binding deal to limit the rise in world temperatures.

Japan has sought to change its pacifist constitution to permit an expanded military. And South Korea permitted the deployment of the THAD anti-missile system over Chinas objection.

North Korea has raised tensions on the Korean Peninsula to a new level, with several long-range missile tests and a suspected hydrogen bomb underground explosion. In late November, North Korea tested a missile that is believed to be able to reach any part of the U.S.

Sexual wrongdoing accusations top APs 2017 news list

The Associated Press says the biggest story of 2017 was the wave of well-known and powerful men accused of sexual wrongdoing.

The New York Times published sexual abuse allegations against film producer Harvey Weinstein in October. In the weeks since, women and some men have publicly accused others in Hollywood, news media executives, politicians and more of sexual assault or harassment. Among the accused were Kevin Spacey, Charlie Rose and Matt Lauer.

Millions of people around the world also used the hashtag #MeToo to tell of their sexual abuse experiences.

Minnesota Senator Al Franken and Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore were accused of wrongdoing, each by many women. Franken announced his resignation from the Senate while Moore lost the election. Other U.S. congressmen were also accused; some decided not to seek reelection.

And some good news too

There was cause to celebrate this year in Nigeria, when more than 80 of the young women known as the Chibok girls were released. They had been held for more than three years by the countrys Boko Haram Islamic extremist group.

Many of them have renewed their studies by attending the American University of Nigeria. The girls are said to be under the care of the Nigerian government.

Other positive developments include the collapse of the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq.

And the U.S. economy continued to grow more quickly than expected. Joblessness fell to its lowest level in many years.

The good news has many people hoping for a better 2018.

You heard from Lucija Milonig, Jill Robbins, Jonathan Evans and Dorothy Gundy.

Im Mario Ritter.

The Associated Press reported this story. Mario Ritter adapted it for VOA Learning English using additional materials. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

Dorothy Gundy produced the video.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

disruption n. something that prevents some activity from going on in the normal way

dumpster fires idiom a very bad situation

migration n. to move from one country or place to another to live without intending to return

blockade n. the act of militarily blocking off a place, city or country to prevent people or supplies from entering or leaving

autonomous adj. having the right to self-government

non-binding adj. not required by law

pacifist adj. not accepting war as a possible solution

hydrogen bomb n. an atomic bomb that uses hydrogen to increase the power of the explosion

assault n. the crime of trying to or threatening to harm someone physically

harassment n. to annoy or bother in a repeated way
The following companies are subsidiares of Danaher: AB SCIEX, AB Sciex LLC, AB Sciex LP, AB Sciex Pte Ltd., Accu-Sort Systems, Acme Cleveland Corporation, Advanced Vision Technology, Aldevron, Aldevron L.L.C., American Precision Industries, Applied Biosystems, Applitek NV, Aquatic Infomatics ULC, Aquatic Informatics, Armstrong Tools, BC Distribution BV, Beckman Coulter, Beckman Coulter Australia Pty Ltd, Beckman Coulter Biotechnology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Beckman Coulter Canada LP, Beckman Coulter Commercial Enterprise China Co. Ltd., Beckman Coulter France S.A.S., Beckman Coulter G.m.b.H., Beckman Coulter Genomics Inc., Beckman Coulter Hong Kong Limited, Beckman Coulter Inc., Beckman Coulter India Private Limited, Beckman Coulter International SA, Beckman Coulter International Shanghai Trading Co., Beckman Coulter Ireland Inc., Beckman Coulter K.K., Beckman Coulter Korea Ltd, Beckman Coulter Laboratory Systems Suzhou Co. Ltd., Beckman Coulter Limited Liability Company, Beckman Coulter Nederland B.V., Beckman Coulter Nippon GK, Beckman Coulter S.L.U., Beckman Coulter Saudi Arabia Co.Ltd., Beckman Coulter Srl, Beckman Coulter Taiwan Inc., Beckman Coulter United Kingdom Limited, Beckman Coulter de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Beckman Finance ApS, Biacore International AB, Biosafe S.A., Blue Software LLC, Cepheid, Cepheid AB, Cepheid Canada ULC, Cepheid Europe SAS, Cepheid GmbH, Cepheid HBDC SAS, Cepheid India Private Limited, Cepheid UK Ltd., ChemTreat, ChemTreat Inc., Cispus Hong Kong Holding Limited, Cytiva, Cytiva BioProcess R&D AB, Cytiva Biotechnology Guangzhou Co. Ltd., Cytiva Biotechnology Hang Zhou Co. Ltd., Cytiva Europe GmbH, Cytiva Sweden AB, DCHL Holding BV, DH Denmark Holding ApS, DH Europe Finance II Sarl, DH Europe Finance Sarl, DH Holding Italia SRL, DH Holdings Germany LLC, DH II Luxembourg Sarl, DH Japan Finance Sarl, DH Switzerland Finance Sarl, DH Technologies Development Pte Ltd., DHCY Limited, DHKAB Company AB, DTIL Ireland Holdings Ltd., Danaher China Holdings Ltd., Danaher Finance Company AB, Danaher HK Holdings Ltd., Danaher Medical ApS, Danaher Shanghai Management Co. Ltd., Delta Consolidated Industries, Devicore Medical Products Inc., Easco Hand Tools, Esko, Esko BV, Esko Graphics BV, Esko Graphics Inc., Esko Software BV, Fluke, GE Biopharma, Gelman Sciences Inc., Gendex, Genetix Group, Gilbarco Veeder Root, Gilzoni Ltd., Global Life Sciences Solutions Austria GmbH & Co. KG, Global Life Sciences Solutions Germany GmbH, Global Life Sciences Solutions Korea Ltd., Global Life Sciences Solutions Manufacturing UK Ltd, Global Life Sciences Solutions Operations UK Ltd, Global Life Sciences Solutions Singapore Pte Ltd, Global Life Sciences Solutions USA LLC, Global Life Sciences Technologies Japan KK, Global Life Sciences Technologies Shanghai Co Ltd., Hach Company, Hach Lange GmbH, Hach Lange Sarl, Hach Water Quality Analytical Instru. Shanghai Co. Ltd., HemoCue AB, HyClone Laboratories LLC, Hybritech Incorporated, Hyclone Life Sciences Solutions India Private Limited, ID Business Solutions Limited, IDBS Group, IRIS International, Imaging Sciences International, Immunotech Sro, Intabio LLC, Integrated DNA Technologies, Integrated DNA Technologies BVBA, Integrated DNA Technologies Inc., Integrated DNA Technologies Pte. Ltd., Intermountain Life Sciences LLC, Iris International Inc., KaVo, KaVo Kerr, Kaltenbach & Voigt, Keithley Instruments, Kipp & Zonen BV, Kollmorgen, Labcyte Inc., Laetus, Launchchange Holding Company, Leica Biosystems Imaging Inc., Leica Biosystems Melbourne Pty Ltd, Leica Biosystems Newcastle Limited, Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH, Leica Biosystems Richmond Inc., Leica Instruments Singapore Pte Limited, Leica Microsystems, Leica Microsystems CMS GmbH, Leica Microsystems Cambridge Limited, Leica Microsystems IR GmbH, Leica Microsystems Inc., Leica Microsystems Limited, Leica Microsystems UK Limited, Leica Mikrosysteme GmbH, Leica Mikrosysteme Vertrieb GmbH, Life Sciences Holdings France SAS, Life Sciences IP Holdings Corporation, Lifschultz Industries, Linx Printing Technologies, Linx Printing Technologies Limited, MDS Analytical Technologies, Marconi Data Systems, Microtest, Molecular Devices, Molecular Devices LLC, Navman Wireless, Navman Wireless OEM Solutions, Nihon Pall Ltd., Nobel Biocare, OTT Hydromet Corp, Pall Aeropower Corporation, Pall Artelis BVBA, Pall Asia Holdings Inc., Pall Austar Lifesciences Limited, Pall Australia Pty. Ltd., Pall Austria Filter Ges.m.b.h, Pall Canada ULC, Pall China Co. Ltd., Pall Corporation, Pall Europe Limited, Pall Filtersystems GmbH, Pall Filtration Pte. Ltd., Pall Filtration and Separations Group Inc., Pall France SAS, Pall GmbH, Pall India Pvt. Ltd., Pall International Sarl, Pall Italia Srl, Pall Korea Ltd., Pall Life Sciences Belgium BV, Pall Life Sciences Puerto Rico LLC, Pall Manufacturing UK Limited, Pall Medistad BV, Pall Netherlands BV Irish Branch, Pall Schweiz GmbH, Pall Technology UK Limited, PaloDEX, Pantone LLC, Pelton & Crane, Phenomenex, Phenomenex Inc., Precision NanoSystems, Precision Nanosystems ULC, Radiometer, Radiometer Medical ApS, Radiometer Turku Oy, Raytek, Reytek Corporation, Sea-Bird Electronics Inc., Sedaru Inc., Shanghai AB Sciex Analytical Instrument Trading Co. Ltd., Skyland Analytics Inc., Sutron, Swift Biosciences Inc., Sybron Dental Specialties, Tektronix, Thomson Industries, Trojan Technologies, Trojan Technologies Group ULC, VSS Monitoring, Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc., Videojet Do Brasil Comercio de Equipamentos Para Codificacao Industrial Ltda., Videojet Technologies Europe B.V., Videojet Technologies GmbH, Videojet Technologies Inc., Videojet Technologies S Pte.Ltd., Viridor Waste Management Limited, Vision Systems Limited, Willett International, X-Ray Optical Systems Inc., X-Rite, X-Rite Europe GmbH, X-Rite Incorporated, XOS, Yukon Hong Kong Holding Limited, and Zhuhai S.E.Z. Videojet Electronics Ltd..

Read More
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.
* PermaKat Eleonora Rosati received the 2022 Adepi Award

* PermaKat Eleonora Rosati listed as one of the World Intellectual Property Review's "Influential Women in IP" of 2020.

* PermaKat Eleonora Rosati listed as one of the Managing Intellectual Property magazine's "Fifty Most Influential People" of 2018.

* IPKat founder and Blogmeister Emeritus Jeremy Phillips listed as one of the Managing Intellectual Property magazine's "Fifty Most Influential People" of 2005, 2011, 2013, and 2014.

* Recommended by the European Patent Office as reading material for candidates for the European Qualifying Examinations, 2013.

* Listed as "Top Legal Blog" in The Times Online, March 2011.

2010 ABA Journal 100. * One of the only two non-US blogs listed in the Blawg100.

* Court Reporter Top Copyright Blog award winner, November 2010.

* Number 1 in the 2010 Top Copyright Blog list compiled by the Copyright Litigation Blog, July 2010.

* Selected by the United States Library of Congress for inclusion in its historic collections of Internet materials related to Legal Blawgs as of 2010.

* Top Patent Blog poll 2009: 3rd out of 50 in the "Favourite Patent Blog" poll and 2nd out of 50 in the "Most-read" poll.

Blog of the Year, 20 August 2008. * ComputerWeekly IT Law and Governance, 20 August 2008.
The following companies are subsidiares of CVS Health: ACS ACQCO CORP., ADMINCO Inc., AE Fourteen Incorporated, AHP Holdings Inc., AMC - Tennessee LLC, APS Acquisition LLC, ASCO HealthCare LLC, ASI Wings LLC, AUSHC Holdings Inc., Accendo Insurance Company, Accordant Health Services L.L.C., Active Health Management Inc., Administrative Enterprises Inc., AdvancePCS SpecialtyRx LLC, AdvanceRx.com L.L.C., Advanced Care Scripts Inc., Aetna, Aetna (Beijing) Enterprise Management Services Co. Ltd., Aetna (Shanghai) Enterprise Services Co. Ltd., Aetna ACO Holdings Inc., Aetna Asset Advisors LLC, Aetna Behavioral Health LLC, Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health Inc., Aetna Better Health Premier Plan MMAI Inc., Aetna Better Health of California Inc., Aetna Better Health of Florida Inc., Aetna Better Health of Illinois Inc., Aetna Better Health of Indiana Inc., Aetna Better Health of Kansas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Missouri LLC, Aetna Better Health of Nevada Inc., Aetna Better Health of North Carolina Inc., Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma Inc., Aetna Better Health of Tennessee Inc., Aetna Better Health of Texas Inc., Aetna Better Health of Washington Inc., Aetna Capital Management LLC, Aetna Card Solutions LLC, Aetna Corporate Services LLC, Aetna Dental Inc., Aetna Dental of California Inc., Aetna Financial Holdings LLC, Aetna Florida Inc., Aetna Global Benefits (Asia Pacific) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Bermuda) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Europe) Limited, Aetna Global Benefits (Middle East) LLC, Aetna Global Benefits (Singapore) PTE. LTD., Aetna Health Holdings LLC, Aetna Health Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Aetna Health Insurance Company, Aetna Health Insurance Company of Europe DAC, Aetna Health Insurance Company of New York, Aetna Health Management LLC, Aetna Health and Life Insurance Company, Aetna Health of California Inc., Aetna Health of Iowa Inc., Aetna Health of Michigan Inc., Aetna Health of Ohio Inc., Aetna Health of Utah Inc., Aetna HealthAssurance Pennsylvania Inc., Aetna Holdco (UK) Limited, Aetna Holdings (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Inc., Aetna Insurance (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Aetna Insurance Company Limited, Aetna Insurance Company of Connecticut, Aetna Integrated Informatics Inc., Aetna International Ex Pat LLC, Aetna International LLC, Aetna Ireland Inc., Aetna Life & Casualty (Bermuda) Ltd., Aetna Life Assignment Company, Aetna Life Insurance Company, Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC, Aetna Network Services LLC, Aetna Partners Diversified Fund LLC, Aetna Pharmacy Management Services LLC, Aetna Resources LLC, Aetna Risk Assurance Company of Connecticut Inc., Aetna Rx Home Delivery LLC, Aetna Services (Thailand) Limited, Aetna Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Aetna Student Health Agency Inc., Aetna Ventures LLC, Aetna Workers Comp Access LLC, Alabama CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Alaska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Allina Health and Aetna Health Plan Inc., Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, American Drug Stores Delaware L.L.C., Arbor Drugs, Arizona CVS Stores L.L.C., Arkansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Badger Acquisition LLC, Badger Acquisition of Kentucky LLC, Badger Acquisition of Minnesota LLC, Badger Acquisition of Ohio LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Company, Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Banner Health and Aetna Health Plan Inc., Beauty Holdings L.L.C., Best Care LTC Acquisition Company LLC, Busse CVS L.L.C., CCI Foreign S.a R.L., CCRx Holdings LLC, CCRx of North Carolina LLC, CHP Acquisition LLC, CP Acquisition LLC, CVS 2948 Henderson L.L.C., CVS 3268 Gilbert L.L.C., CVS 3745 Peoria L.L.C., CVS AL Distribution L.L.C., CVS AOC Corporation, CVS AOC Services L.L.C., CVS Albany L.L.C., CVS Bellmore Avenue L.L.C., CVS Cabot Holdings Inc., CVS Cabot Holdings Inc.  Coram Clinical Trials Inc. 99.72%/Aetna Inc. .28%, CVS Care Concierge LLC, CVS Caremark Advanced Technology Pharmacy L.L.C., CVS Caremark Indemnity Ltd., CVS Caremark Part D Services L.L.C., CVS Caremark TN SUTA LLC, CVS Foreign Inc., CVS Gilbert 3272 L.L.C., CVS Health Applications LLC, CVS Health Solutions LLC, CVS Health Ventures Fund GP LLC, CVS Health Ventures Fund LP, CVS Health Ventures Management LLC, CVS Indiana L.L.C., CVS International L.L.C., CVS Kidney Care Advanced Technologies LLC, CVS Kidney Care Health Services LLC, CVS Kidney Care Home Dialysis LLC, CVS Kidney Care LLC, CVS Management Support LLC, CVS Manchester NH L.L.C., CVS Media Exchange LLC, CVS Michigan L.L.C., CVS Orlando FL Distribution L.L.C., CVS PA Distribution L.L.C., CVS PR Center Inc., CVS Pharmacy Inc., CVS Pharmacy Overseas Online LLC, CVS RS Arizona L.L.C., CVS Rx Services Inc., CVS SC Distribution L.L.C., CVS Shaw Holdings Inc., CVS Shaw Holdings Inc.  Coram Clinical Trials Inc. 99.72%/Aetna Inc. .28%, CVS State Capital L.L.C., CVS TN Distribution L.L.C., CVS Transportation L.L.C., CVS Vero FL Distribution L.L.C., CVS-SHC Kidney Care Home Dialysis of Austin LLC, CVS-SHC Kidney Care Home Dialysis of Los Angeles LLC, CVS-SHC Kidney Care Home Dialysis of Philadelphia LLC, CVS-SHC Renal Holdings LLC, Campos Medical Pharmacy LLC, Canal Place LLC, Care Pharmaceutical Services LP, CareCenter Pharmacy L.L.C., Carefree Insurance Services Inc., Caremark Arizona Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Arizona Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark California Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Florida Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Florida Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Hawaii Mail Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark IPA L.L.C., Caremark Illinois Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Illinois Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Irving Resource Center LLC, Caremark Kansas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark L.L.C., Caremark Logistics LLC, Caremark Louisiana Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Maryland Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Massachusetts Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Michigan Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Minnesota Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark New Jersey Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark North Carolina Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ohio Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Pennsylvania Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark PhC L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Redlands Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Repack LLC, Caremark Rx L.L.C., Caremark Tennessee Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ulysses Holding Corp., Caremark Washington Specialty Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Alabama Mail Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Health L.L.C., CaremarkPCS L.L.C., Central Rx Services LLC, Cofinity Inc., Compscript LLC, Connecticut CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Continental Life Insurance Company of Brentwood Tennessee, Continuing Care Rx LLC, Coram Alternate Site Services Inc., Coram Clinical Trials Inc., Coram Clinical Trials Inc.  CVS Pharmacy Inc. 75%/Aetna Life Insurance Company 25%, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Alabama, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater D.C., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater New York, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Indiana, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Massachusetts, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Mississippi, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Nevada, Coram Healthcare Corporation of North Texas, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Northern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Utah, Coram LLC, Coram Rx LLC, Coram Specialty Infusion, Coram Specialty Infusion Services L.L.C., Coventry Consumer Advantage Inc., Coventry Health Care National Accounts Inc., Coventry Health Care National Network Inc., Coventry Health Care of Illinois Inc., Coventry Health Care of Kansas Inc., Coventry Health Care of Missouri Inc., Coventry Health Care of Nebraska Inc., Coventry Health Care of Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Care of West Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Plan of Florida Inc., Coventry Health and Life Insurance Company, Coventry HealthCare Management Corporation, Coventry Prescription Management Services Inc., Coventry Transplant Network Inc., Credentials Inc., D & R Pharmaceutical Services LLC, D.A.W. LLC, Delaware CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Delaware Physicians Care Incorporated, District of Columbia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., E.T.B. INC., Echo Merger Sub Inc., Eckerd Corporation of Florida Inc., Employee Assistance Services LLC, Enloe Drugs LLC, Enterprise Patient Safety Organization LLC, EntrustRX, Evergreen Pharmaceutical LLC, Evergreen Pharmaceutical of California LLC, Express Pharmacy Services of PA L.L.C., First Choice of the Midwest LLC, First Health Group Corp., First Health Life & Health Insurance Company, Florida Health Plan Administrators LLC, Garfield Beach CVS L.L.C., Generation Health L.L.C., Geneva Woods Health Services LLC, Geneva Woods LTC Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Management LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Alaska LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Washington LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Wyoming LLC, Geneva Woods Retail Pharmacy LLC, Georgia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., German Dobson CVS L.L.C., Goodhealth Worldwide (Asia) Limited, Goodhealth Worldwide (Global) Limited, Goodyear CVS L.L.C., Grand St. Paul CVS L.L.C., Grandview Pharmacy LLC, Group Dental Service Inc., Health Care Management Co. Ltd., Health Data & Management Solutions Inc., Health Re Inc., Health and Human Resource Center Inc., HealthAssurance Pennsylvania Inc., Highland Park CVS L.L.C., Holiday CVS L.L.C., Home Care Pharmacy LLC, Home Pharmacy Services LLC, Hook-SupeRx L.L.C., Horizon Behavioral Services LLC, Idaho CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., IlliniCare Health, Indian Health Organisation Private Limited, Innovation Health Holdings LLC, Innovation Health Insurance Company, Innovation Health Plan Inc., Interlock Pharmacy Systems LLC, Iowa CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., JHC Acquisition LLC, Kansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Kentucky CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., LCPS Acquisition LLC, Langsam Health Services LLC, Lo-Med Prescription Services LLC, Lobos Acquisition LLC, Longs Drug Stores, Longs Drug Stores California L.L.C., Louisiana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., MHHP Acquisition Company LLC, MHNet Specialty Services LLC, MHNet of Florida Inc., Main Street Pharmacy L.L.C., Managed Care Coordinators Inc., Managed Healthcare LLC, Martin Health Services LLC, Maryland CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Med World Acquisition Corp., Medical Arts Health Care LLC, Medical Examinations of New York P.C., Melville Realty Company Inc., MemberHealth LLC, Mental Health Associates Inc., Mental Health Network of New York IPA Inc., Meritain Health Inc., Merwin Long Term Care LLC, Minor Health Enterprise Co Ltd., MinuteClinic, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Alabama L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Arizona LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Arkansas LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Colorado LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Florida LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Georgia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Hawaii L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Illinois LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Kentucky L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Louisiana L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maine L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maryland LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Massachusetts LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Nebraska L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Hampshire L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Mexico L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Ohio LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oklahoma LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oregon LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Pennsylvania LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Rhode Island LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of South Carolina L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Texas LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Utah L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Virginia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Washington LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Wisconsin L.L.C., MinuteClinic L.L.C., MinuteClinic Online Diagnostic Services LLC, MinuteClinic Physician Practice of Texas, MinuteClinic Telehealth Services LLC, MinuteClinic Telehealth Services of Texas Association, Mississippi CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Missouri CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Montana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NCS Healthcare of Illinois LLC, NCS Healthcare of Iowa LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kansas LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kentucky LLC, NCS Healthcare of Montana LLC, NCS Healthcare of New Mexico LLC, NCS Healthcare of Ohio LLC, NCS Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, NCS Healthcare of Tennessee LLC, NCS Healthcare of Wisconsin LLC, NIV Acquisition LLC, Navarro Discount Pharmacy, Nebraska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NeighborCare Pharmacy Services LLC, NeighborCare of Indiana LLC, NeighborCare of Virginia LLC, New Jersey CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Niagara Re Inc., North Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., North Shore Pharmacy Services LLC, NovoLogix LLC, OCR Services LLC, Ocean Acquisition Sub L.L.C., Ohio CVS Stores L.L.C., Oklahoma CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Omnicare, Omnicare Indiana Partnership Holding Company LLC, Omnicare LLC, Omnicare LLC  Aetna Inc 0.28%/CVS Cabot Holdings Inc. 49.86%/CVS Shaw Holdings Inc. 49.86%, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania West LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of the Great Plains Holding LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy and Supply Services LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of Tennessee LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of the Midwest LLC, Omnicare Property Management LLC, Omnicare of Nebraska LLC, Omnicare of Nevada LLC, Omnicare of New York LLC, Oregon CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., PE Holdings LLC, PHPSNE Parent Corporation, PP Acquisition Company LLC, PRN Pharmaceutical Services LP, PT Aetna Management Consulting, Pamplona Saude e Beleza LTDA, Part D Holding Company L.L.C., PayFlex Systems USA Inc., Pennsylvania CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Performax Inc., Pharmacy Associates of Glenn Falls LLC, Pharmacy Consultants LLC, Phoenix Data Solutions LLC, Precision Benefit Services Inc., Prime Net Inc., ProCare Pharmacy Direct L.L.C., ProCare Pharmacy L.L.C., Prodigy Health Group Inc., Professional Risk Management Inc., Puerto Rico CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Red Oak Sourcing LLC, Resources for Living LLC, Rhode Island CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Roeschens Healthcare LLC, RxAmerica, Schaller Anderson Medical Administrators Incorporated, Scrip World LLC, Sheffield Avenue CVS L.L.C., Shore Pharmaceutical Providers LLC, Silverscript Insurance Company, Soma Intimates, South Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., South Wabash CVS L.L.C., Specialized Pharmacy Services LLC, Stadtlander Drug Company, Stadtlander Pharmacy, Sterling Healthcare Services LLC, Superior Care Pharmacy LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Administrative Services LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, T2 Medical Inc., TCPI Acquisition LLC, TargetPharmacy, Tennessee CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Company, Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Texas Health + Aetna Health Plan Inc., The Vasquez Group Inc., Thomas Phoenix CVS L.L.C., Three Forks Apothecary LLC, U.S Healthcare Holdings LLC, U.S. Healthcare Properties Inc., UAC Holding Inc., UC Acquisition LLC, UNI-Care Health Services of Maine LLC, Universal American - Medicare Part D Business, Utah CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., VAPS Acquisition Company LLC, Value Health Care Services LLC, Vermont CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virtual Home Healthcare LLC, Warm Springs Road CVS L.L.C., Washington CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Washington Lamb CVS L.L.C., Weber Medical Systems LLC, Wellpartner LLC, West Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Westhaven Services Co LLC, Williamson Drug Company LLC, Wisconsin CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Woodward Detroit CVS L.L.C., Work and Family Benefits Inc., ZS Acquisition Company LLC, Zinc Health Services LLC, Zinc Health Ventures LLC, bSwift LLC, and iTriage LLC.

Read More
The following companies are subsidiares of Becton, Dickinson and: Accuri Cytometers, Accuri Cytometers Inc., Alverix Inc, Alverix Inc., Atto Bioscience Inc, BD Holding S. de R.L. de C.V., BD Infection Prevention BV, BD Kiestra BV, BD Kiestra Total Lab Automation, BD Rapid Diagnostic (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., BD San Luis Potosi S.A. de C.V., BD Switzerland Sarl, BD Ventures LLC, BD West Africa Limited, BDX INO LLC, Bard (Thailand) Limited, Bard ASDI Inc., Bard Access Systems Inc., Bard Acquisition Sub Inc., Bard Australia Pty. Limited, Bard Benelux N.V., Bard Brachytherapy Inc., Bard Brasil Industria e Comercio de Produtos Para a Saude Ltda., Bard Canada Inc., Bard Chile S.p.A., Bard Czech Republic s.r.o., Bard Devices Inc., Bard Dublin ITC Limited, Bard EMEA Finance Center Sp.z o.o., Bard European Distribution Center N.V., Bard Finance B.V. & Co. KG., Bard Financial Services Ltd., Bard Finland OY, Bard France S.A.S., Bard Global Holdings I LLC, Bard Global Holdings II LLC, Bard Global Holdings III LLC, Bard Healthcare Inc., Bard Healthcare Science (Shanghai) Limited, Bard Hellas S.A., Bard Holding SAS, Bard Holdings Limited, Bard Holdings Netherlands B.V., Bard Hong Kong Limited, Bard IP Holdings Inc., Bard India Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Bard International Holdings B.V., Bard International Inc., Bard Istanbul Healthcare Limited Company, Bard Korea Ltd., Bard Limited, Bard MRL Acquisition Corp., Bard Malaysia Healthcare Sdn. Bhd., Bard Medica SA, Bard Medical Devices (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Bard Medical R&D (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Bard Medical SA (Proprietary) Limited, Bard Mexico Realty S. de R.L. de C.V., Bard Norden AB, Bard Norway AS, Bard Pacific Health Care Company Ltd., Bard Peripheral Vascular Inc., Bard Poland Sp. z.o.o., Bard Productos Plasticos e Medicos Ltda., Bard Reynosa S.A. de C.V., Bard S.r.l., Bard Sdn. Bhd., Bard Shannon Limited, Bard Singapore Private Limited, Bard Sourcing Office Singapore Pte. Ltd., Bard Sweden AB, Bard UK Newco Limited, Bard de Espana S.A., Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Limited, Becton Dickinson (Gibraltar) Management Limited, Becton Dickinson (Mauritius) Limited, Becton Dickinson (Pty) Ltd., Becton Dickinson (Thailand) Limited, Becton Dickinson A.G., Becton Dickinson A/S, Becton Dickinson Argentina S.R.L., Becton Dickinson Asia Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson Asia Limited, Becton Dickinson Austria GmbH, Becton Dickinson Austria Holdings GmbH, Becton Dickinson B.V., Becton Dickinson B.V. Saudi Limited Company, Becton Dickinson Benelux N.V., Becton Dickinson Biosciences Systems and Reagents Inc., Becton Dickinson Canada Inc., Becton Dickinson Caribe Ltd., Becton Dickinson Croatia d.o.o., Becton Dickinson Czechia s.r.o., Becton Dickinson Dispensing Belgium BVBA, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Denmark A/S, Becton Dickinson Dispensing France SAS, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Ireland Limited, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Norway, Becton Dickinson Dispensing Spain S.L.U., Becton Dickinson Dispensing UK Ltd., Becton Dickinson Distribution Center N.V., Becton Dickinson East Africa Ltd., Becton Dickinson Euro Finance Sarl, Becton Dickinson Europe Holdings S.A.S., Becton Dickinson France S.A.S., Becton Dickinson GSA Beteilgungs GmbH, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings I Inc., Becton Dickinson Global Holdings II LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings IV LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings V LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings VII LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Holdings VIII LLC, Becton Dickinson Global Services Centre Sdn. Bhd, Becton Dickinson GmbH, Becton Dickinson Guatemala S.A., Becton Dickinson Hellas S.A., Becton Dickinson Holdings Limited, Becton Dickinson Holdings Ltd., Becton Dickinson Holdings Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Hungary Kft., Becton Dickinson India Private Limited, Becton Dickinson Industrias Cirurgicas Ltda., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy AB, Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Holdings UK Limited, Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Systems Inc., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy Systems Inc. S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy UK, Becton Dickinson Insulin Syringe Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings II Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings III Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Israel Ltd., Becton Dickinson Italia S.p.A., Becton Dickinson Ithalat Ihracat Limited Sirketi, Becton Dickinson Korea Holding Inc., Becton Dickinson Korea Ltd., Becton Dickinson Ltd., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.L., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Global Holdings Sarl, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings II S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings III S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings V S.a.r.L., Becton Dickinson Malaysia Inc., Becton Dickinson Management GmbH & Co. KG, Becton Dickinson Matrex Holdings Inc., Becton Dickinson Medical (S) Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Products Pte. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Technology (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Global Holdings II C.V., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Holdings B.V., Becton Dickinson Netherlands Holdings II B.V., Becton Dickinson Norway AS, Becton Dickinson O.Y., Becton Dickinson Overseas Services Ltd., Becton Dickinson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd., Becton Dickinson Penel Limited, Becton Dickinson Philippines Inc., Becton Dickinson Polska Sp.z.o.o., Becton Dickinson Portugal Unipessoal Lda., Becton Dickinson Pty. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Research Centre Ireland Limited, Becton Dickinson Rowa Germany GmbH, Becton Dickinson Rowa Italy Srl, Becton Dickinson S.A., Becton Dickinson Sample Collection GmbH, Becton Dickinson Scot Financing L.L.P., Becton Dickinson Scot Financing L.P., Becton Dickinson Sdn. Bhd., Becton Dickinson Slovakia s.r.o., Becton Dickinson Sweden AB, Becton Dickinson Sweden Holdings AB, Becton Dickinson Switzerland Global Holdings SarL, Becton Dickinson Technology Campus India, Becton Dickinson U.K. Limited, Becton Dickinson UK Financing I Limited, Becton Dickinson UK Financing II Limited, Becton Dickinson Venezuela C.A., Becton Dickinson Venture LLC, Becton Dickinson Verwaltungs GmbH, Becton Dickinson Vostok LLC, Becton Dickinson Worldwide Investments Sa.r.L., Becton Dickinson Zambia Limited, Becton Dickinson and Company Ltd., Becton Dickinson de Colombia Ltda., Becton Dickinson de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson del Uruguay S.A., Bee IT Solutions, Benex Ltd., Biometric Imaging, Bridger Biomed Inc., C. R. Bard (Portugal) - Produtos e Artigos Medicos e Farmaceuticos, C. R. Bard Do Brasil Productos Medicos Ltda., C. R. Bard GmbH, C. R. Bard Inc., C. R. Bard Netherlands Sales B.V., C.R. Bard Inc, CME America LLC, CME Ltd., CME Medical (UK) Limited, CME UK (Holdings) Limited, CRISI Medical Systems, CRISI Medical Systems Inc., Caesarea Medical Electronics, Cardal II LLC, Care Fusion Development Private Limited, CareFusion (Barbados) SrL, CareFusion (Shanghai) Commercial and Trading Co. Limited, CareFusion 213 LLC, CareFusion 2200 Inc., CareFusion 2201 Inc., CareFusion 302 LLC, CareFusion 303 Inc., CareFusion Asia (HK) Limited, CareFusion Corporation, CareFusion Corporation., CareFusion D.R. 203 Ltd., CareFusion France 309 S.A.S., CareFusion Israel 330 Ltd., CareFusion Italy 312 S.p.A., CareFusion Manufacturing LLC, CareFusion Mexico 215 S.A. de C.V., CareFusion Netherlands 328 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 503 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 504 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands Financing 283 C.V., CareFusion Resources LLC, CareFusion S.A. 319 (Proprietary) Limited, CareFusion Solutions LLC, CareFusion U.K. 244 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 305 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 306 Limited, Carmel Pharma AB, Carmel Pharma Inc, Cato Software Solutions, Cell Analysis Systems Inc, Cellular Research, Cellular Research Inc., Clearstream Technologies Group Limited, Clearstream Technologies Limited, Clontech Laboratories Inc, Corporativo BD de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Critical Device Corporation, Cubex, Cytognos, Cytopeia Inc, DLD (Bermuda) Ltd., DVL Acquisition Sub Inc., Davol Inc., Davol International Limited, Davol Surgical Innovations S.A. de C.V., Difco Laboratories Incorporated, Distribuidora BD Mexico S.A. de C.V., Dutch American Manufacturers (D.A.M.) B.V., Dymax Corporation, Embo Medical Limited, Enturia de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Enturican Inc., FJ International Inc., FlowCardia Inc., FlowCardia LLC, FlowJo LLC, Franklin Lakes Enterprises L.L.C., GSL Solutions, Gamer Lasertechnik GmbH, GenCell Biosystems, GenCell Biosystems Ltd., GeneOhm Sciences Canada ULC, GeneOhm Sciences Inc, Gentest Corporation, Gesco International Inc., Gesco International LLC, Glentech Inc, HandyLab Inc, HandyLab Inc., IBD Holdings LLC, Iontophoretics Corporation, JoHome LLC, Kabushiki Kaisha Medicon (Medicon Inc.), Liberator Health and Education Services Inc., Liberator Health and Wellness Inc., Liberator Medical Holdings Inc., Liberator Medical Supply Inc., Limited Liability Company Bard Rus, Loma Vista Medical Inc., Loma Vista Medical LLC, Luther Medical Products Inc, Lutonix Inc., Med-Design Corporation, Med-Design Investment Holdings Inc., Med-Safe Systems Inc, Med-Safe Systems Inc., MedChem Products Inc., Medafor Inc., Medegen LLC, Medinservice.com Inc., Medivance Inc., NAT Diagnostics Inc., NAT Diagnostics Inc., NOW Medical Distribution Inc., NOW Medical Distribution LLC, Navarre Biomedical LLC, Navarre Biomedical Ltd., Neomend Inc., Nippon Becton Dickinson Company Ltd., Omega Biosystems Incorporated, P.R.C. (Isialys) Societe a responsabilitie limitee, PT Becton Dickinson Indonesia, PharMingen, PharMingen., Plasso Technology Ltd, PreAnalytiX GmbH, Pristine Access Technologies Inc., ProSeed Inc., Procesos para Esterilizacion S.A. de C.V., Productos Bard de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Productos Para el Cuidado de la Salud S.A. de C.V., Puls Medical Devices AS LC, PureWick Corporation, Roberts Laboratories Inc., Rochester Medical Corporation, Rochester Medical Ltd., Saf-T-Med Inc, Safety Syringes Inc., Scanwell Health Inc., Sendal S.L.U., SenoRx Inc., SenoRx LLC, Shield Healthcare Centers Inc., Sirigen Group Limited, Sirigen II Limited, Sirigen Inc., Sistemas Medicos ALARIS S.A. de C.V., Specialized Cooperative Corporation, Specialized Health Products Inc., Specialized Health Products International Inc., Specialized Health Products International LLC, Staged Diabetes Management LLC, Straub Medical AG, Straub Medical AG, Surgical Site Solutions Inc., TVA Medical Inc, TVA Medical Inc., Tepha Inc, Tepha Inc., Tissuemed Ltd., Tri-County Medical & Ostomy Supplies Inc., TriPath Imaging Inc., Tru-Fit Marketing Corporation, Vas-Cath Incorporated, Vascular Pathways Inc., Velano Vascular, Velano Vascular Inc., Venclose Inc., Venetec International Inc., Venetec International LLC, Visitec, Y-Med Inc., Y-Med LLC, and ZebraSci Inc..

Read More
The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Israel) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (NZ) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Proprietary) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Taiwan) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (West Indies) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb A.E., Bristol-Myers Squibb Aktiebolag, Bristol-Myers Squibb Argentina S. R. L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Company Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Investco L.L.C., Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K., Bristol-Myers Squibb Kft., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg International S.C.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb MEA GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Manufacturing Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Marketing Services S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Middle East & Africa FZ-LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Nutricionales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Peru S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (Thailand) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Holding Company LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Ventures Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Polska Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Products SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico/Sanofi Pharmaceutical Partnership Puerto Rico, Bristol-Myers Squibb Romania S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.A.U., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Holding Partnership, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Service Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Services Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Spol. s r.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Theta Finance Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Trustees Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Colombia S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Costa Rica Sociedad Anonima, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Guatemala S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb/Astrazeneca EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Pfizer EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Bristol-Myers de Venezuela S.C.A., CHT I LLC, CHT II LLC, CHT III LLC, CHT IV LLC, CR Finance Company LLC, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals Inc., Celem LLC, Celem Ltd., Celgene, Celgene A.B., Celgene AS, Celgene Ab (Finland), Celgene Alpine Investment Co. II LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. III LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. LLC, Celgene ApS, Celgene B.V., Celgene BVBA, Celgene Brasil Produtos Farmaceuticos Ltda., Celgene CAR LLC, Celgene CAR Ltd., Celgene Chemicals Sarl, Celgene China Holdings LLC, Celgene Co., Celgene Corporation, Celgene Distribution B.V., Celgene EngMab GmbH, Celgene Europe B.V., Celgene Europe Limited, Celgene European Investment Company LLC, Celgene Financing Company LLC, Celgene Global Holdings Sarl, Celgene GmbH [Austria], Celgene GmbH [Germany], Celgene GmbH [Switzerland], Celgene Holdings East Corporation, Celgene Holdings II Sarl, Celgene Holdings III Sarl, Celgene Ilac Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Celgene Inc., Celgene International Holdings Corporation, Celgene International II Sarl, Celgene International III Sarl, Celgene International Inc., Celgene International Sarl, Celgene K.K., Celgene Kft., Celgene Limited [Hong Kong], Celgene Limited [Ireland], Celgene Limited [New Zealand], Celgene Limited [Taiwan], Celgene Limited [UK], Celgene Logistics Sarl, Celgene Ltd, Celgene Luxembourg Sarl, Celgene Management Sarl, Celgene NJ Investment Co, Celgene Netherlands B.V., Celgene Netherlands Investment B.V., Celgene Pharmaceutical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. Squibb & Sons Limited, EWI Corporation, EngMab Sarl, F-star Alpha, FermaVir Pharmaceuticals L.L.C., FermaVir Research L.L.C., Flexus Biosciences, Flexus Biosciences Inc., Forbius, Galecto Biotech, GenPharm International L.L.C., Gloucester Pharmaceuticals LLC, Grove Insurance Company Ltd., Heyden Farmaceutica Portuguesa Limitada, IFM Therapeutics, Impact Biomedicines Inc., Inhibitex, Inhibitex L.L.C., Innate Tumor Immunity Inc., JuMP Holdings LLC, Juno Therapeutics GmbH, Juno Therapeutics Inc., Kosan Biosciences, Kosan Biosciences Incorporated, Linson Investments Limited, Mead Johnson (Manufacturing) Jamaica Limited, Mead Johnson Jamaica Ltd., Medarex, Morris Avenue Investment II LLC, Morris Avenue Investment LLC, MyoKardia, O.o.o. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc..

Read More
Northrop Grumman Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense company worldwide. The company's Aeronautics Systems segment designs, develops, manufactures, integrates, and sustains aircraft systems. This segment also offers unmanned autonomous aircraft systems, including high-altitude long-endurance strategic ISR systems and vertical take-off and landing tactical ISR systems; and strategic long-range strike aircraft, tactical fighter and air dominance aircraft, and airborne battle management and command and control systems. Its Defense Systems segment designs, develops, and produces weapons and mission systems. It offers products and services, such as integrated battle management systems, weapons systems and aircraft, and mission systems. This segment also provides command and control and weapons systems, including munitions and missiles; precision strike weapons; propulsion, such as air-breathing and hypersonic systems; gun systems and precision munitions; life cycle service and support for software, weapons systems, and aircraft; and logistics support, sustainment, operation, and modernization for air, sea, and ground systems. The company's Mission Systems segment offers cyber, command, control, communications and computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems; radar, electro-optical/infrared and acoustic sensors; electronic warfare systems; advanced communications and network systems; cyber solutions; intelligence processing systems; navigation; and maritime power, propulsion, and payload launch systems. This segment also provides airborne multifunction sensors; maritime/land systems and sensors; navigation, targeting, and survivability solutions; and networked information solutions. Its Space Systems segment offers satellites and payloads; ground systems; missile defense systems and interceptors; launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; and strategic missiles. The company was founded in 1939 and is based in Falls Church, Virginia.
CHARLESTON -- In addition to the community service work of the Charleston Rotary Club, the club also supports local and international projects through The Rotary Foundation.

Club Secretary Bill Warmoth said the foundations focus is on peace and conflict resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development.

A major Rotary Foundation effort is Polio Plus, the program to eradicate polio worldwide. Working with organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rotary Foundation has contributed millions of dollars in an effort to rid the world of this crippling disease.

Currently, polio has been wiped out in more than 99 percent of the world.

Gifts can also be directed to the Annual Fund, the primary funding source for Rotary programs. The Annual Fund shares half of the available funds with the various Rotary districts around the world. The Charleston Rotary Club has used grants from that money to assist in providing technology support to Charleston school district students in kindergarten and sixth grade the past two years.

Anyone who contributes $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation is recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow, named for the founder of Rotary International. Three Charleston Rotarians recently earned Paul Harris Fellow recognition at the clubs annual Christmas Party. Rich Wandling, Michael Watts and Bill Lair each were recognized for their latest $1,000 contributions.

Warmoth said 40 current Charleston Rotary Club members are Paul Harris Fellows, including several who have achieved the recognition multiple times for additional $1,000 contributions.

Throughout its history, the total number of Paul Harris Fellows from the Charleston club is 160. Thirteen current members also qualify as Sustaining Members. That means they are contributing at least $100 a year to The Rotary Foundation.

In addition, the club has four Major Donors after contributions of $10,000 or more to the Foundation.

The Charleston Rotary Club meets at noon on Tuesdays in the Rotary Room of the Charleston Public Library. The clubs local service focuses on youth. Charleston Rotary provides I Like Me books for all first-grade students in the Charleston school district, presents leadership awards to Jefferson Elementary School students, sponsors the Charleston High School Interact Club, offers a $1,000 yearly scholarship to CHS graduates attending EIU and sponsors Rotary Youth Exchange students.

In addition, the club is partnering with the Excellence in Education Foundation to provide technology equipment to kindergarten, sixth grade and high school classes.
BWX Technologies, Inc. manufactures and sells nuclear components in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates in three segments: Nuclear Operations Group, Nuclear Power Group, and Nuclear Services Group. The Nuclear Operations Group segment provides precision naval and critical nuclear components, reactors, nuclear fuel, and assemblies for the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration's Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program and other uses; missile launch tubes for United States Navy submarines; close-tolerance and equipment for nuclear applications; and converts Cold War-era government stockpiles of high-enriched uranium, as well as receives, stores, characterizes, dissolves, recovers, and purifies uranium-bearing materials; supplies research reactor fuel elements for colleges, universities, and national laboratories; and components for defense applications. The Nuclear Power Group segment offers commercial nuclear steam generators, nuclear fuel, fuel handling systems, pressure vessels, reactor components, heat exchangers, tooling delivery systems, and containers; engineering and in-plant services for nuclear power plants; designs, manufactures, commissions, and services nuclear power generation equipment; in-plant inspection, maintenance, and modification services, as well as non-destructive examination and tooling/repair solutions; and supplies medical radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals for research, diagnostic, and therapeutic uses. The company was formerly known as The Babcock & Wilcox Company and changed its name to BWX Technologies, Inc. in June 2015. BWX Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1867 and is headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Kinder Morgan, Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company in North America. The company operates through four segments: Natural Gas Pipelines, Products Pipelines, Terminals, and CO2. The Natural Gas Pipelines segment owns and operates interstate and intrastate natural gas pipeline, and underground storage systems; natural gas gathering systems and natural gas processing and treating facilities; natural gas liquids fractionation facilities and transportation systems; and liquefied natural gas liquefaction and storage facilities. The Products Pipelines segment owns and operates refined petroleum products, and crude oil and condensate pipelines; and associated product terminals and petroleum pipeline transmix facilities. The Terminals segment owns and/or operates liquids and bulk terminals that stores and handles various commodities, including gasoline, diesel fuel, chemicals, ethanol, metals, and petroleum coke; and owns tankers. The CO2 segment produces, transports, and markets CO2 to recovery and production crude oil from mature oil fields; owns interests in/or operates oil fields and gasoline processing plants; and operates a crude oil pipeline system in West Texas, as well as owns and operates RNG and LNG facilities. It owns and operates approximately 83,000 miles of pipelines and 143 terminals. The company was formerly known as Kinder Morgan Holdco LLC and changed its name to Kinder Morgan, Inc. in February 2011. Kinder Morgan, Inc. was founded in 1936 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Telecom Argentina S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides telecommunications services in Argentina and internationally. The company offers telephone services, including local, domestic, and international long-distance telephone services, as well as public telephone services; and other related supplementary services, such as call waiting, call forwarding, conference calls, caller ID, voice mail, itemized billing, and maintenance services. It also provides interconnection services, such as traffic and interconnection resource, dedicated Internet access, video signals transportation in standard and high definitions, audio and video streaming, dedicated links, backhaul links for mobile operators, data center hosting/housing services, dedicated links, layer 2 and layer 3 transport networks, video links, value-added services, and other services. In addition, the company offers mobile telecommunications services, including voice communications, high-speed mobile Internet content and applications download, online streaming, and other services; and sells mobile communication devices, such as handsets, Modems MiFi and wingles, and smart watches under the Personal brand. Further, it provides internet connectivity products, including virtual private network services, traditional Internet protocol links, and other products; data services; and programming and other cable television services. The company was formerly known as Cablevision S.A. and changed its name to Telecom Argentina S.A. in January 2018. Telecom Argentina S.A. was founded in 1979 and is based in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
IDEX Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides applied solutions worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Fluid & Metering Technologies (FMT), Health & Science Technologies (HST), and Fire & Safety/Diversified Products (FSDP). The FMT segment designs, produces, and distributes positive displacement pumps, small volume provers, flow meters, injectors, and other fluid-handling pump modules and systems, as well as offers flow monitoring and other services for the food, chemical, general industrial, water and wastewater, agricultural, and energy industries. The HST segment designs, produces, and distributes precision fluidics, rotary lobe pumps, centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, roll compaction and drying systems, pneumatic components and sealing solutions, high performance molded and extruded sealing components, custom mechanical and shaft seals, engineered hygienic mixers and valves, biocompatible medical devices and implantables, air compressors and blowers, optical components and coatings, laboratory and commercial equipment, precision photonic solutions, and precision gear and peristaltic pump technologies. This segment serves food and beverage, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical, cosmetics, marine, chemical, wastewater and water treatment, life sciences, research, and defense markets. The FSDP segment designs, produces, and distributes firefighting pumps, valves and controls, rescue tools, lifting bags, and other components and systems for the fire and rescue industry; engineered stainless steel banding and clamping devices for various industrial and commercial applications; and precision equipment for dispensing, metering, and mixing colorants and paints used in retail and commercial businesses. IDEX Corporation was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Deutschland GmbH, ITW Diagraph GmbH, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW EU Holdings Ltd., ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.L., ITW European Finance Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion Shenzhen Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Illinois Tool Works Chile Limitada, Illinois Tool Works ITW Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V..

Read More
The ACLU of Nebraska answered arguments to dismiss its lawsuit on behalf of death row inmates Friday, saying its claims are valid that a legislative repeal of the death penalty controls their sentences and forbids their executions.

The ACLU filed the lawsuit Dec. 4, challenging the referendum that followed the Legislature's 2015 repeal of the death penalty.

A day later, Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Ryan Post asked to have it dismissed.

In its lawsuit, the ACLU alleged the pro-death penalty ballot initiative violated the Nebraska Constitutions separation of powers and should be invalidated. It said Gov. Pete Ricketts was the driving force behind the 2016 referendum, exploiting government staff, resources and his own elected position to raise money for the ballot initiative and to persuade voters to support it.

Nebraskans for the Death Penalty was formed after a majority of senators voted to override Ricketts' veto of the repeal. It raised just more than $913,000, a third of it contributed by Ricketts and his father, Joe Ricketts.

The petition gathered 167,000 signatures, enough to stop the repeal from being in effect until a vote in November 2016. Voters ultimately chose 61 percent to 39 percent to keep the death penalty on the books.

In a brief filed earlier this month in support of the state's motion for dismissal of the ACLU lawsuit, Post said the creativity of the ACLU's theories does not change the result.

"Since no set of facts could rehabilitate the plaintiffs' flawed interpretations of Nebraska law, this court should dismiss the plaintiffs' action," he wrote.

But the ACLU said seven of eight condemned prisoners represented in the lawsuit -- including Jose Sandoval, who has been notified he would be the first of the condemned inmates to be executed -- are no longer subject to execution because the repeal (LB268) went into effect before it was suspended and later overturned in the referendum vote.

The executive branch unconstitutionally used the referendum power, wrote Amy Miller, ACLU of Nebraska legal director, which is reserved for the people of the state.

The state argued the initiative process gives the people the right to act as legislators, where, in the immediate term following the override of a gubernatorial veto, the people themselves may serve as a collective check on legislative excess.

A hearing on the motion is set for Jan. 5.
The following companies are subsidiares of Thermo Fisher Scientific: 236 Perinton Parkway LLC, 27 Forge Parkway LLC, ABR--Affinity BioReagents, ACI Holdings Inc., ARG Services LLC, ASPEX Corporation, Abgene Inc., Abgene Limited, Acoustic Cytometry Systems Inc., AcroMetrix LLC, Acros Organics B.V.B.A., Advanced Biotechnologies Limited, Advanced Scientifics (ASI), Advanced Scientifics Inc., Advanced Scientifics International Inc., Affymetrix Biotech Participacoes Ltda., Affymetrix Biotech Shanghai Ltd, Affymetrix Inc, Affymetrix Japan K.K., Affymetrix Pte Ltd, Affymetrix UK Ltd, Afora S.A.U., Ahura Scientific, Alchematrix Inc., Alchematrix LLC, Alfa Aesar, Alfa Aesar (China) Chemical Co. Ltd., Alfa Aesar (Hong Kong) Limited, Allergon AB, Alphine Mountain Limited, Ambion Inc., Apogent Denmark ApS, Apogent Finance Company, Apogent Holding Company, Apogent Technologies Inc., Apogent Transition Corp., Apogent U.K. Limited, App-Tek International Pty Ltd, Applied Biosystems B.V., Applied Biosystems Finance B.V., Applied Biosystems International Inc., Applied Biosystems LLC, Applied Biosystems Taiwan LLC, Applied Biosystems Trading (Shanghai) Company Ltd., Applied Biosystems de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Applied Scientific Corporation, Avances Cientificos de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Avocado Research Chemicals Limited, B.R.A.H.M.S. Biotech GmbH, B.R.A.H.M.S. GmbH, B.R.A.H.M.S. UK Ltd, BAC BV, BAC IP BV, Barnstead Thermolyne LLC, Beijing Phadia Diagnostics Co Ltd, Bender MedSystems GmbH, BioTrove Corporation, BioTrove International Inc., Bioanalysis Labsystems S.A., Biochemical Sciences LLC, Biolab, BmT GmbH Laborprodukte, Bonsai Tecnologies - Sistemas para Biotecnologia e Industria Unipessoal Lda, Brammer Bio, Bumi-Sans Sendirian Berhad, CAC Limited, CB Diagnostics AB, CB Diagnostics Holding AB, CEPH International Corporation, CHK Holdings Inc., CRS Robotics, CTPS LLC, Capitol Scientific Products Inc., Capitol Vial Inc., Cellomics Inc., CellzDirect Inc., Cenduit GmbH, Cenduit LLC, Cezanne S.A.S., Chase Scientific Glass Inc., Chromacol Limited, Clintrak, Clintrak Clinical Labeling Services LLC, Clintrak Pharmaceutical Services LLC, Cohesive Technologies (UK) Limited, Cohesive Technologies Inc., Columbia Diagnostics Inc., Compendia Bioscience Inc., Comtest Limited, Consolidated Technologies Inc., Consultores Fisher Scientific Chile Ltd, Core Informatics, Core Informatics LLC, Core Informatics UK Ltd., D-finitive Technologies Inc., DCG Systems B.V., DCG Systems C.V., DCG Systems G.K., DCG Systems GmbH, DCG Systems Korea Ltd., DCG Systems LLC, DPI Newco LLC, DSM Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Dharmacon, Diagnostix Ltd., Dionex (China) Analytical Ltd, Dionex (Switzerland) AG, Dionex (UK) Limited, Dionex Austria GmbH, Dionex Benelux B.V., Dionex Brasil Instrumentos Cientificos Ltda, Dionex Canada Ltd., Dionex China Limited, Dionex Corporation, Dionex Denmark A/S, Dionex Holding GmbH, Dionex I LLC, Dionex Pty Ltd., Dionex S.A., Dionex S.p.A., Dionex Singapore Pte Ltd., Dionex Softron GmbH, Dionex Sweden AB, Distribution Solutions International Inc., Doe & Ingalls Investors Inc., Doe & Ingalls Limited, Doe & Ingalls Management LLC, Doe & Ingalls Properties II LLC, Doe & Ingalls Properties LLC, Doe & Ingalls of California Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Florida Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Maryland Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of Massachusetts Operating LLC, Doe & Ingalls of North Carolina Operating LLC, Doublecape Holding Limited, Doublecape Limited, Drakeside Real Estate Holding Company LLC, Duke Scientific Corporation, Dynal Biotech Beijing Limited, EGS Gauging Ltd., EGS Gauging Technical Services Company, EP Scientific Products LLC, Ecochem N.V., EnviroEquip Pty Ltd, Epsom Glass Industries Limited, Equibio Limited, Erie Electroverre S.A., Erie Finance Limited, Erie LP Holding LLC, Erie Scientific Company of Puerto Rico, Erie Scientific Hungary Kft, Erie Scientific LLC, Erie U.K. Limited, Erie UK 1 Limited, Erie UK 2 Limited, Erie UK Holding Company, Erie UK Senior Holding Limited, European Laboratory Holdings Limited, Eutech Instruments Europe B.V., Eutech Instruments Pte Ltd., Eutech Instruments Sdn Bhd, Ever Ready Thermometer Co. Inc., FEI Asia Pacific Co. Ltd., FEI Australia Pty Ltd, FEI CPD B.V., FEI Company, FEI Company Japan Ltd., FEI Company of USA (S.E.A.) Pte Ltd., FEI Czech Republic s.r.o., FEI Deutschland GmbH, FEI EFA Inc., FEI EFA International Pte. Ltd., FEI Electron Optics B.V., FEI Electron Optics International B.V., FEI Europe B.V., FEI France SAS, FEI Global Holdings C.V., FEI Hong Kong Company Limited, FEI Houston Inc., FEI Italia Srl, FEI Korea Ltd., FEI Melbourne Pty Ltd., FEI Microscopy Solutions Ltd, FEI Munich GmbH, FEI Norway Holding AS, FEI SAS, FEI Saudi Arabia LLC, FEI Servicos de Nanotecnologia Ltda., FEI Technologies Inc., FEI Technology de Mexico S.A. de C.V., FEI Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., FEI Trondheim AS, FEI UK Ltd., FHP LLC, FRC Holding Inc. V, FS (Barbados) Capital Holdings Ltd., FS Casa Rocas Holdings LLC, FS Mexicana Holdings LLC, FSI Receivables Company LLC, FSII Sweden Holdings AB, FSII Sweden Holdings I AB, FSIR Holdings (UK) Limited, FSIR Holdings (US) Inc., FSUK Holdings Limited, FSWH Company LLC, FSWH II C.V., FSWH International Holdings LLC, Fermentas China Co. Ltd, Fermentas Inc., Fermentas International, Fermentas Sweden AB, Fermentas UK Limited, Fiberlite Centrifuge LLC, Finesse Scientific Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Finesse Solutions AG, Finesse Solutions Inc., Finnzymes Oy, Fisher Alder S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Asia Manufacturing Ventures Inc., Fisher Bermuda Holdings Limited, Fisher BioImage ApS, Fisher BioPharma Services (India) Private Limited, Fisher BioSciences Japan G.K., Fisher BioServices Inc., Fisher Bioblock Holding II SNC, Fisher CLP Holding Limited Partnership, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 1, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 2, Fisher Canada Holding ULC 3, Fisher Canada Limited Partnership, Fisher Chimica BVBA, Fisher Clinical Logistics LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services (Bristol) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Colombia) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Korea) Co. Ltd, Fisher Clinical Services (Mexico) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Peru) LLC, Fisher Clinical Services (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services Colombia S.A.S., Fisher Clinical Services GmbH, Fisher Clinical Services Inc., Fisher Clinical Services Japan K.K., Fisher Clinical Services Latin America S.R.L., Fisher Clinical Services Limited Liability Company, Fisher Clinical Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Clinical Services Peru S.R.L, Fisher Clinical Services Pte Ltd., Fisher Clinical Services U.K. Limited, Fisher Emergo B.V., Fisher Germany Holdings GmbH, Fisher Hamilton China Inc., Fisher Hamilton Mexico LLC, Fisher Holdings ApS, Fisher Internet Minority Holdings L.L.C., Fisher Laboratory Products Manufacturing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Fisher Luxembourg Danish Holdings SARL, Fisher Manufacturing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Maybridge Holdings Limited, Fisher Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Scientific (Austria) GmbH, Fisher Scientific (Hong Kong) Limited, Fisher Scientific (M) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Scientific (SEA) Pte. Ltd., Fisher Scientific A/S, Fisher Scientific AG, Fisher Scientific Australia Pty Limited, Fisher Scientific Biotech Line ApS, Fisher Scientific Brazil Inc., Fisher Scientific Central America Inc., Fisher Scientific Chile Inc., Fisher Scientific Colombia Inc., Fisher Scientific Company, Fisher Scientific Company L.L.C., Fisher Scientific Costa Rica Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Fisher Scientific Europe Holdings B.V., Fisher Scientific GTF AB, Fisher Scientific Germany Beteiligungs GmbH, Fisher Scientific GmbH, Fisher Scientific Holding Company LLC, Fisher Scientific Holding HK Limited, Fisher Scientific Holding U.K. Limited, Fisher Scientific Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd, Fisher Scientific Holdings (S) Pte Ltd, Fisher Scientific International LLC, Fisher Scientific Investments (Cayman) Ltd., Fisher Scientific Ireland Investments Unlimited, Fisher Scientific Ireland Limited, Fisher Scientific Japan Ltd., Fisher Scientific Jersey Island Limited, Fisher Scientific Korea Ltd, Fisher Scientific Latin America Inc., Fisher Scientific Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Fisher Scientific Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Fisher Scientific Mexico Inc., Fisher Scientific Middle East and Africa Inc., Fisher Scientific Norway AS, Fisher Scientific Operating Company, Fisher Scientific Oxoid Holdings Ltd., Fisher Scientific Oy, Fisher Scientific Pte. Ltd., Fisher Scientific S.A.S., Fisher Scientific S.L., Fisher Scientific SPRL, Fisher Scientific The Hague I B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague II B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague III B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague IV B.V., Fisher Scientific The Hague V B.V., Fisher Scientific U.K. Limited, Fisher Scientific UK Holding Company 2, Fisher Scientific UK Holding Company Limited, Fisher Scientific Unipessoal Lda., Fisher Scientific Venezuela Inc., Fisher Scientific Worldwide (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Fisher Scientific Worldwide Holdings I C.V., Fisher Scientific Worldwide Inc., Fisher Scientific de Mexico S.A., Fisher Scientific of the Netherlands B.V., Fisher Scientific spol. S.r.o, Fisher Servicios Clinicos (Chile) LLC, Fisher Servicios Clinicos Chile Ltda, Fisher WWD Holding L.L.C., Fisher Worldwide Distribution SPV, Fisher Worldwide Gene Distribution SPV, Flux Instruments, Fuji Partnership, G & M Procter Limited, G V Instruments Limited, GV Instruments Canada Ltd., GV Instruments Inc, Gatan Inc, General Scientific Company Sdn Bhd (M), Genomed molekularbiologische und diagnostische Produkte GmbH, Gerhard Menzel B.V. & Co. KG, Gold Cattle Standard Testing Labs Inc., Golden West Indemnity Company Limited, Goring Kerr Detection Limited, Greenville Service Company Inc., HENO GmbH i.L., Hangar 215 Inc., Helmet Securities Limited, Henogen, HighChem, HyClone International Trade (Tianjin) Co. Ltd, Hybaid Limited, I.Q. (BIO) Limited, IDnostics AG, ILS Laboratories Scandinavia AB, Inel Inc., Inel SAS, InnaPhase Inc., InnaPhase Limited, IntegenX, Intrinsic BioProbes Inc., Intrinsic Bioprobes Inc., Invitrogen (Shanghai) Investment Co. Ltd., Invitrogen Argentina SA, Invitrogen BioServices India Private Limited, Invitrogen Europe Limited, Invitrogen Finance Corp., Invitrogen Holdings LLC, Invitrogen Holdings Ltd., Invitrogen Hong Kong Limited, Invitrogen IP Holdings Inc., Invitrogen Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Ion Torrent Systems Inc., Ionalytics Corporation, JSC Thermo Fisher Scientific, Jouan LLC, Jouan Limited, Jouan SA, Kendro Containment & Services Limited, Kendro Laboratory Products Ltd, Kettlebrook Insurance Co. ltd., Keystone Scientific, KonTEM GmbH, Kyle Jordan Investments LLC, LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION, LTC Tech South Africa PTY Ltd., La-Pha-Pack GmbH, Lab Vision (UK) Limited, Lab Vision Corporation, Lab-Chrom-Pack LLC, Lab-Line Instruments Inc., Labomex MBP S. de R. L. De C.V., Laboratoire Service International - L.S.I, Laboratory Management Systems Inc., Laboratory Specialties Proprietary Ltd., LambTrack Limited, Laser Analytical Systems Inc., Liberty Lane Investment LLC, Liberty Lane Real Estate Holding Company LLC, Life Sciences International (Poland) SP z O.O, Life Sciences International Holdings BV, Life Sciences International LLC, Life Sciences International Limited, Life Technologies AS, Life Technologies Australia PTY Ltd., Life Technologies BPD AB, Life Technologies BPD UK Limited, Life Technologies Brasil Comercio e Industria de Produtos para Biotecnologia Ltda, Life Technologies Chile SpA, Life Technologies Clinical Services Lab Inc., Life Technologies Co. Ltd., Life Technologies Czech Republic s.r.o., Life Technologies DaAn Diagnostic (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd., Life Technologies Europe B.V., Life Technologies Finance Ltd., Life Technologies Finland Oy, Life Technologies GmbH, Life Technologies Holdings PTE Ltd., Life Technologies Inc., Life Technologies International B.V., Life Technologies Japan Ltd., Life Technologies Korea LLC, Life Technologies Limited, Life Technologies Magyarorszag Kft, Life Technologies New Zealand Ltd., Life Technologies Norway Investments US LLC, Life Technologies Polska Sp z.o.o., Life Technologies SA, Life Technologies SAS, Life Technologies s.r.o, Linkage Biosciences Inc., Linkage Biosciences S.a.r.l., Loftus Furnace Company, Lomb Scientific, Lomb Scientific (Aust) Pty Limited, MTI-GlobalStem, Marketbase International Limited, Matrix MicroScience Inc., Matrix MicroScience Ltd., Matrix Technologies Corporation Limited, Matrix Technologies LLC, Maybridge Chemical Company Limited, Maybridge Chemical Holdings Limited, Maybridge Limited, Medical Analysis Systems Inc., Medical Analysis Systems International Inc., Medical Diagnostics Systems Inc., Metavac LLC, Microgenics Corporation, Microgenics Diagnostics Pty Limited, Microgenics GmbH, Microm International GmbH, Microm Laborgerate S.L.U, Molecular BioProducts Inc., Molecular Probes Inc., Molecular Transfer Inc., NAPCO Inc., NERL Diagnostics LLC, NOVODIRECT GmbH Labor- und Industrie- Megerate, Nalge (Europe) Limited, Nalge Nunc International (Monterrey) LLC, Nalge Nunc International Corporation, Nanjing WeiKangLe Trading Industrial Co Ltd, NanoDrop Technologies LLC, National Scientific Company, Navaho Acquisition Corp., Neomarkers Inc., New FS Holdings Inc., NewcoGen PE LLC, Nihon Dynal K.K., Niton Asia Limited, NovaWave Technologies Inc., Nunc A/S, ONIX Systems Inc., OXOID CZ s.r.o., Odyssey Holdings Corporation, Odyssey Luxembourg Holdings S.a r.l., Odyssey Luxembourg IP Holdings 1 S.a r.l., Odyssey Luxembourg IP Holdings 2 S.a r.l., Odyssey Venture Corporation, Omega Data Systems, One Lambda Inc, Onix Holdings Limited, Orme Scientific Limited, Owl Separation Systems LLC, Oxoid (ELY) Limited, Oxoid 2000 Limited, Oxoid AS, Oxoid Australia Pty. Limited, Oxoid Company, Oxoid Deutschland GmbH, Oxoid Holding SAS, Oxoid Holdings Limited, Oxoid Inc., Oxoid International Limited, Oxoid Investments GmbH, Oxoid Limited, Oxoid N.V., Oxoid New Zealand Limited, Oxoid Pension Trustees Limited, Oxoid Senior Holdings Limited, Oxoid UKH LLC, PAX - DSI Acquisition LLC, PE AG, Pacific Rim Far East Industries LLC, Pacific Rim Investment LLC, Panomics L.L.C., Panomics S.R.L., Patheon, Patheon API Inc., Patheon API Manufacturing Inc., Patheon API Services Inc., Patheon Austria GmbH & Co KG, Patheon B.V., Patheon Banner U.S. Holdings Inc., Patheon Biologics (NJ) LLC, Patheon Biologics Australia Pty Ltd, Patheon Biologics B.V., Patheon Biologics LLC, Patheon Calculus Merger LLC, Patheon Cooperatief U.A., Patheon Development Services Inc., Patheon Finance LLC, Patheon France SAS, Patheon Holdings B.V., Patheon Holdings I B.V., Patheon Holdings II B.V., Patheon Holdings SAS, Patheon I B.V., Patheon I Holding GmbH, Patheon Inc., Patheon International AG, Patheon Italia S.p.A., Patheon KK, Patheon Life Science Products International GmbH, Patheon Manufacturing Services LLC, Patheon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Patheon Pharmaceuticals Services Inc., Patheon Puerto Rico Acquisitions Corporation, Patheon Puerto Rico Inc., Patheon Regensburg GmbH, Patheon Softgels B.V., Patheon Softgels Inc., Patheon U.S. Holdings Inc., Patheon U.S. Holdings LLC, Patheon UK Limited, Patheon UK Pension Trustees Limited, Pelican Acquisition Corporation, Perbio Science (Canada) Company, Perbio Science AB, Perbio Science BVBA, Perbio Science France SAS, Perbio Science Inc., Perbio Science International Netherlands B.V., Perbio Science Invest AB, Perbio Science Nederland B.V., Perbio Science Projekt AB, Perbio Science Sweden Holdings AB, Perbio Science Switzerland SA, Perbio Science UK Limited, Phadia AB, Phadia Diagnosticos Ltda, Phadia GmbH, Phadia Holding AB, Phadia International Holdings C.V., Phadia Korea Co. Ltd, Phadia Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Phadia Malta Holdings Limited, Phadia Oy, Phadia Real Property AB, Phadia Sweden AB, Phadia Taiwan Inc., Phadia US Inc., Phadia s.r.o., Pharmacaps Mexicana SA de CV, Phenom-World B.V., Phenom-World Holding B.V, Phenom-World Innovations B.V., Phinotex, Pierce Biotechnology Inc., Pierce Milwaukee Holding Corp., Pierce Milwaukee Inc., Polychromix, Power Sweden Holdings I AB, Power Sweden Holdings II AB, Power Sweden Holdings III Aktiebolag, Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments LLC, Princeton Security Technologies, Prionics AG, Prionics Asia Ltd., Prionics Deutschland GmbH, Prionics France SAS, Prionics Italia S.r.l., Prionics Lelystad B.V., Prionics USA Inc., Priority Air Express LLC, Priority Air Express Pte. Ltd., Priority Air Express UK Limited, Priority Air Holdings Corp, Priority Solutions International, Promedica Pty Limited, Proxeon, Proxeon Biosystems ApS, Qiagen, REP GBP I-B Blocker Inc., Raymond A Lamb Limited, Remel Europe Limited, Remel Inc., Richard-Allan Scientific Company, Robbins Scientific LLC, Robocon Labor- und Industrieroboter Gesellschaft m.b.H, Rupprecht and Patashnick, Rupprecht and Patashnick (R&P), Russell pH Limited, S.C.I. du 10 rue Dugay Trouin, SCI Inno 92, STC Bio Manufacturing Inc., Samco Scientific (Monterrey) LLC, Samco Scientific LLC, Saroph Sweden AB, Schantz Road LLC, Seradyn Inc., Shanghai Life Technologies Biotechnology Co. Limited, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (C-I) Trading Co. Ltd, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (S) Trading Co. Ltd, Southern Trials (Pty) Ltd., Specialty (SMI) Inc., Spectra-Physics AB, Spectra-Physics Holdings Limited, Spectra-Physics Holdings USA LLC, Spectronex, Staten Island Cogeneration Corporation, Sterilin Limited, Stokes Bio Ltd., Sweden DIA (Sweden) AB, SwissAnalytic Group GmbH, Systems Manufacturing Corporation, TFLP LLC, TFS Breda B.V., TFS LLC, TFS Singapore HK Limited, TFSL Financing GP LLC, TFSL Senior GP Holdings 2 LLC, TK Partnership, TKA Wasseraufbereitungssysteme, TMOI Inc., TPI Real Estate Holdings LLC, TSP Holdings I LLC, TWX LLC, Technology Design Solutions Pty Ltd, Thermedics Detection de Argentina S.R.L, Thermo Allen Coding Limited, Thermo Asset Management Services Inc., Thermo BioAnalysis LLC, Thermo BioAnalysis Limited, Thermo BioSciences Holdings LLC, Thermo CIDTEC, Thermo CRS Holdings Ltd., Thermo CRS Ltd., Thermo Cambridge Limited, Thermo Cayman Holdings Ltd., Thermo Corporation, Thermo DMA Inc., Thermo Detection de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Dutch Holdings Limited Partnership, Thermo EGS Gauging LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings I LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings II LLC, Thermo Eberline LLC, Thermo Electron (Calgary) Limited, Thermo Electron (Chile) S.p.A., Thermo Electron (Karlsruhe) GmbH, Thermo Electron (Management Services) Limited, Thermo Electron (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Electron A/S, Thermo Electron Australia Pty Limited, Thermo Electron Export Inc., Thermo Electron Holdings SAS, Thermo Electron Industries, Thermo Electron LED GmbH, Thermo Electron LED S.A.S., Thermo Electron Limited, Thermo Electron Manufacturing Limited, Thermo Electron Metallurgical Services Inc., Thermo Electron North America LLC, Thermo Electron Pension Trust GmbH, Thermo Electron Puerto Rico Inc., Thermo Electron SAS, Thermo Electron Scientific Instruments LLC, Thermo Electron Sweden AB, Thermo Electron Sweden Forvaltning AB, Thermo Electron Weighing & Inspection Limited, Thermo Elemental Limited, Thermo Environmental Instruments LLC, Thermo Fast U.K. Limited, Thermo Finland Holdings LLC, Thermo Finland Holdings MT1 B.V., Thermo Finland Holdings MT2 B.V., Thermo Finnigan LLC, Thermo Finnigan Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Malta Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN-I) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (CN-II) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings I Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings II Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings 2) LLC, Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) II Limited, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Heysham) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Kandel) GmbH, Thermo Fisher CHK Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust II, Thermo Fisher Costa Rica Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Thermo Fisher Cyprus Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Detection Mexico LLC, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics (Ireland) Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AB, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AG, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Aps, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Austria GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics B.V., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics K.K., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics NV, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.L.U., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.p.A. , Thermo Fisher Diagnostics SAS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Thermo Fisher Eurobonds Ltd., Thermo Fisher Financial Services Inc., Thermo Fisher GP LLC, Thermo Fisher German Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Germany B.V., Thermo Fisher India Divestco Private Limited, Thermo Fisher India Holding B.V., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Investments (Cayman) Ltd., Thermo Fisher Israel Ltd., Thermo Fisher Production et Services SAS, Thermo Fisher Project Cyprus LLC, Thermo Fisher Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Asheville) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Australia) C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Barbados) Holdings Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Breda) Holding BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Bremen) GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (CN) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China-HK) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (DE) Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Ecublens) SARL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance II) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Fuji) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Holding II) B.V. & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Hong Kong) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Johannesburg) (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mexico City) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Milwaukee) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mississauga) Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Monterrey) S. De R.L. De C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (NK) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) Austria Holding GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-I) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-II) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN1) UK Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) Dutch LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Praha) s.r.o., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) GmbH & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Schweiz) AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Instruments Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Suzhou) Instruments Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific AL-1 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific AU II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Aquasensors LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Australia Pty Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V.B.A., Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (I) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (II) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics UAB, Thermo Fisher Scientific Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Biosciences Corp., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brahms LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Instrumentos de Processo Ltda., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Servicos de Logistica Ltda, Thermo Fisher Scientific C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cayman Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chemicals Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific China (C-I) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China (S) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings IV B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings Aps, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus IV C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus V C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Denmark Senior Holdings ApS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie 1 Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Europe GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC Finance C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSUKHCO Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Falcon Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Finance Company BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific GENEART GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Germany BV & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific HR Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) I, Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) II , Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings Europe Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific IT Services GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Pvt Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Malta) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments Malta (Sweden Financing) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Invitrogen Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific K.K., Thermo Fisher Scientific Korea Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific LSI Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments III S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments IV S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life NL Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Netherlands Holding C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Switzerland Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Tech Korea Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Enterprise Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investments Holding LP, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Luxembourg Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Enterprise Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg German Holdings S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Life Technologies UK Holding S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings I S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings II S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malta Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Messtechnik GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Mexico City S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Middle East Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Milano Srl, Thermo Fisher Scientific NHK Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Holdings, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway Holdings AS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway US Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Operating Company LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 C.V, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Panama I Cayman Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Peru S.R.L., Thermo Fisher Scientific Pte. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific SL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Financing LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Holdings Australia LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific South Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific SpA, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg I S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Investments Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Switzerland Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific TR Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Taiwan Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Vermogensverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific West Palm Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Wissenschaftliche Gerate GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Worldwide Investments (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific eCommerce Solutions LLC , Thermo Fisher Senior Canada Holdings LLC, Thermo Foundation Inc., Thermo Gamma-Metrics Holdings Pty Ltd., Thermo Gamma-Metrics LLC, Thermo Gamma-Metrics Pty Ltd, Thermo Holding European Operations LLC, Thermo Hypersil Ltd, Thermo Hypersil-Keystone LLC, Thermo Informatics Asia Pacific Pty Ltd., Thermo Instrument Controls de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Thermo Kevex X-Ray LLC, Thermo Keytek LLC, Thermo LabSystems Inc., Thermo LabSystems S.A., Thermo Life Science International Trading (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Thermo Life Sciences AB, Thermo Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo MF Physics LLC, Thermo Measurement Ltd, Thermo Measuretech Canada Inc., Thermo Neslab LLC, Thermo Nicolet Limited, Thermo Onix Limited, Thermo Optek (Australia) Pty Ltd., Thermo Optek Limited, Thermo Optek S.A., Thermo Orion Inc., Thermo Portable Holdings LLC, Thermo Power Corporation, Thermo Process Instruments GP LLC, Thermo Process Instruments L.P., Thermo Projects Limited, Thermo Quest S.A., Thermo Radiometrie Limited, Thermo Ramsey Italia S.r.l., Thermo Ramsey LLC, Thermo Ramsey S.A., Thermo Re Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Pte Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Sdn Bhd, Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc., Thermo Scientific Services Inc., Thermo Securities Corporation, Thermo Sentron Canada Inc., Thermo Sentron Limited, Thermo Shandon Inc., Thermo Shandon Limited, Thermo Suomi Holding B.V., Thermo TLH (UK) Limited, Thermo TLH L.P., Thermo Trace Pty Ltd., Thermo-Fisher Biochemical Product (Beijing) Co. Ltd., ThermoLase LLC, ThermoSpectra Limited, Trek Diagnostic Systems LLC, Trek Diagnostic Systems Ltd., Trek Holding Company II Ltd., Trek Holding Company Ltd., Trex Medical Corporation, USB Corporation, Union Lab Supplies Limited, United Diagnostics Inc., VG Systems Limited, Westover Scientific Inc., ZAO PE Biosystems, eBioscience GmbH, eBioscience Ltd, eBioscience SAS, and picoSpin LLC.

Read More
Arch Resources, Inc. produces and sells thermal and metallurgical coal from surface and underground mines. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated seven active mines. It also owned or controlled primarily through long-term leases approximately 28,292 acres of coal land in Ohio; 952 acres of coal land in Maryland; 10,095 acres of coal land in Virginia; 306,033 acres of coal land in West Virginia; 81,470 acres of coal land in Wyoming; 234,543 acres of coal land in Illinois; 33,047 acres of coal land in Kentucky; 362 acres of coal land in Montana; 248 acres of coal land in Pennsylvania; and 19,018 acres of coal land in Colorado, as well as smaller parcels of property in Alabama, Indiana, Washington, Arkansas, California, Utah, and Texas. The company sells its products to utility, industrial, and steel producers in the United States, Europe, Asia, Central and South America, and Africa. The company was formerly known as Arch Coal, Inc. and changed its name to Arch Resources, Inc. in May 2020. Arch Resources, Inc. was incorporated in 1969 and is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri.
The Lincoln City Council followed proper procedures when it approved a 1 percent increase to the citys spending authority five years ago, the Nebraska Attorney General's Office said Friday.

That runs contrary to an opinion voiced by State Auditor Charlie Janssen, who said the city erred when it reported increasing the lid because not all council members had cast a vote.

In 2012, the citys budget director reported the council had exceeded the 75 percent supermajority required by state law when members voted 5 to 1 to raise the budget lid, but Janssens office said in October the 75 percent requirement should have been based on all seven members voting.

Attorney General Doug Peterson and L. Jay Bartel, assistant attorney general, wrote in an opinion Friday that the Nebraska Supreme Court has repeatedly found that unless specified in state statute, a quorum of a legislative body can issue a supermajority vote.

Citing a leading treatise on municipal law first published in 1904, Where any particular act is required to be done by a specified vote, generally that requirement is met by a proportion of the vote of those constituting the quorum to do business.

The attorneys general pointed to four Nebraska Supreme Court cases dating back to 1888 to illustrate the courts adherence to those rules unless the Legislature had otherwise inserted specific language into statute.

Writing in the opinion, the attorneys general said the Legislature did not specify how many council members must be present to cast a vote to raise the budget lid 1 percent in state statute.

If the Legislature intended to require an affirmative vote of 75 percent of all members of the governing body, it would have employed language specifically stating the percentage requirement, the opinion states.

That language includes phrases like all members, the whole number of members, or the members of as outlined elsewhere in state statute.

Absent that language, the attorney generals office concludes the city of Lincoln acted properly when it reported the 1 percent increase five years ago.

Councilwoman Cyndi Lamm, who discovered the reporting discrepancy earlier this fall, said Fridays opinion seems to run counter to a 2005 opinion from the attorney generals office regarding how majorities are counted when board members are absent or abstain from voting.

But that said, its a huge relief to the city, Lamm said. The city can be confident it is basing future budget discussions on accurate numbers without any corrective action needing to be taken.

Mayor Chris Beutler said the city administration was confident the City Councils actions were legal, adding he appreciated Janssen seeking clarification with the attorney generals office to confirm their interpretation of the law.

He added that he hopes the City Council will approve future increases to Lincolns spending authority, avoiding a difficult position of limiting the citys future growth.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, a pharmaceutical company, develops, manufactures, markets, and distributes generic medicines, specialty medicines, and biopharmaceutical products in North America, Europe, and internationally. The company offers sterile products, hormones, high-potency drugs, and cytotoxic substances in various dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, injectables, inhalants, liquids, transdermal patches, ointments, and creams. It also develops, manufactures, and sells active pharmaceutical ingredients. In addition, it focuses on the central nervous system, pain, respiratory, and oncology areas. Its products in the central nervous system include Copaxone for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis; AJOVY for the preventive treatment of migraine; and AUSTEDO for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia and chorea associated with Huntington disease. The company's products in the respiratory market comprise ProAir, QVAR, ProAir Digihaler, AirDuo Digihaler, and ArmonAir Digihaler, BRALTUS, CINQAIR/CINQAERO, DuoResp Spiromax, and AirDuo RespiClick/ArmonAir RespiClick for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Its products in the oncology market include Bendeka, Treanda, Granix, Trisenox, Lonquex, and Tevagrastim/Ratiograstim. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has a collaboration MedinCell for the development and commercialization of multiple long-acting injectable products, a risperidone suspension for the treatment of patients with schizophrenia. The company was founded in 1901 and is headquartered in Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
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.
We do wind up seeing surprise incumbents losing, but the wave is usually at least somewhat clear.

I would say the ceiling for Democrats in the current environment is around 35-40 House seats?
Mobile data prices in South Africa came under scrutiny in 2017, with consumers uniting under the banner of #DataMustFall.

The campaign made its way to Parliament, and ICASA is proposing regulations to make mobile data more affordable.

The calls did not fall on deaf ears, and MTN CEO Rob Shuter said entry-level and OOB data prices need to be addressed.

Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub also acknowledged that mobile data prices should come down, and they are focused on addressing high out-of-bundle pricing.

Spectrum challenges

Vodacom and MTN have consistently said getting more spectrum will help them to launch faster, more affordable mobile data services.

The Department of Communications and the Department of Telecommunications have failed the industry, however.

The spectrum assignment process has dragged on since 2006, which means spectrum that can make mobile broadband faster and cheaper is being wasted.

Without additional spectrum, operators have to rollout more towers and invest more in their networks to provide a high-quality broadband experience.

These costs are passed on to consumers, who pay higher data prices.

More competition

The Internet Service Providers Association of South Africa said that to bring down the price of mobile data, the industry needs more competition through wholesale deals.

Its argument is that what happened in the ADSL market  where prices remained high until competition at the ISP level was introduced  can take place in the mobile market.

Aggressive price reductions and better services are often a result of increased competition, it said.

South Africas mobile market has enough infrastructure players  Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom, and Rain  but more competition can be introduced by assigning more spectrum to operators and by making it affordable for ISPs to offer mobile data services.

ADSL vs Mobile

The effect of competition on broadband prices can be seen in the ADSL market, where prices plummeted after additional ISPs and undersea cable operators were allowed to enter the market.

The charts below show the price of ADSL data in South Africa, and the price of mobile data (Vodacom) since launch.

Now read: Mobile data which lasts 3 years
Armenia to receive loan of 100 million and $100 million to finance budget: Agreements are signed

Cavusoglu accuses U.S. and EU of pressure and threats against members of TDT

Hungary: EU wants new sanctions to somehow justify its flawed decisions

RBC TV channel does not publish interview with Ruben Vardanyan because of Azeri threats

Armenian Central Election Commission representatives to monitor presidential election in Kazakhstan

Newspaper: Deputies from ruling party go on another 'voyage'

Cavusoglu calls incident in Poland 'accident'

Biden administration says Saudi prince has immunity in lawsuit over Khashoggi murder

Marukyan reminds Aliyev: The UN, OSCE and EU do not deal with the 'internal matter'

Azerbaijani MP demands 'serious conversation with adherents of Iranian influence in Azerbaijan'

Inflation in Japan accelerates to 40-year high

Seoul and Riyadh sign $30 billion investment agreements

North Korea launches intercontinental ballistic missile that lands near Japan

FBI: U.S. concerned about China 'setting up' unauthorized 'police stations' in U.S. cities

Prime Minister of Finland: Europe is now too reliant on Chinese technology

Turkey to require insurance from oil tankers when passing through its waters

EU to provide Ukraine with generators and kits to repair power grids

Turkey sentences sect founder to 8,658 years in prison

Xi Jinping urges world to abandon any Cold War mentality

Aliyev rules out talks with Artsakh State Minister

FP: Ukraine's appetite for weapons depletes Western stocks

Putin and Aliyev discuss energy cooperation

Armenian financial technologies to enter international market: VISA and Idram sign memorandum in Yerevan

Incident in Poland causes disagreement between Kyiv and West

Mark Milley urges Kyiv and Moscow to find political solution: Chances of military victory are unlikely

New NATO Secretary General to be announced at Vilnius summit in 2023

Finnish Defense Ministry announces largest batch of military aid to Ukraine

Pashinyan receives Ukrainian businessmen of Armenian origin

Armenian soldier wounded in Azerbaijani shooting

Erdogan: Turkey-Israel relations entered a new phase of development

Mishustin: Cooperation between Moscow and Baku has become truly strategic and allied

Igor Khovaev to visit Baku

Mishustin arrives in Baku

Russian Foreign Ministry: South Caucasus is a strategic transport hub for Eurasia

U.S. general lays flowers at eternal flame at Armenian Genocide memorial

Republicans stand for same-sex marriage rights

Pallone says US State Department should not hesitate to speak about Azerbaijani aggression

Aliyev refuses to discuss Nagorno-Karabakh and threatens Armenia with new aggression

Greek minister doesn't get off plane to meet head of Libya's presidential council

Sergey Lavrov to visit Yerevan

Lebanese parliament fails to elect president of country

Kremlin on Zelenskyy's proposal to hold 'public' talks

National Assembly Speaker: Armenia is extremely interested in establishing strategic relations with Georgia

Canada provides additional military aid to Ukraine

Representatives of defense agencies of CSTO countries discuss crisis response issues

Armenian Defense Minister and American General discuss defense cooperation

Tehran accuses Israel and West of trying to organize civil war in Iran

Oppositionist: No guarantees that war with Azerbaijan can be avoided

Issue of biometric passports to Armenian citizens is temporarily suspended

Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement to be signed till end of year? Pashinyan's associate voices conditions

Erdogan says Russia and US agreed to refrain from using nuclear weapons

Azerbaijani oppositionist complains of torture by police

Kyaram Sloyan and Andranik Zohrabyan posthumously bestowed 'Hero of Artsakh' title

UN Secretary General Guterres welcomes parties' agreement on renewal of food deal

Eurasian Development Bank: Armenia is the leader among EEU countries in terms of economic growth

Greece promises to continue military support to Ukraine

Number of appeals from Azerbaijan to ECHR is growing

Pashinyan: The wheel of processes related to confiscation of illegal property is spinning

Fire hits Baghdad airport

North Korea fires ballistic missile towards Sea of Japan

Istanbul agrees to extend 'grain initiative' for another 120 days

'Hayastan' Fund to build 6 residential houses in Nerkin Khndzoresk village

Vocal as Russophobic propaganda: Azerbaijani singer sings about 'disgusting peacekeepers'

Biden congratulates Republicans on winning majority in House of Representatives

14 freight cars derailed in Kazakhstan, train traffic suspended

Newspaper: Ruben Vardanyan does not hurry to make changes in composition of Karabakh government

Russia attacks Ukraine with missiles in morning: Explosions heard in Dnieper, air defense works in Kyiv region

U.S. National Security Council: It is clear that the party ultimately responsible for this tragic incident is Russia

Gold prices decline

Russian Trade Representative to Armenia: Situation at Upper Lars checkpoint is not related to geopolitical issues

Trade Representative of Russia: Trade turnover with Armenia sets new record

Copper falls in price

Gas explodes in Fatih district of Istanbul, 10 people injured

Oil prices go down

Meteorite that fell in Britain contains key information about how oceans and life formed on Earth

Gamer drinks 12 energy drinks in ten minutes and ends up in hospital

Chinese customs officers accidentally find cockroach unknown to science

Man removes cobra's teeth with manicure pliers and gets arrested

Sweden to provide Ukraine with new military aid worth $287 million

Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania meet conditions for joining Schengen zone

Oil prices may reach $120 a barrel and stay at this level for 2 years

Zelenskyy receives 'signals' that Putin wants direct talks

Security Service of Ukraine puts Ramzan Kadyrov on wanted list

Unidentified men open fire at market in Izeh city in southwestern Iran

Karen Donfried tries to explain State Department's decision to exempt Azerbaijan from 907th Amendment

Philip Reeker says U.S. administration representatives have no access to Nagorno-Karabakh

Rimac Nevera sets speed record for production electric cars

Reeker: Pace and depth of current talks between Yerevan and Baku demonstrate potential to resolve conflict

FBI director considers TikTok threat to US National Security

Bob Menendez says Ukraine supplies Azerbaijan with phosphorus bombs it used in Karabakh

Delegation headed by Speaker of Armenian Parliament is in Tbilisi

Austin: U.S. intends to continue supplying weapons and aid to Ukraine during winter

Armenian politician charged with abuse of office, money laundering

Donfried says Armenia and Azerbaijan have historic opportunity to establish lasting peace

Bob Menendez: How on earth can we justify sending any support, security or otherwise, to the regime in Baku?

Azerbaijan fires at residents of Sarushen village of Artsakh

Head of Portugal's Finance Ministry: EU countries must work faster on energy intervention

Kuwait executes 7 prisoners

Czech Republic plans to train up to 4,000 Ukrainian servicemen next year

Ukraine once again asks US for powerful drones
Brazilian Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes Ferreira paid an official visit to Armenia in November. Armenian News-NEWS.am interviewed Brazils Ambassador to Armenia, H.E. Agemar de Mendonca Sanctos to learn about the results of this important visit as well as Brazils political and economic priorities in Armenia.

Brazilian Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes Ferreira visited Armenia in November. It was a key event for the development of bilateral relations. How do you assess the results of this visit?

It was very important for us, mainly because it was the first ever visit of any Brazilian minister to Armenia and it was of our Foreign Minister, which gives it a special political significance. The visit was very successful. The Minister has very close personal connections with the Brazilian Armenian Diaspora. During his visit we signed an agreement on economic cooperation. To implement this agreement we are already working on the organization in 2018 of a first Brazilian trade mission to Armenia. During President Sargsyans visit to Brazil we signed six agreements. The agreements are still to be ratified by the Brazilian Senate and we working with our friends in the Brazilian Senate to put them in force as soon as possible. I arrived in Armenia only six weeks ago and already have seen that many new ideas can be put in place to promote Brazilian-Armenian ties. The objective is to increase the density of our relationship. The problem is that Brazilians do not know much about Armenia. Last year for example we had a documentary about Armenia on Brazilian TV (Globo TV) and the immediate result was a huge increase in the number of Brazilians coming to visit Armenia. Brazilians do not need visas to come here, which makes this country very attractive to us as a tourist destination. Apart from tourism, which has great potential, our goal is to promote bilateral business and bring Armenian and Brazilian entrepreneurs together.

Which are Brazil's political priorities in the South Caucasus and in Armenia in particular?

Since its independence in 1822, and particularly in the last century, Brazil has followed what we could call a consistent and traditional foreign policy of promoting peace and international cooperation. The last great conflict in which Brazil was involved ended in 1870 and since then we have been a country of peace and at peace with our neighbors. Brazil has borders with ten countries. We therefore know a lot about peace and we do not know much about war. This is our policy for the South Caucasus. Brazil is lately being demanded to play a larger role in world affairs as we already are the seventh or eighth economy in the world. But we have scant military power. Our weapons are in the arsenals of soft power.

President Serzh Sargsyan visited Brazil last year and participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of the Embassy of Armenia in Brazil. How will the opening of an embassy affect the development of bilateral relations?

I think the opening of the embassy of Armenia in Brasilia will have a very positive impact in our relations. This will hopefully inspire my government to also start building our new embassy in Yerevan. Brazil already owns a very nice plot in downtown Yerevan and we have a project signed by a very famous Brazilian architectural office. We are working hard to achieve this project.

Which are perspective areas in terms of development of economic ties? According to the information provided on the website of the Armenian Foreign Ministry, the volume of bilateral trade has decreased. What is the reason behind this?

One of my main projects here is to organize a first Brazilian trade mission to Armenia. Only by having a trade mission on the ground, we will be able to analyze the reality of Brazilian- Armenian trade. In the case of countries like Armenia, a sizable part of trade with Brazil is done through third countries. Goods that we export to third countries for example, may be later re-exported to Armenia. My goal is to put businessmen and women of Brazil and Armenia together so that we can have clear idea of what is going on in our bilateral trade and what new areas can be developed. As to the cooperation with the Eurasian Union, Brazil is conducting negotiations as part of MERCOSUR, the sub-regional trading bloc comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Armenia is registering an increase in the flow of tourists. Although our countries are located far from each other, we would like to ask whether Brazil is going to develop tourism between our two countries? Do you have any data about Brazilians visiting Armenia?

I have no idea. We cannot control that number, because there are no visas requirements between our two countries. Sometimes we meet Brazilians on the streets of Yerevan. Brazilian Portuguese is very specific and you immediately know that Brazilians are here when you hear them talking on the streets. It seems that we are far from each other, but not really. For example, many Brazilians are now traveling to Asia through Dubai or Abu-Dhabi and this takes a lot more time than coming to the Causasus region. Traveling to Armenia through Europe is much shorter. Armenia is a beautiful country with very good food and fine wine. The people are incredibly friendly. I already love this country. In my diplomatic life I have worked in 18 countries. And believe me, I know when a country is good. For that reason, my plan is to stretch my mission here for as long as possible. To integrate better in Armenian culture, as of January next me and my wife Simone will start working hard on our Armenian language course.
U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Friday that he expected to see a larger U.S. civilian presence in Syria, including contractors and diplomats, as the fight against Islamic State militants nears its end and the focus turns toward rebuilding and ensuring the militants do not return.

The United States has about 2,000 troops in Syria fighting Islamic State. Mattis comments are likely to anger Syrian President Bashar Assad, who has previously called U.S. troops illegal invader forces.

What we will be doing is shifting from what I would call an offensive, shifting from an offensive terrain-seizing approach to a stabilizing... youll see more U.S. diplomats on the ground, Mattis said.

He has previously stated that U.S. forces will stay in Syria as long as Islamic State fighters want to fight and prevent the return of an ISIS 2.0.

This is the first time he has said that there would be an increase of diplomats in the parts of the country retaken from Islamic State militants.

Well when you bring in more diplomats, they are working that initial restoration of services, they bring in the contractors, that sort of thing, Mattis said.

There is international money that has got to be administered, so it actually does something, it doesnt go into the wrong peoples pockets, he added.

The contractors and diplomats would also be looking at training local forces to clear improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and holding territory to help ensure that Islamic State does not retake territory.

It is an attempt to move toward the normalcy and that takes a lot of support, said Mattis. It was not clear how many U.S. diplomats would serve in Syria and when. The United States has suspended diplomatic relations with Syria due to the civil war.

When asked whether Syrian government forces could move to disrupt the U.S. plans, Mattis said: That would probably be a mistake.
This is not a good time to be asking voters to increase their property taxes, says Todd Wiltgen, Lancaster County Commissioner, based on his conversations with voters.

Thats also what voters said during a recent telephone poll of 400 registered voters in the county about the Lancaster Event Center.

Most respondents to the poll said they liked the Event Center  many have gone to events there each year  but said they were not willing to pay more in property tax to help expand the venue.

Eighty-two percent had either a very favorable or somewhat favorable opinion of the center, a sprawling campus of indoor and outdoor event space at 84th Street and Havelock Avenue, where more than 300 events are held each year. And that positive attitude crossed political party lines and gender, based on the poll results.

But 65.5 percent of those polled were not likely to support an LEC expansion that would cost the average homeowner about $3 a month in additional property taxes.

After receiving information about the benefits of an expanded center  including a $32 million increase in annual economic impact  poll respondents were more likely to support using a blended financing plan that included sales tax and some property tax increases.

But a slight majority (50.5 percent) continued to be against a tax increase to support the expansion.

The center has been exploring ways to finance an expansion that would include a coliseum with fixed, raised seats, and another multipurpose building that would be available for livestock shows or trade show exhibitions.

The expansion would help attract more national livestock and ag shows and provide room for trade shows that already use the facility to grow in size, said LEC director Amy Dickerson.

Financing for a $60 million to $70 million expansion could include a bond issue, financed by an increase in the property tax, and a 1-cent sales tax on goods and services sold at the Event Center and nearby businesses.

The sales tax option, similar to the additional sales tax approved for SouthPointe Pavilions, would require Lincoln City Council approval.

A bond issue, funded through property tax, would require county board approval to put the issue on the ballot for voter approval.

Currently, LEC is big enough to take care of community events, but not really big enough to attract national-level shows, said Dickerson.

It is turning away business that could be handled by the expansion, she said.

The poll showed a very positive feedback about the Event Center itself, said Chris Peterson, a public affairs and government relations consultant whose firm handled the November poll including landline and cellphone numbers.

The poll, which included information about the benefits of the center and the expansion, followed by questions about funding the expansion, showed growing support from respondents for financing an expansion after they learned more about the benefits.

The more you describe the benefits and talk about jobs and economic development, the more traction you get, Peterson said.

That causes him to believe that an educational campaign, giving voters more information, would mean voters would be more open to voting for a ballot issue, he said.

But that doesn't mean the Lancaster County Ag Society or county can put any issue on the ballot and voters will approve it, he said.

Based on the poll results, Peterson said he doesn't "think the door is closed entirely on the property tax component, but there has to be a plan that is weighted toward sales tax.

The more heavily weighted it is toward the property tax, the more hesitant voters will be to approve it," he said.

The citys library board is interested in the poll results and the potential LEC request for bond approval and additional property tax dollars, said Pat Leach, director of the city libraries.

The board has been considering seeking voter approval of a bond for a new downtown library. The city will probably be providing information on that project in early 2018, Leach said.

A city vote on the library expansion could be scheduled in 2018, she said.

Dickerson said she wasn't sure of an Event Center timeline, but there could be a vote in 2018.

The results of the LEC poll do not reflect voter attitudes about a library bond, cautioned Peterson.

The library and the Event Center have different patrons who support, believe in and attend each venue.
YEREVAN.  The Vienna statement again confirmed that there are specific proposals, precepts; they are the basis of the negotiation process.

Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian told the aforesaid to Public Television of Armenia, as he reflected on the avenues for resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

In his words, the key difference between Armenia and Azerbaijans approaches on this matter is that Azerbaijan attempts to present made-up proposals allegedly by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, and to present fictitious negotiation processes.

Nalbandian added that even though his talk in Vienna with his Azerbaijani counterpart Elmar Mammadyarov was held in an overall positive climate, immediately thereafter, Azerbaijan made numerous ungrounded accusations and bellicose rhetoric.

The Armenian FM noted that Azerbaijan was trying to pretend that there are no agreements, and it was undertaking measures so that these agreements will not be implemented.

[But] Both Karabakh and Armenia have always declared that they remain faithful to those agreements, whereas Azerbaijan attempts in every way to pull out from these arrangements. Edward Nalbandian added, in particular.
An ongoing feud between Fonner Park and the state's horsemen now threatens to close betting windows at the state's simulcast horse racing facilities in Lincoln and Omaha.

Simulcast wagering at Lincoln Race Course and Horsemen's Park in Omaha must cease Jan. 1 after a judge on Friday declined to block a state ruling from taking effect, according to court documents.

Omaha Exposition and Racing Inc. on Thursday had appealed the Nebraska State Racing Commission's order earlier this month to cease simulcasting operations at the end of the year.

Omaha Exposition and Racing simulcasts live races from tracks in other states that patrons at the Lincoln Race Course, near U.S. 77 and West Denton Road, and Horsemen's Park in Omaha can bet on.

The commission approved simulcasting agreements in October, and then at its meeting Dec. 19 announced these agreements expired Dec. 31 at 11:59 p.m., according to the appeal.

In the appeal, Chris Jerram, who is representing Omaha Exposition and Racing, said the company had a valid agreement with the Nebraska Horsemens Benevolent Protective Association that is legally required to simulcast races in Lincoln and Omaha.

He alleges that the commission's decision was unsupported by the evidence and that commissioners "considered and accepted incompetent, irrelevant and immaterial evidence regarding agreements (or a lack thereof) between Fonner Park (in Grand Island)" and the Nebraska HBPA.

The director of the Nebraska State Racing Commission couldn't be reached for comment Friday afternoon and commissioners Dennis Lee and Janell Beveridge declined comment, citing the lawsuit.

Simulcast wagering, where someone in Lincoln can bet on races at Aqueduct in New York or Santa Anita in California, has been legal in Nebraska since 1988, with live pari-mutuel racing dating to 1934 in the state.

But Fonner Park, the Nebraska track with the longest live meet, remains locked in a contract battle with the state's horsemen, an ongoing feud that last year led to simulcasting in Grand Island shutting down for weeks.

Now, with Fonner's live meet set to begin Feb. 23, the disagreement has spilled over to the state's two largest cities.

Because the Nebraska HBPA, representing the state's licensed owners and trainers, must approve all simulcast agreements in the state, and presumably wouldn't be approving any deal with Fonner Park for the new year, it appears the state racing commission opted to cease all agreements.

Bruce Swihart, CEO of Fonner Park, and Barry Lake, president of the Nebraska HBPA, did not immediately return phone messages left Friday afternoon. Earlier this month, both posted letters on their respective websites addressing some of the ongoing issues.

Lincoln Race Course General Manager Christy Harris had no comment.

It was business as usual at the Lincoln simulcast facility on Friday afternoon, with no indication that things would change come Monday.

One regular said the decision was somewhat surprising.

"I think (the commission) has outstepped its bounds," said the man, who declined to provide his name.

Some patrons said they weren't overly concerned and felt the decision wouldn't be permanent.

State law requires tracks, including Ag Park in Columbus, to hold one live race annually to offer simulcast betting.

Lincoln Race Course plans two days of live racing in 2018.
Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading.

Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy
President Trump awarded himself a 10 out of 10 score two months ago for his response to Hurricane Maria, which leveled Puerto Rico.

"If you look at a real catastrophe like Katrina, and you look at the tremendous hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of people that died," Trump said as he toured Puerto Rico in October. "What is your death count, as of this moment -- 17?"

"Sixteen certified," the governor of Puerto Rico replied.

"Sixteen versus literally thousands of people," Trump said. "You can be very proud."

How proud we are now.

We recently learned the truth. Some 1,065 more Puerto Ricans died in September and October of this year than in previous years, almost certainly storm-related deaths, according to the Center for Investigative Journalism. When all is tallied, the destruction in Puerto Rico will be very much on par with what Trump considers "a real catastrophe like Katrina," which killed about 1,800.

Incredibly, a large portion of the island remains without power -- three months after the storm. It was reported last week that power may not be fully restored until May. Puerto Ricans -- American citizens -- are still awaiting tarps and temporary roofs to shelter them after an untold number of homes were destroyed.

A new report from Refugees International said, "Thousands of people still lack sustainable access to potable water and electricity and dry, safe places to sleep." The group faulted the Federal Emergency Management Agency's "bureaucratic and opaque assistance process" for leaving survivors with "enormous challenges."

This, in the United States of America, in 2017. Ten out of 10, Mr. President. A-plus for you!

In October, when Trump was tossing "beautiful, soft" rolls of paper towels at Puerto Ricans, he offered lavish promises of aid and said Wall Street lenders were "going to say goodbye" to Puerto Rico's $72 billion debt. But the debt was not written off, and disaster-relief aid has been inadequate and piecemeal. Now, Trump and congressional Republicans are hitting Puerto Rico with an additional, man-made catastrophe.

The GOP tax bill, which Trump celebrated last week, treats Puerto Rico as a foreign country, imposing a 12.5 percent tax on the income that companies there receive from intellectual property -- a big hit to its crucial pharmaceutical and medical-device sector. Rather than give Puerto Rico special tax treatment, which it urgently needs, Trump and his congressional allies gave employers a powerful reason to move jobs off the island.

You might recognize this pattern, even if you don't care about Puerto Rico and the suffering of the more than 3 million Americans there. Trump comes in with razzle-dazzle and self-congratulation, promising great things to come. Then, when the cameras are off, comes the quiet collapse.

The prototype is the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. In April 1990, it opened with much fanfare as the world's largest casino-hotel complex. Six months later, it defaulted on payments. Nine months after that, it filed for bankruptcy.

Now, this happens on a world scale. Trump promises an easy peace in the Middle East but winds up setting off a new wave of violence. He promises a tax cut for the middle class and winds up with a giveaway to corporations and millionaires. He promises to improve upon Obamacare but ravages the program with no replacement.

In business, when Trump attended the ribbon-cutting and then moved on while deals went south, people lost their investments. But when the United States walks away from promises, people lose rather more.

Nearly a million low-income Puerto Ricans are in danger of losing health care early in the new year because the territory's Medicaid program will soon be unable to pay providers. Federal law restricts Medicaid reimbursements for Puerto Rico to not-quite 20 percent, about a quarter of what it would get if it were a state. Puerto Rico's leaders have called for a few billion dollars to avert this latest crisis, but the request went unanswered as Congress rushed to complete the tax cut.

Puerto Rico's Democratic governor, Ricardo Rossello, made a dumb mistake in October when, appealing to Trump's vanity, he praised the president's hurricane response. That gave Trump cover to do nothing for Puerto Rico.

Now Rossello has apparently realized his mistake, and, in an interview with Politico last week, he vowed to mobilize the more than 5 million Puerto Ricans living in the mainland United States. That includes hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens fleeing Puerto Rico since Maria.

They are eligible to vote, in 2018 and 2020. One suspects they might award Trump something less than the 10 out of 10 he gives himself.
The trade war didnt happen. Prepare for a few skirmishes.

It was high on many observers lists of things that could go badly wrong in 2017. Buying and selling of goods and services across borders not only increased this year but also grew more than anticipated. Next year may test whether thats a durable trend or just an accident that flew in the face of politics.

Part of the thanks goes to a more vigorous global economic expansion. The resilience of the international system should also get its due: Supply chains that snake around the globe took decades to build up and arent just going to go away overnight because of a few tweets from you-know-who. Broad forces at work are bigger than one man.

This again makes me wonder whether politics, an arena where many journalists feel the most comfort, is overrated in its ability to influence underlying economic currents. Call me an economic determinist; the world hasnt ended despite geopolitical ructions left and right.

That doesnt mean there arent flashpoints that may become a very big deal if the economic and market environment shifts. And it doesnt mean that the trade map isnt being refigured.

Some quick words on the second point. The Japan-EU free trade pact, endorsed by leaders in July, aims to eliminate almost all tariffs between the two partners. Eleven nations left at the Trans-Pacific Partnership altar by Donald Trump are pressing ahead with their own version sans the U.S.

Globalization may be changing its complexion, but it isnt dead. Its a mistake to conflate giant multilateral trade deals, as we have come to understand them, with global trade. Major dealings can exist without those major deals.

Lets get to NAFTA, a looming mini-crisis. Its foreseeable that negotiations wont get any momentum until Trump announces his intention to withdraw from the decades-old deal. Whoa! Hold on. Arent the parties renegotiating, not quitting? Didnt the U.S., Canada and Mexico dodge a bullet when farm-state Republicans explained to Trump the damage that ending the accord would wreak on parts of the country colored deep red?

Yes, but the talks are going nowhere. The last round, outside Washington, didnt even have a ministerial presence. Politicians have a way of smelling a carcass. Things could get direction by March, when discussions may take a hiatus through Mexicos presidential election on July 1. It may prove too tempting an opportunity for Trump to say hes out.

You can almost see the tweet now: Mexico and Canada arent taking the U.S. seriously. I said when I was elected that I would always PUT AMERICA FIRST!!

Theres more to pulling out than a tweet, of course. Withdrawal requires six months notice to Mexico and Canada. So the new Mexican president would have three months to come to terms. Critically, it would also give those same farm-belt Republicans and the lobbying might of K Street time to fully jump in and shape outcomes. Same goes for powerful lobbies to the north and south. At any point in the process, the administration could reverse itself.

And lets not forget the courts. Instant filings against Trumps travel bans may be a blueprint here. Out of NAFTA wouldnt necessarily mean out. It may even lead to in. As an aside, Congress, in its deliberative greatness, may push to keep underlying tariff levels unchanged.

Its unclear how much scope the president has to act alone. NAFTAs implementing legislation would remain on the books unless Congress repeals it. And Congress has broad constitutional authority over trade.

In the meantime, in the real world, stuff keeps getting loaded into trains, cars, trucks, ships and cargo planes. Bloomberg reported the International Monetary Funds projections that the volume of trade in goods and services would rise 4.2 percent this year, up from 2.4 percent in 2016.

Some war.
Every year at this time I declare my top 10 business stories of the year weve just burned through, and Im about to do it again.

In my time at The Journal Times and on this beat, theres never been a local business year like this one before. Life-impacting, historically significant, unfair to the people involved, melancholic and promising; this years business stories had all of those elements.

Normally I do the traditional thing and start with No. 10 and work my way down to No. 1 (over two consecutive Sundays). But every one of you already knows what story will be at No. 1, so lets just start with it and then count down to 10th place on my highly subjective list.

No. 1  Foxconn Technology Group

We all know its coming, so Ill just review some of the numbers, most of which I find incomprehensible (many are estimates):

3,000  new jobs in the year 2020.

6,500  minimum new jobs required to be in Racine County.

13,000  possible total new jobs.

22,000  estimated indirect jobs.

10,000  estimated construction jobs over each of the next four years.

$700 million  annual payroll when fully staffed. Think about it.

$10 billion  estimated cost to build the local Foxconn manufacturing campus.

$53,875  average annual pay of those Foxconn jobs.

1,198  acreage of manufacturing campus.

32 million  square feet of manufacturing campus floor space.

15  equivalency of that floor space to the comparable number of Lambeau Fields.

And so on. From now on, our lives will be divided into two periods: B.F., or Before Foxconn, and A.F., after Foxconn.

No. 2: Machinery Row

This was supposed to have been an enormous, catalytic residential and commercial redevelopment of two huge former early-1900s J.I. Case Co. buildings along the river in an old, industrial part of Downtown.

The envisioned project started strong after its summer 2014 announcement and, at that years end, won $9 million in essential historic preservation tax credits.

But the would-be developer ran into snags, changed plans often and eventually simply let it go.

Then, in 2017 the state Legislature presented Gov. Scott Walker with a budget bill that capped historic preservation tax credits at $5 million. Might a developer still pull off a Machinery Row redevelopment with that? Maybe.

But not after Walker used his Vanna White veto to knock the last zero from that figure, slashing the tax credit cap for any single project to $500,000. Madison developer Gorman & Co., waiting in the wings, exited stage left.

Now the plan is something simpler: a sweeping demolition of 15 riverfront-area structures to create 27 acres of clear land for developers to salivate over.

And just as Foxconn is about to start moving forward.

No. 3: Promotions Unlimited

This multipart story stank from the start for the employees involved. Then it got worse and worse.

We broke the story last Feb. 2 about the permanent closing of Promotions Unlimited, 7601 Durand Ave., Mount Pleasant, and the loss of 77 full-time jobs. Employees were told their last week of work was going to be freebie for the company, yippee!

At least the vendors whod been getting stiffed were not alone in their misery.

Incredibly, six days later we reported widespread attempts to also suck the last paychecks employees HAD received, right out of their bank accounts by reversing direct deposits! People scrambled like mad trying to fight off the boarding pirates.

And, naturally, a letter from company owner Lorraine Greenberg, addressed to Dear ex-employee, stated in part, No severance will be provided in connection with the (job) eliminations.

Former employees had trouble filing for unemployment compensation because they could not get at their records. The list of company-inflicted indignities included victimizing independent pharmacies that made the mistake of doing business with Promotions Unlimited.

My last story in that sad saga reported that the state ordered the Greenbergs to pay a total of $203,933 to 52 former employees or face action by the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

No. 4: The Atrium of Racine

Like No. 3 above, the Atrium was another hard-luck news story, this time for seniors. It was also more fallout from the still-mysterious financial implosion of Lincoln Lutheran of Racine back in 2014.

In late May, The Atrium of Racine, comprised of The Atrium and Baypointe senior living centers, also filed for receivership  just as Lincoln Lutheran had.

My next story was about the fact that the Atrium receivership threatened the ability of residents and their families to recoup the initiation, or entrance, fees residents had paid to get in  amounts as great as $111,000.

The properties were put on the auction block, and were still waiting to hear how this one turns out in the end.

No. 5: White Box Program

Racine City Development Director Amy Connolly rolled out this new program in early April. It was designed to help property owners of vacant, commercially zoned first-floor spaces of buildings 50 years or older, to bring them into compliance with modern building codes and put them into white box, or rentable, shape.

The program was initially funded with $100,000 set aside from the citys intergovernmental revenue fund. But it proved immediately popular, and most of those funds were quickly depleted. In late summer city officials restocked the White Box Program with another $150,000, and it continues to stimulate the rehab and reuse of commercial spaces that had gone dormant.

To be continued on Sunday, Jan. 7.
Mental health recovery is real. With treatment and support, a person on a healing journey to rebuild their lives affected by mental illness (such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, PTSD or obsessive compulsive disorder) can create a meaningful life as they define it.

Isolation is one of the biggest challenges people with mental health issues face. At Racine Friendship Clubhouse, people learn theyre not alone and find hope to move forward. Participants learn self-acceptance, realizing that the brain is an organ of the body and mental illness is no different from other illnesses like diabetes or heart disease.

In Racine County, mental illness costs an estimated $91,000,000 annually. At the clubhouse, we aim to reduce relapse and hospitalization by providing the opportunity for participants to spend the day in a meaningful and structured environment to achieve their educational, vocational and social goals.

Racine Friendship Clubhouse, 2000 17th St., is a nonprofit whose mission changes lives and inspires hope and opportunity for persons with a mental illness. The program was inspired by the Clubhouse International Model, based on New Yorks Fountain House that began in 1948 and now has spread throughout the world. The Racine Friendship Clubhouse belongs to the Clubhouse Wisconsin Coalition and meets quarterly with similar programs in the state, including Milwaukee, Madison, Wausau and Manitowoc.

Clubhouses are communities of belonging designed to reduce isolation through peer support and a healing environment. With these peer connections, our participants, known as members (vs. patients), serve side-by-side with staff as colleagues to perform all areas of operations, known as the Work-Ordered Day. This builds life skills to maintain independence, and acts as a volunteer experience to include on a job resume and obtain job references.

The departments in which members participate in the work-ordered day include:

Office: Computer entry, mailings, filing, bookkeeping, clerical tasks as needed.

Membership: Tours, orientations of new members, outreach calls, mailing newsletters and cards, attendance paperwork.

Culinary: Assist with meal planning, preparation and cleanup.

Reception: Greet members and visitors, answer phones and handle payments.

Building: Janitorial and maintenance tasks.

In addition to the work-ordered day, we provide vocational services, including a weekly Job Club group with members who are interested in paid work in the community, volunteer opportunities in the Vocational Department or elsewhere, or returning to school. Marks is a story of success. He was able to get completely off Social Security through paid wages.

To qualify for the program, potential members must have a mental health provider for treatment from a mental health issue such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, depression, anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder. Open tour times are Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m., and Thursdays at 1:15 p.m.

For more information, visit the website www.racineclubhouse.org, or call 262-636-9393. We also have a Facebook page under Racine Friendship Clubhouse and a video: www.tinyurl/RacineFriendshipClubhouse.
RACINE COUNTY  Caseys General Store has a gas station/convenience store location scheduled to open in early 2018 and three proposed locations in the works in western Racine County.

James Pistillo, Caseys vice president of accounting and treasurer, who is based at the companys headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, said the company sees a wealth of opportunities in Wisconsin.

Caseys operates roughly 2,000 stores as of today, where we have a strong concentration in communities that are around 5,000 people or less, said Pistillo by email. The State of Wisconsin, and Racine County in particular, has many communities that fit that profile, so it is natural for us to want to grow our presence here.

The first scheduled Racine County Caseys location is the Fairway Shell at 991 Main St. (Highway 20/83 at Buena Park Road) in Waterford. Pistillo said Caseys purchase of the location is scheduled to close next week; then the store is to transition and re-open as a Caseys.

Caseys presented its proposal for another location at 2728 Beck Drive, at the intersection of Highway 36 and Highway 20 in Rochester, to the Plan Commission and Village Board in November. The Plan Commission is scheduled to revisit the proposal at its Jan. 3 meeting and the first public hearing is scheduled for their Jan. 8 Village Board meeting.

Hurdles in Burlington, Union Grove

Not all the companys proposed projects have moved along as easily.

The City of Burlingtons Plan Commission reviewed a proposal and held its first public hearing on Dec. 12 for a proposed Caseys location at 100 and 124 S. Dodge St. in downtown Burlington. The commission decided to table the rezoning request and application for a conditional-use permit.

City Administrator Carina Walters said the commission was concerned that the structure did not fit with the areas aesthetics and asked that Caseys revisit the commission once theyve adapted their proposal.

In Union Grove, Village Clerk and Treasurer Jill Firkus said the proposed Caseys at the corner of Highway 11 and 69th Drive could be a lengthy process.

The proposed parcel is currently 43 acres, which the developers plan on dividing into smaller plots. Caseys representatives went before the villages Planning Commission to receive a conditional-use permit on Nov. 6, but the commission did not want to grant it until the plot had been divided.

Firkus said that as of Friday, the proposal was not scheduled for either the Planning Commission or Village Board meetings on Jan. 8, though she said Caseys has entered a pre-development agreement, suggesting theyre committed to the project.

Kwik Trip territory

The closest Caseys to Racine County is in Elkhorn, about 14 miles west of Burlington in Walworth County. There also are a few scattered in northern Illinois and along Interstate 90 in Beloit, Janesville and Milton.

Pistillo said the company is looking at many locations across the state for potential Caseys sites. He said theyre not concerned about treading into La Crosse-based Kwik Trips home state.

We regularly cross paths with Kwik Trip in Iowa (in our backyard), said Pastillo. And while we find them to be a solid operator, we think there is room for both of us.
Robert Gilpin, R.I.P. - The Washington Post : His greatest book was written in 1981, but the main theory in it is perhaps more trenchant now...
America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. provides telecommunications services in Latin America and internationally. The company offers wireless and fixed voice services, including local, domestic, and international long-distance services; and network interconnection services. It also provides data services, such as data centers, data administration, and hosting services to residential and corporate clients; value-added services, including Internet access, messaging, and other wireless entertainment and corporate services; data transmission, email services, instant messaging, content streaming, and interactive applications; and wireless security services, mobile payment solutions, machine-to-machine services, mobile banking, virtual private network services, and video calls and personal communications services. In addition, the company offers residential broadband services; IT solutions for small businesses and large corporations; and cable and satellite pay television subscriptions. Further, it sells equipment, accessories, and computers; and offers telephone directories, wireless security, call center, advertising, media, and software development services. Additionally, the company provides video, audio, and other media content through the Internet directly from the content provider to the end user. It sells its products and services under the Telcel, Telmex Infinitum, and A1 brands through a network of retailers and service centers to retail customers; and through sales force to corporate customers. As of December 31, 2021, the company had approximately 286.5 million wireless voice and data subscribers. America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. was incorporated in 2000 and is based in Mexico City, Mexico.
RACINE  A Racine man is facing charges after allegedly threatening an employee at a local Family Dollar store.

Fred C. Gossett, 54, of the 3000 block of Washington Avenue, is charged with misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct and obstructing an officer, both as a repeat offender.

According to the criminal complaint:

At about 7:08 p.m. Thursday, Racine police were dispatched to Family Dollar, 3919 Washington Ave., for a report of an unruly male threatening staff members.

The man, later identified as Gossett, had left the store heading west on Washington Avenue on a bicycle. He then reportedly returned, threatened store employees through the stores windows and then left again.

A Racine police officer said she was following Gossett on his bicycle. But when that officer could not be reached by radio, another officer who was on scene at Family Dollar responded to check what was happening. Upon arrival, that officer saw that Gossett was on the ground in handcuffs.

The officer who had been following Gossett said that he had reportedly tried to leave and pull away several times while he was being detained.

A Family Dollar manager later told police that Gossett had come into the store and said the manager should not be working there because she was fired. He then allegedly began insulting the manager, got loud and disorderly and reportedly threatened to call the corporate office to report the manager. He allegedly left the store after the manager said she was going to call police.

Another employee said he was outside speaking with Gossett to make sure he did not come back inside. Gossett reportedly yelled at that employee and left on his bicycle.

Gossett remained in custody as of Friday afternoon on a $300 cash bond, online records show. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for Feb. 1 at the Law Enforcement Center, 717 Wisconsin Ave.
Truist Financial Corp. operates as a financial holding company, which engages in the provision of banking services to individuals, businesses and municipalities. The firm offers a variety of loans and lease financing to individuals and entities, including insurance premium financing, permanent commercial real estate financing arrangements, loan servicing for third-party investors, direct consumer finance loans to individuals, credit card lending, automobile financing and equipment financing. It also markets a range of other services, including deposits, life insurance, property and casualty insurance, health Truist Financial Corp. operates as a financial holding company. It engages in the provision of banking services to individuals, businesses and municipalities. The company operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Wealth; Corporate and Commercial Banking; and Insurance Holdings. The firm offers a variety of loans and lease financing to individuals and entities, including insurance premium financing, permanent commercial real estate financing arrangements, loan servicing for third-party investors, direct consumer finance loans to individuals, credit card lending, automobile financing and equipment financing. It also markets a range of other services, including deposits, life insurance, property and casualty insurance, health insurance and commercial general liability insurance on an agency basis and through a wholesale insurance brokerage operation, merchant services, trust and retirement services, comprehensive wealth advisory services, asset management and capital markets services. The company was founded on December 6, 2019 and is headquartered in Charlotte, NC. insurance and commercial general liability insurance on an agency basis and through a wholesale insurance brokerage operation, merchant services, trust and retirement services, comprehensive wealth advisory services, asset management and capital markets services. The company was founded on December 6, 2019 and is headquartered in Charlotte, NC.
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. manufactures, and distributes life science research and clinical diagnostic products in the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada, and Latin America. The company operates through Life Science and Clinical Diagnostics segments. The Life Science segment develops, manufactures, and markets a range of reagents, apparatus, and laboratory instruments that are used in research techniques, biopharmaceutical production processes, and food testing regimes. It focuses on selected segments of the life sciences market in proteomics, genomics, biopharmaceutical production, cellular biology, and food safety. This segment serves universities and medical schools, industrial research organizations, government agencies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology researchers, food producers, and food testing laboratories. The Clinical Diagnostics segment designs, manufactures, sells, and supports test systems, informatics systems, test kits, and specialized quality controls for clinical laboratories in the diagnostics market. This segment offers reagents, instruments, and software, which address specific niches within the in vitro diagnostics test market. It sells its products to reference laboratories, hospital laboratories, state newborn screening facilities, physicians' office laboratories, and transfusion laboratories. In addition, the company offers products and systems to separate complex chemical and biological materials, as well as to identify, analyze, and purify components. The company offers its products through its direct sales force, as well as through distributors, agents, brokers, and resellers. Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. was founded in 1952 and is headquartered in Hercules, California.
Bancolombia S.A. provides banking products and services in Colombia, Panama, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. The company operates through nine segments: Banking Colombia, Banking Panama, Banking El Salvador, Banking Guatemala, Trust, Investment Banking, Brokerage, International Banking, and All Other. It offers checking and savings accounts, fixed term deposits, and investment products; trade financing, loans funded by domestic development banks, working capital loans, credit cards, personal and vehicle loans, payroll loans, and overdrafts; financial support to real estate developers and mortgages for individuals and companies; factoring; and financial and operating leasing services. The company also provides hedging instruments, including futures, forwards, options, and swaps; and brokerage, investment advisory, and private banking services, including selling and distributing equities, futures, foreign currencies, fixed income securities, mutual funds, and structured products. In addition, it offers cash management services; foreign currency transaction services; life, auto, commercial, and homeowner's insurance products; and online and computer banking services. Further, the company provides project and acquisition finance, debt and equity capital markets, principal investments, M&A, hedging strategies, restructurings, and structured financing; money market accounts, mutual and pension funds, private equity funds, payment and corporate trust, and custody; internet-based trading platform; inter-bank lending and repurchase agreements; managing escrow accounts, and investment and real estate funds; and transportation, securities brokerage, maintenance and remodeling, and outsourcing services. As of December 31, 2021, it operated 1,015 branches; 28,676 banking correspondents; 529 PAMs; 210 kiosks in El Salvador and 187 in Colombia; and 6,094 ATMs. Bancolombia S.A. was incorporated in 1945 and is headquartered in Medellin, Colombia.
RACINE  SC Johnson CEO Fisk Johnson has won a Massachusetts court case, one which centered on the question of whether investors in a company are responsible for the actions and management of the company.

In the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling issued Thursday, the court ruled that Johnson, who had invested in a biotech startup, could not be held responsible for the unpaid wages of the startup companys ex-president.

The unanimous decision overturned an earlier decision from a lower court that had awarded $1.66 million to Andrew Segal, the ex-president of Genitrix, a cancer research company, according to a report from the Reuters news service.

Fisk Ventures LLC, Johnsons venture capital company, was one of a number of investors in the startup company Genitrix.

Genitrixs struggles

According to the court decision, at the start of 2007 Genitrix was struggling to make its payroll.

Segal stopped taking his salary in January 2007. He testified that he did so to help the company afford to pay Elihu Young, its last remaining employee other than Segal. When pressed about who made the decision (to not pay himself) Segal testified, Given the box I was in, I did. 

After continued struggles, the Delaware Court of Chancery ordered Genitrixs dissolution and appointed a liquidator to conduct the dissolution. As part of the dissolution, the liquidator auctioned off Genitrixs intellectual property and Fisk Ventures LLC submitted the winning bid of $300,000.

At about that same time, Segal filed suit against Johnson in Massachusetts under the wage act for unpaid wages from 2007 to 2009.

A Massachusetts jury in 2015 awarded a civil judgment to Segal requiring Johnson and Stephen Rose, the managing director of Johnsons venture capital company, to pay wages related to the struggling medical start-up venture.

Decision overturned

On Thursday, the Massachusetts high court overturned the decision, stating: Fisk (Ventures, LLC) was a separate company from Genitrix. Fisk (Ventures, LLC) was not responsible for Genitrixs payroll; Genitrix was.

The decision also states: Investors invariably exercise some control over the businesses in which they invest  but exercising ones rights and leverage as an investor over infusions of new money are separate and distinct from being an agent having the management of the corporation.

In a statement issued Friday, Fisk Johnson said: I commend the unanimous Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling  this case had the potential to threaten the ability of new business ventures in Massachusetts to obtain the critical investment capital they need. With this decision, investors can continue to see Massachusetts as a great place to invest in new innovative businesses.

As this lengthy process finally comes to its rightful close, I remain grateful to all those who stood by my side and helped me share the truths of this case. This is a good day for the hard-working people of Massachusetts trying to get startup businesses off the ground.
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. operates as a specialty retailer that provides clothing, accessories, and personal care products under the American Eagle and Aerie brands. The company provides jeans, and specialty apparel and accessories for women and men; and intimates, apparel, activewear, and swim collections, as well as personal care products for women. It also offers graphic tees and other clothing products under the Tailgate brand name; and menswear products under the Todd Snyder New York brand name. As of January 29, 2022, the company operated 880 American Eagle stores, 244 Aerie brand stand-alone stores, and five Todd Snyder stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Hong Kong. It also ships to 81 countries through its Websites; and offers its merchandise at 260 locations operated by licensees in 28 countries, as well as provides products through its Websites ae.com, aerie.com, and toddsnyder.com. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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
RACINE  A new person sits at the helm of Racine after former Mayor John Dickert announced in March that he would resign his office mid-term.

The change in city leadership was voted the No. 3 top story of 2017 by The Journal Times news staff. The ranking is based on stories lasting impact on the community.

This is an issue that is bigger than all of us, Dickert said at the news conference, referring to national and international water matters. If Im really going to do a great job of protecting Racine and water and my kids and their future, I need to step up.

Dickert had been Racines mayor since 2009.

Six vie for seat

City Council President Dennis Wiser, who represents the 10th District, filled the mayors office after Dickerts departure until a new leader could be elected.

Cory Mason, a Democrat who represents the 66th District of Wisconsin in the state Assembly, announced he would run to take Dickerts place.

Five other candidates joined Mason in pursuit of the seat: Pastor Melvin Hargrove, Fabi Maldonado, Wally Rendon, Austin Rodriguez and 6th District Alderman Sandy Weidner.

In a September primary, Mason and Weidner emerged as the two candidates who would face off in an October special election to take over as Racine mayor.

Mason prevailed in that race and was sworn into office Nov. 7. He highlighted in his speech that night the opening ahead for Racine to improve the citys unemployment rate with Foxconn Technology Group building a manufacturing complex in Racine County.

This is the biggest jobs opportunity of my lifetime, he said in the packed City Council Chambers. We will seize it and give back to people in the City of Racine the dignity of working.

His term ends in the spring of 2019, when he has the option to run for re-election to a full, four-year term.

Leaving the legislature

The day he was sworn in as mayor, Mason announced he would resign his legislative seat, effective Jan. 15.

No candidate from any other party is opposing Neubauer in the Jan. 16 special election for the seat.
Vietnams Ministry of Transport has given a new deadline for the sluggish construction of the Cat Linh  Ha Dong urban railway in Hanoi, as there are no more reasons to excuse for the long delayed completion of the Chinese-funded project.

The ministry-run railway project management board should work closely with the Chinese contractor of the project to speed up the construction and put it into commercial run next year, Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Ngoc Dong said at a meeting in Hanoi on Friday.

Any difficulty arising during the implementation process should be reported immediately to the ministry to avoid wasting more time, the deputy minister said.

By the end of January 2018, the transport ministry will report to the government, which will set the official final deadline for the sluggish project, Dong added.

The Vietnamese transport ministry turned the first sod on the Cat Linh  Ha Dong urban railway on October 10, 2011, with the project then expected to begin commission by June 2015.

The project was initially expected to consume US$552.86 million, including official development assistance from China. The plan was however revised in early 2014, with completion deadline delayed to for 2015 and commission time to 2016. The total investment needed for the project was also increased to $868.04 million.

The Vietnamese government also backed a proposal to continue borrowing $250.62 million from China to cover part of the additional investment needed.

Drawings on the locomotive of the Cat Linh - Ha Dong railway. Photo: Tuoi Tre

No more reasons for excuse

The railway project management board and the projects EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) contractor, China Railway Sixth Group, have repeatedly pointed to the lack of capital and equipment to excuse for their sluggish progress.

However, Dong underlined at Fridays meeting that there are no reasons to make such excuses, now that the Export-Import Bank of China (China Eximbank) has completed procedures to disburse the $250.6 million additional loan for the project.

The new loan agreement was signed on May 11 and came into effect on December 28, Dong said, citing information from China Eximbank.

With the biggest obstacle that has slowed down the progress now resolved, the project will be financially able to speed up work now, Dong said.

The deputy minister added that the construction has so far 95 percent completed, with only some stops and the technical infrastructure units unfinished.

Other needed pieces of equipment are also being imported, so there are no reasons why you keep falling behind progress, Dong said, referring to the projects management board and EPC contractor.

The demanded that the Chinese contractor prepare specific working plan for every week and month, and start allocating the additional capital to its sub-contractors. The EPC contractor should also replace incapable sub-contractors to ensure progress for the project.

We have told our Chinese partner that the Cat Linh  Ha Dong project has witnessed three different ministers of transport so they have to speed up progress, Dong told reporters.
Check out the news you should not miss today, December 30

Politics

-- During the last sitting of the government in 2017, Vietnam's cabinet members focused on discussing the building of institutions and laws, which Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc underlined is a difficult task, thus asking ministers to pay due attention to the issue.

Society

-- As Vietnamese enter their New Year holiday today, December 30, the National Traffic Safety Committee has announced 12 hotlines to receive complaints about traffic problems from now through January 1, 2018.

-- The section fron Cat Lai Intersection to Binh Thai Intersection on Hanoi Highway in Ho Chi Minh City was packed with a sea of vehicles from early to late Friday.

-- The sidewalk clearing campaign and solutions to the frequent gridlock at the entrance to Tan Son Nhat International Airport are among the ten outstanding events of Ho Chi Minh City in 2017, according to the list announced Friday by the municipal administration.

-- People in big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon started returning to their hometown on Friday evening for New Year holiday, putting pressure on traffic in national highways.

Business

-- The Ministry of Transports Railway Project Management Board should work harder to speed up the completion of the Chinese-funded Cat Linh-Ha Dong urban railway project, Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Ngoc Dong pressed at a meeting on Friday.

-- The Hanoi Customs Department is expected to collect a total of VND21.8 trillion (US$960.3 million), for the state budget this year, up five percent from estimates.

-- Vietnam's agriculture sector posted a growth rate of 2.94 percent, overshooting the 2.84 percent target set by the government, Deputy Minister Ha Cong Tuan during a press conference in Hanoi on Friday.

-- Pham Nguyen Foods has been fined VND162 million ($7,137) and asked to destroy four metric tons of its chocolate cakes, worth more than $8,600, which were found to infringe the intellectual property of South Korean famous brand Choco Pie.

Lifestyle

-- The tenth biennial Ho Chi Minh City Book Expo, featuring 350,000 titles, will open at Le Van Tam Park in March, the organizers said Friday.

-- Hanoi will not license any buffalo fighting festivals, which are widely criticized as barbaric, to take place in 2018, the municipal culture department said Friday.
Were completely, completely devastated and heartbroken, said Heather Schmitz, whose relative Mary Urhausen owned the Wind Point property just a little over four years ago before selling it to The Prairie School, which demolished it earlier this year.
The sidewalk clearing campaign and authorities handling of the traffic hot spots citywide are among the list of ten outstanding events of Ho Chi Minh City in 2017 announced Friday by the municipal administration.

The initiative to keep sidewalks in District 1 and other neighborhoods clean and clear was carried out throughout the year, illustrating the citys determination to improve its urban landscape, according to the panel that prepared the top-ten list.

Even though the campaign failed to completely succeed, as sidewalks are still being occupied by street vendors and motorbike parking, the initiative has won support from local residents and did improve traffic and restore order on pavements in many streets, the panel said.

A man walks on a clean and clear sidewalk in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre

In the meantime, one of the tasks that required the biggest effort from Ho Chi Minh City authorities in 2017 was to handle and resolve the frequent congestion at such black spots as the entrance to Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Cat Lai Port.

To this end, the municipal has implemented a series of measures, which have proven to be effective, and managed to complete many constructions to ease traffic, such as two roads on the Tan Son Nhat Binh Loi  Outer Belt route, the Nguyen Kiem  Hoang Minh Giam flyover, and Phu Huu Bridge.

A flyover is seen near Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Another remarkable item in the top-ten list is that the southern Vietnamese metropolis has scrapped requirement that one must have residence registration in the city to be allowed to work as a public servant.

The move has ensure fairness for everyone in the recruitment and allows the city to attract talents, who otherwise would have had their application rejected for not being a registered city resident.

A public servant is seen at her office in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Below is the full list of the ten outstanding events of Ho Chi Minh City in 2017, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

1. The National Assembly adopts resolution on piloting specialized mechanisms, policies for Ho Chi Minh Citys development.

Covering five sectors, the document is expected to help the southern metropolis better tap its natural advantages during development while bringing into full play its resources to develop more rapidly and sustainably, and address major challenges to the citys development in the next 30-50 years.

2. Ho Chi Minh City fulfills and overshoots many socio-economic development targets

In 2017, the citys gross regional domestic product (GRDP) grew by 8.25 percent, higher than the previous year.

3. Ho Chi Minh City announces smart city project

The project sets a vision towards 2025, targeting high and sustainable economic growth. With people as the centre, the project aims to make the best use of its resources.

4. Ho Chi Minh City supports start-ups, innovations

In 2017, Ho Chi Minh issued a plan on completing a startup and innovation ecosystem, supported businesses with many practical policies, and regularly organized meetings and dialogues with domestic and foreign firms to remove their difficulties.

5. Ho Chi Minh City attracts over six million international tourists

With a range of tourism promotion programs, as of December 16, the city welcomed six million foreign visitors. The figure is expected to reach about 6.4 million in by year-end.

6. Ho Chi Minh City strives to restore order on roads, pavements

The city has taken measures to restore order on many roads and pavements over the past year. With the support of most of local residents, the situation has improved in many roads.

7. Ho Chi Minh City handles traffic jams

The city has addressed hot spots of traffic congestion, especially the areas around Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Cat Lai Port, which are considered gateways to the city.

8. Ho Chi Minh City scraps requirement of having residence registration in the city in public servant recruitment

The city has abolished the requirement of having residence registration in the city when recruiting public servants for local agencies and units since November 1, 2017.

9. Ho Chi Minh City joins efforts to overcome natural disaster consequences

In 2017, Vietnam suffered many storms and floods causing severe consequences. Ho Chi Minh City attracted nearly VND40 billion ($1.76 million) to support storm and flood victims in northern, central and Central Highlands regions.

10. Ho Chi Minh City hosts World Cultural Festival

Taking place from November 11 to December 3, the Ho Chi Minh City  Gyeongju World Cultural Festival introduced land, people and culture of Vietnam in general and Ho Chi Minh City in particular to friends from the Republic of Korea and other countries.

Besides, the city also successfully hosted the third Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Senior Officials Meeting (SOM3) and the 24thAPEC Small-and Medium Enterprises Ministerial Meeting.
Santander UK had made a formal offer to buy the Williams & Glyn (W&G) branches from Royal Bank of Scotland ending the banks seven year struggle to separate from it, multiple reports claimed.

The Spanish-owned lender and fifth-largest bank in Britain, was understood to have offered to acquire the soon to be branded W&G network which consists of 315 branches, 24bn of deposits and nearly 2m customers.

RBS, which is 73% government owned, is on a deadline to offload W&G by the end of 2017 as part of the terms of a 45.5bn bailout issued between the Treasury and the European Commission during the 2008 financial crisis.

The bank warned in April that "there is a significant risk that the separation and divestment to which we are committed will not be achieved by 31st December 2017".

A deal was almost struck with Santander UK around two years later after beginning talks with potential buyers, however it fell through due to IT challenges in 2012.

In terms of the current offer, Santander UK was said to be interested in an asset transfer deal including the branches, customers and assets and intends on leaving behind the IT platform RBS has spent more than 1.2bn developing.

Chief executive of RBS Ross McEwan describes the W&G separation as the most complicated banking IT project in the world.

Banks familiar with the process said it would involve a transitional IT agreement whereby Santander adapts W&G top its own systems.

If RBS go ahead with the asset transfer deal it would only recoup a fraction of the proceeds from selling the standalone bank. It could however cap the cost of establishing a new banking platform which the bank estimates will exceed 1.7bn.

Sources close to the companies cautioned that a deal may remain uncertain and could fall apart.

RBS is expected to release its plans for W&G and its half year results on Friday.

W&G would rank as the UKs seventh largest bank with a personal current account market share of approximately 2%. That along with the business 113,000 commercial customers its market share in the small to medium enterprises (SME) segment is 5%.

Other banks including Virgin Money and Banco Sabadell which owns TSB hoped to explore offers for W&G but it is unclear whether they have had discussions with RBS yet.

RBS has also made plans to float what would be Britains seventh largest bank on the London Stock Exchange after striking a deal in 2013 to attract investment from a consortium. However, analysts feel this is unlikely due to the new lenders technology platform being incomplete.

A Santander spokesperson said: "Whilst our focus is organic growth, we will continue to analyse opportunities in our core 10 markets where they add value and benefit to our customers and shareholders. That said, we do not comment on rumours or market speculation."

RBS declined to comment.

Share price of RBS fell 1.75% to 185.80p at the close.
London stocks were expected to open higher on Monday as investors look ahead to some key manufacturing data later in the day and the Bank of England rate announcement on Thursday.

The FTSE 100 was set to open 26 points higher than Friday's close at 6,750.

On the data front, UK manufacturing PMI is at 0930 BST. In the US, ISM manufacturing is at 1500 BST, along with construction spending.

CMC Markets Michael Hewson said: Attention is likely to be on the latest manufacturing PMI data for July, with a particular focus on the UK number after the disappointing flash PMI number a couple of weeks ago.

We saw this fall to 49.1 from 52.1 in June, however there is a chance that we could see this revised higher given that the flash number was taken at a time when political uncertainty was at elevated levels. This is no longer the case and this might be reflected in a slightly improved number.

In corporate news, Barclays said its Tier 1 capital ratio fell to 7.3% from a 2015 year-end position of 11.4% under a stress test conducted by the European Banking Authority under the European Union's Capital Requirements Directive.

The 2016 EUwide stress test does not contain a pass fail threshold, Barclays said.

The adverse stress test scenario was set by the European Central Bank and European Systemic Risk Board and covers a threeyear time horizon (20162018).

The stress test has been carried out applying a static balance sheet assumption as at December 2015, and therefore does not take into account subsequent or future business strategies and management actions. It is not a forecast of Barclays' profits, Barclays said.

GlaxoSmithKline announced a new agreement on Monday, with Verily Life Sciences - formerly Google Life Sciences, an Alphabet company - to form Galvani Bioelectronics.

The FTSE 100 firm said the partnership would enable the research, development and commercialisation of bioelectronic medicines, with GSK holding a 55% equity interest in the new jointly owned company and Verily holding 45%.

Galvani Bioelectronics will be headquartered in the UK, with the parent companies contributing existing intellectual property rights and an investment of up to 540m over seven years, subject to successful completion of various discovery and development milestones.

Burberry has taken full control of its retail business in China, snapping up the final 15% it did not own for 54m.

The FTSE 100 fashion group first acquired retail operations in the People's Republic in 2010 and on Monday confirmed the acquisition of 15% economic interest in its China business held by Sparkle Roll Holdings Limited, a non-group company.
Specialist cancer drug discovery and development business Sareum announced on Wednesday that the Chinese Patent Office and the Hong Kong Patents Registry have issued notifications that patents will be granted for inventions associated with the companys Aurora+FLT3 Kinase Inhibitor programme.

The AIM-traded firm said these patents describe compounds that inhibit the activity of Aurora and FLT3 kinase enzymes, and the medical use of the compounds - particularly in the treatment of cancer.

InterQuest took a majority stake in Rees Draper Wright with a view to expanding its footprint in the US and Europe.

The specialist recruiter in the technology, analytics and digital market said the transaction would be financed in part via the issue of 728,000 new ordinary shares which were expected to begin trading on 9 August.

Flat panel broadband antenna manufacturer MTI Wireless Edge announced its unaudited results for the six months to 30 June on Wednesday, with revenue increasing 41% year-on-year to $11.3m, from $8.0m, due to the acquisition of Mottech.

The AIM-traded firm also boasted a strong second quarter, with revenue of $6.1m up 15% over the first quarter, and an operational profit of $0.6m compared to a $0.1m loss in the prior three months.

Lloyd's insurance underwriting company Novae said it was cautious about Brexit but remained confident that a London insurance company outside of the EU can flourish, as it reported a rise in half year profits.

For the six months ended 30 June, profit before tax and foreign exchange rose significantly by 31% to 37.9m compared to the same period last year. Gross written premiums for the first half of the year increased by 11% to 513.1m, 6.4% at constant rates of exchange.

Contract research organisation Venn Life Sciences said it has signed a new contract worth 2.8m with an unnamed European biotechnology client.

Venn, which provides drug development, clinical trial management and resourcing solutions to pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device clients said clinical trial is a phase II study in the area of immunotherapeutic treatments for multiple sclerosis and involves patients in six countries across Europe.

The trial will start in October 2016, it added.

Lower production costs and a favourable tailwind from movements in foreign exchange rates helped to offset falling sales volumes, especially in China, at Devro in the first six months of the year.

However, markets reacted poorly to news that its new projects in the US and in Asias largest economy would take longer than expected before they began contributing to the companys bottom-line.

Revenues at the sausage skin manufacturer rose by just 0.2% to reach 112.9m.

Full year results are likely to be at the low end of forecasts for Game Digital as the retailer continued to endure challenging conditions in its markets.

For the 53 weeks to 30 July, revenues will be down by around 6% to 815m, driving roughly a 40% decline in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) to a projected 28.1m.

Red24 said on Wednesday that it is currently engaged in discussions with iJet International over a possible offer at 24p in cash per share.

The board would like to emphasise that these discussions are at a preliminary stage and that there can be no assurances that any offer will be made nor as to the terms on which any offer would be made.

Red24 confirmed on Monday that it was in discussions with iJet that could lead to an offer being made for the crisis management firm.
Banco Santander-Chile, together with its subsidiaries, provides commercial and retail banking products and services in Chile. It operates through Retail Banking, Middle-Market, Corporate Investment Banking, and Corporate Activities segments. The company offers debit and credit cards, checking accounts, and savings products; consumer, automobile, commercial, mortgage, and government-guaranteed loans; and Chilean peso and foreign currency denominated loans to finance various commercial transactions, trade, foreign currency forward contracts, and credit lines, as well as mortgage financing services. It also provides mutual funds, insurance and securities brokerage, foreign exchange, financial leasing, factoring, financial consulting and advisory, investment management, foreign trade, treasury, and transactional services, as well as specialized services to finance projects for the real estate industry. In addition, the company offers short-term financing and fund raising, and brokerage services, as well as derivatives, securitization, and other tailor-made products. It serves individuals, small to middle-sized entities, companies, and large corporations, as well as universities, government entities, and local and regional governments. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated 326 branches, which include 220 under the Santander brand name, 14 under the Select brand name, 7 specialized branches for the middle market, and 22 as auxiliary and payment centers, as well as 1,338 ATMs, including depository ATMs. Banco Santander-Chile was incorporated in 1977 and is headquartered in Santiago, Chile.
Andeavor, through its subsidiaries, operates as an independent petroleum refining, logistics, and marketing company in the United States. The company operates in three segments: Marketing, Logistics, and Refining. The Marketing segment sells gasoline and diesel fuel through retail, branded, and unbranded channels. This segment operates a network of 3,255 retail stations under the ARCO, Shell, Mobil, and SUPERAMERICA brands. The Logistics segment gathers and transports crude oil by pipelines, as well as by trucks. It operates approximately 13 million barrels of crude oil, feedstock, blendstock, refined product, and asphalt storage tanks. The Refining segment buys and refines crude oil and other feed stocks into transportation fuels, such as gasoline and gasoline blend stocks, jet fuel, and diesel fuel, as well as other products, including heavy fuel oils, liquefied petroleum gas, petroleum coke, calcined coke, and asphalt. It also sells refined products in the bulk market principally to independent unbranded distributors, other refining and marketing companies, utilities, railroads, airlines, and marine and industrial end-users in the western United States. This segment owns and operates 10 petroleum refineries with a combined crude oil capacity of approximately 1,157 thousand barrels per day. The company was formerly known as Tesoro Corporation and changed its name to Andeavor in August 2017. Andeavor was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.
Milacron Holdings Corp. manufactures, distributes, and services engineered and customized systems within the plastic technology and processing industry in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Advanced Plastic Processing Technologies (APPT), Melt Delivery and Control Systems (MDCS), and Fluid Technologies (Fluids). The APPT segment designs, manufactures, and sells plastic processing equipment and systems, which include injection molding, blow molding, and extrusion equipment; and auxiliary systems and related parts and services. This segment serves companies who serve in the consumer goods, packaging, electronics, medical, automotive, and construction end markets. The MDCS segment designs, manufactures, and sells hot runner systems, process control systems, mold bases and components, and aftermarket parts and related technologies and services for injection molding, as well as maintenance, repair, and operating supplies for plastic processing operations. This segment serves customers in the plastic processing value chain and manufacturing spectrum, including OEMs, molders, and mold makers in the consumer goods, electronics, automotive, packaging, and medical end markets. The Fluids segment manufactures and markets coolants, lubricants, process cleaners, and corrosion inhibitors that are used in metalworking processes, such as cutting, grinding, stamping, forming, and high speed machining. This segment's products are used in various markets, such as aerospace, medical, automotive, industrial components and machinery, bearings, munitions, packaging, job shops, and glass and mirror production. The company was formerly known as Milacron LLC and changed its name to Milacron Holdings Corp. in May 2012. The company was founded in 1860 and is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.
A DANCE OF THE AGES

Mani Rimdu is a colourful festival hidden in between the Himalayas, celebrated by Sherpas of the highlands. The 19-day festival is celebrated in three different parts of Nepal, at different times.
A poets testimony on society

There are some literary works that define a historical crossroad, and there are perhaps no other words that resonate with the Second Peoples Movement of 2006 than Bise Nagarchiko Bayan (Bise Nagarchis Testimony).
Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.
Three charged in connection to missing Aberdeen man

As the Aberdeen Police Department continues to investigate the disappearance of Simon Deng in Aberdeen, three people now face charges.
SANTA FE  The New Mexico Court of Appeals ruled this week that state agencies wrongfully denied  repeatedly  requests for a public hearing before a wastewater discharge permit was issued for Los Alamos National Laboratory in 2015.

The appeals court said the state Water Quality Control Commission acted contrary to the evidence and arbitrarily and capriciously when it sustained former state Environment Secretary Ryan Flynns denial of a public hearing requested by a coalition of environmental groups.

Were pleased that the court so strongly supported the critical role that public hearings play in forcing agencies and regulated entities to defend their actions and in creating a record that can be used to appeal a faulty permit decision, said Douglas Meiklejohn, executive Director of the New Mexico Environmental Law Center, which represents Communities for Clean Water.

The coalition includes Concerned Citizens for Nuclear Safety, Amigos Bravos, Honor Our Pueblo Existence, the New Mexico Acequia Association, the Partnership for Earth Spirituality and Tewa Women United.

Spokesman Michael Jensen said the group now expects a public hearing  denied three times in the past  as soon as possible, although the permit has been in place for more than two years.

We look forward to presenting our concerns about the land application of up to 350,000 gallons of treated chromium water on the floodplains of Mortandad Canyon, requirements for soil sampling, and whether the annual submittal of work plans should be considered permit modification requests at a public hearing, said Joni Arends, of Concerned Citizens, referring to LANL plans for remediating a chromium plume in the Los Alamos-area aquifer.

No comment was available from the New Mexico Environment Department. Flynn stepped down as NMED secretary last year.

During the discharge application process, Flynn decided, and the Water Quality Control Commission affirmed, that the concerns of the coalition failed to rise to the level of substantial public interest, a key factor in determining if a hearing was legally required.

But the appeals court decision written by Judge Julie J. Vargas noted that NMED officials did hold a private meeting with representation from the coalition that led to changes in the permit. The idea that the coalitions concerns were substantial enough to justify a private meeting among the parties and revisions to the draft permit but not enough to require a public hearing, is unpersuasive, wrote Vargas.

She added that closed door meetings are contrary to the legislative intent behind a statute that favors public participation in the permitting process.

The opinion says the WQCCs own argument that delaying a decision on the discharge permit could be harmful to the environment showed that substantial public interest was in fact involved, mandating the hearing.
SIMSBURY, Conn. (AP)  Investigators say a barn fire that killed 24 horses at a Connecticut equestrian training and boarding farm started accidentally.

Simsbury fire marshal Kevin Kowalski says Friday the blaze likely started in an electrical outlet that was used for portable heaters in the barn. He says it appears the fire was smoldering for several hours before it was spotted and fire crews were called.

The fire occurred Thursday morning at Folly Farm, a 175-acre, family-owned farm about 10 miles (16 kilometers) southwest of Hartford.

The horses died of smoke inhalation.

The barn, which was heavily damaged, was the largest one on the farm. Nineteen other horses were housed in buildings that were not damaged.

 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

The party at Effex Night Club wont stop when the clock strikes midnight this Sunday  much to owner Carri Phillis relief.

While state liquor law dictates that places like her Downtown Albuquerque bar must close by midnight on Sundays, the Legislature this year codified an exception when New Years Eve falls on a Sunday. Bars and certain other alcohol-serving businesses can stay open until 2 a.m., allowing for that 12 a.m. toast and a little subsequent revelry.

We just want everybody to come and have a blast; honestly, Im super excited.  We can ring in a new year and we dont have to have everybody out of the building at midnight, because that wouldve really sucked, Phillis said.

New Years Eve means big business for eating and drinking establishments  9 percent of Americans plan to celebrate this year at a bar, restaurant or organized event, according to WalletHub.

Effex would have hosted New Years Eve festivities even without the Liquor Control Act update, Phillis said, though it would likely have involved some concessions  like commemorating the year change at the same time as New York, which would have been only 10 p.m. locally.

We wouldve tried to figure out a way.  (But) Im very grateful the Legislature saw fit to deal with this earlier this year, she said.

Rep. Jim Trujillo, D-Santa Fe, said he introduced the bill during the 2017 Legislature after some bar owners expressed concerns about 2017 New Years Eve closing times. The Senate and House passed it with wide margins, and Gov. Susana Martinez signed it into law.

The bill allows bars and restaurants with full liquor licenses to remain open until 2 a.m. on Mondays that coincide with New Years Eve if they are in local option districts, such as Albuquerque, that allow Sunday sales.

Small breweries and craft distilleries also get the extension until 2 a.m. However, the law did not change for restaurants operating with beer and wine licenses, and package liquor sales are still cut off at midnight.

New Mexico Alcohol and Gaming Division Director Mary Kay Root said Trujillos bill helped clarify sections of the Liquor Control Act that did not always align. While one part has long allowed bars and liquor-serving restaurants to stay open late enough on Dec. 31 to accommodate midnight toasts, she said, a separate portion said those establishments must close by midnight on Sundays.

The tweak has prompted some confusion  Root said she has fielded calls about the issue every day for months and months. Alcohol and Gaming addressed the New Years Eve rules in an email bulletin to licensees, posted information on its website and communicated the changes to some of the states larger alcohol wholesalers in the hopes they would help spread the news to their accounts.

Kevin Roessler, co-owner of Albuquerques Zinc Wine Bar and Bistro, said this week he would seek clarity from state regulators about how the law update would impact the Nob Hill eatery, which has a full liquor license. However, he does not plan to keep Zinc open until 2 a.m. even if he can. In fact, Zinc and its sister establishments, Seasons Rotisserie & Grill and Savoy, never stay open until 2 a.m. though Roessler said the new law might allow Zinc to let New Years Eve patrons linger a little past midnight  say 12:15 or 12:30 a.m.  if demand warrants.

We want to make it a successful and fun evening for everybody; we dont necessarily want to take it until 2 a.m. he said. I dont think its the right call for us.
Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

When Anthony Sanchez was sworn in as a Rio Rancho police officer last month, he wasnt just celebrating the end of a six-month police academy.

It marked the end of a yearslong journey to join his twin brother, Gabe, in the same department and the fruition of a dream theyd shared since childhood.

The Sanchez brothers, who graduated from Cibola High School in 2008, grew up wanting to be police officers, Gabe said. No one in the family had ever worked in law enforcement.

They werent excited about the idea of me having to carry a gun every day and go out and do what police officers do, Gabe said. I always told my mom, and she always told me to be something else, like a businessman or banker.

When they were 21 years old, the brothers, now 29, applied to be police officers. Only Gabe was accepted.

Anthony instead got a degree in applied sciences and took a job as electrician. He married and started a family. But the dream of being an officer stayed with him.

I didnt feel like I was fulfilled in my career, he said. I felt like I wasnt using my full potential.

Its not easy to become an officer. Anthony did ride-alongs and studied, and he kept applying.

I knew I wanted to always come back and do it, he said. I didnt want to go through life knowing I didnt try again.

More than 1,400 people applied to be in Albuquerque polices 118th cadet class  which also trains Rio Rancho officers  and only 49 were seated. Anthony was one of them.

On Dec. 21, Gabe pinned the badge on Anthonys dark blue uniform as part of the class graduation ceremony at the Albuquerque Convention Center.

I was more proud of him accomplishing what he accomplished  trying out several times and finally getting in  then I was when I graduated, Gabe said. It was a great feeling. I couldnt stop smiling the entire day.

It didnt take long for the brothers paths to cross in the line of duty. When Gabe arrived at the scene of a major wreck on U.S. 550 last week, Anthony and his field training officer were already on scene.

To see him in the same uniform, on the same scene, doing the same stuff that Im doing, its like looking back in the past, Gabe said, recalling his days as a rookie. It was awesome.

Anthony noticed Gabe at the same wreck. He said hell keep following in his brothers footsteps.

It was interesting seeing him operate. Seeing how fluid he is in his movement and how he handled the incident smoothly, Anthony said. It makes me want to work toward that.
Hooray! America has just set a new record. Want to guess what it is?

Record-breaking high school math scores, you say? Nope. Maybe a record number of workers pulling themselves out of poverty or a banner year for a decline in infectious diseases? No and no.

Heres the news: On just one day last month, the citizenry of the United States filed the largest number of applications for an instant gun background check. Yup. On Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, a record-breaking 203,086 of us werent just counting our blessings; we were asking the FBI to hurry up and approve our gun purchase.

So, who are these people? Were they simply exercising their Second Amendment right to own a firearm? Or did some of them have more sinister motives?

There isnt enough room in this column to include everything that needs to be said about gun ownership in America  both pro and con. And please, understand this is not an attack on the constitutionally protected right to bear arms, so hold off on the angry emails. This is a call to take a close look at the criminal damage done by those who use guns to kill people.

Who are they? How can we identify them? And can we stop the most damaging shooters  the mass murderers  before they take innocent lives?

You could think of domestic violence as a canary in the coal mine for future violence, says Sarah Tofte of the nonprofit group Everytown for Gun Safety.

Toftes analysis of the problem concludes that in 54 percent of mass shootings, the gunman had a history of family violence that should have been viewed more seriously. Think about that. More than half of mass shooters sent up the red flag of domestic abuse before they turned their gun on others. Tofte told Time magazine, We may not know everything we need to know about why and when (gun violence) reverberates outside the home, but we know that it does, and weve seen it over and over again.

Yet only 17 states and the District of Columbia have passed gun-relinquishment bills that force domestic abusers and other violent offenders with restraining orders to hand over their firearms.

Could a determined offender get another gun illegally? Yes, thats a whole different and difficult problem. But according to a study by Michigan State University, states that take guns from known violent criminals have a 22 percent lower rate of intimate-partner homicide by gun. Naturally, it is women and children who suffer the most.

Two decades ago, Congress passed the so-called Lautenberg Amendment, which prohibited people from owning or buying a gun if theyd been convicted of assaulting a spouse or child, or if they were under permanent protective order. That is reported to have kept guns out of the hands of some 195,000 angry people. But over the years, the family dynamic has changed. Live-in partners, boyfriends, ex-spouses and stalkers arent covered under that law.

Gee, I know Washington lawmakers are busy these days, but maybe they could find some time to update this?

You know what else would help keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people? If the Department of Defense would obey the existing federal law requiring the military to report violent felons and domestic abusers convicted of crimes that disqualify them from owning guns.

Each branch of the service is supposed to pass on to the FBI the names of those court-martialed so they can be added to the national database. The DOD has ignored its own inspector general, who has been warning about this lapse since the 1990s. According to a report issued just weeks ago, nearly one in three military convicts who should be barred from gun ownership remains unknown to the FBI.

The most recent case in point is Devin Kelley. He was found guilty during a court martial of two vicious domestic abuse charges against his wife and infant stepson, and had a history of violence against women. The Air Force never reported Kelley to the FBI for inclusion on the do-not-buy gun list. After serving time in a military prison, the disgraced airman bought more firearms and committed mass murder at a Texas church earlier this year. Twenty-six people died; more than 20 were wounded.

By the way, three cities  New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco  are now suing the Pentagon to force them to comply with the federal reporting law. Sad that the department tasked with ensuring national security has to be forced into action.

Every state and the U.S. Congress should pass laws that take away a violent convicts right to own a gun. Common sense tells us that those who have perpetrated violence against others in the past should not be allowed to have the deadliest of weapons  a gun.

www.DianeDimond.com; email to Diane@DianeDimond.com.
Brigadier general Dahal appointed force commander in UN peace keeping mission

Nepali Army Brigadier General Naina Raj Dahal has been appointed the western region force commander under the UN peace keeping mission in South Sudan.
Ensuring sick leave benefits are available for private-sector Albuquerque workers is a conversation that shouldnt be dodged  especially in light of the slim margin that defeated mandatory sick leave for all nonunion private-sector workers in October, just 718 votes.

The message was and still is: Many city residents believe the fair and right thing to do is require businesses to provide some form of sick leave benefits for their employees.

Its not the first time the idea has been proposed.

The October election was forced by a petition from social activist groups after city councilors failed to heed their call to action and start a process that involved broad input and compromise to address what clearly is a community-supported requirement for doing business in Albuquerque. The idea was on some councilors radar screens, but when then-Mayor Richard Berry vowed to veto a 2015 council version, they pulled it rather than do the hard work toward consensus.

The concept of not making employees choose between working sick, caring for a family member or sending a sick child to school and losing needed income is easy enough to understand, but it is the details that were at issue then and will be again. And those who think no action is the right action again should remember that the convoluted proposal that came close to passing was flawed and overreaching  it treated mom and pop businesses like major corporations, part-time temps the same as full-timers, and presumed that any adverse employment action after a sick day was retaliation.

It was a recipe for downsizing and hiring freezes. And yet it was fewer than 720 votes from becoming law.

Now two city councilors, Ken Sanchez and Don Harris, have put forth a new version they say is a starting point for discussion. Their bipartisan effort  Sanchez, who is council president, is a Democrat, and Harris is a Republican  would require employers with 50 or more workers to provide them with up to 40 hours of paid sick leave a year. It would cover individuals who work an average of at least 20 hours a week, but not temporary workers. Employers that already have an existing sick leave benefit or offer paid time off that meets or exceeds the requirements of the proposed ordinance would be exempt.

Sanchez and Harris hope to bring together the activist groups that forced the 2017 election and the business community that opposed it to come up with something that works for both employers and their employees.

The two groups are still on opposite sides of the coming discussion, but this time the business community seems to recognize it narrowly escaped disaster.

Sherman McCorkle, chairman of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerces Bold Issues Group, says, This is incredibly more business-friendly than the prior one.  This is much more fair and is something that the (chamber) board would look very favorably on.

Unfortunately, Elizabeth Wagoner, an attorney with the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty, is taking a much dimmer view of compromise. If passed, this truly would be the worst sick leave legislation in the country, she says. It excludes many part-time workers, most of whom want full-time jobs or work multiple jobs to make ends meet. It excludes between 90 to 95 percent of Albuquerque businesses from coverage altogether. And it denies coverage for many important family care-giving relationships.

So the polarization continues, but it is nonetheless essential that the discussion begin.

Heres one thing to keep in mind: When you have Sanchez and Harris putting a bipartisan initiative on the table, its safe to say it is coming from the political middle and not from either extreme. Thats a reasonable place to start.

New Mayor Tim Keller has said the issue has needed leadership to get all sides to the table and hes willing to take that on, with the goal of creating a policy that works for the community as a whole and not just special interest segments of it.

So, with most hands on deck, it is time to move forward with thoughtful input from all stakeholders. As the October results showed, those who refuse to talk about a reasonable sick-leave policy are very likely going to get left behind.

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.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

This weekend, dozens of armed men and women will stalk the New Mexican countryside with one purpose: to kill as many coyotes as possible.

Coyote-killing contests are fairly common in the state; an Albuquerque gun shop is hosting this weekends.

Theyre also highly controversial.

Participants in the contests say they are helping to control an animal that preys on livestock, while opponents say they represent the wanton killing of wild animals.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller has come down on the latter side of the debate.

Mayor Keller has always opposed coyote hunting competitions, said Alicia Manzano, Kellers interim communications director, in a written statement. To that end, the City of Albuquerque will strictly enforce any violation of ordinances pertaining to these competitions.

The acting city attorney also sent a letter on Thursday to the owners of Butchs Reloading, the business hosting the competition, highlighting applicable city ordinances that may apply to coyote hunts in the area.

However, Butchs manager Aaron Segura said the competition will take place outside Bernalillo County on private land but declined to say exactly where.

Theres plenty of ranches that welcome this all across the state, he said. Actually, every ranch.

Its the business second year hosting the two-day competition.

Competitors, who pay a fee to compete, use electronic and hand calls to lure the animals toward them.

Awards, including rifles and belt buckles, will be given to those who kill the most animals, along with the smallest and largest ones.

Pelts are sometimes harvested from the carcasses if their condition is good enough.

We understand that people must protect their livestock and pets, said Elisabeth Dicharry of Wildlife Conservation Advocacy Southwest, Inc., an organization that has worked to ban killing contests for years. Coyote-killing contests do neither; coyotes causing no conflict whatsoever are targeted by contestants in a race to kill as many coyotes as they can.

New Mexicos legislature has thrice considered bills that would ban the contests.

The 2017 version passed the Senate 26-15 but died in the House.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

New Mexicos secretive system under which the state handles daily living and financial decisions for hundreds of incapacitated people a year would undergo a radical transformation if recommendations unveiled by a state Supreme Court commission are adopted.

The commissions final report of recommendations for an improved guardian/conservator system in New Mexico  released late Thursday  presents critically important changes to the structure and the practices that have been under study by the commission since April, stated the report.

The recommendations would require stricter accountability and oversight of guardians, including those professional for-profit firms that deduct their fees from the protected persons assets.

The commission asks the Supreme Court, the state Legislature and the governor to work together to fund and implement four of its highest priority recommendations at the earliest opportunity.

Three recommendations would increase oversight by requiring state funding. That funding is estimated at a little less than $1 million, and would cover:

 A computerized system to automate the filing and monitoring of conservator reports;

 Hiring auditors to monitor conservatorships;

 Employing special masters to hear grievances of family members and others who currently have little voice and few options once a judge approves a third-party professional as guardian or conservator for an incapacitated loved one.

Many of those who are deemed incapacitated have dementia, Alzheimers disease or have mental illness or impairment.

The fourth highest priority recommendation calls for the passage of a new slate of model guardianship laws from the Chicago-based Uniform Law Commission, which has been studying reforms for several years. Those laws would provide more notice to family members about hearings and would increase access to court hearings and records. Currently, all guardianship and conservatorship hearings are closed to the public. The only public record available is a court docket sheet that lists the name of the protected person, the parties and filings in the case.

New Mexico Sen. Jim White, R-Albuquerque, has prefiled a bill for the upcoming 30-day legislative session that would implement the model Uniform Law Commission guardianship laws.

Other commission recommendations would go further than the Uniform Laws by requiring mediation or facilitated family meetings in all guardianship and conservatorship cases that are contested, which happens when family members are at odds.

The Commission heard from multiple sources that getting family members together early in contested guardianship and conservatorship proceedings could help to avoid many common problems in these types of cases, the report stated.

The commission asked, and the Supreme Court has already agreed, to appoint committees to develop rules and forms that would increase accountability.

The commission also recommended the development of a process for selecting independent court appointees who advise the judge on whether a guardian or conservator should be appointed. Critics say the current system allows the attorney filing for guardianship or conservatorship to stack the deck by nominating the people who serve as guardian ad litem or court visitor. In California, for example, the judge randomly selects from a list of attorneys who will serve as guardian ad litem. And, in California, an independent court investigator who works for the court system investigates whether a guardianship is warranted.

The commission also recommended establishing and funding an adult protected person oversight board to regulate certified bonded, professional guardians and conservators and to communicate concerns about professional guardians and conservators to the courts.

Judges would be required to undergo training that would include how to effectively respond to the high emotion that often accompanies these cases.

And, the commission urged the Supreme Court to continue its pursuit of improving the system by creating a recurring, diverse commission every four years to hold public hearings about guardianship and conservatorship rules and procedures and make recommendations.

One of the biggest lessons learned from this process is that all branches of government share responsibility for the problems with the current guardianship system, and as a result, no single branch of government can reform the system on its own, the report stated.

The 16-member commission, composed of district judges, attorneys and other professionals in the guardianship field, was appointed by the Supreme Court in April and was chaired by retired state District Judge Wendy York.
So, to all you soldiers in Viet Nam, and especially to the boys of the First Division with whom I so proudly served during World War II, in behalf of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and my family I Salute you.

Thats a portion of a letter Albuquerque resident Jake J. Griego wrote on Nov. 11, 1965, and addressed to Any GI in Viet Nam.

It ended up with Army 1st Sgt. Donald R. Davis, a native of Maryland, who was serving in Vietnam at the time. But Davis is probably not the only soldier who read that letter in Vietnam more than 50 years ago.

They would pass them around. Especially at Christmas, said Scott Davis, Donalds son. I remember my dad saying many years ago that some of the troops didnt receive much mail, so the Christmas letters were always shared between soldiers.

Scott, a photographer living in Leesburg, Va., found Griegos letter of support and several similar letters while going through his fathers papers recently.

They were all from different people, from different parts of the country, Scott told me in a recent phone conversation. Some were from kids, 8 or 9 years old.

Donald Davis suffered a severe head injury in Vietnam in 1966.

He fell through a staircase when an explosion went off, said Scott Davis, 58. He suffered some sort of concussion, some sort of brain trauma.

Scotts father died of brain cancer in 1986 at age 60. When he found the letters, Scott thought it would be a nice surprise to get them back to the senders, completing a circle that encompasses five decades and thousands of miles. He contacted the Journal to see if the paper could find Jake Griego or his family.

Jake J. Griego died in March 2001 at age 78. But 20 minutes with an old city directory and one phone call put me in touch with Gloria Austin, Griegos eldest daughter. She lives about 10 minutes from the Journal newsroom.

Her three sisters still reside in Albuquerque as well.

Gloria said the letter is very much in keeping with her fathers nature.

He was always trying to help, especially the veterans, she said. Gloria said her father worked on veterans issues with former U.S. Sens. Joseph Montoya, D-N.M., and Pete Domenici, R-N.M., and with former U.S. Rep. Manuel Lujan, R-N.M.

He would write letters to help veterans get their pensions, said Dick Austin, Glorias husband.

Griego was born in Santa Rosa, grew up in Trinidad, Colo., and lived the last 54 years of his life in Albuquerque, working many of those years for the U.S. Postal Service.

He walked a mail route, 12 miles a day, Gloria said. His route was between Candelaria and Menaul and west of San Mateo.

During World War II, he served in the Army from 1941 to 1945, losing a kidney to wounds suffered in France. He did another short stint with the Army in 1947.

After his military service, Griego was commander and service officer of a Disabled American Veterans chapter and a commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

It was while representing the latter organization during a 1965 Veterans Day program in Albuquerque that Griego was inspired to write his letter to Any GI in Viet Nam.

In further appreciation of the wonderful job you boys are doing in Viet Nam I thought that it would only be very fitting and proper that I write you and let you know that we do think of you all the time.

Griego might have been surprised to learn that his letter ended up, not with a GI just out of high school, but with a career soldier only a few years younger than he was. Donald Davis went into the Army in 1944, when he was 18, and served in Okinawa during the latter part of World War II. He also served during the Korean War.

Scott was still a young child when his father left for Vietnam. He remembers seeing his father off at the airport.

I didnt know what Vietnam was, he said. I thought it was like going on a safari.

He said his father would send back reel-to-reel film letters from Vietnam.

Sometimes he would apologize for the explosions that could be heard in the background, Scott said. He loved the people of Vietnam. He was there fighting the war for them. He was so enamored of the culture. He was able to learn enough of the language to interact with the local people.

After his injury in Vietnam, Donald Davis was hospitalized for three months but then returned to active duty, serving for a time in Germany. In 1970, he persuaded the Army to send him back to Vietnam.

That did not go well. 1st Sgt. Davis was apparently blindsided by post-traumatic stress disorder and hospitalized. Scott has vivid memories of flashbacks his father suffered after his return home.

He would be yelling, speaking in Vietnamese, Scott said. He would pick up rocks as if they were grenades. He would see a log, like a downed tree, in the backyard and think it was one of his guys and drape it with a blanket. And then, just as quick as it happened, he would be fine again.

Scott said his father retired from the Army on 70 percent disability.

He did not want to accept full disability because he never wanted to be ineligible for being called up again, Scott said. People said, Youre crazy; youre old; youre retired. But he would have gone in his 60s. He was that passionate about his country. All his life, he wanted to be a soldier.

Scott said that after retirement, his father volunteered with Veterans Affairs and the DAV.

Jake Griego would have appreciated that. Apparently, his letter reached a kindred spirit.

And now, its on its way home again.

UpFront is a daily front-page news and opinion column. Comment directly to Ollie at 823-3916 or oreedjr@gmail.com. Go to www.abqjournal.com/letters/new to submit a letter to the editor.
IOWA CITY, Iowa  Alarmed by the proliferation of false content online, state lawmakers around the country are pushing schools to put more emphasis on teaching students how to tell fact from fiction.

Lawmakers in several states have introduced or passed bills calling on public school systems to do more to teach media literacy skills that they say are critical to democracy. The effort has been bipartisan but has received little attention despite successful legislation in Washington state, Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Mexico.

Several more states are expected to consider such bills in the coming year, including Arizona, New York and Hawaii.

I dont think its a partisan issue to appreciate the importance of good information and the teaching of tools for navigating the information environment, said Hans Zeiger, a Republican state senator in Washington who co-sponsored a bill that passed in his state earlier this year. There is such a thing as an objective source versus other kinds of sources, and thats an appropriate thing for schools to be teaching.

Advocates say the K-12 curriculum has not kept pace with rapid changes in technology. Studies show many children spend hours every day online but struggle to comprehend the content that comes at them.

For years, they have pushed schools to incorporate media literacy  including the ability to evaluate and analyze sources of information  into lesson plans in civics, language arts, science and other subjects.

Their efforts started getting traction after the 2016 presidential election, which highlighted how even many adults can be fooled by false and misleading content peddled by agenda-driven domestic and foreign sources.

Five years ago, it was difficult to get people to understand what we were doing and what we wanted to see happen in education and the skills students needed to learn, said Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, executive director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education. Now there is no question about the vitalness of this in classrooms.

A study published last year by Stanford University researchers also brought the issue into focus. It warned that students from middle school to college were easily duped and ill-equipped to use reason with online information.

The researchers warned that democracy is threatened by the ease at which disinformation about civic issues is allowed to spread and flourish.

In June, Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy signed a bill establishing an advisory council to develop recommendations that will include instructing students on evaluating what they see and read online.

Jennifer Rocca, a high school librarian in Brookfield, Connecticut, was among several supporters who urged lawmakers to pass the legislation.

Her digital literacy course, a requirement for freshmen, challenges students to evaluate the credibility of online sources so they can spot falsehoods and biased information. She requires students to cite their sources when conducting research and explain why each would have the authority to be credible.

Without stronger statewide standards, Rocca said she worries that some school districts will not do enough to develop skills that are critical for students and society.

You should be expected to navigate the internet and evaluate the information no matter where you go to school, she said.

Many of the state bills are based on model legislation backed by a coalition of groups, including Media Literacy Now and the Digital Citizenship Institute. Advocates say the laws are a good first step that must be paired with updates to teacher education programs, funding for professional development and other changes throughout the education system.

The efforts have run into concerns about school funding shortfalls, and supporters say they are mindful of adding mandates on districts and teachers. Thats why the laws have so far stopped short of dictating changes and instead called for voluntary actions.

New Mexico Rep. Antonio Moe Maestas, D-Albuquerque, said media literacy is an elective in the states secondary schools curriculum  unlike financial literacy, which is required. He said he would like to see that changed in coming years and intertwined throughout the entire curriculum regardless of what you are teaching.

Last summer, Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo signed two bills calling on state education officials to work with media literacy organizations to consider incorporating the subject into the basic education program.

The new law in Washington requires the state school superintendent to create a website with links to successful media literacy practices. The office also must conduct a survey to understand how librarians, teachers, principals and technology directors are integrating those subjects into their curriculum.

Supporters are helping lawmakers in several states draft similar bills to be introduced in 2018.

The combination of social media and misinformation really captured peoples awareness and attention in the last year, said Erin McNeill, president of Media Literacy Now, a nonprofit based in Watertown, Massachusetts. It took a long time to get media literacy into the public consciousness.

Part of an ongoing examination of threats to First Amendment freedoms by The Associated Press, the American Society of News Editors and Associated Press Media Editors.
North Augusta City Council will be holding their first meeting of the new year, which will include voting on a resolution related to the lock and dam, and a resolution to purchase a new fire pumper.
December 29, 2017

Egyptian security forces arrested Ibrahim Khalil, a 29-year-old computer science graduate, on Dec. 21, and prosecutors at the Dokki police station later interrogated him for five hours on accusations of defaming religion. He was ordered detained pending further investigations.

Khalil, who comes from a Christian family, is also accused of administering a Facebook page that promotes atheism."

The Facebook page has been used to distort, defame and exploit the Quran. It was also found to contain comments questioning the existence of God, chief of the Dokki prosecution office Hassan Ali was quoted as saying by the privately owned Youm7.

During his interrogation by prosecutors, Khalil confessed to being an atheist and to creating the Facebook page to share his views on religion, according to Youm7.

Khalils prosecution is the latest in an increasing number of blasphemy prosecution cases in Egypt in recent years, sending a chilling message to atheists who are now more afraid than ever of opening up about their loss of faith.

Atheists in Egypt are afraid to publicly come out as such," Hazem, 35, told Al-Monitor. "If you proclaim yourself a nonbeliever, you literally open the gates of hell; you stand to lose many of your friends and will be treated like an outcast. Your own family may accuse you of mental illness and possibly disown you. We are being forced to live as hypocrites for fear of facing discrimination and harassment. Hazem, who asked to be identified with a pseudonym for his protection, was born and raised a Muslim but became an atheist when he turned 18 after reading books on Islam and Christianity and listening to religious debates that left me unconvinced.

Ahmed Harqan, another atheist activist, told Ahram Online that he was attacked on the street after expressing his views on television in January 2015. When he went to the police station to file a report, he was jeered at and insulted by security personnel. They handcuffed and physically assaulted me and refused to allow me to file the complaint, Harqan was quoted by the semi-official Ahram as saying. He was fortunate not to have been detained, but his experience is all too common, bearing witness to the systemic discrimination and hostility atheists face in the conservative society.

While the situation has always been difficult for atheists in Egypt because of the social stigma associated with nonbelief, things are now even worse than in the past because of a rise of conservatism and a government crackdown, not just on atheists, but on liberals in general, Hazem lamented.

Following the 2013 overthrow of Islamist President Mohammed Morsi, Egyptian authorities launched a crackdown on dissent that initially targeted the ousted presidents supporters but which later widened, targeting also liberal activists including many who had risen against Morsi: journalists, members of the LGBT community and now atheists.

The Egyptian parliament has in recent days discussed a proposed bill to criminalize atheism. The draft law was submitted by Amr Hamroush, the head of parliaments Committee on Religion, who argues that lack of belief in God is a form of contempt of religion (something punishable by up to five years in prison under Egyptian law).

Atheism rates are on the rise in Egypt. It is a dangerous trend that needs to be curtailed as it threatens the very fabric of our society, he said, adding that religious institutions have a major role to play in countering the phenomenon.

In the conservative, majority-Muslim country, statistics on atheism are scarce. But while the exact number of atheists in Egypt remains unknown, Dar al-Ifta (the authority responsible for issuing religious edicts or fatwas) has claimed that Egypt harbors the largest number of atheists in the Arab world. The claim was based on highly questionable figures released by a regional polling group that estimated there were around 866 atheists in the country in 2014 (roughly 0.001% of the population), according to local media reports. Hazem is skeptical, calling the statistic highly unrealistic.

The real numbers are much higher. This is merely a continuation of the old state policy of officials burying their heads in the sand, he said, in reference to the surveys results.

Hazem, like other activists who had hoped the fall of the Muslim Brotherhood regime would usher in a new era of greater freedom and more openness, is now deeply disappointed.

I was optimistic back in 2015 when I heard President [Abdel Fattah al-] Sisis promises that religion would never again have a say in politics. I believed he would steer the country toward a more liberal direction. It hasnt happened, he said.

The prosecution of a prominent filmmaker over accusations of contempt of religion for a controversial scene in his film and an attack on a church in the district of Giza on Dec. 22 by a mob calling for the churchs demolition are just some of the recent developments signaling a trend of growing conservatism and increased intolerance in the society. Film director Amr Salama was summoned for interrogation by prosecutors on Dec. 18 over his film Sheikh Jackson, Egypts submission for the Oscars. This happened after a lawyer filed a legal complaint against the filmmaker and the films cast, accusing them of defaming Islam. The lawsuit was prompted by a scene in the film that shows a Michael Jackson lookalike dancing inside a mosque as worshippers pray. The film has since been referred by prosecutors to Al-Azhar for review to determine if it is indeed blasphemous.

Salamas prosecution comes on the heels of several high-profile convictions over contempt of religion charges since the coup against Morsi in 2013. Blasphemy convictions have intensified under Sisi, with more such cases and convictions during his era than during the Morsi era. Despite his pluralistic discourse, Sisi is appeasing the ultraconservative Salafists who supported him in the 2014 presidential election in the conviction that any secularist tendencies on his part would undermine his base in the street, say analysts.

Hence the persistent harassment of anyone who dares express an ideology other than Islam. In January 2016, writer and poet Fatima Naoot was sentenced to three years in prison over a Facebook post in which she criticized the Muslim tradition of slaughtering sheep during the Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) as a horrible massacre. Ten months later, a misdemeanor court reduced the sentence to a suspended six-month jail term. While Naoot is relieved she has not been imprisoned, she regrets not having been acquitted and describes the blasphemy laws as a tool of intimidation used against writers and other high-profile figures to distract them from their serious work.

Rights groups attribute the rise in blasphemy prosecution cases in the last three years to a controversial clause (Article 98) in the criminal code that specifies a sentence of between six months and five years for acts that exploit religion with the aim of provoking sedition, disparaging one of the three monotheistic religions or any sects belonging to it or harming national unity or social peace.

Efforts by a group of liberal lawmakers to abolish the disputed clause on grounds that it leaves the definition of blasphemy vague, have thus far proved futile. The group faced stiff opposition from conservative members in parliament and from judicial authorities when they suggested removing the restrictive clause in June 2016. Their proposal has since been shelved and the controversy around it has died down; meanwhile, the blasphemy cases continue unabated.

Amr Ezzat, religious freedom officer at the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, believes, however, that a tolerant, open society and an impartial judiciary are more important than changing the law. The real problem is that the state has left anyone expressing unorthodox beliefs outside the realm of its protection. The police, prosecutors and the judiciary are often on the same page as those that file the contempt of religion lawsuits, he said.
Caan to explain air safety measures taken by Nepal

High-level officials of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (Caan) will be meeting with members of the European Commission (EC) in Brussels, Belgium on January 19 to explain the steps taken by Nepal to address safety deficiencies following the continuation of its ban against Nepali airlines.
December 27, 2017

The past year has not been a bad one for Israels national security. The wave of individual terror attacks, which emerged in October 2015, continued to die down. The battles between the wars conducted secretly by Israel against developments in the Middle East that threaten its security have been largely successful. US President Donald Trump entered the White House and started to make good on his pro-Israeli promises. On the negative side is the end of the war in Syria, with a clear victory of the Shiite axis.

One dilemma of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)  which is worse, Iran or the Islamic State (IS)  has long since been decided. (This dilemma was discussed in several earlier Al-Monitor articles.) Now there is a consensus among the Israeli security experts that Iran poses more dangers to Israel and the region than the expansion of IS. IS was a passing fad, a senior Israeli security source told Al-Monitor recently on condition of anonymity.

Iran is a powerful system, with a strong economy, much influence, culture, science, academia and human resources and the ability to activate these resources. Iran today pulls all the terror-strings in the region, the source said. Ever since the war in Syria started to die down, Iran also began to oversee Sunni terror and send millions of dollars to Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli pundits estimate that the Iranians have about 200,000 Shiite fighters on their payroll in the area between Iran and the Mediterranean Sea. These fighters are Hezbollah men or are part of militias of the Shiites, Houthis or other groups affiliated with this terror network.

Israel invests tremendous diplomatic and intelligence efforts in an attempt to convince the world that Iran is causing great damage to peace in the Middle East. It has met with some success in these efforts. Israelis call this diplomatic squashing. More and more countries  in Eastern Europe, Latin America and other places  are getting the message. The Trump administration changed the pro-Iranian direction of Barack Obamas leadership, though no real results on the ground are yet to be seen. Instead, the key is in the hands of the Russians  as usual.

The past two years have seen numerous diplomatic and intelligence meetings take place between the Israelis and the Russians. This is not only on the level of the prime minister and defense minister, but also on senior professional levels. In fact, the Americans began to worry. We calmed them down, a senior Israeli military party told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. The Americans know exactly what we talk about with the Russians.

The subject? Iran, of course. The Israelis have been explaining to Russian President Vladimir Putin for more than a year already that once the war in Syria is over, Iran will stop being Russias ally and turn into Russias direct competitor in the rehabilitation of Syria and Iraq. According to Israeli sources, Putin understands this well. He used the Iranians as a cheap, available military land force. As they say in Israel: Its easier for them to bring in Shiite militias under Iranian command than Russian divisions. You will find the Iranians competing with you for every contract, every project and for influence in the region, was the Israeli message directly communicated to the Russians, according to the source. This prophecy is being realized now. The assessment in Israel is that Putin will not really abandon Syria and will not evacuate Russias main forces from the country. He is there to safeguard his achievements.

Israeli intelligence talks about the dramatic changes that have occurred in intelligence itself, and to the changes in the battlefields. These are formative days, an IDF senior source commented on condition of anonymity about what is taking place now in the region. Whoever adapts himself fastest to the new reality will win.

So, whats changed? Almost everything. For example, the way military power is measured. Once upon a time, to quantify a countrys firepower one would count divisions, tanks, planes and ships. Today, one mainly needs to "count" intelligence. Without information, power alone cant accomplish anything, a senior intelligence source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. The ability to gain access to qualitative intelligence in real-time, to cope with the world of big data and exploit it for operational needs is what will determine the outcome of the next battles."

Israel believes that in these spheres, the IDF has the upper hand. This is especially true with everything connected to cyber and to imagery intelligence, human intelligence and signals intelligence. Israel has transformed its intelligence into a powerful tool. Occasionally it allows its allies  both overt and covert  to benefit from it. Sometimes there are mishaps, as what took place with President Donald Trump (allegedly revealing a Mossad operation in Syria). But the parties overcome these "accidents" and continue onward. Today it is intelligence that dictates what happens on the front lines.

One of the most sensitive questions that is asked in todays Israeli defense system is how much longer Israel can continue the "battles between the wars"  the anonymous assaults attributed to Israel, for which Israel usually does not take responsibility. These are usually attacks that try halting Hezbollahs growing power, and also slow down the missile precision project that the Iranians are trying to bring into Syria and Lebanon. The IDF estimates that the "battles between the wars" can continue and have not yet been exhausted. There is still considerable space for Israeli maneuvering and activity, without pulling the country into war. In other words, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is still not sufficiently strong enough to challenge Israel. The Syrian ruler is perceived in Israel as a leader who is only able to stand because he is held up by crutches. If the crutches are taken away, he will fall immediately, a senior IDF source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity.

The most important question of all is what will next year look like. What will the next war look like, if and when it erupts on the northern front? It will be completely different, a very senior Israeli defense source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. It will be the first time that we, too, will hear the hum of Hezbollahs drones overhead. True, they will not be on the level of modern Western technology with strategic damage capabilities, but they could become a real nuisance.

He added, Also, the fact that Hezbollah has accumulated much battle experience in Syria should worry us, too. But there is no need to exaggerate. In Syria, Hezbollah fought under the Russian aerial umbrella, against scattered gangs. Facing Israel is a different game altogether. It is clear to us that this time a war in the north would inflict heavy damage on the Israeli home front as well  damage we have never seen in the past. But we must speak clearly: The damage on the other side would be several times more severe and the confrontation would end with an out-and-out Israeli victory. We are also aware of Hezbollahs possible assault concepts and are preparing for them. If we operate quickly and intensely, we could shorten the hostilities by 30%. [Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan] Nasrallah also knows this, and he will also want a short confrontation. The longer it drags on, the more chances there are that the destruction and damage in Lebanon will grow to biblical proportions.

Another issue that has changed in recent years in the region is the map of alliances and interests. If in the past one could color a map of the region with two or three colors and everyone knew who was fighting who, its different now. Today, alliances are temporary, everything is regional, fluid, changeable. Israel can find itself in a certain field front on the same side as the Syrian army and even coordinate remote positions with them. Yet only 20 kilometers away the situation would be reversed, with Israel viewing Syria as the enemy. These things are true for all the sides involved on all the different fronts. We are looking at dozens of parties, organizations, tribes and interests that change quickly. This is a picture of total chaos. The side that can take advantage of this chaos is the side that possesses the most qualitative intelligence, that commands the big data and can operate and leverage both covert and overt power. Israel believes that she is that country.
December 29, 2017

On Dec. 27, Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz decided to name a new train station in Jerusalem's Old City after US President Donald Trump. The station, which will be located just a few dozen meters from the Western Wall, has yet to be built. Construction would require digging a tunnel under the Old City, which would itself raise an outcry since it could cause potential damage to sites sacred to Muslims, Christian and Jews alike. Experience has shown time and again that just moving a stone in the Old City could set off a powder keg.

Both the United States and Israel announced recently that they were quitting UNESCO over that group's decisions concerning various sacred sites; the decision, which generated angry reactions in Israel and the United States, was made along with claims that the organization has become a political tool exploited to confront Israel. It was no surprise that UNESCO condemned Katz's plans and expressed its concern over changes to the status quo. But there is still time to face that problem.

For now, international reverberations surrounding the train station focus mainly on Katz's decision to name it after such a controversial president. In an interview with Yedioth Ahronoth, Katz explained that "the Western Wall is the holiest site to the Jewish people. I decided to name the train station leading to it after President Trump because of his bold, historic decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Katz didn't volunteer any information about whether he or senior figures in his ministry, or even senior figures in the Israel Railways authority  which planned the route to the Western Wall  considered any other names. After all, there are people with even closer ties to the holiest site for the Jewish people, both historical and political. They could have chosen, for example, Major Gen. Uzi Narkiss  head of the Central Command during the Six-Day War  who commanded the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) that conquered the Old City. Or they could have chosen late Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who was chief-of-staff during the war, or then-Defense Minister Moshe Dayan. The picture of all three of them at the Western Wall right after the paratroopers liberated it is etched into the collective consciousness of the entire nation. Or what about then-IDF chief Rabbi Shlomo Goren? When the Western Wall was liberated, he blew the shofar and recited the blessing "Who has sustained us and kept us and enabled us to reach these times," surrounded by soldiers brought to tears by the enormity of the moment.

At this point, it is not yet known when excavation of a tunnel underneath the Old City will begin or how many years it will take. The initial planning of the line only began a year ago in January 2017. Digging near Jerusalems Old City and constructing rails there constitute a complicated project, so it is safe to assume that Trump Station will not be dedicated during the current president's time in office. That is why the decision to put his name on a train station, when it hasn't even been built yet and the tracks to and from it havent even been laid yet, is little more than populist pandering, intended to tell the international community how much Israel worships the American president. It esteems him as a leader, even after 128 member states of the United Nations voted Dec. 21 against Trump's Jerusalem declaration.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel has decided to walk hand in hand with Trump, even though his decisions have generated much objection and anger on the part of many populations in the United States and over the world. This is certainly true of his decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital at this particular moment. The people of Israel on the right and on the left consider Jerusalem to be their capital. Nevertheless, the timing of Trump's declaration, just weeks before he is supposed to present what he considers to be the "ultimate deal" for peace in the Middle East, proves that the president and his administration failed in their evaluations. They did not estimate that the Jerusalem proclamation would put an end to the peace plan they have worked so hard to elaborate.

Netanyahu likes to boast that during his past few years in office, Israel has developed close relations with many nations around the world, including the nations of Africa. When push came to shove, however, almost all of them voted against Israel in the United Nations. On the day that Trump leaves the White House, Israel could find itself isolated.

And there is another aspect to this  the American angle. There is sharp opposition to what Trump has been doing, even among American leaders otherwise considered true friends of Israel. Nor is this limited to Democrats. Even members of Trump's own Republican Party are worried about his rowdy style and the way he has succeeded in promoting division within American society. Whether directly or indirectly (as a result of his policies and statements), Trump has succeeded in strengthening lunatic fringes like the neo-Nazis, white nationalists and anti-Semites.

The Israeli right's blind admiration of Trump doesnt earn Israel any points among Trump's many detractors. Katz probably wanted to show his gratitude to Trump, and perhaps also pander to him. That is why he made such a hasty and impulsive decision without first considering all the consequences.
December 29, 2017

Palestinian leaders are seriously considering a major shift in strategy that will include attempting to add key countries as international sponsors of the peace process. Serious considerations will be given to the relationship between Palestine and Israel that was set up during the two-decades-old Oslo process.

In an interview with the London-based Al-Hayat daily Dec. 25, senior Fatah leader Azzam al-Ahmad said that the Palestinian Central Council (PCC) will meet in mid-January 2018 to declare Palestine a state under occupation. He said that Palestinians cant continue with its relationship with the Israeli side while it denies our peoples rights in a capital in Jerusalem.

It is not clear if delegates from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad will attend the upcoming meeting. Ahmad said in his Al-Hayat interview that a request by Hamas to hold the PCC meeting in Lebanon was turned down and Ramallah was chosen as the location for the upcoming meeting.

PLO Executive Committee member Asaad Abdel Rahman told Al-Monitor that he plans to submit a request in the upcoming PCC meeting according to which Israeli officials responsible for the illegal settlement activities  especially in Jerusalem  should be put on trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC). All the legal paperwork is ready, and we should be able to declare the names of the Israeli criminals that must be tried for war crimes, he said.

Abdel Rahman insists that such a case should not be delayed any longer because every delay makes us responsible collectively for the expropriation of lands in Palestine and Jerusalem.

Abdel Rahman, an independent who is not connected to any faction, is convinced that now is the most opportune time to make the Israelis pay a price for their occupation. We are now relatively free of the United States imposed conditions that have shackled our ability to approach international organizations such as the ICC. We must use this window of opportunity to force Israelis to pay a price for their occupation and illegal settlement activities.

He said that it is a duty for every Palestinian to make sure Israel is held accountable. The days of impunity are over. Since the US decision on Jerusalem, the illegal Israeli settlement activities have been sharply increased.

Israeli Construction Minister Yoav Galant announced plans for 14,000 new settlement units two days after the Dec. 6 statement by US President Donald Trump.

Tayseer Khaled, another PLO Executive Committee member from the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, said Dec. 26 that the upcoming meeting should begin its deliberations by revisiting earlier decisions made in the last meeting of the PCC held in March 2015. It was decided in the 2015 meeting to end our connection with the Oslo Accord and the security coordination with Israel, but this has not happened, Khaled said.

Nabil Shaath, a senior adviser to President Mahmoud Abbas, was dispatched to Russia and China to assess their willingness in being involved in multinational mediation. The reception we received in Moscow and Beijing was top notch. They enthusiastically supported our efforts to create a new mechanism to sponsor the peace process that includes Europeans, Russians and Chinese, Shaath told the Saudi daily Arab News in its Dec. 24 edition.

While much of the political rhetoric has been against Israel, few calls have been made to punish America or even exclude it totally from the peace process. Pundits have argued that Palestinians need the United States in order to put some pressure on Israel.

Osama Al Sharif, a journalist and political commentator based in Amman, argues in a Jordan Times opinion piece Dec. 26 that, in theory, the United States is the only country that can apply pressure on the Israelis. As we have seen during the [Barack] Obama presidency, there are limits to US sway on Israel. Abbas needs the international community to convince the US to do so. After all is said and done and unless the regional balance of power changes dramatically, the US role in finding a lasting peace remains essential and indispensable.

Events on the ground in the last few weeks have shown that a new generation of Palestinian resisters is proving that the Palestinian cause is alive and well with young people. Support for Palestinians has not been limited to the occupied territories but has spread throughout the world.

More and more calls have been made to ensure that the current level of local, regional and international involvement should be translated into action. Many hope that this excitement and energy will be channeled properly to create new ideas and leaders that are closer to the people on the ground and are not shackled with the ways of the past.

The US decision is seen by many Palestinian leaders as a unique opportunity to rise up to this occasion by working seriously on national unity. Calls for a serious end to the Palestinian split and a unity of purpose have been on the rise in various Palestinian circles, with many thinking about the best approach forward that can preserve the steadfastness of Palestinians on the ground while making the occupiers pay a much higher price for their illegal occupation, colonial settlements and denial of Palestinian rights.
December 28, 2017

MOSCOW  As 2017 was winding down, US State Secretary Rex Tillerson called Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Dec. 26 to discuss the future. In addition to North Korea and Ukraine, the two diplomats discussed options on moving the stalled political process on Syria and the Moscow-proposed Syrian National Dialogue Congress in Sochi.

Earlier, 40 opposition groups declared they would refuse to participate in the congress, accusing Moscow of failing to pressure its ally, [Syrian] President Bashar al-Assad. Russia, however, is bound to hold the congress, which is currently set for Jan. 29-30. In the meantime, Moscow continues to engage different opposition groups individually and is cautiously pushing Damascus to do more on the humanitarian side  the latest Ghouta medical evacuation may be a sign of the very modest progress in this area. Yet Moscow seems reluctant to pressure Assad on political matters and continues to provide air support for the Syria army's offensives to seize control of opposition-held areas.

Ensuring the success of the Syrian political settlement and the subsequent transition process is a diplomatic priority for Russia in 2018. The mission is even more important given that Syria will remain at the core of Moscows policy in the Middle East. Russias stated second priority  and first in the military domain  will be the fight against remaining terrorist groups in Syria. On Dec. 27, Russian army Gen. Valery Gerasimov, the chief of general staff, said in an interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda that Russias principal military objective for 2018 will be to "eliminate Jabhat al-Nusra [now part of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham]  which continues to operate in some de-escalation zones.

Gerasimov recognizes that the situation [in Syria] is still unstable but said that despite Moscow's troop drawdown, [Russia] has forces in Syria capable of delivering an adequate offensive if needed. He added, Well also maintain a naval presence in the Mediterranean."

Indeed, days before Gerasimovs remarks, both chambers of the Russian parliament approved an agreement between Moscow and Damascus to extend the lease on Russia's naval facility in Syria's Tartus. The lease is for 49 years and allows Russia to modernize and drastically expand the facility. The base currently can accommodate only one warship; the expansion will create space for a maximum of 11, including nuclear-powered vessels.

The exact number of Russian forces and military equipment in Syria is classified. Yet some authoritative sources suggest Moscow reduced its aircrafts to one squadron but maintained S-400 defense missile systems (located in Hmeymim and Masyaf), an S-300V4 air-defense battery (which covers the Tartus base), and several Pantsir-S1 anti-missile and anti-aircraft systems. This is in addition to military police units, military advisers and instructors, drone operators, and engineers.

In 2017, a certain behavior pattern was crystallized. Applying a stock market metaphor to the way Moscow and Washington behave and see themselves in the Middle East, it seems that the former pursues a bullish strategy while the latter is bearish. For Russia, the political market of the Middle East is booming. The shares it has acquired by engaging with Syria and other countries are rising in political value and Russia feels its prepared for long-position investments.

For the United States, the Middle East with its ongoing turmoil has become a burden. First, former President Barack Obama and, now, President Donald Trump seek to limit American liabilities in the region. The White House thus feels short-position investments better serve American interests.

It may be just a matter of perception, but Moscow is now seen as a primary go-to for regional states that have been flocking to the Russian capital throughout the year. Most, if not all, only hope to get Moscow on board to solve their own regional, local and even tribal conflicts of interests. Nevertheless, Russia can praise itself for getting what it was aiming for: to be consulted, heard and feared.

Operationally, the Syrian campaign has been a testing ground for Russian military reform, with Moscow having tested about 200 types of newly manufactured and modernized arms. Senior officials in the Russian government observe a much bigger demand for Russian weaponry around the globe. The United States is also interested in more global arms sales.

Russias Syria commitment, however, is a serious long-term liability. Moscow owns this problem  from the fate of Assad to the humanitarian aid to the restoration of Syria. To address these challenges in 2018 in an adequate and face-saving manner, Russia might need much closer engagement with regional stakeholders. This is where the shares of political influence accumulated over 2017 may come in handy.

In this context, the way Russia interacts with the United States on different levels is of special importance to their bilateral relations and the security of the region. Over the course of the year, Moscow and Washington have gone through three major types of interaction: confrontation, cooperation and coordination. In 2018, the relationship between the two powers is likely to continue to evolve around the triple Cs: Russia will seek greater cooperation, try to balance confrontation and make the most of coordination.

Disillusioned over the possibility of cooperation with the United States in the true meaning of the word, Russias top decision-makers dont seem to have given up on the idea that seeking such opportunities, wherever possible, needs to continue. Needless to say, however, there are far more signs mounting of a confrontation at this point. Moscow has been persistent in its criticism of the US military presence in Syria, going as far as accusing Washington of transferring and training terrorists. In the interview with Komsomolskaya Pravda, Gerasimov said the Russian Defense Ministry estimates there are some 350 militants at the US al-Tanf base, with 750 more at the Kurd-controlled al-Shaddadi camp.

The bottom line of the criticism is that the American military presence in Syria will continue to be one of Russia's principal irritants in 2018. The possibility of more unfriendly encounters in the skies is making both militaries nervous. Thus, there is still the need for a nonconflict existence mode, something Tillerson and Lavrov mulled over in April during Tillerson's first trip to Russia as secretary of state.

In this respect, coordination appears to be the best acceptable form of interaction for the two states: Its supposed to help shield against the fatal risks that can be encountered during a confrontation, but it could also serve as the first step toward something more constructive. The parties' deconfliction agreement, which clearly was a vital element of their coordination, led to subsequent talks on setting up the southern de-escalation zone. Should the parties decide to move on to other levels  and so far Moscow has proposed joint operational planning, joint surveillance and joint strikes on terrorists  it will be a brand-new level of interaction. For now, however, this doesnt look plausible.

In 2018, both Russia and the United States will hold critical elections that will largely define their political trajectories for years to come. Presidential elections in Russia in the spring and US congressional elections in the fall will affect decisions Moscow and Washington make regarding each other and the Middle East throughout the year. Syria and the Middle East in general may not be the most complicated issues on the bilateral agenda, compared with North Korea, Ukraine or the arms control agreements. But they certainly maintain enough potential conflict to swiftly ignite serious tensions and bring the two nations to the edge of a direct military confrontation.
December 29, 2017

The moments we are living now in Aleppo could be the last moments of our lives, Ameer al-Halabi wrote in a Messenger conversation last December to Al-Monitor. Regime forces are a few meters from here: We could be killed or imprisoned once they enter, especially us  because we are journalists.

A year after the fall of Aleppo, Al-Monitor wanted to reopen the conversations with all those journalists, media activists, photographers and citizens from Aleppo who had been the only ones to tell the world what was happening during the siege of eastern Aleppo and the last days before Syrian regime forces, supported by Russian airstrikes, retook the city from rebel forces control.

Halabi, whose real name is Walid Mashhadi but still uses his pseudonym professionally, is still alive. He was only 25 when he left his city to survive the Syrian regime. He lives in Turkey now, while his family, his wife and son, remained in Aleppo. But they will soon reunite in France. Halabi will travel there in January 2018, and his wife and son will join him the same day from Aleppo via Beirut. I was studying engineering when the revolution started. I began going to the demonstrations against the [Bashar] al-Assad regime. Then, we the protesters soon understood it was important to work in the media. For example, I dropped out of university and worked for a local radio station, Radio Hara, and for the Aleppo Media Center in 2012 and 2013.

Halabi also worked for international media and humanitarian organizations such as the Qatar Red Crescent. My wife is still in eastern Aleppo and many checkpoints surround the area. They know she is my wife and so she doesnt go out too much.

While Halabi made it out, many friends from Aleppo  everyday citizens, journalists or activists working for the Aleppo City Council  are now in Assads prisons and it is difficult to know exactly where they are. When people were evacuated to the western part of the city, they let them go and stay safe for a while. After a few weeks, the intelligence services went to arrest them. They knew all the people they wanted, Halabi added.

Another journalist, Salah al-Ashkar, sent a goodbye message from Aleppo last year, too, but he is now safe in France thanks to the French organization Reporters Without Borders. Ashkar confirmed to Al-Monitor the same account of Aleppos citizens, saying, An activist of the Aleppo City Council, Mohammed Hayyo, was arrested after the regime retook the city a year ago, and nobody knows his fate.

Ashkar, 29, first worked for Agence France-Presse and then Al Jazeera during the battle for Aleppo as a freelance photojournalist. Many of my childhood friends unfollowed or unfriended me from Twitter or Facebook, and I can imagine why: They are afraid that at any checkpoint a soldier could find my name on their social media accounts and arrest them. I know they are living in fear like before 2011  and even worse, because Russian police are also there.

Ashkar is now learning French and would like to study journalism in France. He graduated in 2011 from the University of Aleppo in banking and finance.

Today, 75% of the citys eastern neighborhoods are destroyed, including houses and public service facilities. But the 2016 second-prize Spot News World Press winner with his series Rescued from the Rubble, Halabi said in the video "Eyes of Aleppo," The city is less destroyed than its people are.

The short video briefly explains the story of Halabi and two other photographers, Fouad Hallak and Zakaria Abdelkafi, who documented the war in Aleppo: Abdelkafi lost his right eye in an explosion, but he continued to work as a photographer and is now living in France.

Before the revolution I was a normal student; I was going to school like everyone else, I used to have my favorite song, I used to dream, Halabi told Al-Monitor. I photographed Aleppo for 3 years, concentrating my attention on children, especially those rescued after bombs. My work has been influenced by the picture of the naked child running and crying during the war in Vietnam. Halabis father volunteered with the White Helmets and died in one of the explosions.

During the offensive when the Syrian army retook the city, many Aleppans were evacuated to the western part and others to the rebel-held Idlib countryside, where some still live, while others fled to Turkey, crossing the border illegally. Many citizens went back home, but their exact number is unknown.

A year after the last fight and wave of displacement, the Assad government tried to restore the city's image with sport or cultural initiatives. But among those Aleppans who came back, many could not bear the destruction and poor conditions and left again for Turkey, where many Syrians rebuilt their businesses or created new ones.

Aleppos last year of death and starvation is eastern Ghoutas current reality, with people struggling to survive and evacuation plans for medical emergency cases still being formed. The regime and its allies have been talking in the past few months about reconstruction, which the opposition considers the latest of Assads war crimes since its clear purpose will also be to erase proof of the regime's crimes.

Syria is still far from living in justice and peace. Many of the Aleppans who survived last Decembers brutal offensive are still trying to find their way in their countries of refuge. If the regime one day falls, I will go back to Syria. We tried to build some democratic institutions, but with the extremist rebels and the dire conditions of fighting and siege, we couldnt. Ashkar said. My homeland is Aleppo. I miss every single tiny detail. My country is my city, Aleppo. But I would like to live in a country where every four years a different president is elected.
All 50 U.S. states are to be part of AT&Ts first responder network according to the nations second largest wireless carrier, who recently highlighted that it had brought every state on board to be part of the government-contracted network that is being built and designed to be used for public safety. The project, known as FirstNet, is not only an ambitious one but a project which will take quite a bit of time to complete, as AT&T plans to spend a total of $40 billion over the next 25 years to construct and maintain the network.

Part of that money comes within the first five years from now. AT&T has already been awarded the government contract to build out the FirstNet public safety network and part of that is receiving payments or a five year time frame that will amount to a total of $6.5 Billion, though it is worth mentioning that all payments for that amount are based on success, so it stands to reason that if AT&T is less than successful with this network project down the line then those payments would likely stop. All 50 states that are now included and have decided to participate in the network were required to decide by yesterday, and although its now being reported that all 50 states are going to be included, just back in the beginning of December it was reported that New Hampshire had decided to opt out, which means that it must have changed its decision between then and now to be included with all the other states.

In addition to the 50 U.S. states, its also reported that Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have also opted in, and three Pacific territories which include the Marina Islands, Guam, and American Samoa may opt in as well, though those three territories arent required to give their decision to opt in or out until March 12th of next year. The government contract for the FirstNet project network was awarded to AT&T back in March of this year, and the process to gain opt-ins for the network has taken some time as it wasnt until September that AT&T had noted it had 20 opt-ins.
With Christmas now out of the way if you didnt get the smartwatch you wanted under the tree for a gift, theres still plenty of time to pick one up while some of the holiday deals may still be available. There are lots of different smartwatches out there, so if youre unsure of what to get or what you may want feature-wise, check the list below for some really good options as the ones listed are some of the top smartwatches you can buy at the moment.

Nokia Steel

Starting things off is the Nokia Steel, the smart activity tracker watch from Nokia and is really just the re-branded Withings Steel. This is a smartwatch but not like most others as it doesnt have a touchscreen display, and it doesnt allow the use of apps on it. In fact, its really more of a hybrid watch as it will track your steps, calories burned, monitor sleep, and a few other activities, but thats essentially it. Its more basic, but if you dont want a whole lot in terms of features, this is a great watch to go for as its also fairly inexpensive compared to the rest.

Advertisement

Movado Connect

If youd like a little more luxury with your smartwatch, then youll want to go for a more luxury brand and thats totally possible now that a number of the luxury brands are making watches. Movado is one of those with the Connect, and it not only looks like a Movado with its classic style, but it also looks a lot sleeker than most other Android Wear watches. Youll definitely pay for the upgrade, but if youre used to nicer watches then this might be your best bet as its kind of a middle-ground between other more expensive options and those which only cost a few hundred bucks.

Advertisement

Fossil Q Explorist

Fossils Q Explorist is one of the new smartwatches that were launched by the brand this year and while it doesnt look too much different from the older watches, it does have some minor adjustments to the design and it certainly has a polished feel. It comes in multiple options for straps and watch case colors, and its running Android Wear 2.0 out of the box so you get all the latest features and app access, including Play Store access on the watch itself, and Google Assistant.

Nokia Steel HR

Advertisement

Next up is the Nokia Steel HR, which is essentially the exact same watch as the Nokia Steel that was at the beginning of this list, but it comes with a heart rate sensor to beef up its features. It has all the same capabilities as the original watch but is also capable of tracking your continuous heart rate. If you want the heart rate sensor, but not much else, forego the actual smartwatches and give the Nokia Steel HR a try.

Samsung Gear Sport

Advertisement

Samsungs Gear Sport is the latest smartwatch from Samsung, offering things like dust and water resistance, a more active look compared to the Gear S3, and most of the same features, though it does miss the Samsung Pay support with MST technology. It can still however be used where NFC tap and pay terminals are located. It has a heart rate sensor to track your heart rate, and Samsung kept the rotating bezel to make navigation of the UI very easy. If you dont mind giving up the MST support when it comes to Samsung Pay payments, this is a great smartwatch to consider.

ASUS ZenWatch 3

Advertisement

The ZenWatch 3 may be older now but its still a great watch, and it comes with Android Wear 2.0 as well as a stylish design that looks more like a standard watch than a smartwatch, and to some that might be the biggest part of the appeal. If you want a smart piece of tech on your wrist without screaming, Im wearing a piece of tech on my wrist, you cant go wrong here as you might have to double take to notice this is a smartwatch. Its also fairly affordable, so if budget is a factor, then this is a strong option.

Huawei Watch 2

Huaweis Watch 2 smartwatch had mixed reviews for some, but its definitely one of the better watches out there as it features not only Android Wear 2.0, a high water resistance rating, and a stylish design, but it also comes in an LTE model so it can be used without a connection to a smartphone, and it has NFC, so it can actually use Android Pay which almost no other Android Wear smartwatches can do at this point.

Advertisement

Misfit Vapor

The Misfit Vapor is likely to be one of this years top smartwatches, as it runs on Android Wear 2.0, has a sleek design, and is built to be the perfect watch for those wanting something to go along with their active lifestyle. Itll come in more than one color option and technically its not available to buy on Amazon yet. That said, the listing is available on Amazon as its supposed to be landing on the website this month, so while you cant hit the buy button as of right now, youll be able to soon enough. The Misfit Vapor is packed full of great features, like water resistance up to 50 meters deep and a heart rate sensor to monitor your heart rate while you exercise.

Fitbit Ionic

Advertisement

The Fitbit Ionic is one of the newer smartwatches to release in 2017, and while it doesnt run on Android Wear it does have access to apps, it supports mobile payments, and it has loads of fitness features like tracking steps, calories burned, distance, heart rate, and it can monitor your sleep. Naturally, its also dust and water resistant so you can wear it in the rain without worry. Its also easy to use thanks to the big square-shaped touchscreen display.

LG Watch Style

Staying in the same spot for some time now is the LG Watch Style  a minimalist but capable Android Wear 2.0 smartwatch that is full-featured without lacking in too many areas. It doesnt support Android Pay, unfortunately, but it does have Google Assistant and the Play Store and you can customize it by swapping out the straps.

Samsung Gear S3

Samsungs Gear S3 is still one of the best watches out there and for the purposes of this list its the top smartwatch out there for a few reasons. Its one of the most stylish, it comes with swappable bands, it has a sleek rotating bezel that makes it easy to interact with the watch without having to touch the display, and it supports Samsung Pay through MST technology unlike the more recently released Gear Sport, which does support Samsung Pay but only through NFC-based tap and pay technology, which limits where you can use it. The Gear S3 also comes in both Wi-Fi only and LTE models, so if you prefer you can use its connected features without having your phone on you. Now that its aging its also going to start getting cheaper in price, and that makes it even better.
With 2017 winding to a close, Google has taken to its official blog to reveal which topics held fixation for internet users over the past 365 days. Taking things further still, the company not only outlines what the trendy topics were but also the most commonly recurring themes relating to those, although the company says that most of the trends were short-lived. For example, Google shares that unicorns dominated the search landscape  going so far as to call the mythical beasts the unofficial mascot for the year. However, the term really peaked with searches for the infamous Starbucks Unicorn Frappuccino and queries about the drinks nutritional information ended up leading overall with regard to searches about calories. The trendy drink led to unicorns being tied in with all sorts of other food, too. Users around the world searched for everything from unicorn cake to unicorn hot chocolate over the course of the year and searches stemmed mostly from San Francisco, New York, London, and Bengaluru.

Moving past unicorns, and following at least one YouTube trend for the year, Google says that searches for how to make slime topped the list of how to questions for 2017. Users searched for how to make dozens of different varieties of the stuff, so it may not be surprising that How to get slime out of carpet? ended up in the top 100 for that same list. Meanwhile, celebrity animals were also near the top in terms of what people searched for over the past year. Most of that attention went to a pregnant giraffe named April  which resulted in an Alaskan trend, with residents asking how long giraffe pregnancies last. Behind that was Fiona, a prematurely born hippopotamus, and a senior rescue dog named Marnie. Users also did a lot of searching for memes, as might be expected with consideration for how rapidly the top memes can change. For 2017, the company says the top five memes included Cash Me Outside, United Airlines, Elf on the Shelf, What in Tarnation? and Mocking SpongeBob.

Finally, Google points out that this year saw a lot of searches for translations of both acronyms and other languages. Acronyms, like memes, tend to trend and burn out, so it shouldnt be too shocking that a lot of people spent time searching for the meaning of terms like GOAT or TFW. On the other hand, 2017 also saw several hit singles that were not sung in English, which left internet users searching to find out what despacito or bibia be ye ye means. Of course, like those that have come before, these trends are likely to be replaced relatively quickly with others. Its going to be interesting, to say the least, to see what next years trends are. Thats only made all the more true, given some of the changes Google has been working to bring to its search tools and the increasing focus the company is putting on its digital assistant.
Counterpoint Research has released a new report analyzing global smartphone operating profits and revealing several interesting shifts in the market. More directly, the market research firm reportedly suggests that Apples current lead over Samsung, in terms of its share of operating profits, may be a matter of product pricing. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are surging forward despite being sold at a much smaller profit margin and that could signal a shift in the overall market over the coming years.

By the numbers, Apple managed to capture 59.8-percent of the operating profits from the global smartphone market. That number is actually down from the previous year  falling from 85.9-percent  but is despite the fact that Android dominates the overall market for smartphones. In fact, as of Q1 2017, Android held approximately 85-percent of that market. Meanwhile, Samsung took no less than 25.9-percent of the global total of operating profits from smartphone sales. As alluded to above, the discrepancy in the figures, according to the market research firm, appears to be the result of the profits each company is able to make on each individual device. In Q3 2017, for example, Apple was collecting a profit of around $151 per iPhone sold while Samsung was only bringing in around $31 per smartphone. That is around five times more profit per unit sold than Samsung collects. At the same time, Samsung actually reports among the highest profit margins among Android manufacturers. By comparison, Huawei brings in around $15 per unit sold, followed by Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi at $14, $13, and $2, respectively.

Bearing that in mind, that doesnt mean that those Chinese manufacturers should be counted out. Over the course of Q3 2017, the combined operating profits of those OEMs surged to $1.5 billion despite that some individual companies saw operating profit share declines just a year earlier. While Huaweis share of the profits rose during the third quarter of 2016 from 3.3-percent to 4.9-percent, Oppo and Vivos share fell by 0.2-percent and 0.6-percent respectively. Counterpoint Research suggests that growth could signify a shift in market dominance over the coming years, despite that Chinese-manufactured devices are selling at considerably lower profit margins than the competition.
EnergyMin, IBN clash over hydro projects

The Law Ministry has tried to resolve a disagreement between the Energy Ministry and Investment Board Nepal (IBN) over the right to implement two large hydropower projects by holding talks with them on Friday.
By: Vasundhara Rastogi

Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the easiest places to do business. It is one of the worlds top business destinations, characterized by a stable economy, easy regulations, and corruption-free environment. A leading business and financial center, Singapore is also geographically well placed, offering overseas investors a central location and easy access to the Asian market.

As a member of the ten-nation economic bloc  The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) -, it represents a significant proportion of the ASEAN free trade area and has several bilateral agreements with several countries in Asia and beyond. Overseas investors seeking to establish in Singapore can not only take advantage of the countrys extensive tax-treaty network but also use the city-state to tap into the ten-nation ASEANs growth potential. Further, the country ranks fourth in the world in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, offering a high potential market for businesses. It boasts of a modern and comprehensive infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce that can be a valuable reservoir of a skilled workforce for businesses.

RELATED: Pre-Investment and Market Entry Advisory from Dezan Shira & Associates

Investment Climate

Singapore offers a robust investment climate and tax regime, which allows businesses to focus on functional operations and achieve long-term benefits.

In 2017, Singapore made it easier for businesses to pay taxes by introducing improvements to the online system for filing corporate income tax returns and value added tax (VAT) returns. It also increased the social security contribution rate paid by employers.

To further improve Singapores investment climate, the government made resolving insolvency easier by establishing a new scheme of arrangement procedure with features of the debtor-in-possession reorganization regime and introducing provisions applicable to prepackaged restructurings.

The government also simplified its EntrePass scheme  a visa which allows foreign entrepreneurs to start a business in Singapore, to promote the start-up environment in the country. Further, it abolished the eligibility requirement of a minimum SG$50,000 (US$37,391) paid-up capital in a Singapore based company for the visa application  making the city-state accessible to a broader pool of entrepreneurs.

Key industries

The manufacturing and service sectors contribute the most to Singapores overall GDP growth. In the third quarter of 2017, the two sectors collectively accounted for 77 percent of the GDP. The major industries driving the growth in manufacturing sector include electronics (semiconductors, and precision-engineering), pharmaceutical, chemicals, construction, and ship-building, whereas industries under the services sector comprise financial and business services, insurance, wholesale and retail, and tourism.

Logistics and supply chain management is another important industry in Singapore. Strategically located in the heart of Southeast Asia, the country forms a nexus of major shipping lanes and therefore acts as an important logistics hub for world trade.

Some of the other key industries are aerospace engineering, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, and IT products and services among others. Singapore is also fast gaining prominence in the automotive industry, robotics, clean energy, environment and water, and natural resources.

Singapore economy in 2017

Despite the global slowdown, Singapore economy has shown considerable improvement in 2017. It grew much faster than initially estimated in the third quarter of 2017, led by strong demand in manufacturing, primarily electronics. Contrary to the governments earlier estimate of 2-3 percent, Singapores 2017 GDP is now expected to grow at 33.5 percent (Ministry of Trade and Industry). As the global economy brightens, the growth prospect of Singapore is also expected to improve.

In the third quarter of 2017, manufacturing expanded by 18.4 percent, accelerating from the 8.4 percent in the previous quarter. This strong performance was led by growth in the electronics, biomedical manufacturing, precision engineering and general manufacturing, even as transport engineering continued to decline.

Business service industries recorded growth of 1.4 percent year-on-year (y-o-y) led by professional services, whereas finance and insurance grew by 5.9 percent y-o-y, better than the 4.2 percent growth in the second quarter. The other services sector, which includes education, health and social services expanded by 2 percent. Transportation and storage sector also grew by 4.6 percent y-o-y. On the downside, the construction sector contracted for the third consecutive quarter. It shrunk 7.6 percent in annual terms, a slight improvement from second quarters 9.1 percent decline.

Overall, Singapores growth experienced a split economy, wherein the export-oriented sectors continued to benefit from recovering global trade and the strong upturn in electronics production ongoing since the last quarter of 2016, while sluggish internal conditions held back the more domestic-focused industries.

Outlook for 2018

Looking ahead, the MTI expects Singapores economy to grow between 1.5 percent and 3.5 percent in 2018, on account of the improved global and domestic economic environment.

The manufacturing sector is likely to continue to expand and provide support to overall GDP growth. In particular, the electronics and precision engineering clusters are expected to see sustained expansions on the back of healthy demand conditions in the global semiconductor and semiconductor equipment markets, although the pace of expansion is also likely to moderate. Wholesale trade, transportation & storage, and finance & insurance are expected to benefit from a global economic recovery. Sectors such as information & communications and education, health & social services are also likely to remain resilient, owing to the Smart Nation initiative and expansion in healthcare facilities.

In 2016, the country experienced a decline in its FDI  largely as part of a global decline in economic growth and trade volumes. However, it continued to top the global FDI rankings and climbed to the fifth position in 2016 from seventh, in the previous year. As the global economy recovers, Singapore is expected to experience a rise in its foreign direct investments (FDI) inflows.

About Us ASEAN Briefing is published by Asia Briefing, a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. We produce material for foreign investors throughout Asia, including China, India, Indonesia, Russia, the Silk Road & Vietnam. For editorial matters please contact us here and for a complimentary subscription to our products, please click here. Dezan Shira & Associates provide business intelligence, due diligence, legal, tax and advisory services throughout the ASEAN and Asia. We maintain offices in Singapore, as well as Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, and maintain Alliance offices in Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Manila as well as throughout China, South-East Asia, India and Russia. For assistance with ASEAN investments into any of the featured countries, please contact us at provide business intelligence, due diligence, legal, tax and advisory services throughout the ASEAN and Asia. We maintain offices in Singapore, as well as Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, and maintain Alliance offices in Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Manila as well as throughout China, South-East Asia, India and Russia. For assistance with ASEAN investments into any of the featured countries, please contact us at asean@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 ASEAN 2017

An Introduction to Doing Business in ASEAN 2017 introduces the fundamentals of investing in the 10-nation ASEAN bloc, concentrating on economics, trade, corporate establishment, and taxation. We also include the latest development news for each country, with the intent to provide an executive assessment of the varying component parts of ASEAN, assessing each member state and providing the most up-to-date economic and demographic data on each.

ASEANs FTAs and Opportunities for Foreign Businesses



In this issue, we provide an introduction to some of ASEANs FTAs and how foreign investors and exporters can maximize opportunities in this dynamic region. We also discuss the salient features of each FTA and the overall benefits they offer. We then discuss the Rules of Origin criteria associated with each FTA that foreign businesses need to be aware of. Finally, we analyze the growing opportunities for investors looking to set up alternative production bases within ASEAN.
Email Newsletters

Get the best of The Aspen Daily News in your inbox. Our newsletters are free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
The target audience for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster is all the more obvious once you learn the name of the marketing campaign the automaker is running in South Korea: Live Loud. The fact that the car is dressed in LEDs in the latest teaser video is also a nod to the millennial lifestyle, but most importantly, the sporty hatchback sounds good at wide open throttle.In keeping with the first-generation Veloster, the new kid on the block features the trademark centrally-mounted dual exhaust system. LED headlights, a sharper front bumper, and rear aerodynamic diffuser are on the menu as well. As far as the interior design is concerned, the Hyundai i30-inspired dashboard is furthered by features such as a head-up display Two engines and two transmissions will be available at launch, namely the Gamma family 1.4- and 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder plants, a six-speed manual, and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The 1.6 features an overboost function that improves torque from 2,000 up to 4,000 rpm. The Veloster N , meanwhile, will likely match the performance specifications of the i30 N, electronically controlled limited-slip differential included.Even the entry-level engine will be complemented by disc brakes on all four corners and an aluminum-intensive multi-link suspension at the rear axle. All things considered, Hyundai pulled every trick in the book to ensure the Veloster is as good as it can be, even the average-Joe model.Scheduled to go official in January at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, the second-gen Veloster will start production in Ulsan, South Korea, in the first half of the year. The U.S.-spec Veloster will arrive at dealers in the fall.
After a leaked photo of the 5.2-liter Predator V8 and two CAD diagrams that confirm the engine is matched to an unspecified automatic transmission, the Ford Motor Companys OEM service portal has inadvertently provided more information on the baddest Mustang of them all. First of all, the speed at 100 percent potential is somewhere between 194 and 214 miles per hour (!!!).Another piece of information, coming courtesy of The Truth About Cars , confirms that the message center can provide vehicle warnings such as worn ceramic brake pads (GT500 only). The service portal also gives a glimpse of the suspension system, which will integrate GT350-inspired Magnetic Ride Control. The powertrain drive mode, meanwhile, will feature Drag Strip and Launch Control functions to get the best results out of the GT500.As for life behind the wheel, it appears that the supercharged V8-powered muscle car will be equipped with a head-up display that will probably be used primarily as a shift light, along with a new oil-temperature gauge. Whats more, it appears that the Shelby GT500 will idle at 900 rpm compared to the 5.0-liter Coyotes 800 revolutions per minute in the 2018 Ford Mustang GT Last, but certainly not least, the Ford Motor Companys VIN decoder confirms the engines most basic of specifications. Identified by the letter Z in the eighth VIN position, youd better brace yourself for the following: 5.2L, DOHC, Ti-VCT (twin independent variable cam timing), super-charged, V8.As for when the new kid on the block will show itself in all its glory, the cited publication draws attention to  Ford s planned off-site event at company HQ just prior to the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Voted in 2015 the most British car of all time, the Mini was and still is a packaging marvel. Turning the engine sideways and sending the suck-squeeze-bang-blow to the front wheels meant that there was enough room inside the car to fit four adults. The transverse engine configuration also meant the floor was adequately flat, translating to a low driving position.Then there's the tiny wheels, which are located as close to the cars corners as possible, translating to seriously good handling. Its no wonder some people call it a go-kart, though if youve ever driven a go-kart, you know thats not the case, not even with the original Mini and Cooper S. Speaking of the high-performance model that came to be thanks to the motorsport legend known as John Cooper , it won the Monte Carlo Rally four years in a row, albeit Mini was disqualified in 66 for a stupid reason: the headlights.Probably the most impressive thing about the Mini is its longevity. The year was 2000 when BMW rolled out with the 21st-century MINI, and until then, it didnt change too much from the original. It was that good from the very beginning, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end.Ever since the BMW Group took control over the British automaker, loyalists of the brand had to put up with the likes of the Countryman, a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the sort. Theres even an all-electric MINI waiting to pounce in 2019, and the 2020s are sure to bring even bigger surprises.
Of course, you'll have to focus on the big picture and ignore the little details and that's because the arches are a bit too fat, while the quadruple exhaust layout seems like an exaggeration.Interestingly, the GT3 and the GT3 RS are expected to maintain their naturally aspirated form despite the generation change. And keep in mind that the next 911 will be the first to welcome gas-electric power to the lineup. In fact, if the rumors are true, we'll get a pair of plug-in hybrid models, with these potentially receiving the 4S E-Hybrid and the Turbo S E-Hybrid monikers. So far, we've only seen Carrera (S) and Turbo test cars.Nevertheless, we'll have to wait for the next decade to arrive in order to get our hands on the GT3 RS badge. By that time, Nurburgring lap times will have gone completely crazy by today's standards, so delivering a prediction can be pretty difficult. For one thing, the next GT3 RS might just one-up the 991.2 GT2 RS, with its 6:47 Green Hell number, which makes it the current holder of the production car record.Meanwhile, the 991.2 GT3 RS , which will land in the first months of next year, is expected to come as a sub-7 car.Forum chat mentions the newcomer being animated by an evolution of the all-new 4.0-liter engine that debuted on the 2018 GT3. The unit is expected to jump to 4.2 liters, which should bring the power to at least 525 horses.Alas, the German automotive producer has made it clear that the chronograph dedication of the RS means this won't follow the "regular" GT3 down the optional stick shift path.
However, we do find ourselves in such a dilemma when it comes to the 991.2 GT3 we have here. No, really, we're not sure which part of the car is more worthy of the spotlights - is it the polarising hue that covers the thing ot the stick between its seats?You see, we're looking at a Ruby Star example of the track-savvy Porscha , so this thing will split opinions like few others of its kind.The thing comes with the Satin Aluminum wheels, which match the silver inner graphics of the front light clusters - note that this Porsche features the standard Xenon headlights. We should also mention the red calipers, which signal the presence of the standard steel brakes.As for the cabin, this is where you'll find three pedals. The interior also houses the foldable Sport Bucket Seats, while featuring a full leather finish (the GT3 normally comes with Alcantara), which packs silver contrast stitching.If you happen to be reading this from the Czech Republic, you have extra reasons to jump for joy, as this Neunelfer is heading for your country.Perhaps some of you would rather take a look at the Touring Package incarnation of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Well, we have excellent news, since more and more examples of the TP have shown up online.In fact, we've recently brought you a real-world take om the Gurney flap wielder, with this having been spotted together with the 911 Carrera T - a fleet of the two was seen hanging out in Monaco, allowing this world supercar capital to shine in the cold season.
Two weeks after the Commerce Department finalized import duties of 292% on Bombardiers Canadian-made C Series jets sold in the United States, EgyptAir announced firm orders for 12 of the larger CS300 single-aisle jets. Welcoming EgyptAir to the family of C Series operators is another landmark moment for Bombardier, said Fred Cromer, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. The aircraft is performing exceptionally well, the industry recognizes the C Series as best in class, and this order from another well-established airline is testament to its tremendous value. Market price for the 12 airplanes would be $1.1B, but EgyptAir may be receiving discounts for being an early purchaser. Bombardier also celebrated delivery of the first of ten CS300s to Korean Air last week.

The import duties assessed on C Series jets sold in the United States, which was initially seen as a potential body blow to the struggling project, seem likely to come to naught. Bombardiers partnership with Airbus will allow the pair to make the 75 CS100s already sold to Delta at an Airbus facility in Alabama. This facility will provide U.S. airlines with a U.S.-built plane thereby eliminating any possibility of harm due to imports, says Mike Nadolski, Bombardiers VP for Communications and Public Affairs. The Wall Street Journal reports that Delta is willing to wait up to two years for the jets, which were supposed to begin arriving in the spring, if it means avoiding the import duties. Bloomberg News is reporting that Aeromexico, which is 49% owned by Delta, may purchase the Canadian-made CS100s originally destined for Delta.
Armenians earning more than a 150,000 drams ($310) a month will pay higher income taxes under new and comprehensive tax legislation that will come into effect in January.

The Tax Code was passed by the Armenian parliament in 2016 amid strong criticism from the opposition and even some pro-government lawmakers. It calls, among other things, for higher taxes on personal income, fuel, alcohol and tobacco. Critics said this will suppress economic activity and lead to more tax evasion.

The government denied those claims. The International Monetary Fund also strongly supported the code, saying that it will improve tax administration and lead to a badly needed increase in public spending.

In particular, the 800-page code raised from 26 percent to 28 percent the income tax rate for Armenians making between 150,000 and 2 million drams a month. The tax rate for those having higher income is set at 36 percent.

According to the State Revenue Committee (SRC), the tax rises will affect 30 percent of the national workforce. In a statement to RFE/RLs Armenian service (Azatutyun.am), the SRC emphasized that the tax rate for the other Armenian workers will be cut to 23 percent.

Vahagn Khachatrian, an economist affiliated with the opposition Armenian National Congress (HAK), again criticized these changes on Friday, saying that they will encourage private employers, who pay the bulk of the payroll tax, to underreport their workers wages.

Khachatrian also alleged that the Armenian authorities are keen to stifle the middle class and even cause it to shrink in size. This is politically motivated, he said, adding that high earners pose a threat to the governments hold on power.

Khachatrian noted that the year 2018 will also see the full entry into force of a Western-backed reform of the national pension system. It will require all employees born after 1973 to pay a higher pension tax.

The governments aggregate tax revenue has grown steadily over the past decade. Still, it was equivalent to just over 21 percent of GDP in 2016, a modest proportion highlighting widespread tax evasion and income disparity in Armenia. The government has pledged to raise that ratio to 23.5 percent by 2022 through a major reform of tax administration.
Govt gears up to rescue 200 other workers

After bringing home 21 stranded migrant workers from Kuwait, the government is gearing up to rescue the other people, who are languishing in the Gulf country for months now.
According to the message, among the countrys districts leading in cotton-picking in 2017 were Saatli (25,742 tons), Bilasuvar (24,761 tons), Barda (22,359 tons) and Aghjabadi (20,376 tons).

About 90,000 tons of cotton were harvested from a 51,000 hectare-area in Azerbaijan in 2016.
29 December 2017 11:27 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev attended the opening ceremony of Mehdiabad-Digah-Mammadli highway in Absheron district Dec. 29.

Chairman of Management Board of the State Agency of Highways of Azerbaijan Saleh Mammadov informed the head of state about the done work.

The president was also informed about the construction of Mehdiabad-Fatmayi-Goradil highway. It was noted that the length of the highway, connecting the Mehdiabad, Fatmayi, Goradil settlements, where 16,000 people live, is 6.5 kilometers.

President Aliyev cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the Mehdiabad-Digah-Mammadli highway. Then a photo was taken.

Later, the Azerbaijani president viewed the Yanardag State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve.

Becoming acquainted with the state of the reserve, the head of state pointed to the intolerable conditions there.

He noted that both citizens of Azerbaijan and numerous tourists visit the state reserve, and the conditions do not correspond to the current level of the countrys development.

President Aliyev gave a serious instruction to the relevant structures to make sure the problem is eliminated as soon as possible, and high standards will be created for Azerbaijani citizens and tourists.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
30 December 2017 11:59 (UTC+04:00)

Daesh terrorist organisation has claimed responsibility for the blast in Russian city of St. Petersburg on Wednesday, making an announcement through its news agency, Sputnik reported, citing the SITE.

The SITE Intelligence Group said the bombing was carried out by a Daesh cell. The group has failed to provide any evidence for this claim, however.
30 December 2017 12:13 (UTC+04:00)

Turkey said Friday it has signed an agreement with Russia for the purchase of the S-400 missile defense systems, Anadolu reported.

Turkey's Undersecretariat for Defense Industries said in a statement: "We will receive two S-400 missile defense systems. One is optional."

The statement added that the Turkish Armed Forces will control the defense system entirely.

"The system can be used independently without any external connection," it said.

The statement added that details of the payment had not been shared due to confidentiality principles agreed upon between the parties.

The delivery would be made in early 2020.

Turkey's National Defense Minister Nurettin Canikli on Wednesday had confirmed an earlier statement by Russia's state defense corporation Rostec that the deal had been concluded.

Two systems, four batteries in total. The deal is completely done, Canikli said.

The S-400 is Russia's most advanced long-range anti-aircraft missile system with a capacity of carrying three types of missiles capable of destroying targets including ballistic and cruise missiles.

The system can track and engage up to 300 targets at a time and has an altitude ceiling of 27 kilometers (17 miles).
30 December 2017 12:24 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

The head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) voiced deep regret on Thursday over Israel's decision to withdraw from the Organization.

Noting that she had received official notice from the Government of Israel's withdrawal from the agency effective on 31 December 2018, a decision which was announced on 12 October 2017, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret, saying she was convinced that it is inside UNESCO and not outside it that States can best seek to overcome differences in the its fields of competence.
30 December 2017 13:26 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Uzbek foreign trade turnover for the first nine months of 2017 grew 16.7 percent compared to the previous year and amounted to about $20 billion, reads the statement of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan on the main directions of monetary policy for 2018, published Dec. 29.

The volume of export of goods and services grew 25.6 percent and amounted to $10.4 billion, while the volume of import grew 8.4 percent and amounted to $9.6 billion, according to the statement.

The Central Bank notes that high export growth rates ensured the export of food products (23.5 percent growth, 5.7 percent share in total export volume), energy and oil products (11.3 percent growth and 13.4 percent share in total export volume), ferrous and non-ferrous metals (24.8 and 6.2 percent), machinery and equipment (60.5 and 2.4 percent), services (10.8 and 24.9 percent).

At the same time, cotton exports fell 18.6 percent (2.7 percent share in total export volume), export of chemical products fell 2.2 percent (6.3 percent share in total export volume).

The growth in import was due to the increase in import of chemical products (5.6 percent growth, 17.1 percent share in total import volume), energy and oil products (13.5 and 5.2 percent), machinery and equipment (1.8 and 38.7 percent), services (22.5 and 7.3 percent), said the statement. This is while the import of food products fell 8.2 percent (10.2 percent share in total import volume).

During this period, 15.7 percent of the total export volume accounted for Russia, 14.3 percent - China, eight percent - Kazakhstan, six percent - Turkey and 4.1 percent - Afghanistan.

The share of Russia in the total volume of import accounted for 20.3 percent, China - 20.9 percent, South Korea - 9.2 percent, Kazakhstan - 7.5 percent, Turkey - 4.8 percent, Germany - 4.7 percent, Ukraine - 1.3 percent.

The Central Bank notes that in 2017, the dynamics of growth in export volumes and a surplus of foreign trade turnover are expected.

Earlier, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said that the total export volume of Uzbekistan is expected at $12.1 billion in 2018.
30 December 2017 13:36 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

A freight container train will be sent from Chinas Yinchuan city Dec. 29 along the route through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to Iran, the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message Dec. 29.

On Dec. 30, another freight container train will be sent along the same route from the north-western Chinese city of Xian in Shaanxi province.

On Dec. 28, a test container train was sent to Iran from Chinas Changsha city through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The route runs through the Khorgos border crossing, the Altynkol-Bolashak (Kazakhstan) and Serhetyaka-Akyayla (Turkmenistan) railway lines to Tehran.

The length of the Changsha-Tehran route is more than 10,297 kilometers, the travel time is 14 days, which is much less than by sea (from 25 to 30 days). The freight train has more than fifty containers with consumer goods.

Development of container transportation along the route will contribute to its attractiveness, building up of Turkmen transit potential and growth of its competitiveness, according to the message.
Gordon Brown, pictured with wife Sarah, writes in his memoirs that he regrets not being more open about his religious views while in Number 10

On Christmas Day, appropriately, I reached a fascinating chapter in Gordon Brown's memoirs about whether politicians should wear their religious hearts on their sleeves or keep their faith to themselves.

The former Prime Minister, a son of the manse who grew up in Kirkcaldy, Fife, could step out of his front door and walk past nine churches within a few hundred yards of each other, so it was no surprise that his religious beliefs shaped his passionate commitment to tackling poverty and inequality.

Brown's revealing book - My Life, Our Times - looks at cultural as well as political changes. He believes historians will be astounded by "the scale and speed of the collapse in religious adherence" since the 1950s. Indeed, this year's British Social Attitudes Survey put the proportion of Britons professing to have no religion at a record high of 53%.

Similarly, a YouGov survey for The Times published this month found that 65% of people believed political figures should cordon off their religious beliefs from their decision-making, with just 14% saying the opposite and 21% saying neither" or don't know".

Despite that, the most striking and surprising passage in Brown's chapter Faith in the Public Square? is his regret at not being more open about his religious views. With the public demanding authenticity from politicians, he writes: "To expect those of us with strong beliefs to leave them at the door of the House of Commons, or No 10, is to require us to bring an incomplete version of ourselves into the public arena. If the values that matter most to me are the values I speak about least, then I am, at least in part, in denial of who I really am."

The former PM suspects that he paid a price: being viewed as a technician who lacked solid convictions. Instead of defining himself, he allowed his opponents to define him. He doesn't say so, but perhaps at the time Brown feared that talking about his roots would remind English voters of his Scottishness.

And perhaps he was too influenced by Alastair Campbell's mantra that "we don't do God". Campbell's boss, Tony Blair, attended Catholic Mass, but converted to Catholicism only after leaving Downing Street.

Of course, we can't be sure voters would have warmed to Brown more if he had been an open book. Their opinions were probably shaped more by big events such as his 2007 'election that never was', his feud with Tony Blair and the New Labour project running out of steam.

Brown says that politicians must avoid preaching to the public or claiming in effect that God is on their side. Margaret Thatcher got it wrong in her 1988 'Sermon on the Mound' in Edinburgh, as she tried to justify putting individualism before society.

But he argues powerfully that choices should not be reduced to "a theocratic and unacceptable dogmatism on the one hand and a joyless and barren secularism on the other". And that a more ethical politics would allow a healthier national conversation, helping to build a more compassionate Britain.

Some voters will doubtless be puzzled that politicians tie themselves up in knots over their faith. Tim Farron was haunted by the question of whether gay sex was a sin during this year's election campaign.

When he stood down as Liberal Democrat leader afterwards, he said: "To be a political leader and to live as a committed Christian, to hold faithfully to the Bible's teaching, has felt impossible to me."

Theresa May, a vicar's daughter, appears more relaxed about religion than Brown or Farron. She has said that "faith guides me in everything I do", but she would never make a speech like Thatcher's.

Although we are a mainly secular nation, agnostics and atheists should perhaps be a little more understanding of politicians who are motivated by their religious beliefs.

Equally, people who believe should be more tolerant of those who do not.

No politician will rebuild public trust in themselves by pretending to be something they are not.
When Kay Mellor realised there was a lack of women taking centre stage in drama, she decided to do something about it. "I went to a seminar, at the West Yorkshire Playhouse many years ago, and a lot of women were saying, 'We only ever play the nana or the mum and nobody speaks for us'," the Fat Friends writer explains. "There was a need to give women - and women of a certain age - a voice."

Enter her new, six-part drama Girlfriends, which focuses on the lives of a group of women aged 50 and over. The ITV series stars Phyllis Logan, Miranda Richardson and Zoe Wanamaker as friends Linda, Sue and Gail, who rally together when Linda's husband vanishes from a cruise ship.

Magazine editor Sue, ditzy stay-at-home mum Linda and dependable Gail might not be the most predictable gaggle of mates. They've led very different lives but remain best friends since meeting 30 years ago.

Girlfriends is mainly about the women and the problems they face - from age discrimination at work, to caring for grandchildren.

It's something Downton Abbey actress Phyllis, who plays Linda, relished. "It's nice to be at the foreground, and the men are add-ons," the 61-year-old says with a laugh.

Oscar-nominated actress Miranda says Kay's scripts were a big attraction. "She's got such a fab track record and she writes for women," adds the 59-year-old, who plays Sue.

Expect the feel of the drama to be a little different. Zoe, who plays Gail and is perhaps best-known for her role in sitcom My Family, explains: "I think it's very British. It's something that's unusual. It's not glossy, it's not chic - it's very real."

The starting point of the show is the disappearance of Linda's husband. The situation gets even worse when she realises the family is in financial dire straits. "What attracted me to Linda was the fact that she's quite straightforward but with hidden depths we slowly begin to find out about," says Phyllis.

Linda turns to her closest friends for support, but they have their own problems too - take Gail, whose son is just out of prison. "Gail puts herself furthest down the list for looking after people," 68-year-old Zoe explains. "She has very little self-esteem."

Miranda, meanwhile, gets to play the "poshest of the three". But while it may seem as though her character has everything - the career, the partner, the successful lawyer son - it becomes apparent she's in denial.

"People will enjoy watching Girlfriends because it's about three different but connected characters who have rather interesting journeys and complicated lives," says Miranda. "There will be something that everybody can relate to in at least one of those characters."

Phyllis agrees, explaining: "In Linda's case, her kids have flown the nest, so there's a bit of empty nest syndrome going on. I can identify with all of that."

It's impossible to watch Girlfriends and not applaud Kay for bringing visibility to older actresses. "I think it's smart to write for this generation," says Miranda. "Women of middle years and upwards have an accumulation of experience and stuff going on - connections, responsibilities."

This focus was another reason Phyllis was so excited to read Kay's scripts. Asked how the industry has changed over the course of her career, she says: "Maybe there are slightly more (roles) for women over 50 (now) because people have discovered that they're actually quite interesting."

But Zoe is keen to point out that, while older women feeling unheard is a prevailing issue in the industry, her reasons for taking on roles remain the same. "You're going to be retired at some point, somebody younger is going to come up - that's to be expected," she says. "It's always interesting to carry on working, developing and finding new things that excite you and frighten you."

The show's central theme - the importance of having long-standing female friendships - is something all three actresses profess to finding great solace in.

It's Zoe who perhaps best sums it up, though. "You share emotions and secrets and frailties to each other that you wouldn't normally do to a stranger," she says. "In this series, we find these three women in a state of crisis, and that's what brings them together."

"It's the people that you feel, if you had to, you could ring up in the middle of the night and say, 'What do I do about this? I have no idea. Help'," says Miranda of her lifelong girlfriends.

And Phyllis recalls the various holidays, heartbreaks and weddings she and her real-life pals have gone through, explaining: "Our friends are part of who we are."

Girlfriends starts on ITV on Wednesday, 9pm
Indo-Nepal Trade Fair to kick off on Feb 2

The 2nd edition of Indo-Nepal Trade Fair and Tourism Festival is scheduled to kick off from February 2 at the Parade Ground in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.
Hospital casualty departments in Northern Ireland are reaching breaking point, according to DUP MP Jim Shannon.

The Strangford MP was speaking as the Province's emergency units continued to experience intense pressure over the Christmas and New Year period.

Yesterday, the A&E Department at Antrim Area Hospital reported 80 people waiting to be treated, discharged or admitted, while at Causeway Hospital in Coleraine more than 30 people were in the same position.

At Altnagelvin, A&E waiting times were approaching two hours, while the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast and the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald were reporting waiting times of more than 90 minutes.

The longest waiting times were at Causeway in Coleraine, where it was taking on average more than four hours to see a doctor.

Health chiefs' advice to people in the area who were thinking about heading for A&E because their GP services were closed for holidays was blunt: "Please only go to the ED if you are very seriously ill or injured and need to be treated urgently. If you attend with a non-urgent or non life threatening condition you will have a very long wait," the Northern Health and Social Care Trust said.

Mr Shannon told the Belfast Telegraph that pressure on the NHS emergency services was "now reaching breaking point".

The MP said that while some of the additional funds earmarked for the NHS in Northern Ireland because of the DUP's confidence and supply pact with the Conservative Government in London had come through, more needed to be released urgently.

"We're coming to a crux - and we may have to look at other methods to enable NI departments to function ."

Mr Shannon was speaking after it emerged that an extra 400 doctors are needed to add ress a shortfall in out-of-hours provision in Northern Ireland

SDLP health spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA had a similar message, saying health transformation is "no longer a goal, it is a necessity".

The Foyle MLA said last night: "Now that the Western Health Trust has introduced its 'Full Capacity Protocol' people should only attend the emergency department if it is absolutely necessary.

"Clearly the trust has found itself in the situation where it is filled to capacity and where it has had to take extraordinary measures.

"I am assured it is doing all it can to ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible and emergency care must remain a priority.

"For some, time the SDLP has warned of the deepening of our health crisis and the pressures staff are facing to deliver safe effective care.

"With growing waiting lists and fewer nurses, we cannot wait for action. Health must be prioritised and political leadership must step in.

"Transformation is no longer a goal, it is a necessity."
Organisers of a Northern Ireland parkrun said they were both surprised and disappointed after one of the participants was aggressive toward other runners.

Over 200 people took part in the Bangor Ward Park run on Saturday braving a cold winter morning.

Following the event the organisers took to Facebook to celebrate those that took part and praise the community spirit and friendship on display.

"We were, therefore, both surprised and disappointed to get reports this morning of a runner who was behaving aggressively towards other runners," organisers said.

"We would remind everybody that Bangor parkrun is a community event and we must be respectful to each and every parkrun participant and other park users too. As the parkrun Code of Conduct states: Have fun, its only a run."

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

One participant who took part in a previous run at the same venue said they were shocked at the attitude of some of the runners.

She said parts of the course were too narrow and given the number taking part there were bottlenecks resulting in some more experienced runners "yelling" at others to get past.

"Some were really rude and had no regard for plodders who often had young kids," she said.

"It's free, so these guys can get their times without having to pay to enter a proper race.

"I wouldn't run it again because of the attitude of those guys. I found them intimidating."
A former RUC Special Branch officer has branded claims that Gerry Adams "set up" an IRA gang for ambush by the SAS in Loughgall as a distraction from the scale of the group's murder campaign.

Dr William Matchett believes the Provisionals' "merciless" East Tyrone Brigade was responsible for at least 250 brutal killings.

Previously secret files which have been released by the National Archives in Dublin revealed ballistic tests on weapons recovered from the dead IRA men showed they had been used in 40-50 murders - including every republican killing in Fermanagh and Tyrone in 1987.

Read More

The former RUC officer said: "Padraig McKearney and Jim Lynagh were psychopaths and probably the most prolific serial killers from these shores - yet they are regarded as mythical figures by some."

The two were among eight terrorists shot dead by special forces members lying in wait after the gang smashed through the gates of an RUC Barracks while carrying a 200lb bomb in the bucket of a stolen digger.

Innocent civilian Anthony Hughes also died when he was shot in a car by the SAS.

Dr Matchett, author of Secret Victory: The Intelligence War That Beat The IRA, said the claim about Adams' involvement merely distracted from that "significant" revelation.

"McKearney and Lynagh got carried away with themselves and didn't need anyone to trip them up - it was always inevitable they would do that," he claimed.

"The Provisional movement has been tearing itself apart over this issue and I think Tyrone republicans will blame Gerry Adams for this, but the truth is the intelligence machinery was so sophisticated that they didn't need anyone from the top of the tree."

He said the demise of the notorious Provo unit proved a huge blow to an organisation that was "already on its knees", and that it forced Adams and Martin McGuinness to the negotiating table "screaming and shouting". Sinn Fein has described the 'set-up' claims as "utter nonsense", and yesterday the brother of Padraig McKearney said he did not believe Adams had anything to do with Loughgall as it was an operation planned in Tyrone.

Tommy McKearney rubbished claims that the planned attack was sabotaged by the Sinn Fein president over fears that his brother and Lynagh were plotting his execution.

"It's no secret that I have long-held political differences with Gerry, but I don't give these claims any credence whatsoever and I certainly don't point the finger at Mr Adams," he said. "Setting aside his denials that he was ever even in the IRA, I don't think he would have any hands-on knowledge of this particular operation."

The former IRA man, who was jailed for his involvement in the killing of a part-time UDR member in 1976, dismissed the claims as "misinformation" propagated for political purposes.

"This is only evidence of a classic dirty trick by the British intelligence services designed to exacerbate divisions within republicanism at that time," he said.

In November 1986 around 100 members walked out of Sinn Fein's ard fheis in Dublin after a majority voted to end the long-held policy of abstentionism from Dail Eireann in Dublin.

Mr McKearney believes the Loughgall rumour was spread to drive a wedge between competing factions within republicanism at that time.

"I'm not saying my brother didn't have differences with the movement, many did in 1987 due to a split the previous year, but to suggest that anyone was contemplating the execution of Gerry Adams is a bizarre piece of misinformation," he added.
DUP demands the Northern Ireland institutions can not be brought down again by Sinn Fein should they be restored, is a reasonable expectation, the Irish Tanaiste and foreign minister Simon Coveney has said.

The senior government figure said the DUP wanted to make sure the Executive was sustainable into the future and could handle difficult issues.

Northern Ireland has not had devolved government for a year after Sinn Fein pulled out over the Renewable Heat Incentive scandal. The party has called for legacy funding promises to be fulfilled, for Arlene Foster to stand aside during the RHI inquiry and for an Irish language act.

Months of talks have failed to broker agreement between the two forcing Secretary of State James Brokenshire to set a budget for Northern Ireland and civil servants to take decisions.

In an interview with The Irish Times, Simon Coveney claims the DUP has asked for the security of the institutions to be strengthened should they get restoration.

That is not an unreasonable ask from the DUP and it is one of the issues they are concerned about, he said.

They want to make sure that the executive is sustainable into the future and dealing with difficult issues, that it can survive that, and be robust.

Mr Coveney said the design of the institutions, however, would be a matter for the parties and the British and Irish governments would not interfere.

He added: "I dont think it is an unreasonable ask of the DUP to expect that there would be some accommodation of their concerns that this time the structures are more sustainable in terms of being maintained through difficult political debates.

Mr Coveney also said he didn't want to "get into a slagging match" with the DUP over Sammy Wilson's comments he and the Taoiseach were damaging Anglo-Irish relations with their "cynical, aggressive, green, partisan" approach to the Brexit negotiations.
Northern Ireland MP Ian Paisley has defended hosting an event for a tobacco company at parliament.

The Guardian reports on information released by the House of Commons on hospitality events held by MPs. The North Antrim DUP MP held a tea with Japan Tobacco International, which was a major employer in his constituency operating the Gallaher's factory in Ballymena.

Mr Paisley said the event in July was held to highlight the work needed to combat trade in illegal tobacco and the dangers posed by its distribution.

The reception I hosted was promoting the problem of illicit trade and identifying that much more needs to be done and how much is lost to the exchequer," he told the Guardian.

"While everyone recognises there are issues to do with tobacco, it is very important that if people are going to buy a legal product, they must buy a legal one rather than a smuggled one or one that is fake or poses even more hazards. Thats why I think it was a worthwhile seminar to identify the extent of that problem."

Labour said such events with tobacco companies were inappropriate given the health risk posed by smoking and government campaigns to get people to quit.

A JTI spokesperson added: The parliamentary event JTI held in July 2017 provided an opportunity for us to communicate the results of our mystery shop operation in London which found one in eight retailers selling illegal tobacco. We were also able to demonstrate how JTI works with national and local law enforcement to help prevent a crime which since 2000 has cost HMRC 43.5bn.

We are strongly of the opinion that this type of engagement results in better and more informed debate about the issues surrounding illegal tobacco.

Gallaher's factory in Ballymena closed after decades as one of Northern Ireland's biggest employers in October after owners JTI moved operations to Poland.
He is the second man to be shot in a similar way in the city in the last week

Police and forensics at the scene of a shooting in a house on Cavendish Street in west Belfast on December 30th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Police and forensics at the scene of a shooting in a house on Cavendish Street in west Belfast on December 30th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Police and forensics at the scene of a shooting in a house on Cavendish Street in west Belfast on December 30th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Police and forensics at the scene of a shooting in a house on Cavendish Street in west Belfast on December 30th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

A man has been injured in a "paramilitary-style shooting" in west Belfast, police said.

The 29-year-old man was shot in both knees and an ankle in the Cavendish Street area on Saturday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said.

He is the second man to be shot in a similar way in the city in the last week.

A PSNI spokesman said: "Police are currently at the scene of a paramilitary-style shooting in the Cavendish Street area of west Belfast.

"A report was received at around 7.45pm that a 29-year-old man was shot in both knees and his right ankle.

"He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries."

On December 23, an 18-year-old man was left with what police said were "potentially life-changing injuries" when he was shot twice in the leg in the Pembroke Loop area of Dunmurry in the city's south west.
New Year's Day is one of the worst dates for drink-driving offences in Northern Ireland, police figures reveal.

Nearly 50 people were caught over the limit on January 1 in 2016 and 2017 combined.

With many planning parties to celebrate the arrival of 2018, the PSNI has issued a fresh warning about the risks of getting behind the wheel after taking alcohol.

A survey shows that, across the UK, New Year's Day has been the worst date for the offence in each of the last four years.

A total of 119 motorists were caught drink-driving on January 1 this year - the most recorded on a single day in 2017.

One in four (25%) drivers also admitted they have driven in the morning, despite thinking they might still be over the limit from the night before, a report by insurance comparison site Confused.com found.

Researchers who compiled the survey sent Freedom of Information requests to police forces across the UK requesting the top three dates for drink-drive offences for 2016 and 2017.

Locally, January 1 was the top date for drink-driving (29 offences) in Northern Ireland in 2016, and the third highest in 2017, when 20 offenders were caught.

PSNI Chief Inspector Diane Pennington said: "It's disappointing that despite our warnings, there are still people who completely disregard the safety of themselves and others by continuing this shameful and incredibly dangerous practice.

"We should not be detecting anyone drink-driving. Our message is very simple: Never, ever drink and drive. Just one drink can impair your decision-making. Just one drink can cause a collision. Just one drink could kill."

Chief Inspector Pennington added: "Road Policing officers, local and neighbourhood policing teams and our TSG (Tactical Support Group) colleagues are determined to catch those people who take life-threatening, unacceptable and simply stupid risks."

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com, said: "New Year's Day is a fresh start for a lot of people, but unfortunately some drivers are starting the year the wrong way.

"The fact the most offenders are consistently caught on this day suggests drivers are getting behind the wheel while they're still over the limit from seeing in the New Year the night before."

Despite numerous campaigns, drink-driving is still proving to be an issue on UK roads.

So far this year, 31,314 people have failed roadside breathalyser tests, with 3,542 offences recorded in January alone.
Rani Pokhari Row: KMC, DoA, NRA face charge

Heritage conservationists have accused the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Depart-ment of Archaeology and National Reconstruction Authority of power abuse in the Rani Pokhari reconstruction project and filed a case against them at the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority.
Lucia Quinney Mee with the letter revealing she would receive an honour

A teenager from Ballycastle who has been through three liver transplants is the youngest person in the UK to be named in the New Year Honours.

Lucia Quinney Mee (18) receives a British Empire Medal for her work to promote organ donation.

Read More

She said she hoped the award would encourage more people to talk to their loved ones about leaving vital organs after their death.

She added: "The fact that I'm here and really able to do this is down to the fact that there are organ donors.

"The main message is that if people would agree to give their organs, to tell loved ones and relatives... I hope it's a conversation started for people, that they should be aware of their decisions and that it's not something that you are unaware of or that comes as shock.

"If people know their loved ones' wishes they are more likely to say yes to organ donation."

Lucia first spoke publicly about her ordeal just a few months after her first transplant when she was asked to explain it to specialist transplant nurses.

In 2015, the year of her third transplant, she set up the Live Loudly Donate Proudly campaign to raise awareness of organ donation through education, communication and conversation.

Lucia, a pupil at Cross and Passion College in Ballycastle, was just eight when she suddenly suffered acute liver failure and was rushed to a specialist children's hospital in Birmingham in late 2007 for a transplant. Within 12 hours she had a new liver.

Unfortunately, the organ was rejected the following year and she found herself back on the transplant list one year to the date of the first operation.

Lucia had to wait several months for a new liver and in January 2009 she underwent another gruelling but potentially life-changing operation. That organ was with her until 2015 when she found herself back on the transplant list again after complications from a kidney stone took its toll.

But since then the teenager has been back competing at the British Transplant Games and has returned to school.

"We are all only able to do this because someone has given us the gift of life," she said. "It's what spurs us on. The difference between now and 2015, I can't really describe it.

"I'm a different person - I have a lot of energy. I'm back to school, doing A-levels and planning to go to university. I'm living a fairly normal life.

"I'd like to do something like medical science or biomedical science and then go on to do a graduate degree in medicine."

Lucia revealed how she learned of the honour after a letter from the Cabinet Office in London came to her home at the start of December.

"I opened it, read it and I was a bit more confused," she said.

"I didn't know what the award was to begin with. I was just really shocked. My dad had to explain it to me."
The Irish Government was left deeply embarrassed after details of a proposed visit by the British ambassador to the Republic were leaked to the IRA.

Mystery surrounded how the terror group got wind of a visit to Sneem in Co Kerry by Sir Nicholas Fenn.

Previously classified files, released in Dublin under the 30-year rule, detail the concern among Garda chiefs, the Irish Department of Justice and Taoiseach Charles Haughey.

The leak was extremely damaging, coming just months after the IRA killed Northern Ireland judge Sir Maurice Gibson and his wife Cecily with a remote controlled bomb near the border.

Unionist officials insisted after the Lord Gibson killing that there was a mole within the Garda. In August 1987 the IRA deliberately leaked to newspapers that it had detailed information about the ambassador's proposed visit to Sneem, a village situated on the Iveragh Peninsula in Co Kerry.

Hours later Sir Nicholas contacted the Irish Government to say he was "besieged" with requests for interviews about the situation.

Sir Nicholas offered to do a single interview with the BBC - and to stress his complete confidence in the Garda authorities and his protection detail.

"It was quite understandable that the ambassador would be under pressure at public occasions here today to say something and it would be useful for him to be able to refer back to an interview he had given," a confidential Department of Foreign Affairs memo said.

"It also seemed to me that a helpful statement by the ambassador expressing confidence in the Garda would be useful in Northern Ireland and in Britain, where I noticed at least one MP calling on the Foreign Secretary to make a protest to the Government here."

The transcript of Sr Nicholas' interview was later supplied to the Irish Government - and he reiterated his faith in the Garda.

He said: "The Garda look after me very well.

"It is true that we learned in advance that the details of my movements had fallen into the hand of subversives, as they call them, and the security was, for that reason, enhanced."

The ambassador said he thought it was "unlikely" that there was a mole at high levels within the Garda - and said it could potentially have been "an unintentional leak", possibly due to a mistake or sloppiness.
Lucia Quinney Mee, who has been honoured for her work to promote organ donation (Jasmine Stockman/PA)

A teenager who has been through three liver transplants has been honoured for her work to promote organ donation.

Lucia Quinney Mee, from Ballycastle, Co Antrim, said she hoped the award would encourage more people to talk to their loved ones about leaving vital organs after their death.

The 18-year-old said: "The fact that I'm here and really able to do this is down to the fact that there are organ donors.

"The main message is that if people would agree to give their organs, to tell loved ones and relatives. I hope it's a conversation started for people... that they should be aware of their decisions and that it's not something that you are unaware of or comes as shock.

"If people know their loved ones' wishes they are more likely to say yes to organ donation."

The teenager was awarded the British Empire Medal and was among scores of others from Northern Ireland on the New Year Honours list.

Among other high profile names were TV presenter Eamonn Holmes, who was honoured with an OBE for services to broadcasting; Dr William Thompson Wright CBE, founder of Wrightbus, who was awarded a Knights Bachelor for services to the economy and the bus industry; and pundit Liam Beckett who was awarded an MBE for services to the voluntary sector and sport.

Miss Quinney Mee first spoke publicly about her ordeal just a few months after her first transplant when she was asked to explain it to specialist transplant nurses.

In 2015, the year of her third transplant, she set up the Live Loudly Donate Proudly campaign to raise awareness of organ donation through education, communication and conversation.

Miss Quinney Mee, a pupil at Cross and Passion in Ballycastle, was just eight when she suddenly suffered acute liver failure and was rushed to a specialist children's hospital in Birmingham in late 2007 for a transplant.

Within 12 hours she had a new liver.

Unfortunately the organ was rejected the following year and she found herself back on the transplant list one year to the date of the first operation.

She had to wait several months for a new liver and in January 2009 she underwent another gruelling but potentially life-changing surgery.

That organ was with her until 2015 when she found herself back on the transplant list again after complications from a kidney stone took its toll.

But since then the teenager has been back competing at the British Transplant Games and returned to school.

"We are all only able to do this because someone has given us the gift of life," she said. "It's what spurs us on.

"The difference between now and 2015, I can't really describe it. I'm a different person. I have a lot of energy. I'm back to school, doing A-levels and planning to go to university. I'm living a fairly normal life.

"I'd like to do something life medical science or biomedical science and then to go on to do a graduate degree in medicine.

Miss Quinney Mee revealed how she learned of the honour after a letter from the Cabinet Office in London came to her home at the start of December.

"I opened it, read it and I was a bit more confused," she said.

"I didn't know what the award was to begin with. I was just really shocked. My dad had to explain it to me."
It's one of the biggest nights in the party calendar with millions taking to the streets of cities across the world.

But while many revellers will see in 2018 in style, here in Northern Ireland the new year will arrive with a whimper rather than a bang.

That's because no public celebrations are planned.

While some will flock to pubs and restaurants, those hoping to welcome the New Year on a grander scale will have to travel elsewhere.

It has led some to criticise our lack of celebrations.

Cool FM radio presenter Pete Snodden has urged a rethink in future years.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: "I really think there should be a big celebration.

"It happens everywhere else in the world. I know we can't do everything but you look at the news and see New York, Edinburgh, London and Dubai.

"I appreciate that they're huge cities but as a capital I think we should have something, maybe not on the same sort of scale but something of some significance."

For almost 10 years no civic events have been held to mark the beginning of a New Year as Belfast and Derry City councils ruled out hosting official celebrations.

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 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 Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London during the New Year celebrations. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday January 1, 2016. Photo credit should read: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire PA An Egyptian policeman riding a camel stands guard during New Year celebrations in front of the pyramids near the Egyptian capital Cairo on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO / KHALED DESOUKIKHALED DESOUKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JANUARY 01: A reveller celebrates as fireworks explode to ring in the new year above Copacabana beach on January 1, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. More than one million people were expected to gather on Copacabana beach to watch the fireworks display ringing in the new year at midnight. The city is set to host the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in August. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 31: Luke Bryan performs on stage during New Year's Eve celebrations at Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for TOSHIBA CORPORATION) Getty Images for TOSHIBA CORPORA Fireworks light the sky over Copacabana beach during New Year's Eve celebrations in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Mauro Pimentel) AP People gather on the Champs-Elysees avenue before celebrating the New Year in Paris on December 31, 2015. AFP PHOTO/ FLORIAN DAVIDFLORIAN DAVID/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks light up the sky during the Hogmanay New Year celebrations in Edinburgh. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday January 1, 2016. See PA story SOCIAL Hogmanay. Photo credit should read: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire PA Undated handout video grab taken from the Twitter feed of @astro_timpeak of British astronaut Tim Peake wishing "beautiful planet Earth" a happy New Year in a special message from space. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday January 1, 2016. Major Peake sent the message from the International Space Station, where he docked last month. See PA story SOCIAL NewYear Peake. Photo credit should read: ?@astro_timpeak/Twitter/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. PA Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London during the New Year celebrations. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday January 1, 2016. Photo credit should read: Anthony Devlin/PA Wire PA People gather to celebrate the New Year in the square in front of the St. Michael Cathedral in Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, shortly after midnight Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) AP Fireworks explode around Ljubljana Castle during New Year's celebrations just after midnight in Ljubljana, Slovenia on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO/ JURE MAKOVECJure Makovec/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Police officers in riot gear are seen guarding the entrance to the closed central station in Munich on January 1, 2016. German police said Thursday that they had "indications that a terror attack" was being planned for New Year's Eve in the southern city of Munich, as they called on the public to avoid large gatherings and two key train stations. / AFP / Christof STACHECHRISTOF STACHE/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images MUNICH, GERMANY - JANUARY 01: A riot police man armed with a machine gun controls the street in front of Pasing railway station on January 1, 2016 in Munich, Germany. According to Joachim Herrmann, Bavarian Secretary of the Interior, there was intelligence for an IS terror attack planned for new Year's eve in in at least two Munich railway stations. (Photo by Johannes Simon/Getty Images) Getty Images Fireworks light the sky above the Cathedral Square in Vilnius, Lithuania, shortly after midnight during the New Year celebrations, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. Thousands of people celebrated the beginning of the New Year 2016 in the Lithuanian capital. (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis) AP Sri Lankan Buddhist devotees pray to bring in the New Year at the Kelaniya Temple in Kelaniya on January 1, 2016. Many Sri Lankans marked the beginning of 2016 with religious ceremonies. AFP PHOTO / Ishara S. KODIKARAIshara S.KODIKARA/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Commuters walk past a television screen showing a broadcast of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un's New Year speech, at a railroad station in Seoul on January 1, 2016. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un said raising living standards was his number one priority in an annual New Year's address on January 1 that avoided any explicit reference to the country's nuclear weapons programme. AFP PHOTO / JUNG YEON-JEJUNG YEON-JE/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 1: New York City police officers stand during celebrations at Times Square on January 1, 2016 in New York City. At least 6,000 police officers were deployed, including rooftop snipers, canine units and air and water patrols, in and around Times Square in Manhattan. Mayor Bill de Blasio declared New York to be "the best prepared city to prevent terrorism and to deal with any event that could occur." (Photo by Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images) Getty Images LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Fireworks light up the London skyline and Big Ben just after midnight on January 01, 2016 in London, England. Thousands of people have bought tickets to stand on the banks of the River Thames near Parliament to celebrate the start of 2016. (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images) ***BESTPIX*** Revelers celebrate after the ball drop during New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square on January 1, 2016 in New York. AFP PHOTO/ KENA BETANCURKENA BETANCUR/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 31: New York Countdown during New Year's Eve celebrations at Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for TOSHIBA CORPORATION) Getty Images for TOSHIBA CORPORA NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 31: New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (R) with wife, Chirlane McCray and friends ring in 2016 with Moet & Chandon, the official champagne of Times Square New Year's Eve at Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Moet & Chandon) Getty Images for Moet & Chandon DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 01: The Address Downtown Hotel is surrounded by smoke early on January 1, 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. At least 16 people were injured after a large fire broke out in the luxury high-rise hotel just hours before the New Year's celebrations. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images) Getty Images DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 01: The Address Downtown Hotel is surrounded by smoke early on January 1, 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. At least 16 people were injured after a large fire broke out in the luxury high-rise hotel just hours before the New Year's celebrations. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images) Getty Images Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP People celebrate the New Year 2016 at the sunrise on the Bondi Beach in Sydney on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO / Saeed KHANSAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A man jumps into the sea as he celebrates the New Year 2016 at the sunrise on the Bondi Beach in Sydney on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO / Saeed KHANSAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Revelers take selfies as they gather in Times Square waiting for the ball to drop on December 31, 2015 in New York. Organizers expect around one million revelers to attend the New Year's celebration in Times Square. AFP PHOTO/DON EMMERTDON EMMERT/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images New York City police officers stand guard in Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York. Organizers expect around one million revelers to attend the New Year's celebration in Times Square. AFP PHOTO/DON EMMERTDON EMMERT/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks explode as thousands of people gather to watch, in the main business district on New Year's Eve in Jakarta, Indonesia, late Thursday, Dec. 31,2015.(AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim) AP An Indian man lights firecrackers on the street during the New Year celebration in Mumbai, India, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool) AP Fireworks light up the sky as Filipinos welcome the New Year under a slight drizzle in Manila, Philippines. Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. Traditionally Filipinos welcome the New Year with firecrackers, fireworks, midnight snacks known as "media noche" and almost anything to make the loudest noise possible.(AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) AP Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP Participants during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Fireworks at the Newcastle Civic Centre during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Fireworks at the Newcastle Civic Centre during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Participants during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Participants during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Participants during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Participants during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Fireworks at the Newcastle Civic Centre during the Winter carnival in Newcastle to celebrate the New Year. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire PA Joel and Francesca Robertson embrace as they get ready to celebrate the Hogmanay New Year celebrations in Edinburgh. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. See PA story SOCIAL Hogmanay. Photo credit should read: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire PA (left to right) Agustina Florio, Kathrin Ecke,Agustin Belloso and Tomas Espeche use sparklers to display the year 2016 as they get ready to celebrate the Hogmanay New Year celebrations in Edinburgh. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 31, 2015. See PA story SOCIAL Hogmanay. Photo credit should read: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire PA Fireworks explode in the Zawra Park during New Year's Eve celebration in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, on December 31, 2015. AFP PHOTO / AHMAD AL-RUBAYE AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A Japanese tourist attends a New Year party on December 31, 2015 at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. / AFP / dpa / Wolfram Kastl / Germany OUTWOLFRAM KASTL/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks light up the sky over Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) during New Year celebrations in Bangkok on January 1, 2016. / AFP / CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULTCHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks light up the sky over Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) during New Year celebrations in Bangkok on January 1, 2016. / AFP / CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULTCHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks light up the sky over Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) during New Year celebrations in Bangkok on January 1, 2016. / AFP / CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULTCHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks fill the sky of downtown Jakarta during a countdown event to celebrate the New Year on January 1, 2016. / AFP / BAY ISMOYOBAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Russia's serviceman stands in front of the fence at the entrance to the Red Square of New Year's eve, on December 31, 2015. Moscow authorities decided to cancel the traditional New Year festivities on the main square of Russian capital. / AFP / VASILY MAXIMOV AFPVASILY MAXIMOV AFP/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 31: A woman waits to celebrate new years in Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York City. The New York Police Department will have more than 6,000 officers in the Times Square area, including more than 1,100 officers who graduated from the police academy on Tuesday. It will be the largest such deployment of police in New York City ever. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images) Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 31: Tourists from Holland take a selfie while waiting to celebrate new years in Times Square on December 31, 2015 in New York City. The New York Police Department will have more than 6,000 officers in the Times Square area, including more than 1,100 officers who graduated from the police academy on Tuesday. It will be the largest such deployment of police in New York City ever. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images) Getty Images EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 31: Statue of Queen Victoria on top of the The Royal Scottish Academy is lit up in blue light as Unicef lights up Edinburgh in Blue for New Year's Eve to mark their #HappyBlueYear winter appeal for Syrian children on December 31, 2015 in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ross Gilmore/Getty Images for Unicef) Getty Images for Unicef Fireworks light up the sky over Sydney's Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year celebrations in Sydney on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO / Saeed KHANSAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks light up the sky over Sydney's Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year celebrations in Sydney on January 1, 2016. AFP PHOTO / Saeed KHANSAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Girls with New Year 2016 head bands cheer while waiting for the New Year's fireworks in Sydney on December 31, 2015. AFP PHOTO / Saeed KHANSAEED KHAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images New Year's Eve fireworks illuminate Sydney's iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House during the traditional early family fireworks show held before the main midnight event on December 31, 2015. AFP PHOTO / Peter PARKSPETER PARKS/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP A Malaysian woman covers her child's ears while watching fireworks display in front of Malaysia's landmark building, Petronas Twin Towers, right, during the New Year's Eve celebration in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Joshua Paul) AP Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sydney, Australian, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.(AP Photo/Rob Griffith) AP A fireworks display is set off from the Taipei 101 skyscraper during the New Year's Eve celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Wally Santana) AP A fireworks display is set off from the Taipei 101 skyscraper during the New Year's Eve celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Wally Santana) AP Fireworks explode in front of Malaysia's landmark building, Petronas Twin Towers, during the New Year's Eve celebration in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Joshua Paul) AP Malaysians watch fireworks display in front of Malaysia's landmark building, Petronas Twin Towers, during the New Year's Eve celebration in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Joshua Paul) AP Fireworks burst from a building in Taipei on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / SAM YEHSAM YEH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Revellers enjoy themselves during the New Year's Eve celebrations in Hong Kong's Lan Kwai Fong, Friday, Jan. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu) AP Fireworks burst from a building in Taipei on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / SAM YEHSAM YEH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks burst from a building in Taipei on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / SAM YEHSAM YEH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks burst over the Marina bay in Singapore on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / MOHD FYROLMOHD FYROL/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks burst over the Marina bay in Singapore on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / MOHD FYROLMOHD FYROL/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks burst over the Marina bay in Singapore on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / MOHD FYROLMOHD FYROL/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Fireworks burst over the Marina bay in Singapore on January 1, 2015 to mark the New Year's celebration. / AFP / MOHD FYROLMOHD FYROL/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Police officers prepare to be deployed to secure New Year celebrations in Bali, Indonesia, Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015. Indonesia is on high alert after authorities said last week that they had foiled a plot by Islamic militants to attack government officials, foreigners and others in the world's most populous Muslim nation. (AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati) AP Armed police officers in Westminster, London, as thousands of police including increased numbers of firearms officers will be on duty as the capital ushers in the New Year tonight. Pic Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire PA Balinese young girl take a selfie during a New Year celebration in Denpasar, on Indonesia's resort island of Bali on December 31, 2015. Various form of dances and music have made Bali's art and culture one of the most diverse in the world. AFP PHOTO / SONNY TUMBELAKASONNY TUMBELAKA/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A woman prays in front of lanterns to celebrate the new year at Chogye Buddhist temple in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon) AP Los Angeles City Hall appears to spin as 3-D digital mapping projections are tested for tomorrow's New Year's Eve celebration at Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles, California, December 30, 2015. AFP PHOTO / ROBYN BECKROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Filipino Catholic devotees jostle to get closer to the image of the Black Nazarene during a thanksgiving procession on New Year's eve in Manila, Philippines, Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015. The procession was held on New Year's eve amidst heightened alert by the Philippine National Police for the Yuletide season. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) AP MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 31: Mariah Carey performs at Crown Casino's New Year's Eve Party at Crown Palladium on December 31, 2015 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images) Getty Images Women dressed as Snegurochka (Snow Maiden) look at a mobile phone during New Year's parade in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek on December 31, 2015. New Year, which was the biggest informal holiday of the year in the former Soviet Union, is also very popular in the predominantly Muslim Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan. / AFP / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKOVYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images New Year's Eve fireworks illuminate Sydney's iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House during the traditional early family fireworks show held before the main midnight event on December 31, 2015. AFP PHOTO / Peter PARKSPETER PARKS/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images People dressed as monkey take part in a New Year's parade in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek on December 31, 2015. New Year, which was the biggest informal holiday of the year in the former Soviet Union, is also very popular in the predominantly Muslim Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan. / AFP / VYACHESLAV OSELEDKOVYACHESLAV OSELEDKO/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London during the New Year celebrations. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday January 1, 2016. Photo credit should read: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire

Nothing has been organised in Belfast since 2008, when a free public concert was held at the City Hall, however, council officials pulled the event citing the high financial costs.

Last year a petition was launched calling for Belfast to ring in the New Year with a party in the city's Shaftesbury Square, gaining the backing of more than 2,500 people.

A Belfast City Council spokesman said that the decision was made in 2009 not to stage any more civic events to mark the New Year.

"The decision was made due to a combination of the current economic climate and a lack of public demand for such an event," the spokesman said.

"The council has no plans at this stage to re-instate a civic celebration of New Year's Eve. As in more recent years, the City Hall once again will be illuminated with a 'light countdown' to ring in the New Year."

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council confirmed that it has no plans to host a celebration. She said: "The council hosted a series of hugely successful events for families in the run up to Christmas including the Winterland Market featuring Bjorn the Bear, the Wonder Windows Trail, the Mayor's Lost in Frost initiative and the Sound of Light Christmas Procession in the run up to and over the festive period."

It is in stark contrast to elsewhere in the UK.

Revellers in London will flock to watch the traditional New Year's Eve firework display over Westminster, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

One of the most famous New Year's Eve celebrations will take place in Edinburgh with the Hogmanay fesitivites.

Other major cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Cardiff will host celebrations.

Celebrity chef Paula McIntyre said Belfast should "definitely" have something. She added: "Other cities have iconic celebrations. We have a burgeoning tourism industry and it needs catered for. New Year is a great time for people coming together."

Radio presenter Stuart Robinson said: "It's been so long since we've had something on in Belfast at New Year that people have practically forgotten we ever had anything at all."
Victims campaigner Kenny Donaldson has accused the widow of UDA leader John McMichael of "airbrushing" her husband's violent terrorist past.

Top loyalist McMichael died in 1987 when an IRA bomb exploded under his car at Hilden, near Lisburn.

Shirley McMichael is now a member of the Victims' Forum.

In an interview given to the News Letter to mark the 30th anniversary of her husband's death, she was asked about the many Catholics the UDA had murdered.

She said: "It would have been wonderful if there had been a better way.

"I was a supporter of the civil rights movement but when the IRA violence began it coloured everyone's judgment.

"There could have been a better way.

"I have talked to the victims of loyalist paramilitaries. My heart goes out to them."

But in a letter published yesterday in the same newspaper, Mr Donaldson accused Mrs McMichael of promoting her late husband's political engagement while "skirting over" the violent aspects of the UDA and her husband's role in dirceting its campaign of terror.

Mr Donaldson, who heads Innocent Victims United, a victims' organisation based in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, said: "There was a better way, and that was the way which the overwhelming majority of Northern Ireland's population took - the path of democracy, non-violence and respect for the sanctity of human life.

"Mrs McMichael needs to step beyond defending her husband's legacy to encouraging those from loyalist terror backgrounds to account for their crimes, repent and restitute for what they took out of society."

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph last night, Mr Donaldson stressed that his comments were not aimed at Mrs McMichael personally.

"She too is a victim, and has her own grief. My concern is with the 'airbrushing' of people's terrorist pasts, glossing over their violence to focus on other parts of their lives," Mr Donaldson said.

It was not possible to reach Mrs McMichael for a response last night.
The Met said they are providing a "proportionate" number of officers to the New Year celebrations (Ben Stevens/PA)

Fewer Metropolitan Police officers will be working during Londons New Years Eve celebrations, Scotland Yard confirmed, despite four terror attacks in the capital during 2017.

Superintendent Nick Aldworth said the police resources would be proportionate and appropriate, and that those flocking to the sold-out fireworks display on the banks of the Thames would be safe.

It comes at a time when police officer numbers across the country are at their lowest level for 30 years, according to the latest Home Office figures, with the current UK terror threat level set at severe.

Mr Aldworth said: We are providing a proportionate number of officers based on the threat, number of people coming and the secure environment weve been able to build.

We have fewer officers policing here this year but they represent the appropriate number of resources that we need.

Youll understand that the planning for these events is very, very detailed, its done by a very, very expert team. Theyve assessed the number of officers that we need.

People coming into London will see armed police officers, they will see other technical measures such as cameras and security notices, what they wont see are some covert resources that are here to look after them.

But they can come to London in the certain knowledge that that operation is being led by one of the most experienced command teams that we have. Its a safe environment.

Scotland Yard said operational reasons stopped them from being able to discuss specific numbers on duty this Sunday. There were 3,000 at last years celebrations.

Mr Aldworth said the public should be reassured by the number of officers available.

I think the message I would give to the public is to be reassured that weve got the right number of officers to police this event, he said.

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 want them (the public) to be alert, not alarmed.

They can help us  theres 100,000 extra sets of eyes and ears out there that might see or hear things that might concern them, and if they feel like that, for them to come forward and tell us, no matter however small or insignificant they think it is.

Above all, enjoy your evening and feel safe in coming here.

He said there were plans in place should there be a major incident, such as Marchs Westminster attack which saw five people including Pc Keith Palmer killed, and Junes attack at London Bridge, which left eight people including three terrorists dead.

About 100,000 ticket-holders are expected to watch the 12-minute fireworks display.
A crowdfunding appeal in memory of a pub worker who was murdered in a park on Christmas Eve has passed 12,000.

The campaign to raise money for a funeral for Iuliana Tudos, 22, reached its original 4,000 target within 11 hours and by Saturday had raised more than three times that amount.

Ms Tudos, who also called herself Julie, was found dead in Finsbury Park, near her north London home, on Wednesday afternoon, having gone missing on December 24.

She had been stabbed in the abdomen and suffered a head injury.

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

More than 800 people have so far donated to the appeal, including people who met her at Camden Underworld, the north London rock pub and club where she worked.

Donor Daniel Howard wrote: I didnt know Juliana but happened to get chatting to her outside the Underworld before a gig only recently and she was really kind and funny.

My condolences go out to her family and those who were close to her.

Expand Close Woman found dead in Finsbury Park PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Woman found dead in Finsbury Park

Another, Susanne Bayliss, wrote: We often go to shows at the Underworld and I have been to the pub upstairs often before or after shows.

I did not know Julie, but maybe she served me a beer or a gin and tonic before  it feels like we lost one of our own

The GoFundMe page was set up by Krystyna Rymarczyk, who wrote: We would like to help her family to cover funeral expenses in this difficult time for them, this is what we can do for Julie.

Expand Close Iuliana Tudos death PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Iuliana Tudos death

Ms Tudos, who police said was of Russian and Greek origin, was last seen by friends at around 8pm on December 24 when she headed for a bus home from Camden.

She was due to meet them at another friends home in Enfield, north London, later that evening before spending Christmas Day there, but never arrived.

Police said CCTV footage showed her on the periphery of the park shortly after 8.20pm.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information is asked to call the dedicated incident room on 020 8785 8244, tweet @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Egypt has cracked down on Islamists since 2013, jailing thousands of them

An Egyptian court has convicted former Islamist president Mohammed Morsi and 18 others of insulting the judiciary, sentencing them to three years in prison in a court session aired on TV.

The case in Cairo involved a total of 25 defendants, five of whom, including prominent rights activist Alaa Abdel-Fattah and political analyst Amr Hamzawy, were fined 30,000 Egyptian pounds each (1,250). Abdel-Fattah is serving a five-year sentence for taking part in an illegal protest in 2013. Hamzawy lives in exile.

All the defendants are accused of insulting the judiciary by making statements that were made public either on TV, radio, social media or in publications that the court found to be inciting and expressing hatred toward the court and the judiciary.

The court also ordered Morsi to pay one million Egyptian pounds (41,615) as compensation to one of the judges, and told 22 of the defendants to pay one million Egyptian pounds each to a powerful union of judges known as the "Judges Club", state-run Al-Ahram newspaper reported.

The verdict can be appealed.

Abdel-Fattah is an outspoken blogger and leader of the 2011 uprising that toppled longtime autocrat Hosni Mubarak. He has been in and out of prison in the years since Mr Mubarak's ousting.

A software engineer by profession, he also campaigned against the policies of the military council that ruled Egypt for nearly 17 months following Mr Mubarak's departure.

Abdel-Fattah also opposed Morsi's rule, and that of general-turned-president Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, who led Morsi's overthrow in 2013 following mass protests against his one-year divisive rule.

Since he was ousted, Morsi has faced trial on a host of charges, including espionage and conspiring with foreign groups.

The former president, who hailed from the now-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group, is serving a life sentence - 25 years - over accusations of spying for Qatar. Earlier, he was handed a 20-year sentence on charges arising from the killing of protesters in December 2012.

Following Morsi's overthrow, Egyptian authorities launched a severe crackdown on Islamists, jailing thousands of them as well as secular and liberal activists.

The government has also banned all unauthorised demonstrations under a law adopted in late 2013.

AP
A road closed to traffic in Ohio as severe cold and bone-chilling winds are gripping most of the state (Lynn Ischay/The Plain Dealer via AP)

A prolonged spell of dangerously cold weather across half the US has led to homeless charities scrambling to get people off the streets and officials urging residents to assist elderly neighbours.

People from the Midwest to the Northeast are dealing with sub-freezing temperatures and wind chills, while those in the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies are bracing for storms with heavy mountain snow and freezing rain.

The cold is expected to continue through the holiday weekend and longer, according to the National Weather Service, prolonging a stretch of brutal weather blamed for vehicle crashes, trips to casualty and at least one death.

Wind chill advisories remained in place for many areas. Animal owners were urged to bring their pets indoors if possible or make sure they are warm.

Forecasters warned people to be wary of hypothermia and frostbite from the arctic blast that has gripped a large area from the Midwest to the Northeast.

The temperature, without the wind chill factored in, dipped to minus 35C (minus 31F) on Thursday morning in Watertown, New York. Temperatures rose to minus 22C (minus 8F) early on Friday morning.

Heavy snow is expected on Friday in the Pacific Northwest, across the Cascade mountains and into the northern Rockies before gradually tapering off on Saturday.

As much as two to three feet of snow is possible in the highest terrain, while coastal regions were expected to see heavy rainfall.

About 30 crashes were reported on icy roads on Friday morning in Michigan, where below-freezing temperatures continue to envelop parts of the state.

A woman trying to manoeuvre her wheelchair on a cold, snowy night in Nebraska got an escort from a fire engine.

Snow and construction items on the pavement forced her into a busy Omaha street on Tuesday. Firefighters returning to their station noticed her and flipped on their lights to follow until she reached her destination.

She gave them a thumbs-up as they departed.

In South Dakota, an 83-year-old woman died from exposure to the cold.

Police believe she crashed her car on a gravel road near the tiny rural town of Revillo, then left the vehicle to look for help. They found her body in a ditch on Sunday.

Warming centres have been set up in some locations, including across Cincinnati. Boston's Pine Street Inn sent a van with workers to persuade people to spend the night inside, but some said they prefer the streets.

The Ohio Department of Aging said older people are at increased risk from such severe cold, from medication side effects to falling risks.

The department encouraged people to check family members, friends and neighbours to make sure they are warm enough and have medicine, food and water.

On Thursday, cold weather records were set from Arkansas to Maine, and the freezing air will linger through the weekend, reaching as far south as Texas and the Florida Panhandle.

In New Hampshire, the cold set a record for the day of minus 37C (minus 35F) atop the Northeast's highest peak, Mount Washington.

In the Midwest, temperatures in Minneapolis are not expected to top minus 18C (0F) this weekend, and it likely will be minus 11C to minus 7C (12F to 19F) when the ball drops on New Year's Eve in New York City.

A winter storm warning was in effect for much of Montana, calling for significant snowfall followed by dangerously cold temperatures as 2017 comes to an end.

"People like to think of themselves as being prepared for the weather and things like that," Billings forecaster Dan Borsum said, "but this one will get your attention."

AP
North Korea tested the Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missile at an undisclosed location in November (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP, File)

North Korea has said it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" on its doorstep.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency reiterated the stance on Saturday as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.

North Korea carried out its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal which could viably target the mainland United States.

The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear programme is closing rapidly.

The US and South Korea have maintained that they will not negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile programme.

In its report on Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the United States and its "vassal forces".

The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

KCNA accused US President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of pre-emptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power".

"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.

"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

AP
NEPALI: AN IMPORTANT ARCHIVE

The first issue of the quarterly magazine Nepali was published in late 1959 by the Madan Puruskar Guthi. It has been published continuously since then. The first 225 issues of this magazine, published in the same size and format, were edited by the late Kamal Mani Dixit (1929-2016). Given its relatively large published corpus, I think the following few stories about Nepali are worth re-telling to mark the first death anniversary of its erstwhile editor.
A two-judge panel of Pakistan's supreme court ruled that Mohammad Mansha was falsely accused, citing lack of evidence

Pakistan's supreme court has exonerated a man convicted of blasphemy after he served nine years of a life sentence in prison.

A two-judge panel of the court ruled on Friday that Mohammad Mansha was falsely accused, citing lack of evidence,

According to court records, the 58-year-old was arrested in September 2008 after the imam of a mosque in the Bahawalnagar district in Punjab province told authorities that he had desecrated a copy of the Koran.

A Punjab judge convicted Mansha of blasphemy and sentenced him to life in prison in 2009. His conviction was upheld in 2014 and the supreme court took up the case the same year.

Mansha's defence lawyer, who asked not to be named for fear of retribution, said his client was arrested on a complaint from a man who was suffering from hearing and speech impairments. He said evidence from such a witness has no legal value under the Evidence Act.

Mansha's lawyer said that, following the complaint, his client was presented before a village council where he was badly beaten and then handed over to police.

The police registered the case under the country's harsh blasphemy law based on the complaint of the Imam Hafiz Muhammad Munir. The hearing and speech-impaired Akhtar Mohammad became the star witness.

Abdul Waheed, the prosecutor in the case, said there was no "scientific evidence" against Mansha and that the police investigation was "faulty" which led to his acquittal. Mr Waheed said Mansha, a poor villager, could not hire a lawyer so the court appointed him one.

Rights groups say Pakistan's harsh blasphemy law is often exploited to settle personal scores.

Blasphemy is a very sensitive issue in Pakistan's conservative society.

In 2011, a liberal governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by his official guard because he spoke in support of a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, languishing in a jail after being convicted in a blasphemy case.

Mr Taseer said at the time that the blasphemy law was being exploited.

Zia Awan, head of Lawyers for Human Rights and Legal Assistance, praised the supreme court's verdict in Mansha's case but said the court should have compensated him for his years behind bars on "false" charges.

Mr Awan added that it is time for Pakistan's parliament to "carefully look into" the country's blasphemy law and finds the means to curb its misuse or exploitation.

AP
The New Year Honours list includes a wide range of people with strong Ulster connections.

One of the best known is Eamonn Holmes, who has been appointed OBE.

In today's Belfast Telegraph he talks about this honour as "one for Northern Ireland".

North Belfast-born Eamonn has been a great ambassador for us.

He has used his high profile to provide a national audience with a different picture of life here.

He has always tried to accentuate what we have in common, rather than that which divides us. He is a top professional who works hard and moves easily through hard news, sport and lifestyle broadcasting.

He also has that indefinable quality of "likeability", which makes him a star.

Other notable awards include a knighthood for William Wright of Wrightbus, who has provided steady employment in producing transport vehicles to a high standard. It is also good to see Ellvena Graham, the current chair of the NI Economic Advisory Group, receiving the OBE.

However, just as the high-flyers earn their accolades, the less well-known people are rightly honoured, too.

They include those who work tirelessly for charity, and others who give time and effort to a range of good causes.

Among them is Margaret McDonald, who has been awarded the BEM after working for more than 45 years with the Girls' Brigade.

Her reaction is typical of those who are genuinely surprised at receiving such an accolade. She said: "I felt shocked, humbled and privileged."

Many other people see little point in the honours system, but recognising and rewarding public and community service should never go out of fashion.

When we recognise the contributions of these hitherto unsung heroes, we should all feel proud of their awards and of the representation locally.

Well done everyone.
Tomorrow is the last day of 2017 and it is a time when many people look back reflectively. There will be many watch-night church services at midnight.

Tomorrow will be a poignant day for the congregation of Whitehouse Presbyterian Church in Newtownabbey, who will be losing their minister, the Rev Dr Elizabeth Hughes, after 17 years of dedicated and distinguished service.

Liz Hughes is known widely throughout the Presbyterian Church for her service on its committees.

In 2014, she missed by one vote on becoming the first woman to be elected as Moderator.

This would have been an historic choice, but the Church had the opportunity to rectify this when she stood again the next year.

Sadly, however, the members of the male-dominated Presbyteries did not elect her, much to the regret of many clergy and laity who felt that she was an ideal candidate.

The Presbyterians did award her an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree later on, which was not quite the same thing, although she was only the second female minister to be given such an honour.

The Rev Hughes was almost certainly one of the best female Moderators the Presbyterians decided not to elect, but she accepted this decision with great dignity and restraint.

Her ministerial career, however, was much more than the Moderatorship and she led Whitehouse Presbyterian Church through some of the most difficult periods of its 150-year history, which it marked with special ceremonies in November.

In 2002, the church was almost destroyed in an arson attack, but with courage and vision the Whitehouse congregation, under Liz's leadership, completed a beautiful modern building in 2005.

Three years later the church was badly damaged after extensive flooding. Once again, Liz Hughes led the congregation to overcome all obstacles, and the building was restored to its natural beauty.

As well as all of this, the Rev Hughes and Whitehouse were in the vanguard of ecumenism and mission in the Newtonabbey area, while also contributing to the Church's mission overseas - notably in Rwanda.

As a member of Whitehouse, I experienced first-hand all the disappointments and joys of those turbulent years, but most of all I appreciated the constant friendliness and support of members of the congregation to one another.

I have been at Whitehouse for 49 years and I cannot remember any significant falling-out between people during all that time, which, sadly, cannot be said of quite a number of other churches.

This is perhaps one of the memories which the Rev Hughes will remember and perhaps treasure most as she looks back on her 17 years at Whitehouse, to which she gave such big-hearted leadership.

However, in praising the Rev Hughes for her leadership, I am aware that many other male and female clergy make a crucial contribution to the Christian Church at large by faithfully serving their people to the best of their ability.

The work of a minister or priest requires great dedication and those who retire soon realise the bliss of not coming home and having to deal every night with several urgent phone calls.

In these days, when the churches are criticised mercilessly for their shortcomings, we often overlook the work of parish ministers in visiting the sick, comforting the bereaved and in setting an example of care and concern for others.

These clergy do not make the headlines, and this also applies to leaders within each church who give long and faithful service, without seeking any reward.

This is typified by the remark of the Rev Hughes on the eve of her retirement after 17 years at Whitehouse.

She said: "The life and energy of the congregation does not lie with its minister or Kirk Session.

"Energised by the power of God's Spirit, it lies in the army of unnamed volunteers who engage in its many ministries throughout the week."

That is a truly inspiring thought on which to look back on the past and to welcome another new year.

Coptic Christians under siege by Isis

In the aftermath of Christmas, we must bear a thought for the fate of persecuted Christian minorities

This year, some 115 Coptic Christians have been murdered by Isis militants in Egypt who have stormed churches, homes and businesses to kill and maim.

Such relentless religious hatred is difficult to contemplate, and although these atrocities seem far away geographically, they strike at the hearts of Christians everywhere.

Time we put Christ back into Christmas

A memorable Christmas message came from a columnist in the Sunday Independent .

Brendan OConnor, asking if we have thrown out the divine baby with the bath water, wrote: If Christs values were more in vogue now, wed have fewer people ripped off... maybe old people would be less afraid in their home and maybe we would not have to search so hard and spend so much to find the meaning of Christmas.

Dr Hayes was man ahead of his time

Dr Maurice Hayes was a good man who contributed much to public life in the north and south.

He was as sharp as a pin and he did not suffer fools gladly, but he also had a vision of society that sadly we have not yet seen.

His funeral took place in a Catholic church and he was buried in a Protestant graveyard. That spoke eloquently of the man he was and what he tried to do.
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.
Daily Horoscope: 30 December 2017 Life oi-Lekhaka

30 December Horoscope | 30    | Daily Horoscope Astrology | Boldsky

Our country has always held a strong place in the world when it comes to Science, Technology and innovation. Also, the ancient cultures of country such as Yoga, Kalarippattu and Vedic astrology are very well known and practised by people all across the world.

When the Babylonians were the first to realise the connection between the movement of celestial planets and their effects on human lives, this knowledge passed through different areas and finally India. Here, the Indians already had some knowledge about this science. They combined their old knowledge with the new facts that they learnt and gave birth to vedic astrology. Eventually, this part of astrology became stronger and more accurate day by day, making western astrology fall behind.

Vedic astrology is more accurate than Western astrology because it takes into account the natal chart of a person which is prepared at the time of their birth. The natal chart depicts everything from karmic influences in a person's life to all the other forces which are going to govern their life. Vedic astrology can also be used to give out daily predictions accurately by studying the movement of the moon and its influence in each zodiac sign.

Here is your Daily Horoscope for December 2017 According to your Zodiac signs.

Aries : 21 March-20 April Change your workplace is predicted for you today. All your plans may come to life. However, you are advised to take suggestions from elders or experienced before taking an important decision. You may suffer from physical depression. Health wise too, you may need to take care. Taurus : 21 April-21 May There may be some trouble in your legal matters as the judgement may be against you. But you will walk on the path of truth. Chances of gaining wealth are foreseen. Your enemies might try to create obstacles in your path. Gemini : 22 May-21 June Do not take decisions in haste. You are advised to exercise precaution when handling machinery or vehicles. Keep control of your anger. Also, stay away from bad company as they may misguide you. Do not let laziness take over you. Cancer : 22 June-22 July You will receive support from your political party. You will be occupied for most part of the day. You will also receive full support of your spouse. Chances of gaining wealth are seen. But be careful not to involve yourself in risky situations. Leo : 23 July-21 August Arguments regarding matters of inheritance will turn out to be in your favour. You will achieve success and your path will be easy and without any obstacles. Virgo : 22 August-23 September Your artistic pursuits will be good day. Your travel will also be smooth and entertaining. You will come across some exciting culinary treats. Over all, you will be in a happy state of mind. Libra : 24 September-23 October You will receive some bad news today due to which you will be a bit worried. You are advised to be careful regarding money barter. Keep your anger issues under control. Stay away from arguments and tasks involving risks. Scorpio : 24 October-22 November You will receive the result of your hard work today. You will be active towards matters at home and outside too. You might lose some wealth which was kept as security or guarantee. However, chances of gaining wealth are also foreseen. You might face some disrespect in the society today. Sagittarius : 23 November-22 December You might suffer a loss due to over-enthusiasm today. However, you will receive some great news. Over all your day will be good, but you need to be careful of some issues which may lead to your downfall. Business wise, it will be a good day. Capricorn : 23 December-20 January Your will have good luck surround you which will not let your efforts go to waste. You are predicted to receive employment too. Chances of buying new clothes are predicted for you today. Aquarius : 21 January-19 February Your day will be full of risks today. You might be mentally stressed too. Injury to right hand is foreseen. However, being a little careful may help you avoid the injury. Pisces : 20 February-20 March You are at high chances of recovering a bad debt today. It is a good day to invest in the share market too. You are advised to take care of your health. There is some wealth coming your way too. Plating a tree and watering it for 40 days will prove to be highly beneficial for you.

GET THE BEST BOLDSKY STORIES! Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 7:30 [IST]
Description - The Food of Italy by Waverley Root

In this thoroughly comprehensive, utterly captivating culinary guidebook, acclaimed food writer Waverley Root traverses Italy from Lombardy to Sicily, and across 3,000 years of invasions. An exhaustive catalog of the country's gastronomic legacy, The Food of Italy explains the regional delicacies, the traditions, and the history that define the way Italians eat.



From the legally enforced frugality of the Renaissance table to the enduring Saracen luxury of Sicilian desserts, from the lasagna of Bologna to the saltimbocca of Rome, Root explores the secrets and customs of a cuisine so nuanced that even the basic ragu Bolognese has some two hundred variations.



A culinary adventurer who made his mark decades before Anthony Bourdain appeared on the scene, Root shares the stories of an elephant forced to spend the winter of 1551 in the South Tyrol and the dishes named after him, the proper way to bottle Chianti, and the mysteries surrounding the origin of tortellini. Essential reading for travelers-of the armchair and ticketed variety, alike-The Food of Italy, which features decorative maps (that may not be legible for all readers) and illustrations, brings the subtleties of the Italian palate into any home.

Buy The Food of Italy by Waverley Root from Australia's Online Independent Bookstore, Boomerang Books.

Book Details

9780679738961

0679738967

Paperback / softback

768

(203mm x 132mm x 46mm)Vintage Books2-Jun-1992United States
Description - Looking For Alaska by John Green

Miles Halter is fascinated by famous last words - and tired of his safe life at home. He leaves for boarding school to seek what the dying poet Francois Rabelais called the 'Great Perhaps'. Much awaits Miles at Culver Creek, including Alaska Young.



Clever, funny, screwed-up, and dead sexy, Alaska will pull Miles into her labyrinth and catapult him into the Great Perhaps.



Looking for Alaska brilliantly chronicles the indelible impact one life can have on another. A stunning debut, it marks John Green's arrival as an important voice in contemporary fiction.

Buy Looking For Alaska by John Green from Australia's Online Independent Bookstore, Boomerang Books.

Book Details

9781511337083

1511337087

Audio disc

(122mm x 132mm x 14mm)Bolinda/Brilliance Audio1-Mar-2016Australia
Tuladhar has worked as a journalist for over a decade, with affiliations to Kantipur TV and German Press Agency.
Description - Rick Steves' France by Rick Steves

You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling in France. With this guide, you'll explore sleepy villages, romantic hill towns, and cosmopolitan cities, including Paris, Avignon, and Nice. Climb the Eiffel Tower, wander world-renowned museums, and dine at sidewalk cafes. Then escape to the sunny countryside, where you can explore castles of all shapes and sizes or pedal your way from village to vineyard. With its Swiss-like Alps, Italian-style Riviera, and Germanic Alsace, France offers Europe's greatest variety. A good vin rouge is never more than a stroll away. Rick's candid, humorous advice will guide you to good-value hotels and restaurants. He'll help you plan where to go and what to see, depending on the length of your trip. You'll get up-to-date recommendations about what is worth your time and money. More than just reviews and directions, a Rick Steves guidebook is a tour guide in your pocket.

Buy Rick Steves' France by Rick Steves from Australia's Online Independent Bookstore, Boomerang Books.

Book Details

9781612389684

1612389686

Paperback / softback

1192

(202mm x 119mm x 36mm)Avalon Travel Publishing1-Dec-2014United States
The First Map of Nepal

The 1802 British expedition to Nepal by surgeon-naturalist Francis Buchanan-Hamilton was seminal for two reasonsit introduced 1,100 species of plants to the world of botany and it gave the world the very first scientific map of Nepal.
The road to redemption

Oftentimes we ask ourselves: If we were given a chance to re-do what weve done over the course of our lives, how many changes would we make in retrospect? We might not be able to actually change the past, however debilitating or dispiriting it might be, and living with regrets comes parts and parcel with the human experience.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/12/2017 (1784 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

At least two Brandon-based entrepreneurs are among the more than 100 who submitted proposals to the provincial government to distribute and sell cannabis by next summer.

These two include the ownership of Brandon-based B.O.B. Headquarters and Growers n Smokers. Both aligned themselves with partners to tackle the request for proposal process.

It was quite the undertaking, B.O.B. Headquarters co-owner Robert Ritchot said, adding that their final document ended up filling out approximately 300 pages and costing those behind these pages many hours of sleep over the past several weeks.

Tyler Clarke/The Brandon Sun B.O.B. Headquarters co-owner Robert Ritchot is seen in his Brandon retail space this week. Along with a handful of partners, (Tyler Clarke/The Brandon Sun) has submitted a request for proposal to open up as many as a dozen cannabis retail outlets once recreational use and sale is made legal next summer.

B.O.B. Headquarters partnered with Tokyo Smoke, 4Front Advisors, Leos Group and Green Acre Capital in applying for one of four licences that are being offered during this initial round.

Of these four licences, two are being offered to companies that are able to open between three and 12 retail locations, and two are being offered to those able to open more than a dozen.

Ritchot said theyre looking at opening eight locations out of the gate, but they have the financial backing to open up whatevers necessary, pretty much.

Its got to be done responsibly and its got to be done so theres no compromise in the integrity for each of these locations.

Growers n Smokers owner Rick Macl partnered with an all-Manitoba group of companies and has applied for up to 12 locations.

Both local applicants said their shift into the retail cannabis industry would be accompanied by reaching out into the community to educate people and set the minds of those concerned about the process at ease.

We dont want the community to just tolerate our existence, we want them to acknowledge that its a great company and its something that we can be proud of, Ritchot said, adding that everything they do would be in keeping with the underlying motivation behind legalizing cannabis, which is keeping it out of the hands of children and organized crime.

That education component is going to be very, very needed, Ritchot said. There so much to know and understand.

Macl said theres a lot of misinformation on the internet that he has been helping customers navigate since opening up his head shop earlier this year.

While theres an idea floating around that whomever opens a retail cannabis outlet would become rich, Macl said with the province supplying the product, a windfall of any significance isnt terribly likely.

He said his motivation is doing things right, and that he looks forward to heading up continued efforts to educate people as to the proper use of cannabis and which strains best suite individual needs.

Ritchot said one of his teams unique selling points is experience, having been in business for approximately 20 years, while Macl said his team carries an all-Manitoba edge.

According to a release from the provincial government earlier this week, officials are evaluating applications based on the criteria established in the request for proposals.

An independent fairness monitor has been appointed to ensure the integrity of the process. Its expected that applicants will be notified by February, and are expected to enter into retail agreements in the spring.

In the release, Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen said the province remains committed to establishing a highly competitive retail environment that creates new economic opportunities at the community level.

 tclarke@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @TylerClarkeMB
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/12/2017 (1786 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Smoke from a smudging stick and the warm breath of friends and family of Jeremy Hobson filled the front yard of the house where the 21-year-old accidentally overdosed and died on the weekend during a ceremony held Thursday.

Jeremy died after taking a pill, which he thought was OxyContin, at a get together with friends and cousins on Saturday night, according to his father Larry Hobson. Hobson said he thinks the pill that killed his son was laced with fentanyl.

Hobson, and nine other community members, including three members from the Bear Clan, gathered in a circle in the front yard of the house where Jeremy died for the smudging.

PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Larry Hobson takes a smudge offered by his daughter Brittany Murdoch on Thursday afternoon in front of the house where his son Jeremy was found dead of an overdose.

I know my son is in heaven, I know hes with the creator, said Hobson, during Thursdays ceremony. I just want to wish him a safe journey to get to where hes going and where he needs to be.

On Christmas Eve, Larry Hobson said he received the worst phone call of his life. He was told his son Jeremy had been found dead.

Jeremy never did drugs, not even marijuana, but was told a pill would give him a good vibe, said Hobson, adding hes always told his kids to avoid the home on Broadway, where Jeremy died, because hes not a fan of the unsupervised parties that go on inside.

The woman who found Jeremy, who lives in the home, refused to allow the smudging ceremony to happen inside the home, where Hobson originally planned to have it.

Four people, including the 21-year-old ironworker apprentice, took the pills that killed Hobsons youngest son. They were all under the impression it was OxyContin, Hobson said.

I just dont think it was OxyContin, he said.

Fentanyl taken inadvertently

According to Joss Reimer, medical officer of health services for Manitoba Health, fentanyl can be hidden very easily in other drugs.

She said most of Canada is experiencing a fentanyl crisis and while lots of people take the drug knowingly, many others take it thinking theyre consuming something else.

Reimer said the best way to be prepared for an overdose is to own a naloxone kit, know how to use it and tell friends when you plan to use drugs so they can check up on you.

Fentanyl can be found in pill form and powder form  and it can be mixed into other drugs like cocaine and crystal meth in its powder form, according to the Manitoba Health website.

Toxicology and blood tests are in progress to find out what exactly caused the death, but Hobson said the medical examiner told him his son most likely went to sleep and never woke up because he had so much poison in his body.

Hobson said itll take six weeks to find out the test results.

It only takes a minute to end a life

After taking the drug and passing out on the couch, Hobson said some friends moved Jeremy to the bed. The woman from the house later came home, found Jeremy unresponsive, starting doing CPR and called 911.

The three other people who took the drug with Jeremy all went to the hospital after he was found dead, Hobson said, but they are all OK.

Jeremys gone now but I just want to be able to get a strong message out here, he said. All these kids out there trying drugs, it could happen to any of them and none of their parents ever want to get the call I received.

He said people need to be cautious of what they and their families are doing.

It only takes one mistake to end a life and the impact and the ripple effect is unbelievable  its so hurtful and painful, he said. But you know, well get through it.

Hobson said the family has become very close after struggling with him being incarcerated for some time.

Were going to try to live a better life and Im going to try to be a better influence on my children, he said.

All these kids out there trying drugs, it could happen to any of them and none of their parents ever want to get the call I received.

Hobson prays the creator takes care of his son because he was a good boy who was lovable, outgoing, kind, generous and died too young. He was the youngest boy of Hobsons eight children, of which six are still alive.

Dillon Hobson, Jeremys older brother, said Jeremy will be joining his grandmother and another older brother, who died by suicide two years ago, in the spirit world.

My brother meant the world to me, and Im going to miss him very much, he said, adding that the ceremony was all for Jeremy.

You think it wont happen to your family

The Bear Clans executive director, James Favel, said a loss like Jeremys is always tragic, compounded by the fact that he was so young.

As a community, we have to come together and just focus on healing now and moving forward in a good way, said Favel. Well all get through this and we learn from our mistakes, we move forward.

The ceremony came to a close with Brittany Murdoch, one of Jeremys sisters, handing tobacco to the community members, who then sprinkled the pieces across the front yard to remember Jeremy.

A wake will take place Friday and Jeremys funeral is scheduled for Saturday.

You always hear stuff, but you think it wont happen to your family  until it really happens and then you realize how precious life is, said Taylor Hobson, one of Jeremys other sisters.

Dont take life for granted. Love your family and keep them close.

Larry Hobson said hell be keeping both his family and reminders of Jeremy close. Hes going to wrap the Christmas presents he bought for Jeremy, a Detroit Red Wings sweater and shirts, in plastic and leave them in his closet forever.

maggie.macintosh@freepress.mb.ca
The boom in social media use has created a trove of data about consumers, and the finance sector is keen to put this information to use. Banks, insurers, credit bureaux and financial technology companies are working at ways to use this data to verify your identity, and figure out the risks of lending you money, or providing insurance. That means that just as banks have traditionally looked at your job, your income, and your spending habits, they may soon be keen to also look at your Facebook friends, or who you engage with on Twitter. Indeed, it is already happening overseas and there are moves to introduce such a system in Australia. China's government is creating a massive "social credit" system that aims by 2020 to have a database rating all of its citizens on their trustworthiness. Social scoring

In late 2017, an Australian start-up called Lodex launched with the goal of introducing "social scoring" locally, another way of predicting credit risk. The idea is that customers can apply to have their "social score", which is determined by an algorithm that sifts through their email account, and that banks will use this information alongside more traditional credit scores when assessing clients. The platform then acts as a "market place" for loans and deposits. Banks and brokers can look at a customer's traditional credit score, and their social score, and then bid for their business. Lodex co-founder Michael Phillipou says at this stage no banks are offering loans based on social scores, but he is hopeful this will change if he can prove the predictive power of social scoring. Wed like to believe that in the short term, well be able to demonstrate some correlation and it will be up to discussions with those individual lenders and organisations to take the insights which social credit scoring can offer.

Identity checks Fintechs such as peer-to-peer lender Moneyplace also look at a customer's social media as part of their identity checks, to prevent loan fraud. So, how can a business figure out whether to trust you based on your social media accounts or email? Phillipou says if a customer wants a "social score" through Lodex, they can allow an algorithm to plug into their main email and look at "12,000 variables within their email and contacts". This includes such details as how quickly you respond to an email and whether you write a title in the subject line. The idea is that when all 12,000 variables are put together and analysed, it produces a score which can help predict whether you will repay the loan.

Whats been shown is that the way you interact with friends, family and acquaintances, the behavioural analysis correlates to how you will behave when youre going to pay back credit with a bank, Phillipou says. Semantic analysis Suncorp's Trustbond works differently, but it is a similar concept. The founder of Suncorp's partner Traity, Juan Cartagena, says the company sifts through data obtained through platforms including Twitter, Airbnb, and Facebook. One technique it uses is "semantic analysis", looking at things such as reviews of you as a guest on Airbnb, to build a picture of how likely you are to look after a property. If people say that you are a wonderful guest, you will be in the top 90th percentile of all Airbnb. If people say you are a nice guest, you are in the lowest 10th percentile, he says.

It may also collect information from your digital social network including your friends, photos, tweets, "likes", followers and status updates. Cartagena says the technology could potentially be used in all sorts of scenarios where people find it hard to prove they can be trusted financially. This happens to all sorts of people. Young families, freelancers, migrants  people who dont have a traditional blue-chip background. They are subject to the evils of the traditional credit industry. Data assets Suncorp's executive general manager of global partners, Nigel ORorke, says Trustbond is also a test for people owning their own data and using this as an asset.

Your digital profile is an asset  and it can be used to determine whether youre suitable for tenancy, O'Rorke says. KPMG's national leader for banking and global co-lead for fintech, Ian Pollari, says the move towards a "gig economy" is another reason why banks are increasingly keen to look through customers' digital footprints. If more people move towards contract work, with less-stable incomes, banks will need to look at other ways of assessing risk, aside from traditional data such as pay slips, or your employment. As more people move to contract forms of employment, this will become an important dimension, Pollari says. It is also a way to target millennial customers who may have less of a credit history.

The 2017 breach of US credit bureau Equifax, in which a cyber attack affected the financial data of up to 143 million Americans, illustrates the serious privacy and security issues at stake. Credit:AP Privacy concerns But what about the obvious privacy concerns? The 2017 breach of US credit bureau Equifax, in which a cyber attack affected the financial data of up to 143 million Americans, illustrates the serious privacy and security issues at stake. Lodex's Phillipou points out that having a "social score" is completely optional.

He says the algorithm looks only at metadata, not personal information. Its service is provided by Lenddo, which he says operates in 20 countries overseas, and has never had a breach of data. Cartagena acknowledges customers are worried such technology will probe what they get up to in their private lives, but he says this isn't the goal when it is trawling through Facebook. People always think of the example, oh, you are going to look at my drunk pictures," he says. "Its not like that, its more about consistency of the network. You say that you live in Sydney, do you have any friends in Sydney? You say that you studied at Harvard, do you have many friends from Harvard? Cartagena says. Whether Australian consumers are willing to allow such detailed sharing of their personal information with big companies remains to be seen.
A team of 50 literacy and numeracy experts will be recruited to support NSW teachers as the government axes the controversial $50 million Reading Recovery program, which is used in more than 900 schools but was found to be ineffective.

Principals were told in November that the NSW Department of Education would no longer be supporting Reading Recovery, which targets year 1 students who are struggling with literacy. Students undergo a one-on-one intensive program for up to 20 weeks.

Reading Recovery is being phased out in NSW after a report found it failed to produce long-term benefits. Credit:Lee Besford

But a report commissioned by the department found Reading Recovery, which costs more than $50 million a year to run in NSW, may have some impact on students who are really struggling with basic reading but the improvements are often short-lived.

In NSW, Reading Recovery is in 60 per cent of schools and at least 14 per cent of year 1 students take part in it.


Housing investors will no longer be able to claim a tax refund on some of the costs of maintaining rental properties, and some students will find it easier to qualify for income benefits from New Year's Day when a swag of new laws come into force.

But the biggest change to the country is likely to come in the form of school funding when the Turnbull government's Education Amendment rolls into action.

The "Gonski 2.0" legislation is likely to kick off a new sector-by-sector debate over school resourcing that will be overseen by the new National School Resourcing Board.

As of Monday, the separation between school sectors will start to be removed and funding now calculated on a consistent basis based on need, regardless of the location or type of school receiving it.
"I talk about general privacy settings, how to stay safe online and who they should and shouldn't be friends with online." Ms Butler said some parents or carers were proactive in having these conversations with their children, but not all were. "One of the challenges I have is that kids are really vulnerable and they seem to trust people that are online, which can pose a lot of dangerous situations for them. "I talk to them about the people that might be online that they're making contact with, and that they shouldn't believe everything they see online." She said every child had a different response to the content she presents.

"A lot of them are shocked, but it's not my intention to scare the children," she said. "I do warn them at the beginning of the presentation that a lot of the stuff I talk about might make them uncomfortable, it might be a little scary. But that's not what I'm there for. I'm there to give them the tools to stay safe online." One of the recurring questions that comes up in relation to online grooming and cyberbullying is "why?". "I get asked a lot 'why are there online groomers?' and I tell children I don't know why. I don't know why people do that. But I do know that it's against the law, so these people aren't allowed to do that." Ms Butler said she doesn't tell the children what the consequences of online grooming can be.

"I never mention murder, paedophilia, child pornography," she said, but she does use real examples of online grooming to help the children understand. The appearance of online popularity plays a huge role in how vulnerable children can be caught out on the web. "There is this massive popularity context with children to have more friends than their classmates," Ms Butler said. "I tell them that having more friends than somebody else doesn't make you a better person, it just puts you in an unsafe situation. "I tell them if you're going to be chatting with somebody online, and you're going to be sharing things about your personal life, they need to be somebody that you've met in person and you trust them."

She also explains trust is a big word. "It's not somebody you've met once at a friend's sleepover or a sporting event, it's somebody you would share your life with and perhaps invite to your birthday party." Another vulnerability for children is celebrity social media accounts. It was only recently that a fake Justin Bieber account was created, by an older man for the wrong reasons. "Unfortunately he had millions of followers because kids are vulnerable, they believe what they see." During the presentation to schools, Ms Butler mentions one app in particular that she asks children to delete.

"The Kik app I ask that they perhaps think about deleting it, because people can send you inappropriate content [out of the blue]." Whether it's online grooming or cyber bullying, the takeaway message is to block, report and delete - and speak with a trusted adult. For more information visit the Think U Know website, or find out more from the Office of the E-Safety Commissioner. Elder abuse Elder abuse is on the rise in Canberra, and it can be a challenging area for police to manage. For the ACT Policing senior's liaison officer Lina Webber, it's a tough issue.

ACT Police's Lina Webber, senior's liaison officer. Credit:Rohan Thomson "The victim is usually apprehensive to report it because they know the perpetrator is, in most cases, a family member," she said. "They're isolated, they know if they talk about it that relationship will be affected." Ms Webber said if elder abuse was suspected, police will monitor the situation. If clear physical abuse exists, they will step in. "If I go in and it's clearly identified elder abuse like bruising, not eating and financial debts then a general duties patrol will usually become involved and a course of investigation will be assessed.

"If it's something like they're simply not eating because they don't have the support or the carers there then I will look after that end." But it's psychological and financial abuse that are harder to address. "Psychological can relate to isolation, withdrawing that person from services, subtle things but things that might be noticed by other people. "Financial abuse is, in a lot of cases, people who take advantage of the individual because either they don't understand that the decision to take finances off the person is in their best interest, or they use the finances for their own personal gain." Ms Webber said it was important for people to know their neighbours, to help ensure these subtle things didn't go unnoticed.

"I think in Canberra people tend to think because it's a public service town that someone will always be there to look after these people, but that's not always the case," she said. "We can only monitor a situation from a certain aspect. If a neighbour has concerns, they can talk to that person or to me." Part of Ms Webber's job is to visit elderly people who might have come to police attention, either because they've committed a crime themselves or the more common problem that they've been the victim of a crime. "If a burglary has occurred, I'll go out and see them two to three weeks later to make sure they're comfortable in their surroundings again," Ms Webber said. Another issue she helps police address is an increase in calls from people with dementia.

"Some people who have dementia will ring police and say there are things happening at home that aren't happening. "I monitor them, visit them and call them a few times a month, and that seems to ease the pressure on our operations centre," she said. "It also gives me the chance to see how that person is progressing, and when the Department of Health might need to become involved." But Ms Webber said the fear of nursing homes can sometimes scare people out of contacting her. "They won't contact me even though they need help, because they automatically think a police member knocking on their door will lead to them going into a home.

"They don't recognise that support services are out there, and there is a focus on keeping the individual at home as long as possible." The senior's liaison officer position was created almost 10 years ago in response to an increase in calls from older people. Ms Webber has been in the role for four years. There are many things she likes about her work, but her favourite thing is the stories. "I love going to do home visits and listening to stories that the community give me," she said. "A lot of them have lived a generation where there's been a war involved, so I enjoy the stories about how they survived the war. Some of them aren't good stories, but they need to talk about it. Most of them have had very colourful lives."

To report elder abuse contact the APRIL hotline on 6205 3535 or the police assistance line on 131 444. In an emergency phone Triple-0. Youth crime Breaking down the barriers between police and Canberra's youth is the main aim of the job for Lee-Anne Johnson. ACT Police's Lee-Anne Johnson, youth liaison officer. Credit:Rohan Thomson

After a year as ACT Policing's youth liaison officer, Ms Johnson said she's settling in to the busy position, but there are plenty of challenges that come with a job like hers. "I'd say we only connect with a minority of youth falling through the cracks," Ms Johnson said. "There are a lot of kids out there that aren't on the radar." Mr Johnson deals with "high-risk" youth aged 11 to 18 who have been flagged by general duties officers, those who aren't engaging in school, and those involved with drugs and alcohol. "A lot of the kids have trauma backgrounds, so it's about trying to get them engaged in counselling to break down the barriers of the trauma they're dealing with," she said.

"A lot of them aren't attending school, so if mainstream schooling isn't working, it's trying to get them into something that will work for them." One of the most frustrating aspects for Ms Johnson is youth who don't take up the offer of assistance. "It is really frustrating a lot of the time because everything is voluntary, you can't make them go to programs or engage with services, so that can be really quite challenging," she said. "A lot of them will see that drugs and alcohol and hanging with their mates and not attending school is what they want to do. They find that no rules and doing what they want to do is better than engaging with services." But despite this, Ms Johnson continues to offer them assistance and hopes one day they take it up.

"We try to get the kids engaged with something they're comfortable with, so if it doesn't work the first, second and third time, we just keep trying." Ms Johnson took on the job because she loves kids, and she's working hard to break down the barrier between youth and the police. She accompanies uniformed officers to youth centres to play pool, and with children on trips to meet the water police, the dog unit or traffic cops. "We try to break down the barriers with police so they see them as normal people," she said. But there was always room for more support. Ms Johnson said waiting lists in Canberra for programs to help youth were long, and programs in place at the moment could only take so many.
It's true that a standard magnetic compass starts to behave erratically as you approach the South Pole. Not only does it want to point downwards towards the centre of the Earth, but the magnetic pole also wanders from day to day. To find north at the poles you need a special device called a Dip Compass.

Even if you're not at one of the poles it can upset your compass. Some have small weights on the needle so they don't drag. That sort of compass might not work well if you take them to the opposite hemisphere.

To find north at the poles, you need a special device called a Dip Compass. Credit:ROD TAYLOR

The South Pole is generally meandering its way north, towards Adelaide at about 5 kilometres a year. Surprisingly, the North Pole is not exactly opposite the South Pole. It's also wobbling northwards at about 50-60 kilometres a year from Canada. This is because of the complex fluid motion of the Earth's liquid iron core.

That means your magnetic compass points a little off true north. That's called "declination" and, using the Geoscience Australia website, you can calculate how to correct for this.
A twice bankrupted self-styled "Lord" who claims he is the illegitimate son of Prince Philip has launched legal action to get part of his late aunt's $7 million estate.

There was no mention of an Andrew, let alone "Lord Andrew Battenberg", in the death notice of Blanche Millie Condon of Kensington, which appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald in December 2016. Instead, the notice of the 86-year-old's death read: "Beloved wife of James (deceased). Dear sister of Ruth and Harold (deceased). Much loved aunt of Robyn, Bruce, Merryn, Wayne and David."

"Lord Andrew Battenberg", who claims to be Prince Philip's love child. Credit:Edwina Pickles

Mrs Condon's brother Harold Lee, a banker, and his wife, Ailsa, had adopted Andrew from Hornsby Hospital in August 1962. He has since claimed that when he was 21 a mysterious letter arrived from England, containing the Barony of Craigstown and access to an endowment in the form of the Battenberg Trust 103.

In reality, Andrew Lee purchased the title himself and began styling himself as Lord Andrew of Craigstown. He then changed his name to Lord Andrew Battenberg and, while bankrupted in Australia for not paying the costs of a failed lawsuit against his previous solicitors, he moved to Scotland in 2004 where he changed his name again to Lord Leitrim.
Donald Trump accused China of letting fuel oil flow into North Korea through illicit ship-to-ship transfers on international waters. Credit:AAP The Security Council has also banned ship-to-ship transfers of oil on the high seas because they can be used as a loophole to avoid the sanctions. The Lighthouse Winmore remains in South Korean custody, officials said Friday. Its 25 crewmen  23 Chinese citizens and two men from Myanmar  will be allowed to leave after the investigation is over. Word of the seizure emerged after Trump used a post on Twitter and an interview with The New York Times to accuse China of letting oil flow into North Korea in defiance of U.N. sanctions, warning that there will be no "friendly solution" until the flow stops.

Trump's accusation came amid deepening suspicions in Washington and among its allies that Chinese oil tankers were secretly transferring petroleum to North Korean ships on the high seas. China insists that there was no sanctions violation. "Caught RED HANDED  very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea," Trump wrote in a Twitter post Thursday. "There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!" The UN Security Council has ramped up its efforts to squeeze oil supplies for North Korea after the country conducted its sixth nuclear test September 3 and followed it with the launching of an intercontinental ballistic missile November 29. But the impact of sanctions depends largely on how faithfully they are enforced by China, which handles 90 percent of North Korea's external trade, including nearly all of its oil imports, analysts say. If the reports of ship-to-ship oil transfers are true, it could mean that much more oil is flowing secretly into North Korea than allowed under UN sanctions, with or without Chinese authorities' knowledge. Trump has repeatedly urged President Xi Jinping to use China's economic leverage to stop North Korea's nuclear weapons programs. But analysts warn that Beijing is unlikely to push North Korea to the brink of collapse, still cherishing its neighbour as a buffer against the influence of the United States and its closest allies in the region, Japan and South Korea.

In the interview with The Times, published Thursday night, Trump explicitly said for the first time that he had "been soft" on China on trade matters in the hopes that its leaders would press North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program. He hinted that his patience might soon end, signalling his frustration with the reported oil shipments. "Oil is going into North Korea. That wasn't my deal!" he exclaimed, raising the possibility of aggressive trade actions against China. "If they don't help us with North Korea, then I do what I've always said I want to do." Despite saying that Xi "treated me better than anybody's ever been treated in the history of China" when he visited in November, Trump said Thursday that "they have to help us much more." "We have a nuclear menace out there, which is no good for China," he said. When it blacklisted several Chinese trading companies and North Korean shipping companies and their vessels in November, the US Treasury Department said that North Korea was "known to employ deceptive shipping practices, including ship-to-ship transfers."

Trump's criticism of China came after the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, quoting anonymous sources, reported that US spy satellites have spotted 30 ship-to-ship transfers of oil and other products since October in international waters between North Korea and China. The report said the "smuggling" took place between North Korean vessels and ships believed to be from China. In its latest sanctions, adopted December 22, the Security Council expressed concern that North Korea was "illicitly exporting coal and other prohibited items through deceptive maritime practices and obtaining petroleum illegally through ship-to-ship transfers." Washington has called on the Security Council to blacklist 10 ships  including the Lighthouse Winmore,the Sam Jong 2 and the Rye Song Gang 1  for circumventing sanctions by conducting ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or transporting North Korean coal, Reuters reported, citing UN documents. The South Korean Foreign Ministry refused to confirm the Chosun Ilbo report, saying that the matter was being discussed at the Security Council's sanctions committee.
Swatting usually makes the news when police are tricked into raiding the home of celebrity - like Justin Bieber in 2012 or Lil Wayne in 2015. But it's lately become a way for people to escalate online disputes into the real world - punishing a rival with a surprise visit from a SWAT team. Swautistic, as his screen name suggests, billed himself as something of a specialist. "According to him, he's put his shingle out there as someone who can be hired to make these false reports," said Krebs, a former Washington Post reporter who now investigates digital security issues. "It seems like he got some kind of pleasure from doing it." This, apparently, is how the aggrieved Call of Duty player came to enlist Swautistic's services. "I was minding my own business at the library," a man claiming to be Swautistic told the YouTube channel DramaAlert. "Someone contacted me and said, 'Hey dude, this f-ing r--d just gave me his address and he thinks nothing is going to happen. You want to prove him wrong?' I said, 'Sure, I love swatting kids who think that nothing's going to happen.' "

Tyler Raj Barriss in 2015. Credit:Glendale Police Department/AP On Thursday evening, a man phoned Wichita City Hall and ended up speaking with a 911 dispatcher. He said he had accidentally shot his father in the head during an argument and was now pointing a handgun at his mother and brother. He threatened to set the house on fire, and then asked the operator: "Do you have my address correct?" Police said the man continued to call 911 - even after they'd arrived at the address. About an hour after sunset, officers surrounded the two-story house on McCormick Street where Finch was at home with his mother and at least two other people - none of them hostages.

"I had seen the red and blue light flashing in my window," Lisa Finch told the Eagle. "I heard my son scream, I got up and then I heard a shot . . . They didn't call the ambulance until he was dead." Without naming Finch, police later said that a man emerged from the house and was repeatedly ordered to put his hands up. An officer thought he saw the man reach for a weapon, and opened fire. But the man had no weapon, and police soon realized there were no victims in the house. At a news conference, a deputy police chief said the officer who fired his gun had been placed on paid leave, and he blamed Finch's death on "the actions of a prankster." Lisa Finch questioned how police could have been so easily duped. Her son didn't even play video games, she told the Eagle. "He has better things to do with his time."

As reporters crowded around Finch's blood-spattered porch on Thursday, @SWAuTistic wrote to 18,000 Twitter followers: "That kids house that I swatted is on the news." He wrote another message defending himself, according to the Eagle: "I DIDNT GET ANYONE KILLED BECAUSE I DIDNT DISCHARGE A WEAPON AND BEING A SWAT MEMBER ISNT MY PROFESSION." Police at the corner of Seneca and McCormick after a reported shooting Thursday night. Credit:Fernando Salazar/ The Wichita Eagle Swautistic's main account subsequently disappeared from Twitter - suspended - but by then, Krebs and others were digging through archives and screenshots of his posts. "Those tweets indicate that Swautistic is a serial swatter," Krebs wrote on his website. He had claimed credit not just for Wichita - but for false bomb hoaxes at the Federal Communications Commission, a convention center in Dallas and a high school in Panama City, Florida.

A man Krebs believes to be Swautistic contacted him on Twitter on Friday morning through an alternate Twitter account. "I didn't believe him at first," Krebs told The Post. "But he was able to prove he was the swatter." Krebs asked Swautistic if he felt bad about Finch's death. "Of course I do," he replied. But he blamed the shooting on police and the Call of Duty player who had given him Finch's address - "taunting me to swat." "People will eventually . . . tell me to turn myself in or something," he wrote. "I can't do that; though I know its morally right. I'm too scared admittedly." "All so stupid," he wrote by way of reflection. "This whole thing."
Jingchi Corp. founder and CEO Wang Jin said this week that Baidu Inc.'s claims that he stole proprietary autonomous-driving technology are baseless. Photo: Visual China

Self-driving-car startup Jingchi Corp. has moved its headquarters from California to the southern Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou amid an intellectual property dispute with search engine giant Baidu Inc.

Jingchi, which was founded by former Baidu Senior Vice President Wang Jin earlier this year, will establish its new headquarters in the citys Huangpu district, where it says it will build up Chinas first self-driving-car company that is poised to enter massive market production next year.

The company will also contribute to a fund worth 10 billion yuan ($1.53 billion), along with the city government and two other local companies, which will aim to ramp up developments in the autonomous driving sector, according to the company.

Jingchi's move comes as Wang, the companys CEO, has become embroiled in a legal dispute with Baidu, which has accused him of stealing proprietary autonomous-driving technology to power the startup.

The 50-million-yuan lawsuit was filed this week in Beijings intellectual property rights court, which has accepted the case. But at a media event on Thursday, Wang said that he has not received any notice from the court and insisted Baidus case is baseless.

Jingchi has grown rapidly in the nine months since it was founded by the former head of Baidus self-driving car division.

In September, Jingchi announced that it had completed a $52 million pre-A round of funding, led by Qiming Venture Capital. Jingchi completed a public road test in Sunnyvale, California, on Aug. 15, and reached an agreement with Anqing, Anhui province, to place 40 driverless test cars in the area by the end of the year.

Jingchis decision to move its headquarters to China also comes as regulators in the country are relaxing rules that govern the use of self-driving cars. This month, Beijing became the first Chinese city to allow road tests of autonomous vehicles.

Now that the Beijing municipal authorities have given a green light to testing, a national plan could soon emerge.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in September that it is working on regulations to permit driverless-car companies to conduct tests on public roads.

A source close to the ministry told Caixin that an outline for such rules has been completed, but there was not yet a clear timetable for its completion.

Contact reporter Mo Yelin (yelinmo@caixin.com)
The banking regulator has punished 21 financial institutions over the Guangfa Bank scandal. Above: The headquarters of the China Banking Regulatory Commission in Beijing. Photo: Caixin

Chinas top banking regulator slapped 1.3 billion yuan ($206 million) in fines on 13 financial institutions, ending the year-long China Guangfa Bank drama replete with faked loan-guarantee documents, a 1.1 billion yuan bond default, sanctions against dozens of bank executives and a record-breaking financial penalty.

The 13 institutions violated lending rules by helping China Guangfa Bank to conceal bad assets, the China Banking Regulatory Commission said on Friday. The regulator said it confiscated a total of 661 million yuan in illegal income and handed out same amount of fines, bringing the total sanction to more than 1.3 billion yuan

The violations of these institutions are serious and have caused severe consequences. They must be harshly punished to send a warning to the industry and market, the banking regulator said in the statement posted on its website.

The 13 institutions include the Postal Savings Bank, which was fined 520 million yuan, Hengfeng Bank, which was fined 150 million, and Industrial Banks branch in Qindao and Zhengzhou, which were fined 230 million yuan and 130 million yuan, respectively.

Earlier this month, the banking regulator handed out its biggest financial penalty ever  totaling 722 million yuan ($109 million) to China Guangfa Bank for fabricating guarantee documents on 1 billion yuan worth of bonds that went into default. The bank was also found to have hidden bad assets and operated with lax internal controls that enabled wrongdoing.

With the latest 13 sanctions, the total number of financial agencies punished in the case reached 21. Meanwhile, more than 45 bank executives were punished with financial fines, demotion or bans on being part of the industry.

The 13 institutions provided a total of 10 billion yuan  part of which was in wealth-management funds raised from depositors  to Guangdong province-based electronics manufacturer Cosun Group by channeling the funds through other banks or trust firms to skirt lending rules, Caixin has learned.

A Guangfa branch in Huizhou, Guangdong province, provided guarantee to these loans, most of which were used to repay Cosuns borrowing from Guangfa.

The wrongdoing was exposed when regulators investigated Guangfas role in a default case of 1.1 billion yuan worth bond issued by Cosun. The bonds were sold through an Ant Financial Holdings-backed online wealth-management platform in 2014 to help Cosun repay bank loans. But Cosun failed to pay back the bondholders in December 2016.

After the default, Ant Financial and other institutions requested reimbursement for investors from Zheshang Property and Casualty Insurance Co., which had provided coverage on the bonds. The insurer said the bonds were guaranteed by Guangfa and Cosun Group Chairman Wu Ruilin. It said it had only provided coverage on the bonds based on guarantee documents with that promise.

However, Guangfa said the documents  with seals of its Huizhou branch  were fake.

The bank regulator said after an investigation that employees of Guangfas Huizhou branch had colluded with Cosun to fabricate loan-guarantee documents for Cosun to issue bonds and obtain other financing, totaling 12 billion yuan, as the bank tried to conceal its huge amount of non-performing assets and operational losses.

At the time, the bank regulator said the case was severe and its social impact is extremely bad.

On Dec. 22, the banking regulator fined five trust firms, including Ping An Trust Co., LuJiaZui International Trust Corp. and Shanghai International Trust Corp. for helping banks channel funds to Cosun, violating rules of prudent operation. Shanghai International Trust received the biggest fine of 2 million yuan, the highest fine issued to a trust firm this year.

Two city commercial banks were also fined for illegally channeling funds to Cosun through interbank business.

These institutions used various methods to provide huge loans to a risky company and caused contagion of financial risk among institutions, the banking regulator said on Dec. 22.

The banking regulator said Friday the 13 institutions as fund providers failed to meet business compliance requirements and to conduct thorough due diligence. They also blindly expanded business without necessary risk management and efforts to know their clients.

Contact reporter Han Wei (weihan@caixin.com)
A video posted by Twitter user @ShannonMcKenney shows treacherous conditions on Highway 1 just outside Hope, B.C.

According to Environment Canada, the brunt of this winter storm is expected to hit the Okanagan overnight. A snowfall warning remains in effect for the south, central and north Okanagan.

As much as 25 centimetres could accumulate by morning. Travellers using the major highways in and out of the Okanagan are being urged to use extreme caution and drive for the conditions. The province issued a travel advisory for the mountain passes.

In an email to Castanet, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure stated that it is taking extra precautions during this extreme winter weather.

"The safety of our highways is the ministrys number one priority ... with crews being on shift 24 hours per day."

The e-mail went on to state: "The main highways are the first priority, followed by secondary routes  school bus and main collectors.

The ministrys contractor in the Vernon area, JPW, will be out with all available equipment, including snowplows and graders, to respond to changing weather conditions.

A travel advisory is in effect for the main highways in and out of the Okanagan due to heavy snowfall and wind.
If you have just started your journey in an online casino or are looking for a new site to play,...
NBC Issues Hugging Guidelines for Employees and How Christian Ethics Could Help Them NBC is going the way of sexual prudery  or perhaps the way of wisdom?

It is fitting that 2017, a year of the unexpected, ends with more unexpected news. In an attempt to crack down on sexual harassment on the job, NBC has reportedly issued strict new guidelines which call for employees to rat out the miscreants in their midst. Not only so, but NBC has allegedly banned shared taxi rides for employees and even issued instructions on how to hug. Yes, NBC is going the way of sexual prudery  or perhaps the way of wisdom?

As reported on Page Six, "NBC employees have been ordered to report any inappropriate relationships in the workplace  and if they fail to do so, they could be fired for covering up for colleagues.

"Detailed rules also have been issued about conduct in the office, including how to socialize and even how to hug colleagues."

What about romantic relationships in the workplace? Not anymore. There is zero tolerance for this.

"Staffers have been told that if they find out about any affairs, romances, inappropriate relationships or behavior in the office, they have to report it to human resources, their superior or the company anti-harassment phone line. Staffers are shocked that they are now expected to snitch on their friends."

Is NBC overreacting? Perhaps. But the reaction is understandable. The allegations against NBC's Matt Lauer do not stand alone. Others either enabled Lauer to commit his alleged offenses over a period of years or simply looked the other way. So, it is not just Lauer with lots of egg on his face. Many others at NBC are not looking too good.

Not only so, but Jeff Zucker, a former NBC executive who claimed to be unaware of Lauer's actions, participated in a 2008 roast of Lauer which contained lots of sexually explicit humor  at Lauer's expense, with him as the subject. In other words, his behavior was apparently well-known, even to Zucker, who told his own bawdy jokes about Lauer.

Of course, only NBC knows what it does and doesn't know, but many people have been badly hurt, the great majority of them women, and it would only seem logical that the company would be facing its share of major lawsuits in the coming days. They certainly don't want more of these.

So, it's good that NBC wants to clean house and reverse the culture of abuse that was able to thrive in its midst (at least, in some places and with some people). But has NBC gone overboard? To quote from Page Six again, "there's been a series of ridiculous rules issued on other office conduct. One rule relates to hugging. If you wish to hug a colleague, you have to do a quick hug, then an immediate release, and step away to avoid body contact."

Hugging guidelines, to be strictly enforced, for adults in the workplace?

Had a major church or ministry issued such guidelines earlier this year, the general public would have mocked such prudery, calling it legalistic bondage. But this is NBC. Who saw this coming one year ago?

And this is where conservative Christians can only shake their heads and smile. What NBC needs is not simply guidelines and rules. NBC needs to promote a culture of honor rather than a culture of domination, a culture that respects members of the opposite sex rather than objectifies and abuses them. With that culture in place, you don't need to mandate the reporting of workplace abuse because it is so rare as to stand out on its own. And when it does raise its ugly head, people won't need to be told to report it. They will do so as a matter of conscience.

That's why it was Harvey Weinstein, not Mike Pence, who was exposed for years of alleged abusive acts against women. Pence already had guidelines in place as a committed evangelical Christian, because of which there was not a ready environment for him to transgress. And he didn't build relationships with the opposite sex in a way that would open the door to such transgressions.

That's also why, in the circles in which I have traveled for years, we don't need to issue hugging guidelines. They come naturally to us out of respect for the differences between the sexes and the danger of certain kinds of physical contact.

So, while the watching world might mock us for our "side hugs" and our purity guidelines, it turns out we weren't so crazy after all. And inevitably, when we hear of someone falling in our midst  we certainly have more than our share of failures to deal with  it's because our common-sense guidelines were violated, probably repeatedly.

And followers of Jesus also know this. We may be mocked today but we'll be admired tomorrow. That's not because we're special, but because God's ways are ways of life and God's ways are best. And while it's good that NBC is addressing a very real problem in its midst, the solution goes beyond rules. A change in culture and mentality is even better.

In fact, I know someone could teach them a lot. He's just quite busy these days serving as Vice President.
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
The UK's Archbishop Angaelos, Egypt's Muslim leader and more join in condemning Egypt church terror attack

Egypt's Muslim leader has condemned the church terror attack in which ten died.

Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayyeb, warned that such attacks threatened national unity in Egypt. He called on all Muslims to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ "with their Christian brothers".

He spoke out after two terrorists opened fire, killing ten including three police officers, on the church of Mar Mina in Helwan district in south Cairo.

"I call on all Egyptians to confront this malignant plot against our nation and to emphasize on such spirit through the participation of Muslims in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ with their Christian brothers," he said, according to Egypt Today.

The church had been under intense police guard, like all churches throughout the country, due to the many lethal attacks over recent years at Christmas.

It was due to the exceptional security measures that more lives were not lost and the entire church blown up.

One source told Christian Today that although one of the attackers was a suicide bomber and wearing an explosive belt, he was not able to use it due to the hard security measures that was around the church, and the quick reaction of the security forces who were protecting the church from all sides and closing all the streets around every church in Egypt.

Archbishop Angaelos of the Coptic Church in the UK said: "This should be a time at which individuals and families are preparing to receive a New Year, and in the case of Coptic Orthodox Christians, to celebrate the Feast of the Nativity (Christmas) on the 7 January according to the ancient Julian Calendar. I am saddened however that we find ourselves once again mourning the loss of the precious lives of innocent children, women and men who did no more than attend their local parish to pray as millions do around the world.

"Yesterday's attack on the Church of St Mina in Helwan, on the outskirts of Cairo, indeed directly targeted the indigenous Christian community of Egypt, but alongside the Christians who lost their lives, there was at least one Muslim member of the security services who paid the ultimate price to protect his fellow Egyptian citizens exercising their right to worship.

"Even at this painful time, the Christians of Egypt, who have mourned over 120 members in the past year as a result of targeted attacks on Churches and individuals, continue to do what they have done for centuries; they are resilient, forgiving, hopeful, and praying for Egypt, and its leadership, during this trying time of its contemporary history.

"I hope that the extraordinary reaction of this faithful community that I am honoured to call my own might transform the hearts of those who continue to seek its destruction."

Earlier this month, Egypt's Religious Endowments Minister Mokhtar Gomaa stated that the protection of churches is "a legitimate and national duty" that and those who died in the defense of the church are martyrs.

Egypt's President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi also offered condolences to the Egyptian families of those killed, ordering the state institutions to take all necessary actions regarding the families of the "martyrs" and the injured. He said it had increased the determination of Egypt's government and security forces to cleanse to the country of terrorism and extremism.

Father Hani Bakhoum, Patriarchal Vicar of the Coptic Catholic Church, condemned the incident, stating: This terrorist attack will not dampen our festive spirit."

In a statement put out through its own news agency, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.
'Mom' season 5 episode 9 spoilers: Bonnie gets offended when brother calls Adam

In the next episode of "Mom," Bonnie (Allison Janney) gets offended when her brother calls Adam (David Fichtner) instead of her when he gets arrested.

The synopsis and promotional photos for the upcoming installment, which is titled "Teenage Vampires and a White Russian," were just released recently, and they show Bonnie confronting her sibling Ray (Leonard Roberts) at the front of her house.

Apparently, when Ray got arrested by the police, he rather chose Bonnie's boyfriend Adam to get him out of jail. Now, Bonnie seems to be a bit disappointed because she always thought that they were very close and that they could rely on each other. However, now it appears that Ray has hurt that sibling bond between them. Bonnie is not giving him a welcoming smile and continues to talk to him at the front door. It remains to be seen what reason Ray would have to sneak around Bonnie.

In the meantime, Christy (Anna Faris) gets fired from her job at the restaurant. She appears to be confiding with her mom Bonnie about her sudden bad news. Bonnie is always there to console her daughter, but it is likely not without any hint of sarcasm. She is known to be a bit feisty with the people around her. They go to their support group to vent their problems at them. It remains to be seen if their friends will be able to give them some sound advice.

In the last episode, the ladies in the support group tracked down the culprit who stole personal belongings from them. However, it was the grandson of one of their members. They confronted the grandma who apologized for the theft. She later returned everything that her grandson stole.

"Mom" season 5 episode 9 will hit the airwaves on Thursday, Jan. 4, at 9 p.m. EST on CBS.
Thomas fire update: 92% of the massive wildfire contained; Cal Fire urges people to add fire drills in their resolutions

Firefighters are able to contain 92% of the Thomas Fire across southern California. The California Fire Department is urging people to add fire drills into their New Year's resolution.

The largest wildfire in the sate history of California ignited on Dec.4 and is most likely to last until January 2018. The Thomas fire burned over 281,000 acres of land along the Ventura and Santa Barbara County. According to the latest update of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection or Cal Fire, 92% of the massive fire had been contained, and fire crews are active in monitoring its intensity. Cal Fire so far has not issued anymore Red Flag Warnings in certain areas.

The Cal Fire is working with the federal Burn Area Emergency Response team and California Watershed Emergency Response team to monitor and at the same time conduct assessment on affected areas. Fire personnel are now tending to hotspots to make sure all areas are safe. Everyone is hoping the winds remain light for the firemen to gain the upper hand.

The Fire Department in the Ventura county is in the midst of extinguishing a number of oil seep fires in the Upper Ojai area.

As of Dec. 29, 1,063 structures are destroyed and another 280 damaged. The number of lives lost remains at three, one firefighter, one patrol officer, and a civilian.

Meanwhile, Cal Fire has issued a campaign to encourage people to be familiar with the safety protocols during fire situations and incidents. The department tweeted, "This new year, make a resolution to design and practice exit drills in the home. Being prepared and proactive will ensure that you are ready for any fire or wildfire emergency and can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe."

Cal Fire is also asking the residents to cooperate and to notify the department for any active wildfire.
What makes an aspiring entrepreneur enter an established industry with no prior experience, do something totally different and succeed?

It's a question the founders of Desert Door Texas Sotol, a distillery that recently opened its doors in Driftwood, Texas, are striving to answer. Although they'd never met prior to 2014, co-founders Brent Looby, Judson Kauffman, and Ryan Campbell came together to build a brand in a hotly competitive industry.

Desert Door claims the distinction of being the only U.S. distiller of sotol, a plant-based liquor that's popular south of the border. Recently, Kauffman told Forbes Magazine that one of Desert Door's aspirations is to make sotol into "what boubon is to Kentucky."

It's certainly a good time to be in the market for distilled spirits, which grew by 4.5 percent last year to over $25 billion, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Premium brands  like the one Desert Door is trying to break into  are flying off the shelves, and accounted for more than 30 percent of all spirit sales in 2016.

In 2016, Desert Door's founders drafted a charter, and quickly identified key components of the brand personality, even down to the bottle's design. Its deep azure blue and golden logo are meant to evoke the sunset of the Texas desert.

The name "Desert Door" came to them when they tasted their initial batch of homemade sotol, which is often confused with tequila. Sotol is unfamiliar to most Americans, and that's something Looby, Kauffman, and Campbell aim to change. The spirit is a distilled from Dasylirion texanum, a flowering plant often called a "desert spoon" because of the distinctive shape of its leaves.

"When you drink Desert Door Texas Sotol, you're stepping through a doorway into a place with a rich and rugged history, and we thought it was important to express that in the name," Looby told CNBC in a recent interview. "We were struck by how much it actually tasted like the Texas desert.  It was a transportive experience."
Defense Secretary James Mattis told reporters Friday that ISIS in 2018 will be seen as a "brand" for terrorists but insisted the group has lost its luster and still needs to be hunted down.

Globally, Mattis also said the DoD planned to use conventional forces more for some missions previously done by special operations teams. Special forces have increasingly been used by Washington for counter-terrorism operations in Africa and elsewhere, and the number of casualties has been growing too.

"I anticipate more general purpose forces being used for some of the missions," he said. "In the past, we used only special forces to do it. The general purpose forces can do a lot of the kind of work that you see going on and, in fact, are now."

At the same time, Mattis said U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria would shift their focus in 2018 from largely offensive missions to a stabilizing role that supports rebuilding in the war-torn region.

The secretary's remarks underscore that the Trump administration has no immediate plans to remove U.S. troops from Syria despite pressure from the Russians to do just that.

"We sit here today at the end of 2017, the caliphate is on the run, we're breaking them," said Mattis.

The U.S.-led coalition reported Friday that, from Dec. 22 to Thursday, it had conducted 46 strikes against ISIS militants in Iraq and Syria. They included the coalition attacks Wednesday in Syria that destroyed ISIS vehicles, weapons as well as communications and logistics facilities and strikes this week in Iraq that destroyed ISIS caves, tunnels and other shelters.

Mattis conceded some terrorists escaped Raqqa  the Islamic State's self-declared capital  after the city was liberated this year and are now being hunted down.

"Some people escaped," said the retired four-star Marine Corps general. "That's what happens in war. They moved, clearly, into the Middle Euphrates River Valley. We are in the process of crushing the life out of the caliphate there, while trying to keep the innocent people safe, which is very hard with this group."

Even so, fewer than 1,000 fighters from the Islamic State are believed to still be in Iraq and Syria, well below the roughly 3,000 estimated about three weeks ago, Reuters reported this week.

Mattis also was asked about the threats ISIS poses in 2018 across the globe and called it "a brand threat, I think, more than anything else, that can inspire lone-wolf attacks. It can inspire other groups."

Yet he said that "brand" now has "a diminishing appeal. It's less inspirational when they've lost their physical caliphate. It's less inspirational, as the stories of what it was like living under their rule come out."

Back in 2016, Islamic State ended the year with about 23,320 square miles of territory, according to IHS Janes estimates. Today, that number is believed to be below 2,000 square miles, according to military estimates.

Nonetheless, ISIS still poses a threat as it can continue to use social media to recruit followers that want to do harm, according to Mattis.

"The appeal is still there for people who are attracted to the sort of thing they stand for," he said.

The U.S. is still believed to have around 2,000 troops in Syria.

Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month announced plans to withdraw 'significant" troops from Syria, although indicated Moscow would keep bases it has in the country.

Meantime, the Russians have put pressure on the U.S. to withdraw its forces from Syria, claiming ISIS is defeated and American presence not needed.

Yet Mattis gave no indication that U.S. troops would leave any time soon.

Rather, he said U.S. forces in the region would shift their focus in 2018 from a largely offensive terrain-seizing approach to one of a stabilizing role as the military supports rebuilding and diplomatic efforts. That followed Mattis' remarking last month that there was a need to keep forces in the region to avoid an "ISIS 2.0."

"What we will be doing is shifting from what I would call an offensive, shifting from an offensive terrain-seizing approach to a stabilizing ... you'll see more U.S. diplomats on the ground," Mattis said.

One of the support roles is clearing areas retaken from ISIS of booby traps and other explosives, according to Mattis. "Just clearing these areas of IEDs is an enormous undertaking," he said. "So we're going to be training people how you clear IEDs. You don't want amateurs doing this thing. It's terribly dangerous because of the way they've constructed them and where they put them."

As for diplomats, Mattis explained that they would also help with the "initial restoration of services [since] they bring in the contractors, that sort of thing."

Mattis also said there was a need in cities and towns that were retaken from ISIS to look after essential needs, such as helping local authorities get water treatment facilities back up to prevent cholera. Other efforts include reopening schools.

"We've got a lot of money coming from international donors for this" he said. "The longer term recovery is going to take a lot of effort and a lot of years after what they did, because they forcibly kept innocent people in the midst of the combat zone, and that meant the residential areas took damage, the public areas  everything took damage. Schools were damaged."

Reuters contributed to this report.
There seems to be nothing that can convince Dennis Gartman to turn bullish on bitcoin.

Despite tanking this month, bitcoin has still soared over 1,400 percent this year. But Thursday on CNBC's "Futures Now," The Gartman Letter editor and publisher reiterated his skepticism on bitcoin's meteoric rise, a view he has held for the past few months.

"I'm very bearish on bitcoin, I think it's one of the silliest ideas I've heard in a long time," he said. "To be separated from the brilliance of the block chain, [makes even] tulips in [17th] century Holland look almost like a quiet, well-demeanored market," Gartman said, using a frequently invoked analogy of the boom in tulip prices that sent the Dutch into a frenzy nearly 400 years ago.

After reaching spectacular heights, tulip prices eventually tumbled sharply. The phenomenon has since become synonymous with bubble markets like 90s dotcom stocks, and housing prices prior to the 2008 financial crisis.

Gartman told CNBC that bitcoin will not only burn all those involved with it, but once it does there will be a rush into gold .

"When bitcoin falls, and it shall, it'll trade under $5,000," he said. "Whether it does it next week, next year, six months from now, it'll happen. And then I think we'll find at the margin money that had moved into bitcoin and away from gold will move away from bitcoin and into gold."

Bitcoin has tumbled 6 percent this week, the latest plunge due to South Korea's possible actions to crack down on the cryptocurrency.
The president of the United States is not well. That is an uncomfortable thing to say, but it is an even worse thing to ignore.

Consider the interview Trump gave to the New York Times on Thursday. It begins with a string of falsehoods that make it difficult to tell whether the leader of the free world is lying or delusional. Remember, these are President Donald Trump's words, after being told a recording device is on:

Virtually every Democrat has said there is no collusion. There is no collusion. And even these committees that have been set up. If you look at what's going on  and in fact, what it's done is, it's really angered the base and made the base stronger. My base is stronger than it's ever been. Great congressmen, in particular, some of the congressmen have been unbelievable in pointing out what a witch hunt the whole thing is. So, I think it's been proven that there is no collusion.

It almost goes without saying that literally zero congressional Democrats have said that there was no collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign during the 2016 election. Zero.

More from Vox:

Trump's strategy for dealing with North Korea is in shambles

5 things to know about Puerto Rico 100 days after Hurricane Maria

Is Amazon really ripping off the US Postal Service?

What key Democrats are actually saying is closer to the opposite. On December 20, for instance, Sen. Mark Warner, the vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee and thus the Senate Democrat leading the investigation into collusion, said, "despite the initial denials of any Russian contacts during the election, this Committee's efforts have helped uncover numerous and troubling high-level engagements between the Trump campaign and Russian affiliates  many of which have only been revealed in recent months."

Nor is Trump's base strengthening, or even holding steady. In a detailed analysis of Trump's poll numbers, FiveThirtyEight's Harry Enten concluded that the president is losing the most ground in the reddest states:

In states where Trump won by at least 10 points, his net approval rating is down 18 percentage points, on average, compared to his margin last November. In states that were decided by 10 points or less in November, it's down only 13 points. And it's down 8 points in states Clinton carried by at least 10 points. The fact that Trump has lost the greatest number of supporters in red states is perhaps the clearest indication yet that he is losing ground among some form of his base, if you think of his base as those who voted for him in November.

CNN took a different angle on the same question and also found slippage among Trump's base. It looked at the change in Trump's approval ratings from February to November among the demographic groups that formed the core of Trump's electoral coalition  in every group, there'd been substantial declines. Trump's numbers have fallen by 8 points among Republicans, by 9 points among voters over 50, by 10 points among whites with no college, by 17 points among white evangelicals. "It has become increasingly clear that even his base is not immune to the downward pressure," CNN concluded.

As for Trump's contention that "it's been proven that there is no collusion," it's hard to even know how to begin responding to that. In recent months, Trump's former campaign manager and national security adviser have both been charged with crimes by Robert Mueller, and the investigation is not just ongoing but apparently widening in its scope and ferocity. Yet here is Trump's take:

I saw Dianne Feinstein the other day on television saying there is no collusion. She's the head of the committee. The Republicans, in terms of the House committees, they come out, they're so angry because there is no collusion. So, I actually think that it's turning out  I actually think it's turning to the Democrats because there was collusion on behalf of the Democrats. There was collusion with the Russians and the Democrats. A lot of collusion.

Sen. Feinstein has not said that she, or any of the ongoing investigations, has concluded that there was no collusion. What she has said is that investigators believe Trump may have obstructed justice in his efforts to derail inquiries into collusion:

The [Senate] Judiciary Committee has an investigation going as well and it involves obstruction of justice and I think what we're beginning to see is the putting together of a case of obstruction of justice.

It speaks to Trump's habits of mind, to the sycophantic sources from which he prefers to get his news, that he heard something Feinstein said and has come to believe she has absolved him  yet misses the actual thing she said that threatens him.

It would be comforting, on some level, to believe that Trump is simply lying, that he is trying to convince us of what he knows to be untrue. It is scarier to believe that Trump is delusional, that he has persuaded himself that Democrats have said things they've never said, that his base has strengthened when it has actually weakened, that it's really his opponents under investigation for collusion, that his campaign has been cleared of wrongdoing when the circumstantial case for collusion has only grown stronger.

But that is far from the end of the interview.
The FDA's new commissioner Scott Gottlieb has been described as a "bright spot" in the current administration. He's made allies in Big Pharma and the technology sector by ushering along a variety of programs to reduce the cost and complexity of bringing new medical products to market.

Gottlieb is a former venture capitalist, a doctor and a cancer survivor. Some of his major goals for his time in office are to speed up the approvals process, drive down the cost of prescription drugs and do what he can to address the opiate crisis.

We caught up with Gottlieb earlier this month to talk digital health, cybersecurity and more. This interview has been edited for brevity.

CNBC: Let's jump in by talking about the digital medicine trend, which some view as the future of the health sector. How would you regulate it?

Scott Gottlieb: The industry has defined the term digital health in different ways. I think of it as software applications, mostly digital tools and medical apps. From a regulatory perspective, we are trying to take a risk-based approach. Some of these products are low risk and we'll think differently about them (than medical devices) and take some out of pre-market review process. We see a lot of tools out there that are enabling consumers to engage more with their wellness and we want to give them access to their health information, without getting overly concerned if it's partially predictive (of a medical condition). That's what we're trying to do with our pre-cert program.

CNBC: Speaking of the pre-cert program, which aims to provide a TSA pre-check of sorts for digital health software, some of the largest technology companies were selected for that including Apple and Samsung . How's it progressing?

SG: It's a highly iterative process. We know that a lot of these apps will get constant software updates and our traditional approach to regulating medical products isn't well suited to that. We know we need to think differently so that's how we came up with this approach. It's progressing well, and we're hoping to use it as a broader platform for how we regulate. But we're taking our time to make sure it works.

CNBC: How involved have you been in Apple's heart study, which involves researching whether the Apple Watch can detect irregularities with the heart's rhythm?

SG: I don't want to talk about any specific product, but I think that and similar concepts are examples of where a tool is engaging people in their health and prompting them to think about activity more. It could also clinically provide benefits if the companies follow certain guidelines. People who are engaged more in thinking about their health will make healthful decisions, I think. Just the act of being engaged is a public health benefit.

CNBC: Are you surprised that big tech companies like Apple and Alphabet are now making such big moves into health?

SG: Frankly, I think health is such a big opportunity that I'm surprised it took them so long to take a concerted interest in it. If you think about where people allocate resources and tend to spend time thinking about getting access to information and making decisions and purchasing consumer products to meet goals, it's a big market. I'm pleased to see the interest and see a big, untapped opportunity for more consumer facing tools.
watch now

On New Year's Day, the sale of marijuana for recreational became legal in California, the country's most populous state. What does that mean for air travelers who try to bring small amounts of marijuana with them? That is a conundrum for the state's airports, which are locally owned and operated but are subject to federal law, under which marijuana is an illegal substance. Areas beyond security checkpoints are under federal control. "It's going to be a very gray area," said officer Rob Pedregon, a spokesman for the police force at Los Angeles International Airport, the nation's second busiest airport. "We're still in the state of California," he said. "Open that [airplane] door on the other end" and passengers are subject to a whole different set of local laws. The Transportation Security Administration, the federal agency in charge of screening passengers, isn't specifically looking for drugs that are illegal under federal law, a spokesman said. Agents are on the lookout for weapons and explosives, however. But if TSA agents do spot pot in traveler bags, "law enforcement takes it from there and TSA has nothing to do with happens after," said TSA spokesman Mike England.

What happens? Nothing ... probably

"We're really not in a place to do anything," said Sgt. Ray Kelly of the sheriff's office in Alameda County, California, where Oakland International Airport is located. Travelers may be asked to dispose of their weed or edibles, if they are detected, before passing through security, but under the California law individuals can have less than an ounce of marijuana on them. "If the TSA says we don't want it [to get into the airport], we would have to intervene," Kelly said, adding that the county's law enforcement is more concerned by children who may accidentally eat marijuana candy or drivers who are impaired from marijuana use. Kelly said that procedures won't be too different under the new law because the state, like more than two dozen others, had already legalized medical marijuana. Other airports in states where marijuana's recreational use is legal have taken steps to allow travelers to ditch their stash before boarding. Colorado Springs, Colorado, for example, has an "amnesty box" where fliers can throw their weed away before passing through security. Pot is banned from Denver International Airport and officials ask passengers to throw their stash in a trash can, said spokesman Heath Montgomery. He said others don't try to retrieve it. "People don't go digging through the trash at an airport," he said. "It looks suspicious."

Can passengers board under the influence?

Before travelers consider giving new meaning to "red-eye flight," note that airlines reserve the right to turn passengers away if they appear intoxicated, just as they do if they are acting violently, yelling, or appear ill. "We're not going to let a passenger who's not fit to fly on an aircraft," said American Airlines spokesman Ross Feinstein. Smoking pot in an airport is prohibited as smoking in general is banned there. Smoking on planes in the U.S. has been banned for nearly two decades.

International travelers, beware
Types of obituaries

The Missourian publishes two types of obituaries  family obituaries and life stories.

A family obituary is the version submitted by a funeral home or family. Please see the submission form for details on cost and deadlines. Family obituaries

A life story is a closer look at a person's life and involves a reporter contacting family and friends. Life stories are based on newsworthiness and consent of the family. Life stories.
Human Rights and Political Wrongs: A new approach to Human Rights law by Noel Malcolm

This book will annoy those most in need of its insights so greatly they will try to avoid reading it. For Noel Malcolm demonstrates that the whole edifice of human rights rests on no coherent philosophy.

It is a house without foundations. The assumption of moral superiority by its practitioners cannot be traced to a superior moral system, one which demonstrates that simply by virtue of being human, we possess, and always have possessed, the rights codified in 1945 by the United Nations in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Malcolms work is so powerful because he does not make this claim simply on his own authority. He has examined the extensive literature of human rights, most of which is composed by firm adherents to that system of belief, and finds that they too admit, in the words of Louis Henkin, one of the great American scholars: The justification of human rights is rhetorical, not philosophical.

Or as Jack Donnelly, author of one of the standard textbooks, puts it:

How does being human give rise to rights? To answer this question we need a theory of human nature Unfortunately, no philosophical theory of human nature has widespread acceptance. Furthermore, many moral theories, and their underlying theories of human nature, deny human rights In what follows I assume that there are human rights; that is, that we have accepted some sort of philosophical defence for the existence of human rights. This theoretical evasion is justified by the fact that almost all states acknowledge the existence of human rights.

Believers in human rights will at once retort that other doctrines may be just as contentious. Malcolm hastens to agree with them on that point:

It is of course the case that many very important issues  in morality, religion etc  are subject to general disagreement. It would be foolish to suppose that all true theories must be universally agreed, or for that matter that all universally agreed ones must be true; neither supposition is made here. But the lack of even elementary agreement on this topic is nevertheless troubling, for a particular reason. Human rights are presented as taking priority over ordinary law and democratic policy-making, not merely because our government happens to have signed a convention to that effect, but because it is thought that they are of such overriding importance, on an objective scale of values, that even democratic legitimacy should give way to them. That is a huge claim.

It is not possible, in the course of a short review, to do justice to every element in Malcolms analysis. For that, it is necessary to read his 143 pages, which can be found here online.

Those who wish to opine on the vexed question of whether prisoners should be allowed to vote  an issue which has set the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg at odds with the British Government and British public opinion  will find on pages 13 to 17 a masterly account by Malcolm of the flaws in the Courts arguments.

In Italy, he points out, those who have been imprisoned for more than five years are normally barred for the rest of their lives from voting or standing for office  a ban which looks like a far more serious infringement of human rights than the UKs prohibition on voting for the duration of a prisoners sentence.

But the Italian system is permitted because it includes some gradations of severity, which satisfy the Courts requirement of proportionality. In practice, the Court is continually obliged (as courts usually are) to balance different factors, many of which are a matter of opinion rather than of objective truth.

The judges in Strasbourg are not simply promulgating immutable principles with which no reasonable person would disagree. They have to work out what to do when those principles conflict with each other.

And most of the articles in the European Convention on Human Rights, which was drawn up by the Council of Europe in 1950, contains two elements: first the principle and then the limitations to that principle. Malcolm cites Article 8, which says:

1. Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, his home and his correspondence. 2. There shall be no interference by a public authority with the exercise of this right except such as is in accordance with the law and is necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national security, public safety or the economic well-being of the country, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

It is hard to avoid wondering, as one reads that list of limitations, whether the European Convention on Human Rights is quite such an admirable document as its supporters assume. The Convention gives, and in the next sentence it takes away.

The scope for judicial interpretation is enormous, so is the temptation for governments to plead reasons of state, and so is the risk that the Court will assume greater and greater power over difficult matters where democratic legislatures might quite reasonably reach different conclusions from each other.

How does one balance different interests against each other in order to achieve the desired proportionality? Malcolm observes that after an exhaustive study of Strasbourg case-law, Sebastian van Drooghenbroeck has concluded that although the doctrine of proportionality has the outward appearance of objectivity and universality, in practice it turns out to be fluidor even, to be honest, gaseous.

In the original French, this sounds worse: fluidevoire meme franchement gaseuse.

But Malcolm takes care to acknowledge contrary views. So he gives us this contention by Conor Gearty, Professor of Human Rights Law at the London School of Economics:

Courts deal in fact and data. Their weapon is reason Politicians in contrast deal in the carelessly thrown together passing truths of the moment. Their careers depend on the sum of these producing a positive reaction in a polling booth every five years or so Solid argument is their enemy.

Later on, Malcolm quotes Gearty saying (as it came into force in 2001) that the Human Rights Act neither is nor should become a substitute for politics  a sensible view, but one often overlooked by human rights lawyers who imagine themselves to be in possession of superior wisdom to mere politicians.

A new branch of the legal profession imbued with an insufferably conceited idea of its importance has grown up. As individuals, these human rights lawyers may be delightful. But their collective tendency is to think of themselves as being above anything so careless and transient as democratic politics.

One trusts that in about six months time, a magisterial response to Malcolm by Gearty, or some other eminent authority on human rights, will appear in the London Review of Books. For public opinion is by now so sceptical about or even hostile towards human rights that this debate can no longer be ducked.

But meanwhile it should be emphasised that Malcolms work is by no means entirely destructive. Towards the end of his analysis, he points out that human rights belong, fundamentally, not to moral philosophy but to political theory.

Human rights, he observes, are invoked by citizens against the state. The states legitimacy (a political rather than a philosophical concept) derives from treating its citizens properly: it must not lock them up, torture them, deprive them of freedom of speech etc.

Human rights are a modern invention because they are an essential feature of liberal democracies. They should properly be called fundamental political rights. A violation of one persons human rights affects every member of a society, for it breaks the implicit contract between the ruler and the ruled.

So many difficulties fall away when one realises this. The doctrine of human rights was developed in the 1940s as a response to fascism and communism, both of which posed mortal threats to democracy.

In this battle to defend free government against tyranny, moral authority was required, and universal language was apposite.

Malcolm describes this political approach to human rights as new, but with characteristic modesty adds that this claim may reflect only ignorance on my part.

In a sense, he is restoring an understanding of human rights which used to be widespread, but which somehow got smothered by the grandiose moral claims made for the subject.

He quotes Pierre-Henri Teitgen, a leading French participant in the creation of the European Convention, who submitted his first full report on the work of the drafters in September 1949:

The Committee unanimously agreed that for the moment only those essential rights and fundamental liberties could be guaranteed which are, today, defined and accepted after long usage, by the democratic regimes. These rights and liberties are the common denominator of our political institutions, the first triumph of democracy, but also the necessary condition under which it operates. That is why they must be the subject of a collective guarantee.

Only those essential rights and liberties. Here is a phrase which had it been adhered to in perpetuity, instead of for the moment, would have prevented the Court from developing (in Malcolms words) questionable doctrines to enable the generation of rights at an ever greater level of detail.

The wider public has noticed the Court is taking power away from national parliaments, and is becoming an enemy of the democracy it was supposed to uphold.

But when one makes this point to human rights lawyers, they react with fury, and instead of engaging with the argument, accuse one of being a friend of tyranny.

From a literary point of view, one might wish that Malcolm was a more ostentatious writer, willing for comic or satirical effect to mock the grand panjandrums of human rights. He does not play to the gallery by holding up to public ridicule their self-deceiving claims to moral certainty and moral greatness.

His book may, however, have a greater (albeit slower) effect by being written with such restraint. This scholar is profoundly worried about what is going on, or he would not have taken the trouble to write his book.

A subdued vein of passion runs through his work. But he cannot be dismissed as some vulgar denizen of Grub Street who hurls abuse without any deeper understanding of the issues at stake. He fights with the same weapons as his opponents.

Malcolm says that with regret, he sees no alternative to leaving the European Convention, whereupon it will become important to set up a Bill or Charter of Human Rights for the UK.

He knows this proposal will be branded as nationalistic, or even (absurdly) as anti-human rights, but points out that it would make the UK no more nationalistic than, say, Canada  a responsible democracy which runs its own human rights regime.

When Edward Gibbon was wondering what career to pursue, his stepmother exhorted him to take chambers in the Temple and devote himself to the study of the law. But as the great historian remarks in his Autobiography,

I cannot repent of having neglected her advice. Few men, without the spur of necessity, have resolution to force their way through the thorns and thickets of that gloomy labyrinth.

Malcolm has on our behalf forced his way through the thorns and thickets of human rights doctrine. He presents a calm and lucid account of an over-mighty and intrusive Court which has become a threat to democracy. He deserves a calm and lucid reply.
Congratulations to Kemi Badenoch, the new MP for Saffron Walden, who triumphed in the race to be named Conservative to Watch in this years ConservativeHome awards, fighting off strong competition to triumph on 30.7 per cent of the vote. She impressed the Saffron Walden association during the General Election with what Im told was a truly barnstorming selection speech, and went on to win plaudits for her maiden speech in the Commons and her performance at Conservative Party Conference.

Its fair to say that not all of the 978 Conservative Party member respondents to this question quite got the hint from our shortlist of MPs drawn from the 2015 and 2017 generations that this is an award for new and rising stars in the Party. Thats why the write-in Other category included quite a lot of nominations for some parliamentarians who, while no doubt much-watched, arent really eligible for the category (the very much established names of Liam Fox, Gavin Williamson, John Redwood, Sir Edward Leigh and, inevitably, Jacob Rees-Mogg all featured).

Honourable mentions should go, however, to Johnny Mercer and James Cleverly, both relatively new MPs, and therefore eligible entrants for Conservative to Watch, who did well among the write-ins having not quite made the official shortlist.
One of ConservativeHomes leitmotifs is that our media colleagues, like us, are not well set up to probe Britains EU interlocutors. Newspapers have slashed their foreign budgets. Foreign affairs specialists get less space. The rise of the English language seems to march in step with a lack of curiosity about our common continent. Why, even the Guardian, that flagship of Remainerism, is expanding ambitiouslyin America. Were the close-knit cultural ties of the Anglosphere ever more aptly proved? Brussels correspondents tend not to bite the hand that feeds them  with some notable exceptions  while lobby journalists will snap Ministers arms off given a quarter of a chance. British MPs pronouncement are probed and ridiculed; Commissioners scarcely even examined.

For these reasons and others, the media, Parliamentarians, Ministers and, above all, voters had very little idea at all of how the European Commission, in the public form of Jean-Claude Juncker and Michel Barnier, would respond to the breakdown of the Brexit negotiations last Monday.

One theory doing the rounds in the absence of hard information was that Barnier was itching to tell the European Council that sufficient progress had not been made. This news would sink the pound, panic the markets, spook investors, provoke banks into relocating jobs, and whip up hardline Remainers into a gibbering frenzy. Theresa May, stuck between wanting to progress the negotiations and being unable to do so, would fall. A general election might be avoided, but a new Prime Minister would take over. It would either be Mr Boris Gove, who would opt for the WTO route, or Ms Amber Hammond, who would go for the EEA one, or perhaps seek to cancel Brexit altogether. Either way, the Conservatives would probably split, and a poll become inevitable, in a disaster that would out-Suez Suez.

Some Ministers are sceptical of claims that a declaration for WTO would spook the markets; they say that the crucial element is whether the Government can persuade them that its prepared for it. But whatever the truth may be, there was no sign whatsoever yesterday that the Commission has the slightest interest in collapsing the Government  let alone in reversing Brexit.

Perhaps the reason is that they want that 39 billion or so. Perhaps they dont fancy Jeremy Corbyn as Prime Minister at all  and Boris Johnson in the post even less. Perhaps they are not as deaf to the concerns of those German car-makers and French wine-exporters as some claim. Perhaps they are sensitive to the devastating effect that no deal would have on Irish farmers. Perhaps, above all, they have enough turbulence within the EU to cope with as it is. Poland is refusing migrant quotas. So is Hungary. So is the Czech Republic. A disorderly Brexit on the EUs north-west doorstep would be an unwelcome distraction. Perhaps it is all these reasons rolled together. Better to move to the next stage (and the next row).

One view will be that the Commission was happy to do so because it got everything it wanted . A weird alliance of Remain fanatics, Irish patriots, Labour politicians and UKIP leftovers say so. But it does not follow that because Ministers mess up on a lot of things, they mess up on everything, including this entire negotiation.

Yes, the EU will get that 39 billion  but not the 60 billion it briefed out to some papers, let alone the 100 billion it cited to the Financial Times. Yes, the ECJ will have a role for eight years  but at the request of British judges (due regard), and only on EU citizens rights. Yes, there will be full alignment with those rules of the Internal Market and the Customs Union between Northern Ireland and Ireland in Belfast Agreement-related matters. But look at that wording closely. It doesnt say regulatory alignment which, as Gisela Stuart wrote on this site yesterday, is a form of words for rule-takers, at least in the EUs view. It is ambiguous, doubtless deliberately so. The entire section on the UK/Ireland border is a great big steaming pile of fudge.

You can claim that the EU is the clear winner on points; or counter that the UK has dragged it to a standstill. But the one certainty is that sufficient progress has been declared. Ireland wanted the border fully sorted before the green light was given. This hasnt happened, which is hard to square with claims of a triumph for Irish diplomacy.

Above all, a question lingers: if nothing is agreed until everything is agreed, what status does this deal have if talks go belly-up? Different people are giving different answers, but one view high up in the Government is: none. According to this take, the Prime Minister has achieved her aim  namely, to get past the triple hurdle that the EU had erected and into trade talks. This is undoubtedly so. But what will her aims be when they start? Let us suppose that the EU offers a table dhote Canada deal  trade access; no services. Will a British push for a la carte alternative succeed? Or does May prefer a Swiss-style alternative, with closer alignment? Is it really possible, as she suggested in her Florence speech, to pick and choose  and can she take her Cabinet with her, either way?

Perhaps the negotiation from now on will be all sweetness and light. We doubt it. It is far more likely to see the EU push for trade-offs. The closer Britain seeks to be to the Single Market, the easier access for services may be made. The further it tries to be  by restricting EU migration, for example  the harder the EU will seek to respond. As Michael Gove hints in this mornings Daily Telegraph, the Cabinet must finally debate and decide which route it prefers. A few years ago, many Tory Brexiteers would have embraced a Swiss-type settlement. Now, most favour Canada plus, including this site.

Either way, two fundamentals apply. The first is that, as John Longworth writes on ConservativeHome today, transition must be time-limited  and not drag out into a kind of EEA membership-lite. The second is that while the Government must work for the best, it must prepare for the worst. We have long urged that Ministers must be Ready on Day One, deal or no deal. And, yes, a bad one would be worse than none at all. So part of getting a good one, paradoxical as it may seem, is preparing for WTO.
CORNWALL, Ontario  With this winter shaping up to be a cold one, its important to consider the changing needs of our furry friends during extreme conditions.

The OSPCA urges pet owners to protect their animals from the elements by providing dog coats on short-coated breeds, being mindful of salted sidewalks, which can irritate your pets paws. With that in mind, animals should not be outside for extended periods.

If its too cold for you to go outside, its too cold for your pet. Cold weather affects animals, just like it affects people, said Connie Mallory, Chief Inspector, Ontario SPCA. There can be legal consequences if you fail to provide the necessary care for your animals.

Another thing to bear in mind is the near-immediate risk to stray animals. Natalie Rowe of Bee Meadow Farm says that there are several ways people can help provide short-term fostering to animals in the cold.

A really great way to help cats in particular is by repurposing an old cooler and placing straw inside for insulation, said Rowe. Its especially important to use straw because it insulates and doesnt become damp.

Rowe and her husband Gordan Campbell have taken in more animals than they can count over the years, and have saved more than a few from winters icy grips.

Unfortunately, after a certain point, most animals are more susceptible to frostbite, said Rowe. But we count it as a win if we save a life but lose the tip of a tail.

Another way to help your local strays is to put out a heated water bowl so they can remain hydrated. For more information about how cold weather impacts your pets, check out the OSPCAs cold weather safety tips.
Credit unions participating in the fast-growing national (and even international) network of shared branching are ready to provide members with the service they are accustomed to, with the convenience they desire, as if they were at their own credit union. Dont let distance be a deterrent for members to have easy access to their financials.

Shared branching has a host of benefits for your members, as well for the credit union itself. According to the 2017 Retail Banking Trends and Predictions report, 50% of respondents plan to enhance data analytics capabilities to identify member needs in 2018, and 41% plan to investigate ways to reduce operating costs while not impacting member services. Relying on shared branching to reduce operating costs while still providing members with locations and services to match their needs is a critical way that CUs are responding. Here are 10 ways to demonstrate the value of utilizing shared branching to your members:
Pa. Democrats win a wafer-thin majority in the House

Incumbent Rep. Todd Stephens has conceded defeat, giving Democrats enough seats in the Pa. House to win a majority for the first time in a decade
China made another ambitious move in South Asia this week when it hosted the first trilateral meeting with foreign ministers from Pakistan and Afghanistan. Afghan foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani and Pakistan foreign minister Khawaja Asif joined their Chinese counterpart Wang Yi where they reportedly agreed to work together to tackle the threat of terrorism which from Chinas perspective is intricately linked to its Xinjiang province. They also decided to work together on political mutual trust, reconciliation, development cooperation, connectivity, security cooperation and counter-terrorism.

Process

Beijing also gave a push to the Afghanistan peace process which has been in limbo since 2015. Calling on the Taliban to join the peace process, the joint statement from the trilateral meet suggested that a broad-based and inclusive peace and reconciliation process, which is "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and fully supported regionally and internationally, is the most viable solution to end the violence in Afghanistan.

But what is garnering a lot of attention is the suggestion that China and Pakistan will look at extending their $57 billion (Rs 365 crore) China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan with the Chinese foreign minister underlining that China hoped the economic corridor could benefit the whole region and act as an impetus for development.

This trilateral platform makes for an impressive display of Chinas growing global clout in a time of Washingtons seemingly inward-looking orientation. But as with everything Chinese, there are strong geopolitical and practical undercurrents to this venture.

China relies on Afghanistan and Pakistan to help control its restive Xinjiangs border areas where Chinas repression is at an all-time high. Beijing blames exiled Uighur separatist groups such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) of orchestrating attacks in resource-rich Xinjiang and other parts of China.

In response to attacks by Muslim Uighur ethnic minority, China has curbed their religious activities. Some of the draconian measures it has resorted to include banning the use of the Islamic veil by women, clamping down on fasting by civil servants and others, and tightening of state control over the entire province.

Beijings concern remains that Uighur militants would find sanctuaries in Afghanistan and Pakistan and so closer cooperation with and between these two nations is viewed as essential. It is ironical that Pakistan which claims to be the flagbearer of Islamic identity continues to ignore Chinas anti-Islamic policies in Xinjiang.

The trilateral platform is also being used by China to push Pakistan and Afghanistan towards economic cooperation, especially at a time when Chinas economic interest in Pakistan is at an all-time high. China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, as three neighbours, will naturally try to strengthen cooperation amongst each other, Wang Yi said. This is fully in accordance with our common interests, and is a good thing for us.

The decision to try to extend CPEC to Afghanistan is therefore significant. China and Pakistan are willing to look at with Afghanistan, on the basis of win-win, mutually beneficial principles, using an appropriate means to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, Chinas foreign minister underscored.

Pakistans response was more circumspect. The successful implementation of CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) projects will serve as a model for enhancing connectivity and cooperation through similar projects with neighbouring countries, including Afghanistan, Iran and with central and west Asia, Khwaja Asif said.

Reality

Despite the photo-op at the trilateral, the ground reality of Afghan-Pakistan ties remains complicated. Afghanistan continues to blame Pakistan for providing a safe haven for the Taliban, seeking to destabilise the government in Kabul. And there have been no meaningful peace talks so far.

The Afghan officials have repeatedly argued that the leadership councils of the Taliban and the Haqqani terrorist network are based in the key cities of Pakistan from where they plan and coordinate attacks in Afghanistan.

Just last week, US vice-president Mike Pence, while visiting the Bagram Airfield, the largest US military base in Afghanistan, had bluntly warned Pakistan that it could no longer escape the writing on the wall that either act on terror havens on your land or face the wrath of the Trump Administration. For too long Pakistan has provided safe haven to the Taliban and many terrorist organisations, but those days are over as President Trump has put Pakistan on notice, Pence underlined.

Insurgency

The chief executive of the government of National Unity of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah, too had blamed Pakistan last month for its two-faced game which made it possible for the Taliban insurgency to return with vengeance.

During his visit for the India-Afghanistan strategic dialogue recently, Afghan foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani had attacked Pakistan for allowing terror groups to operate from its soil.

Both countries suffer from terrorism and violent extremism that threaten the regions stability. The terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyeba and Jaish-e-Mohammad which have been launching attacks against India and indiscriminately killing civilians of this country are engaged in similar activities along with Taliban, Al Qaeda and Daesh in Afghanistan. Together they are killing our people on Afghanistan and destroying infrastructure, Rabbani had suggested.

Given this reality, it is unlikely that the trust deficit between Afghanistan and Pakistan will reduce in the near future despite Chinese mediation. Moreover, the CPEC story has become more complicated. As the initial euphoria has waned, new realities confront the project with Pakistani domestic debate questioning the lack of transparency, Chinese financing methods and labour policy even as China has continued to tighten its grip over the project to the detriment of Pakistani interests.
In a significant statement issued recently on the ongoing Rohingya crisis, UN special rapporteur Yanghee Lee singled out Russia and China for their alleged failure to prevail upon Myanmar to stop the military crackdown on the Rohingyas. These two countries also came under scathing attack for restraint in criticising Myanmar for thee unending human rights abuses inflicted upon the Rohingyas.

Earlier, in a what appeared to be a belligerent move, Russia had warned many countries against interference in the internal affairs of Myanmar. It is, therefore, clear that China and Russia, two major powers, have their tacit endorsement and carte blanche support to Myanmar's military actions and alleged atrocities perpetrated upon the Rohingyas. It is equally pertinent to state that since 2007, China, backed by Russia, has sabotaged several efforts taken by the Security Council on Myanmar with the veto power.

Also, China's unstinted support helped Myanmar military generals going above the law for decades. This impunity gave them the licence to carry out the killings. It's now perhaps time for China to reassess its strategy so that in future it is not branded as a collaborator to the genocide in Myanmar. Here, if China supports a UN move to refer the Myanmar situation to the International Criminal Court, there will be no dearth of evidence to prosecute the alleged offenders.

Image: Reuters photo

Meanwhile, experts assess, and with cautious pessimism, that Myanmar should not become another Rwanda or Bosnia. Internationally acclaimed jurists, justice Patricia Wald of the US, justice Richard Goldstone of South Africa and Sir Geoffrey Nice of the UK looked worried in the wake of resurfacing of a report called "Crimes in Burma" which was prepared in 2009 by the Law School of the Harvard University. While examining the report, the experts state that UN documents have included a range of human rights violations in Myanmar since long.

The international human rights clinic of the Harvard Law School prepared the report factoring four types of crimes perpetrated in Myanmar: forced displacement of the population, sexual violence, murder and torture and such crimes had been duly reflected at regular intervals from 2014 incorporating abuses upon other ethnic groups specially in Kachin and northern Shan states. The report further added that fleeing villagers destroyed houses, crops and planted land mines in civilian areas.

Subsequently, taking the cue from the Harvard report, in the following year, in a legally analytical report, the Law School of the Yale University documented atrocities unleashed by the Myanmar military against the Rohingyas. It particularly highlighted the excesses of the alleged Buddhist monks' onslaught upon the Rohingya Muslims. The UN investigation team which wanted to go to Myanmar on a fact-finding mission, following the reports of these atrocities, were denied entry. They described the atrocities as "text book example of ethnic cleansing".

As seen from the above elucidation of the Rohingya issue so aptly internationalised by the West, the entire focus of the academia is on the Rohingya-linked developments and it's giving a handle to the US and allies to come down heavily on powers like China and Russia. This looks nothing but sheer politics.

In the meantime, in a disturbing development, Thai intelligence services had started seeing use of Rohingya refugees (now at a monstrous figure reaching 6,40,000 in various Bangladeshi camps) by jihadists. They allege that they are being misused by Islamic insurgents operating in the country's southern provinces. Needless to emphasise that southern Thailand provinces, including Narathiwat, Pattani, Suratthani and other areas bordering Malaysia, are gripped with radical Islam and the areas often erupt with terror incidents. Although no evidence at hand yet, it will not be surprising if with Zakir Naik's present stay in Malaysia, these areas will get a boost to foment radicalism and terror.

Mae Sot, in the meantime, on the Thai Myanmarese border, remains the hub of hosting training camps for insurgents of all kind. A prominent Indian journalist and a security expert, recently reported that Khalistan terrorists and Lashkar linked terrorists came to notice undergoing a training course in facilitating improvised explosive devices.

Further, very recently Rohingya jihadists from the Harakah Al Yakin were noticed with crates of AK 47 rifles. In this context it is worth mentioning that Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) had surfaced being trained by Pakistan's ISI as well as Bangladesh Jamaat Ul Mujahideen (JMB) raising security concerns in the region leading to a spurt in radicalisation and ultimate terrorism.

On one hand, we see the reports generating from western quarters on atrocities on Rohingyas which are purely of academic interest, and on the other, a segment of the Rohingyas being armed to teeth, indoctrinated and trained by the undesirable quarters, which in all likelihood, will help abet further growth of radical Islam and eventually terror. This looks plausible as the actors involved in the blue print are against any kind of peace in the region. The affected areas will not be confined to Myanmar alone. Bangladesh and southern Thailand may get the heat too.

Bangladesh is a tinderbox with a humongous number of Rohingyas under its belt. All Rohingyas are not ultras and all Bangladeshis are not radicalised, but a small number may wreak havoc. Twenty-seven-year-old Akayed Ullah, a Bangladeshi who had come to the US only seven years ago, was so throughly brain-washed by the radicals in Bangladesh that he detonated the pipe bomb in New York City barely a fortnight ago. There are thousands of Akayeds the world over, radicalised and committed. How do the authorities neutralise them?
Ecopetrol S.A. operates as an integrated energy company. The company operates through four segments: Exploration and Production; Transport and Logistics; Refining, Petrochemical and Biofuels; and Electric Power Transmission and Toll Roads Concessions. It engages in the exploration and production of oil and gas; transportation of crude oil, motor fuels, fuel oil, and other refined products, including diesel, jet, and biofuels; processing and refining crude oil; distribution of natural gas and LPG; sale of refined and petrochemical products; supplying of electric power transmission services; design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance of road and energy infrastructure projects; and supplying of information technology and telecommunications services. As of December 31, 2021, the company had approximately 9,127 kilometers of crude oil and multi-purpose pipelines. It also produces and commercializes polypropylene resins and compounds, and masterbatches; and offers industrial service sales to customers and specialized management services. It has operations in Colombia, the United States, Asia, Central America and the Caribbean, Europe, South America, and internationally. The company was formerly known as Empresa Colombiana de Petroleos and changed its name to Ecopetrol S.A. in June 2003. Ecopetrol S.A. was incorporated in 1948 and is based in Bogota, Colombia.
NCI Building Systems, Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets metal products for the nonresidential construction industry in North America. It operates in four segments: Engineered Building Systems, Metal Components, Insulated Metal Panels, and Metal Coil Coating. The Engineered Building Systems segment offers engineered structural members and panels; and self-storage building systems under the Metallic, Mid-West Steel, A & S, All American, Mesco, Star, Ceco, Robertson, Garco, Heritage, and SteelBuilding.com brands to builders, general contractors, developers, and end users directly, as well as through private label companies. The Metal Components segment provides metal roof and wall systems, metal partitions, metal trims, doors, and other related accessories for use in new construction, and repair and retrofit applications; roll-up doors; and interior and exterior walk doors under the MBCI, American Building Components, Eco-ficient, Metal Depots, and Doors and Buildings Components brands to manufacturers, contractors, subcontractors, distributors, lumberyards, cooperative buying groups, and other customers. The Insulated Metal Panels segment offers insulated metal panels for architectural, commercial, industrial, and cold storage end-market applications under the Metl-Span and CENTRIA brands. The Metal Coil Coating segment engages in cleaning, treating, and painting flat-rolled metals in coil form, as well as in slitting and/or embossing the metal, before the metal is fabricated for use by industrial users. It also cleans, treats, and coats heavy and light gauge metal coils for use in construction products, heating and air conditioning systems, water heaters, lighting fixtures, ceiling grids, office furniture, appliances, and other products; and provides toll coating and painted metal package services under the Metal Coaters and Metal Prep brands. NCI Building Systems, Inc. was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of Sherwin-Williams: Acquire Sourcing LLC, CTS National Corporation, Comex North America Inc., Compania Sherwin-Williams S.A. de C.V., Contract Transportation Systems Co., Dongguan Lilly Paint Industries Ltd, Duron, EPS B.V., EPS Shanghai Trading Co. Ltd., Geocel Holdings, Guangdong Valspar Paints Manufacturing Co Ltd., Inver East Med S.A., Inver France SAS, Inver GmbH, Inver Industrial Coating SRL, Inver Polska Spoka Z O.O, Inver Spa, Invercolor Bologna Srl, Invercolor Ltd, Invercolor Roma Srl, Invercolor Torino Srl, Invercolor Toscana Srl, Isocoat Tintas e Vernizes Ltda, Isva Vernici Srl, Leighs Paints, M.A. Bruder & Sons, Omega Specialty Products & Services LLC, Oy Sherwin-Williams Finland Ab, PT Sherwin-Williams Indonesia, PT Valspar Indonesia, Paint Sundry Brands, Pinturas Condor S.A., Pinturas Industriales S.A., Piton Paints Limited, Plasti-Kote Co. Inc., Plasti-kote Limited, Productos Quimicos y Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Quest Automotive Products UK Limited, Quetzal Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Ronseal Ireland Limited, SWIMC LLC, SWIPCO  Sherwin Williams do Brasil Propriedade Intelectual Ltda, Sherwin Williams Colombia S.A.S., Sherwin-Williams Argentina I.y C.S.A., Sherwin-Williams Aruba VBA, Sherwin-Williams Australia Pty. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams Balkan S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Bel Unitary Enterprise, Sherwin-Williams Belize Limited, Sherwin-Williams Benelux NV, Sherwin-Williams Canada Inc., Sherwin-Williams Caribbean N.V., Sherwin-Williams Cayman Islands Limited, Sherwin-Williams Chile S.A., Sherwin-Williams Coatings India Private Limited, Sherwin-Williams Coatings S.a r.l., Sherwin-Williams Czech Republic spol. s r.o, Sherwin-Williams Denmark A/S, Sherwin-Williams Deutschland GmbH, Sherwin-Williams France Finishes SAS, Sherwin-Williams Ireland Limited, Sherwin-Williams Italy S.r.l., Sherwin-Williams Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams Nantong Coatings Technology Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams Nantong Company Limited, Sherwin-Williams Norway AS, Sherwin-Williams Paints Limited Liability Company, Sherwin-Williams Peru S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Pinturas de Venezuela S.A., Sherwin-Williams Poland Sp. z o.o, Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, Sherwin-Williams Realty Holdings Inc., Sherwin-Williams Services Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams Shanghai Limited, Sherwin-Williams Spain Coatings S.L., Sherwin-Williams Sweden AB, Sherwin-Williams Thailand Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams UK Coatings Limited, Sherwin-Williams UK Limited, Sherwin-Williams Vietnam Limited, Sherwin-Williams West Indies Limited, Sherwin-Williams do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., Southland Paint Company, Spanyc Paints Joint Stock Company, Specialty Polymers Inc., Syntema I Vaggeryd AB, Taiwan Valspar Co. Ltd., The Sherwin-Williams Acceptance Corporation, The Sherwin-Williams Headquarters Company, The Sherwin-Williams Manufacturing Company, The Sherwin-Williams US Licensing Company, The Valspar Asia Corporation Limited, The Valspar Australia Corporation Pty. Ltd., The Valspar Corporation, The Valspar Corporation Limitada, The Valspar Finland Corporation Oy, The Valspar France Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar France Research Corporation SAS, The Valspar Malaysia Corporation Sdn Bhd, The Valspar Nantes Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar Singapore Corporation Pte. Ltd, The Valspar South Africa Corporation Pty Ltd, The Valspar Switzerland Corporation AG, The Valspar Thailand Corporation Ltd., The Valspar UK Corporation Limited, The Valspar Vietnam Corporation Ltd., UAB Sherwin-Williams Baltic, Valspar Aries Coatings S. de R.L. de C.V., Valspar Automotive Australia Pty Limited, Valspar Automotive UK Corporation Limited, Valspar B.V., Valspar Coatings Guangdong Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings Shanghai Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings Tianjin Co. Ltd, Valspar D.o.o Beograd, Valspar India Coatings Corporation Private Limited, Valspar Industries GmbH, Valspar Industries Ireland Ltd., Valspar Industries Italy S.r.l., Valspar LLC, Valspar Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Valspar Powder Coatings Limited, Valspar Rock Company Limited Japan, Valspar Shanghai Management Co. Ltd., Valspar Specialty Paints LLC, Valspar Uruguay Corporation S.A., Valspar WPC Pty Ltd, and ZAO Sherwin-Williams.

Read More
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.
General Mills, Inc. manufactures and markets branded consumer foods worldwide. The company operates in five segments: North America Retail; Convenience Stores & Foodservice; Europe & Australia; Asia & Latin America; and Pet. It offers ready-to-eat cereals, refrigerated yogurt, soup, meal kits, refrigerated and frozen dough products, dessert and baking mixes, bakery flour, frozen pizza and pizza snacks, snack bars, fruit and salty snacks, ice cream, nutrition bars, wellness beverages, and savory and grain snacks, as well as various organic products, including frozen and shelf-stable vegetables. It also supplies branded and unbranded food products to the North American foodservice and commercial baking industries; and manufactures and markets pet food products, including dog and cat food. The company markets its products under the Annie's, Betty Crocker, Bisquick, Blue Buffalo, Blue Basics, Blue Freedom, Bugles, Cascadian Farm, Cheerios, Chex, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, Cookie Crisp, EPIC, Fiber One, Food Should Taste Good, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers, Fruit Roll-Ups, Gardetto's, Go-Gurt, Gold Medal, Golden Grahams, Haagen-Dazs, Helpers, Jus-Rol, Kitano, Kix, Larabar, Latina, Liberte, Lucky Charms, Muir Glen, Nature Valley, Oatmeal Crisp, Old El Paso, Oui, Pillsbury, Progresso, Raisin Nut Bran, Total, Totino's, Trix, Wanchai Ferry, Wheaties, Wilderness, Yoki, and Yoplait trademarks. It sells its products directly, as well as through broker and distribution arrangements to grocery stores, mass merchandisers, membership stores, natural food chains, e-commerce retailers, commercial and noncommercial foodservice distributors and operators, restaurants, convenience stores, and pet specialty stores, as well as drug, dollar, and discount chains. The company operates 466 leased and 392 franchise ice cream parlors. General Mills, Inc. was founded in 1866 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The following companies are subsidiares of Brinker International: BI INTERNATIONAL SERVICES LLC, BI MEXICO HOLDING CORPORATION, BIPC GLOBAL PAYROLL COMPANY LLC, BIPC INVESTMENTS LLC, BIPC MANAGEMENT LLC, BRINKER AIRPORTS LLC, BRINKER ALABAMA INC., BRINKER ARKANSAS INC., BRINKER ASIA INC., BRINKER BRAZIL LLC, BRINKER CANADIAN HOLDING CO. ULC, BRINKER CANADIAN RESTAURANT CO. ULC, BRINKER CB LP, BRINKER CB MANAGEMENT LLC, BRINKER FHC B.V., BRINKER FLORIDA INC., BRINKER FREEHOLD INC., BRINKER GEORGIA INC., BRINKER INTERNATIONAL PAYROLL COMPANY L.P., BRINKER LOUISIANA INC., BRINKER MICHIGAN INC., BRINKER MISSISSIPPI INC., BRINKER MISSOURI INC., BRINKER NEVADA INC., BRINKER NEW JERSEY INC., BRINKER NORTH CAROLINA INC., BRINKER OF BALTIMORE COUNTY INC., BRINKER OF CARROLL COUNTY INC., BRINKER OF CECIL COUNTY INC., BRINKER OKLAHOMA INC., BRINKER OPCO LLC, BRINKER PENN TRUST, BRINKER PROPCO FLORIDA INC., BRINKER PROPERTY CORPORATION, BRINKER PURCHASING INC., BRINKER RESTAURANT CORPORATION, BRINKER RHODE ISLAND INC., BRINKER SERVICES CORPORATION, BRINKER SOUTH CAROLINA INC., BRINKER TEXAS INC., BRINKER VIRGINIA INC., CHILIS BEVERAGE COMPANY INC., CHILIS INC. a Delaware corporation, CHILIS INC. a Tennessee corporation, CHILIS INTERNATIONAL BASES B.V., CHILIS OF BEL AIR INC., CHILIS OF KANSAS INC., CHILIS OF MARYLAND INC., CHILIS OF WEST VIRGINIA INC., Grady's Inc., MAGGIANO'S OF ANNAPOLIS INC., MAGGIANO'S OF HOWARD COUNTY INC., MAGGIANO'S OF KANSAS INC., MAGGIANOS BEVERAGE COMPANY, MAGGIANOS HOLDING CORPORATION, MAGGIANOS INC., MAGGIANOS OF TYSONS INC., MAGGIANOS PROPERTY CORPORATION, MAGGIANOS TEXAS INC., PEPPER DINING HOLDING CORP., PEPPER DINING Inc., and PEPPER DINING VERMONT INC..

Read More
Our portfolio of high quality UK commercial property is focused on London Offices and Retail around the UK. We own or manage a portfolio valued at 13.7bn (British Land share: 10.3bn) as at 30 September 2020 making us one of Europe's largest listed real estate investment companies. Our strategy is to provide places which meet the needs of our customers and respond to changing lifestyles - Places People Prefer. We do this by creating great environments both inside and outside our buildings and use our scale and placemaking skills to enhance and enliven them. This expands their appeal to a broader range of occupiers, creating enduring demand and driving sustainable, long term performance. Our Offices portfolio comprises three office-led campuses in central London as well as high quality standalone buildings and accounts for 65% of our portfolio. Our Retail portfolio is focused on retail parks and shopping centres, and accounts for 31% of our portfolio. Increasingly our focus is on providing a mix of uses and this is most evident at Canada Water, our 53 acre redevelopment opportunity where we have plans to create a new neighbourhood for London. Sustainability is embedded throughout our business. Our places, which are designed to meet high sustainability standards, become part of local communities, provide opportunities for skills development and employment and promote wellbeing. In April 2016 British Land received the Queen's Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development, the UK's highest accolade for business success for economic, social and environmental achievements over a period of five years.
Webster Financial Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Webster Bank, National Association that provides a range of banking, investment, and financial services to individuals, families, and businesses in the United States. It operates through three segments: Commercial Banking, HSA Bank, and Retail Banking. The Commercial Banking segment provides lending, deposit, and cash management services; commercial and industrial lending and leasing, commercial real estate lending, equipment financing, and asset-based lending, as well as treasury and payment services; wealth management solutions to business owners, operators, and consumers; and trust, asset management, financial planning, insurance, retirement, and investment products. The HSA Bank segment offers health savings accounts, health reimbursement arrangements, flexible spending accounts, and commuter services that are distributed directly to employers and individual consumers, as well as through national and regional insurance carriers, consultants, and financial advisors. The Retail Banking segment provides deposit and fee-based services, residential mortgages, home equity lines, secured and unsecured loans, and credit cards to consumers. The company also offers online and mobile banking services. As of December 31, 2021, it operated 130 banking centers and 251 ATMs. The company was founded in 1935 and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut.
United Parcel Service, Inc. provides letter and package delivery, transportation, logistics, and related services. It operates through two segments, U.S. Domestic Package and International Package. The U.S. Domestic Package segment offers time-definite delivery of letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight through air and ground services in the United States. The International Package segment provides guaranteed day and time-definite international shipping services in Europe, the Asia Pacific, Canada and Latin America, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East, and Africa. This segment offers guaranteed time-definite express options. The company also provides international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, distribution and post-sales, and mail and consulting services in approximately 200 countries and territories. In addition, it offers truckload brokerage services; supply chain solutions to the healthcare and life sciences industry; shipping, visibility, and billing technologies; and financial and insurance services. The company operates a fleet of approximately 121,000 package cars, vans, tractors, and motorcycles; and owns 59,000 containers that are used to transport cargo in its aircraft. United Parcel Service, Inc. was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Byline Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Byline Bank that provides various banking products and services for small and medium sized businesses, commercial real estate and financial sponsors, and consumers in the United States. It offers various retail deposit products, including non-interest-bearing accounts, money market demand accounts, savings accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, and time deposits; ATM and debit cards; and online, mobile, and text banking services, as well as commercial deposits. The company also provides term loans, revolving lines of credit, and construction financing services; senior secured financing solutions to private equity backed lower middle market companies; small business administration and united states department of agriculture loans; and treasury management products and services. In addition, it offers financing solutions for equipment vendors and their end users; and investment, trust, and wealth management services that include fiduciary and executor services, financial planning solutions, investment advisory services, and private banking services for foundations and endowments, and high net worth individuals. It operates through 43 branch locations in the Chicago metropolitan area and one branch in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The company was formerly known as Metropolitan Bank Group, Inc. and changed its name to Byline Bancorp, Inc. in 2015. Byline Bancorp, Inc. was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
Precision Drilling Corporation, a drilling company, provides onshore drilling, completion, and production services to exploration and production companies in the oil and natural gas and geothermal industries in North America and the Middle East. The company operates in two segments, Contract Drilling Services; and Completion and Production Services. The Contract Drilling Services segment offers onshore well drilling services to exploration and production companies in the oil and natural gas industry. This segment's services include land and turnkey drilling; and procurement and distribution of oilfield supplies, as well as manufacture and refurbishment of drilling and service rig equipment. As of December 31, 2021, it operated 227 land drilling rigs, including 109 in Canada; 105 in the United States; 6 in Kuwait; 4 in Saudi Arabia; 2 in the Kurdistan region of Iraq; and 1 in the country of Georgia. As of December 31, 2021, this segment also operated 47 AlphaTM rigs with commercial AlphaAutomation; 18 AlphaApps; 4 grid power capable rigs; and 60 natural gas or bi-fuel rigs. The Completion and Production Services segment provides service rigs for well completion, workover, abandonment, maintenance, and re-entry preparation services; wellsite accommodations; oilfield surface equipment rentals; and camp and catering services to oil and natural gas exploration and production companies. As of December 31, 2021, it operated 123 well completion and workover service rigs, including 113 in Canada and 10 in the United States; 1,900 oilfield rental items, including surface storage, small-flow wastewater treatment, power generation, and solids control equipment; 109 wellsite accommodation units; 943 drill camp beds; 822 base camp beds; and three kitchen diners in Canada. Precision Drilling Corporation was incorporated in 1951 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.
The following companies are subsidiares of D.R. Horton: 10700 Pecan Park Austin Inc., 11241 Slater Avenue NE LLC, 2 C Development Company LLC, 8800 Roswell Road Bldg. B LLC, 91st Avenue & Happy Valley L.L.C., ANN & 215 LLC, Austin Data Inc., BP456 Inc., C. Richard Dobson Builders Inc., CH Funding LLC, CH Investments of Texas Inc., CHI Construction Company, CHM Partners L.P., CHTEX of Texas Inc., CV Mountain View 25 Inv LLC, Cane Island LLC, Continental Homes Inc., Continental Homes of Texas L.P., Continental Residential Inc., Continental Traditions LLC, Crown Operating Company Inc., Cypress Road L.P., D.R. Horton - CHAustin LLC, D.R. Horton - Colorado LLC, D.R. Horton - Crown LLC, D.R. Horton - Emerald Ltd., D.R. Horton - Georgia LLC, D.R. Horton - Hawaii LLC, D.R. Horton - Highland LLC, D.R. Horton - Indiana LLC, D.R. Horton - Iowa LLC, D.R. Horton - MV LLC, D.R. Horton - Nebraska LLC, D.R. Horton - Permian LLC, D.R. Horton - Regent LLC, D.R. Horton - Terramor LLC, D.R. Horton - Texas Ltd., D.R. Horton - WPH LLC, D.R. Horton - Wyoming LLC, D.R. Horton BAY Inc., D.R. Horton CA2 Inc., D.R. Horton CA3 Inc., D.R. Horton CA4 LLC, D.R. Horton Commercial Inc., D.R. Horton Cruces Construction Inc., D.R. Horton Inc. - Birmingham, D.R. Horton Inc. - Chicago, D.R. Horton Inc. - Denver, D.R. Horton Inc. - Dietz-Crane, D.R. Horton Inc. - Greensboro, D.R. Horton Inc. - Gulf Coast, D.R. Horton Inc. - Huntsville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Jacksonville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Louisville, D.R. Horton Inc. - Midwest, D.R. Horton Inc. - Minnesota, D.R. Horton Inc. - NNV, D.R. Horton Inc. - New Jersey, D.R. Horton Inc. - Portland, D.R. Horton Inc. - Torrey, D.R. Horton Inc. Foundation, D.R. Horton Insurance Agency Inc., D.R. Horton LA North Inc., D.R. Horton Life Insurance Agency Inc., D.R. Horton Los Angeles Holding Company Inc., D.R. Horton Management Company Ltd., D.R. Horton Materials Inc., D.R. Horton Realty LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Atlantic County LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Central Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Delaware LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Georgia Inc., D.R. Horton Realty of Melbourne LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Tampa LLC, D.R. Horton Realty of Virginia LLC, D.R. Horton Seabridge Marina Inc., D.R. Horton Serenity Construction LLC, D.R. Horton Urban Renewal LLC, D.R. Horton VEN Inc., D.R. Horton  Corpus Christi LLC, DBC54 LLC, DHI Commercial - Lakeview LLC, DHI Commercial - Signal Butte LLC, DHI Commercial - Tamarron LLC, DHI Commercial Inc., DHI Communities Construction LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Arizona LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Colorado LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Florida LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Iowa LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Nevada LLC, DHI Communities Construction of North Carolina LLC, DHI Communities Construction of South Carolina LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Texas LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Utah LLC, DHI Communities Construction of Virginia LLC, DHI Communities II LLC, DHI Communities Inc., DHI Engineering LLC, DHI Insurance Inc., DHI Mortgage Company, DHI Mortgage Company GP Inc., DHI Mortgage Company LP Inc., DHI Mortgage Company Ltd., DHI Ranch Ltd., DHI Realty of Alabama LLC, DHI Realty of Mississippi LLC, DHI Title GP Inc., DHI Title LP Inc., DHI Title of Alabama Inc., DHI Title of Arizona Inc., DHI Title of Florida Inc., DHI Title of Minnesota Inc., DHI Title of Nevada Inc., DHI Title of Texas Ltd., DHI Title of Washington Inc., DHI Verandah South Shores Communities LLC, DHIC - Bridges LLC, DHIC - Brittmore LLC, DHIC - Carolina Forest LLC, DHIC - Desert Peak LLC, DHIC - Durbin Creek LLC, DHIC - Freestone LLC, DHIC - Hammock Landing LLC, DHIC - Heritage LLC, DHIC - Horizon Uptown LLC, DHIC - Jacobs Reserve LLC, DHIC - Lakeview LLC, DHIC - Lipoma LLC, DHIC - Minton Cove LLC, DHIC - Mountain Vista LLC, DHIC - Naco LLC, DHIC - Northshore LLC, DHIC - Prairie Village LLC, DHIC - South Creek LLC, DHIC - Tamarron LLC, DHIC - Valley Vista LLC, DHIC - Varina Gateway LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh II LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh III LLC, DHIC - Waterleigh LLC, DHIC - Westridge LLC, DHIC LLC, DHIC  Glendale LLC, DHIC  Grove West LLC, DHIC  South Park LLC, DHIC  Westinghouse LLC, DHIR - Aspen Vista LLC, DHIR - Avian Pointe LLC, DHIR - Emerald Lakes LLC, DHIR - Fosters Ridge LLC, DHIR - Gulf Stream LLC, DHIR - Parkview at Lynn Haven LLC, DHIR - Poplar Terrace LLC, DHIR - Properties I LLC, DHIR - Rock Ridge LLC, DHIR - Sunset Village LLC, DHIR - Village at Hickory Street LLC, DRH - ARK LLC, DRH - ASG LLC, DRH - HWY 114 LLC, DRH Cambridge Homes LLC, DRH Capital Trust I, DRH Capital Trust II, DRH Capital Trust III, DRH Colorado Realty Inc., DRH Construction Inc., DRH Energy Inc., DRH FS Mortgage Reinsurance Ltd., DRH Land Opportunities I Inc., DRH Land Opportunities II Inc., DRH Mountain View LLC, DRH Oil & Gas Inc., DRH Opportunities I Inc., DRH Properties Inc., DRH Realty Company Inc., DRH Realty of Iowa LLC, DRH Regrem L LLC, DRH Regrem LI LLC, DRH Regrem LII LLC, DRH Regrem LIII LLC, DRH Regrem LIV LLC, DRH Regrem LV LLC, DRH Regrem VII LP, DRH Regrem XII LP, DRH Regrem XIV Inc., DRH Regrem XIX Inc., DRH Regrem XLIX LLC, DRH Regrem XLV LLC, DRH Regrem XLVI LLC, DRH Regrem XLVII LLC, DRH Regrem XLVIII LLC, DRH Regrem XV Inc., DRH Regrem XVI Inc., DRH Regrem XVII Inc., DRH Regrem XVIII Inc., DRH Regrem XX Inc., DRH Regrem XXI Inc., DRH Regrem XXII Inc., DRH Regrem XXIII Inc., DRH Regrem XXIV Inc., DRH Regrem XXV Inc., DRH Southwest Construction Inc., DRH Tucson Construction Inc., DRHI Inc., Deer Valley Office Park LLC, Desert Ridge Phase I Partners, Emerald Creek No. 4 L.P., Emerald Realty of Alabama LLC, Emerald Realty of Central Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of North Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, Emerald Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, Encore II Inc., Encore Venture Partners II (California) L.P., Encore Venture Partners II (Texas) L.P., Encore Venture Partners L.P., Express Realty of Central Florida LLC, Express Realty of North Florida LLC, Express Realty of Northwest Florida LLC, Express Realty of Southeast Florida LLC, Express Realty of Southwest Florida LLC, Forestar Group, Forestar Group Inc., Founders Oil & Gas II LLC, Founders Oil & Gas III LLC, Founders Oil & Gas IV LLC, Founders Oil & Gas LLC, Founders Oil & Gas Operating LLC, GP-Encore Inc., Georgetown Data Inc., Germann & McQueen L.L.C., Grand Title Agency LLC, Grande Realty Incorporated, Grande Realty of Pennsylvania LLC, Greywes LLC, HPH Homebuilders 2000 L.P., Hadian LLC, KDB Homes Inc., Kaomalo LLC, Lexington Homes - DRH LLC, MRLF LLC, Martin Road Lake Forest LLC, McQueen & Willis LLC, Meadows I Ltd., Meadows II Ltd., Meadows IX Inc., Meadows VIII Ltd., Meadows X Inc., Melody Homes Inc., Pacific Ridge - DRH LLC, Rielly Carlsbad LLC, Rielly Homes Madison LLC, SFTEN LLC, SGS Communities at Grand Quay L.L.C, SHA Construction LLC, SHLR of California Inc., SHLR of Nevada Inc., SHLR of Washington Inc., SRHI LLC, SSHI LLC, Schuler Homes of Arizona LLC, Schuler Homes of California Inc., Schuler Homes of Oregon Inc., Schuler Homes of Washington Inc., Summerlin Pkwy & Cimarron LLC, Surprise Village North LLC, The Club at Cobblestone LLC, The Club at Hidden River LLC, Tierra Financial Advisors LLC, Travis County Title Company, Treasure Assets LLC, Venture Management of South Carolina LLC, Vertical Construction Corporation, WPH-Camino Ruiz LLC, WPH-Copper Canyon II LLC, WPH-Copper Canyon LLC, Walker Drive LLC, Western Pacific Brea Development LLC, Western Pacific Housing - Mountaingate L.P., Western Pacific Housing - SDG LLC, Western Pacific Housing - Westlake II L.P., Western Pacific Housing Inc., Western Pacific Housing Management Inc., Western Pacific Housing-Antigua LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Broadway LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Canyon Park LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Carrillo LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Communications Hill LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Copper Canyon LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Creekside LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Lomas Verdes LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Lyons Canyon Partners LLC, Western Pacific Housing-McGonigle Canyon LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Norco Estates LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Pacific Park II LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Park Avenue East LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Park Avenue West LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Playa Vista LLC, Western Pacific Housing-River Ridge LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Terra Bay Duets LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Torrey Meadows LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Torrey Village Center LLC, Western Pacific Housing-Windemere LLC, and Wilson Parker Homes.

Read More
WestRock Company, together with its subsidiaries, provides fiber-based paper and packaging solutions in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It operates through two segments, Corrugated Packaging and Consumer Packaging. The Corrugated Packaging segment produces containerboards, corrugated sheets, corrugated packaging, and preprinted linerboards to consumer and industrial products manufacturers, and corrugated box manufacturers. It also provides structural and graphic design, engineering services and custom, and proprietary and standard automated packaging machines, as well as turn-key installation, automation, line integration, and packaging solutions; distributes corrugated packaging materials and other specialty packaging products, including stretch films, void fills, carton sealing tapes, and other specialty tapes; operates recycling facilities that collect, sort, grade, and bale recovered paper; and provides lithographic laminated packaging products, as well as contract packing services. The Consumer Packaging segment manufactures and sells folding cartons that are used to package food, paper, beverages, dairy products, tobacco, confectionery, health and beauty, other household consumer, and commercial and industrial products; and express mail packages for the overnight courier industry. It also offers inserts and labels, as well as rigid packaging and other printed packaging products, such as transaction cards, brochures, product literature, marketing materials, and grower tags and plant stakes for the horticultural market; and secondary packages and paperboard packaging for over-the-counter and prescription drugs. In addition, this segment manufactures and sells solid fiber and corrugated partitions, and die-cut paperboard components principally to glass container manufacturers and the automotive industry, as well as producers of beer, food, wine, spirits, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. WestRock Company is based in Atlanta, Georgia.
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.
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
The following companies are subsidiares of Mohawk Industries: A&S Energie NV, A&U Energie NV, Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation, Aladdin Manufacturing Of New York LLC, Aladdin Manufacturing of Alabama LLC, Alsace Logistique S.A., Avelgem Green Power CVBA, Avon Pacific Holdings Ltd, B&M NV, BGE Mexico S. de R. L. de C.V., Berghoef GmbH, Berghoef-Hout B.V., Bienes Raices y Materiales del Centro S. de R.L. de C.V., C.F. Marazzi S.A., Canterbury Spinners Ltd, Carpet Foundation Ltd, Cevotrans BV, Ceramus Bahia S/A  Produtos Ceramicos, DT Mex Holdings LLC, DTM/CM Holdings LLC, Dal Italia LLC, Dal-Elit LLC, Dal-Tile Chile Comercial Limitada, Dal-Tile Colombia S.A.S., Dal-Tile Distribution Inc., Dal-Tile Group Inc., Dal-Tile I LLC, Dal-Tile Industrias S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile International Inc., Dal-Tile Mexico Comercial S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Operaciones Mexico S. De R.L. De C.V., Dal-Tile Peru SRL, Dal-Tile Puerto Rico Inc., Dal-Tile Services Inc., Dal-Tile Shared Services Inc., Dal-Tile Tennessee LLC, Dal-Tile of Canada ULC, Daltile, Daltile, Dekaply NV, Durkan, Dynea NV, Eliane Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Eliane S/A - Revestimentos Ceramicos, Emilceramica India Pvt Ltd., Emilceramica S.r.l, Emilgermany GmbH, Emilgroup Asia Ltd, Explorer S.r.l., F.I.L.S. Investments Unlimited Company, Feltex Carpets Ltd, Feltex Carpets Pty Ltd, Feltex New Zealand Ltd, Fibremakers Australia Pty Ltd, Flooring Foundation Ltd, Flooring Industries Limited S.a r.l., Flooring XL B.V., Floorscape Limited, Godfrey Hirst & Co Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Australia Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Group, Godfrey Hirst NZ Ltd, Hytherm (Ireland) Limited, IVC BVBA, IVC Far-East Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., IVC France S.a r.l., IVC GROUP LIMITED, IVC Green Power NV, IVC Group, IVC Group GmbH, IVC Luxembourg S.a r.l., IVC Rus OOO, IVC US Inc., International Flooring Systems S.a r.l., International Vinyl Company - Vostok OOO, KAI Group, KAI Keramica Ltd, KAI Mining EOOD, KERAMA CENTER OOO, Kerama Baltics OOO, Kerama Export OOO, Kerama Marazzi OOO, Kerampromservis (LLC), Khan Asparuh - Transport EOOD, Khan Asparuh AD, Khan Omurtag AD, Koninklijke Peitsman B.V., Kraj Kerama OOO, MG China Trading Ltd., MI Finance SRL, MUD (Holding) Brazil Ltda., Management Co EAD, Marazzi Acquisition S.r.l., Marazzi Deutschland G.m.b.H., Marazzi France Trading S.A.S., Marazzi Group, Marazzi Group F.Z.E., Marazzi Group S.r.l., Marazzi Group Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Marazzi Iberia S.L.U., Marazzi Japan Co. Ltd., Marazzi Middle East FZ LLC, Marazzi Schweiz S.A.G.L., Marazzi UK Ltd., Mohawk Assurance Services Inc., Mohawk Australia Pty Ltd, Mohawk Canada Corporation, Mohawk Capital Finance S.A., Mohawk Capital Luxembourg SA, Mohawk Carpet Distribution Inc., Mohawk Carpet Foundation Inc., Mohawk Carpet LLC, Mohawk Carpet Transportation Of Georgia LLC, Mohawk Commercial Inc., Mohawk ESV Inc., Mohawk Europe BVBA, Mohawk Factoring II Inc., Mohawk Factoring LLC, Mohawk Finance S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Acquisitions S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Funding S.a.r.l, Mohawk Foreign Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Investments Inc., Mohawk Global Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Holdings International B.V., Mohawk Industries Inc., Mohawk International (Europe) S.a r.l., Mohawk International (Hong Kong) Limited, Mohawk International Capital N.V., Mohawk International Financing S.a.r.l, Mohawk International Holdings (DE) LLC, Mohawk International Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk International Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk International Netherlands B.V., Mohawk International Services BVBA, Mohawk KAI Luxembourg Holding S.a r.l., Mohawk KAI Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Capital S.A., Mohawk Luxembourg Financing S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Pacific S.a r.l., Mohawk Marazzi International BV, Mohawk Marazzi Russia BV, Mohawk New Zealand Limited, Mohawk Operaciones Mexicali S. de R.L. de C.V., Mohawk Operations Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Pacific Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Resources LLC, Mohawk Servicing LLC, Mohawk Singapore Private Limited, Mohawk Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Mohawk Unilin Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk United Finance B.V., Mohawk United International B.V., Mohawk Vinyl Financing S.a r.l., Molber Beheer B.V., Monarch Ceramic Tile Inc., P.F. Onroerend Goed B.V., PF Beheer B.V., Pergo, Pergo (Europe) AB, Pergo Holding BV, Pergo India Pvt Ltd, Polcolorit S.A., Premium Floors Australia Pty Limited, RR Apex LLC, Rata International Pty Ltd, Recubrimientos Interceramica S. de R.L. de C.V., Riverside Textiles Pty Ltd, S.C. KAI Ceramics SRL, Sibir Kerama OOO, SimpleSolutions USA LLC, Soft Step (Australia) Pty Ltd, Spano Group, Spano Invest BVBA, Spano NV, Stroyagromekhzapchast ChaO, Stroytrans OAO Orelstroy, Summit Wool Spinners Ltd, The Flooring Federation Ltd, Tiles Co OOD, Unilin (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Unilin ApS, Unilin Arauco Pisos Ltda., Unilin BVBA, Unilin Beheer BV, Unilin Distribution Ltd., Unilin Distribution Ukraine LLC, Unilin Finland OY, Unilin Flooring India Private Limited, Unilin Flooring SAS, Unilin GmbH, Unilin Holding BVBA, Unilin Insulation BV, Unilin Insulation SAS, Unilin Insulation Sury SAS, Unilin Italia S.R.L., Unilin North America LLC, Unilin Norway AS, Unilin OOO, Unilin Panels SAS, Unilin Poland Sp.Z.o.o., Unilin SAS, Unilin Spain SL, Unilin Swiss GmbH, Unilin s.r.o., World International Inc., Xtratherm, Xtratherm Limited, Xtratherm S.A., and Xtratherm UK Limited.

Read More
Black Knight, Inc. provides integrated software, data, and analytics solutions in North America and Internationally. The Software Solutions segment offers software and hosting solutions comprising MSP, a software as a service application platform for mortgage, home equity loans, and lines of credit; Servicing Digital, a web and mobile solution for consumers that provides easy access to customized timely information about their mortgages; Loss Mitigation, an integrated solution that supports retention and liquidation workouts; and Empower, a loan origination system used by lenders to originate mortgages, home equity loans, and HELOCs. This segment also provides LoanCatcher, a cloud-based loan origination system designed for the needs of brokers; and LoanSifter PPE designed to meet the needs of the broker community by providing access to investors and loan products. The Data and Analytics segment offers property ownership data, lien data, servicing data, automated valuation models, collateral risk scores, behavioral models, lead generation, multiple listing service, and other data solutions. The company was formerly known as Black Knight Financial Services, Inc. and changed its name to Black Knight, Inc. in October 2017. Black Knight, Inc. was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
LAKE JAMES  Despite frigid temperatures, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will host customary First Day Hikes at 32 state parks, including Pokagon.

Hikers will meet at the Pokagon State Park Nature Center at 1 p.m. and the hike is scheduled to last about an hour. Naturalist Nicky Ball described it as an easy stroll through the mid-winter landscapes of Pokagon State Park.

Afterwards, there will be a bonfire.

Some of the hikes at state parks have been altered due to the extremely cold weather, said a news release from the DNR.

The high is forecast to be 11 degrees early Monday afternoon with predicted wind gusts of up to 13 miles an hour from the northwest.

We encourage people to wear layers, cover hands, heads and cheeks, and join us for a brisk walk, said Ginger Murphy, deputy director for the Division of State Parks. Some properties are changing the lengths of their hikes to shorten the time exposed to the cold, but people can certainly continue to hike longer on their own if they choose.

Murphy encouraged people who have attended the First Day Hike every year to keep your streak going.

Dont let the weather stop you from a memorable experience enjoying the outdoors and starting the new year off right, she said.

More information on First Day events in Indiana, including other last-minute changes, are at calendar.dnr.IN.gov or the individual parks Facebook pages.

The guided hikes are organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with Americas State Parks. Hikes will take place in all 50 states.

First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to foster healthy lifestyles and promote year-round recreation at state parks.
Mothers who smoked during pregnancy had an overall 60 percent higher risk of having a child with ADHD. (Photo: Pixabay)

Children born to women who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy, especially when mothers are heavy smokers, are at an increased risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a new review of medical studies confirms.

Mothers who smoked during pregnancy had an overall 60 percent higher risk of having a child with ADHD compared to women who didnt smoke. For mothers who smoked fewer than 10 cigarettes per day, the risk of having a child who developed ADHD was 54 percent higher than for nonsmoking mothers. For mothers who were heavier smokers, the risk was 75 percent higher than for nonsmokers.

An increased risk of ADHD for children of women who smoke while pregnant has been reported before. Whats new here, the authors say, is that the data have been pooled from studies in multiple countries and time periods, and also that as the daily tally of cigarettes went up, the risk of ADHD went up.

The findings lend greater strength and credibility and statistical power to previous studies that likewise show that pregnant women who smoke have a greater likelihood of having a child with ADHD, said Dr. Andrew Adesman, chief, developmental and behavioral pediatrics, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Childrens Medical Center of New York in New Hyde Park.

Adesman, who was not involved in the research, said that the study has to be taken seriously. Women who smoke during pregnancy have one more reason to stop.

According to 2011 Pregnancy Risk Assessment and Monitoring System (PRAMS) data from 24 states, approximately 10 percent of American women reported smoking during the last three months of pregnancy.

Eleven percent of U.S. children ages 4 to 17, or 6.4 million children, have been diagnosed with ADHD based on parent reports, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ADHD can affect attention, hyperactivity and self-control, causing difficulty in school and socially.

As reported in Pediatrics, Dr. Dezhi Mu and colleagues at West China Second University Hospital in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, analyzed 20 studies published between 1998 and 2017 that looked at the potential role of smoking during pregnancy and the risk of ADHD in offspring. Altogether, the studies involved nearly 3 million people in Europe, Brazil, Japan, Australia and the U.S.

The team found lower risks for ADHD in children of mothers who smoked in the U.S. and Europe, where more smokers stop smoking when they get pregnant.

It would be a big leap from that, but if you are a prior smoker and stop during pregnancy, the inference is that the risk of ADHD goes down, Dr. Jeffrey Newcorn, director, The Center of Excellence in ADHD and Related Disorders, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai told Reuters Health in a phone interview.

Data from seven studies showed that while mothers smoking had a greater effect than fathers smoking on ADHD risk, there was still a 20 percent higher risk of ADHD in children born to fathers who smoked.

The new analysis cant prove that smoking causes ADHD. Among other limitations of the new research are that different criteria were used to diagnose ADHD in the various studies, and tobacco use during pregnancy was self-reported by the mothers.

Newcorn, who was not involved in the research, would like to see more studies on the relationship between genetic and environmental factors in developing ADHD, as well as the role of nicotine exposure.
Chennai: DMKs high-level strategy committee that met on Friday decided to take stern action against party functionaries who adopted callous attitude during the campaign in the high-stakes by-election to RK Nagar in which the partys nominee forfeited his deposit.

The party has already constituted a three-member committee to investigate the work and actions of party functionaries in the run up to the elections. The three-member committee consisting of R. Sakkarapani, R. Girirajan and V. Kannadasan  legal wining secretary and joint secretary will submit its report on Sunday.

The meeting resolved to act against all party functionaries  be it seniors or juniors  who mismanaged the campaign that led to the defeat. Action will be taken against those who erred, DMK working president M. K. Stalin told reporters after the meeting.

The committee was constituted after DMK suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of independent candidate TTV Dhinakaran by securing just 24,000 votes  32,000 votes less than what the partys candidate Shimla Muthuchozhan managed against J. Jayalalithaa in 2016 assembly elections.

Sources said the action against party functionaries would be taken after the committee submits its report. The meeting also hailed the acquittal of its leaders  A Raja and Kanimozhi  in the 2G spectrum allocation case, saying imaginary losses in spectrum allocation have vanished into thin air like a phantom and the party has emerged as a giant refined in gold.

The Phantom called 2Gan imaginary account that vanished into thin air, a resolution adopted at the meeting said and lauded Raja and Kanimozhi for facing the case and securing the acquittal from a CBI court in Delhi last week.

The hegemonic forces concealed Rajas feat of taking mobile telecom to poorer sections at lower costs and created an imaginary account of Rs 1.76 lakh crore loss and blew it up and filed a case, the resolution further said.
Four-Wheelers associations has started this campaign with an aim to curb drunken driving fatalities in the city mainly on New Years eve.

Hyderabad: In view of rising cases of drunk driving, Telangana Four Wheeler Drivers Association has started a campaign #HumAapkaSaathHai.

The association will provide 300 cabs and drivers for free of cost on the eve of New Year in Cyberabad, Hyderabad and Rachakonda city limits as part of the campaign.

Four-Wheelers associations has started this campaign with an aim to curb drunken driving fatalities in the city mainly on New Years eve.

Shaik Salauddin, state president of Telangana Four Wheeler Drivers Association said, Through our campaign, we want to urge people to refrain from driving when they are under the influence of alcohol. We believe this will contribute towards making the roads safer. We want to encourage people to make the right choices when they have alternative transport that are not just affordable and easily accessible.
India had strongly conveyed to Palestine that the presence of its ambassador to Pak at an event of Hafiz Saeed, was 'unacceptable'. (Photo: AFP/File)

New Delhi: Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said on Saturday.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday said Palestine has conveyed "deep regrets" after India strongly expressed its resentment over the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, Hafiz Saeed.

The Palestinian side had also assured India that they would take serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at the event.

It also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with the country in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

Walid Abu Ali reportedly attended the rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday following which India issued a strong demarche on the matter.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan headed by Hafiz Saeed.
From the youngest climber of the Mount Everest to a sanitation worker, these people who come from all walks of life, have been recognised for their noteworthy contributions.

LADY LOCO DRIVER SHOWS THE WAY

Supriya Sunam, a loco pilot, stormed the male bastion in the railways by giving the first ride of the Hyderabad Metro Rail to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekar Rao and other dignitaries. The 24-year-old Nizamabad native did her M.Tech at CBIT Hyderabad. Along with Ms Sunam, 35 loco pilots from various parts of state are steering Hyderabad Metro trains and taking lakhs of commuters safely to their destinations. This was acknowledged by all Hyderabadis.

DIGITAL LITERACY SURGES

A year after demonetisation, the countrys youngest state Telangana topped in digital transactions in the entire land. While people of TS are embracing technology, Mukhra, a village of just 650 people in Adilabad district, are stepping ahead and using digital wallets for payments. During Dussehra festival this year, villagers of Mukhra made digital payments at temples using e-wallets, breaking all the traditions and adopting new technology.

LIVE LIKE A HYDERABADI

Hyderabad has been ranked as the top Indian city in the Quality of Living ranking for the third year in a row, according to Mercers Quality of Living rankings released globally in March 2017. Both Hyderabad and Pune rank higher for quality of living than the country's more traditional business centres, Mumbai and New Delhi, ranked at 154 and 161 respectively. Hyderabad was ranked 144.

BATTLING TERROR SUSPECT BAREHANDED

K. Srinivasulu, a police constable working for the Counter Intelligence Cell of the Telangana police, received Shaurya Chakra from the President of India. He is the only police official from South India to receive the medal for an exemplary display of valour in 2016. Srinivasulu, in the course of surveillance, on found a terror suspect moving on a motorcycle with a woman pillion rider on Doddla Naga Mangala Road. On accosting them, the terror suspect turned his bike and hit the constables two-wheeler. The suspect stabbed Srinivasulu in the abdomen and tried to flee. But the cop did not give up and held on to the suspect tightly till more forces arrived and he was taken into custody.

GLOBAL SUMMIT & DIZZYING HEIGHTS

2017 was hands down the year of Hyderabad ecosystem, with the city hosting the Global Entrepreneurship Summit. Telangana won laurels from the US government and the Centre for successfully hosting the acclaimed international summit. The father and son duo of KCR and KTR were highly appreciated for making the meet a success. President Donald Trumps daughter Ivanka Trump wrote a letter to K. Chandrasekhar Rao appreciating the government effort. First-time moderator K.T. Rama Rao took charge of a panel discussion with four powerful women from across the world, and conducted it effortlessly.

IMMERSION THAT WAS A PERFECT 10

Kudos to the Khairatabad Ganesh Utsav Samithi team for the early and smooth conduct of Ganesh immersion. Adding a new chapter, the idol in 2017 was moved from the pandal at 6 am on the 11th day and immersed much before the sunset. While, the Hyderabad police and GHMC staff performed remarkably, the 11-day affair turned out to be well-organised. No untoward incident was reported from any part of the city.

PILOTING WOMENS CHARGE

Indian Air Force gets two more women fighter pilots. Pratibha Singh and Shivangi Singh graduated from the Indian Air force, Dundigal and joined the advanced stream of fighter aircraft training. The two were among 15 women officers who will join the IAF. With the commissioning of Pratibha (Rajasthan) and Shivangi (Varanasi), the total number of women fighter pilots in the IAF has gone up to five.

DONT MESS WITH THESE SENIORS

P. Darshan, 67, and his wife Balangani, 62, of Ghatkesar foiled an attempt of two motorcycle-borne chain snatchers. The elderly couple were rewarded by the police for fighting chain snatchers bravely. The two were travelling on a scooter when the chain snatcher tried to snatch the mangalsutra from the elderly woman. The couple restrained the accused and foiled the attempt. The police caught the suspect and arrested him based on clues obtained from them. The Commissioner of Rachakonda felicitated the elderly couple.

THE MISSILE GIRL

Behind the development of Indias Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Shield is a bright defence scientist Shashikala Sinha from DRDO. The woman scientist is the project director for The of AAD that successfully scored a direct hit on incoming missile. The 57-year-old mother of two spearheaded Indias charge in building an impregnable BMD. Shashikala, with the Research Centre Imarat (RCI), is an expert in the development of flight vehicles, RF Seekers, Radomes, radar cross sections and related technologies.

YOUNG ACHIEVER VS OLD HABITS

Narasimha Donthineni, a student of IIM-Rohtak and a graduate from CBIT Hyderabad, won the Indian Young Achiever Award for his work on modernising public libraries in the city under GHMC limits. Narasimha had fought for the efficient functioning of public libraries in Hyderabad. He found that Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) had collected `339.87 crore as library cess between 2006-2013 but remitted only `38.1 crore. He filed a public interest litigation against the GHMC and the state government for non-remittance of the library cess. The state filed a counter petition supporting him.

PIONEERING EFFORT IN SANITATION

Ms Haseena Begum is a 49-year-old home-maker living in Talab Katta, located close to the Charminar and falls within the South Zone limits. The place is infamous for its sub-par infrastructure and poor sanitation. But to everyones surprise, Ms Haseena Begum has been doing her bit to keep her locality clean. She has been segregating waste, biodegradable and non-biodegradable, for long  much before the municipal corporation began encouraging it. She finally reaped the benefits of 18 years of toiling when GHMC rewarded her with Rs 50,000 for separating wet and dry waste at household level.

THE STANDOUT START-UP

Dr Meghana Kambham of the start-up Care N Grow, incubated in T-hub, is the first company to be granted a patent pending status for contribution to preventive medicine. The start-up has developed an application by which a comprehensive medical check-up can be done in a classroom by teachers using a smart phone. Across the world, only four women entrepreneurs were selected with Meghana being the only one from India.

CHARMINAR, A SITE TO BEHOLD

Charminar, Hyderabads historic emblem, was selected as Swachh Bharat icon by the Centre in November 2017. The monument is one among the 10 icons chosen in the second phase of the Swachh Bharat Mission. The other nine are Gangotri, Yamunotri, Mahakaleshwar temple, Ujjain, Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assissi, Goa, Kaladi in Ernakulam, Gomateshwar in Shravanbelgola, Baijnath Dham, Devghar, Gaya in Bihar and Somnath temple in Gujarat. In all, 100 iconic sites will be identified across the country for development with focus on sanitation.

On a roller coaster ride

Mortuary menace

Unclaimed bodies rot in Osmania Hospital. GHMC, which collects unclaimed bodies to perform the last rites, does not turn up regularly. With stretchers almost filled, three to four bodies were kept on tables. The hospital authorities and the government swung into action following Deccan Chronicles expose. Nearly 40 bodies were taken away for last rites. Civic officials stated that henceforth they would dispose of the bodies every alternative days.

The Nayeem connection

In a major embarrassment to the TS police which claimed of a fair probe into the illegal activities of slain gangster Nayeem, five officials, including an SP rank officer, were suspended after they were found having links with Nayeem when he was alive. Around 16 officials were asked to tender an explanation for their alleged links with the gangster.

Bitter pill

In an incident that exposed apathy at Gandhi Hospital, a 44-year-old patient, Sarikonda Raju from Begumpet, had to enter the hospital on his son's toy bicycle after he was refused a wheelchair by the ward boys who demanded money for the service. After Raju expressed his inability to grease their palms, the ward boys left the injured man unattended. Raju's wife pushed the toy bike to move him around the wards. Raju, 45, a painter, had suffered an electric shock when he came in contact with a hanging live wire and suffered injuries in his head.

Stirring controversy

Prof. Kancha Ilaiah stirred a controversy in 2017 with his book Samajika Smugglurlu Komatollu. The well-known author was under attack from the Vyshya community in TS and AP, who took to streets demanding a ban on the book which led to law and order problem.

However, Prof. Ilaiah put up a brave front and defended his book and even dared the Vyshya community to have an open debate with him. In the book, Prof. Ilaiah explains why other communities dislike the Vysyas  a trading community. He advises them to join the Indian Army to fight for the nation.

Law unto himself

In a first of its kind incident, an IPS officer was caught cheating in an entrance test. Safeer Karim, 29, an assistant superintendent of police in Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, was arrested in October for using high-tech devices, including a micro-camera and a small earpiece, during the UPSC entrance test in Chennai. Kareem placed the camera under the shirt's collar and connected it to a mobile phone via Bluetooth. He took pictures of the question paper and transmitted it. His wife, on the other end, was dictating him answers. His wife, Joicy Joyce, was arrested from Hyderabad. Kareem, a 2015 batch officer, said that a Malayalam movie, Commissioner, inspired him to join the police service.

No Love lost

Dirtied and vandalised, the popular Love Hyderabad had to be dismantled and shifted from Tank Bund to Peoples Plaza, no thanks to the irresponsible behaviour of Hyderabadis . The typo graphic structure was completely defaced with scribbling, shoe marks and stains. The monument was erected to offer a recreational facility but the callous way in which the public treated it did bode well for it.

OUs loss Manipurs gain

In a shocking move, Indian Science Congress (ISC) was shifted to Manipur University from Osmania University. Students slammed Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and the vice-chancellor for it. E Murali, a 20-year-old student, allegedly committed suicide inside the OU hostel. The incident triggered protests, creating security concerns in the campus and ISC was postponed over security reasons. In its over 100-year-old history, it was for the first time ISC was put off. Students now allege that OU may never get the chance again to host ISC.
The Kannada language is spoken mainly in Kuvempus home state of Karnataka, and he strongly advocated for it to be the main medium of education, stated the official Google Doodle note.

Google honoured Kannada litterateur, writer and poet Kuvempu by dedicating their Google Doodle, to celebrate his 113th birthday on Friday, December 29. A household name for the people of Karnataka, Padma Vibushan awardee Kuppali Venkatappa Puttappa is also considered a great critic and thinker.

The Kannada language is spoken mainly in Kuvempus home state of Karnataka, and he strongly advocated for it to be the main medium of education, stated the official Google Doodle note.

Kuvempus poem featured above is Poovu (The Flower), rhapsodizing on the beauty of the poets natural surroundings. Created by illustrator Upamanyu Bhattacharyya and Swati Shelar, who helped with the Kannada lettering, it shows Kuvempu surrounded by nature in his beloved home, the note explained.
Bengaluru: Within hours of Janata Dal (Secular) supremo H. D. Deve Gowda's surprise meeting with union railway minister Piyush Goel at the former's home in New Delhi, speculation was rife that some kind of an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party was in the works.

This was reinforced further on Friday, when it was learned that BJP national leaders have reportedly instructed the state BJP leaders not to antagonise Mr Gowda or his son, Janata Dal (Secular) state president, H. D. Kumaraswamy during electioneering in the state.

It was this directive that has now raised the possibility further of the Janata Dal (Secular ) and Bharatiya Janata Party coming together and fighting the forthcoming assembly elections in the state either through a tacit, pre-poll understanding or forging a formal post-poll alliance in the near future.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, a senior leader in the BJP said that there was a higher probability that the BJP could have a tacit understanding ahead of polls rather than forging a formal alliance.

It is well known fact that Mr Gowda never discloses his plan till the day arrives and it is also a known fact that Mr Gowda is known for keeping these kind of issues unresolved. Mr Gowda always likes to make choice at the last minute.

Hence, it is understood that there could be friendly contests between the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Dal (Secular) in some of the seats, the source said.

The source further claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party leaders at the national level might also be thinking that in the event of a hung assembly verdict in Karnataka, they might want to keep a window open to negotiate and that could happen only if the Bharatiya Janata Party leaders do not antagonise both Mr Gowda and Mr Kumaraswamy in the state in the run-up to the assembly elections.
Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said there is no question of any political or electoral alliance with Congress though there can be joint struggles against the anti-people policies.

Inaugurating Palakkad district conference of CPM on Friday, Pinarayi said some Congress leaders had given call to the Left to come together for fighting communal forces.

But it was the Congress which implemented neo liberal policies which pushed the people into misery. The same policies are now being pursued eve more vigorously by Narendra Modi Government without any change.

So what needs to change is not the name but the policies. Therefore the main issue is about the stand towards neo liberal policies.

So when we talk about an alternative, political or electoral alliance, these issues have to be discussed . This is the reason why CPM is not ready for any political or electoral alliance with Congress which was the initiator and implement

Pinarayis statement was apparently a reaction to Congress President Rahul Gandhis statement at a public meeting here on December 14. I want to ask my friends in the CPM whether they actually want to fight the fascist forces in the country. Do they accept the fact that the biggest danger to this country comes from the fascist ideas being spread by the BJP? the Congress leader asked.

The chief minister, however, admitted that there was a need to safeguard Parliamentary democracy. Communalism is posing a major danger to our polity. There is a need for strong intervention to counter this threat and defend secularism, he said and added an alternative to communal forces should be based on policies.

Pinarayi said anti-communal front should be based on anti imperialist, anti corruption, anti neoliberal policies and secular policies. We need an alliance of democratic parties which are ready to uphold these policies, he said.
Thiruvananthapuram: The controversy over the hugging incident at the St. Thomas Central School here has been solved with the intervention Mr Shashi Tharoor MP. The school management has agreed to take back both the boy and girl students of 12th and 11th classes respectively, who were dismissed after they hugged each other on the campus on July 21.

The issue was resolved at the conciliatory talks held at the government guest house at Thycaud on Friday. Mr Tharoor wanted that the girl should be allowed to continue her studies and the boy be allowed to write his CBSE 12th board exams in March. Mr Tharoor told reporters after the two-hour talks that he was only interested in the future of the students. The girls transfer certificate from the earlier school will be issued on January 3 when it reopens after Christmas holidays.

Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, head of the Marthoma Church, had earlier asked the school authorities to arrive at an amicable situation.

"The management asked us to drop the case filed before the Child Rights Commission. We want them to remove the derogatory comments made against my son in the case filed before the High Court, said the boys father.

The girl expressed happiness that she will not lose a year. "The ordeal has been going on for more than five months now. I have to complete the technical formalities and resume my studies," she said.

Her mother thanked Mr Tharoor for his intervention. The school authorities will inform the CBSE in New Delhi about the latest developments.

Besides Mr Tharoor, the talks were attended by Rajan Varghese, secretary of Marthoma Educational Society, Sebastian T. Joseph, principal, Abraham Thomas, school governing council member, D. V. Vinodkrishna, Congress leader and the parents of the students

The boy had hugged the girl after she sang well in a western music competition.
The Redmond giant further said that the passwords are a relic from the early days of computing that have outlived their usefulness.

Passwords are the most commonly used way to prove your identity but no matter how many times people are warned the passwords are still horrible, making it easy for hackers. Following which Microsoft is alarming users and has provided a solution in its lengthy blog post.

The Redmond based tech giant is one of the companies that are trying to replace passwords with more secure authentication systems that are more convenient to use. Microsoft in partnership with the FIDO (Fast Identity Online) is highlighting its efforts to increase adoption of biometric-enabled devices for security reasons. For example, Microsoft's Windows Hello is being used to protect Windows 10 devices.

The company claims that Windows Hello has proved a successful security system and nearly 70 per cent of Windows 10 users with biometric-enabled devices are choosing Windows Hello over traditional passwords. The Redmond giant further said that the passwords are a relic from the early days of computing that have outlived their usefulness. And that having to change them on regular basis is hard-to-remember as a string of text isnt the solution.

For several decades, the industry has focused on securing devices. That model needs a makeover. Securing devices is important, but its not enough. We should also be focused on securing individuals. We can enhance your experience and security by letting you become the password, the company said.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.
The Trump administration has led a drive to step up global sanctions on North Korea in response to Pyongyang's efforts to develop nuclear-tipped missiles capable of hitting the United States. (Photo: File)

Washington: US President Donald Trump on Thursday said China has been "caught" allowing oil into North Korea and said such moves would prevent "a friendly solution" to the crisis over Pyongyang's nuclear program

"Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!" Trump wrote in a post on Twitter.

Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 28, 2017

China earlier on Thursday said there had been no UN sanction-breaking oil sales by Chinese ships to North Korea after a South Korean newspaper said Chinese and North Korean vessels had been illicitly linking up at sea to get oil to North Korea.

An official of the US State Department said the US government was aware of vessels engaged in such activity involving refined petroleum and coal.

"We have evidence that some of the vessels engaged in these activities are owned by companies in several countries, including China," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

South Korea's Chosun Ilbo newspaper this week quoted South Korean government sources as saying that US spy satellites had detected Chinese ships transferring oil to North Korean vessels around 30 times since October.

US officials have not confirmed details of this report.

The Trump administration has led a drive to step up global sanctions on North Korea in response to Pyongyang's efforts to develop nuclear-tipped missiles capable of hitting the United States.

Washington says the full cooperation of China, North Korea's neighbour and main trading partner, is vital to the success of this effort, while warning that all options are on the table, including military ones, in dealing with North Korea.

The UN Security Council last week unanimously imposed new sanctions on North Korea for a recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test, seeking to further limit its access to refined petroleum products and crude oil.

The US-drafted UN resolution seeks to ban nearly 90 percent of refined petroleum exports to North Korea by capping them at 500,000 barrels a year.

It also caps crude oil supplies to North Korea at 4 million barrels a year and commits the Security Council to further reductions if Pyongyang conducts another nuclear or ICBM test.

Documents seen by Reuters in December showed Washington called on the Security Council to blacklist 10 ships for circumventing sanctions by conducting ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or transporting North Korean coal.

China and Russia subsequently asked for more time to consider the proposal.

The ships targeted for blacklisting were the Xin Sheng Hai (flag unknown); the Hong-Kong-flagged Lighthouse Winmore; the Togo-flagged Yu Yuan; Panama-flagged Glory Hope 1 (also known as Orient Shenyu), Kai Xiang and Billions No. 18; and the North Korean-flagged Ul Ji Bong 6, Rung Ra 2, Rye Song Gang 1, and Sam Jong 2.

In September, the Security Council put a cap of 2 million barrels a year on refined petroleum products exports to North Korea.

China has repeatedly said it is fully enforcing all resolutions against North Korea, despite suspicion in Washington, Seoul and Tokyo that loopholes still exist.

Asked at a regular briefing whether Chinese ships were illegally providing oil to North Korean ships, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang reiterated that China, including the military, strictly enforced UN resolutions.

"The situation you have mentioned absolutely does not exist," he said.

A State Department spokesman, Michael Cavey, reiterated on Wednesday that the United States had called on all countries to cut economic ties with North Korea.

"We urge China to end all economic ties with the DPRK, including tourism, and the provision of any oil or petroleum products, and expel all DPRK workers," he said, using the acronym for North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Harry Kazianis, director of defense studies at the conservative Center for the National Interest, said China would "never, ever enforce the sanctions to the satisfaction of President Trump," in spite of the effort the US president had invested in developing a personal relationship with China's president, Xi Jinping.

"With President Trump's latest Tweet it seems the 'Bromance' between him and President Xi is finally over," he said.

"This was always bound to happen. China is actually more afraid of North Korea than America," Kazianis said, citing Chinese concerns about instability or collapse in North Korea if sanctions were fully applied.

US Democratic Senator Ed Markey, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said on Twitter the North Korean threat had only increased since Trump took office and he had to find a way to get China to cut off crude oil supplies.

"The solution is a coherent strategy, not bluster," he said
Donald Trump added that he was not concerned about the ongoing investigation, which his lawyers insisted would be finished by Thanksgiving, as everybody knows there was no Russian collusion. (Photo: File)

Washington: US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he believes the probe into Russian meddling in the US election "makes the country look very bad," according to The New York Times.

Speaking to the newspaper, Trump said he believes special counsel Robert Mueller will treat him fairly, a view in contrast with recent attacks on Mueller's credibility from Republicans, who have pressed for a new independent prosecutor to investigate anti-Trump bias.

"It makes the country look very bad, and it puts the country in a very bad position," Trump told the Times. "So the sooner it's worked out, the better it is for the country," he added.

The president further said that he was not concerned about the ongoing investigation, which his lawyers insisted would be finished by Thanksgiving, as "everybody knows" there was no Russian collusion.

"There's been no collusion. But I think he's going to be fair," Trump said of Mueller.

He repeated the allegations were invented by Democrats "as a hoax, as a ruse, as an excuse for losing an election," the Times reported.

Trump also distanced himself from ex-campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who was indicted in October in the first legal action stemming from the investigation.

"He worked for me for, what was it, three and a half months?" he told the Times, mentioning Manafort's connections to other Republicans including John McCain and Ronald Reagan.

According to the newspaper, Trump added it was "too bad" that Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from overseeing the probe, pointing out that although he did not want to "get into loyalty," Barack Obama's first attorney general, Eric Holder Jr, "totally protected him."

Meanwhile, questioned on the re-opening of the investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails, Trump maintained focus on the collusion probe.

He told the Times that "for purposes of hopefully thinking I'm going to be treated fairly, I've stayed uninvolved with this particular matter."
2017 has been a crippling year in so far as natural calamities are concerned, snowballing the earth into -- albeit gradual -- decay, in the form of floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires. (Photo: AP)

Mumbai: We entered into 2017 with promises of a new tomorrow and inhibitions about the uncertain future.

The world teetered between missile launches and amusing faux pas on Twitter; and as we skipped beats between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Uns war of words, to take note of legislations that were passed, governments that were toppled, snap polls and riding the Right Wing wave, something larger was happening around us.

2017 has been a crippling year in so far as natural calamities are concerned, snowballing the earth into -- albeit gradual -- decay, in the form of floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires and the threat of a volcano erupting in Indonesia, which had hundred of passengers stuck at Bali airport for days.

Hurricanes were more powerful, floods more debilitating and wildfires more damning.

Heres the cost of living for 2017:

California wildfires:

Two women hug as they watch house burn in Santa Rosa, California (Photo: AP)

Being regarded as the worst in the states history, wildfires in California wreaked havoc in 2017. As many as 8,779 fires have burned 1,372,904 acres of land according to California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, records. A total of 250 fires ravaged Northern California , displacing scores, killing 44 and injuring almost 192 people. In 2017, California witnessed five of the worst wildfires in the states history, namely, Tubbs Fire, Nuns Fire, Thomas Fire, Atlas Fire and Redwood Valley Complex Fire, that scorched through the state between October and December. Destroying insured property worth USD 9.4 billion in October alone and forcing 212,000 people to evacuate and burning down 1,300 structures by December, the total economic loss from wildfires in 2017 accrued to USD 180 billion. The economic losses can take years to recover making California wildfire season in 2017 not just most catastrophic but also most expensive.

Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria:

The remnants of the hurricane Harvey spun deep into Texas and unloaded extraordinary amounts of rain. (Photo: AP)

Parts of the Gulf and Mediterranean are still reeling from the destruction brought forth by storms and hurricanes as the rest of the world gears up to kick-start 2018. Hurricane Harvey, a Category 4 storm with 120 mph winds which devastated south Texas and Louisiana claimed 82 lives, CNN reported. The total cost incurred by Hurricane Harvey added up to USD 180 billion in damages.

Florida, Georgia and South Carolina had to bear the brunt of Irma, recorded as the strongest Atlantic basin hurricane ever. 95 per cent of Barbuda stood depleted as the Category 4 wind stormed through Caribbean nations. With a maximum strength of 130 mph winds, Irma claimed 61 lives and USD 200 billion in damages.

In September, Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Maria, which with its 155 mph winds was the first to directly hit the island in 85 years. Thousands of victims are still grappling with the lack of basic supplies and amenities. Official death toll stood at 55 however, a CNN investigation tallied almost 500 deaths with funeral homes. As 113 people remain missing, Marias total economic loss adds up to USD 95 billion.

Earthquake in Mexico:

Soldiers stand guard near the Sensacion hotel which collapsed during the powerful earthquake that struck Mexico on September 8, 2017. (Photo: AFP)

On 19th September, as Mexico  a seismically sensitive region  coincidentally marked the 32nd anniversary of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, the country was jolted into destruction by a 7.1 magnitude earthquake. 370 people were killed as the city reduced to rubble with 40 buildings collapsing. 6000 people were injured causing damage to the Mexican states of Puebla, Morelos and Greater Mexico City just 12 days after the even larger Chiapas earthquake wreaked ruination in the country. 20 children were killed as a school crumbled down. The total economic loss from the earthquakes amounted to less than 1 per cent of Mexicos GDP.

Peru Floods:

Residents wade through the water as a flash flood hits the city of Trujillo on March 18, 2017, bringing mud and debris. (Photo: AFP)

Floodings which began in 2016 and continued into the first few months of 2017 buried Peru in warm Pacific waters affecting 1 million people and killing 150, Reuters reported in July. The losses incurred and reconstruction efforts could accrue to USD 9 billion.

Floods in China:

Floods in China beginning in January 2017 impacted 14.9017 million people in ten provinces of which Hunan was hardest hit. (Photo: AFP)

Floods in China beginning in January 2017 impacted 14.9017 million people in ten provinces of which Hunan was hardest hit. 18,100 houses were destroyed and crops spread across 2.426822 acres were inundated. Water levels in more than 60 rivers in southern China had crossed well above the warning levels in lieu of continued rainfall with many major rivers flooding and crossing danger levels. In the aftermath of the floods, Hunan Provincial Commission for Discipline Inspection punished 15 officials as death tolls and losses steadily increased. Floods in China claimed 144 lives in 2017 and incurred heavy economic losses as it crippled productivity.

Ockhi:

Sri Lankan residents walk during a heavy rain and strong winds in Colombo on November 30, 2017. (Photo: AFP)

Cyclone Ockhi which originated in the Gulf of Thailand and dissipated near the coast of Gujarat in western India left a trail of destruction behind it. It was the strongest storm of the 2017 North Indian Ocean cyclone season. Despite changing its course near Kanyakumari, toward Lakhwadeep and sparing mainland India, the cyclone incurred severe damages to structures and property, apart from the loss of human lives. Ockhi impacted Sri Lanka, Lakshwadeep, South India and Maldives. It claimed more than 245 lives and 551 went missing -- of whom most were fishermen -- uprooting infrastructure and disabling livelihoods. In Kerala, which was badly hit, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, declared a compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the families of those who died and Rs 5 lakh to those who were permanently disabled due to the cyclone.

Apart from this:

117 died due to heavy rains and cyclones in Zimbabwe, rendering several others homeless, New Zealand Herald reported.

Snowfall and cascading avalanches killed 156 in Afghanistan, according to CNN.

Landslides in the Democratic Republic of Congo killed 174, in August.

Floods and landslides caused by heavy rainfall in Sri Lanka killed 213, in the month of May, while landslides in the Colombian city of Mocoa killed 300 people in April.

Mudslides in Sierra Leone affected more than 6000 people, killing 600 others.

2017 was an eventful year that had human-kind on its toes -- on the brink of war that could have (and still can) begun anywhere, from Pyongyang to Middle East. As Palestine rose in protest to Trumps recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital, Syria drove out ISIS after a gruelling and devastating war.

At the same time, hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas fled ethnic cleansing by the Myanmar army to crowd up in Bangladeshs refugee camps. Terror attacks, hate crimes, immigration, sexual scandals, collectively, were boiling up as we saw; but so was the Earth.

It may have seemed like any other year, with its standard quota of calamities. However, the loss from environmental mishaps this year, when seen in terms of the economic loss it incurred, can perhaps seem more alarming than it does at first glance. According to Quartz, Insurance firm Swiss Re, which makes this calculation every six months, estimates the economic loss in 2017 to be USD 306 billion, which is almost double 2016s loss of USD 188 billion (and also much higher than the 10-year-average of USD 190 billion).

In US alone, the tolls from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria accrued to the tune of USD 93 billion with California wildfires expected to add another USD 7 billion. Thunderstorms that rocked central and southern states in the US will cost another USD 2.5 billion.
As the year draws to a close, I often look back on my time in the Legislature and think of decisions that have an effect on our families and our neighborhoods.

This year, big companies are unwrapping gifts. The luckiest of really big companies is Foxconn. The $3 billion deal to bring the flat-screen TV and computer monitor manufacturer to Racine County is overwhelmingly unpopular in western Wisconsin. Ive received more than 100 calls and letters from folks who asked about the lack of taxpayer and environmental protections. They wonder where the money will come from in an already tight budget.

The year 2017 was the year of a late budget that failed to address many problems lawmakers promised to fix: roads, schools and local government relief. I wrote an alternative budget showing a path to fixing many of these problems.

One new tax was passed to help roadshybrids and electric car owners will pay more. But the money collected wont cover a fraction of the long-term needs of fixing our roads and bridges.

No changes were made to the way local governments are funded. Flat state spending for local communities means more struggles to provide local services like police, fire and social services.

To address the criticism the Legislature was not fixing the problems with funding our public schools, a new task force called the Blue Ribbon Commission on School Funding was created and just recently started its work. Im cautiously optimistic changes will come to provide fairness in school funding. Meanwhile, many families are paying higher property taxes because of school referenda passed last year to keep schools afloat.

Two other bills stand out in 2017 as topics that brought a great deal of contact from constituents: sulfide mining and high capacity wells. Overwhelmingly, people opposed getting rid of our 20-year-old Prove it First law. The old law required a company to first prove metal mining was safe before it was permitted to mine. A few weeks ago, Governor Walker signed into effect a new law. It will allow mining for silver, gold, copper and other minerals without proving it can be done without polluting the environment.

People were opposed to getting rid of DNR oversight of high capacity wells. The new law created permits for these wells to be in perpetuity, or forever.

Western Wisconsin is home to more mines than any other part of the state. A big part of sand mining is access to a high capacity well permit. Here, folks know up close and personal, what happens when a sand mine moves in next door.

A horse named Apples helped tell the story about what happens when mines open shop and neighbors are not protected. Poor Apples died, likely of toxic metals in the water. Later the family found almost ten times the limit of arsenic in their water. The family lives a little over a half mile from a sand mine. The courts will decide what killed Apples, but the family pointed out, when an oil industry down-turn caused production to stop at a nearby mine, the water cleared up.

The state failed to protect folks and their critters in Apples neighborhood.

Drinking clean water and enjoying our beautiful outdoors are joys we all share, which is why protecting the environment has been a long-standing bipartisan effort. It was a bipartisan legislature, including our current Governor when he was a State Representative, that created the Prove it First mining law.

As we close 2017, Im grateful for a bipartisan group of lawmakers working together to legalize hemp as a commodity. This is a bill Ive introduced for several years. I recently spoke with former Sen. Sheila Harsdorf. She shared that many farmers around Wisconsin have contacted her to say they want to grow hemp.

Im grateful for the work of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to write rules so farmers can get hemp seeds in the ground next spring. The Senate lost a strong voice for agriculture in Sen. Harsdorfs resignation, but weve gained a big voice for agriculture in her appointment as the new DATCP Secretary.

Wishing all of you a happy and prosperous New Year!
Putin called Wednesday's blast in his home city of Saint Petersburg an 'act of terror' and on Friday warned armed criminals they faced being liquidated on the spot. (Photo: File)

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin signed into law on Saturday, a bill toughening sentences for terrorist recruitment as the country deals with the issue of returning jihadists from Syria.

Official publication of the law came two days after a bomb attack on a supermarket in Saint Petersburg, Russia's second city, injured 14 people.

The new law, which parliament voted through on December 14 and the upper chamber approved on December 26, immediately raises the maximum sentence for terrorist recruitment and finance to life from 10 years.

Russia's military intervened in Syria in September 2015 to shore up the regime of President Bashar al-Assad and combat jihadists, making Russia a major target for such groups.

After Putin announced a partial troop withdrawal earlier in December, security services voiced fears of jihadists returning to Russia from Syria after the Islamic State group (IS) lost most of its self-proclaimed caliphate straddling Syria and Iraq.

Putin called Wednesday's blast in his home city of Saint Petersburg an "act of terror" and on Friday warned armed criminals they faced being "liquidated on the spot."

Russia's FSB security service said two weeks ago it had broken up an IS cell planning a December 16 terror attack at an Orthodox cathedral in Saint Petersburg, a key tourist attraction.
Innovative Affordable Housing Ideas Highlighted at GHF UN Convocation

Published: 2017-12-30

Author: Global Housing Foundation

Peer-Reviewed Publication: N/A

Additional References: Library of Disability Housing Publications

Synopsis: Global Housing Foundation United Nations Convocation program focused on development of housing for the working poor. Following the successful completion of Project Panama, the Global Housing Foundation ("GHF") in partnership with UN Habitat hosted an exciting gathering at the United Nations in New York City. Bringing together a select group of top international influencers within the global real estate community as well as other industries, the event helped GHF identify opportunities to advance industry knowledge and further the discussion on the importance of housing for the working poor throughout the world. "The goal of the program aligned with our mission which is to encourage private and public citizens to come together and establish innovative partnerships which will enable us to facilitate the continued development of housing for those who are economically disadvantaged," explained Global Housing Foundation President Sharon Young.

advertisements

Main Digest

Following the successful completion of Project Panama, the Global Housing Foundation ("GHF") in partnership with UN Habitat hosted an exciting gathering at the United Nations in New York City. Bringing together a select group of top international influencers within the global real estate community as well as other industries, the event helped GHF identify opportunities to advance industry knowledge and further the discussion on the importance of housing for the working poor throughout the world. "The goal of the program aligned with our mission which is to encourage private and public citizens to come together and establish innovative partnerships which will enable us to facilitate the continued development of housing for those who are economically disadvantaged," explained Global Housing Foundation President Sharon Young.

Keynote speaker for the UN Day event was Ellis Henican, a Pulitzer Prize Winner, columnist with the global Metro papers, a popular commentary on media outlets including CNN and the bestselling author of a dozen books. Henican commented that according to UN Habitat, in 2010, almost 980 million urban households lacked decent housing. It is estimated that this number will increase another 600 million between 2010 and 2030. In fact, in developing nations, one out of every four households live in poverty. It is estimated that one billion new homes will be needed worldwide by 2025 costing an estimated $650 billion per year, or $9-11 trillion overall. This makes housing for the working poor a vital and essential topic of conversation. "It is our moral responsibility to explore opportunities and seek solutions for the lack of workforce housing. What the Global Housing Foundation is committed to can reshape the future of the world," he explained. "The security of owning an affordable home translates to financial security, improved family conditions, healthier environments and ensures we can build a stronger foundation for future generations to grow and positively contribute to," he continued. Henican outlined 5 ways that leaders in the room could mobilize to make a significant difference and along with the principals of the Global Housing Foundation led a lively discussion with cutting-edge ideas that coincided with the luncheon theme.

Another industry expert and speaker was Peconic Bay Medical Center's Infectious Disease Expert, Dr. Sandeep Gandhi who discussed "Why Housing is the Best Medicine to Improve Health." Dr. Gandhi touched upon his global expertise with infectious disease and his experience about how lack of adequate housing not only drains community resources but also has a long-term negative impact on both physical and mental health within a society. This is especially true for those who are most vulnerable - the elderly, the young and those with disabilities. "Decrease of health issues/problems within a population is directly and indirectly influenced by access to a safe, clean and secure home," he explained. Dr. Gandhi also answered questions about types of diseases which can occur when a natural disaster takes place and how secure housing can minimize those effects.

Global Housing Foundation's Panama Project is its most recent success - completed in partnership with the United Nations and in alliance with the Grupo Shahani in Panama. The construction of these homes for the working poor in Panama successfully addressed three of the UN Habitat Directives (Initiatives):

Creation of public/private partnership in building homes

Empowering women

Creating workforce housing

The Global Housing Foundation is a 501(c)3 launched in 1999 when its founder and United Nations Scroll of Honor recipient, Rene Frank took up a challenge from the United Nations Commission on Human Settlements (UNCHS) as to why the private real estate industry did not do more to help solve the housing crisis around the world. The foundation's mission is, in conjunction with UN-Habitat, to bring together the resources necessary to create housing for the working poor. "Our commitment is to leverage the combined expertise and knowledge of global real estate industry leaders and spearhead the creation of solid partnerships between public, private, academic, community and governmental organizations to work towards a common goal of providing the working poor with the opportunity to owning a safe and affordable home," explained Global Housing Foundation Chairman Owen Gwyn. "We feel there can be no greater contribution to society than to transform a family and provide them with a strong and secure future," he explained.

Reference Source(s):

Innovative Affordable Housing Ideas Highlighted at GHF UN Convocation | Global Housing Foundation. Disabled World makes no warranties or representations in connection therewith. Content may have been edited for style, clarity or length.

Disabled World is an independent disability community established in 2004 to provide disability news and information to people with disabilities, seniors, their family and/or carers. See our homepage for informative news, reviews, sports, stories and how-tos. You can also connect with us on Twitter and Facebook or learn more about Disabled World on our about us page.

advertisements

Disabled World provides general information only. The materials presented are never meant to substitute for professional medical care by a qualified practitioner, nor should they be construed as such. Financial support is derived from advertisements or referral programs, where indicated. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.

 Cite This Page (APA): Global Housing Foundation. (2017, December 30). Innovative Affordable Housing Ideas Highlighted at GHF UN Convocation. Disabled World. Retrieved November 18, 2022 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/housing/ghf.php



 Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/housing/ghf.php">Innovative Affordable Housing Ideas Highlighted at GHF UN Convocation</a>
By Jodie Van Horn

Wed never argue that 2017 was a great year, but some really great things did happen!

Here are 50 ways (yes, 50!) that clean energy kept winning in 2017 despite Trumps attempts to roll back the countrys progress.

1. The Republican Mayor Championing 100% Renewable Energy in Louisiana

Republican Mayor Greg Lemons made his small town of Abita Springs the first municipality in Louisiana to commit to 100% clean energy. Mayor Lemons said his 100% renewable energy vision for Abita Springs, which has a population of 2,900, aligns with the conservative values of his communityand it has made him a trailblazer across Louisiana.



2. Madison and Abita Springs Committed to 100% Clean Energy on the Same Day!

On March 21, Madison, Wisconsin and Abita Springs, Louisiana became the 24th and 25th cities in the country to commit to 100% clean energy. Last year, more than 70% of voters in Madison cast ballots supporting Hillary Clinton, while in St. Tammany Parish, where Abita Springs is located, more than 70% of voters supported Donald Trump. They agree on one thing, at leastthe need for 100% clean energy.

3. Solar Created Even More Jobs Across America

A new report released this year by The Solar Foundation showed that in 2016, the number of solar jobs increased in 44 of the 50 states, and more than 260,000 Americans now work in solar. In several major metro areas, the solar workforce grew by 50% or more. The New York Times ran a major piece in April, which pretty much sums it up: Todays Energy Jobs Are in Solar, Not Coal.

4. Chicago Committed to Power All Municipal Buildings with 100% Renewable Energy by 2025

In April, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that by 2025, all 900-plus buildings operated by the city, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Park District, Chicago Housing Authority and City Colleges will be powered entirely by renewable sources. In 2016, those buildings used nearly 1.8 billion kilowatt hours of electricityequal to the energy needed to power about 295,000 homes.

5. U.S. Mayors Announced New National Drive for 100% Clean Energy

Mayors from across the U.S. teamed up with the Ready for 100 campaign to announce Mayors for 100% Clean Energy, a new effort to engage and recruit mayors to endorse a goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy in cities across the country.

6. 100% Clean Energy at the Peoples Climate March

A contingent of 100% clean energy activists representing communities from coast to coast joined hundreds of thousands of people marching in the Peoples Climate March in Washington, DC on April 29.

7. Atlanta Committed to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

Atlanta became the largest city in the South to commit to running entirely on clean energy. The city then took it to the people to learn through a series of #CommunityConversations why Atlanta is #ReadyFor100. Atlantans are helping shape the plan, set to be released next yearand theyve even got some superhero support.

8. More Companies Bought Into 100% Clean Energy

Around the world, a record number of big corporations, ranging from Anheuser-Busch to Kellogg, committed to going all-in on 100% clean energy. Collectively, their energy footprint is greater than all energy consumed in the state of New York. Corporate demand for renewable energy is helping drive a shift away from fossil fuels and bringing more renewable energy online. Google declared it now buys enough wind to cover 100% of its energy use.

9. Even Puppies Love 100% Clean Energy

And whats more uplifting than puppies?

10. Entire Town of Hanover Voted Unanimously for 100%

At a town meeting on May 9, residents of Hanover, New Hampshire voted to get off of all fossil fuels by 2050. This is the first community in the country to adopt a goal of 100% clean, renewable energy voted on and approved by the residents of the community.

11. Clean Energy Spiked In California and Texas

In California and Texas this year, clean energy like wind and solar set new records for energy generation. On May 13, renewable energy supplied 67% of all power in California. And wind broke records across the country, especially in Texas where 54% of grid electricity came from wind at one point on Oct. 27, breaking a previous 50% record set on March 23.

12. A Movement of Mayors Across Florida

Florida mayors are leading the way towards 100% clean, renewable energy. More than 40 mayors from across Florida have joined Mayors for 100% Clean Energy, the most of any state in the country. Although the Sunshine State gets less than half a percent of its power from the sun, Floridians beat back previous utility-backed efforts to limit solar energy in the state. Now clean energy advocates and dozens of mayors say they deserve better.

13. Pueblo, Colorado Committed to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

The city of Pueblo, Colorado committed to running entirely on renewable energy by 2035. City council is now exploring options for how they can cut ties with an uncooperative utility, protect low income rate payers, and move to 100% clean energy for all.

14. A Mothers Clean Energy Vision for Her City

On Mothers Day, Mayor Heidi Harmon of San Luis Obispo, California, who is also a proud mom of two, shared her vision for 100% clean energy in her community. Citing the safety and health threats that climate change and pollution will pose to children, Mayor Harmon sees a solution: transitioning San Luis Obispo to run on 100% clean energy.

15. Oregonians Committed to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

On the same day that Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, the Portland City Council and Multnomah County Commission voted to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050. Thanks to organizations like Verde and Opal, these commitments also represent a strong commitment to racial and economic justice and will ensure that communities of color and low income communities define, lead, and share the economic, social, and environmental benefits of a renewable energy transition.

16. Energy Experts Agreed: 100% Renewable Energy is Possible

In a global survey, more than 70% of the worlds energy experts agreed that powering the globe with 100% renewable resources is achievable.

17. Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto to Trump: the Steel City Will Move to 100% Clean Energy

Just hours after Donald Trump claimed to represent the voters of Pittsburgh in his decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, Mayor Bill Peduto announced his support for a goal of powering Pittsburgh entirely with clean and renewable energy by 2035.

18. Edmonds and Whatcom County Were the First Washington Commitments to 100% Clean Energy

In June, the city of Edmonds became the first community in the state of Washington to commit to 100% clean, renewable energy. Edmonds set the goal of achieving a 100% transition by 2025 shortly after the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting in June. Whatcom County became the sixth county in the country to move towards 100% renewable energy.

19. Mayor Steve Benjamin of Columbia, South Carolina Is a Clean Energy Champ

Columbia, South Carolina Mayor Steve Benjamin, Co-Chair of Mayors for 100% Clean Energy, is #ReadyFor100. Mayor Benjamins leadership paved the way for Columbia to commit to 100% clean, renewable energy in June. As a local and national leader, Mayor Benjamin is sharing his vision far and wide.

20. Wind is Winning Across America

Wind power reached new heights in 2017! Earlier this year, American Electric Power announced that it would make a $4.5 billion investment in the nations largest wind energy project, and local advocates like Nancy Moran spoke out in support. The wind farm will provide power in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas, and is expected to save customers $7 billion over the next 25 years. In Texas, wind power became a bigger source of electricity than coal.

21. U.S. Conference of Mayors Approved Historic 100% Clean Energy Resolution, Proving That Mayors Are #ReadyFor100

The 85th U.S. Conference of Mayors approved a resolution establishing support from the nations biggest cities for an equitable and just transition to 100% clean energy by 2035. Clean energy activists celebrated the mayors vote by taking part in an aerial art action on the beach. Is your mayor signed onto Mayors for 100% Clean Energy?

22. One of the Countrys Biggest Bus Fleets Will Be 100% Electric by 2030

This summer, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), voted to transition its fleet of more than 2,200 buses to zero emission electric buses by 2030. Transitioning to all electric buses will help improve air quality, fight climate change, enhance social equity and improve rider experience. Additionally, with policies that encourage local manufacturing, the transition can create good local jobs in disadvantaged communities. Congratulations to the Sierra Clubs My Generation campaign and local partners in Los Angeles who worked hard to achieve this major victory.

23. Orlandos 100% Clean Energy Commitment is Already Having an Impact

In August Orlando became the largest city in Florida to commit to 100% renewable energy. The city plans to stop using fossil fuels by 2050. Orlandos commitment to clean energy is already having an impact: Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer indicated that the citys 100% renewable energy goal is a key factor in determining who will become the next CEO of their city-owned utility.

24. The Path to 100% Clean Energy Is Saving Hawaii Money

The Hawaii House of Representatives found this year that Hawaii residents have already saved over a quarter of a billion dollars as a result of the states progress toward achieving its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045. The state called on other states and the federal government to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy, citing that it makes economic sense today. Hawaii has a detailed plan to hit its goal five years ahead of schedule.

25. Faith Leaders Asked Boises Mayor to Endorse a 100% Clean Energy Future

Boise Faith Leaders representing 20 different faith communities delivered a letter to Mayor Dave Bieter to urge him to support a goal to make Boise the first city in Idaho to commit to 100% clean energy. The Idaho chapter of the Sierra Club has been building grassroots support and asking Mayor Dave Bieter to commit to a 100% clean energy goal.

26. In the Coal-Dependent State of Utah, 100% Is Trending

In a state that still gets nearly 70% of its electricity from coal-fired power plants, municipalities have begun to say no more. This year, Summit County and Moab, Utah committed to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy. Salt Lake City, which is also in the 100% club, released Climate Positive 2040, a plan to achieve its goal to run on clean energy by 2032, reduce carbon pollution, and take the lead on climate action.

27. 100% Clean Energy Unleashed in Capitals

U.S. lawmakers introduced bills in both the Senate and House of Representatives this year that would move the entire country to 100% renewable energy. Senators Jeff Merkley and Bernie Sanders announced their landmark 10050 act with community leaders in April. And clean energy supporters from California to Massachusetts have been pushing state lawmakers adopt 100% renewable energy, but many of these efforts are still in progress.

28. 150 Mayors for 100% Clean Energy

The Sierra Clubs Mayors for 100% Clean Energy initiative reached a major milestone: 150 mayors from across the country signed onto the campaign and pledged to power their communities with 100% clean, renewable energy. Civic leaders from across the country are stepping up to make it known that they care about the health of their residents and the strength of their local economy by advocating for 100% clean, renewable energy.

29. Local Clean Energy Advocates Rallied for Community Choice

In support of a clean energy future for California, community members rallied in September to protect Community Choice energy programs, like Alameda Countys East Bay Community Energy. Community Choice gives cities and counties the chance to take control of their electric power supply and offer renewable energy to residents and businesses.

30. North Carolina Counties Went All-In On Renewable Energy

While cities across the country continue to commit to 100% clean energy, some North Carolina communities are going even bigger. Orange County and Buncombe County, North Carolina this year became some of the first counties in the country to commit to 100% clean, renewable energy.

31. Pueblos Movement for Energy Justice Featured in Sierra Magazine Profile

In a profile published in Sierra, Michael Tannahills story reveals the connections between economic and environmental justiceand highlights why the community of Pueblo, Colorado is pushing back hard against high utility costs and dirty fuels to get to 100% clean energy.

32. Portlands Commitment to 100% Clean Energy Pushed Portland General Electric (PGE) to Invest in Renewables

PGE acknowledged that Portland and surrounding Multnomah Countys 100% renewable energy goals are shaping its future energy investments. After the Oregon Public Utility Commission rejected PGEs proposal to expand a gas-fired power station in August, PGE issued a proposal to develop renewable energy and energy storage.

33. St. Louis Became the Largest Midwest City to Commit to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

On Oct. 27, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen unanimously approved the citys commitment to transition to 100% by 2035. St. Louis, a longtime coal capital home to Arch Coal and Peabody Energy, represents the largest city in Missouri and across the Midwest to establish a goal of transitioning entirely to clean, renewable energy. The city will develop a plan by December 2018 to meet the goal and conduct a transparent and inclusive stakeholder process. This includes community members and representatives from organizations representing labor, faith, social justice, environmental justice, frontline communities and those most impacted by our current energy systems, among others.

34. In Cleveland, the Community Wants Clean Energy for Everyone

Through a series of Community Dialogues in Cleveland, Ohio, Ready for 100 organizer Jocelyn Travis has been helping residents of the Rock and Roll Capital of the World envision a 100% clean energy transition in their city. The Dialogues have helped Clevelands diverse communities connect with each other, learn about clean energy solutions, and build a movement for a healthy and just clean energy transition.

35. Community Choice Can Help San Diego Reach Its 100% Clean Energy Goal

A City of San Diego study released this year determined that Community Choice Energy can help San Diego achieve its goal of 100% clean energy at a cost competitive rate with the local utility. San Diego is the largest city in the country to have adopted a legally binding 100% renewable energy goal, which the city plans to achieve by 2035. San Diegos Republican Mayor, Kevin Faulconer, is a co-chair of Mayors for 100% Clean Energy.

36. 100% Clean Energy Won Big on Election Day

Across the country, from East Lansing, Michigan to St. Petersburg, Florida, 100% clean energy champions won big on Election Day, reaffirming that local communities want more clean energy!

37. U.S. Climate Leadership is All About Local

During the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP23) in Bonn, Germany, U.S. cities and mayors joined other local leaders to stand behind the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. Mayors affirmed #WeAreStillIn by doubling down on local support for bold climate action. The aggregate climate actions of We Are Still In signatories and other non-federal U.S. actors are being quantified through Americas Pledge, an initiative spearheaded by UN Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change Michael Bloomberg and California Gov. Jerry Brown.

38. The Sierras Went All-In On Renewable Energy

South Lake Tahoe, Nevada City and Truckee, California all committed to 100% clean, renewable energy this year, leading the way for other communities across the Sierras. Mountain towns in the West have been leading a move to clean energy to save their snow and the tourist industry.

39. Ready for 100 Released 2nd Annual Case Studies Report

The Ready for 100 campaign released a new report in English and Spanish highlighting 10 cities across the U.S. that have committed to 100% renewable energy and the steps they are taking to get there. Featured cities span from coast to coast, and include tiny towns and large metropolises. This is the second case studies report issued by Ready for 100, following a 2016 release.

40. What Do an Eagle Scout, a Colonel, and a Utility Company Have in Common?

They all support 100% renewable energy! Community members packed a town hall in Breckenridge, Colorado, in support of the town adopting a goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2035. Testimony included fifth-grade Boy Scout Eli Larson, who stated, If this global warming keeps up, we might not even have a winter. And a U.S. Colonel testified that there was a mandate from the community to go renewable. Six Colorado cities in total have committed to 100%, including Nederland and Lafayette this year. An Xcel Energy spokesperson acknowledged that the utility would do everything it can to help cities achieve their goals.

41. Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski is #ReadyFor100

Since Salt Lake City committed to 100% renewable energy last year, Mayor Jackie Biskupski has been on a mission to get other mayors on board. A co-chair of Mayors for 100% Clean Energy, Mayor Biskupski has rallied support for 100% everywhere from Twitter to the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

42. Two Massachusetts Cities Committed to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

Cambridge and Amherst, Massachusetts passed resolutions in 2017 committing to 100% clean, renewable energy. As the first municipalities to do so in Massachusetts, the cities are leading the way in the Bay State.

43. Ameren Missouri Proposed Wind to Help Meet St. Louiss 100% Clean Energy Goal

Ameren Missouri, the utility serving St. Louis, acted right away on the citys 100% clean energy commitment, which passed in October. The utility has invested $1 billion in wind projects and now wants to create a Renewable Choice Program for customers that would give cities and companies the option to buy wind energy.

44. TOAD the Wet Sprocket Took Ready for 100 on Tour

TOAD the Wet Sprocket went on tour with a cause this summer. Promoting the Ready for 100 campaign at tour stops across the country, the alternative rock band encouraged fans to join the campaign and support 100% renewable energy!

45. Coastal California Cities Embraced 100%

This year, the cities of Santa Barbara, Monterey, Solana Beach, Chula Vista and Goleta, California all made commitments to transitioning to 100% clean, renewable energy. To date, 14 cities across California have committed to running entirely to clean energy.

46. Scotland Will Reach 100% Renewable Energy By 2020

The Scottish government confirmed the country is on track to get all of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. Scotland hit its 2020 emission targets five years early and has gone from delivering 10% to 60% of its electricity consumption from renewable sources over the past 15 years. For the first six months of 2017, wind power provided enough electricity to meet 118% of Scotlands national demand.

47. Greater Philadelphia Is Sparking a Movement for 100% Clean Energy in Pennsylvania

Three Philadelphia-area communities committed to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy. West Chester, Phoenixville Borough and Downingtown in Chester County all set goals to move entirely to renewable energy, setting the bar for Philly and other Pennsylvania cities to follow. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney pledged support for the goal through Mayors for 100% Clean Energy this year, a great first step.

48. Hawaiian Mayors Committed to 100% Renewably Powered Ground Transportation by 2045

In December, mayors from the City and County of Honolulu, Maui County, Hawaii County and Kauai County committed to transforming Hawaiis transportation to 100% renewable fuel sources by 2045. The proclamations build off of Hawaiis goal to transition away from fossil fuels in the electricity sector by the same date.

49. Its Not 100% If Its Not Equitable and Just

This year California adopted legislation requiring all communities in the state to integrate environmental justice policies, objectives, and goals into their General Plans. In October the California Environmental Justice Alliance released a toolkit to help cities integrate these changes. NAACP also released a national toolkit on Just Energy Policies & Practices, a resource for energy justice advocates. And Island Press published a new book titled Energy Democracy, Advancing Equity in Clean Energy Solutions, a collection of essays from leaders across the U.S. who are winning local campaigns that demonstrate what an alternative, democratized energy future can look like. #powertothepeople.

50. More Than 50 (Yes, 50!) Cities Committed to 100% Clean, Renewable Energy

The Ready for 100 campaign hit a milestone when Truckee, California became the 50th city in the U.S. to make a 100% commitment. The Town Council adopted a resolution to move entirely to clean electricity town-wide by 2030, as well as all energy sources by 2050. See a complete list of all cities, counties, and states committed to 100% clean energy here. Ready for your community to be next?
By Paul Brown

Cheap renewables are mounting a serious challenge to nuclear power, which in 2017 has had a difficult year.

Key projects have been abandoned, costs are rising, and politicians in countries which previously championed the industry are withdrawing their support.

Renewables, on the other hand, especially wind and solar power, have continued to expand at an enormous rate. Most importantly, they have gotten significantly cheaper.

And newer technologies like large-scale battery storage and production of hydrogen are becoming economic, because they harness cheap power from excess renewable capacity.

This latest trendthe production of hydrogen from excess wind and solar powerraises the possibility of replacing natural gas, at least in part, for domestic heating and cooking and for power stations.

Many existing gas pipelines and domestic networks are equally capable of taking natural gas, biogas and hydrogen, or a mixture of all three.

The speed with which the transition is taking place has exceeded all official estimates. In favorable locations across the world, including the U.S., Europe and India, onshore wind and solar farms are the least expensive way of producing electricity.

Even off-shore wind, five years ago more expensive than nuclear power, has developed so quickly that the latest Dutch off-shore farms are to be built without any subsidy at all.

These advances in renewables that are cutting the cost of power are in sharp contrast to continued cost overruns and delays in nuclear power stations.

An analysis of countries plans for tackling climate change showed that 108 were looking to expand renewables and just nine wanted to build new nuclear stations.

U.S. Blow

The biggest single blow to nuclear powers expansion came in August: two nuclear reactors under construction in South Carolina were abandoned when 40 percent complete. This was a humiliation for the U.S. giant Westinghouse, already in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings to escape its creditors.

The models concerned were its flagship design, AP 1000 pressurized water reactors, which were supposed to spur a nuclear revival. Their cost, already $9 billion, was expected to rise to $25 billion by the time the reactors were completedthree years behind schedule.

This month in the nearby state of Georgia, building work on the only other plants of this design still under construction was allowed to continue despite already accumulated delays and costs. When the project is completed it is expected to increase consumer bills in the state by 10 percent.

The continued difficulties of nuclear power are reflected in the French governments declared intention to reduce nuclears share in electricity generation from 75 percent to 50 percent, by closing old stations and building more renewables.

Long Delay

While it will not close old reactors as fast as it originally intended, France does not plan to build any new nuclear plants beyond the one still awaiting completion at Flamanville, which is years late and over budget.

The South Korean government has similarly been promising to halt nuclear expansion and develop more renewables. Japan, still suffering from the after-effects of the Fukushima nuclear disaster of 2011, is abandoning plans to restart some of its older reactors because of public resistance and the expense of upgrading safety.

Even in China and Russia, where state control means market economics have little effect on decision-making, plans to build more nuclear stations appear to be on hold, although no official statements have been made.

This has not stopped the nuclear industries in all these countries trying to export their technologiesnotably to the UK, which is inviting all of them except Russia to build their latest nuclear power station design on its shores. If the plans succeed, the UK would have four different designs.

The most advanced of these, Hinkley Point C in the west of England, is a set of two reactors of similar design to the badly delayed French reactor at Flamanville. It was originally due to be completed by Christmas 2017, but is now scheduled for 2025, although that is now seen as optimistic.

Completion Doubts

Even the former UK energy secretary Sir Edward Davey, who signed off on the Hinkley Point deal, said the economics have clearly gone away. He doubted that the building would ever be completed, he told Greenpeace in an interview.

All the other UK nuclear projects are still at various stages of planning, and how any of them will be paid for is yet to be worked out. It is already clear that none can be financed without government subsidy.

An important political development in 2017 was that for the first time both the U.S. and the UK admitted that their support for the nuclear industry is linked to the need to maintain their military capability in nuclear submarines and personnel. This is key, because both powers have previously claimed that there is no link between civil and military nuclear industries.

Even before their admission it was already clear that the big economies which have no nuclear weapons, like Germany, can see no point in having a civil nuclear industry.

Export Drive

That does not stop smaller countries, some without any nuclear power stations at all at present, from signing agreements with the Russian state-owned company Rosatom. In what many see as a Russian policy to extend its international influence, Rosatom already says it is building reactors in Belarus, China, India, Bangladesh, Hungary, Turkey, Finland and Iran, and is seeking to expand, with tenders in for 23 other reactors abroad.

These include Sudan, where the current president is wanted for war crimes. Whether all the plans will come to fruition remains doubtful.

The claim to a bright future which the nuclear industry clung to for the last 20 years was that the technology produced large quantities of low carbon electricity at a low pricesomething that intermittent renewables could not do.

In 2017 it is clear this argument has fallen apart. Nuclear is ever more expensive, and the cost is growing, while renewables are getting cheaper all the time.

But perhaps most important is that, with the development of batteries, biogas and hydrogen, the output from renewables can be stored and balanced out. Base load nuclear power is no longer needed.

Reposted with permission from our media associate Climate News Network.
A 61-year-old Norwalk man was referred to the Monroe County District Attorney for mistreating an animal after allegedly shooting a cow in the head Nov. 18.

Police were called to a Kelton Road residence in the town of Ridgeville after a deer hunter reported the wounded cow shortly before 4:30 p.m. The cow was located 4  hours later and euthanized. The owner said the cow had recently given birth and that her calf was missing.

Police obtained permission from neighboring landowner Ricky L. Azarian to search for the calf and then interviewed him as a suspect. Azarian originally denied shooting the cow but later admitting to shooting the cow with a 30-06 rifle, according to the report. He said he shot at the cow because it charged at him. He also said cows from a neighboring farm repeatedly came onto his property and damaged his food plots.

The report says the cow wandered with its lower jaw hanging from its head for 14 hours before it was euthanized. Police also determined that Arazian shot the cow from an elevated position, which didnt match Arazians description of how the weapon was discharged.

The calf, estimated to be 1-3 days old, was found the next morning and returned to the farm.

In other Monroe County Sheriffs Office news:

Nicole K. True, 44, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for making unauthorized withdrawals from another persons checking account. According to the report, police confirmed $685.48 in fraudulent debit card and electronic check purchases made by True.

Eduardo Isaias Salinas, 28, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for obstructing an officer. He is accused of misidentifying himself when police approached him as he was walking in a town of Sparta neighborhood shortly after 9 p.m. Dec. 2. Salinas had an active Department of Corrections warrant and was transported to the Monroe County jail.

Roger Schaitel, 34, Norwalk, was referred to the district attorney for physical abuse of a child.

Police were called to Brookwood School after a girl came to school with a bruise on her cheek. She said Schaitel struck her after becoming upset over a discipline issue.

Police interviewed Schaitel at his place of employment. When police asked Schaitel if he had gone too far in his attempt to discipline the girl, he reportedly hung his head and nodded yes.

Jonathan D. Wilson, 29, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for possession of stolen property. Police identified dozens of stolen items at his town of Little Falls residence, including chainsaws, leaf blowers, weed trimmers, circular saws, clothing, tool boxes and air compressors.

Police were led to Wilsons property by the Jackson County Sheriffs Office, which was investigating the theft of a trailer Nov. 7. Police found the trailer at a town of Millston residence, where a chainsaw stolen in Monroe County was also found. An acquaintance of both Wilson and the suspect in the Jackson County case told police that a considerable amount of stolen property was kept at Wilsons Abbotsford Road address.

Brandyn Scott Cardon, 20, Warrens, was referred to the district for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia after a Nov. 24 traffic stop in the town of Byron.

Police pulled over a car driven by Cardon for a defective headlamp. During the stop, police identified green flaky material that appeared to be marijuana. Police searched the trunk and allegedly found a sandwich bag containing marijuana and a corn cob pipe with burned marijuana residue.

Peter A. Kyser, 51, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct.

Police were called to a disturbance in the town of Little Falls. A witness said Kyser and a woman were involved in a verbal altercation and that a loud thud could be heard from their room. The woman said the thud was caused by Kyser pushing her into the wall.

A 17-year-old Sparta boy was referred to the district attorney for bail jumping. He is accused of violating a bond condition that prohibits him from consuming alcohol.

Scott B. Kogutkiewicz, 56, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for bail jumping. He is accused of violating a bond condition that prohibits him from operating a motor vehicle unless properly licensed.

Aaron K. Dunigan, 32, Melrose, was referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct. He is accused of throwing furniture and pumpkins off a deck in a town of Little Falls residence Nov. 13.

Storm Michael Gunn, 18, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia after a Nov. 19 traffic stop in the town of Angelo.

Police pulled over a vehicle on Hwy. 16 for a defective registration lamp. The driver, Gunn and another passenger exited the vehicle, and the driver told police, You guys can search if you want. Gunn led police to a black gym bag, which allegedly contained a digital scale with green residue, rolling papers and a tin box that smelled of marijuana. A search of Gunns person allegedly found a plastic sandwich bag containing marijuana. The report said he admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the evening.

Gary Edwin Wolfgram, 63, Kendall, was referred to the district attorney for resisting an officer after a Nov. 19 incident in the village of Cashton.

Police were called to a report of an extremely intoxicated man, identified as Wolfgram, bleeding from the face and head. Wolfgram reportedly gave police a false identity, but police recognized him from previous contacts.

Wolfgram allegedly pulled away from police after an initial attempt to detain him. The report says he resisted apprehension attempts, screamed, moaned and asked police, Why are you trying to hurt me? Dont touch me.

The report says Wolfram continued to yell and resist all the way through the booking process.

Andrew J. Rasmussen, 21, and Christian R. Laack, 20, both of Tomah, were referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct after a Nov. 15 incident in the town of Oakdale.

According to the report, the two got nose to nose and before Rasmussen pushed Laack, who pushed back. Rasmussen grabbed Laack by the neck and shoved him into a wall. The report says there was a hole in the drywall.

William M. Nelson, 25, and Eli Brush, 27, Tomah, were both referred to the district attorney for a Nov. 6 incident in the Monroe County jail.

Jail staff responded to an altercation in which Nelson and Brush were both rolling on the floor. The report said the fight left Brush with a bloody lip. Both were referred for battery by an inmate, and Nelson was referred for strangulation.
HARRISBURG, Pa.  Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced Dec. 20 a significant step towards economic justice for Pennsylvania landowners in his lawsuit against Chesapeake Energy Inc. and Anadarko Petroleum Co.

Bradford County Common Pleas Court issued an opinion and order denying preliminary objections raised by the defendant companies.

Royalties

The Office of Attorney Generals lawsuit seeks to recover for thousands of Pennsylvania landowners the money wrongfully deducted from fracking royalty checks by Chesapeake Energy and Anadarko Petroleum  in violation of the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law.

The complaint alleges that landowners who entered into leases with the defendants believed they would receive royalties from the sale of natural gas without post-production costs  but were charged deductions for refinement, transportation and other costs associated with processing the natural gas.

Court

The Bradford County court held: No. 1, Chesapeake Energy and Anadarko Petroleum are subject to the Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law; No. 2, The lawsuit filed by the Office of Attorney General Shapiro is in the public interest; and No. 3, The defendants oil and gas leasing practices are also subject to the Unfair Trade Practices law.

The court held the Office of Attorney General is invested with the broad responsibility for policing the marketplace and protecting the people of Pennsylvania from unfair and deceptive business practices.

The lawsuit alleges that landowners were denied the benefit of competition for leases in the form of higher royalty rates and signing bonuses when Chesapeake Energy and Anadarko Petroleum agreed not to compete against each other in securing oil and gas leases from landowners.

The impact of the unfair and deceptive practices is not limited to the Marcellus Shale but applies also to Utica Shale and any deeper natural gas formations or layers under Marcellus and Utica Shale.

Related Content
The sector saw much-improved deadweight prices in 2017, which peaked in July at levels last seen more than three years earlier.

Prices have tapered off slowly since, as increased domestic supplies coincide with subdued demand.

However, with little sign of a sustained strengthening of sterling, producers can remain optimistic going into 2018 that these relatively high prices will be sustained, says Andersons consultant Jonty Lister.

Medium- and longer-term prospects for the industry remain uncertain, he adds. The most important factor will be the future trading relationship the UK has with the EU.

The pig industry is indirectly supported via significant import tariffs (50-150 per 100kg) on products from outside the EU. These make most imports of pigmeat uncompetitive in the single market.

See also: What EU agreement on citizens rights means for farmworkers

Summary Relatively buoyant deadweight prices look set to continue into 2018

Prospects further ahead remain uncertain and will be dictated by the UKs post-Brexit trading relationship with the EU

Producers need to address production costs and use the current period of increased returns to reduce borrowings and reinvest

If the UK and the EU retain tariff-free access to each others markets after Brexit, then output price dynamics would not be seriously affected, says Mr Lister. If no deal is concluded, trading will default to WTO rules, which would have a significant impact on the UK pig industry.

Future marketing campaigns should focus on the high welfare standards of British products to suppress cheap imports.

About 40% of the UK pig herd is kept in outdoor systems, which tend to lag behind indoor units for productivity gains, says Mr Lister.

In addition, producers should concentrate on reducing costs of production, he says. As InterPig reports, in 2015 UK production costs averaged 1.33/kg dw, compared with 1.18/kg in the EU and 0.80/kg in the USA. This presents a major challenge for UK producers.

UK rearer and finishing systems should target a feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 2.0-2.3. The top 10% in the UK achieve an FCR of 2, while the average is 2.4.

Businesses should also regularly record and monitor margin over feed, with feed estimated to be 55% to 60% of production costs in the UK, but nearer 50% in Denmark, for example, largely because of better FCRs.

Greater use of technology to record all key performance indicators could improve management, as could risk management options, particularly forward-buying of feed.

Farmers Weekly says Rhian Price, livestock editor With prices continuing their descent, a sharper focus on production costs and benchmarking will be needed to keep things on track. Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture (Ruma) has set strict yearly targets for antibiotics reduction, although significant progress is already being made by many pig producers in this area. Farmers will now have to record antibiotics using the electronic medicine book, and biosecurity and in-feed medication will be big focus areas.
A Winona man has died after a single vehicle accident Wednesday.

James Weaver, 61, died after leaving I-90 due to the driving conditions and rolling his vehicle.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol report, Weaver was driving southbound on I-90 south of the I-90 and Hwy. 61 split, south of the exit to Dakota, around 10:40 a.m. behind a semi that was causing a cloud of snow.

The report said that Weaver, driving a 2001 Ford Explorer, lost control, went through the median, traveled across westbound lanes and through the guardrail before rolling over the embankment.

The vehicle ended up on its roof on Riverview Street in Dresbach.

Weaver, who was wearing a seatbelt, suffered fatal injuries and was transferred to Mayo Hospital in Rochester.

In addition to the State Patrol, the Dakota Fire, Pickwick Fire, Nodine Fire, Gunderson Tri-State Ambulance and Winona County Sheriffs Deputies were also on scene.
Next Xiaomi AI smart speaker to support Microsoft Cortana News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu

Xiaomi has unveiled the Yeelight voice assistant smart speaker called Yeelight Voice Assistant. This speaker looks like an Amazon Echo Dot clone with a similar design.

The major highlight of this smart speaker priced at 199 yuan (approx. Rs. 1,950) is that it will sport two virtual assistants - one is the Amazon Alexa for the users in the western markets and the other is a virtual assistant based on Xiaomi's artificial intelligence technology that is meant for use within China. With the dual AI support, the Yeelight Voice Assistant can tap into the global market.

While Xiaomi and Yeelight have not elaborated on the voice assistant that will be used within China, there are speculations that it could be the Microsoft Cortana. For those who don't remember, Microsoft and Xiaomi struck a deal in May 2016 in order to pre-install the former's apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Skype and Outlook to Xiaomi devices. In return, Microsoft had sold 1,500 patents to Xiaomi.

All this is kept in place by the Microsoft Azure platform that handles the cloud aspects of the Microsoft apps and Xiaomi's Mi Cloud as well. Cortana is a major component of the Azure platform, so creating AI technology that is powered by Cortana is possible. And, the new voice assistant speaker from Xiaomi is speculated to use Cortana.

However, we need to mention that Xiaomi and Yeelight have not officially announced the support for Cortana on the Yeelight Voice Assistant smart speaker. If the smart speaker is powered by Cortana, then it will be one of the three standalone speakers that support the Microsoft assistant including the Harman Kardon Invoke speaker and the upcoming standalone Cortana-powered speaker to be launched by HP.

Having said that, the Yeelight Voice Assistant will be released in China on January 31 and we can expect more details to surface online before its commercial availability. Soon after its release, Xiaomi is tipped to launch a tower-shaped Mi AI speaker that was launched earlier this year.

Via: Digital Trends

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
Microsoft Windows Phone prototype with Surface Pen support spotted online News oi -Chandrika Referred to Hapanero, a Lumia 950 with support for the Surface Pen was kind of like the Samsung Galaxy Note phablet.

Microsoft's Surface Phone is one of the most anticipated products from the company. Lately, we have seen many signs of a mobile device that is being developed by the company.

Of course, regardless of its form factor, a future Microsoft mobile device is unlikely to be powered by Windows 10 operating system. However, many Windows phone fans want the company to add support for a pen. While Microsoft's Surface Pen has been around for a while now, the company has never thought about officially bringing it to the mobile platform.

The Redmond-based software giant could have given tough competition to Samsung and its Note series. What's interesting is that although Microsoft never launched such a product, it worked on a prototype.

Referred to Hapanero, a Lumia 950 with support for the Surface Pen was kind of like the Samsung Galaxy Note phablet. The company had even showcased the product at the Build developer conference in 2015.

And today, we have come across a video that shows a demo with this prototype, revealing how a Windows-based phone with support for Surface Pen would have functioned.

As noted by Windows Latest, if that prototype ever got launched, users could open apps, scroll, and even type on the keyboard with the stylus. As it turned out later, Microsoft would add more advanced functionality to Surface Pen, some of which are now available in PCs running Windows 10.

It is rumored that the company had planned two different versions of the prototype device. One would have featured 1080p display, while the other would have had a 1440p display. However, rest of their specs would have been similar to that of the Lumia 950.

We have embedded the demo video of the prototype down below. Make sure to give it a watch, in case you are interested.

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
OnePlus 5T might get a Sandstone variant in January News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu

OnePlus has taken to its official YouTube channel to share a video showing that it could be working on a mysterious product. The video shows people's reaction to a hidden product kept in a box with the OnePlus logo.

From the video, it can be seen that people are made to feel the texture of the product. Some have mentioned that it has a different texture while some mention that it is the Sandstone texture. It was the OnePlus 3T that was the first one from the company to feature a metallic build. The previous models used a polycarbonate build with Sandstone texture at the rear. The distinct texture of the back of the OnePlus and OnePlus 2 were mentioned by some people who had felt the hidden product.

From the reaction of people, we can guess that it could be a new product or the Sandstone variant of the OnePlus 5T. It cannot be a Sandstone case as the company has already come up with such a protective case for the recent flagship smartphone.

As of now, the OnePlus 5T is available only in the Midnight Black color option. There is also the Lava Red color option in China and the Star Wars limited edition model in select markets. Having said that, we can assume that the company might be in plans to launch a Sandstone OnePlus 5T on a global scale. Earlier this week, we came across leaked images of the OnePlus 5T with white bezels at the front pointing out that the company could be prepping a White or Gold color variant of the smartphone.

Besides posting this video, OnePlus has mentioned that the content in the mysterious box will be unveiled in January 2018. With just a couple of more days for the new year to kick start, the expectations regarding the upcoming OnePlus product is eagerly awaited by the fans. So, what is your guess? What could be the product that is hidden in the mysterious OnePlus box in the video?

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
Over 22,700 online transaction fraud cases reported in India in 2017 News oi -Samden Sherpa Electronics and information technology minister Ravi Shankar Prasad revealed that the online transaction frauds till December 21, 2017, involved a combined amount of worth over Rs. 155 crore.

Over 25,800 fraud cases involving about Rs. 179 crore related to credit/debit cards and internet banking were reported in 2017 up to December 21, Parliament was informed on Friday.

"As per the data provided by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on frauds related to ATM/Credit/Debit cards and net banking as reported by the banks, 10,220 cases of fraud were reported in the December 2017 quarter (up to December 21)," IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. The combined amount of frauds was worth over Rs. 155 crore in the said quarter, he added.

Prasad has revealed that close to 7,372 cases were reported in September quarter, 5,148 cases in June quarter and 3,077 cases in March quarter of 2017, with the amount involved reaching to Rs. 67.13 crore.

Moreover, there has been a significant jump in numbers compared to last year. As such, in 2016, 3,156 cases and 4,147 cases were registered in the September and December quarters, respectively. The amount involved in this two-quarter was-Rs. 45.50 crore, the minister said.

Talking about the state-wise details of frauds involving an amount of over Rs. 1 lakh, Maharashtra topped the list of credit/debit card and Internet banking-related frauds in fiscal 2016-17 with 380 cases involving Rs. 12.10 crore. Other states like Haryana ranked second with 238 cases (Rs. 8.27 crore), followed by Karnataka (221 cases worth Rs. 9.16 crore), Tamil Nadu (208 cases worth Rs. 4.38 crore) and Delhi (156 cases worth Rs. 3.43 crore).

Meanwhile, "Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the various ministries or departments of the government review the cyber security developments and threats on an ongoing basis and take measures as necessary in order to strengthen cyber resilience," he said.

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
Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

SOUTHWEST ASIA, Dec. 29, 2017  U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria between Dec. 22 and yesterday, conducting 46 strikes consisting of 93 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.

Officials reported details of the most recent strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.

Strikes in Syria

On Dec. 28 in Syria, coalition military forces conducted nine strikes consisting of 17 engagements against ISIS targets:

-- Near Abu Kamal, eight strikes engaged eight ISIS tactical units and destroyed an ISIS-held building and a staging area.

-- Near Shadaddi, a strike destroyed an unmanned aerial vehicle.

On Dec. 27 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted 10 strikes consisting of 22 engagements against ISIS targets, destroying three ISIS vehicles, a heavy machine gun, an ISIS line of communication and a logistics center.

On Dec. 26 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted five strikes consisting of 11 engagements against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS logistics center and a fighting position.

On Dec. 25 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted a strike consisting of five engagements against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS headquarters.

On Dec. 24 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted four strikes consisting of six engagements against ISIS targets, destroying a heavy machine gun and three ISIS vehicles.

On Dec. 23 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted four strikes consisting of five engagements against ISIS targets, destroying a UAV, an explosive hazard, an ISIS line of communication and a heavy weapon.

On Dec. 22 near Abu Kamal in Syria, coalition military forces conducted five strikes consisting of 10 engagements against ISIS targets, destroying a heavy machine gun, an ISIS vehicle, an ISIS line of communication and an explosive hazard.

Strikes in Iraq

On Dec. 28 near Jalula in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted a strike consisting of four engagements against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS cave entrance.

On Dec. 27 near Rutbah in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted two strikes consisting of four engagements against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS vehicle and an ISIS shelter.

On Dec. 26 near Asad in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted a strike consisting of one engagement against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS tunnel.

There were no reported strikes conducted in Iraq on Dec. 25, 2017.

On Dec. 24 near Huwayjah in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted two strikes consisting of two engagements against ISIS targets, destroying two ISIS fighting positions and a cave.

On Dec. 23 near Huwayjah in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted a strike consisting of two engagements against ISIS targets, destroying four ISIS tunnel entrances.

On Dec. 22 near Mosul in Iraq, coalition military forces conducted a strike consisting of four engagements against ISIS targets, destroying an ISIS command-and-control center.

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






Mattis Says Operations Against ISIS Will Change in 2018

By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29, 2017  The destruction of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria's physical caliphate will change the way the coalition will go after the terror group, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis told Pentagon reporters here today.

Operations against the terror group dominated the informal press gaggle with the secretary.

"We sit here today at the end of 2017, the caliphate is on the run, we're breaking them," he said.

Some ISIS terrorists escaped the encirclement of Raqqa into the Middle Euphrates River Valley. "We are in the process of crushing the life out of the caliphate there while trying to keep the innocent people safe -- which is very hard with this group," he said.

The demarcation line between the Assad regime and its ally Russia, and the Syrian Democratic Forces and the coalition, is the middle of the river in this area. Mattis said the line has held up well, and that communications between Russian and coalition forces continue.

ISIS Fighters 'Will Have to be Hunted Down'

The ISIS fighters that escaped into the valley "will have to be hunted down," Mattis said.

ISIS operatives who move into the region controlled by the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad and the Russians are another matter. The SDF and the coalition will not launch attacks past the demarcation line, Mattis said. Having the terrorists in their area is not in Assad's or the Russian's best interests. The United States tipping off Russia of a potential ISIS attack in St. Petersburg is an example of ways the countries can work together against the group.

Mattis stresses that the battle against ISIS is not over. While the group has been shattered, its survivors are looking for ways and places to reconstitute, he added.

"It's only a safe haven if people give them one," Mattis said.

In Iraq, the coalition will continue to work with the Iraqi government to train troops and police and develop the intelligence needed to find and take down terrorists trying to launch attacks.

"We need to drive this down to the point where it can be handled by local authorities -- police," he said. "But right now, it is still very much a military intelligence type of operation as the police try to set up local operations. Eventually, it will be rule of law and local security forces."

Hunting ISIS down is not over. "Am I worried about it? Not in the least," Mattis said. "These guys have not proven they can stand against the Iraqi security forces [or] the SDF. They are best against unarmed men, women and children."

Moving forward in Syria involves ensuring diplomats have what they need to solve this civil war.

ISIS 'Brand' Losing Luster

Looking to 2018, Mattis sees ISIS as being a "brand" for terrorists. "It can inspire lone wolf attacks; it can inspire other groups," he said. "But it is less inspirational when they have lost their physical caliphate; it is less inspirational as the stories of what it was like living under their rule come out. I think it is a brand with a diminishing appeal, but the appeal is still there for those who go in for that philosophy."

In both Iraq and Syria, U.S. troops will be shifting from an offensive terrain-seizing approach to a stabilizing effort focused on supporting the diplomatic approach, the secretary said. This will include clearing areas of improvised explosive devices, helping civil authorities set up water and electrical systems and helping reopen schools and working with police.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Lines Blurring Between Special Ops, Conventional Forces, Mattis Says

By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29, 2017  There is a blurring line that separates conventional operating forces from special operations forces and the defense secretary expects general purpose forces will eventually shoulder missions once the province of their special forces brethren.

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis told Pentagon reporters today that the experiences of war since 9/11 have blurred the lines.

This change will not be enshrined in strategy, he said, but will come about as a result of policy and the growth of general purpose forces' capabilities.

Growth of General Purpose Force Capabilities

Mattis said he expects more general purpose forces to take on missions in Iraq and Syria. "In the Trans-Sahel [region of Africa], many of the force supporting the French effort are general purpose forces," the secretary said.

If a mission comes up, the secretary said he'll determine the parameters of it and pass that to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The chairman will then determine what forces take on that mission. They may be special operations forces or general purpose forces with unique capabilities.

U.S. Military Evolves Through War Experiences

This is an evolution of the U.S. military spurred by the lessons of war, the secretary said.

Mattis said he does not want a force that is dominant in yesterday's challenges, but irrelevant in today's. The general purpose force, he added, is going to have to have the capabilities that were once associated only with special operations forces.

The secretary gave the example of remotely piloted vehicles. In 2001, he said, the only people who ran drones were special operations forces.

In 2007, an Army captain on one street was looking at a feed from a drone overhead with strike capabilities from the Navy and Army standing by, the secretary said. In the meantime, a "CIA guy was in his headquarters talking with one of his agents in an Army brigade," Mattis said. "That is not what an Army brigade did in Desert Storm or the Fulda Gap [in what was then West Germany]. The change happened because war initiated those changes. Those are now common capabilities."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China calls for better Sino-Indian military relations in 2018

People's Daily Online

(People's Daily Online) 15:19, December 29, 2017

Chinese authorities on Thursday called for better military relations with India in 2018, urging the latter to manage its border troops in a "proper way."

"We hope that the Indian side can abide by relevant agreement and pact, managing its border troops in a proper way and do more for peace and stability in the border area," said Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of China, at a regular press conference on Dec. 28.

According to Ren, the two countries' military relationship is a crucial component for bilateral ties, and it is important for the two nations' military authorities to strengthen strategic communication, in an effort to maintain peace and stability along the China-Indian border.

Ren's remarks come after senior officials from both sides agreed to properly handle border issues at the 20th round of talks between Chinese and Indian special representatives on boundary issues on Dec. 23.

Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi and Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval have decided to focus on talks between the two nations, maintaining contacts and negotiation, as well as boosting strategic dialogue and communication in a bid to create favorable conditions for the development of China-India relations.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Mattis: US will send more diplomats, contractors to Syria

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 09:29PM

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says he is expecting to see a larger US civilian presence in Syria, where there are already 2,000 American troops without the authorization of the Syrian government.

Mattis said Friday that the US would deploy more contractors and diplomats to the war-torn country, with which Washington has suspended diplomatic relations.

"What we will be doing is shifting from what I would call an offensive, shifting from an offensive terrain-seizing approach to a stabilizing... you'll see more US diplomats on the ground," Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon.

"Well when you bring in more diplomats, they are working that initial restoration of services, they bring in the contractors, that sort of thing," he added.

"There is international money that has got to be administered, so it actually does something, it doesn't go into the wrong people's pockets."

He also claimed that the diplomats and contractors might train local forces in parts of the country retaken from Daesh to clear improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and hold territory to help ensure that Daesh does not take back territory.

"It is an attempt to move towards the normalcy and that takes a lot of support," said Mattis.

He did not give any specific information about the number of US diplomats who would serve in Syria and when.

Daesh unleashed a campaign of bloodshed and destruction in Syria in 2014, overrunning considerable expanses of territory.

The same year saw the United States launch a so-called campaign against the terrorists together with a coalition of its allies.

The military alliance had done little in the fight against Daesh, and has instead been repeatedly accused of targeting and killing civilians and hampering Syrian government operations against the Takfiri group.

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on November 23 that 2,759 civilians, including 644 minors and 470 women, had been killed in US-led aerial attacks against civilian areas in Syria over the past 38 months.

The American forces support the anti-Damascus Kurdish militants in the north, who have, according to Syria, been seeking to gain more territory under the pretext of fighting terror.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Spain PM urges Catalan parliament formation in January

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 04:25PM

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has called on the new regional parliament to hold its maiden session in mid-January.

Speaking in an end-of-year address to the nation on Friday, Rajoy urged the new Catalan parliament to convene on January 17, Madrid's first step in reinstating local government after it fired the old regional administration for illegally declaring independence.

"I hope that as soon as possible we will be able to have a Catalan government that is open to dialogue and able to relate to all Catalans, not just half of them," the premier said.

He expressed hope that the new Catalan government would be able to "revert the great economic and social effects of the recent crisis."

His remarks came after Catalan separatists won a crucial snap poll on December 21.

Madrid had called the poll after Catalonia's regional parliament declared independence from Spain on October 27, triggering the country's worst political crisis since democracy was reinstated following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

The independence motion was approved in the 135-seat chamber as 70 Catalan lawmakers voted in favor, 10 against. Two ballot papers were blank. The ballot was boycotted by the opposition parties: the Socialist Party, the People's Party (PP) and Ciudadanos.

Soon after the vote, the upper house of Spain's parliament in Madrid made the unprecedented move of authorizing Rajoy's government to rule Catalonia directly.

Rajoy had sacked Catalonia's government, dissolved its parliament and stripped the region of its treasured autonomy.

Former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont said on December 6 he and four of his ex-cabinet members plan to remain in Belgium "for the moment" after Spain dropped an international warrant for his arrest.

"For the moment we will stay here (in Belgium)," Puigdemont said, speaking French during a press conference in Brussels.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Spanish prime minister also denounced as "absurd" the idea that ousted Catalan president could govern from Belgium.

"It is absurd to pretend to be the president of a region when you live abroad, and even more absurd to pretend that you are carrying out this function from abroad," Rajoy said.

Other independence leaders, including Puigdemont's former deputy Oriol Junqueras, are behind bars in Spain pending trial.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Saudi military aircraft hit civilian areas in Yemen's Sa'ada, kill 4

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 10:29AM

Saudi military aircraft have pounded residential areas in Yemen's northwestern province of Sa'ada, killing four civilians and injuring a number of others.

According to Yemen's al-Masirah television network, Saudi warplanes targeted the Ghamar district of the Arab country's mountainous province of Sa'ada early on Friday.

One woman and a child were among those killed, the report added.

Saudi raids have been met with a strong response from Yemen's Houthi Ansarullah fighters and allied forces.

On Thursday, Yemeni armed forces targeted the positions of Saudi-backed mercenaries in the Arab country's western coasts, killing or injuring around 50 militants and destroying their military vehicles.

Dozens of Saudi-sponsored militants were also captured during the retaliatory operation.

The latest Saudi airstrikes came only hours after a high-ranking UN official slammed the Saudi-led coalition for massacring more than a hundred civilians, including 54 at a crowded market and 14 members of one family in a farm, across Yemen in the past 10 days.

"These incidents prove the complete disregard for human life that all parties, including the Saudi-led coalition, continue to show in this absurd war," Jamie McGoldrick, the UN humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, said on Thursday.

Angered by McGoldrick's remarks, the Riyadh-led coalition said in a statement carried by the Saudi news agency SPA that the UN official's comments on civilian casualties were "biased" toward the Houthi movement and its allies.

The pan-Arab al-Mayadeen satellite TV also reported that Turki al-Maliki, the Saudi-led coalition's spokesman, had on Friday rejected the remarks by McGoldrick, accusing the UN of taking sides with Yemen's Houthi Ansarullah movement.

McGoldrick's statements indicate that he is politicizing his humanitarian duty and misleading the international public opinion, he claimed.

The Houthi movement has been defending Yemen against the Saudi aggression besides running the country's affairs in Sana'a.

At least 13,600 people have been killed since the onset of Saudi Arabia's military campaign against Yemen in 2015. Much of the Arabian Peninsula country's infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and factories, has been reduced to rubble due to the war.

The Saudi-led war has also triggered a deadly cholera epidemic across Yemen.

According to the World Health Organization's latest count, the cholera outbreak has killed 2,167 people since the end of April and is suspected to have infected 841,906.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Air Force Developing Swarming Cruise Missile Prototype

Sputnik News

22:03 29.12.2017(updated 22:10 29.12.2017)

The US Air Force Research Laboratory has awarded two defense contractors more than $100 million each to design a missile with "networked, collaborative behaviors (swarming) to address Integrated Air Defense (IAD) system threats around the world," Lockheed Martin announced December 27.

The lab is partnering with Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman to complete a concept demonstration within five years for cheap cruise missiles that work together to defeat enemy air defenses.

The first "Gray Wolf" missiles will be tested from an F-16, Lockheed Martin said, noting that the weapon system will eventually be compatible with F-35, F-15, F/A-18, B-1, B-2 and B-52 aircraft  basically the entire existing US Air Force fleet.

"Lockheed Martin's concept for the Gray Wolf missile will be an affordable, counter-IAD missile that will operate in highly contested environments," said Hady Mourad, a missile program director at the world's largest defense contractor.

The missile is "being design to maximize modularity, allowing our customers to incorporate advanced technologies such as more lethal warheads and more-fuel efficient engines, when those systems become available," Mourad said in the news release.

According to a December 20 Pentagon announcement, Northrop Grumman was awarded $110 million for work including "the design, development, manufacture and testing of prototype affordable cruise missiles to advance networked collaborative operations technologies."

Seven companies competed for the contracts in total, the Pentagon said.

Defense officials have been "reluctant" to share many details about the "secretive project," Aviation Week reported. From what is known, the project is expected to result in a long-range, "low-cost," subsonic weapon tailored for "enhanced navigation."

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Peacekeepers saved many lives despite challenges, UN officials stress at year's end

29 December 2017  Despite a particularly deadly year for United Nations peacekeepers  with more than 60 'blue helmets' killed in hostile acts  the Organization in 2017 completed its peacekeeping objectives in Cote d'Ivoire, refocused its work in Haiti and will soon complete its mandate in Liberia.

"We do protect civilians every day. We do save lives every day. We often do it under very difficult and stressful circumstances," Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix said in a recent interview with UN News.

He added that "many lives were saved" because of peacekeepers' actions this year in the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, South Sudan and other places.

"I think it's more than warranted to pay tribute to them and their achievements," Mr. Lacroix said. "But certainly we have to work hard to overcome the challenges we are facing."

Challenges in 2017

One of the challenges facing UN peacekeepers, as they operate in increasingly complex and dangerous areas, is the need for better training and equipment, particularly when it comes to intelligence gathering and enhancing situational awareness.

This includes the use of modern technologies, such as unmanned aerial services, radars and tethered balloons.

The head of the UN Department of Field Support, Atul Khare, said the UN is also looking to borrow or purchase more equipment related to security reinforcements, accommodations, vehicles and communications tools, among others.

In Mali, for example, one out of four military hospitals is without staff or equipment, and in the Central African Republic, one in three, he said.

The needs also extend to gaps in working closely with local communities, which means that in some areas more peacekeepers are needed who speak French.

"We must do even more on the side of prevention and risk mitigation when seeking to protect our colleagues. Providing for the safety and security of deployed personnel in volatile environments is an absolute necessity," Mr. Khare told UN News.

Sexual exploitation and abuse

One of the main challenges in peacekeeping operations has been grappling with allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by UN peacekeepers.

Earlier this year, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres unveiled his strategy for eradicating the scourge, and appointed Jane Connors as the first Victims' Rights Advocate.

"It is about dignity for the victims, compassion, a real feeling of empathy, a feeling that they are not forgotten," Ms. Connors said in early December. "That their hurt, their pain is acknowledged, and we do as much as we possibly can do to make their situation better."

Ms. Connors made the comments during a visit to South Sudan, where four of last year's 103 allegations were filed. This year, the UN recorded 54 allegations  roughly half the number.

"This is a result of the many robust efforts put in place to train our personnel, raise awareness among communities on the risks associated with SEA [sexual exploitation and abuse], promote and enforce the zero-tolerance policy and partner with Member States," said Mr. Khare.

The new UN strategy to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse puts more pressure on governments to investigate and prosecute wrong-doing. In addition, 17 countries volunteered some $1.8 million for a trust fund to aid victims get medical, psycho-social, legal or socio-economic support.

"We can see that information about allegations are coming more with less obstacle than before," Mr. Lacroix said. "At the same time, we need to do more to fully implement the policy and it has to have strong awareness at every level."

Protecting the environment

UN peacekeeping is also managing its impact in another way within the countries that host its operations  by preserving natural resources and not damaging the environment during the physical deployments.

"'Do no harm' must include both communities and the resources upon which they depend: water, land, cultural heritage," Mr. Khare said.

Plans to reduce the peacekeeping footprint and energy consumption also saves time and resources, allowing peacekeeping missions to focus on implementing their core mandates.

All UN peacekeeping operations this year launched Environmental Action Plans which have, for example, led to 80 wastewater treatment plans being installed in peacekeeping operations.

"We are constantly looking into keeping our own house in order, and leave the place better than we found it," said Mr. Khare.

Looking ahead to 2018

If the year 2017 brought ambitious reform, then 2018 must be the year that these reforms are implemented, Mr. Lacroix said.

He noted that this will be particularly important in the field, where colleagues must be informed and empowered to act.

Mr. Khare echoed the idea that reforms are ongoing, noting that the goal is to "ensure that we are stronger in prevention, more agile in mediation, and more nimble, efficient and cost-effective in our operations."

He pointed to improved efficiency and effectiveness of peacekeeping, including also by strengthening engagement with Member States and regional organizations to better serve the most vulnerable people around the world.

"We approach 2018 with a sense of hope. We will do our best to successfully implement these reforms and certainly we will do our best to support our colleagues in the field," said Mr. Lacroix.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Pentagon Preparing for Shift in Syrian Strategy

By Jeff Seldin December 29, 2017

The United States is preparing to shift its approach in Syria, pledging to help with the initial recovery following the collapse of the Islamic State's self-declared caliphate.

U.S.-backed forces liberated the terror group's Syrian capital of Raqqa in October. Since then, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have focused their efforts on eradicating remnants of Islamic State.

But with fewer than 1,000 IS fighters thought to be in areas under SDF control, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said the time is right for what he described as "an attempt to move toward normalcy."

"What we will be doing is shifting from what I call an offensive, terrain-seizing approach," Mattis told Pentagon reporters Friday. "You'll see more U.S. diplomats on the ground."

Mattis did not share a timeline for when more diplomats and other civilian personnel would arrive in Syria, and he emphasized that none of the work should be characterized as nation building. VOA has reached out to the State Department for comment.

"When you bring in more diplomats, they're working that initial restoration of services. They bring in the contractors. That sort of thing," the defense secretary said. "There's international money that's got to be administered so it actually does something and doesn't go into the wrong people's pockets."

Efforts will focus on clearing areas once ruled by IS of improvised explosive devices, which Mattis described as an "enormous undertaking," removing rubble, restoring other basic services and reopening schools.

The approximately 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria would stay and provide security for the diplomats and civilians, as well as help with training and aid in efforts to hunt down IS fighters.

Mattis said that in the meantime, U.S.-backed forces would continue to hunt down IS fighters.

"We're in the process of crushing the life out of the caliphate there, while trying to keep the innocent people safe," he said, while describing the shifting approach as necessary to set the stage for a diplomatic solution to the Syrian crisis.

Still, there are questions about how the initial recovery efforts will work, given that much of Syria is now under the control of forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which have been backed by Russia.

Earlier this week, the chief of the Russian General Staff accused the U.S. of training former IS militants to destabilize Syria at a military base in Tanf, near the border with Iraq.

"After they are worked with, they change their spots and take on another name," General Valery Gerasimov told the Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper Wednesday. "They are practically Islamic State."

But Mattis said that despite some minor problems, the demarcation line set up in Syria by the U.S. and Russia had held, and that he did not expect pro-regime forces to interfere with any rebuilding efforts.

"That would be a mistake," he said of any possible attempts by Syrian forces to cross over, adding "They've not even tried."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Remembering those who died in the Mid-Willamette Valley. Photos submitted by family members to accompany their obituaries in the Albany Democr
US Airstrikes in Somalia Increasing Pressure on al-Shabab

By Harun Maruf December 29, 2017

The United States military says its support for the Federal Government of Somalia is making an impact in a year in which the Trump administration increased attacks against al-Shabab militants.

In 2017, the U.S. conducted at least 34 strike operations against al-Shabab and a militant splinter group supporting the Islamic State, according observers of U.S. military activities against al-Shabab. Last year there were 14 strikes. Thirty-one of the strikes targeted al-Shabab while the other three targeted pro-Islamic State militants in northeastern Puntland region.

Since U.S. President Donald Trump eased combat rules in March and declared parts of Somalia a "war zone," strike operations conducted by the U.S. have killed more than 155 militants, according to a press statement given by the Africa command.

Striking at al-Shabab

At least 100 of those were killed November 21 in a single attack on a training camp near Leb-Adde Mountains in Bay region. In addition, in at least three strikes the U.S. said "several" militants were killed but didn't follow up with specific figures.

In a news briefing by the Africa Command, Commander of U.S. Africa Command General Thomas D. Waldhauser said attacks on al-Shabab and ISIS militants "provide time and space for the gradual development of the Somali National Army, police force and government."

"The threat from al-Shabab continues to be a serious one, as shown by their deadly attacks killing more than 500 in Mogadishu back in October," Waldhauser said. "While we are not increasing our presence or assets there, or intentionally escalating strikes, our pressure on the network and information sharing efforts are paying off with an increasing awareness of what the enemy is doing, making our targeting efforts more successful."

Drones not enough

Former Somali Defense Minister Abdihakim Haji Mohamud Fiqi says U.S. drone strikes help but will not be enough.

"I believe this will help but this will not eliminate al-Shabab totally," he told VOA Somali. "In order to finish al-Shabab and eliminate them from the areas they still rule, is to help and rebuild the Somali national army, arm them and provide them with the logistical support they need and military equipment they need."

Unlike previous years, U.S. strikes this year have targeted al-Shabab foot soldiers more often.

Of the 34 strikes, two have killed senior al-Shabab commanders  a July 30 strike killed Ali Jabal, al-Shabab's shadow governor for Mogadishu, and a September 7 strike killed the head of Al-Shabab's preachers, Abdirahman Hudeyfi; two others killed junior commanders.

A November 3 strike intended for the leader of the pro-Islamic State militants, Abdulkadir Mumin, missed its target, according to Somali regional leaders.

Fiqi says the reason more strikes are targeting al-Shabab foot soldiers lies with the Trump administration.

"The reason is change of policy in the U.S. with President Trump, and the Pentagon requested be given flexibility and authority to take action against al-Shabab to help AMISOM and Somali National Army," Fiqi says. "They empowered American commanders in the field to take action against al-Shabab."

IEDs targeted

U.S. strikes in 2017 also appear to be targeting vehicles suspected of carrying explosives toward populated cities like Mogadishu.

This month alone, the drone strikes destroyed two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices in Lower Shabelle, a region where almost all of al-Shabab's major vehicle bombings are prepared, including the October 14 truck explosion that killed more than 500 civilians. On December 27, the U.S. destroyed one of those vehicles near Mogadishu, killing four militants.

The number of U.S. personnel in Somalia has also increased this year to about 500, according to U.S. media. U.S. military members have been accused of involvement in the deaths of 10 civilians August 25 at a farm near the town of Barire.

The Africa Command's last statement said the incident resulted in the death of "armed enemy combatants." Somali military officials and regional leaders disagree.

Nonetheless, Africa command says protection of civilians is a vital component of their efforts.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israel Strikes Gaza in Response to Rocket Fire

By VOA News December 29, 2017

Israeli tanks and aircraft struck the Gaza Strip Friday after three rockets were fired from the Palestinian enclave towards Israel, according to Palestinian and Israeli military sources.

The attacks occurred as thousands of Palestinians took to the streets of Gaza and the occupied West Bank for a fourth straight day in protest of U.S. President Donald Trump's December 6 decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Trump's decision has outraged Palestinians, many Middle Eastern states and other members of the international community, which do not recognize Israeli sovereignty over east Jerusalem and the Old City, an area within modern Jerusalem.

The Trump administration says it is committed to a two-state solution in the Middle East if that is what the parties want, and that the physical location of the U.S. embassy should have no bearing on the talks. It said the decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital is a "recognition of reality" that Jerusalem has long been the seat of the Israeli government.

Palestinians want Jerusalem and the Old City, where Muslim, Christian and Jewish holy sites are located, to be the capital of a future Palestinian state.

Friday's exchange of fire was the first in more than ten days. There were no immediate reports of causalities.

Two of the three rockets fired by the Palestinians at southern Israel were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system, the army said. Police said the third rocket hit a structure in a community near Gaza.

Israeli tanks shelled an area east of Gaza City that is held by Gaza's Islamist rulers, witnesses said.

In the West Bank, small groups of Palestinians clashed with Israeli troops. In the Hebron area, medical and military sources said two Palestinians were wounded by live fire.

The Israeli army said there were smaller clashes in a number of other areas.

As they have in recent weeks, Gaza's ruling Hamas group and Islamic Jihad have labeled Friday a "day of rage."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






At Least 9 Killed in Egyptian Church Attack

By Edward Yeranian December 29, 2017

A gunman opened fire Friday outside a church south of Cairo and at a nearby Christian-owned store, killing at least nine people, including a policeman.

Egyptian authorities said the attacker was shot in an exchange of fire at the Mary Mina Church, a Coptic church in the Helwan district.

Five other people were wounded, including another police officer, Health Ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed said.

The Health Ministry said the shooter had died in the gunfire, while the Interior Ministry said the shooter had been wounded and arrested.

Islamic State militants claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement carried by the group's Amaq news agency.

Investigators said they had identified the gunman and that he had carried out several attacks in the past year. Earlier, Egyptian officials said they were searching for a possible second gunman.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi offered his condolences to the families of the victims and ordered security forces to increase safety measures around the country.

Police had already increased security around churches ahead of the Coptic Orthodox Christmas on January 7.

Past attacks

IS has killed dozens of Christians in church shootings and bombings in the past year.

In May, 28 people were killed when militants opened fire on a bus that carried Coptic Christians who were making their way to the Monastery of Saint Samuel the Confessor in the southern town of Maghagha.

In April, two churches were hit by suicide bombers in Alexandria and Tanta. The attack, during Palm Sunday services, killed at least 43 people, and dozens were wounded.

A bombing at a chapel next to Egypt's main Coptic Christian cathedral in Cairo killed 30 people in December 2016.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kenyan Opposition: If No Dialogue, We'll Inaugurate Odinga

By Mohammed Yusuf December 29, 2017

Kenya's opposition says it will proceed with its planned inauguration of opposition leader Raila Odinga as president if Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta does not convene a national dialogue. Kenyatta won October's election after Odinga boycotted the vote, and experts warn that an opposition inauguration could create even more division in the country.

Deputy opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who has been out of the country for three months caring for his sick wife, said the only thing that can stop the opposition inauguration is dialogue.

"I am telling my brother Uhuru Kenyatta if he is going to abdicate the responsibility of uniting this nation, he should not blame Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka when we will be sworn in," Musyoka said.

The opposition boycotted the repeat October poll after the electoral commission failed to meet demands for reform. The Odinga and Musyoka team insists they won the earlier election in August, in which Kenyatta was declared the winner. That vote was nullified and the Supreme Court said the electoral commission did not follow the constitution and the law.

Kenyatta won the October election with 98 percent of the vote.

Political commentator Martin Andati says the opposition is trying to pressure the government to enter a dialogue.

"If they are sworn in, that's bound to create a bigger crisis than they are in," Andati said. "Basically, they are trying to up the pressure, and they are hoping Uhuru and his team will be able to sit down so that, ultimately, they go sit on the table and address some of the issues that they are trying to raise."

Kenyatta has repeatedly said the elections are over and he is willing to discuss the development agenda of the country, but nothing else.

Andati says elections may be over, but the issues that divide the country have not gone away.

"The rest of Kenyans who feel excluded from governance, from the position of power, from the allocation of business opportunities and jobs  they are out there, and they are quite a number  those are some of the issues they need to look at," Andati said. "Uhuru has been the president of [the ruling Jubilee party], not the president of Kenya. Now he must reach to the rest of the people."

The Attorney General Githu Muigai warned opposition leaders against swearing themselves in, saying that will amount to treason.

A showdown looms between the Kenyatta administration and the opposition. Many fear the political confrontation will further divide the east African nation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






South Africa Court Rules Parliament Failed to Hold President Zuma Accountable

By Thuso Khumalo December 29, 2017

South Africa's Constitutional Court ruled Friday that the country's parliament failed to hold President Jacob Zuma accountable for a scandal over using public funds for a multimillion-dollar upgrade to his private home.

The judgment, which was supported by the majority of the court, could pave the way to another impeachment proceeding against Zuma.

In a ruling handed down earlier this year, the court found that Zuma had violated Section 89 of the Constitution by not paying back the money used for his Nkandla home upgrades, as directed by the public protector.

According to that section, parliament may remove the president from office for serious violations of the law, serious misconduct or inability to perform the functions of his office.

However, parliament does not have rules to implement such a move.

"The failure by the National Assembly to make rules regulating removal of a president in terms of Section 89, Sub 1 of the Constitution, constitutes a violation of this section and is invalid," Justice Chris Jafta said.

Several opposition parties approached the court to impeach Zuma after he was found to have violated the constitution.

Constitutional law expert Lwando Xaso says the court's decision is the first of three steps paving the way for another impeachment try.

"Practically, it comes down to a vote," Xaso said. "Let's say the rules are put in place, parliament reconvenes and they put rules in place for [Section] 89. Probably we are going to have another voting process, and now we have all this jurisprudence to inform that voting process."

Godrich Gardee, Secretary General of the Economic Freedom Fighters party, says the rules should be in place before Zuma gives his next State of the Nation Address in February.

"We can't wait any other day longer. We need to be in parliament in no less than 30 days before the State of the Nation Address of 2018," Gardee said.

However, the judgment was marred by controversy after Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng insisted that his opposing views be read into record. He warned that by tolerating the matter, the court was interfering with another arm of state, the parliament.

Zuma has survived eight motions of no confidence in parliament. But with the ANC divisions now distinct following the party's elective conference a week ago, political experts warn that he may not survive another impeachment effort.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Lawmakers Push to Accelerate Aircraft Carrier Procurement

Sputnik News

00:55 30.12.2017

A group of more than 100 US lawmakers are pushing to double the number of aircraft carriers procured for the US Navy for fiscal year 2019.

"As you continue preparation of the fiscal year 2019 Budget Request for the Department of Defense, we are writing to express our interest in a dual procurement of Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers in the upcoming fiscal year," the legislators wrote in a December 20 letter to Secretary of Defense James Mattis.

Procuring two carriers "allows the Navy to build to a fleet of 12 aircraft carriers more quickly as prescribed by the FY18 National Defense Authorization Act  which established that the Navy should maintain 355 ships, including 12 aircraft carriers," Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) said in a news release.

Reps. Bobby Scott (D-VA), Bradley Byrne (R-AL), Joe Courtney and 127 more House lawmakers signed the letter supporting dual procurement.

"If we are going to build a 355 Ship Navy, then we need to be smart and innovative in how we procure new vessels," Byrnes said in a news release, noting that he was "pleased so many of our House colleagues joined us in making this strong recommendation to the Pentagon."

The dual buy saves $2.5 billion relative to buying ships one at a time, lawmakers said without specifying how those spending reductions would be realized. It would also provide more certainty to shipbuilders and contractors that produce aircraft carriers.

Every House member from Virginia signed the letter, Newport News noted, which isn't surprising considering that the first Ford-class supercarrier is built in Virginia. The Newport News, Virginia, shipyard is the US Navy's only producer of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.

"The biggest difference between the Ford- and the Nimitz-class aircraft carriers of the previous generation is its ability to launch aircraft," Sam LaGorne, editor of USNI News, told Sputnik in June. "The entire aircraft carrier is designed around the idea that it can launch 30 percent more aircraft during a particular period than the Nimitz-class. That's kind of the central idea behind the Ford versus the Nimitz," he said.

The namesake ship in the Ford class, the $13 billion USS Gerald Ford, was delivered to the Navy in June after multiple delays and cost overruns.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kurdistan Regional Government [KRG] - Politics

Iraq's self-governing Kurdish region elected a new president in a parliamentary vote 28 May 2019 boycotted by a key opposition party. Former prime minister Nechirvan Barzani followed his uncle Masoud Barzani in office. The elder Barzani resigned in November 2017 after a failed bid for independence from Iraq. The Barzani family and their Kurdistan Democratic Party had dominated Iraqi Kurdish politics for generations. The opposition Patriotic Union of Kurdistan stayed away from the vote after coalition talks between the two parties broke down.

Since August 2015, President Masoud Barzani had been ruling without a mandate, and parliament had not met since November 2016. The Iraqi Kurdistan Region Parliament (IKP) had not convened since October 2015, when KDP officials and politicians ordered their counterparts in Gorran Party, including IKP speaker Yousif Mohammed, to leave Erbil and not report to parliament. KRG security forces subsequently blocked Mohammed from returning to Erbil. Negotiations among IKR political parties to reactivate parliament continued sporadically throughout the year.

By 2018 there were major internal differences among Kurds, with ministers of the Change parties and the Islamic Group having withdrawn from the Kurdish government. There are also major differences between the two main parties, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) led by Massoud Barzani, who controls Erbil, Dahuk and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), which controls Sulaimaniya. Barzani accused the latter party of treason when they withdrew from Kirkuk.

Two political parties, Gorran and Komal, which had long-standing discord with the ruling parties, have quit the coalition government and Amins KIU has set out demands with the threat it too could withdraw.

Tensions between Erbil and Baghdad increased since the Region held an independence referendum on 25 September 2017, which won overwhelming support for secession from Iraq. Baghdad refused to recognize the vote and instead responded by imposing collective punitive measures against Kurdistan, including the use of military force in disputed areas.

After the referendum the Iraqi government regained control of most disputed areas between Baghdad and Erbil  the most important being the oil-rich Kirkuk province. Along with the sanctions imposed on the region forced Erbil to call on Baghdad for negotiations. However, this time the Iraqi government put forth a set of conditions before agreeing to enter into negotiations with the region. On 25 December 2017, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan region Nechirvan Barzani sent a letter to Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi, calling on the Iraqi government to begin negotiations.

Abadi repeatedly announced his conditions for the commencement of dialogue with the region, the most important of which is "the open and explicit annulment of the results of the referendum" and "the handing over of the border crossings to the federal government.

Baghdad refused to send the Kurdistan Region its rightful share of the budget so that internal crises in the Kurdistan Region deepen further, people bear arms against one another, the hungry revolt, all our achievements are destroyed, and internal war is instigated, Dr Muthana Amin, head of the Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU) bloc in the Iraqi parliament, told Rudaw TV 25 December 2017. Under austerity measures, the KRG reduced or delayed payment of civil servant salaries. The KRG maintains that the loss of oil-fields in Kirkuk and the continued budget cut by the Iraqi government since early-2014 are the primary reasons they have failed to pay state salaries in full or on time.

Background

The three provinces of Dohuk, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah form the Kurdistan Region and are administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government which, under the 2005 constitution, has considerable powers of autonomy within a federal Iraq. The Kurdistan Regional Government administered area has significantly greater stability, compared with the rest of Iraq. Since 2003, the three Northern Governorates of Dahuk, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah have largely escaped the violence and collapse of law and order prevalent in many parts of the Center and South and remained relatively quiet and stable. The security situation, however, remained tenuous and unpredictable.

The Kurdistan Region is one of Iraqs leading success stories. Iraqs Kurdistan Region has continued to thrive as a peaceful and stable region where civil society is booming, and democracy is taking hold. The region is widely considered as the gateway for doing business in Iraq. Iraqi Kurdistan moved quickly to use every constitutional tools it had to establish as much autonomy as possible.

The two principal political parties in the northern Kurdistan region of Iraq and within the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) are Massoud Barzanis Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Jalal Talabanis Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The PUK is the predominant political party in the southern and eastern areas of the KRG bordering Iran, which includes the Governate and city of Sulaymaniyah, while the KDP is stronger in the northern areas bordering Turkey. The PUK partys political bureau is based in the city of Sulaymaniyah. As of 2008, the KRG functioned with two party-based Ministries of Interior. The PUK Party controlled the Ministry with oversight of the province of Sulaymaniyah, and the KDP controlled the Ministry with oversight of the provinces of Erbil and Dohuk.

Michael Gunter, writing for The Jamestown Foundations Terrorism Monitor in 2007, adds that: Historically the PUK is supposedly more progressive (even socialistically inclined), less tribally-based of the two parties ... Historically, of the two major parties, the KDP is supposedly more conservative, traditional, nationalistic, tribally-based and centered in the northwestern Kurmanji (Bahdinani)-speaking area of Iraqi Kurdistan. The PUK, on the other hand, is supposedly more progressive (even socialistically inclined), less tribally-based and centered in the southeastern Sorani-speaking area of Iraqi Kurdistan. In addition, the Barzani power base was originally built in part upon its Naqshbandi Sufi roots, while Talabanis power base was originally made up of adherents of the rival Qadiri order. To some extent, these differences, although real, were always exaggerated."

The political parties in northern Iraq were more important than the tribes. The parties own the government and distribute the jobs. Tribes were important because they regulated the social affairs of the Kurdish people. For example, the tribes were responsible for solving family disputes, which if left undone could result in violence and crime. Tribal leaders were in charge of determining financial compensation in both honorable and dishonorable marriages, as well as handling land disputes between animal herders.

The Barzanis are a clan within the Zebari tribe, yet the Barzanis remain independent from the Zebaris. The Zebaris and Barzanis conducted a bloody feud during the latter half of the 20th century, with fighting becoming especially intense from 1960 to 1970. When Coalition Forces entered Iraq, several Zebari families in Arbil fled to Mosul, joining other Zebaris, in fear of reprisals from the Barzanis. Iraqi KDP founder Mullah Mustafa killed Zebari tribal Shaykh Mahmud Zebari (Shaykh Zebari's uncle). As a result, Mahmud's son - Arshad Zebari - and a portion of the tribe fled to Mosul as a safehaven, coalescing with the Iraqi regime. The Barzani-Zebari conflict appears to have simmered down due to Coalition intervention.

Since the establishment of the northern no-fly zone in 1991, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), a 20-year-old Iraqi Kurdish political party, struggled for power with another older and more traditional Kurdish political party, the 50-year-old Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), and had in various circumstances applied for and received aid from the Iranian government in its struggles. The KDP gradually lost ground to the PUK and finally appealed to the Iraqi government of Saddam Hussein for support. In the first week of September, 1996, the KDP, with Iraqi troops behind them, quickly took over the major towns and cities in the Kurdish area of Iraq which had been under the control of the PUK. President Clinton responded by extending the no-fly zone in the south and launching two groups of missile strikes to destroy Iraqi SAM sites in southern Iraq.

The Kurdish-inhabited region of northern Iraq has been relatively peaceful and prosperous since the fall of Saddam Hussein. However, the Iraqi Kurds' political autonomy, and territorial and economic demands, have caused friction with Christian and other minorities in the north, with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and other Arab leaders of Iraq, and with neighboring Turkey and Iran. Despite limited agreements allowing for new oil exports from the Kurdish region, the major outstanding issues between the Kurds and the central government did not appear close to resolution.

When elections to Kurdistans parliament were held in 2005, the two main parties -- the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) led by Iraqi President Jalal Talabani and the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) of regional president Massud Barzani -- formed a joint list that won 80 of the 111 seats. Ten seats were reserved for the regions Turkmen, Christian and Yazidi minorities. The Islamic Union of Kurdistan won nine seats, the more radical Islamic Group of Kurdistan gained six seats, and three smaller left-wing parties won the remainder.

Tensions increased after Kurdish representation in two key mixed provinces was reduced by the January 31, 2009 provincial elections. Because Sunni Arabs fully participated in these elections, the Kurdish influence in the two provinces of Nineveh and Diyala  the location of several disputed terrorities  was sharply reduced. In Nineveh province, the Kurds have essentially lost control of the provincial council and provincial administration.

In July 2013 the Kurdish parliament postponed presidential elections, leading to fist fights in the Kurdish parliament between the Kurdish opposition and Barzani supporters, and gave Barzani two more years in office. The current Kurdish constitution only allowed two, four-year terms, but Barzani reportedly did not want to cede power. Barzani remained a powerful political figure in Kurdistan. His son Masrour Barzani was the head of security, while his nephew Nechervan Barzani was the prime minister.

The Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament passed the Access to Information Law in 2013, which provides for access to information for journalists, media outlets, and ordinary citizens. By years end, however, the KRG had not made efforts to implement the law. Moreover, local government, political parties, and officials, regularly discriminated between media outlets regarding access to information based on party affiliation. For example, in KDP stronghold areas Duhok and Erbil, KDP-affiliated outlets Rudaw and KTV had access to all KRG departments, while in the PUK and Gorran stronghold of Sulaimaniyah Governorate, PUK-affiliated outlets such as GK TV and Kurdsat TV received more access to government and party information than other outlets.

Ethnic Kurdish refugees from Syria, Turkey, and Iran in the IKR generally integrated well. Local integration remained the best and most likely option for the majority of Iranian Kurds. The Kurdistan regional government classified an estimated 40,000 Syrian Kurd refugees as noncamp refugees. Many non-camp refugees worked in Erbil or found shelter with relatives in the IKR.

The Change (Gorran) Movement accused the Barzanis of a monopoly all governments positions in Erbil, and it does not believe in the principles of true partnership and and peaceful transfer of power. Throughout the IKR there were numerous shootings, beatings, detentions, and death threats against media workers. In some cases the aggressors wore military or police uniforms. Many attacks targeted independent and former opposition media, mainly the independent Nalia Radio and Television; Payama Television, affiliated with the Kurdistan Islamic Group; and the Kurdish News Network Television, affiliated with the Gorran Movement.

In March 2015 the IKR established the Kurdistan Independent High Electoral Commission, which has authority to supervise all elections and referenda within the IKR, previously under IHEC supervision. Discussions between Iraqi government and Kurdistan regional electoral commissions to determine the coordination mechanism for federal elections continued at years end.

Massoud Barzani, whose term as Kurdistan President ended on August 20, 2015 after having been extended for two years, refused to step down and remained unofficially in office. Kurdistan PM Nechirvan Barzani removed four members of his cabinet from the Change (Gorran) Movement on October 13, 2015. Iraqi Kurdistan Parliaments Speaker was prevented from entering Erbil city on October 11, 2015. Since then the Kurdish parliament has been suspended. The expelled ministers were replaced on October 28, 2015 with KDP politicians.

The Kurdish Democratic Party insisted that Barzanis presidency be extended for another two years and that future leaders should be elected by a general vote. But two main opposition parties, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and Gorran (Change), and two smaller parties, the Kurdistan Islamic League (KIL) and the Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU), insisted that any president should be appointed by parliament. One possible solution would be allowing Barzani to continue as president for two years while strengthening the power of parliament to limit the authority of the presidency.

Kurdistans political fight fell along old lines of rivalry: Barzani and his KDP party generally look to Turkey and the United States; the PUK and its offspring Gorran are seen as being aligned more with Tehran. The two sides fought a bitter three-year civil war in the 1990s.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia's president signs law toughening terrorist recruitment sentences

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 07:08PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially approved a bill toughening punishment for the recruitment of terrorists amid fears of the return of defeated Takfiri militants from Syria.

The approval came two days after a bomb blast in a busy supermarket in Russia's second-largest city, Saint Petersburg, which left 14 people wounded.

The law immediately raises the maximum sentence for the recruitment and financing of terrorists from 10 years to life.

Russia's State Duma, the lower house of parliament, passed the new law on December 14 and the upper chamber approved it on December 26.

Since September 2015, Moscow has been carrying out an aerial bombardment campaign against the positions of extremist militants in Syria on an official request from the Damascus government.

Putin ordered Russian forces to begin withdrawing from Syria during a surprise visit to the war-ravaged country on December 11, as he declared victory over the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group there.

A day later, Russia's FSB security service said former militants in Syria were now a real threat after the defeat of Daesh, as many of them may be planning to return to Russia.

Putin declared that the Wednesday attack was "a terrorist act," warning armed criminals they could be "liquidated on the spot."

Russia announced on December 15 that it had dismantled a cell of Daesh in Saint Petersburg that was planning to carry out imminent terror attacks in the northern city.

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said in a statement that the Daesh supporters "planned to commit attacks on December 16."



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PLA Rocket Force weaponry updated

People's Daily Online

(Global Times) 08:55, December 29, 2017

China's defense ministry confirmed Thursday that it has updated weaponry of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force for national defense purposes and that it does not target any third country.

"The Rocket Force is the core of China's strategic deterrence, the pillar to support China as a great power and the cornerstone to safeguard national security. It is normal and necessary for the Rocket Force to develop and update its weaponry. And this is a normal practice of other countries to modernize their militaries," Ministry of National Defensespokesman Ren Guoqiang told a press conference on Thursday.

Ren's remarks came in response to media reports on the strategic missiles owned by the Rocket Force. One report said that it was noticeable that the missiles were developed to be vehicle-mounted and launched by electromechanical equipment and that previously they were "hidden in mountainous areas" with low mobility.

A PLA Rocket Force brigade conducted a drill in an effort to enhance the mobility of the force and soldiers' ability to accurately operate weaponry, the PLA Daily reported on Monday.

The PLA Daily report also noted that the informatization of nuclear weapons of the Rocket Force has increased and the organization of military units has improved.

More efforts are needed in managing and using the weaponry, it said.

"The survival ability and mobility of the strategic missiles of the Rocket Force are enhanced. And these improvements are in accordance with China's policies on nuclear weapons," a Beijing-based military expert who asked for anonymity told the Global Times on Thursday.

The expert said that when China first gained nuclear capabilities in 1964, it was the first nation to propose and agree to the No-First-Use treaty, pledging no first use "at any time or under any circumstances."

"China has adopted a defensive policy on developing nuclear weapons. And it is keeping its nuclear deterrence to avoid possible nuclear wars," the expert said.

The Rocket Force had focused on strengthening its strategic deterrence and combat capability by modernizing weaponry that aims to safeguard national security and does not target any third country, Ren said.

"We stick with the peaceful development path and pursue a defensive national defense policy. We hope all parties could adopt an objective attitude toward China's defense construction," Ren said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China's armed police to keep its function unchanged: spokesman

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:13, December 29, 2017

China's armed police will continue to safeguard national security and social stability after its command mechanism adjustment, a Ministry of National Defense spokesman said Thursday.

"The core of the adjustment is to strengthen the centralized, unified leadership of Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Central Military Commission (CMC) over the armed police," Ren Guoqiang told a news briefing.

The spokesman said the armed police is not listed under the People's Liberation Army and its fundamental function and nature will not change.

Ren's remarks came one day after a statement by the CPC Central Committee that the armed police will be put under the command of the CPC Central Committee and CMC from Jan. 1, 2018.

The armed police will no longer be listed under the State Council, it said.

The spokesman said China will uphold peace, development and win-win cooperation as always while continuing to pursue a national defense policy that is defensive in nature.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China rejects Trump's claim of North Korea oil transfer

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 10:56AM

China has rejected allegations by United States that it helped North Korea evade United Nations sanctions, following claims by US President Donald Trump that Beijing had allowed the transfer of oil to a North Korean ship.

Reacting to Trump's claim on Friday, China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said, "The recent series of reports on this situation do not conform with the facts."

Beijing does not permit its "citizens or companies to engage in any activities that violate" UN resolutions, she said.

Hua further said that China had always implemented UN resolutions in their entirety and if there really were violations, Beijing would seriously deal with them in accordance with the law.

She said China had looked into the report of a Chinese ship transferring oil to a North Korean vessel and had concluded that it was "inaccurate."

"There is no record of the vessel visiting a Chinese port" since August, Hua said.

Trump had made the accusation on Thursday.

"Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea," Trump wrote in a Twitter message on Thursday. "There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!"

The Chinese spokeswoman said, "I think making pointless hype through the media is not conducive to enhancing mutual trust and cooperation."

The American president later identified the source of his information as the right-wing Fox News network during an interview with The New York Times newspaper.

In the interview, Trump squarely tied his administration's trade policy with China to its perceived cooperation in resolving the North Korean nuclear crisis.

"When I campaigned, I was very tough on China in terms of trade. They made  last year, we had a trade deficit with China of $350 billion, minimum. That doesn't include the theft of intellectual property, OK, which is another $300 billion," Trump said, as quoted by the daily.

"If they're helping me with North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And that's what I've been doing. But when oil is going in, I'm not happy about that."

The UN and the US have imposed a series of sanctions against Pyongyang over its nuclear and missile programs in recent months.

China has repeatedly said it is fully enforcing all resolutions against North Korea.

The UN Security Council (UNSC) unanimously imposed new sanctions on North Korea last week for a recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test, seeking to further limit its access to refined petroleum products and crude oil.

The US-drafted UNSC resolution seeks to ban nearly 90 percent of refined petroleum exports to North Korea by capping them at 500,000 barrels per year.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN bans 4 more North Korean vessels from international ports

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 03:01AM

The United Nations has banned four more North Korean ships from entering international ports for breaching sanctions against Pyongyang, bringing to eight the total number of the Eastern Asian country's blacklisted vessels.

The UN Security Council voted on Thursday to deny international port access to the four vessels  the Ul Ji Bong 6, Rung Ra 2, Sam Jong 2 and Rye Song Gang 1.

The decision was made upon a request from the United States, unnamed diplomats said, noting that Washington was also going after a number of ships registered in other countries.

Apparently, the list was longer but China, the North's main trade ally, only agreed with banning the four ships.

"Only four ships have been accepted" for the ban, said one diplomat, adding that "the procedure remains open" to include more vessels in the future.

Earlier this month, Washington had submitted a list that included several vessels flying flags from Belize, China, Hong Kong, Palau and Panama.

Shortly before the Security Council decision, US President Donald Trump -- whose administration has put China under pressure to force North Korea into halting its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs -- blasted Beijing for failing to cut off oil supply to the North.

"Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea," Trump said on Twitter. "There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!"

In 2017, the Security Council targeted North Korea with three sets of sanctions beginning with the country's iron, coal and fishing industries in August.

In September, the sanctions were expanded to include the North's textile exports while limiting oil supply. The most recent round of bans came on December 22 and targeted refined petroleum products.

The US has accused North Korean ships of trafficking banned goods and transferring cargo between different ships on the high seas.

The UN announced in early October that it had identified four ships "carrying prohibited goods" and would proceed to slap a port ban on them as a "first in United Nations" history, according to Hugh Griffiths, part of a UN panel that oversees the application of sanctions on Pyongyang.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Moscow Suggests Russia Could Host Talks Between U.S., North Korea

December 29, 2017

An official in Russia's Foreign Ministry says Russia could host talks between the United States and North Korea if Moscow is asked to do so.

Russia's ambassador at large, Oleg Burmistrov, said on December 29 that Moscow is "open to contacts and ready to provide a venue, if necessary," for talks.

"We are ready to take part in such meetings if we are invited," Burmistrov said.

Burmistrov also said the latest United Nations Security Council resolution on North Korea has "almost exhausted" the capacity of sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear weapons and long-range missile tests.

"There is no possibility to move further exclusively along the sanctions track," Burmistrov said.

Burmistrov's remarks came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized China over reports that Chinese ships have transferred oil to North Korean vessels at sea in violation of the UN sanctions.

Trump said on Twitter that China had been "Caught RED HANDED," and said he was 'very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea."

"There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!" Trump said.

China on December 29 rejected Trump's accusation.

But South Korea's Foreign Ministry on December 29 said that it briefly seized and inspected a Hong Kong-registered ship -- the Lighthouse Winmore --- in late November after it had transferred oil products to a North Korean vessel, the Sam Jong 2, in international waters.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, RIA Novosti, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-suggests-hosting-talks- united-states-north-korea/28945456.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






Beijing Blasts Trump's Claims on Chinese Oil Sales to North Korea

Sputnik News

12:44 29.12.2017(updated 12:45 29.12.2017)

Beijing has rejected claims that it has illicitly sold oil supplies to North Korea in contravention of UN resolutions, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said, disputing earlier claims by US President Donald Trump.

Responding to Trump's claim that China had been "caught red handed" transferring oil to North Korean vessels, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Friday that "the recent series of reports on this situation do not conform with the facts."

Beijing, Hua emphasized, did not allow "citizens or companies to engage in any activities that violate" UN resolutions, and would deal with any such violations seriously and in accordance with the law.

On Thursday, Donald Trump tweeted that he was "very disappointed" that China was "allowing oil to go to North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!" he wrote, referring to the ongoing standoff over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program.

Earlier this week, South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo newspaper wrote, quoting an anonymous "government source," that US spy satellites had detected Chinese vessels transferring oil to North Korean ships on nearly 30 occasions over the last three months. US officials have yet to confirm the claims made in the newspaper.

Hua refuted Chosun Ilbo's claims Wednesday, saying that Beijing had no information on the issue, and adding that her country "completely and strictly" implements UN sanctions.

The Korean Peninsula is in the midst of a diplomatic and military crisis, triggered by North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and by ongoing intensified US and South Korean military drills in the region. Russia and China have emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis, calling on Pyongyang to freeze its nuclear ambitions, for Washington and Seoul to cut down on provocative exercises near North Korea's borders, and for both sides to sit down at the negotiating table.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China Denies Involvement in Illicit Oil Shipments to North Korea

By VOA News December 29, 2017

China has denied facilitating oil shipments to North Korea in violation of United Nations Security Council sanctions, one day after U.S. President Donald Trump accused Beijing of doing so.

"China has been completely and strictly implementing Security Council resolutions and fulfilling our international obligations,'' foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters Friday at a media briefing. "We will never allow Chinese citizens and enterprises to engage in activities that violate Security Council resolutions."

Despite China's insistence the sanctions are being enforced, doubts persist in the U.S., South Korea and Japan that loopholes continue to exist. And China's repeated denials did not preclude Trump from tweeting Thursday he was "very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea."

The U.N. Security Council last week imposed new sanctions designed to limit North Korea's access to oil in response to the country's recent long-range missile test. In November, it test-launched its latest intercontinental ballistic missile, which many U.S. experts have warned would be capable of striking anywhere on U.S. soil. The sanctions seek to bar 90 percent of refined oil exports to North Korea by capping them at 500,000 barrels a year and limit crude oil exports at 4 million barrels annually.

Ship seized

South Korea's foreign ministry said earlier Friday the country had seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship that transferred oil to a North Korean vessel in international waters despite the sanctions.

Yonhap, the South Korean news agency, reported South Korean officials said the Lighthouse Winmore vessel transferred "600 tons of refined petroleum" to a North Korean ship on October 19 and that the ship was seized November 24 after it sailed into South Korea's Yeosu Port.

Yonhap reported the vessel was chartered by the Billions Bunker Group, a Taiwanese company. The ship's "claimed destination" was reportedly Taiwan, but the ship instead "transferred oil to a North Korean ship, Sam Jong 2, and three other non-North Korean vessels in international waters in the East China Sea."

Yonhap said South Korea informed the U.S. about its "detection of the illegal transaction" involving the Lighthouse Winmore, which is reportedly on the list of ships the U.S. has proposed blacklisting for prohibited trade with North Korea.

Hua, China's foreign ministry spokeswoman, said authorities investigated a report that an unnamed Chinese ship transferred oil to a North Korean vessel at sea on October 19 and determined it was erroneous. Hua also said she did not have any information about the Hong Kong-flagged vessel.

Satellite images

In November, the U.S. Treasury Department disclosed satellite images that displayed what it said was a North Korean ship receiving oil from an unidentified vessel on Oct. 19. It was not immediately clear if the Lighthouse Winmore was involved in the transaction.

The photos received broader public scrutiny this week when the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo reprinted them along with the report that suspected Chinese ships transferred oil to North Korean vessels about 30 times since October.

In an interview Thursday with the New York Times, Trump linked his trade policy with China to its cooperation in resolving the North Korean nuclear crisis.

"If they're helping North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And that's what I've been doing. But when oil is going in, I'm not happy about that."

During a briefing Friday with reporters at the Pentagon, U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis was asked if the U.S. Navy could begin seizing ships suspected of providing oil to North Korea.

Mattis declined to speculate but said, "Obviously if a government finds that there is a ship in their port conducting trade that was forbidden under the U.N. Security Council resolution, then they have an obligation and so far we have seen nations take that obligation seriously."

Mattis also predicted the global community will increase pressure on Pyongang and said physical approaches are among the options under consideration.

"What form that pressure takes in terms of physical operations is something that will be determined by the cognizant governments," he said.

China is North Korea's primary trading partner and energy supplier, and its main diplomatic protector. But Beijing has expressed increasing frustration with North Korea's nuclear and missile tests. And while China supports the latest sanctions against Pyongyang, it has argued against actions that may be harmful to North Korean citizens or destabilize its government.

VOA's Jeff Seldin contributed to this report from the Pentagon.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Deployment of US Aegis Systems in Japan Has No Relation to INF Treaty - Tokyo

Sputnik News

19:54 29.12.2017

TOKYO (Sputnik) - The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty), signed by the Soviet Union and the United States, does not apply to Japan and does not have any relation to the deployment of the US Aegis ballistic missile defense system on Japanese territory, Japan's Foreign Ministry told Sputnik Friday.

On Thursday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the installation of the US missile defense systems in Japan would, in fact, mean that the United States had violated the treaty with the assistance of Japan.

"The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty was signed in 1987 and came into force in 1988 and was concluded between two states, the United States and the Soviet Union. Its operation applies to only two signatory countries, the United States and Russia, Japan has no obligations under the INF Treaty. The Aegis ground ballistic missile defense system is purchased and managed by Japan We believe that its acquisition has no relation to the INF Treaty," the statement said.

On December 19, the Japanese government announced its decision to deploy the Aegis Ashore systems on the country's territory in order to protect it and Japanese citizens from the threat posed by a potential missile attack by North Korea. Tokyo plans to install the missile defense units in the prefectures of Akita and Yamaguchi. The units are expected to start the operation by 2023.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Bangladesh to repatriate 1st group of Rohingya Muslim refugees

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 04:19PM

Bangladesh has prepared for the repatriation of 100,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees to Myanmar under an agreement between the two countries.

Obaidul Quader, the Bangladeshi minister of road, transport and bridges, told reporters on Friday that the first group of the Rohingya would be sent back to Myanmar by January 23.

The minister made the announcement after the distribution of relief among the displaced Rohingya in Cox's Bazar.

The two governments signed an agreement in November allowing for repatriations from January 23.

"Based on the decision of the joint working group, a first list of 100,000 Rohingya will be sent to the Myanmar government today for their safe and honorable return," said the deputy leader of the ruling Awami League.

More than 655,000 Rohingya from Myanmar's Rakhine state have sought refuge in Bangladesh since a military crackdown began in late August.

The minister said a total of 1,200,000 Rohingya refugees, including the ones who had entered in previous years, would be rapidly returned to Myanmar.

"The government is working to send back the Rohingyas soon," he said. "The joint working group is also working for the repatriation with the help of different international communities, including the United Nations."

"The next meeting of the working group, which will be held in Myanmar, will decide how the repatriation process begins," Quader added.

Rohingya Muslims in the Rakhine state of the Buddhist-majority country of Myanmar, according to the United Nations, may have been the target of genocide.

Over the past three months, Myanmar's government troops have been engaged in a brutal intimidation campaign against the Rohingya in Rakhine.

Only in its first month, the clampdown, called by the UN and prominent rights groups an "ethnic cleansing campaign," killed some 6,700 Rohingya Muslims, including more than 700 children, according to Doctors Without Borders.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






South Korea kicks off two-day military drills in Sea of Japan

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 10:47AM

South Korea has launched two-day military exercises off the islands in the Sea of Japan that are also claimed by Tokyo.

The South Korean navy said in a statement on Thursday that the war games, involving warships, was part of regular exercises that are conducted twice a year.

The exercises will involve various components of Seoul's forces, such as the navy, the air force, the Marine Corps, and the police, the South Korean navy said in a statement on Thursday.

"The Navy will conduct the regular Dokdo defense exercise aimed at preventing the infiltration of external forces into the South Korean territory," said the statement.

Japan regularly files protest with Seoul over the drills off the disputed islands, which are believed to be rich in natural gas and other resources. They are known as Dokdo in South Korea, but are called Takeshima in Japan.

Seoul, which has controlled the islands since the end of the Japanese colonial rule after World War II, denounces Japan's claims as stemming from its colonial past. Japan occupied large parts of China and the Korean Peninsula during World War II.

The islets, however, are not the only source of friction between the two.

An agreement signed between Seoul and Tokyo back in 2015 to settle the issue of the wartime sexual enslavement of Korean women by Japanese troops, has also been another source of tension between the two south Asian nations.

Under the deal, Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe apologized to the wartime victims and provided 1 billion yen (8.8 million dollars) to a fund to help them. The two governments had agreed the issue would be "irreversibly resolved" if both fulfilled their obligations.

Despite pledges to normalize relations and work toward "future-oriented cooperation" with Tokyo, a South Korean investigative panel concluded on Wednesday that the agreement had failed to meet the needs of the thousands of girls and women who had been forced to work as sex slaves.

The South's President Moon Jae-in said the following day that the deal with Tokyo was seriously flawed.

"The agreement cannot solve the comfort women issue," Moon said, calling the deal a "political agreement that excludes victims and the public" and violates general principles in international society, according to a statement issued by his office.

Moon's remarks drew reaction from a Japanese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, who said any attempt to change the deal would be "unacceptable" and make relations "unmanageable."

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono also expressed his disappointment over the panel's announcement, saying, "It's quite regrettable. We are working to move toward positive bilateral relations."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia to probe opposition figure over election boycott campaign

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 08:46AM

Authorities in Russia will launch a probe into whether opposition figure Alexei Navalny has violated Russian law by campaigning for a boycott of the next presidential election, the Kremlin says.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a Thursday press briefing that he had "no doubts" authorities would review Navalny's appeals for a boycott to determine whether they are illegal.

"The calls for a boycott will require scrupulous study, to see whether or not they comply with the law," Peskov said.

"The fact that one of the would-be candidates is not taking part has no bearing on the election's legitimacy," he added.

The remarks came after Navalny announced on Wednesday that protest rallies would be waged across Russia on January 28 to promote an "electoral strike" to object to the decision made by Russia's Central Election Commission to bar him from the electoral contest.

The 41-year-old lawyer further said that he would use his campaign headquarters across Russia to challenge the election's legitimacy and organize protests.

Navalny had already campaigned for his presidential bid all year despite an implicit ban on his candidacy due to a fraud conviction. He was officially disqualified from the ballot earlier this week.

Navalny has appealed the election commission's decision to keep him off the presidential ballot. Russia's highest court is due to consider the case on Saturday.

President Vladimir Putin, whose approval ratings have surpassed the 80-percent mark, is set to win a fourth term in the March 18 presidential poll.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Putin Signs Law Allowing Expansion Of Russian Naval Facility In Syria

RFE/RL December 29, 2017

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law ratifying an agreement enabling Russia to expand operations at its naval facility in the Syrian port of Tartus.

The document was posted on the official website for Russian legislation after Putin signed it on December 29.

It could help cement what Putin has said would be a "permanent" Russian presence at the Tartus facility and the Hmeimim air base, key platforms for Russia's campaign backing Syria's government in the nearly seven-year war in the Middle Eastern country.

The agreement, signed in Damascus in January 2017, allows for the Russian Navy to expand the technical support and logistics facility at Tartus, which is Moscow's only naval foothold in the Mediterranean.

It allows Russia to keep up to 11 warships, including nuclear-powered vessels, at Tartus at any time for the next 49 years. The deal is to be prolonged automatically for 25-year periods upon its expiration.

It also allows Russian ships to enter Syria's territorial waters, internal waters, and ports, to use the Tartus facility free of charge.

The agreement also provides Russian military personnel at the facility with immunity and regulates the status of the military personnel and members of their families there.

Russia has given President Bashar al-Assad's government crucial support throughout the war, which has killed hundreds of thousands of people and driven millions from their homes since it began with a crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011.

Moscow helped Assad avoid possible defeat by starting a campaign of air strikes in September 2015, in many cases using Hmeimim as a base. It has also launched strikes from warships in the Mediterranean.

During a visit to the air base on December 11, Putin declared victory over "the most combat-capable international terrorist group" -- a reference to the extremist group Islamic State (IS) -- and announced a partial withdrawal of Russian troops.

Western officials say that the Russian campaign, particularly in its earlier stages, has focused heavily on targeting rebels seeking Assad's ouster rather than IS militants.

Putin said on December 28 that more than 48,000 Russian military personnel have served in the operation in Syria, and that the facilities at Hmeimim and Tartus would continue to operate "on a permanent basis."

With IS in retreat and diplomats pressing ahead with efforts to forge a political solution, analysts say Russia is eager to make its position in Syria as strong as possible in order to wield influence on future developments.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-signs-law-syria- tartus-naval-facility/28946167.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






Russia To Limit U.S. Military Surveillance Flights Over Russia Next Year

RFE/RL December 29, 2017

Russia plans to limit U.S. military reconnaissance flights over Russian territory under the Open Skies Treaty starting January 1 in response to limits on Russian flights over the United States recently announced by Washington, Russian news agencies reported.

The new restrictions Russia is introducing will limit the scope of U.S. flights by preventing U.S. air crews from using certain Russian air bases, Russia's state-run RIA Novosti news agency cited Foreign Ministry official Georgiy Borisenko as saying.

Under the new restrictions, Russia will "cancel night stays at three airfields with respect to flights involving the United States," Russian news agency Interfax quoted Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying on December 28.

The Open Skies Treaty was signed in 1992 and was one of a series of arms-control deals intended to foster trust and transparency as the relationship between the nuclear superpowers thawed at the end of the Cold War.

But in June, the United States accused Russia of violating the treaty by limiting U.S. flights over its Kaliningrad exclave in Eastern Europe and said that in response, it would limit some Russian flights over U.S. territory starting on January 1.

Kaliningrad is one of Russia's most militarized regions, home to the Baltic Fleet and short-range missiles deployed in response to a U.S. missile-defense system in Europe that the Kremlin contends is fomenting a new arms race.

With both NATO and the Russian military building up defenses in the border region, Kaliningrad's position as Russia's westernmost territory, wedged between NATO members Poland and Lithuania, makes it a potential flash point.

Complaining of Russian limits on Open Skies flights over Kaliningrad, U.S. media have reported that the United States countered with restrictions due to take effect January 1 on Russian missions over Alaska -- where interceptors that form part of the U.S. missile shield are positioned -- and Hawaii, the base of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

The tit-for-tat limits on surveillance under the Open Skies Treaty come as each side has accused the other of violating the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty.

Interfax quoted Zakharova as saying that putting the new restrictions on surveillance flights over Russia in place required the cancellation of "some bilateral agreements with the U.S. side" and that the U.S. mission at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe was notified.

"U.S. actions hurt the Open Skies Treaty. We are calling on our U.S. colleagues to stop and begin a depoliticized search for mutually acceptable solutions to issues relating to the treaty," Zakharova was quoted as saying.

U.S. officials have said they would be willing to reverse the U.S. restrictions "should Russia come back into compliance with its Open Skies Treaty obligations."

With reporting by Reuters, Bloomberg, TASS, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-limit-us-military- surveillance-flights-russia-next-year-us-limit-flights -alaska-hawaii-kaliningrad/28945020.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






Zhirinovsky Registers For His Fifth Russian Presidential Election

RFE/RL December 29, 2017

Vladimir Zhirinovsky, an eccentric nationalist firebrand whose party rarely defies President Vladimir Putin, has become the first officially registered candidate in Russia's March 18 presidential election.

The Russian Central Election Commission (CEC) registered Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) chief Zhirinovsky on December 29.

Kazakhstan-born Zhirinovsky has a long reputation for statements seen as belligerent or xenophobic, but many Russians view him with benign bemusement and the LDPR regularly joins in rubberstamping Kremlin-backed legislation in parliament.

In the past, he has proposed building a barbed wire fence along parts of southern Russia, where many Muslim Russians live, and called for Russia to take Alaska back from the United States.

Zhirinovsky, 71, has run in every presidential election since 1996, with the exception of the 2004 vote. Critics say he and his party have become little more than cogs in Putin's system of rule.

Putin, who has been president or prime minister since 1999, is seeking a new six-year term in the election. His high approval ratings and control over the levers of power make his victory a foregone conclusion in Russia, where government critics say election campaigns and results are manipulated by authorities.

Aleksei Navalny, an opposition politician and fierce critic of Putin, is calling on Russians to boycott the election after being barred from the ballot due to a criminal conviction he contends was politically motivated. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear his legal challenge against the CEC decision to disqualify him on December 30.

The CEC took steps toward registering several other candidates on December 29, including Pavel Grudinin of the Communist Party, journalist Yekaterina Gordon of the Party of Good Deeds, and Sergei Baburin of the Russian All-People Union party, allowing them to set up bank accounts for their presidential campaigns. They must file documents for official registration as presidential candidates by January 31.

More than 20 people have declared their intention to run in the March election, including liberal Grigory Yavlinsky, business ombudsman Boris Titov, and journalist and TV personality Ksenia Sobchak.

If no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote on March 18, the two top vote-getters will face each other in a run-off election.

With reporting by TASS and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/zhirinovsky-registers- russian-presidential-election-fifth/28946299.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






Interview: Sobchak Calls Presidential Run A Step To Changing Russian System, Rejects Navalny Boycott

RFE/RL's Idel.Realii December 29, 2017

Russian journalist and TV personality Ksenia Sobchak has dismissed calls by a barred opposition leader for an election boycott as "pointless" and said her candidacy in the March presidential vote could help fuse opposition elements into a legitimate political force in Russia.

In an exclusive interview with RFE/RL's Idel.Realii during a campaign stop in Kazan, Sobchak dismissed criticism that her unlikely challenge amounted to Kremlin-friendly window dressing for an election that is virtually guaranteed to hand incumbent President Vladimir Putin a fourth term on March 18.

In fact, she said, it could pave the way for further political action including in parliament, where Putin allies dominate.

"If, as a result [of my candidacy], I have an opportunity to unite forces and create a strong, just party and enter the [State] Duma with it, then I think I'll have done something meaningful for my country," Sobchak said.

Those who suspect the Kremlin's hand in Sobchak's presidential bid point to Putin's close ties to Sobchak's late father, who as mayor of St. Petersburg in the 1990s is credited with helping launch the political career of the former Soviet-era KGB officer whose grip on national power has been largely unrivaled since 2000.

The 36-year-old Sobchak is routinely described as a "socialite" in Russian media, and once featured in television shows like Russia's equivalent of Big Brother and A Blonde In Chocolate, in which she cursed and appeared drunk. She has also been on the cover of the Russian version of Playboy magazine.

But Sobchak has also been critical of some Kremlin policies and called for democratic changes, although prior to her candidacy she generally appeared careful not to mention Putin by name in her criticism. Sobchak also took part in large-scale antigovernment protests organized after what were seen as flawed national elections in 2011 and 2012.

Navalny Lite?

Some have suggested that Sobchak could serve as a milder version of opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, the anti-corruption lawyer and fierce Putin detractor who splashed onto the national scene during those same street protests.

Navalny has since served jail time for what he says were trumped-up charges and was this month disqualified from running for president because of his criminal conviction.

He has called for voters to boycott the March 18 presidential election as a contest between "Putin and his hand-picked candidates" and has dismissed Sobchak's candidacy as "unserious."

Some speculate that Sobchak could play a legitimizing electoral role similar to that of billionaire businessman Mikhail Prokhorov in the 2012 election or veteran political operative Andrei Bogdanov in 2008, neither of whom landed any solid political punches against Putin or his chosen candidate for a four-year interregnum, Dmitry Medvedev.

'Suicidal Path'

Sobchak told RFE/RL on December 28 that such a strategy was "pointless," saying Russia has no minimum turnout threshold for an election anyways.

"A boycott: Well, you can stay home and the president will be elected even with 10 percent turnout," Sobchak said.

Sobchak said that while she regards Navalny as an "absolute hero," she believes he is pursuing a "suicidal path."

"The gang of people around the president have at their disposal huge reserves of money, other resources, the army, the [Federal Security Service, or FSB], all the security services, etcetera. A direct fight with them is possible, but it is suicidal," Sobchak said.

"I really fear for Navalny's life. The balance of forces is not equal at all. They will never relinquish power."

One of Putin's most strident opposition critics in the past, former Deputy Prime Minister Boris Nemtsov, was gunned down on a bridge near the Kremlin in 2015.

'Caricature Liberal'

After rumors of Sobchak's possible presidential run surfaced in September, Navalny said Sobchak would be a "caricature liberal candidate."

Sobchak, who was formally nominated for the race on December 23 by a liberal party, the Civic Initiative, predicted to RFE/RL in Kazan that the confrontational approach favored by Navalny won't work in the long run.

"Only peaceful [sanctioned] protest will work, but it will take more time," Sobchak said.

Russian authorities were accused of ruthlessly pruning critical media outlets during Putin's first two terms in the Kremlin, from 1999 to 2008, and a phalanx of legal obstacles has been erected during his third term to limit public expressions of dissent.

Sobchak dismissed those who say the Kremlin has allowed her into the race in order to bump up voter turnout and add an air of legitimacy to the ballot.

"I think this is nonsense, just made up. I don't like that our opposition monopolist -- that's how Navalny refers to himself -- first backed the position 'vote for any party except United Russia' and spoke against boycotts, and now he's flip flopped," Sobchak said.

Sobchak said Putin and others would be wrong to dismiss her challenge.

"Maybe Putin thinks, 'Well, listen, she's a girl. I knew her dad. Well, she's not particularly dangerous," Sobchak said. "He doesn't consider me, as opposed to Navalny, a dangerous competitor. Why not. Let's find out."

Other veterans of past elections like liberal Grigory Yavlinsky and ultranationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky are also running. The Communists nominated a new candidate, Pavel Grudinin, director of a big strawberry farm just outside Moscow, instead of longtime party chief Gennady Zyuganov.

Written by RFE/RL's Tony Wesolowsky in Prague based on an interview by Idel.Realii's Vadim Meshcheryakov in Kazan

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-sobchak -interview-presidency-navalny/28946492.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






Putin Signs Law to Ratify Russia-Syria Agreement to Expand Naval Base in Tartus

Sputnik News

15:31 29.12.2017(updated 16:30 29.12.2017)

The president's approval is the final step of implementation of the Russia-Syria agreement, which was signed on January 18, after the expansion of the Russian naval facility was ratified by the Russian State Duma on December 21.

On Friday Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the deal on the expansion of the Russian naval facility in the Syrian port city of Tartus.

According to the agreement, Russia may simultaneously deploy up to 11 warships, including nuclear-powered combat vessels, at the Tartus naval facility. Russia will carry out the seaborne and airborne protection of the base, while Syria will be responsible for the land security. Russia will be able to deploy temporary mobile outposts beyond the base, if coordinated with the Syrian side.

Russia will have the right to renovate, rebuild and demolish the building, do construction work, including underwater, and set up offshore platforms.

The text of the agreement between Russia and Syria says it is defensive in nature and is not directed against other countries.

The agreement between Russia and Syria is supposed to be in force for 49 years and can be automatically prolonged for further 25-year periods, unless one of the two states decides to withdraw from it.

Moscow has hosted the naval facility in Tartus since the 1970s and used it for maintenance of the Soviet fleet in the Mediterranean.

For over two years Russia at the invitation of Syrian President Bashar Assad was conducting an anti-terrorist aerial campaign in the country. On December 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the withdrawal of Russian troops from Syria, stating that the Russian servicemen are returning from Syria "with victory".

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Syria advances in Idlib as evacuations continue in Eastern Ghouta

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 11:02AM

Evacuations continue of critically-ill patients out of an area to the east of the Syrian capital, Damascus, as the Syrian army has made new advancements against Takfiri terrorists in the northwestern province of Idlib.

Reporting on Thursday, Syrian media and the so-called Syrian Observatory of Human Rights said the government had taken over 51 towns and villages in Idlib Province.

The gains were made after confrontations with the Takfiri terror group of Jabhat Fatah al-Sham, formerly known as Nusra Front or al-Qaeda's Syria branch.

The Army and its allies "seem to be driving toward the Abu Dhuhur airbase, on the eastern desert periphery of Idlib Province," Sam Heller, a Syria analyst and fellow with the New York-based think tank Century Foundation told Lebanon's The Daily Star paper. "Since its capture in 2015, the base has been a stronghold of Jabhat al-Nusra [Nusra Front]," he added.

The Observatory also reported on Friday that clashes between the Takfiris and militants on one side and the government on the other had killed at 66 people in an area straddling Idlib and neighboring Hama Province

Transfers, meanwhile, continued of the patients from the Eastern Ghouta on the back of a prisoner exchange deal between Damascus and militants there. The agreement has awarded egress for 29 such people.

On Wednesday, the International Committee of the Red Cross said 12 more have been evacuated from the area based on the deal.

A health official in Eastern Ghouta told AFP later that "thirteen civilians, including six children and four women, were evacuated" during the night of Thursday to Friday -- apparently the last batch of the patients.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian foreign minister says American forces must leave Syria

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 07:15AM

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the presence of American troops in Syria is unlawful, and that they must completely leave the Syrian soil.

Speaking to the Interfax news agency on Thursday, Lavrov added that the United Nations Security Council had not authorized operation in Syria by the United States and the coalition it leads.

Nor has Washington been invited onto the Arab country's soil by the Syrian government, he asserted.

The Takfiri terrorist group of Daesh unleashed a campaign of bloodshed and destruction in Syria in 2014, overrunning considerable expanses of territory.

The same year saw the United States launch a so-called campaign against Daesh together with a coalition of its allies. The military alliance had done little in the fight against the terrorists, and has instead been repeatedly accused of targeting and killing civilians and hampering Syrian government operations against Takfiri terrorists.

The Syrian government then enlisted the assistance of Iranian military advisors and Russian air cover, pushing back the terrorists turf after turf. The Arab country flushed Daesh out of its last stronghold last month.

Lavrov also reacted to a statement by US Defense Secretary James Mattis saying that US troops would stay in Syria.

The top Russian diplomat said the statement was "surprising" as it meant that the White House reserved the right to determine the progress and sought to keep control over part of the Syrian territory to secure its desired outcome.

According to the UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which the United States itself has supported, the decision on the future of Syria only rests with the Syrian people, Lavrov added.

The Pentagon has also said there are about 2,000 troops in Syria. They support the anti-Damascus Kurdish militants in the north, who have, according to Syria, been seeking to gain more territory under the pretext of fighting terror.

'US copters airlift Daesh ringleaders in Syria'

In another development, American helicopters were reportedly spotted airlifting Daesh ringleaders from the northwestern Syria province of Dayr al-Zawr to the neighboring province of Hassakah.

The official Syrian Arab News Agency citied civil sources as saying that the choppers had carried the Takfiri terrorist group's kingpins from "several areas of Dayr al-Zawr countryside to unknown place in Hassakah countryside."

The aircraft flew in from Dayr al-Zawr's northern countryside, lowering their altitude above al-Sad refugee camp and then heading to al-Basel Dam to the south of Hassakah's provincial capital of the same name.

Back in August, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the US had airlifted a number of Daesh terrorists near Dayr al-Zawr's capital.

The London-based monitor said two US helicopters had conducted the operation in Beqres, a suburban area east of Dayr al-Zawr, taking four Daesh members and a civilian from a house used as an arms depot.

The incident happened while Syrian troops were closing in on the Takfiris.

On Wednesday, Russia's military chief said militants, including those with the terror outfit, were receiving training at US bases in Syria, adding that the terrorists had been instructed to "destabilize" the Arab country.

In an interview with Russia's Komsomolskaya Pravda daily, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov accused the US of using a refugee camp outside the town of Shaddadah in Hassakah Province as a training center for the Daesh remnants, including those evacuated from the terror group's former stronghold of Raqqah.

A recent study by Conflict Armament Research (CAR) said that sophisticated weapons the US and Saudi Arabia secretly provided to so-called moderate militants fighting the Syrian government quickly fell into the Daesh hands.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Syrian Army Takes Control Over Strategic Settlement in Hama Province - Source

Sputnik News

19:47 29.12.2017

DAMASCUS (Sputnik) - The Syrian government forces have pushed terrorists from the strategically important Abu Dali settlement in Syria's western Hama province, a source told Sputnik Friday.

Abu Dali is located on the border between Hama and Idlib, and the militants were using the settlement as a distribution point on the supply route between the provinces.

"The Syrian army has regained control over the strategically important settlement of Abu Dali in the north-east of the Hama province," the source said.

According to the source, the fighting against the Jabhat Fatah al-Sham terrorists (formerly known as Nusra Front) continues in Hama's north-east.

Earlier in the day, the Syrian Electricity Ministry said that the Zara thermal power plant in Hama had been knocked out as a result of a shelling attack by militants.

Syria has been engulfed in a civil war since 2011, with the government forces fighting numerous opposition factions and terrorist groups.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






President vows to increase Taiwan's military spending

ROC Central News Agency

2017/12/29 19:17:05

Taipei, Dec. 29 (CNA) Amid tensions heightened by Chinese military drills near Taiwan and the situation on the Korean peninsula, President Tsai Ing-wen () vowed Friday to develop Taiwan's own indigenous defense systems and make a reasonable year-on-year increase in military spending.

Tsai made the remarks at a year-end press conference held by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), the primary research and development institution of the Ministry of National Defense.

"We decided to hold the press conference at NCSIST, the very heart of Taiwan's defense industry, to emphasize our determination to foster an indigenous defense industry and defend Taiwan's democracy," Tsai said.

In the face of the changing geopolitical environment marked by an increasingly assertive China, the tension on the Korean peninsula, and a mix of strategic cooperation and competition between the United States and China, Taiwan's security can only be guaranteed by enhancing its own defense ability, Tsai said.

On cross-Taiwan Strait relations, Tsai reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining a stable, predicable and consistent relationship, saying that her administration will not make reckless attempts and will not let the relationship come to a standstill.

Asked whether the government will take precautions against China's military activities and about the likelihood of China launching military action against Taiwan, Tsai said those activities concern not only Taiwan but also East Asia.

"Taiwan does not face the situation alone. It is also closely monitored by other countries. We will continue to observe China's motivation and attempts," she said.

Tsai said she believes that Chinese President Xi Jinping is a "rational decision maker" and will not consider using military force against Taiwan at the present time.

China's consistent stance is that it has never renounced the option of using force to take Taiwan.

"All the countries in the region share the common view that cross-strait issues definitely cannot be resolved through military force. China would have a hard time ruling out that view," Tsai said.

Tsai said that cross-strait issues must be resolved through talks between both sides in a peaceful manner.

(By Shih Hsiu-chuan)

Enditem/J

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Taiwanese President Announces Defense Spending Boost to Counter China

Sputnik News

22:00 29.12.2017

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen announced on Friday that the military aggression of the mainland has reached new heights and that her country would increase its military spending to meet the intensifying security challenge.

"China's military activities don't only impact the situation in the Taiwan Strait, but also in all of East Asia This is not a problem being faced alone by Taiwan," Tsai told reporters during a Friday press conference, standing on a stage adorned with two model fighter jets.

"All countries in this region who want to see peace and stability, have a consensus and China can't ignore this, that cross-strait issues absolutely can't be resolved through military force but through peaceful means," Tsai added.

But just because peace is the only path to resolution doesn't mean Taiwan will curb military spending  quite the opposite, she said, announcing a defense spending increase in 2018. The exact amount, or where the money will go, has yet to be determined.

"Over the past year, the morale of our military is steadily improving, support for our military is also continuously increasing. This is the most gratifying thing since I've become president. I hereby solemnly announce that our annual defence budget will grow steadily within a reasonable range. Building our own defences will no longer be a slogan, but the daily task we must fully realise."

During an October visit to Hawaii, Tsai announced that a 2 or possibly 3 percent increase in defense spending would be implemented in the near future. She also hinted that her country would ink additional weapons purchases with US military contractors. Taiwan is a top buyer of US weapons, having purchased more than $60 billion's worth in the last 25 years.

Tsai reiterated that claim in her speech, adding that Taipei would eye more advanced weapons from Washington. However, she insisted the weapons were only for self-defense and would not be used to provoke Beijing.

Hostilities between China and Taiwan flared after the 2016 election victory of Tsai and her Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), ending several years of detente. Unlike her immediate predecessors, Tsai has been unwilling to publicly endorse the 1992 Consensus, a cross-strait agreement affirming that there is only one China. (Naturally, Beijing and Taipei disagree on which of their governments is the legitimate one.)

The DPP's line is more attuned to the realities of the situation: China and Taiwan are in practice, separate, sovereign nations. But China has declared any moves on Taiwan's part toward formal independence a red line, even hinting at military action should Taiwan hold an independence referendum.

Earlier in December, the Taiwanese Defense Ministry released a white paper claiming that the Chinese Air Force had conducted 16 provocative military exercises in which they buzzed Taiwan's airspace in 2017.

Beijing in the past referred to the exercises as routine and told Taiwan (and Japan, which also had its airspace buzzed) to "get used to it."

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Turkey, Russia sign deal on supplying S-400 missile systems

Iran Press TV

Fri Dec 29, 2017 02:37PM

Turkey and Russia have signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile defense systems, finalizing a deal that the two countries had been working on for more than a year.

Turkey's English-language Hurriyet Daily News newspaper reported that the loan deal for four S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries was signed in the Turkish capital Ankara on Friday.

Earlier on Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country borrow in the Russian ruble in a loan deal under the accord.

"We will not borrow in dollars in this loan, we will borrow in roubles," Erdogan told reporters upon return from a trip to Africa.

The developments came only two days after Sergey Viktorovich Chemezov, the Chief Executive Officer of Russian state corporation Rostec, told the Kommersant daily newspaper that Russia would supply Turkey with four batteries of S-400, worth $2.5 billion each, and Moscow was expected to begin the first deliveries in March 2020.

Chemezov added that Turkey would pay 45 percent of the cost of the agreement up front, while Russia would provide loans to cover the remaining 55 percent.

A Russian banking source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Russian Finance Ministry will finance a deal from the state treasury, emphasizing that Russian banks will take part solely in the transfer of funds.

The deal has drawn concerns in the West, because Turkey is a member of the US-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the Russian-built S-400 surface-to-air missile systems are not compatible with those of the military alliance.

The S-400, whose full name is the Triumf Mobile Multiple Anti-Aircraft Missile System (AAMS), is an advanced Russian missile system designed to detect, track, and destroy planes, drones, or missiles as far as 402 kilometers away. It has previously been sold only to China and India.

Turkey is striving to boost its air defense, particularly after Washington decided in 2015 to withdraw its Patriot surface-to-air missile system from Turkey's border with Syria, a move that weakened Turkey's air defense.

Before gravitating towards Russia, the Turkish military reportedly walked out of a $3.4 billion contract for a similar Chinese system. The withdrawal took place under purported pressure from Washington.

Ankara's ties with its Western allies in NATO have been strained over a range of issues.

The Turkish leader has been critical of Washington for supporting Kurdish groups in Syria that he says are responsible for terror attacks inside Turkey. The Turkish president has also slammed American officials for rejecting his requests to hand over Fethullah Gulen, a powerful opposition figure living in the US.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Turkey Signs Russian Missile Deal, Reportedly Worth $2.5 Billion

RFE/RL December 29, 2017

Turkish defense officials say Ankara and Moscow have signed a deal under which Russia will supply up to two S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries to Turkey.

Turkey's Undersecretariat for Defense Industries (SSM) said late on December 29 that delivery of the initial battery of the air-defense system is planned for the first quarter of 2020.

The deal, reportedly worth about $2.5 billion, has caused concern in the West because Turkey is a member of NATO and the antiaircraft weapon systems cannot be integrated into the alliance's defenses.

Turkey's move to acquire the S-400s also is regarded in some Western capitals as a snub to NATO amid tensions with Russia over its role in the wars in Syria and eastern Ukraine.

The SSM said the purchase of the second S-400 battery was optional under the agreement and that the systems would be managed and operated "independently" by Turkish personnel, not by Russian advisers.

Sergei Chemezov, head of Russian state conglomerate Rostec, told the newspaper Kommersant in an interview published on December 27 that the deal would consist of four batteries of S-400 missiles.

No explanation was given for the discrepancy in the number of batteries being described as part of the deal.

Chemezov said shipments of the missile systems to Turkey were expected to begin in March 2020.

"They are paying 45 percent of the total contract amount as an advance. Fifty-five percent is Russian credit," Chemezov told Kommersant.

The missiles have a maximum range of 400 kilometers and are capable of reaching targets at a maximum altitude of 30 kilometers. Each missile battery can simultaneously hit 80 different targets with two missiles each.

Negotiations on the S-400 deal were first announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in September.

Russia and Turkey support opposing sides in the Syrian war, but Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin patched up relations that were badly damaged when Turkish jets shot down a Russian warplane near the Syrian border in November 2015.

On December 27, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said Moscow also expects to sign a deal with India soon on the delivery of S-400s.

Russian officials have also said that Russia and U.S. ally Saudi Arabia are close to signing a deal on supplying the S-400 systems to Riyadh.

With reporting by Reuters, CNN-Turk, Kommersant, dpa, TASS, and Yenisafak

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-turkey-s-400-missile- system-2-billion-deal/28945677.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






Russia, Turkey Sign Loan Agreement on Supply of S-400 Air Defense Systems

Sputnik News

14:11 29.12.2017(updated 14:26 29.12.2017)

ANKARA (Sputnik)  Russia and Turkey signed a loan agreement on the supply of Russia's S-400 air defense missile systems in Ankara on Friday, the TRT channel reported.

According to the channel, an official statement is expected in connection with the signing of the agreement soon.

Earlier, the newspaper "Hurriet" reported that part of the money for the S-400 air defense missile systems Ankara will pay for itself, and for the other part it will take a loan from Moscow.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on September 12 that Ankara had signed an agreement with Moscow on the acquisition of S-400 systems, and also made a deposit for them. General Director of the state corporation "Rostekh" Sergei Chemezov said on November 2 that the contract value exceeds $2 billion. According to Deputy Chief of the Turkish Defense Industry Secretariat Ismail Demir, the delivery of the systems will begin within two years.

Some 55% of the total contract amount will be Russian loan funds.

In September, Moscow and Ankara reached an agreement on the delivery of S-400 systems to Turkey, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirming that Ankara had made its first payment for the air defense systems.

S-400 Triumph is a long-range anti-aircraft missile system adopted for service in 2007. It is intended for the destruction of aviation, cruise and ballistic missiles.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Oops! There was a problem! Sorry, but we can't find what you were looking for right now. The content may have been removed, or is temporarily unavailable.

GreatAndhra.com powered by India Brains Infotech, LLC, its owners, associates and employees are not responsible for any errors, omissions or representations on any of our pages or on any links on any of our pages.



We do not endorse in anyway any advertisers on our web pages, links to personal pages, official pages, or commercial pages.



We have no control of the content of external information. Please verify the veracity of all information on your own before undertaking any reliance.



The linked sites are not under our control and we are not responsible for the contents of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site, or any changes or updates to such sites. We are providing these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by us of the site.



We hereby expressly disclaim any implied warranties imputed by the laws of any jurisdiction. We consider ourselves and intend to be subject to the jurisdiction only of the courts of the state of California.



Greatandhra.com also contains material in the form of inputs/feedbacks submitted by users and Greatandhra.com accepts no responsibility for the content or accuracy of such content nor does it make any representations by virtue of the contents of Greatandhra.com in respect of the existence or availability of any goods and services advertised in the contributory sections. Greatandhra.com makes no warranty that the site contents are Virus -free or anything else, which has destructive properties and shall have no liability in respect thereof.



Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, GreatAndhra.com takes no responsibility for and will not be liable for the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond its control.



If you have any questions or concerns about a published article, please send us email at venkat@greatandhra.com . We will review your request and article will be removed immediatly.




Modi says yes to Sai Reddy, no to Naidu!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been showing any interest in giving an appointment to Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu for several months, notwithstanding the fact that the TDP is the political ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party and part of the NDA government.

However, what has surprised everybody was the way Modi gave instant appointment to YSR Congress party Rajya Sabha member V Vijay Sai Reddy on Friday.

Though it is not uncommon for the MPs coming to Prime Ministers chamber to greet him on the occasion of New Year, the interesting point is that Modi had a one-on-one meeting with Sai Reddy for over 15 minutes.

It is learnt Sai Reddy explained the political developments in the state and also lodged several complaints against Chandrababu Naidu and his administration.

The Prime Minister, who gave a patient hearing to Sai Reddy made enquiries about YSRC president Y S Jaganmohan Reddys ongoing padayatra.

He appeared to be very curious to know how the padayatra was going on and how the people are responding to him.

This news has come as a big disappointment for the TDP leaders, who are now getting the feeling that the BJP is getting closer to YSRC.

They remind that Naidu had been trying to get the appointment of Modi for several months  the most recently on December 25, but the Prime Minister is refusing to see him.

However, some TDP MPs under the aegis of Union minister Y S Chowdary met Modi and requested him to attend the foundation laying ceremony for Petroleum University proposed to be set up at Visakhapatnam shortly.

Though he gave a positive response, it is doubtful whether he would really make it to the function, say party sources.
Transstroy Bankrupt, Polavaram In Crisis

The multi-purpose Polavaram project on Godavari river has plunged into yet another crisis with Transstroy India Ltd, the main contractor for the prestigious Polavaram project, has virtually turned bankrupt.

The Canara Bank on Friday filed a petition before National Company Law Tribunal, Hyderabad asking it to declare Transstroy as insolvent and initiate the process for winding up of all its business activities, auction its properties and repay the dues to the banks.

The corporate branch of the bank at Secunderabad filed the petition stating that Transstroy had defaulted loans to the tune of Rs 725 crore taken from the bank in various forms. Similar petitions against Transstroy filed by various banks are also pending in the tribunal.

This would mean Transstroy has been delaying the construction of Polavaram because it has no money. It has not been clearing its payments to sub-contractors as well, as a result of which they stopped work.

While Andhra Pradesh chief minister is struggling to secure funds from the Centre, the contracting firm successfully diverted all its money and has now turned bankrupt.

Now, it will give an opportunity for Naidu to bring pressure on the Centre to give permission to go for fresh tenders for spill way and other works. Since Transstroy has no money, the Centre will have no option but to permit the fresh tenders.
These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales.
Being a mobile tech reviewer definitely has its perks. Shiny new devices are great and all, but still, at the end of the day, the most gratifying thing is to see our work actually help out readers and eager buyers navigate the vast and often confusing smartphone market. 2017 was a really interesting year, with many great announcements and more than one interesting trend set in motion and ready to unfold in 2018.

Before CES kicks off and draws our collective attention to the future of mobile, what better time to sift through the top ten reviews of 2017, as rated by your interest. Starting from the top of the list, it's clear that Samsung had yet another strong year in the business. Not only is the Korean giant getting the lion's share of sales in most markets, but it is also drawing ever-growing amounts of attention towards its industry-leading and trend-setting designs. The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+, in particular, really shook thinks up vigorously, with their bold Infinity Display, curvy profile, finally breaking the long-standing "slab" design mold.

Besides, topping the review popularity chart, Samsung phones also proudly hold the sixth and seventh spot. Forth place goes to one of the company's devices as well, the Galaxy A5 (2017), but that represents a whole other 2017 trend, we are probably even more excited about - the quest towards great value devices. It's true. Whether it is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, the more expensive Xiaomi Mi A1, or the pricier still OnePlus 5 budget flagship, more and more companies are trying their best to deliver great value handsets in most every price bracket. Better still, consumers are starting to expect and demand these offers.

2017 saw an interesting mix of value-first trends in the industry, along with a new breed of ultra-expensive flagships, officially passing the $1000 barrier. Nokia's surprisingly well-received comeback added, even more, excitement to the mix. We can only imagine what new developments and intriguing devices 2018 has in store. In the meantime, if you've missed any of our top reviews in 2017, now might be a great time to catch up.



Samsung Galaxy S8 review:Essence distilled When 5 inches is the de-facto standard for a compact Android handset, yet you want to prove that more is always better...





Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 (S625) review:Take note! After getting to know Xiaomi's Redmi Note 4 with Helio X20, it's time to meet the Snapdragon 625 edition. It promises better....





Nokia 6 review:International flavor We're back at checking out one of the most hyped phones this year - the Nokia 6. This time around though, it's repackaged for....





Samsung Galaxy A5 (2017) review:Alphabet soup A 5.2-inch Super AMOLED display, 14nm Exynos chipset, a body made out of a glass/metal combo, IP68 certification, 16MP....





OnePlus 5 review:Doing the math Strange that with a name like that OnePlus doesn't know simple addition. Oh well, tetraphobia is real and many product lines....





Samsung Galaxy S8+ review:Infinity and beyond What was once an impossible fantasy - a sketch in someone's book, a render of an ambitious concept - is now a reality. These...





Samsung Galaxy Note8 review The Note8 is here and we can't help but feel the tension rising, especially in Europe where this is the first Note device to...





Nokia 8 review:Connecting the dots This is it then. The long-awaited Finnish flagship that goes all in against the phones that rule today. The Finnish...





LG G6 review:Cutting corners... Like a pro Cutting corners - it's the story of the LG G6's life. And we mean this both literally and figuratively. Literally because its display...


Verizon may officially not allow Google Pixel 2 bootloaders to be easily unlocked, but it has now come to light that the process is as easy as unlocking bootloaders of non-carrier Pixel 2 units.

According to an XDA report (which cites forum posts from several of its own members), a simple fastboot command (specifically, fastboot flashing lock_critical) does the trick.

It's worth mentioning that the method - described in detail in the XDA report we're referring - only works with the standard Pixel 2. Users of the XL model are currently out of luck.

Also, there are high chances that the carrier will quickly get the hole plugged, so those interested in getting their Verizon Pixel 2 units bootloader unlocked may have to act fast.

Source | Via
Xiaomi Redmi 5 sounds like a successor to the Redmi 4, but it actually comes as a vanilla version of the Redmi 5 Plus that is essentially the follow-up of the Redmi Note 4. The name game might not be strong with Xiaomi, but the device appears to have everything you would expect from a 2017 phone in the affordable segment - an octa-core chipset, 18:9 screen and friendly user interface.

The Redmi 5 feels nice in hand, mostly due to its tall design. Texting one-handed is quite comfortable, especially when you have extra room for the keyboard. Xiaomi provides a transparent case with the retail package, but with a small nuisance - the camera still on the back protrudes a bit and you might have issues with it in the long run.

Some Xiaomi competitors like vivo and Oppo already decided to follow the trend of facial recognition for unlocking the device, but the Redmi 5 sticks to one security option - a traditional fingerprint scanner on the back, right below the 12 MP camera with f/2.2 lens and the LED flash. There is also a 5 MP selfie snapper that may do the job. Both cameras take 1080p videos, but well investigate further into the actual quality once we get started with the review.

Tall displays were everywhere in 2017, and it should not be a surprise that the Redmi 5 also has one. While media content is not ready for the switch to 18:9, you can easily hide the trio of buttons through the Settings and scroll less while browsing. It also has a nice immersive feeling while taking pictures in the new ratio, but be prepared, because it crops a third of the image height, so instead of getting a 12 MP image, the photo is just 8 MP with a resolution of 4000 x 2000 pixels.

We got the 3 GB RAM version with 32 GB storage, but there is a cheaper 2GB/16GB option, both currently available only in China. Choosing between a bit more powerful Redmi 5 or the more affordable is one of the choices you have to make.

You also have to decide if you want to get the phone now without Google services or with a custom ROM that gray importers will happily sideload. Or just wait until our full review is done before making the crucial decision.

Special thanks to HonorBuy for providing the review unit.




Haiti - Security : The United States supports the new Border Police





Charge dAffaires Robin Diallo, Bureau of Narcotics and Enforcement Affairs (INL), Director Nicholas Hilgert, and other Embassy personnel have participated in the first graduation ceremony for the newly-formed Border Police https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-23106-haiti-security-graduation-of-the-1st-promotion-of-the-border-police.html and the inaugural ceremony of the new Border Police (PoliFront) Headquarters in Tabarre.



Diallo congratulated President Moise for the governments support to establish the unit, which will help combat trafficking in persons and contraband along Haitis border with the Dominican Republic.



The U.S. governments Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), funded the new Bureau of Anti-Trafficking in Narcotics (BLTS) Headquarters and continues to support the International Organization for Migration (IOM) providing motorcycles, quads, and training to the new unit. The new Border Police, known as "PoliFront," will help the National Police of Haiti (PNH) and the government of Haiti combat transnational crime.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-23106-haiti-security-graduation-of-the-1st-promotion-of-the-border-police.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















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 2017/12/30 | Source

Added episode 8 captures for the Korean drama "Black Knight" (2017)

Advertisement

Directed by Han Sang-woo

Written by Kim In-yeong

Network : KBS

With Kim Rae-won, Shin Se-kyung, Seo Ji-hye, Chang Mi-hee, Kim Hyun-joon, Hwang Jung-min-I,...

16 episodes - Wed, Thu 22:00

Synopsis

In this supernatural romance drama, a businessman with a pure heart braves danger for his love, a travel agent who has never traveled abroad. It is a love story that spans over two hundred years.

Broadcast starting date in Korea : 2017/12/06

More
Published on 2017/12/30 | Source

Added episode captures for the Korean drama "Drama Stage - Today I Grab The Tambourine Again" (2017)

Advertisement

Directed by Choi Gyoo-sik

Written by Kim Dong-kyung

Network : tvN

With Park Hee-von, Lee Mi-so, Jung Kyu-soo, Han Soo-hyun, Jang Hee-jung, Son Hwa-ryung,...

1 episode -Thu 21:30

Part 4 of the O'PEN/Drama Stage series.

Synopsis

The story of a contract bank worker struggling to become a full-time employee.

Broadcast starting date in Korea : 2017/12/28

More
Jack Woodruff was out celebrating with a group of friends

A birthday reveller ignored a garda direction to leave a fast-food restaurant because he believed he had done nothing wrong.

Jack Woodruff (20) had claimed he was trying to intervene in a dispute between other males.

He had been out celebrating his birthday with a group of friends, a court heard.

Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out the charge, leaving Woodruff without a conviction, after he made a 400 donation to Le Cheile.

The defendant, of Mooretown Road, Swords, admitted before Swords District Court to failing to follow the directions of gardai.

The incident took place at McDonald's, Airside Retail Park, Swords, on November 20 last year.

Toilets

Gda Michael McCallion said officers were called to McDonald's at around 4am after staff reported a disturbance involving a large number of males in the toilets.

Gda McCallion said Woodruff was directed to leave the area but failed to do so.

The court heard the defendant had never been in trouble before.

Defence lawyer Patrick Jackson said Woodruff felt he had done nothing wrong, and he was trying to intercede in a row between other individuals.

Mr Jackson said Woodruff had been out celebrating his birthday and had consumed alcohol.

He said Woodruff now realised that if gardai ordered him to leave an area he should do it.

The court heard Woodruff had apologised to Gda Mc- Callion for his behaviour.

Woodruff was working and anxious to avoid a conviction.
The Guildford Four's Gerry Conlon was in such despair after 12 years in prison he was on the verge of killing himself, private letters to the government reveal.

While languishing in HMP Long Lartin in England in 1987 - seven years after his father Giuseppe had died in jail - Mr Conlon wrote how he couldn't face another 18 years of "living hell".

Conlon died in 2014, aged 60, three weeks after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

The letter, dated May 10, 1987, and released by the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin under the 30-year rule, was sent to then tanaiste and foreign affairs minister Brian Lenihan.

Sentence

The west Belfast man reflected on his 30-year sentence.

"That means if nothing is done to help us I must face another 18 years of a living hell," he wrote.

"I can assure you that I do not intend to serve it, I would much rather join my dear father.

"I can see that if my plight is not resolved in the near future, that I will have to decide which form of protest I must take.

"This is not something I want to do, but you can only suffer so much and to suffer it for something you didn't do makes the suffering intolerable."

Mr Conlon and the rest of the Guildford Four - Paul Hill, Carole Richardson and Paddy Armstrong - were sentenced to life for attacks in Guildford, Surrey, that killed five people and injured 65. Their convictions were overturned in 1989.

Trial judge Mr Justice Donaldson had told them: "If hanging were still an option, you would have been executed."

iInocent

Mr Conlon pleaded with the Tanaiste: "I hope the Irish Government will be able to do something to help us before another innocent person, like my father, dies from that terrible disease known as British justice."

The handwriting on the pale blue notepad was impeccable and belied the deep trauma Mr Conlon was suffering.

He told Mr Lenihan he was grateful for the Irish government's efforts to get justice.

"I can think of nothing worse than putting an innocent person in prison. It has got to be the ultimate living hell," he wrote.

"More so when you know the courts and judiciary know your innocence as well, but refuse to admit it because of political decisions and the reputations of those who made their names while framing us."
The crash scene on the N7 at Johnstown on Thursday

A 16-year-old youth has appeared in court over a crash on the N7 at Johnstown on Thursday in which another youth was seriously injured.

The juvenile, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Judge Desmond Zaidan at a special sitting of Naas District Court yesterday morning.

The youth, from Tallaght, was charged with dangerous driving, having no licence nor insurance, and possession of articles with intent to commit burglary.

Stopped

Judge Zaidan was told by Garda Kevin Williamson that gardai had gone to the N7 because they were aware of a vehicle in the area.

"One had been stopped by gardai, but had been driven away when approached by officers."

The vehicle crashed into another car after driving away.

"There were four young men in the car that was in collision with the other car.

"One remained, injured, and the other three fled before being arrested," Judge Zaidan was told.

There was no objection to bail - based on strict conditions agreed with the defendant's barrister, Gerard Kennedy.

The youth was released on his own bond of 100.

The defendant is due to appear before Athy court on January 9.

Another of the youths arrested in the incident was released on Thursday night.

A file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

A second youth remained in garda custody yesterday.

The third youth, who was injured, remains in hospital.
Man arrested after mother, daughter found slain in Hagerstown hotel

Hagerstown Police said Thursday night they had arrested a 22-year-old man in the deaths of a mother and daughter found in a city hotel Wednesday.
T alking about average house prices in London has become meaningless. In the posh borough of Kensington & Chelsea, property values catapulted 65 per cent between 2009 and 2014  three times the growth recorded in Barking & Dagenham over the same period.

But from 2014 to this year, prices stalled in the capitals exclusive central enclave and shot up 46 per cent in outer London boroughs.

It makes more sense to see London as a complex cluster of micro markets, each to be assessed on its own merits by prospective buyers and renters.

Those looking for the widest choice of new homes to buy should head to Tower Hamlets in east London, whereas those on the hunt for the cheapest rents must cross the river and delve into Bexley.

While elite Kensington & Chelsea may still boast the most eye-watering house prices, its Camden residents who have seen the greatest rate of house price inflation this year, new research shows.

The study, by property group CBRE, ranks the boroughs by important factors that range from affordability to broadband speeds and job prospects.

BEST FOR GROWTH

Top 5 London boroughs for future growth 1 /6 Top 5 London boroughs for future growth Southwark Predicted 10-year economic growth: 34.4% Getty Camden Predicted 10-year economic growth: 34% Newham Predicted 10-year economic growth: 31.2% Daniel Lynch Hackney Predicted 10-year economic growth: 30.7% Islington Predicted 10-year economic growth: 30.6%

Southwark

The research identifies Southwark as Londons most-blessed borough, set for a golden future with a local economy expected to boom faster than any of the others over the next 10 years.

Elephant and Castle, the concrete gut of the area, is being ripped out and reconfigured.

This 3 billion regeneration project will power the 34.4 per cent rise in Southwarks economy and will include a new shopping centre, a new northern entrance hall at the Tube station and 979 homes, of which 342 will be affordable.

Golden borough: One Blackfriars, Southwarks high-end development, will have a 55m penthouse

For buyers at the other end of the market, Berkeley Groups St George has just put the top on its 52-floor residential tower One Blackfriars, beside Blackfriars Bridge.

Off-plan buyers can move in next summer and the 17,000sq ft penthouse, which has yet to be marketed, is expected to be priced at about 55 million.

Southwark is pulling in new businesses. Ben Mott, founder of brand consultancy Future Kings, opened an office in Southwark this year in a former factory.

Southwark is a creative hub, says Mott. Its buzzing  its real London to me. There are lots of new pubs and restaurants and some much-loved haunts such as Borough Market.

Golden future: Southwark can look forward to a decade of growth / Getty

Islington

North of the river, Islington is also anticipating a golden future. Its economy is expected to swell by a third over the next 10 years, with a nine per cent increase in jobs.

Former television producer and father of two Dave Allison runs his business  This Is Your Laugh  from his two-bedroom flat in Islington.

He puts on live comedy shows for corporate and private events and is inspired by the buzz of his borough.

Living and working in Islington is perfect for my business, its where many of the best comedy venues are based, in nearby Angel and Crouch End, Allison says.

Its very media friendly and Im surrounded by others who are in a similar line of work.

BEST FOR NEW HOMES

Top 5 areas for new homes 1 /6 Top 5 areas for new homes Tower Hamlets Number of new homes being built in 2017: 13,982 jasonhawkes.com Newham Number of new homes being built in 2017: 7,830 Daniel Lynch Greenwich Number of new homes being built in 2017: 6,099 Kristy Gray Wandsworth Number of new homes being built in 2017: 5,257 Southwark Number of new homes being built in 2017: 5,243 Getty

Tower Hamlets

As is typical across the whole of the UK, housebuilding in London falls woefully short of the levels needed, says Jennet Siebrits, head of residential research at CBRE.

However, some areas are leading the way. Tower Hamlets currently has 14,000 homes under construction with a further 12,100 in the planning pipeline.

The main activity is on the six million square feet of the Canary Wharf estate, where luxury flats are springing up amid the glass office blocks.

Its diversifying to become a residential district, says CBREs agent Joe Selby.

The composition of Canary Wharf is changing, as you can, for the first time, buy homes on the estate. This hive of construction is the catalyst for a wave of residential activity across the whole of Tower Hamlets.

At 57-storey One Park Drive, Canary Wharfs signature apartment building, prices start at 665,000 for a loft studio of just 466sq ft.

Buyers will get far more their money at Blackwall Reach on the other side of Billingsgate Market.

From 565,000: two-bedroom flats at Blackwall Reach

The Sixties brutalist Robin Hood Gardens estate is being demolished to make way for the new scheme of 1,575 homes, of which 50 per cent will be termed affordable, including shared ownership and social housing.

Private two-bedroom flats start from 565,000. Call 020 3151 7058.

It is rare to find a regeneration project of that scale so close to an existing shopping and commercial hub such as Canary Wharf, and with such great transport links, says Selby.

Newham

Tower Hamlets position as Londons new homes champion is only threatened by neighbouring borough Newham, which has the highest number of new homes going through a lengthy planning process.

Leafy Richmond, by contrast, has the lowest.

BILLIONAIRE BOROUGHS

Top 5 areas for luxury homes 1 /6 Top 5 areas for luxury homes Kensington & Chelsea Average house price: 1,341,895 Daniel Lynch Westminster Average house price: 1,025,978 Daniel Lynch Camden Average house price: 839,626 City of London Average house price: 812,591 Daniel Lynch Hammersmith & Fulham Average house price: 771,031 Daniel Lynch

Kensington & Chelsea

Though stalled, prime Londons housing market still has the highest prices. In Kensington & Chelsea the average house price is 1.34 million: many buyers will pay huge sums for a home in what is considered a safe haven for investment in an uncertain world.

Money actually piled into the borough in the wake of the global banking crash.

Its now one of the quietest sales markets Ive seen in 17 years and the properties that are selling are doing so for 10 per cent below the asking price, says Becky Fatemi, founder of Rokstone estate agents.

But this microcosm of the capital now breaks down into individual streets.

"Squares still hold their value and buyers will still pay a premium to live on South Audley Street over North Audley Street. Crossing over Grosvenor Square will literally cost 1,000 more per square foot.

Hammersmith & Fulham

The riverside location has helped Hammersmith & Fulham into the top-five most expensive boroughs.

New luxury schemes such as Fulham Reach, overhanging the Thames between The River Cafe and Hammersmith Bridge, are forcing average property prices higher. New flats can easily top 1 million per bedroom.

From 2,225,000: two-bedroom Fulham Reach flats (020 3468 4638) / stgeorge2.visualbank.co.uk

Residents at Fulham Reach have access to a gym, swimming pool, spa and cinema room. The charity-run Fulham Reach Boat Club is also on site and is working with Kensington Aldridge Academy, the school at the base of Grenfell Tower, to encourage pupils to take to the water.

Fulham Reach resident and rower Sarah Boland bought her studio apartment through a local authority shared-equity scheme for first-time buyers.

Hammersmith has so much to offer  the variety of cafes, bars and restaurants, the local shops, the Irish Centre which keeps me close to my Irish roots, and the variety of theatre and culture, says Boland.

I love the lifestyle that the river offers. I can row, cycle or go for a run on my doorstep without having to leave Zone 2.

Camden

While not quite billionaire territory yet, Camden saw Londons greatest price growth this year, 13.4 per cent, followed by Hackney, 9.1 per cent.

BEST FOR RENTING

Top 5 boroughs with cheapest rents 1 /6 Top 5 boroughs with cheapest rents Bexley Average monthly rent: 1,058 Daniel Lynch Havering Average monthly rent: 1,136 Alamy Stock Photo Sutton Average monthly rent: 1,174 Daniel Lynch Barking & Dagenham Average monthly rent: 1,177 Bromley Average monthly rent: 1,266

Westminster

Unsurprisingly, the expensive boroughs in central London also have the highest rents, all in excess of 3,000 a month.

Perhaps more unexpectedly, these boroughs  dominated by Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea  also have the highest share of renters.

The luxury lettings market is racing, says Rokstones Becky Fatemi. With the uncertainty of Brexit, potential buyers are not sure if theyre going to be relocating and many are renting instead of making a longer-term commitment.

Potential vendors, meanwhile, are moving to their country house and renting out their London home instead of selling for what they perceive to be a cheaper price.

Bexley

The lowest rents are found in Bexley, at 1,058 a month, followed by Havering, then Sutton.

Barking & Dagenham, then Bromley complete the top five, showing the cheapest rents are in the outermost areas.

Foxtons has a detached four-double bedroom house near Sutton station for 571 a month.
This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate

Shale 1.0 - in which a technological marvel that coupled horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing revolutionized American oil production and opened vast underground reservoirs to production. Shale 2.0 - in which the plunge of oil prices three years ago taught oil companies how to use data to streamline operations, lower costs and still make money.

Now the industry is moving beyond efficiency and into productivity, as companies figure out how to drill, frack and pump to get more oil out of the rock. Call it Shale 3.0, perhaps. Regardless, analysts say it's arrived.

The Houston energy investment bank Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. plotted three years of well results from one reservoir in the Midland Basin, the Wolfcamp, in the eastern lobe of West Texas' prolific Permian. And it found that companies are steadily getting more and more oil out of the ground.

From 2014 to 2017, productivity rose between 13 and 17 percent, the bank said.

But

That improvement has slowed this year.

After the crash, companies focused on reducing expenses and increasing returns. That hasn't changed, Tudor, Pickering, Holt reported. Investors expect operators to spend within their means and make money in every well. And that leaves companies accelerating production, even if it means less oil in the long run.

For example, the Permian Basin bellwether, Pioneer Natural Resources, spooked the market last summer when the Irving-based oil company announced higher gas to oil ratios than it anticipated. Companies make less money from gas than oil, and Pioneer's stock price fell nearly 11 percent in one day to about $146.(It has since recovered and closed Friday at $172.85.)

Analysts worried that Pioneer was drilling too many wells too close together, essentially robbing each of the well pressure that forces oil up and out of the ground.

Wastewater protest

Environmentalists and West Texas conservationists are gathering at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 9 at the Texas Railroad Commission in Austin to protest several permits for new wastewater disposal wells near the teal-blue pool at Balmorhea State Park.

Neta Rhyne, who lives across the street from the park's entrance, said there are at least four disposal well applications to inject oil and gas drilling wastewater into wells near Saragosa, about 10 miles north of the San Solomon Springs. She said more than 200 people have signed up to protest the permits.

Meanwhile, Houston's Apache Corp. has inked another deal with a lab at the University of Texas at Arlington to study surface and groundwater quality at Apache's big West Texas find, Alpine High. The U.T. lab, the Collaborative Laboratories for Environmental Analysis and Remediation, applauded the opportunity to work with industry, a partnership scientists there have called rare.
'Can Still Boycott on Instagram': Zomato's Viral Tweet Amid Chaos at Elon Musk's Twitter
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has been accused of undermining the work of the all-party committee on repealing the Eighth

Pro-choice campaigners are confident that s hifting attitudes in Ireland will lead to a change in the country's strict abortion laws.

It is hoped the public will vote on the reform in a referendum next May, with Irish premier Leo Varadkar saying a decision to end the constitutional restriction on abortion is for the people of Ireland to make.

The London-Irish Abortion Rights Campaign said it is encouraged by a vote by politicians to repeal the Eighth Amendment and introduce new laws to decriminalise terminations in some circumstances, adding that it believes the public will vote for change in 2018.

Two Irish women based in London, who spoke to the Press Association on the condition of anonymity having left the country for an abortion, said a vote against change would make them seriously question moving back to Ireland.

Earlier this month, 14 of the 21 politicians on the Oireachtas Committee on the Eighth Amendment voted in favour of the repeal of the hugely divisive Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution.

As it stands, the 1983 Eighth Amendment of the Constitution affords equal rights to pregnant women and unborn children.

Maeve O'Reilly, 30, a member of the London-Irish ARC, originally from Kilkenny, said campaigners are hopeful for change.

"I think there's been a big shift in public attitudes in the last few years towards repeal of the Eighth, as more and more evidence has been presented through both the Citizens' Assembly and the joint Oireachtas Committee and making its way into the news that way.

"And I think the Irish public are engaging with the evidence in this way as well, so I think attitudes have been changing and we're very hopeful that the public will vote to repeal the Eighth next year."

Currently, terminations are only allowed when the life of the mother is at risk, and the maximum penalty for accessing an illegal abortion is 14 years in prison.

More than 3,000 women travel each year to England and Wales for the procedure.

An Irish woman who travelled to London for an abortion when she was younger, said she thinks the time is right for change.

Now in her mid 30s and working as an auditor in London, the woman told PA: "I really believe that now is the time that Ireland needs to have a good look at itself and say 'are we really going to keep exporting our problems?'

"From someone who has a huge family back home of all ages, most of my cousins, including myself, have had to emigrate.

"And it just seems that it's something in the Irish psyche, if we don't want to talk about it, we just sort of export the problem, and we continue to not talk about it.

"People who are pro-choice, and who will be voting to repeal the Eighth ... they still say to me, 'I don't know anyone who has had an abortion'. I'm like, 'Yeah, you do'... it's just something that's not talked about."

The woman, who says she understands why some people are "uncomfortable" about the issue, added: "It's something that nobody goes in thinking, 'Oh sure, whatever, I'll just get one this weekend, and maybe another one next month, who knows'.

"I just think it's a very old-fashioned view of women - that we are not to be trusted, that we can't make up our own minds."

She said if the Irish public does not vote in favour of change: "It would seriously make me question whether ever I'd move back to Ireland."

Another Irish woman, who went to Italy for an abortion when she was in her second year of university, said travelling alone was "a very lonely and isolating experience".

The woman, now in her late 30s, said: "Anything that you experience that's physically and emotionally challenging, you just want to be able to curl up in your own house, in your own bed, and be surrounded by your friends and family, and you really don't feel that when you're away."

Now based in London, she said she is "furious" that Irish women still have to go through what she experienced, adding: "For me it's really emblematic of women's reproductive rights overall, and the position of women in Irish society, and I really feel like I could never move back to this country if that doesn't change."
The big motoring question for many farm families this autumn is as troublesome as it is obvious.

Should you buy diesel or petrol? Or hybrid or electric?

To say there has been a dramatic change in perceptions and expectations of diesel - and petrol - in the past 12 months would be the understatement of the year.

Recent events have done little to halt that accelerating change.

Realistically the real questions arose this time two years ago - almost to the day - when the Volkswagen scandal broke.

It opened the floodgates to a wave of doubts, question marks, pent-up concern and, let's be honest, blatant political opportunism. Diesel became 'fair game'.

Many, many farm families have a diesel car/SUV because, obviously, they go further on less fuel, have more torque for pulling trailers etc and, up to now anyway, had better trade-in values.

And you could claim back the VAT. Is it any wonder diesel became so popular so quickly?

So where are we now? And what is a farm family to do in the midst of all these uncertainties - not least about residual values and anticipated higher prices for the fuel at the pumps?

But first it is important to put a few things in context because there is a lot of confusion and misunderstanding out there.

Emissions

There are, broadly speaking for the purposes of the current debate, two types - C02 and NOx.

Think of CO2 as contributing to global warming and NOx to health concerns in built-up areas.

Our new-car taxation, since 2008, has been based on C02 emissions. Not NOx. Be clear on that.

The lower the C02, the less road tax and VRT you pay. That's why diesels became so popular. They produce fewer emissions that harm the environment than petrol. Petrol technology is catching up now but diesel is still ahead on MPG, generally speaking.

However, diesel produces more NOx emissions than petrol and that is causing concern because studies say NOx has serious impact on health, especially respiratory systems, in urban areas.

Regulations

Regulators have for many years been saying that automakers simply have to reduce their overall emissions - their tailpipe footprint if you like.

We are now at Euro6 stage which, compared with Euro5 or Euro4, is drastic in the levels permitted. The thing is we really haven't seen anything yet, if we believe the soundings coming from industry experts and the EU. It's going to get tougher and tougher for diesel to meet regulatory amounts of NOx especially.

The technology that made it king of the road for the best part of the past decade in Ireland (and for decades in countries such as France) is being pushed to the limit.

To tweak for further lower emissions will send costs disproportionately higher. So diesels will cost more or carmakers will cut margins. Either way diesel is under ferocious pressure. As if you needed me to tell you that.

Prices at pumps

Petrol is making strong gains and is increasingly popular with urban buyers and those not driving much more than 15,000km/17,000km a year.

As well as that there is widespread expectancy that excise duty on diesel will be increased in the Budget to bridge the 10c/litre gap to petrol. That would substantially add to fuel bills for those covering 20,000km a year. I suspect 20,000km is quite low for many farmers such is the dependency on transport in rural Ireland.

Indeed it has been claimed by Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link that extra costs such as an 'equalisation' of diesel prices with petrol would damage family, farm, social, business life in many parts of the country. I think a lot of people at the Ploughing would share those views.

Trade-in values

And then there is the thorny and tricky matter of trade-in values.

A couple of years ago people would not touch a petrol car because they feared they'd get nothing for it at trade-in time.

Now there are no such reservations, particularly if the car has a relatively small engine and doesn't have major mileage.

In contrast people regarded diesels as blue-chip investments and were assured of getting back whatever premium they paid new when it came to be traded in.

That is no longer the prevalent mindset. People are worried they will take a hit.

Diesel or Petrol?

So, after all that, where does it leave the farm family thinking of trading in their current car for a new one either now, or more likely in the new year?

It really is a tough question and I am acutely aware of the financial implications of making the wrong call.

However, there are indisputable facts.

Diesel remains the practical option for farmers who don't just cover a lot of ground as part of their business but also need a car/4x4 capable of decent pulling power for trailers and the like while maintaining a decent level of fuel consumption. What else will do it at this point in time?

Petrol will to a point, maybe, but will it have the torque, grunt and MPG to match? Generally speaking, no. Not comprehensively enough yet anyway.

Hybrid?

Worth thinking about in some instances, definitely. Hybrids (including plug-ins) deliver their best MPG in stop-start scenarios where the battery takes over from the engine more often. All relevant models are petrol + battery. Toyota are the dominant force here with Yaris, Auris, Prius and RAV4 hybrid versions among its range.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are becoming popular. You get more battery time if you charge up at home (typically 35kms).

In reality the SUV hybrid models are probably the best option for farmers because there is a growing number of them with the technology - such as the aforementioned RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, Kia Niro etc.

Electric cars are slowly catching on, mostly in urban areas/commuter belts. Range has improved on all, making it possible to commute to work and school and only have to charge twice/three times a week. Don't get hung up on the idea they are only for city use. Running costs are much lower if you can make them fit your needs - and if you can charge them without inconvenience.
There was a power cut in our locality recently. The outage was not caused by Storm Brian or ex-Hurricane Ophelia, the power was simply turned off for a few hours to facilitate essential maintenance.

In the course of the morning, I continuously forgot I had no electricity since my laptop was working on battery. At one point, I went to fill the kettle but, of course, nothing came from the tap. I absent-mindedly tried to put bread in the toaster and wondered why the implement wouldn't accept it, and again I remembered, there was no power.

Ours was just a small outage and nothing compared to the lot of those without electricity for a week and more despite the valiant and superhuman efforts of the ESB crews. As I sat in the grey October light, I turned to ponder what the world might be like without electricity. In the course of my musings I was struck once again by how fortunate people at this end of the globe are. It isn't all that bad.

As a young lad, like many others of my kind, I would dream of being rich some-day - not stinking rich but sufficiently well-off that Paris, London and New York would be as familiar to me as Borrigone, Ballyhuppahaune or Ballynagleragh. I also had an eye for a nice car and daydreamed of walking into a main dealer, taking out my credit card and saying, "I'll have that one."

In my early days in journalism, I thought a career trajectory mirroring the likes of Andrew Neil would be mine with a lifestyle and perks that included Paris, London and New York, not to mention a range of motor cars that would give Elvis cause to drool.

But time and tide change everything and thankfully they change one's definition of good fortune. These days, I am very grateful that stories about land transactions around the country are keeping me out of mischief and putting bread (along with the occasional croissant) on the table.

Yes, the definition of good fortune is a moveable feast. What's more, I have come to realise in recent years that anyone with clean water at the turn of a tap and constant electric power at the flick of a switch is rich, and rich beyond the wildest dreams of most people on the planet. In this country, we are very fortunate on both counts. We have an efficient and effective electricity service and plenty of clean water.

Our farmers are also a fortunate lot. Many of them might dispute this with good cause, but by and large they manage to survive the bad years and thrive enough on the few good years to ensure they can stay at it. My late father was as good as anyone when it came to passionately bemoaning the plight of the farmer but very often, especially after watching the Nine O'Clock news, he'd say, "Lads, we haven't much to complain about." I thought of this recently when I read a story about farming in Sicily.

It appears that the Mafia, now that they have been squeezed tightly throughout Italy by the forces of law and order, are returning to their old stomping ground in Sicily and driving farmers off the land.

Using tactics such as releasing cattle and horses on to tillage, and burning harvested crops, they are attempting to force landowners to sell for knock-down prices. They are hoping EU subsidies from cattle farming on a grand scale will replenish their coffers. The story published in the Guardian newspaper tells how three farming sisters have stood up to the returned Mafiosi while others have succumbed.

In Kenya, tensions between cattle farmers and tillage farmers has resulted in violence as northern cattle farmers move south with their herds in search of grass and water. Farmers that once carried herding sticks and walking sticks are now sporting Kalashnikovs.

In Puerto Rico, Storm Irma swept away most of its farmland, ruining the livelihoods of its 13,000 farmers. Storm Maria followed and destroyed 80pc of the territory's crop value, according to the territory's agriculture secretary, Carlos Flores Ortega in an interview with the New York Times.

Yes, it is good to be able to walk out your door needing nothing more than a coat or an umbrella for protection. It is a real luxury to turn on a tap and have clean water gushing out, and it is material bliss to flick a switch and have, in an instant, light or heat or the means to boil a pot. It is surely an added bonus if farmers in Borrigone, Ballyhuppahaune or Ballynagleragh have land for sale and have use for someone who might scribble a few lines about it. In the grand scheme of things, we haven't much to complain about.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) a basic water service is a protected drinking-water source within a round trip of 30 minutes to collect water.

Up to 844 million people lack even this basic drinking-water service, including 159 million people who are dependent on surface water.

Contaminated drinking water is estimated to cause 502,000 diarrhoeal deaths each year. According to the charity 'billion bottle project' a child dies every 20 seconds from a lack of clean drinking water.

A safely managed drinking water service is one that is located on premises, available when needed, and free from contamination. Most of us in this country have such a supply along with 71pc of the planet's population, according to 2015 WHO figures.

In relation to electricity, World Bank figures show that in 2014 a total of 85.3pc of the world's population had access to electricity, although in many places this could be a restricted supply operating for a few hours a day.

However, in Sub-Saharan Africa the figure is a mere 37.4pc with poorer countries such as Malawi at 11.9pc and South Sudan as low as 4.5pc.
Dairy farmer PJ Irish and Marlay Brennan met for the first time in the casualty ward of the old Ardkeen hospital in Waterford in the mid 1980s. Both were getting patched up after an eventful day on the hurling fields of Kilkenny.

"He was in getting his nose straightened after being flattened in a hurling match in Kilkenny and I was sporting two black eyes and seven stitches on my forehead after being clattered in a camogie match in Castlecomer," Marlay recalls.

"PJ asked me to marry him a week later and I accepted. I was 22 and he was 26. It was meant to be and we have never regretted a moment since."

Fast forward three decades and the couple, who have reared five children, are running a thriving dairy farm in Slieverue in South Kilkenny.

Expand Close Marlay at work in the studio and gallery space which also serves as a community resource. Photo: Roger Jones / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Marlay at work in the studio and gallery space which also serves as a community resource. Photo: Roger Jones

And it's not just any dairy farm. Adjoining the Irish homestead is a painter's studio and gallery where Marlay exhibits her artwork; the space also plays host to the local Eigse drama and music group.

Despite the demands of a nursing career and family life, Marlay still found time to pursue her passion for art.

"I was always interested in art at school and had hoped to go to the College of Art after getting seven honours in my Leaving Cert but I didn't manage to get in so I changed and went nursing. I still work 20 hours a week at the job to this day. But I kept up painting throughout my nursing career, especially the GAA and animal scenes. I do an annual exhibition of my stuff at the Kilkenny Arts festival every year," adds Marlay who comes from a dairy farming background further up the county in Castlecomer.

"With five children coming along and running about it was just not practical to continue with the paintings in the house.

"So we decided to build the gallery beside the house and today that's where I do my paintings and hold exhibitions.

"The building is 1,400 sq feet and is also used as a rehearsal and reading rooms for the local Eigse dramatic group. Myself and PJ are members of the group. I do some of the organising of the annual Eigse production and PJ sings. His comedy version of the 'Galway Girl' went down well last year," she says.

"We call the gallery St Ives after the name of the stonework from Cornwall which was used in the original farmhouse where PJ's mother Kitty lives.

"The gallery has become a community facility for everyone in the area and everyone is surprised when they come across it. They don't expect a gallery and drama centre to be in the middle of the countryside.

Inspectors

"Recently four fellows arrived out of nowhere and we thought they were inspectors from the Department [of Agriculture]so we were rushing around wondering what they were up to. They were inspectors but they were looking for a different farm. We invited them in to the gallery for a cup of tea and they were amazed that such a facility could exist in the countryside."

PJ describes his singing style as country and western with some traditional influences thrown in. His current claim to fame on the singing front is his send up of the 'Galway Girl' which he wrote for last year's musical offering from Eigse.

The singing is a welcome break from the daily grind of dairying on a farm the Irish family has been working since 1717.

PJ produces 500,000 litres of milk from his herd of 92 Holsteins, British Friesians and crosses on 140 acres of what he describes as "slightly hilly but dry grazing land" in Slieverue.

He also finishes up to 100 head of cattle, for sale mainly to Dawn Meats. PJ says it's time the big co-ops started co-operating with each other to establish a unique and national dairy brand to protect the Irish dairy sector from the inevitable international trading competition it will face in coming years. He also says increased diversification of products from the milk production chain is essential, and believes this would generate another 2c/l to 4c/l for farmers.

Meanwhile, the farming tradition looks set to continue on the Irish holding with David (20) already working full time on the farm having completed his Green Cert and Hannah (19) currently at UCD doing a Dairy Business degree.

The other Irish siblings have chosen slightly differing career routes. Kelly (28) is a graphic artist in Los Angeles but the farming flame stills burns bright as she just got engaged to her long-term boyfriend who comes from a big wheat farm in Oregon. The two eldest boys have opted for business orientated careers - Patrick (26) is working in the IT sector and Joe (23) is currently completing a degree in international business at the University of Limerick.
Dublin city as seen from the 23rd floor of Capital Dock, currently being developed by Kennedy Wilson. While the city has proven its ability to attract FDI, it must now show that it is capable of accommodating its growing workforce

When Paschal Donohoe announced on Budget day that he intended to raise the rate of stamp duty on commercial real estate transactions from 2pc to 6pc, he sought to justify the decision by arguing that the property industry had recovered to the point where it no longer required the support the State had provided during the financial crisis.

While the Finance Minister's assertion in relation to the health of the country's real estate sector may well have been correct, his department's prediction that the higher rate of stamp duty will garner 376m in a full year to fund proposed expenditure in other areas will more than likely prove to be hopelessly optimistic.

Put simply, now that the number and overall value of transactions in the commercial property industry has returned to more 'normal' levels of activity following several years of major loan portfolio sales by Nama and distressed banks, Mr Donohoe will find there is far less to be had in the way of stamp duty receipts.

For even though the property market is set to see the continuing disposal of individual assets from within the portfolios acquired by private equity and so-called 'vulture funds' at the bottom of the cycle, the combined value of these transactions in 2018 will come nowhere near matching the near-record 4.5bn in activity recorded in 2016.

Expand Close Marlet CEO Pat Crean is in the final stages of negotiating Irelands largest ever private rental sector (PRS) offering / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Marlet CEO Pat Crean is in the final stages of negotiating Irelands largest ever private rental sector (PRS) offering

Leaving aside whether or not the Finance Minister will receive the stamp duty monies he has pencilled into his projections, one might ask why this should be raised in the context of the outlook for the commercial property market in 2018.

To put it bluntly, stamp duty and the inordinate focus on it, both on Budget day and in much of the post-budgetary analysis, very neatly captures the paucity of the Government's thinking when it comes to issues relating to the functioning of our property market.

Sure, we had the other 'Big Bang' budgetary announcement of a plan for the establishment of Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI) - an agency which Mr Donohoe told the Dail will ultimately provide 750m of debt financing to developers on market terms.

But beyond that rather grand pronouncement last October, precious little has been said since about HBFI.

We haven't heard an awful lot either on the outcome of newly-minted Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy's review of his predecessor, Simon Coveney's 'Rebuilding Ireland' plan. This despite the fact that Mr Murphy appeared, up until the recent crises involving former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald and Brexit, to be out every other day sounding off on the issues he would address with a view to speeding up the delivery of new and affordable housing. The Minister's recent re-emergence with a proposal that would permit the conversion of vacant space in retail and other commercial units to residential accommodation without the requirement for planning permission is as Sir Humphrey was wont to tell Jim Hacker in 'Yes, Prime Minister' a "very brave" and "extremely courageous decision".

Mr Murphy's 'bravery' was in evidence once again just before Christmas with his proposals to alter the planning guidelines for apartments in cities across the State. While a case for easing height restrictions and removing the requirement for basement car parking might be made, the devil will be in the final details, which we may yet have to wait a long time to hear.

But while the Government continues to tinker with and dither over property, a sector which traditionally has been treated as a cash cow to be milked by the Exchequer in the good times, the industry itself is adapting and innovating to overcome the challenges of the post financial crisis era.

As we come to the end of 2017, there is no doubt that residential development is the most crucial property sector both for the economy and society as a whole.

Expand Close An artists impression of Cherrywood Town Centre in Dublin, which is being developed by Hines / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp An artists impression of Cherrywood Town Centre in Dublin, which is being developed by Hines

Unfortunately, the consequences of the boom and bust have served to either remove numerous of the country's developers from the industry altogether, while leaving those who came through the crash seeking finance at double-digit rates of finance from international lenders.

Neither case helps with delivery of new homes at the required scale or at a price that can be borne by a market dictated by the Central Bank's new lending restrictions.

Given those constraints and with the country's 'pillar banks' of AIB and the Bank of Ireland understandably cautious and constrained when it comes to lending for property development, it was only a matter of time and of necessity before Ireland would see the emergence of new publicly-listed structures with the ability to raise funds directly from investors, and of the Build-to-Rent (BTR) model which is already well-established internationally.

Unsurprisingly, the arrival of PLC developers Cairn Homes and Glenveagh Properties has been met with a huge response from investors, who are anxious to cash in on the housing market following a decade in which virtually no new homes were built.

In the case of Cairn, its flotation on the London Stock Exchange in 2015 proved to be major success. Having offered 400 million shares to the market a 1 apiece, the company saw its market capitalisation swell to 429m following its IPO.

Cairn, which is headed up by CEO Michael Stanley and chaired by former KBC Bank Ireland boss, John Reynolds, enjoys a huge advantage over the country's private developers, thanks to the financial backing of its shareholders, and by virtue of the land banks it has across Dublin and its commuter counties of Wicklow, Kildare and Meath.

All told, the Project Clear portfolio lands which Cairn acquired from Ulster Bank for a relatively low consideration of 378m have the capacity for over 14,000 residential units.

Earlier this year, the company hit the headlines when it paid 107.4m for the 8.5-acre 'Project Montrose' site at RTE's Donnybrook headquarters. Cairn hopes to deliver approximately 500 apartments and 20 houses on the lands, for which it paid a premium of 17m over the 90m offered by rival bidder, developer Michael O'Flynn.

The successful Cairn Homes bid for the prized RTE site was facilitated by a 50m loan provided by Activate Capital - a company supported by the State-controlled Irish Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and global investment firm KKR.

Just two years on from its London debut, Cairn sought and has been granted admission to the Irish Stock Exchange. With its market capitalisation coming in at just over 1.41bn, the company was formally admitted to the benchmark 'ISEQ 20' at the close of business on December 15.

The ISEQ 20 comprises the 20 companies with the highest trading volumes and market capitalisations.

Given the meteoric rise in Cairn's fortunes, few were surprised to see the arrival last month of another listed Irish homebuilder.

Backed by US private equity giant, Oaktree, Glenveagh Properties, saw orders for 550m in shares received within 12 hours of being offered to investors on the Dublin and London stock exchanges.

While Glenveagh's initial portfolio comprised property acquired by Oaktree during the crash and the assets of Kildare-based developer, Bridgedale, the company's capacity has since increased with its completion last month of a deal to acquire a portfolio consisting of 11 sites in Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare, Limerick and Cork with potential for up to 1,319 new homes.

Earlier this month, the company bolstered its land bank in the capital with its agreement to buy a two-hectare site at East Wall Road in Dublin's north docklands. Glenveagh is set to pay more than 40m for the site, which it says has the potential to accommodate 450 apartments, subject to planning approval being obtained.

To date, the company, which is led by executive chairman John Mulcahy, CEO Justin Bickle and chief operating officer Stephen Garvey, has spent over 123m on sites, and is aiming to build at least 1,000 homes a year by 2020.

While there are rumours circulating within the property industry that 2018 will see the emergence of another PLC homebuilder, Cairn and Glenveagh will still face competition from a number of the country's most experienced private developers.

Among those leading the charge in this regard are Michael O'Flynn, Sean Mulryan, Paddy McKillen, Bernard McNamara, the Cosgrave Property Group and Gerry Gannon's Gannon Homes.

Leaving aside the intense competition for a share of the new homes market for owner-occupiers, there are other developers and property companies focused solely on servicing the country's growing residential rental market.

The strategy of companies such as Ires Reit, Kennedy Wilson and Hines Ireland would appear to be eminently sensible judging by a recent report from CBRE which noted how in 2016, 497,111 households - or nearly 30pc of the population - is now renting. The figure represents an increase of 4.7pc on 2011.

CBRE also analysed the nature of occupancy in Ireland by age group. This analysis showed that younger sections of the population have a higher propensity to rent, with around 65pc of the Dublin population aged 25-39 renting from a landlord. Only 26pc of people within the same age segment own their home, with the remainder renting from a local authority.

Quite apart from the preference younger cohorts of the population have for renting, a combination of rising house prices and the Central Bank's tighter mortgage-lending rules is putting home ownership beyond the reach of more and more people, making Ireland a fertile territory for major institutional developer landlords.

Ires Reit has already capitalised on the growth of the rental market.

Since being launched on the Irish Stock Exchange in 2014, the company has established itself as Ireland's largest private residential landlord with 2,540 apartments distributed across 20 Dublin developments including Beacon South Quarter in Sandyford, Tallaght Cross West, Charlestown in Finglas and Elmpark Green on the Merrion Road.

Clearly aware of the growing opportunity presented by young couples who are unable to secure a mortgage to buy a traditional three or four bed Semi-D, Ires recently announced its purchase for 7m of a 4.5-acre site with planning permission for 99 new homes at Hansfield Wood in Clonsilla, west Dublin.

Due for delivery on a phased basis from next month onwards, the Ires development is part of the wider Hansfield scheme which is being built by Garlandbrook and contractor Newline Homes. Kennedy Wilson, for its part, recognised the opportunity in Ireland's rental market almost immediately after its arrival here in 2011.

Having acquired the Bank of Ireland's property business, the Los Angeles-headquartered real estate giant, in partnership with Fairfax Financial, bought the Alliance Building, a 210-unit apartment development located next to Google's European headquarters on Barrow Street for 40m in 2012.

While Kennedy Wilson's Irish operation is inarguably associated more with its ownership of prime commercial assets such as the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, the four-star Portmarnock Hotel, Stillorgan shopping centre, and its development of Capital Dock in the Dublin Docklands, the company maintains a laser-like focus on the Build-to-Rent (BTR) residential market.

Speaking at the recent launch of the latest phase of Kennedy Wilson's 845-unit scheme at Clancy Quay at Islandbridge in Dublin, the head of the company's Irish operations, Peter Collins, said Kennedy Wilson wanted to more than double the number of residential units it has available to let in Ireland to about 5,000 within the next four years.

Kennedy Wilson currently has 2,100 units either built or subject to planning permission here.

Hines is another US-headquartered real estate giant which has shown itself to be acutely aware of the potential of Ireland's nascent build-to-rent residential sector. Best known for its acquisition of, and plans to develop the former Dame Street headquarters of the Central Bank, Hines Ireland recently submitted a plan for 1,269 BTR apartments at the new town centre it is developing in the first phase of its massive Cherrywood residential and commercial scheme in south Dublin.

Former estate agent turned developer Pat Crean for his part is on the brink of sealing Ireland's largest-ever Private Rented Sector (PRS) public offering.

The Marlet Property Group chief is in the final stage of negotiating a 450m forward-funding deal with London-based Round Hill Capital for the 'Dublin Living' scheme, a portfolio of 1,170 apartments across four sites at St Clare's and Mount Argus in Harold's Cross, Carriglea on the Naas road and on the former CIE lands in Cabra.

The strength of the case for build-to-rent is compelling both in the short and longer term. As a model, it allows a developer to commence construction on a large scale rather than build out a site on a phase-by-phase basis, where the commencement of each phase is reliant on the sale of units in the previous phase.

Thanks to the promise of full occupancy levels in the Irish market, the build-to-rent model is set to attract significant support from institutional investors such as pension funds into the future as the rental incomes derived from letting residential units in large numbers provide steady returns over many years, and through the peaks and troughs of economic cycles.
Raise a glass: Make sure you have plenty of bubbles on ice

Bong! Happy New Year, everyone. Bong! Twist the bottle, darling, not the cork. Bong! Shall we all link arms and do that song nobody knows the words to? Bong! Please can I go to bed now?

There are many ages of New Year's Eve mistakes. There's the late-teens tactical error, when excitement at the prospect of a midnight kiss from a stranger leads to overenthusiastic alcohol consumption and having your head down the loo at snog o'clock.

There's the student slip-up, when you naively venture to Temple Bar or the Spanish Quarter to lose your friends and good mood in a claustrophobic crush of confused tourists.

There's the clubbing clanger, when you spend the entire night in queues for entry, the cloakroom or the bar, desperate for some sneering poseur to relieve you of more money, while wondering why the floor is so sticky and everyone else is having a better time than you.

Once you're safely into middle age, it might seem like such tiresome trials are mercifully over. You've learnt from the follies of youth, acquired hard-won worldly wisdom and know your New Year onions. Or do you? A midlife NYE in fact presents a whole new set of challenges.

Here are our 10 dos and don'ts to help grown-ups actually enjoy the most overrated night of the year

DO take an afternoon nap

An hour or two's snooze - a 'disco doze', if you will - recharges your social batteries, provides much-needed peace and quiet, and dramatically lowers the probability of a pre-midnight slump. At least, until you start on the port and cheezzzzzz What? I was just resting my eyes for a moment.

DON'T watch Jools' Annual Hootenanny

It might seem harmless to switch on BBC Two's annual musical hoedown, but it rarely rewards your optimism. Even when there are good guests, Holland will insist on playing his infernal boogie-woogie piano over them.

Sod's law dictates that you'll tune in at the wrong time and be subjected to free-form contemporary jazz. Stick to the ooh-aah light show on RTE One instead.

DO keep plenty of fizz on ice

It doesn't have to be Champagne. Cava, Prosecco or back-in-vogue Asti will suffice.

As long as it's wet with bubbles, most people will be too merry to notice.

Always have more bottles chilling than you think you'll need. It's a party-pooper to run out, plus there's no legislating for thirsty guests or losing half a bottle to vigorous shaking by that numpty from next door who thinks he's on a Grand Prix podium.

Video of the Day

DON'T go out

There be monsters. Not to mention exorbitant taxi fares, rip-off set menus and ticketed entry to pubs. Besides, the babysitter will charge double bubble. Far better to stay safely cocooned at home and make the fun come to you. Bonus: you're nearer bed.

DO be selfish

You've heroically done your fair share of small-talk duties over Christmas. So if you fancy staying on the sofa with a single malt, a classic film and a tin of Quality Street (hey, who hogged all the purple ones?) feel free to do so. You've earned it.

DON'T arrange anything ambitious for next morning

A brunch, a bracing walk or an art gallery seem, on paper, like a splendid way to start the year. Quite possibly true, but avoid the rookie error of arranging anything before noon in case of "a 24-hour bug". Okay, a hangover.

Far better to have a lie-in before tipping up for lunch charmingly fuzzy-headed than sidling up at 9am looking nauseous, haunted by regret and sporting a mysterious bruise.

DON'T peak too early

New Year's Eve is all about timing your run. If you've got guests coming for drinks, invite them for 8pm onwards. If you're throwing a dinner party, don't sit down until 9pm.

Linger, play party games (charades, Cards Against Humanity, Twister...) and proceed at a leisurely pace.

Nothing takes the wind out of your sails like finishing a meal and realising there are still several hours to go until midnight strikes.

DO learn the lyrics to Auld Lang Syne

Old Lamb's Eyes, as my niece thinks it's called. Belting out the Rabbie Burns poem set to a trad folk tune is a Scots custom that has spread worldwide in heart-warming style. So why not take the trouble of memorising the lyrics for once? Or at least printing them off the internet to give to guests?

It beats half-arsed renditions when you self-consciously mumble nonsense and nobody links arms with you on one side, so you feel like the last one picked in games at school.

And no, "Naa na na, la da na nah, for the sake of Auld Lang Syne, hmm-mmm, blah blah, acquaintance be forgot, yadda yadda, cup o' kindness" doesn't cut it.

DON'T have a front-room disco

Have a kitchen one instead. The flooring is dance-friendlier and the surfaces more wipe-clean - invaluable when windmilling air guitar moves send a goblet of merlot flying.

The kitchen disco is a fine tradition that keeps parents feeling like they've "still got it". I do a spot of amateur party DJing myself and the golden rule is to get girls dancing (the men will soon follow). This isn't the time for showing off your lovingly curated prog rock collection, or taking people on a "sonic journey". A shamelessly crowd-pleasing mixtape of Motown classics, disco anthems, Eighties pop, Nineties dance and recent hits does the trick.

Think one-word acts: Madonna, Prince, Jacko, Chic, Blondie, Beyonce. Spin that wheel, DJ (translation: fire up Spotify on your laptop).

DO be in bed when the young'uns come home

Partying youths are likely to lurch in from 2am onwards, knocking over lamps and doing that giggly "ssssh!" tiptoeing. Make sure you're tucked up in bed by then, so there's no crossover. Neither party wants that.
Tributes at the Place de la Republique in Paris to mark one year since the terrorist attacks in November 2015

People leave the Bataclan concert hall in Paris on November 12, 2016, after the reopening concert by British musician Sting to mark the first anniversary of the November 13 Paris attacks.

Rock star Sting reopens the Bataclan on November 12, the revered Paris concert hall where jihadists massacred 90 people, with a hugely symbolic show to mark the first anniversary of France's bloodiest terror attacks.

The French film based on the 2015 terror attack on the Bataclan music venue in Paris has been put on hold.

'Ce soir-la', which follows the fictional romance between a single mother and an Afghan refugee who meet on the night of 13 November as they rescue survivors of the attacks, was in the middle of being edited when it was shelved after the families of those killed in the horrific incident branded the film "scandalous."

Claire Peltier - whose partner David was among those killed in the terror attack - told the Agence France Presse news agency that it was "too soon" for such a "painful story" to be told on the big screen.

She added: "We are scandalised that such a film could see the light of day so soon after a violent event."

The mother-of-two has since started a petition, which has attracted 39,000 signatures, to block the film.

France 2 said the film was still being edited and added: "No transmission date had been fixed for the film... which has not yet been seen by the station's management."

The Eagles of Death Metal were performing to around 1,500 people at the Bataclan when masked gunmen stormed the venue, firing and the band and their fans, killing 90 people and injuring hundreds.

Meanwhile, the band - who cancelled their tour after the shocking incident - returned to the French capital last month for a surprise gig to mark the two-year anniversary of those who sadly lost their lives in the attack.

The event was setup by some of the survivors and held at the French capital's town hall in the 11th district.

The group dedicated 'I Love You All the Time' and 'Save a Prayer', which was the last track they performed before gunshots echoed around the venue two years ago, to those who tragically died.

Before giving everyone in the crowd white roses as a sign of respect, Jesse said: "I'm so happy and pleased to see all of you.The only reason we're still standing is because you all still love rock and roll."
Nicky Byrne has said that natural dancing ability or previous training is only a fraction of what's involved in Dancing With The Stars.

The co-host of the hit RTE series, who took part in the 2012 edition of Strictly Come Dancing on the BBC, said that being able to show off some fancy footwork isn't the most important thing on the programme.

Expand Close Dancers / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Dancers

"You can be the best dancer in the world but it's not just about dancing," he told the Herald.

"You're being challenged, it's live television. You have to get a public vote, you have to get on with your partner, you have to look good together. You might hate them but you still have to work together.

"Obviously being able to dance will help but it's not the be-all and end-all. I'm just looking forward to it, to be honest.

"It's a brilliant show and one I danced on and knew I could lend myself well to. I never expected it to be as successful as it was."

In the upcoming show, RTE's Marty Morrissey is being tipped as one to watch, thanks to his fam- iliarity among Ireland's GAA community.

Nicky said he's now looking forward to getting back to work on season two of the show, alongside co-presenter Amanda Byram.

It is one of a number of projects in a busy 2018 for the 2fm presenter.

Meanwhile, Nicky said that he would love to see a Westlife reunion at some stage over the coming years but it's not something that's on the cards in the immediate future.

They went out with a bang after a string of sell-out concerts in Croke Park in the summer of 2012, as the curtain finally came down on the boyband.

However, with Louis Walsh hinting that a reunion could happen at some point, Nicky said that it's all down to timing.

Video of the Day

"Who wouldn't want to do that again and have the laugh with the boys, and travelling around and seeing all the fans again?," he said. "It's nearly six years next summer since we've done it so who knows?

"I would love to do a Westlife reunion, as I'm sure the other lads would.

"When? I wouldn't like to do it now as I've got so much going on," he added.
Maria Coyne with a pictured of Gavin (10), who died in a UK hospital waiting for a transplant

The mother of a boy who died in a British hospital waiting for a heart transplant says Health Minister Simon Harris has "ignored" her email plea to prevent other children "falling through the cracks".

Maria Coyne's son, Gavin, was 10 when he passed away hundreds of miles away in the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, on February 20 this year.

Maria (44), her husband Tom (44) and Gavin's two sisters, nursing student Rachel (18) and schoolgirl Jessica (16), had to catch flights back and forth to see the young boy as he grew increasingly ill.

After the tragic death, it took 10 days for the schoolboy's body to be returned home by ferry and the family paid for his removal from Belfast port to his Dublin home.

The mother wrote to Mr Harris hoping he would be able to help protect other families from having to fork out thousands of euro on travel to the UK and to ensure all children, including those who die, are taken home by the Air Corps.

"I sent an email to Minister Harris on October 4 and still no response," Ms Coyne said.

"He can continue to sit in a room with his experts but there's no one more expert than me and my family on the cracks in the health system for transplant patients - we've been through it and we need to fill the cracks but we need the minister to help us."

She added: "I'm annoyed Minister Harris hasn't answered me because this is an important issue. My son died and I can't bring him back, but I can help others."

The Holy Trinity schoolboy from Clarehall, Dublin, had been diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy - a condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood is decreased - in November 2016.

Gavin had just come back from a family holiday to Florida when he became ill. The family had no prior knowledge of any health complaints.

In the email pleading for Mr Harris's assistance for other child transplant patients, Ms Coyne wrote how she and her family had felt "cold and alone" when Gavin was seriously ill.

"I'd hate to think another family would have to face what we did, especially at such a stressful and traumatic time."

A Department of Health spokeswoman said the minister "actively strived" to ensure a "robust service" is in place for the "timely transfer" of patients to the UK when organs are available.
Police are treating the death of a 53-year-old woman as murder

A man has been rushed to hospital after being beaten by a hammer in west Belfast.

It's understood a chain was also used in the brutal attack, which took place just after 7pm on Thursday night at the junction of Springhill Avenue and Springhill Drive.

A Northern Ireland ambulance services spokesman said a rapid response paramedic and an A&E crew were immediately scrambled to the scene of the crime where the attack victim was reported to be unconscious.

The victim was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Last night a spokesman for the Belfast Trust said the Trust was unable to not give any information about the victims condition.

Local Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey told reporters: There was a very short, intense fight between a number of people.

Afterwards a young lad was rushed to hospital.

There have been a lot of rumours about his condition but police have come back and said that he is quite badly injured.

Were concerned about his condition. It is bad, but we are not sure how bad it is at this stage.

We hope that those responsible for this assault are found as soon as possible.

One resident said I heard the sirens and seen all the lights in the street.

I seen a man being put into the ambulance then the police started to put up tape.

There are a lot of kids who play around here , one of them could have got caught up in it .

Madness.

The PSNI helicopter was called out to assist in the police operation which was launched in that wake of the vicious attack.
Teenagers are to be taught about sexual consent as part of a new programme to be introduced in schools in the new year, the Irish Independent can reveal.

Transition Year students are to get 12 hours of training that educators believe will challenge their preconceptions about consent and sexual violence.

The programme running over six two-hour classes aims to equip young people to be able to give informed consent.

These sessions engage with the students, challenging ideas of what consent is, allowing them to debate their opinions on sexual violence and how it affects them in their lives.

Participants will be asked to describe consent and to recognise what helps and hinders asking for or giving consent.

The programme will explore a range of ways to prevent sexual violence from happening.

This includes developing a shared respect for boundaries, the right to say no, and bodily integrity.

It also explores safe options for dealing with challenging behaviour and explores a campaign to engage males in the prevention of rape and sexual violence.

The Government-supported programme is being established to build on the work of a foundation established in memory of Manuela Riedo.

It is now a decade since the rape and murder of the 17-year old Swiss student in Galway shocked the country.

The specially developed 'early intervention' course will be offered to 16-year-olds in 60 schools under a partnership between the child and family agency Tusla, frontline agencies and the Manuela Riedo Foundation.

The move is being championed by Children's Minister Katherine Zappone, who told the Irish Independent: "The #MeToo campaign made 2017 a watershed year in terms of raising awareness about sexual harassment, abuse and violence."

The hashtag became a worldwide phenomenon in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations against film producer and executive Harvey Weinstein.

"However, raising awareness is not enough. We must also act," Ms Zappone said.

"The Rape Crisis Centres have been doing terrific work in educating our young people on the issues involved, as has the Manuela Riedo Foundation.

"But Government too has a responsibility."

She said the introduction of a 'Manuela Programme' marks a "positive first step" by officials and it will include 1,500 young people in the coming months.

"I will be encouraging Tusla, frontline services and our youth organisations to engage further to see if other ways can be found to reach more teenagers.

"It is my goal that the experiences we gain in the coming months will also be used to introduce this education into the mainstream syllabus, making it available to every young person in the country," she said.

Meanwhile, Ms Zappone is also set to announce extra funding worth 1.7m for frontline services involved in combating sexual and domestic violence.
Dundalk's own Elephant, featuring the talents of Shane Clarke, has contributed to an album of Christmas songs released in aid of the suicide prevention charity Pieta House.

He joins an eclectic mix of Irish artists including Villagers, Ailbhe Reddy, Jack O'Rourke, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Columbia Mills, Session Motts and many more.

A Co-Present Christmas sees covers of classic tracks from The Pretenders, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Joni Mitchell as well as some old Christmas favourites and two original songs.

The album is the brainchild of Irish music radio show The Co-Present on Dublin Digital Radio with all proceeds being donated to Pieta House Suicide and Self Harm Crisis Centre.

Welcoming the initiative, Pieta House stated: 'Christmas is a time of year when friends and family come together and enjoy each others company. Unfortunately, for some, it is a time of remembrance for those we have lost and for others a time of loneliness and sadness. We at Pieta House are trying every day to break the cycle of suicide and self-harm and to comfort those who have lost a loved one.'

'This album, from the first note to the last chorus, signifies a great hope. Pieta House strives for an Ireland where suicide, self-harm and stigma have been replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance. Finally to everyone involved with the album we extend our gratitude, that you have given your time and energy to help those who need our services and to know that you are changing lives.'

The vinyl release is available from Classified Records, priced 10
Accidents in the Workplace will perform at Hootenanny in the Spirit Store

Move over Jools - the real Hootenanny is taking place right here in Dundalk in The Spirit Store on New Year's Eve.

This is the popular George's Quay venue's four annual celebration of the best of local artistic talent.

There will be live music spread across three stages, upstairs and downstairs, making this the ideal spot for music lovers to ring in the New Year,

Among the bands lined up are Accidents In The Workplace who are finishing the year on a high note with a new single 'Wake UP' and a gig supporting Jerry Fish in The Bowery, Dublin on Thursday night. Joining them for what promises to be a great night are The Gakk, Sonnets And Sisters, L-arry, Kelso, Mark Corcoran & The Sea Legs Collective, Shed, David Bellew and many more.

Booking advised.
The bright winter light catches the green and white decorations on the Christmas tree in the foyer of Creative Spark, the colours of the decorations matching the logo of this creative enterprise centre and training hub which celebrated its fifth anniversary in November.

There's coffee brewing behind the reception desk and a quiet air of industry can be observed through the doors of the units where a host of creative types are busy at work.

The hub is the first of its kind in the north east region, set up to support creativity, innovation, enterprise and job creation.

Looking back over the past five years, CEO Sarah Daly says 'it feels like only yesterday yet it some ways it feels like a long time.'

Somewhat amazingly she recalls that 'we put together all the funding in the middle of the recession.'

'The first two years were hard and staying true to our vision of what we wanted to centre to be was also difficult,' she continues. 'We had a lot of people who wanted office space but if they weren't in the right sector, we didn't accept them as we wanted this to be a place for creative industries and creative practice,

Now, Creative Spark has 100 per cent occupancy and it has been like that for the past eighteen months, reports Sarah.

To date Creative Spark has supported the creation of 87 new jobs, with 58 people employed in 32 businesses, while 26 companies have graduated out of Creative Spark.

'We have lots of very interesting businesses, all working in the creative industries sector,' explains Sarah.

'We have virtual office and hot desk facilities and run a lot of creative training programmes as well as enterprise training in conjunction with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO).

Creative Spark also boasts a state of the art print studio which is used by 29 local artists and a ceramics studio with kiln. Both these studios are used for classes and courses.

Almost 3,000 people have taken part in Creative Spark training programmes in entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity working over the past five years.

A lot of local companies also use the meeting rooms at Creative Spark which is a convenient location just off the Inner Relief Road with its own parking. The rooms, which feature projectors and screens, are also available to groups for training and meetings.

Looking to the future, Creative Spark is working towards establishing a FabLab digital fabrication facility for the region.

The concept of a FabLab is to house all the equipment in a single space to allow people using the machines to do so together, opening up potential collaboration and learning possibilities.

There are FabLabs in a number of locations around the country including Dublin, Limerick, Cloughjordan and Manorhamilton.

The Creative Spark FabLab when completed will provide eight workspace units leading to the creation of 92 jobs and providing training and supports to 700 people a year over three years, adding to the services already offered.

Working from the workspaces at Creative Spark has allowed a number of local creative enterprises to grow their businesses.

The newest tenant at Creative Spark is Barry Keating, who writes narratives for video games for top companies like Sony and Ubisoft as well as film scripts.

A native of Dundalk, Barry recalls getting his first taste of writing when he wrote film reviews for The Argus in the early 2000s. Since then he has written for a number video game and music magazines before getting his dream job of writing game narratives for Sony Playstation. The recession brought that to an end when the Sony studio in London closed its doors and he returned to Ireland.

'I came back to Dundalk and was working at home before moving here,' he says. 'As a writer I can do it all from here. I make daily Skype calls and I can visit a studio whenever it's needed.'

He was delighted to receive a nomination from the Writers Guild of Ireland for Best Video Game Script earlier in the year.

Barry has also written scripts for a number of movies working with a group of international producers and directors.

'I can be far more productive here in Creative Spark than I could be at home,' he says.

Alan Hoey of Archidraft moved into Creative Spark two and a half years ago and now has three people working with him.

Having qualified in 2001, Alan was working for a local architectual firm when the recession saw him being let go.

'I got contractual work which involved a lot of travelling so when I got married in 2009, I thought about setting up my own business.'

Architdraft was set up on the back of the recession and Alan began working from home for a number of years.

The company provides an architectural drafting service for architectural practices, using up to date CAD software to provides high quality BIM (Building Information Modelling) Management to to produce high quality drawings in a short turnaround time frame.

'I was a stay at home dad and working at the same time and moved here two and a half years ago as the workload built up and I needed more space.'

He is delighted with the facilities offered by Creative Spark. 'Clients have easy access as it's just off the By Pass, there's good infrastructure and computer network, and a meeting room with projector boards.'

He also likes the camaraderie of working in a creative environment. 'It's great working with like minded people who have just started a business or are working for themselves. If you're having a bad day you can go out of the office, have a cup of tea or coffee, meet someone else who might be able to shed a different light on the problem. It's a very productive atmosphere.'

The aroma of essential oils rafts out of the unit occupied by Karen Lavelle of Soilse Candles. As Christmas is just a few days away, she is busy getting orders ready for dispatch. Karen, who originally worked as a fashion designer for a number of major labels like GAP in the United States, had also been working from home before re-locating to Creative Spark eighteen months ago.

'There's a great support structure here, a great creative environment with like minded creatives, and a lovely workspace,' she says.

'It has allowed me to grow my business from a small home based business to one that is growing.'

Karen makes all the candles in the unit, melting the wax and mixing the essential oils and perfumes.

'It's all done by hand so it really is handmade,' she says.

'The wax comes from soya beans, it's organic and natural and doesn't emit toxins or chemicals, and it's clean burning.'

Barry Finnegan of Thinking Cap Designs has been based at Creative Spark for the past three years. 'I was the first artist in residence here and got a great insight into the building and how it works and thought it would be good for my business to be here.'

Barry's work with Thinking Cap Designs involves graphic design, creating logos, branding and illustrative work for clients.

Having previously worked from home, he says: 'It's a good place to meet clients. I also have access to the print studio if I need it, so I can offer clients that facility as well.'

He has recently branched out into hand painted signs also with creating murals.

'I love the variety of my work and it's great being in such a creative environment.'
Louth's best young entrepreneurs have been announced this week at the County Final of Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition. Run by the Local Enterprise Offices, IBYE is supported by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland. Now in its 4th year, this year attracted almost 1,500 applications nationwide.

Thomas McEvoy, Head of Enterprise in Louth explained: The search to find Ireland's best young entrepreneur began in August and we were delighted with the calibre of entries. After a very successful Enterprise Day, Bootcamp and County Final, it's great to know that the future of enterprise and job creation in Louth is bright."

There was joy for Nikki Reddy, aged 34 of Celtic Adventures in Clogherhead who was named winner of the Best Established Business award. She was joined by Stephen Mulligan, of Fighting Fit in Dundalk, who took the runner up title in this category.

The Best Start Up category was a particularly hard-fought contest. Evelyn Garland (23), of Simply Fit Food in Ardee was named winner. The competition was so hard fought in this category that the judges had to award two runners up prizes. John Sullivan of Loud Fades in Drogheda and Leanne Muckian of the Dundalk Study Academy shared the runner up title.

Many innovative new business concepts emerged in the Best Business Idea category. The winner was Colin Marry (34), of The Bacon Tour at Marry's Pig Farm, just outside Drogheda while Riverstown native of Activitour, scooped the runner up title.

Evelyn Garland of Simply Fit Food was named the Overall Winner of IBYE for Louth. Her award was accepted on her behalf by her parents and she and her business partner Luke tuned in to the live stream all the way from south east Asia.

The adjudicators in this year's competition were Sarah Daly of Creative Spark, Breanndan Casey of The Mill Enterprise Hub and Thomas McEvoy, Head of Enterprise in Louth. The awards were presented by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Colm Markey and the ceremony was attended by other special guests including Chief Executive of Louth County Council Joan Martin, Director of Services Frank Pentony, Cllr. Maeve Yore, Cllr. Emma Coffey and Presidents of Dundalk and Drogheda Chambers Michael Gaynor and Paddy Callaghan.

IBYE Co-ordinator for Louth, Sarah Mallon concluded 'Each of the winners and runners-up will share in an investment fund of up to 50,000 from the Local Enterprise Office to help grow and develop their business. The 3 category winners go forward to the Regional Finals in January. The team in Local Enterprise Office Louth will be providing intensive supports between now and then to prepare them for the regionals and hopefully Louth will have a representative at the IBYE National Finals in March.'

Stay up to date with the competition by following on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn and YouTube. Find out more about supports available to entrepreneurs of all ages by visiting www.localenterprise.ie.
Louth MEO Mairead McGuiness with Professor Lorraine Martin, Queens University, Belfast; Dr Keith Thornbury from Dundalk Institute of Technology and Professor John Lockhart, University of the West of Scotland

The importance of EU funding for the border region was highlighted at a special seminar in the European parliament in Strasbourg last week.

Mairead McGuinness MEP for Louth and first Vice-President of the European Parliament co-hosted with the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) a showcase in the Parliament which brought together organisations that benefited from EU PEACE or Interreg funding from across Northern Ireland and the border region.

The seminar highlighted the positive impact and important role of EU funding in the region.

Concerns about the future of EU funding for the border counties in particular have emerged amid the Brexit debate.

Many organisations across Louth rely on the vital funding that has come from Interreg, PEACE and the Special EU Programmes body.

Ms.McGuinness was recently in Dundalk to launch the 'Changing Lives' programme which has benefitted from the SEUPB.

Changing Lives is initiative which is aimed at children in the three to seven age group who may have ADHD.

It works with families to help children reach their full potential.

'It will help their parents and teachers first understand the challenges and then experience the joy and fulfilment of seeing the children develop their innate skills and talents,' said Ms. McGuinness.

Among those who took part in the showcase in Strasbourg were Professor Lorraine Martin, Queens University, Belfast, along with Dr Keith Thornbury from Dundalk Institute of Technology and Professor John Lockhart, who is based at the University of the West of Scotland.
As the anniversary of the bombing outside Kay's Tavern passed last week, Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney appealed to the British government for an urgent response.

Two people were killed on December 19th 1975 when a car bomb exploded outside the former Kay's Tavern on Crowe Street.

Local men Hugh Waters and Jack Rooney died as a result of the blast, and a number of other people were seriously injured.

The families of both men have campaigned tirelessly over the last few decades for answers about the bombing, along with the families of the victims of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings.

The murder of north Louth man Seamus Ludlow has also been included in the historical cases linked to the Troubles.

Speaking in the Dail loast week, Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney said that dealing with long-outstanding issues relating to the legacy of the conflict in Northern Ireland 'are of the utmost importance to the Government.'

He called on the British Government to allow access by an independent, international judicial figure to all original documents relating to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, as well as the Dublin bombings of 1972 and 1973, the bombing of Kay's Tavern in Dundalk and the murder of Seamus Ludlow.'

He added: 'I have spoken directly with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, James Brokenshire, about this matter and am actively engaged with the British Government on an ongoing basis on this issue.'

Minister Coveney added that there was a 'consensus political view in Ireland that an independent, international judicial review of all the relevant documents is required to establish the full facts of the Dublin Monaghan atrocities.'

'I have also advised the Secretary of State that the absence of a response from the British Government is of deep concern to the Government, and I have emphasised the urgent need for a response from the British Government.

The Minister said that the government will 'continue to engage with the British Government on the request in relation to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings, and pursue all possible avenues that could achieve progress on this issue.'
The long running case taken by former presidential election candidate Sean Gallagher against RTE has been settled, with 'substantial damages' reported to have been included.

A trial had been due to begin at the High Court early next year, but was settled on Tuesday last.

Although the amount of damages was not disclosed, there was an agreement from RTE to issue an apology to Mr Gallagher.

The case related to a tweet read out by presenter Pat Kenny during the final televised RTE debate of the campaign, prior to which Mr Gallagher was regarded as the frontrunner.

A Twitter account with a user name similar to that of the official Martin McGuinness campaign, but it later emerged was not linked to Mr McGuinness, said a man who claimed he had given a 5,000 cheque to Mr Gallagher would appear at a press conference the next day.

Mr Gallagher lost the subsequent election, finishing behind Michael D Higgins.

Mr. Gallagher is well known across Louth, having set up the successful business, Smarthomes, and also playing a leading role in the Louth County Enterprise Board.

The former Dragons Den investor successfully complained to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland about the reading out of the tweet, with the BAI finding it was 'unfair' to him.

Mr Gallagher had sought a declaration the programme was unfairly edited, presented and directed by RTE in order to damage his electoral prospects.

A statement read on Mr Gallagher's behalf by solicitor Paul Tweed said his client was satisfied RTE had acknowledged before the High Court that it had failed to show him fairness and impartiality during the presidential debate.

Mr Tweed said this acknowledgement had been 'supported by the payment of substantial damages.'

'Mr Gallagher hopes that this apology and acknowledgement of the BAI findings and RTE's own internal report will lead to significant improvement in procedure and protocol in the next presidential debate in 2018,' the solicitor said.

'Sean Gallagher's motivation in taking this case has not just been about addressing the unfairness done to him, but all about protecting the integrity of the democratic process, ensuring that what has happened to him will not be allowed happen again.'

In its apology, RTE acknowledged that during the October 2011 debate programme 'it should have verified the origin of a tweet to which reference was made during that broadcast and that the tweet should not have been erroneously attributed to another candidate's Twitter account.

'RTE acknowledges that it should not have broadcast the tweet and, when it became apparent during the course of the programme that it was false, it should have immediately corrected the fact that the provenance of the tweet was mistaken.

In the apology, read by Paul Gallagher SC, RTE acknowledged the production of the October 2011 debate programme 'fell significantly short of the standards expected by the public and required by law.'

'RTE acknowledges that it made mistakes and failed to comply with its statutory duty under section 39 of the Broadcasting Act in the course of The Frontline live Presidential Election debate programme which was broadcast on 24 October 2011.'

'Section 39 imposes a duty on broadcasters to ensure that the broadcast treatment of current affairs is fair to all interests concerned.'
One of the country's best loved comedians will take to the stage at the Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy in the New Year.

Brendan Grace will bring his new show to the popular County Wicklow venue on Thursday, January 4 as part of his annual Christmas tour.

This year marks his 46th year in showbiz and most of that time at the very top of his profession during those five decades.

The genial Dubliner is very much at home in rural Ireland, where where so many people have taken him to their hearts.

His latest show features some of the best and most requested pieces from his vast repertoire in addition to new material and he presents it all with a wonderful appreciation for his ever-loyal audience.

A meet and greet after the show is set to be a highlight of the night.

Tickets cost 30 and are available from the hotel at 01 2015600 and www.Ticketmaster.ie
Well, there ye are now, at the risk of stating the obvious - it's all over for another year! Santa has legged it back to the North Pole, the presents have been unwrapped, turkey demolished and we're all lying polaxed on the couch, chawing rennies.

And is it just me or does everybody feel an overwhelming sense of anti climax? A feeling of 'what the hell was all that about?!'

We work ourselves up into a state of chronic hysteria in the lead up to Christmas and for what? For one feckin day! We buy mountains of food that nobody eats, enough drink to open a shebeen and by Stephen's Day all we want is to get back to normal.

When it comes to Santa and presents Himself is a bit of a Grinch. He doesn't really get the whole 'let's spoil each other rotten' concept but to be fair if you give him a pair of socks (which I did!) he'd be happy enough.

Christmas Dinner however is another matter altogether. For him, it is the pinnacle of Christmas Day, the whole meaning of Yuletide and God help you if you make a balls of it. This is why he usually takes responsibility for the bird..and the ham.and the spuds.

In fact the only things I'm allowed within an asses roar of are all the foods he won't eat!

So he cooks the turkey and ham, the boiled potatoes, roast potatoes, potatoes gratin, potato croquettes and makes the gravy. He does all the important elements of the dinner and gets all the glory.

I meanwhile am left skivvying in the background, peeling and chopping carrots and parsnips, Brussels sprouts and green beans, all the food nobody really gives a s**** about but you have to have for appearance sake.

It's a thankless job. No one ever says, 'Oh My God - your Brussels sprouts were divine!' No they don't.

They wax lyrical about the bloody moistness of the turkey and the flavour of the ham whilst all my efforts are usually scraped into the bin.

Yes I am having a bit of a whinge but I feel I'm entitled! Because Himself does the centre piece, I end up with the washing up, while he sits on the couch drinking red wine and lapping up the praise for his goddamn turkey, (which truth be told wasn't even that nice - bit dry if you ask me!)

'That was a lovely bit of turkey all the same,' he comments on Christmas night, basking in the glow of his success. 'Yep,' I say through gritted teeth. 'There's quite a bit left. What are we going to do with it?'

'Ah sure we'll have it for dinner tomorrow and we'll probably have enough for the day after and sandwiches as well,' he says delighted with himself.

Just. Shoot. Me. Now.
A Trocaire worker from Blessington, Jenny Foley, has urged people in Wicklow to support the charity's Christmas appeal.

The plea comes as over 26 million people continue to face malnutrition and the threat of famine across South Sudan, Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia due to prolonged drought.

Jenny said: 'I know the difference support from Wicklow has made to Trocaire's work. It is no exaggeration to say that it is having an immediate, practical impact on families throughout East Africa. Our health centres and feeding programmes are saving lives but we need to continue our response and we need the public's support to do that.'

Trocaire is currently reaching hundreds of thousands of people across the East Africa region with emergency food, water, sanitation and healthcare.

This includes in South Sudan, a country gripped by a brutal civil war where millions of people have fled and Trocaire has been supporting 24,000 people.

The charity has been providing emergency food, water and supplies in the war torn country throughout the food crisis and there has been a significant improvement.

For more on Trocaire or to donate to the Christmas appeal then please visit the website www.trocaire.org.
(Back, from left) Donal Murray, Anne Murray, Cillian Colloy, Saran Fogarty, Doreen Roche, Mary Fleming, Bernadette Linny, (front) Ibrahim Osman, Ahmed Osman, Josh Downes, Eoin Cleary, Stephane de Bairead and Leonardo Quadros with some of the gifts donated to the toy appeal

The boys of Presentation college in Bray recently donated a wealth of toys and books to the needy.

The annual toy appeal was founded by Br Ray Dwyer and is in its seventh year.

The school made an appeal to parents via their website and app, inviting the students and their families to donate toys and books for children in the community who may not otherwise receive gifts.

The items were new and unwrapped and could be for children of any age.

A presentation was made at the school on the Monday before Christmas, with representatives there to collect them from St Vincent de Paul, St Peter's and Queen of Peace.

A spokeswoman for the school said that the gifts will all go to local children.

She said that the initiative is very popular and they always get a great response.
The relationship between the Hainan province in China and County Wicklow was further strengthened with the visit last week of a delegation from Hainan University.

Back in July, a Friendship Agreement was signed between Wicklow and Hainan and a delegation from Wicklow County Tourism and Wicklow County Council paid a recent visit to the 2017 Hainan International Tourism Island Carnival Exhibition.

Last week, Professor Wu Yaoting, Party Secretary of the CPC and President of Hainan University, was hosted by Wicklow County Council and Wicklow Tourism along with his team and Zhen Yao of the Dublin Institute of Technology.

Hainan University is an International Education Partner of the DIT School of Hospitality, Management and Tourism and DIT has been working with its Chinese partners for almost 15 years to develop strategic relationships.

The visitors were treated to tours of Powerscourt Estate, Glendalough and Wicklow Gaol and were also hosted at Wicklow County Campus in Rathnew by Fred Verdier of Wicklow County Tourism and Vibeke Delahunt of Wicklow County Campus and the County Wicklow Film Commission.

Leas Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr Pat Vance, also welcomed the guests and spoke of the rich cultural heritage of the Irish, the beauty of Wicklow county, its diverse range of businesses and its renowned film industry.

Cllr Vance hoped the relationship between Hainan and Wicklow would result in 'cultural and educational exchanges and work placements for young people, especially in the education, tourism, hospitality and forestry sectors.'

He also presented Professor Yu with a plaque inscribed 'Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si', meaning 'Praise the youth and they will flourish.'

The delegation enjoyed an evening meal at Mickey Finn's Bistro in Redcross as well as a tour of Wicklow Brewery and some live traditional Irish music.

During the visit, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Frank Curran emphasised the support of the council for the Hospitality and Tourism Initiative between Hainan University and DIT and of its continuing commitment to developing and enriching the growing relationship between Wicklow and Hainan.
Brexit remains the major concern for the hotel sector in Wicklow as we approach the start of a New Year.

UK visitors to Ireland are down 6 per cent year on year, with 59 per cent of hoteliers and guesthouse owners nationally stating that the weakened Sterling has had a negative effect on business this year.

A growth on overseas visitors from elsewhere, combined with a strong domestic market, has so far helped compensate for the fall in tourists from the UK. The numbers of visitors from the US, France and Germany in particular continue to rise.

Brian McNamara, Chair of the IHF's Wicklow branch warns that the tourism and hospitality sector cannot afford to be complacent about the future.

'The continued fall-out from Brexit and the slowdown in visitor growth are worrying as they have a significant regional bias. For too long we have had a two-tier tourism sector where businesses in the major cities and tourism hotspots benefit more than the regions.

'We must diversify into new markets and we welcome the work being done in that regard. However, it cannot be at the expense of our existing markets, particularly the UK, which has the broadest regional and seasonal spread of visitors,' said Mr McNamara.

Tourism currently supports 8,900 jobs in Wicklow and contributes some 154m to the local economy annually.

Many hoteliers are already planning to improve and increase their marketing strategies and also recruit further staff members.

'Time and again tourism has shown itself to be an excellent investment for every euro spent in destination marketing,' said Mr McNamara.

'Our survey shows that hoteliers are planning to increase their own marketing spend next year too but more targeted investment is needed particularly in regional marketing support and in the development of new and engaging products. Hoteliers in Wicklow and across the country are investing in their properties and in staff recruitment and development to ensure that we continue to be an attractive, value for money destination for all visitors and especially visitors from the UK.'

Nationally, nearly nine in ten hoteliers (86 per cent) plan to undertake refurbishment or capital investment projects over the next year while over half (53 per cent) expect to increase their staff levels in 2018, with most intending to recruit staff across all levels of their business.

Christmas events and parties are also increasingly becoming a major part of business for hotels, as expressed by 55 per cent of hoteliers. 47 per cent have also reported an increase in business this Christmas compared to last year, with a third intending to take on additional staff for the festive period. The survey also found that insurance, wage costs and local authority rates were other major business worries.
A man who was in possession of a device which could block a car's central locking system is facing a community service order at Bray District Court.

Patrick Cawley (48), Ard Cath Road, Garrystown, Dublin, was approaching a checkpoint on the Southern Cross on November 6, 2016 when gardai saw a ladies' bag being thrown from the back of the vehicle.

The court heard that the bag had been taken from another car moments earlier.

Gardai searched the car and occupants. Cawley had 980 on him and the other occupants of the vehicle had 90 and 45 respectively. The gardai also found a mobile phone belonging to the person who owned the handbag.

Barrister Eamonn O'Moore said that the only matter before the court on Thursday, December 14, was the device and that his client had already pleaded guilty to other matters. 'I'm not sure of the probative value of these articles.'

The court heard that gardai found a small, white device in the middle of the road where Cawley was stopped, by the driver's seat. He said that their mention would be 'highly prejudicial'.

A Mr McGarry from the technical department of Garda headquarters said that the device emits a frequency that could interfere with a remote. It could be used for electric gates, a doorbell, the locking mechanism of the car and other items, the court heard.

Mr O'Moore said that there was no case to answer as the state's expert witness had said that the device could be used for other things.

Cawley said that he thought it was a doorbell. He said that he had five children who might put things in the car.

'It's not mine, I've never used it,' he said.

Judge David Kennedy said that he did not accept what Cawley said.

'He knew very well what it was for and used it for that purpose,' said the judge.

The court heard that Cawley is a separated man with 12 children, aged four to 27.

He is unemployed and homeless and has been in emergency accommodation since June. He had three previous convictions, all public order on the same occasion.

Judge Kennedy adjourned the matter to February 5 for a community service report, noting that the defendant had no previous convictions for theft or anything like that.
Following on from a successful 2017 for them, Cork County Council's heritage department is set to start off 2018 by highlighting a number of fascinating events lined up for early January.

On Tuesday, January 9 at 8pm The Mallow Field Club will host a talk at the local Social, Services Centre focussing on the life and works of a man whose contribution to Irish society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries has largely been overlooked.

Entitled 'William O'Brien - Forgotten Son of Mallow', the talk will be delivered by historian John O'Donovan.

Born in Mallow in 1852, O'Brien began his career as a journalist with The Cork Daily Herald and first gained notoriety for his 'Christmas in the Galtee's' series written in 1877-78, which portrayed the appalling conditions experienced by tenants and their families of the Kingston Estate.

Shortly after being appointed editor of 'United Ireland' in 1881 he was imprisoned for 'extreme editorship' and following his release was elected a Member of Parliament.

Over his life he agitated to improve living conditions, including founding the United Irish League and was a prolific writer penning a number of books.

He died in 1928 and is buried in St Mary's graveyard, Mallow.

On Wednesday, January 10 at 5pm historian Cal McCarthy will deliver an illustrated talk entitled 'Remembering the Hougoumont, 150-years-ago' in the council chamber at County Hall.

The Hougoumont, Australia's last convict ship, arrived in Freemantle on January 10, 1868 with 62 Irish Fenians aboard. The talk will tie-in with the 'Fenian's, Freedom and Freemantle Festival' taking place in Freemantle during January, which will celebrate, the influence of Irish culture in Australia.

The following night Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal in Blarney will host 'Viking Silver Hoards from Cork', an illustrated lecture organised by the local historical society at 8pm Guest speaker.

John Sheehan, senior lecturer in the UCC's Department of Archaeology, will discuss what became of the priceless Viking treasure troves discovered in North and Mid-Cork during the 1840's and offer an insight into Viking way of life in Ireland during the 9th and tenth centuries.

On Monday, January 15th at 8pm the Muskerry Local History Society will host a talk delivered by Tim Crowley entitled 'The Conscription Crisis in Cork - 1918' at the Ballincollig Rugby Club.
The third book in a trilogy on the works of Canon Sheehan of Doneraile by Monsignor James O'Brien, parish priest of Ballyhea, entitled 'Correspondence from the papers of Canon Sheehan of Doneraile', was launched by Professor Eda Segarra of Trinity College Dublin, with an introduction by Fr. Tobias Bluitt, parish priest of Doneraile, at the Corbett Court Restaurant Ballyhea on last Wednesday night before a large attendance.

The book is a collection of Canon Sheehan of Doneraile's incoming correspondence drawn from more than half a dozen deposits in the United States and in Ireland. Fr. Bluitt, the present day successor to Canon Sheehan in the historic parish of Doneraile, said that the previous book by Monsignor O'Brien on the collected letters of Canon Sheehan gave an insight into the mind and personality of Canon Sheehan as well as providing a glimpse into the concerns of the Catholic Church at the time of their writing, as seen through the lens of the canon's pen.

"However, while all these letters were of interest and curiosity there was a piece of the jigsaw missing. We wanted to see the other side of the correspondence we knew that the Canon wrote but were missing the letters that came his way, those items that slipped through his letterbox from the Canon's many correspondents.

Now, thanks to the work of Monsignor O'Brien, we do have those letters, or at least, as many of them as are available," said Fr Bluitt.

"Once again as in the previous volume, we are provided with an extensive collection of correspondence with far ranging and widespread series of concerns and interests. These range from matters spiritual and theological, as well as items of more practical and personal concern."

Launching the book, Professor Eda Segarra reflected on "what a wonderful thing it must be to have your life, your personality, your vocation and your intellectual and literary achievement reflected back to you in the clear mirror of your correspondents.

"Canon Sheehan was no Narcissus; quite the reverse, in fact, but every writer of talent is prey to self-doubt and he, too, had his share," she said.

"Reading through this beautifully produced volume is to share, at more than a century's remove, in the pleasure he must surely have felt at the recognition by men and women of discrimination and experience at what he was trying to achieve in his writings, in terms of literary quality, yes, but more significantly in terms of his vocation as a pastor and servant of the Church."

Continuing, Ms Segarra said that what was interesting in Sheehan's personality and so well reflected in his novels and poetry is that he attracted not just the admiration but the empathy of those who did not share his beliefs. Most notable among these correspondents was the distinguished jurist and long-serving judge of the United States Supreme Court, Oliver Wendell Holmes, who over the years became a devoted friend.

"A particular merit of Monsignor James' decision to present his selection of letters chronologically, is that we, the readers, can see these friendships evolve over time," she said. "There is so much to learn from and delight in this volume. Even to feel its solidity in your hands and take pleasure from the production is attractive in every respect.

"And the organisation of 'Correspondence from the papers of Canon Sheehan of Doneraile', from the editor's so lucid and succinct introduction through the vivid pen portraits of the correspondence, plus the 40 pages of biographical notes of the main personalities mentioned in the correspondence and which provide a whole socio-cultural history of the epoch in nuce - and the letters themselves with the marvellous footnotes, to aged German scholars like myself are the equivalent of a fine claret to a wine connoisseur.

"As for the research which has gone into the making of this work, it is simply breath-taking. Monsignor O'Brien has surely something of his beloved Canon in his capacity to combine his pastoral vocation with intellectual activity at the highest level and, like Canon Sheehan, still have time for us, his friends.

"I have the greatest pleasure therefore to launch this erudite and readable volume. Thank you, Monsignor James, on all our behalves," concluded Professor Segarra. Monsignor O'Brien thanked both Fr. Bluitt and Professor Segarra for their kind words and he told the audience that the book was three years in production, whish, despite a computer error which wiped his entire copy, thereby delaying publication, he had managed to get it completed.

He paid tribute to the Presentation Sisters, who had ministered in Doneraile, including looking after Canon Sheehan, and to the Nano Nagle Centre and for the Doneraile archives, which are now housed in Cork and looked after by the Presentation Sisters there.

He expressed particular thanks to Sr. Sheila Kelly, who archived the material, for her assistance. Monsignor O'Brien said he hoped to publish an anthology of Canon Sheehan's poetry and a collection of his sermon in future projects.
An ambitious plan to develop a dedicated Riverside Heritage Walkway in Buttevant may now have to be put on hold for months after a single objection was lodged against the project.

Last November planners gave the green light to the project, much to the delight of the Buttevant Community Council and local Heritage Group who had lodged the planning application with Cork County Council.

However, that delight turned to shock and disappointment in the lead up to Christmas after it emerged that an objection to the scheme had been lodged with An Bord Pleanala.

While details of the reasons behind the objection have yet to be posted on the appeals board website, Community Council chair John Lee said it could put the project back by up to 18-weeks and could result in funding for it being pulled.

Mr Lee said that following what he described as the "restarting" of Buttevant through the completion of an expansive street works scheme and the opening of a new secondary school, hopes were high that the Heritage Walk would bring a further boost to the town.

"This was the time to show the powers that be that Buttevant was alive and well and able to show that it can grow and expand with the correct support," said Mr Lee.

He said that confidence was shared by Cork County Council, Avondhu/Blackwater Development, The Heritage Council and the Department of Heritage and Tourism, all of whom lent their support to the development of the Heritage Walk along the River Awbeg.

"This allowed the community Council to start the design and planning process for the walk. In fact, the Heritage Council was so impressed with the project they showcased it at their national conference," said Mr Lee.

Funding of 250,000 was secured for the scheme and after an extensive consultation process with stakeholders including the OPW, Irish Waterways, Cork County Council and local property owners, planning permission was applied for and granted. As has been anticipated, planning was granted with conditions as the footprint for the proposed walkway was in a special area of conservation that included six national monuments and one of the few surviving breeding grounds for crayfish in Europe.

"We expected these clauses would be included, but with an excellent design team in place we felt it would be easy to deal with these matters. After all of the work that had gone into preparing the submission, news that it had been given permission was greeted with great relief," said Mr Lee.

"So it was with a great sense of shock that one objection had been lodged against the plan. This will now put the whole project back by a minimum of 18-week. This is a serious blow that could result in funding being withdrawn, putting the future development of the town at risk."

Mr Lee said there was still time for the objection to be withdrawn to allow the project to move forward as planned.

"In terms of sustainability, tourism development, job creation, business development and improved quality of life, this project has the potential to transform Buttevant," he said.

"We have received a lot of support from many areas for this project and are concerned that if this drags on for a long time that support may no longer be there.

"News of this objection is a huge blow to the community as a whole and we can only hope that a resolution is found that will allow this project to progress."
Residents and business people in Banteer were handed a welcome festive present that will signal an end to the water woes they have had to endure over the past year.

This after Irish Water announced it had approved the first phase of a scheme that will see what a spokesperson described as a "significant" investment in the water supply network over the coming months.

The initial phase of the Banteer/Dromahane Regional Water Supply Scheme will include the construction of a new reservoir at the Poulgorm water treatment plant to ensure what Irish Water said would have the capacity to cater for a minimum 24-hour storage capacity.

Currently, there is no reservoir at the plant, which is served by a natural spring supported by a bored well. Irish Water has recently appointed a specialist team that will bring the new reservoir through the design process and onto to the planning application stage.

Other phases of the scheme will include the upgrading of existing smaller reservoirs and the laying of a new network of mains piping across the wider area.

News of the investment has been welcomed by local county councillor John Paul O'Shea (Ind), who said he was pleased that Irish Water had responded positively to calls for the upgrading of the local water supply scheme.

"I have raised this issue consistently with Irish Water over a period of months and in particular in recent months with regular breaks to the water supply ling homes and businesses without water. It has been apparent for quite some time that the existing supply system is not fit for purpose and clearly in need of major investment and restructuring," said Cllr O'Shea.

"This will come as a great relief to the people of Banteer who have suffered considerably over the past year with severe disruption to their water supply.

Cllr O'Shea said that were it not for the diligence of county council staff over the past few weeks, the water supply problems encountered by the local community would have been a lot worse.

"I want to say a particular word of thanks to the local water curator, plumbing staff and the council's entire water services team. Keeping the creaking network operational given its dilapidated condition has been no easy task," he said.

"Their dedication has been evident at all times and I'm sure they, along with the community of Banteer, are all looking forward to the new infrastructure being put in place in the very near future".
While most of us were still basking in the warm glow of the festive season, a bunch of intrepid swimmers and their supporters braved the weather to take to the chilly waters of the River Blackwater.

The cold and wet weather on Christmas morning did not prevent a good turnout for the annual Mallow Search and Rescue annual swim from the Ten Arch Bridge to Mallow Bridge.

Unit PRO Willie Walsh said organisers were delighted with the support swimmers received from the local community, with monies collected on the morning going to the Rickie Healy Appeal and the Mallow/Charleville unit of the Irish Red Cross.

"It was great to see people swimming in the rain for good causes and as always the public were very generous to the collectors from both organisations on the street'," said Willie.

"We would like to thank people not only for their generosity on the day but also for the support that give us throughout the year as well. We would all like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe 2018," he added.

Following the festive dinners and over indulgences of Christmas Day, members of the Fermoy-based Blackwater Sub Aqua Club gathered on a brisk St Stephen's morning at Castlehyde House for their annual Fin Swim.

More than 20-members and guests took part in the swim, which has been held each year for almost four decades, with proceeds from the event once again going help fund the running of the club's dedicated search and rescue unit.

With fast flowing currents following recent heavy rainfall it was always going to be a fast swim and as always Olan Farrell and Kenneth Barry were on hand in case of difficulties.

Thankfully they were not needed, with all of the swimmers covering the 3.5km course in under 50 minutes, arriving safely at Fermoy Rowing Club on Ashe Quay to applause from friends and family, a welcome cup of tea and a hot shower.

Special mention should go to the club's search and recovery officer Dave Carey who was taking part in the swim for the 38th consecutive year, Maurice Carroll and Noel Hayes who were taking part in their 35th and 33rd swims and Timmy Carey who marked his 30th successive year taking part in the event.

Club PRO Kenneth Barry thanked all those who took part, supporters, the Fermoy Rowing Cub for providing refreshment, Pat Bartley of Castlehyde Estate and Pat Quinlan and Mary Carey for taking photographs, more of which can be seen on the club's Facebook page.

"We appreciate the fact that so many people turned out in damp and difficult conditions to make this years swim a success," said Kenneth.

"As we approach the end of 2017, the club and the Blackwater Search and Rescue Unit would like to thank all our supporters for their continued support and wish you all a peaceful and prosperous New Year," said Mr Barry.

He said the Fin Swim also serves as an annual fitness test for divers and anyone who missed the event will need to complete a fitness swim over the coming weeks to retain their active diver status.
A 46 year old public health nurse from North Cork has been sent forward for trial by judge and jury on charges that she stole over 50,000 from an 85 year old pensioner over a 13 month period.

Deirdre Kenneally from Letrim, Kilworth, made her second appearance at Fermoy District Court on 62 counts of theft on various dates between May 2015 and June 2016.

The state alleges in 59 charges that a Laser card was used to withdraw money at an ATM and that in three other charges sums of 20,000, 15,000 and 5,000 were stolen from a deposit account.

Last Friday, Insp Tony O'Sullivan said the DPP had directed trial by indictment before a judge and jury for Ms Kenneally on the 62 charges and he confirmed a book of evidence had been served on her.

He applied to have Ms Kenneally returned to the next sittings of Cork Circuit Criminal Court commencing on February 6 and said the state had no objection to her being remanded on bail.

Judge Brian Sheridan granted the state application and remanded Ms Kenneally on her own bond of 500 to appear at Cork Circuit Criminal Court on February 6 for trial on indictment.

He also granted Ms Kenneally free legal aid and assigned solicitor, Joe Cuddigan, to represent her on the charges which follow an investigation into her when working as a public health nurse in Fermoy.

At an earlier hearing in November, when Det Garda Denis Ryan gave evidence of arresting and charging Ms Kenneally, Mr Cuddigan stressed that she would be vigorously contesting the charges.

"I want to put it on record that my client in this particular case will be contesting in full each and every allegation up to and including the trial at the circuit court," said Mr Cuddigan.
The pupils at Playmates Montessori School preformed their Nativity Play last Wednesday the 13th of December in the Lourdes Church for parents, siblings, friends and family. This year's play was called "Whoops a Daisy Angel" which is the story of Christmas through the eyes of an angel.

Teacher Jackie Walshe spoke with pride as she explained "The children practiced really hard over the last few weeks and they sang their hearts out for their family and really enjoy the play. We use musical style plays with the children so the story is told through song with a few lines for the older children to say.

'Our cast this year were, "Whoops a Daisy Angel" played by Millie Healy. The Snowflake Angels were Chloe Fennell, Elise Healy, Amanda Zale, Elise Healy, Elsie Walshe and Naomi Alves. The Angels who brought baby Jesus and the manger to the crib were Wendy Ren and Jessica Wang. Singing Angels were Danielle Brady, Maia Tang and Caoimhe Walshe. Our Shepherd was Matas Varinauskas and the three Wise Men were played by Nam Ninh, Nikita Borenkov and Alex Fisticanu. Past pupil of the school Orlaith Walshe narrated the play on the night and did a fantastic job.'

Teachers Jackie, Naomi, Sarah and Aine were very proud of all the children on the night.

Three Amigos

Jimmy Buckley, Robert Mizzell and Patrick Feeney are three of the most recognisable names on the Country Music circuit in Ireland.

They have also established a massive following internationally for their unique brand of Country Music which has brought them acclaim and awards in Ireland, America and England.

When they decided to join together as The Three Amigos their success hit a new high, the chemistry generated on stage when they perform together is unrivalled.

This show is full of Laughter, Music and Song. A show not to be missed.

It's in the TLT on January 9 2018 and the tickets are 30.

Niamh in concert

Former Eurovision star Niamh Kavanagh and her band willl be the star attraction at a Dominican Church fundraiser on Easter Sunday night, April 1.

The night, in the Westcourt Hotel, will include a three course meal, folllowed by music and dancing.

Tickets are 50 and available from the Westcourt Hotel and the church shop office.
New Year, New Light: A Walking Tour of Tara, hosted by Sacred Sites of Ireland and Sacred Sites takes place on Monday, 1 January 2018 at 2pm on the Hill Of Tara.

This is a two hour guided walking tour of Tara, which includes some history, archaeology, myth and legend and also connecting with the land through nature, the elements and the archetypal energies of the Tuatha De Danann. The tour is limited to 30 participants and costs 15 per person (+ booking fee), payable in advance via Eventbrite.

Let Treasa, your guide, take you back in time, forging a deep spiritual and energetic connection with the sacred landscape of Tara. Exploring our ancient past and bringing it back to life.

This tour is outdoors and takes approximately two hours. A moderate level of fitness is required and suitable clothing and footwear for hill walking (and Irish weather) should be worn. Care should be taken whilst on site, as the terrain is uneven and the Tour Guide cannot be held responsible for any accidents or falls. The tour commences at 2.00 pm from the gate at the Hill of Tara and finishes at approximately 4.00 pm.
The staff, pupils and parents at a Navan school have kept the memory of one of their former pupils alive by making a special donation to an organisation helping homeless people.

John (Johnny) Gallagher from Drumman, Duleek was found unconscious at Mill Lane in Drogheda in October. He was taken by ambulance to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital but was pronounced dead by medical staff.

John was a former resident of Drogheda Homeless Aid and and everyone there was devastated at his death. He had left the hostel 10 days before his death and it was thought that he had then gone to a squat in the town.

John had been a pupil at St Ultan's School Navan up to four years ago and this week Acting Principal Karen Byrne, who was one of the teachers who taught John, described him as "very well thought of in the school, a lovable chap who was infectious in his character. He was always trying to build bridges with people and he was always very appreciative of the people who went the extra mile for him".

Every year, the school organises a major cake sale to raise funds for a charity and for a school. Ms Byrne contacted the Mayor of Navan Cllr Tommy Reilly who suggested a good way to remember John was to make a donation to Drogheda Homeless Aid which offers services to people experiencing homelessness in Louth and Meath. Cllr Reilly said that he admired the work of Drogheda Homeless Aid, which, apart from Louth and Meath County Councils, was the only charitable organisation catering for the homeless in South and Mid-Louth and Meath. "This is a great gesture on the part of St Ultan's and I'm delighted that the Acting Principal Karen Byrne has gone to so much trouble in organising this gesture."

Ms Byrne, along with two other teachers and several pupils made a presentation of 1,000 to Paul Murphy representing Drogheda Homeless Aid at a special ceremony in the school, also attended by the Mayor.
Retired consultant surgeon Michael Shine, jailed last month for indecently assaulting two patients in the 1970s, has been granted bail pending an appeal against his conviction and sentence.

Shine (85), of Wellington Road in Dublin, had pleaded not guilty to eight counts of indecently assaulting six patients at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and at his private clinic, both in Drogheda, Co Louth, on dates between 1964 and 1991.

A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found him guilty of indecently assaulting two 15-year-old boys in the 1970s, the trial judge directed a not guilty verdict in respect of one complainant and the jury acquitted him on the remaining counts.

On November 2, he was given consecutive 10 month sentences in respect of each victim totalling 20 months imprisonment. The maximum sentence for the offence at the time was two years.

Shine, whose health was described as perilous on a previous occasion, has lodged an appeal against his conviction and sentence.

Granting bail pending his appeal in the three-judge court, Mr Justice Alan Mahon said Shines lawyers had drafted 17 grounds of appeal against conviction and sentence, two of which, it was contended, presented a strong possibility of the conviction appeal being successful.

Counsel for Shine, Hugh Hartnett SC, submitted that the trial judge erred in permitting the prosecution to reexamine three complainants in order to adduce evidence that they had settled civil proceedings against the hospital where Shine had worked and that the settlements amounted to 70,000 each.

Shine had no involvement in agreeing the settlements which were made in 2012.

Mr Justice Mahon, who sat with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice John Hedigan, said the court would grant bail on a number of conditions.

Shine was required to reside at his home address, appear at each court date, sign on once a week at a local garda station, undertake not to apply for a passport, and expeditiously prosecute his appeal.
I was impressed by the Dog's Trust decision to suspend pet adoptions over Christmas to avoid a large number animals being abandoned in January.

This is an increasing problem and the old adage of 'a dog is for life and not just for Christmas' has never been more appropriate.

So many people dream of the joy of introducing a new pet to the family during the festive season but do they really look beyond the cute puppy dog eyes peeping out from a cardboard box?

After last year, Dog's Trust reported that a whopping 756 people contacted the charity to hand over their new furry Christmas presents within three months.

This is a shocking level and it doesn't even include the many creatures who were probably dumped out on roads or neglected by their so-called loving new owners.

The charity is also urging people not to buy a pet at Christmas and to carefully consider the long-term responsibility of being a pet owner.

The myth that a dog is the perfect Christmas present has to be dispelled and Dog's Trust is doing a good job in highlighting the problem.

Last week, an awareness campaign also highlighted the strange trend of people buying pugs almost a fashion accessory.

Apparently, their squished little faces have propelled them to stardom and their images can be found on everything from department store gift cards to mugs to towels and shopping bags.

They are 'the' dog for any aspiring pup owner and concern has been raised that they are now the most popular breed of dog born in Ireland and the UK as a result of marketing campaigns.

It's a case of - if you want to flog an item, then put a picture of a pug on it and it will sell, which is utterly ridiculous but an issue of concern nonetheless.

In reality we are talking about living, breathing creatures and some people really will not look past Christmas Day when they decide to bring home a new pup or gift it to a young child who has no capability of looking after it. Just last week there were two separate high-profile new stories which broke in relation to severe animal neglect and cruelty.

These highlight the exactly plight that pets could face if they are bought along with the video games and boxes of chocolates.
Fingal County Council is working with the county's education and training providers as well as its major employers to ensure the county's workforce have the right skills to take advantage of an estimated 94,100 new jobs the county will create over the next five years.

Fingal County Council's economic development director, Ed Hearne made a presentation to councillors on the Fingal Skills Strategy this month which aims to prepare the county's workforce for the likely job opportunities and growth sectors in the local economy over the next five years.

Mr Hearne said the strategy seeks to 'anticipate the types of skills that are going to be required by the local economy' up to 2023.

He said the council was working with stakeholders to make sure that 'skills pipeline' was in place.

A committee has been formed made up of council officials and representatives from local education and training providers and major employers to forecast the what the various sectors of the local economy are going to need over the next five years and make sure the education and training programmes are in place locally to prepare the Fingal workforce for those opportunities.

For the purposes of the study, the county was split into the four areas, each with its own economic profile in terms of the industries it currently supports and has the opportunity develop over the next five years.

In Balbriggan and its hinterland, the key growth sectors have been identified as agriculture, forestry and fishing reflective of the business demography in Balbriggan, with strong clusters of food and beverage and agri-food businesses.

Swords and hinterland has been identified as the key area in the county for the transport and communications industry, reflecting the strong aviation sector in the area, with the presence of Dublin Airport.

In the Howth and Malahide area of the county, the key sector has been identified as the commerce and trade industry, indicative of

the 'retail centric business demography of the area', according to the Fingal Skills Strategy.

Dublin 15 has been identified as the key area in the county for building and construction, manufacturing industries; and professional services as well as clusters of pharmaceutical and high-tech R&D industries.

The council's economic director said it would now work with the help of consultants and in concert with local education institutions like Dublin City University and the Institute of Technology in Blanchardstown to 'look at the type of training courses we will have to put in place to make sure we are ready' and accordingly, 'refine course provision to make sure these training courses are in place'.

This was a preliminary presentation on the report and Mr Hearne said a final report would be completed in the new year and presented to councillors.
A revised bus timetable for Donabate and Portrane is due in the new year that will better co-ordinate the bus with local train times.

Deputy Brendan Ryan TD has been campaigning for some time to better co-ordinate the bus and rail schedules in Donabate and he recently received confirmation from the National Transport Authority (NTA) that moves are being made towards that goal in the new year.

In a letter to Deputy Ryan, the National Transport Authority's Oirachtas Liaison told the Labour TD: 'You may wish to be aware that the National Transport Authority has now approved a revised timetable of services on Dublin Bus Route 33b linking Portrane with Swords via Donabate Rail Station.

'Dublin Bus intends to introduce the revised timetable early in the New Year and will shortly announce full details of the revised timetable of services on its website.'

Deputy Ryan has been pursuing the issue for some time and this summer, he wrote to the NTA, saying: 'There has been an ongoing problem with lack of coordination in Donabate of the train service from Dublin City with the 33B bus service to Portrane. 'You may be aware that Portrane is about 3km from the rail station in Donabate. It is roughly a 36 minute walk.

'On a recent visit to Donabate I was waiting at Donabate rail station for a train to Skerries. I witnessed the bus travel across the bridge towards Portrane at 11.55pm. The train from the city arrived 6 minutes later at 12.01.

'I'm sure you would like to see, as I would, coordination of these services to allow train commuters continue on public transport to Portrane.'

Deputy Ryan said: 'I have been pushing the NTA, Irish Rail and Dublin Bus for years in relation to this issue as a relatively simple timetable adjustment would greatly benefit residents in Portrane who will be able to coordinate their public transport options to get home. I look forward to this matter being resolved in the coming months and I will keep in contact with Dublin Bus and the NTA in order to bring it to a successful conclusion.'
A fireman has been sent forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to face trial by judge and jury accused of dangerous driving causing the death of a north Co Dublin man. Emergency worker Derek Keane (38) is also facing charges of failing to offer assistance, failing to stop knowing a person was injured and a charge of failing to remain at the scene.

Callum Grimes (27), who was from the St Catherine's estate in Rush, died in Beaumont Hospital in July, six months after he was found on the Skerries to Loughshinny Road on December 27, 2016. Keane, who works as a retained firefighter in north Dublin, appeared before Swords District Court last week where he was served with a book of evidence.

The Director of Public Prosecutions directed that the defendant is to be tried on indictment and Judge Dermot Dempsey told him he was being returned for trial to Dublin Circuit Criminal where he will face his next hearing on January 19. The court also heard the accused can be sent forward to the Circuit Court on a signed guilty plea for sentencing, if that arises. However, he has not yet indicated how he will plead.

Judge Dempsey gave the defendant, who has an address at The Cottage, Loughshinny Harbour in Skerries the formal alibi warning that he must provide to the prosecution within 14 days details of any alibis he intends to rely on in the course of his trial. All of the charges the defendant is facing are contrary to Section 106 of the Road Traffic Act.

Sergeant Sean Pender said there was no objection to the defendant being remanded on continuing bail with the conditions he surrender his passport and signed on at a garda station every Wednesday between 9am and 9pm.
Friends and supporters of Seal Rescue Ireland got together recently in Ambrose Maloney's in Courtown for the 'Heal a Seal' meal.

The fundraising dinner also included a raffle, and thanks went to the businesses that donated raffle prizes, including Home restaurant, Marlfield House, The Duck, and The Bistro.

A spokesperson for Seal Rescue Ireland thanked all who attended the evening, and all who supported the centre during the year.

The festivities continued at the centre in the following days with a 'Christmas Wonderland' event for children.

Volunteers have been busy at the centre throughout the Christmas period. A total of 55 grey and common seal pups are in their care.

The next Seal Rescue Ireland event is the release of five seals on Courtown's north beach on Saturday, December 30, at 2 p.m. The event will include hot drinks on the beach and a bake sale. This will be the last release of the year, and all support would be appreciated.
At the 2017 Irish Malting Barley Excellence Awards: Koenraad Dumont, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Boormalt, John Crean, Max Potterson, winner Edward Harpur, Catherine Harpur, Paul Mernagh, Aidan Crowe, Operations Manager at Diageo Ireland and Peter Nallon, COO at Boortmalt.

County Wexford barley growers Edward Harpur, from Carrrig on Bannow and Aidan Kavanagh, from Ballydonfin, Enniscorthy are the cream of the crop.

The pair have been awarded for their excellent malting barley crops in the Wexford and New Ross and Enniscorthy supply regions at the 2017 Irish Malting Barley Excellence Awards held recently at the Guinness Storehouse.

The awards, organised by Boortmalt, one of the largest producers of malt in the world and hosted by Diageo, the largest purchaser of malting barley in Ireland, acknowledge excellence in malting barley production and promote sustainability in the supply chain.

Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture Andrew Doyle was the guest of honour and key speaker at the awards ceremony.

There are over 600 barley growers in Ireland and the Malting Barley Excellence awards bring together the best growers from the main barley supply regions of Ireland while also recognising the best seed producers.

Edward Harpur, Bannow Island, a second-generation barley grower, shared his tip for success saying, 'Our malting barley is grown on the idyllic Bannow Island on the southeast coast of Ireland, the only malting barley which is grown on an island for Boortmalt. You must look after soil fertility and give the barley the nutrition it requires to get the maximum potential out of the crop.'

Aidan Kavanagh, a second-generation malting barley grower, has his crop located in Ballydonfin Glenbrien outside Enniscorthy, shared his formula for success, 'Well sown, half grown! Knowing the capabilities of your land and farming to optimise these capabilities. If ground conditions aren't right, don't rush in to sow. Close monitoring of the crop throughout the growing season is priority, in order to meet all the specs for malting barley at harvest.
The source of a mysterious banging noise that has been distressing pets and worrying people in the Park and Newtown Road areas of Wexford has been traced to a farmer scaring crows.

Cllr George Lawlor said he had been contacted by numerous people concerned about the loud bangs.

'I asked the gardai who didn't know what it was so I put it out on social media and within a few hours I located the source to a farmer outside of Wexford town who had no idea he was causing such a nuisance. He was mortified,' said Cllr Lawlor, adding that the farmer had been contacted by a third party and a ceasefire had been agreed.
Social houses can't be developed due to water and sewerage systems reaching their full capacity in the Gorey district, reported Cllr Malcolm Byrne at last week's meeting for Gorey Municipal District.

The councillors want to take a proactive approach while they wait for Irish Water to sort out the problem. Eddie Taaffe, district director, agreed they can't be waiting five years for Irish Water and said 'it was time to think outside of the box'. A representative for Irish Water will be invited to a meeting in the new year so councillors can voice their concerns.

'We can only build in Gorey town and Courtown at the moment,' added Cllr Byrne.

Cllr Anthony Donoghue said no villages in the district have the capacity to build at the moment and they can't rely on Irish Water as that will be at least five years before anything is looked at.

'I agree, if the housing crisis is down to sewerage and water we need to look at another alternative,' said Cllr Mary Farrell.

Meanwhile, Cllr Robbie Ireton said 'we are not getting the number of units we need in the town and we need to take the bull by the horns and sort this situation out'.

Padraig O'Gorman, Housing Officer for Wexford County Council, reported they are 'making progress with such developments that will alleviate the housing problem in Gorey'.

'Two proposals for Gorey have gone in and we should find out shortly about them,' said Mr O'Gorman.

The two projects they are preparing feasibility studies for prior to the Stage 1 application is Creagh and St Joseph's in Gorey.

Mr O'Gorman also said the 'units in Baile Eoghain in Gorey should be ready this time next year'.

However, Cllr John Hegarty wants the affordable housing scheme to be the focus for next year as 'it would be an ideal scenario in Gorey with the demand of house prices'.

'Once we get approval, we will advertise the scheme and look at the demand from applicants,' said Mr O'Gorman.

He added they are developing a format for housing and planning, where they will match up places that are in demand and said 'it will quickly tell us where we can acquire plans'.

Cllr Pip Breen said we have villages in the district with a huge want for housing. 'This stage we need to push it as Gorey needs it,' added Cllr Breen.
Around 400 people packed into Christ Church Gorey recently for an inspirational evening of music.

The High Hopes choir from Dublin gave a stirring performance led by guest conductor Phil Brennan, who, in between songs, spoke to the members of the choir about their experiences with homelessness.

Phil also brought along members of the Omagh Peace Choir who also gave a delightful performance.

The event was organised by first year students of a business and administration course at Gorey VTOS, under the supervision of class tutor Fiona Wickham. Funds raised will go to Focus Ireland.

VTOS co-ordinator Noreen Traynor said it was a fantastic evening, which was quite moving. Thanks went to all who supported the event, including: Jalanda and Wholesome for helping sell tickets; Jack Dunne for the suit hire; the businesses and individuals that gave raffle prizes; Phil Brennan; Mandy O'Callaghan on keyboard; the choirs; and Christ Church for hosting.

Call to Gorey VTOS on the Avenue, across from the library for upcoming course information or contact 053 9421791.
The men behind the newly formed Dingle Men's Shed opened the door on what they've been doing for the past couple of months and what the group is all about at an open day that involved a lot of tea, mince pies and chat on Saturday.

The idea behind the Men's Shed movement, which started in Australia and arrived in Ireland in 2011, is to make a space where men do the kind of things men do in a shed. The big difference is that, rather than being solitary, the Men's Shed is sociable place where the lads can work on projects, share skills and interests, or just hang out.

The project was kick-started at a meeting organised by NEWKD in the spring but, after that, the men themselves 'ran with the ball'. They faced a major obstacle in locating a suitable premises. Nothing was to be found in Dingle but Fr Jim Sheehy and his family very generously made some outhouses available in Ballintaggart. It was a good start, but it needed work and the group had no money. The Presentation Sisters donated timber and other useful bits and pieces from the old convent, Padraig Firtear did likewise with unwanted material from the former CBS, and the work got underway.

Six months later, and by the sweat of their collective brows, the men have turned the outhouse into a shed that's high grade by any standards. There's no fixed agenda for what comes next; essentially, the men's shed is whatever the members want it to be.

In the meantime, men are very welcome to call in and use the shed as a place to work on their hobbies, share skills and socialise. There's sombody there most days between 11am and 1pm or contact Fr Jim Sheehy on 086 262 5498.
UCC was a buzz of excitement recently as students from all corners of the country converged on the campus for the National Model United Nations.

All knew that a long weekend of debating awaited but in between there would be plenty of friends to be made and plenty laughs to be had.

MUN is a debating competition where each delegate receives a country and a committee. A topic is chosen, and delegates must research in advance and outline its countries stance on the issue.

Various motions are discussed over the weekend in a light-hearted and humorous manner while maintaining the seriousness of the topic at hand. At the end of the two days delegates come together to write resolutions that are voted on to decide which is the best.

Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai had nine students involved and everybody thoroughly enjoyed the weekend, with two students leaving with awards for their efforts. Sixth-year Conor O hOrgain took the prize of Best Delegate (1st Place) on the UN security council representing France.

Also, I won an Honourable Mention (Third Place) in the UN Human Rights Council representing America.

These feats are quite impressive when you consider that there were twenty people or more on most committees.

All of us were in a jubilant mood as we arrived back in Tralee.

We had an amazing weekend and are looking forward to competing again next year. Also, thanks to Bean D'Altuin who gave up her weekend to travel with us and the organisers in U.C.C who made sure the event ran smoothly.

M.U.N is a great way to increase public speaking skills and I would certainly recommend more schools getting involved next year!
It may have gotten off to a slow start but Christmas in Tralee has proved to be a very happy occasion for the town's traders.

Business was a little slack for the first few weeks of the Christmas shopping season but the 10 day run into the holiday season saw a surge in shoppers and plenty of ringing tills.

Most shops enjoyed a very profitable week ahead of the holiday weekend and several said Saturday - when the town was thronged with families - was one of the most profitable single days they have had in years.

Pubs, hotels, restaurants and cafes have also had a very busy Christmas with most hostelries almost entirely booked out and packed with revellers over the last two weekends.

The newly refurbished Mall - which was packed every day last week - has also been hailed by many as a tremendous addition to Tralee Christmas atmosphere.

Tralee Chamber Alliance CEO Kieran Ruttledge said the body's members reported a positive festive season. "Some were extremely happy with business while others reported a slight increase on last year," he said.

"Overall though most are up and I think everyone is very pleased with how things went," said Mr Ruttledge.

"The Mall has proved to be very popular and it has been very busy. We will have to wait and see how that plays out over the rest of the year. It could be a different story in February for example. It's all up for review in 12 months so there's time to see how it all works out," he said.
Lollipop Lady Catherine Dolan was honoured by staff and pupils in a school-wide ceremony after she announced her retirement after 14years in the role

Emotions were running high at CBS Primary School in Tralee last week as staff and pupils said goodbye to two of the most beloved parts of school life.

Deputy Principal Pat Costello and school Lollipop Lady Catherine Dolan, both shining stars in their roles, were honoured last week for their long and dedicated service to the school .

"We are all so sorry to see Catherine retire, she is and always has been a treasured part of our school," read a touching post on the CBS Primary Tralee Facebook page on Thursday.

"Always smiling and ready for a chat - she has been adored by all all the children whose lives she touched," the post continued. Catherine's contribution to the school was celebrated in a school wide ceremony on Thursday morning - a ceremony in which Mayor of Tralee, Norma Foley, spoke highly of Catherine and her work. With emotions already at a peak, Friday then brought the end of the 40 year era of Deputy Principal Pat Costello's.

"His contribution to our school has been immense to say the least. He has touched so many lives during his time here," read another emotional post on the schools Facebook. ""His calm, friendly, confident, supportive manner and his exceptional teaching ability will be remembered for a long time yet - you cannot retire from greatness," it finished.
There was no Christmas present for one of the poorest main roads into the county as the N69 failed to get so much as a red cent for repairs in the annual allocation for national roads under Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), announced last week.

The N69 national secondary route in Kerry - running from Tarbert into Tralee - is set to deteriorate for another year amid very real fears for the public safety of motorists.

Just 100,000 of the overall allocation of nearly 18 million went to the N69 - to fund the design of the Listowel bypass. 4 million was meanwhile allocated for the Tralee -Dingle N86.

"Three parts of the N69 in particular are now so bad that cars are driving in the centre of the road in a deeply worrying effect of its deterioration in these parts," Fianna Fail councillor Jimmy Moloney warned.

"Despite having repeatedly called for funding, the N69 didn't get a singe cent under the 8 million pavement resurfacing allocation. We will now see the road only get worse for another 12 months," Cllr Moloney added.

The N69 is at its worst between Banemore and the Coolnaleen Cross at Finuge; along the Lidl to Ballygologue section of the John B Keane Road in Listowel and at Caherdown to the north of the town.

"As members of the Council we seem to be constantly battling the public's perception in this part of the county that North Kerry is the poor relation of South Kerry. This certainly doesn't make that battle any easier."

Cllr Moloney wrote to Council bosses last week and is now calling on the TII to show how it came to its decision.
Sinn Fein Councillor Damian Quigg has asked Kerry County Council to write to the HSE asking what plans are in place to screen people with Lyme disease who may be donating blood.

Cllr Quigg tabled the motion at a recent council meeting where he stated that people who may not know they have Lyme disease could be donating blood which can lead to cross contamination. Council management said the matter is currently under consideration.

"If people get Lyme disease there is nothing to stop them from donating blood considering there is a strong possibility the disease may be passed on without even knowing it," he said.

Although cases of Lyme disease linked to blood transfusions are considered low, Lyme disease bacteria can live in blood from a person with an active infection that is stored for donation. An international Red Cross source said individuals being treated for Lyme disease with antibiotics should not donate blood.

The Killorglin based Councillor is also asking that a common method of testing for Lyme disease be implemented across Europe and not a system specific to individual laboratories.

Cllr Quigg said, in his opinion, the lack of a positive response to the Lyme disease issue in Kerry is being affected by concerns over the tourism industry, in particular Killarney National Park as deer are considered prime carriers of infected ticks.

"The officials need to put more signs up and create awareness as this is a real situation and not some made up health concern. It's just not right having one method of testing in Germany as this goes against everything the Europe Union is supposed to be about."

He added: "There should be a cross departmental strategy or standard testing procedure. We need to ask why Lyme disease can be tested for in Germany and Portadown but not in the Republic."

The HSE was contacted for a comment but no reply was received at the time of going to print.

The issue of Lyme disease in Kerry featured prominently throughout 2017 with several personal stories by sufferers reporting on their frustration over what they say is a lack of awareness by health officials in diagnosing and treating Lyme disease. In October, upwards of 30 people from Kerry protested over Lyme disease awareness at Leinster House as part of the national 'Tick Talk' group.

Coinciding with this protest was a presentation by Dr Jack Lambert - a Consultant Specialist in Exotic Disease at the Mater Hospital - who spoke to Oireachtas members about the intervention measures needed to tackle the disease.

He outlined that better treatment was needed as patients currently need to travel to Germany and the US for diagnoses and treatment. Better education among primary care physicians, better public knowledge, and the importance of early intervention were also key priorities listed by Dr Lambert.
The Kerry Local Enterprise Office (LEO) has reported a successful 2017 as renewed confidence becomes evident in the small business sector.

Grant aid in the sum of 346,463 was approved in respect of 25 micro enterprises with the potential to create 69 full time jobs and 64 part time/seasonal jobs.

This additional support will help retain an additional 38 jobs in supported businesses.

In addition, Kerry County Council spent a further 260,000 on the provision of a range of training initiatives. Almost 900 people took part in these events which included business start up training, business growth training, digital marketing and networking.

The Mentoring Programme made over 100 assignments across a range of disciplines including marketing, sales and digital marketing strategies.

The Food Academy Programme concluded in March with 13 early stage food producers completing the six month programme and were offered placements in SuperValu.

The newly introduced "Lean for Micro" Programme has also been met with strong enthusiasm by businesses.

In addition the LEO ran a vibrant Student Enterprise Programme which saw over 60 mini-businesses being set up by more than 200 second level school students around the county.

Meanwhile the office's Online Trading Voucher Scheme has approved vouchers to 60 businesses to assist online trading initiatives. These vouchers have a value of up to 2,500 and successful clients indicate potential additional employment of up to 30 jobs as a result of online trading.

The national Microfinance Ireland loan fund was promoted locally and 15 businesses submitted applications for funding up to 25,000 each with the support of the office.

The LEO also launched the Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur Competition with over 60 Kerry based businesses competing for the prize fund of 50,000.

The winners of the local competition participated in regional finals.

Head of the Kerry LEO Tomas Hayes said 2017 had been a positive year for business growth across the county.

"It has been an interesting year for business and our office is seeing growing activity on the ground. Our supports are practical. There are positive stories in relation to new business and expansions. We need these stories. Our work is about supporting expanding businesses also," he said.

"These projects will enable people to live, work and develop businesses in their own communities thereby contributing to rural development in a tangible way. We continue to have an excellent response to our programmes. The transformation to the Local Enterprise Office within Kerry County Council has now been completed and the ongoing promotion of our office will strengthen its impact," said Mr Hayes.

2018 training schedules are currently under development and people can book on line at www.localenterprise.ie/kerry.
The HSE's South/South West Hospital Group say that almost 22,000 suspect scan images out of 46,300 that must be reviewed at University Hospital Kerry (UHK) have now been checked.

The hospital has said that 34 patients have now been recalled as a result of concerns arising from the recheck but that none of these cases have required further clinical follow ups.

According to the HSE, the reviews completed so far account for more than half of the patients impacted.

It is expected to take around six weeks for the eight strong team that is carrying out the recheck to complete the review.

The review involves 46,302 scans - relating to 26,751 patients - which were examined by a single locum radiologist who was employed at UHK from March 2016 to July 2017.

In July and August this year management at the hospital were notified of three missed cancer diagnoses that had not been picked up by the locum when they examined the patients' files.

The radiologist was immediately placed on administrative leave and a preliminary audit of their work was carried out.

Based on this audit it was decided to carry out a recheck of every single scan the radiologist had examined while employed at the hospital.

To date, the recheck has uncovered a further four missed cancer diagnoses bringing the total to seven.

The radiologist at the centre of the scandal resigned from their position on October 18 and is no longer employed by the HSE.

The crisis which has engulfed the hospital since news of the initially secret recheck broke in the press, has led to serious questions about the prior management of the unit and the workload of its staff.

Sinn Fein Councillor Toireasa Ferris, has said more questions on practices and procedures at UHK need to be answered by both the HSE and the Minister for Health Simon Harris.

"For at least 10 years Deputy Martin Ferris (SF) has been calling on successive Ministers for Health to address the under resourcing of the Radiology Unit and other units at the hospital. Staff and unions have also been highlighting continued under resourcing," she said.

"We need to know what procedures were put in place after the incident of 2013 when six patients were recalled after another review of scans had taken place," she said.

"What protocols and procedures were put in place to ensure another incident of this nature did not happen again? It seems that lessons were not learned from that incident four years ago," said Cllr Ferris.

The Minister for Health has said he is satisfied with the management of a major scan review.
Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Leaving Cert students taking part in Thursday nights sleepover at the all-Irish secondary in Tralee as part of the schools fundraising efforts for homeless centre Arlington Lodge

An incredible 2,500 was raised for homeless shelter Arlington Lodge by students of the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai in a campaign that saw sixth years at the secondary staging a 'sleepover' - to get a taste of what homeless people must be experiencing this Christmas.

"It was eye-opening for all of us. While it was only for one night and indoors it was nonetheless of little home comfort with no beds and no showers the following morning," teacher Maire Ni Laocha, who also camped out in the school with the students, said.

Meanwhile, second years at the all-Irish school put together a phenomenal amount of shoeboxes that were - along with the then 1,800 raised -presented to Arlington Lodge manager Ronan Doherty on Thursday. "But the response from the public has been wonderful with the money still coming in as people call into the office to the point where the students have now succeeded in raising an incredible 2,500," Maire said on Friday.

"This whole campaign was an initiative of the students who now urge people to treat the homeless with the dignity they would anyone," Maire added.
The accommodation offering and restaurant scene in New Ross has been boosted by the opening of the Kennedy Boutique Hotel on the quay in New Ross.

The hotel, which features balconies at the front and back, and has 16 bedrooms, including a penthouse suite opened to the public on December 9 and has been warmly received by visitors to date.

Thirty people are employed at the hotel which combines a contemporary style with a warm, Irish traditional welcome.

Downstairs there is a bar, the Lady Lane Lounge, where food can be enjoyed and a cafe complete with a fire. Yanks steak restaurant overlooking the Barrow offers fine dining and wines and The Marshal Suite caters for up to 80 guests. Carvery food is served and there is space for family events.

The Kennedy Boutique Hotel has transform the quay front of the town and the L&N car park area, adding around 90 beds to the town's accommodation offering, between the hotel and its suites located nearby on North Quay.

Owned by businessman Willie O'Leary from Ramsgrange, the hotel is using the Kennedy name to attract American and Irish visitors in numbers to the town. Work started on the old Riverview Hotel on August 8. A balcony was built at the front of the hotel and the entrance is located at the side on Lady Lane bar which features music and cocktails. The cafe looks out on the quay and both the restaurants and cafe serve food sourced locally.
Ibrahim Halawa and his sister Fatima at Clayton Whites Hotel on their visit to Wexford. From left, Deirdre Baker, Ed Baker, Trish Robinson, Ibrahim Halawa, Cllr Johnny Mythen, Cllr Mick Roche, Fatima Halawa, Simon Fergus, Lorraine Smyth, Richard Walsh and Stephen Eustace

After four hard years in Egyptian jails, Dubliner Ibrahim Halawa is fulsome in his praise of the people of Wexford - his adopted home - who helped secure his release.

Ibrahim arrived in the town late one recent Tuesday night, where he had a date to launch the Amnesty International screening of the documentary 'Clash' at Wexford Arts Centre.

The film is set around the turmoil that followed the ousting of former president Morsi from power, which saw thousands of people, including him arrested.

Some of those arrested at that time are still in jail accused of being members of the banned Muslim Brotherhood.

Ibrahim had faced death by hanging on charges that ranged from inciting violence to murder, but was acquitted in October after being held in several detention centres and following a long campaign for his freedom, which had widespread backing in Ireland and in Wexford in particular.

There was no apology from the Egyptian state for the four years they had robbed from him, which had denied his family from seing him grow from a teenager into a young man. Arrested when he was just 17, Ibrahim turned 22 last Wednesday.

Trish Robinson, from Amnesty in Wexford, said it was perhaps a blessing that Ibrahim missed the film which she described as harrowing, with images of people being thrown into the backs of police vans as they were rounded up by Egyptian security forces.

Ibrahim had planned to be in Wexford hours earlier, but an invitation to Government Buildings and Leinster House by the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, whom Ibrahim says was a prime mover in him winning his freedom, and Minister Katherine Zappone proved irresistible.

Ms Zappone had invited Ibrahim and sister Nosayba to meet politicians who supported the campaign to free him.

'At every stage of their visit to the Dail, Ibrahim and his sister expressed their huge thanks to the people of Ireland, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the politicians who worked for his freedom,' said the Minister.

Hours later in Wexford, Trish and Lorraine Smyth, from Amnesty in Wexford, were in the welcome party at Clayton Whites to meet Ibrahim when he arrived at around 11 p.m. following the meet and greet in the corridors of power.

'It was like we had always known him,' said Trish during an interview with Ibrahim by this newspaper the following morning.

Ibrahim said that until you had been locked away from your loved ones, you would never know just how much it meant to receive support and that he had received from Wexford has helped him through some very dark times.

'The backing was essential to keep me going and to keep my family going and to be here is fantastic,' he said.

Eloquent and personable, Ibrahim said he hoped to campaign for human rights and for the rights of prisoners throughout the world, his unique perspective providing a window into a hidden world of abuse and torture, which he had experienced at first hand.

'There are a lot of people around the world who need help, many in prison away from their families.

'And I would also like to help the homeless here at home in Ireland. I have some ideas, but I don't to talk publicly about them yet,' he said.

Another aspect of his imprisonment is that it cut short his education. At the time of his arrest Ibrahim was planning to become an engineer, but is instead heading to college next year to study for a degree in IT and business, a career path that will help him get his message out.

Asked whether he felt bitter at his fate, his years locked up for crimes he did not commit, he is remarkably accepting.

'They took four years of my life, but gave me four years of experience,' he said, 'I did need to see that side of the violation of human rights to understand it.'

Ibrahim believes that the change of Taoiseach made a huge difference to his cause when he was in jail and things really began moving after Leo Varadkar took over.

'He did a lot to help me,' he said.

A few days before his trip to Wexford, Ibrahim denied any connections with extremism and the Muslim Brotherhood.

'I don't support the Muslim Brotherhood, I don't support their ideology.. as a 17 year old you don't even know what a Muslim Brotherhood is. You don't know what an organisation is basically other than a human rights organisation.'

Ibrahim said he still wasn't used to being free and it still felt somewhat surreal.

He said he read a lot in prison after his going on hunger strike forced the authorities to allow him books and books such as Nelson Mandela's 'Long Walk to Freedom' inspired him.

But it was primarily support from his family, support from the people of Ireland, support from the people of Wexford and an Irish government that determined to press his case, that led to freedom and he was savouring every minute during his visit to the town that adopted him.

Ibrahim's father, Sheikh Hussein Halawa, is the Imam of the Clonskeagh mosque in Dublin.

* Meanwhile Amnesty International is asking people to join their Write for Rights campaign to help free people from human rights abuses throughout the world.

You can read about the people Amnesty is fighting for at www.amnesty.org/writeforrights.

Your letters, words and actions will put pressure on decision-makers to take immediate action. With your help, governments will be held to account. Prisoners of conscience will be released.
The Irish Heart Foundation will host an inaugural 'Heart to Heart Charity Luncheon' at the Radisson Sligo on February 9th next.

It is anticipated the Heart to Heart Luncheon will become an annual fixture in the Irish Heart Foundation's calendar with net proceeds from the luncheon going to the Irish Heart Foundation to support research, advocacy, education and provision of services in the continuing fight against heart disease and stroke, specifically the Stroke Support Group based in Sligo.

Clare Ronan of Ocean FM will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, while Dr Paula Hickey and Dr Donal Murphy of Sligo University Hospital, will speak to the impact of the Irish Heart Foundation in our community.

Dr Paula Hickey of Sligo University Hospital says: "In Ireland we are ageing successfully - more and more of us leading healthy active lives when middle-aged or retired. However along with the growing number of older people in our society, we are witnessing a rise in the numbers suffering stroke - the major cause of disability in adults in this country.

"We are therefore grateful to the Irish Heart Foundation in supporting us locally in raising awareness and in fund-raising to support our ongoing efforts in prevention, treatment and support for those who are victims of stroke"

This year's event will be enhanced by the inspiring story of IT Sligo's Padraic Cuffe, a stoke survivor and member of the local Stroke Support Group. Tickets cost 50, contact mgreene@irishheart.ie for more.
Brexit has been one of the hottest topics of the year, and Sligo students have been well versed in the topic all year thanks to the work of EDIC Sligo.

Last week, Mr. Francis Jacobs was invited by EDICSligo to give a lecture on 'Brexit and its implication for Ireland'. Students from local secondary Schools, the Mercy and Summerhill as well as interested members of the public attended the event that was introduced by Sligo County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Seamus Kilgannon.

Francis worked with the European Parliament since the first direct elections in 1979 and was the Head of the European Parliament Office in Ireland from 2006 until his retirement in 2016. He is an Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at University College Dublin, and gives lectures on the European Union in several Irish Universities, as well as in a number of other countries.

His lecture looked at the Europe of the 60's and 70's and how the 'British Empire' was in full decline. The initial membership of both Britain and Ireland in 1973 to the EEC was a shifting of the balance of power even though Ireland was initially very dependent on its larger neighbour. His talk also looked at Euro Scepticism that was always evident within the UK Parliament & as a result of over confidence within the ruling Tory government was allowed to sway the referendum to vote 'leave'.
Irish Coast Guard and RNLI urge people to Respect the Water and stay safe over the festive season.

The Irish Coast Guard and the RNLI have issued a joint safety message for the festive season to remind people to stay safe when they are in or near the water over the holiday period and to remember some basic safety advice, to use if they see someone in trouble or get into difficulty themselves.

Gerard O'Flynn Coast Guard Operations Manager said: "Many people will be engaging in outdoor activities along the coastline between Christmas and the New Year. The simple safety message is; Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.

"New Year swims are a popular pursuit and we would urged the public to only participate in organised swims where medical support and lifeguards are available." The three Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Centres based in Malin, Valentia and Dublin, along with the Coast Guard Helicopter service and Coast Guard Volunteer units will remain operational over the holiday period.

"We remind the public that if you see anybody in danger at sea, on the coast or on cliffs to call the Coast Guard on 112."
A 38-year-old man has been given a three year suspended jail term for his part in an arson attack at the home of another man in which his car was destroyed.

Sligo Circuit Court was told Patrick Joseph Hegarty of Calry Court Apartments, Stephen Street had got involved in a dispute with members of the Murrin family.

He apologised for his actions and his regret was accepted by the victim, Tony Murrin in court. Both men shook hands and also embraced each other after Hegarty left the witness box. Hegarty had pleaded guilty to the arson of Mr Murrin's Skoda Fabia car at 4 St Anne's Terrace in the early hours of September 18th 2015.

Last July a co-accused, John Dennedy of Racecourse View, Cranmore was jailed for 18 months. He pleaded guilty to damaging by fire the sitting room window of the house.

The court heard that there was family feud going on and that Mr Murrin and Dennedy's father were brothers.

The 2004 Skoda Fabia, worth 2,000 was destroyed in the fire after a window was smashed and an accelerant was poured in. An attempt was made to set the house on fire while Mr Murrin and his family were present.

The front window was broken and damaged estimated at 150 was caused.

Mr Murrin told the sentencing hearing of Hegarty that the damage could have been much worse had the accused not intervened with Dennedy.

"He (Hegarty) tried his best that night. Only for him we'd have been dead," said Mr Murrin from the body of the court after asking could he address the court.

Hegarty replied: "Thank you Tony."

Judge Johnson said he was impressed by the defendant's apology and that Mr Murrin deserved great credit for his intervention. The court heard there was a dispute over the ownership of 4 St Anne's Terrace which belonged to the victim's mother and the accused's grandmother.

There had also been an incident at the District Court earlier that day which had annoyed Dennedy. After setting the car on fire, Dennedy broke a front window in the house and attempted to set the property on fire. The incident was captured on CCTV and the footage was shown to the court.

He had shouted at Hegarty to "squirt it in and I'll burn them up like a rolly,"

Mr Murrin was in bed when the attack happened at around 4.45am. He heard Dennedy outside shouting at him to come. Mr Murrin saw that his car was on fire and he also heard glass breaking downstairs.

He shouted at his family members to get out and he ran into the street. He saw Dennedy, his nephew and knew the man with him as P. J.

Garda Danny Grimes agreed that Hegarty didn't have a particular axe to grind with Mr Murrin and seemed to have been brought along on the night by Dennedy.

In his Victim Impact Statement, Mr Murrin said his health had suffered badly since the incident. He was brought to hospital by ambulance suffering from chest pains the next morning. He declined to stay as he feared for the safety of his children.

In May 2015 he had three stints placed in his heart and was living in constant fear of attack. He was on edge when his boys go out in case anything might happen them. He was on heart medication and also anti-depressants.

He said all his family wanted was to be able to relax in their home and get a good night's sleep. He and his family were emotionally and mentally scarred as a result of the traumatic incident. Garda Grimes said he met Dennedy and Hegarty out of breath near the scene and both smelled of petrol. Dennedy was topless. Both were arrested.

Hegarty was interviewed at 2.39pm that same day having been allowed time to sober up.

He revealed how he had been drinking with Dennedy who was "raging" over a verbal exchange he had with Mr Murrin earlier that day at the District Court.

Hegarty said he didn't remember being at St Anne's Terrace. He was shown the CCTV footage and he agreed that he had poured petrol into the car and that it also appeared he had sprayed a liquid into the sitting room. He agreed that what he did was reckless. He described it as being "freaky and scary." He agreed that he had now got himself involved in a family feud.

He was remorseful, said Garda Grimes., who said Hegarty was extremely drunk on the night. Ms Foynes outlined a number of previous convictions the defendant had.

Garda Grimes agreed with Mr Keith O'Grady BL (defending) that Hegarty was an entirely different person when sober and that he had been the lesser of the two participants that night. Garda Grimes also agreed that Hegarty thought he was going over to St Anne's for a fight.

Mr O'Grady, who handed in a psychiatric report to court, said the defendant had taken out two credit union loans one for 1,500 and another for 500 to pay for the damage he caused, the loans got with the help of the people running the hostel where he was now living. He was also deeply involved in the Men's Shed in Letterkenny.

Mr O'Grady said the defendant was repentant and while he had tackled his alcohol issue there had been a "couple of slips since."

"I'm asking you to consider an alternative to the immediate imposition of a custodial sentence," he pleaded.

He added that Hegarty, a father of three, had no gripe with Mr Murrin was not a danger or a risk to the family.

Hegarty, in evidence, apologised to Mr Murrin saying he didn't even know him. He had no involvement since with Dennedy since and "I won't have." He described himself as an alcoholic but that he was doing very well at the moment.

Judge Johnson said while it was accepted he had acted in concert with Dennedy, the defendant had played a more minor role. The defendant was there at the behest of Dennedy. Mr Murrin stated that he did prevent further damage by intervening with Dennedy and this was a hugely mitigating factor.

"Alcoholism is the root cause of your offending and if you stay sober you have a lot to offer to society," said the Judge. A three year jail term was imposed, suspended for five years. He must also keep the peace for five years and undergo probation service supervision for two years. He must also stay alcohol free and engage with the mental health services.
There are now over 1000 Irish students registered on degree programmes, taught through English, in Dutch universities.

A roadshow with students and tutors will come to Sligo in January, offering families the opportunity to meet the universities and Irish students (including Sligo students) who are studying there. The 'OMG We're Going Dutch' event is in the Sligo Park Hotel, on 10th January at 1830.

Celia McGuiness, Guidance Counsellor at Sligo Grammar says:"I joined a tour by Guidance Counsellors of the Netherlands, organised by EUNiCAS. I started off thinking this was all too good to be true but came back stunned by the quality on offer and the level of the opportunities available."

She says entry levels are not based on Leaving Cert points. Tuition Fees at EUR2060 are already low, can be recouped by way of an interest-free loan from the Dutch government. Not only can students take their SUSI Grant with them but there is further financial support from the Dutch government.
Tributes were paid to retiring Superintendent Mary Murray at the recent Joint Policing Committee meeting at the Clayton Hotel.

Supt. Murray was the first female Superintendent to be appointed at Sligo Garda Station when she took up the role in 2010.

She joined the force in 1981, and served her early years in Manorhamilton and Sligo and following promotion to Sergeant she was posted to Blacklion and later again to the North Leitrim town and Sligo town. When she was appointed Inspector she spent some time in Pearse Street in Dublin before returning to Sligo to work in the office of Assistant Commissioner for the Northern Region, Kieran Kenny.

Paying tribute to Supt. Murray, the new Chief Super at Sligo Garda Station, Aidan Glacken, said her commitment to the job goes beyond what is asked of her.

"For Mary, this is her last JPC meeting. Mary's has been here for six of seven years.

"She was actually on leave today and came along which is indicative of Mary's commitment to public service.

"I want to wish her well in the future. I've known Mary for a long time in a personal and a professional capacity.

He added: "She is a person of integrity, commitment and commitment to public service that goes way beyond what is required but it is part of Mary's personality and she has done her utmost to serve the public in Sligo over the years.

"I want to wish her well in retirement and to thank her for her support to me in my short time here and also her support to the wider community."

Rosaleen O'Grady, Chair of the JPC added: "Super Mary Murray was a huge help to elected members of the council.

"Thank you for all of your support. We built up a great rapport with you and we wish you all the best."

Supt. Murray said: "I'd like to thank everyone, all the local councillors, members, Gardai and the chair for all your support. Together we have solved plenty of problems, we had a very healthy discussion and open debate.

"Any time I looked for help and assistance I got it.

"Also the media, they have always been good friends to the Gardai."
Young supporters with Lions President Pat OBrien at one of the recent cash collections

Wicklow and District Lions Club held its annual food and cash appeal at the SuperValu store in Wicklow town with some great support from members of St Vincent de Paul in Rathdrum.

All food collected will be distributed to very worthy people in need this festive season through St Vincent de Paul, while all the money collected will be handed out in voucher form to many deserving causes locally.

The President and members would like to thank the shopping public who gave so generously to the collection, as well as toward previous collections. Members of the public also supported a collection held in November at Tesco.

The generosity of local people at this time of year is always wonderful and very much appreciated by the local club.

On Christmas Eve the Wicklow Lions held their final collection of the year as Wicklow Male Voice Choir belted out some carols from outside Track One Music at Fitzwilliam Square.

The always-popular Lions Quiz Nights return after the Christmas break on January 24 2018 in Whistler's Bar in Wicklow town. The last quiz of 2017 took place in The Arches, Rathnew, with Joe Neiland, Ethna Neiland, Pauline Carton and Tina Neiland coming out on top.
Colin Huggett who retires from Arklow Active Retirement after more than a decade of service

Warm tributes were paid to long-serving member of Arklow Active Retirement Association (ARA) Colin Huggett, who retired from the group recently.

Colin was surrounded by friends and fellow ARA members for their final Friday coffee morning before Christmas where they made a special presentation to mark his 10 years of membership and service to the group.

Since he took on the role of secretary a decade ago, Colin has been the driving force behind the group and did a great job of organising many club events, outings and the popular Friday gatherings at Arus Lorcain.

Group treasurer Anne O'Connell paid tribute to Colin and said that he will be sorely missed by the members.

'Colin will be very much missed. He has been 10 years at the helm and has put in an awful lot of work into the group. We will miss his photographic skills and his presence at the meetings, though he assures us he will pop in from time to time,' she said.

'We intend to carry on Colin's legacy and to continue to hold regular events and meetings. He put an awful lot of time and energy into the group and it is very much appreciated,' Anne added.
An Ashford man was almost shot dead by Police in Canada after driving his SUV through the doors of a bank.

Last week, Patrick Shannon (30) received a suspended sentence with 18 months of probation in relation to the incident on January 2. Mr Shannon, a managing partner of Shannon's Pub and Grill in Regina, had been facing seven charges in relation to incidents, but pleaded guilty at Regina Provincial Court to three: mischief and two counts of assaulting a police officer.

Crown prosecutor Kim Jones told the court two police officers responded to a complaint in the early hours of January 2 about a black SUV smashing through the front doors of the Scotiabank on 13th Avenue.

The SUV was located nearby and the two officers cautiously approached it. One of the police men spotted what looked to be a firearm inside the vehicle. Mr Shannon was pulled from the SUV and the officers attempted to arrest him, but found Mr Shannon resisting with 'extraordinary strength.'

The officers tried a variety of ways to get him under control to no avail but finally managed to subdue him after back-up arrived. One of the officers told the court just how close he came to shooting Mr Shannon.

'I can honestly say I was very close to using my firearm to stop Mr Shannon. I was legitimately worried if he was able to get onto his feet he would then have tried to kill my partner and I. He is lucky to be alive right now.'

It later turned out the pistol in the SUV was actually a pellet gun. It eventually required up to seven or eight men to get Mr Shannon under control.

Mr Jones said mental health problems lay at the heart of Mr Shannon's behaviour that night. Regina Provincial Court Judge Pat Reis agreed to impose an 18-month probation period. The sentence contains conditions intended to see Mr Shannon get help for mental health issues.
Jenny Dixon and boyfriend Tom Neville (TD) as they took to the red carpet at the Audi Gala screening of Free Fire at the Audi Dublin International Film Festival. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Jenny Dixon and boyfriend Tom Neville (TD) at Breast Cancer Ireland's Battle of the Stars lip-syncing and dancing fundraiser at the Intercontinental Hotel. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Jenny Dixon at the Peter Mark VIP Style Awards 2017 at The Marker Hotel Dublin. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Jenny Dixon at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture :Brian McEvoy

Jenny Dixon at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture :Brian McEvoy

Fair City star Jenny Dixon knows how to work a red carpet.

The actress enjoyed a night out in Dublin on Thursday as she attended special gala screening of the movie Snatched.

Known for her elegant red carpet looks, Jenny cemented her style credentials in a figure hugging powder blue dress.

The RTE star added to the look with black court shoes and wore her long blonde hair in tousled waves.

Expand Close Jenny Dixon at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture :Brian McEvoy / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Jenny Dixon at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture :Brian McEvoy

Jenny, who plays blonde bombshell Kerri-Ann Boyle, first hit headlines in 2010 when it emerged that she enjoyed spending the summer partying at Hugh Hefner's Playboy Mansion.

She began working on Fair City in 2013. She previously said her "goal is always to do something I'm proud of".

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 Gail McNamara and Clara Pitcher at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Tara Walsh and Kate Murphy at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Sara Reinhardt, Alice Reinhardt and Grace Barry at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Lauren O'Halloran and Charlie O'Halloran at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Niamh Corcoran and Luke Cowhl at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Catriona O'Connor at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Darren Regazzoli and Simona Gagyte at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Anna Nicholls and Shannon Buckley Barnes at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Zizzy O'Byrne and Rebecca Horan at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Sam Sparrow and Aoife Murray at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Olivia Hogan at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Melinda McDonagh and Daynah Lee at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Cathy O' Connor at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Jenny Dixon at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Laura Behan and Claire Behan at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Romy Carroll at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Kathryn Delaney and Georgia Conroy at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Elaine Roden, Elaine Leonard and Shibby Roche at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Lauren O'Kelly and Sophie O'Kelly at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Olivia Quinn and Eimear O'Reilly at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Claire Craig at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Anne Marie Dunphy and Grainne Cullen at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Sandy Dempsey and Mivian Hegarty at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Kristine Eglite and Sarah Ellard at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy Ziz O'Byrne and Rory Cashin at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Gail McNamara and Clara Pitcher at the special gala screening of Snatched at Cineworld, Dublin Picture: Brian McEvoy

Jenny has been dating Fine Gael TD Tom Neville since November, but the pair only went public with their relationship after a trip to Italy at the start of the year.

"It's lovely," she said of their romance. "It's all so nice. We're both pretty focused on our careers and we both love being busy. His work is also important to him so he's okay with it."

Expand Close Jenny Dixon at the Peter Mark VIP Style Awards 2017 at The Marker Hotel Dublin. Picture: Brian McEvoy / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Jenny Dixon at the Peter Mark VIP Style Awards 2017 at The Marker Hotel Dublin. Picture: Brian McEvoy
Ascension welcomes the Rev. Bob Spencer

TWIN FALLS  Ascension Episcopal Church invites the community to celebrate the first Sunday of Christmas season at 9 a.m. Sunday at the church, 371 Eastland Dr. N. The Rev. Bob Spencer will preach and preside at Holy Communion. Spencer currently serves regularly at Grace Episcopal Church, Glenns Ferry, and also serves at other parishes throughout the Diocese of Idaho as a supply priest.

Child care will be available from 8:45 a.m. until after the worship service. A fellowship coffee hour will follow the service. Ascension Cafe will not meet this Sunday.

It will be the final Sunday for the in-gathering of hats, mittens, scarves and other warm clothing  to be donated to the Court Appointed Special Advocates for children program. These items decorate a Giving Tree in the gathering area of the church.

Ascension Episcopal Church is handicapped-accessible. More information: call 208-733-1248 or go to www.episcopaltwinfalls.org.

Unitarian Universalists look forward with hope

TWIN FALLS  Hope is something that can be as bright as the sun, yet sometimes as dim as a flickering flame. We use hope as a means for a brighter tomorrow. How we bring about and hold onto hope can have a tremendous influence on our future.

The public is welcome to learn about hope at the Magic Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Meet at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at the Vendor Blender and Event Center, 588 Addison Ave. W. near the old hospital, Twin Falls.

Unitarian Universalism honors the differing paths individuals travel. Congregations are places where people celebrate, support and challenge one another as they continue on their spiritual journeys. Unitarian Universalists covenant to affirm and promote: the inherent worth and dignity of every person; justice, equality and compassion in human relations; and acceptance of one another.

Newcomers of all religious paths, or none at all, are always welcome. Child care is available. The center is handicapped-accessible. Parking is in the rear of the building.

More information: call Ken Whiting at 208-734-9161 or email mvuuf83301@yahoo.com.

Rupert Methodists invite public to organ practice

RUPERT  Brown-bag it at the pipe-organ practice session from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Rupert United Methodist Church, 605 H St.

Enjoy Judy Graham-Barnes performance on the historic 80-year-old Kimball pipe organ. Eat your sack lunch, knit, balance your checkbook, do a crossword puzzle or just relax while listening.

A free-will donation is always appreciated. More information: call 208-436-3354.

United Methodists hold fifth-Sunday worship

HAGERMAN  The six churches of the United Methodist Magic Valley Ministries  Wendell, Jerome, Hagerman, Filer, Buhl and Twin Falls  will worship together for the fifth Sunday in December. The service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Sunday at the Hagerman United Methodist Church, 270 E. Salmon St.

A potluck lunch will follow. Out-of-towners should bring a salad or dessert. Hagerman members will provide the main dish.

More information: call Rev. Mike Hollomon at 208-733-5872 or email ummvmoffice@gmail.com.
Hugh Hefner and Crystal Hefner attend Playboy Mansion's Annual Halloween Bash at The Playboy Mansion on October 25, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Playboy)

Hugh Hefner (L) and model Crystal Hefner attend the annual Halloween Party, hosted by Playboy and Hugh Hefner, at the Playboy Mansion on October 24, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Playboy)

Irish actress Jenny Dixon has paid tribute to former Playboy boss Hugh Hefner, who died last night at the age of 91.

The Fair City star (34) spent a number of summers at the Playboy Mansion in the noughties and developed friendships with some of the inner circle, first flying over in 2009 and later flew back nearly every summer (at the time she was working as a teacher) and attended the exclusive Midsummer Night's Dream bash. After writing Hef a personal note eight years ago, she is a permanent fixture on the VIP guestlist.

Dixon, who is now dating Limerick TD Tom Neville, shared a post on Facebook fondly remembering her time there. "The parties, the smiles, the people I was blessed to meet (more than I can attempt to mention), your beautiful family, Crystal, Cooper, the Mansion staff, your charisma, your energy, your generousity, your spirit. A kind soul with a zest for life," she wrote.

"It was a great pleasure to have met you, an honour, for the experiences. ThankYou.#HughHefner Thoughts and prayers sent."

Expand Close In this Aug. 20, 2008 file photo, Holly Madison, from left, Hugh Hefner, Bridget Marquardt, and Kendra Wilkinson arrive at the premiere of "The House Bunny" in Los Angeles. Playboy founder Hefner, the pipe-smoking hedonist who revved up the sexual revolution in the 1950s and built a multimedia empire of clubs, mansions, movies and television, symbolized by bow-tied women in bunny costumes, has died at age 91. Hefner died of natural causes at his home surrounded by family Wednesday night, Sept. 27, 2017, Playboy said in a statement. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles, File) / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp In this Aug. 20, 2008 file photo, Holly Madison, from left, Hugh Hefner, Bridget Marquardt, and Kendra Wilkinson arrive at the premiere of "The House Bunny" in Los Angeles. Playboy founder Hefner, the pipe-smoking hedonist who revved up the sexual revolution in the 1950s and built a multimedia empire of clubs, mansions, movies and television, symbolized by bow-tied women in bunny costumes, has died at age 91. Hefner died of natural causes at his home surrounded by family Wednesday night, Sept. 27, 2017, Playboy said in a statement. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles, File)

In 2011, she expanded on her time at the mansion, praising the late media mogul, saying: "I thought to Hugh I'd just be blonde number 2,074, but he's lovely. The first thing you notice about him is his smile  it goes from ear to ear. In photos he puts his arm around you and gives you a hug, but it's more of an uncle vibe off him; he's very tongue in cheek."

Similarly, former Miss World Rosanna Davison, who appeared on the cover of the international edition and later featured in the US edition, shared a picture with the late businessman.

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

News broke this morning of his death, leaving behind his sons Cooper, David and Martson, daughter Christie and wife Crystal, whom he wed in 2012. He died peacefully in his home with his family by his side.

"My father lived an exceptional and impactful life as a media and cultural pioneer and a leading voice behind some of the most significant social and cultural movements of our time in advocating free speech, civil rights and sexual freedom," Cooper said in a statement.

His wife will reportedly receive nothing in the wake of his death as agreed in their prenuptial agreement, with a 2013 report in Us Weekly stipulating only that she would be looked after, but he did not adjust his will to include her at the time of their wedding.

Video of the Day
The first effects of Storm Dylan are being felt in Ireland, with Met Eireann's latest update saying that winds may reach speeds of 130kmh during the storm.

Met Eireann issued a status orange wind warning for Connacht, Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Longford, Louth, Westmeath and Meath.

It was issued on Friday, and will remain in place until 12am on Sunday.

At 10pm on Saturday night the first high winds were detected, with Met Eireann saying that gusts in Valentia had been measured at 87kmh.

By 11pm gusts of 96kmh were recorded in Mace Head in Galway.

In their most recent message, Met Eireann sadvised: "Southeast winds will freshen during the early part of the night, then veer southwest and become strong for the night as Storm Dylan passes close to the northwest coast. The winds will be storm force at the coast, with gusts of up to 125 km/h."

Storm Dylan will also bring wind speeds of between 60kmh and 80kmh.

Met Eireann meteorologist John Eagleton told the Irish Independent that the storm would be mostly felt in Connacht and Ulster.

"The day will be cold and bright, but [tonight] will see the storm hit Donegal bay and move to the Ulster coast.

"It will be windy everywhere, it's not a 'premiership' storm, but definitely fits the criteria of an orange warning.

"Dublin will be windy but won't be as bad as Ulster and Connacht," he said.

A status yellow wind warning was also issued yesterday for Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Offaly and Munster. It will remain in place until 12am on Sunday as south-west winds from Storm Dylan will reach speeds of 50kmh to 64kmh, and gusts of 100kmh.

By then the worst of the storm will be over.

However, according to Mr Eagleton, the weather will remain unsettled.

"New Year's Eve shouldn't be too bad," he said. "There will be a few showers in western counties, but most of the country will be dry and clear. However, it is difficult to give an accurate prediction because the weather will remain unsettled."

New Year's Day will bring a mix of sunshine and showers, with highest temperatures ranging from 5C to 8C, he added.

Meanwhile, the Road Safety Authority is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads tonight and early tomorrow morning.

It is urging road users, when travelling in strong winds, to beware of objects being blown out onto the road. It said that drivers should allow extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and motorcyclists.

It is also urging drivers to use dipped headlights at all times.

ESB Networks have also advised that they have crews making preparations for the arrival of Storm Dylan and that if any customers do lose power to check for updates on www.esbpowercheck.ie or on the PowerCheck App for iPhone and Android devices.
At 15-years-old, Mameye was abandoned by her husband and left cradling a stillborn baby that she laboured with for three days.

She was left leaking urine and faeces and was shunned by her community.

Due to a lack of healthcare, the 15-year-old child bride was left with a tear known as a fistula due to her body being too underdeveloped for childbirth.

Mameye, now 25, spoke to Independent.ie about her harrowing experience.

"I was married at 15 and one year later I had my first baby. I laboured for three days before I gave birth to a stillborn baby. I spent one day at home in labour and two days at a local clinic before I was transferred to hospital.

"I lived with a fistula for a year and my husband abandoned me. I moved in with my mother for five years and watched as my husband married another woman and started another family. I was constantly crying with grief and agony. I was so mad at him for leaving me when I was suffering."

Expand Close Mameye (25) with one-week-old baby Kalkidan / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Mameye (25) with one-week-old baby Kalkidan

Mameye was sent to the Hamlin Fistula hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia where she underwent three extensive surgeries to repair her fistula.

She moved home again and remarried.

Last month, she welcomed her first baby, a girl named Kalkidan, at the Hamlin Fistula hospital.

"It makes me happy being here and getting help. This hospital changed my life. I am very happy to be a mother."

In Western countries, the tear known as an obstetric fistula was eradicated more than a century ago, and is today almost unheard of.

Despite the injury being preventable, more than two million girls and women in the developing world still suffer from the painful, debilitating condition.

Expand Close The Hamlin Fistula building donated by Oprah Winfrey / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp The Hamlin Fistula building donated by Oprah Winfrey

Most of the women live poverty in remote areas with little or no access to health care and often abandoned by their communities.

Women who birth at home, often in far-flung rural areas where hospitals are too far away or expensive to reach, are especially at risk of obstetric fistula - a hole (fistula) that develops between the birth canal and bladder or rectum, caused by prolonged, obstructed labor.

Gynaecologists Catherine and Reg Hamlin arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 1959 to set up a school of midwifery. They were appalled when they came across the problem and began to provide fistula surgery for young women.

Expand Close Dr Catherine Hamlin Photo: Hamlin Fistula / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Dr Catherine Hamlin Photo: Hamlin Fistula

Today, the Hamlin Fistula hospital is thriving and this year over 4,000 women were treated by the teams.

"We were touched and appalled by the sadness of our first fistula patient: a beautiful young woman in urine-soaked ragged clothes, sitting alone in our outpatients department away from the other waiting patients. We knew she was more in need than any of the others. She had been through a long labour of five days with only the village women to help. And so we saw the first of many fistula sufferers," Catherine Hamlin said.

At 93-years-old, Catherine Hamlin, has received numerous international awards for her work and was nominated for a Nobel peace Prize.

International funding has allowed the Hamlin Fistula hospital to build five regional hospitals as well as a midwifery school which offers scholarships to rural women.

The hospital also fundraises to open health clinics in rural areas so that pregnant women have access to healthcare during their labour.

Nemo (30) from a rural part of Oromia, Ethiopia is currently receiving treatment at the Hamlin Fistula hospital.

Expand Close Nemo (30) with baby Obsi / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp Nemo (30) with baby Obsi

"I laboured for two days at home and I fell into a coma. My family carried me to a nearby clinic where I was referred to the Hamlin Fistula hospital. After days in labour, I gave birth to a stillborn baby. Because I was in labour for so long I developed a fistula and became incontinent.

"I am very thankful for this hospital. They gave me my life back. I am very lucky that my husband stayed with me. After I had my fistula repaired I went home to my family.

"I came back to the Hamlin Fistula hospital when I became pregnant again and I just gave birth to my third child Obsi last week.

"I'll be home soon back in my rural town where I'll spend the day at home, preparing meals for my family. I never thought I would get cured. Now I am saved and I have three children. I am the luckiest woman in the world."

The hospital also offers girls and young women a chance to re-integrate into society. It offers them a chance to learn a new skill such as arts and crafts so that the women can earn a living once they leave.

Communications Officer Aschalew Tadesse told Independent.ie that the women are also given a new dress once they leave the hospital.

"The women are completely transformed. Before they were shunned by their communities and forced to live a life of solitude. Now they are returning home with their health problems fixed and in a brand new dress with new life skills. The hospital is life-changing."

*This article was supported by the Simon Cumbers Media Fund
China yesterday denied reports it has been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea after US President Donald Trump said he was not happy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

Mr Trump said on Twitter the previous day that China had been "caught" allowing oil into North Korea and that would prevent "a friendly solution" to the crisis over North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes that it conducts in defiance of heavy UN Security Council sanctions.

"I have been soft on China because the only thing more important to me than trade is war," Mr Trump said in a separate interview with 'The New York Times'.

South Korea's 'Chosun Ilbo' newspaper this week quoted South Korean government sources as saying that US spy satellites had detected Chinese ships transferring oil to North Korean vessels about 30 times since October.

US officials have not confirmed details of this report.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters she had noted recent media reports, including suggestions a Chinese vessel was suspected of transporting oil to a North Korean vessel on October 19.

"The Chinese side has conducted immediate investigation. In reality, the ship in question has, since August, not docked at a Chinese port and there is no record of it entering or leaving a Chinese port," Ms Hua said.

She said she was not aware if the vessel had docked in other countries, but the relevant media reports "did not accord with facts".

"China has always implemented UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to North Korea in their entirety, and fulfils its international obligations. We never allow Chinese companies and citizens to violate the resolutions," Ms Hua said.

"If, through investigation, it's confirmed there are violations of the UN Security Council resolutions, China will deal with them seriously in accordance with laws and regulations."

In the 'New York Times' interview, Mr Trump explicitly tied his administration's trade policy with China, North Korea's lone major ally, to its perceived co-operation in resolving the North Korea standoff.

"When I campaigned, I was very tough on China in terms of trade. Last year, we had a trade deficit with China of $350bn (291bn), minimum. That doesn't include the theft of intellectual property, OK, which is another $300bn (250bn)," Mr Trump said, according to a transcript of the interview.

"If they're helping me with North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And that's what I've been doing. But when oil is going in, I'm not happy about that."

An official with the US state department said the US government was aware of vessels engaged in such activity involving refined petroleum and coal.

"We have evidence that some of the vessels engaged in these activities are owned by companies in several countries, including China," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The United States says the full co-operation of China, North Korea's neighbour and main trading partner, is vital to the success of efforts to rein in North Korea, while warning that all options are on the table, including military ones, in dealing with it.

China has repeatedly said it is fully enforcing all resolutions against North Korea, despite suspicion in Washington, Seoul and Tokyo that loopholes still exist.

South Korea said yesterday it had seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship suspected of transferring oil to North Korea.

A senior South Korean foreign ministry official said the ship, the Lighthouse Winmore, was seized when it arrived at a South Korean port in late November.

"It's unclear how much oil the ship had transferred to North Korea," the official said.
This year has witnessed few more dramatic falls from grace than that of Aung San Suu Kyi. The Burmese Nobel peace prize laureate began 2017 facing a growing hum of criticism over the plight of the Rohingya minority in the country where she is now de facto leader.

The year draws to a close with the UN's human rights chief saying she could potentially face genocide charges in future.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, told the UN Human Rights Council in November that the widespread and systematic nature of the persecution of the Rohingya by the army in Myanmar (also called Burma) meant that genocide could not be ruled out. He also said it constituted "a textbook example of ethnic cleansing".

In a recent interview, he talked of culpability of the country's leadership - both civilian in the case of Suu Kyi - and military.

"Given the scale of the military operation [against the Rohingya], clearly these would have to be decisions taken at a high enough level," Al Hussein told the BBC. "And then there's the crime of omission. That if it came to your knowledge that this was being committed, and you did nothing to stop it, then you could be culpable as well for that."

It was not so long ago that Suu Kyi was affectionately known as The Lady and internationally feted as a pro-democracy activist who sacrificed much for her cause. She was awarded the Nobel peace prize in 1991 while under a house arrest that was to last for almost 15 years.

Expand Close A Rohingya refugee woman holds her child after they crossed the Myanmar-Bangladesh border on Christmas Day. Photo: Reuters/Marko Djurica / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp A Rohingya refugee woman holds her child after they crossed the Myanmar-Bangladesh border on Christmas Day. Photo: Reuters/Marko Djurica

"Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, she opposed all use of violence and called on the military leaders to hand over power to a civilian government," her biography on the Nobel prize website read.

"The aim was to establish a democratic society in which the country's ethnic groups could co-operate in harmony."

The Rohingya - who are Muslims in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar - have long suffered discrimination by a government that refuses even to recognise them as citizens, subjecting them to restrictions on employment, healthcare, education and marriage. Hopes that Suu Kyi would bring an end to this repression when she was elected in 2015 were soon dashed. When the Myanmar military launched a crackdown against the Rohingya last year, claiming they were rooting out "terrorism", Suu Kyi remained silent. According to the UN, more than 600,000 Rohingya - around two-thirds of the entire Rohingya population - have been driven into refugee camps in neighbouring Bangladesh as the military campaign escalated this year, with reports this week of mass graves being found.

Last month, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson described the "horrendous atrocities" taking place as ethnic cleansing, and said Washington would pursue targeted sanctions.

Suu Kyi's response to all of this has earned her the opprobrium of fellow Nobel laureates including Desmond Tutu and Malala Yousafzai, and calls have increased for her to be stripped of her Nobel. In a recent statement, U2 - whose song 'Walk On' was inspired by Suu Kyi's story - said her silence regarding the horror visited upon the Rohingya was "starting to look a lot like assent".

The UN human rights chief Al Hussein told the BBC he had urged Suu Kyi to take action after his office published a report in February detailing atrocities that had taken place up to that point.

"I appealed to her to bring these military operations to an end," he said. "I appealed to her emotional standing to do whatever she could to bring this to a close, and to my great regret it did not seem to happen."

Suu Kyi's defenders argue that in a country where the military remains the real power, her ability to stop the campaign against the Rohingya is limited.

But Al Hussein makes the same observation several others have made: that Suu Kyi tellingly refuses to even use the term "Rohingya" to refer to the persecuted. "To strip their name from them is dehumanising to the point where you begin to believe that anything is possible," he said.

The violence against the Rohingya is partly rooted in the emergence in recent years of an ultra-nationalist Buddhist movement in Myanmar which stirred anti-Muslim sentiment that sometimes spilled into mob attacks. The worst escalation of the military campaign - which had already resulted in hundreds of villages burned and thousands killed - came in August after militants attacked security forces. But the UN rights chief believes Myanmar's army was emboldened when it saw no international response to the operations against the Rohingya: "I suppose that they then drew a conclusion that they could continue without fear."

Whether that changes in 2018 remains to be seen.
Russia's highest court has upheld election officials' decision to bar opposition leader Alexei Navalny from running for president in March's election.

The Supreme Court on Saturday turned down Mr Navalny's appeal against the Central Election Commission's move, saying that the decision to bar him from the race fully conforms with the law.

President Vladimir Putin, whose approval ratings top 80%, is set to easily win a fourth term in the March 18 vote.

Mr Navalny has campaigned for the presidency all year despite an implicit ban on his candidacy due to a fraud conviction seen by many as politically driven. Election officials formally barred him from the ballot last Monday.

Mr Navalny responded to the ban by calling for a boycott of the vote. The Kremlin said authorities would look into whether such a call violates the law.

AP

Mr Navalny responded to Saturday's court ruling by repeating his call for a "voters' strike".

"We don't acknowledge elections without competition," he said on Twitter.

Many others have declared their intention to run. They include veterans of the past campaign - ultranationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky and liberal Grigory Yavlinsky - as well as communist nominee Pavel Grudinin and star TV host Ksenia Sobchak.

While none of them poses a serious challenge to Mr Putin, the Kremlin is worried about voter apathy and has focused on boosting turnout to make his victory as impressive as possible.

The involvement of Ms Sobchak, the daughter of the late mayor of St Petersburg who was Mr Putin's boss in the 1990s, could raise public interest in the race.

While the 36-year-old has denied colluding with the Kremlin, her participation could draw some of Mr Navalny's supporters to her side and help improve turnout.

AP
A gunman has opened fire on a fast food restaurant, injuring two boys.

Shots were fired at the takeaway in east London on Friday night, the Metropolitan Police said.

Two 16-year-old boys were hit by the bullets, with one suffering an injury to his back and the other boy a leg wound.

Both were taken to an east London hospital, where they were described as being in a stable condition with non-life threatening injuries.

So far no-one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Police said they were called to the scene in Terrace Road, Plaistow, at 8.38pm and have urged witnesses to come forward.

Anyone who witnessed the incident but has not yet come forward is asked to call the Trident incident room on 020 8201 2713 or dial 101.

To remain anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
In columns or commentary, one sometimes needs to simplify in order to save space. But here's my new year's resolution: in the coming 12 months, I will try to avoid the expressions 'far-right' and 'populist' whenever possible. They are catch-all adjectives, useful in describing a general phenomenon. But they are also euphemisms, and they disguise what's at stake.

The terms 'right' and 'left', not to mention 'far-right' and 'far-left', have long been due for a rethink. They date from the French Revolution of 1789, when the nobility sat on the right side of the National Assembly, and the revolutionaries sat on the left. Since most western 'right-wing' parties aren't seeking to conserve aristocracy anymore, and many of the 'left-wing' parties stopped being revolutionary a long time ago, the metaphor has grown stale.

As for 'far-right', it doesn't really belong on that scale, because the modern European 'far-right' isn't conservative in any sense at all. Nor does it have much in common with parties of the so-called centre-right, many of which favour free markets and global trade, and are happy to participate in international institutions and treaties.

The 'far-right', by contrast, is anti-trade and anti-market, favouring instead a greater role for the national state or, in Hungary for example, for oligarchs close to the ruling party.

More important, many favour a greater role for those ruling parties, treating with suspicion journalists, courts, civil servants, universities and even police forces that question their compliance with existing law.

The same is true of the incoherent movement in the United States that is widely known as 'populist'.

Misleadingly, populist sounds like 'popular', but in fact we are talking about a movement that represents a minority. Although the 'populists' are meant to be a faction of the conservative Republican Party, they aren't conservative either. Instead, they share the European 'far-right' antipathy to the conservation of anything - along with the European 'far-right' suspicion of the media, the courts, the universities and pretty much all of the other institutions of the democratic political order. Solemn attempts to give this movement 'Jacksonian' or other historical roots usually overlook the fact that the modern movement's main proponent, US President Donald Trump, doesn't actually know any history at all.

But what words to use instead? As long ago as 2010, the Dutch writer Rob Riemen argued that we should call movements that feed on fear, promote xenophobia and denigrate democratic institutions by an older name: 'fascist'. In his newest book, 'To Fight Against This Age', he argues that anything else is false: "The term populist is only one more way to cultivate the denial that the ghost of fascism is haunting our societies again."

Yet 'fascist', whatever it meant to the Italians who invented the term in the early 20th century, now has different connotations: mass violence, mass murder, world war. None of the modern 'far-right' or 'populist' parties is responsible for even remotely similar crimes, so the connection seems unfair.

I've run into similar objections to the term 'national socialist', which still seems to me worth reviving: after all, it's a straightforward factual description of political movements that are simultaneously 'nationalist', in that they promote an ethnic-based definition of national identity, and 'socialist', in that they advocate a much larger economic role for the state.

But because the term reminds people of the Nazis, it still offends. So does the term 'neo-Bolshevik' - I have used it to evoke the conspiratorial rhetoric these parties always rely on, something the original Bolsheviks also relished, as well as their disdain for the institutions and laws of what they used to call "bourgeois democracy" - but of course they have not used Bolshevik terror either.

What's left? The political philosopher Jan-Werner Muller suggests 'anti-pluralist', and although that's a bit antiseptic, it's probably closest to the truth. What we are really talking about are political parties that do not acknowledge the right of anyone else to hold or share power.

So in the new year, let's be clear about what's at stake: not just politics as usual but also democracy itself, in Europe as well as North America.

And I'll try to find better language to express that struggle. ( Washington Post syndication)
Catalonia's fugitive former president has called for Spanish authorities to open negotiations regarding the restitution of what he calls his "legitimate government".

Carles Puigdemont said via social media channels from Brussels that Spain should "recognise the election results of December 21 and start negotiating politically with the legitimate government of Catalonia".

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy deposed Mr Puigdemont and his cabinet after Catalonia's regional parliament voted in favour of a declaration of independence from the rest of the country in October.

But pro-secession parties, including one led by Mr Puigdemont, won the most seats in elections last week.

Mr Puigdemont fled to Belgium to avoid a judicial investigation into suspicions of rebellion by him and his government.

He did not say on Saturday if he plans to return to Spain.

AP
TWIN FALLS  A local man is still recovering at a Utah burn center nearly 10 weeks after he was severely burned in a farm accident.

Bryan Silvester, 60, of Twin Falls was filling a fuel tank in the back of his pickup with diesel for his combine Oct. 30 when the fuel ignited. Neighbor Jake Billington was at a stop sign about a quarter-mile away when he saw the flash and black smoke.

A big old flame shot across the road, Billington said.

Billington, 25, quickly drove to the scene just west of the airport and found Silvester on fire.

He was running around trying to get his pants off, Billington said. I took my jacket and beat at the flames.

Forty percent of Silvesters body  mostly from the waist down  received third-degree burns and worse. The fire burned through the fat on his legs to the muscle, his son Mitch Silvester said. The tips of his fingers were burned to the bone.

Its something I dont ever want to see again, Billington said.

Silvester had his seventh major surgery Friday, said his son, who is staying with family in the Salt Lake City area to be near his father.

Silvester was flown to the University of Utahs Burn Center, where he was sedated for 40 days to manage his pain. He contracted pneumonia several times, being unable to cough with a ventilator.

Its been really hard, Mitch Silvester, 35, said.

No one knows what triggered the explosion.

All the evidence burned up, he said.

Billington said it looked to him like the electric pump on the 4,000-gallon diesel tank shorted out.

I got right on the phone and called 911, he said.

Silvesters pants burned off but his gloves were stuck, burning his hands, Billington said. Luckily, another man showed up with a pocket tool and cut his gloves off. Billington put Silvester in his pickup to keep him warm.

That wind was blowing like crazy, he said. Neighbors finished harvesting Silvesters corn crop.

We owe a huge debt to the neighbors whove helped out, Mitch Silvester said.

Back at the burn center, doctors surgically removed the burned flesh one leg at a time, then grafted skin from Silvesters back, stomach and chest  until they ran out of healthy flesh and resorted to using cadaver and synthetic skin for temporary grafts, his son said.

He is now off sedatives and the ventilator but is still on pain medication. He remembers being on fire and someone calling 911.

They have to keep the grafts moving and bending, his son said, so the healing doesnt limit his range of motion.

He has a long road ahead.
Gunmen opened fire on a church south of Cairo yesterday, killing at least nine people in the latest attack on Coptic Christians in Egypt.

Policemen shot one of the gunmen dead and arrested another, state media and officials said.

One of the gunmen's victims was a police officer, state television reported.

The shooters also wounded five security guards outside the church, and then tried to storm the building when police shot one dead, police officials said. State television said the second had been captured.

Cellphone footage posted on social media appeared to show a bearded gunman wearing a bulky ammunition vest sprawled on a street, barely conscious, as people restrained his arms before they handcuffed him.

Isil's affiliate in Egypt has killed dozens of Christians in church bombings and shootings over the past year, and has threatened further attacks against the minority.

Egypt's Coptic Christians make up about 10pc of the country's 93 million people, and are the largest religious minority in the region.

Isil had claimed a suicide bombing of a Cairo church in December 2016, followed by bombings of two churches north of the capital in April.

A month later, Isil gunmen shot dead about 30 Christians south of Cairo as they travelled to a monastery.

The jihadists are believed to have also carried out a massacre of Muslim worshippers in Sinai last month.

They killed more than 300 in an attack on a mosque associated with the mystical Sufi strand of Islam, which Isil views as heretical.

Egypt imposed a state of emergency following the church attacks and shootings, and President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has demanded that the army quell the jihadists with "brutal force" following the massacre at the mosque.

The group has been waging a deadly insurgency based in the Sinai peninsula bordering Israel and the Gaza Strip that has killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers.

It has increasingly targeted civilians, as attacks on the security forces have become more difficult.

The army has poured in thousands of troops backed with armour and jets in a bid to crush the Sinai-based jihadists, but attacks have continued.

The attack on the church came a day after six Egyptian soldiers were killed in a roadside bombing in the Sinai.

Last week, Isil claimed responsibility for firing an anti-tank missile at a helicopter in a North Sinai airport as the defence and interior ministers were visiting.

The attack killed an aide to the defence minister and a helicopter pilot, but both ministers returned to Cairo unscathed.
Rochelle Carlotti, 28, shovels steps near her home after a record snowfall in Erie, Pennsylvania. Monday's storm brought 34 inches of snow, an all-time daily snowfall record for Erie. Photo: AP

Donald Trump has said that the US's east coast "could use a little bit of that good old global warming" as bitterly cold temperatures are expected to freeze large swathes of the country this holiday weekend.

The US president wrote on Twitter: "In the East, it could be the coldest New Year's Eve on record," and added: "Perhaps we could use a little bit of that good old global warming that our country, but not other countries, was going to pay trillions of dollars to protect against. Bundle up!"

Mr Trump did not acknowledge the difference between the weather and the climate.

Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions during a shorter period, while climate is a longer view of weather patterns.

Science

Mr Trump has repeatedly expressed scepticism about climate change science, calling global warming a "hoax" created by the Chinese to damage American industry.

He announced earlier this year his intention to pull out of the landmark Paris climate agreement that is aimed at curbing greenhouse gas production.

The accord set goals for slowing the rate of climate change by reducing the emissions that contribute to melting Arctic ice, increasing sea levels and changing weather patterns across the globe.

The United Nations' weather and climate agency said last month that 2017 was on track to become the hottest year on record, aside from those affected by the El Nino phenomenon, which can contribute to higher temperatures.

Last year set a record for Earth's average global temperature.
People react near the scene of an apartment fire in the Bronx, New York, yesterday. Photo: Reuters/Eduardo Munoz

A child playing with a stove caused New York's deadliest fire in almost 30 years, leaving 12 people dead, including a baby.

The three-year-old child survived when his mother swept him away from the rising smoke in the kitchen and out into safety with his younger sibling.

But the fire quickly spread up the block - with the stairway acting "like a chimney", according to investigators - killing 12 people, aged from one to 50.

Kimberly Wilkins, an eyewitness, said: "People were screaming... 'Fire! Help! Fire! Help!'"

Expand Close New York Police Department personnel work at the scene. Photo: Kena BetancurAFP/Getty Imageslast / Facebook

Twitter

Email

Whatsapp New York Police Department personnel work at the scene. Photo: Kena BetancurAFP/Getty Imageslast

The one-year-old girl died along with her mother as they tried to shelter in a bathtub, investigators said.

Two young girls aged two and seven, and a boy whose age was not known, were also among the dead.

The fire broke out at 7pm on Thursday in a building with 26 flats near the Bronx Zoo, a popular tourist attraction.

Firefighters were on the scene within three minutes, but the blaze spread rapidly, fuelled by strong winds.

More than 160 firefighters took three hours to control the blaze as water leaking from hoses froze on the pavement due to the extreme cold.

Authorities said firefighters rescued 12 people from the building and four people were in the hospital in critical condition.

Bill de Blasio, the New York City mayor, called it an "unspeakable tragedy".

He added: "What we think at this point is that unfortunately it emanated from an accident; a young child playing with a stove on the first floor of the building. Here in the Bronx there are families that have been torn apart."

New York City Fire Department commissioner Daniel Nigro said the fire began on the first floor, and residents said they were surprised at how quickly the flames spread in the nearly century-old residence.

One man, Jamal Flicker, told the 'New York Post': "The smoke was crazy, people screaming, 'Get out!' I heard a woman yelling, 'We're trapped! Help'."

Due to where the fire started, investigators said it blocked the main stairwell in the building, one of the major escape routes.

Another witness, Xanral Collins, said: "A father ran into the building, he couldn't get in," Collins said. "I saw him screaming, 'My babies are dead! My babies are dead!'"

The fire was brought under control, with photos showing neither smoke nor flames late last night, although windows on the upper floors were blackened and had been smashed.

Mr Nigro said "people died on various floors of the apartment" and confirmed the investigation would continue.

Though the building was not new enough to require state-of-the-art fire and smoke detection or a sprinkler system, it was still subject to minimum building codes of the city.

According to records from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, the building had at least one open violation "involving a defective carbon monoxide detector, and a faulty smoke detector in a unit on its first floor", according to the 'New York Post'.

The violation had been reported back in August 2017. However, it remains unknown at this time what, if any, actions were taken by building owners - listed as D&A Equities - to remedy the problem.

One violation was for a broken smoke detector in an apartment on the first floor, reported in August. It was not clear if the detector had been fixed or replaced or whether it had played any role in the fire.

"The building owner, building management is supposed to make sure that all those basic safety precautions are in place, and this is an older building," Mr De Blasio told CNN, adding that fire investigators will need more time to look into the incident.

Speaking on a city radio station, he said the fire appeared to be "accidental from everything we can see".

"In the middle of the holiday season, a time when families are together, tonight here in the Bronx there are families that have been torn apart," said Mr de Blasio said. "This is the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in at least a quarter-century.

"Based on the information we have now, this will rank as one of the worst losses of life to a fire in many, many years."

The number of civilian fire fatalities in New York City last year dropped to 48, the fewest in the 100 years since record-keeping began, the FDNY said on its website.

It was the deadliest fire in the city since an arsonist torched a Bronx nightclub in 1990, killing 87 people inside the venue that did not have fire exits, alarms or sprinklers, 'The New York Times' reported.

Meanwhile, at least 14 people were killed when fire tore through a rooftop restaurant in Mumbai yesterday.

Many of the victims were young women attending a birthday party. Doctors said they died of asphyxiation, apparently as they tried to flee the burning building. ( Daily Telegraph London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
A seven-year-old Texas boy has died after his father's girlfriend allegedly opened fire as the man drove away with his son and two other children, police said.

Greenville police said Kaden Green died at a hospital after being taken there by a witness following the shooting on Thursday afternoon.

The woman accused of shooting the boy, 26-year-old Brooke Craig, was arrested early on Friday along with the child's father, 24-year-old Cameron Castillo, in the Dallas suburb of Frisco about 45 miles west of Greenville.

Authorities said Craig led police on a car chase before their arrests.

Craig faces a capital murder charge, while Castillo was arrested for a parole violation.

Officers were responding to a report of a disturbance at a home on Thursday when they received a call that a boy had been taken to a hospital with a gunshot wound to the chest.

Police said they believe Castillo and Craig had been involved in a disturbance at the home before he got into his vehicle and headed down the street.

After the shooting, the vehicle came to a stop and Craig and a witness approached it, police said. The witness then took the boy to the hospital in another vehicle.

Police said the two other children who were in the vehicle were placed in the custody of the state.

Child Protective Services (CPS) spokeswoman Marissa Gonzales said they have a four-year-old boy and seven-year-old girl who are the siblings of Kaden in their custody.

Ms Gonzales said Craig is not Kaden's mother. She said CPS has received a report about the boy's death and will investigate. She said the boy's family has had previous contact with CPS, but that the details are confidential.

McKinney police said Greenville police contacted them early on Friday about the capital murder warrant for Craig.

McKinney police then located her vehicle leaving a store and she fled into nearby Frisco, going through several residential areas before turning down a dead-end street, police said.

Craig and Castillo, who was her passenger, were arrested without incident after their vehicle struck a police cruiser while attempting to back up, police said.

Jail records show that Craig was transferred from Collin County, where McKinney is located, back to Hunt County, where Greenville is located, by Friday afternoon. The records did not list a lawyer in relation to the capital murder charge.

Craig faces an evading arrest charge in Collin County, according to the jail records.

Castillo was being held in Collin County jail on Friday. Jail records did not list a lawyer for him.
Demonstrators protest against the pardon of former president Alberto Fujimori in Lima (Martin Mejia/AP)

Nobel laureate Mario Vargas Llosa and 238 other Peruvian writers have signed an open letter denouncing a pardon granted to former president Alberto Fujimori, saying it covers their nation "in infamy and shame".

The letter comes in response to President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski's pre-Christmas pardon of Fujimori, who had been imprisoned for the killing of 25 Peruvians during his 10-year administration.

The letter says the pardon was not an act of compassion "but of the most crude and cynical political calculus".

Backers of Fujimori last week helped Mr Kuczynski avoid impeachment in Congress.

Fujimori defeated Vargas Llosa for the presidency in 1990.

Two years later, he dissolved Congress. He fled the country in 2000.

Many prominent figures signed the letter, including novelists Daniel Alarcon and Alfredo Bryce Echenique.

AP
Syrian government forces stand next to a bus waiting to evacuate Syrian militants and their families from Beit Jin village, in the southern province of Daraa (Sana via AP)

Dozens of Syrian militants and their families departed on board buses from an area besieged by government forces near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights early on Saturday, part of a deal to clear yet another district of insurgents.

The evacuations came as government-controlled media said two mass graves were discovered in the northern province of Raqqa where the Islamic State group held sway for more than three years.

The government-controlled Syrian Central Military Media said 153 people, including 106 fighters, left the village of Beit Jin early on Saturday, heading towards the southern province of Daraa.

The Ibaa news agency of the al Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee said six buses carrying fighters and their families arrived in rebel-held parts of Daraa province.

On Friday, Syria's state news agency Sana said some 300 al Qaida-linked militants and their families would be sent to Daraa and the north-western province of Idlib.

The evacuation allows the government to reassert control over Beit Jin near the Golan Heights that were captured by Israel from Syria during the 1967 Middle East war.

Israel has publicly warned against the accumulation of Iranian and Iranian-backed forces at its border. Iran has arranged for thousands of militiamen from across the region to fight on behalf of Syrian President Bashar Assad's government and has sent top commanders to direct its own Revolutionary Guards in the country as well.

In northern Syria, Sana reported that "dozens of bodies" of civilians and troops killed by IS were discovered in two mass graves in the village of Wawi near the northern city of Raqqa, once the de facto capital of IS.

IS carried out public killings in its once self-declared caliphate, beheading, shooting and stoning perceived offenders to death, as well as drowning them in large pools while locked in metal cages.

Sana said that after residents returned to their village, some of them received information about mass graves near the village and once a search began the two graves were discovered.

The agency quoted a local official as saying that work is continuing to remove more bodies, adding that they are trying to identify the dead in order to hand their remains over to their families.

Sana posted several photographs showing the remains being unearthed and placed on sheets.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (IBNS): The much-awaited Grand Finale of Beauty Pageant Eva India 2017, powered by Hospitality India Group, was in the spotlight at The Radisson Blu Plaza, Delhi Airport and it was Muskan Golash who clinch the title at the end of the night.

Its that time of the year for girls, when the brave and the bold, beauty and brains, all come out and battle to be the best of the best. Eva India 2017 is all about that spirit of healthy competition, exposure and above all beauty.



The journey moved from state to state for a period of 5 months touching more than 10,000 aspiring models and young budding ladies across the nation.

Winners from all the state level auditions were trained by experts in a five day aggressive training sessions. The journey has culminated with the finale at Delhi with the crowning of Miss Eva India 2017 and a prize worth of 5 Lakh Rupees including a London trip in business class, Official brand ambassador of brands like Bella Casa, SLG Jewellers, Radisson Blu Paschim Vihar, Thaper Dental Care, Hospitality India, Oman Air, SPPC health and Wellness centre, Pluto Travels etc. and 2 years contract with Rosy Ahluwalia Fashion Designer was nothing less than a direct entry to the fashion world.



After a long journey as girls struggled to get transformed with our partners and experts we come to the final show down. The trainings, visits, photoshoots made them how they are presented today. Our winners for the Indias Biggest Beauty Pageant Eva India 2017

Muskan Golash of Jaipur won the title.



Gauri Batra from Delhi became the first runners up while the second runners up title went to Delhis Charu Vashisht.



The beauty contest encompassed most coveted titles and various nominations like Miss Beautiful Smile bagged by Gauri Batra, Miss Congenial by Rimli Lahon, Miss Tourism by Medha, etc. and other subtitles bagged by different contestants. These awards were be strategically assessed by experienced Industry artists and celebrities, ensuring that the awardees are the best-in-class.

Rajni Kalra, Curator and Director, EVA INDIA 2017 and Executive Editor, Hospitality India & Explore the World, said, Eva India is an initiative to empower the girls in all aspects of life and not just blindly follow the patriarchy. It is a platform to encourage the girls of our society to come out from their comfort zones and challenge the world with their immense knowledge and their willpower to conquer the unseen obstacles. I wish all my success to all the beautiful girls initiating their participation. A feminist, Mrs. Kalra is a strong advocate of women empowerment and through this pageant hopes to provide young women with a grand shot to a brilliant future.

Nikhil Kapoor, Marketing and PR Head Eva India, said, Eva India is a platform that not only provides entry to the glamour world, but also assure good projects to the contestants with leading brands and consistent mileage through Eva India Magazine which will be out next week.

A budding marketer, Nikhil Kapoor believes that the hard work and dedication put in by the contestants and his team took the pageant to new heights and hopes to build a legacy in the coming years.



The venues for the auditions were the renowned hotels like Radisson Blu Paschim Vihar, Holiday Inn, Chandigarh and much more across India.

Eva Indias jury panel is equipped with iconic personalities from Fashion Divas, Bollywood and Hospitality Experts and makeup Designers & much more from different sections of the Industry.

The jury panel comprises of politician Salman Khurshid, Vinod Bachhan Bollywood

Producer, Aishwarya Sakhuja Television Actress, Sonam Chopra Creative Director Punjab Kesari, Ashna Kapoor, Yuri Suri Bollywood Actor, Vidyun Goel, and Renu Sharma. Selected participants were groomed by the best in the industry i.e. Anup Banerjee, Sonakshi Budhiraja, Rosy Ahluwalia and Naini Dixit as they acquire, learned ramp walking along with personality development, beauty, fitness, dance and public speaking skills.



The event was supported by the top notch people and organisations of India. Bella Casa Home decor partner, SPPC Wellness Partner, Thaper Dental Clinic Smile Care partner, Jewellery Partner SLG Jewellers contributed and supported the cause of women empowerment. Pluto Travels took us on ride as our ride partener along with Mitsubishi as Tech partner.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (IBNS): India lodged its displeasure to the Palestinian authorities over the sharing of dais by the country's ambassador with 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafeez Saeed during an event in Pakistan's Rawalpindi city on Friday.

India told Palestinian authorities that the move made by the ambassador was 'unacceptable'.

On Friday, Walid Abu Ali, Palestine ambassador to Pakistan, made a public appearance and shared stage with Saeed during a rally called by the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind in the Pakistani city.

Voicing displeasure, India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement: "

Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable. The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The statement further said: "We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side."

According to reports, Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan, held the rally in Rawalpindi, reports said.

The Palestinian envoy to Pakistan was reportedly seen sharing the stage with Saeed at the event.

This comes just days after India voted against the US and in favour of Palestine during the UN resolution that declared Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital 'null and void'.

India had said that its position on Palestine is "independent and consistent."


State Governors race takes shape

Two leading Republican candidates launched gubernatorial campaigns in 2017, setting the stage for a tight 2018 race. Treasure Valley businessman and former emergency room doctor Tommy Ahlquist announced his candidacy in February, with U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador officially declaring in May.

A November poll that failed to include Democratic candidate A.J. Balukoff put current Lt. Gov Brad Little in the lead with support from 21 percent of Idaho voters surveyed, followed closely by Labrador and Ahlquist. More than a third of respondents said they didnt know who they would vote for.

Other declared candidates include Republicans HyDee Liebelt, Steve Pankey, Lisa Marie, and Sidney Taylor, as well as Democrats A.J. Balukoff and Rep. Paulette Jordan.

Grocery tax veto/Supreme Court case

A legal challenge to Gov. Butch Otters veto of legislation that would get rid of the states grocery tax ended in the Idaho Supreme Court upholding the veto in July, while establishing that state lawmakers must present all bills to the governor before the end of the legislative session in the future.

A group of 30 lawmakers had challenged Otters veto of legislation eliminating Idahos 6 percent sales tax on groceries, claiming the governor took too long to veto the bill and missed a constitutional deadline. The lawmakers argued that the governor had 10 days from the end of the session to either sign or veto a bill; Otter contended that he had 10 days from when the bill landed on his desk.

In a 4-1 ruling, the Idaho Supreme Court agreed that the 10-day deadline begins when the Legislature adjourns for the year  not when the bill arrives on the governors desk  but upheld Otters veto. In future sessions, the court determined, the Legislature must present bills to the governor before adjourning.

Heather Scott yanked from committees

A North Idaho state representative was briefly stripped of her committee assignments in January after she made remarks suggesting that female lawmakers earned leadership positions by performing sexual favors.

Rep. Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, came under fire after allegedly telling Agriculture Committee Chairman Judy Boyle in December 2016 that women in the Legislature could obtain committee chairmanships and other appointments only if they spread their legs.

Scott was reassigned to her committees on Feb. 1 after apologizing for the remarks.

Harassment allegations in state offices

Allegations that the former chief of staff for the Idaho State Controllers Office sexually and racially harassed a former employee resulted in an $83,000 settlement by the state in early December.

A tort claim filed by Lourdes Matsumoto on Sept. 18 accused Dan Goicoechea of engaging in abusive language and violent acts during conversations with Matsumoto and others. The claim said that State Controller Brandon Woolf had not put a stop to the harassment.

Goicoechea resigned from the Controllers office on the day the tort claim was filed, and began a new job as deputy for governmental affairs for the Idaho State Department of Education.

The settlement included an agreement by the state not to rehire Goicoechea.

Local Downtown projects

At the Festival of Lights Parade on Dec. 1, an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 people gathered on each side of Main Avenues six blocks. The parade and a tree lighting ceremony followed tours and a grand opening of the new city hall, highlighting two of the three downtown projects the city completed in 2017 after years of planning.

In October, the city finished a $5.7 million remodel that converted the former Banner Furniture building into a city hall that could handle the organizations growth. The following month, the Main Avenue Renaissance was completed, a $6.5 million renovation that Urban Renewal Agency completed in partnership with the city.

A third project in the downtown area, the $3.7 million police operations and administration buildings, were finished this summer as the city made use of the former City Hall to meet law enforcement and public needs.

City pool

When the YMCA backed out of its contract in April, the city was left to manage its city pool on Locust Street. The transition came with a few changes. The city had to approve some fee increases, and the pool later received a new bubble to keep it open during the lower fall and winter temperatures.

But the city got off to a good start when, after the first four months of operation, the pools revenues exceeded its expenses. The city will continue to manage the pool until at least August 2018, when the YMCAs contract was set to expire.

Neighborly community resolution

The Twin Falls City Council declared in May that Twin Falls is a neighborly community where all residents are welcomed, accepted and given the opportunity to connect with each other without bias in pursuit of common goals.

The signing of the neighborly community resolution followed hours of public testimony both for and against the document. Leaders assured it does not mean Twin Falls is a sanctuary city.

The resolution traces its roots to a Boy Scouts project at the College of Southern Idaho Refugee Center, and a Boy Scout leader had challenged the Council to lead by example. But it didnt pass unanimously: Vice Mayor Suzanne Hawkins and Councilwoman Nikki Body voted against the resolution.

Boosts to tourism

Twin Falls major tourism season started early, as spring runoff brought Shoshone Falls to its highest level in years. The city began collecting vehicle fees early, and in April it counted about 18,000 more vehicles than what it had previously seen.

It was nuts, and there were a lot of people, Parks and Recreation Director Wendy Davis recalled during the summer. March was insane. April was insane.

Between mid-March and June, the parks department recorded more than 85,000 cars and 170 buses.

After high flows had returned to normal, the city got another boost to tourism with the Aug. 21 solar eclipse. Although Twin Falls wasnt directly in the path of totality, it was close enough that hotels booked up fast.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (IBNS): After a major controversy erupted when Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan shared stage with 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafeez Saeed during an event in Rawalpindi city, the country has decided to recall its envoy from the south Asian nation, media reports said.

India, earlier, lodged its displeasure to the Palestinian authorities over the sharing of dais by the country's ambassador Hafeez Saeed during the event in the Pakistani city on Friday.

India told Palestinian authorities that the move made by the ambassador was 'unacceptable'.

On Friday, Walid Abu Ali, Palestine ambassador to Pakistan, made a public appearance and shared stage with Saeed during a rally called by the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind in the Pakistani city.

Voicing displeasure, India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement: "

Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable. The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The statement further said: "We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side."

According to reports, Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan, held the rally in Rawalpindi, reports said.

The Palestinian envoy to Pakistan was reportedly seen sharing the stage with Saeed at the event.

This comes just days after India voted against the US and in favour of Palestine during the UN resolution that declared Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital 'null and void'.

India had said that its position on Palestine is "independent and consistent."
East Jerusalem/New Delhi, Dec 30 (IBNS): Following a diplomatic gaffe in Pakistan's Rawalpindi, that has left India seething, Palestine has been seen in a damage control mode, trying to pacify New Delhi.

The blunder was committed by Palestine's ambassador to Pakistan, who was seen sharing the stage with designated terrorist and 26/11 Mumbai Attack mastermind Hafeez Saeed in Pakistan's Rawalpindi.

Reacting vehemently, India didn't pull off any false modesty and made their intentions clear in a strong-worded statement.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable. The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine."

What followed was a calculated measure from Palestine, who said, 'it was an unintended mistake, but not justified'.

India too accepted the apologies and said that they trusted the Middle Eastern regime.

"The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately. It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," it said.

The statement further said: "We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side."

In its statement, Palestine also thanked India for supporting the nation during this month's UN Resolution that scrapped US President Donald Trump's decision of naming Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

A statement from New Delhi, pertaining to the matter, read: "India's position on Palestine is independent and consistent" and that "it is shaped by our views and interests, and not determined by any third country."

Trump had faced a thumping loss at the UN, as 128 nations voted against him, opposed to the nine pro votes.

The statement from Palestine read: "The State of Palestine highly appreciates India's support in its tireless efforts to end the Israeli occupation and the establishment of an independent State of Palestine on the 1967 boarders with East Jerusalem as its capital and this is especially seen in the honorable position that India has taken by voting in favor of the resolution in the United Nations General Assembly last week."

According to reports, the rally in Rawalpindi was organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan.
Mumbai, Dec 30 (IBNS): Actor Anupam Kher ha completed shooting for the schedule of his 511th film.

Kher said it is always a pleasure to shoot in different parts of Jharkhand.

Kher tweeted: "As I finish this schedule of my untitled 511th film, I thank the people, the administration, the Rana family and the security people of Ranchi for their love, warmth & hospitality. As always it was a pleasure shooting at the various locations in #Jharkhand.."

Kher met Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das and shared an image from the meet.

"It is always a pleasure to meet #Jharkhand Chief Minister Shri @dasraghubar ji. ," he tweeted along with the image of his meeting with the CM.

Images: Anupam Kher Twitter page
A bizarre video for a Kazakhstan travel company featuring nude 'air stewardesses' has sparked a massive outrage on the Internet.

YouTube Screenshot

The ad, for Kazakhstan's Chocotravel site, presents p seven models posing as flight attendants and donning juts a hat.

The 31-second video clip, which aims to promote flights on a travel website, drew the ire of several on social media with many describing it as "tasteless" and "unpleasant".

Also Read: Kazakhstan Builders Form Human Pyramid To Save Toddler Who Fell Off Window Ledge

Chocotravel director Nikolay Mazentsev said on Facebook the video was not intended to offend anyone, reports RT.

The video is bold and shocking, but we did not want to hurt anyone's feelings, and regret it if it happened, he wrote. The advertisement shows exactly as much as you can see on any beach or in the pool. You do not attack girls in short skirts and people in swimsuits?

Nurken Rzaliyev, who works at the umbrella organisation Chocofamily, shared both videos on Facebook, rejecting the idea that they are sexist. He said: "There's definitely no sexism. Opinions were divided, but attention was made to the problem of high ticket prices."

Also Read: Talented Pilot Draws A 'Christmas Tree' Flight Path In The Sky, Complete With Decorations!

A Facebook user described the advertisement as old-fashioned and sexist and said that the travel company's reputation had "hit an all time low".
Love is a feeling out of this world, and it is not bound by the age, status, class or cultural differences, right? If you have that connection and understanding and you know what it means, to spend the rest of your lives together, even a wide age gap is never an issue.

Milind Soman, the iron man of India, and his girlfriend Ankita Konwar just prove that!

The 52-year-old heartthrob of millions of women is dating a 23-year-old girl and they are heads over heels in love with each other. Since the time, the duo made their relationship official by posting pictures together on social media, there was a major uproar on the internet. But in the end, after trolling them massively, people have accepted their relationship and find them both an adorable couple.

Indias former supermodel, who has given us all major fitness goals for a long time, is now giving us couple fitness goal too.

He recently shared a video in which he is doing push-ups with Ankita sitting on his back and fans find it too cute.

The former actor wrote that he managed to complete four push-ups but he aims to do 20 of them.

The couple is in Himachal Pradesh as of now, where they will run 130 kms from Dharamshala to Una, and hence, celebrate New Year in a different way.

(Also Read: Milind Soman To Celebrate New Year's In A Totally Different Way, Will Run 130 Kms With Girlfriend)
He was just two years old when Baby Moshe Holtzberg, lost his father Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivka were killed in Chabad House in Colaba during the 26/11 attacks in 2008.

The toddler had a narrow escape, thanks to Sandra Samuel, his nanny who grabbed the two year old boy and ran out of the building to save him from the attackers.

Getty Images

Since the attack, Moshe has returned to his home country, Israel and lives with his grandparents.

Nine years since the tragic incident, Moshe, who is a eleven year old boy is all set to visit India and see the place where his parents served and was killed.

When Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes his first visit to India next month, he will be accompanied by the eleven-year-old boy.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi who visited Israel earlier this year and during his meeting with Moshe invited him to visit the country.

PTI

Netanyahu is scheduled to visiting Ahmedabad, Delhi, Agra and Mumbai in his first trip to the country beginning on January 14.

On the last day of his visit, Netanyahu accompanied by his Indian counterpart and Moshe will visit Mumbai and go to Chabad House, where the terrorists gunned down the rabbi and his wife.

Getty Images

Moshe who attends a yeshiva (jewish religious school) is still very attached to his Indian nanny, Sandra, who was given an honorary Israeli citizenship in 2010 and now lives and works in Jerusalem.
The Telangana Prisons Department has announced a reward of Rs 500 to anyone who can spot a beggars in Hyderabad and inform the officials. This step has been taken to make the city beggar free.

VK Singh, DG, Telangana Prisons Department said that if anybody spots a beggar on the street and give information about him to the authorities then he would get a reward of Rs 500 on the next day itself.

The city has initiated 'vidyadanam programme' under which they would be providing education and employment to the beggars.

"We would also be getting six petrol pumps and six new ayurvedic villages constructed to employ the skilled beggars, and those who are not skilled would be given training in Anand Ashram" he said.

With the help of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and Police department, so, far 741 male beggars and 311 female beggars have been rescued from the roads. Out of which 476 male beggars and 241 female beggars have been released on personal undertaking not to resort to begging again.

As of now 265 male beggars 70 female beggars and 2 children beggars are in the Anand Ashram.

Also Read: After Removing Beggars Ahead Of Ivanka Trump's Visit, Hyderabad Is Now Accused Of Poisoning Stray Dogs

He added, "Very soon we would provide place, where a beggar can stay with their family. Our objective is to provide wholesome life to the beggars and ensure that nobody is left on the street in our state."

Also Read: MBA Graduate Who Worked In London, US Green Card Holder Among Beggars Held In Hyderabad Ahead Of Ivanka's Visit
BURLEY Plans for Burleys new neighborhood elementary schools, which include new attendance zones for students and new teacher assignments, are nearly complete.

Cassia County School Districts board will take a final look at the plans mid-January before sending notices out to parents.

The shift will also mean a tightened open enrollment policy for the district.

We know there will be some anxiety and growing pains, said Debbie Critchfield, spokeswoman for the district. But we are starting early to minimize that. It will be a change for Burley, but I think it will be a positive change in the eyes of families.

The change will be implemented at the start of school in the fall.

I think its going to be a positive move, Superintendent Gaylen Smyer said. Neighborhood schools are really the norm.

The schools in the outlying communities, he said, have always been neighborhood schools.

The new attendance zones run in strips from north to south inside the city and extend jaggedly into the surrounding rural areas.

The board made the decision to implement the four neighborhood schools during the 2015 construction bond when patrons indicated they would prefer it to having the K-3 elementary schools and all Burley students in 4-6 grades attending White Pine Intermediate School.

John V. Evans Elementary School, built with bond money, allows the district to make the switch.

The new configuration means students will change schools one less time before junior high school, Critchfield, said.

We are trying to reduce the number of transitions from schools, Critchfield said.

Each time a student changes schools, all the institutional knowledge that teachers and principals had of that child is lost.

The new school has no knowledge of that student unless the parents share it, she said. And having that knowledge can help the student be more successful.

Changing schools can also be hard socially for children.

The fewer times students switch schools, the less king of the hill behavior is seen, she said.

There is a lot of data suggesting neighborhood schools have some advantages, Smyer said.

One benefit for parents is keeping siblings at the same school longer.

For some parents that will mean a one-stop drop off and pickup, and parents can put all their support into one school, Smyer said.

The district also anticipates the bus routes will operate more smoothly.

Critchfield said meeting notes from 1993-94 revealed the logic behind the district making the change to K-3 schools at the time.

She said when White Pine was new there was considerable patron contention over which students would attend the new school.

So the board devised a way for every kid to have a chance to go to the new school, Critchfield said.

A patrons committee helped formulate the neighborhood school plan and then the information was put into a software program that drew the boundaries.

Every single home in the city was identified, including how many children were in the home.

The north-south boundaries ensure that cross sections of socio-economic demographics are included at each school.

Its a mathematical program. There is nothing subjective about it, Critchfield said.

All of the districts schools are south of Main Street.

Critchfield said that is because there was no property available on the north side of Burley when the district was purchasing property several years ago.

Changing the configuration of the elementary schools also meant making new teacher assignments.

Teacher surveys were sent out asking them their first preference for schools and grades.

In many cases the district was able to meet both preferences and in very few cases the district could not meet any of the preferences.

The district also tightened its open enrollment policy grandfathering families in an area east of Burley, where some families chose Declo schools and some Burley. Once property is sold in that area, the new boundary lines will apply.

Cases where parents apply for open enrollment will be considered on a case-to-case basis.

At the end of the 2017-2018 school year, the district will also hire a new principal for John V. Evans Elementary.
A study conducted way back in 2011 indicated that around four percent of data packets flowing through the world wide web from the most popular websites are for ponrnography. It claimed that about 13 percent of all searches on the Web were for erotic material.

According to one estimate last year, as much as 30 per cent of the Web is dedicated to pornography, and that porn websites attract more visitors than Amazon, Netflix and Twitter combined. So yeah, porn is prevalent and a lot of us have viewed some of it on the web at one point or another -- however hard we deny the fact.

Why is it so popular? Well, while some people may be making use of pornography as a way to build arousal for the real event, the vast majority use it as a way to reach orgasm on their own. Its merely a means to an end when you want to do the naked dance alone. But the question is, besides the obvious visual stimulation, why does porn really help with that?

In a piece authored for Motherboard, David J. Linden (Ph.D.), a Professor of Neuroscience at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, attempted to answer that question. He believes the question makes much more sense when you take into account that a lot of people cannot climax by themselves without the use of pornography. Sure, porn can let you live out your fantasies and escape from your real world, but theres something else just as important.

The science behind why porn is appealing

The thing is, were wired in such a way that we pay less attention to sensations generated by ourselves. If your brain called your attention to every time your clothing shifted on your body when you walked, youd likely never be able to focus on anything. On the other hand, you immediately notice the same feeling, if it occurs when youre standing still. Your brain knows youre not moving, so it wants to know who or what is moving against you. Your brain is built to filter out internal stimuli, as those generated by the world around you are potentially more dangerous or important. You dont need to know that your toes are brushing together as you walk, but you do need to know that the vibration youre feeling through the ground is a train coming at you.

This is why most people cant tickle themselves. While they may respond to someone elses tickling, their own attempts will create a much weaker sensation. Experiments with subjects hooked up to brain scanners have proven this. Being tickled lights up regions of your brain that try to decipher what youre feeling and where on your body, while also trying to figure out if the sensation is good or bad. However, when you tickle yourself, your brain correlates the sensations with the electrical impulses its receiving for movement involved in the tickling and then inhibits them. In short, when your brain knows youre tickling yourself, it doesnt let you feel it as much.

Linden believes this phenomenon of tickling also translates to masturbation. When youre polishing the knob or double clicking the mouse button, your cerebellum is dampening the sensation by suppressing neural activity in the sensory part of your brain. You can still feel it, your body just wont respond to it as much because it knows its still you. The easiest way to bypass this safeguard is to construct a believable fantasy in your head. Even easier than that, is to simply watch porn you can immersed yourself in. Instead of an actual naughty video, even just reading erotic literature can heighten the activity in visual regions of your brain, as it paints a mental picture of the scene.

So there you have it guys and girls. Were not just visual creatures, were also apparently self-sabotaging when it comes to getting off alone. Porn helps with that. As such, its become an intrinsic part of our culture.

Just remember though, while this is a justification for your porn use, you still need to remember theres some etiquette to follow. Aint nobody want to see that playing on a phone nearby when theyre traveling by train, and certainly not ever in the office. Thats just messed up man.
Cocoa (CC) Retesting 38.2% Fib Retrace of Feb-Sep Slide Tradable Patterns - Fri Nov 18, 12:22AM CST Cocoa (CCZ22)s healthy profittaking this week should be slowing going into next week, with CC now testing the 38.2% Fib retrace of the massive bounce off the September low. CC is also back to prior... CCZ22 : 2,428s (-3.00%) NIB : 26.21 (-2.81%)

Asia-Pacific leaders seek unity on war, economic ills, virus AP - Thu Nov 17, 9:31PM CST Pacific Rim leaders are seeking common ground on the war in Ukraine and other dire threats to humankind in an annual meeting that began Friday in Bangkok $SPX : 3,946.56 (-0.31%) $DOWI : 33,546.32 (-0.02%) $IUXX : 11,676.86 (-0.19%)

Elizabeth Holmes faces judgment day for her Theranos crimes AP - Thu Nov 17, 6:55PM CST A federal judge on Friday will decide whether disgraced Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes should serve a lengthy prison sentence for duping investors and endangering patients while peddling a bogus blood-testing... $SPX : 3,946.56 (-0.31%) $DOWI : 33,546.32 (-0.02%) $IUXX : 11,676.86 (-0.19%)
The managing director of the countrys largest Irish-controlled yogurt producer, Glenisk, said the firm is poised for growth in 2018 despite Brexit increasing competition in the industry.

Vincent Cleary  a former RTE Secret Millionaire  was commenting on new accounts which show that pre-tax profits at the family-controlled firm fell 8% to 750,851 last year.

Glenisk posted the profits drop despite increasing its revenues by 7% to 21.86m. The brand also increased its market share to 15%. Its three major competitors in the Irish market are two French firms and a UK company.

The drop in sterling has allowed UK competitors to sell their products more cheaply into Ireland.

The company has produced 110 million yogurt servings.

On last years accounts, Mr Cleary said: 2016 was a strong year for Glenisk in terms of revenue, thanks in part to the success of our High Protein Greek Yogurt post-launch, and continued growth in sales of our organic products.

It paid out a dividend of 500,050 last year, which is up from the 250,000 it paid out in 2015.

The Co Offaly companys most popular products are natural, vanilla, and strawberry organic yogurts.

Its fastest-growing lines are its yoghurts for children and babies which have no added sugar.

Mr Cleary said the company is continuing to innovate with new products, and is seeking to open up new European markets and to develop its business in the Middle East.

The profit last year takes account of non-cash depreciation costs of 809,681.

The company now employs 75 people. Staff costs last year increased from 2.8m to 3.08m.

Seven directors were on the board, and their combined pay increased to 674,584 from 545,882 in the previous year.

Shareholder funds at the end of last December totalled 7.8m, which included 2.76m in accumulated profits.

The companys cash pile increased from 2.75m to 3.3m.

After paying a corporation tax bill of 108,680, the company recorded a post-tax profit of 642,171.
Specials Recommended For You

Reuters

As the year comes to an end, here are The Irrawaddys picks of our incisive commentaries, definitive data journalism and analytical news stories that can help you learn more about Myanmar today. If you missed them, now is the time to catch up. Happy reading and Happy New Year!

Big Brother to the Rescue

With the Rakhine crisis strengthening Chinas hand and limiting Western influence here, the government must plot a new strategic course.

The Man Behind the Burma Independence Army

Col Keiji Suzuki and Japans direct involvement in Myanmars independence movement has had far reaching consequences, writes Aung Zaw.

Collaboration is Key to Solving Rakhine Crisis

Important players in the crisis need to establish a common understanding.

Press Freedom and the Invisible Line

Do we have press freedom in Myanmar? Yes, we do, but with an invisible line. When you touch or cross it, youre finished.

Reassessing the Role of Myanmars Powerful Military

The Tatmadaw is still at the epicenter of politics. No understanding of it will prevent world and domestic leaders from achieving their goals.

Yangon: My City at Breaking Point

Once a jewel of Southeast Asia, uninhibited development, crumbling infrastructure, and unintuitive transport policies have pushed Yangon to the edge.

The Khaki Guardians of The NLD

Four ex-army men moved the NLD forward while former military regimes attempted to suppress the party.

The Rule of the Wa

The United Wa State Army recently weighed in on Burmas process as never before, but what part will it really play, asks Lawi Weng.

What is Wrong With the NLDs Policy?

The top-down naming of a Mon State bridgedespite local objectionsshows how the NLD government is wavering in its bid for national reconciliation.

Rakhine Crisis in Numbers

The Irrawaddy illustrates the casualties and carnage of the latest Rakhine crisis in infographics.

Challenges Impede Development of Myanmars Public Health

Data shows that the health system has improved under the civilian government, but remains hobbled by a lack of manpower, poor funding and an urban/rural divide.

Two Years After Election, a Mixed Report Card for NLD

As it marks the 2nd anniversary of its historic victory, the party can point to progress on health and rights, but democratic, economic development is slow.

What has Parliament Done so far?

Parliament draws praise for targeting oppressive laws, but some say lawmakers are not going far enough.

Father, Son and Granddaughter Art Exhibition

A family with three generations of artists hosts a show featuring around 200 acrylic and watercolor paintings.
Saturday, Dec 30th, 2017 (8:32 pm) - Score 2,712

The Aylesbury Vale District Council has handed control of Aylesbury Vale Broadband (assets / network) to UK ISP Gigaclear for an undisclosed sum, which will continue the operators rollout of full fibre (FTTH/P) ultrafast broadband services to rural villages in Buckinghamshire.

The project, which was initially supported by around 700,000 in the form of a publicly funded commercial loan from AVDC that itself acted as a 95% shareholder (most of AVBs directors work for the council), has been steadily building its network out to serve around 2,000 premises in several villages (e.g. Hoggeston, Granborough, North Marston, Swanbourne, Soulbury and Stewkley).

However over the past year or so AVB has also run into the odd overbuilding challenge with Gigaclear (here) and a local fixed wireless broadband provider or two (e.g. Village Networks), with the latter even prompting a competition complaint to the European Commission (here). Concerns over the financial stability of AVB have also been raised by various councillors (nobody ever said doing FTTH/P was cheap).

More recently some locals have criticised AVB for a lack of deployment progress and a few have demanded their deposits back. At the same time others have been frustrated by technical (slow speeds etc.) or support problems on the network. Suffice to say that few were surprised when we reported on 11th November that AVDC had been actively exploring expressions of interest in the company (here). AVB then issued the following update.

AVB Statement  12th November 2017 Sorry for the long silence but we assure you were listening! We apologise that some customers are struggling with low or variable speed connections. We know its frustrating and promise were working hard to resolve the issues. As reported elsewhere, were in the process of restructuring the business which is a delicate exercise and ask you to bear with us a little longer while we get things back on track. Were concerned that some people have commented on problems contacting AVB support by telephone. Weve looked into this and found a fault with our call handling process that meant a few calls have been missed. Again, we apologise and now we know theres a problem well fix it but, in the meantime, weve been responding to email support requests as normal. Moving forward, our immediate priority is providing a stable, high performance service to existing customers before we grow the network further and well be contacting customers whove paid deposits in due course to discuss their options. On a positive note, we have many satisfied customers and a great infrastructure thats brought fibre broadband to rural areas in Aylesbury Vale that previously had no prospect of receiving it. Because of the sensitivities we cannot discuss specific issues further on a public forum like this but ask that you give us just a few more weeks to secure a long-term solution.

At the time of our last article we speculated that Gigaclear might be in the frame for a deal and todays news confirms it. On top of that AVDC has recently announced that they intend to conduct an independent inquiry into the AVB project, which will also examine the difficulties with conducting proper scrutiny of council funded schemes (here).

Janet Blake, Aylesbury Vale Broadband, said (customer email): We are delighted to announce that we have agreed the sale of the Aylesbury Vale Broadband Ltd (AVB) network to Gigaclear plc, the leading supplier of ultrafast full fibre broadband to rural locations. Since 2015 AVB has provided ultrafast broadband to seven Aylesbury Vale villages, but there are other local communities that AVB cannot reach without significant additional investment. Gigaclear is a company with the resources and expertise to continue the good work started by AVB and their commitment to growing the network in Aylesbury Vale was an important consideration in the shareholders decision to sell AVBs assets. We are extremely proud of everything AVB has achieved. When we started the company, our primary aim was to bring high speed broadband to rural parts of Aylesbury Vale that, otherwise, had little likelihood of being connected. We now have one of the most advanced broadband infrastructures of any rural district in the UK. Having stimulated the market, the time is right to pass the reigns on to a company with the resources to grow the network quickly and benefit many more residents. Like us, Gigaclear want to provide a great service and were confident they will build on the foundations that weve laid. Gigaclear has purchased the assets of the business, rather than the AVB company itself, which means that you will need to sign up with Gigaclear if you want your service to continue. You will shortly receive a letter from Gigaclear explaining the next steps you will need to take. Gigaclear will keep supplying your service during the transition phase which will last until 31st January 2018. At that point, if you have not signed up to an agreement with them and given them your payment details, your current broadband service will cease. Your Direct Debit with AVB will be cancelled with effect from 31 January 2018 and we will then remove your payment details and personal information from our records.

Gigaclear has already built a full fibre (FTTP/H) network in Great Brickhill, Soulbury, Botolph Claydon, Calvert Green, Marsh Gibbon, Grendon Underwood and Piddington. The ISP has also committed to completing the network builds by end of Q3 2018 in Stewkley, Oving, Drayton Parslow and Swanbourne (this should cover the majority of residents in these areas). Apparently they will then start evaluating other areas in Aylesbury Vale for a future deployment.

In terms of deposits, AVB has pledged to refund any deposits it holds for people awaiting connection to the network and will contact you soon to arrange this. However its worth noting that customers who switch to Gigaclear will find that they charge a higher price for the same service speed than AVB. On AVB the popular 100Mbps service was 38 per month and this jumps to 46.85 with Gigaclear (not factoring setup fees).

At least now locals should be able to take some comfort from the fact that the long-running uncertainty over AVB has finally been resolved and the network expansion looks set to continue.

UPDATE 2nd Jan 2018

Weve added the following comment from Gigaclear. Apparently the sale of the business assets to Gigaclear was also agreed by a General Purposes committee meeting of the council on 20th November 2017.

Brett Shepherd, Chief Operating Officer of Gigaclear, said: Were delighted to take over the infrastructure that AVB has laid to enable the local Aylesbury Vale residents to access future proofed technology. Our intention is to make this process as seamless as possible for existing customers, as well as expand our offering so more of the local community can connect to our network quickly and experience the very best broadband technology.

UPDATE 5th Jan 2018

We understand from some AVB customers that Gigaclear has pledged to keep the monthly charge the same as AVB for 12 months.
Thank you to our supporters

The Oakley Valley Arts Council would like to thank those good people who supported our productions and concerts in 2017. You have made it possible for this non-profit to be self-supporting for many years. Thank you to those who participate, who donate many hours and share their talents on stage and behind the scenes and make this a feel-good experience.

This year OVAC had a roof leak on Howells Opera House stage and asked for help to put a new roof on. The last roof weathered the storms since the late 1980s. Through grants, donations from individuals and donations from area businesses, our roofing crew was able to get started on a new roof. Only some extra flashing is left to finish when the weather allows. Thank you for helping us to not be Singin in the Rain on stage in 2018!

With appreciation to: Burley Lions Club; First Federal Savings Bank; Northern Stone; Zions Bank; Redders Showkase; Morgan Rolling Flags; Kloepfer Concrete; Packaging Specialities of Idaho Inc.; Golden Valley Warehouses; Westfall and Westfall CPAs; Steve Garn; Walter Graham; Val Garn; Veronica Wilde; Norm Rayburn; Kyle and Laurell Adams; Judy Child; Betty Carlson; Betty Reas; Harris family; James and Valerie Callow; private donors; Seth Larson Construction; and the Idaho Heritage Trust who supports this preservation project. Also appreciation to Project Mutual Television for a grant to repair the upstairs west wall and ceiling.

OVAC continues to promote the arts in our valley and preserve the 1907 Opera House. Thank you to all for something good in this world we now live in.

Oakley Valley Arts Council

Interlink Volunteer Caregivers grateful for grants

On behalf of Interlink Volunteer Caregivers, we would like to thank the Fund Advisers of the Kissler Family Foundation Philanthropic Gift Fund in the Idaho Community Foundation for selecting us to receive the most recent generous grant. The funds will be used as mileage reimbursement for our wonderful volunteers as they use their own vehicles to provide transportation to our elderly, disabled and chronically ill citizens to health-related appointments.

IVCs volunteers are the backbone of our organization. They allow the vulnerable people IVC serves to remain independent while continuing to live in their own homes where they desire to be.

IVC appreciates the Kissler Family Foundation Philanthropic Gift Fund in the Idaho Community Foundation for recognizing the need to provide such a critical service as transportation for those who can no longer drive, so they may have the opportunity to access healthcare.

Also, thanks to the Twin Falls Health Initiatives Trust Board, which once again illustrated its passion to help people in Twin Falls County by awarding a grant to help our vulnerable, elderly and disabled citizens. You have literally given many of our friends and neighbors the gift of home! Thanks for believing in the work we do and the people we serve.

Edie Schab, executive director, Interlink Volunteer Caregivers

Thanks from Safe Harbor

Safe Harbor wishes to thank everyone in the community for all their generous donations.

The Boy Scouts of America for their food drives.

On Sept. 29, the Christian Bands for their concert and the family from Shoshone for their food drive.

The Brickhouse and Event Center for the Halloween spook house fundraiser. The employees, community, Falls Brand and Kiwi Loco for food at the event, hay bales for decorations and the family from Boise volunteering for the spook house.

The members of POW/MIA for their generous donation of Thanksgiving dinner at Safe Harbor. Steve deep fried the turkeys. Dale and Tony Everts with POW/MIA and the Christian Motorcycle Association and the volunteers from Calvary Chapel in Buhl and Gooding.

On Dec. 12, Culvers allowed us to have a fundraiser at their restaurant. It was very successful. We wish to thank all the patrons who donated.

The Lutheran ladies from Kimberly for their donations of stockings for Christmas. They were very well received. The handmade items from an anonymous donator for Christmas.

The CSI Diesel Automotive Department for potatoes.

Falls Brand, Kiwi Loco and Mi Pueblo have been generous donators for fundraisers and meals.

All these donations allow Safe Harbor to be able to provide food boxes to people in need and for Thursday evening 6 p.m. and Sunday 5 p.m. meals and Community Outreach program, at 213 Fifth Ave. S., Twin Falls.

Oleta O. Bybee, secretary, Safe Harbor

Thank you to Glanbia

On behalf of the all-volunteer staff and the board of directors of Helping Hearts and Hands in Gooding, we would like to thank the Glanbia Charity Challenge and Glanbia for the very generous donations they made to us. We are able to continue to meet the food needs of many families in Gooding, Wendell and Bliss. 2017 is our 10th anniversary year! We continue to thrive and serve others, only because of the generosity of others such as Glanbia. Thank you and God bless you!

Cindi Canine, Gooding
Almost two years of preparation involving over 200 meetings, 30 subcommittees, and so on. Thats just a quick look at Joyce Rabins work as Chair of Together in Israel: Our Pride, Our Purpose. Hadassahs 100th National Convention. (Hadassah, which was founded in 1912, held its first conventi Read moreS'ville resident helps organize 100th national of Hadassah, The Womens Zionist Organization of America
Reddit Email 169 Shares

Middle East Monitor |  

Egyptian media sources have reported that the Mar Mina Church in Helwan, south of Cairo, was attacked this morning, resulting in the death of several people, including the attacker.

The sources reported that an armed gunman tried to raid the church and an exchange of fire occurred between him and a number of security guards. This led to the death of several individuals.

There has been conflicting reports regarding the number of individuals killed, as the Ministry of Interior reported two police officers, as well as the gunman, were killed, while the Health Ministry [initially] reported five were killed and five others were wounded.

Security sources said that the security forces managed to remove an explosive belt worn by the gunman while he tried to raid the church.

Egypts Al-Youm Al-Sabea newspaper reported that explosives experts were able to defuse two explosive canisters planted around the church.

Local media has reported that security forces have shut down all churches in Helwan in anticipation of other attacks, after reports of another gunman involved in the attack fleeing the scene.

Creative Commons License This work by Middle East Monitor is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

Via Middle East Monitor

-

Related video added by Juan Cole:

Aljazeera English: Egypt: Another deadly attack on a Coptic church
Reddit Email 260 Shares

By Martin Khor | (Inter Press Service) |  

PENANG, Malaysia, Dec 21 2017 (IPS)  In 2017, Donald Trump dominated the year by using US clout to change many aspects of global relations, and not for the better.

What a year it has been! As 2017 slips away, and 2018 dawns, many wonder if the world will ever be the same.

Credit or blame goes mainly to United States President Donald Trump for this radical change. This time last year, after he won the presidential elections, it was a toss-up whether Trump would implement his campaign promises or become a more statesmanlike President.



President Donald Trump prepares to address the general debate of the Assemblys seventy-second session. Credit: UN Photo/Kim Haughton

After all, most election candidates are extreme on the campaign trail to win votes, then become moderate on assuming office. Not Trump. For the past year, he has ruled as if he was catering to his extreme right voter base, with its narrow, anti-foreign and anti-internationalist views.

Trumps policies have been in line with implementing his America First inauguration slogan, which really meant the America of his voter base, and with the accompanying sentiment, why should we bother about the rest of the world? And he reached out directly to his base and the world public via a daily dose of tweets.

The new US leadership threatened NATO, paralysed the G7, pulled the US out of the Paris climate agreement, UNESCO and Global Compact on Migration, reduced funding for the United Nations and its agencies, and stopped all funding to the Green Climate Fund.

Many Americans (which increasingly include many Republicans) were aghast. And the rest of the world received one policy pronouncement after another with a mixture of disappointment, incredulity and outrage. The list includes insults to traditional allies (Australia, Germany, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom) and traditional and new foes real or imagined (North Korea, Iran, several Muslim-majority countries whose citizens now cant enter the US) and with threats to economic rivals especially China but also countries with trade surpluses with the US, whom he labelled cheaters.

The new US leadership threatened NATO, paralysed the G7, pulled the US out of the Paris climate agreement, UNESCO and Global Compact on Migration, reduced funding for the United Nations and its agencies, and stopped all funding to the Green Climate Fund.

Trumps policies were especially worrying for developing countries on trade issues. He pulled the US out from the TPPA (Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement) and initiated a re-negotiation of NAFTA (North America Free Trade Agreement).

These by themselves may not be a bad thing, if the changes the US want are for the good of all sides, since FTAs involving the US have many serious flaws. But the evidence is that although most of these FTAs are already biased towards American interests, the Trump administration want to ensure that new US FTAs will have even more benefits going to the US, for example through opening markets even wider for US products and even more stringent intellectual property provisions that favour US corporations.

Trump at first threatened to impose a 30-45 per cent tariff on imports from China and Mexico, but this has not been done (at least not yet). Then the Republican Congress leaders put forward a border adjustment tax scheme (as part of tax reforms) that would place a 20% tax on all imports; this plan was eventually withdrawn after many US companies that rely on imports protested.

The Trump administration then revived its unilateral trade weapon, Section 301 of the US Trade Act 1974, which the US had hardly used since the World Trade Organisation was established. In August, Trump initiated that an investigation be conducted to see if Section 301 tariff increases should be imposed on China for alleged violation of intellectual property and for requiring US companies to transfer technology. The use of Section 301 is not in line with WTO rules; if the US returns to its old bad habit of taking unilateral trade actions, it will open the door to a global trade war.

Just as worrying was the new US attitude towards multilateral trade relations and the WTO. It showed its contempt for the WTOs dispute settlement system by blocking replacements for retiring Appellate Body members, thus reducing the WTOs capacity to arbitrate trade disputes. It has refused to recognise the work done so far in the Doha work programme, giving the view that Doha is dead, and given notice it wants a revamp of the concept and use of the WTOs special and differential treatment principle that is so important for developing countries.

The year is ending with two more shocks. First, Trump announced the US recognises Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, going against the previous US policy, the official UN position and the status quo (where the city is presently shared between Palestine and Israel). This move, planned by his son-in-law and not the State Department, has been opposed even by US allies. And it has triggered outrage across the developing world, with protests held in many parts of Palestine (resulting in increasing numbers of deaths and injuries) and other countries.

The new US policy destroyed any remaining hopes, if any, of a solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict in the foreseeable future, and is likely to trigger another tragic round of bloody clashes in a region already fraught with wars.

Second, the US brought its antagonism to the present trading system to the Ministerial conference of the WTO held in the first half of December in Buenos Aires. Its entrenched position refusing to recognise the WTOs 16-year-old Doha agenda, or to honour a previous Ministerial commitment to create a permanent solution to a food security issue (known as public stockholding), or to acknowledge the principle and new proposals for special treatment of developing countries, was the main reason why the conference ended without the traditional Declaration and key decisions. It also leaves the WTO in unchartered territory.

The Trump effect certainly dominated events and trends in 2017. The biggest fear is that by design or accident or even an insulting tweet, conflict may break out between the US and North Korea, escalating into a nuclear war. If at least this can be avoided, we can thank our lucky stars. So low have expectations of the world order fallen.

The year will also be remembered for the depths of inhumanity inflicted on fellow humans.

Top of the list is the persecution of the Rohingya in Myanmar. Since end-August, about 650,000 Rohingya crossed to Bangladesh to find refuge, at least 6,700 had been killed in the first month (according to a Doctors Without Borders survey) and many of their houses and villages had been burnt. Despite widespread condemnation, including the top UN human rights official terming this as elements of genocide, the future of the Rohingya is both uncertain and bleak.

Natural calamities continued unabated. Many countries across the world suffered from storms, cyclones and hurricanes that wreaked destruction (with some Caribbean islands recently experiencing almost total physical and economic wipe-out); earthquakes caused damage in other countries; forest fires swept across parts of California and elsewhere, and drought affected millions of people in Africa.

We are more and more witnessing the effects of climate change. The warmer atmosphere holds more water vapour, with higher potential for rainfall, while the warming oceans affect weather patterns, resulting in more powerful tropical storms and hurricanes.

But during the year, efforts to counter global warming were still at much too slow a pace. According to a recent report, global Greenhouse Gas emissions are estimated to have risen again in 2017, after a few years of decline. Details on how to share the burden of transition to a low-carbon world have still to be worked out, and this hampers the speed of environmental action. The US pulling out of the Paris Agreement and the about-turn in its domestic climate change policies made things worse.

The UNFCCC Conference of Parties session in Bonn in November discussed the details of interpreting the global framework of how countries should implement aspects of the Paris Agreement. There was some progress, but also evidence that major differences remain, especially on North-South lines.

The global economy performed moderately well in 2017. The US, Europe and Japan had more positive economic growth, though they have yet to recover from the financial crisis that began in 2008. Chinas economy expanded by near to 7%. Buoyed by exports, Asian developing countries will attain better-than-expected 6% growth in 2017, according to latest Asian Development Bank estimates.

Some experts are however warning about the massive build-up of debt and predict another bout of domestic and international financial instability, that will also manifest in volatility in capital flows and foreign exchange rates. So whether the 2017 momentum can be sustained, or whether 2018 will witness a bursting of the economic bubble, is unclear.

But thats not the only thing that is unclear. As the year ends, and a new year begins, there is great uncertainty in many areas and issues in the world.

Martin Khor is Executive Director of the South Centre, a think tank for developing countries, based in Geneva.

Licensed from Inter Press Service
GREENWOOD, BRITISH COLUMBIA / December 29, 2017 / JMN Wire / New Nadina Explorations Limited (TSX VENTURE: NNA) provides assay results on drill holes 17S-01 and 17S-02 with 17S-03 to follow as soon as available. Figures showing drill hole information will be posted to the website at www.nadina.com.

The standards had Cu reported by method UT2 (Aqua Regia Partial Extractions) in the 0.8  1.2% range, and, therefore, 33 samples, including the 3 standards, were re-assayed using 0.5g aqua regia digestion / ICP-OES, which caused significant delay of the results. All silver (Ag) results reported for 17S-01 have been by 0.5g Aqua Regia digestion with ICP-MS or ICP-OES finish and if Ag is >30 - 100ppm, then a 30g fire assay (FA) with gravimetric finish has been accomplished. Re-assaying 3 samples for gold using a larger sample size (30g for fire assay) was conducted in order to assure compliance with regulations. Assaying 17S-02 samples with four acid digestions caused no problems, and re-assaying data for hole 17S-03 are still pending.

The 2017 drill program was conducted during October and November with all three holes from the same drill pad for a total of 2,158.5M (see website Page 1 2017 Drill plan.pdf). Drilling planned to test the high conductive body inside the caldera and its apophysis further to the east, as well as test the high silver intercepts reported in 12S-05 (NR Dec 23, 2015) and a cylindrical type feature of chargeability high and resistivity low beyond the veins (NR Jun20, 2017). The property is showing both, Ag-Au-Cu-Pb-Zn veins and Cu-Mo+/-Au porphyry, respectively. Reconnaissance geological work has shown that the Silver Queen Ag-Au-Cu-Pb-Zn vein system is located within a 3km wide caldera, which formed during repetitive explosive eruptions producing pyroclastic volcanics (tuffs).

Drill hole 17S-01 targeted a deep seated conductive geophysical anomaly with hole 17S-03 targeting an apophysis of this anomaly extending to the southeast of the main body, both identified in a 2012 Quantec Geoscience deep IP survey (see figure-NR May 24, 2017 & Jun20, 2017). The larger high conductive anomaly in blue color in the map has been named the Blue Zone. The apparent ring structure of the ancient volcano appears to play an important role in the development of the Itsit Porphyry system adjacent to the south, likely by providing heat and metal bearing fluids. The target for hole 17S-02 is a cylindrical chargeability feature, coincident resistivity low, in the north Itsit Porphyry, which has been touched by hole 12S-05 in 2012, showing two high grade sections, formally interpreted as the NG3 extension and Sister vein (NR Dec23, 2015).

Drill hole 17S-01, Az 300, Dip -59 degrees, drilled to a length of 816m, intersected the conductive geophysical anomaly in the southern part of the caldera. The structure of the mineralization is an intense stockwork veining grid with sub-vertical sulfide-low-silica veins ranging from less than a millimeter to 1.5cm. Some 1.5 cm veins show a 10 cm spacing. The drill hole assays have shown that the main body of the target stockwork mineralization consists of pyrite, arsenopyrite, sphalerite, and possibly fine grained tennantite-tetrahedrite, manganese oxides, +/- galena and cobaltite. Also, within the target there are value carrying sections with up to 1.5 cm veins containing sulfides, visually identified and supported by assay results as bornite, sphalerite, galena, pyrargyrite, and tennantite-tetrahedrite. Rhodochrosite has been identified as an indicator mineral as well. However, the majority of the non carrying sections dilute the values of the higher grade section, which can be seen on the following summary.

The following numbers are related to an upper blue zone:

From  To (m) Interval (m) Ag g/t Au g/t Cu % 423.47 to 423.67 0.2 91.3 0.06 0.65 433.3 to 433.7 0.4 120 1.29 1.41

From 663.35 to 809.35m (145.98m total including 13m of barren dykes) the average metal values are 8.0 g/t Ag, 0.10 g/t Au, and 0.06% Cu.

Included in the above are the following sections:

From  To (m) Interval (m) Ag g/t Au g/t Cu % 663.35 to 666 2.65 34.1 0.26 690 to 693 3 120 0.24 0.5 791 to 793 2 47.3 0.71 0.72 807 to 809.33 2.33 21.4 0.86

In addition, short intervals have been recognized at shallower levels:

From  To (m) Interval (m) Ag g/t Au g/t Cu % 176.55 to 177.22 0.67 305 12.73 0.21 207.42 to 207.76 0.34 709 0.36 2.84

Drill hole 17S-02, Az 165, dip -61 degrees, drilled to a length of 667.51m, tested the northwest portion of the Itsit Copper-Molybdenum-Gold porphyry, and targeted both, the high grade silver veins intercepted in drill hole 12S-05 (NR Dec 23, 2015, Jun 30, 2017) and the high chargeability, low resistivity anomaly, respectively. Results show, that this target is a cylindrical sericite core of the Cu-Mo-Au Porphyry with an average grade of 0.27% copper and of 0.055% Molybdenum, which is rimmed by multiple layers of Zn-Ag sulphides on both sides, each of up to 3m, down to a depth of 660m. Note: the reported widths for the cylindrical core and the multiple layers are not true widths.

Drill Hole 17S-02, within the Itsit Cu-Mo-Au Porphyry, averages from 515.15 to 667.51m (142.06m) 0.27% Cu and 0.055% Mo, and contains Ag- Zn+/-Au rims.

Additional multiple layered poly-metallic rims of the cylindrical shape of the sericitic porphyry core have been recognized on both sides, and according to the inclination of the hole, at different depth.

At top, related to the NG3 extension (NR Dec23, 2015)

From  To (m) Interval (m) Ag g/t Zn % 453 to 454 1 14 1.24 518 to 521 3 94 0.85

At bottom, not related to a vein:

From  To (m) Interval (m) Ag g/t Au g/t Zn % 615 to 618 3 12.4 0.13 0.32 621 to 624 3 14.3 0.12 0.24 630 to 633 3 36.9 0.19 6.77 642 to 645 3 25.2 0.13 0.19 659 to 661 3 24.1 0.10 3.97

Drill Hole 17S-03, AZ 146.6, Dip -87.5 degree, to depth of 675m, was from the same set up and will be reported as soon as completed analyses is available.

Discussions for spring drilling 2018

Plans for the spring drill program are being reviewed, where the Blue Zone will be tested from the north from two holes planned from each of the two drill pads on crown land, and drilling south and south-west, respectively. In addition, follow up to drill test the 12S-05 intercept at depth (NR Dec23, 2015), and, if possible, drilling two holes from the south-west from private land at about 90 degrees to 12S-05.

Dr. Mathias Westphal. P.Geo., a qualified person as defined under National Instrument 43-101, has provided, reviewed and approves the technical content of this release.

Silver Queen Property  Central British Columbia (100%)

The Company owns 100% interest in 17 crown-granted (includes 2 surface title owned crown grants of 40.47 ha), and 45 tenure claims covering 18,852 hectares in the Omineca Mining Division, near Owen Lake, British Columbia. The Silver Queen property is located at kilometre 43 on the all-weather Morice/Owen forest service road that originates in Houston B.C. continuing 125 kilometres south to Huckleberry Mine. There is a 10 person camp and core shed facilities established on the property.
2K Shares Share

When you tell anyone in health care that sedation to the point of coma is given in dentists and oral surgeons offices every day, without a separate anesthesia professional present to give the medications and monitor the patient, the response often is disbelief.

But they cant do that, Ive been told more than once.

Yes, they can. Physicians are not allowed to do a procedure and provide sedation or general anesthesia at the same time  whether its surgery or a GI endoscopy. But dental practice grew up under a completely different regulatory and legal structure, with state dental boards that are separate from medical boards.

In many states, dentists can give oral conscious sedation with nitrous oxide after taking a weekend course, aided only by a dental assistant with a high school diploma and no medical or nursing background. Deaths have occurred when they gave repeated doses to the point that patients stopped breathing either during or after their procedures.

Oral surgeons receive a few months of education in anesthesia during the course of their residency training. They are legally able to give moderate sedation, deep sedation or general anesthesia in their offices to patients of any age, without any other qualified anesthesia professional present. This is known as the single operator-anesthetist model, which the oral surgeons passionately defend, as it enables them to bill for anesthesia and sedation as well as oral surgery services.

Typically, oral surgeons and dentists alike argue that they are giving only sedation  as opposed to general anesthesia  if there is no breathing tube in place, regardless of whether the patient is drowsy, lightly asleep, or comatose to the point of danger.

The death of Caleb Sears

Against this backdrop of minimal regulation and infrequent office inspections, a healthy six-year-old child named Caleb Sears presented in 2015 for extraction of an embedded tooth. Caleb received a combination of powerful medications  including ketamine, midazolam, propofol, and fentanyl  from his oral surgeon in northern California, and stopped breathing. The oral surgeon failed to ventilate or intubate Caleb, breaking several of his front teeth in the process, and Caleb didnt survive.

Calebs heartbroken family pushed for legislation to add transparency and safety to California dental anesthesia for children. They wanted dentists and oral surgeons to inform parents about exactly who would be giving anesthesia to their children. But their bill was watered down during the legislative process, due to the clout of the dental lobby.

Calebs family didnt give up. The next year, another bill (AB 224) was sponsored by Assemblymember Tony Thurmond to mandate changes in the California Dental Practice Act. The Dental Board held hearings, and to everyones surprise, recommended changes too. Specifically, the Board recommended that children under the age of seven years, who need dental procedures under deep sedation or general anesthesia, should have a separate, qualified anesthesia professional in attendance as well as the dentist or oral surgeon performing the procedure.

The California Society of Anesthesiologists (CSA) provided expert opinion in support of AB 224, and we were genuinely hopeful that it would prevail. Once again, we underestimated the tenacity and the financial muscle behind the lobbyists of the California Dental Association and the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. They argued, incredibly, that no data support the concept that it is safer to have an independent anesthesia professional give anesthesia than to have the same person give anesthesia and perform surgery.

A randomized trial of parachutes?

Wait. How can anyone say that there are no data to support the concept that anesthesia is safer when given by a person who is not also doing surgery? That is the bedrock foundation of safe anesthesia care today. Even a board-certified anesthesiologist who is doing an invasive pain procedure, for instance, cannot offer sedation without a separate anesthesia professional present to give the medications and monitor the patient.

The reason that dentists and oral surgeons can claim a lack of data is that they havent collected data. There is no national or state database of complications, near misses, adverse events, or deaths during dental and oral surgery procedures. No one seems willing to fund the establishment of a database, and event reporting depends entirely on the honesty of individual practitioners.

What about randomized prospective trials? These arent likely to happen. What patient or parent would voluntarily agree to anesthesia without a qualified anesthesia professional as opposed to with one? You might as well try to enroll subjects in a prospective trial to see whether jumping out of an airplane is safer with a parachute.

Yet the no data argument convinced several California legislators. AB 224 did not succeed in passage during Californias 2017 legislative session, and became a two-year bill to be revisited in the upcoming legislative session. CSA will continue to write, speak, and do everything else we can do in support.

Where do we go from here?

I wish I could say definitively that AB 224 will pass and will solve the problem for good, at least in California. However, even if it succeeds without any further watering down, or active sabotage, there are other factors to worry about.

Children under the age of seven arent the only ones who die, or suffer hypoxic brain damage, in dentists and oral surgeons offices. Just this month, a Minnesota family settled a case for $2 million over the 2015 death of their lovely, 15-year-old daughter, Sydney Galleger. Sydney went to an oral surgeons office to have her wisdom teeth removed, and died of hypoxic injury following bradycardia and cardiac arrest. In Florida, 17-year-old Christopher Power died last year after he received meperidine and midazolam for wisdom tooth extraction from a dentist with sedation training.

Tragic events can occur in the recovery period as well as during the procedure. Few dental offices are equipped with qualified PACU nurses, or set rigorous recovery and discharge criteria. Ive reviewed a case of wisdom tooth extraction where a teenager was monitored after general anesthesia  unbelievably  for only seven minutes, before being packed into the back seat of his mothers car. He promptly turned blue, but his mother managed to get him to a nearby emergency room in time to be resuscitated.

No matter how tightly anyone tries to craft a law, the dentists and oral surgeons will work to figure out a way around it. The latest gambit is their definition of deep sedation with local anesthesia as a type of anesthesia unique to oral surgery that shouldnt require a separate anesthesia professional to be there.

The oral surgery team model, I would remind you, allows a dental assistant with no medical training to monitor the patients vital signs and keep the dentist informed as to whether the patient is alive and breathing  or not.

The problem is that dental assistants, through no fault of their own, dont have the medical or nursing background to recognize early enough when a patient isnt breathing adequately. They lack the medical or nursing training to perform the tasks of advanced cardiac life support.

The failure to identify a developing crisis, and the failure to provide competent, timely resuscitation, are the ultimate causes of brain damage and death caused by lack of oxygen during dental procedures.

Heres the bottom line

You cant fix stupid.

If state dental boards persist in allowing their practitioners  whether dentists or oral surgeons  to give medications as potentially lethal as fentanyl while they perform procedures, and the practitioners dont understand or wont acknowledge the risks, its hard to see a way forward to a legislative solution.

You cant fix greedy.

As long as dentists and oral surgeons  as distinct from every other surgeon  can legally bill for giving moderate sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia while doing procedures, then theyll move heaven and earth to maintain that revenue stream.

Our best bet is to keep up a relentless public campaign for safe dental anesthesia.

As CSA President, Ive appeared on NBC television, in an excellent segment called Children at Risk? Kids and Sedation at the Dentists Office. Ive been quoted in an award-winning article in Today.com, 9 questions to ask your dentist before your kids go under sedation. NBC also taped an online segment, What Happens When a Child Stops Breathing?, about exactly what can go wrong during a pediatric dental procedure when a child isnt getting enough oxygen and no one notices it in time.

Rita Agarwal, MD, FAAP, who chairs CSAs Committee on Professional and Public Communication, has co-authored an excellent piece for parents on the American Academic of Pediatrics website, healthychildren.org, about the risks and benefits of anesthesia and sedation for dental work in children.

Recently, another excellent publication in the November 2017 issue of Pediatrics reviewed a death after moderate sedation in a dental office. The pediatric dentists, who wrote commentary on behalf of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommended less invasive, less risky procedures on baby teeth, including silver diamine fluoride, which can be painted on any tooth to arrest active caries. Then the baby tooth eventually falls out, as they pointed out dryly, a normal developmental process that requires no professional intervention.

Above all, we must continue the push to educate parents. Over and over, weve heard the refrain:

I didnt know there wouldnt be an anesthesiologist.

I had no idea it could happen.

I thought they knew what they were doing.

When parents know, they can demand that a procedure be done under safe circumstances, in the right location, with appropriate personnel and monitoring. Its our job to continue the work of making sure every parent knows. Safe anesthesiology care is the right of every child, every patient, every time.

Politically, you cannot legislate what rationally makes perfect sense.

 Uwe Reinhardt, economist

Karen S. Sibert is an anesthesiologist who blogs at A Penned Point.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
Cho Young-sook, 83, poses in front of her house in Dong-gu, Incheon, Tuesday, after an interview about donating 50 million won this October. / Korea Times photo by Kim Ji-soo



By Kim Ji-soo



Cho Young-sook, 83, lives in a small white house that sits on a small hill near Dowon Station in Dong-gu, Incheon. The neighborhood, which is only two subway stations away from Incheon Chinatown and the resort area of Wolmido, is a traditional one yet to be affected by the onslaught of residential and commercial development.



Cho has lived in the same house for 30 years, and since her husband, Im Cheol-ho, passed away about 20 years ago, she has lived alone. She has no children of her own, just two stepchildren from her husband. The interior of the house features a mixture of furniture she purchased decades ago and secondhand ones she bought in more recent years. A small kerosene stove in her living room is lit only when there are guests, reflecting her frugal lifestyle.



Cho works as a neighborhood "environment-keeper" for Dong-gu, doing such jobs as picking up wastepaper and boxes in the neighborhood. She receives a pension for senior citizens. In October, she made headlines when she donated most of her 50 million won in life savings to the Community Chest of Korea, the nation's largest charity organization, hoping the money will help collegians in their studies.



"Oh, I feel embarrassed about the attention I am getting over the donation. I feel like I donated in order to extend my life," Cho said, referring to her worsening physical condition.



Cho, who has worked all her life starting from an early age, has been feeling unwell since earlier this year. "I get a lot of headaches," she said, speaking in her living room. But around fall, her condition worsened; she began to sweat profusely and could barely move 30 centimeters. She survived, and still manages her health by herself. While she remains healthy, she wants to save more to give away.



"It feels good to give. People should try it," she said.

Born in 1935, she grew up during the 1910-45 Japanese occupation and the 1950-53 Korean War, experiencing the poverty that accompanied these tumultuous times in Korean history. "I wonder if there is anyone as frugal as me in Korea," she said. She still uses a bedpan and does not use her washing machine to save on water and electricity bills, wearing only secondhand clothes people give her.

"I am not embarrassed by that. If I save, I can help others more," she said.



Her work ethic may well have come from being the eldest child of her family. Cho and her family arrived in Incheon when she was seven years old. "I was smart; I even skipped one year in elementary school. I was also diligent; I cleaned the classrooms, so the teachers called me a rabbit. But I left before graduating," she said.



She joined the labor force early to help support her family. She has held numerous jobs, including selling melons and as a laborer at a textile company. This hard life prompted Cho to give up on certain things in life, like her dreams, and to put others before herself. "I don't think I've ever really wanted anything for myself," she said.



Her mother was strict, Cho remembers.



"My mother used to give me one cup of uncooked rice a month, which I rationed. That meant I would go hungry several times, but over time it meant I could buy what I really needed, like female amenities. I had to make ends meet. No one gave me an allowance," Cho said.



Those days as a young girl and later young woman were bleak: she hardly remembers having uttered the word "mother," and she often went hungry and thought of not wanting to continue living. Yet, the practice of setting aside a little for a rainy day has set in with her. She also advises rationing when it comes to giving or donating.



For example, she said, if you have 1,000 won, spend 700 won and set aside 300 won for giving.



Things improved slightly after marriage. She began selling sundries at a market in Incheon, and briefly ran a successful snack shop in her current neighborhood. She gave up the snack shop when her respiratory health was affected.



"Now, when doing business, it's important to sell products at a low price but in large volumes, so customers will come back and only purchase from other stores the items I didn't carry in my store. A kind reception, a cup of warm water or a small container of yogurt goes a long way," she said.



Cho Young-sook in her 40s, while volunteering for the Red Cross and the elderly / Courtesy of Cho Young-sook
Quitting smoking is the best thing that you can do for your health, and if you use one the range of support services available, you can as much as double your chances of your quit attempt succeeding. Also, if youve tried before and it didnt work, remember most smokers make several attempts before quitting for good. The trick is to keep on trying, because the change you can bring about in your health and your life is worth it.

The HSE's QUITline Service now has a new Freephone number 1800 201 203. This means that smokers in need of help and support to quit can call free of charge on 1800 201 203.

The QUITline is provided on the HSE's behalf by the Irish Cancer Society and gives professional counselling support to smokers on their quit journey.

If you smoke, remember you can QUIT. Visit www.quit.ie and sign up for an online QUIT plan or call the QUITline 1800 201 203. You can also join the QUIT Facebook support group here

Don't forget you can also talk to your GP or local pharmacist for help, support and advice on medications to ensure you succeed with your New Year's resolution!
Introduction

(Image credit: Stockxpert.)

Editors Note: This article was updated on Dec. 30, 2017

Whether youre celebrating in New York City or Nashville, Tennessee, New Years Eve follows a pretty similar script: People dress up in their best duds, break out the bubbly and sing "Auld Lang Syne" at the stroke of midnight. If its a particularly rowdy party, some things may explode.

But how exactly did these traditions arise?

Many of these rituals have ancient roots and are similar around the world. It turns out that many are designed to ward off evil spirits as we enter the darkest time of the year, said Anthony Aveni, an astronomer and anthropologist at Colgate University in New York, and the author of "The Book of the Year: A Brief History of Our Seasonal Holidays," (Oxford University Press, 2004).

"This is a transitional period," Aveni told Live Science. "Im looking at my window at all the snow. The worst of it is just beginning because its winter. The sun goes away, and when the sun goes away we have to get it back; we have all these rituals designed to get the sun back."

From popping open a bottle of champagne to watching the ball drop in Times Square, here are the roots of 10 New Years Eve traditions. [10 Christmas Traditions from Around the World]

Smooch your sweetie

(Image credit: Lisa F. Young/Shutterstock.com)

Puckering up at the stroke of midnight is a venerable tradition with ancient roots. Many cultures considered the transition from the warm to the cold seasons to be an intensely vulnerable time, when evil spirits could run amok, Aveni said.

Many of our traditions, including kissing, originally come from the English tradition of "saining," or offering blessing or protection, during the period of Yuletide, Aveni said. (Yuletide was originally a pre-Christian Germanic festival that eventually became synonymous with Christmastide in Europe.)

Kissing, in this context, was thought to bring good luck as people entered the vulnerable, transitional period of the new year, Aveni said.

"You want to be closest to those who support you," Aveni told Live Science.

Bubbly luxury

(opens in new tab) , Shutterstock (opens in new tab) ) (Image credit: Kati Molin

Popping champagne corks at the stroke of midnight is a mainstay on New Years Eve, whether at swanky parties or home celebrations. In general, overindulgence and excess are hallmarks of New Years celebrations around the world, Aveni said.

But when exactly did the peach-colored, bubbly beverage become synonymous with New Years Eve?

Despite its French name, champagnes signature fizz traces its origins back to England in the 1500s, according to "Wine Science: Principles and Applications" (Academic Press, 2008), Live Science previously reported. [Champagne Facts for the New Year (Infographic)]

At that point, people figured out how to create bubbly bottled drinks. In 1662, Christopher Merret reported to the Royal Society of London that adding sugar to bottled wine created a fizzy beverage, thanks to the yeast in the wine, which consumed the sugar to produce carbon dioxide. It took about a century to perfect the fermentation technique, however, according to Imbibe Magazine.

The use of champagne for celebrations has its roots in the Christian ritual of consuming wine during the Eucharist as the blood of Christ. In A.D. 496, a wine from the Champagne region of France was used in the baptism of the Frankish warrior Clovis, according to champagne.fr, a website run by the Champagne Committee of France. From then on, wines from the Champagne region were often used at such religious events as consecrations, and at coronations and soirees, according to the website.

"After the French Revolution, it became a part of the secular rituals that replaced formerly religious rituals," Kolleen Guy, associate professor of history at the University of Texas at San Antonio and author of "When Champagne Became French" (The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2003), previously told Live Science. "You could 'christen a ship' without a priest, for example, by using the 'holy water' of champagne," Guy said.

By 1789, the French had taken the two elements  the bubbles and their prized Champagne-region wine  and put the two together for royal parties and celebrations. Champagne, however, didnt become the ultimate New Years celebration beverage until producers of champagne tried to link the bubbly to festive occasions with family, and the rise of the middle class increased the purchasing power of ordinary people, according to Imbibe Magazine.

"Auld lang syne"

(Image credit: pressmaster | dreamstime)

Another classic tradition is to sing "Auld Lang Syne," a Scottish poem that was recorded on paper officially in 1788 by the Scottish poet Robert Burns, according to Scotland.org. The melody itself, however, is a much older folk song that was known in Scotland, and the Scottish Museum set Burns words to the tune when he sent it in, according to the English Folk Dance and Song Society.

"There is an old song and tune which has often thrilled through my soul," Burns said in reference to the popular melody in his 1788 letter, according to the Burns encyclopedia.

Burns admitted to drawing inspiration for "Auld Lang Syne" from an old man he heard singing the song, and other variants of the song had appeared earlier in the 1700s.

In English, the literal translation of Auld Lang Syne is "old long times," but it means something more along the lines of "once upon a time." With its touch of nostalgia, it soon became a mainstay at British and Scottish funerals, farewells and group celebrations. It didnt make it across the pond as a New Year's tradition until 1929, however, when the Guy Lombardo orchestra played it at a hotel in New York, Live Science previously reported.

Dropping the ball

(Image credit: Nancy Ann Ellis/Shutterstock.com)

At the stroke of midnight, revelers in Times Square will watch the giant ball drop in New York City. But where exactly did this tradition come from? In the old days, sailors used "time balls" to set their own timepieces while at sea. They would set these chronometers by using a spyglass to scan the harbor, looking for balls that were dropped into the water at certain times, PBS.org reported. The first time ball, which was installed in Portsmouth, England, made its first drop in 1829, and by 1845, Washington, D.C., had one installed as well, according to PBS.org.

By 1904, a big ball was present when revelers began partying in Times Square. But the first version of the ball  a wooden and iron orb that was adorned with 100 25-watt lightbulbs  dropped in 1907, according to the Times Square Alliance. That year, The New York Times publisher Adolph Ochs was hoping to find a replacement for the fireworks that had been banned by the police. (Hot ashes from the fireworks fell into the streets after the fireworks were deployed the year prior, according to PBS.org.) Ochs asked his chief electrician to conceive of an equally sparkly alternative  and the time ball was born.

Since the first ball drop, there have been seven balls, according to the Times Square Alliance. The current ball weighs 6 tons (5.4 metric tons), is 12 feet (3.65 meters) in diameter and gets its bling from 2,688 Waterford Crystal triangles and 32,256 LED lights, according to the alliance.

Balls arent the only things that drop on New Years Eve. In Port Clinton, Ohio, residents watch a 600-lb. walleye fish replica fall, while Boise, Idaho, famous for its potatoes, drops a glowing "GlowTato," WNYC reported.

New Year's resolution

(opens in new tab) ) (Image credit: New Years Resolutions image via Shutterstock

Messing up and promising to do better next time may be a uniquely human instinct that has no season, but making New Years resolutions dates back at least to the time of the ancient Mesopotamians. In Ancient Babylonia, citizens made spoken resolutions in March, during their 12-day-long New Year Festival, called Akitu, Live Science previously reported. The resolutions were not undertaken for mere self-improvement: They required making an oath to the sitting (or new) king, and were considered essential to keep the kingdom in the gods favor. [Most Popular New Years Resolutions]

The Romans also had a tradition of swearing an oath of loyalty to the emperor in March, when their New Year started. Although this Roman tradition didnt directly translate to New Years resolutions, by the 1740s, the Methodist church had a practice of holding renewal services on Dec. 31. The services offer people a chance to look back at the year that passed and renew their commitment to God, Live Science reported.

In general, the act of making resolutions becomes the necessary, purifying ritual that follows the overindulgence of the new year, Aveni said. On Dec. 31, everybody is going to eat and drink to excess, "and then the next day youll wake up and hopefully youll have your resolutions to do the next year better."

Letting sparks fly

(Image credit: Hernan Seoane)

Do people ever need an excuse to make things go boom?

From China to Australia, people ring in the new year with noisemakers, sparklers and fireworks. But how did the tradition of ringing in the new year with a flash of light and a bang start?

It all comes back to the danger lurking in this transitional period, Aveni said.

In cultures around the world, people bang drums, light firecrackers and even beat the corners of their room to spook the spooky creatures lurking in the night.

"Anything to chase away the evil spirits," Aveni said.

Fireworks, for instance, were invented in the seventh century A.D. in China, and one of the express purposes of fireworks was to ward off evil spirits. From the beginning, the Chinese New Year was a reliable time to see the sparkling displays. Yet the tradition of setting off fireworks in the Western world seems to have evolved independently, Aveni said.

Superstitions abound

(Image credit: monticello/Shutterstock)

New Year's traditions around the world often come with a heavy dose of superstition.

For instance, in Brazil some avoid eating chicken in the first few minutes of the new year.

Why? Because chickens scratch the Earth backwards, consuming poultry would mean going backwards in life, rather than forward, the Rio Times reported. To avoid that fate, people eat foods that move forward, such as fish and pork. Italians, meanwhile, are supposed to reserve some of their wine grapes from the harvest to consume on New Year's Eve, which will mean they'll be frugal and financially savvy, according to Italy Magazine.

But why is the New Year so steeped in superstitious rituals? It turns out that rituals act as a buffer against anxiety and uncertainty, and what could be more uncertain than the future year, with all the events yet to come? New Year's and other holiday rituals ease that anxiety by making the world seem more predictable, according to Dimitris Xygalatas, Assistant Professor in Anthropology at the University of Connecticut

Scary start

(Image credit: Shutterstock.com)

While most New Year's traditions are cheerful affairs, others are downright frightening.

In the Japanese village of Oga, on New Year's Eve men dress in grass masks and embody the Namahage, demonic figures who go door to door searching for new members of the community. After screaming at the children and new family members to be obedient, and to study and work hard, the more established members defend the newcomers and youngsters to the demon, who leaves the house, according to the Namahage Museum.

Meanwhile in Peru, an Andean "fight club" on Christmas Day allows people to kick and punch each other to resolve differences, so they can start the New Year with a clean slate  and some black eyes, according to " A Christmas Cornucopia: The Hidden Stories Behind Our Yuletide Traditions," (Penguin, 2016).

Money, Money, Money

(Image credit: steved_np3 | sxc.hu)

Whether it's eating pork or leftover grapes, or hopping on one foot  a huge number of New Year's traditions are all about the Benjamins  or Lira or Euros. Prosperity looms large in the roots of many New Year's traditions.

The Turks, for instance, wear red underwear, run the faucet and sprinkle salt on their doorsteps to ensure prosperity, according to the Daily Sabah, while the Swiss will drop rich dollops of whipped cream to the floor and leave them there to usher in riches, according to the Farmer's Almanac. Filipinos, meanwhile, will wear polka dots, because the rotund shape of the circles symbolizes prosperity.

People in the south, meanwhile, eat black eyed peas, collard greens and cornbread because they resemble coins, dollar bills and shiny gold, respectively.

Traditions around the world

(Image credit: melis/Shutterstock.com)

While there are some commonalities across the world, almost every culture has its unique take on the new year.

This story was originally published on Dec. 29, 2016 and updated on Dec. 29, 2017.

For instance, in Mexico, people may eat one grape for every chime of the church bells at midnight, Aveni said.

Aztecs used to burn all of their mats during the new year, as fire was considered cleansing. They would then take the clean, new fire to their homes to light their hearths, Aveni said.

The English have a tradition of leaving money out on their porch to be purified, taking the cleaned, new money into their house on the new year.

Meanwhile, in Scotland, the tradition of the "first footing" says that, for good luck, the first person to set foot in the house after the stroke of midnight should be a tall, dark male bearing a lump of coal, shortbread, salt, a black bun and a "wee dram" of whisky, according to the History and Heritage Accommodation Guide of the UK.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published on Dec. 29, 2016 and was updated on Dec. 30, 2017 to include additional information on New Year's traditions in other countries.
A British man's symptoms of anxiety were eventually traced to an unusual cause: his repeated exposure to a toxic substance while in the navy, a recent report of the man's case suggests.

The man worked as a naval engineer for five years. During this time, he was exposed almost daily to trichloroethylene (TCE), or "trike," a solvent used for cleaning and degreasing ships and aircraft, according to the case report, which was published Dec. 23 in the journal BMJ Case Reports.

Trichloroethylene is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor, and one of its main uses is to remove grease from metal parts, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In this case, the man said he and other members of the naval engineering crew would spray trichloroethylene from a can onto a cloth, and everyone who used it "seemed to get high from the fumes," the researchers wrote in the case report. He also said he "was regularly overcome to the point of feeling dizzy by trike." [27 Oddest Medical Cases]

These minor symptoms of dizziness and feeling "high" did not last long, but that feeling was probably the man's first clue that this was not a safe solvent to be using, said the case report author, Dr. Joshua Au Yeung, who treated the man 20 years later at Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust in Manchester, England.

The man's exposure to trichloroethylene was made worse because the ships were not well ventilated, and the navy did not provide any protective equipment, such as masks, to limit the crew's ability to breathe in the vapors, Au Yeung told Live Science.

Identifying the culprit

The 24-year-old man first went to the hospital following a weeklong binge of alcohol in the navy  and not because he was concerned about his exposure to trichloroethylene.

When he went to the hospital, he was feeling extremely anxious, he was shaking (tremors) and he was breathing quickly. In addition, he told doctors he had a dull headache and blurry vision, and that he felt a tingling sensation on the right side of his face.

As doctors spoke with the man, they found out that he had graduated at the top of his naval class and that he had no history of regular or excessive use of alcohol before this incident. Doctors did not ask him detailed questions about his work, so his exposure to TCE never came up.

At the time, he was treated by a psychiatrist, who thought the man's symptoms had resulted from a withdrawal from alcohol, Au Yeung said. But over the next few months, his symptoms of anxiety became more frequent, until they wouldn't go away, according to the case report.

That's why the man's psychiatrist decided to send him to a toxicologist, a scientist who can detect exposure to poisonous substances, and a neuropsychiatrist, a psychiatrist who specializes in neurological illnesses, for a more comprehensive evaluation. These tests revealed that the man's symptoms of anxiety were linked to an unexpected culprit: his exposure to trichloroethylene as a naval engineer.

Regular exposure to trichloroethylene, which is a toxin, can affect every system in the body, Au Yeung said. Once the toxin is inhaled and gets into the blood, it can irritate and damage nerves directly, he said.

When nerves are irritated, they can cause pain, numbness and burning sensations, Au Yeung said. Damage to the nerves by a toxin can change the amount of neurotransmitters they release. For example, it can reduce levels of serotonin, which can lead to depression, he noted.

But, unfortunately for this man, the doctors identified the toxic culprit too late for them to reduce the man's absorption of TCE into his blood. He developed severe anxiety and depression from his exposure to the toxin, according to the report.

"The damage had been done in this case, so the man has not improved," Au Yeung said.

Twenty years later, the man has become dependent on alcohol  drinking two to three bottles of wine a day  and takes a variety of prescribed sedative medications to numb his anxiety, Au Yeung said.

Originally published on Live Science.
Joseph V. Micallef is a best-selling military history and world affairs author, and keynote speaker.

Over the last several decades, the militant Lebanese organization Hezbollah has morphed from an Iranian-inspired and Iranian-funded Shiite militia into a political and social movement as well. In the process, notwithstanding the $200 to $350 million in financing it allegedly receives from Tehran, it has turned increasingly to criminal activities to fund its operations.

Today, Hezbollah sits astride a worldwide criminal syndicate that generates upwards of a billion dollars a year in income for the group.

Hezbollah's criminal income is generated from four main areas of activity: narcotics, money laundering and currency counterfeiting, widespread low-level crime centered primarily on financial fraud, and extortion.

Subversive organizations have often turned to criminal activities as a way of funding their operations. At the turn of the 20th century the Bolsheviks robbed banks to finance themselves. During the 1970s and 1980s, European groups like Baader Meinhof, Brigate Rosse, and Direct Action supplemented the funds they received from the Soviet Union by staging kidnappings for ransom or robbing banks.

More recently, the FARC in Columbia, the Taliban in Afghanistan and Islamic State have all turned to dealing in narcotics as a source of funds.

Many current criminal organizations, the Yakuza in Japan, the various criminal organizations in South China, and the Sicilian Mafia and its related brethren, the Camorra in Naples and the Ndrangheta in Calabria, all began or were in part inspired by a political agenda.

All of them turned to crime to obtain funds for that agenda. Over time, their political inspiration was watered down and eventually disappeared. The criminal element remained, however, now transformed into a for profit crime syndicate.

The FARC in Colombia has shown a similar evolution. What began as a Maoist-inspired insurgency against the Colombian government, which used cocaine trafficking as a source of funds, has evolved into an organization that is not quite a for profit crime syndicate, but neither is it just an insurgency any longer.

The UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that the worldwide narcotics market generates between $400 and $500 billion in turnover every year. Over the last several decades terrorist organizations have increasingly looked to narcotics as a source of funds.

The skill set necessary to survive as a militant organization, to smuggle arms and munitions, to move operatives around the globe surreptitiously and to stage attacks, is the same skill set needed to manufacture, transport and distribute narcotics on a world-wide basis.

Hezbollah's Narcotics Trade

Hezbollah's foray into drugs began in the 1980s, in its Beqaa Valley stronghold in eastern Lebanon. The turmoil of the Lebanese Civil War from 1975 to 1990, and the virtual collapse of the Lebanese economy, prompted many Lebanese farmers to turn to producing hashish and marijuana to support themselves.

The cultivation of marijuana in the region dated back to Ottoman times. Traditionally, roughly 10% of the local farmland was devoted to hashish production. Typically, it was grown on land that was to arid to support any other crops.

During the civil war, marijuana cultivation soared. At its peak, it covered more than 100,000 acres. Hezbollah quickly emerged as an intermediary, arranging the smuggling of marijuana, both its own production and that of local farmers into Egypt as well as, via the Balkans, into Europe.

After the end of the civil war the Lebanese Army tried to suppress the cultivation of marijuana, burning fields and interdicting shipments, but for the last several decades the Lebanese government has tacitly accepted that activity.

Today, the Beqaa Valley is a major source of marijuana exports to Europe and the Middle East with an annual turnover of around $4 billion.

Since the 1990s, South America has emerged as a major nexus of Hezbollah's narcotics activity. The tri-border area (TBA), where Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil meet, is the next largest center of Hezbollah activity outside of Lebanon. There is a large expatriate Lebanese community in this region.

Combined with lax enforcement and even less supervision by the local government authorities, the TBA has become a wild west where narcotics, gun running and a host of financial scams flourish. The TBA has also become a hub for the re-export of Chinese made counterfeit branded goods to Europe and North America by Hezbollah linked firms.

Hezbollah has developed working relationships with the FARC in Colombia, with whom it trades guns for cocaine and partially processed cocaine paste, as well as with various Mexican drug cartels. It has a particularly close working relationship with the Los Zetas crime syndicate. It has relied on Los Zetas to smuggle narcotics and Hezbollah militants into the United States.

In the meantime, it has supplied automatic and heavy caliber weapons to Los Zetas. It has also provided tunnel building expertise, the same that it provided to Hamas in Gaza, to enable Los Zetas to build sophisticated tunnels beneath the Mexican-U.S. border.

Perhaps the most worrisome aspect of the Hezbollah-Los Zetas partnership is the fact that Zetas members have undergone training in Hezbollah run camps in the Beqaa Valley. There they have been taught specialized skills like bomb making and have attended a Hezbollah run "sniper school."

Over the last several years both the DEA and Homeland Security have noted a sharp increase in the number of Mexican drug gang members sporting Farsi and Arabic language tattoos as well as, in a few instances, Hezbollah related symbols.

It is Venezuela, however, that has been the focal point of Hezbollah's narcotics traffic, its growing Latin American network and Iran's anti-American foreign policy. According to the DEA, large numbers of Venezuela's government elite, including former President Hugo Chavez and current President Nicolas Maduro, have been implicated in Hezbollah's drug trafficking through Venezuela.

The Trump administration recently designated Venezuelan Vice President Tareck el Aissam as a "super narcotic kingpin" and charged that he had been involved in trafficking drugs and weapons for more than a decade and that he had also been instrumental in a conspiracy to provide Venezuelan passports and false identities to Iranian and Hezbollah agents.

Over the last decade, Hezbollah's shipments of cocaine via Venezuela have increased from 50 tons to 250 tons a year. This is roughly one-third of the international traffic in cocaine.

Hezbollah operates cocaine producing facilities in eastern Venezuela. It also ships semi-processed cocaine paste from Venezuela to Lebanon where it is refined in facilities in the Beqaa Valley. It also uses Venezuela to stage drug shipments to Europe, the United States and West Africa.

In particular, Guinea Bissau has become the principal logistics point for Hezbollah's transshipment of Latin American drugs into Europe.

According to the Foreign Policy Research Institute, Iran Air operated Flight 744, a bi-weekly flight from Caracas to Tehran via Beirut and Damascus. Dubbed "Aeroterror," the flight was used to carry drugs and cash from Venezuela to Beirut. Once in Beirut, the drugs would make their way to Europe.

It was also one of the principal means for transporting so called prohibited dual use items sourced in North America to Iran. Such items ranged from sophisticated night vision equipment to components and machinery needed for Tehran's nuclear and missile programs.

The return flights would bring arms, Hezbollah and Iranian operatives and, on occasion, counterfeit U.S. currency for transshipment to the U.S.

In addition, according to the U.S. State Department, Caracas has issued thousands of Venezuelan passports to individuals from Syria, Pakistan, Egypt and Lebanon.

It is far easier to obtain an American visa with a Venezuelan passport than it is with one from a Middle Eastern country. The result is that under Hugo Chavez and now under his successor Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela has become what the State Department calls a "Terrorism Hub of South America."

Hezbollah has made similar moves into Southeast Asia's Golden Triangle. It has built an extensive network within the region's Muslim community and it has been a source of cash, weapons and training for radicalized Sunni militants in the area. It has also become involved in the drug trade there.

Hezbollah's Money Laundering

Money laundering goes hand-in-hand with narcotics. Drug dealing is a cash business, one that generates considerable amounts of money, which needs to be either recycled or moved into the financial system in a way that doesn't arouse suspicion.

Hezbollah's worldwide networks and its links with supportive governments puts it into an ideal position to launder cash from its own narcotics operations as well those from other criminal syndicates.

Historically, Hezbollah has used a variety of means to launder cash. These range from the informal money transfer systems of the hawala dealers, which now have spread globally, to money service companies like Western Union, to smuggling money into Lebanon.

One way of laundering cash is to simply convert it into goods that can be sold elsewhere. For many years Hezbollah has operated an extensive used car export business that saw used cars purchased for cash in the United States being exported to Benin, from where they were distributed across West Africa.

The Justice Department estimates that the used car export business generates around $500 million in revenue for Hezbollah every year. Proceeds from the sales of used cars in Africa can be deposited into local financial institutions where they merge seamlessly into the global financial system.

The other alternative is simply to move cash into financial institutions that will take such deposits or to first run them through legitimate businesses that typically operate on a cash basis. In recent years, there have been a number of banks that have actively been involved in laundering funds, knowingly or unknowingly for Hezbollah.

In 2012, for example, the U.S. government seized $150 million from Lebanese Canadian Bank. The bank was accused of knowingly laundering money for Hezbollah as well as providing financing for the groups used car export business.

While the seizure was significant, it was a drop in the bucket of the $200 million a month that Hezbollah was laundering through the bank. According to the DEA, the bank laundered several billion dollars for Hezbollah before it was shut down

In 2016, the DEA arrested three men linked to Hezbollah and charged them with laundering money for the Medellin based drug syndicate, La oficina del Envigado, through banks in Dubai and Miami. There have been similar incidents involving banks throughout Latin America.

Large-scale money laundering can continue for a while before there is sufficient evidence for legal authorities to act. Even when a bank is shut down and is subject to the seizure of deposits and penalties, the sums are often dwarfed by the scale of illegal activity that preceded it.

Hezbollah has also created a broad universe of front companies around the world, especially in South America, and in particular in the travel/tourism and import/export sectors. These activities can provide a way of laundering funds by making them look as legitimate deposits of actual businesses.

The counterfeiting of currency, principally U.S. dollars, but also Euros and the currencies of various Middle Eastern countries, has also been a focus of Hezbollah. It is likely that Hezbollah's expertise in currency counterfeiting came from the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC), which has long been active in this area and has close operational ties with Hezbollah.

The Iranians, in turn, probably learned it from the North Koreans, who also have a long history of counterfeiting foreign currencies.

The challenge of monetizing counterfeit currency is to find a means of moving it into the financial system. Hezbollah friendly banks may be willing to launder narcotics cash, but they have little interest in tainting their own cash holdings with counterfeit bills.

The usual avenue is to sell that currency at a discount to an organization that can either spend it or mix it with authentic currency and gradually move it into the financial system.

Hezbollah has been implicated in trying to sell counterfeit U.S. currency to organized crime groups in the U.S. It has also been charged with trying to distribute counterfeit U.S. bills in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, two areas popular with counterfeiters.

Hezbollah's Worldwide Crime Wave

Hezbollah has also been implicated in widespread low level criminal activity around the world, especially in North and South America and Europe. The scope of this activity is vast, although it is often difficult to tie it specifically to Hezbollah.

In some cases, this criminal activity directly involves members of Hezbollah. In other cases, the perpetrators are not members of Hezbollah but are related to high ranking officials in the organizations.

In other cases, participants are sympathizers, often times of Lebanese ancestry, who are either counterparties to Hezbollah in criminal activities, use services provided by Hezbollah in the conduct of their criminal actions, i.e., security or smuggling, or simply donate a portion of their criminal profits to the organization. The FBI refers to such participants as "useful idiots."

In 2003, for example, U.S. officials arrested Elias Mohamad Akhdar and various associates, all linked to Hezbollah members, and charged them with operating a cigarette smuggling ring from Charlotte North Carolina.

The group purchased cigarettes in North Carolina or from the Cattaraugus Indian reservation in upstate New York and used counterfeit cigarette tax stamps to resell the cigarettes at a hefty profit. A portion of the proceeds were then donated to Hezbollah.

In 2006, Imad Hammoud, a self-described avid supporter of Hezbollah, was indicted for the importation and distribution of counterfeit Viagra pills from China.

Viagra is the most widely counterfeited drug in the world and its manufacture and distribution is as profitable as narcotics. Hammoud had links to Akhdar and had also run a parallel cigarette smuggling ring that moved $500,000 of cigarettes across state lines each week.

In 2009, the FBI arrested another group of Hezbollah supporters for attempting to procure and ship to Syria 1,200 M-4 Carabine machine guns in exchange for providing counterfeit currency, forged passports and stolen money.

Elsewhere, Hezbollah and its supporters have been implicated a wide range of criminal activity from credit card fraud in the U.S. and Europe to dealing in African blood diamonds.

Hezbollah was reportedly involved with the export of between $3 billion and $4 billion of illicit diamonds from Angola as well as so called blood diamonds from Sierra Leone to the Congo. Many of these activities have been documented for several decades and continue to this day.

Hezbollah and the Lebanese Expatriate Community

Finally, Hezbollah raises considerable funds from the expatriate Lebanese community around the world. There are approximately four million Lebanese citizens living in Lebanon. There are an estimated 10 to 14 million people of Lebanese ancestry living abroad. Roughly 1.2 million of those expatriates also hold a Lebanese passport.

The expatriate Lebanese community reflects the same divisions and rivalries present in contemporary Lebanese society. Some are passionate, committed followers of Hezbollah. Others simply wish to support what they see as a noble cause, even though they may not feel any allegiance to Hezbollah.

Others are simply exhorted to make payments to Hezbollah, often in the form of contributions to Hezbollah sponsored charities, to protect their families and businesses or relatives back in Lebanon.

It's unclear how significant a sum is generated from the Lebanese expatriate community, but U.S. intelligence sources believe it could be several hundred million dollars a year.

Hezbollah as a Criminal Syndicate

The picture that emerges from Hezbollah's worldwide criminal activity is that of a highly sophisticated, broadly diversified criminal syndicate with a global reach. It is an organization where the chain of command is often opaque, and which involves individuals who are not part of the group but still act to support its criminality or give it the benefit, in the form of taxes and contributions, of criminal activity in which it is not directly a party.

From a legal standpoint, that makes it particularly difficult for the U.S. government to prosecute Hezbollah's activity. It can shut down specific operations and arrest its perpetrators, but the ability to tie back such activity to the organization's leadership can be problematic.

The implications of Hezbollah's criminal activity, however, go beyond that of simply another very sophisticated global criminal syndicate. Hezbollah represents a unique fusion of political and criminal agendas that is more than simply co-opting corrupt political elites around the world. Such corruption is hardly new. High level corruption among law enforcement and government elites has often paralleled the rise of powerful drug syndicates.

In Hezbollah's case, however, not only is its criminal activity a source of funds for its own agenda but the activity itself also functions to advance the broad aims of Iran's anti-American foreign policy. This is particularly true in South and Central America.

Hezbollah's willingness to supply sophisticated weaponry and training to Mexican drug cartels, for example, not only serves its criminal interests but creates political and social instability in a key American ally, escalates the level of domestic violence in Mexico and encourages that instability to spill over into the American homeland.

For Hezbollah, shipping narcotics into the United States satisfies not only a financial goal but a political one as well. Hezbollah's leaders have often quoted a fatwa issued by an Iranian cleric that declares, "we are making drugs for Satan -- America and the Jews. If we cannot kill them with guns, so we will kill them with drugs."

Likewise, Iran has strongly supported, left wing, anti-American governments in Venezuela, Bolivia and Ecuador. Among the first things those governments did when they came to power was end cooperation with the DEA and expel its agents from their countries.

Moreover, Hezbollah has emerged as a super facilitator in the crime world. Its links to foreign governments and its strong support from Iran gives it capabilities that it can leverage in its relations with other criminal syndicates. In doing so it can also enhance the capabilities of those criminal organizations.

Hezbollah's willingness to supply automatic and heavy caliber weapons and training to Los Zetas, for example, has enhanced their ability to engage in combat with government troops or other drug cartels. Likewise, Hezbollah's ability to launder cash from drug sales is a key point of leverage in its dealings with other criminal organizations.

The linkage of terrorist organizations like Hezbollah with Mexican and Colombian drug syndicates has created the threat of narcoterrorism and transformed what, up until recently was primarily a criminal matter, into a national security issue.

Narcoterrorism is both an instrument of terror and an enabler. The same rat lines and tunnels that are used to bring illegal immigrants and drugs into the United States can just as easily be used to bring Hezbollah militants and explosives across the border.

Considering Hezbollah's worldwide criminal operations and its capabilities, the Obama Administration's attitude toward Hezbollah, between 2012 and 2016, is perplexing. Two aspects stand out.

First, in allowing Iran's banks to relink to the international financial system as part of the suspension of sanctions that accompanied the Iran nuclear deal, the U.S. significantly enhanced Hezbollah's ability to leverage its Iranian connections to help it launder money both for itself and for other criminal organizations. In doing so not only did it strengthen Hezbollah's criminal network but also enhanced Hezbollah's role as a super facilitator.

Secondly, also inexplicable, is the alleged suspension of a broad DEA lead criminal investigation, dubbed Project Cassandra, of Hezbollah affiliated narcotics and money laundering activity.

As detailed by Politico in a recent feature on The Secret Backstory of How Obama Let Hezbollah Off the Hook, the Obama administration effectively shot down an eight year DEA-led investigation of Hezbollah's criminal activity in order to curry favor with Iran and promote its acceptance of the proposed nuclear deal.

Various members of the Obama administration have denied the charge. U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has ordered the Justice Department to investigate the matter.

The emergence of global terrorist organizations with billion dollar-plus budgets supported by a worldwide criminal activity is an unprecedented development in international politics and is rapidly becoming the template for other subversive organizations to follow.

Hezbollah has already succeeded in this objective; the Taliban is well on its way and Islamic State has started to move in this direction also.

Ultimately other terrorist organizations, like al Qaeda for example, will need to follow this same path if they are to secure their finances and preserve their credibility and freedom of action in the jihadist space.

The emergence of non-state organizations, armed with multi-billion-dollar budgets and extensive and sophisticated arsenals, poised to threaten both the American homeland and U.S. interests abroad will pose an unprecedented challenge to Washington. A challenge that is only now just beginning.

-- The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.
Officials say the device was known as an "unexploded ordnance," or an explosive weapon that did not explode and still posed a...
Barring a last-minute court intervention, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Friday that the military was ready to begin processing transgender recruits on Jan. 1 but withheld comment on whether he backed the move.

"We'll obey whatever the law says," Mattis told Pentagon reporters. "It's a court case right now," Mattis said of several federal court rulings that President Donald Trump's proposed ban on transgender individuals serving in the military was unconstitutional.

"The Department of Justice is handling it," Mattis said. "If they're not appealing it, we'll be notified of that" and be prepared to take in transgender recruits as ordered starting Jan. 1.

Mattis declined to say whether he welcomed the lower court rulings and the acceptance of transgender individuals into the military.

Related content:

"I'm not going to get into this right now," he said. "I don't get into singling out and welcoming this group or that group, or that gender or anything else. That's not my role."

In a surprise move in July, Trump sent out a Tweet announcing a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military and later followed that up with formal notice to the Pentagon to enforce the ban.

Advocacy groups and transgender personnel currently serving in the military immediately filed a series of federal suits against the ban. Several lower courts ruled in their favor and the Trump administration lost again last week in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.

The case was likely to go to the Supreme Court but DoD has already said that it will honor the Jan. 1 deadline while the court battles continue.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
I thought about doing a "2017 round-up" type post today, but something else caught my brain.

With two kids in college, and two possibly headed there in the next 2 years, I spend a lot of time thinking about paying for college.To support that goal, I also belong to several "paying for college" Facebook groups. There's a lot of useful information there, and also a good amount of annoying behavior. There are two basic types of annoying posts. One goes something like, "My child has a 7.8 GPA, has taken 94 AP classes, plays 9 varsity sports, conducts the local orchestra, has cured cancer, and helps old ladies cross the road but didn't get into Harvard!" (This is obviously an exaggeration.) The second is an announcement of the family's Expected Family Contribution (EFC) that has been determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), with the explanation that they don't have one cent available to pay for college and how can they possibly be expected to pay anything?

Now, don't get me wrong, I understand that many families are very much struggling. And I also understand that it would be nice if higher education weren't so expensive, and I personally know that the EFC is almost always much higher than a family might feel like they can pay. I also know that it is unrealistic to think that college is going to be free. Even if you have the most amazing child, the chances of them receiving a truly free college education is very, very low.

Which brings me to the point of this post.

The time to realize that you'll have to pay for your child's college is not after you've filled out the FAFSA and your child has been accepted to and received financial aid packages from college.

The time to start thinking about how you'll pay for college is now, regardless of whether your child is 1 or 11 or 17.

I truly understand how hard this is. As I said, we have two kids in college right now. I'm very thankful that one goes to the local community college (for now) and one has received a relatively significant amount of financial aid from her school and the Florida Bright Futures program. Even so, we're spending about $15,000 a year on college costs right now, and that number will increase as the next two head to school and the one at community college moves to a four-year school.

And, to be honest, we didn't prepare for this as well as we should have. We put some money into Coverdell educational savings accounts when the kids were small, but we didn't make a strong or prolonged effort to accumulate any significant college savings. This was intentional, as I believe that retirement savings is more important than college savings, but we could have done better.

So, learn from me. If you're not facing college right now, take some time to think about how you're going to pay for it. Look up the cost of your local community college, a state school, and a cool-but-expensive private school. Then do a little research into how much financial aid most folks *actually* get. (It is less than you think, and if you are in the military, you're making more than a lot of your financial aid competition.) Start putting together some ideas about how you're going to pay for it, and communicate this information to your kids so you're not faced with "my kid got into their super-expensive dream school and we can't afford to pay for it." Because that's an awful situation.

Your future self says "thank you."
Finance Minister wants more time to respond to CHRAJ on $2.25bn bond
28.12.2017 LISTEN

The Minority Members in Parliament have blamed the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the attack on one of its members Eric Opoku, MP for Asunafo South.

Mr Opoku was attacked by some unknown men in his home when he travelled to his constituency to celebrate the Christmas.

A statement issued by James Agalga, Ranking Member, Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, said :  The minority has learnt with shock and dismay the brutal and unprovoked attack on the member of parliament for the Asunafo South Constituency, Hon. Eric Opoku who is also the former Regional Minister of the Brong Ahafo region under the John Mahama led NDC administration in the early hours of 25th day of December, 2017. We are reliably informed that the Hon. Eric Opoku had travelled to his constituency to celebrate the Christmas festivities with his constituents and was actually locked up in a meeting at his residence when a mob of NPP supporters numbering about a hundred and armed with machetes and guns carried out the attack without provocation.

In the cause of the unprovoked attack, stones were pelted by the assailants at the residence of the Hon. Eric Opoku and in the process, massive damage was caused to a number of vehicles including a Toyota Land Cruiser belonging to the Hon. Member and the residence itself. The minority in parliament condemns the attack in no uncertain terms as it is yet another manifestation of political vigilantism designed to intimidate, harass and silence vocal and outspoken members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). In fact, what happened to the Hon. Eric Opoku on the 25th day of December, 2017 is not only criminal but is also an assault on our young and fledgling democracy.

The statement added : As of now, no action has been taken to identify, arrest and bring to book the perpetrators of this atrocious appalling and criminal act. It is inactions of this kind that has created a culture of impunity that enhances the growth of these lawless elements parading as political vigilantes.

The minority calls on the law enforcement agencies to act with dispatch by fishing out and bringing these faceless hoodlums to book. Such action is crucial to halting and ending these unfettered acts of lawlessness unleashed on Ghanaians across the length and breadth of this country since the NPP came to power.

We will also seize this opportunity to call upon the President, His Excellency Nana Akufo Addo not only to concentrate on alleged crimes committed in the past but also crimes committed under his watch by members of his government and party.
Mr Kofi Adda, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources has inaugurated a nine-member board of Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) to plan and execute water development and sanitation in the districts.

The board is expected to formulate strategies for the effective mobilization of resolution for the execution of safe water development and related sanitation programmes in the country.

It will also initiate and pursue in collaboration with the Ministries of Local Government, Health, Education and Non-Formal Education programmes for public awareness in rural communities and small towns of water related hazards.

The members are Mr Kwesi Eduafo Yankey, Chairman of the board, Mr Worlanyo Kwadjo Siabi, the Chief Executive of CWSA, Mr Remy Bonpira Puoru, from the Ghana Water Company, Mr Cosmos Balazuma Kambozie,and Mr Donnan Tay, all from the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources.

The rest are Naba Moses Abaare Appiah IV, from National House of Chiefs, Mr Patrick Acheampong, from NGO, Ms Vida Dutu and Madam Rose Afua Acheampong President's Nominees.

He charged the board to ensure there was water available and affordable in all the districts, since water was essential for both domestic and industrial use.

Mr Adda said the board was to provide technical support to District Assemblies to promote the sustainability of safe water supply and related sanitation services in rural communities and small towns.

The Minister said the board should encourage private sector participation in the provision of safe drinking water supply and related sanitation service in the country.

Mr Adda urged the board to exhibit excellence and ensure there was value for money in the provision of water to the districts as well as prescribed standards and guidelines for safe water supply and provision of related sanitation services in rural communities.

He urged the board to develop a good communication rapport to meet their target objectives and work assiduously to justify the confidence reposed in them by President Akufo-Addo.

Mr Yankey on behalf of the board thanked President Akufo-Addo for the opportunity to serve the country and pledged to work as diligently to meet the targets ascribed to them.

GNA

By Kodjo Adams, GNA
Accra, Dec. 29, GNA-The Ghana News Agency Friday climaxed it 60th Anniversary celebrations with a thanksgiving service to honour God for sustaining the Agency through the years.

With songs of praises, prayers and dances, the celebrants demonstrated their gratitude to God for keeping them productive in the service of the nation.

The Hungarian Ambassador, Mr Andras Szabo and Dr Lawrence Tetteh, a renowned International Evangelist attended the ceremony, hosted at the headquarters of the GNA, in Accra, to lend their support and share their joy.

'We must not forget where we have come from! How good God has been to us as an Agency and as a nation; we should count our blessings and name them one by one,' Dr Tetteh, who delivered the sermon, told the Staff of the Agency, most of whom were in white to signify their victory and joyous mood.

Dr Tetteh commended the staff of the Agency for the yeoman role they had been playing in the media landscape by gathering and disseminating accurate news from the nooks and crannies to inform Ghanaians about the happenings in and around the country to make informed decisions.

He described GNA 'as a unique media entity' that must continue to sustain its credibility and honesty as well as learn to live above the mediocrity some of the other media houses were exhibiting.

'GNA must not cut corners to malign peoples credibility; GNA must not lose its salt, because Ghana is looking at GNA for that credible and unbiased news report that will well inform the people,' Dr Tetteh stated.

He said over the years the news churned out by the GNA reporters had been tried and tested and could be reliably relied upon, expressing the hope that very soon the leadership of the country would recognise the indispensable role the Agency was playing and give it the needed resources to enable it continue to give its quota to Ghana.

For his part, Ambassador Szabo congratulated GNA for the critical role it was playing in disseminating news to inform the whole world through it online medium, which he said was very far reaching.

He said the Embassy was ready to partner the GNA through training and other capacity building programmes to enable the Agency and its staff to function better.

Mr Rex Annan, Acting General Manager of GNA, said since the launch of the Anniversary, in March this year, under the theme: 'GNA at 60, Advancing the Ghanaian Dream', the staff had undertaken several programmes including a massive clean-up exercise, which covered its Headquarters and parts of the Ministries area.

He said the GNA story continued to be told and discussed at various platforms as an institution with vast expertise and with many offices and staff in the regions and districts across the country to support the political and socio-economic development of the nation.

He noted that the GNA continued to make greater impact in its news gathering and information and topped many Africa news agencies despite the challenges and constraints confronting its operations.

He announced that at a meeting held in Morocco recently, the GNA was adjudged the first in the production of news among 30 African News Agencies that were studied, while Cote d'Ivoire was second.

Mr Annan said the staff of the GNA had continued to carry out its mandate 'to the best of our ability with the limited resources available to us at any point in time in our schemes of affairs'.

He congratulated the GNA staff across the country for working tirelessly over the years with minimum rewards to bring the Agency thus far.

He assured the workers that the new Board and the Management aimed to secure the needed resources with which they could work better to move the nation forward to maintain the enviable position in the media landscape and advance the Ghanaian dream.

The GNA was established by Ghana's First President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, on March 5, 1957, a day before Ghana had its independence, and charged with the responsibility of collecting, processing and dissemination of truthful and unbiased news to foster national cohesion, development and to tell the African story from the African perspective.

It was the first News Agency to be established in Sub-Saharan Africa.

GNA
The Volta Regional Directorate of the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) has intensified education on tax compliance in the 25 administrative districts in the region.

The vigorous campaign was to ensure tax compliance by the citizenry and to encourage them to fulfil their civic and legal obligations to the state in order to increase national revenue though tax collection.

The campaign, sponsored by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), with support from UK AID and GIZ, was executed using a multifaceted approach to reach out to as many potential tax payers as possible.

It included a dawn and dusk broadcast, education on radio, use of community centres and face to face interaction with identifiable groups.

So far, a significant number of small-scale businesses such as dressmakers, artisans, susu collectors, butchers and hawkers, among others have been reached.

The Volta Regional Director of the NCCE, Mr Kenneth Kponor, during an outreach programmes at Dzita and Agbledomi, in the Keta Municipality, reiterated the importance of taxes in ensuring rapid development of any nation and appealed to Ghanaians to honour their tax obligations to the state.

That he said would help government to create jobs and also provide basic social amenities such as electricity, health facilities, potable water, roads and schools.

Mr Kponor said taxes collected are also used to provide essential services like fire-fighting and policing in the country.

'Let us be mindful of our civic and constitutional obligations to pay our taxes, which government will use in providing essential facilities for the public good,' he added.

In a related development, the officer in Charge of Adaklu District, Mr Francis Asamani, has entreated artisans and all income earners to endeavour to honour their tax obligations to the state to avoid prosecution or sanctions.

He said this at separate engagements with artisans, petty traders, beauticians, tailors, carpenters and communities.

Mr Asamani said the 1992 constitution enjoins all those in lawfully chosen professions to pay their taxes to enable government execute development agenda for the country.

GNA
The Government has been urged to resource and reposition the Ghana News Agency to fulfill its mandate of collecting, processing and disseminating truthful and unbiased news as it marks 60 years of existence.

'Do we need a Ghana News Agency that will be the voice of the powerless and the voiceless? Do we need a GNA that will follow the vision of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah who launched it on the Fifth of March 1957, a day before Ghana's independence,' Dr Lawrence Tetteh, a renowned International Evangelist, asked.

'Do we see the values that was supposed to be placed on the Ghana News Agency - if yes then I believe successive governments have lost sight of it and the current government should not do same,' Dr Tetteh said when he addressed a Thanksgiving Service held on Friday to climax the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Agency in Accra.

'We need a credible news agency and a house that people can use and pick the portals from and that is why I really want to urge leadership and government to make sure GNA is equipped,' he said.

The staff of the GNA, in their beautiful white apparels, used the Thanksgiving Service to honour God for His blessings and mercies that had sustained the Agency throughout the years, amidst prayers and dancing.

The ceremony, hosted at the Headquarters of the GNA on Friday, had the Hungarian Ambassador, Mr Andras Szabo as the Guest of Honour while Dr Tetteh, preached the sermon and led the staff to pray for the Agency and for Ghana.

The Anniversary, which was launched in March this year, was: on the theme; 'GNA at 60, Advancing the Ghanaian Dream'.

Dr Tetteh said succeeding governments after Dr Nkrumah 'seemed to have left GNA a little and I think this time around lets correct the wrong. It's not late'.

'We need our journalists who, together with the clergy, make the Fourth Estate of the Realm. So that if our clergy today are doing very well and are settling then we need our journalists and our media houses to settle so that news and information will be properly disseminated to the masses,' he said.

Mr Francis Rex Annan, the Acting General Manager of GNA, said since the launch of the Anniversary, staff of the Agency had undertaken activities including a facility tour and a massive clean-up exercise of its Headquarters and parts of the ministries.

He noted that the GNA continued to make greater impact in its news gathering and information dissemination among many African news agencies despite the challenges and constraints confronting it.

Mr Annan said staff of the Agency had continued to carry out its mandate to the best of their ability with the limited resources available.

He, therefore, congratulated the staff across the country for working tirelessly over the years with minimum rewards to bring the Agency this far.

Mr Szabo, on his part, congratulated the Agency for the critical role it is playing in disseminating news to inform the world on important national issues.

He said the Embassy was ready to partner the GNA through training and other capacity building programmes to enable the Agency and its staff to function better.

The GNA was established by Ghana's First President, Dr Nkrumah, with the responsibility of collecting, processing and dissemination of truthful and unbiased news. It is the first news agency to be established in Sub-Saharan Africa.

GNA

By Lydia Kukua Asamoah, GNA
30.12.2017 LISTEN

The Founder of Mission Widows Ghana, Asamankese, Rev. Asiedu Bonsu has appealed to the Government to support widows through the social intervention programmes.

He said those over 60 years and others with various health conditions must be enrolled unto the government social intervention programmes to help them.

Rev. Asiedu made the appeal at a ceremony to fete members of his association as part of the Christmas and New Year celebration at Asamankese.

The Association which is seven years old has a membership of over 417 widows within Asamankese and its environs.

The core mandate of the Association is to do advocacy for the widows, take care of their health needs, give them advice to live a life of chastity, help them to be financially independent through skills training and also support the education of the widows children.

He said in the year 2017, over 80 widows joined the association, adding that, this is an indication that more men are passing away and advised married women to constantly pray for their husbands welfare physically and spiritually.

He urged the widows, expecially the strong and healthy ones to venture into any form of trade to help sustain their livelihoods.

Rev. Asiedu said the association seeks to establish a modern fish oven, where the widows will undertake fish processing to generate income to support their welfare and activities.

He used the occasion to thank, Mr and Mrs Oti Mensah and Mr Briamah Yusif Alhassan of Third Force Company, who supported the association with GH 15,000 to purchase bags of rice, Cooking oil, tin fish and tomatoes to support the widows for the festive season.

The Association within the year 2017 also renewed the health insurance cards of 207 widows, whiles 114 widows have been registered unto the National Insurance Health Scheme (NHIS) all at a cost of GH 6,809.00.

GNA
Felix Mensah Nii Annang-La, the Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive has stated that the Ghanaian and international media are the Judges that can aptly measure the performance of the New Patriotic Party and not the opposition.

'It is laughable for the opposition to equate the first year of the NPP government to corruption, when the ordinary person knows what we have done so far.'

Nii Annang-La who was speaking to the GNA at the sidelines of an end of year press soiree that he organised for the inky fraternity in Tema pointed out that 'You the media are like the torchlight of President Akufo-Addo, that is why every allegation of corruption against any of his appointees that is reported by the media is thoroughly investigated by the President. Many examples abound, but the BOST 5million litre oil sale allegation and the recent expatriate awards brouhaha are examples which the President instituted investigation teams on.

'You the media being the eyes of the President, ask yourself if this government has really been corrupt; which corrupt government openly investigates allegations against its own appointees?' the MCE asked rhetorically.

He said rather than allow itself to be misled by the opposition parties, the media should independently analyse issues for itself and take a position based on facts and not propaganda.

'Any objective observer knows that this government has been one of the most transparent, because it is a government that moves quickly to investigate its own appointees whenever allegations arise,'Felix Annang-La said.

He said in addition to the BOST and the Ghana expatriates awards allegations, the Akufo-Addo government had also investigated two Deputy Chiefs of Staff over thievery allegations by musician Kwame 'A' Plus, where the musician eventually withdrew the allegation.

'The same administration has also investigated an alleged over bloated contract that the predecessor government had signed with an offshore Energy company, AMERI.'

The MCE urged the media to disregard the propaganda by the opposition and rather check the reality of President Akufo-Addo's government.

The Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive thanked the Ghanaian media for playing its watchdog role over the past year excellently, saying in the coming year the Akufo-Addo government would more than welcome more scrutiny.

The Chief Executive commended the media in Tema for their assistance throughout the year and attributed the achievements of the Assembly partly to the performance of the Media

He expressed surprise at the huge crowd that turned up for the soiree and promised to continue collaborating with the media in the coming year to pursue the interest of Tema.

Among them was Mr. Frank Asante, the PRO for the TMA, Dr. Richard Fiadomor, immediate past Presiding Member for the TMA, Mr. Ian Okwei, a media practitioner and government appointee to the TMA and Mr. Patrick Laweh Atitiati, current Presiding Member of the TMA.

Also at the ceremony were Mr. Dominic Hlordzie, Tema Chapter President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr Hlordzie who outlined the role of the media in the success story of TMA and acknowledged the commendation of the MCE.

He commended the MCE for promising to collaborate with the media in Tema in succeeding years.

He appealed to the TMA to provide the GJA chapter an office for them to hold their activities and socialization there.

On illegal light fishing in Tema, the MCE explained that the practice was in response to the warmness of the water surface as a result of recent oil exploratory activities.

GNA
The Founder and President of Concerned Voters Movement (CVM), Mr. Razak Kojo Opoku has dared the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to proceed to court if found any wrongdoing of the Finance Minister, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta on the issuance of the $2.25billion domestic Bond saga.

Background

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Brogya Genfi, petitioned CHRAJ in April 2017 to investigate the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta's position in the issuance of the US$ 2.5 billion bond.

In its 140-page report, CHRAJ said although it found on concrete evidence on conflict of interest against the Minister, he (Ken Ofori-Atta) breached several procedures.

Meanwhile, the petitioner, Yaw Brogya Genfi has revealed to the general public that he is studying the 140-paged report with his lawyers hence in due course speak out.

"However, contrary to media reportage that the Finance Minister has been exonerated of wrongdoing, the evidence so far indicts him of several illegalities which constitutes enough grounds for his removal from office", he emphasized.

In this, Mr. Razak Kojo Opoku is daring the NDC to go to court if found something wrongdoing by the Finance Minister.

"Any NDC member of a Ghanaian who feels that Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta has done something wrong can proceed to Court for answers", he dared.

According to him, "Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta is a blameless Lamb who continues presence at the Ministry of Finance has becomes a threat to the survival of the NDC".

"Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta is indeed one of the Saviours of Ghana's Economy ", he added.

He also added that, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) led by Joseph Whittal who was appointed by former President John Mahama after the 2016 general elections, has cleared Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta of any wrongdoing over the $2.25 billion bond.

"As expected, the lousy NDC members are making ugly noise about it. The NDC are refusing to accept the reality and as usual dwelling on CHRAJ recommendations to incriminate Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta, the Finance Minister", he chided.

He explained that, "According to the NDC, the only crime committed by Ken Ofori-Atta is about his economic super intelligence to raise that $2.25 billion bond within such shortest possible period which gave some breathing space to President Akufo-Addo's Government due to the fact John Mahama's Administration left behind a totally collapsed and crippled Economy".

"A three day born baby will even argue that the NDC members who are 'senseless noise' about the $2.25 billion domestic bond maybe having inability to study the report and understand it", he stated.

Source: Daniel Kaku
A leading member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) national communication team, Sammy Gyamfi has called on President Akufo-Addo as a matter urgency relieve Ms. Clara Napaapa Tia Sulemana, a Presidential Staffer at the Presidency of her position over her supposed mocking insults of unemployed Ghanaian youth in the country.

The Presidential Staffer, Ms. Napaga Tia Sulemana has come under fire following what many have described as a reckless Facebook post.

The government official had warned Ghanaians who have been approaching her with their CVs for employment to desist in 2018.

Those of you who usually meet me at events and immediately want to submit your CV for employment, this nonsense should end in 2017, she wrote on Facebook.

To this, Sammy Gyamfi has called on President Akufo-Addo to sack her immediately without any delay to serve as a deterrent to other government appointees subsequently.

According to him the Government was among other reasons, voted in by Ghanaians who believed in their 'job creation agenda'.

"We all recall that, the theme for the NPP manifesto was christened 'Change: an agenda for jobs'. Indeed, the NPP won power on the back of a job creation agenda".

He asked, "Is this what they promised us? Where are the 51 Factories they promised in their first year in power? Where are the 750,00 jobs they promised under the Youth in Agric Program? Where are the dams? Just to mention but a few".

He maintained that the conduct of Ms. Napaapa goes to reinforce the fact that the NPP government is totally clueless about job creation.

He is therefore calling on the Youth Wing of all the Political Parties in the country to condemn these shameful comments by the Presidential Staffer.

"I also wish to encourage all the unemployed youth of Ghana, to continue to stay strong, and not be demoralized by the unfortunate comments of Ms. Napaapa, for once there is life, there is always hope", he assured.

Below is the full statement

SACK CLARA NAPAAGA TIA FOR INSULTING GHANAIAN YOUTH

30th December, 2017.

On 29th December, 2017, the youth of Ghana received the worst New Year message they could ever ask for from a Presidential Staffer. In a Facebook post by Ms. Clara Napaaga Tia, one of the young Presidential Staffers of His Excellency President Akuffo-Addo, she wrote: those of you who usually meet me at events and immediately want to submit your CVs for employment, this nonsense should end in 2017.

Like many Ghanaian youth, I am completely appalled by the insensitivity and arrogance displayed by Ms. Napaaga Tia. After enduring one of the most difficult festive periods in recent times, characterized by untoward economic hardship, the Ghanaian youth would have thought that a government that promised them hope only 12 months ago, would reassure them that, the dawning of a New Year 2018, would see the actualization of this hope into real jobs for the teeming unemployed youth of this country.

However, this was not to be, as Ms. Napaaga Tia, in a very scornful and condescending manner, issued a rather contemptuous and stern warning to the innocent youth of this country, to stay off from continuously harassing her for employment in 2018.

Indeed, this is yet the most insulting remark to the teeming unemployed youth of this country, including the youth of the governing NPP. What the over 1 million unemployed youth of this country need from government officials in these hard times is hope and encouragement.

It is sad that persons associated with the President who promised the youth jobs will turn around and make such a mockery of the youth. This is a complete stab in the back of the youth, and a sacrilegious sin which cannot be forgiven by the Ghanaian youth.

It is the modest expectation of the youth of this country that, government officials who are paid by their hard-earned taxes, would exhibit sensitivity and responsiveness to their plight, rather than seek to ridicule and spite them in the face.

The most disturbing part of this debacle, is the fact that, this height of arrogance of power is coming from Clara Napaaga, a 30 year-old lady, who has no work experience whatsoever. Unlike most Ghanaian youth, Clara was privileged to have been employed at the Flagstaff House just after her National Service. Today, owing to her opportune position, she takes home a salary of GH14,000, with several accompanying benefits. The state has given her a V8 Land cruiser, a saloon car, among others. She receives free fuel and several other benefits, and hence has developed the nerves and effrontery to dish out a stern warning to the youth of this country who havent been privileged like her.

Such pomposity and arrogance, which is unheard of in our political dispensation, must be condemned in no uncertain terms.

I wish to underscore the fact that, the habit of young people presenting their CVs to government officials for jobs is not a new phenomenon. In fact, this practice is very normal in a country with high levels of unemployment like ours. Therefore, Clara Napaaga only finds this irritating because of the largess she is enjoying today.

It is worthy of note, that, the derisive posture of Ms. Clara Napaaga is a betrayal of the mandate the Ghanaian people gave to this government a year ago. Her thoughts completely betray the social contract between the government and the millions of unemployed youth who voted for them.

We all recall that, the theme for the NPP manifesto was christened Change: an agenda for jobs. Indeed, the NPP won power on the back of a job creation agenda.

Is this what they promised us? Where are the 51 Factories they promised in their first year in power? Where are the 750,000 jobs they promised under the Youth in Agric Program? Where are the dams? Just to mention but a few.

All that the Ghanaian youth have been treated to, so far, are a litany of failed promises, nepotism and cronyism. Clara Napaagas bellicose effusions only go to reinforce the fact that this government is totally clueless about job creation, and that she does not believe that the promises and policies of government to create jobs in 2018 will yield any results.

Like many Ghanaian youth, I take serious exception to the rather belated and face-effacing apology of Ms. Napaaga. I am even more incensed by her attempts to belittle her own comments as a joke. This face-saving move is very insulting and untenable. The issue of unemployment which is a national security issue and a time bomb waiting to explode cannot be trifled with by any government official.

In any case, we all recall how Ms. Napaaga recently insisted on the resignation of the Deputy Minister of Agric, William Quaitoo, over the latters comments he made against Northerners, even after he had apologized. I reckon that the same standard must be applied to Ms. Napaaga.

I wish to conclude by calling on the Youth Wings of all Political Parties in Ghana, to condemn these shameful comments by the Presidential Staffer. This issue is not a political matter, and hence cannot pass for business as usual.

I call on President Akuffo-Addo to sack Ms. Napaaga Tia if he does not endorse her repugnant conduct. It is my earnest prayer that the President will not on this occasion, turn himself into a spokesperson and a clearing agent for Ms. Napaaga, as he has done for most of his errant appointees.

I also wish to encourage all the unemployed youth of Ghana, to continue to stay strong, and not be demoralized by the unfortunate comments of Ms. Napaaga, for once there is life, there is always hope.

...Signed...

Sammy Gyamfi

(Member of NDC National Communication Team)

Source: Daniel Kaku
Following President Akufo-Addo's decision to run the largest government since independence, legal practitioner Samson Lardy Anyenini has called for a constitutional ceiling on the number of ministers.

In a review of highlights of 2017, the lawyer resurrected his disappointment in the president after he assembled a team of 110 ministers and deputies.

The backlash was instantaneous but the president told Ghanaians the numbers won't matter when his team delivers on the job.

It is an explanation Samson Anyenini rejected describing the appointments as "such a wrong start" to his presidency.

"It is unjustifiable, it is unreasonable especially for a poor country," he said. After constant refrain that taxes collected are insufficient in running the country, Samson questioned, the appointment of110 ministers to draw on limited resources.

Gender activist, Shamima Muslim described the number as "a bit too much" arguing the public service full of directors and consultants should be good enough to handle the affairs of the state led by a smaller number of ministers.

Adom News Editor, Afia Pokua, pointed out that large governments are a feature on African governments open to cronyism and patronage.

"This is the reality of African politics," she said.

Afia Pokua said despite the unprecedented number of ministers, the President is still under pressure to appoint more.
The Chief Executive of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo has expressed deep worry about the extent of Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) infestation on cocoa farms in Ghana.

Mr. Aidoo made the observation when he toured some cocoa farms in the Western South and Western North Cocoa Regions of Ghana to acquaint himself of the state of cocoa farms after the introduction of the Hand Pollination exercise.

He expressed disappointment at the state of CSSVD infestation when he was greeted with it as well as pest infestations on some farms.

Mr. Aidoo was accompanied on the familiarization tour by the directors of the various COCOBOD subsidiaries: Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) and Seed Production Division (SPD).

He used the occasion to discuss with some subsidiary heads remedial actions to be taken immediately and also design a rehabilitation programme. He implored them to take samples of the diseased pods for further studies to arrive at the appropriate interventions.

The chief executive stated his readiness to tackle the state of disease infestation on the Ghanaian cocoa industry, 'Until we are able to take stringent measures to curtail the disease infestations on large tracts of cocoa farms, cocoa yield in the coming years will drastically fall', he said. 'The likely poor yield can impoverish the Ghanaian cocoa farmer and affect the overall world chocolate industry' he added.

Mr. Aidoo stated that the only means to salvage the distressed situation will be to source for funds to embark on vigorous cocoa farm rehabilitation programme while deepening the Cocoa Hi-Tech programme to massively fight cocoa disease and pest infestation.

He called on cocoa farmers to fully embrace the interventions that will be used to decrease the cocoa diseases and pest infestations as a means to fighting the menace.

The Managing Director of Quality Control Company, Dr. Isaac Yaw Opoku used the occasion to demonstrate to some farmers how to handle cocoa beans to ensure good quality cocoa beans for sale.
Government will, from next year, vet all small-scale miners across the country to regularise and monitor their activities.

The move would ensure that small-scale mining across the country is done in a responsible, environmentally-friendly and sustainable manner.

This was disclosed by the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the commissioning of the Secretariat for the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) at Cantonments in Accra.

The Secretariat, situated at the Office of the President Annex, would enable the Committee to achieve its long-term objective of combating illegal small-scale mining, protecting the environment, and ensuring that mining in the country conforms to international standards, rules and regulations.

The Secretariat would be the nerve centre of anti-galamsey operations and would serve as a means of executing the Presidents agenda to end the degradation of the environment.

Operation Vanguard, which is a flagship exercise by the IMCIM, to curb the degrading activities of galamsey operations, as well as all other interventions, also aims at regulating the artisanal gold mining sector and would be coordinated from that office.

President Akufo-Addo said he was resolute and immutable in his commitment to banish the spectre of galamsey for our own common survival, and the survival of those who are to come.

He was emphatic that we would be jeopardising both our present and our future if illegal small scale-mining went unchecked.

The President said Government was entering a new era in its efforts to formalize the small scale mining industry, so as to achieve sustainable mining with sound environmental practices.

In the weeks and months ahead, I expect to see optimal co-ordination amongst participating Ministries and the District Mining Committees, as well as close interaction with Operation Vanguard, small scale miners and the general public.

I expect the Committee to receive regular reports from mining centres, so that illegal activities can be dealt with immediately, he said.

President Akufo-Addo stressed that with the office for the Inter-Ministerial Committee in place, there is going to be constant, close and effective monitoring and reporting of anti-galamsey activities, so that the right thing is done all the time.

This new phase will demonstrate our resilience and commitment to ensuring that our water bodies, land and forests, with their biodiversity, are not destroyed,  he said.

The President urged the Small Scale Miners Association, from the national to the community level, to help in self-regulation of activities of their members, and also ensure that no one engages in illegal activities, especially mining in our water bodies.

He also commended the media for the patriotism it had exhibited in the fight against the galamsey menace and urged it to intensify the campaign against illegal small-scale mining because we must preserve our environment for posterity.
The Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Sanitation and water project in collaboration with the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, earlier this month organized a three-day training programme for some 20 journalists across the various media houses in the country.

The three-day intensive and residential training was held at the International Student's Guest Centre at Abokobi in Accra.

The focus of the training programme was to equip Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) journalists to support, sensitize and communicate sanitation to the general public.

The training touched on areas such as the various definitions of sanitation, the relationship between sanitation and national development, the effect of sanitation on the individual and the community, the relationship between bad practices such as open defecation and national development, and applying one's knowledge of sanitation in reporting to influence attitudinal change

Tsekpetse Akuamoah Kweku, one of the training instructors and a senior environmental technologist, said, the idea behind this training is that we know that as journalists when you pick up any issue you are able to move it beyond what government and individuals can do. So the idea is to train journalists on the new trends and development issues so they can have a better understanding of the issues to report better.

The training sessions urged journalists to focus on encouraging attitudinal change and inspire action rather than merely relaying information to their audience.

According to a participant of the training, Godfred Sey, the Editor for Rainbow Radio, we have always done environmental stories but this program has really helped me to see another angle because many at times we write stories and the impact is far less. But it has improved my angle of looking at certain ways of making people listen to my stories and then decide on their own to change their attitudes without anyone necessarily picking up a cane after them.

Another participant Selorm Amenya, a reporter from TV3 also said, its been a very good training and the fact that most of the stories we do at times have a certain focus; there is rubbish here or there, the conditions In our cities are not good and we always want to put the fire on government because we want to keep it on its toes.

The GAMA Sanitation and water project is a project sponsored by the World Bank under the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources to help lower income level communities have access to affordable toilet and water facilities.



By: Michael Ogbodu/citifmonline.com/Ghana

The post GAMA sanitation project trains 20 journalists appeared first on Ghana News .
30.12.2017 LISTEN

A Yonkopa Cocoa Buying Company Limited District Officer (DO) at Abosamso in the Bosome Freho in Ashanti Region, Mr David Ofori Padi has been attacked and shot by armed robbers.

According to Mr. David Oppong , the Branch Accountant who spoke to Otec news Nana Asare Barimah in an interview with said, on Thursday, December 28, 2017, the District Officer and the Purchasing Clerks in the district were having a meeting when four unknown people fully armed with facial masks emerged from nowhere attacked them and robbed them at a gun point.

Mr.Oppong said the gang of 4 fully armed stormed their Depo whiles the general metting was in session and started shooting and asked the District Officer to hand them every money with his procession.

Mr.Oppong said the gang of 4 fully armed stormed their Depo whiles the general metting was in session and started shooting and asked the District Officer to hand them every money with his procession.

Reports say the District Officer told the criminals that he didn't bring any money he just came to have a meeting with his workers and give them their Christmas gifts which is made up of rice, oil and chicken.

The District Officer stamen infuriated the angers of these desperate armed robbers and shot at his thigh and sped off Leaving him in a pool of blood and later rushed him to the Bekwai Government hospital for treatment.

Further information gathered later has it that, the DO usually comes there on Thursdays to disbursed money to the purchasing clerks to buy cocoa, so the rubbers were thinking he has come to give them money but fortunately for him he didn't come with any money.

The case has since been reported to Bodwesango Police station and Bosome Freho Police command for feather investigations.
Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo has set up a special court to prosecute individuals who default in the payment of their TV License fee.

This follows a request made to the judiciary by Ghana Broadcasting Corporation Director-General, Dr. Kwame Akuffo Anoff-Ntow in November this year.

In a letter sighted by Myjoyonline.com and dated December 11, the request by the boss of the state broadcaster has been granted.

The courts, which will be in all the ten regions, will start sitting on January 4, 2018, the document read.
30.12.2017 LISTEN

Mr. David Asante-Apeatu, the Inspector General of Police, as part of the Christmas celebrations, has provided packaged meals to over 500 street children in Bolgatanga.

Packaged meals of rice and chicken and sweet drinks were distributed to the street children, along the streets of Bolgatanga and the main lorry station.

The distribution was carried out by the Police Wives Association (POLWA) in the region.

Mrs Grace Afeyi, who spoke on behalf of the Association, said the exercise lasted for about two hours and the cost GH 2, 700.00 was borne by the IGP and his wife.

She said Christmas is a season of showing love and happiness to all, especially children and the vulnerable in the society.

'It is for this reason that the IGP said he can't celebrate the Christmas with his family alone, so he and his wife are donating these food and drinks to the street children', Mrs Afeyi said.

She called on parents to take proper care of their children and enrol them in school so they could achieve their dreams.

On behalf of the Police Wives Association in the region, she thanked the Inspector General of Police for the gesture and appealed to the public to extend a helping hand to the needy in society.

Some of the children, who could not hide their joy, said 'we thank you for the food given us'.

A 36 year old mother of twins who received the food for her children was overwhelmed and thanked the IGP and POLWA for the support.

'It hasn't been easy for me and my children. What to eat daily has always been a challenge, so we rely on the alms we get from individuals. So we thank him [IGP] for the support', she said.

GNA

By Joshua Asaah, GNA
The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Klottey Korley constituency has denied allegations of attempts to expunge persons who supported independent candidate Nii Noi Nortey in the 2016 elections, from polling registers.

According to the party, the allegations being peddled are false, as the register contains the names of all well-standing members.

Some members of the party in the constituency on Thursday besieged the party's headquarters to protest against alleged attempts to expunge persons who supported independent candidate Nii Noi Nortey in the 2016 elections, from polling registers.

The Vice-Chairman of the NPP in the Klottey Korley constituency Alhaji Aliu Kabe told Citi News that the friction arising from Nii Noi Norteys initial defection from the party has not even resulted in any sanctions.

Nobody has been sanctioned in this constituency official or on record the only thing I know, that I can speak to is that he who alleges must prove. If there is any evidence against any polling or constituency executive, bring it to the regional leadership and they will call them to order, he stated.

Background

In May 2017, Nii Noi Nortey, a former NPP Constituency Chairman for Klottey Korley, apologized to the NPP for contesting as an independent candidate.

He said circumstances beyond his control compelled him to reject the advice of the then flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo, in the run-up to the 2016 elections.

Nii Noi Nortey

Nii Noi contested the elections in an independent capacity after a disputed primary which saw him lose against Philip Addison.

He accused Lawyer Addison and some party executives for rigging the election after a second primary was called.

Nii Noi Nortey had won the first primary overwhelmingly amidst a boycott from the other candidates over the election date.



By: Fred Djbanor/citifmonline.com/Ghana

The post Klottey Korle: Nii Noi supporters not removed from register  NPP appeared first on Ghana News .
I read the Letter to Mr. KwekuBaako, signed by a Dr. Edward Kwame Poku some twenty-four hours ago and found it to be quite disturbing and distasteful, because the author appears to have an impressive facility with the English language that is generally not very common among Ghanaians locally educated in the sciences. And by his very expert discussion of the recent epidemic that struck the country, it is quite safe to assume that Dr. Kwame Poku is a medical professional; perhaps, even an immunologist. The first part of his rather long tirade of an epistle, clearly hints at the fact that the author may be experiencing some frustrations that are commonly associated with those who have been sojourning abroad for a remarkable length of time, particularly in Europe, and especially Germany, where a critical mass of Neo-Nazism still endures with strong official backing in some regions or states.

If by virtue of his own apparently acute sense of frustration, Dr. Poku would rather be back in Ghana than where he is presently domiciled, then, by all means, he is welcome to make the necessary arrangements to the same effect. But he has absolutely no reason or inalienable right to spew such ethnic chauvinism, or Asante Supremacist tirade, to be precise, and hope that such primitive bigotry would be endorsed by or be responded to in any shape or form by President Addo DankwaAkufo-Addo. Indeed, I am cocksure that not even His Majesty, The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei-Tutu, II, and the membership of the Asanteman Council, which, by the way, includes a remarkable percentage of non-ethnic Asantes, would endorse the unenlightened promotion of ethnic bigotry. I dont know why he felt that he needed to direct his rather morally and intellectually insulting letter to Mr. KwekuBaako, the Editor-Publisher of the New Crusading Guide, but the author probably got the sort of media play and attention that he clearly could not get from President Akufo-Addo.

If health matters were primarily what he wanted to discuss with Ghanaian officialdom, then, of course, even as one of the several commentators who responded to his letter in the comments column attached to the same wisely suggested, Dr. Poku could have directed his letter to the Minister of Health, Mr. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu. I also dont know why the Editor-Publisher of the New Crusading Guide decided to publish Dr. Pokus very hateful letter; but it is almost quite certain that Mr. Baako wanted a much larger and savvier Ghanaian public to make up its mind about, whether, indeed, the letter writer deserved any hearing or response from the originally intended recipient of the same. As of this writing, I was hoping that Dr. Poku would have gotten a good dosage of the kind of feedback that he deserved. The man seems to be worried silly about the ongoing nationwide discussions about the creation of four or five additional regions in the country.

But, of course, the author of the afore-referenced letter knows very well that in a constitutional democracy, tantrum-throwing is the least effective and constructive means of expressing ones displeasure with any policy initiative, especially where such displeasure clearly appears to be predicated on ones peculiar sense of ethnic purity and integrity. Resorting to the beating of war drums and vowing to wreak havoc on the country, if things do not go his way, is rather bizarre. Dr. Poku may very well be a physician or scientist of vintage rate, but his trend of thinking tells me that the letter writer may be in dire need of psychiatric examination. Or he is simply a congenital fool or an idiot. I mean, where was this disgruntled ethnic bigot and Asante supremacist when the Trokosi Nationalists, led by the Supreme-Godfather, Chairman Jerry John Rawlings, literally took the entire country by storm and effectively reduced the single most powerful and influential monarch into a domestic hand or housewife called Auntie Comfort?

*Visit my blog at: kwameokoampaahoofe.wordpress.com Ghanaffairs
Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita named a new prime minister Saturday, a day after the government resigned in a surprise move just months ahead of presidential polls.

A public decree disseminated on Twitter said Keita named former defence minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga to replace Abdoulaye Idrissa Maiga, who resigned unexpectedly on Friday.

Boubeye Maiga is considered close to Keita despite his having to resign as defence minister in 2014 after the Malian army suffered a string of setbacks against Tuareg rebel groups in the country's restive northern region.

The north is still a theatre of unrest almost six years after a French-led military operation chased Islamic extremists linked to Al-Qaeda from a region they had taken control of in early 2012.

Mali's army, French soldiers and a UN mission (MINUSMA) still have little control over large tracts of the country, which regularly come under attack in spite of a peace accord signed with Tuareg leaders in May and June 2015 with the aim of isolating the jihadists.

The spread of the unrest this year prompted the G5 regional forum, which also includes Mauritania and Chad, to step up peace efforts with French support.

Mali's presidential election is set to take place next year with Keita seeking re-election.
30.12.2017 LISTEN

One thing is certain for 2018. It will be marked with a milestone change in data protection for persons in the EU. Not only for EU citizens, but for anyone in the EU. And such protection will have effect not only in the EU, but its long-arm effect will bring duties for its compliance world wide.

It will affect not just businesses in the EU, but the companies in the USA, China or Australia. Now, it has been clearly recognized, what has been in the air for some time, that when protection of human rights in the cyber sphere is at stake, earth bound borders are being overcome.

And so is the classic international law. General Data Protection Regulation ('GDPR'), which is about to be applicable as from 25 May 2018, will bring major changes in data protection introducing enhanced rights for individuals or data subjects, complex duties of compliance for those processing personal data (controllers and processors), as well as high fines for breaches (up 20 million or 4% of annual turnover).

The need for overall data protection comes parallely with the fast rate growth in information technology tools. Persons and their personal data become overly exposed either willingly, or at least subconciosly willingly. By giving our personal data to social networks we choose to publish them either with limited number of known persons or without limitation.

We might give our bank account number when purchasing online, delivery address or submit our phone number when applying to certain job. Our IP address is visible whenever approaching certain web location. Butdo we accept that another employer calls us, instead the one we gave our phone number to? Did we ask for our inbox to get loaded with offers that we did not ask for? Or more extremely, what if our bank account is approached without our authorization? In the world of digital technologies, the right information means power.

The race for economic growth means a race for more customers turning into a search for valid e-mail addresses, phone numbers and other personal information in order that a product or a service is offered and eventually sold. Key to reaching customers becomes a hunt for personal information. But that hunt has limitations.Limitations are made to protect the rights of natural persons, data subjects, such as theright to access data, right to rectification, right to erasure, right to restrict, right to data portability, right to object, etc.

Whose rights are protected?

Or what is ratione personae jurisdiction of the GDPR? The persons protected under GDPR are called data subjects, identified or identifiable natural persons (Article 4, para 1) who are in the Union (A3, para 2). The Regulation opted for a location of a data subject as a criterium for protection under GDPR, instead of a more formal approach such as EU citizen, or legal resident of the EU, thus making an extensive approachtowards any person who is in the Union.

What counts as personal data?

Personal data that is subject of protection mechanism of the GDPR is any information relating to data subject. (A 4, para 1). When deciding which information can be considered as personal data, it is important that the information is able to identify the person, or that it is identifier. An identifier or a personally identifiable information (PII) may be obvious such as name, identification number, but also location data, or other factors that may be connected to certain person such as physical, psychological, genetic, mental, economic, cultural or social identity. So, thedata which may be come under the domain personal dataare defined broadly in order to cover all possible identifiers which do not necessarily need to be recognizable at first hand. On the other hand, according to the GDPR principle of data minimization, no excess data should be processed but only minimum of data necessary for the purpose of processing.

Right to access data

Right to access data is a prerequisite for all other rights. It is an opening gate to an array of data protection rights. In order that a person may request that his data are rectified, erased, restricted, portable, or objected, one first must to get to know if and what data are collected. Data subject has further the right to know the purpose of processing, to whom the data will be disclosed, period of data storage, to be informed about the right to complain, or to request rectification or erasure or restriction of processing (A 15). Recital 63 stresses out the importance of data access concerning health, insight into medical records, treatment. The controllers are advised to provide remote access to a secure system which would provide the data subject with direct access to his or her personal data, but to the extent that rights and freedoms of others are not adversely affected.

Right to rectification

Data subject may request the rectification of inaccurate personal data, completion of uncomplete personal data (A 16). The precondition for exercise of the right to rectification is the right to access to data, which is needed for the data subject get to know the personal data kept about him/her, at first hand. This gives the data subject role of a controller of his/her personal data, and should be also favored by controllers for pointing to data flaws.

Right to erasure or the right to be forgotten

The milestone Google v. Spain case [1] , has brought a practical effect to the right to be forgotten [2] , then provided for in Data Protection Directive 95/46 (Article 6(1)(c) to (e)), but it also introduced its long arm territorial reach, which was echoed in other legal systems as well, and upon which, the lead search engine Google,later enabled its users to request the erasure of the personal data across the globe (https://forget.me/ ). The Court of Justice of the EU, has outlined in the said judgment, that even initially lawful processing of accurate data may, in the course of time, become incompatible with the directive where those data are no longer necessary in the light of the purposes for which they were collected or processed. That is so in particular where they appear to be inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant, or excessive in relation to those purposes and in the light of the time that has elapsed. (para 93)

The right to erasure under Article 17 of the GDPR follows the wording and the intention of the said case, providing for the possibility of requesting erasure when the personal data are no longer necessary in relation to the purposes for which they were collected or processed (para 1a). However it adds also a more wide approach, introducing, inter alia, lack of consent, as a grounds for requesting data erasure, or objection by data subject, giving thus more subjective approach to the right of erasure, putting the will of the data subject at the outset when opting for erasure of private data, of course unless public interest requires otherwise (right of freedom of expression and information;official authority; public health; scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes; for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims (A 17 para 3).

According to GDPR principle of transparency in processing of personal data, controllers are to inform the data subjects on the existence of the right to rectification or erasure and the right to data portability (A 13(b)). They should also strive to inform any other controllers who might have come in touch with such data, to erase any links or copies or replications of personal data in order that the right to be forgotten is strengthened in the online environment.

Right to restrict

Persons or data subjects shall have the right to restrict the processing (A18) if they contest the accuracy of personal data, if the processing is unlawful but they do not want erasure. Restriction, contrary to erasure, leaves the data, but with restricted access. Suggested methods for restriction of data are temporarily moving the selected data to another processing system, making the selected personal data unavailable to users, or temporarily removing published data from a website. The restriction of data should be clearly indicated in the system (Rec. 67), and data subjects should be informed in case of lifting the restriction.

Right to data portability

A new right recognized by the GDPR is right to data portability (A20). It gives the data subjects right to be sole proprietors of their data and puts obligation on controllers to lay that data in structured, commonly used and machine-readable format, and to enable data subjects to carry them or to transmit them to another controller of processor. GDPR differs two kinds of acquired data which is the subject of portability right. Those are data that are deliberately provided by data subjects, such as data when opening e-mail account, bank account, social network profile, shopping account. Such data are disposed of, pursuant to a consent or a contract. And on the other hand,there are data that have been collected by controllers or processors themselves, i.e. by automated means.

It also includes right to have personal data transmitted directly from one controller to another. For example, if one person decides to change his electricity provider, he may request his provider to transmit his data to another provider. That puts data subject in a position to administer his data and to have a controller act upon his demands. The ability to transmit data from one service provider to another, puts also an important accent to healthy market competition, although that comes as a secondary consequence, while the primary aim is to have data subjects in control of their personal data.

Right to object/Profiling

Data subjects are given right to object on processing personal data, including profiling (Art 21 re A 6 (1) e, f), when such processing is carried out in the public interest or for legitimate interests pursued by the controller or by a third party. When data subject objects, the controller shall no longer process the personal data. However, if controller demonstrates compelling legitimate grounds for processing which override the interests, rights and freedoms of the data subject, it may continue to process the personal data.

What refers to profiling? Profiling is described in Recital 71 of the GDPR as automated processing aimed to evaluate the personal aspects of a natural person in order to analyze or predict data subjects performance at work, economic situation, health, personal preferences or interests,reliability or behavior, location or movements, where it produces legal effects concerning him or her or similarly significantly affects him or her.Profiling may be used for tax purposes in which case it is in a public interest. But profiling may also be used with a purpose of direct marketing.

We are often faced with internet offers recognizing exactly our needs or interests filling our inbox sometimes to our delight, but sometimes not. Pop-ups, ads, and other kinds of direct marketing is displayed to us on the basis of our past searches, and is result of automated profiling. If a person objects to profiling for direct marketing purposes, then processing will be stopped. There may not be a compelling interest of the controller in this regard.

GDPR makes difference between profiling as a result of processing personal data, and issuing a decision based on profiling.Decision making on the grounds of profiling may be done even without the consent (or contract) of the data subjectif it is expressly authorized by Union or Member State law to which the controller is subject, including for fraud and tax-evasion monitoring and prevention purposes (recital 71A 22). However, data subjects rights, freedoms and legitimated interests must be safeguarded. The phrase authorized by Union or Member State law goes in line with the permissible restrictions of rights of data subjects, and corresponds to in accordance with law concept outlined in the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms and the Human Rights Charter to which Recital 73 of the GDPR refers.

Restrictions or derogations

Rights of data subjects are not absolute ones and may be restricted under certain conditions. GDPR provides the list of possible restrictions in public interest, which follow the spirit of the European Convention on Human Rights and the Charter. The fair balance between the individual rights and public interest demands must be carefully pondered, in order that proportionality of burdens is not infringed, and that democratic society principlesare safeguarded.

Procedural recourses available to data subjects

It is important that such an act provides not only for material rights but also for possibility of procedural guarantees attained to those rights. There are three types of procedural recourses under the GDPR: judicial remedy, complaint to supervisory authority and out-of-court proceedings and other dispute resolution procedures.

Right to effective judicial remedy (A78) is envisaged to be exercised in Member States, so national systems are to provide for such recourse.

A complaint to supervisory authority is an administrative remedy that shall be dealt with by supervisory authorities in Member States. (A 77) A judicial remedy is also possible against a decision issued in such proceedings (A78), and in case of administrative proceedings taking excessive time.

But out-of-court dispute resolution (A 40) gives a range of possibilities. From classic alternative dispute resolution modalities, such as ombudsman institution and mediation services, to new online dispute resolution possibilities (ODR). ODR EU web-based platform was created by European Commission in February 2016 in order to provide the citizens with faster and less expensive online resolution of disputes, which originated in online purchases. [3] Out-of-court dispute resolution in GDPR is given broadly, so it will be interesting to see how the ODR system will respond to any dispute instituted by a data subject in the light of the GDPR.

There are many steps ahead of us and much has already been done, with a view to provide compliance with GDPR. Rightful interpretation of GDPR provisions is also very important. Article 29 Working party has issued series of guidelines on data portability, consent, data protection officers, data protection impact assessment, etc. In addition to direct effect of GDPR as a regulation,some Member States like Austria, Germany, Belgium, have enacted national laws in that regard.Another important issue isa long-arm effect of GDPR when speaking of EU-USA transfer of data, and its relation to Privacy Shield agreement. Supervisory authorities in Member States must prepare for their crucial position in dealing with complaints, breaches, etc. Companies and businesses must get ready and data protection officers are going to be very much needed workforce.

So, the great stone of GDPR is already rolling, urging all affected players to catch speed, or the sanctions will be sky-high. We are heading towards the start of a great albeit challenging story of thorough and profound data and human rights protection.

[1] Court of Justice of the EU, Case C131/12 of 13 May 2014

[2] Cosabic, J., Quo Vadis Digital Citizen? Can a person be only partially forgotten? http://moderndiplomacy.eu/2014/11/08/quo-vadis-digital-citizen-can-a-person-be-only-partially-forgotten/

[3] See Cosabic, J.,IT law - a challenge of dispute resolution, http://moderndiplomacy.eu/2016/06/08/it-law-a-challenge-of-dispute-resolution/
30.12.2017 LISTEN

It appears now than before that more and more party faithful have realised that there is the need to reorganise the National Democratic Congress (NDC) around the core principles of the Revolution- probity, integrity, accountability and social justice, that gave birth to the party some 25 years ago!

As to what accounts for this realisation and why those who over the years ignored the values of the revolution and the need for remanding ourselves of where we came from, making a case now for its commemoration, is a debate we should reserve for another day.

Notwithstanding this, it is important to acknowledge the resolves and tenacities of all those who have held onto the spirits of the revolution(s) to this day. It is equally important to appreciate the acknowledgement of comrades who fell along the way to come to the realisation that the values on which the National Democratic Congress was founded are not negotiable, they are the watchwords we should always remind ourselves of in whatever task we carry out.

They are values if well nurtured and respected by all could make the party an indomitable political force in our democratic discourse and making a case for greater national development.Political life is nothing without ideals but ideals are empty if they dont relate to real possibilities. This point must be re-emphasised all the time! The real possibilities for the mass grassroot was what really informed the revolution.

The theme for this years commemoration of the 31stDecember Revolution, to be held in the Volta Regional capital, Ho, is Uniting around the principles of Probity, Accountability and Social justice. The theme is an important one but that should not be the stopping point of these values or principles. The practical applications of these principles to political responsibilities are fundamental and cardinal to our existence as a political party.

The NDC of today cannot be said to have lived up to the principles as envisaged in the revolution. Many within may not be comfortable with this single statement but that is the fact and the reality confronting as a political party and which must be cured through the effort of all who believe in the principles of the revolution around which the unity is being called. The revolution shall not die! The Revolution, irrespective of how you view it, gave hope to our countryGhana, and its institutions at the time.

Patriotisms, devotion and commitment were the virtues exhibited by men and women that eventually changed the course of our country. It was through the vision of Flt. Lt. Jerry Rawlings and the revolutionary movement that brought a clear departure from the abominable norms and disorders of our society at the time. J.J Rawlings, in fact, must be seen as the greatest national security assets that avert total collapse of the country Ghana.

The presence of Jerry Rawlings and the Revolutionary Movement that put a stop to all military coups in Ghana since then. This was so because, the uprisingswere not financed by stooges and their imperialist colonial masters. In fact, it was undertaken by men of conscience, principle and integrity who were passionate of correcting the economic disorders that were eating up our values and society at large at the time.

The economic conditions before the revolution were very much unbearable and have been described in some academic quarters as shambolic and beyond human endurance. In fact, the economic degradation that the country Ghana found itself in was due to the series of military takeovers and equally and importantly the incompetent quasi-democratic civilian regimes that were in control of the nation's affair at the time. Our industries were collapsed, progressive development projects were abandoned, the Judiciary was a failure, public institutions have all stopped function and in fact, about 90% of our road networks were not motorable. It took, sometimes, about 4 days to travel from Accra through Kumasi to Min in the Brong-Ahafo region.

Today, at least we should all be happy and hopeful for now, that those who sought to distant themselves from the Revolution are now making a case for uniting the party around the spirits and values of the same. The opposition to the revolution was and still very much aware of its achievementsand in fact, became scared of its continuous celebration and remembrance; and so, outlawed it as a public holiday. Why? Because showing evidences of the state of affairs of Ghana before and after on each commemoration day of the Revolution will keep the opposition to it perpetually where they belong.

But one thing remains cardinal and important, that 'the evolution of contemporary viable democracy in Ghana today was based on the struggles by ordinary people led by Flt Lt J. J. Rawlings for political space and voice, initially on a non-partisan basis under the PNDC, and subsequently, in a constitutional framework of multiparty democracy under a government of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Constitutional democracy, thus emerged on the bedrock of commitment by ordinary people to work hard to produce the nation's wealth, to uphold truth, abhor corruption, and distribute the benefits of hard work equitably for the greater, social and economic wellbeing of all Ghanaians'.

As we commemorate the event, especially under a theme that resonates with fundamental principles of the revolution, let us all again cast our mind back and renew once again our commitment, dedication and patriotism to mother Ghana as envisaged in the spirit of both the June 4th and the 31st December revolutions. Importantly we must resolve throughall necessary means to curtail acts and omissions that undermine the foundation of the party.

Long Live Ghana

Long Live NDC

Long Live Founder J.J. Rawlings

Alexander Bediako

(Organiser, NDC UK & Ireland)
I stuck to what the coaches ...
San Antonio police say one man is dead following an attempted home burglary in a Northwest suburb Friday afternoon.

Officers responded to the 7300 Block of Marble Creek Drive, near Leon Valley, around 2:40 p.m. to a shooting in progress where they found a man had been shot by a homeowner, police say.
Three cities have sued the Pentagon over its failure to fully report criminal convictions in the military justice system that would prevent people who shouldnt have guns from buying them.

We thank New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco for this and urge other cities  and states  to consider doing the same or joining this lawsuit. Wed urge Sutherland Springs to be among them, but note that it is an unincorporated area of Wilson County.

The First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, of course, is where an Air Force veteran with a less-than-honorable discharge killed 26 and wounded others in November with a store-bought rifle he shouldnt have been allowed to purchase. He was booted out of the service after serving a years sentence for assaulting his then-wife and infant stepson, fracturing the childs skull.

The Air Force, however, failed to report the conviction to the FBI. That meant there was no mention of him in the nations database for background checks. The gunman bought weapons in Texas and Colorado, including the semi-automatic rifle he used in that church.

This is a failing that has dogged the military since at least the 1990s.

Whether laws should be changed on guns is a matter of intense debate. But what we have here is a failure of existing law  a failure precipitated by the militarys failure to fulfill its obligations. The New York Times has reported that nearly one in three court-martial convictions that would have prohibited gun purchases by the defendants went unreported.

This is inexcusable. An organization that can precision bomb targets should be able to be more precise in its reporting responsibilities.

The cities are seeking federal court monitoring for the Pentagon.

This is the least of what should happen. Congress should consider additional penalties.

It is long past time to get this fixed. Never again.
W.V. Elk Herd Inspires Hopes of Economic Renewal, if not Ecological Redemption Daily Yonder

Oh snap: How a shrimp closes its claws fast enough to vaporize water Ars Technica

This 19th-Century Illustrator Found Beauty in the Slimiest of Sea Creatures Smithsonian

US retails turbulent relationship with private equity FT

Yield junkies Reuters

The cost of bitcoin payments is skyrocketing because the network is totally overloaded Business Insider

Ukraine kidnappers release hostage after $1m bitcoin ransom paid Guardian (JT McPhee).

Does a lower total cost of ownership boost electric car sales? Ars Technica

Scientists Question Safety of Using Waste Water From Oil Fields on Food NBC

Birkenstock just won a major victory in its feud with Amazon Reuters

Amazon Alexa and Google Home fall short of real conversation FT

Cannabis-Industry Lawyer Raises Questions After His Bank Terminates Account The Recorder

South Floridas Real Estate Reckoning Could Be Closer Than You Think Bloomberg

Puerto Rico

Syraqistan

Brexit

China?

Growing discord in Malaysias paddy industry Straits Times

Tax Reform

New tax law spells big changes for companies approach to executive compensation Francine McKenna, MarketWatch This Tax Loophole For Wealthy Donors Just Got Bigger NPR. If your income is high enough, you can actually make money by giving away money to support scholarships to private schools. The states affected by this provision are Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Kansas, Montana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Virginia.

Losing Students, Private Schools Try to Change WSJ

800,000 Washington residents owe student-loan money  to the tune of $24B Seattle Times

Lets allow our kids to use some of their future Social Security earnings to pay off their student loans FOX. Man, theyre really trying to clear the board, arent they?

This breakout Star Wars star used her salary to pay off her student loans CNBC. So thats what it takes. Becoming a movie star.

Trump Transition

The woman who collects clothes of sex assault victims BBC. No, its not what she was wearing.

The Forgotten Man The Baffler. Murray Rothbard.

Democrats in Disarray

Can The Democrats Win Back The Bernie Supporters Who Wanted Change And Then Voted For Trump? Down with Tyranny (MR).

Third Parties, Your Time Is Now Truthout

RoseAnn DeMoro Has Political Enemies Everywhere. But the Nurses Union Chief Might Save Our Health Care. Mother Jones (MR).

Editorial: Reversing the Illinois exodus Chicago Tribune

Class Warfare

The Most Expensive Mile of Subway Track on Earth NYT

Why the horror industry is becoming a profitable genre BBC

What Would You Pay to Keep Your Digital Footprint 100% Private? HBR

Call of Duty gaming community points to swatting in deadly Wichita police shooting Wichita Eagle

Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for common sense The Slovenia Times (Re Silc).

Dave Barrys 2017 Year in Review: Did that really happen? Miami Herald

Antidote du jour (via):

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
For years the hazard signs at San Franciscos Ocean Beach warned of rip currents and drownings, but they didnt offer an advisory to actually stay out of the water. Thats now changed.

The National Park Service, which is in charge of safety at the beach, changed the signs in December to say wading, swimming and surfing not advised. The Park Service updated 55 signs along the waters edge following an NBC Bay Area investigation, which pointed out that the message on the signs didnt reflect the Park Services public announcements that Ocean Beach is not a swimming beach.

The Park Service does not advise to enter the water under any conditions, said law enforcement ranger Xavier Agnew. When NBC did their story on it, they were able to get a wider breadth of audience. Here its such a high visitation area that it was really important to get the messaging to people who are visiting for the first time.

Experts say many people, especially tourists, dont realize that the frigid temperatures and rip tides at Ocean Beach can be deadly. Last year a group of teenagers from Vallejo linked arms and walked into the water. The waves overpowered Wayne Ausa and Grisham Duran and swept them out to sea.

In just the past two years, seven people died in the waters off Ocean Beach. The Park Services Ocean Rescue Unit saved 75 others at risk of drowning.

Rescue patrollers rove the beach to alert visitors to be careful, but only from March through November. For out-of-towners visiting Ocean Beach in the winter, the hazard signs are the only warning theyll receive.

The new signs bring a better message to the park visitors we want it very clear to the visitors to decide based on their skill level if they should go in the water, Agnew said.

Each year more than a million travelers learn about Ocean Beach through San Francisco Travel, the most prominent travel association for the city. Last summer, the associations online guide warned the waters at Ocean Beach are cold and advised extreme caution. But the website said swimming is allowed.

Following NBC Bay Areas report, the Park Service reached out to San Francisco Travel, and the association updated its website to match the signs. Now the guide says swimming is not advised at Ocean Beach.

If you have a tip for the Investigative Unit email theunit@nbcbayarea.com or call 888-996-TIPS. Like Liz on Facebook and Twitter.
Police said a menorah damaged after it was set up on display at a shopping center in Brentwood is being investigated as an act of vandalism.

The menorah on display at The Streets of Brentwood shopping center was found earlier this week on its side with its lights broken.

"We first heard about it from people in the community reaching out to us and I have to say the love and the compassion from everyone in the community is like the story of Hanukkah," said Rabbi Peretz Goldshmid with the Chabad of the Delta.

The group has two menorahs on display, one near City Hall and the other that was damaged at the shopping mall. Goldschmid said there were questions about how the menorah was damaged -- was the 7-foot menorah blown over or pushed?

"We found out it was an act of vandalism. There was a group of teens that knocked it down. A few minutes later there was a group of Good Samaritans that picked it up," Goldschmid said. "Brentwood police is in touch with the mall and they have access to the footage and they will take the proper measures."

Police are investigating the incident as an act of vandalism, but said the circumstances are still unclear. Investigators have not reviewed any surveillance video.

As word has spread, another menorah sits at City Hall with no issues.

The shopping mall said it learned the menorah was vandalized and were saddened by the senseless act. Mall officials are working with law enforcement in the investigation.

"We have to get to the bottom of it," Goldshmid said. "The message should be that we have to spread more light -- everyone in their own way."
A two-car crash in San Francisco injured six people on Saturday, fire officials say.

According to the fire department's Twitter page, the crash occurred at Arguello Boulevard and Fulton Street around 11 a.m.

A silver car  which is seen in pictures crumpled against a wall along the intersection  was traveling at a high rate of speed with a driver and a passenger, police spokeswoman Grace Gatpandan said. It rammed into a black car, with four occupants  a mother, a father and their two children.

The victims were taken to a local trauma center with non-life threatening injuries, fire officials tweeted. Of them, one was seriously hurt and two sustained moderate wounds.

People were asked to avoid the area.

The scene near Golden Gate Park was cleared around 12 p.m.

The suspect vehicle's driver will likely be charged with reckless driving, Gatpandan said, but that's unconfirmed because an investigation is ongoing.
A California Highway Patrol rookie killed by a drunken driving suspect in the San Francisco Bay Area was remembered Saturday as a loving family man who was equally passionate about his job.

Family, friends and hundreds of law enforcement officers and firefighters from California and as far as Michigan and Florida gathered to remember 33-year-old Andrew Camilleri of Tracy.

Camilleri, a father of three who had been a CHP officer since March, died on Christmas Eve when a Cadillac rammed into the back of his patrol SUV parked on the shoulder of southbound Interstate 880 in Hayward.

A touching video tribute to Andrew Camilleri featured dozens of photographs of him with his family, friends and CHP colleagues, leaving hardly any dry eyes at his packed memorial.

The 22-year-old driver, who sustained serious injuries, was believed to be under the influence of alcohol and marijuana.

On Saturday, a funeral procession brought Camilleri's flag-draped casket from Tracy to the Christian Life Center in Stockton.

Camilleri graduated from Merrill F. West High School in 2002, and met the love of his life, Rosanna, in his senior year when they both got jobs at a McDonald's, his brother Michael Camilleri said.

The Camilleri family received a state flag from Gov. Jerry Brown before the memorial. Acting CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley also gave Rosanna Camilleri the badge her husband earned upon his graduation from the CHP Academy.

"Although he wrote her up for being late," their relationship blossomed and Camilleri proposed in 2003. The pair was married in 2004 and welcomed their first child in 2005, he said, noting, "Andrew was a family man and loved nothing more than being with Roxy and their children.

Matthew Camilleri recalled the 28 weeks his brother spent in the CHP Academy. The way he "endured the rigorous training" made it apparent that Andrew Camilleri had "found his calling."

[BAY RM] Family, Colleagues Offer Glimpses Into Life Led by CHP Officer Killed on Christmas Eve

After joining the ranks of the CHP in March 2017, Andrew Camilleri, who played the bass guitar in church, began working the night shift and would call his father on the drive home and share the goings-on of each day.

Matthew Camilleri called his brother "a role model for all to follow," adding that his "beautiful and infectious smile" and "wonderful, loving personality" will be sorely missed.

"He loved life and truly is a hero," Matthew Camilleri said.

Paul Fontana, chief of the CHP's Golden Gate Division, echoed the same sentiments.

Andrew loved action figures  in particular, the Power Rangers, Capt. Tim Pearson said. Every morning when he got off work, hed put on his superhero backpack, put his Power Ranger wallet in his pocket and walk out the back door, Pearson said. Andrew is a CHP superhero.

"Andrew died a hero, out on patrol on Christmas Eve, his life taken by the very dangers he was out to prevent," said Paul Fontana, chief of the CHP's Golden Gate Division.

Remembering Camilleri's "selfless service" and "big humorous side," Fontana said that law enforcement officers across Alameda County were dedicating their anti-DUI campaigns to their fallen colleague.

Andrew Camilleris patrol partner of three months, who was injured in the crash, said the two bonded while working the graveyard shift. Jonathan Velasquez called his friend a special person who talked about his wife and children on every shift.

Camilleri is survived by his parents, siblings, wife, a 12-year-old daughter and two sons, ages 6 and 2.

And Fontana had a special promise for the Camilleri family: "Wherever you might travel in this great nation, you have a law enforcement family and you will never be a stranger in your travels."

A somber bell-ringing ceremony in Sacramento on Wednesday morning honored the life and service of a California Highway Patrol officer who lost his life on Christmas Eve after a suspected drunk driver slammed into a parked patrol vehicle in the East Bay. Cheryl Hurd reports.

The family received a state flag from Gov. Jerry Brown before the memorial. Acting CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley also gave Rosanna Camilleri the badge her husband earned upon his graduation from the CHP Academy.

Camilleri's patrol partner of three months, who was injured in the crash, said the two bonded while working the graveyard shift. Officer Jonathan Velasquez said Camilleri pursued his dream of becoming a CHP officer after working for a pest control company.

"It was always nice to get a full pest report of the restaurant you were going to right before eating," Velasquez said, earning laughter from the crowd.

A procession was held Tuesday for fallen CHP Officer Andrew Camilleri, who was killed on Christmas Eve when a suspected drunk driver crashed into his stopped patrol vehicle on Interstate 880 in Hayward. Roz Plater reports.

An emotional Velasquez called Camilleri a "special person" who talked about his wife and children on every shift.

"Andrew, I know you can hear me," he said, breaking down. "I love you, buddy, and it was an honor being your partner. Rest in peace, brother."

For his part, Assistant Chief Ernest Sanchez commended Camilleri for epitomizing the CHP's code of honor. He gave his life in the line of duty on Christmas Eve, Sanchez said, because "he wanted to make sure that everyone got to their destinations safely that night."

A touching video tribute to Camilleri featured dozens of photographs of him with his family, friends and CHP colleagues, leaving hardly any dry eyes in the packed church.

Procession for Fallen CHP Officer Andrew Camilleri

"Andrew's father Mike talked of how Andrew would call and text him all hours of the night telling him how much he loved his job whether it was helping a disabled motorist or issuing citations to speeding drivers because Andrew liked to drive fast," said Capt. Tim Pearson, who commands the Hayward division where Camilleri worked.

Andrew also loved action figures  in particular, the Power Rangers, Pearson said.

"Every morning when he got off work, he'd put on his superhero backpack, put his Power Ranger wallet in his pocket and walk out the back door," Pearson said. "Andrew is a CHP superhero."

The California Association of Highway Patrolmen Credit Union has set up a fund to benefit the Callimeri family, according to the CHP Golden Gate division's Facebook page.
As San Francisco counts down the clock to 2018, officials are fine-tuning plans to make sure the hundreds of thousands of people expected to flock to the city will enjoy a safe and secure holiday.

Speaking at a news conference on Friday, Acting Mayor London Breed, Police Chief William "Bill" Scott and Fire Department Chief Joanne Hayes-White highlighted that the city will ramp up its law enforcement presence, not tolerate drinking and driving, and keep an eye out for illegal fireworks.

"People will be everywhere in this city ringing in the New Year, but what is most important to us is that we make sure that everyone is safe," Breed said.

San Francisco will activate its emergency operations center for the New Year's festivities and work alongside federal partners to make sure the city is protected, especially in the wake of last week's foiled terror plot.

"That event is a good reminder that the threat is real," Marina Mayo, Assistant Special Agent for Counterterrorism with the FBI's San Francisco office, said. "It is a shared responsibility for local, state and federal law enforcement to work together."

Scott said there are no known credible threats to San Francisco, but folks who flock to the city can expect to see an increase in the number of uniformed and plainclothes officers, paramedics and other emergency responders patrolling the city.

"You will see a very heavy, visible police and law enforcement presence at the usual events where people gather to celebrate," Scott said.

Revelers in San Francisco will also have access to emergency text message alerts courtesy of the Department of Emergency Management. People interested in receiving the emergency alerts are encouraged to text the phrase "NYESF17" to 888-777.



Aside from encouraging the public to stay vigilant and safe, officials are imploring people to do their part by not drinking and driving or lighting off fireworks.

"It's senseless to lose any lives to drunk driving when there's free transportation," Scott said. "It's senseless to have our loved ones have body parts blown off for irresponsible use of fireworks."

Breed said Muni, Caltrain and BART will be running free service starting on the night of New Year's Eve and continuing into New Year's Day.

"We don't want people drinking and driving," Breed said.

Hayes-White also took time to remind the public that the sale and use of fireworks in the city by the bay is illegal.

"We will be paying close attention on Sunday night in particular as we do all nights but particularly on New Year's Eve to anyone that would be potentially wanting to use illegal fireworks," she said. "If you want to see fireworks, go to the show along the Embarcadero and leave it to the professionals."
Tom Frantz has been growing almonds near Bakersfield, California most of life, like his father and grandfather before him. Hes concerned about what is known as produced water.

Were not using it on my land, he says.

Tom Frantz

Produced water comes from the Kern River Oil Fields a few miles to the east. Its a byproduct of extracting oil. To extract one barrel of crude out of the earth, oil companies use between 10 and 100 barrels of water. That water is then filtered through tanks that contain crushed walnut shells, which adhere to the oil. The water then travels into ponds where it is skimmed to remove oil from the surface. If necessary, the water returns once again to the filtering process before being blended with fresh water. It then travels down canals where it is delivered to about 90 farms in the Bakersfield area. Farmers in the area are using more than 20 million gallons of this water each day. Oil companies and the Cawelo Water District have tested the water and assured the farmers that the water is safe. Those farmers sell their produce to the Bay Area and throughout the country, sometimes as organic products.

While there are regulations that require companies involved in fracking to reveal the chemicals in their operations, no such rules exist for traditional oil extraction. Last year, the Central Valley Water Board ordered the oil companies to reveal the chemicals they are using. The companies responded with a list of 173 chemicals. Sixty-six of those chemicals are proprietary trade secrets.

From a food safety perspective, the thing were most concerned about, says Seth Shonkoff, is whether these chemicals are going to migrate from the water into the plant, and particularly into the edible portion of the plant.

Shonkoff and a team of scientists from UC Berkeley, Lawrence Berkeley Labs and PSE, an Energy Science Institute  have recently completed a report that identifies the chemicals and their toxicities. While they couldnt analyze the chemicals classified as trade secrets, with respect to the rest of them, Shonkoff says, Forty percent of those rise to the chemicals of concern category.

A total of 10 chemicals from the list were classified as either carcinogenic or possibly carcinogenic in humans by IARC, the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

NBC Bay Area

Back in Bakersfield, Scott Smith has been taking water samples in the canals that feed oil waste water to the fields. Smith works for Water Defense, a non-profit group devoted to clean water. As he shows the Investigative Unit a pond that holds some of the waste water, he says, Smell this  thats like a kerosene smell, thats oil! You see that steam coming up  thats hot oil wastewater. Smith has cleaned up after oil spills all over the world, but hes shocked by what he has seen here in the Central Valley. We detected chromium, he says, they did not. We detected nickel. We detected light hydrocarbons, they didnt even test for it. You cant find what you dont look for.

Neither Smith nor Shonkoff have data that says the water is not safe, but they are convinced that more testing is needed before this practice continues. You should care about whats going on here if you eat almonds, grapes, tangerines, lemons, citrus, if you shop for organic food, says Smith. What is happening in the Cawelo Water District in Kern County is coming into your home every night at your kitchen table and your dining room table.

In fact, food from the Central Valley is shipped all over the United States, producing eight percent of the nations agriculture.

The Chevron Corporation declined requests for an interview, but gave NBC Bay Area News a statement:

Protecting people and the environment is one of Chevrons core values.

Cawelos blended produced water supply met all applicable regulatory standards for agricultural use and showed no cause for concern.

The Cawelo Water District says they are continuing to do monthly and quarterly tests of the oil waste water and that so far - all tests show that its safe for irrigating crops.

Blake Sanden is an irrigation engineer in the Bakersfield area. Hes been working with produced water, and says hes convinced that any chemical contaminants are at very low levels. He says, The analyses that Ive seen in many cases shows a detection of those materials but quite often, even below drinking water standards.

But Tom Frantz, the longtime almond farmer, isnt convinced: All they can say it hasnt been proven definitively to be dangerous yet, so lets continue. Thats what theyre saying. Theyre telling us: prove its dangerous and we might stop.
What to Know Twelve people, including four children, were killed in a blaze near the Bronx Zoo on Thursday night

Four others were also critically injured after the blaze on Prospect Avenue near East 187th Street

A 3 1/2-year-old boy playing with the stove in his kitchen sparked the blaze, officials said Friday

A 58-year-old woman, her 7-month-old granddaughter, a mother and her 2- and 7-year-old daughters were among the 12 people who died when a fast-moving fire caused by a child playing with a stove engulfed their Bronx apartment building in a matter of minutes Thursday, relatives of the dead say.

On Friday, police and relatives identified five of the victims as: 2- and 7-year-old Kylie and Charmela Francis, and their 37-year-old mother Karen Francis; 19-year-old Shantay Young; and 58-year-old Maria Batiz.

On Saturday, police identified the remaining seven victims as: 7-month-old Amora Batiz; 48-year-old Gabriel Yaw Sarkookie; 28-year-old Emmanuel Mensah; 54-year-old Justice Opoku; 17-year-old Hannah Donkor; 49-year-old Solomon Donkor; and William Donkor.

A relative at the scene shared photos with News 4 of the Francis children, one just a wide-eyed toddler sipping from a bottle, the other a young girl with a black leather jacket and hot pink pants.



The shocked brother of Maria Batiz also identified her as another one of the fatalities.

"I didn't believe it," said Fernando Batiz. "I had to come down here and see for myself."

A baby girl seen in a photo next to a smiling Batiz is also among the dead, Fernando said. He didn't identify the baby by name, but the Daily News reports she was Batiz's granddaughter, and that the two were found dead in a bathtub where the older woman had desperately tried to shield them.



Five of the other victims were pronounced dead at the scene: a 7-month-old baby girl, a 63-year-old woman and three adult men, according to police.

Meanwhile, four people remain in critical condition, fighting for their lives, after the fire, according to Mayor de Blasio. A dozen others were rescued from the fire with varying injuries but were expected to survive.

A 28-year-old soldier who'd been missing since the fire, Emmanuel Mensah, was among the victim's whose names were released Saturday. He had been desperately sought by family and friends and was last seen heading back into the flames to help save others.

"We know that there are four in critical condition," said family friend Eunice Reed at the time. "We are hoping that it's him, one of them is him."

Mensah's father spent the day walking up and down the street, showing his photo to passersby, hoping someone could tell him where he is, The Daily News reported.

Neighbor Nestor Torres said he was searching for a few people he knows in the bulding.

"I called some phones, no one answered," he said. "I called about three persons and no one answered."

"Went to work, he's not there. The building is gone," he said.



Authorities said the flames broke out on the first floor of the building and quickly spread up through the five-story, 25-unit structure. Authorities said Friday that a small child playing with a stove in his first-floor kitchen appears to have sparked the blaze, which is the city's deadliest residential fire in decades.

Bronx neighbor Juan Sanchez didn't know anyone who died, but felt compelled to bring flowers and write a note Friday.

"May the 12 souls already be in heaven," he said.

And at vigil later that evening, dozens of community members turned out to mourn and support the families of those who were lost.

Several online fundraisers have also been set up for the families of those who perished in the flames.

On Saturday, police received so many donations for the two dozen families affected by the blaze, that they called off their donation drive early, saying they had enough for 1,000 families.
The CDC is investigating a multistate E.coli outbreak in 13 states, including Connecticut, and the agency is looking into whether its connected to an outbreak in Canada thats believed to be linked to romaine lettuce.



There have been 17 illnesses linked to the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 infections, including two in Connecticut, two in New Hampshire, three in California and one each in New York, Vermont, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Nebraska, Virginia and Washington.



The Illnesses started between Nov. 15 and Dec. 8, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also is investigating an outbreak of STEC O157:H7 infections in several provinces.

Whole genome sequencing is being performed on samples of bacteria making people sick in the United States, preliminary results show that the type of E. coli making people sick in both countries is closely related genetically, according to the CDC.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has identified romaine lettuce as the source of the outbreak in Canada.

In the United States, state and local public health officials are interviewing sick people to determine what they ate in the week before their illness started.

CDC is still collecting information to determine whether there is a food item in common among sick people, including leafy greens and romaine.

At this point, the CDC is unable to recommend whether U.S. residents should avoid a particular food and said the investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
A Los Angeles Police Department officer was shot in what police are calling an "ambush-style attack" Friday night in the Westlake District area of central Los Angeles.

The shooting was reported just before 10 p.m near 8th Street and Hartford Avenue. One person was taken into custody and police are searching for more suspects.

The officer suffered a single bullet wound to the left thigh and was taken to a nearby hospital. She is in stable condition.

The officer belonged to the LAPD Rampart Division, according to officials. Her partner was reportedly not hurt in the shooting and police said that no gunfire was exchanged.

Details on what led up to the shooting were not immediately clear.

This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.


Shakira Symes had been trying to get a hold of her sister for three days when she heard four bodies had been found in a basement apartment. She didn't want to believe it was them.



Now she and other family members of the four killed in a home in Troy, New York, have spoken out, and they are looking for answers and justice.

"We were supposed to spend Christmas together," Symes, sister of victim Shanta Myers, said.

She said when she heard the four had died, she initially assumed it was from a carbon monoxide leak. But police have since said it appears the family was slaughtered.

Authorities released the names of the victims Thursday: 36-year-old Shanta Myers; her children, 11-year-old Jeremiah and 5-year-old Shanise; and 22-year-old Brandi Mells. Police say the women were in a relationship.



Isaiah Smith, 15, whose mother and two siblings were killed, said his family was the life of the party.

His brother who was killed, 11-year-old Jeremiah or "JJ" Myers, was loved at the Troy Boys and Girls Club. His family said he wanted to be a firefighter.

Cousin Khalif Coleman said five-year-old Shanise Myers was a stubborn little girl who loved to play with her dolls.

Coleman also said 22-year-old Brandi Mells, who was his aunt's girlfriend, had a love for children.

"She was so great with kids," he said. "This girl was so beautiful with kids and she loved them the way any parent would and she didn't have kids."

Shanta Myers, 36, is remembered as a sweet, loving mother who had a talent for cooking.

On Thursday, Rev. Jackie Robinson, pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church in Troy, described the crime as a "heinous atrocity". "I believe it affects the whole community...Kids are traumatized. A lot of adults are traumatized too, because this monster is still out there."



So far no arrests have been made in connection to the murders, but the family is pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
President Donald Trump attacked China on Thursday following reports that Chinese ships transferred oil to North Korean vessels at sea in violation of U.N. sanctions over the North's nuclear weapons program.

Trump said on Twitter that China had been "Caught RED HANDED," adding he was "very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea."

"There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!" the president said, without citing the source of his information.

China accounts for the vast majority of North Korea's external trade and oil supplies. Just two weeks ago, Trump credited China for its help in the U.S.-led pressure campaign against Pyongyang, including support for three U.N. Security Council resolutions this year  the latest last week  over the North's nuclear and missile tests.

However, on Tuesday the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo cited unidentified South Korean government officials as saying U.S. reconnaissance satellites have spotted Chinese ships transferring oil to North Korean vessels some 30 times since October in seas off China. That report was picked up by some U.S. media outlets, including Fox News.

China's foreign ministry has defended its enforcement of U.N. sanctions against North Korea. A ministry spokeswoman said Wednesday she had no information about the latest report, but said China has strictly enforced trade restrictions.

The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on that report. But in a commentary Thursday, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson urged Beijing to exert "decisive economic leverage" on Pyongyang.

"China has applied certain import bans and sanctions, but it could and should do more," he wrote in The New York Times.

Ship-to-ship trade with North Korea at sea is prohibited under U.N. sanctions adopted Sept. 11. The latest sanctions adopted Friday, in response to the test of a North Korean intercontinental ballistic missile, also impose sharp reductions on imports of refined oil products by the isolated nation.

Last month, the Treasury Department sanctioned six North Korean shipping and trading companies and 20 of their vessels, and published photos of what it said was a North Korean vessel on Oct. 19 possibly transferring oil to evade sanctions. The statement did not specify whether Chinese vessels were involved in the transfer. At that time, the U.S. also blacklisted four Chinese-based companies and one Chinese individual said to have deep commercial ties with North Korea.

Trump has blown hot and cold on China's efforts on North Korea, which despite a dramatic increase in sanctions has made major progress this year on perfecting a nuclear-tipped missile that could strike the United States.

On Dec. 15, Trump said Russia  another significant trading partner with North Korea  had failed to help, while China had.

"China is helping. Russia is not helping. We'd like to have Russia's help  very important," Trump told reporters after a phone conversation with President Vladimir Putin.

Also Thursday, Trump sought to remind the world that he's long warned about the dangers posed by North Korea's nukes.

He tweeted a compilation video that included edited footage of an interview he did with NBC's "Meet the Press" nearly two decades ago.

In the interview, Trump said he'd be willing to launch a pre-emptive strike against North Korea if negotiating "like crazy" didn't work. And he describes the country as "sort of wacko."
Police identified a 21-year-old U.S. Marine Saturday who was stabbed to death in a fight in downtown San Diegos Gaslamp Quarter a day earlier.

According to the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), the stabbing victim was Ryan Evan Harris, a Northern California native assigned to Camp Pendleton in San Diego County. Military officials said Harris was assigned to the 1st Marine Logistics Group.

Harris was wounded in a fight just after 1:30 a.m. Friday on Island and 5th avenues, near the OMNIA Nightclub San Diego in an area known for its nightlife. When police officers arrived, they found the Marine on the sidewalk, suffering from stab wounds to his upper body.

The officer and bystanders tried to help him while paramedics arrived. Despite those efforts, Harris died at the scene.

Investigators said one other person was wounded in the Gaslamp Quarter fight: a man found with stab wounds on J Street and 5th Avenue, about a block away from where Harris was found. The SDPD said that man was involved in the altercation but he was hospitalized and is expected to survive his wounds.

As of Saturday morning, the suspect in the stabbing remained at large. There is no suspect description at this time but police said the suspect is a man who was possibly accompanied by a second man at the time of the fatal stabbing.

SDPD Homicide Lt. Todd Griffin said the stabbing victims were in the Gaslamp as part of a group of military personnel, but the victim who survived is a civilian.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with details on this case can reach out to the SDPDs Homicide Unit (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
An Imperial Beach city administrator was shot and killed one day before his 50th birthday while on a Christmas vacation in central Mexico, city officials said Friday.

Imperial Beach Administrative Services Director Doug Bradley, 49, was on vacation in a resort town in Ixtapa, Mexico when he was shot and killed sometime before 8 a.m. Thursday, Imperial Beach official Ed Vea said.

Mexicos public security agency was informed of Bradleys death at 8 a.m. but an investigation determined he was shot hours earlier, according to Imperial Beach officials.

The events leading up to the shooting were not clear.

City officials said they were shocked to learn of Bradleys death, just one day before he turned 50-years-old.

Doug Bradley was loved by all that knew him, Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina said in a statement. He was always positive, loved to surf, and had helped to turn around the City of Imperial Beachs financial management as well as restructure city administration to make it more efficient and resident friendly.

Bradley was an avid surfer, a culture well known in Imperial Beach as well as Huntington Beach where he was born.

He will be missed by everyone who knew him and worked with him, Dedina added.

Bradleys body has not yet been returned to the United States. Imperial Beach said they are working with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City to get his body back home.

Ixtapa is a resort city on Mexicos Pacific coastline, about 160 miles north of Acapulco and less than 2,000 miles south of the U.S.-Mexico Border.
A gunman on a motorcycle opened fire Friday outside a church in a Cairo suburb and at a nearby store, sparking a shootout that killed at least nine people, including eight Coptic Christians, authorities said. It was the latest attack targeting Egypt's embattled Christian minority.

The gunman was also killed, along with at least one police officer, officials said.

The local affiliate of the extremist Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack late Friday, saying it was carried out by a "security detail" and that one of its men was "martyred" in the strike. The claim was carried by the group's Aamaq news agency.

The attack began when the gunman tried to break through the security cordon outside the Coptic Church of Mar Mina. It was not clear how many assailants were involved. Egypt's Interior Ministry referred to only one, but the Coptic Orthodox church mentioned "gunmen."

Five people were wounded, including another police officer, Health Ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed said.

The attack came amid tightened security around churches and Christian facilities ahead of the Coptic Orthodox Christian celebrations of Christmas on Jan. 7. Police have been stationed outside churches and in nearby streets across Cairo. President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has personally chaired meetings with his top security chiefs in recent days to discuss security during New Year's Eve and the Orthodox Christmas.

President Donald Trump spoke with Egypt's president after the attack, condemning it and reiterating "that the United States will continue to stand with Egypt in the face of terrorism."

"President Trump emphasized his commitment to strengthening efforts to defeat terrorism and extremism in all their forms," a White House statement said. Trump has promised to make protecting beleaguered Christian communities overseas a priority for his administration.

A video circulating on social media after Friday's attack apparently showed the gunman lying on the ground with his face covered in blood. Authorities closed off the area around the church.

The Interior Ministry identified the assailant as Ibrahim Ismail Mostafa, who, the agency said, was involved in several previous militant attacks. The Interior Ministry said he was wounded and arrested but made no mention of his death, which was reported by the Health Ministry.

The assailant had earlier opened fire at the nearby store owned by a Christian, the Interior Ministry said.

Islamic militants have for years battled security forces in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula in an insurgency now led by IS. It is centered in the turbulent northern part of Sinai but has also carried out attacks in the mainland.

The militants are targeting mainly security personnel and Egypt's Coptic Christian minority.

The latest attack, in the southern Cairo suburb of Helwan, showcases the difficulties faced by security forces in containing an insurgency that is growing in sophistication and brutality. The assault came a little more than a month after militants killed 311 worshippers inside a mosque in Sinai, the deadliest attack by militants on civilians in Egypt's modern history.

Last week, they fired a guided rocket that destroyed an army helicopter at the airport of the city of el-Arish in northern Sinai during an unannounced visit there by the defense and interior ministers. At least one senior officer was killed and two wounded in that attack, which pointed to an unusually high level of intelligence available to the militants.

Samir Gerges, a witness to Friday's church attack, said people inside the church closed the gates when the shooting began but that some bullets penetrated the building. Gerges said he was walking along a nearby street when the gunfire broke out. He saw people running and some taking cover in a nearby restaurant.

Another witness, 40-year-old Raouth Atta, was praying inside the church when the violence broke out.

"People were terrified and wanted to check on their families in other buildings of the church," she told The Associated Press by phone. "We stayed inside for 30 minutes before we were able to get out."

Once she was able to leave, Atta said, she saw blood everywhere.

"We kept praying," said the Rev. Boules, who was teaching a class in the church complex. On hearing gunfire, he went to check on his students, who were panicking and terrified.

Since December 2016, Egypt's Copts have been targeted by the militants, who waged a series of attacks that left more than 100 dead and scores wounded. The country has been under a state of emergency since April after suicide bombings struck two Coptic Christian churches on Palm Sunday.

The local IS affiliate has claimed responsibility for all the bombings targeting Christians.

Christians make up about 10 percent of Egypt's population. They have long complained of discrimination in the Muslim-majority nation and claim that authorities have often failed to protect them from sectarian attacks.

Just last week, hundreds of Muslim demonstrators stormed an unlicensed church south of Cairo, wounding three people. The demonstrators shouted anti-Christian slogans and called for the church's demolition, according to the local diocese. The demonstrators destroyed the church's fittings and assaulted Christians inside before security personnel arrived and dispersed them.

Associated Press Writer Maggie Michael contributed to this report.
In perhaps an unexpected twist, historically conservative strongholds like Oklahoma and West Virginia are leading efforts to bring preschool to all.

"They have in common a low-wage workforce, relatively low education levels and the desire to change that," said Steven Barnett of the National Institute for Early Education Research. "Whatever they say, politicians in West Virginia know the future of their state is not coal miners."

Other red states that have notable programs include Alabama and Georgia. But some liberal-leaning cities like Seattle and New York also are running public pre-K programs.

Advocates say more universal programs are needed to address what they call an alarming increase in child care costs. Studies have shown that children who attend a high-quality preschool are more adjusted for the rest of their academic lives and have better outcomes as adults, from higher incomes to healthier lifestyles.

Around the country, some budding programs say there are not enough seats to meet demand and not enough money to make it happen.

Programs in Seattle and New York enjoy overwhelming support locally, which in turn puts pressure on their state lawmakers to act as they face growing inequity in public education and research that touts the benefits of high-quality education in the critical early years.

"Clearly, a statewide program would be so much better, and it should be available to all 3- and 4-year-olds. It's the best investment we can make to right the wrongs of generations," said Tim Burgess, a retired Seattle mayor and city councilman credited with creating the Seattle Preschool Program.

It is now in its third year, serving 979 children with a sliding scale tuition model. About 80 percent of them go for free. Burgess is now pushing for a universal statewide offering in Washington, beyond its program for low-income children.

Aanchal Mehrotra's 4-year-old son is one of 300 kids now on the waiting list for the Seattle Preschool Program, but she says she doesn't have much hope that he'll get in. The Seattle preschool class would cost the family just $365 a month. She's paying almost four times that much for a month at a private day care franchise.

"It's so expensive and become so difficult to afford," said Mehrotra, a research scientist. "I'm just waiting for him to turn 5 so he can get into kindergarten."

The universal preschool movement hit peak momentum under the Obama administration but has been virtually unaddressed by President Donald Trump. Instead, Trump's daughter and adviser Ivanka Trump has dabbled with policies aimed at tackling child care costs.

A report by Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee in Congress this year indicated that less than half of the nation's 3- and 4-year-olds were in a pre-K program, ranging from 75 percent in Washington, D.C., to just 30 percent in Idaho.

The programs vary in quality and structure, with some offering just a few hours a week of learning sessions and others that are more similar to a full school day.

One of the central goals of preschool is social development, which advocates say will help children get adjusted to learning in a structured setting and is especially important for low-income children.

But for many families, cost is a major factor.

Child Care Aware of America reports that the average cost of child care per year for a 4-year-old in a licensed facility ranged from $14,000 in Massachusetts to $4,500 in Mississippi.

In Oklahoma and West Virginia, preschool is offered to virtually all 4-year-olds.

West Virginia's program last year cost $142 million  nearly a third of which was covered through federal funding  to educate 14,940 children, including 3-year-olds with special needs and all 4-year-olds.

The program was built up slowly over the past decade through layers of legislative wins that strengthened accessibility, partnerships, and most critically, funding.

"We have some very dedicated champions at the Legislature who really felt the need to look at the welfare of the children in our state," said Monica DellaMea, who oversees early learning at the state education department.

Access to preschool is also widely available in Washington, D.C., Vermont and Florida.

Though other cities and states have been able to launch preschool programs, funding often limits access, creating programs for the poor or disabled or limited to a certain district  instead of a truly universal one.

That's the case in Washington state, where only 9 percent of 4-year-olds were enrolled in preschool in 2016, according to National Institute for Early Education Research.

"For a decade, nothing has really changed in terms of access for the non-poor working families," Barnett said.
An officer in Prince William County, Virginia, was taken to a hospital after being assaulted during a traffic stop.

The assault happened near the intersection of Princess Anne Lane and West Longview Drive in Woodbridge, Virginia, police said. They said the Prince William County officer pulled over a driver, who assaulted the police officer during the stop.

Other officers responded and took the driver into custody. Two other people who were in the car at the time ran away and are still being sought.

Officials said the officer suffered non-serious injuries but was taken to the hospital as a precaution.
A group of Fairfax County police officers are holding a sock drive after discovering some children in the community didn't have socks to wear during this winter.

Detective Carter Alsberry is collecting socks for boys and girls in the community. During cross-walk duty, Alsberry's colleague noticed a student without socks. The boy told the officer he didn't have any.

After speaking with several teachers and administrators, the officer found that many students came to school in similar situations because their families are unable to afford them.

Since then, the community has been a huge help, donating hundres of pairs of socks.

"I'm really impressed by the outpouring of people helping out with the situation. People are always in need and we're here to help in any way we can," said Alsberry. "Some people are embarassed or don't know how to approach someone in reference to needing help."

Socks can be dropped off or sent to the Fairfax County Police Department, Fair Oaks District Station about 2 miles from Fair Oaks Mall. Officers are asking for new socks that fit elementary school children.

Officers are collecting the socks until Monday, Jan. 1.
A Maryland woman has been charged with fraud for taking money that was supposed to go to the family of a D.C. homicide victim, police said.

D.C. police arrested Arlene Petty, 30, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, on Friday and charged her with first-degree fraud.

Petty created a GoFundMe account to raise money for the family of Stephanie Goodloe, a D.C. church worker who was shot and killed in her Southeast D.C. home in June 2016.

But police said Petty intentionally kept proceeds from the online fundraiser between June 30, 2016 and March 29, 2017.

Goodloe's ex-boyfriend, Donald Hairston, was charged with murder in connection with her death.

Goodloe had called police several times to report Hairston was harassing and threatening her. She had gotten an emergency protective order against Hairston just days before her death.
Police and the FBI are investigating whether an argument over an online game prompted a hoax call that led to a house where an officer shot and killed a Kansas man who apparently wasn't involved in the dispute.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston on Friday blamed a "prankster" who called 911 and made up a story about a shooting and kidnapping. He did not mention reports that an argument over online gaming was at the heart of the prank, although he said investigators had made good progress tracking online leads.

Police have not disclosed the name of the man who was killed Thursday evening, but relatives identified him as Andrew Finch, 28.

Livingston, speaking at a news conference, said the hoax call was a case of "swatting," in which a person makes up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

"Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim," Livingston said.

Los Angeles resident Tyler Barriss, 25, was arrested as a suspect in the case by the Los Angeles Police Department, the LAPD confirmed Saturday. He was taken into custody on a fugitive warrant in Los Angeles Saturday afternoon.



Police played audio of the call to 911. A man said his father had been shot in the head. He said he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller, speaking with relative calm, said he poured gasoline inside the home "and I might just set it on fire."

Several officers arrived and surrounded the home, braced for a hostage situation. When Finch went to the door police told him to put his hands up and move slowly.

But Livingston said the man moved a hand toward the area of his waistband  a common place where guns are concealed. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died a few minutes later at a hospital. Livingston said Finch was unarmed.

The officer, a seven-year veteran of the department, is on paid leave pending the investigation.

The Finch family on Friday allowed reporters inside their home. Lisa Finch told them her son was not a gamer.

"What gives the cops the right to open fire?" she asked. "That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place."

Lisa Finch said the family was forced outside barefoot in freezing cold and handcuffed after the shooting. She said her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns were found in the home.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a "Call of Duty" game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving "Call of Duty."

"We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life," UMG spokeswoman Shannon Gerritzen said in an email to The Associated Press. "Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter." She declined to disclose other details.

In addition to the 911 call, police also released a brief video of body camera footage from another officer at the scene. It was difficult to see clearly what happened.

Court records show Barriss was convicted in 2016 on two counts of making a false bomb report to a TV station in Glendale, California, and sent to Los Angeles County jail for two years. Jail records show he was released in January.



The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, Missouri, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation at the request of local police.

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, a Massachusetts Democrat, introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at Clark's home.

John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas, contributed to this report. Salter reported from St. Louis.
Two suspected Massachusetts drug dealers are facing multiple charges after a police raid at a home Thursday morning yielded illegal guns, cocaine, meth, and cash.

State police say John Jeffreys, 43, and Kayla Malaguti, 29, both of 152 Dunbar St. in Taunton, are facing charges including trafficking cocaine, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition and unlawful possession of narcotics.

A search warrant was executed at their home by members of state police, Taunton police and members of the Southeastern Massachusetts Gang Task Force.

Police seized two guns, including one believed to be stolen, various rounds of ammunition, plastic bags of substances believed to be cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, 585 assorted pills, around 100 suboxone strips, a bag of mushrooms, a large amount of marijuana and $1,950 in US currency.

Jeffreys and Malaguti will be arraigned in Taunton District Court. Its not clear if they have attorneys.
Four people were arrested Wednesday after a 16-year-old girl was held captive in a Massachusetts home, tortured and raped, law enforcement sources told the NBC Boston Investigators.

The sources say that police rescued the teenage victim at a home on White Terrace in Auburn. Her head had been shaved, and she had been drugged, raped and tortured with lit cigarettes.

A machete was allegedly held up to the girl's neck and 23-year-old Krystal Lugo of Webster ordered it to be held harder if she lied, sources said.

Police arrested Krystal Lugo; her 19-year-old brother, Christopher Lugo; 22-year-old Yariel Torres-Abee of Southbridge and 19-year-old Yuleny Ortiz of Auburn, according to sources.

All of the suspects were charged with kidnapping. Charges against Krystal Lugo also include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and larceny under $250. Christopher Lugo was charged with rape and using a drug to confine. Torres-Abee also faces an assault and battery charge.

The suspects are being held without bail until a dangerousness hearing Tuesday. It was not immediately clear whether the suspects had obtained attorneys.

Police believe the crime was related to a prior incident. They say the suspects targeted the victim after suspecting she was the one who set up a recent home invasion, in which two men busted into the White Terrace home and confronted Christopher Lugo. Three shots were fired in that incident. Police believe the purpose of the home invasion was to steal marijuana.



A fifth person, who has not been named, was arrested Friday on outstanding warrants, sources said.

The house was found to be uninhabitable and was condemned by a building inspector, according to sources.

No further information was immediately available.


P

It was love at first sight when Scott Morrison was offered piano lessons in Norwich at the age of 12. Now, at 27, he is an amazingly versatile musician, playing at least seven instruments. Mike Wiltshire reports.

Scott was only four years old when his dad, Gordon, died  and as Scott grew up he didnt enjoy school but found joy in music as he explored the world of brass instruments and keyboards and eventually earned a place on a music degree at Surrey University.



Today, Scott teaches music at the prestigious Leys School in Cambridge (boarders 10,600 term), which was founded in 1875 on Methodist Church principles.



The piano is Scotts first love and he also sings bass and plays the organ. He plays guitar and brass wind instruments such as the trombone, tuba and euphonium. He loves a variety of music from Chopins compositions to jazz and musical theatre. Friends say Scott can turn his hand to most things, when it comes to playing instruments in various styles.



He was greatly encouraged along his musical journey by the sixth form at Hewett School and by Margaret Smith, the Norwich music director and choral leader who first heard Scott at a sing-a-long at Trinity Church, Norwich.



Scott has been a man of faith since the age of 16 and Christian values are important to him. Right now he is caught up with seasonal music and he loves the music of John Rutter, the most popular living choral composer in the world and doyen of Christmas music.



This year Scott, with Margaret Smith, hosted an Evening of Musicals with a packed audience and a recent lunchtime-style recital in aid of the organ fund at St Andrews, Eaton.


MBEs appointed for services to community and education

A handful of MBEs have been appointed to people for their work in West Berkshire.

Named in the 2018 New Year's Honours list is the director of care at Prior's Court School in Hermitage, Sarah Butcher.

She has been appointed an MBE for services to Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (Members of the Order of the British Empire).

The headteacher of Hungerford Nursery School, Suzanne Taylor, from Hermitage, was also appointed a MBE for services to education (Members of the Order of the British Empire).

Trustee, commons and land secretary and steward for the Town and Manor of Hungerford, Robert James, has been recognised as a Medallist of the Order of the British Empire for services to the community in Hungerford.

The Queen's racehorse trainer Nicky Henderson has been made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order.

The Lambourn-based trainer received the honour as a personal gift of the queen for serving the monarchy.

I am extremely proud, honoured, surprised and privileged to have been recognised in The Queens New Years Honours list. Its a complete honour to train for Her Majesty and a very special bonus. Thank you to everyone for your extremely kind messages, it means so much. #LVO  Nicky Henderson (@sevenbarrows) December 30, 2017

The former chief fire officer and chief executive of the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Andy Fry, has been appointed an OBE (Officers of the Order of the British Empire).

For more, see next week's Newbury Weekly News.
Exactly 200 years ago, the Swedish scientist Jons Jacob Berzelius discovered the trace element selenium, which he named after the goddess of the moon, Selene. Besides its industrial applications (chemical industry, production of semiconductors and toners), selenium is an essential trace element and indispensable for humans, many animals and some bacteria. A team led by Dr. Marcus Conrad, research group leader at the Institute of Developmental Genetics (IDG) at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, showed for the first time why selenium is a limiting factor for mammals.

Scientific 'by-catch' solves decades-old mystery

The scientists have been investigating for years the processes of a novel type of cell death, known as ferroptosis. In this context, the enzyme GPX4, which normally contains selenium in the form of the amino acid selenocysteine, plays an important role.

Neuroscience eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today

In order to better understand the role of GPX4 in this death process, we established and studied mouse models in which the enzyme was modified," said study leader Conrad. "In one of these models, we observed that mice with a replacement of selenium to sulfur in GPX4 did not survive for longer than three weeks due to neurological complications."

In their search for the underlying reasons, the researchers identified a distinct subpopulation of specialized neurons in the brain, which were absent when selenium-containing GPX4 was lacking. "In further studies, we were able to show that these neurons were lost during postnatal development, when sulfur- instead of selenium-containing GPX4 was present," stated first author of the study, Irina Ingold.

Furthermore, the scientists were able to show that ferroptosis is triggered by oxidative stress, which is known to occur for instance during high metabolic activity of cells and high neuronal activity. "Our study demonstrates for the first time that selenium is an essential factor for the postnatal development of a specific type of interneurons," said Dr. Jose Pedro Friedmann Angeli, a scientist at the IDG, describing the results. "Selenium-containing GPX4 protects these specialized neurons from oxidative stress and from ferroptotic cell death."

Thus, the study explains why certain selenoenzymes are essential in some organisms, including mammals, whereas they are dispensable in other organisms, such as fungi and higher plants. In future investigations, study leader Marcus Conrad and his team aim to investigate how ferroptosis is triggered in cells. As a long-term goal, he wants to elucidate the role of ferroptosis in various disease conditions in order to be able to alleviate diseases, such as cancer or neurodegeneration, which are currently difficult to tackle.
Most New Year's resolutions fail. A study, from the United Kingdom's Royal Society of Public Health, found that that "quitting smoking is the most difficult resolution to keep." Only four percent of those who attempt to quit smoking unaided remain smoke free one year later. Another study, from the University of Scranton, found that only eight percent of people who make resolutions meet their goal. This is known as "false hope syndrome."

Despite the difficulty, deciding to stop smoking is one of the most common, potentially beneficial and consistently challenging resolutions. Smoking reminders, also known as "cues," are abundant in society, said Andrea King, PhD, professor of psychiatry and co-leader of the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center's Cancer Prevention and Control program.

Those cues also include spotting someone smoking, or seeing ashtrays, lighters and cigarette advertisements. These psychological factors, coupled with the biological side effects that come with nicotine withdrawal, make it particularly challenging for many to resist the urge and stay smoke-free.

The first week can be the hardest, King said, with frequent and intense cravings. An estimated one-third of smoking-cessation efforts fail right away, in less than seven days.

Yet it is hard to imagine a more compelling motivation. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco is responsible for an estimated 6 million deaths worldwide each year. Another 890,000 deaths result from non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.

Tobacco use kills more Americans than alcohol, car accidents, HIV, guns and illegal drugs combined. Tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hundreds of these chemicals are harmful. About 70 can cause cancer.

That should be ample incentive. For most people, however, the New Year's resolution process itself is flawed. They rush into a significant commitment, often with a hangover but without a plan. The crucial first step, often bypassed, is to design a specific plan for each person, a written document that is personal, targeted, realistic and sustainable.

"Evidence-based smoking-cessation methods can help people quit smoking," said King. "However, it isn't easy. Most smokers can increase their odds of success by using evidence-based methods and seeking professional help."

How to prepare

Resolutions flop for many reasons. They often fail because they are not "focused, specific or organized," said King. They need to be achievable and measurable on a day-to-day basis.

The goal is clear, but the process is murky. King recommends those who are preparing to quit should:

Expect setbacks, unforeseen hazards and occasional lapses.

Be prepared to start over, but commit to keep trying.

If the goal of quitting completely seems too challenging, set a goal of reducing smoking. A 50-percent reduction in cigarettes per day can help some people get started towards the ultimate goal of being smoke-free.

Line up support in advance.

"Seek help as needed," King suggests. "The smoker's brain gets used to nicotine. Without it, people go through withdrawal. The severity of the symptoms varies widely across people."

Tactics

Ask your doctor about specific tools that could help, such as nicotine-replacement therapy, classes designed to help you stop smoking, counseling and medication. Avoid substances such as alcohol that tend to weaken commitment. Meanwhile, try replacing tobacco with healthier oral stimulation like gum. When you feel the urge to smoke, brush your teeth instead, King said. (This will please your dentist.)

Exercise can also provide a huge boost and help prevent weight gain that can happen when smokers eat when they feel the urge to light up. Instead, go for long walks. Try to work in running, biking or swimming as your pre-smoking stamina gradually comes back. Exercising with friends is even better. Don't get discouraged if this fails. Think about what went wrong and try again, she said.

Reward yourself for progress along the way. Tobacco is expensive. Consider using part of your savings on something fun. And enjoy the gradual return of certain health benefits. Carbon-monoxide levels in your blood will go down within days. The risk of a heart attack declines within a month. The odds of lung and oral cancers should steadily decrease over the next ten years to near normal levels.

Also consider advice from the Nobel Prize winning Irish playwright, Samuel Beckett. As he put it  in a different context  "Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better."

Source: https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/
Got a sore throat? The doctor may write a quick prescription for penicillin or amoxicillin, and with the stroke of a pen help diminish public health and your own future health by helping bacteria evolve resistance to antibiotics.

It's time to develop alternatives to antibiotics for small infections, according to a new thought paper by scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and to do so quickly. It has been widely reported that bacteria will evolve to render antibiotics mostly ineffective by mid-century, and current strategies to make up for the projected shortfalls haven't worked.

One possible problem is that drug development strategies have focused on replacing antibiotics in extreme infections, such as sepsis, where every minute without an effective drug increases the risk of death. But the evolutionary process that brings forth antibiotic resistance doesn't happen nearly as often in those big infections as it does in the multitude of small ones like sinusitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, and bladder infections, the Georgia Tech researchers said.

"Antibiotic prescriptions against those smaller ailments account for about 90 percent of antibiotic use, and so are likely to be the major driver of resistance evolution," said Sam Brown, an associate professor in Georgia Tech's School of Biological Sciences. Bacteria that survive these many small battles against antibiotics grow in strength and numbers to become formidable armies in big infections, like those that strike after surgery.

"It might make more sense to give antibiotics less often and preserve their effectiveness for when they're really needed. And develop alternate treatments for the small infections," Brown said.

Brown, who specializes in the evolution of microbes and in bacterial virulence, and first author Kristofer Wollein Waldetoft, a medical doctor and postdoctoral research assistant in Brown's lab, published an essay detailing their suggestion for refocusing the development of bacteria-fighting drugs on December 28, 2017, in the journal PLOS Biology.

Duplicitous antibiotics

The evolution of antibiotic resistance can be downright two-faced.

"If you or your kid go to the doctor with an upper respiratory infection, you often get amoxicillin, which is a relatively broad-spectrum antibiotic," Brown said. "So, it kills not only strep but also a lot of other bacteria, including in places like the digestive tract, and that has quite broad impacts."

E. coli is widespread in the human gut, and some strains secrete enzymes that thwart antibiotics, while other strains don't. A broad-spectrum antibiotic can kill off more of the vulnerable, less dangerous bacteria, leaving the more dangerous and robust bacteria to propagate.

"You take an antibiotic to go after that thing in your throat, and you end up with gut bacteria that are super-resistant," Brown said. "Then later, if you have to have surgery, you have a problem. Or you give that resistant E. coli to an elderly relative."

Much too often, superbugs have made their way into hospitals in someone's intestines, where they had evolved high resistance through years of occasional treatment with antibiotics for small infections. Then those bacteria have infected patients with weak immune systems.

Lab Diagnostics & Automation eBook Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year. Download a copy today

Furious infections have ensued, essentially invulnerable to antibiotics, followed by sepsis and death.

Alternatives get an "F"

Drug developers facing dwindling antibiotic effectiveness against evolved bacteria have looked for multiple alternate treatments. The focus has often been to find some new class of drug that works as well as or better than antibiotics, but so far, nothing has, Brown said.

Wollein Waldetoft came across a research paper in the medical journal Lancet Infectious Diseases that examined study after study on such alternate treatments against big, deadly infections.

"It was a kind of scorecard, and it was almost uniformly negative," Brown said. "These alternate therapies, such as phage or anti-virulence drugs or, bacteriocins -- you name it -- just didn't rise to the same bar of efficacy that existing antibiotics did."

"It was a type of doom and gloom paper that said once the antibiotics are gone, we're in trouble," Brown said. "Drug companies still are investing in alternate drug research, because it has gotten very, very hard to develop new effective antibiotics. We don't have a lot of other options."

But the focus on new treatments for extreme infections has bothered the researchers because the main arena where the vast portion of resistance evolution occurs is in small infections. "We felt like there was a disconnect going on here," Brown said.

Don't kill strep, beat it

The researchers proposed a different approach: "Take the easier tasks, like sore throats, off of antibiotics and reserve antibiotics for these really serious conditions."

Developing non-antibiotic therapies for strep throat, bladder infections, and bronchitis could prove easier, thus encouraging pharmaceutical investment and research.

For example, one particular kind of strep bacteria, group A streptococci, is responsible for the vast majority of bacterial upper respiratory infections. People often carry it without it breaking out.

Strep bacteria secrete compounds that promote inflammation and bacterial spread. If an anti-virulence drug could fight the secretions, the drug could knock back the strep into being present but not sickening.

Brown cautioned that strep infection can lead to rheumatic heart disease, a deadly condition that is very rare in the industrialized world, but it still takes a toll in other parts of the world. "A less powerful drug can be good enough if you don't have serious strep throat issues in your medical history," he said.

Sometimes, all it takes is some push-back against virulent bacteria until the body's immune system can take care of it. Developing a spray-on treatment with bacteriophages, viruses that attack bacteria, might possibly do the trick.

If doctors had enough alternatives to antibiotics for the multitude of small infections they treat, they could help preserve antibiotic effectiveness longer for the far less common but much more deadly infections, for which they're most needed.
The University of Chicago Medicine began treating patients in its new, state-of-the-art adult emergency department (ED) on Friday, Dec. 27. The larger, more modern facility  the newest and most advanced of its kind in Chicago  cared for about two dozen patients within its first three hours.

The new ED, located in the ground floor of 5656 S. Maryland Ave., replaced the previous facility in the Bernard A. Mitchell Hospital that was built in 1983.

Stephanie Brown, 19, was the first patient to be treated. She came to the ED fearing frostbite in her foot and was eventually discharged.

"It's more spacious," she said of the new facility. She used the Mitchell ED while she was pregnant, she said. "It's nice. I like all of the attention."

The ED will eventually become the entry point for adult trauma patients, including those who have experienced car crashes, serious falls, major head injuries and incidents of intentional violence. UChicago Medicine expects to begin providing adult trauma services in May 2018, pending approval by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

UChicago Medicine's Comer Children's Hospital will continue to provide trauma services for children with critical injuries.

The $39 million adult ED is designed to improve medical care. It uses top-of-the-line equipment and a smart design, which means treatment is both faster and more private. The facility is adjacent to UChicago Medicine's Center for Care and Discovery. That ensures efficient access to operating rooms and intensive care units. The ED also features a "rapid assessment unit," a new approach to emergency medicine where caregivers quickly assess and treat patients based on the severity of their illness or injury.

Doctors, nurses, technicians and other care providers working during the ED's inaugural shift said they could see immediate improvements.

"The rapid ED is a good concept, I'm excited about it," said Christina Ochoa, RN, a staff nurse who cared for the first patients in the rapid assessment unit. "I think it will help the flow better and get patients back quicker. Instead of just waiting, they can come here and be seen faster. They'll be a lot happier."

The new ED's features also include dedicated imaging services, including a CT scanner and two state-of-the-art X-ray machines so patients no longer have to share imaging services with other hospital units.

Shortly after the doors in the new emergency room opened, staff began "decommissioning" the space in the adult ED in the Mitchell Hospital. Only one patient had to be moved between the two EDs.

William Johnson, 79, walked into the ED complaining of arm and neck pain. He had used the Mitchell ED in the past, but he anticipated a better experience on this visit.

"In the old ER, you used to stay an hour or two hours," he said. "So, as of right now, it's great because I don't think I'll be here that long."

UChicago Medicine team members helped direct people to the new ED. Signs posted inside and outside of the Mitchell ED will remain visible for several weeks to help guide patients and visitors to the new facility.

Throughout the day, the emergency medicine team cared for patients. Employees working in the space had spent months training in the new location to make sure they're familiar with the layout and the new set up.

Thomas Spiegel, MD, the department's medical director, said he was "very pleased" with the early performance of the new ED.

"The patients we've been able to treat initially have been pleased with the prompt service, and it's all going very well," he said. "The next few months are going to be very important to prepare for the immediate response that will be required in trauma care. We need to fine-tune every system that we have in this operation. The challenge we have today is to keep this going."
India angry as Palestinian envoy in Pakistan shares stage with Hafiz Saeed

New Delhi : A week after India voted against US President Donald Trump's move to recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital, the Palestinian envoy to Pakistan, Waleed Abu Ali, shared stage with 26/11 terrorist attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed in Rawalpindi.

Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Raveesh Kumar registered India's discomfort soon after pictures made their way on the social media.

New Delhi would take up the matter strongly with the Palestinian government, Raveesh said.

"We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities," he added.

The rally was organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council, a coalition of hardline Islamic parties in Pakistan that campaigns aggressively against India and the United States, in Rawalpindis Liaqat Bagh on Friday.

Interestingly, it was the same place where former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto addressed her last public rally on December 27, 2007.
India condemns Kabul terror attack that killed over 80 people

New Delhi : India on Friday strongly condemned Thursday's terror attack in Afghanistan's capital Kabul that claimed over 40 lives and injured more than 80 people.

"India strongly condemns the cowardly suicide terror attack on December 28 at the media news agency and the cultural centre in Kabul resulting in loss of more than 40 innocent lives and many more injured ," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with the families of the victims of this dastardly attack and we wish early recovery to the injured," it stated.

At least 41 people were killed and over 80 injured on Thursday in a suicide attack on a cultural centre of the Shia minority in Kabul, which houses a madrasa, a mosque and an office of an Afghan news agency. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.

The suicide blast occurred around 10.30 a.m. at the Tebyan Social and Cultural Centre in Dasht-i-Barchi locality of Kabul. The centre houses the office of the Afghan Voice news agency.

Afghan Health Ministry spokesperson Wahid Majroh said four women and two children were among those killed. Several journalists and students who were attending a discussion forum also died. He added that 84 people were wounded.

Friday's External Affairs Ministry statement said that India remained "steadfast in its solidarity with the government and the people of Afghanistan at this difficult time".

"India is committed to extend all possible support in their fight against the menace of terrorism and efforts to bring peace, stability and security in the country," it said.
Islamic State claims responsibility for Egypt church attack

Cairo : Terrorist group Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack outside an Egyptian church that left at least 10 people dead.

A team "belonging to Islamic State carried out an attack against Mar Mina Church in Helwan, south of Cairo," Efe news reported citing the IS-linked Amaq news agency.

Egypt's Interior Ministry said earlier that the shooting at the church was the work of a single assailant riding a motorcycle.

Prior to targeting the church, the same attacker fatally shot two people at a nearby shop, the ministry said.

Members of the security detail assigned to Mar Mina detained the attacker, confiscating an assault weapon, five ammunition cartridges and an explosive device.

"The terrorist was shooting as he sought to cross the security cordon in order to detonate the explosive device close to the church with the aim of causing the maximum number of casualties," the Interior Ministry said.
United States military to accept transgender recruits from Jan 1,says Pentagon

Washington : The Pentagon has said it will begin accepting transgender military recruits on Monday, after President Donald Trump's administration decided not to appeal a court order blocking his ban.

The Department of Justice announced on Friday it would delay challenging the stay on President Trump's transgender ban before the Supreme Court, the Hill magazine reported.

"The Department of Defence has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks. So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DOD's study and will continue to defend the President's and Secretary of Defence's lawful authority in district court in the meantime," the DOJ said in a statement.

Trump announced the ban in July on Twitter and followed up with a memo in August directing the Pentagon to stop accepting transgender recruits and to put in policies to deal with those already serving.

Four lawsuits were filed by groups and individuals opposing the ban. Lower court judges placed a halt on the ban while those cases worked their way through the judicial system.

The administration appealed those stays, but federal appeals courts denied their request to delay accepting transgender recruits on January 1, 2018.

The Trump administration had weighed asking the Supreme Court to intervene before dropping those plans on Friday.

Lawyers representing currently-serving transgender service members and aspiring recruits said they had expected the administration to appeal the rulings to the Supreme Court, but were hoping that would not happen.



Pentagon spokeswoman Heather Babb said: "As mandated by court order, the Department of Defence is prepared to begin accessing transgender applicants for military service January 1. All applicants must meet all accession standards."



Jennifer Levi, a lawyer with gay, lesbian and transgender advocacy group GLAD, called the decision not to appeal "great news".

The Obama administration had set a July 1, 2017, deadline to begin allowing transgender recruits to enlist.

Trump's Defence Secretary James Mattis changed the deadline to January 1 before Trump announced his ban.
Will remain committed to nuclear development in 2018, says North Korea

Pyongyang : North Korea will remain committed to the country's nuclear development in 2018, according to a report released on Saturday by state-media.

"Do not expect any change in its policy," CNN quoted the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) report titled "No Force Can Prevail over Independence and Justice" as saying.

"Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out. North Korea, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence and justice, weathering all tempests on this planet," it added.

The reportprovided a timeline of the country's 2017 nuclear weapon achievements, mostly focused on possible US engagement.

North Korea will "continue bolstering the capabilities for self-defence and pre-emptive attack with the nuclear force as the pivot as long as the US and its vassal forces persist in nuclear threat", the report said.

It boasted about Pyongyang's new capability to strike "the heart of the US" and a new "status" as a "world-class nuclear power".

The report said North Korea will "deal with the US's most ferocious declaration of war with fire surely and definitely".

Throughout 2017, North Korea has conducted a series of ballistic missile tests, despite constant criticism from the West and trade sanctions, CNN reported.

The most provocative moment came on November 29 when North Korea said it successfully tested a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile, topped with a "super-large heavy warhead", which was capable of striking the US mainland.

This missile flew higher and farther than any other previous tests and came came after a break of almost two months in testing.

The UN Security Council responded by adopting a new set of severe US-drafted sanctions designed to further strangle North Korea's energy supplies and tighten restrictions on smuggling and the use of North Korean workers overseas.

North Korea called those sanctions "an act of war" and said the US and other nations that supported the strict measures will pay a heavy price.
Japanese RIKEN researchers are trying to adapt existing the silicon metaloxidesemiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) to integrate qubits with current electronics, offering the potential for scaling up quantum devices and bringing quantum computing closer to becoming a reality.

Keiji Ono and colleagues from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the Toshiba Corporation in Japan, in collaboration with researchers from the United States, are investigating the properties of qubits produced by imperfections or defects in silicon MOSFETs. In particular, they are exploring their potential for developing quantum computing devices that are compatible with current manufacturing technologies.

Companies like IBM and Google are developing quantum computers that use superconductors, explains Ono. In contrast, we are attempting to develop a quantum computer based on the silicon manufacturing techniques currently used to make computers and smart phones. The advantage of this approach is that it can leverage existing industrial knowledge and technology.

After cooling a silicon MOSFET to 1.6 kelvin (271.6 degrees Celsius), the researchers measured its electrical properties while applying a magnetic field and a microwave field. They found that when the silicon MOSFET was neither fully turned on nor off, a pair of defects in the silicon MOSFET formed two quantum dots in close vicinity to each other. This double quantum dot generated qubits from the spin of electrons in the dots. It also produced quantum effects that can be used to control these qubits.

These observations are an important step toward controlling the quantum state of qubits in silicon MOSFETs and could pave the way for coupling qubits and making quantum devices using existing manufacturing techniques.

The researchers intend to raise the temperature at which the phenomena occur. The work was carried out at temperatures an order of magnitude higher than previously reported, says Ono. So one important direction for our future research will be to achieve the same outcomes at even higher temperatures, of say 10 or 100 kelvin, or even at room temperature.

Physical Review Letters  Hole Spin Resonance and Spin-Orbit Coupling in a Silicon Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor

ABSTRACT

We study hole spin resonance in a p-channel silicon metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor. In the subthreshold region, the measured source-drain current reveals a double dot in the channel. The observed spin resonance spectra agree with a model of strongly coupled two-spin states in the presence of a spin-orbit-induced anticrossing. Detailed spectroscopy at the anticrossing shows a suppressed spin resonance signal due to spin-orbit-induced quantum state mixing. This suppression is also observed for multiphoton spin resonances. Our experimental observations agree with theoretical calculations.
HARTFORD  It look less than five minutes for the Connecticut General Assembly to announce Friday that it will return next week to find $54 million to restore funding for the Medicare Savings Program.

A handful of lawmakers gathered in the House and the Senate Friday to essentially agree to return next week to deal with the situation.

The program changes adopted as part of the budget signed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Oct. 31 would have reduced or eliminated benefits for more than 113,000 elderly and disabled in the state.

The House has agreed to return Thursday to address the issue and the Senate is expected to return either Jan. 4 or Jan. 5.

The short session comes a day after Office of Policy and Management Secretary Ben Barnes scolded lawmakers for proposing what he speculated could be imaginary savings.

He said he has no specific details of how they plan to close the $54 million gap created by restoring the benefits there are indications that the legislature will try to close the gap with additional lapses in overtime and in Other Expenses, the budget line item in each agency that is used for a variety of non-personnel activities including IT, professional services, supplies, vehicles, property maintenance and leasing, and direct program costs.

Barnes warned that the replacement cuts or revenue increases have to be real in order to avoid putting the state further into deficit.

Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, who wasnt at the Capitol Friday, said Barnes memo is a lot of words from someone who is desperately trying to be relevant.

He said the speculations Barnes made in the memo about the savings are false.

Senate President Martin Looney, D-New Haven, said the memo from Barnes was pegged to a prior approach we had contemplated.

This story has been modified from its original version. Read more at ctnewsjunkie.com.
The Coal Miner

 In what is probably The Dailys most discussed episode ever, Barbaro has an emotional interview with a Kentucky coal miner about how the climate change debate looks from inside the mines. Play the full episode below.
2017: All's well that ends well?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

New Delhi, Dec 30: Memories are strange. We remember what we want to celebrate, rest we stack up together neatly in a pile and throw them in the mind's dustbin to be retrieved later, if at all necessary.

The Indian media is no better, every year it goes through the infamous "trip down memory lane", recollecting and chronicling everything that mattered the most in a year about to get over.

But such lists of important personalities, events and hits and misses often ignore the deep, personal stories, emotions, and feelings of individuals. Instead, it's all about powerful politicians, businessmen, policymakers, institutions, and establishments.

As if in a country of 1.3 billion people, what matters is only what a few politicians, Bollywood stars, sportsmen and anyone and everyone the media calls celebrities eat, drink and how they make merry.

That is why you will never come across stories about the dimly-lit neighbourhoods of Delhi, the bustling Brigade road of Bengaluru and the serene Brahmaputra river flowing through the 'heart' of Guwahati.

It is for the same reason, nobody would ever dare to honour in those glossy year-ending coverage your favourite school teacher who taught world history and simultaneously gave you life lessons to stand up for your rights even in the most adverse of situations, or the garbage collector of the municipal body who cleans the nation's filth, or the chaiwallah (not the most powerful man in the country, but the real one) who in the December chill keeps your senses warm and functioning.

Trivial issues, as editors like to say, have no space in special series. In the process, you will get to read outrageous headlines like--Year-ender 2017: Five biggest newsmakers of Bollywood, 2017 year-ender: The battle of the voice assistants and Year-ender 2017: Top conversation starters on Tinder this year, to name a few.

It is really futile to ruminate on whether Tinder helps find love or not, but the app seems to have swiped the 'right mind button' of editors who decided to look into what helped start a conversation in the virtual world in 2017.

But is it just the media who is to be blamed for hiding behind a glossy facade of a crumbling India? Are our politicians, not guilty of committing the same crime?

Perhaps, the lack of empathy of the political class towards the public is worse than what the media's is guilty of doing to its readers/viewers.

The selective condoling of deaths by the heads of the nation, selective stoking of emotions on Twitter/WhatsApp by the troll brigade unleashed on us, selective appeasement of gods during poll campaigns are all part of the great political tamasha we got to see in a deeply divided nation in one of the worst years in recent history.

As the year ends, and the media gets busy compiling top 10 lists, I wonder what if those who plotted and executed some of the most mind-numbing crimes of the year, are making a list of top 10 lynchings or top 10 rapes to celebrate their top 10 electoral performances?

Sorry to end the year on such a grim note. Hopefully, we will have reasons to celebrate next year by this time.

OneIndia News
UP: Muslim woman agrees to Nikah Halal, instead gets gangraped by ex-husband, his brother

After triple talaq, Muslim women now bat for ban on polygamy

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Several Muslim women have said that the government should have also banned polygamy. The demand comes a day after the Lok Sabha passed a bill on triple talaq.

The women, including those who waged the war against the archaic practice in the Supreme Court, said with the passing of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill in the lower House, "a new beginning has been made" and it will prove to be a deterrent for the husbands from saying talaq-e-biddat to their wives.

They said the new law should have also banned the practice of polygamy among Muslim men which, they said, was "worse than triple talaq."

The women, advocate Farah Faiz, Rizwana, Razia, who were associated in the fight against triple talaq and polygamy in the apex court, expressed satisfaction that at least "a start" has been made by the present NDA dispensation.

The same opportunity had come in 1985 when the Shah Bano case happened, but was lost by the then Central government, they claimed.

"A new beginning has been made which would protect Muslim women from immoral practice of nikah halala," said Faiz, whose view was shared by Rizwana and Razia with a slight variance.

'Nikah halala' is a practice intended to curb the incidence of divorce. Under this, a man cannot remarry his former wife without her having to go through the process of marrying someone else, consummating it, getting divorced, observing the separation period called 'Iddat' and then coming back to him.

Rizwana and Razia were of the view that the government should have dealt with the issue of polygamy by banning it in the same bill.

"I welcome the move but now men will take undue advantage of the law and indulge in polygamy openly as it is still in practice. With polygamy still in practice, the abolition of triple talaq cannot alone not help us," said 33-year-old Rizwana, a victim of polygamy.

Razia (24), whose husband divorced her over phone citing birth of daughters as the reason behind it, hailed the law brought by the government and hoped that women like her would get justice.

Married at the age of 16, Razia said, "I was given triple talaq by my husband on phone as he did not want to bring up our two daughters. Triple talaq is a crime and has spoilt many lives. I pray that all women like me get justice with this new law. However, I wish that the practice of polygamy is also banned."

Advocate Chandra Rajan who had represented All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) also hailed bringing in the legislation and said it would go a long way in history.

"If this new law is implemented in true spirit then it will go a long way and prove to be a deterrent for the husbands from saying 'talaq-e-biddat' to their wives," she said.

Rajan said the AIMWPLB has, from the very beginning, demanded that there should be a law which should hold the practice of instant triple talaq null and void and impose punishment on husbands practicing it.

"We are disappointed only on one count that Sharia was not defined by the government in the law. As long as Sharia is not defined, confusion and misuse of such practices will prevail," she said, adding to this extent, it can be said that the government brought this law in a haste.

"The best thing the law proposes is that custody of minor child will be given to the mother. This happened with Shah Bano who was the victim of triple talaq and one of the petitioners in the Supreme Court," Rajan said.

She, however, questioned the mention of All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) in the law and said that it is an NGO and by mentioning their name it is like giving them a sanctity.

Faiz also shared the view of Rizwana and Razia that the government could have also brought a law making the unethical practice of polygamy null and void and protected lakhs of Muslim women.

"At least this government has done something and a new beginning has been made. Amendments keep on happening in the law but the start has been made," she said.

Faiz who fiercely argued against the practice of talaq-e-biddat (triple talaq) said the government should have enhanced the imprisonment term from three to seven years and made it a sessions court triable offence.

"Misguided husband, who were till now able to go scot free after pronouncing triple talaq to wife, will now be deterred from the practice.

"No one will listen to Maulanas and misuse the practice which has been made null and void by the Supreme Court as police can lodge the case and initiate criminal trial against him," she said.

Rizwana, a Railway employee who had approached the apex court for abolishing the practice of polygamy, said, "With polygamy still in practice, abolition of triple talaq cannot alone help us."

OneIndia News
BMC finally wakes up, embarks on demolition drive against illegal structures

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

Recommended Video

Kamla Mills Fire : BMC conducts demolition drive on all 30 restaurant, Watch | Oneindia News

A day after the fire at Kamala Mills compound in Mumbai claimed 14 lives, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has embarked on a demolition drive. The BMC had on Friday said that it was planning a crackdown on all 30 restaurants in the Kamala Mills compound.

Some structures in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound were also demolished. An activist on Friday claimed that he had complained to the BMC many times about the illegal structures in Kamala Mills' premises.

"Investigation is underway, we are taking strict action against those who violated the rules," BMC Additional Municipal Commissioner told news agency ANI.

According to reports, some portion of the rooftop restaurant '1 Above', where the fire broke out, was illegal. A notice was also served by the BMC regarding the illegal construction.

Demolition in Kamala Mills area Kamala Mills is one of the commercial hubs of the financial capital and houses numerous eateries, restaurants, commercial outlets and prominent national media organisations. BMC wakes up after tragedy Shiv Sena leader Arvind Sawant had lashed out at the BMC and said he would raise the issue in Parliament. "It's not just BMC, fire department, police and all others who give permission are responsible. I will try to raise it in the Parliament. There should be a judicial investigation into the incident," he said. Demolition in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound Meanwhile, the Mumbai Police have booked Hratesh Sanghvi, Jigar Sanghvi and Abhijeet Manka of C Grade Hospitality, which manages the pub, along with others, under IPC sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others). Activists had complained to BMC about illegal structures Fire-fighters took more than three hours to douse the huge flames that leapt up in central Mumbai's nightlife hub. The fire is suspected to have started a little after 12.30 am on Friday and spread quickly.

Image Courtesy: ANI Twitter

OneIndia News
'Medicine can also be studied in Tamil medium!' - CM Stalin's efforts are getting a growing response

Mayor Priya is not the puppet but the savior - How did Chennai recover from the floods?

Caught on camera: Chennai man slaps policeman in full public view

India

oi-Anusha

By Anusha Ravi

Recommended Video

Chennai youth slaps cop after being stopped for triple riding, Watch video | Oneindia News

A shocking video of a college student slapping a Chennai policeman has now gone viral. The student, identified as Manikandan, is seen assaulting the policeman in full public view after being stopped for traffic violation.

The video dated December 24 is from Jafferkhanpet in Chennai. The video shows the student abusing the policeman first and then going on to assault him. Constable Mageswaran was manning the traffic at Pari Nagar-Karikalan Nagar junction last week when he stopped three men on a bike for helmetless riding and triple riding offences. The trio refused to stop and sped away only to fall over a pothole nearby. Enraged, one of the pillion riders, Manikandan, walked up to the constable to pick a fight. During the fight, he slapped the policeman in full public view.

A case has been registered against the rogue youngster and he has been sent to judicial custody.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 16:03 [IST]
How Venkaiah Naidu was duped by a weight loss advertisement

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Recommended Video

Vice President of India Venkaiah Naidu duped by a weight loss programme ad | Oneindia News

Did you know that like thousands of people even Vice President of India, Venkaiah Naidu was duped by a weight loss programme?

Sharing his experience in the Rajya Sabha on Friday, Naidu said soon after becoming the vice president, he saw an advertisement promising weight loss in 28 days.

Though Naidu had already lost some weight, he decided to give the magic pill a try. He sent Rs 1,230 to the address as mentioned in an advertisement.

"I received a package. But when I opened it, there was a message that I have to pay another 1,000-odd rupee to get the original weight-loss tablet. The message said the company would send me the tablet only after it received the second installment," he said. Naidu got suspicious and asked the Ministry of Consumer Affairs to look into it.

The ministry, after a probe, found that the advertisement originated in the US.

"We need to find out a way to curb such advertisements, whether they originate in the US or any other country," Naidu said.

He narrated the incident after Samajwadi Party member Naresh Agarwal raised the issue of misleading advertisements deceiving common people in connection with his Zero Hour notice on adulteration in food articles.

In his response, Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said the government had drafted a new consumer protection law to replace the existing law, which is 31 years old and lacked teeth.

The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in 2015 and was referred to the standing committee.

OneIndia News
CAIROA gunman opened fire on a church south of Cairo on Friday, killing at least nine people in the latest apparent jihadist attack on Egypts Christian minority.

The Islamic State group claimed its soldiers carried out the attack on the Saint Mina Coptic church in the district of Helwan, just south of Cairo.

Health ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed told state television that the gunman was shot dead after killing nine people and wounding others, including a police officer.

But the interior ministry said the assailant, a wanted jihadist implicated in attacks on police, had been wounded and arrested.

ADVERTISEMENT

The man had been armed with an assault rifle, 150 rounds of ammunition and a bomb he intended to set off at the church, the ministry said.

It added that he had killed two people when he opened fire on a store before heading to the church where he shot dead seven people including the officer.

Cellphone footage posted on social media appeared to show the bearded gunman wearing a bulky ammunition vest sprawled on a street, barely conscious, as people restrained his arms and then handcuffed him.

Police later cordoned off the crime scene as onlookers crowded around the church, while a team of forensic experts combed the area.

Congealing blood could be seen at a guard post in front of the church.

IS later claimed responsibility.

In a statement released via its propaganda agency Amaq, it said a group of its soldiers had carried out the attack, killing 10 crusaders and police officers.

It added that one of its fighters had been killed.

An IS affiliate in Egypt has killed dozens of Christians in church bombings and shootings during the past year, and has threatened further attacks against the minority.

Fridays attack came ahead of Christmas for the Copts, who celebrate it on January 7.

Egypts Coptic Christians make up about 10 percent of the countrys 93 million people, and are the largest religious minority in the region.

IS claimed a suicide bombing of a Cairo church in December 2016 and bombings of two churches north of the capital in April.

A month later, IS gunmen shot dead about 30 Christians south of Cairo as they travelled to a monastery.

The jihadists are believed to have also carried out a massacre of Muslim worshippers in Sinai last month, killing more than 300 in an attack on a mosque associated with the mystical Sufi strand of Islam which IS views as heretical.

Egypt imposed a state of emergency after the church attacks and shootings, and President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi demanded the army confront the jihadists with brutal force following the mosque massacre.

The presidency said Fridays church attack would increase the resolve to continue the path of cleansing the country of terrorism and extremism.

IS has been waging a deadly insurgency based in the Sinai Peninsula bordering Israel and the Gaza Strip that has killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers.

The jihadists have increasingly targeted civilians as attacks on the security forces have become more difficult.

The army has poured in thousands of troops backed with armor and jets in a bid to crush the Sinai-based jihadists, but attacks have continued.

The attack on the church came a day after six Egyptian soldiers were killed in a roadside bombing in the Sinai.

Last week, IS claimed responsibility for firing an anti-tank missile at a helicopter in a North Sinai airport as the defense and interior ministers were visiting.

The attack killed an aide to the defense minister and a helicopter pilot, but both ministers returned to Cairo unscathed.

Egypts Gulf allies sent their condolences over Fridays shooting.

Saudi Arabia said it would stand with Egypt against sinful terrorist acts, while the United Arab Emirates called the attack a cowardly.

Qatar, at the center of a long-running dispute with its Gulf neighbors and Egypt, which accuse it of supporting extremist groups, also sent condolences and emphasized its firm position in rejecting terrorism.

Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.
Human trafficking racket busted: 22 boys go missing in France, CBI probe reveals

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Central Bureau of Investigation has busted a major international human trafficking racket. At least 25 boys from Punjab and Haryana were taken to Paris under the pretext of a Rugby training camp and deserted there.

The CBI discovered the racket following the detention of a teenager. It was found that the boys in the age group of 13 and 18 were taken to Paris and deserted there. Only 2 out of the 25 boys have come back to India while the rest are yet to be traced.

The French police informed the CBI about the detention of the teenager and also shared details of his questioning. Based on the information three agents, Lalit Devan Dean, sanjeev Raj and Varun Choudhary based in Delhi and Faridabad have been identified.

CBI sources say that based on the information they conducted raids at the premises of the suspects. We have found incriminating material and relevant documents, the source also added. Currently the accused are being questioned and their laptops being analysed.

The probe found that 25 boys were shown as students of two schools in Kapurthala, Punjab and taken to Punjab on February 1 2016. The French visas for the children were obtained based on the invitation from the French Federation in Paris. All of them visited Paris, but the agents got the return tickets cancelled, the probe also found. However two boys sensed that there was something wrong in advance and managed to return.

When the CBI questioned the school authorities, the agency was told that the students did not study there.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 6:54 [IST]
Make in India: Not Spain, Gujarat facility to build C-295 for Indian Air Force now

India to get its 36th Rafale by Dec 15

IAF bids adieu to MiG-27 ML 'Bahadur': This formidable fighter had some 'crash' issues

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

The Indian Air Force (IAF) bade farewell to MiG-27 ML, codenamed 'Bahadur' in India, as it oared over Hasimara Air Force base in Bengal on Thursday for the last time.

The Mikoyan MiG-27 is a variable-geometry ground-attack aircraft, originally built by the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau in the Soviet Union and later license-produced in India by Hindustan Aeronautics as the Bahadur.

MiG-27 has had an impeccable track record in its more than three decades of glorious service to the nation, a PTI report quoted a Defence spokesperson as saying.

This swing wing fighter-bomber was inducted into the IAF fleet in the late 1980s. Being a dedicated ground attack aircraft, it was one of the main strike aircraft of the IAF.

MiG-27 ML had proved its worth in various operations, including in Kargil and earned rich accolades in numerous international exercises held in India.

Some issues with this aircraft had made headlines, especially after the Kargil conflict. There were several crashes which were later attributed to certain defects in the R 29 engines of the aircraft.

Notable crashes of MiG-27 ML 'Bahadur':

On May 27, 1999, during the Kargil War, one Indian MiG-27 was lost together with a MiG-21 while supporting an Indian ground offensive in the Kashmir region.

Since 2001, the Indian Air Force has lost more than 12 MiG-27s to crashes.

In mid-February 2010, India grounded its entire fleet of over 150 of the aircraft after a MiG-27 crashed on 16 February 2010 in Siliguri, West Bengal. The crash was attributed to defects in the R 29 engines of the aircraft, suspected to have occurred during the overhauling of the aircraft by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Another Mig-27 crashed in the Barmer area on January 27, 2015.

On June 13, 2016, a MiG-27 (TU 657) on a training mission crashed in a residential area near Jodhpur Airforce Base in Rajasthan damaging two houses and injuring three civilians while the pilots ejected safely. The aircraft appears to be an Indian upgraded variant of MiG-27.

OneIndia News with PTI inputs
2 suspects arrested in connection with blast outside Hafiz Saeed's house in Pak

26/11: As India grieved, Saeed grew in Pak, while Lakhvi fathered a child in jail

India issues demarche after Palestine envoy shares stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

India has taken strong exception after a Palestine envoy was seen sharing the stage with Pakistani terrorist, Hafiz Saeed.

Walid Abu Ali, the Palestinian envoy to Islamabad, attended a rally organised by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council in Rawalpindi on Friday morning.

Ali and Saeed shared the state during the event.

Difa-e-Pakistan Council (Defence of Pakistan Council or DPC), founded in 2012, is an alliance of Islamist groups in Pakistan, campaigning for breaking of ties with the United States and opposing relations with India.

The image of the two sharing the stage together was shared on Twitter by Pakistani journalist Omar R Quraishi.

In a statement, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India is taking up the matter with the Palestinian authorities.

The incident took place just days after India voted against Israel in the United Nations General Assembly in favour of a resolution opposing the recent decision of US President Donald Trump to recognise Jerusalem as its capital.

The reports of a Palestinian envoy sharing stage with a known terrorist came as a surprise to many as India had just a week ago joined 127 other countries to vote against US decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a move seen as in favour of Palestinian sentiments.

OneIndia News
Is Hema Malini right in blaming high population for Mumbai fire?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Mumbai, Dec 30: When it comes to politicians, trust them to make bizarre comments, especially during a crisis situation.

On Friday, residents of Mumbai were inflicted with insensitive comments made by politicians cutting across party lines after a massive fire at a rooftop pub claimed 14 lives in the city.

Reacting to the deadly accident, BJP MP Hema Malini said such accidents occur due to high population and suggested that a population limit should be fixed for each city.

The fire, which also injured 21 people, started after 12.30 am in the "1 Above" pub on the terrace, and spread to Mojo pub on the third floor one level below, said an official of the Mumbai civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

1 Above and Mojo are located in the Trade House Building in Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel area, a popular night spot as well as commercial hub housing several offices including national television channels.

The actor-turned-politician said the accident took place due to the negligence of authorities and wondered how could they ignore safety standards before giving permission to run such pubs.

To a query by a TV channel about frequent accidents in Mumbai, she said, "It is because of too much population in Mumbai city.

"Some restrictions should be imposed on population. First of all, each city should have certain population, certain limit. After that they (people) should not be allowed. Let them go to another city, next city," Malini said.

Minister of State (MoS) for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises Babul Supriyo said he has spent "half of his life in Parel area and recalled that just two days before his daughter had gone to Kamala Mills with her friends.

He said stringent action would be taken against those found guilty in the incident.

BJP MP Kirit Somaiya said he had asked Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and BMC commissioner to order a special fire audit of all such pubs and hookah parlours in Mumbai.

"Several such establishments at the mills compound are illegal, part of which was regularised lately. The place where the blaze took place was illegal," he claimed.

Stating that the BMC officials were "responsible for the murder of people" in the Kamala Mill fire, Somaiya pointed out this was second such incident in 15 days.

"When will the BMC wake up?" he asked.

On December 18, at least 12 workers were killed and one injured when a massive fire broke out at a snack shop in Sakinaka-Kurla area in Mumbai.

"Kamala mill, Raghuvanshi mill, Maatulyaa mill, Toddi mills, Phoneix mill complexes have such huge illegal structures. I had requested BMC commissioner to order an investigation of all these death traps. The nexus of BMC Mafias/Officials/Restaurant Owners," Somaiya hit out in a tweet.

Reacting to the fatal incident, Neelam Krishnamoorthy, president, an association of victims of Uphaar tragedy, said, "Each time I see a fire taking place and people dying, it angers me a lot and I feel I have miserably failed in my endeavor to stop such fire incidents. I would blame the judiciary and the government for this."

While sane voices like that of Krishnamoorthy are rare to find in today's time, it's our politicians who are busy making callous remarks when so many innocent people have died because of the lapse on the part of government authorities in Mumbai.

OneIndia News
Only those from political families can eye a CMs post in Congress: Amit Shah

Protecting terrorists is equal to promoting terrorism: Amit Shah at 'No Money for Terror Conference

Karnataka Assembly Elections 2018: Amit Shah to review BJP's poll preparedness

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

After victories in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh, BJP chief Amit Shah will visit Karnataka today to review the party's organisation and strategy in the Congress-ruled state which will hold assembly polls in the first half of next year.

The visit comes as the BJP's Karnataka unit and the ruling Congress trade charges over getting Mahadayi River water from neighbouring Goa to the four drought-hit districts in the state's northern region. Goa is ruled by the BJP.

Amit Shah is scheduled to first meet the party MLAs, MLCs, MPs and other key leaders to chalk out a final road map to 2018 Karnataka elections.

It is expected that the national president may announce the appointment of additional prabharis for the Karnataka poll.

Party sources claim Amit Shah may in fact involve some national leaders, who are not part of the government, to oversee the BJP preparations for the polls.

The BJP is aiming to dislodge the Congress from the only big state, which sends 20 or more MPs to the Lok Sabha, it remains in power. The 224-seat assembly is likely to go to polls in May next year.

The Congress had captured power in the southern state in the last Assembly polls dethroning the BJP which was hit hard by a rebellion by B S Yeddyurappa, who had floated a party.

Yeddyurappa is back in the saffron fold and has been declared the BJP's chief ministerial candidate. The Congress campaign is being led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress and the BJP had won 122 and 40 seats respectively in the last assembly polls.

Since the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah have got the better of the Congress a number of assembly elections. However, the Congress hopes to do well in Karnataka after putting up a spirited fight against the BJP in Gujarat.

OneIndia News
Karnataka Assembly Elections 2018: BJP set for Mahadayi rath yathra

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The BJP will take out a Mahadayi rath yatra in a bid to clear the air regarding the controversy. A rath yatra in four districts of northern Karnataka is on the cards.

The yathra according to BJP sources would be aimed at clearing the air around the row and also clarify to the agitated farmers about what the party has done.

A recent letter by Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar to B S Yeddyurappa saying he was ready for talks did not exactly suit the party. Farmers of north Karnataka had staged a dharna before the BJP office demanding that Yeddyurappa deliver on the promise of ensuring the release of water.

The issue would also be discussed when BJP's national president Amit Shah visits Karnataka. He would be in Bengaluru on a one-day visit on Sunday and will chalk out an agenda for the party. He would decide on the type of campaign and also the conventions to be held by the party for the next two months. A review of the progress by the legislators would also be undertaken by Shah.

The Mahadayi yathra would be launched in January. It would be taken out in the districts of Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, and Bagalkot. The main intention would be to inform the people about what the party has done about the issue.

OneIndia News
Rajinikanth continues to meet fans: Will the superstar say yes to politics?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Recommended Video

Rajnikanth mum over future of his political debut | Oneindia News

Chennai, Dec 30: In the fag end of 2017, Tamil Nadu is haunted by a big question. Will superstar Rajinikanth join politics or not?

On Saturday, the 67-year-old veteran actor met his fans for the fifth consecutive day in Chennai, the capital city. On Sunday, the superstar will wrap up his six-day-long meet with his fans when he is likely to announce whether he would take his much-awaited political plunge or not.

As the day of announcement is coming closer, passions are running high. However, the revered actor seems to be calm as usual. During the meeting with his fans, Rajinikanth was seen readily posing for photographs with everyone.

"Fans pose with #Rajinikanth for the fifth day at #Chennai's Raghavendra Mandapam as part of his six-day meet," tweeted ANI.

Fans pose with #Rajinikanth for the fifth day at #Chennai's Raghavendra Mandapam as part of his six-day meet. pic.twitter.com/WnTnzvcnVC  ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017

On Tuesday, during the first day of meeting with his fans, Rajinikanth stated that he will announce his stand on entering politics on December 31.

It has been almost a year, since every now and then, the news of political entry of Thalaiva, as the veteran actor is popularly known among his fans, hits the headlines. Every time the report of the political debut of Rajinikanth is proved to be a rumour.

In fact, Rajinikanth revealed why he is hesitant to join politics. "I am hesitant in entering politics as I am aware of the pitfalls. I am not new to politics, I know its depths. I have been watching politics closely since 1996. If I enter politics I will have to win. For that I will need a strategy," he said.

Many indicate that the 67-year-old veteran is under pressure to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) if he ever makes his political debut. The BJP which is struggling hard to make its entry into the choppy political waters of Tamil Nadu is heavily relying on a popular and dynamic figure to join the saffron party.

"Who else could be best than Rajinikanth to be the BJP's mascot in Tamil Nadu?" asked a BJP leader. Moreover, the actor shares a cordial relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A minister in the AIADMK government begs to defer with the BJP.

Tamil Nadu milk and dairy products developments minister KT Rajendra Balaji told reporters on Thursday that the veteran actor is too innocent to survive in politics.

"A person who doesn't know how to play the political game would not fit in it," the minister was quoted as saying by Times of India.

"It is too late for him now as his fans are members of various political parties. Let's hope someone is able to guide and advise him on this,'' the minister added.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 11:27 [IST]
With Islamic radicalisation running so deep, why an NIA branch in every state matters

Suspected Pakistan agent to be quizzed by NIA

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The National Investigation Agency is all set to question Mohammad Parvez who was accused of conniving with intelligence agencies in Pakistan. Pervez was taken into custody by the NIA for questioning after a special court granted permission for the same.

The case was initially registered by Police Station Dwarka, South District on August 18, 2017. It was then transferred to the Special Cell of the Delhi police before being handed over to the NIA.

This case relates to intimidation of an Army Officer by the aforesaid accused in connivance with intelligence agents of Pakistan, in furtherance of a conspiracy to obtain sensitive information pertaining to the Indian Army and Defence installations in India, with a motive to develop sleeper modules for targeting such places.

OneIndia News
Madrasa survey in UP complete, next up is meeting with government: Minister

UP: Madrasa manager arrested for molesting girls

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A manager of a Madrasa in Uttar Pradesh has been arrested on charges of sexually exploiting girls. The incident came to light following a raid at the Madrasa in Shahdatganj.

During the raid, several girls were present at the Madrasa. The Lucknow police carried out the raid after some girls had filed a complaint against the manager for sexually harassing them.

There are around 125 girls studying at the Madrasa. However, at the time of the raid, there were only 51 of them present.

The statements of the girls were recorded by the police and the matter was reported to the Child Welfare Committee.

Deepak Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Lucknow said that an investigation has been launched in the matter.

"We took strict action, the moment we got the complaint. We took our team and went there for the raid. We found 51 students who were held hostage in the madrasa. The culprit is arrested and we are doing our investigation. He used to molest those students and also beat them," he said.

Vikas Tripathi, Superintendent of Police, West Uttar Pradesh said that an FIR has been lodged in this regard. He also said that they received a complaint that few students had been allegedly held hostage at the Madrasa. The accused has been arrested, the SP also added.

OneIndia News
Ludhiana resident stuck in Saudi Arabia appeals to Sushma Swaraj for help

International

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

A 46-year-old woman of Ludhiana, Kuldeep Kaur, stuck in Saudi Arabia since past six months has reached out to Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj for help.

Kaur's family has claimed that she is being given death threats and is also being beaten up in Saudi Arabia.

Now, her daughter, Sonia, a resident of Guru Arjun Dev Nagar, has appealed to the authorities to rescue her mother and bring her back home. She also demanded a case against the travel agent, who 'fraudulently' sent Kuldeep to Saudi Arabia.

Sonia said her mother frequently went on pilgrimages and in August, she had told her that she was going to Hemkunt Sahib in Uttarakhand.

On October 8, I received a brief call from my mother in which, she could only tell me that she was in Saudi Arabia and was fine. On Sunday, she again called and said she is being forced to work as domestic help in Saudi Arabia and is beaten up by her employers, one Mohammad Ahmad and his wife Sara and not given food also," she added.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 18:26 [IST]
BEIJING  China on Friday rejected accusations that it had helped Pyongyang skirt sanctions after United States President Donald Trump claimed on Twitter that Beijing was turning a blind eye to oil transfers to North Korea.

Trumps tweet was the latest salvo in his battle to persuade China to tighten the economic screws on Pyongyang over its missile and nuclear programme, in a campaign that has seen him heap both praise and criticism on Beijing.

Caught RED HANDED  very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea, Trump wrote Thursday. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!

ADVERTISEMENT

The United Nations  at the urging of the US  has imposed a series of sanctions against North Korea aimed at getting it to halt its weapons development.

China has supported the moves, but critics claim it is not rigidly enforcing the sanctions, fearful that too much pressure will cause the unpredictable regime to collapse.

South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, citing government sources in Seoul, reported earlier this week that US satellites had spotted Chinese ships selling oil to North Korean vessels at sea dozens of times since October.

The recent series of reports on this situation do not conform with the facts, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said, adding that Beijing did not allow its citizens or companies to engage in any activities that violate UN resolutions.

Hua said China had considered the report of a Chinese ship transferring oil to a North Korean vessel and found it to be inaccurate.

There is no record of the (Chinese) vessel visiting a Chinese port since August, she said.

I think making pointless hype through the media is not conducive to enhancing mutual trust and cooperation.

A defiant Pyongyang has said there is no possibility of its weapons programmes being rolled back, and that they have been developed to defend against what it terms aggression by the US and its allies.

Washington insists a resolution of the crisis on the Korean peninsula depends on the Norths denuclearization.

The United Nations Security Council last week imposed new sanctions on Pyongyang further restricting oil supplies, and ordering North Korean nationals working abroad to be sent back by the end of 2019.

It was not immediately clear what prompted Trumps tweet, or if he was accusing China  the Norths main ally  of directly violating sanctions targeting Pyongyang.

A State Department official later said the US was aware that certain vessels have engaged in UN-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea.

We have evidence that some of the vessels engaged in these activities are owned by companies in several countries, including China, the senior official said.

Separately, a foreign ministry official in Seoul said Friday that a Hong Kong-registered vessel was seized and inspected in November for transferring oil products to a North Korean ship in breach of UN sanctions.

The official described the incident as Pyongyang shrewdly circumventing sanctions, adding that South Korea had shared intelligence on the case with the US.

In recent months, the White House has praised Beijing for its efforts to tame North Korea, and China has voted in favor of three UN Security Council resolutions strengthening sanctions against the North.

But Washington, convinced that only Chinese pressure will persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to back down, has demanded that Beijing do more.

China has a tremendous power over North Korea. Far greater than anyone knows, Trump told the New York Times in an interview Thursday.

The US president hinted at the possibility of trade action against China over the matter.

Oil is going into North Korea. That wasnt my deal! he said. If they dont help us with North Korea, then I do what Ive always said I want to do.

Describing Kim regime as a nuclear menace that is no good for China, Trump added that Chinese President Xi Jinpings government must help us much more.

The UN Security Council on Thursday meanwhile denied international port access to four ships  three registered in North Korea and a fourth in Palau  suspected of carrying or having transported goods banned by international sanctions targeting Pyongyang, according to the final list adopted by the world body.

Diplomats had said on Thursday that all four were North Korean vessels.

The ban of the four vessels brings the UNs total number of blocked ships to eight.

Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.
With the number of anonymous rogues from Pak rising, here's how BSF is beating down the drones

Pak defends Palestinian envoy's participation at Hafiz Saeed event

International

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Pakistan on Saturday came out in defence of the envoy, whose presence at a rally organised by Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed had sparked outcry from India.

"The people and Government of Pakistan respect the Palestinian Ambassador's active participation in events organized to express solidarity with the people of Palestine," Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a statement.

The reaction came hours after the Palestinian ambassador to Islamabad was recalled from his post.

The statement went on to say that a number of public rallies and meetings have been held in Pakistan, and the Palestinian envoy has participated in many of these meetings.

"The public meeting was yet another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause," the spokesperson said. "This public rally was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life. More than 50 speakers addressed the rally, including Hafiz Saeed."

Contrary to the impression being created, he said, UN proscription does not place any restrictions on the freedom of expression.

They said that the public rally on Friday was one of many such meetings attended by the Palestinian envoy and was "another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause."

Earlier in the day, India issued a strong demarche to Palestine after its ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, was seen sharing a stage with JuD chief Saeed during an event in Rawalpindi organised to express solidarity with Jerusalem.

Following this, Palestinian Authority described the envoy's participation at the event as "not justified" and ordered his immediate recall from Islamabad.

"On the basis of the principled and firm Palestinian position, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates considered the participation of our Ambassador in Pakistan in a mass rally in solidarity with Jerusalem, held in Rawalpindi on Friday and in the presence of individuals accused of supporting terrorism is an unintended mistake, but not justified," a statement from the Palestinian Authority (PA) said.

"Accordingly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, under the direct instructions of the President of the State of Palestine , decided to recall the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan immediately," it said.

The statement from the PA described Palestine as a "real partner" of India in its war against terrorism and also expressed its appreciation for New Delhi's vote in favour of the resolution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the issue of Jerusalem.

OneIndia News (With PTI inputs)

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Saturday, December 30, 2017, 23:50 [IST]
Leaders of Israel and Turkey hold first meeting since 2008

Palestine recalls envoy sharing stage with Hafiz Saeed after India's protest

International

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Palestine has decided to recall its ambassador to Pakistan, Walid Abu Ali, for sharing a stage with Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said on Saturday.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija told PTI.

The top envoy said that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home, not to be Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore," Haija told ANI.

Earlier in the day, Palestine expressed regret after India strongly condemned the Palestinian envoy's presence at a rally organised by Saeed in Pakistan's Rawalpindi on Friday.

Following India's strongly-worded views, foreign ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Palestine had reassured India that it "stands with us in the war against terrorism" and would not "engage with those who commit acts of terror against India".

The envoy's presence at Hafiz Saeed's rally came just days after India, in sync with Palestinian sentiments, had voted in the United Nations General Assembly to oppose the recent decision of US President Donald Trump to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

India has historically supported the Palestinian cause, and its statements have always referred to East Jerusalem as being the capital of an independent Palestinian state.

OneIndia News
 2008-2022 One News Page Ltd.

All rights reserved.

One News is a registered trademark

of One News Page Ltd.
eBaums World 18 Nov 2022

If you aren't trying to score Taylor Swift tickets, what are you doing with your life?
Rumble 31 Oct 2022

PLEASE, WATCH THE VIDEO UNTIL THE END. Let's have a healthy conversation in the comments section.
Rumble 16 Nov 2022

The smoke curls up, which is the most beautiful scroll in the world of fireworks. It is the poetic and picturesque feeling that can..
Rumble 10 Nov 2022

this might just be scarier than going on omegle on god. i travelled all the way to north korea to bring vengeance to kim jong un..
Rumble 14 Oct 2022

What's it like to stand on the top of Mount Everest, the top of the world?
Palestinians or Palestinian people, also referred to as Palestinian Arabs, are an ethnonational group descending from peoples who have inhabited the region of Palestine over the millennia, and who are today culturally and linguistically Arab.
After we have navigated through all of the planning, traveling, gift exchanging, food prepping, eating and parties that we go through to celebrate Christmas, we might take pause and ask ourselves what this commercialized holiday really is all about.

The answer usually starts with the peaceful nativity scene from the Gospel of Luke and the theological claim that Immanuel (God with us) came into our world in a particular story that was messy and complicated, and very vulnerable to say the least. This story could be shrouded in shame as Mary and Joseph are engaged but not married, and Joseph is not the father of this child. It is courageous of Mary to say yes to the angel, and courageous of her relative Elizabeth (the wife of a priest) to bless Mary and the child in her womb. It is no small thing that Joseph is still there with Mary to take her as his wife and to take the child on as his own. Perhaps the first Christmas miracle is that they are there together with a healthy baby, born in a manger.

It would be great to stop at this scene and leave it as a feel-good story of blessings and peace for this holy family, and perhaps for ourselves. However, the story is not peaceful at all. Each year after Christmas we are called to remember the Gospel of Matthew account of the Magi from the East who come to Jerusalem following a star to pay homage to the newborn king. We remember that the Jewish world was ruled by the Roman Empire appointed King Herod the Great. Herod is threatened by this new king and sets out to kill the child by ordering the death of all infants two years old and under in the town of Bethlehem. Joseph, tipped off by a dream, takes his family and flees to Egypt by night where they hide out until King Herod dies himself.

This is a highly disturbing story that sets the backdrop and tone for the rest of the story. There is painful irony in the fact that a Jewish family had to flee to Egypt as refugees to avoid infanticide when that is exactly how the Jewish people were able to flee from Egyptian tyranny during the Exodus generations before. What it was like to be Jewish refugees in Egypt? Who were the people that took them in and kept them safe?

These stories set the backdrop for Jesus life and ministry. We know that he lived in a community that was marked by war, tyranny, suffering, animosity and mistrust of many others around them, calls for revenge and even calls for more war. It is in this backdrop and climate that he proclaims a new vision and way of being together called the Kingdom of God and invites everyone to live with deep compassion for each other. This way calls us to care for the sick, feed the hungry, console those who weep and love our neighbors as ourselves, especially the ones we are afraid of or cant stand.

The one called Immanuel is still with us, and even today calls us to a life of compassion and love for all people and all life. In a world that is deeply divided and keeps tearing apart it is a courageous vision for us to follow. Perhaps it is here that this Christmas story comes alive and is one that we can all take to heart.
SUPERIOR  Rose and Glen Beissel cling to the consolation that they lived to see Christmas.

The fire that started in their adjacent carport/garage woke the Beissels at around 2:30 a.m. on Dec. 21 and proceeded to ravage their 1980s-vintage mobile home two miles up Cedar Creek. It took almost everything they had except their lives, her car, his truck and hat, and Bear, their aging Newfoundland/Rottweiler mix.

When I look at this? Glen said, pondering the question a week later as they stood in deep snow outside the ruins.

Ive got a heavy heart about it, but what are you going to do, you know? When its gone its gone. I feel bad because I couldnt do anything to try to save it, other than call the fire department.

All of our gifts that we had from family are gone, said Rose, who had been "a good girl" and waited to open a special present from her snow-birding parents in Arizona for her 54th birthday on Thursday. But it is what it is. At least were alive.

Most of us dont have to experience the surreal fog that comes with sudden homelessness. It hadnt lifted this week, even as another winter blizzard bore down on Mineral County.

Im just, like, overwhelmed, Rose said. It just feels different. It feels really weird.

She was recognized the day before at the Christmas party at Mineral Community Hospital for her 25 years working in the hospitals kitchen. The Beissels scrape by on her salary and Glens disability checks. He retired 12 years ago from the bark plant in Superior.

They couldnt afford to insure the trailer that sat on leased land south of Superior.

But as so many tragedies turn out in "County 54," a support network the Beissels never saw coming kicked into gear almost instantly.

The former Tricon Timber Co. in St. Regis, recently purchased by Idaho Forest Group, donated a retired work trailer to replace their home.

By noon I had my free trailer, Rose said with a smile.

Courtesy of the American Red Cross, the Beissels are staying in the Big Sky Motel in town while they try to pull their lives together.

They had no savings account, but one was set up for them at TrailWest Bank in Superior. Donations can be made at any TrailWest bank in western Montana, in the Beissels names. Some $600 came in the first day after the fire.

A room in a building separate from the hospital is packed with clothes, dishes, and 500 or 600 pounds of food, according to Mitzi Francis, the hospitals executive assistant who is coordinating donations.

Rose has worked for us for 25 years and its like anything else, Francis said Friday. This little hospital of 60 employees is family, and when theres a need, whether its a food drive for the elementary school or a fire with one of our own, we jump in and help.

Theyre having a rough time, she added. They were just here and went through some of the food. We got them some things that they can have at the motel. That should save them some money, so theyre not having to eat at the restaurant across the street all the time.

So much remains up in the air. Investigators OK'd removal of the debris Wednesday. The Beissels were onsite Friday to start cleaning up, but rain and heavy snow was causing the roof to buckle. It was unsafe to continue.

Its hard to get things going. And Mother Nature doesnt help either, Rose said.

Now the hope is to get the site cleaned up next week, with help from landlord Kelly Johnston and his machinery. A towing company will bring the replacement trailer from Tricon grounds, where it once housed workers who came to the St. Regis mill to work on the boilers. Its been empty for some time and needs a stove and some cleaning. But itll look like home to Rose and Glen.

They were planning a quiet Christmas at home, where on a good day they can look out back and see 10 or 12 elk down on the creek. After the fire, the Beissels were invited by her aunt and uncle, Marie and Clay Hopper, to spend the day in Missoula.

Theyre my rock right now, Rose said.

Snow and road conditions nixed that option. When friends in Superior heard of it, the Beissels were welcomed to their home for a prime rib dinner.

And I have some really awesome, awesome co-workers at the hospital, Rose said. If it wasnt for what they did for me that first day ...

She said she woke up that night to a pop-pop sound that she at first couldnt identify. A look out the back window revealed the source, as flames leaped from the outbuilding where the Beissels kept the wood stove burning so their snow-removal equipment wouldnt freeze up. Motor oil and gas cans were in there too, along with Glens pride and joy, a new riding lawnmower he got to manicure the half-acre of yard.

That was the first new one Id ever owned, he said.

Rose fled the house in only her robe. Glen grabbed his jeans, hat and boots, along with the keys to the vehicles and the cellphones they used to call for help.

I didnt have time to ask questions, boy, Ill tell you, he said. When we got outside, you could see it was coming just crazy.

They and neighbors could only stand and watch at a safe distance as their home was gutted.

I was bawling, Rose said.

***

On Thursday, Rose was anxious to get a look inside.

Theres some stuff in there thats salvageable, which surprised me, she said.

She thinks the cedar box made 40 years ago for her eighth-grade graduation gift in Stevensville is intact.

Family pictures, clothes, dishes and utensils were all either destroyed or too smoke-damaged to be of use.

We just have to start over, Rose said with a shrug. Im OK with whatever.

But what will remain for the Beissels are memories of the aftermath, and the outpouring of support they never counted on.

"A lot of people," Glen said. "I dont even know who they are."

"Were getting strangers calling and offering: What can we do for you? What can we do?" said Rose.

Francis said one donor called to say she has her grandmothers solid oak table and chairs in storage and wants the Beissels to have them.

"It's just  wow," Rose said. "It's an amazing journey. I'll never let this go, how much support we've gotten."
IN SEPTEMBER OF LAST YEAR, we noted that Facebook representatives were meeting with the Israeli Government to determine which Facebook accounts of Palestinians should be deleted on the ground that they constitute "incitement." The meetings -- called for and presided over by one of the most extremist and authoritarian Israeli officials, its pro-settlement Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked -- came after Israel threatened Facebook that its failure to voluntarily comply with Israeli deletion orders would result in the enactment of laws requiring Facebook to do so, upon pain of being severely fined or even blocked in the country.

The predictable results of those meetings are now clear and well-documented. Ever since, Facebook has been on a censorship rampage against Palestinian activists who protest the decades-long, illegal Israeli occupation, all directed and determined by Israeli officials. Indeed, Israeli officials have been publicly boasting about how obedient Facebook is when it comes to Israeli censorship orders:

"Shortly after news broke earlier this month of the agreement between the Israeli government and Facebook, Israeli Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked said Tel Aviv had submitted 158 requests to the social media giant over the previous four months asking it to remove content it deemed 'incitement.' She said Facebook had granted 95 percent of the requests."

She's right. The submission to Israeli dictates is hard to overstate: as the New York Times put it in December of last year: "Israeli security agencies monitor Facebook and send the company posts they consider incitement. Facebook has responded by removing most of them."

What makes this censorship particularly consequential is that "96 percent of Palestinians said their primary use of Facebook was for following news." That means that Israeli officials have virtually unfettered control over a key communications forum of Palestinians.

In the weeks following those Facebook/Israel meetings, reported The Independent, "the activist collective Palestinian Information Centre reported that at least 10 of their administrators' accounts for their Arabic and English Facebook pages -- followed by more than two million people -- have been suspended, seven of them permanently, which they say is a result of new measures put in place in the wake of Facebook's meeting with Israel." Last March, Facebook briefly shut down the Facebook page of the political party, Fatah, followed by millions, "because of an old photo posted of former leader Yasser Arafat holding a rifle."

Click Here to Read Whole Article

Go to The Intercept to read the rest of this article.
From Paul Craig Roberts Website



Turn Of The Year

(Image by maxpixel.freegreatpict...) Details DMCA



The New Year is one full of economic, political, and war threats.

Among the economic threats are stock, bond, and real estate markets artificially pumped up by years of central bank money creation and by false reports of full employment. It is an open question whether participants in these markets are aware that underlying reality does not support the asset values.

Central banks support stock markets not only with abundant liquidity but also with direct stock purchases. The Japanese central bank is now one of the largest owners of Japanese equities. Central banks, which are supposed to provide economic stability, have created a massive fraud.

Throughout the Western world politics has degenerated into fraud. No government serves the public's interest. (See here) Except for some former Soviet satellites in Eastern Europe, European governments have defied the will of the people by admitting vast numbers of refugees from Washington's wars, and others pretending to be refugees. The European governments further imperil their citizens with their support for Washington's rising aggression toward Russia. The universal failure of democratic politics is leading directly to war.

The Saker explains that Americans with intelligence, honor, courage, and integrity have disappeared from the US national security establishment. In their place are arrogant morons high on hubris who believe: (1) We can buy anybody, (2) Those we cannot buy, we bully, (3) Those we cannot bully, we kill, (4) Nothing can happen to us, we live in total impunity no matter what we do.

Scott Bennett reports that US soldiers are being propagandized that Russia is an enemy with whom we are headed to war. The Anglo-Zionist empire is trying to overturn the Iranian agreement and to restart the attempt to overthrow the government of Syria. Lebanon's Hezbollah is also in the empire's sights. Washington is arming Ukraine in order to enable an attack on the breakaway provinces of Novorussia. Threats against North Korea escalate. Even little Venezuela is threatened with military intervention simply because the country wants to control its own destiny and not be controlled by Washington and the New York banks.

In the opinion of some, Russia's very cautious diplomacy has increased the likelihood that Washington will miscalculate and give the world a third world war. By not accepting the requests of the breakaway Russian provinces in Ukraine to be reunited with Russia, the Russian government paved the way for Washington to provide the military means for its Ukrainian puppet to attempt to reconquer the provinces. Success would damage Russian prestige and encourage Washington in its aggressive actions. Sooner or later Russia will have to stand and fight.

Russia's premature declaration of victory in Syria and withdrawal has made it possible for US forces to remain in Syria and attempt to restart the effort to overthrow the Assad government. Russia would have to defend its victory, or by the failure to do so encourage more aggressive actions by Washington.

Hopes have evaporated that President Trump would restore the normalized relations between the nuclear powers that Reagan and Gorbachev made possible. The question for the New Year is -- when does Washington's aggression against Russia ignite a hot war?

I will be examining these issues as they unfold in 2018. From the perspective of today, it is unlikely that the New Year will be a happy one. Nowhere in the West is there a sign of leadership toward peace and the well-being of humanity.
See original here

By Lorraine Chow

The Trump administration is rescinding Obama-era rules designed to increase the safety of fracking.

"We believe it imposes administrative burdens and compliance costs that are not justified," the Interior Department's Bureau of Land Management (BLM) wrote in a notice published Friday in the Federal Register.

The 2015 rule required companies drilling for natural gas and oil on public lands to comply with federal safety standards in the construction of fracking wells, to disclose the chemicals used during the fracking process, and required companies to cover surface ponds that store fracking wastewater.

The regulation, however, never took effect after a Wyoming federal judge struck it down last year.

Fossil fuel groups, which sued to block the Obama regulation, unsurprisingly cheered the decision.

"Western Energy Alliance appreciates that BLM under Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke understands this rule was duplicative and has rescinded it," Western Energy Alliance President Kathleen Sgamma said in a release. "States have an exemplary safety record regulating fracking, and that environmental protection will continue as before."

But environmentalists and public health advocates have long warned that fracking -- which involves pumping large volumes of water, sand and chemicals underground to extract oil and gas -- causes groundwater contamination, puts human health at risk and releases the potent greenhouse gas methane.

"The Trump administration is endangering public health and wildlife by allowing the fracking industry to run roughshod over public lands," Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said. "Fracking is a toxic business, and that's why states and countries have banned it. Trump's reckless decision to repeal these common-sense protections will have serious consequences."

Maryland, New York and Vermont have banned fracking. Ireland, France, Germany and Bulgaria have also banned the practice on land.

Here are some major findings of a 2016 study by Environment America Research & Policy Center on the impact of fracking on our environment:

During well completion alone, fracking released 5.3 billion pounds of methane in 2014, a pollutant 86 times more powerful than carbon dioxide over the course of 20 years.

Fracking wells produced at least 14 billion gallons of wastewater in 2014. Fracking wastewater has leaked from retention ponds, been dumped into streams and escaped from faulty disposal wells, putting drinking water at risk. Wastewater from fracked wells includes not only the toxic chemicals injected into the well but also naturally occurring radioactive materials that can rise to the surface.

Between 2005 and 2015, fracking used at least 23 billion pounds of toxic chemicals. Fracking uses of vast quantities of chemicals known to harm human health. People living or working nearby can be exposed to these chemicals if they enter drinking water after a spill or if they become airborne.

At least 239 billion gallons of water have been used in fracking since 2005, an average of 3 million gallons per well. Fracking requires huge volumes of water for each well -- water that is often needed for other uses or to maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.
From Smirking Chimp

Last week, with great fanfare, Donald Trump rolled out his new National Security Strategy (NSS). Its guiding theme is "America First." An analysis of the 55-page document, however, reveals a program that renders the United States more unpopular and vulnerable to external threats.

Trump's plan takes Barack Obama's policy of "American exceptionalism" to a new level. In his speech accompanying the NSS's release, Trump stated, "America has been among the greatest forces for peace and justice in the history of the world."

Yet Trump has not only continued but also escalated the Bush-Obama wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, dropped Tomahawk missiles on Syria, threatened North Korea and Iran, intensified airstrikes against Muslim countries, and fanned the flames of conflict in the Middle East.

Trump's NSS stresses military might but makes scant reference to diplomacy. His administration is building 10 new aircraft carriers worth $13 billion each as a counterweight to China, and expanding the US nuclear weapons program to the tune of $1 trillion over the next 30 years.

Nuclear weapons are "the foundation of our strategy to preserve peace and stability by deterring aggression against the United States, our allies, and our partners," according to the NSS. But Trump has dangerously escalated tensions with North Korea, providing that country with increasing incentives to develop nuclear weapons that reach around the world.

And by refusing to recertify Iran's compliance with the nuclear agreement, in spite of the UN International Atomic Energy Agency's finding to the contrary, Trump is further imperiling peace.

The NSS's brief mention of working with international organizations is belied by the Trump administration's abiding contempt for the United Nations. The UN Charter was created in 1945 by the countries of the world to collectively restore and maintain international peace and security.

As with Trump's domestic program, the NSS makes no pretense of concern for human rights in other countries. This is evidenced in practice by Trump's unwavering support for Israel's brutal occupation of Palestinian lands, including, most recently, his declaration that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. The NSS accurately states, "for generations the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has been understood as the prime irritant preventing peace and prosperity in the region."

But the NSS minimizes Israel's central responsibility for the conflict, stating, "The threats from radical jihadist terrorist organizations and the threat from Iran are creating the realization that Israel is not the cause of the region's problems."

In defiance of nearly all other nations, Trump's Jerusalem declaration endangers world peace. Indeed, last week, the UN Security Council voted 14-1, with a US veto, to condemn Trump's characterization of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. And in a rarely used procedure called Uniting for Peace (UFP), the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly followed suit. UFP allows the General Assembly to take measures to restore international peace and security when the Security Council is unable or unwilling to act. By utilizing UFP, which requires a two-thirds vote, this resolution has greater force than other General Assembly decisions. The International Court of Justice upheld the legality of UFP in its 1962 advisory opinion.

Richard Falk, former UN Special Rapporteur for Palestinian Human Rights, told Truthout that, "What is already evident on the basis of [Trump's Jerusalem] decision itself is the severe damage done to the global and regional leadership reputation of the United States."

While setting forth the goal of being an "energy-dominant nation," the NSS gives short shrift to "the importance of environmental stewardship." Obama's 2015 NSS, on the other hand, correctly stated that climate change was an "urgent and growing threat to our national security." Yet Trump's NSS does not recognize the threat of climate change. And in spite of increasingly extreme and unseasonal weather events such as recent hurricanes and wildfires, Trump has alarmingly and irresponsibly pulled out of the Paris climate accord.

The four pillars of the NSS, according to Trump, are protecting the US homeland, promoting US prosperity, achieving peace through strength and advancing US influence in the world.

Pillar I: Protect the Homeland

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).
From National Memo

In its first year, Donald Trump's White House has obliterated the modern day pace for top aides jumping ship and leaving the administration.

The running for the exits unfolds while Trump struggles to post any kind of legislative accomplishments in 2017. In fact, this year, Trump also established a record for legislative impotence.

To date, a stunning 34 percent (or 21 of 61) of senior officials have resigned, been fired, or reassigned. That's according to Kathryn Dunn-Tenpas, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, who has been documenting the West Wing turnover rate for the last 40 years.

The previous jumping-ship record for a first year president was 17 percent under Ronald Reagan. Note that just 9 percent of aides left Barack Obama's team in 2009.

Some of the high-profile exits and terminations from Trump's team include former national security adviser Michael Flynn, White House strategist Steven Bannon, press secretary Sean Spicer, chief of staff Reince Priebus, and deputy national security adviser K.T. McFarland.

Just recently, national security adviser Dina Powell and deputy chief of staff Rick Dearborn both announced they were leaving. And Trump adviser Omarosa Manigault Newman made news this month when she reportedly had to be "physically dragged and escorted" off the White House grounds when she was terminated.

Note that Communications Director Hope Hicks is already the fourth person to hold that title in the Trump White House.

The fact that the White House remains the focus of special counsel Robert Mueller's sweeping probe may be one reason so many White House staffers are heading for the doors. Fear of legal jeopardy will do that.

Also, are some aides leaving because Trump can't get much of anything accomplished and because he's a congenital liar? It's certainly possible.

The full-time fabricator recently boasted about his bill-signing ability.

"We got a lot of legislation passed ... I believe -- and you would have to ask those folks who will know the real answer -- we have more legislation passed, including the record ... was Harry Truman, a long time ago. And we broke that record, so we got a lot done."

Click Here to Read Whole Article
January is the month named after the Greek, the god of two faces, back to back, the god of doorways. Always looking both ways, torn between two ways of doing things, looking forward to the New Year and looking back to the old. He sees the past and the future.

The domestic political fantasy life of the last sixteen years finds us in an unnerving time loop of our own making in this country. Very much on its own, history seems to be running in reverse and knowledge is not seen as a public good, but as something suspect, dubious or even ungodly, as it was for example in Italy in 1633, when the church put Galileo on trial for his heretical view that the earth was in orbit around the sun.

These past years have produced a prison house of the mind, insidiously endeavoring to promote a fleeting fraudulent terrorist phantom and the darkness of ego. It has produced the degradation of the thinking mind, all of it in fear of what it knows.

Our society has mentally transported the rank and file back into the darkness of tribal war and shrieking, far from the tolerance that came with American religious freedom and the liberty of our conscience.

What is good as opposed to evil? Does it mean the evil of specific terrorist organizations, or the evils of the political cultures from which they came about?

Our civil discourse has morphed into a "civil disguise," something akin to, "I have a great future behind me." People have been restored to passive apathy, while the intellectual language of righteous empire cravenly moves on. Life becomes a constant paradox and the best illusion wins, because we have been taught a lesson-less past, while everywhere we look today we see the price of unchecked power.

Our renewed civil and spiritual discourse must adhere to three basic principles: 1. Facts matter, even if we don't like them. 2. Universal moral principles matter, even if they have consequences we would prefer not to face. 3. Clarity matters, such as distinguishing between terror elements abroad and the republican political culture that breeds it domestically, with tax cuts for the rich and the denial of health care and social services for the general populace.

The word emotion literally means "disturbance." It come from the Latin word emovere, meaning to disturb.

Humans have learned to split the atom and instead of killing 10 or 20 people with a wooden club and now can kill 1 million people by pushing a button. Are we to call that real change?

The pollution of our planet is an outward reflection of our inner psychic pollution, which millions of unconscious people do not take responsibility, for how their inner mind works.

The bond that connects us with other people is the same bond that connects us with the person sitting next to us on the bus, or with a bird, a tree, or a flower. Only the degree of intensity with which it is felt differs.

We must again fight off the atavistic forces that our constitution was intended to contain or thwart; the power lust of those who would be king, the greed of those who wish they were aristocrats, and the relentless malice of those priesthoods, such as the craven politics of republicans, that would force their creed on everyone else.

The penalty good men pay for not being interested and emotive in politics, is to be governed by men worse than themselves. Plato.
Quicklink Not Found

Sometimes, authors delete their quicklinks after publishing them.



To see if the quicklink was renamed or re-published, please click here.
HAMILTON  At the beginning of 2017, few people uttered the phrase Path of Totality. But by August, not only did everyone know what it meant, but millions of people were making arrangements to be in it for the first total solar eclipse to cross the United States since 1918.

The path for the total eclipse on Aug. 21 stretched from Lincoln City, Oregon, to Charleston, South Carolina, and the event itself lasted about 90 minutes. But the hype surrounding the eclipse went on for much longer, and for good reason.

I had driven to Stanley, Idaho, and hiked deep into the Sawtooth Wilderness Area with some friends, thinking that we would view the event alone. Instead, we met people from all over the world who traveled to Idaho to be in the Path of Totality.

It was like that just about everywhere. In the town of Madras, Oregon, the number of people swelled from 6,200 to 100,000. In Hopkinsville, Wyoming, the town of 32,000 welcomed about 100,000 guests. And in South Carolina, about 1 million people were drawn into the path of totality.

Hotels sold out, and people camped in farmers fields to view the event. AAA warned drivers to pull over to watch the event, and warned against wearing eclipse glasses while behind the wheel. U.S. employers estimated theyd lose about $700 million in productivity.

About 800 people gathered at the Bitterroot College for a NASA-sanctioned viewing party, where telescopes and the special eclipse glasses were available for viewing. Children made marshmallow-toothpick constellations and decorated sugar cookies to look like the sun. People could make star charts of the night sky, and with Star Wars music blasting, they counted down to the full eclipse.

The actual event began slowly, as people donned their solar glasses to look toward the sun. About half an hour into the eclipse, a stillness filled the air and birds were silent. The sky took on a new hue, with shades of blue and orange floating across the horizon, and an odd electricity filled the air as the temperature dropped at least 10 degrees.

Suddenly, on that mountaintop in Idaho, Venus shown as brightly at noon as it does on a cloudless night. We ripped off our glasses as the corona occurred, with the moon completely blocking the sun, and the world slowed to a crawl. It was breathtaking.

The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. will be in 2024, but a coast-to-coast eclipse wont happen until 2045.
See original here

Carmen Yulin Cruz says the federal government's "botched" recovery effort has been "insensible," "man-made," and "Trump administration-made."

By Common Dreams staff

San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz blasted U.S. President Donald Trump as a "disaster-in-chief" in an interview with ABC News this week, while slow recovery efforts continue 100 days after the Category 4 Hurricane Maria decimated Puerto Rico in late September.

"Where he needed to be a commander-in-chief, he was a disaster-in-chief. President Trump does not embody the values of the good-hearted American people that have [made] sure that we are not forgotten," Cruz said. "He was disrespectful to the Puerto Rican people, he was disrespectful to the American people who were leaving their homes to come help us here."

Cruz has been a leading critic of the Trump administration's response to the humanitarian crisis that broke out on the island, a U.S. territory, following the hurricane. She pointed to the suspiciously low official death count as an example of the government's inadequate handling of disaster, adding that she hopes the review recently ordered by Gov. Ricardo Rossello will reveal how many people died in connection to the storm.

"We owe it to the memory of those people to know," Cruz said, "and we owe it to the transformation of Puerto Rico: why they died, and how we can ensure that this does not happen again."

Rossello's order that the government review the official death toll, which is 64, followed a New York Times report published earlier this month that documented more than a thousand deaths on the island following the hurricane.

(Image by Demographic registry of Puerto Rico) Details DMCA

Meanwhile, residents of Puerto Rico are still struggling and thousands remain without electricity. Although nearly 70 percent of the island's electrical grid is generating power after being destroyed by the storm, the Associated Press reported this week that the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority "has no way of knowing how widely electricity is being distributed because the system that measures that isn't working."

However, the AP noted that a study conducted earlier this month by a group of local engineers "estimated roughly 50 percent of the island's 3.3 million people remained without power, and "the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has said it likely won't be until May that all of Puerto Rico is electrified."

In an interview on MSNBC Thursday night, Cruz explained that "there are various degrees of destructiveness of the botched effort" by the U.S. government to lead the island's recovery. "In San Juan things are getting somewhat better -- we see the light at the end of the tunnel -- but as you move away from the metropolitan areas, still, things are very touch-and-go."

After outlining the ongoing issues that residents are experiencing with accessing electricity, food, and drinkable water, Cruz concluded, "The botched effort has been insensible, it has been man-made, and has been Trump administration-made."

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 License
Any time I come across a good book about God, especially if it is written by a prolific writer like Reza Aslan, I cannot resist the temptation to read it; so, I did. Aslan's latest book, God, A Human History, is his latest attempt as a believer, as he admits, to explain how we should experience God in our life. Thanks to being on Christmas break, I was able to continue reading it nonstop until the last page. I am not, obviously, a scholar on the topics of religion and God, but Dr. Reza Aslan is and his books on these topics are usually among best-sellers. Writing on those two topics, by the way, is immensely rewarding because millions of readers are eager to know the answers to life's indispensable questions that have remained unanswered so far, including how we can explain the existence of God. To this point in time, the search for and the research on God have been interminable and the results are still inconclusive. Neither believers nor nonbelievers have been able to reasonably prove their claims regarding the existence of God. The quest, however, continues.

Unfortunately, my urge to find out whether there is substantive evidence for the existence of God remains unfulfilled, even after I finished reading this book. Despite this, the book undoubtedly is enlightening and well worth the read. As is true for Dr. Aslan's other books, this book is profoundly researched and presents an intellectually stimulating examination of some of the most vital issues, such as the long history of religious beliefs, rituals, and foremost, human perceptions of God. It keeps the reader thinking and pondering. Like some other scholars of this topic, Reza argues that the need for spirituality, that is a supernatural divine power, is hardwired into our brains. In other words, the quest for God is innate and that is why it has always been with us. We are genetically predisposed to believe in something above and beyond our mundane existence, like a supernatural being, even if we do not have any scientific proof for its existence. In my opinion, if we focus too much on such an endeavor as searching for proof, we may lose our faith in God and become nonbelievers. I think God should remain in the realm of make-believe, or in the realm of mystery. We should not need proof of God's existence; God's presence should permeate our lives and awareness.

In his book, Aslan argues that throughout history, God has been "humanized" within our different belief systems. We human beings have cast God in our own image and bestowed upon him our own features and attributes; additionally, we created a superhuman with no human limitations. Aslan's principal objective in this book is to explain the need to change this perception of God to whom we have bestowed not only our good traits but also, more often, our vulgarities, including our inclination for violence.

Aslan is not trying to prove the existence or non-existence of God; that is an impossible task as he admits. Rather, he delineates the evolution of God in different eras of human history by various religions and how the concept of God has changed with our social, psychological, and cultural evolution. What we make of our gods and how we characterize and experience them is what Dr. Aslan discusses in the first few chapters by deeply examining human perceptions of God from prehistoric eras to modern time.

By relentlessly humanizing our God, Aslan would argue, we deprive him of universality and make him a limited force because the traits we ascribe to him are reflections of our own limited culture and our overall dispositions and, therefore, reflect only what we want our God to represent and do for us. Perception of God, in other words, is mainly the product of environment and culture that is transferred across generations through cultural evolution. No belief system, including belief in God, exists in isolation; it is the outgrowth of older beliefs. It is almost impossible to find a belief system that emerged out of nowhere. That is why the humanization of God continues. Humanized gods are given different characters over time, depending on the prevailing milieu of a specific time. Evidently, the new gods inherit some of the characteristics of the previous gods, but are also ascribed some new characteristics and elevated grandeur. Anything that previous gods could do, the new gods can do even better. That is perhaps why Muslims proclaim that heir God, Allah, is the greatest, Allah O Akabr, because they believe that Islam is the last and the most complete of all religions. According to Dr. Aslan, such progression in the perception of God did not happen smoothly and revolutionarily; it has evolved throughout millennia.

Beginning with ancient societies, gods were like humans; they possessed all the attributes of human beings, including love and hate dispositions, forgiveness and retribution. The reason gods were depicted as human beings was because human beings were the only intelligent beings known to them. The ideal god was portrayed as an ideal human being. As Xenophanes, an ancient Greek philosopher, stated: "If horses had Gods, they would look like horses!"

In summary, the gods of various civilizations were like their predecessors except that different people attached additional attributes to their human gods, depending on the salient features of their culture as well as the existing situations. With the constant evolution of human culture, however, societies were eventually guided toward modern values such as moral enlightenment; hence, concern for improvement in morality, ethics, justice, and human dignity grew, as did the belief in only one god, a fundamentally universal god who is concerned about the moral improvement of all human beings. Aslan argues that we need to view God in a pantheism approach, think of him in terms of the forces and laws of the universe and not restricted to being like a human with super human abilities.

It seems Dr. Reza Aslan is suggesting that because we need God in our individual and in our social lives, we earnestly seek to define and to experience him, to find ways to prove his existence, and to connect with him in our life. We have done so in human terms for thousands of years. If we choose to believe in a God, it is long overdue now for us to dehumanize our God and think about him in universal terms.
From Strategic Culture

Like a good wine, Russian President Vladimir Putin's famous speech delivered in Munich 10 years ago regarding global security has been rewarded with time. A decade on, the many facets contained in that address have only become all the more enhanced and tangible.

Speaking to a senior international audience at the annual Munich Security Conference, on February 10, 2007, the Russian leader opened by saying he was going to speak about world relations forthrightly and not in "empty diplomatic terms." In what followed, Putin did not disappoint. With candor and incisiveness, he completely leveled the arrogance of American unilateral power.

He condemned the "aspirations of world supremacy" as a danger to global security. "We are seeing a greater and greater disdain for the basic principles of international law," adding at a later point: "One state and, of course, first and foremost the United States, has overstepped its national borders in every way."

But, moreover, Putin presciently predicted that the American arrogance of unipolar dominance would in the end lead to the demise of the power from seeking such supremacy.

A unipolar world, he said, is "a world in which there is one master, one sovereign. And at the end of the day this is pernicious not only for all those within this system, but also for the sovereign itself because it destroys itself from within."

Ten years on from that call, few can doubt that the global standing of the United States has indeed spectacularly fallen -- just as Putin had forewarned back in 2007. The most recent example of demise was the sordid business earlier this month of arm-twisting and bullying by the US at the United Nations over the tabled resolutions repudiating Washington's ill-considered declaration of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

Other examples of fallen American leadership can be seen in regard to President Trump's reckless threats of war -- instead of diplomacy -- with North Korea over its nuclear weapons program. Or Trump's irrational and unfounded belligerence towards Iran. The American propensity for using military force regardless of diplomacy and international law leaves most nations feeling a shudder of contempt and trepidation.

Another example of fallen American leadership is seen in the boorish way the Trump administration has unilaterally rejected the 2015 international Paris Accord to combat deleterious climate change. Trump views it as a conspiracy to undermine the American economy, as he alluded to in his recent National Security Strategy. How can such a self-declared global leader be taken seriously, much less, with respect?

Putin's warning that the unipolar-seeking US would "destroy itself" could not be more apt.

Because in order to seek such supremacy, such a power, by necessity of its ambition, must reject the rule of law and the principle of democracy as being nothing other than bothersome constraints on its hegemony.

President Trump likes to talk at times about the "peaceful coexistence of sovereign nation states." But whatever virtue he may be intending or paying lip service to, it is totally negated by American ambitions of unipolar dominance -- ambitions that have been harbored in successive administrations in Washington since the end of the Cold War more than 25 years ago.

To this view of the world, Putin said: "I consider that the unipolar model is not only unacceptable but also impossible in today's world."

The impossibility, and impermissibility, stems from the inevitable tendency of unilateral conduct, which rejects the principle of all being equal under the law. The would-be unipolar hegemon, by definition, sees itself as above the law. Such a self-anointed view of oneself leads to tyranny and abuse of power.

Since the end of the Cold War balance of power between the US and the former Soviet Union, the world has been plunged into a state of permanent wars and conflicts, due to the proclivity of the United States to act alone and on the basis that its "might is right."

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 The New Yorker

Tuesday should have been a day of unmitigated joy for America's oil and gas executives. The new G.O.P. tax bill treats their companies with great tenderness, reducing even further their federal tax burden. And the bill gave them something else they've sought for decades: permission to go a-drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. But, around four in the afternoon, something utterly unexpected began to happen. A news release went out from Governor Andrew Cuomo's office, saying that New York was going to divest its vast pension-fund investments in fossil fuels. The state, Cuomo said, would be "ceasing all new investments in entities with significant fossil-fuel-related activities," and he would set up a committee with Thomas DiNapoli, the state comptroller, to figure out how to "decarbonize" the existing portfolio. Cuomo's office even provided a handy little Twitter meme of the type that activists often create: it showed three smoke-belching stacks and the legend "New York Is Divesting from Fossil Fuels." The pension fund under Albany's control totals two hundred billion dollars, making it one of the 20 largest pools of money on Earth.

Not to be outdone, half an hour later the comptroller of the city of New York, Scott Stringer, sent out a similar statement: he, too, was now actively investigating methods for "ceasing additional investments in fossil fuels, divesting current holdings in fossil-fuel companies, and increasing investments in clean energy." Stringer's pension funds add up to a hundred and ninety billion dollars -- that's in the top 20, too.

Climate advocates -- many of them at 350.org, the nonprofit that I founded--have been working for years to spur divestment from fossil-fuel stocks, and this was perhaps the biggest single day of that campaign, which in turn is the largest divestment campaign in history. With Tuesday's announcements, the endowments and portfolios engaged in the process collectively manage more than six trillion dollars in assets. More important, Cuomo and Stringer sent the signal that, in the very center of world finance, sentiment is turning sharply against fossil-fuel investing. Activists have urged divestment for what you might call moral reasons: if it's wrong to wreck the planet, it's wrong to profit from the wreckage. But pension funds are willing to divest because they've come to believe that the future is not about coal and oil and gas -- that these are now on the decline. The future lies elsewhere.

These divestments won't happen overnight; Cuomo will have to persuade DiNapoli to cooperate, and in any event no one wants a fire sale of stocks at depressed prices. But the announcements offered an encouraging echo of other recent developments. Norway, for instance, last month began work to divest its giant sovereign-wealth fund, which is bigger even than New York's combined pensions. The World Bank, last week, said it would no longer be lending money for oil and gas exploration. It's not that the fossil-fuel industry will go bankrupt overnight; its supporters, including Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, will give it all the love they can. But the shift in the Zeitgeist has been dramatic. The same day that Cuomo was pumping out divestment memes, the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, sent out a tweet announcing that his country would no longer grant any licenses for oil and gas exploration in its various territories. He concluded with "#keepitintheground," a hashtag until now confined to campaigners.

Tuesday's news is also a reminder that, as thoroughly as Trump and the G.O.P. have captured D.C., there are other arenas in which to fight them. New York State is, obviously, smaller than the federal government, but it's not that small. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, for instance, has been using state statutes to bedevil ExxonMobil, investigating the company's sordid coverup of our climate peril. It's likely that the actions of the pension funds will prove contagious to some degree. Other states and cities will begin to wonder whether they're going to be left holding the bag.

It would make the most sense, of course, to have a concerted global battle against climate change -- it is, after all, the first truly global problem we've ever faced. But this Administration will not fight it, as Trump's recent pullout from the Paris climate accords showed. So if the battle, instead, is going to be local, 390 billion dollars is a pretty good haul for one day. New York may be an empire in name only, but on Tuesday it demonstrated a global reach.
From Truthdig



Billionaire Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos is the richest person in the world.

(Image by YouTube, Channel: Corporate Valley) Details DMCA



Oligarchy prevents democracy. That explains the gist of why the United States became more undemocratic in 2017.

With vast income inequality and corporate power, this country's oligarchy keeps consolidating itself -- largely hidden in plain sight -- normalized and embossed on the wallpaper of mass-media echo chambers. Several decades of ominous trend lines have brought us to dire tipping points.

"In the American republic, the fact of oligarchy is the most dreaded knowledge of all, and our news keeps that knowledge from us," historian Walter Karp wrote. "By their subjugation of the press, the political powers in America have conferred on themselves the greatest of political blessings -- Gyges' ring of invisibility." Those words appeared in 1989.

Nearly 30 years later, the power of billionaires, huge banks and Wall Street over U.S. politics is far more dominant, while a propaganda fog diverts attention from their anti-democratic leverage. An array of news media (including big "public" outlets like NPR) and corporate politicians, unwilling to acknowledge, let alone challenge the reality of an oligarchy in the United States, love to point accusatory fingers elsewhere.

Days before the end of 2017, I googled the phrase "American oligarchs" and found that it appeared scarcely one-tenth as often as "Russian oligarchs." Yet the gravest injuries and threats to democracy in the USA are overwhelmingly coming from massively capitalized individuals and corporations at the top of the U.S. power structure.

Oligarchs like Sheldon Adelson, Jeff Bezos, Charles Koch, David Koch, Robert Mercer and Rupert Murdoch are wielding enormous power at many levels of the political economy and social zeitgeist, while corporate America functions with expanding latitude and increasing impunity. The extreme concentrations of wealth and economic power equal extreme concentrations of political power.

"The fact of oligarchy" that Walter Karp cited at the end of the 1980s now looms larger than ever. In the next few years, reversing the catastrophic momentum will require finding ways to defeat the partisan right arm of oligarchic forces. Noam Chomsky is correct when he calls the present-day Republican Party "the most dangerous organization in world history."

Fighting the GOP right is only part of the imperative. We need an ongoing and escalating grass-roots challenge to the national leadership of the Democratic Party, which remains aligned with Wall Street and the warfare state. The tasks ahead involve strengthening progressive populist movements to gain power inside and outside of electoral arenas.

In 2018, whether the races are for U.S. House and Senate seats or for state offices, the path ahead will require fighting for progressive candidates in Democratic primaries and then fighting to defeat Republicans in general elections with Democratic nominees. There will simply be no other way to wrest majority control of Congress away from the Republican Party in the November 2018 election.

The chair of the California Democratic Party's Progressive Caucus, former union organizer Karen Bernal, has a long history of working inside and outside the party. As the author of a section of "Autopsy: The Democratic Party in Crisis" (produced by a task force that I was part of), she wrote: "Social movements cannot be understood as tools to get Democrats elected. The ebb and flow of social movements offer a rising tide in their own right that along the way can lift Democratic Party candidates -- if the party is able to embrace the broad popular sentiment that the movements embody."

The report added: "The Democratic Party is badly positioned to present itself as a foe of the powerful forces causing widespread economic distress for working people, the poor and 'near poor,' the elderly, millennials, people of color -- in short, the party's purported base. Weakness of messaging is directly related to the comfort that corporate power enjoys not only in legislative halls across the nation but also within the party itself. Such corporate dominance prevents the party from truthfully projecting itself as an ally of the working class."

That must change.

While we see all too clearly how a lack of democracy can -- and does -- coexist with elections, it is inconceivable that we could have true democracy without elections. They'll be crucial for advancing a progressive agenda to end the undemocratic power of economic elites.

Polls throughout 2017 showed that the most popular politician in the country is Bernie Sanders, who has been denouncing the oligarchy for many years. No wonder The Washington Post -- owned by the richest person in the world, Jeff Bezos -- has gone to centrist extremes to disparage Sanders and what he stands for. The mortal threat to the oligarchy is a sustained groundswell that can propagate genuine democracy.

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) last updated -  Evidence Based

Drinking Russian tea has been a popular part of Russian culture for hundreds of years, but now this tea style is becoming more common in other parts of the world.

What is Russian Tea?

Russian tea is not a precise type of tea, but rather a method of mixing, preparing, and serving. The tea itself is typically a blend of herbal tea and black or green tea, much of which was imported from China to Russia when tea first became popularized by the czars. The long caravan journey gave the tea a smoky flavor, due to the campfires, and that flavor is still mimicked today in this variety. [1]

In parts of America, there is also a beverage called Russian tea, and it is often consumed around the winter holidays. It is a combination of black tea, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves. Despite the name, there is no clear link between this American beverage and the Russian style of tea.

How to Make Russian Tea?

If you want to make Russian tea for yourself, you can prepare it in a number of ways, with ingredients like lemon, honey, jam, orange juice, and herbal black or green teas.

Russian Tea Recipe Traditional Russian tea is made in a Samovar. You can use any tea for making the concentrate. Just add hot water later for a quick cup of tea. 0 from 0 votes Print Pin Cook Time: 3 minutes Total Time: 3 minutes Servings: 7 people Author: Paromita Datta [2] [3] Pin Ingredients 4 tbsp tea leaves heaped

Water for brewing

1 tsp honey, lemon or jam optional Instructions To make the tea concentrate (zavarka in Russian), add the tea leaves to a teapot and add water. The water should be just enough to soak the leaves, plus a bit extra. The amount of tea leaves can be adjusted according to taste.

Let the tea leaves brew for 10-15 mins. The leaves should float to the surface of the soaking water.



To drink, pour out as much concentrate as you want in a teacup and add hot water to dilute it.



Add honey, lemon or jam to the tea for flavor, if desired. Notes Although this recipe specifies 7 servings, it would depend on how strong you like yoru tea. The more tea leaves you use for the concentrate and the longer you brew the tea, the stronger will be your brew. You can later adjust this by diluting the brew as per taste.

Russian Tea Benefits

The benefits of Russian tea primarily come from the herbal preparation and the black tea or green tea that you included. This tea is known to help with weight loss efforts and can reduce cholesterol, as well as prevent tooth decay and promote the growth of strong bones. Due to the antioxidants found in black and green tea, you can prevent oxidative stress in various parts of the body, and encourage healthier skin. This tea can also give a boost to the immune system, helping to fend off everything from the common cold to more serious infections. [4] [5]

Connect With Us

If you have tried this recipe, we would love your feedback in the comments section below. And while we cant taste it, we would love to see how it turned out! You can connect with us on Facebook or Instagram and tag your picture with #organicfactsrecipes. [6] [7]

Do you wish to share your winning recipes with us? Please click here and fill in the details to get started.


In our latest series of articles, we want to highlight the wonderful women from Pakistan who are the movers and shakers of their tech scene. Pakistan is a country which earns a reputation for all the wrong reasons. However, it is full of amazing and talented people. In this article we focus on Sukaina Abbas. She is a software engineer by training, who is successfully running a brand for Silver jewellery called Enchante.

Tell us a little about yourself, your background, your work and your motivations.

Although a software engineer by degree, I am a homemaker and entrepreneur who is happy designing and running a brand of Silver jewellery called Enchante. This entrepreneurial journey was not planned, but I believe now that it was meant to be. The brand turns 4 this year.

Do you think Pakistan has changed as a society, in terms of letting women take on jobs?

From the little progress I see around in the society, I believe we still have a long way to go in terms of gender-biased salaries, well-deserved promotions, maternity leave/benefits and other issues such as workplace harassment etc.

What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

I think there are a lot of factors that contribute to this issue, the top ones being male chauvinism, lack of equal opportunities and prejudice against female authority/decision making.

What is the best and worst decision youve ever made?

Now, this is a tough one! I would say probably the best decisions were the ones where there was contentment in the result and no regrets. The bad ones were those where emotion or influence overrode logic and prevented a clear, unbiased perspective which caused misjudgment.

What woman inspires you and why?

The list is too long to name one but what all these women have in common is their unwavering determination and courage to never give up.

Do we have any role models for women? If not, what can we do to create them in Pakistan?

Of course, we do!! We have so many Pakistani women who are breaking glass ceilings, bringing change through their work and empowering other females.

Is there a neutral platform or forum for women to discuss their career needs?

Yes, we have a few. For instance for women in the field of Technology, we have the Women-in-tech-pk, a group run by my friend Faiza Yousuf, which not only is a strong interactive network of support but also a help in career guidance and counselling.

What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?

The coming generation although lucky to have double the opportunities we did, will face the daunting task of making an impact in the saturated fields which will be much more competitive than the present times.

What needs to change to help more women come forward?

In order to help more women come forward, we need equal opportunities for them, viable infrastructure, support centres, mentors etc.

If you could change one thing, what would it be?

To have the best education for all women, they are so brilliant and hardworking all they need is a chance to shine.

How can OxGadgets and its readers help you and other women of the industry?

There is a lot that can be done but a small step would be to help raise awareness about the issues and highlight their achievements.

You can find out more about Sukaina Abbas and her brand by checking out the links below. We do encourage you to hire her for any project you may have in mind, and of course, buy her wonderful jewellery.

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/enchantesilver

Instagram: @Enchante_Silver

Twitter: Su_kaina and EnchanteSilver

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sukainaabbas
Did you know that Paste owns the worlds largest collection of live music recordings? Its true! And whats even crazier, its all freehundreds of thousands of exclusive songs, concerts and videos that you can listen to and watch right here at Paste.com, from Louis Armstrong to The Who to U2 to Wilco. Every day, well dig through the archive for the coolest recording we have from that date in history. Search and enjoy!

On Dec. 29, 1979, Paul McCartney and Wings capped a UK tour with four nights of benefit concerts, staged with UNICEF, for refugees of the brutal war between Cambodia and Vietnam. The shows, known as the Concerts for the People of Kampuchea (Kampuchea being the name of the Pol Pot-led state that existed in Cambodia from 1975 to 1979), assembled a ridiculous collection of 70s-era British rock godsincluding The Clash, The Who, Queen, Elvis Costello, and members of Led Zeppelinat the Hammersmith Odeon in London.

The Paste Vault contains two performances from the concerts, both of which are joys to behold, in spite of the very dire issue the concerts were aiming to address. First is a performance of the 1961 Elvis Presley hit Little Sister by the rockabilly group Rockpile, with Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant taking lead vocal.

The second clip is the real gem. While organizing the concerts with U.N. Secretary General Kurt Waldheim, McCartney recruited a supergroup, called Rockestra, to join him on the Odeon stage with more than 30 musicians in all. Included in the cavalry: The Whos Pete Townshend on guitar, Plant ON BASS (though its hard to tell if hes actually playing it), and Zeppelins John Bonham on drums (you can catch him up on the riser at the 2:51 mark). The gang played three songs that night: Let It Be, Little Richards Lucille, and the Rockestra Theme. Here is Lucille:

The concerts, which also included full sets by The Specials and The Pretenders, were subsequently released as a double live album in the UK with Wings topping the bill. An abridged version was later released as a concert film, Concert for Kampuchea.
HAMILTON  Stepping UP for Sunshine is a semi-formal New Years Eve Prime Rib dinner and dance at the Darby Clubhouse to raise funds and community spirit for Darby graduate Jake Sunshine Sanders in his battle against lymphoma.

Dana Nelson is coordinating the fundraising event along with Kimberly Lewis, Theresa Manzella, Christina Harrell, Sarah Nelson, Lori Smith, Hillary McDowell, Kylie Fisher, Michelle Buker, Sue Neville and Kim Fox.

We hope to raise community spirit and to let him know that all the people here are rooting for him and wishing him well on this whole treatment plan with the cancer he has, Nelson said. They cannot remove the tumor with surgery so the goal is to shrink it over the next three years. He has a long road ahead with treatments and trips to the hospital.

About three months ago, Jake Sanders was having chest pains and after several appointments was diagnosed with Stage 3 Non-Hodgkins T-cell Lymphoma. He has been undergoing chemotherapy at Childrens Primary Hospital in Salt Lake City.

Nelson said she met Debi Sanders  Jake Sanders mom  as a chaperone for a senior trip of Darby High School students.

My daughter was friends with Jake and his girlfriend Kylie (Fisher), she said. That is how I got involved in all of this.

Jake is one of the most remarkable young men I have come across. He and his mom have been through quite a few struggles over the course of his life. Debi, went through Stage 3 malignant melanoma skin cancer and had to undergo three surgeries and a year of chemo starting when Jake was 8 months old. To add to the tragedy, he lost his only brother seven years ago, and lost his grandmother five years ago to cancer.

Nelson said Fisher will be at the New Years Eve event, but was unsure if Jake Sanders will attend.

If Jake is up to it and if he gets the okay from his doctor to be around that many people, he may try to be there, she said. Usually when people are on chemo it is not recommended for them to be around that many people.

According to Nelson, Jake Sanders came home to Darby just before Christmas, will do treatments in Missoula, and will head back to Salt Lake City sometime after the first of the year.

Music for the New Years Eve event will be provided by Jim Pearson, who volunteered his services.

Hes a pretty good entertainer from what I hear, Nelson said. We hope it is an amazing turnout. We are doing pre-sales tickets for the evening with over 80 items for the silent auction.

Auction items include a two-night cabin rental at the Stock Farm Club, a fly fishing trip with Montana Hunting and Fishing Adventures with the Bitterroot Fly Company, lift tickets to Lost Trail Powder Mountain, a two-night cabin rental at Corber Cabins, jewelry, art work and other products.

Nelson said the New Years Eve party will have great food and visiting.

It will have lot of love, support and a great time for the people that come to the event and rally around him, she said. This was one way that his friends and community members can come together and help lighten the burden for this battle that he is on.

Jake has a very long journey ahead and I think this will just be a drop in a bucket, but the support for him is the biggest thing. People with a great support system tend to do better in these battles.

Debi Sanders agreed that community support is important.

Jake and I have been in Salt Lake since Sept. 28, after being life-flighted over to Intermountain Primary Childrens Hospital, Sanders said on Thursday. Its been a long and could have been a very lonely journey if it wasnt for the Bitterroot Valley, and especially the town of Darby. We have been overwhelmed with the support and the love. We have a three-year journey ahead and its possible because of this community.

Debi Sanders said that before the diagnosis, her son was attending the University of Montana and studying pre-med radiology.

But who knows now, she said. Sometimes when bad things happen something good comes out of it. The sky is the limit.

Nelson said the New Years Eve event will be a beautiful night with delicious food, amazing auction items, great music, kind and generous friends and supporters, and a worthwhile cause.

The Stepping UP for Sunshine event has limited seating, and tickets may be purchased early in Darby at Electric Beach, Bandit Brewing, Kim Lewis Massage, Darby Liquor, Darby Merc and in Hamilton at Alpha Propane, Theresa Manzella and Dana Nelson (360-0356).

Tickets for Stepping UP for Sunshine cost $40 for dinner, a no host bar, music and dancing. The social hour is 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by a prime rib dinner, auction, music and dancing Sunday, Dec. 31, at the Darby Club House.
Could we count the ways James Franco and Tommy Wiseau are similar?

Whether he's actually sedated by Pineapple Express or just really happy all the time, James Franco appears to be eternally stoned. Browsing through Franco's filmography on IMBD, a true fan could detail when Franco's pothead aesthetic went from novice smoker to the guy who does bong rips and dabs for breakfast. His wide, jubilant grin is a telling sign, contorting his face into layers of wrinkles as his eyes open just enough, indicating his earthly cognition.

James Franco has done it all or has at least tried to. He has an M.F.A. from Columbia, a master's in filmmaking from NYU, and was even a professor at NYU, UCLA, and Colombia just for kicks. Outside of his scholastic endeavors, most people know Franco as Spidey's best friend (and frenemy in the inexcusably bad Spider-Man 3), or as the other half of the Hollywood bromance with Seth Rogen. Seth Rogen is the peanut butter to Franco's jam and The Disaster Artist, inspired by a memoir of the same name, is the bread to their midafternoon lunch. This buddy comedy interprets how its source material, the cult sensation The Room, came to be: Given the Franco and Rogen treatment, one of the worst movies ever made now stars Franco as Tommy Wiseau and, to no one's surprise, Franco lands the woozy, slurred performance by acting like a knockoff brand of himself.

1339458

Could we count the ways James Franco and Tommy Wiseau are similar? Yes and no (in fact, James Franco has probably written a term paper psychoanalyzing the parallels of Wiseau's imago with his own). Would Franco have been a Wiseau had he not found his comedy niche or a Rogen to counter his wild antics? Yes and no. The Disaster Artist conveys how someone can make a piece of art so bad that it's lauded by everyone for its badness. How can something so tacky, so cheap, and so weird still find itself in arthouse theaters around the States? And how can a movie that has the aesthetic of a back-alley porno get Hollywood recognition from one of the finest bromances to grace the silver screen?

Well, for every Tommy Wiseau desperate for fame and fortune, there's a friend who's willing to back up his bad ideas because offriendship. Yep, The Disaster Artist is about friendship and the early stages of creation, what it feels like to have an idea you believe in enough to become a pariah. Franco is joined by his little brother, Dave Franco (who plays Greg Sestero), an aspiring actor who, unlike Wiseau, has a shot at acting. The Disaster Artist is a hilarious enactment of some of the best worst acting you've ever seen; the Franco brothers share a weirdly poetic exchange onscreen as friends trying to make it big, and Seth Rogen (as Sandy Schklair) sits in a chair winking at the audience like: "Look, we get the joke and then some."

Watching The Room is similar to watching any movie in the Twilight franchise: it's a cringeworthy experience, yes, but it's also your favorite comedy of all time, a noteworthy addition to the films your friends come over to hate-watch with you on Friday nights. The fun is there because Tommy Wiseau was somehow able to convince a cast of actors and a production crew to film the type of movie you'd believe in after five bowls of Pineapple Express, one filmmaking tutorial on YouTube, and a pep talk from a hobo wearing Chanel slippers. It doesn't matter if the actors you've convinced to star in your romantic melodrama are all doing laxative commercials to pay rent, or that your voice slightly sounds like you're from a faraway land where a Yiddish and New Orleans accent intertwine. You too can dream big and make a wonderfully bad movie.

Classroom Takeaways

Here's a fun drinking game. Take a shot every time Tommy Wiseau seems confused by the cameras in front of him. Have a paramedic on standby.

POP DUST Oscar-worthy Score: 

Shaun Harris is a poet, freelance writer, and editor published in avant-garde, feminist journals. Lover of warm-toned makeup palettes, psych-rock, and Hilton Als. Her work has allowed her to copyedit and curate content for various poetry organizations in the NYC area.

POP DUST | Read More About Film/TV...

BOX OFFICE BREAKDOWN | Top Films of 2017

"Call Me By Your Name" ...and I'll Call You By Mine

THE REAL REEL | Catt Sadler Says Bye to E!

SATURDAY FILM SCHOOL | Every athlete has a story and 'I, Tonya's' is anything but picture perfect
The State Ports Authority wants to build a new terminal for passengers of cruise ships such as the Carnival Ecstasy. File/Staff
Palmetto Brewing has been sold to Catawba Valley Brewing Co. of Morganton, N.C. The Charleston craft beer maker will remain in its Huger Street location. File/Brad Nettles/Staff
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 performed an outstanding show Nov. 13 at the Charleston Gaillard Center. Read moreReview: Straight No Chaser delights young and old on a cappella tour
The area had been blocked off by city officials. No one was hurt and nothing damaged. The wall has been menacing passersby for many years. A fix is in the works. Read morePortion of old brick wall by Charleston's Second Presbyterian Church gives way
There was a combination of superlative hysteria and political opportunism behind the warnings about the end of democracy leading up to last weeks elections, but it wasnt inconceivable that wed have flare-ups of violence and intimidation, that people who embrace the fantasy that the 2020 e Read moreEditorial: Election 2022 gave everybody something to celebrate
If youre out ringing in the New Year at midnight Sunday, temperatures wont be below freezi
Speaker Nancy Pelosi says the attack on her husband, Paul, by an intruder in their family home made her think about staying on as the House Democratic leader. She says she almost thought about being leader again because she couldnt give them that satisfaction of intimidating her out of politics. Pelosi spoke to reporters Thursday at the Capitol after announcing she would step aside for a new generation of leaders. She will remain the congresswoman from California. Pelosi says shes not sad about her choice to step aside but feels balanced in her decision. She has no plans to endorse a successor and no desire to meddle with the new leadership's vision. Read morePelosi's big decision: 'Theres a life out there, right?'
A land transfer has moved 640 acres of former timberland near Beavertail Hill State Park into public ownership, with more potentially on the way.

The Trust for Public Lands brokered the deal between Stimson Lumber Co. and the U.S. Forest Service for the private parcel checkerboarded inside part of the Lolo National Forest. It provides access to more than 6,000 acres of public land popular for hunting fishing, hiking and biking east of Clinton.

The Lolo Forest was very interested in consolidating this checkerboard land, said TPL senior project manager Kristin Kovalik. It was a priority with them for a while. And we have an agreement to a acquire about 6,000 more acres as funding becomes available.

Kovalik did not disclose the full price paid for the Stimson land, but said it included a $500,000 contribution from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund's Sportsmen Recreation Access Fund. LWCF gets its dollars through a small fraction of revenues generated by federal offshore oil and gas royalty payments and includes no general taxpayer dollars. The Sportsmens Recreation Access Fund is available for projects which protect sites of hunting and fishing access.

Insufficient access is the No. 1 reason cited by sportsmen for forgoing time afield, Montana Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Chairman John Sullivan noted in an email about the transfer. Therefore this acquisition could not be more timely or important to hunters and anglers. It also speaks to the importance of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the nations most popular and effective access program. Over the LWCFs half-century-plus history, the program has enabled conservation and enhanced public access to millions of acres in the United States, including Montana.

Barry Dexter of Stimson Lumber added, Stimson Lumber Company recognizes the high recreational benefits to Sportsmen that this transaction offers. Ensuring that this property remains open for public access while maintaining a healthy forest, are important elements of the present and future use of this property. We are pleased to be a part of preserving this legacy for the people of Montana.
Fishermen often announce that they've seen color as a hooked fish darts about in the depths below a boat. And that's exactly what Kenneth Crosby said to fellow "Jon Boat" crew members Jon Vroon and Kenneth Nelson on Nov. 2 as they fished the Hang Em' High Kingfish Invitational. Read moreJames Island crew wins $109K in Kingfish Invitational
Efforts to end the perennial financial crisis at Guam Memorial Hospital took on added urgency in 2017 as the governor and various lawmakers pushed for approval of their proposals to reverse the downward spiral at the islands only public hospital.

Gov. Eddie Calvo set the tone in March for what would become a vigorous public discussion on GMH, when he said in his State of the Island address that GMH is bleeding cash and needs a transfusion right away.

He proposed a GMH modernization plan by borrowing $100 million. By June, that had morphed into a tax increase and bond-borrowing plan which was submitted to the Legislature for approval.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

Bill 141 proposes a $125 million borrowing to finance renovations at GMH and upgrade or buy life-saving equipment. Bill 142 would raise the business privilege tax, or BPT, by more than 18 percent  from 4 percent to 4.75 percent  to pay for ongoing operations.

In the months that followed, the governor and his staff hammered lawmakers for a hearing on the measures, while GMH Administrator Peter John Camacho and GMH Chief Financial Officer Benita Manglona stumped for the funding bills at village meetings, and throughout the business community.

Health czars

In December, Calvo tapped two prominent island physicians to be his health czars.

One of them is Dr. Mike Cruz, a former lieutenant governor who is currently the president and CEO of the islands private hospital, Guam Regional Medical City. Dr. Larry Lizama has been chief medical officer and chief administrator at GMH, in addition to his private practice.

The governor appointed both as his health advisers and has asked them to work with him on solutions to bring financial stability to GMH, and help win passage of the GMH funding measures.

By years end, however, neither measure had received the public hearing they needed to advance, despite high-profile lobbying efforts, such as the hearse parked in front of the Legislature pasted with signs delivering a blunt message  patients are dying at GMH because the Legislature has not acted.

Legislative Speaker Benjamin Cruz stood his ground, saying Guam law requires that any tax increase first must be submitted to the public for approval in a voter referendum.

Rival proposal

A rival funding proposal was introduced in July by Sen. Michael San Nicolas. Bill 153 proposed to consolidate all GovGuam health care funding into one unified fund administered by the Guam Memorial Hospital Authority. The Healthy Futures Fund, Guam Memorial Hospital Authority Pharmaceuticals Fund, and the GMHA Medicaid Matching Fund would all be folded into the Unified Health Fund.

During an address to the Rotary Club of Northern Guam in August, San Nicolas said the combined revenues of those three funds reached more than $90 million in fiscal year 2016. He argued that would be more than enough to cover GMHs cumulative $78 million deficit over the past three years, and as a result, there won't be any need to raise taxes or take on additional debt," he said.

This proposal, too, has not yet been scheduled for a public hearing.

The root of the problem

The lack of insured patients is the root of the problem for GMH.

In a Letter to the Editor to The Guam Daily Post, Calvo pointed out that for every 10 patients who seek life-saving services at Guam Memorial Hospital, only three have insurance, five are under some form of government underpaying program, such as Medicare, and two have no insurance coverage at all.

An audit released by the Office of Public Accountability in May found that GMH billed its self-pay patients  those without insurance  $34 million in 2016. But they were able to collect only $14.8 million from those patients  just 43 percent of what was owed.

To address that problem, health committee Chairman Sen. Dennis Rodriguez Jr. introduced his Health Care Para Todu Plan health insurance bill, which was signed into law by the governor in November. It aims to expand Medicaid eligibility for the uninsured. Its benefits have yet to be seen.

Emotional appeals

In May, during a budget hearing at the Legislature, lawmakers and stakeholders were brought to tears by an emotional appeal for funding from Dr. Kozue Shimabukuro, a pediatric critical care physician at GMH.

"Our ventilators  this equipment is 20 years old. This is what we use to keep our patients breathing long enough to treat them when they can't do it on their own. I hadn't seen this equipment since I was in Africa for a medical mission," said Shimabukuro. In December, Core Tech International Chairman Ho Eun donated $33,642 for GMH to purchase a new life-support ventilator for the hospital's pediatric ward.

GMHA sought a subsidy of about $36 million from GovGuam in fiscal 2018. In the end, it got $15.77 million, a slight increase from the $15.3 million it received the previous fiscal year.
Guam saw 2017 as the year the U.S. military took significant movement forward with its decade-long path to build up its presence on Guam.

It was also a year when many vocal activists who oppose the military expansion made sure their voices were heard, loudly.

One of the significant developments toward the military buildup, primarily the plan to build a Marine Corps base on island, was the award in August of a $164.8 million contract to Granite-Obayashi, a joint venture from Watsonville, California, directly related to building that base.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

Almost 4,700 Marines, some with families, will be moved to this future base from Okinawa, Japan, as part of the U.S.-Japan agreement to reduce the presence of American troops in Japan.

To realize the plan, Japan is contributing cash  about $3 billion  to the relocation cost.

Compared to the $8.7 billion overall cost, the contract amount announced in August appeared small.

But it signifies a major shift, from the years of planning to actual construction at the site of the future base on 400 acres in Finegayan, Dededo, which is part of an old Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station facility.

'12 years in the making'

"The award of this contract marks a critical step in moving forward with the relocation plan that has been 12 years in the making," according to Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific.

"This effort is a big step in strengthening Guam, as part of the Marianas strategic hub, ensuring the Marine Corps' ability to sustain a forward presence within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region," said Lt. Gen. David Berger, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific, on Aug. 18.

Before the award of the contract to install utilities, roads and other infrastructure  a prelude before vertical construction of the buildings can begin  the Marine base project hit a snag. Congress had frozen some of the plan's major spending items until the Department of Defense submitted a master plan, which was later fulfilled.

However, since the buildup's momentum on the federal and congressional side, local sentiment on the military expansion became starkly mixed.

Gov. Eddie Calvo, once a vocal champion of the economic benefits of the military expansion, made a surprise comment in September, saying he wants the buildup paused because of Guam's shortage of skilled construction workers. He believes the military projects would utilize most of these workers, leaving the civilian projects with a hollow labor force, in light of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' near-100 percent rejection rate of petitions for temporary workers on H-2B visas.

Another call to a pause in the buildup, local senators  with the exception of Sens. Michael San Nicolas, Mary Torres, Tom Ada and Regine Lee  voted in favor of a resolution calling for the buildup projects to be halted, in light of concerns about environmental and cultural impacts.

The activist group Prutehi Litekyan: Save Ritidian held protests against the firing range part of the buildup. The military has said the Guam Wildlife Refuge at Ritidian, a natural habitat protected by federal government regulations, won't have any construction because the firing range will be built away from it, but the protests continued. The firing range will be developed on Northwest Field within the fence of Andersen Air Force Base.

One protest became more controversial than others, when a group of supporters formed a human chain at the main gate at Andersen, temporarily blocking the flow of vehicles. The protesters were joined by Sen. Fernando Esteves, a freshman lawmaker and part-time soldier in the Guam Army National Guard, who yelled and called out an Air Force general to talk to the protesters.

4,000 workers a year  for military projects

Just a few weeks ago, another major move forward for the buildup occurred, with the signing into law of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. The NDAA authorized the spending of more than $350 million in construction projects on Guam.

It authorized Guam employers' hiring of up to 4,000 workers a year on H-2B visas, but only for military buildup-related construction projects.

Still, the governor had lingering concerns, that until the labor shortage issue for projects outside the base is addressed, the island would still be in short supply of workers to build homes and other outside-the-fence construction projects.

The labor-shortage issue continues to inspire robust discussion in the community.

Questions remain

Hardly was there a discussion  at least not yet as of last month  on what it means to the island to host 4,000 additional people a year, in a community whose population had remained stagnant at around 160,000 for nearly a decade.

Questions such as where the workers would be housed, how they would be transported to job sites and how we would ensure they won't live in substandard conditions still await answers from Guam's elected officials.
Lawyers have reacted to the latest Auditor General of the Federations report highlighting corruption in the judiciary.

PREMIUM TIMES exclusively reported findings of the report, including that about N4.8 billion was either misappropriated or unaccounted for between 2012 and 2015 by federal courts across the country.

The report said the money was siphoned through ghost contracts, non-remittance of taxes, failure of senior court officials to retire advances collected for assignments and refusal to repay vehicle loans.

In other instances, court officials overpaid for items bought, many payments made were without receipts and wide discrepancies were discovered in the transcript and analysis books.

The audit report said in 2012 about N985 million was not accounted for.

Also, in 2013, officials could not explain what they did with about N71 million and in 2014, an estimated N1.4 billion was misappropriated through unlawful insurance policies, failure to pay taxes and missing documents to back expenditure.

The amount misappropriated in 2015 almost doubled that of the preceding year. That year, the audit report revealed that officials of federal courts could not account for N2.4 billion.

Judicial authorities are yet to formally react to the damning report.

However, in separate reactions via phone interviews, the lawyers condemned the alleged acts of corruption and called for appropriate sanctions to be meted out to those found culpable.

In his reaction, Femi Falana, a lawyer and human rights activist, said the officers involved should be prosecuted and made to account for the missing funds.

Judges are not the accounting officers of the courts. The accounting officers should be made to account for the missing funds and prosecuted if it is established that the funds have been criminally diverted.

In his own reaction, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, called for the immediate investigation and prosecution of the culprits to serve as a lesson to others.

The culprits should immediately be exposed, investigated, derided, excoriorated, prosecuted and punished adequately, to serve as a lesson to themselves and others that crime does not pay and that no one is above the law.

This must be after the NJC has tried them under sections 153,158 and part 21 to the 2nd Schedule of the 1999 Constitution. To do otherwise will be for the Executive to usurp the powers of the Judiciary, he said.

Another lawyer, Charles Musa, said those involved in the misappropriation of the funds, should be investigated and made to face justice.

Describing the revelation as an unfortunate one, Ebun Adegboruwa, a Lagos-based human rights lawyer, said it is the duty of the relevant statutory law enforcement agencies to study the report and deal appropriately with those indicted.

He however said the present administration failed to do a thorough job by stopping at 2015 in the report coverage.

He said, there seems to be a deliberate attempt by the present administration to paint the judiciary in bad light and keep it in the bad books of Nigerians. As it is clear from the report, it covers 2012 to 2015, cleverly excluding the period of the life of this administration.

In a situation whereby the Buhari regime has been asking Nigerians to assess it based on its own performance, one would have loved to see the performance index of the judiciary under this dispensation.

It is clear to me by now, that the preference for impunity has pitted this administration against the judiciary, which is the most potent organ of government, established to check impunity and the excesses of the executive.

Mr. Adegboruwa urged all agencies of government to work together to deliver good governance to the people.
The Federal Government has appointed Med-View Airline, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to participate in the evacuation of 5,037 Nigerians from Libya.

The airlines executive director, Business Development and Commercial, Isiaq NaAllah, and Ibrahim Farinloye, the spokesman of NEMA, South-West Zone, confirmed the development in Lagos on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the agreement was signed between the parties on Friday in Abuja. It is expected to facilitate the smooth repatriation of Nigerians from the volatile North African country.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the airline by Mr. Na Allah, while the Director-General of NEMA, Mustapha Maihaja and Fatima Bukar, a senior legal officer of NEMA, signed on behalf of the agency.

Mr. NaAllah said in a statement that Med-View Airline would participate in the transportation of the returnees with another carrier to be appointed by the government.

This kind of responsibility is meant for Nigerian carriers, because it is our responsibility, and we have the capacity to carry out this operation.

We have demonstrated the capacity that we can do it and we are honoured to have been appointed by the Federal Government through NEMA, he said.

According to him, it is a known fact that Med-View Airline has been in operations for the past 10 years and has successfully carried out Hajj operations within and outside the country.

Mr. NaAllah said: I think that was a factor the government considered before we were assigned this national project.

We will deliver professionally up to international standard and the government is not making any mistake for entrusting Nigerian carrier to this kind of project.

NAN reports that a total of 6,806 Nigerians were evacuated from Libya in 2017 through the efforts of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the European Union (EU).

However, following reports of gross abuse of Nigerians in the country where they had been stranded enroute Europe, President Muhammadu Buhari recently constituted a 17-man fact finding committee.

The committee, headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, is saddled with the responsibility of facilitating the repatriation of Nigerians and also reintegrating them into the society, in collaboration with the state governments.

(NAN)
The Federal College of Education, Obudu, Cross River state, has recommended the suspension of the provost of the college, James Ejue, for alleged theft of N125 million from the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS, salary account of the college.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt the governing council of the college on December 15 recommended the provost for a three-month suspension from January 1 to March 31, 2018.

The decision came after PREMIUM TIMES reported the alleged misuse of N125 million in the school.

GIFMIS is an IT-based system for budget management and accounting that is being used by the federal government to improve public expenditure management processes, and enhance greater accountability and transparency across its ministries and agencies.

It was designed to help the government plan and use its financial resources more efficiently and effectively.

According to the letter of recommendation for suspension, signed by chairman of the governing council, Anthony Obi, a copy seen by PREMIUM TIMES, the provost was asked to refund N25 million unaccounted within a three-month deadline, not exceeding March 2018.

The provost was asked to refund N25 million despite having been accused of misusing N125 million.

The letter also said, The Provost should hand over the college to the deputy provost, Mecha Kalu Uduma, while the Governing Council graciously invites the honourable minister to approve councils recommendation to restore sanity in the college.

When contacted on phone, Mr. Obi told PREMIUM TIMES that, the information is not for public consumption.

It is still under investigation, as long as the council is concerned weve not made anything public, Mr. Obi said.

Meanwhile, a source in the college who requested anonymity for fear of victimisation said the provost was recommended for suspension based on alleged misappropriation of funds in connivance with the bursar of the college, Ushie Sixtus, who has been on suspension since September 29.

According to the source, the governing council has ascertained that the duo embezzled the employee contribution scheme funds which is more or less the workers pension savings.

There is a foul play in the decision of the governing council; theyve been bribed. The correct verdict for the provost and the bursar after refunding the money should be prosecution but the council only asked them to return the money and go on three month suspension, the source said.

The source added that the allegation leveled against the two is, corruption, embezzlement, misappropriation, advance fee fraud and action prejudicial to the security of the state.

The source also claimed that the provost and some of the council members were in Abuja last week to lobby the minister of education, Adamu Adamu, not to grant the approval of recommendation for suspension.

PREMIUM TIMES could not independently verify this claim. The minister could not be immediately reached.

Efforts to reach Mr Ejue were unsuccessful as he did not answer calls or respond to text messages sent to him.

The bursar, who also declined commenting on telephone, however, said he was yet to get any notification.

I have not gotten any letter to the effect that my suspension has been extended by the governing council, he said.

PREMIUM TIMES also reached out to the governing council.

If you are asking me anything about FCE Obudu, I will not answer you, I dont have any authority to speak or give you information regarding FCE Obudu and I told you the last time you called me. I dont care about what you write. Contact the PRO of the institution, Magdalene Okoko, the Registrar of FCE Obudu, who is also the secretary to the governing council told PREMIUM TIMES Friday night.

Justin Egba, the spokesperson of the college, acknowledged that the case was under investigation by the governing council.

I will like to work on any story you are writing as soon as the governing council gets to the root of the issue, he said.
President Muhammadu Buhari in one fell swoop on Friday night appointed 209 board chairmen and 1,258 members of government owned agencies and parastatals, redeeming a part of the pledge he made on October 31 at the National Executive Committee meeting of his All Progressives Congress.

More appointments are on the way, said Boss Mustapha, secretary to the Government of the Federation, who announced the latest massive batch of appointees.

At the APC NEC meeting, President Muhammadu Buhari also hinted he would expand his cabinet by appointing more ministers.

The latest appointments, the largest President Buhari ever made since 2015, saw Wada Maida, a former editor-in-chief and managing director of The News Agency of Nigeria, returning as its chairman. Appointed as one of the board members is Isa Adamu.

Mr. Maida, a former press secretary to Mr. Buhari when he was Nigerias military ruler between 1984 and 1985, is at present the Chairman board of directors of Peoples Media Limited. He retired from the agency in 2003. He was the agencys managing director from 1994, after a long spell as editor-in-chief, from 1985. He joined NAN as a pioneer editorial staff in 1978 and was at various times, the political editor and London Bureau Chief.

In other appointments, rolled out by Boss Mustapha, Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of Heyden Petroleum, who contested for the senatorial seat of Ogun East in the 2015 election, was named the new chairman of Corporate Affairs Commission.

Many big wigs of the APC were similarly appointed.

The partys legal adviser, Muiz Banire is now the chairman of the Asset Management Company of Nigeria(AMCON).

Senator Olorunimbe Mamora is the chairman of Abuja Investment and Infrastructure Centre.

The partys secretary, Mala Buni, is the chairman of the Shippers Council. Bolaji Abdullahi, the publicity secretary of the party, is in charge of the National Sugar Development Council, NSDC.

Demola Seriki, a former minister of state for defence is the chairman of the National Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron. Former Speaker House of Representatives, Patricia Etteh, is the new chairman of the National Hospital, Abuja. A former deputy speaker, Chibudom Nwuche, is in charge of Federal Medical Centre Lokoja.

Leke Pitan, a former commissioner for health in Lagos, under Asiwaju Bola Tinubu was appointed chairman of National Agricultural Extension Research Liaison Services in Zaria. Teju Philips, also a former Lagos commissioner is the chairman of Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan. Yomi Kasali, a pastor, will head the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission.

George Moghalu is the chairman of the Nigerian Communications Satellite(NIGCOMSAT). John Shagaya is the chairman of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru Jos.

Former governors of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo and Segun Oni were also named as chairmen. Mr. Adebayo is in charge of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN). Mr. Oni who is a vice-chairman of the APC has been posted to Nigerian Export Processing Zone. while Ayo Arise, a recent kidnap victim, will chair Sheda Science and technology Complex.

Former deputy governor of Plateau State, Pauline Tallen, is the new chairman of National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, NACA.

Former deputy governor of Ondo State, Ali Olanusi, will chair the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, while a former deputy governor of Lagos, Femi Pedro, is the chairman of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria.

Timi Alaibe, former Managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, is heading to Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority as chairman.

According to Boss Mustapha, all the appointments take immediate effect.

The ministers under whom the agencies fall, have been asked to constitute the boards immediately.

Mr. President considered the approval for the constitution of the Boards as well as the appointments, very necessary, so as to provide a proper Governance and oversight structure for Government Agencies and Parastatals.

The constitution of the boards with the appointments, is a demonstration of this Governments efforts aimed at building strong institutions of Governance, and by extension, improving the quality of Policy formulation and supervision, he added.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the European Union (EU) have evacuated 134 more Nigerians from Libya.

Ibrahim Farinloye, spokesperson for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), South-West Zone, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

Mr. Farinloye said the new batch of returnees arrived at the Cargo Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on Friday at 10.20 p.m.

He said the Nigerians returned aboard a BURAQ Airlines Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Registration Number 5A-DMG.

According to him, the returnees comprise 10 adult females, 123 adult males and one infant, including a medical case.

He said they were also received by officials of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Police.

Mr. Farinloye said their return brought the number of Nigerians repatriated from Libya in 2017 to 6,806.

The project of the repatriation is the programme of IOM with the funding for reintegration at the local level provided by EU.

IOM paid for their accommodation to stay overnight before proceeding to their various destinations, he added. (NAN)
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Saturday described as an unpardonable national embarrassment, the appointment of deceased persons as members of various federal boards by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement said this following the controversy trailing the presidents recent appointments considered as the largest since he assumed power.

On Friday, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF announced the appointment of 209 board chairpersons and 1,258 board members.

In the said appointments, PREMIUM TIMES reported how names of at least three deceased persons were included, others duplicated and a few non-members of the ruling APC included.

The presidency has since owned up to the anomalies in the list adding that these will be corrected.

But the PDP noted that the situation has further exposed why the nations economy has been in shambles under the APC.

The statement reads in part:

The development has further confirmed PDPs position that the APC administration is completely confused, disorganised and grossly incompetent. Nigerians can now see why the nations economy has been in shambles in the last two years. When we say that this government is completely inept, some Nigerians did not know to which level, but now they do.

This inability to tidy up a simple issue of list of 209 appointees has completely exposed the extent the APC government is bereft of simple organisational skills to manage a country like Nigeria, which is in dire need of development.

How on earth can a government that cannot compile a common list handle intricate issues of national planning and budgeting; issues of health, education, aviation, agriculture, infrastructure and management of the huge civil service?

How can they possibly initiate and successfully implement national and international instruments for national development in todays competetive world? This also explains why nothing has been working under the APC government. Furthermore, the mix up in the list also exposes the corruption in the APC government.

The fact is that the government of our dear country has been in wrong hands in the last two years and the situation will continue to worsen unless the nation is rescued from them in 2019.
The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, has assured Nigerians that the PDP will play robust and vibrant roles in the nations polity in 2018.

Mr. Secondus, in a new year message he issued on Saturday in Abuja, said the worst was over for the PDP.

He said the opposition party was ready and re-energised to play its role in the polity to deepen Nigerias democracy.

2017 was tough for us but the worst is over; we are now more than ever determined to take power back in Nigeria because the writing on the wall is clear that the ruling party cannot cope.

We sympathize with Nigerians for the hardship they have been going through in the hand of ruling party but assure them that there is a light at the tunnel.

Mr. Secondus said having gone through the political furnace, the PDP had learnt its lesson and was now refined and focussed to return to power.

He appealed to Nigerians, particularly the media and civil society groups, to stand up to their responsibilities and hold the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration accountable.

The new year 2018 is strategic and critical in the political life of the nation because activities in the year will determine the success or otherwise of 2019, he said.

While wishing Nigerians a prosperous 2018, Mr. Secondus charged members and leaders of PDP to put all hands on deck in the new year, describing the task ahead as enormous but surmountable.

He urged PDP members in Ekiti and Osun states to brace up for the partys anticipated victory in the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in the states in 2018 by vigorously mobilising the voters.(NAN)
Jack Atcheson Sr. of Butte, who built a taxidermy shop into a worldwide hunting business, died Wednesday. He was 85.

Atcheson, who moved to Butte with his family in the late 1930s, fought in the Korean War before establishing his business in 1955 with his wife, Mary Claire.

Atcheson, who became a foremost expert in international hunting, was also a dedicated advocate for Montanas public lands, helping in the fight to establish the states stream access law and in opening up millions of acres of blocked public land to sportsmen.

His son, Jack Jr., said that Atcheson was the first to use the term hunting consultant to describe what he did  a term now used by his competitors and colleagues.

Atchesons memoir, Hunting Adventures Worldwide, was published by Stoneydale Press in 1995. In 2013 he published "Real Hunting & Campfire Humor, Short Stories from a Lifetime of Travel and Adventure.

His business is now operated in Butte by sons Jack Jr. and Keith Atcheson.

In 2000, Jack Atcheson Sr. won Outdoor Life Magazines Conservation Award, in recognition of a lifetime of achievement in the conservation of wildlife and wildlife habitat, and your tireless efforts on behalf of hunting and fishing access for American sportsmen. Others who have won the award include Aldo Leopold and Jimmy Carter.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Jan. 4, at 1 p.m. at St. Patricks Church, immediately followed by a celebration of life at the Butte Mcqueen Club.
The Minister of State for Power, Housing and Transport, Suleiman Zarma, has secured the release of 36 inmates at the Gombe Main Prisons.

Mr. Zarma disclosed this while speaking with journalists in Gombe on Saturday shortly after the release of the first batch of 24 inmates for whom he paid off various sums of money levied against them as fines.

He said another batch of 12 inmates are awaiting the courts to resume after the holidays to formally initiate their release.

Mr. Zarma urged the prisoners to become better citizens and consider their experience while incarcerated as a turning point in their lives.

The minister said he was motivated to take the step following the recent release of 500 inmates in Kano by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He laemented the harsh conditions of prisons across the country, stressing that even though prison reforms are long overdue, unless circumstances that led to the influx of persons into the prisons were addressed Nigerian prisons would remain congested and inhabitable.

In the first place, it is public knowledge that our prisons are over-congested. This facility was built for about 393 people but now hosts over 1000 people.

Some of the persons we secured their releases today committed minor offences with very small charges. We think government would have no business keeping them here and feeding them at a cost possibly higher than what they are uppose to pay as fine, he said.

The minister added that even though some of the released inmates may not be from Gombe State, he remains duty bound to secure their release.

They can go and start their lives again so that they can be better citizens and contribute more to national growth. You can see most of them are not up to 30 years old, they are young people with potentials to make their mark in life given proper orientation, he said.

The Deputy State Comptroller of Prisons, Ibrahim Gide confirmed that 36 inmates regained their freedom after the minister paid their fines. He described the gesture as a welcome development.

Mr. Gide advised the former inmates to go back into the society as useful citizens.

One of them, Daniel Ambrose, an indigene of Billiri local government area of the state, described the moment as a miracle while expressing gratitude to the minister.
TALLINN, Estonia, Dec. 29, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Blockchain-based, health-focused startup Healthureum has announced its intention to tackle the expected health care expenditure, which is expected to rise between 2.4% and 7.5% by 2020 globally. The Estonia-based startup will be making the utmost endeavours to contain and ideally reduce these expenses. Healthureum aims to reduce inefficiencies in operations, resources, data, drug sourcing, and technology.

Healthureum

An incentivized measure is starting to prove popular across the globe, particularly in Japan where the METI program rewards companies, which engage in health preventative care and productivity. For this issue, Healthureum's blockchain based solution offers a solution. Technology-driven healthcare will benefit all stakeholders and patients with improved access to expertise and services while reducing costs, resources, infrastructure and operational requirements in the process.

Forbes.com and CTO Malcolm Wilkinson confirmed that:

"In 2015, a record 112 million healthcare record data breaches occurred due to IT hacks. Now imagine how the use of an interoperable blockchain could mitigate this risk due to its cryptographic nature, bringing a new level of integrity to healthcare data management."

Deloitte has identified telehealth, virtual reality, and immunotherapy among the top 10 innovations in healthcare to "achieve more for less", with only one major struggle in the form of the technical ability to integrate and share data between systems effectively.

Healthureum's Mission

Healthureum's blockchain-based resolution is a dynamic and multi-functional ecosystem designed to bring innovative Healthcare services, transforming the way we manage our healthcare. Healthureum guarantees its users access to Physicians, Specialists, quality medical infrastructure and the opportunity to access first of its kind innovative treatments, including philanthropic sponsorship programs.

Healthureum LPC Danuta Kowalska stated that:

"Through blockchain, we can achieve decentralized healthcare, closing the gap between services: through transparency, security and most importantly accountability."

Blockchain and smart contract technology integration will bring the S3, standardization, scalability and social responsibility.

This will allow token holders world-class infrastructure such as data transparency (patients will have full consolidation of their data accessible at any time), along with real-time, historic medical data, in an instant. This will enable the secure sharing of patients medical data between patients and healthcare stakeholders, with permission layers. Patients will be able to receive video consultations for faster diagnosis from a certified consultant, with a quick and safe payment system. This leaves us with a well-trusted ecosystem which promotes patient data integrity and privacy.

Healthureum's platform is designed on the Ethereum-based blockchain using smart contract technology to significantly improve efficiency and interoperability of healthcare services. The Healthureum token (HTH), which is at the very core of Healthureum's project, will be used as the transactional medium of choice. HTH will act not only as a payment option within the Healthureum network, it will compensate medical practitioners who offer referrals and second opinions. Patients can also be rewarded for sharing their medical data for research programs within the Healthureum clinics and laboratories while masking their personal identity.

Healthureum is honoured to welcome Mr. Malcolm Wilkinson, data scientist and CTO for Healthureum. His extensive background in big data, and more recently in data science and python will prove valuable in implementing the framework for data systemization which is at the core of the Healthureum initiative.

Healthureum CTO and data scientist Mr. Malcolm Wilkinson stated that:

"By adopting a decentralized approach to data management, we eliminate human errors, third-party influence, the risk of tampering and manipulation. Thus, we can achieve a more robust means for storing and sharing data securely."

There is an abundance of knowledge and experience in healthcare, technology, finance, data science and international business lines, among the Healthureum team, which will act as the heart and brain behind this innovative project.

TGE Token Pre-Sale & TGE Sale

The start of the token presale began on December 16th and will draw to a close on the 30th of December; the Main sale begins 10th January 2018 and closes on the 13th of February 2018. Healthureum is offering a spectacular early token appreciation scheme:

TGE Pre-Sale Bonus:

No. of Tokens Available 4.4 million HTH

Day 1  45%

Week 1  35%

Week 2  25%

TGE Sale Bonus:

No. of Tokens Available 28.3 million HTH

Day 1  22%

Week 1  17%

Week 2 -12%

Week 3  7%

Week 4  2%

Week 5  0%

How to take part:

Sign up on www.healthureum.io. Read our Participation Guide on your dashboard. Purchase using BTC/ETH/ECH. Make payment to the wallet address provided to complete the transaction. You will receive a purchase confirmation on your email. Your HTH tokens will be issued once the TGE has ended. You can trade your tokens on an exchange or hold them for potential future growth.

Heathureum's HTH token is an ERC20 Token with a TGE soft cap of $15 million and a total supply of 150 million tokens. Healthureum is best suited for TGE model as the project is so vast and large in scale, that it will be executed in stages, according to the milestones set out in the roadmap. By contributing to the project backers are enabling Healthurem to revolutionize the healthcare industry with the power of blockchain and smart contract technology, providing multifarious healthcare solutions to patients and healthcare stakeholders, with an emphasis on bringing widespread transparency and efficiency.

Learn more about Heathureum here: www.healthureum.io

Read the whitepaper: http://www.healthureum.io/app/Healthureum-White-Paper.pdf

Healthureum on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-FllECcNFI1zLj9jOatuxw?view_as=subscriber

Join Healthureum on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Healthureum

Follow Healthureum on Twitter: twitter.com/healthureum

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthureum

Media Contact Info

Contact Name: Danuta Kowalska

Email: [email protected]

Location: Tallinn City, Harju County - 10111

Healthureum is the source of this content. Virtual currency is not legal tender, is not backed by the government, and accounts and value balances are not subject to consumer protections. This press release is for informational purposes only. The information does not constitute investment advice or an offer to invest.

Related Links

Healthureum

Bitcoin PR Buzz

SOURCE Healthureum

Related Links

http://www.healthureum.io


BOCA RATON, Fla., Dec. 30, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty, Inc. is pleased to announce the acquisition of J & A Insurance and More, Inc., headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jacqueline Estevez and her seasoned team have provided the most comprehensive insurance coverage with the highest level of integrity and superior customer service to each client for over 15 years. With local and national carriers at their disposal, their proven success will strengthen Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty's foothold in throughout the state of Florida.

Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty, Inc. continues to target high-quality independent agencies for geographic expansion and continued growth throughout the United States. With the addition of J & A Insurance and More, Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty, Inc. will continue to reach new and current clients by helping them protect their most important valuables with not only the right insurance, but with the right service for each client. SHP&C offers:

Homeowner's Policy

Automobile Insurance

Renter's Policy

Private Client

Umbrella Coverage

Commercial and Employee Coverage

Personal Liability Coverage

Marshal Seeman, President of Seeman Holtz Property and Casualty stated, "We are happy to add J&A to our expanding client base in South Florida. They represent the high-quality client base we look to add to the Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty brand." Brett Williams, Vice President added, "Along with Dash Insurance in Texas, the acquisition of J&A Insurance and More is a fantastic finish to our year."

About Our Company: The Seeman Holtz family of companies provides comprehensive financial and insurance advice to clients across the country.

Contact: Eric Holtz

Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty

844.255.6639

[email protected]

SOURCE Seeman Holtz Property & Casualty, Inc.

Related Links

http://seemanholtzpc.com


Kellermans psychologist sleuth, Alex Delaware, assists the LAPD in solving a particularly baffling crime in Night Moves (Ballantine, Feb.).

How did you get the idea of a corpse with its hands severed and face shotgun-blasted off being discovered in the home of a family that cant account for its presence?

Ideas just fly into my head. Because Im 68, I write everything down. There are currently 86 plotlines in my files, and this was one that stuck with me.

How has your training as a psychologist influenced your writing, and what were the advantages in making your lead a psychologist?

Before I began the Delaware series, I realized that what I did as a child clinical psychologist and med school professor was, essentially, detective work, and Id like to think that my attention to detail combined with some understanding of personality has helped enrich the books. Since Delaware is a therapist, people talk to him, hes a vehicle for drawing out information, as I was when I was in practice. There have been a couple of booksSilent Partner, Bad Lovewhere hes the focus, but generally,

I see him as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes: brilliant, driven, hyperobservant, and tuned into the nuances of human behavior.

In what way has psychology changed since the mid-1980s, when you began the series?

A couple of years ago, I delivered the keynote address at the National Convention of the American Psychological Association. In that speech, I remarked how the tendency to psychologize nearly everything has replaced the old days, when mental health issues were taboo. Overall, its an improvement, but it does end up being a double-edged sword: everyone feels qualified to toss out diagnosesADHD, OCD, psychosis, you name itcarelessly, foolishly, and erroneously. These are disorders that require careful, professional evaluation.

Have those changes affected the series?

In the talk show age, bad behavior is often excused as a disease. Witness the nonsense labeled as sexual addiction. The psychologization of amorality and immorality allows lowlifes like Harvey Weinstein to check into an expensive rehab center under the guise of receiving treatment. Lets bring back personal responsibility and notions of good and bad. Alex, on the other hand, hasnt succumbed to inanityhes a well-trained, experienced, logical psychologist who sticks to the facts. One of the reasons I began the series is that psychology is rarely, if ever, depicted accurately in fiction, and, with few exceptions, thats still the case.
In Too Afraid to Cry: Memoir of a Stolen Childhood (Norton, Mar. 2018), Ali Cobby Eckermann, one of the Stolen Generationthe Aboriginal children taken from their birth mothers to be raised in white familiesdescribes in heartbreaking detail the unjust, racist treatment of her people by the Australian government. The book, written in both prose and poetry, came to be only after Eckermanns decades-long search for her Aboriginal family resulted in a transformative reunion with the mother she didnt know and numerous other relatives she didnt know existed.

I wrote this in the desert in 2006 after my long journey to discover where I belonged, Eckermann says. I was finally living in community, totally surrounded by family. I found the safest place in the world for me to work, the safety net of the language, the children, the food, the laughter. It took Eckermann only two months to write Too Afraid to Cry. Once I started, it just flowed out, she says from her home in Adelaide, South Australia.

Eckermanns first book, the poetry collection Ruby Moonlight (Flood Editions, 2015), was awarded the New South Wales Book of the Year Award. This was followed by Eckermanns 2017 win of the Windham-Campbell nonfiction prize from Yale University, which carries a cash prize of $215,000.

It changed everything for me, says Eckermann, 54, who is using the money to provide writing time. She adds: All I want to do is write. Id never even had the thought of winning a big prize or grant.

Eckermanns path to Robert Weil, editor-in-chief of Nortons Liveright Publishing, was, she says, a bit miraculous. When the news of the Windham-Campbell award was announced, Adam Fitzgerald, one of Weils authors, happened to be in Adelaide. As Eckermann tells it, Sarah Tooth, a friend of mine and director of the South Australian Writers Center, told Adam, Ali lives here; would you like to meet her? The three of us met up and chatted for quite a while at my caravan [trailer].

Eckermann gave a copy of the book (published in Australia by Ilura Press) to Fitzgerald, who, after reading it, passed it on to Weil. He lobbied for its American publication. Given the fact that I had published writers and leaders like Russell Means and Leonard Peltier, I know a good bit about adoptions of Native American infants in the U.S., Weil says. So I was especially drawn to Alis wrenching personal story. Her style is unique because her poetry here is combined with prose, to extraordinary effect. The story lingers in memory long after youve read the book.

Weil sent Eckermann a contract and then brought her to New York to meet his team. Eckermann likens it to the serendipitous journey of my literature. She says, Im still feeling overwhelmed with the rapid climb, and getting to meet all these smart people in New Yorknot that Im not smart but Im different. She also attracted the interest of literary agent Charlotte Sheedy, who now represents her in the U.S.

Eckermann was adopted at birth by a white Lutheran couple. Unlike some others who adopted children from the Stolen Generation, Eckermanns adoptive parents were kind and supportive, even when she began acting out as a teenager. The drugs and alcohol, the reckless behavior, and the many times she ran away, Eckermann says, stemmed from her longing to find her biological family. Although finding them was more difficult than shed anticipated, her determination and the support of her adoptive parents finally made it happen. She traveled to the desert in the northern part of South Australia, which is home to many Aboriginal tribes.

But before that, Eckermann checked herself into a rehab hospital. I was five and a half months in rehab, and then another couple of years going to meetings and such, she says. I call it a university. It was an amazing university of human need, human character, human study. And we had to do a lot of journaling, so I was writing.

Eckermann then took a creative writing course in Alice Springs, something shed wanted to do for years. Some of what she wrote there became Little Bit Long Time, her first collection of poetry, published by the Australian Poetry Center in 2009.

It wasnt until Eckermann found her Aboriginal family, however, that she says she discovered her real selfand could truly acknowledge that she is a poet. Within the traditions of the family in the desert, it gave me a little place, a little role that made me feel good, she says. When we sat around the campfire, everyone talked stories of the past. This didnt make me feel excluded, but I wasnt part of those stories. So the poems gave me inclusion.

Eckermann says Too Afraid to Cry isnt a political memoir; her activism would come later. But there are passages in the book that make the discrimination and forced adoptions in Australia palpable. In one, Eckermann recalls her new Aboriginal school friend: Mingari... lived with her mum and had little brothers and sisters. She told me the welfare took every second baby from her mother, and there were now four babies missing. She said her mum drank a lot because of that.

Eckermanns adoptive mother was unable to have children, so she and her husband adopted four infants. Two of us are Aboriginal, and two of us not, Eckermann says. Finding our biological parents was always an option our parents gave to us. But there was a brief moment when I had to reassure my mother that she wouldnt lose anything.

When the Australian government removed antidiscrimination rights in 2009, Eckermanns life and writing changed. They pushed it through Parliament, she says. So I was out there with family and community members who were saying, Ali, youve got to write about this and stick up for us. Thats when I got political.

The political climate in Australia gave Eckermann a purpose. My political activism mostly takes the form of speaking engagements, she says. And I have had two essays published by the Cordite Poetry Review, and hope to write more for them and others. I do feel, though, that my poetry is my strongest political tool.

Eckermann is happy to exist on both sides of the cultural divide. The problem with governments is that they just stay in one segment of society, she says. They cant immerse themselves outside of that. Im really grateful that I can. I can go and have a meeting in New York with Bob [Weil] and the Norton team, and when Im walking down the street I can have a chat with someone whos a bit down on their luck, and have a cigarette and share a story and a laugh, and then just go away knowing that moment made that persons life a little better.

Bio bio
Marilyn Brooke Goffstein, award-winning author-illustrator and fine artist, whose work was published under the name M.B. Goffstein and Brooke Goffstein, died on December 20, 2017her 77th birthdayfollowing a long illness.

Goffstein was born on December 20, 1940 in St. Paul, Minn. and grew up there. In her autobiographical essay for Fourth Book of Junior Authors and Illustrators, she said that she knew from childhood that she would pursue art as a profession. That feeling, she said, stemmed from her Minnesota roots where her parents examples helped instill in her the idea that work was the only real dignity, the only real happiness, and that people were nothing if their lives were not dedicated. My choice was art.

During her years at Bennington College she studied writing, poetry, and art. It was during this time that she began experimenting with woodcarving and also with small pen-and-ink drawings, which eventually became her signature picture-book illustration style. Goffstein earned her B.A. in 1962 and by then her paintings and drawings had been featured in one-woman shows in St. Paul and New York City, and she had completed two internships at two New York City printers.

After graduating from college, Goffstein moved to New York City and pursued illustration work while working part-time as a bookseller. Though she received positive feedback on her artwork from book editors, she did not land a project until she tried pitching a project that she both wrote and illustrated. In 1996, her first picture book, The Gats!, was published by Michael di Capua at Pantheon. Goffsteins husband, David Allender, editorial director at Scholastic Book Clubs, recalled the story of that breakthrough. Brooke was first published in 1966 because Maurice Sendak came to a gallery show of her work, he said. Maurice brought his friend, Michael di Capua. Michael offered to publish her first book, The Gats! at Pantheon. And Brooke took him up on the offer. Later that year, Michael took her with him to Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Thus began a very prolific period that saw Goffstein often producing more than one book per year. She became widely recognized for her diminutive illustrations and her brief texts focusing on details of family life, the natural world, and peopleoften artistsdoing meaningful work. Her title Fish for Supper (Dial, 1976), inspired by her grandmothers day spent fishing on Minnesotas Lake Minnetonka, was awarded a 1977 Caldecott Honor.

In addition to her picture books, some of which featured her photography or pastels, Goffstein wrote some young adult novels and published work for adults as well. Her oeuvre contains more than 30 published titles in all. Outside of her own projects, for many years she taught childrens book illustration at Parsons School of Design in New York and was also an instructor at the University of Minnesotas Split Rock summer program.

According to Allender, Goffstein will have one final published book. It will be a limited edition entitled Brookes Last Words, he said. Its drawn from conversations with visitors at the Regional Hospice in Danbury, Connecticut during the last two months of her life. There will be 77 copies printed, for each year she was on earth, and available at the memorial service on January 21.

Edite Kroll, Goffsteins longtime literary agent (and former editor), offered this remembrance of her client and friend: "Brooke Goffstein never changed in her artists determination to get things right, from when I first met her in 1965 and helped proof her first book, The Gats! Like Goldie in Goldie the Dollmaker (FSG, 1969), Brooke always fought hard and quietly to get her words and art exactly as she wanted them. She once mentioned that it took her nine hours to get the vacuum cord in Neighbors (Harper, 1979) just right. I have always loved her books and so have been pleased to have persuaded foreign publishers that Brookes books would appeal to their readers as well.

Michael di Capua, who published Goffstein for much of her career, shared these words about their working relationship: "I was lucky enough to meet Brooke 50-odd years ago, when she was a bright-eyed young woman passionately dedicated to creating her own tiny universe in words and pictures. I happily helped her out with 13 unique books, starting with her first, The Gats!, in 1966 and ending with My Editor in 1985, in which she showedaccording to the catalogue copythat 'behind every great writer stands a pretty good editor.' There was only one M B. Goffstein."

Goffsteins family made this request in her obituary from St. Pauls Pioneer Press: In lieu of flowers please create something beautiful for the people around you or buy and read the book of your choice.
Dexter Creator to Dutton

Jeff Lindsay, author of the bestselling Dexter series, signed a world English rights deal for a new, currently untitled thriller series at Dutton. The two-book deal was struck between Dutton editor-in-chief John Parsley and Nicholas Ellison at the Nicholas Ellison Agency. The new series, Dutton said, will feature an antihero named Riley Wolfe who is, like Dexter Morgan, a bad guy we can root for; he is a master thief and an expert at disguise. In book one, Wolfe sets his sights on a collection of crown jewels. But Wolfe is more than a mere thief and, as the publisher elaborated, he only steals from people who have committed heinous misdeeds and malpractices in the pursuit of their wealth. The Dexter books were the basis of the same-titled Showtime television series.

Harlequin Nabs Debut YA

For Harlequin Teen, Lauren Smulski bought world English rights to the debut YA fantasy Coral and Pearl. Author Mara Rutherford was represented by Uwe Stender at TriadaUS. The book, the publisher said, follows a young woman from a village in the sea who must impersonate her twin on land to save everyone she loves from a tyrannical prince. The novel is set for fall 2019.

Peanuts Anthology to LAM

Agent Andrew Blauner sold world rights to an essay collection about Peanuts, which he is editing, to Max Rudin at Library of America. The Peanuts Papers: Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Gang, and the Meaning of Life will feature pieces on the iconic comic strip from, among others, Adam Gopnik, Jonathan Lethem, Rick Moody, and George Saunders. Blauner said the book, which is slated for 2019, will explore different Charles M. Schulz characters, distinctive aspects or themes of the Peanuts strip, and the writers autobiographical engagement with the beloved comic.

Seal Press Minds Rowlands Gap

In a world English rights acquisition, Stephanie Knapp at Seal Press bought Katherine Rowlands nonfiction book, The Pleasure Gap. The book, subtitled How Modern Women Are Reclaiming Desire, was sold by Rachel Vogel at Dunow, Carlson & Lerner. Knapp said the book is a deeply reported exploration into why the pleasure gap exists in Western culture. She added that it integrates science, social criticism and rich profiles of women from all walks of life to ultimately argue that pleasure can be and is being reclaimed. Rowland is a journalist at, and publisher of, Guernica magazine. The book is set for a fall 2019 release.

Briefs

Blackstone Publishings Vikki Warner took world rights to Shelley Shepard Grays new series, the Bridgeport Social Club, in a three-book deal brokered by Nicole Resciniti at the Seymour Agency. The first novel under the agreement, Take a Chance, is, Blackstone said, about a group of men needing a place to call a home, a small town in Ohio in need of hope, and a group of women who are special enough to make both happen. Take a Chance is set for September 2018.

Academic Conevery Valencius and journalist Anna Kuchment sold In the Bulls Eye to Karen Darling at the University of Chicago Press. Valencius is a professor at Boston College, and Kuchment is a reporter for the Dallas Morning News; in the book, the pair follows a team of scientists looking to uncover the cause of a string of earthquakes rocking the Midwest. Agent Katherine Flynn at Kneerim & Williams, who represented the authors, said that the scientists find the problem is a manmade one, and this in turn leads to a larger tale of scientific discovery, politics, industry, and science denial in contemporary America.

Correction: A previous version of this article referenced that Jeff Lindsay had struck a deal for his new series with Putnam. He has sold the series to Dutton.
East Coast versus West Coast. Coke versus Pepsi. Red Sox versus Yankees. The Woman in the Window versus The Wife Between Us? If you ask the publishers behind these two hotly anticipated January novels whether theres a rivalry afoot, you will get a coy nonresponse. What neither house will deny is that it is looking to its novel to dominate this winter. Given the books similaritiesboth were acquired in high-profile, big-money deals; both are debuts from publishing industry veterans; both have landed glitzy Hollywood dealsits clear a literary showdown is brewing. Heres a look at the two big psychological thrillers trying to muscle their way onto readers bookshelves right after the new year:

The Wife Between Us

Publisher: St. Martins Press

Pub date: January 9

Plot: After her banker husband leaves her, Vanessa unravels in an alcohol-soaked downward spiral. When she discovers that her ex is engaged, she fixates on stopping the weddingbut not for the reasons readers might assume.

Advance: A rumored six figures

Authors: Greer Hendricks, a former Simon & Schuster editor in her authorial debut, and Sarah Pekkanen, a journalist and author of seven previous novels (all of which Hendricks edited)

Movie deal: Stephen Spielbergs production unit, Amblin Partners, optioned the novel in October 2017.

Announced first printing: 250,000 copies

Foreign rights sales (as of press time): 30 (SMP controls world rights)

Connections to 'The Girl on the Train' and/or 'Gone Girl': The book features an unreliable female narrator with an alcohol problem, similar to the one in The Girl on the Train.

Marcy Drogin, the film scout who recommended to producer Holly Bario that she option The Girl on the Train, convinced Bario to buy The Wife Between Us.

Prepub accolades: A January IndieNext pick; on the January LibraryReads list

The Woman in the Window

Publisher: William Morrow

Pub date: January 2

Plot: Anna, a shut-in who drinks too much since her recent divorce, witnesses what she thinks is foul play while spying on her neighbor. Has she actually seen something or imagined it in a wine-soaked haze?

Advance: A reported seven figures

Author: Dan Mallory, executive editor at William Morrow, writing under the pseudonym A.J. Finn

Movie deal: Fox 2000 optioned the novel in late September 2017, before it sold for publishing.

Announced first printing: 200,000 copies

Foreign rights sales (as of press time): 38 (Morrow controls only North American rights)

Connections to 'The Girl on the Train' and/or 'Gone Girl': The book features an unreliable female narrator with an alcohol problem, similar to the one in The Girl on the Train.

The film scout who tipped Fox off in the film acquisition of Gone Girl is also behind the option of Woman in the Window.

Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn provided a blurb for the novel.

Prepub accolades: A January IndieNext pick; a January Book of the Month Club selection

Correction: A previous version of this article stated that The Woman in the Window was a December 2017 Book of the Month Club selection; it's a January Book of the Month Club selection.
Nearly 30 years into the ongoing global epidemic of obesity and chronic diseases, Chile has taken the lead in identifying and implementing obesity-control strategies that could prove to be the beginning of the end of the epidemic. And the country's success on this front can serve as a four-point lesson plan other countries could follow.

Take action: Chile recognizes obesity rates are a crisis that demands urgent action. Instead of worrying about whether they had enough evidence to move forward, Chilean policymakers acted on the best evidence available. They were propelled to act given that two-thirds of the country's population is overweight or obese and that a Chilean citizen was dying every hour from obesity. (It's at least three people every 15 minutes in the U.S.)

Recognize the problem: They realized that an epidemic of obesity is primarily the consequence of the consumption of excess sugar, salt and fat found in ultra-processed foods and beverages. Ultimately, people need to eat less to reduce overweight and obesity. Instead of advising their citizens on what they need to eat, policymakers learned it was more important to warn them about what foods to avoid.

Put people first: According to Chilean officials, the opinions of the food industry were heard and considered, but the policies were crafted to make the best interests of Chilean citizens a priority. Public officials made the process transparent in the hope that progress on the warning labels would be less likely to be stymied.

Simplify communication: Chilean officials recognized that when people shop, they often do so automatically and habitually, and people seldom spend a lot of time reading labels or doing calculations to figure out what the best choice would be. To address this, Chile's Ministry of Health worked with graphic artists to develop simple warning labels. These black-and-white stop signs note whether a product has an excessive quantity of salt, sugar, calories or fatenough to increase the risk of a chronic disease. A package is given one stop sign for each nutrient that is too high. These black signs are readily visible on the front of the package. The easy-to-read warnings say, in Spanish, High in Sugar, High in Calories, High in Fat and High in Salt. Shoppers are being taught to reach for healthier choices. The marketing campaign slogan spells it out: Choose foods with fewer signs, and if they don't have any, even better.

Since its initiation last year, the campaign has positively influenced food-buying behavior. Nearly 40 percent of Chilean citizens now say they use the symbols to help them decide what to buy. Consumers are shifting their purchases to healthier products, according to sales data reported by the Chilean newspaper El Mercurio. As a consequence, the food industry is reformulating products at an unprecedented rateand warning labels are being removed from the new, improved options.

In addition, the country has established policies that build on these health warnings. Packaged food with the black-and-white stop sign cannot be advertised to children under 14-years old and are not allowed in schools. Cartoon characters also may not be used on the packages or in advertising directed at children. New regulations will soon be implemented to prohibit the advertising of products that carry warning signs between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., the hours children might see them.

These are the first of many steps Chile plans to take as it tries to reverse the obesity epidemic and protect its population from overexposure to ultra-processed foods.

While the U.S. has made strides by defining which foods should be limited at school, it has not yet taken any action in community settings to reduce the burden consumers faces in figuring out which foods to avoid. The benefits children receive because of healthier school food policies are undermined as soon as they leave campus and are exposed to retail food outlets or advertisements that aggressively promote unhealthy foods.

The U.S. is paying a steep price for inactionobesity rates and associated health care costs continue to climb, and too many Americans continue to die unnecessarily from preventable diseases. Behavioral economics studies have shown people respond more strongly to warnings to avoid harm than they do to information framed to lead to benefits and gains (such as recommendations for healthy foods).

Although the food industry will likely protest the use of health warning labels, such warnings would probably help Americans make better choices. If America puts the health of its citizens first, the food industry would find a way to adapt and prosper.

Deborah A. Cohen is a senior natural scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation, and the author of A Big Fat Crisis: The Hidden Influences Behind the Obesity Epidemic  and How We Can End It.

This commentary originally appeared on U.S. News & World Report on December 26, 2017. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
Setting a legal precedent that could affect all of Montana's Superfund cleanups, the Montana Supreme Court ruled in favor of Opportunity and Crackerville residents Friday, finding that Superfund law does not prohibit the residents from seeking claims under Montana state law.

In a six-to-one decision, the court decided Friday that Opportunity residents can go to a jury trial with Atlantic Richfield Company over the cleanup decisions made years ago by the Environmental Protection Agency. EPA created cleanup levels that the residents thought were not stringent enough after decades of heavy metal pollution created by the defunct Washoe Smelter in Anaconda.

The states high court ruled that Superfund law does not prevent individuals from seeking damages for cleanup rules established by state law. This sets precedent, according to attorneys Mark Kovacich and Justin Stalpes, both of whom represent the Opportunity residents.

The residents, through their lawyers, hired experts who recommended the top 2 feet of soil in their yards be excavated and a permeable wall installed underground that would capture arsenic that might be traveling in groundwater before it reaches drinking wells.

A jury trial will make the decision as to whether Opportunity residents get what they want.

Should the Opportunity residents ultimately prevail, it is estimated that the additional cleanup would cost Atlantic Richfield about $50 million more than the company has already spent in Opportunity and Anaconda.

The work would mean removing 650,000 tons of soil and digging an 8,000-foot trench for the groundwater wall.

Opportunity residents want Atlantic Richfield to take the soil back to what is called background levels of arsenic. The Washoe Smelter, which shut down in 1980, processed approximately 8,000 tons of Buttes raw copper ore a day for nearly 80 years, spewing tons of heavy metals, including arsenic and lead, during those years. EPA estimates the footprint of contaminants covers at least 300 square miles.

According to EPA, "background levels" would mean returning the soil to roughly 25 parts per million of arsenic in the dirt.

But even that is potentially contentious and could be up to a jury to decide. The experts hired by the residents believe "background" levels of arsenic are lower than 25 parts per million.

Currently, EPA's cleanup standard for Opportunity, Anaconda, and Butte is 250 parts per million of arsenic in the soils and attics.

Opportunity is about 5 miles east of Anaconda and within sight of the former 565-foot smelter. A smaller neighborhood, Crackerville, is southeast of Anaconda and the old smelter.

The legal fight

The nearly 10-year-long legal battle between nearly 100 Opportunity residents and Atlantic Richfield was set to go to jury trial last year when Atlantic Richfield asked the Montana Supreme Court to take a second look at the case. Atlantic Richfield wanted the states high court to review Seventh District Court Judge Katherine Bidegarays decision to allow a jury trial, which was to start in fall 2016.

But, Atlantic Richfield argued that the state Supreme Court needed to intervene on Bidegarays ruling because Superfund law barred the property owners claims for restoration damages.

The majority opinion of the states high court justices was that Bidegaray did not err when she ruled against Atlantic Richfield in 2015, saying that the residents are not barred by Superfund law from including a claim for restoration damages.

Atlantic Richfield, owned by parent company BP, can contest the merits of the residents' restoration plans in the jury trial.

Atlantic Richfield declined to comment Friday.

EPA, which had previously stayed out of the lawsuit through its long years of bouncing in and out of various courts, filed a brief on behalf of Atlantic Richfield in 2016 for the states Supreme Court ruling.

EPA stated in their 2016 brief that Opportunity and Crackerville residents are barred by federal law from setting a new cleanup standard and that such an action would create conflict with the current cleanup that is ongoing.

EPA declined to comment other than to say, through a spokesperson, that the agency will be reviewing the decision.

What it means

University of Montana-Missoula law professor Michelle Bryan said that what makes this ruling unique is that under Montanas constitution, we get complete cleanup that other states dont necessarily get.

Bryan teaches in the law school's Natural Resources and Environmental Law Program.

A handful of states  Illinois, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and Montana  specify the right for property owners to get a complete cleanup, regardless of what the property itself is worth, she said. A provision was entered into Montanas constitution in 1972 to ensure that and it was largely in response to mining damage, Bryan said.

Domenic Cossi, a Bozeman-based lawyer with Western Justice Associates, said that this ruling gives Opportunity residents control over their own land.

Cossi filed a brief for the court on behalf of the Opportunity residents.

No matter where your politics lie, if this gets to be a political decision on how far land gets cleaned up, it allows whoevers in charge to make that decision. Thats a pretty scary proposition. Government can go to a certain standard, but the landowner should retain rights beyond that, Cossi said.

Montana Supreme Court Justice Beth Baker didnt agree with everything the majority wrote on the decision but agreed with the majoritys vote in favor of Opportunity.

"What (Atlantic Richfield) may do is offer evidence to support its claim that the property owners' proposed restoration plan is not feasible and thus does not qualify as a temporary injury," she wrote for the ruling.

Justice Laurie McKinnon dissented. She wrote that the residents restoration plans conflict with the ongoing EPA investigation and (Superfund) cleanup.

Opportunity resident Butch Ryan called the ruling only fair.

If our (Montanas) standards are higher, they should be. Our water quality and air quality should be better, Ryan said by phone Friday.

Opportunity resident Shaun Hoolahan said that when the Opportunity and Crackerville residents banded together to start the lawsuit, his son was 8 years old. Now his son is 17.

Well have our day in court, Hoolahan said.
What a difference a year makes. In December 2016, pan-Arab solidarity trumped nationalism when Qatar canceled the official ceremonies celebrating independence on its National Day after Aleppo fell to Syrian loyalists. Now, six months after the beginning of a blockade of Qatar imposed by its Arab neighbors, this season of National Days in the Gulf nations (Oman celebrated Nov. 18, followed by the United Arab Emirates on Dec. 2, Bahrain on Dec. 16. then Qatar on Dec. 18) appeared more riven by intra-Arab disputes than ever. In the cracks, the flowers of a new, stronger Qatari nationalism are sprouting.

National Days in the Gulf, once the preserve of simple frivolities, fireworks and corniche parades, have morphed into key nation-building exercises for the region's citizens. Even Saudi Arabia, which only formally recognized a National Day in 2005, has embraced ever-more elaborate public ceremonies. The 40th anniversaries of independence for Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar in 2010-11 were lavish affairs compared to prior years, as the aftermath of the Arab Spring caused National Days to become key exercises in legitimacy for their governments.

Yet for Qatar, this year marked a National Day like no other.

In 2007, then-Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani shifted the Qatari commemoration of the holiday from Sept. 3 to celebrate the semi-legendary ascension of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed al-Thani. In official Qatari history, Jassim deftly played the Ottomans and British off one another to earn diplomatic recognition for the hamlet of Doha in 1878. It was the first time the Qatari Peninsula had been seen as anything more than an extension of Arabia.

The holiday date shift was notable in its symbolism: Rather than celebrating decolonization with other nearby Gulf states like Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, Hamad al-Thani reached further back into a more fratricidal age, when Bahrain had dominated Doha and the other Arab villages of the Gulf. Jassim had fought Bahrain and Abu Dhabi to overthrow Bahraini suzerainty in the 1860s, a war that put Qatar on the map as its own independent entity. During the war, Qatar burned Bahrain's once-mighty fleet, opening a door to British dominance of the Persian Gulf. Thus, the Dec. 18 National Day declaration struck a distinctly Qatari tone, for Doha was, in effect, declaring independence not from a far-off European empire but from a Gulf Arab neighbor.

The slogan for this year's celebration was "Promises of Prosperity and Glory." Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman al-Thani made it clear that it was a message aimed at Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the nations involved in the blockade. In the face of the quartet's boycotts, Qatar's expatriates and locals alike joined on the corniche in Doha in a display of patriotism and defiance.

Before the blockade, Qatar's cultural, tribal and political distinctiveness had been muddled by centuries of trade and interaction throughout the Gulf. As merchants and Bedouin journeyed from well to well in the centuries before oil, links to land were less important than links to tribal networks. This produced a foggy tribal map with unclear territories stretching across the Arabian Peninsula. Large tribes like the al-Shamsi stretch from Kuwait to Oman. The al-Ameri have branches from the United Arab Emirates to Yemen.

Even Qatar's political identity was muddled: Qatar is an emirate ruled by an emir, as are each of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. Qatar was initially meant to join the budding United Arab Emirates in 1971 until it decided to go its own way. Qatar's political distinctiveness is thus often questioned by Emiratis, including Dubai's police chief, Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, who had called on the United Arab Emirates to annex Qatar even before the blockade.

But the June blockade drew stark lines in the sand. Tribes and religious sects were divided by passport, sparking complaints from family members now cut off from one another. National identity now dictates freedom of movement as well as economic opportunity; Qataris used to being able to work, travel and live freely anywhere in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries suddenly find themselves expelled from three of their neighbors.

In this way, the blockading powers inadvertently reinforced Qatar's political distinctiveness; their main complaint is, after all, that Qatar does not toe the line as set by its other GCC partners. This has given rise to a unique nationalism pinned on the emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Before the boycott, his official portrait already hung in most buildings in Doha. After it began, a new depiction of him by Qatari artist Ahmed bin Majed Almaadheed went viral and now appears on banners, automobiles and T-shirts. Tamim nationalism is suddenly chic in Doha.

Across Qatar, industries and businesses began to adapt to the blockade, extolling their new nationalist credentials as they did so. Food security, imperiled by the closing of the Saudi land border, raced to the top of the agenda. Qatari capital, once stashed in Dubai, Saudi Arabia or Bahrain, returned home. The boundary between good business and patriotic display blurred in other ways as well. Qatar Airways, the national carrier, produced a "no borders, only horizons" advertisement that obliquely criticized the blockade and garnered significant attention online. "The world is all of ours to explore, and it is a strange thing for us to be apart," the ad said. The video earned 1.4 million views, several times the population of Qatar's 300,000 citizens.

After once fighting alongside the Saudis and Emiratis in Yemen, Qatar brought in Turkish troops to reinforce its already-considerable U.S. firewall against any would-be military invasion. Doha produced new trade deals with Turkey and Iran to ensure as little interruption as possible to the lifestyles of ordinary citizens. Then, on National Day itself, Qatar paraded its hitherto unknown arsenal of Chinese-produced SY-400 ballistic missile systems. When Qatar ordered this new weapon system is still unclear, but the fact that it did demonstrates Doha's willingness to experiment with Beijing as a new major arms partner. As Houthi missiles from Yemen target Riyadh, the sudden appearance of such a system was a pronounced demonstration of military independence from the GCC bloc.

It's a stark shift from the dreams of yesteryear, when GCC states hoped to build a currency and defense union, and shorter passport lines privileged tourists from fellow GCC countries. Regardless of the siege's outcome, Qatari identity has undergone a profound change in a short amount of time.
How many steps will it take to walk off Thanksgiving dinner?
A court in Cambodia on Friday found the exiled former chief of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) guilty of defamation and fined him for accusing Prime Minister Hun Sen of bribing a political operative to undermine the opposition.



The Phnom Penh Municipal Court ordered Sam Rainsywho has been living in self-imposed exile in Paris since 2015 to avoid convictions on similar charges widely seen as politically motivatedto pay 4 billion riel (U.S. $1 million) for a January Facebook post which alleged that the prime minister had offered pro-government social media activist Thy Sovantha U.S. $1 million to attack the CNRP.



Sam Rainsy, who was found guilty in absentia, was also ordered to pay a fine of 10 million riel (U.S. $2,500) to the state.



The former CNRP presidents accusation stemmed from leaked social media messages between Hun Sen and Thy Sovantha in November 2016, in which they discussed bringing down the opposition party, which was dissolved by the Supreme Court last month for allegedly working to topple the government with the backing of Washington.



In the leaked messages, Hun Sen calls Thy Sovantha grandchild and offers her U.S. $1 million. Thy Sovantha has said her page was hacked.



According to The Phnom Penh Post, Hun Sen was represented at Fridays hearing by Ky Tech, the same lawyer who represented the government last month in its case against the CNRP.



What Sam Rainsy said was not true and it affects the reputation of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Ky Tech said, using an honorific title for the prime minister.



Som Sokhong, an attorney for Sam Rainsy, told RFAs Khmer Service that he found Fridays ruling unacceptable and failed to provide my client any justice.



We will discuss whether to file an appeal, he added.



Kangaroo court



Sam Rainsy, who resigned in February this year in a bid to preserve the CNRP in the face of a law that bars anyone convicted of a crime from holding the top offices in a political party, dismissed Fridays decision by what he called Cambodias kangaroo court.



Judicial officials know nothing and simply listen to instructions from their superiors, who make arbitrary decisions, the former opposition leader said.



I am even somewhat happy with the judgmentit gives me an opportunity to reveal more clear evidence of the wrongdoings of the governments top leaders, who waste the national budget and undermine the dignity of the country, he said.



They might think that they can do whatever they want, but they are making fools of themselves in the eyes of the world and bringing shame to the country.



Sam Rainsy said the ruling will provide the country with another chance to see the truth about the regime.



He later posted images of the more than 400 messages of correspondence between Hun Sen and Thy Sovantha, which he said are real, adding that he had his own means of verifying  that Hun Sen gave U.S. $1 million to Thy Sovantha to carry out activities against the CNRP.



If someone had wanted to invent something to discredit the two concerned persons, they would not have needed to fabricate so many fake messages, he said.



They have never been convincingly denied by Hun Sen over that period of time, meaning that the public is entitled to believe that these photos effectively reflect the substance of a real exchange involving Hun Sen, especially when it comes to the point concerning the one-million-dollar bribe.



Sam Rainsy is also facing a charge of incitement brought by Cambodias military after he urged soldiers on Facebook to disobey dictators who order them to shoot protesters.



Months-long crackdown



Fridays conviction comes amid a months-long crackdown by Hun Sens government on the opposition, the media and NGOs.



The CNRPs dissolution followed the arrest of the partys president Kem Sokha on charges of treason, and has left Hun Sens ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) virtually unchallenged ahead of senate and general elections set for February and July.



In recent weeks, the U.S. and EU said they plan to compile lists of individuals who spearheaded the dissolution of the opposition and other rights violations in Cambodia, with a view to level sanctions against them, and have pledged to review trade agreements with the country.



Both the U.S. and EU have withdrawn funding of the elections next year, and Washington recently placed visa restrictions on individuals responsible for undermining Cambodian democracy in response to the arrest of Kem Sokha and the dissolution of the CNRP, which it said had called the legitimacy of the ballots into question.



Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Nareth Muong. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
The West Kowloon terminus of a high-speed rail link that will connect Hong Kong to the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou is under construction in Hong Kong, Dec. 28, 2017.

China's decree that part of a high-speed railway station linking the former British colony of Hong Kong to its high-speed rail network will be subject to its laws has prompted a public outcry from the city's legal profession.

Beijing's rubber-stamp parliament, the National People's Congress (NPC), said on Wednesday that it would extend Beijing's authority to the high-speed rail terminus to enable a streamlined process for passengers boarding the trains in Hong Kong, despite of the city's status as a separate immigration, policing, and customs jurisdiction.

The "co-location" arrangement has already been criticized as unconstitutional as a violation of Hong Kong's mini-constitution, the Basic Law. Now the city's Bar Association (HKBA) has weighed in with a detailed criticism of the NPC standing committee ruling.

"The integrity of the Basic Law has now been irreparably breached," said a lengthy statement issued by the group on its website.

"The HKBA is appalled by the ... Decision, which merely states that the NPC standing committee ... 'confirms' that [the rail terminus plan] is consistent with the ... Basic Law without stating how this is so," the statement said.

"This plainly amounts to an announcement by the NPC standing committee that the [plan] complies with the Constitution and the Basic Law 'just because the NPC standing committee says so,'" the HKBA said.

"Such an unprecedented move is the most retrograde step to date in the implementation of the Basic Law, and severely undermines public confidence in one country, two systems and the rule of law in [Hong Kong]," it said.

It also said the Hong Kong immigration department, not the mainland Chinese border police, should be in charge of entry and exit control checks for passengers entering and leaving the city, citing Article 154(2) of the Basic Law.

Articles in the Basic Law allowing Hong Kong to make certain arrangements to enable cross-border trade and economic links "do not authorize" the city's government to act inconsistently with the rest of the law, the HKBA said.

Giving mainland Chinese authorities access to a part of the station to speed up the movement of passengers doesn't mean Hong Kong should give up its jurisdiction over any part of its territory, it said.

"The ... Decision is both wholly unconvincing and unsatisfactory in achieving its purported purpose, namely to provide a firm legal basis for ... local legislation," it said.

"The HKBA notes, with utmost concern and regret, that such a strong perception will surely impair and undermine the confidence of the local and international communities on the maintenance of the rule of law and the 'one country, two systems' policy in Hong Kong," it said.

Previously, only Chinese laws entered into Annex III of the Basic Law have been eligible for implementation in Hong Kong.



Open to legal challenges

Opposition lawmaker and barrister Tanya Chan, who heads a group protesting the rail terminus plan, agreed that the NPC standing committee decision can't form the legal basis for legislation implementing the plan.

"If they pass legislation in Hong Kong without this legal basis, this could be open to legal challenges," she warned.

Chan's group has called on the government to clarify the legal basis for the proposed joint-immigration checkpoint.

It says that a failure to do so could delay the 26-kilometer (16-mile) rail link scheduled to open in late 2018.

The government has said it will table legislation to deliver on the rail terminus plan by the end of January.

The HKBA statement follows criticisms from a panel of legal experts, including human rights lawyer Philip Dykes and Hong Kong University law professor Johannes Chan, earlier this week, who warned that the rule of law in the city will be "threatened and undermined" by the ruling.

"The rule of law will be threatened and undermined if the clear meaning of the Basic Law can be twisted and the provisions of the Basic Law can be interpreted according to expediency and convenience," the lawyers said.

The Chinese government's argument that Hong Kong's government has a duty to promote the development of tourism and transport doesn't hold water, they said.

"It is obvious that such articles do not provide the basis for Basic Law to be disapplied in certain parts of Hong Kong," they said in a statement. "[That] would be stripping different articles out of context and do violence to the solemnity of the Basic Law."



No right to question

But former Hong Kong justice secretary Elsie Leung said the Basic Law can't be interpreted using Hong Kong's common law system.

"The Basic Law is a constitutional instrument, it cannot provide for details," Leung said in response to the HKBA statement.

"We already possess the power of the administration of the land, customs regulations and the regulations relating to entry and exit of travelers, so we already possess all the powers to enter an agreement with the mainland, and the Standing Committee of the NPC has confirmed that," she said.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong administration official Ronny Tong warned it would be "very dangerous" for Hong Kong people not to recognize the supreme authority of the NPC standing committee.

"People have no right to question its controversial decision on the West Kowloon Station just because they hold different opinions," Tong told local media.

Reported by Gao Feng for RFA's Mandarin Service and by the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Police in the central Chinese city of Wuhan on beat up and detained a group of rights activist who went to inquire about the whereabouts of Zhao Suli, wife of veteran activist Qin Yongmin, who remains missing, nearly three years after being detained veteran alongside her husband.



Zhao Suli was detained alongside her husband and veteran opposition activist Qin Yongmin in , and both were initially held in unknown locations.



But while Qin has since been tracked down by friends and lawyers to a detention center in the central city of Wuhan, Zhao has been missing for nearly three years.



Zhao's sisters have previously told RFA they believe she may be dead, but Qin, a co-founder of the short-lived, banned opposition China Democracy Party (CDP), reportedly thinks she is still alive.



On , police swooped upon a group of rights activists campaigning alongside her two sisters and son for Zhao's release, or at least some information about her fate.



An activist surnamed Li from the southwestern region of Guangxi said he and a group of fellow activists were detained and forced to leave Wuhan this week by dozens of police after they traveled there to attend Qin's trial, which has been postponed, and to report Zhao missing as a form of protest at her disappearance.



"Zhao Suli has been disappeared for nearly three years, so we wanted to report her as a missing person," Li said. "We also went to the complaints department [of the Wuhan municipal government] where we were received by an official."



The group showed up at the police department in Wuhan's Qingshan district on to register a missing person, but were shoved aboard a truck by unidentified men shortly after leaving the police department, and taken to the high-speed railway station, where they were put aboard trains for their hometowns, he said.



"There were a lot of people in black uniforms, and they took off all of their insignia before they made their move," Li said. "They were rough and violence, and they shoved us into the truck ... where they threatened us, saying they would beat us to death."

Thugs in black uniforms



Fellow activist Chen Siming was also at the Qingshan police station, he told RFA.



"We got to the Qingshan police department at about 10.00 a.m. and demanded to know where Zhao Suli is, and they received us, before going into a room and speaking in low voices for a long time," Chen said.



"Then, just after we left at about 1.15 p.m., outside the gates, a bunch of thugs in black uniforms came up and forced us into a truck," he said. "They forcibly separated us from Zhao Suli's sisters and son, and now we don't know where they are."



"They they took us to the high-speed railway station."



He said rights activist Xu Qin, who heads the China Rights Observer organization founded by Qin, was injured after being roughly treated by the men.



"One of us, a guy called Dongsheng, had his leg broken by one of the uniformed men; I saw it with my own eyes," Chen said. "They wouldn't allow any of us to speak, and they gave us no explanation."



"I was secretly filming it on the truck but they saw me and snatched my phone away, and deleted all of the video before giving it back to me," he said.



'Picking quarrels and stirring up trouble'

A campaigner surnamed Yuan said the group had been given two options.



"The first choice was that we should all buy tickets and leave, and the second was that they would take us somewhere we didn't want to go," Yuan said. "Some of us weren't in good physical shape, and they had been treated very roughly, and they weren't allowed to get medicine or even go to the toilet."



She said she was among four activists who opted to leave immediately, while the others had stayed in the truck.



Repeated calls to the Qingshan district police department rang unanswered during office hours on .



A Wuhan-based activist surnamed Yu said he had managed to call the police and ask why the activists had been detained, however.



"I called the Qingshan branch and the police officer who answered said they were 'picking quarrels and stirring up trouble,'" Yu said.



Qin, who is being held at the Wuhan No. 2 Detention Center, was originally scheduled to stand trial on on charges of "incitement to subvert state power," but the date was postponed at the last minute by the authorities, citing 'procedural' reasons.



It is unclear exactly how many of his and Zhao's supporters remain in detention. RFA was unable to confirm the whereabouts of Zhao's sisters and son.



A contemporary of exiled dissident Wei Jingsheng, Qin was sentenced to eight years in prison for "counterrevolutionary propaganda and subversion" in the wake of China's Democracy Wall movement in 1981.



He served a further two years' "re-education through labor" in 1993 after he penned a controversial document titled the "Peace Charter."



Qin then served a 12-year jail term for subversion after he helped found the CDP in 1998 in spite of a ban on opposition political parties.



"Subversion of state power" carries a minimum jail term of 10 years in cases where the person is judged to have played a leading role.



Reported by Yang Fan for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by Wong Lok-to for the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
A court in Vietnam has sentenced nine people to a total of 83 years in prison for anti-government activities, according to state media, as authorities continue a crackdown on dissent in the one-party Communist nation.



On Dec. 28, the Peoples Court of Binh Dinh Province convicted four defendants on charges of spreading propaganda against the state and five others on charges of acting to overthrow the government, under Articles 88 and 79 of Vietnams Penal Code, the official Zing.vn website said in a report.



Those sentenced under Article 88 were Pham Long Dai, 21, of Gia Lai province; and Doan Thi Bich Thuy, 45; Truong Thi Thu Hang, 33; and Tran Thi Bich Ngoc, 23all residents of Binh Dinhs Quy Nhon city, the report said.



Those sentenced under Article 79 were Huynh Huu Dat, 47, of Binh Dinh; Ta Tan Loc, 42, of Ho Chi Min City; Nguyen Quang Thanh, 34, of Quang Nam province; Nguyen Van Nghia, 39, of Tien Giang province; and Nguyen Van Tuan, 33, of Thai Binh province, it said.



According to the indictment, on Feb. 16, Dat and other members of the group printed and distributed leaflets in Quy Nhon and An Nhon township, in Binh Dinhs Tuy Phuoc district. The content of the leaflets was termed anti-Communist Party and anti-Vietnam.



Thanh and Loc each received 14 years in prisonthe longest sentences issued Thursdaywhile Dat was jailed for 13 years. The rest of the defendants received sentences of between three and 12 years.



All of the nine defendants are also subject to three years of house arrest after completing their prison terms.



Authorities have been targeting activist writers, bloggers and government critics in a months-long crackdown in Vietnam, a one-party state where dissent is not tolerated.



Articles 79 and 88 of the penal code are among the broadly-worded national security laws that rights groups and Western governments say Vietnam uses to persecute dissidents.



Last week, a court in Vietnams Ha Nam province upheld a nine-year prison sentence for human rights activist Tran Thi Ngaa campaigner who defends the rights of Vietnamese migrant workers and victims of government land grabsrejecting her appeal of her conviction under Article 88 in a hearing that sparked protests by activists who were then beaten by police.



A day earlier, court in An Giang province sentenced five people to a total of 19 years in prison under Article 88 for hanging 26 flags emblazoned with three red stripesthe symbol of the former Republic of Vietnamin the provinces Chau Doc township in late April.



Vietnam is currently holding at least 84 prisoners of conscience, the highest number in any country in Southeast Asia, according to rights group Amnesty International.



Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Emily Peyman. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
Bosnian authorities have charged 25 Muslim wartime officials and four Bosnian Serb officers with committing war crimes against civilians and prisoners of war in the country's bloody 1990s conflict.

Prosecutors in Sarajevo said on December 29 that 11 former Muslim members of the Bosnian Army were charged with taking part in an attack against the Serb village of Cemerno in the region of Ilijas, north of Sarajevo, in which 30 people were killed.

In another case, 14 former Muslim police and military officials were indicted for war crimes allegedly committed against dozens of Serbs in the southern region of Konjic, the Sarajevo state prosecutor's office said.

Ten of the indicted men are already in detention, it said.

Their crimes allegedly included the "murder of several dozen Serb civilians, both men and women of different age, torture, robbery and persecution of nearly the whole Serb population from the Konjic area," the prosecutor's office said.

On December 28, the prosecutor's office said it had indicted four Bosnian Serb army officers for alleged genocide against Muslims who were fleeing the eastern town of Srebrenica after it fell into Serb hands in July 1995.

The four officers from the eastern town of Vlasenica are accused of stopping a convoy carrying Muslims fleeing the Srebrenica massacre of boys and men, then separating men from women and robbing them.

"The women were raped and sexually molested, while more than 20 men were taken and detained in a nearby school, where...they were kept in inhuman conditions...and on July 13-14 (1995) taken and executed in the village of Mrsici," the prosecutor's office said.

Bosnian Serbs, Bosniak Muslims, and Croats alike committed war crimes during Bosnia's 1992-95 conflict, though the majority of those convicted by local and international war crimes courts have been Serbs.

Serb victims' associations often denounce the Bosnian judicial system for not doing enough to prosecute war crimes against them.

They were outraged over the acquittal in October of Naser Oric, who commanded Bosnian Muslim troops in the war, which left some 100,000 people dead.

With reporting by AFP and Reuters


WASHINGTON -- An American stockbroker who made a fortune in the Russian market in the 1990s and 2000s and later co-founded a posh Moscow nightclub before leaving the country died of blunt force injuries suffered as a result of a fall from a Washington, D.C. building.

The findings, released on November 16 by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), confirm that Dan Rapoport died on August 14 after falling from a height, but do not conclusively explain the circumstances leading up to his death.



Washington police told RFE/RL that an investigation into his death had ended and declined further comment. Earlier this year, a police spokeswoman told RFE/RL that foul play was not suspected, but that final conclusions were pending the autopsy.

Rapoport's untimely death triggered much speculation because he had voiced support for ardent Kremlin foe Aleksei Navalny before leaving Russia and, while living in Kyiv in recent years, had been a vocal supporter of Ukraine and an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin.



Washington metropolitan police found Rapoport's body on August 14 on the sidewalk outside 2400 M Street, a nine-story apartment building in the northwest part of the city.



The medical examiner's report said Rapoport, 52, died of multiple blunt force injuries due to fall from height and described the death as sudden/unexplained. The report also said the manner of his death was undetermined.



The OCME said no other information would be immediately released.



A preliminary police report said officers responded to a report of a jumper on the evening of August 14, and the man, later identified as Rapoport, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.



The apartment building has an open rooftop with a pool, running track, and seating area for residents.

The police report said officers found $2,620 in cash on Rapoport when they discovered his body on the sidewalk, along with headphones, a cracked cell phone, a Florida drivers license, and other items.



He was wearing flip-flops, perhaps indicating he had been at the pool on the roof prior to falling.



Brianna Burch, a police spokesperson, told RFE/RL in August that there did not appear to be anyone with Rapoport at the time and there were no listed witnesses. In follow-up correspondences with RFE/RL through early November, the police continued to say they did not suspect foul play.



Rapoport had recently moved back to Washington after spending several years working in finance in Ukraine. He told RFE/RL in an interview in Washington in June that business had been tough due to the countrys high political risk and war with Russia.



While some friends said they did not believe he would have committed suicide, others said he had appeared depressed.



Go-To Location



A native of Latvia and a fluent Russian speaker, Rapoport emigrated with his family to the United States in 1980. After graduating from a U.S. university, he moved to Russia in the early 1990s as a wave of privatizations swept across the country.



The sale of former state-owned companies created a booming stock market, minting a new generation of millionaires, Russian and foreign.



Rapoport was respected within Russian financial circles, where he worked for more than a decade at a local brokerage called CenterInvest, making his way up to managing partner. He claimed his clients included some of the nation's wealthiest tycoons.

In 2007, he opened a swanky nightclub in downtown Moscow called Soho Rooms, which became the go-to location for Moscows elite.



In 2012, he left Russia and returned to the United States, saying the stock brokerage industry that had made him a fortune "had died" as commission fees shrunk with improvements in technology.

But in a media interview prior to his departure, he also criticized the direction Russia had taken under Putin and expressed support for Navalny, who was jailed last year on what Western governments say were trumped-up charges.

It has really become unbearable to live in Russia, Rapoport told media outlet FinParty in June of that year. We are all now dependent on one ruler. If this person decides that you will give birth to his child, then you will give birth, and if he decide to put you in prison, then you will serve time.

He told FinParty that he would give up his American citizenship and return to Russia if Navalny became president, saying the opposition leader was sincere in his desire to fight corruption.

He is a real hero of our time and deserves respect, Rapoport said of Navalny.

Rapoports frustration with Russia and his decision to leave may have been triggered by pressure on his businesses, friends and family have said.

Under Putin, the raiding of profitable businesses by -- or with the help of -- the nations security services has flourished. Rapoport allegedly lost his stake in Soho Rooms when his partners teamed up with security officials.

"Our flight to Washington is in 12 hours. It's sad to leave Russia, but for thoughtful people, living here has become unbearable and disgusting," Rapoport wrote on his Facebook page on June 13, 2012.

When Rapoport moved to Washington, where he said his parents lived, he set up a company called Rapoport Capital to advise and assist technology startups as well as venture capital funds on fundraising options.

In 2016, four years after leaving Russia, Rapoport set up an office in Kyiv and opened a private equity fund. It was tough going. Ukraines economy struggled amid an ongoing war with Russia-backed separatists in two eastern regions and the slow implementation of Western-backed reforms.

In social-media posts over the ensuing years, he was a vocal supporter of Ukraine and an outspoken critic of Putin.

Rapoport gained a degree of publicity in January 2017 after The New York Times reported that the daughter and son-in-law of newly elected President Donald Trump had purchased a mansion owned by him and his first wife. The mansion was located in an exclusive neighborhood of the U.S. capital.

In 2018, the open-source investigative organization Bellingcat reported that Rapoport, who was Jewish, had been the creator of a fictional persona named David Jewberg, who was frequently quoted in Ukrainian media as a senior Pentagon analyst.

With reporting by Todd Prince in Washington, D.C. and Mike Eckel in Prague
U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has said that the U.S. role in Ukraine is not changing and Russia has no cause for concern about a U.S. decision last week to supply new weapons to Kyiv.

"As long as no one wants to invade Ukraine, hopefully it won't have any big impact. They're defensive weapons," Mattis said on December 29, in his first remarks since the U.S. State Department announced approval of "enhanced defensive capabilities" for Ukraine on December 22.

Moscow has denounced the move, saying it "crossed a line" and was "clearly pushing [Ukraine] towards new bloodshed."

The United States has not specified what new weapons it will provide to Ukraine, but U.S. media reports have said they could include Javelin antitank missiles, which Ukraine has urged the United States to supply.

Mattis said providing new weapons for Ukraine does not signal any plan to expand the U.S. presence there, despite speculation that the move will force the United States to get more deeply involved in the conflict with Russia-backed separatists in Eastern Ukraine that has killed more than 10,300 people since it broke out in 2014.

"I don't see an evolving U.S military role in Ukraine," he said. "Right now, we have some trainers there helping to train their army to NATO standards, and that has a lot to do with making certain it serves the needs of the Ukrainian people, in the way democracies' armies do."

Mattis said the number of U.S. military trainers in Ukraine has not changed in the last six months. "So the U.S. military role remains the same," he said.

Based on reporting by AP and TASS


Russias main security agency says it has arrested a man suspected of setting off an explosion at a supermarket in the Russian city of St. Petersburg that injured more then 10 people on December 27.

The Federal Security Service, or FSB, made the announcement in a December 30 statement carried by Russian news agencies.

The agency did not identify the suspect or provide any details about his motive.

The statement said the suspect organized and carried out the attack on his own.

The extremist group Islamic State (IS) had earlier claimed responsibility for the bombing.

The claim was made by the IS's Amaq news agency on December 29.

It offered no evidence for its claim. The IS often claims responsibility for terrorist attacks worldwide that are carried out by people inspired by the extremist group but often with no formal ties to it.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said one day after the blast that the explosion was a terrorist act, and urged security forces to "take no prisoners" when dealing with imminent threats from terror-plot suspects.

Investigative Committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko said on December 27 that the "homemade bomb" that ripped through a customer locker area at a Perekryostok supermarket exploded with the power equivalent to 200 grams of TNT.

But law enforcement authorities initially opened an investigation on suspicion of attempted murder, seeming to suggest that terrorist motives were not suspected.

Based on reporting by Reuters and dpa
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a bill increasing penalties for the recruitment of extremists, the latest measure to address what officials have described as a threat from militant fighters returning home from the Middle East.

Official publication of the law on December 29 came two days after 14 people were injured in a bomb attack on a supermarket in St. Petersburg that Putin called an "act of terror."

The Islamic State extremist group -- which Russia has targeted in Syria as part of its bombing campaign backing the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since 2015 -- claimed responsibility for the attack on December 29.

Putin, who faces re-election in March, has stepped up warnings against extremists, declaring on December 28 that they face being "liquidated on the spot" in Russia.

The new law, approved by Russia's parliament earlier this month, stiffens the penalties for recruiting and financing extremists and disseminating "terrorist propaganda," including by raising the maximum sentence for recruitment and financing to life from 10 years.

Russian security officials have voiced concern about the possibility of extremist fighters returning home to Russia from the Middle East, where IS this year was ousted in a series of battles from most of the territory it once controlled in Iraq and Syria.

The FSB recently estimated that the number of Russian fighters who joined IS and other extremist groups in the Middle East, North Africa, and elsewhere numbers over 4,500.

Russia's FSB security service said two weeks ago it had broken up an IS cell planning a December 16 terror attack at an Orthodox cathedral which is a key tourist attraction in St. Petersburg.

Putin said afterwards that the attack was foiled with the help of the U.S. CIA.

Based on reporting by AFP, TASS, and Interfax


The disintegration of the Soviet Union in late 1991 left all the former republics scrambling. Self-rule was a surprise for many, certainly for the leadership in Central Asia.



Central Asian Literature: Wise Words For Both The Mighty And The Meek "Few places on Earth have given literature the importance it has attained in Central Asia, where mighty and meek have for centuries composed, recited, listened to or read, and lived with the poetry which remained their constant companion."

-- Professor Edward Allworth, Columbia University Allworth was one of the leading authorities on Central Asia and one of his great passions was Central Asian literature. So, when he penned the above quote in his book Central Asia: A Century Of Russian Rule (the 1967 edition, it's been updated a couple of times since then), his assessment carried significant weight. His words still ring true, as the writers, poets, and bards of the region remain prominent today. In fact, anyone passing through any of the major cities and towns of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan would become familiar with the names of local literary greats, great and small. During the time I was Allworth's student, I did not share his interest in Central Asian literature, which in hindsight I realize was a huge mistake.



The Central Eurasian Studies Society conference in Seattle in October 2017 featured a panel devoted to, and honoring, Allworth. Some of his former students presented papers.



I was one of them and, as a tribute to Allworth, I decided to do mine on Central Asia's writers and how they are remembered today. This piece essentially counts as my latest and/or last homework assignment for Allworth.



I make no claim to being an authority on this subject, and the few writers highlighted barely scratch the surface -- there are great number of worthy writers, poets, and bards. But it would be a mammoth work to compile information on even half of them. I did have some fantastic help, though, and I acknowledge here those who were kind enough to share with me their extensive knowledge: -- Begmyrat Bayryyev, MA in Media, Culture and Society from the Polish Academy of Sciences' Institute of Philosophy and Sociology;



-- Amanmurat Agha Bugayev, a member of Turkmenistan's Union of Writers from 1982 to 2001;



-- Hamid Ismailov, currently writer in residence at the BBC and formerly head of the Central Asian services at the BBC;



-- Tyntykbek Tchoroev, a Kyrgyz historian currently teaching at Kyrgyzstan's Jusup Balasagyn University;



-- And, of course, my colleagues in the Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tajik, Turkmen, and Uzbek services at RFE/RL. -- Bruce Pannier



Among the many pressing matters in those days was establishing signs of sovereignty -- a flag, a national anthem, and so on.



They also needed a history; roots for building a new nation and national identity. No heroes had emerged from independence -- the U.S.S.R. simply fell apart and suddenly there were five countries in Central Asia.

Lacking contemporary heroes, the five governments searched the rich history of Central Asia, looking for known figures who could assume the role of founders of these new nations.

The respected writers of Central Asia's past were obvious choices.

The "founding father" for Tajikistan became Ismail Somoni, the late 9th-century conqueror whose Samanid Empire included what is now northern Iran, northern Afghanistan, and Central Asia south of the Syr-Darya River. His tomb is in Bukhara, in what is currently Uzbekistan.

Tajik authorities also claimed as native sons two of the best-known writers from the late, and post-Samanid, period -- Abu Abd Allah Jaar ibn Muhammad al-Rudaki, or Rudaki (858-941); and Abu Ali Ibn Sina, or Avicenna (980-1037).

The Father Of Persian Poetry

Rudaki is called the father of Persian poetry and is credited with making enormous contributions to modern Persian language. But he was also a prototype for Central Asian writers. Rudaki composed verse and he also played music.

In a time and place where illiteracy was high, music helped carry poetry throughout the region and would continue to be a main transmitter of Central Asian poetry for the better part of the next millennium.

Rudaki was also from Panjikent in what is now western Tajikistan. His tomb is there today, reinforcing Tajikistan's attachment to the poet.

Curiously, the mausoleum was originally built in 1958, by Soviet authorities (they dug up the body first to make sure he was really there). Such was the respect Rudaki commanded, and still commands.

After independence was gained in 1991, Lenin Avenue in Dushanbe became Rudaki Street. There is also a statue of Rudaki in Dushanbe's Rudaki Park, a Rudaki district in western Tajikistan, and another statue of Rudaki in Tajikistan's ancient northern city of Istaravshan.

A Man Of Many Talents

Avicenna was an amazing human being. Born in Bukhara, he is said to have memorized the Koran while still a child and was reading translations of Greek philosophy when he was a teenager.

He wrote his own works on philosophy, and also on medicine, mathematics, Islamic theology, science, astronomy, geography, and other subjects. And, of course, he was a poet, too.

The Avicenna State Medical University is in Dushanbe. A statue of him is on Avicenna Square in the Tajik capital.

One of Dushanbe's districts is named for Avicenna, as is the second highest mountain peak in Tajikistan (7,134 meters). It had been Lenin Peak from 1928 to 2006.

Uzbek authorities chose Tamerlane to be the nation's founding father. His connection to the Barlas clan is certain, and the Barlas eventually became a dominant Uzbek clan.

The Uzbeks also claim writer Nizomiddin Mir Alisher, better known under his pen name Navoi (1441-1501), as a native son.

Navoi was born and spent most of his life in the area around Herat, in what is now western Afghanistan, though he did live in Samarkand for a time in the 1460s.

Breaking From Tradition

In Navoi's time the language of art and science was Persian, but Navoi broke from this tradition and composed his works in Chagatai, from which the modern Uzbek language comes.

Near the end of his life, Navoi completed The Comparison Of Two Languages (Muxokamat Allugatayn), in which he attempts to argue the superiority of Chagatai over Persian.

In 1958, when Uzbekistan was a Soviet republic, the city of Karmana (Kermine) was renamed Navoi, and it still bears that name today, as does the airport there.

In the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, there is a statue of Navoi, a main street, and a park named after him, as well as the Navoi National Library and the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theater.

The Turkmen lay claim to the 18th-century writer and poet Magtumguly Pyragy, or simply Magtumguly (1724-ca. 1807).

Magtumguly is a different sort of figure to Rudaki, Avicenna, and Navoi. The latter three enjoyed royal patronage. Magtumguly's life was very different.



His father, Azady, was a famous poet who often wrote about morality. Azady also had a vision of the Turkmen tribes being united and one of his best-known works -- Sermon of Freedom (Wagzy-Azat) -- is a call for Turkmen tribes to band together and stop being dominated by groups around them.

Magtumguly at first wrote in Chagatai, but he eventually composed in Turkmen. Magtumguly is sometimes credited with being the first person to write in the Turkmen language, though this is not clear.

He certainly did make major contributions to the development of the language. His verse was spread by musicians called "bakhsy."

Turbulent Times

Magtumguly lived in turbulent times. He was taken captive at least once. Later in his life most of his manuscripts were lost when a raiding party attacked Magtumguly's village and loaded most of Magtumguly's possessions, including his written works, on a wagon that then tipped over in a river. Magtumguly had found a hiding place and watched as his work floated away.

Like his father, Magtumguly's work also emphasizes morality and urges Turkmen tribes to unite, but it is also, not surprisingly, somewhat bitter, and the poet often criticizes clerics and rulers for their hypocrisy and shortcomings.

Magtumguly's fame and his contributions to the Turkmen language qualify him to be considered a founding father, and it is unavoidable that he should be, but Turkmen authorities are concerned by the occasionally rebellious and critical tone of his works.

Turkmenistan's first president, Saparmurat Niyazov, alternated between praising Magtumguly and disparaging him; for example, as a Sufi who preached a hermit's life.

Niyazov's successor, President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, also has mixed reactions to Magtumguly. Berdymukhammedov is credited with writing the introduction to Magtumguly: Poems From Turkmenistan (see page 4). But in June 2017 Berdymukhammedov ordered the statue of Magtumguly in Ashgabat moved to the hills outside the Turkmen capital, and the Elders' Council adopted a resolution in October 2017 that changed the May 18 holiday marking Magtumguly's birthday to June 27, and it will no longer be a day off work.

But there is a still a Magtumguly Street in Ashgabat and the Magtumguly Turkmen State University (formerly the Maksim Gorky University) and an "international" Magtumguly award for literature.

Ibrahim Qunanbayuli, or "Abai" (1845-1904), is perhaps Kazakhstan's great poet, but he made another immense contribution to Kazakh culture and, ultimately, to the Kazakh language by writing down his works. Previously Kazakhs' means of transmission of poetry was oral.

Abai not only wrote his own works, most notably his Book Of Words, but he also translated the works of authors such as Goethe, Pushkin, and Lermontov into Kazakh. Abai was also a musician and mothers in Kazakhstan today still sing their children to sleep with lullabies Abai wrote.

There is a village in Almaty Province named after Abai, and in Almaty the Abai State Theater of Opera and Ballet, Abai State University, and Abai Street. There is also the Abai oil field in Kazakhstan's sector of the Caspian Sea.

The Embodiment Of Kyrgyz History

The names of Kyrgyz writers from hundreds of years ago are, at best, little known today, but the Kyrgyz have what is perhaps the greatest indigenous legend -- Manas the warrior. There is a special group of people --the manaschis -- who have passed the legend of Manas down for more than 1,000 years.

In many ways Manas embodies the history of the Kyrgyz people, since some versions of his story seem to begin during the time of the nomadic Hsungnu some 2,000 years ago, whereas other versions might include events that seem drawn from the Arab invasion of Central Asia in the 8th century and there are even tales of battles Manas fought against with the Manchus of the 18th century.

Manas is a true "jigit": a horseman, brave and capable with a fierce loyalty to his people, the Kyrgyz people. His 40 "choro," or companions, reinforce the need for unity among the various clans of the Kyrgyz people.

Manas and his choro, though not always the full 40, are now a common feature at outdoor political rallies during Kyrgyzstan's election campaigning. Someone dressed in ancient or medieval armor almost always rides out at some point during these rallies and no one present at these events need to be told who this person is.

Among the many objects named after Manas are a main street in Bishkek, the international airport outside Bishkek, and statues of Manas can be seen throughout the country.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL.


The Russian Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by opposition leader Aleksei Navalny against a decision to bar him from running in Russia's 2018 presidential election.

The court's ruling on December 30 upheld a December 25 decision by Russia's Central Election Commission that the anticorruption crusader isn't eligible to run.

The court said the decision by the Central Election Commission fully conforms to law.

A lawyer for Navalny said he would now take the case to the European Court of Human Rights.

Navalny is barred from running for office because of a conviction in a fraud case, which has been viewed as political retribution.

Following his disqualification, Navalny called on his supporters to boycott the vote.

He also announced plans to hold protests across Russia on January 28 to press home his call for a boycott of the election.

The Kremlin said such boycott calls should be reviewed by officials to see whether they break the law.

Navalny responded to the Supreme Court's ruling by repeating his call for a "voters' strike."

"We don't acknowledge elections without competition," he said on Twitter.

President Vladimir Putin is set to easily win a fourth term in office in the March 18 election, with his approval ratings topping 80 percent.

Putin, who has been president or prime minister since 1999, is seeking a new six-year term in the election.

Over the past year, Navalny has mounted a grassroots campaign across Russia.

Presidential campaigning officially started in Russia on December 18.

More than 20 people have declared their intention to run in the March election, including liberal Grigory Yavlinsky, business ombudsman Boris Titov, and journalist and TV personality Ksenia Sobchak.

While none of the candidates pose a a serious challenge to Putin, analysts say the Kremlin is worried about voter apathy and has focused on ways to boost turnout to make Putin's expected victory as impressive as possible.

With reporting by TASS, AP, and RFE/RL's Russian Service
Speaking over beers in Bavaria back in May, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said U.S. President Donald Trump's first trip to Europe had convinced her that the days of relying on the United States were "over to a certain extent."



Europe "really must take our fate into our own hands," she famously said.



There certainly has been no shortage of alarming headlines since Trump took over the presidency in January. In November alone, Politico wrote: "German Military Study: EU Collapse Conceivable Worst Case"; while former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt wrote in The Washington Post "How Donald Trump Is Making Things Worse In The Middle East"; and Asian geopolitics analyst Richard Javad Heydarian penned a Post op-ed with the headline "This Is How A Superpower Commits Suicide."



"During President Donald Trump's first official Asia tour, the precipitous erosion of America's decades-long hegemony in the region has been painfully apparent," Heydarian wrote. "In a surreal twist of events, a communist regime [in China] has now emerged as the unlikely guardian of globalization and multilateral diplomacy.

One thing experts largely agree on is that the international order that emerged after World War II and the dominance enjoyed by the United States since the end of the Cold War are both transforming rapidly. And while the self-proclaimed "outsider" Trump administration didn't cause this transformation, it must now contend with it.

Pax Americana

"The overall structure -- NATO, the major alliances in Asia, the major partnerships that we have in the Middle East -- these have created the most stable international order in the history of humankind," said Michael O'Hanlon, senior fellow at the Center for 21st-Century Security, describing the order now fading into the past that has been variously called The Age of America or the Pax Americana. "The system that we helped to create is remarkably stable and no period in human history before this one would have seen multiple centers of power essentially getting along without preparing for the next war."

As the saying goes, however, the times are changing.

"The Pax Americana that prevailed since World War II was for the United States certainly a good thing, although there were some people in other countries who didn't experience the same benefits," said Michael Glennon, professor of international law at Tufts University and a former legal counsel to the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee. "But at this point, it's not so much a question of whether this coming multipolarity is desirable or not. The question is whether there is anything to be done to avert it. And I think the answer is probably not."

Ian Lesser, vice president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, agrees that "the world is changing around us," with emerging powers like China and Russia competing for regional and global influence. In addition, Lesser sees a "diversification of power" evolving over the last decades, among both states and non-state actors such as corporations. At the same time, problems like terrorism, corruption, climate change, trade, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are increasingly global and complex.

"In a sense, power isn't what it used to be, and the United States is having to adjust," Lesser said.

'America First'



In this shifting environment, the Trump administration --ust one year in office--has come under sharp criticism from both the left and the right for its perceived failure to implement or even articulate priorities and coping mechanisms. Trump ran for the presidency on the slogan of "America First," denouncing international accords and institutions that he claimed were "bad deals" for the United States.



James Goldgeier, former dean of the American University School for International Service, says that. although the United States remains "the world's leading power" with significant international assets, "Trump seems to be doing everything he can to diminish America's standing in the world" by undermining the strengths of the multilateral system he inherited while not offering a coherent replacement.



Trump's expressed preference for bilateral "deals" with international operators, critics say, implies the need for a robust and nuanced diplomacy.

However, former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Richard Kauzlarich, now a distinguished visiting professor at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government, warns that we are currently seeing a "hollowing out" of the State Department "at a time when we need a stronger and more active diplomacy."

The problem goes beyond the well-documented tension between Trump and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson -- tensions that amount to what The Atlantic described as Tillerson's "graceless defenestration." More importantly, Kauzlarich notes, many top State Department posts are unfilled, as senior diplomats have either stepped down or been removed. In addition, fewer young Foreign Service officers are being recruited, a move that could have significant consequences in coming years and decades.



"I think this is a tragedy and it weakens our ability to act multilaterally," Kauzlarich added.

'Responsible Nationalism'



On the other hand, Andrew Bacevich, professor emeritus of international relations at Boston University, argued in Foreign Affairs for a "responsible nationalism," saying that Trump's air strikes in Syria, additional troops for Afghanistan, striving to broker a peace deal in the Middle East, and other policies can hardly be described as isolationism.



"What they suggest is something much worse: an ill-informed, impulsive, and capricious approach to foreign policy," Bacevich wrote. "In fact, if 'policy' implies a predictable pattern of behavior, U.S. foreign policy ceased to exist when Trump took office."



Looking ahead, the United States remains a key international actor, despite the evolving geopolitical arena and the concerns about the Trump administration's policies.



These things "have not made American power and influence irrelevant -- far from it," said the German Marshall Fund's Lesser. "The United States is still a very powerful actor on the international stage, probably the most powerful one. And a good argument can be made that we will remain in that position of primacy for some time to come."



Analyst Goldgeier offers a similar assessment.

"The United States is still the most powerful country in the world," he said. "It still has huge assets. It still has the top higher education in the world. It is still looked up to around the world. It is still a place that many people would still like to come and live in."



Nonetheless, the world and Washington are in store for a potentially rocky transition, Tufts University's Glennon said.



"The likelihood is that we will be entering a period of multipolarity in the world for years to come, in which instability prevails and a lack of leadership is painfully evident," he said.

With reporting by RFE/RL Washington correspondent Mike Eckel


Ukrainian police forces have freed the remaining hostages being held in a post office by a man believed to be strapped with explosives, and arrested the hostage taker after a standoff lasting several hours in the city of Kharkiv.

None of the hostages were harmed.

"All hostages freed in Kharkiv. The assailant was arrested," President Petro Poroshenko wrote on Twitter.

He praised the work of the Ukrainian security forces.

Interior Minister Arsen Avakov published a picture of the man, with blood streaming down his face, being held by a policeman.

Police had said earlier that the man had taken 11 people hostage.

Five of the hostages -- three women and two children -- were released following talks.

Regional police chief Oleh Bekh told reporters that the man had a history of antisocial behavior and drug-related offences.

"He probably needs the help of a psychiatrist," Bekh said. "During the detention, he received minor injuries. He was not in a normal state ... the hostages said he was drinking alcohol."

Police were able to enter the building after one of the hostages opened the door for them, Kharkiv regional prosecutor Yuriy Danylchenko told reporters.

Police earlier said they had been in contact with the man via the telephones of the hostages, describing his manner as calm. The man had not made any demands, according to the police.

One of the children released by the hostage taker told local media that the man had put explosives into two bottles and threatened to blow himself up if police did not listen to him.

According to the child, the man also claimed he had brain cancer.

The police had said earlier that the man was concerned about last weeks prisoner swap between the Ukrainian authorities and Russia-backed separatists and thought more prisoners should have been released.

In the December 27 swap, Ukraine handed 233 captives over to the Russia-backed separatists in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, while the separatists handed 74 Ukrainian nationals over to Kyiv.

The Russia-backed separatists seized parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in March 2014, igniting a conflict that has killed more than 10,300 people.

Hostilities are still ongoing despite a 2015 cease-fire deal, severely straining Moscow's relations with Kyiv and the West.

With reporting by Reuters and RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service
The U.S. Embassy in Kosovo has repeated its strong opposition to attempts by Kosovar leaders to abolish a new war crimes court set up to try ethnic Albanian ex-guerrillas.

The statement from Kosovo's traditionally close ally on December 29 warned that any renewed efforts to scrap the tribunal "would have profound negative consequences for Kosovo's European future and its relationship with the United States."

The court, based in The Hague, was set up to prosecute crimes allegedly committed by top members of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) as it battled Serbian forces in their 1998-1999 war.

It is poised to begin issuing indictments.

Dozens of Kosovo's lawmakers made a failed bid last week to revoke the law allowing the tribunal's work to go ahead, after war veterans handed in a petition saying the court was "biased."

"Kosovo's leaders have made repeated public statements this week that an initiative in the Kosovo Assembly regarding the Special Court won't damage Kosovo's international relationships. They are mistaken," said the U.S. Embassy statement.

"We are extremely disappointed at those who would sacrifice their country's future and the unwavering support of the United States, in favor of their personal interests."

U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo Greg Delawie recently urged on Twitter for Kosovo not to "turn back the clock," and said: "We have not invested so much effort into Kosovo's success to see it destroy its future by undoing the Special Court Law."

Speculation is rife that Kosovar President Hashim Thaci, the former head of the KLA's political wing, could be among those prosecuted for the alleged kidnapping and disappearance of around 500 civilians, mostly ethnic Serbs.

Thaci told RFE/RL's Balkan Service this week that he would sign the legislation if it is approved by the parliament.

Despite operating under Kosovo's law, the tribunal is composed of international judges and prosecutors and will be seated in the Netherlands with the aim of protecting witnesses.

The conflict between the KLA and Serbian forces controlled by late strongman Slobodan Milosevic ended after a three-month NATO air campaign that forced Serbs out of Kosovo and put it under UN protection.

The war killed around 13,000 people, mostly ethnic Albanians.

With reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters
TAOYUAN CITY, Taiwan  Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen pledged Friday to step up military spending to defend the self-ruled islands sovereignty in the face of Chinas growing assertiveness in the region.

Beijing has rattled its neighbors including Taiwan, which communist mainland leaders claim as their territory, as well as Japan and South Korea by sending military aircraft close to their airspace in recent months.

Chinas attempt to expand militarily in the region is more and more obvious, Tsai said at a news conference at a military research center. Taiwan needs to stand up for its sovereignty, and it wants to protect regional peace, stability and prosperity.

China and Taiwan split in 1949 after Chiang Kai-sheks Nationalists fled the mainland following a civil war. Beijing insists the two sides must unite, but surveys show most Taiwanese oppose that.

The mainland is expanding its regional reach by developing aircraft carriers and building artificial islands to enforce Beijings claim to large swaths of the South China Sea.

This situation is, put simply, not just a problem facing Taiwan, Tsai said at the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. Its one that countries are facing around the whole region.

Tsai gave no details of possible military spending increases, but a national security official said in October that the government would seek at least 2 percent each year.

Beijing increased military spending by 7 percent this year compared with 2016. For much of the past two decades, the Peoples Liberation Army has been awarded increases of at least 10 percent each year.

Tsai has emphasized domestic development and production of weapons. The U.S. government approved a $1.4 billion arms sale to Taiwan in June but, in an effort to mollify Beijing, has been reluctant to supply everything the islands leadership wants.

We cant rely on others, said Tsai. As the president, I have the responsibility to protect our sovereignty and the responsibility to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Tsai, a 61-year-old law scholar who took office in May 2016, has irritated Beijing by rejecting its idea that both sides belong to one China as a condition for formal dialogue.

China has tried to punish the island by scaling back tourist travel to Taiwan, according to travel agents in Taipei. The islands government also suspects that Beijing has persuaded two foreign governments to end diplomatic recognition of Taiwan since 2016.

The institute where Tsai spoke has developed missile and radar systems and was picked by the defense ministry this year to develop trainer jets. The ministry also has signed up Taiwanese manufacturers to develop a $3.3 billion submarine.

Dont for a minute underestimate Taiwans domestic ability to develop weaponry, the president said.

Over the past two years, Chinese warplanes have flown near Taiwans military defense zone some 10 times, according to a former Taiwanese defense minister, Andrew Yang.

Ralph Jennings is an Associated Press writer.
Hurricane Jose at the Caribbean

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

For astronauts in space, the Earth is always an amazing sight and the year 2017 offered dazzling (and sometimes frightening) views of our home planet from space. From hurricanes and volcanoes to amazing sunsets, see the best photos of 2017 here. See NASA's video of best astronaut photos from 2017 here! This Image: The massive storm system named Hurricane Jose slammed into the Caribbean Islands on Sept. 6, 2017.

City Lights in the Northeastern United States

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

At the center of a beautiful section of lights along the northeastern coast of the United States, New York City and Newark, NJ glow brightly. The lights string out from Philadelphia, PA to Hartford, CT.

Idahoan Checkerboarding

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Along the Priest River in northern Idaho, this strange, checkerboard pattern jumped out of the landscape. The white squares are made of the snow collected on deforested land where trees were removed for logging.

Solar Evaporation Ponds in Utah

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Outside Moab City in Utah, 23 colorful ponds on 400 acres. The ponds are used to harvest muriate of potash for fertilzer.

Meidob Volcanic Field in the Sudan

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Covering nearly 1,930 square miles (5,000 square kilometers) of western Sudan, the central Meidob Volcanic Field is believed to be less than 6 million years old. The field consists of maar craters, lava domes and cinder cones from numerous vents on the surface.

City Lights in Northwestern Europe

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Lights reveal some of the more populated areas in Northwestern Europe.

Sunrise on the Philippine Sea

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

As sunrise begins and a portion of the solar disc rises above the horizon, clouds, resembling a mountain range, and several layers of the atmosphere are clear over the Philippine Sea.

Mount Etna Erupts in Sicily

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Steam and ash rise into the atmosphere as Mount Etna Erupts in Sicily.

Betsiboka Estuary in Madagascar

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

The stunning Betsiboka Estuary in Madagascar offers gorgeous images and painful reminders of the effects of deforestation: the red color of the water comes from fertile soil washing into the ocean.

Big Island, Hawaii

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Surrounded by the bluest waters, the Big Island in Hawaii offers a refuge of green in the ocean even with a snow-covered mountaintop.

Naples and Mount Vesuvius at Night

Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Naples glows brightly in this night image of Italy from the International Space Station. Unlit areas represent agricultural fields and, the large circular dark spot is Mount Vesuvius.
A gunman has opened fire on a fast food restaurant in east London, injuring two boys.

Shots were fired at the takeaway in Plaistow on Friday night, the Metropolitan Police said.

Two 16-year-old boys were hit by the bullets, with one suffering an injury to his back and the other boy a leg wound.

Both were taken to an east London hospital, where they were described as being in a stable condition with non-life threatening injuries.So far no-one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Shooting: Two teenagers have been injured after a gunman opened fire on a takeaway in east London / Twitter/Ruman Hasan

Police said they were called to the scene in Terrace Road at 8.38pm and have urged witnesses to come forward.

Anyone who witnessed the incident but has not yet come forward is asked to call the Trident incident room on 020 8201 2713 or dial 101.

To remain anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
P olice are searching for a missing 16-year-old girl from Yorkshire who is believed to be in London with an older man.

Alexandra Zurawaska, 16, was last seen at about 7pm on Christmas Day in South Yorkshire.

Scotland Yard said she is believed to have since travelled to Sutton, south-west London and could be with an older man.

She also has links to the Hounslow, Richmond, Brent and Enfield boroughs.

Alexandra is described as about 5ft tall and of medium build, with light brown hair.

When she was last seen, she wore a khaki knee-length coat with a fur-lined hood, khaki tracksuit trousers and Timberland-style boots.

Police said she has a Land Rover bicycle.

A Met Police spokesman said: Officers are growing concerned for her welfare.

Anyone who has seen Alexandra is asked to call police 101 or tweet @MetCC.
A n elderly pedestrian has suffered potentially life-changing injuries after a crash with a cyclist in west London.

Emergency services were called to the collision in Kensington Church Street on Saturday afternoon.

Police and paramedics were alerted shortly before 1.30pm.

The elderly man was taken to a central London hospital. Scotland Yard said his injuries are not life-threatening but are potentially life-changing.

Police cordoned off Kensington Church Street after the crash

The male cyclist suffered cuts and bruises.

Police sealed off the road as officers investigated.

A Met Police spokesman said: Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

No arrests. Enquires continue.
S adiq Khan has hailed Londoners for their generosity and bravery in a year marred by the devastating Grenfell Tower fire and appalling terrorist attacks in the capital.

Londons Mayor used his new year message to praise those living in the city for rising to the challenge during an extremely difficult 2017.

He said that the incredible generosity of Londoners and bravery of the emergency services had shone through and shown exactly why the capital is the greatest city in the world.

Mr Khan said: 2017 has been an extremely difficult year for London. A year marred by the devastating Grenfell Tower fire and appalling terrorist attacks.

London Mayor: Sadiq Khan / AFP/Getty Images

But during these tough times the incredible generosity of Londoners and the bravery of our emergency services has shone through.

This has helped give a renewed sense of hope and optimism for the future. A true test of character is how you respond in tough times. Londoners have more than met that challenge this year.

Response: Police and paramedics at the scene of the London Bridge attack (DANIEL SORABJI/AFP/Getty Images) / Getty Images

Weve seen exactly why London is the greatest city in the world.

London was hit by several terrorist incidents in 2017 including the March attack at Westminster which left five people including PC Keith Palmer dead and the June attack at London Bridge which killed eight.

Terror incidents across the UK in 2017

Later that month, a van was driven into pedestrians as they left a mosque in Finsbury Park, north London. One man was killed. Darren Osborne has pleaded not guilty to terrorism-related murder and faces a trial next year.

Also in June, a devastating inferno ripped through Grenfell Tower in west London leaving 71 people dead. Survivors are still waiting for answers as the public inquiry and criminal investigation into the fire are carried out.

In September, a homemade bomb partially exploded on a Tube train at Parsons Green station injuring 30 commuters. Ahmed Hassan, 18, is accused of leaving the bomb on the Tube and faces trial in the New Year.

The Mayor was praised for his response to the terror attacks in 2017 by politicians across the globe after US President Donald Trump sparked a row when he criticised Mr Khan for saying there is no reason to be alarmed at the sight of extra armed police officers on the streets.

Grenfell Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral - In pictures 1 /46 Grenfell Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral - In pictures The Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service held at St Paul's Cathedral Getty Images Mourners leave after attending the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral AFP/Getty Images Adele teary eyed and emotional sitting next to Marcus Mumford and Carey Mulligan during the the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC Maria Jafari bereaved daughter, speaking at Grenfell Tower memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC Mourners hold white roses at the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC rince Harry, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Prince of Wales attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA A banner at Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Mourners arrive at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images Firefighters arriving for the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Guests arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Jeremy Corbyn and Diane Abbott arriving Jeremy Selwyn Prince Harry, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Prince of Wales attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA A woman appears emotional as she leaves the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA People hold photos and flowers as they leave after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn People gather on the steps after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA People hold photos and flowers as they leave after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn The Duchess of Cambridge leaves St Paul's Cathedral after a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire REUTERS Adele leaves St Paul's Cathedral after a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Alan Davidson/SilverHub The Duke and Duchess (left) of Cambridge and Prince Harry (2nd left) attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Theresa May arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Sir Martin Moore-Bick, chairman of the Grenfell public inquiry arrives at Grenfell Tower Memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Former footballer Les Ferdinand arrives PA Mourners arrive at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry (behind) attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA The Duchess of Cambridge arrives Jeremy Selwyn Armed policewoman at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn People arriving for the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Guests arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Mourners arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Grenfell survivors and bereaved familly members attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service held at St Paul's Cathedral Getty Images Prince Charles, Prince of Wales arrives at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images Mourners arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Jeremy Corbyn with a mourner at the Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Members of the public gather outside St Paul's Cathedral ahead of the Grenfell Tower national memorial service Getty Images

Prime Minister Theresa May said Mr Khan was doing an excellent job, while US mayors sent a message of solidarity to him.

The UK threat level for terrorism remains at severe meaning an attack is considered highly likely.

Mr Khan added: Im looking forward to a bright 2018. Weve made great strides in delivering for Londoners, working to build more genuinely affordable homes, tackling air pollution and making transport more affordable.

As the new year arrives, Im more determined than ever to make life in our city better for all Londoners. I wish you all a happy new year.
A London dance company is teaching survivors of human trafficking how to enjoy movement and regain their confidence through dance.

The Natashas Project, which uses theatre and dance to inform the public about modern slavery in Britain, runs "restorative" dance workshops for survivors of trafficking, sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Classes offer a therapeutic space for survivors, where they can learn to enjoy dance taught by specially-trained teachers.

The workshops also provide a community and new friendships to the women, who are often not from the UK.

The Natashas Project leads dance workshops with survivors of trafficking, sexual abuse and domestic violence / The Natashas Project

"It's not dance therapy but it is a therapeutic dance space," founding director Erena Bordon Sanchez told the Standard.

The contemporary dance workshops encourage "positive movement as, for some women, dancing has links to negative experiences, she said.

She explained: "Depending on the survivor dancing isnt a positive thing as it may be linked with trauma.

"We provide a safe space for dance that starts to change that. That comes from offering the space - they have to discover [positive movement] for themselves."

Classes, which launched in September, are drop-in so there is no expectation on women to come each week.

"A lot of their emotional needs mean they don't feel up to doing something on certain days," the founding director added.

The dancers leading the sessions are also trained in trauma and its effects.

Ms Bordon Sanchez said: "If they want to, we have a place where they can talk through some issues.

Classes launched in September and more and more women have joined each week

"Its a unique space - you could go to another dance class but the teachers wouldn't have the training."

The sessions were born out of the companys main focus: to educate the public about modern slavery in Britain.

It is estimated there are at least 13,000 modern slaves in the UK, according to the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner.

But one in five people in Britain have never heard of modern-day slavery, a survey by Co-op showed in October.

The company seeks to inform the public about modern day slavery through modern dance / The Natashas Project

To counter this, The Natashas Project stages dance productions to shine a spotlight on the reality of modern day slavery, and inspire reactionary change in its audiences.

"We want audiences to feel an emotional reaction and to do something," said Ms Bordon Sanchez.

"What we find is that people come away really feeling something about the subject and then we point people in right direction [to help]."

The company also runs educational workshops to teach creative dance and physical theatre in schools, as a way of talking to young people about slavery.

It is estimated there are at least 13,000 modern slaves in the UK, according to figures / The Natashas Project

Dance workshops with survivors are the third element of the company, and Ms Bordon Sanchez said it has been "beautiful" to see a community building week to week as women bring friends along.

One woman, who chose not to be named, said the classes make her "feel loved and belonged despite all the challenges we face each day".

She added: "After every session, I feel relaxed and looking hopeful!"

The company works with human rights organisations including the Sophie Hayes Foundation and reaches out to women by building relationships with safe houses.

Their next dance production, named 'On Demand', will premier in June and centre around the themes of manipulation, control and dehumanisation.

At least 3,800 people were reported as possible victims of slavery in Britain in 2016, recent figures by the National Crime Agency showed.

More than half of these victims were women, with many coming from countries including Albania, Vietnam and Nigeria.
 Every Muslim became a person of suspicion following terror attacks in London and Manchester, a woman targeted by trolls for wearing a hijab has said.

Female Muslims spoke out about against a sharp rise in Islamophobia following several deadly attacks in the UK this year.

They described how those who practice the religion were just as worried about attacks and said suspicion of all Muslims is causing a cultural divide on Britains streets.

Dr Fariha Khan, president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim women's association in the UK was among those who stood on Westminster Bridge just days after Khalid Masood's terror attack in March, in which five people died.

The 40-year-old GP, from Surbiton, south-west London, accompanied dozens of others at the event, organised by the Women's March On London, to openly condemn the murderous rampage.

Tribute: Women activists wearing blue hold hands on Westminster Bridge in front of the Houses of Parliament to honour the victims of the March 22 attack / AFP/Getty Images

"People have to consider that fear of these attacks is as real for us as it is for them. We are also out there commuting to work or out with our families and children," she said.

"Being suspicious of ordinary Muslims, and the majority of Muslims are peaceful members of the society, will only create divisions among the society."

Westminster Bridge vigil - In pictures 1 /26 Westminster Bridge vigil - In pictures Schoolgirls on Westminster Bridge during the vigil today Jeremy Selwyn An injured man holding a rose is wheeled on to Westminster Bridge during an event to mark one week since a man drove his car into pedestrians then stabbed a police officer in London Stefan Wermuth/Reuters Police officers hold flowers at the event on Westminster Bridge Matt Dunham/AP Communities across London unite one week on from the attack in which four people died Metropolitan Police Police officers stand guard on Westminster Bridge ahead of the vigil Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Imams honour the victims of the attack on Westminster Bridge Carl Court/Getty Images Muslim men pray during an event to mark one week since a man drove his car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge Hannah McKay/Reuters A group of Muslim men hold banners on Westminster Bridge Stefan Wermuth/Reuters Superintendent Jon Williams (centre) joins a vigil held on Westminster Bridge in London, exactly a week since the Westminster terror attack took plac Yui Mok/PA A vigil is held on Westminster Bridge in London, exactly a week since the Westminster terror attack took plac Yui Mok/PA Memorial Service on Westminster Bridge today a week on from the terror attack last week Jeremy Selwyn Memorial Service on Westminster Bridge today a week on from the terror attack last week Jeremy Selwyn People arrive to take part in a vigil on Westminster Bridge in London, exactly a week since the Westminster terror attack took place Yui Mok/PA Police block Bridge Street outside the Palace of Westminster as a vigil on Westminster Bridge is held a week since the terror attack took place Victoria Jones/PA People pay their respects and hold roses on Westminster Bridge as they attend a vigil to remember the victims of last week's Westminster terrorist attack Dan Kitwood/Getty Images People walking across Westminster Bridge in London after a vigil to mark a week since the Westminster terror attack took place BBC Police officers hold white roses on Westminster Bridge during a vigil to remember the victims of last week's Westminster terrorist attack Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Members of Ahmadiyya Muslim Association pay their respects in Parliament Square, London David Mirzoeff/PA Memorial Service on Westminster Bridge today a week on from the terror attack last week Jeremy Selwyn People hold posters on Westminster Bridge during an event to mark one week since a man drove his car into pedestrians then stabbed a police officer in London Stefan Wermuth/Reuters

For hijab-wearing women the attitude has become more hostile, according to two who said they have heard comments in the street and have both had to report online trolls.

Mother-of-two Navida Sayed said: "I've definitely felt the coldness in the sense, you know, no-one smiles anymore."

The 49-year-old Hounslow resident, whose mother came to the UK from Pakistan in the 1960s, said she had never felt such Islamophobia.

Londoners march in memory of the Westminster bridge victims

"We were all born and brought up here so, apart from the odd racist comment, we've never ever experienced this," she said.

"It's bad. When these attacks happen we feel double the pain. I feel double the pain - one for the loss of any innocent lives and then, secondly, (that it is carried out) wrongly in our name."

She said the fear of attacks is the same for everyone, as is the onus on reporting suspicions.

"Being Muslim doesn't make us be off guard. I think it (security) is everyone's duty and responsibility," she said.

"So, even as a Muslim woman, if I saw something that wasn't right I would report it straight away."

Social media allows trolls to spread anti-Muslim hatred more easily, said Slough-born Sarah Ward Khan.

The mother-of-three, who grew up in Cornwall and now lives in New Malden, said: "It's become acceptable to say things which are in the main Islamophobic or coming from an Islamophobic viewpoint, and it's become acceptable to voice those opinions in public. That would be my perception."

Asked about attitudes in the wake of attacks this year, the 37-year-old trainee teacher, whose parents converted to Islam in the 1970s, said: "I think people became worried. Every Muslim became a person of suspicion - you know, 'Are they dangerous, they might look normal but could they do this? Is it something in their beliefs that's going to make them do this?"'

She described it as particularly "scary" that US President Donald Trump, who was widely condemned when he retweeted three anti-Muslim videos posted by a member of right-wing group Britain First, has often made sweeping statements about Islam.

"If he is the role model and he is leading the way and he is not understanding the nuance or he is not differentiating between the terrorists' ideology and Islamic teachings, then that's a scary thing and it becomes a scary world," she said.

Additional reporting by Press Association.
C ritics of this years New Year Honours list have hit out at Theresa May for using the accolades to reward MPs.

Fierce backlash also came amid claims heroes who saved lives in a number of UK terror attacks and the Grenfell Tower blaze missed out.

The Prime Minister has been accused of having doled out political favours to cronies as the likes of Graham Brady, regarded as the voice of the party's backbenches at Westminster, has been awarded a knighthood.

Two other members of the 1922 Committee executive are also honoured, with vice-chairwoman Cheryl Gillan being made a Dame while treasurer Geoffrey Clifton-Brown is knighted.

New Year Honours 2017: Ringo Starr and Barry Gibb lead list 1 /30 New Year Honours 2017: Ringo Starr and Barry Gibb lead list Barry Gibb, who has been awarded a Knighthood for services to music and charity. PA Ringo Starr, who has been awarded a Knighthood for services to music. PA Former ballerina Darcey Bussell who is being made a Dame for services to dance PA Alexandra Shulman who has been awarded an CBE for services to fashion journalism. PA Elections expert Professor John Curtice, who said he was "surprised and humbled" to be given a knighthood. PA David Leakey, the outgoing holder of the Black Rod parliamentary post, has been made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (RVO). PA Eamonn Holmes who has been awarded an OBE for services to broadcasting. PA PA Dr Michele Dougherty who has bee PA Hugh Laurie has been awarded an CBE for services to drama. PA Britain's first astronaut Helen Sharman who is being made a Dame. PA Sam Warburton who has been awarded an OBE for services to Rugby Union PA Darcey Bussell who is being made a Dame for services to dance. PA Nick Clegg who is being awarded a Knighthood in the New Year Honours list. PA Celebrity chef Rick Stein who has been awarded a CBE for services to the economy. PA Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London Ken Olisa, who received a Knighthood for services to business and philanthropy. PA Lynne Franks who has been awarded an OBE for services to business fashion and women's empowerment. PA the Bee Gees (from left) brothers Robin, Maurice and Barry Gibb. Barry Gibb, has been awarded a Knighthood for services to music. PA Liberal Democrats deputy leader Jo Swinson who has been awarded an CBE. PA Ringo Starr, who has been awarded a Knighthood for services to music. PA Author Jilly Cooper who has been awarded an CBE for services to literature and charity. PA Wiley aka Richard Cowie Jnr who has been awarded an MBE for services to music. PA Author and playwright Michael Morpurgo who has been awarded a Knighthood for services to literature and charity. PA

All three backed the Leave campaign in the Brexit vote, as did a fourth Conservative MP to be honoured, veteran former minister Christopher Chope who receives a knighthood.

There are no honours for those involved in the response to recent terror attacks or the Grenfell Tower fire which left 71 people dead.

But the Cabinet Office said they are expected to be recognised in future honour lists.

Labour MP Jack Dromey tweeted: "@theresa-may hands out honours to cronies but not one of the heroes of #GrenfellTower or the terrorist attacks on our country is recognised."

Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage, when told of the Tory MPs and others honoured, said: "It's services to the establishment in a sense.

"I suppose it's a relief to see any Leavers on the list. The reason it's a surprise to see Leavers on the list is previously there haven't been any.

Theresa May has come under fire / EPA

"But I don't think it's a reward for Brexit, but a reward for work to the party. The Government's priority is keeping the party together."

Asked if he would want to be included in a future honours list, MEP Mr Farage replied: "It's never been an aspiration for me but an aspiration for many who support me.

"What will be will be."

Grenfell Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral - In pictures 1 /46 Grenfell Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral - In pictures The Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service held at St Paul's Cathedral Getty Images Mourners leave after attending the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral AFP/Getty Images Adele teary eyed and emotional sitting next to Marcus Mumford and Carey Mulligan during the the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC Maria Jafari bereaved daughter, speaking at Grenfell Tower memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC Mourners hold white roses at the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral BBC rince Harry, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Prince of Wales attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA A banner at Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Mourners arrive at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images Firefighters arriving for the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Guests arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Jeremy Corbyn and Diane Abbott arriving Jeremy Selwyn Prince Harry, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Prince of Wales attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA A woman appears emotional as she leaves the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA People hold photos and flowers as they leave after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn People gather on the steps after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA People hold photos and flowers as they leave after the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn The Duchess of Cambridge leaves St Paul's Cathedral after a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire REUTERS Adele leaves St Paul's Cathedral after a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Alan Davidson/SilverHub The Duke and Duchess (left) of Cambridge and Prince Harry (2nd left) attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Theresa May arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Sir Martin Moore-Bick, chairman of the Grenfell public inquiry arrives at Grenfell Tower Memorial service at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Former footballer Les Ferdinand arrives PA Mourners arrive at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry (behind) attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral PA The Duchess of Cambridge arrives Jeremy Selwyn Armed policewoman at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn People arriving for the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service at St Paul's Cathedral in London, to mark the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire PA Guests arriving at Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Mourners arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Grenfell survivors and bereaved familly members attend the Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service held at St Paul's Cathedral Getty Images Prince Charles, Prince of Wales arrives at St Paul's cathedral for a Grenfell Tower National Memorial service AFP/Getty Images Mourners arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for a memorial service in honour of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire Reuters Jeremy Corbyn with a mourner at the Grenfell Tower Memorial at St Paul's Cathedral Jeremy Selwyn Members of the public gather outside St Paul's Cathedral ahead of the Grenfell Tower national memorial service Getty Images

Sir Geoffrey, MP for The Cotswolds, said he believed it was "completely coincidental" when asked if Brexit had influenced any of the honours.

He praised Sir Graham for his "great job" leading the 1922 Committee and Dame Cheryl for her work since becoming an MP in 1992.

Sir Geoffrey said it was "great" to be recognised for working on behalf of his community, adding: "My daughter is about to have a baby so we've got a double family celebration."

Sir Graham said: "I am delighted. It's a huge honour. My family are thrilled."

SNP Cabinet Office spokesman Tommy Sheppard said public honours should recognise the "remarkable efforts and achievements" of people in communities which advance society.

Additional reporting by Press Association.
A Thai court has sentenced a conman to more than 13,000 years in prison.

Pudit Kittithradilok, 34, admitted to his part in running a fraudulent Ponzi scheme promising investors massive returns.

The BBC reports Pudit was found guilty of 2,653 counts of fraud after ripping investors off for more than 120 million.

As a result of his confession, the court halved his sentence down to 6,637 years and six months.

According to the Bangkok Post, investors were promised generous returns, plus incentives to bring new members on board.

In the style of a standard pyramid scheme, these new cash injections would then be used to pay off the earlier backers.

Pudit had been held in Bangkok remand prison since his arrest in August.

Despite the sizeable sentence, Pudit is unlikely to serve more than 20 years in jail, as Thai law sets a maximum 10-year term for each of the two crimes he was convicted of.

The court fined his two companies the equivalent of $20m each. The firms were ordered to repay around $17m to the 2,653 identified victims, with 7.5% yearly interest.
A ctor Richard E Grant was mugged at an ATM machine while on holiday with his family in Cape Town.

The 60-year-old star shared news of the incident on Twitter, telling fans: Feel like a right mug having been mugged at an ATM in Cape Town. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

The tweet came among a stream of intimate images shared by the Withnail and I actor of he and his wife, mother and daughter enjoying Christmas in South Africa.

Followers were quick to rally support for the actor with many sharing their own experiences.

Guy Healy wrote: No way!! I've been mugged before and it's horrible. Don't feel a mug, it's just about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. No reflection on you. Try to move past it. Hope it hasn't spoilt your Christmas break.

John McCoy added: Hope you are ok Its only stuff  as long as not hurt/shaken.

Another person said: So sorry to hear that, Richard, and a real sad end to the year. I hope it hasnt taken away your joy of being back home. X

The actor appeared to recover from his ordeal by relaxing on the beach.

He shared a sweet snap of himself with daughter Olivia alongside the caption: "Last day of the hols on Clifton Beach with @ShmiviaGrant to iron out Lifes bumps!"
2 017 has been unlucky for some  with many A listers heading into 2018 having reclaimed their single status.

This year was witness to the breakdown of some of the strongest relationships in Hollywood with Chris Pratt and Anna Faris shocking the world with their surprise split weeks after indulging in a loved up red carpet display.

Fellow heavyweights Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor called time on their 17 year marriage, while Fergies fans shed a tear when she announced her split from husband Josh Duhamel after 13 years together.

British stars were also subjected to singledom with Davina McCall confirming the end of her marriage to Matthew Robertson while Louise Redknapp shocked when she confessed to feeling like a Stepford Wife after hitting hard times with husband Jamie after nearly 20 years.

Biggest Celebrity Splits 1 /20 Biggest Celebrity Splits Selena Gomez & The Weeknd Getty Images Scarlett Johansson & Romain Dauriac Getty Nicki Minaj & Meek Mill Jamie McCarthy/Getty Louis Tomlinson & Danielle Campbell Mark Thompson/Getty Joshua Sasse & Kylie Minogue Wishing the best: Joshua Sasse and Kylie Minogue called time on their engagement Gareth Cattermole/Getty Anna Faris & Chris Pratt Reuters Louise & Jamie Redknapp Hard times: Louise and Jamie Redknapp pictured in October 2016 Chris Jackson/Getty FKA Twigs & Robert Pattinson Loved up: FKA Twigs and Robert Pattinson Chris Jackson/Getty Kem Cetinay & Amber Davies All over: Kem Cetinay and Amber Davies at the Pride Of Britain Awards John Phillips/Getty Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom Dave Benett Tyga & Kylie Jenner Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images Mel B & Stephen Belafonte Split: The couple at the ESPY Awards at the Microsoft Theater in LA, 2015 Paul A. Hebert/Invision/AP Ben Stiller & Christine Taylor Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Fergie & Josh Duhamel Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Rachel Bilson & Hayden Christensen Michael Buckner/Getty

It was a particularly rocky time for reality TV stars with many failing to see the year out. Love Island champions Kem Cetinay and Amber Davies failed to make things work on leaving the ITV2 villa and called time on their short lived romance, despite talking marriage and children weeks before.

Split: Anna Faris with ex-Chris Pratt and their son Jack (Jesse Grant/Getty) / Getty Images

Charlotte Crosby and Stephen Bear, Montana Brown and Alex Beattie and Megan McKenna and Pete Wicks also went their separate ways, with reality TV queen Kylie Jenner and rapper Tyga also admitting defeat. The couple split weeks before she stepped out with Travis Scott and reportedly fell pregnant.

Others fell at the last hurdle before marriage with FKA Twigs and Robert Pattinson, and Kylie Minogue and Joshua Sasse both calling off their engagements.

Wishing the best: Joshua Sasse and Kylie Minogue called time on their engagement (Gareth Cattermole/Getty ) / Gareth Cattermole/Getty

Pattinson was said to have grown tired of their three year union, while Minogue confirmed news of her break-up on Instagram where she insisted both her and Sasse wish the best for each other.

But not all break-ups led to months as a singleton with Louis Tomlinson splitting from Danielle Campbell only to rekindle his relationship with childhood sweetheart Eleanor Campbell while Selena Gomez parted ways with The Weeknd and fell straight back into the arms of Justin Bieber.

Here's to surviving 2018!
Marius-Iulian Carabulea is set to take over as coordinator of the activity of the National Agency for Mineral Resources (ANRM), according to a decision of Prime Minister Mihai-Tudose.

Thus, Carabulea - a Deputy Secretary of State of the Government, the equivalent of a Secretary of State - will sign all the necessary documents for ANRM to carry out its activity.Moreover, the head of the Executive decided to remove Gigi Dragomir as head, also the equivalent of a Secretary of State, of the National Agency for Mineral resources. Dragomir has been had of ANRM since October 3 this year.Prime Minister Tudose's decision were published in the Official Journal on Friday.

AGERPRES.
Prime Minister Mihai Tudose said he eliminates from the very start the idea of "any type of contact" with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) related to a possible loan.

"I eliminate from the start the idea of any type of contact with the IMF in respect to this (the possibility for Romanian to contract a loan -editor's note), said Tudose, in an interview with Antena 3 private television channel.He claimed that the economic prognosis of the IMF is finally starting to match with the reality in Romania."I see that they are back to their senses now. For you remember how, in mid-year, how they said the deficit was going to be 5 per cent with a growth of 2 per cent (..) and now it's clear that we were the ones who were right and their prognosis started to resemble reality," said the Prime Minister.Tudose rejected the possibility of a new economic crisis in Romania."I see that we are doing very well. (...) In 2008 we didn't have crisis, but we saw the incompetence of the leaders back then. (...) The proof is that we have economic growth, which seems that will exceed 6 per cent for the entire year, the deficit under 3 per cent, both in structural terms and in terms of cash. (...) The crisis has to do with the lack of trust in the state structures," said Tudose.

AGERPRES.
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 []
AT&T announced today that all 50 states are on board with its plan to build a dedicated broadband network for first responders. Three other U.S. territories have also opted into the program.

Reuters reports that a federal commission proposed a nationwide cellular emergency system just after the attacks on the World Trade Center building in 2001. It wasn't until 2012 that Congress enacted the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), but the telecom giant was not awarded the contract until March of this year.

The agreement includes 20 megahertz of wireless airwaves and $6.5 billion over the next five years based on success. AT&T expects to invest another $40 billion into it over the next 25 years as they establish and service the network.

Firstnet will be a "public safety" network that will allow emergency responders to get information quickly during crisis events when regular cellular service is often bogged down by affected citizens trying to reach loved ones.

"The FirstNet mission is to deploy, operate, maintain, and improve the first high-speed, nationwide wireless broadband network dedicated to public safety. This reliable, highly secure, interoperable, and innovative public safety communications platform will bring 21st-century tools to public safety agencies and first responders, allowing them to get more information quickly and helping them to make faster and better decisions."

Rate plans for the network have not been announced yet, but as a platform for public service, programs will be targeted toward government agencies (police, fire, EMS). At about $1.6 billion per year to maintain, rates will probably be somewhat high. However, associated costs for a state to build and maintain its own emergency network would likely be much higher.

In addition to the 50 U.S. states that have agreed to utilize the network (as opposed to building their own), Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have also chosen to adopt the system. American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands are also eligible for inclusion and have until March 12, 2018, to decide if they want to opt out.

According to analysts on Wall Street, AT&T can use FirstNet to widen its broadband coverage. The extra 20 Mhz that it has been awarded can be utilized to extend its bandwidth to regular customers when first responders are not using the system. This could mean a boost to broadband service for the telecom, which has been criticized in the past for throttling and usage caps.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday that his country has the highest economic growth in Latin America and the Caribbean, despite the sanctions imposed against it. | Read More
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/12/2017 (1784 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In as little as 15 months, a summertime ferry ride or perilous winter drive across ice will be relics of the past for residents of Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, according to Cuyler Cotton, chair of the reserves Freedom Road committee.

Cotton told The Carillon late last week that construction of the communitys all-weather gravel access road will be complete by March 2019.

Phase 1, a nine-kilometre on-reserve portion overseen by general contractor Sigfusson Northern, was completed in late September, six weeks ahead of schedule and under budget, Cotton said. Final numbers were still being tabulated last week.

Construction of phase 2, which spans 18 kilometres of Crown land to connect the reserve to the Trans-Canada Highway, will begin early in the new year.

Cotton said Manitoba Infrastructure, hired as phase 2 project managers by the First Nation, opened bidding on Dec. 23, a week after Indigenous consultations wrapped up.

The total cost of the project was estimated at $40 million in late 2016.

While the federal government funded phase 1, next years work will proceed under a tripartite funding agreement between the City of Winnipeg, Province of Manitoba, and Government of Canada.

Cotton said the project is already bringing economic benefits to the community.

Twenty percent of the [phase 1] contract was set aside for First Nations benefit, and that was actually exceeded, he said. At one point, up to 75 percent of the labour force was directly from the community.

Coordinating communication between all parties remains an ongoing challenge.

This is like four-dimensional chess, Cotton said.

Few precedents exist for a project that involves the governments of Winnipeg and Manitoba cost-sharing new infrastructure for a small Indigenous community that straddles the Manitoba-Ontario border.

That concept alone is a kind of political impossibility, Cotton said. It has been one of the most complicated things I think any of the governments have ever been involved in.

He credited cooperation and collective political will with moving the project forward.

Meanwhile, Cotton said Shoal Lake residents are relieved and hopeful to see tangible progress.

This is the most concrete evidence theyve had that all of the promises might actually be more than hopeful signs, he said.

For the first time in a generation, the community of roughly 300 people can turn their attention to the implications of year-round road access.

Anticipating and managing those opportunities and risks is the next task ahead. Cotton said a planning process involving council, elders, adults, and youth is already underway.

This is dramatically going to change this community in many different ways, he said.

Whatever happens, its hoped that the community will remain in control.
Gal Godot. Photo: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for GQ

Verified Wonder Woman Gal Gadot reportedly brought in $1.4 billion in global ticketing receipts worldwide in 2017, making her Forbess highest-grossing female actor. According to the business publications annual list, the only two actors whose movies grossed more money are Vin Diesel and Dwayne The Rock Johnson, who respectively brought in $1.6 and $1.5 billion.

Gadot catapulted to worldwide fame this summer when she made her major debut as the Amazonian superhero in Patty Jenkinss Wonder Woman, which broke a handful of records: It was the top North American debut for a female director, and after tallying $822 million, it became the all-time highest-grossing superhero-origin movie. The Israeli actress also amassed millions of dollars through her role in Justice League.

Good thing Warner Bros. Pictures made the right decision to remove producer and accused sexual abuser Brett Ratner from the Wonder Woman franchise.
Photo: George Marks/Getty Images

Email your money conundrums, from the technical to the psychological, to moneymom@nymag.com.

Its been a stressful year  maybe youve noticed? But if constant anxiety has a silver lining, its the urge to double down on what we can control. In that spirit, I managed to save approximately 30 percent of my income in 2017. This is uncharted territory for me; Ive always had a fascination with how other people handle their money, but Ive never been disciplined about my own finances  until now.

This disparity isnt unusual: Most of us know what were supposed to do with our money (live within our means, invest for the future), but have trouble motivating ourselves to follow through with it. How can we make ourselves want to spend less and save more, without it feeling like such a grind? Here are the five practices that helped me create  and keep  better habits in 2017.

1. Cut back on easy spending

I got through my 20s with a carpe-diem approach to money, embracing every opportunity to open my wallet: travel, restaurants, sample sales. Whenever finances got hairy, I resolved to rein myself in, but it wouldnt last. Then, about a year ago, I interviewed Manisha Thakor, the director of wealth strategies for women at the BAM Alliance, and she made an interesting recommendation: Comb through all of my expenses  even the tiniest ones  and highlight the ones that brought joy.

Cheesy though it sounded, I gave it a try. There were quite a few pricey things on the happy list: a new dress, wine and groceries for hosting book club, yoga classes, train tickets for a weekend trip, donations to causes I cared about. However, there were many that werent: sandals that pinched, a few Seamless orders I barely remembered, cocktails I definitely didnt need. The lesson, of course, was that I was wasting a decent amount of money on unnecessary stuff that I didnt even like.

Every month since, Ive scrolled through all of my charges and made a mental note of the greatest hits  the ones that genuinely enriched my day-to-day. And now, when Im contemplating an expense, I ask myself, Would I highlight this a month from now? Obviously, it wasnt a cure-all, and you cant always predict if a purchase will turn out as joyful as it seems in the moment. But it did train me to spend less without feeling like I was giving up anything.

2. Try text banking for balance reminders

I used to dread visiting the ATM. My balance was inevitably lower than I anticipated, sending me into a tailspin of self-doubt: How could I be so careless? Even as Ive grown older and more conscientious, its rare that I have a solid sense of how much money is where  its like I have amnesia for numbers. This year, however, I signed up for text banking with Bank of America, and now receive a message with my account balances every single morning (many other banks offer similar services). This not only knocked into my hard skull exactly how much money I had at all times, but it desensitized me to the panic of finding out. It also made me nerdily eager to pay off my credit-card balances immediately  even if that meant settling up multiple times per month  just so I knew that the number in my checking account was real. Rudimentary? Sure. But it helped establish a much firmer sense of control of my day-to-day finances, and dispensed of any lingering denial about my spending habits, good or bad.

3. Automate to force yourself to save

I save most effectively when I dont save at all, which is to say, I get the internet to do it for me. Automating regular deposits into a savings account is nothing new (and useful, for many people), but it hasnt always worked for me; Id still know that money was available, and tap into it regularly. So this year, I experimented with more creative ways to hide money from myself. One tool Im obsessed with (and have raved about before) is Digit, an app that came out in 2015. Once you connect it to your bank account, its algorithm tracks your cash flow and removes small amounts of money when you wont notice  a couple of bucks here and there. You can withdraw whenever and whatever you want, but Im much less likely to pillage the account because its out of sight, out of mind.

There are other apps that do similar things (Qapital is popular), but Digit is the sneakiest and therefore my favorite, even though it did start charging users $2.99 per month earlier this year. Still, Im willing to pay for algorithmic (and FDIC-insured) elves to trick me into saving  and, on a broader level, it made me realize that I have more to spare than I thought.

4. Take your 401(k) seriously

I maxed out my 401(k) and IRA contributions this year, an achievement Id never even come close to before. I decided to go for it at the end of 2016, after I rolled over all of my previous 401(k)s into an account at Vanguard and discovered what a slacker Id been about retirement savings in my 20s. Im now in my early 30s, dont have kids or a house or consumer debt, and make enough money to live comfortably, so I figured it was about time to start atoning for my younger selfs lack of foresight.

The maximum amount that anyone under 50 can put into a 401(k) per year is $18,000; for an IRA, its $5,500. I decided to aim to hit the maximums by August, so that I could reward myself with bigger paychecks afterward. (My thinking: Research shows that monetary incentives do motivate behavioral changes, and it gave me something to work toward. Plus, the alternative  simply lowering my paycheck in perpetuity  seemed depressing.) Leading with aggressive contributions also gave me a cushion: I could dial them back slightly if I needed to without missing my target by the end of the year. One month, I put in a little bit less so that I could pay for a trip, but then I made up for it (and then some) when I took on extra freelance work a few months later.

When I hit the max in September, I felt like a zillionaire. However, Ive since learned that my supposedly clever system of front-loading my contributions wasnt as smart as I thought.* My company has a relatively generous 401(K) match (dollar-for-dollar up to four percent of my salary), and by front-loading my contributions, I lost out on three months of free matched money. What can I sayIm new at this, as Ive mentioned, and never liked math. Take advantage of any matching program you have, and dont make my mistake.

5. Dangle a carrot in front of yourself

This coming January, my husband and I are taking a long trip to South America that weve been planning for ages. Several behavioral psychologists  notably Brad Klontz, the co-founder of the Financial Psychology Institute  have told me that saving up for a concrete goal that I genuinely look forward to is a great way to prevent mindless spending on random stuff in the interim, and they couldnt be more right. I found myself comparing every possible purchase to what it could buy us on our trip: A nice dinner out in Tribeca, or one in Paraguay? A fancy haircut, or a hotel room with a view in Panama City? I once returned a new pair of boots when I realized that they were the same price as a plane ticket from Barranquilla to Medellin. Through this lens, refusal didnt seem like deprivation  it felt like a treat to my future self.

*This post has been updated
Kim Kardashian. Photo: TARA ZIEMBA/AFP/Getty Images

The forever wise Kim Kardashian will soon be evolving into one of those mythological beings who lives in the moment, as she has announced that in 2018, shes spending less time on her phone. Cheers to sanity!

According to Page Six, Kardashian acknowledged that gripping your phone like a security blanket is maybe not the best for your health. Therefore, she chose to make her personal misery machine the subject of her New Years resolution.

My New Years resolution is to be on my phone less and be more in the moment, she wrote on her website.

Earlier this year, Kardashian blamed being robbed at gunpoint in Paris on her social-media activity. After the attack in late 2016, she disappeared from the apps for three months and didnt open up about the incident until a highly anticipated episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

I was Snapchatting that I was home and that everyone was going out, she said. So I think they knew [bodyguard Pascal Duvier] was out with Kourtney and that I was there by myself. They had to have known we were leaving that I was there by myself.

While the incident undoubtedly traumatized Kardashian, she was able to find peace during her social-media recess, which she has unsurprisingly missed. Plus, her third child with Kanye is due any day now. In the meantime, well all be sitting here, staring at our phones until our eyes bleed, waiting for Kardashian to post the rare baby pic.
A white SUV sits in the middle of the road as police and emergency personnel work to help the injured after the car deliberately ran over pedestrians in Flinders Street in Melbourne on Dec. 21, 2017. (Mal Fairclough/AFP/Getty Images)

Beloved Grandfather Injured in Melbourne Car Attack Dies

A victim of the car attack in central Melbourne on Dec. 21 has died in hospital overnight. The man was 83 years of age.

Antonios (Anton) Crocaris was one of the 18 people injured by a 32-year-old man who purposely drove a vehicle into crowds on Melbournes Flinders Street.

Crocaris passed away at The Alfred Hospital Intensive Care Unit at about 11:30 p.m. on Friday, eight days after the car attack.

Crocariss family said the grandfather was a friend to all, and a proud citizen of Australia, reported the ABC.

Our father Anton had his life cruelly taken away in a senseless act of violence, the family said in a statement.

These circumstances are devastating to our family. Dad is simply irreplaceable and we will never fully recover from this loss.

An 83-year-old Melbourne grandfather has become the first person to die following the Flinders Street rampage. #9News pic.twitter.com/W5qkInkBX9  Nine News Australia (@9NewsAUS) December 29, 2017

Crocaris is the first person to have died as a result of the attack. Of the people injured in the incident, six still remain in hospital.

A South Korean man, aged in his 60s, remains in a critical condition, reported The Age. The 60-year-old had another two family members  another man and a 4-year-old boy  injured in the attack.

The Age added that nine of those injured in the attack were from overseas, from countries including India, China, Italy, Ireland and Venezuela.

Victorian Police have charged 32-year-old Saeed Noori with 18 counts of attempted murder and one count of conduct endangering life.

Homicide Squad detectives are expected to upgrade one of those charges to murder, said a police statement released after Crocaris death.

Accused Flinders St driver has been driven in to the custody centre and is expected to be interviewed shortly @7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/gPfZzLEhjP  Jodi Lee (@jodilee_7) December 22, 2017

Noori is of Afghan descent and has a history of mental illness, violence and drug use. Not long after the attack, a police official told media that Noori blamed the mistreatment of Muslims for some of his activities.

He allegedly used a relatives vehicle  a white Suzuki Grand Vitara to carry out the attack. His next court appearance is in May.

Melbourne has installed some 140 concrete bollards in the city center in a move to prevent vehicle attacks by terrorists similar to those seen recently in Europe and the United States.

The city has also recently installed an emergency alarm warning system in its CBD. The system is scheduled to be put in 30 other locations across the city.

Melbourne's terror warning system has been trialled for the first time, with loud speakers to broadcast information following an attack. Report on 7 News at 6.00pm. #7News pic.twitter.com/oOEGEoUUUW  7 News Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) December 28, 2017

From NTD.tv

Next:

Firefighter Going Over 100 mph Before Deadly Crash
Chinese Man Filmed Shooting Endangered Bear, Sparking Outcry

A Chinese man was filmed shooting an endangered, caged black bear with a machine gun in Burma, also known as Myanmar. He claimed that he did it out of curiosity, according to the Daily Mail.

The government of Burmas Wa State, which borders China, apparently allowed the man to shoot the bear. The mans name was not identified.

An expert said the bear in the clip is an Asiatic black bearan endangered type.

Good to see that the Chinese public is outraged by this heinious act  Video of man shooting caged bear sparks https://t.co/gEzIQwYA8P  Roar Wildlife News (@RoarWN) December 29, 2017

I told you not to open your mouth. Do that again and I would make you surrender, the man can be heard telling the bear, as reported by the Mail.

Video [of the shooting] was not allowed to be shared, the Daily Mail quoted the man as saying. I dont know which tourist sent the video onto the internet in China. I was condemned by the web users.

Then, he shot the bear once and it fell to the ground. The footage later shows part of bears head and its paw, and someone can be seen skinning part of the bear carcass, according to the South China Morning Post.

Other reports said the man opened fire on the bear out of curiosity.

The man reportedly is from Chinas Shandong province, and hes believed to be involved in a hunting and animal trafficking gang.

Another tourist is believed to have captured the footage. The clip was shared widely on Chinese social media websites on Dec. 27, sparking widespread condemnation.

They are the dregs of society  should be punished severely, one person wrote, according to the SCMP.

Another added: They dont have even the slightest piece of mercy for animals.

2017 Year in Review
Fresh Corn Season Might Be Over, but You Can Still Have Delicious Cornbread Using Frozen Corn
Counterfeit Prada handbags are displayed at a press conference following a record seizure at the customs headquarters in Hong Kong on August 6, 2015. (Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty Images)

Father and Sons Arrested in New York for $25 Million Worth of Counterfeit Goods From China

A father and his two sons were arrested on Dec. 26 for purchasing counterfeit goods from China and reselling them to vendors across the United States, according to local New York broadcaster Pix11.

Mahmood Nasir, 55, and his sons Rubail Nasir, 18, and Ramish Nasir, 22, were from Floral Park, New York, a suburb located east of the city.

They purchased fake Gucci, Prada, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Rolex goods, which, if authentic, would have been valued at $25 million. They face felony counterfeit charges and will appear in local court Friday.

The Rolexes, which would have sold for over $100,000, even came with certified paperwork to make them seem real, Acting Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder told media at a press conference on Wednesday.

Police made the arrest after a six-month investigation, according to NBC. The goods were shipped to John F. Kennedy airport before getting distributed to vendors.

China is the source for more than 70 percent of the worlds physical trade-related counterfeiting, valued at more than $285 billion, according to a 2016 report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Coupled with counterfeiting from Hong Kong, a separately-governed city under Chinas territory, China accounts for 86 percent of global counterfeiting, amounting to $396.5 billion.

That reflects 12.5 percent of Chinas total exports and over 1.5 percent of its GDP (Gross Domestic Product).

Chinas large-scale intellectual property (IP) infringement has caught U.S. President Donald Trumps attention. In August, he signed a memorandum to allow U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to decide whether to conduct a formal investigation into Chinas unfair trade practices.

Counterfeit goods, pirated software, and theft of trade secrets is estimated to cost the U.S. economy more than $225 billion and up to $600 billion annually, according to the IP Commission, an independent group of experts who investigate theft of American IP.

A 2014 Epoch Times report interviewed experts who said China continues to use child labor to produce counterfeit goods. Greg Autry, a senior economist with the American Jobs Alliance, and co-author of Death by China, told this publication that Chinas communist system endorses counterfeiting.

In the communist system, it requires that you have to kowtow to the authorities in Beijing, Autry said. Its a political decision that moves you forward. Having great ideas isnt what gets you forwardstealing other peoples great ideas and helping the leaders profit is what gets you forward.
L: Linwood Michael Woody Kaine. (Ramsey County Sheriff's Office); R: Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing concerning terrorism and radicalization in North Africa, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, Dec. 6, 2017. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Former VP Candidate Tim Kaines Son Sentenced to Probation for Resisting Arrest After Anti-Trump Protest

Linwood Michael Woody Kaine, the youngest son of Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), was sentenced to a year of probation for resisting arrest after he participated in an anti-Trump protest that disrupted a Minnesota Trump rally in March. Sen. Kaine was Hillary Clintons running mate during the 2016 presidential election.

The Trump rally was held at the Minnesota state Capitol in St. Paul and attracted about 400 Trump supporters. It included a prayer and consisted mostly of people sitting or standing in the Capitols Rotunda and listening to speeches.

A group of between 75 and 125 anti-Trump protesters gathered across the street from the building at around 12 p.m., according to the criminal complaint against Linwood. Police observed some of them gather behind nearby bushes changing into black clothes and concealing their faces. One of them was Linwood, 25.

A group of several dozen anti-Trump protesters then entered the capitol, chanting obscenities at Trump and accusing Trump of racism. They stopped on a stairway leading to the Rotunda (where the rally was in progress) faced with a group of a few dozen Trump supporters, who shouted USA and pro-Trump slogans.

A number of the anti-Trump protesters were clad in black, had covered faces, and some wore goggles. St. Paul Police had intelligence that anarchists were planning violence against Trump supporters at the March 4 rallies. Police suspected that the so-called anarchists were the masked, black-clad individuals. Such attire is typical of far-left extremist group Antifa, which advocates violence to overthrow the government and capitalism. One of the protesters was captured on video waving a large Antifa flag outside the capitol building.

Antifa was founded in Germany in the 1920s as the violent wing of the Communist Party of Germany (KPD), which at the time was trying to establish a communist dictatorship in Germany on behalf of the Soviet Union. Part of its role was to brand any form of capitalism and all rival political parties as fascist.

A joint intelligence assessment by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security described Antifas activities as domestic terrorist violence, according to confidential documents first reported on by Politico.

Police stated the masked people in St. Paul threw smoke bombs, set off fireworks, and used a chemical irritant (possibly a pepper spray) inside the Capitol building, Star Tribune reported.

Videos from the rally show several Trump supporters trying to grab and pull the masked men from the crowd of anti-Trump protesters. A young white man with dyed orange hair and a covered face is then seen spraying one of the Trump supporters with an unknown substance. A young black man with dreadlocks and googles is seen trying to use a taser against the Trump supporters.

One of the masked people was also caught on video throwing a smoke bomb inside the Capitol building, the criminal complaint stated. A witness pointed out who threw the bomb to the building security guard, who then tried to detain the person. But the person wrenched from the guards hold and bolted for the buildings exit, along with at least four others, all dressed in black, hooded, and with covered faces.

Police later observed, from an unmarked car, the five persons changing clothes and otherwise altering their appearances behind bushes in a parking lot near the Capitol.

As the five walked towards the nearby light rail station, police officers confronted them and told them they were under arrest. They scattered, but the officers chased them down.

One of the five was Linwood. When an officer caught up with him and grabbed him, Linwood tried to break free, the complaint stated. Even after the officer pulled Linwood to the ground and other officers arrived, Linwood continued to resist.

The defendant continued to fight the officers on the ground, bucking and flaring his arms and legs, the complaint stated. After several warnings to stop resisting, the defendant said, Okay, I am not resisting anymore and was arrested.

Linwood was charged with three misdemeanors: interfering with peace officer, fleeing a peace officer by other means than a vehicle, and concealing his identity in a public place. The latter two charges were dismissed and Linwood was sentenced to one year probation and a fine of $236 for the first charge associated with his resisting the arrest.

Aside from the five arrested by the St. Paul Police, one person was also arrested by Minnesota State Police and charged with disorderly conduct. Some of those arrested were charged with felonies, Fox News reported.

In March, Senator Kaines spokesperson told media that there was no suggestion that [Linwood] engaged in disruptive behavior while at the rally but [authorities] are instead focused on his actions as he was arrested after he left.

You may also like to watch
Security forces stand guard at the site of attack on a church in the Helwan district south of Cairo, Egypt Dec. 29, 2017. (Reuters/Amr Abdallah Dalsh)

Gunman Kills 11 in Attacks on Coptic Church, Christian-Owned Shop in Egypt

CAIROA gunman killed at least 11 people on Friday Dec. 29 in attacks on a Coptic Orthodox church and a Christian-owned shop near Cairo before he was wounded and arrested, the Egyptian interior ministry and church officials said.

The ISIS terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attacks, in a statement carried out by its Amaq news agency, though it provided no evidence for the claim.

Police have stepped up security measures around churches ahead of Coptic Christmas celebrations on Jan. 7, deploying officers outside Christian places of worship and setting up metal detectors at some of the bigger churches.

Islamist terrorists have claimed several attacks on Egypts large Christian minority in recent years, including two bombings on Palm Sunday in April and a blast at Cairos largest Coptic cathedral in December 2016 that killed 28 people.

Earlier reports by security sources and state media said at least two attackers were involved in Fridays attack, and that one was shot dead and another fled the scene. The interior ministry did not explain the reason for the different accounts.

The Coptic Church said the gunman first shot at a Christian-owned shop 4 km (3 miles) away, killing two people, before proceeding to the Mar Mina church in the southern Cairo suburb of Helwan. The Interior Ministry said he opened fire at the entrance to the site and tried to throw an explosive device.

The gunman killed at least nine people, including a policeman, at the church, according to Interior Ministry and Coptic Church accounts. The Church said a young woman had died later from her wounds, bringing the civilian death toll at the church to eight.

The ministry said security forces had immediately dealt with the (attacker) and arrested him after he was wounded. It added, Legal measures have been taken, without elaborating.

Gunman Identified

Investigators have identified the gunman, it said, adding that he had carried out several attacks since last year. Egypt is also grappling with a deadly ISIS insurgency in the North Sinai region.

The health ministry said five people had been wounded, including two women who it said were in a serious condition.

A joint funeral for eight of those killed was held on Friday evening at the Virgin Mary church in Helwan.

The head of the Coptic Church, Pope Tawadros II, led mourning for the victims. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also offered his condolences to the families and ordered security forces to increase safety measures at sensitive sites, his office said in a statement.

Cairos state prosecutor said that an investigation had been launched into the incident.

The shooting began at 10:30 a.m. and carried on for more than 15 minutes  There was more than one attacker, Mohammed Hussein Abdelhadi, who lives close to the church, told Reuters.

A witness who did not want to give his name said the policeman was killed while he was closing the church gate to stop the gunman getting in.

2017 Year in Review
Block of houses were a pit bull froze to death, in Toledo, Ohio. (Screenshot via Google Maps)

Pit Bull Found Frozen Solid on Porch of Ohio House

The Toledo Area Humane Society is investigating why a pit bull froze to death on the porch of a house in Toledo, Ohio.

I dont know how long she was out there, Humane Society investigator Megan Brown told the Toledo Blade. She was frozen solid.

Brown saw a second dog inside the house through a window. The dog was alive but malnourished and cold. Brown entered the house after obtaining a search warrant and rescued it.

The Blade contacted the owner of the dogs, 40-year-old Victor Vallejo Sr. He said the dog that died was a 3-year-old female, and the dog inside the house was a 4-year-old male. Both dogs are American Bullies, one of several kinds of dogs considered pit bulls.

I wasnt staying there, but I was going back and forth and feeding them. They had plenty of food and water, he said. Ive been staying here and there at the moment. I kind of fell on some bad times.

He told The Blade that he locked the dogs up inside and doesnt know how the female got out. He also revealed that the utilities to the house were recently cut off.

Brown said that none of the dogs had food or water. The frozen dog appears healthy, despite freezing to death in a curled up posture. She seemed optimistic about the surviving dog.

He looks to be pretty good, Brown said. Hes sweet. He was malnourished and dehydrated, but I think hell be fine.

Animal cruelty investigators took the surviving dog to a shelter. They are also considering cruelty charges against Vallejo, according to WTVG.

Vallejo told The Blade he paid a lot of money for the dogs and hoped to breed them.

Veterinarian Dr. Donald Allen told WKBN about the dangers of leaving pets outside during cold weather. He said that even though the normal body temperature of dogs and cats is slightly higher than that of humans, caution should be taken.

He said dogs start to feel cold in their feet, ear tips, and eyes. He also said pets feel cold and windchill much the same way human beings do, even though the body temperature for dogs and cats is normally around 100 to 103 degrees.

Most of the calls the Toledo Area Humane Society receives about animals in the cold are about dogs, according to another Blade article. Stephen Heaven, president and chief executive of the society, tells people to look for signs.

You just have to use common sense, said Heaven, via The Blade. You obviously want to watch the temperatures. You really have to be aware of how your animal is reacting

He said that if pets appear too cold, they should be brought to an indoor heated area and dried off. They should also be warmed slowly and seen by a veterinarian if necessary.

From NTD.tv
Police in Kansas Kill Innocent Man After Prank Emergency Call

A police officer in Kansas shot and killed an innocent, unarmed man after a prank caller told authorities that he had killed his father and was holding hostages inside the mans home, police said.

The 28-year-old man was killed during a standoff with police, minutes after they received the hoax call on Thursday evening, Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said during a news conference on Friday.

Authorities later learned that the call was a hoax, known as swatting, in which people falsely report an emergency to authorities that requires a police response, usually by Special Weapons and Tactics, or SWAT, teams.

In several incidents of swatting around the country, online gamers have been accused by the authorities of making the calls.

The shooting is a tragic and senseless act. The irresponsible actions of a prankster put peoples lives at risk, Livingston said. The incident is a nightmare for everyone involved.

Here is the 911 call that lead to the deadly swatting in Kansas. https://t.co/nXG1WUKKsa  Candi Bolden (@CandiBolds) December 30, 2017

Family members told the Wichita Eagle newspaper that Andrew Finch, a father of two, was the man killed.

The person who made the phone call took my nephew  two kids father, Finchs aunt, Lorrie Hernandez-Caballero, told the paper. How does it feel to be a murderer? I cant believe people do this on purpose.

Local and federal authorities are searching for the caller who is responsible for the deadly standoff, Livingston said.

At a little after 6 p.m. on Thursday, dispatch in Wichita received a call from a man who said that he had just shot his father in the head and that he was holding his mother and little brother hostage.

I already poured gasoline all over the house, I might just set it on fire, he told the dispatcher, according to a recording of the call published on the newspaper website.

'Swatting' led to fatal shooting of Andrew Finch, police say https://t.co/ghhhqqE52a  Fernando Salazar (@fsalazar58) December 30, 2017

Wichita police officers responded, surrounding a house on the citys west side, Livingston said.

As the incident unfolded, a 28-year-old male opened the front screen door and stood in the doorway or just outside that doorway, he said. Officers gave him several verbal commands to put his hands up and walk towards them.

A police officer opened fire, shooting once, after the man quickly raised his hands and appeared to point a weapon at the officers, Livingston said.

Police entered the house and found no one deceased, injured and no hostages inside, he said.

2017 Year in Review
Pregnant Woman Shoots Into Moving Car After Argument, Kills 7-Year-Old Boy

A pregnant Texas woman shot and killed a 7-year-old boy after arguing with his father over some stolen perfume, DFW reported, citing the boys family.

Brooke Craig was fighting with 24-year-old Cameron Castillo, the father of the boy killed. Castillo got into the car and began to drive away with his three children inside.

This is when Craig, Castillos pregnant girlfriend, started shooting at the car intending to hit Castillo. Instead, she shot 7-year old Kaden Green in the chest.

But the bizarre episode didnt end there. Castillo and Craig then proceeded to take the children out of the car, including Kamden, who was bleeding from the chest. The couple then left the children behind and drove off.

I dont care if you had a blue warrant, anything. That still was your baby. How could you leave him? Kadens aunt, Felicia Spillman, told DFW.

She tried to shoot Cameron, and she ended up shooting the baby in the chest, said Spillman.

Craig is due to give birth next month, DFW reported citing a family source.

I dont honestly think she should be allowed to keep that one after taking one, Evelyn Jose, Kadens second cousin, told DFW.

Police caught up with the couple 30 miles away. The duo led the cops on a chase which ended after Craig rammed police cars.

Castillos two other children have been placed into the care of Child Protective Services.

Police received a call before 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 28, to a house on the 4200 block of Pickett Street but found no one at home upon arrival. The officers later learned that a child had been rushed to a hospital.

Castillo refused to accompany his child to the hospital because there was a warrant out to arrest him, according to Felicia Stillman, Kaden Greens aunt, WFAA reported.

Craig and Castillo were booked into Collin County Jail. Craig is facing a capital murder charge, while Castillo is facing a charge for violating parole.

My baby was a loving baby. He was a loving baby and he didnt deserve this, Kadens mother, Courtney Green, told WFAA.

All he wanted was to be like his daddy, and he wanted to be a Cowboys player. He was such a good kid. He didnt deserve this. He was a great kid, and I would give anything to have him back, Id give anything, the mother cried.

From NTD.tv
(L-R) Shanise Myers, Shanta Myers, and Jeremiah Myers. Their bodies were found in a basement apartment in upstate New York on Tuesday, Dec. 26. (Screenshot via GoFundMe)

Surviving Son of Woman Murdered With Her Two Children in Troy, NY, Fears For His Life

The surviving son of a woman brutally murdered along with her other two children and a female partner in upstate New York fears he could also be targeted by the killer.

Im scared to go to the corner store, 15-year-old Isaiah Smith told Times Union reporters Thursday, Dec. 28. Im not sure if theyre coming for me next.

Family of Shanta Myers and her children speak, urging those with information on #Troy homicide to come forward. pic.twitter.com/EvVTDbaW59  Amanda Fries (@mandy_fries) December 28, 2017

New York police earlier identified the two women and two children who were gruesomely murdered in the basement apartment in Troy, New York, just north of Albany, reported The Epoch Times.

The Troy Police Department identified the victims as Shanta Myers, 36, her two children, Jeremiah, 11, and Shanise, 5, and Brandi Mells, 22. According to the police, Mells and Myers were in a relationship.

Little information has been released about the details of the murder, but Police Chief John Tedesco told AP that he has never seen savagery like this in 43 years of law enforcement.

After being in this business for 43 years, I cant describe the savagery of a person who would do this, Tedesco told Fox News. It was the number of people killed, the manner in which they were killed, Tedesco said. And the children being involved.

No suspect has yet been named and police are asking the public for help as the investigation continues.

According to the New York Times, the manager of the property received a call from the victims relatives asking to do a welfare check on the family.

The victims bodies were found on the day after Christmas, but the police chief hopes an autopsy will help clear up the timing.

Tedesco told Fox News that certain factors were uncovered during the investigation that may mean the killings were targeted.

Shakera Symes, Shanta Myers sister, told Spectrum News the murders have left her entire family traumatized.

Give the information to the authorities so that they can help find the person who has destroyed us, emotionally, mentally, Symes said. It feels like somebody has ripped us to shreds.

Symes also said she would raise Myers son, Isaiah Smith, in the wake of the horrific murders.

Family members expressed their grief to reporters at Troys Boys & Girls Club, Fox reported.

We are shocked and deeply saddened by this tragedy, reads a statement on a GoFundMe page set up by a representative of the Club.

It will be deeply felt by all his friends at the Club and throughout the community.

The locals in Troy, a city of 50,000 seven miles from the state capital of Albany, were shocked to learn about the murders. Before the murders discovered on Tuesday, there were only two homicides in Troy all year. The annual average is six murders, Tedesco said, according to New York Times.

For someone to do this to two children is horrific, Mark McGrath, a city council member, told Fox News. I cant even explain how people feel up here. Weve had homicides here in the past, as all communities do, but childrenit really, really has affected this community.

Members of the public can also submit anonymous tips to the #TroyNY Police by visiting https://t.co/zvc5QkMoNI or dialing 1-(833)-ALB-TIPS pic.twitter.com/Fop7k2jGNB  Patrick Madden (@MayorMadden) December 27, 2017

The citys mayor praised police and reached out on Twitter to comfort residents.

Troy is a strong, resilient city that always comes together to support our neighbors & friends impacted by tragic incidents like this, Madden wrote on Twitter. The thoughts of our entire community remain with the victims families during this incredibly difficult time.

Ivan Pentchoukov contributed to this report.

2017 Year in Review
Focusing on how social norms are changing can help people change their own behavior, new research suggests.

Whether it be for the environment, ones health, or other meaningful causes, convincing people to adopt new or uncommon behaviors can be difficult. One reason is that societal norms powerfully reinforce the status quo.

One question were interested in from a psychological standpoint is how social change happens, said lead author Gregg Sparkman, a doctoral student in psychology at Stanford University. What leads people to overturn a status quo?

Sparkman points out that although change usually happens slowly, it does happen, and perhaps more frequently than we notice. For example, seat belt use was once a nuisance, but now its standard practice. Smoking in restaurants and other public places was once commonplace, but has since declined.

The researchers seek to identify the factors that influence people to make those changes.

Case Study: Eating Habits

Past research on how social norms influence behavior has focused on seemingly static views of how most people behave, according to Greg Walton, an associate professor of psychology and the studys senior author. Sparkman and Waltons research, however, tests how people behave when they think the norm is changing.

Showing how norms are changing can give people a model of how they can change too, and lead to a circumstance where many people change, said Walton.

The researchers conducted four experiments relating to meat consumption, a norm Sparkman described as well-rooted, highly visible, and something you do every day in the presence of others. Its also a norm that has a negative impact on the environment, as livestock consume large volumes of water and emit greenhouse gases.

In one experiment, participants from across the United States read two statements about eating less meat. One statement (static) described how some Americans are currently trying to eat less meat, while the other statement (dynamic) described how some Americans are changing and now eat less meat.

The participants who read the dynamic statement reported more interest in reducing their meat consumption than those who read the static one. Those participants reported anticipating that this change would continue into the future, leading them to want to conform to that future norm.

Another experiment tested peoples likelihood to order a meat-based lunch. People standing in line at a university campus cafe read statements describing how some people limit how much meat they eat (static) or are starting to limit how much meat they eat (dynamic). Lunchgoers who read the dynamic statement were twice as likely to order a meatless meal than those in the static group (34 percent compared to 17 percent).

An important aspect of these studies, the researchers say, is that participants were never asked to change their behavior, or even told the benefits of doing so.

We didnt ask people to not eat meat or eat less meat, Walton says. Theyre just given information about change.

Dynamic Messages

The researchers also conducted an experiment involving conserving water during the recent California drought. They posted signs in laundry facilities at high-rise residences of graduate students with static messages (Most Stanford Residents Use Full Loads/Help Stanford Conserve Water) or dynamic messages (Stanford Residents Are Changing: Now Most Use Full Loads/Help Stanford Conserve Water).

While there was no change in the number of laundry loads in buildings with no signs over the next three weeks, there was a 10 percent reduction among those who saw the static message, and nearly a 30 percent reduction for those who saw the dynamic message.

The next question, Sparkman says, is whether it is possible to apply this method to other sustainability initiatives, like curbing electricity usage or promoting support for new laws.

Dynamic norms may play a large role in social change, Sparkman said. Just learning that other people are changing can instigate all these psychological processes that motivate further change.

People can begin to think that change is possible, that change is important, and that in the future, the norms will be different. And then, if they become persuaded and decide to change, it starts to become a reality.

This article was originally published by Stanford University. Republished under Creative Commons License 4.0 on Futurity.org
Two 16-year-old boys suffered non-life threatening bullet wounds as a gunman opened fire at a fast food restaurant in east London on Friday, Dec. 29. (Stock photo via CC0)

Two 16-year-old Boys Shot by Gunman in East London Restaurant

Two 16-year-old boys were shot at a restaurant in east London on Friday, Dec. 29, police said.

An unknown gunman opened fire at a fast food establishment on Terrace Road in Plaistow, just after 8.30 p.m., wounding the victims.

One of the youths sustained an injury to his back and the other to his leg.

The wounds are reportedly described as non-life threatening and the victims are in stable condition at an east London hospital.

According to reports, dozens of police responded to the incident.

Shooting in Plaistow around 9pm this evening. Ive been told 2 boys were shot in the chicken shop (PFC)  one in the back & one in the leg. pic.twitter.com/RXHgSOXaRz  Ruman Hasan (@rumanhasanx) December 29, 2017

No arrests have been reported and it is unknown whether the police have identified any suspects.

Officers from the Mets Trident and Area Crime Command stated their investigation into the incident continues.

Police are urging witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to contact the Trident incident room on 0208 201 2713 or dial 101.

Individuals who wish to remain anonymous should call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Uber Driver Arrested on I-75 in Stolen $250,000 Ferrari

A man claiming to be an Uber driver faces grand larceny charges in Florida after police say he stole a $250,000 Ferrari that still had the dealership sticker on the window.

According to Action News Jax, Hilburn Jay Brendon Hunkins, 26, of Kissimmee, was stopped on the morning of Thursday, Dec. 28 after a Gainesville County Drug Task Force officer spotted a black 2017 Ferrari California driving slowly on southbound Interstate 75 beside a very high-end red Corvette.

Hunkins appeared to be communicating with the driver of the Corvette, and when police looked up the plates on the Ferrari, it turned out to be stolen.

Hunkins allegedly told the officer that the Ferrari belonged to a friend, but was unable to provide the friends name or phone number.

He then tried to erase the information on his phone.

Police later found that the vehicle was reported stolen out of Palm Beach County on Dec. 8, Daily Mail reported.

Hunkins has been charged with theft of property valued at over $100,000, a felony. He was booked at the Alachua County Jail and is being held without bond.

Police reportedly believe the Corvette may also have been stolen.

Hunkins reportedly told police he was an Uber driver, and a social media search of the man indicated he also worked as a realtor out of Kissimmee.

After the arrest, the Gainsville Police Department posted a satirical message on their Facebook fanpagetips for would-be car thieves.:

PRO TIP:

1. Dont steal stuff. Its just not nice.

2. Certainly dont steal a $250,000 2017 Ferrari California.

2a. Especially when the window sticker is still on it.

3. If you ARE going to steal a $250,000 Ferrariwith the window sticker still on itDONT drive next to a Gainesville/Alachua County Drug Task Force vehicle with a License Plate Reader.

4. The 18MPG is incorrect. We were only able to get 10mpg out of it when we drove it to the station.

5. #4 is a joke. We had it safely towed for the rightful owner.

The humorous post turned out to be a hit with some people on social media, with some calling for a raise or a Golden globe for the individual responsible for the Gainsville Police Department Facebook page.

2017 Year in Review
The shackled legs of suspected human traffickers are seen as they arrive for their trial at the criminal court in Bangkok, Thailand, March 15, 2016. (Reuters/Chaiwat Subprasom/File Photo)

White House Puts Spotlight on Labor and Sex Trafficking

WASHINGTONAn estimated 25 million people are currently victims of human trafficking for sex and labor, according to the White House.

Human traffickers prey on their victims by promising a life of hope and greater opportunity, while delivering only enslavement, said President Donald Trump on Dec. 29, while proclaiming January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

He called human trafficking a sickening crime at odds with our very humanity.

Instead of delivering people to better lives, traffickers unjustifiably profit from the labor and toil of their victims, whom they forcethrough violence and intimidationto work in brothels and factories, on farms and fishing vessels, in private homes and in countless industries, Trump said.

Last February, Trump signed an executive order urging law enforcement to use all resources to dismantle and prosecute any transnational criminal organizations, cartels, and other groups that are involved in trafficking.

These groups are drivers of crime, corruption, violence, and misery, Trump said.

His administration has taken other steps to prevent labor and sex trafficking, including the formation of an interagency task force to monitor and combat human trafficking. The task force works closely with other nations, businesses, civil society organizations, and survivors of human trafficking.

This year, the Department of Labor released a mobile app that supports private-sector efforts to eradicate forced labor from global supply chains.

And in September, the State Department directed $25 million of funds to the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery.

The funds website says that, including all forms of slavery, a total of about 40.3 million people around the world are victims, and that modern slavery generates $150 billion in criminal profits each year.

The profits from human trafficking are second only to drug trafficking as the most profitable form of transnational crime, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Human trafficking is a hidden crime, as victims rarely come forward to seek help because of language barriers, fear of the traffickers, and/or fear of law enforcement, the DHS website states.

Traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to lure their victims and force them into labor or commercial sexual exploitation. They look for people who are susceptible for a variety of reasons, including psychological or emotional vulnerability, economic hardship, lack of a social safety net, natural disasters, or political instability. The trauma caused by the traffickers can be so great that many may not identify themselves as victims or ask for help, even in highly public settings.

This January, Trump will sign into law two acts that passed almost unanimously in Congress the week before ChristmasS.1536, the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act, and S.1532, the No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act.

These bills will keep those who commit trafficking offenses from operating commercial vehicles, improve anti-human trafficking coordination within federal agencies and across state and local governments, and improve efforts to recognize, prevent, and report human trafficking, Trump said in the proclamation.

Trump also said it was critical for Americans to learn how to identify and help combat enslavement.

This is especially important for those who are most likely to encounter the perpetrators of slavery and their victims, including health care providers, educators, law enforcement officials, and social services professionals, he said.

He said Americans can learn to recognize the signs of human trafficking and how to report suspected instances through the DHSs Blue Campaign.

The campaign outlines key indicators of human trafficking and breaks down common myths and misconceptions.

By taking steps to become familiar with the telltale signs of traffickers or the signals of their victims, Americans can save innocent lives, Trump said.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addresses a tax reform news conference with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and representatives from small business interest groups in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on November 30, 2017. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Why the Critics of the Tax Reform Are Wrong

Neither the deficit nor the 'tax cut for the rich' arguments have any merit

Mainstream commentary on the tax reform is mostly negative. But why is the response from the globalist crowd so aggressive?

Some economists are worried it could raise the deficit. However, the same people didnt mind President Barack Obamas government spending spree, which resulted in the highest deficits in the nations history.

New York Times columnist Paul Krugman wrote in an article that it was time to borrow, after a $10 trillion increase in debt during the Obama administration. And now these analysts are worried about the deficit?

Tax cuts empower citizens, while government spending empowers bureaucrats, crony corporations, and the elite status quo.

Tax cuts empower citizens, while government spending empowers bureaucrats, crony corporations, and the elite status quo.

No wonder that a group of millionaire and billionaire globalists have opposed the tax cuts. And its not out of generosity. If you are a multibillionaire and want to pay more taxes, it is very simple: You can donate to the Treasury and leave the rest of the population alone. The rest is posturing.

The actual reasons behind the opposition are that part of the critics business comes from government handouts or subsidies. Yours doesnt.

They can live with high tax rates because they can hire top tax experts to optimize their bills. You cannot do that. More importantly, big government is essential for crony sectors to maintain their rent-seeking businesses. Its not for you.

Nothing to Worry About

However, the tax reform does not have to increase deficits if, as we can see in the congressional budget, discretionary spending is cut in nonessential areas.

It also does not reduce revenues. Closing the current GDP growth gap, set at $1.6 trillion, it will likely help boost revenues. At the same time, repatriation of a part of the $2.5 trillion of U.S. capital parked abroad will significantly increase U.S. revenues and capital investment.

In fact, the tax reform can pay for itself just by recovering the pre-crisis pace of growth. The United States cannot just accept to grow at a weak 2 percent level. It can close the recovery gap and bring back investment that has gone offshore through inversion deals or expatriation of capital due to excessive bureaucracy and taxation.

Only subsidy-driven sectors and bureaucrats can say that the current corporate tax rate in the United States is fine with a straight face. It is one of the highest corporate tax rates in the world, surpassing some of the most interventionist countries of the European Union.

They argue that the effective tax rate is lower. So it is in the rest of the world. U.S. companies still pay between three and five points more in corporate taxes than the developed country average.

But therein lies their fallacy: Only the sectors close to the government benefit from lower effective tax rates.

The vast majority of businesses in the United States pay up to 10 percentage points more than their peers in the other developed countries, according to a report by tax consulting firm PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

Lowering the nominal tax rate means more investment, which has stalled in the past eight years, and more jobs. Yes, the tax reform also means more money to pay dividends, buy back shares, and lower debt.

The paternalistic argument that companies cannot have lower taxes because they might use their hard-earned profits the way they prefer is ridiculous.

Good public services are better financed in a prosperous and growing economy, not in a tax hell.

To think the companies money should be in the hands of government for more spending is advocating the same malinvestment and misallocation of capital that has led to the United States posting the lowest productivity growth in decades and the poor recovery.

The argument that these tax cuts benefit the rich is incorrect. The middle class will have the standard deduction go from $6,350 to over $12,000 for single filers, and $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples filing jointly, according to the State Financial Officers Foundation. This will benefit 90 percent of all filers, up from 60 percent today. Tax credits per child will increase from $1,000 to $1,600.

If we look at an average household with $53,000 in income, the tax reform increases disposable income by $6,000 (or more than 10 percent) a year.

Its the Spending, not the Cuts

The history of tax cuts in the United States has proven that tax revenues increase later due to higher economic activity. The Kennedy and Reagan cuts all boosted revenues.

The much-criticized Bush tax cuts did as well. Between 2004 and 2007, federal tax revenues increased by $785 billion, the largest four-year increase in U.S. history, according to the Treasury Department, with individual and corporate income tax receipts rising 40 percent in the three years following the Bush tax cuts.

What has caused deficits to soar in the United States and everywhere else is the increase in government spending. Governments cannot look at the economy and say, These are my expenses. Give me the funds to cover them.

It is the other way around. The public sector does not exist unless there is a thriving and profitable private sector. And government spending must be limited to the essentials of public service. The government provides a service to the taxpayers, who pay for it in advance.

That is why tax cuts are essential and need to be implemented despite the deficit argument. Taxes cannot be cut because there is a deficit is a false argument.

Because if we believed it, taxes would never be cut and would always go up. Governments will always use all their budgeting power and debt capacity to the maximum.

Taking 35 percent of the revenues of families and businesses has transformed the United States from being a society that incentivizes prosperity to one that perpetuates entitlement. And that is the recipe for stagnation.

Ironically, tax cuts are social justice. Economies are more efficient, prosperous, and social when families and businesses manage more of their own money. Government does not have more or better information of when and how to spend money. And no, welfare is not hurt by tax cuts. The best welfare policy is growth and job creation, not entitlements and subsidies.

Good public services are better financed in a prosperous and growing economy, not in a tax hell. The entire European Union is a debt machine where most public services are financed with debt, and we have seen the disastrous results of those policies in growth, jobs, and welfare, especially in the periphery and France.

The tax reform must happen, and its best to follow it with spending cuts and a balanced budget. But if we start with politicians deciding the budget, the perverse incentives of the system will never let taxes fall.

Governments need to know their limits and stop looking at companies and families as if they were ATMs.

Daniel Lacalle is chief economist at hedge fund Tressis and author of Escape From the Central Bank Trap, published by BEP.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates regulated exchanges, clearing houses, and listings venues for commodity, financial, fixed income, and equity markets in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Singapore, Israel, and Canada. It operates through three segments: Exchanges, Fixed Income and Data Services, and Mortgage Technology. The company operates marketplaces for listing, trading, and clearing an array of derivatives contracts and financial securities, such as commodities, interest rates, foreign exchange, and equities, as well as corporate and exchange-traded funds; trading venues, including 13 regulated exchanges and 6 clearing houses; and offers futures and options products for energy, agricultural and metals, financial, cash equities and equity, over-the-counter, and other markets, as well as listings and data and connectivity services. It also provides fixed income data and analytic, fixed income execution, CDS clearing, and other multi-asset class data and network services. In addition, the company offers proprietary and comprehensive mortgage origination platform, which serves residential mortgage loans; closing solutions that provides customers connectivity to the mortgage supply chain and facilitates the secure exchange of information; data and analytics services; and Data as a Service for lenders to access data and origination information. Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Orange S.A. provides various fixed telephony and mobile telecommunications, data transmission, and other value-added services to customers, businesses, and other telecommunications operators in France and internationally. It operates through France; Spain and Other European Countries; The Africa and Middle East; Enterprise; International Carriers & Shared Services; and Mobile Financial Services segments. The company offers mobile services, such as voice, SMS, and data; fixed broadband and narrowband services, as well as fixed network business solutions, including voice and data; and convergence packages. It also sells mobile handsets, mobile terminals, broadband equipment, connected devices, and accessories. In addition, the company provides IT and integration services comprising unified communication and collaboration services, such as LAN and telephony, consultancy, integration, and project management; hosting and infrastructure services, including cloud computing; customer relations management and other applications services; security services; and video conferencing, as well as sells related equipment. Further, it offers national and international roaming services; online advertising services; and mobile virtual network operators, network sharing, and mobile financial services, as well as sells equipment to external distributors and brokers. Orange S.A. markets its products and services under the Orange brand. The company was formerly known as France Telecom and changed its name to Orange S.A. in July 2013. Orange S.A. was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France.
GE is a multi-national conglomerate that was originally incorporated in 1892. The company was founded by Thomas Edison as the Edison General Electric Company and shortened its name to General Electric following a merger with two other early electric pioneers. The name was later shortened again to GE. The company is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts but has operations on a global scale. One of the original 12 Dow stocks, the company was a component of the index for 122 years until its ousting in 2018.

Originally intended to make and market Edisons incandescent lamp and following products, the company grew over the years through mergers, acquisitions, and natural expansion into newly created fields. Among the many early accomplishments is the creation of RCA and NBC which will both become forces of their own. Other major innovations include the worlds first turbine superchargers, industrial gas turbine engines, and the first jet engine. In the field of computing, General Electric Company is credited as being one of the 8 major computer companies of the 1960s and shares responsibility for todays digital world. In regard to its employees, two were awarded the Nobel Prize for their work with the company.

Today GE operates as a high-tech industrial company in Europe, China, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through four segments including Power, Renewables, Aerospace, and Healthcare although there are plans in the works to split the company into three separate entities. The three new companies would be GE Vernova (power and renewables), GE Health, and GE Aerospace. The spin-offs are expected to be completed by 2025.

The Power segment offers a variety of turbine engines for power production as well as the full range of services from plant construction to retrofit and refit. The Renewables segment is focused on solutions for renewable energy including wind and hydro and the technology to operate them. The Aviation segment manufactures aircraft engines of all varieties and the Healthcare segment offers technology for imaging, monitoring, diagnostics, and drug discovery to health and medical facilities.

General Electric is committed to helping the world transition to a greener way of life and is exiting the new-build coal-fired power industry. Instead, its advancements in wind, grid efficiency, and natural gas are being deployed around the world helping to reduce emissions and generate cleaner energy for businesses, industry, and communities. The company is targeting 2030 for its own carbon neutrality and 2050 for net zero emissions.
How to watch and what to know about Northern Iowa at South Dakota
To help us keep this website secure, please wait while we verify you're not a robot! It will only take a few seconds...

Loading...
LATHAM  Maj. Gen. Anthony P. German, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent retirement of a member of the New York Army National Guard, announces the recent re-enlistment of members of the state National Guard in recognition of their continuing commitment to serve community, state and nation as part of the Army National Guard:

 Sgt. 1st Class David Ohickey, from Aurora, re-enlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 102nd Military Police Battalion.

 Staff Sgt. Joshua Stmartin, from Genoa, re-enlisted to continue service with the Company C, Recruiting and Retention.

Additionally, a video Christmas greeting from New York Army National Guard Sgt. Clifton Thompson, of Auburn, who is deployed to Yavoriv, Ukraine, has been posted on the Department of Defense's Video Imagery Information Distribution System. The video can be viewed at dvidshub.net/video/568228/sgt-clifton-thompson.

Thompson is one of 220 soldiers from the New York Army National Guard's 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry and the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team assisting in the training of Ukrainian soldiers at the Yavoriv Combat Training Center as members of the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine.

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit dmna.ny.gov or 1800goguard.com.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Xavier C. Jackson graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an Associate in Applied Science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Jackson is the son of Clayton Jackson, of North Syracuse, and Kristin Vella, of Auburn, and grandson of Lynn Petit, of Syracuse. He graduated in 2013 from Cicero North Syracuse High School and earned a bachelor's degree in 2017 from Cornell University.
Toronto residents Helen Amenta, Nikki Leigh McKean and Joy Samanski have never met, but they have all battled cancer and come through difficult treatments with the same knowledge: That helping others is a powerful elixir.

The three Toronto women have thrown themselves into projects to make the lives of others better as they themselves face daunting times.

Amenta is a hospital volunteer who comforts cancer patients, McKean created a project to promote mindfulness and Samanski empowers Filipino families by promoting and selling their crafts.

Here are their stories.

When Princess Margaret Cancer Centre volunteer Helen Amenta speaks to cancer patients about their fears and anxieties, she does her best to quell their nerves.

Cancer is a roller-coaster ride, says Amenta. Youve got your good days, bad days, crying days and days where you feel crappy and days where you feel mad as hell. But you need to pick yourself up and live.

Amenta, 73, who has volunteered at the program Healing Beyond the Body for about a decade, has battled both breast cancer and a Hodgkins lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system. She has undergone chemotherapy, radiation, a mastectomy and a lumpectomy.

If you stay in a state of depression, youll feel sicker, she says, acknowledging she knows this through experience.

Amenta was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in 2002. She underwent treatment and grew depressed. A nurse urged her to volunteer with a new program at the hospital that had cancer survivors help other patients.

At first, Amenta resisted.

Initially I said no . . . How are you going to help somebody else when you feel like crap, and you dont know if youre going to live or die.

But she eventually realized that feeling sorry for yourself doesnt help anybody and gave in.

Shes thankful she did. Ever since, she has been a regular volunteer, pausing only when she underwent chemotherapy for Hodgkins, which she was diagnosed with in 2011.

There are times when she feels down and worries about her health, but when shes volunteering she focuses on the patient.

That person might be going through a lot more than you, so you need to listen and help them . . . And give them courage.

Hopefully, they will then go on to support someone else with cancer, she says.

(The support) just travels, says Amenta. Were all part of a club that we didnt want to join  it picked us  but we need to keep supporting each other.

Read more:

Breast density is a risk women need to know about, cancer survivor group says

Why cancer patients often dont quit smoking: Doctors Notes

Living with lymphedema, an obscure side effect of cancer treatment: Doctors Notes

As lifestyle photographer Nikki Leigh McKean sat in a hospital corridor waiting to speak with the radiologist about her upcoming cancer treatment, despair set in and she suffered an anxiety attack.

I remember thinking, I was just here two years ago, how the hell am I back again doing radiation? 

McKean was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer in July 2015 and underwent chemotherapy and radiation. At the time, her daughter Charlotte was 18 months old and her newborn Sofie was just 2 months old.

Less than two years later, in May 2017, Sofie ran into her while playing in the park and McKeans right breast started bleeding. Tests revealed she had an invasive form of breast cancer, and McKean underwent a double mastectomy with no reconstruction.

Then on Oct. 5, McKean waited hopelessly for her appointment with the radiologist.

I thought, How would being here every day be worth it?. . . I need something to do, I need it to have meaning, I need to share it with the people I love and it needs to have meaning to them.

After that appointment McKean went straight to her studio space, above Cafe Cancan, the French bistro on Harbord St. she and husband Victor Barry own. She started brainstorming about what inspires her. And, she reflected on questions that her meditation and yoga teachers had asked her to try and help her cope with being diagnosed with a second cancer: What are you going to do about it? How are you going to help others?

That inspired the Lets Radiate project, which she originally designed to give to 50 friends and relatives, all of whom had been asking how they could help through this difficult period. It is a deck of cards with inspirational quotes and activities  for instance, write a love letter, create a bucket list, perform a random act of kindness  to encourage people to become more self-aware and to make time a priority. For each of McKeans 16 days of radiation treatment, she asked her loved ones to draw an inspiration and activity card and share it on social media.

That made me feel great, to know that in a way they were helping me, but also helping themselves, says the 37-year-old. If everyone in my whole community is working on being better, for themselves, their family and their community, then that makes me feel good.

Friends encouraged McKean to sell the kit on her site Feelthat.ca, which she started to share her personal journey and promote Lets Radiate. Each one is $45. Proceeds will support funding her dream journey of a pilgrimage to the Himalayan Mountains and go to the iRest Institute, a non-profit that promotes healing through yogic and meditative practices.

She says the kit is a compilation of everything that is helping her get through cancer and thinks it might benefit others also struggling with health challenges.

It feels better to be trying to do more good  that feels good. Sadness, fear and anxiety feels terrible, she says. Im always trying to find ways to build more goodness.

In May 2017, costume designer Joy Samanski stepped out of her doctors office in utter shock. She had just been diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. But she didnt call a friend, or her daughter, or take time to process the news.

She walked into a nearby health food store to make her sales pitch, holding up a handful of custom-designed beaded bracelets. The creations are part of a non-profit initiative she started called House of Joy, aimed at helping families in the Philippines become craftspeople and entrepreneurs.

I figured I felt terrible anyways, so if (the store clerk) said, No, it wouldnt matter, says Samanski, 65. But the good thing was she bought 10 (bracelets).

Those bracelets were made by villagers in Gawad Kalinga Pona Village, in the Bicol Region. Samanski, a renowned Toronto-based costume designer, set up a workshop there in 2014 to teach people how to sew, spending $20,000 on sewing machines, needles, fabric and supplies.

She had always wanted to teach in a foreign country, particularly to people living in extremely poor conditions who otherwise would never have the opportunity to learn from someone as skilled as Samanski. Her clients have included Sir Richard Branson, Tom Jones and Jim Henson, among others in television, film and advertising fields.

She has travelled to the village three times and while there teaches anyone whos interested  students range in age from 11 to 70  how to make bead loom bracelets, knitted wallets, juice box wallets and embroidered tote bags, which she sells back in Canada. When shes back home, a project manager runs the workshop, but Samanski is in daily contact.

I just love these people, they are the most loving and wonderful, she says. Im so proud. They do a beautiful job. The quality is amazing.

While this year has been particularly difficult  Samanski underwent a lumpectomy and radiation treatment in the summer  shes never considered giving up the project.

I needed the focus, otherwise Id be thinking about dying  thats the hard part about being sick.

And theres plenty to focus on. Items are exported to Canada for her to sell in stores, church bazaars, flea markets and festivals. She peddles her wares at a friends pub on College St., cajoling customers by pointing out if they can spend $50 on booze, then they can pay $5 for a bracelet.

Selling these goods is a tough slog for Samanski, whos been at it since retiring two years ago and closing her Toronto shop Joy Theatricals Inc. Her goal for the project is to break even: This year, sales were $9,000, but it cost $11,200 to keep the workshop humming.

I need big orders from companies with big hearts to sustain this and I need volunteers to help sell because I do get tired.

Still she remains undaunted because she knows people rely on her, saying House of Joy supports 10 families in the village. (To contact Samanski email joytheatricals@gmail.com).

The people in this little village are so terribly grateful for what I do. When they send me pictures of the things they have bought  shoes, bus fare, one even bought a pig and chicken  thats what keeps me going.

SHARE:
Former Conservative cabinet minister and provincial police commissioner Julian Fantino has accused a Canadian judge, lawyers and several police forces of acting improperly and even illegally in the conviction and jailing of a man for contempt of court.

In an extensive affidavit in which he raises the allegations, Fantino describes himself as a member of the Queens Privy Council and an expert who, in speaking for regular Canadians, can shed light on what he essentially posits as a possible judicial conspiracy involving secret backroom dealings.

Fantino filed the affidavit in an unsuccessful effort to intervene in a recent Federal Court review of whether the Canadian Judicial Council properly dismissed a complaint by Donald Best, a former Toronto police officer and businessman, against Ontario Superior Court Justice Bryan Shaughnessy.

A more thorough investigation by the (judicial council), now that all the facts are known, may show that the judge was wilfully blind, Fantino asserts. It may very well be that the record belies the mischief that was being achieved simply because the judge had total control over the process.

In 2013, Shaughnessy found Best in civil contempt. The finding was the culmination of a convoluted battle started in 2007, when Bests corporation unsuccessfully sued 62 defendants and he failed to pay their court-ordered legal costs.

Shaughnessys rulings were upheld by Ontarios top court and left undisturbed by the Supreme Court of Canada.

Best turned to the Canadian Judicial Council in January 2016 to complain about the judge. Shaughnessy, he asserted, had engaged in egregious misconduct by, among other things, secretly changing a critical document.

The councils executive director rejected the complaint out of hand, prompting Best to ask Federal Court to review that decision. He named the government and judge as respondents.

Fantino, who could not be immediately reached for comment, explains in his 33-page affidavit filed along with 100 exhibits why he wanted to get involved. The abuses, he said, could undermine public confidence in the administration of justice.

I notice that, in this matter, no one represents the people of Canada, Fantino states. No one speaks for me and other Canadians who believe in and rely upon fairness, courtesy and honourable treatment within the justice system.

In his submission, Fantino maintains that Shaughnessy convicted Best upon the presentation by lawyers of provably false evidence. He also argues that disturbing evidence suggests police resources and personnel were improperly retained, used and co-opted to help one side in the private civil dispute.

The court also convicted Mr. Best based upon affidavit evidence that was the product of illegal actions by a serving officer of the Ontario Provincial Police at the time that I was OPP commissioner, Fantino states. Had I known about it at the time, I would have immediately ordered an investigation to gather all evidence ... with a view to possible provincial and/or criminal charges.

In October, a Federal Court official dismissed Fantinos motion to intervene in the review of how the judicial council handled Bests judge complaint. Fantino, a former minister for veterans affairs, chief of police, and now an executive with a medical marijuana company, had raised issues that were out of bounds, the official decided.

Fantino appealed his exclusion but the court nevertheless went ahead in the fall with its long-scheduled review of the judicial councils actions.

For his part, Shaughnessy urged the court to defer to the council, arguing in part that Bests complaint was manifestly without substance or an abuse of process. He also argued Best had tried to impute bad faith into a decision he disagrees with, so as to define it as sanctionable conduct.

This month, Federal Court Judge Keith Boswell agreed with Ottawa and Shaughnessy that the judicial councils decision was reasonable. Boswell dismissed Bests application and ordered him to pay the federal government and the judge $30,000 in legal costs.

Best did not want to discuss Fantinos involvement when reached on Friday. In a recent statement on his website, he did say Boswells decision contained gross errors. He filed notice of appeal this week.

In an unusual decision in June 2016, the Ontario Court of Appeal ordered Bests prominent Toronto lawyer Paul Slansky to pay $84,000 in legal costs for his clients failed legal fights.

The court found Slansky had wasted time and money unnecessarily by acting on unreasonable instructions from, or providing unreasonable advice to, his client. The court also ordered Slansky to pay another $30,000 in costs.

Read more about:

SHARE:
ST. CATHARINES, ONT.The 1855 chapel where Harriet Tubman prayed is in dire need of repair, and the congregation is raising money in hopes of saving it.

The Salem Chapel, British Methodist Episcopal Church in St. Catharines is a cornerstone of history as a National Historic Site of Canada. Tubman, the escaped slave who helped others to freedom along the Underground Railroad, worshipped there, and abolitionists Frederick Douglass and John Brown visited.

In hopes of preserving their place of worship and the history enshrined in it, the congregation of 11 is fundraising for emergency repairs.

It still makes my hair stand, just thinking about the courage of these folks and what they were actually doing, what their mission was, said Rochelle Bush, church historian and one of its trustees.

Read more:

Opinion | Mochama: Preserving Salem Chapel, promoting a rarely told past

A fitting tribute to Black Moses

The general plan was freedom, to overthrow slavery. So many moved here because they wanted to secure their safety and freedom, but they never forgot about the loved ones they left behind. But they all had one goal in mind, and that was to stop slavery.

Bush and her fellow trustees have their own goal in mind  raising at least $100,000 for emergency repairs needed to keep the church maintained.

A yearlong GoFundMe campaign has been set up to raise money for cable wires to secure the churchs log frame, replace the front awning and fix the window sills.

So far, theyve raised $30,291.

When the Star visited, it was apparent that the chapel was well-maintained. The rooms are clean and orderly, with museum-esque attention paid to memorializing the chapels history.

But age is catching up with the structure. The awning over the front door is deteriorating and some of the windows sills are damaged.

But the emergency repairs are only a fraction of the dream.

Black refugees designed and built the church in the 19th-century southern Baptist style. Bushs wish is a complete restoration of that church  restored hardwood floors, removing the exterior stucco, removing the basement wall panels  the whole nine, Bush says.

Smaller projects also need to be completed, such as replacing two steps on the staircase. The major project, Bush says, is adding an elevator for accessibility.

The entire restoration has around a $2.5 million price tag.

Its privately owned, which means that its up to us to maintain it, Bush said. Weve never had the match money  the government offers all kinds of grants  but weve never had the match money. Through the GoFundMe, well have the match money to apply for the grants.

Bush said there is nothing greater than having the national designation.

Theres nothing bigger than that, she said. Every day its like, this is the church I grew up in, but its a National Historic Site.

Im honoured that others are honouring my ancestors.

Five generations of Bushs family have attended the church. Her three-time great-grandfather, Reverend James Harper, was minister-in-charge for a period of time when Harriet Tubman attended.

When Tubman worshipped at the chapel, she would sing alto with her outstanding voice, Bush said. She would often fall asleep in the pews, the result of a head injury sustained during her enslavement.

Tubmans profound personal faith would have found a home in the church, said Kate Clifford Larson, a historian based near Boston.

Her god was very personal, Larson said. It was very organic; it was there in the landscape. It was in the air, it was everywhere around her.

Today, Tubmans popularity is growing in the United States.

People are appreciating her, honouring her in amazing ways, Larson said.

And I think Canada can do the same by protecting that church, that solid, still-standing link to Harriet Tubman.

SHARE:
Zaheer and Zohra Dauwer stood at the decrepit door way of a Hamilton, Ont., shelter, still holding on to their two 20 kilogram suitcases. They waited as a staff member ran through a list of rules and regulations for the young Afghan couple who, still clad in their winter jackets, had nowhere else to go.

On May 26, 2009, the young husband and wife were more than 10,750 kilometres from their home in Kabul, Afghanistan, where family was everywhere, ready to welcome them at any moment with love and hospitality.

They had never planned to leave Kabul. Zaheer was completing a masters program in Arizona so he could be qualified to teach English as a second language. Their plan was always to go back to Afghanistan.

But, the U.S.-led war had become more violent. By 2009, the streets of Kabul were littered with the remains of rockets, hand bombs and grenades. Suicide attacks were common. Many in the country had never imagined someone from their city putting on a vest and blowing themselves up.

Read more:

He fled Afghanistan in 1979 with $100 in his pocket. Today he longs for a country that no longer exists.

Her daughter got sick and died without her mother. This is the impact of war on people.

Over the phone, their families warned them not to return. They were told by friends to go to Canada, which, they said, was more hospitable and welcoming than the U.S. Zaheer and Zohras profiles as English-speaking, foreign NGO employees made them more likely to be targeted by insurgent groups.

It was the worst time to be in Afghanistan, their families told them. Dont come back.

In the last 30 years, Afghan refugees have consistently streamed into Canada, more so than any other country, including Syria. A total of 37,265 Afghans have arrived since 1991.

The Star spoke to three generations of Afghan-Canadian refugees who have fled during the Soviet-led war beginning in 1979 and during the ongoing U.S.-led war against the Taliban that began in 2001, which Canada was once a part of. The numbers of Afghan refugees are expected to only grow as militant violence increases and aid groups slowly withdraw from the country.

As the war and its players have dramatically shifted over the decades, the process to seek safety as an Afghan refugee has changed  with a relatively simple process in the 80s and 90s to a more arduous system today.

The Dauwers were part of the second wave of refugees to Canada, arriving at a time when the U.S.-led war was at its peak and local elections were causing more unrest in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the process of asylum had started to become more procedural in the West, with the introduction of the Safe Third Country Act between Canada and the U.S. limiting who could seek asylum where.

Luckily, for Zaheer and Zohra, Afghanistan was exempted from the Safe Third Country Act the year they decided to become refugees. The process took six months, and started in the waiting room of the Canadian Border Services office at Fort Erie.

We did not know if we would be allowed to go in, Zaheer said. What would we do if we were sent back?

The relief of being allowed to come to Canada is something neither of them will forget. Once admitted, the young couple gave $100 to an Iranian cab driver who took them to Hamilton, to the only refugee shelter in Ontario he knew, with space for a young married couple. On the way, their driver listed for them every Afghan food place and community hub he could think of.

We knew no one, Zohra said. We had no phone, no internet. That first night in the shelter, they bought calling cards and went to a pay phone to call their parents in Kabul, who were anxiously waiting for news. When he heard his dads voice filled with relief, Zaheer cried.

Youre just so new here, Zaheer said. I was now somewhere where I didnt know how to establish myself and take care of us.

They became permanent residents on their wedding anniversary in November 2009. A small photo of their wedding, vibrant with traditional green and red, hangs in their elegant suburban Mississauga condo. The Afghan wedding dress is one of the only things Zohra brought with her.

Coming here, we knew there were certain restrictions, Zohra said, If you dont meet this criteria youre not eligible to apply. (We had) emotions of being scared, and what if they send me back, and dont admit me here.

Both are now, working towards new dreams. Zaheer tried to become a public school teacher, while working as a translator for new Afghan refugees. Hes now studying to continue to work in the immigration and settlement field.

Here, Ive been reminded to embrace that identity from my homeland where I was born and raised and embrace that in this adopted homeland that Ive chosen to call home, he said. We will always have a connection to Afghanistan. Thats where I was born, thats where I was raised. I still have family there.

Zohra is training to be a nurse. She had two children in Canada, a boy, 4 and a girl, 6. They try to teach their children Afghan values of family, charity and generosity. Someday, she said, shell tell them about the shelter, how she stood at the doorway and looked straight into the unknown.

Read more about:

SHARE:
Resistance took many shapes this year, from hashtag activism to symbolic gestures to old-fashioned protests, peaceful or not. Our year-end series looks at some of the causes that got us riled up  at universities, online and in the streets

WASHINGTONYuridia Loera, at four-foot-11 the smallest person at the rally across the street from the White House, brought a megaphone to amplify her voice.

Without it, she would have still been the loudest person there.

When the DREAMers chanted their chants, calling on the president and Congress to pass a law, now, to give them permanent legal status in the United States, her cry rang out a beat longer than her fellow activists, her tone a little rawer, as if she was convinced that Trump himself might hear her.

Clean DREAM Act . . . 

She leaned back, her eyes closed in concentration.

Now!

It was genuine emotion. It was also a calculated decision.

Loera has decided to be loud, she said later, because of all the times she has been silenced.

There was the time she was sexually assaulted, then afraid to report the crime because of her immigration status. There was the time she realized she couldnt get a job because of that status even though she has lived in the United States since she was 2. There was the insecurity that comes with extreme poverty, her parents scraping together just $20,000 a year, for seven children, as her dad struggled with his mental health.

Now, after all that, there is this: the likelihood, in her view, that she will end up getting deported to Mexico, where her family lived in a cardboard house.

In 2012, Barack Obama created a program that protected many of the DREAMers, people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children. As Obama did not get approval from Congress, many Republicans believed the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was unconstitutional. Despite Trumps previous promise that DREAMers could rest easy, he rescinded the program in September.

He followed that decision with more words of praise, suggesting he was eager to sign a lasting law protecting the DREAMers. But then he backtracked. With the program set to vanish in March under Trumps deadline, there is no deal in sight.

And so Loera, like thousands of her peers, has gone back to the streets and the halls of Congress.

She has pestered legislators, delivered fiery speeches, helped to fill a silent Senate office building with chants of here to stay. In September, the 22-year-old consumed nothing but water and Gatorade for four days, fasting at a Washington church while also visiting congressional offices.

If Trump and his party are going to kick her out, she said in an interview, I want to know that I gave everything. Every last ounce of energy that I have. All that indignation.

Her mom, active in the labour movement, stated taking her to protests at age 6. A natural rebel, she was hooked. Eventually, she wants to be a college graduate and a doctor. For now, this is her lifes work.

Youre your best advocate, she said. And I think if the immigrant rights movement and the undocumented rights movement has shown me anything, it is that even if you are undocumented, you still have agency.

You still have loud opinions, loud voices, and if thats all you have, thats all you have: you join the movement and you give what you can.

The DREAMer movement, just over a decade old, has, until now, been a remarkable success. A ragtag bunch of college students, sometimes meeting in semi-secret to avoid attracting the attention of the authorities, grew into a national network of out-and-proud, confrontational activists  the shock troops of the immigrant rights movement, in the words of scholar Chris Zepeda-Millan.

Read more:

Athlete boycotts of White House didnt start with Donald Trump  but he sure helped

Are Indigenous acknowledgements a step forward or an empty gesture?

#TheySaid youre fat. How body shamers and trolls inspired online backlash

Can the women who took to the streets march into office?

Is Wall St.s Fearless Girl an emblem of equality or faux-feminist fraud?

Undocumented and unafraid, the DREAMers confronted Obama until he did something for them. Obamas program gave 800,000 people renewable two-year work permits and a promise of no deportation.

The newfound security emboldened thousands more people to join the activist push for a path to citizenship. Telling their stories of growing up as de facto Americans, they earned admiration from even conservatives hostile to other unauthorized immigrants. Polls taken after Trump rescinded the program indicated that more than 80 per cent of Americans wanted them to be given permission to stay.

But on immigration, like guns, policy does not always follow public opinion. The DREAMers find themselves in an odd place: they are never more popular, perhaps never so endangered.

And it is not at all obvious that their usual tactics will be much use in the Trump era.

Unlike Obama, who set a record for deportations but still wanted to court the Latino vote, Trump has shown interest only in his white political base. Much of that base appears hostile to people of colour, perhaps especially when they are making aggressive demands.

DREAMers have ramped up their civil disobedience again in December, getting themselves arrested in congressional buildings and on the Capitol steps.

These in-your-face, overt, radical tactics that they used (with Obama) . . . that tactic now is completely closed. It is not working, said Zepeda-Milan, University of California, Berkeley ethnic studies professor and author of the recent book Latino Mass Mobilization: Immigration, Racialization, and Activism.

The idea of putting activist pressure on a completely Republican-controlled federal government? Its showing you the limits, right now, of that strategy. They kind of have to take a step back to reflect on what is going to be our strategy right now.

The DREAMers tough choices involve not just what tactics to use but what to try to achieve. At this rally, held by the youth-led DREAMer group United We Dream, for which Loera is an organizer, the demand was a clean DREAM Act: the passage of a no-strings-attached law giving DREAMers a path to citizenship without any concessions to the right, such as additional spending on border security or deportation enforcement. Some of their key allies, such as big businesses, believe more compromise is necessary.

Loera said it would be unreasonable for DREAMers to advocate for a resolution that helped them but put their parents at greater risk of arrest. And she rejected the suggestion that the moment requires any softening.

Weve consistently been told that: Be more humble,  she said. But thats how they have subjected us to this quiet, silent, second-class status. And the time is now to empower the millions of people who have been told that consistently throughout their lives. We disregard these politicians and how they think we should do this and how we should act.

We know that it works, and it has worked, and were going to continue to demand. Not ask.

This moment, she said, is about their dignity.

Read more about:

SHARE:
KANSAS CITY, MO.Police and the FBI are investigating whether an argument over an online game prompted a hoax call that led to a house where an officer shot and killed a Kansas man who apparently wasnt involved in the dispute.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston on Friday blamed a prankster who called 911 and made up a story about a shooting and kidnapping. He did not mention reports that an argument over online gaming was at the heart of the prank, although he said investigators had made good progress tracking online leads.

Police have not disclosed the name of the man who was killed Thursday evening, but relatives identified him as Andrew Finch, 28.

Livingston, speaking at a news conference, said the hoax call was a case of swatting, in which a person makes up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim, Livingston said. He said no one has been arrested in connection with the hoax.

Police played audio of the call to 911. A man said his father had been shot in the head. He said he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller, speaking with relative calm, said he poured gasoline inside the home and I might just set it on fire.

Several officers arrived and surrounded the home, braced for a hostage situation. When Finch went to the door police told him to put his hands up and move slowly.

But Livingston said the man moved a hand toward the area of his waistband  a common place where guns are concealed. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died a few minutes later at a hospital. Livingston said Finch was unarmed.

The officer, a seven-year veteran of the department, is on paid leave pending the investigation.

The Finch family on Friday allowed reporters inside their home. Lisa Finch told them her son was not a gamer.

What gives the cops the right to open fire? she asked. That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place.

Lisa Finch said the family was forced outside barefoot in freezing cold and handcuffed after the shooting. She said her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns were found in the home.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a Call of Duty game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving Call of Duty.

We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life, UMG spokeswoman Shannon Gerritzen said in an email to The Associated Press. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter. She declined to disclose other details.

In addition to the 911 call, police also released a brief video of body camera footage from another officer at the scene. It was difficult to see clearly what happened.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, Missouri, which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined in the investigation at the request of local police.

In other cases of apparent swatting, three families in Florida in January had to evacuate their homes after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, a Massachusetts Democrat, introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at Clarks home.

SHARE:
WASHINGTONRonald Reagan made his first presidential trip to Canada four months into his term.

George H.W. Bush visited Canada just three weeks into his term.

For Bill Clinton, it was two-and-a-half months. For George W. Bush, it was three months. And for Barack Obama, it was one month.

Donald Trump? To be determined.

With 2017 about to end, Trump is set to become the first U.S. president in 40 years, since Jimmy Carter, not to visit Canada in his first calendar year in office.

For four of the six presidents who preceded Trump  Obama, Clinton, George H.W. Bush and Reagan  Canada was the very first foreign destination. For Trump, it will be, at earliest, the 15th, and probably lower.

Trump is likely to attend the G7 summit in Quebec in June. There are no current plans for him to come earlier, though Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has visited Trump twice at the White House, has issued invitations.

The PM and president have developed a constructive, positive working relationship and have spoken or met on numerous occasions, Trudeau spokesperson Cameron Ahmad said in November, noting that the two leaders have had 17 individual interactions since Trump was elected. Our offices, diplomats, ministers, and officials communicate regularly on many key files and shared priorities. The prime minister has extended an invitation to the president to visit Canada and continues to look forward to future opportunities to engage.

Former Canadian and U.S. diplomats said they would not make too much of Trumps absence.

Read more:

Analysis: The complete list of every false claim Donald Trump has made as U.S. president

Analysis: Donald Trump has spent a year lying shamelessly. It hasnt worked

Analysis: The truth behind Trumps retweets: The U.S. president is an unapologetic anti-Muslim bigot

By most accounts, including Trumps own, the 46-year-old multilateralist Liberal prime minister and the 71-year-old nationalist Republican president have developed a friendly working relationship. Even as he disparages the North American Free Trade Agreement that Trudeau supports, Trump regularly tells audiences he likes Trudeau.

On Thursday, in an interview with the New York Times, Trump referred to my friend Justin while inaccurately describing the state of bilateral trade.

Whats important is the meetings and discussions and the dialogue, not where theyre taking place. And they certainly have been taking place; they just havent been taking place in Canada, said David Wilkins, the U.S. ambassador to Canada during George W. Bushs second term.

Wilkins noted that Obama followed his prompt visit with years of delay on the Keystone XL oil pipeline that was a top priority for the Canadian government, then eventually rejected the pipeline. Trump, conversely, rapidly approved the project.

Whats more important, a visit or the approval of a vital pipeline? Wilkins said.

In part, Trumps decision not to visit may reflect a coincidence of scheduling: no international summits have been held in Canada this year. It also likely reflects what appears to be Trumps desire to avoid going places where he might face protests. And Trump has often appeared more comfortable dealing with non-democratic leaders than with traditional western allies.

His first visit was to autocratic Saudi Arabia, which flattered him with an opulent reception. His second was to Israel, the rare democracy where he is popular.

On his first European trip, he attended a G7 summit in Italy and a NATO summit in Belgium. On his second, he attended summits in Poland and Germany. His five-country Asian trip took him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Trump has accepted a lone invitation for a one-stop visit of the kind Trudeau would be offering, visiting France in July to attend a grand military parade with President Emmanuel Macron.

Analysts see the relationship between Trudeau and Trump as especially important to Canada given the precarious status of NAFTA, which is under Trump-initiated renegotiation. But Trudeau, said former Canadian diplomat Colin Robertson, is not in a political position to provide the kind of lavish treatment and protest-free surroundings Trump has made clear he prefers.

If Trump came to Canada, the adverse reaction could damage the relationship given Trumps king-size ego, said Robertson, a fellow at the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. Hed probably hold Trudeau accountable, and after the extravagant Saudi red carpet treatment we could never compete  nor would we want to, given the blowback Trudeau would get.

Trump has not yet visited Mexico, where he is deeply loathed. And he has not visited the United Kingdom, the most frequent destination for U.S. presidents since the Carter era. After a series of delays that appeared to be related to Trumps local unpopularity and his incendiary remarks, he is now expected to visit Britain in early 2018.

Carter, who served a single term, was the last president never to visit Canada. Obama visited three times during his eight years in office. Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush (who all served two terms) and George H.W. Bush (who served one) each visited Canada four or five times.

Read more about:

SHARE:
When 21-year-old Matthew Shepard was punched, pistol-whipped, tied to a fence and left to die in 1998, his killers attorneys said the attackers were triggered by Shepard making sexual advances toward them.

When a 14-year-old California boy gunned down his gay classmate in 2008, his attorneys argued that it was because the victim provoked him by flirting with him.

And after a 21-year-old transgender woman in Harlem was beaten to death in 2013, one of her attackers said he hurt her out of blind fury after he flirted with her and then realized she was transgender.

Read more:

LGBT community worried about the future of hate crime prosecutions in U. S.

Many people in the LGBTQ community are reluctant to come out, survey suggests

Federal government provides security funding to LGBTQ housing project

For decades, LGBTQ people have been brutally attacked or killed and then blamed for their own deaths in cases where attorneys attempt, sometimes successfully, to use a gay panic or trans panic defence.

Starting Monday, attorneys in Illinois will be barred from using the approach after a state law passed  without a single no vote in either the state House or Senate  making it the second state in the country to ban the defence in the courtroom.

Anthony Michael Kreis, who drafted the Illinois legislation, said the passage of the gay panic defence law has boosted efforts in other states to enact similar bans.

Kreis has heard from advocates in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Jersey, among others, asking for help pushing their own bills. Similar legislation has been discussed by lawmakers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Other states where the defence has been allowed include Maryland, Texas and Washington.

Kreis said because the LGBTQ community is at higher risk for violence, the law comes at an important time.

This year marked the deadliest year on record for the transgender community, with at least 28 people shot and killed across the United States, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

It sends an important message to the LGBTQ community that the state will protect them equally and the courts will not be allowed to entertain these types of defences, which victimize victims again, Kreis said of the new Illinois law.

There isnt an exact definition, but a gay or trans panic defence is essentially when someone doesnt realize theyre interacting with an LGBTQ person and becomes so overcome with rage when they realize it that they physically attack the person in the heat of the moment.

Its estimated that gay and trans panic defences have been used in at least 23 states since the 1960s, according to the Williams Institute, a think tank at the UCLA School of Law.

Gay and trans panic defences have allowed people accused of killing LGBTQ people to receive lesser sentences, and in some cases, avoid any punishment, according to the institute.

California was the first state to ban the defence, in 2014, and the American Bar Association pushed for a ban in 2013.

In Washington state, a bill banning gay and trans panic defences is expected to be introduced in the coming weeks for the next legislative session.

Its a defence that allows people to perpetuate hate crimes, said Monisha Harrell, Equal Rights Washington chairperson. It is saying youre surprised that somebody might be different than you, whatever that difference is, and that that would allow you to initiate violence, and in some cases, lethal violence. That should never be a defence.

Cynthia Lee, a criminal defence professor at George Washington University, said there could be unintended consequences to passing these types of bans.

In her research on gay and trans panic defences, Lee has found that most attorneys make reprehensible arguments, largely playing off stereotypes about gay men or transgender women.

However, legislation might not be the solution, she said.

Social science research has shown that juries can be affected by attorneys calling out racial stereotypes and bigotry. There is less research on what happens when LGBTQ stereotypes are used, but it brings up an interesting argument, she said.

For example, if a defence attorney makes an argument largely based on racial stereotypes, and a prosecutor calls that out, research has found that a jury will often respond by treating a black defendant the same as they would a white defendant, she said.

If attorneys were properly trained on how to respond to a gay or trans panic defence when it was brought up, it could potentially help a jury see the problems in making that argument.

Instead of banning these arguments, confront them head on and challenge them in court, Lee said. The prosecution should be aware of the bias. Whenever the defence tries to make these kinds of arguments, prosecutors should try to challenge them head on.

Advocates say that the sentiment behind panic defences is a problem, even outside the courtroom.

Lou Weaver, transgender programs co-ordinator with Equality Texas, said one example was the reaction of law enforcement to the recent killing of Brandi Seals, a 26-year-old transgender woman, in Houston.

After Seals was killed, Detective Fil Waters of the Houston Police Department, told a local TV station: The fact that we have a man in womens clothing, the speculation is hes been working the street, that someone picks up and then realizes hes not what hes representing himself to be and take this kind of ultimate action.

Weaver said the detective assumed Seals was a sex worker because she was transgender and didnt have information to actually prove that was her profession.

Regardless, his comments had a trans panic argument within them, and are an example of how transgender women continue to be misunderstood and stereotyped, Weaver said.

Unfortunately, I think it will still be seen as a valid reason for hurting somebody, he said. Defence attorneys are ruthless, and they have one job  to prove their client is not guilty, and they will do whatever it takes.

SHARE:
The Princess of Whales?

Only in Canda, (sic) you say?

Unfortunately, only in the Star in 2017.

Indeed, those were two of the more embarrassing errors published in the Star in the past 12 months.

Oh no. We spelled Canada wrong?!?!?! This is beyond embarrassing, said a newsroom editor who spotted the mistake in a newspaper photo cutline about celebrations for Canadas 150 birthday celebrations. To add insult to injury, the cutline also mistakenly referred to Canadas 100th birthday. To quote another editor who weighed in on this sesquicentennial screw-up, Thats just sad.

A couple of months later, as the world marked the 20th anniversary of the tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales, a photo cutline in an online photo gallery of Dianas 1991 visit to Toronto referred instead to the Princess of Whales. To add insult to injury, another photo caption mixed up her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry.

I cant believe it but youve captioned one of the pictures as the Princess of Whales  should be Wales, a reader wrote. Also one of the photos is captioned as Prince Harry when its Prince William.

You guys need to fact check and spell check your articles.

In fact, all content published in the Star is fact-checked, spell-checked and double-checked. Still, sadly, mistakes happen. And dumb typos happen too. As I have said in past, the most careful of journalists can make these silly slips that look so obvious to all once printed but are somehow missed by several sets of eyes in the writing and editing process. Believe me, I know: you can look at the same sentence six times and just not see the glaring error until it is too late.

While all involved abhor such errors, I am happy to say that Star readers often see the lighter side of things. Take for instance another readers comment on the Princess of Whales: Princess of Whales? Did she hang with SpongeBob? Did she cruise around with Aquaman? Maybe Scuba Steve? Hopefully all with trident in hand. Goes without saying  its Wales.

All joking aside, accuracy and corrections are serious business around here. In 2017, (as of Dec. 29) the Star published 1,179 corrections to remedy errors in print and online content  360 for the newspaper and 819 to fix website mistakes. That is a 12 per cent increase from last years total of 1,049 (406 for errors in the newspaper and 643 to fix online mistakes.)

To be honest, I believe the number of online corrections is likely higher, however. A large amount of digital content is published and corrected around the clock in real time and I know that deadline pressures mean that these online errors and fixes dont always get reported to the public editors office to be captured in our corrections spreadsheet, as is required. We are looking at ways to improve this process.

As in past years, factual errors ran the gamut from mistakes about geography and history to science and math. Stories in the Star misnamed the Torngat Mountains, located on the Labrador Peninsula; mixed up Torontos first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie with his grandson, William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canadas 10th prime minister, and told you that the pistil is the male part of a flower. As stated in the correction, it is the female part.

We bungled the name of a car shown in a photo  it was a Bentley, not a Bugatti; and mixed up macaroons with the French meringue delicacy, macarons, in a food feature faux pas. Then there was the letter writer who stated that former Alaska governor Sarah Palin once said she could see Russia from her front door. In fact, it was comedian Tina Fey, doing her impression of Palin, who said that on Saturday Night Live. That one made me laugh.

As I look back on a years corrections what strikes me is how minor the majority of the Stars errors were in 2017. Sure, the Star got the location of the Royal York Hotel wrong that one time last spring and omitted the two medium yellow potatoes in a chana masala recipe but in the grand scheme of media mistakes, our year in corrections was for the most part, small potatoes.

That is not to say our minor mistakes dont matter. Research into media errors and reader trust tell us these less significant errors do indeed have an impact on trust. But, being accountable for errors and transparent in correcting mistakes has a more significant impact on building reader trust.

As the Stars journalistic standards have long stated, accuracy is our most basic contract with readers and correcting our mistakes is core to that contract. As this new year dawns, we pledge to continue to honour that contract and maintain your trust.

And, as always, we regret the errors.

publiced@thestar.ca

SHARE:
Nina Jacobs was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Mr. and Mrs. John Hall Jacobs on February 22,1942. She passed away in Napa CA on December 26, 2017. She received her education at Isidore Newman School, Tulane University, and Emory University where she attained a Masters of Library Science. Nina loved helping others and joined the Peace Corps where she was assigned to Brazil. Later she joined the Federal Library Service and served in South Korea and the DMZ as a civilian librarian. She continued her library profession at military bases in Puerto Rico and at Travis Air Force Base in California as Head Librarian. Traveling was a passion for Nina and she was fortunate to travel around the world and have so many wonderful experiences. She spoke five languages and loved using them at every opportunity. She met Lt. Col. Fred Miller while working at Travis AFB; they married and lived in Vacaville, then San Francisco, CA., until moving to Napa where they continued their professions as veterinarian and librarian. After the passing of Fred and her retirement from Travis Air Force Base as Head Librarian, she continued to be an integral part of the Napa community. She worked for the Napa County Board of Education and was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church Napa where she led several book discussion groups and catalogued and maintained the church library. The church is where she met Tom Craft; they married in November 2013. Together they enjoyed many travel adventures visiting family and friends across the country and the world. Nina cherished all of her many friends and relatives. Nina is survived by Tom Craft and his children: Lisa, Colin, Laurie and Caren, their children: Jonathan, Alyssa, Sean, Ryan, Cody, Canyon and Jacy and three great grandchildren Erika, Olive and Caelum. She is also survived by Freds children: Julie, Laura and Patrick and their children: Lily, Kristen and Liam. A celebration of Ninas life will be held at First Presbyterian Church Napa on Saturday January 13, 2017 at 11:00am. Memorial donations can be made to the Napa County Library, the First Presbyterian Church Napa or the Napa SPCA.
Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, small and medium enterprises, and corporate customers in Brazil and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Commercial Banking and Global Wholesale Banking. It offers deposits and other bank funding instruments; debit and credit cards; digital prepaid solutions; payment platform; loyalty programs; employee benefit vouchers; payroll loans; digital lending and online debt renegotiation services; mortgages; home equity financing products; consumer credit; and local loans, commercial and trade finance, guarantees, structured loans, and cash management and funding solutions, as well as on-lending transfer services. It also provides funding and financial advisory services related to projects, origination and distribution of fixed-income securities in the debt capital markets, financing of acquisitions and syndicated loans, other structured financing arrangements, and subordinated debt and energy efficiency transactions; advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, and equity capital markets transactions; and stock brokerage and advisory, equity, and equity research services. In addition, the company structures and offers foreign exchange, derivative, and investment products for institutional investors, and corporate and retail customers; and provides market making services. Further, it offers instant payment services; range of products and services focused on the agribusiness sector; microfinance services; and online automotive listing and digital car insurance solutions, as well as digital trading platform. Additionally, it provides its financial services and products to its customers through multichannel distribution network comprising branches, mini-branches, ATMs, call centers, Internet banking, and mobile banking. Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A. was incorporated in 1985 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
RELX PLC provides information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers in North America, Europe, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Risk; Scientific, Technical & Medical; Legal; and Exhibitions. The Risk segment offers information-based analytics and decision tools that combine public and industry specific content with technology and algorithms to assist clients in evaluating and predicting risk. The Scientific, Technical & Medical segment provides information and analytics that help institutions and professionals to progress in science and advance healthcare. The Legal segment provides legal, regulatory, and business information and analytics that help customers in decision-making, as well as increases the productivity. The Exhibitions segment is involved in the events business that combines face-to-face with data and digital tools to help customers learn about markets, source products, and complete transactions. The company was formerly known as Reed Elsevier PLC and changed its name to RELX PLC in July 2015. The company was incorporated in 1903 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
A storm is gathering, and there is every reason to believe that 2018 will be the most consequential political year of our lives.

The reckoning upon us follows a year mercifully drawing to a close this weekend. Over that horrid year, President Donald Trump has questioned the legitimacy of federal judges, used Stalinist barbs to attack the free press and cast contempt on the rule of law, while his campaign manager, his national security adviser and a foreign policy aide have been marched into federal courts.

Those anti-democratic instincts were made all the more ominous by his praising of autocrats across the world as they were ruthlessly consolidating power in countries such as Russia, China and the Philippines.

It is difficult to pinpoint the nadir for a man who has savaged Mexicans, Muslims and Gold Star mothers while fat-shaming beauty queens and face-shaming female news hosts (disclosure: in the latter example, my own fiancee). But the low moment in this presidency may have occurred four months ago, when Trump claimed a moral equivalency between neo-Nazis and those standing against them. Or perhaps it was three weeks ago, when the president told Americans to vote for an accused child molester who had called our country the focus of evil in the modern world and once suggested opposition to the constitutional amendments that ended slavery and gave women the right to vote.

Others would surely consider the presidents malignant idiocy in foreign affairs to be the most damning legacy of his first year. World leaders continue to watch dumbstruck as the United States retreats from organizations that were created following the allies victory over Hitler. Those same alliances that Trump now undermines by reckless tweets and discarded treaties carried the United States to victory in the Cold War. But this is a White House that heaps contempt on history. And so, Americas dangerous retreat from the world continues.

On the morrow of the Republican success isolationist conceptions prevailed, Winston Churchill wrote in The Gathering Storm. The British prime minister believed Hitlers rise proved, above all else, how absolute is the need of a broad path of international action pursued by many states in common across the years, irrespective of the ebb and flow of national politics.But this president is ripping apart the carefully woven fabric of U.S. foreign policy that bound administrations together from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, and across the American century.

The Gathering Storm is on my holiday reading list because of Republican strategist Steve Schmidts insistence to me that Churchills ominous warnings to future generations will be more relevant to 2018 than at any time since it was written in the years after World War II. While Trumps eroding of U.S. prestige across the globe is disturbing, it is his administrations undermining of democratic values that poses an even greater threat to our Constitution and country. Borrowing again from Churchill, Americas constitutional norms tremble in the balance as Trump unleashes furious attacks on First Amendment protections, independent counsels and law enforcement officers who refuse to be bullied. While the framers of the Constitution foresaw the possibility of a tyrannical president, they never let their imaginations be darkened by the possibility of a compliant Congress.

Again, Churchill: The malice of the wicked was reinforced by the weakness of the virtuous. . . They lived from hand to mouth and from day to day, and from one election to another. . . The cheers of weak, well-meaning assemblies soon cease to echo, and their votes soon cease to count. Doom marches on.

Schmidt is right. The storm is gathering. And how we respond in the months ahead may determine our fate for years to come.
Spreen, Bedford North Lawrence give Bloomington South a hard time

No. 4 BNL shows off all its weapons to go to 4-0 on the season
The great political question of the moment is what to make of the rise of populism -- both in the U.S. and in Europe. Few things matter more than containing and turning back this surge's excesses, but doing so will be far more difficult if its causes go unexamined. Three books published this year made invaluable contributions to this essential endeavor.

The populist campaigns that elected Donald Trump, started the countdown to Brexit, and put far-right political parties in or close to power in much of Europe are essentially protest movements -- and in every case, the white working class has been the driving force.

These movements, preoccupied with immigration, scoop up every narrow-minded xenophobe and outright racist. But there are far too few of those to explain what has happened. If bigotry were the whole story, populism couldn't have scored so many victories. Why did millions of decent members of the white working class -- hard workers, good neighbors, proud citizens -- turn against centrist mainstream politics?

The answer suggested by all three books is that Trump supporters, Brexiteers and the rest didn't so much abandon centrist mainstream politics. Centrist mainstream politics abandoned them.

In "White Working Class: Overcoming Class Cluelessness in America," Joan C. Williams takes the country's professional-managerial elite to task for its moral complacency and failure to understand the values of the white working class. The book offers countless telling examples of this cultural blindness.

For instance, the PME, as she calls it, is either perplexed or just amused by the fact that many working-class voters support tax cuts for the rich while opposing more generous benefits for the poor. How dumb can those suckers be? Well, many of them take the view that lower taxes are good for the economy, and that what's good for the economy is good for jobs. They don't resent rich people if they think their wealth has been earned -- and they do resent paying benefits, financed out of their taxes, to people who won't work. None of that is dumb.

There's a widening empathy gap, no doubt, between the professional-managerial elite and the white working class in both the U.S. and Europe, but Williams is right that the telling deficit is not in empathy but in respect. The elite is capable of empathizing with the working class -- generously allowing that its pathologies are understandable under the circumstances -- but it rarely any longer grants respect. The best the mainstream center-left can do is swallow its disgust now and then, and offer condescension instead. To many working-class voters, that's worse. Hence Trump.

David Goodhart's "The Road to Somewhere: The New Tribes Shaping British Politics" is mainly concerned with Europe and especially Brexit. Instead of Williams's professional-managerial elite and white working class, he looks at what he calls Anywheres and Somewheres, but the categories are closely aligned. Anywheres are well educated and economically mobile, with "portable, achieved identities." Somewheres "are more rooted, and usually have 'ascribed' identities -- Scottish farmer, working-class Geordie, Cornish housewife -- based on group belonging and particular places."

Educated and affluent people, Goodhart observes, used to be more nationalistic than the rest, because they had a bigger stake in the country. Now it's the reverse. "The richer and better educated you are, the more global your attachments are likely to be." So Anywheres feel less solidarity with Somewheres, their fellow citizens. In general, the Anywhere worldview has little time for citizenship. It's universalist and post-nationalist -- not much interested in borders. Mass immigration is an unalloyed blessing: The more the better. And you think it's a problem that the European Court of Justice is the U.K.'s highest legal authority? I mean, did you go to university?

The hardening of class and cultural divisions between the professional-managerial Anywheres and the working-class Somewheres is stressing democratic politics in much of the West. What's the answer? Williams urges the elite to think harder and more open-mindedly about the values of decent working-class people. Goodhart calls for a new political settlement between Anywheres and Somewheres -- a liberal agenda, but one that's cautious on immigration and recognizes the centrality of citizenship.

Both prescriptions are consistent with the advice of the third book, Mark Lilla's "The Once and Future Liberal: After Identity Politics." Lilla -- like Williams and Goodhart, a progressive -- emphasizes the role that identity politics has played in undermining support for the liberal project. First, he says, the current preoccupation with race, gender and sexuality has encouraged a style of politics that is less concerned with seizing power than with protesting it. Second, he argues that identity politics, as practiced lately, is apt to divide rather than unite people.

This needn't be so. And historically, it hasn't been. The civil-rights movement was an identity-politics project -- but it couched its demand for justice in terms of rights the U.S. had promised to all its people. This approach presupposed the goal of a country united in justice, and that a demand expressed that way would have moral purchase. The current mode of identity politics often suggests that no such conversation is even possible. So what if we are fellow citizens? If I'm straight, I can have nothing useful to say about gay rights. If I'm white, I can have nothing useful to say about race. My role, it seems, is to shut up and feel ashamed.

The protest vote that elected Trump, ejected Britain from Europe and advanced far-right politics in Germany and elsewhere was reckless and unwise. But these studies show why it should have come as no surprise.
Good day all!

We will be travelling to Amsterdam the end of April 2018 and staying through to the end of May 2018 (5 weeks). Amsterdam will be our starting point and we intend to travel around the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland, perhaps Italy. My husband was once to Amsterdam and surrounding area but I have never been to Europe.

What we are looking for is some information regarding renting a car/not renting a car, using the train/not using the train, places we should see and stay in Amsterdam and if some ideas come to mind about travelling to other areas with a return to Amsterdam to fly home in mind. We are open to suggestions, only the flight is set in stone at this point. The hustle and bustle of big cities is not one of our favorite things, we like a little more laid back. We are both in our early 60's. Budget is always a concern but we are open to suggestions.

Thanks for any information you may be able to provide.
We are planning a roughly 2 week trip to Australia October 2018.

The only part of the trip that is booked and set in stone is one week from 24th Oct on Phillip Island for MotoGP.

We would also like to get in a trip to Sydney Harbour, Great Barrier Reef and Uluru - we are flexible as to whether we do this before or after the week on Phillip Island.

I have a few questions and would be grateful for some advice...

We were planning on hiring a car and driving around, but honestly, it's such a vast country and I don't want to "waste" too much time driving, so flying is probably quicker/easier to the destinations we would like to visit on this trip I guess?

SO, what is the best order to do this in? Fly London to Melbourne, hire a car, head to Philip Island for a week, then take the coastal drive to Sydney and fly from there to stay on the islands at the great barrier reef? then fly across to Ailce Springs?.... arrrrgh my brain is going to burst with options :-D

Are the Whitsunday Islands the best place to stay for a few days? We want somwhere we can chill and take in the sights.

Any advice as to how long we will need in each place? I imagine we are going to be tempted to stay other places along the way too. I am just trying to figure out where to book flights to and from at the moment - London to Australia and back - I guess the interal flights are easy enough to book when we are there?

Thanks in advance...
The simplest would be to walk up Goulburn Street, turn left into George Street, follow it all the way to Circular Quay and then walk around the Quay to the Opera House. Parts of that route are a little unattractive because of the barricades in place for the light rail construction, but a couple of blocks have been opened up to full pedestrian traffic and are looking not too bad at all.

Edit: Getting a taxi after the midnight party will be an exercise in patience. Much of the City centre is closed to traffic. You may need to consider walking back, or catching a train from Circular Quay to Town Hall and then walking the rest of the way.

Have a great night!

Edited: 4 years ago
You've posted in the NY State forum. If you go to the New York City forum there is a useful link about getting married on the right side of the (full) web page.

The Brooklyn cruise terminal is not well served by public transport so you'd want vehicular transport anyway. If a Yellow cab doesn't suit, consider booking a car service such as Dial 7 or Carmel - or for something higher end price Strusser's

While I've only been in the lobby bar, agree https://www.thebeekman.com/ could be very memorable place to stay.

Congratulations.

P.S. are you sure your arriving into LGA? (It's primarily a domestic airport)

Edited: 4 years ago
The number of death row inmates in Japan as of Dec. 31 is expected to stand at 123, having remained above 100 since 2007, Justice Ministry officials said Thursday.

In 2017 four convicts on death row were executed and four others died of illness, while death sentences were finalized for two other people.

Of the four who were executed, three had been awaiting news about their requests for retrials. Of the three, one was aged 19 at the time of the crime.

The hangings of inmates seeking retrials were the first since December 1999, while that of an inmate who committed a crime as a minor was the first since August 1997. Both executions drew criticism from the Japan Federation of Bar Associations and groups opposed to the death penalty.

Capital punishment in Japan has drawn international criticism and the federation has called for its abolition by 2020, demanding the introduction of lifetime imprisonment instead.
First off, thank you for your input. I've always found the information here useful.

So I've been searching through the forms here and reading a lot of posts. It seems to me that for a destination wedding in Costa Rica most people are either looking for a resort they can just go to and be done. (That is totally not us) Or they are looking for a simple maybe 2 or 4 person event. Which is fine as well except it's not us either. We love to travel and explore places outside of resorts and all the super touristy spots. We prefer the adventure of diving into a new culture and being around the locals, there food, shopping, and hidden hideaways away from the traveler that wants to stay put. My bride is from the Philippines. She wants to have a beach wedding and create more of a hostel feel for our guests to enjoy the style of travel that we do to expose them to something new. So we're looking for a spot that could accommodate several friends and family's with a mixture of dorms and private rooms. Have a bar at least and potentially a restaurant to make it easier for them. Finding local music doesn't seem to be a problem. A florist seems relativity easy as well. Prefer to be close to the ocean or back up to it. We'd also like to find someone that has some experience with some more unique items like using fire, maybe birds, etc. To create a unique backpacker's style beach wedding. We're heading back to Costa Rica on Fed. 10th to do some more research and exploring. So any thoughts you may have would be helpful. I have a basic itinerary already set up, but would enjoy your thoughts and ideas. Even if it's just on something unique or fun to do that you really enjoyed.

Thank you.
Hello,

My husband and I will be in Japan for 18 days this coming April. It's our first trip to Japan, and we likely won't be back too soon because we have so many places we want to go around the world, so we're trying to fit a lot in. We arrive Apr 6 in Tokyo - hoping to enjoy the tail end of the cherry blossoms. We like a bit of everything in our travels; we enjoy exploring big cities & their street markets, museums and shrines/temples, experiencing local culture, and some time relaxing outside of cities. We love all food, and do a mix of cheap eats and top tier restaurants - whatever tastes good and makes for a good experience!

Based on my research so far, I am thinking:

Tokyo - 4 days

Yokohoma/Hakone - 2 days

Takayama - 2 days (maybe 1 day for Shirakawa)

Kanazawa - 2 days

Kyoto - 4 days (maybe use 1 of these days for a day trip to Hiroshima?)

Nara - 1 day

Osaka - 3 days

Questions:

1) We've spoken to friends & family who have been to Japan, and it seems to be very mixed feelings on which of Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka are deserving of more days. We like everything, so feeling good about having a few days in each. Are any of the other destinations worth adding 1 more day to?

2) We land in Haneda airport, and because it's already south of Tokyo, are considering going straight to Yokohama, then Hakone, and leaving Tokyo to the end of the trip. Apr 6 is a Friday - is Yokohama & Hakone very busy and better to avoid on weekends, or does it not really make much of a difference vs. during the week?

3 a) Given train routes, would you recommend tweaking the order of any of these to make the travel more efficient? We are planning on getting the JRPass for either 2 or 3 weeks, as required.

b) I have the http://www.hyperdia.com site, and the map on JRPass site. Are there any other good sites for route planning? Hyperdia seems great if you know exactly when and where you are going, but we are pretty flexible right now and trying to understand "optimal".

c) For Hakone to Takayama, is it worth doing this trip during the day to enjoy the scenery? Are there any other legs in particular between my destinations for which you would say we shouldn't miss the scenery?

d) Are there any peak travel times which we should avoid on any of these routes?

4) I kind of don't want to decide on possible day trips (e.g. Hiroshima from Osaka or Nikko from Tokyo) until we are actually there and seeing how much we are enjoying those cities vs. wanting to get out and do something else. Is it ok to plan these just 1 day in advance, or is there any reason they should be planned more in advance?

5) What should we be booking ASAP? Obviously hotels/ryokans as soon as we lock down the itinerary. Also thinking any high-end restaurants we should try to book well in advance. Anything else?

Thanks so much in advance!
We are planning a family trip to NY next Christmas. I dont particularly want to be in NY over Christmas but would like ideas perhaps on coast/upstate from 22 Dec - 26 Dec prior to a few days in the City before flying home about 29th.

Does anyone have any good ideas of where we could plan to stay? Montauk has been recommended - will there be anything for 2 teens (18 & 15) to do?? Any other ideas within a few hours drive would be great.

Thank you very much!
How do I get from the airport (JFK, LGA, or EWR) to Manhattan?

What To Do During Layovers?

Vacation Apartment Rentals Violate NYC Laws

Hotels: Kitchenettes and kitchens in 100+ Manhattan Hotels

Hotels: Two queen beds plus a kitchen/kitchenette

Hotels: Guests under 21 years old (but at least 18)

Hotels: Which ones charge an additional Resort or Facilities Fee

Hotels: When is the best time to go for cheaper rates?

What are the Must-See's and Must-Do's?

How Do I Ride the Subway (UPDATED)?

Tips, Hint and Suggestions for First Timers

SCAMS to avoid in NYC

What Will the Weather Be Like During My Trip?

Any Good Websites for Researching My Trip?

How Safe is New York?

Where to Eat in NYC

Where to eat in NYC - Part 2

Celiac in the City? (gluten free)

Which Area Should I Stay In?

Is There Cheaper Lodging Outside Manhattan?

How Much Do I Tip People?

Are the New York Pass, Explorer Pass or CityPass worth it?

How Do I Hail a Taxi?

Public restrooms/toilets. Where do you go when you GOTTA GO?

Where are the best areas for shopping?

How do I find Discount Tickets for Broadway Shows?

What are the NYC Halloween events for 2021?

Thanksgiving 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat

Christmastime in NYC 2021: Dates for the Trees-Windows-Markets-Ice Skating+MORE!

Christmas Day 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat

What Should I Do on New Year's Eve?

How Will I Survive the Cold Weather?

Where are the Farmers Markets and Street Fairs?

What is there to see and do near WTC/SOL/Brooklyn Bridge/SI ferry?

What should I know about visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum?

What Is There to See and Do in Brooklyn?

How Do I Get to the Brooklyn Bridge?

What Is There to See and Do in Queens?

Exploring neighborhoods - where should I go and what should I see?

Which is the best? ESB or TOTR or OWO?

Which are the significant churches in Manhattan?

Hidden Gems in the city - not so touristy

How do I get from NYC to the Meadowlands and back?

I'm Getting Married in NYC...what do I need to do?

Should I Buy Knock-Off Purses?

What to Do with Kids and How to Do It?

What should we do at night -- especially with kids or under 21's?

Places to eat (and drink) with a view

Where is the Old FAQ?

Trip Reports: Families with Young Kids - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Groups of Friends - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Couples - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Families with Teenagers - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Solo Travelers - Add yours!

Trip Reports: Families of Adults - Add yours!
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.
Kenya is a sovereign country characterized by rich ethnic groups. In the past, people conducted marriages along these tribal lines. Today, marriage trends show that young people are now breaking these conservative limitations by intermarrying. So, if you are looking to settle with someone who is not necessarily from your ethnic background, consider the best tribes to marry in Kenya.

Maasai men dancing. Photo: In Pictures Ltd.

Source: Getty Images

Most young people are hesitant to choose a life mate, much alone date, from just any tribe. The former is due to marital stereotypes and personal experiences associated with specific ethnic groups and genders.

Tribes that make good intermarriages

Many Kenyans admit to intermarriage as the most proper way of integrating the 42 ethnic groups. Many famous people have already embraced intermarriage, with the best example being Orengo's daughter, who tied the knot with a Kamba man. Even then, most Kenyans still think that some ethnic groups are more compatible compared to others.

Which are the best tribes to marry in Kenya?

The best tribe for marriage in Kenya is heavily dependent on one's tribe and background. For example, urban kids are less familiar with tribal rituals, making them more adaptive to other ethnic communities. But, for the record, anyone from any tribe can marry if they find their dream mate and achieve mutual understanding throughout the relationship's development.

Different ethnic groups are now alienated by specific practices and characters which attract or repel prospective partners. For instance, dating a Kalenjin man is a lifetime commitment regardless of the hurdles.

1. The Kalenjin

Kenyan musician Emmy Kosgei in modern Kalenjin attire. Photo: @NationAfrica

Source: Twitter

Once you get married into the Kalenjin community, there is no going back. The tribe is very strict when it comes to divorce. Kalenjin men are very dominant, and they will make all the decisions in the house. They nonetheless are dubbed to be good in bed. Their women are taught to be submissive to their husbands and to take care of their children.

2. Kamba

A Kamba woman in traditional attire while practising basketry. Photo: @GetrudeNdinda1

Source: Twitter

Kamba men show desirable levels of loyalty and satisfaction in their routine lives. Dating a Kamba man is, hard for most women simply because they are not aggressive and are overruling. It is equally important to state that Kamba men score well in bed.

On the other hand, the thought of Kamba ladies for marriage has long been embattled. Among other personal reasons, many Kenyan men do not perceive them suitable for long-term relationships because they are dynamic minded.

It is, however, important to realize that Kamba women are submissive and loving in nature if you treat them right. Therefore, all stereotypes infringed against them are not necessarily true on the rate of Mpango wa kando tendency revealed along tribal lines.

3. Kikuyu

Kikuyu tribe woman with traditional makeup, Laikipia County, Thomson waterfalls, Kenya on July 10, 2009, in Thomson Waterfalls, Kenya. Photo: Eric Lafforgue

Source: Getty Images

Kikuyu women are among the most discussed group that attracts a lot of controversies. However, marrying a Kikuyu woman is suitable, considering their high academic exposure and hardworking traits. Besides their universal beauty, Kikuyu women are loving and intelligent. It is also true that they are outgoing, which makes them a compatible fit for our brothers from Luo Nyanza.

Their men are also very hardworking and a bit stingy with their money. They must ensure that every cent is accounted, and they are suitable if you are looking for an industrious man.

4. Luhya

Sauti Sol member Bien-Aime Baraza. Photo: @bienaimesol

Source: Instagram

The Abaluhya people, who originate from the Western parts of Kenya, have the most voluptuous women in the country and are hardworking. Their men also get a lot of praise for being good in bed. The community has produced some of the most talented men such as Bien-Aime, Savara and Chimano from the popular Kenyan band, Sauti Sol.

5. Luo

Luo men performing at the Rusinga Festival. Photo: @FuntideE

Source: Twitter

For the Lakeside community, Luo men are known to be the most romantic men in Kenya. Many ladies have fallen for their charms and the sweet words that come out of their mouths. However, Luo men are also known for infidelity and arrogance. Nevertheless, they have produced several notable Kenyan musicians such as Khaligraph Jones and Otile Brown.

On the other hand, their women are known for their figures and ability to cook fish, which is no surprise since they originate from Lake Victoria.

6. Kisii

Kenyan artist Nyamari Ongegu, better known as Nyashinski. Photo: @realshinski

Source: Instagram

Among the best tribes to get married in Kenya is the Abagusii. Generally, the community is known to produce the most aggressive people. But that should not stop you from looking for your partner from there. Their men have been praised for their hard work, being good in bed, and many talents. Nyashinski and Nyambane are some of the most admired Kisii men in Kenya.

In contrast, their women are some of the most curvaceous in Kenya, with Corazon Kwamboka and Angela Angwenyi as an example.

7. Taita

Taita beauty Wabosha Maxine. Photo: @wabosha_maxine

Source: Instagram

Women from the Taita community have gathered praises as some of the most beautiful in the country. Their 8-figure body shape and coast accents are known to melt the hearts of men. They are also known for their cooking knowledge and are submissive to their partners.

8. Maasai

Maasai young woman is helped to put accessories before a sporting event dubbed the Maasai Olympics at Kimana, near Kenya's border town with Tanzania, on December 15, 2018. Photo: Yasuyoshi Chiba

Source: Getty Images

Known for being the most fierce, the Maasai make the tribe with the best husbands in Kenya. Additionally, due to their preservation of most cultures, the Maasai are one of the wealthiest people in terms of livestock. Their women are very submissive and are naturally motherly.

9. Meru

Kenyan comedian Jasper Muthomi, popularly known as MC Jessy. Photo: @jessythemc

Source: Instagram

The Ameru are also known for their aggressiveness and being hot-tempered. They, nonetheless, make up the tribe with the most handsome men in Kenya. Their women also have not fallen short when it comes to looks.

10. The Mijikenda

Honourable Member of Parliament for Malindi Township, Aisha Jumwa. Photo: @HonJumwa

Source: Getty Images

The Mijikenda is a coastal community consisting of nine sub-tribes. Their women are primarily known for their chakacha dance which involves wining their waists while wearing deras. In addition, they are known for their ability to prepare some of the most delicious food.

The list above contains the best tribes to marry from in Kenya. However, the ethnic background which someone comes from does not matter since it is a matter of personal preference and compatibility. All ethnic groups have unique traits that cannot be substituted.

Tuko.co.ke recently listed the top businesses to start with 200k in Kenya. If you have that burning entrepreneurial desire to start a business that you can call your own, it can be a little overwhelming where to start. But, the good news is that Kenya is alive with opportunities for entrepreneurs. So, which are the best businesses to start with 200k in Kenya in 2021?

Source: TUKO.co.ke
PayPal is a payment service that enables people to accept payment and pay for goods and services that they purchase online. PayPal Kenya is beneficial to the users because it allows faster and secure payment and also provides a convenient way of withdrawing money from the comfort of your location, whether at home, in a restaurant, or at work. Furthermore, it allows one to easily send or receive money without revealing their financial information or exposing them to scams.

PayPal Kenya. Photo: @PayPal

Source: Facebook

Is PayPal available in Kenya? Yes, the service is operational in Kenya. When it comes to receiving payment online in a country where the number of people working online is increasing, having a PayPal account is a must. Below are guides on how to create a PayPal account in Kenya.

PayPal Kenya registration

How does PayPal work in Kenya? To receive money through PayPal in Kenya, you need to create an account. This way, Kenyans who work online can pay and get paid online via PayPal. Registering for a PayPal account is very simple. Below are steps to follow to open an account.

How to open a PayPal account in Kenya

Steps on how to create a PayPal account. Photo: paypal.com (modified by author)

Source: UGC

Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690.

Can you open PayPal in Kenya? Yes, you can. Here is how to open a PayPal account in Kenya:

Visit the PayPal website on your browser: Use the PayPal Kenya login address.

Use the PayPal Kenya login address. Tap "Sign Up for Free": You will be taken to the registration page. Enter your details.

You will be taken to the registration page. Enter your details. Specify the account type: You have personal and business options.

You have personal and business options. Provide your email and phone number: They should all be valid as you will be required to verify your phone number by retrieving the SMS sent to you by PayPal. As for the email, you will receive a verification link in your email that you will need to click to continue.

They should all be valid as you will be required to verify your phone number by retrieving the SMS sent to you by PayPal. As for the email, you will receive a verification link in your email that you will need to click to continue. Key in your name: Your first name and last name will be required at this phase according to how it appears on your national identification card.

Your first name and last name will be required at this phase according to how it appears on your national identification card. Create a password: It should contain some special characters, numbers, and a mix of capital and small case letters. Confirm the password and move to the next step.

It should contain some special characters, numbers, and a mix of capital and small case letters. Confirm the password and move to the next step. Accept the terms and conditions: You now have an active account.

How to use PayPal in Kenya: Adding your bank account or credit card

How do I link my bank account to PayPal in Kenya? To withdraw your money from your PayPal account, you will need to link your bank account or credit card. To do so, follow the procedure below:

Go to your PayPal settings: Log into your account using your email address and password. Tap the gear icon next to the "Log Out" option. This will take you to a new window.

Log into your account using your email address and password. Tap the gear icon next to the "Log Out" option. This will take you to a new window. Select "Money, Banks, and Cards": This option is under "Business/Personal Profile".

Link your bank account or card: Use any convenient methods to set up a cash-out channel on your account.

Use any convenient methods to set up a cash-out channel on your account. A code will be sent to your account statement. You will be deducted around Ksh.200 from your account, refundable upon verification.

Withdrawing from PayPal to Mpesa

The withdrawal service from PayPal allows you to withdraw funds from your PayPal account to your linked qualifying M-PESA account. The PayPal and M-Pesa process is fast and easy. Follow the procedure below to link your PayPal and Mpesa accounts and withdraw the money.

Log into your PayPal: Use your password and email address.

Go to the withdrawal tab: Specify the amount you want to withdraw from your PayPal account in USD and click 'withdraw'.

Select the withdrawal method: Choose to withdraw to Mpesa. You will be redirected to a page showing the amount to be received in KES, the currency conversion exchange rate, and an estimation of the transaction processing time.

Click confirm: The funds will be credited you your Mpesa account.

How do I top up my PayPal account using my M-PESA balance?

PayPal Mpesa Kenya. Photo: paypal-mobilemoney.com (modified by author)

Source: UGC

Apart from receiving money through PayPal, you can also top-up the amount in your PayPal account.

First, calculate the KES amount you need to convert to get the USD amount you want in your PayPal account.

Open your M-PESA, select "Lipa na M-PESA", then "Pay Bill".

Enter 800088 as the business number and your phone number as the account number.

Click send

The amount will reflect in your PayPal account.

Paypal Kenya contacts

There are no PayPal offices Kenya; instead, their services and communication are purely online based. However, there is an international phone number and contact form inside your accounts contact/help page.

PayPal Kenya has enabled many Kenyans to transact money from their accounts to Mpesa or bank accounts.

READ ALSO: How to become a pharmacist in Kenya: Requirements and institutions

Tuko.co.ke recently published a guide on how to become a pharmacist in Kenya. Like other Kenyan professions, a qualified pharmacist must meet several standards. These can range from university education to membership in some professional medical organizations.

Prescribers and dispensers of pharmaceuticals and illness prevention and management are the responsibilities of pharmacists. Community stores, dispensing institutions, and hospitals are all places where they can be found.

Source: TUKO.co.ke
- Tanzanaian churches face being deregistered if their leaders voice their opinions on the country's political scene

- This came after a renown bishop accused President Magufuli of turning the country into a one-party state and becoming authoritarian

- Magufuli denied this but several newspapers and citizens were previously jailed for insulting or speaking out against the leader

Tanzania President John Pombe Magufuli made international news when he threatened to close down churches criticizing him.

The threat was made after a Pentecostal cleric, Zachary Kakobe, used a Christmas sermon to bemoan how Tanzania was turning into a one-party state by banning political activity.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

According to a report by the BBC on Friday, December 29, the Home Affairs Ministry later issued the threat, warning religious institutions against getting involved in political affairs.

READ ALSO: The ban on Shisha is illegal - Former CJ now claims

Tanzania President John Pombe Magufuli. Photo: Tanzania Today

READ ALSO: Museveni orders all Ugandan TV, radio stations to broadcast his New Year message

Permanent Secretary Projest Rwegasira told religious leaders that they risked having their registrations cancelled for talking about political issues.

"Religious leaders using sermons to analyse political issues is contrary to the law. This could lead to the cancellation of the registration of the concerned religious society," said Rwegasira.

All churches in Tanzania require a licence to operate legally in the country.

READ ALSO: Jua Calis wife brilliantly trolls the likes of Zari Hassan and This is Ess in the most hilarious way

Renown Tanzania Bishop Kakobe criticized President Magufuli for turning the country into a one party state. Photo: InyaRwanda.com

Install TUKO App To Read News For FREE

Apparently, Tanzania police previously banned political activity in the country and only lifted the ban to allow for campaigns ahead of their recent general election.

Critics accused Magufuli, alias the Bulldozer, of becoming a dictator in spite of his continued denial of the accusations.

Prior reports have it that several Tanzanians were jailed and several newspapers shut down for speaking their mind about Magufuli's leadership style.

READ ALSO: Uhuru praises former Chelsea striker after he was elected president of Liberia

Magufuli was accused of becoming an authoritarian but he vehemently denied these accusations. Photo: African Independent

READ ALSO: Mugabe's son in hot soup after asking 22 year old girl he impregnated to terminate baby

According to prior TUKO.co.ke reports, Magufuli was recently internationally recognised with the revered Mandela Peace Prize on Wednesday, December 27, for promoting peace and social equality in Tanzania.

He beat several other African leaders to win the award, taking it from Morocco's King Mohamed VI who bagged it in 2016.

Have something to add to this article? Send to news@tuko.co.ke

Source: TUKO.co.ke
- Two Kenyans from Wajir county are among Al Shabaab terrorists who were injured following an attack by the U.S military in Somalia

- The two,Mohamed Ahmed Farah alias Mohamed Kheir and Abdullahi Wilif were injured after their camp was hit by an air strike that left 13 Al Shabaab terrorists dead

- Mohamed Kheir and Abdullahi Wilif are currently receiving treatment at Aus Qurun medical camp,believed to be operated by Al Shabaab

Two Kenyans are among Al Shabaab terrorists who were badly injured by the U.S military in Southern Somalia after an impromptu ambush.

The two,who have been identified as Mohamed Ahmed Farah alias Mohamed Kheir and Abdullahi Wilif both from Wajir County,Kenya met their sad ordeal after the U.S military launched an air strike that hit an Al Shabaab training camp at Ball Raho in Southern Somalia.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

According to reliable reports reaching TUKO.co.ke,the air strike left 13 Al Shabaab terrorists dead.

READ ALSO: Powerful Al-Shabaab leader throws terror group into confusion by defecting

2 Kenyans injured after US military raid on Al-Shabaab camp. Photo: CitizenTV

READ ALSO: 4 killed in fresh merciless al-Shabaab attack in Lamu

The Two Kenyans who were 'lucky' to escape the drill are currently receiving treatment at Aus Qurun medical camp,believed to be operated by Al Shabaab.

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that the attack on Al Shabaab's Ball Raho training camp was made possible by joint efforts from the Federal government of Somalia and the U.S.

READ ALSO: Its KSh 4 million compensation for Nyeri female student found with bhang in underwear

2 Kenyans injured after US military raid on Al-Shabaab camp. Photo: Epuka Ugaidi/Twitter

READ ALSO: Magufuli beats Uhuru to claim Mandela Peace Prize 2017

The airstrike by the US came hot in the heels of yet another attack against the insurgent group.

As reported by a cross section of the Kenyan media earlier,Kenya Defense Force(KDF),on Thursday,December 28,bombed an Al Shabaab camp in Somalia,killing two terrorists and injuring four.

President Uhuru Kenyatta sworn in for his second term - On Tuko TV

Source: TUKO.co.ke
- Suspected Al Shabaab militants,on Friday,December 29,night attacked Ijara police camp and made away with a police Land Cruiser

- The militants also destroyed a telecommunication mast and a shop at the trading center

- The late night attack did not cause bodily harm to anyone as no casualties were reported

Suspected Al Shabaab militants on Friday,December 29,night attacked Ijara village on the Garissa - Lamu border and left behind tonnes of loss.

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that the militants initiated their attack at the Ijara police camp,which they reduced to ashes.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

The militants also made a joke out of the police by making away with a police Land Cruiser.

READ ALSO: 2 Kenyans injured after US military raid on Al-Shabaab camp

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants attack Ijara village on the Garissa-Lamu border.Photo: Citizen TV

READ ALSO: Powerful Al-Shabaab leader throws terror group into confusion by defecting

The late night attack did not cause bodily harm to anyone as no casualties were reported.

Losses worth millions,however, were reported after the attack.According to police reports,the militants destroyed a telecommunication mass.

READ ALSO: 4 killed in fresh merciless al-Shabaab attack in Lamu

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants attack Ijara village on the Garissa-Lamu border.Photo:CapitalFM

READ ALSO: Its KSh 4 million compensation for Nyeri female student found with bhang in underwear

That's not all,they also looted before destroying a shop at the Ijara trading center.

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that the Kenyan government,on Saturday,December 30,morning deployed more officers to the area and its environs to comb out the attackers.

The attack came barely hours after the US military killed 13 Al Shabaab militants through an air strike in Somalia.

As reported by TUKO.co.ke earlier,the attack hit an Al Shabaab training camp at Ball Raho in Southern Somalia,killing and injuring several including two Kenyans.

President Uhuru Kenyatta sworn in for his second term - On Tuko TV

Source: TUKO.co.ke
An army colonel died Thursday in a roadside bomb attack in the restive Sinai province, reports say.

The attack took place outside the city of Bir al-Abd and targeted an armored patrol vehicle in which the military commander was, The New Arab reports citing security and hospital officials.

The attack killed five other soldiers also part of the patrol.

The bomb according to the sources was planted by terrorist fighters who have engaged insurgency against state forces in the peninsular. Attacks have gained steam since 2013 following the overthrow of elected President Mohamed Morsi by current ruler Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

The colonel who has not been named is commander of the Bir al-Abd; the scene of Egypts deadliest terror attack which caused death of over 300 people.

Masked gunmen allegedly to be members of the Islamic state group (IS) mowed down worshipers at one of local mosque during November 24 Friday prayer.

President al-Sisi has vowed to bring down the insurgency. He has allowed the army to use brute force and to achieve the mission in three month.

In a separate report, rights groups have condemned the execution early this week of 15 men in province over alleged links to attacks against security and armed forces.

The groups in statement on Tuesday said authorities breached the legal procedures. They also noted that they were deprived of visits by the relatives as required by the law.

The groups also denounced torture practices committed on one the executed.

The men were hanged in two different prisons. It was largest number of execution in a single day in the history of the North African country.
Russian-backed militants launched six attacks on positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in ATO area in Donbas in last day.

This is reported by the ATO Headquarters press center.

The enemy violated the ceasefire in ATO area six times over the past day. As a result of the enemy shelling, one Ukrainian soldier was killed and another two soldiers were wounded, the statement reads.

In Luhansk direction, terrorists opened fire from 82mm mortars, grenade launchers and heavy machine guns on Ukrainian strongholds near Luhanske (59km north-east of Donetsk).

In Donetsk direction, Russian-backed militants used 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of different types, small arms and heavy machine guns to shell Ukrainian positions outside Butovka coal mine (11.4km north-west of Donetsk). Defenders of Kamyanka (62km south of Donetsk) and Verkhniotoretske (22km north-east of Donetsk) came under grenade launcher and infantry weapons fire.

ol
US Defense Secretary James Mattis believes that the defensive weapons, which Washington could provide to Kyiv, will not have any big impact as long as no one wants to invade Ukraine.

As long as no one wants to invade Ukraine, hopefully [American weapons] won't have any big impact. They're defensive weapons, Mattis said during the press gaggle at the US Department of Defense.

According to Mattis, the US military role in Ukraine is not evolving.

I don't see an evolving U.S. military role in Ukraine. Right now, as you know, we have some trainers there helping to train their army to NATO standards, and that has a lot to do with making certain it serves the needs of the Ukrainian people. And so, no, the U.S. military role remains the same, he said.

It became known in December, that the US Department of State had granted a license to sell sniper rifles to Ukraine. Later, the department also announced its readiness to provide Ukraine with more powerful defensive weapons.

ol
One Ukrainian soldier was killed, and another two servicemen were wounded in ATO area in eastern Ukraine over the past day.

Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Spokesperson Dmytro Hutsuliak said this at a press briefing on Saturday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Unfortunately, Ukrainian troops sustained losses. One Ukrainian soldier was killed, and another two servicemen were wounded, he said.

Hutsuliak added that a Ukrainian soldier had been killed in the enemy shelling near Butovka coal mine (11.4km north-west of Donetsk). One serviceman was wounded outside Kamyanka (62km south of Donetsk), another one  near Katerynivka (64km west of Luhansk).

ol
Ukraine carries out interesting innovative researches in various fields, so the support for innovative solutions is a guarantee and an important prerequisite for economic development.

Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman said this in an interview with the Ukrayinsky Tyzhden newspaper, the Government portal reports.

"Ukraine possesses unmanned technologies, and is competitive in this field. We have very good potential in the technological sector of the agro-industrial complex. There is a fairly large number of start-ups in Ukraine, and they can subsequently enter the global markets. However, we still need to take appropriate steps to develop the proper ecosystems to transfer the technologies to the real sector and at the same time to take into account the changes in the world markets," Groysman said.

Speaking about the positive measures already taken, the Head of Ukrainian Government mentioned the elaboration of the draft law on the protection of intellectual property and launch of the Innovation Support Fund.

ol
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has signed decrees on the liquidation and creation of local courts in Ukraine.

"I have signed decrees on the liquidation and creation of local courts in Ukraine, and I call on lawyers and scientists and lawyers to actively participate in competitions for the posts of judges," the head of state wrote on his Facebook page on Friday.

Poroshenko recalled that the first stage of the judicial reform had been completed after the formation of a new Supreme Court and that the second stage of the reform was now under way.

"Today is the second stage, which pursues two absolutely clear positions. We must bring courts and justice closer to the people. There can be no districts without courts and courts without judges," the president said.

As reported, earlier the Presidential Administration prepared draft decrees on the liquidation of local general courts and the formation of district courts.

In turn, the High Council of Justice approved the relevant initiatives, which foresee the liquidation of 142 local general courts and the creation of 74 district courts.

op
Specialists of the Research Institute of Special Equipment and Judicial Examinations of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) have confirmed the authenticity of the voices of former Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Mikheil Saakashvili and fugitive Ukrainian oligarch Serhiy Kurchenko that were recorded during their conversation, spokeswoman for the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) Larysa Sarhan has said.

"The Ukrainian Research Institute of Special Equipment and Judicial Examinations of the SBU conducted a phonoscopic examination, which confirms the authenticity of the voices in the recorded conversations between Saakashvili and Kurchenko," she said.

Sarhan added that the words and phrases that belong to them were personalized in the protocol following a secret search operation.

"Currently, about 15 people who help Ukrainian law enforcement agencies document the criminal offenses of M. Saakashvili, S. Kurchenko, O. Dynnyk, S. Dangadze, have been questioned as witnesses and are under the protection of the state," she said.

On December 5, the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine released an audio recording of a telephone conversation allegedly between Saakashvili and Kurchenko. The interlocutors discussed cooperation on the audio recording, allegedly aimed at overthrowing the current government in Ukraine.

The Prosecutor General's Office suspects that Saakashvili's political activity was sponsored by Ukrainian oligarch Serhiy Kurchenko, who, along with another entourage of former President Viktor Yanukovych, fled Ukraine. The money should have been spent on the organization of "rallies of disobedience" to overthrow the current authorities in Ukraine.

op
Bahrains Islamic Bank, Al Tamweel wa Inma (BTI) Bank, which opened lately its headquarters in Casablanca, looks forward to setting 37 branches by 2022 in various cities of Mo-rocco.

The BTI Bank has been launched following the partnership sealed by Al Baraka Banking Group (ABG), the leading multi-national Islamic Banking Group, headquartered in Bahrain, and the Moroccan Bank for Foreign Commerce of Africa (BMCE Bank), one of Africas leading international banking groups.

ABG, which has subsidiaries and representative offices in 15 countries and has over 40 years of experience in participation banking, has teamed up with Moroccan BMCE Bank in this project.

Chairman & CEO of Al Baraka Banking Group, Adnan Ahmed Yousif, said We are delighted to launch our participation bank, BTI Bank in Morocco, which is the result of a strong partnership with BMCE Bank.

He also said he is upbeat over the large opportunities for the success of our bank, given Moroccos significant and promis-ing development potential in the field of participation banks.

According to Adnan, the goal is to establish a model of cooperation between ABG and BMCE Bank, allowing the exchange of skills and setting up a unique bank in Morocco that has a promising future at the Maghreb and African levels.

Managing Director of BMCE Bank, Brahim Benjelloun Al Toui-mi, on his part said The launch of BTI Bank marks the culmination of several months of close work and cooperation with our partner, Al Baraka Banking Group, with whom we share many of the profound values and vision for the future. We are convinced that the historical experience of our partner and their strong knowledge of the market will enable us to make BTI Bank a model for participation banks in Morocco.

Commenting on the deal, General Manager of BTI Bank, Mo-hamed Maarouf, said ABG and BMCE Bank have sought to establish a new model for Participation banking in the Moroccan market, which is undergoing a gradual restructuring.

He also voiced hope to see BTI quickly becoming a real and reliable banking partner for individuals, professionals and businesses, through a strong and equal relationship, a relationship that is based on strong values and mutual benefit to both parties.

We also aspire to contribute to the creation of a financial system that rewards the effort and contributes to the development of society, he said.
NEW YORK, 29 December 2017  We have passed the grim milestone of 1,000 days of war in Yemen. As violence has escalated in recent days, children and families are yet again being killed in attacks and bombardments.



More than 1,000 days of families driven from their homes by brutal violence. 1,000 days without enough food to eat and safe water to drink. 1,000 days of bombed hospitals and damaged schools. 1,000 days of children recruited to fight. 1,000 days of disease and death  of unimaginable human suffering.



The conflict in Yemen has created the worst humanitarian crisis in the world  a crisis which has engulfed the entire country. Some 75 per cent of Yemens population are in need of humanitarian assistance, including 11.3 million children who cannot survive without it. At least 60 per cent of Yemenis are now food insecure and 16 million people do not have access to safe water and proper sanitation. Many more lack access to basic health services. Less than half of Yemens health facilities are fully functional and medical staff have gone months without being paid their salaries.



This horrific tally of the conflicts devastation reflects only what we know. In reality, the situation is likely to be worse. UN agencies do not have full humanitarian access to some of the hardest hit communities. In many, we cannot even assess their needs.



But this we do know: Yemen has passed the tipping point into a rapid decline from crisis to deepening catastrophe.



We have seen some progress in recent days with the first commercial fuel imports allowed into Hudaydah port, following recent commercial food imports. It is critical that these supplies are maintained, as restrictions on fuel imports have caused the price of diesel fuel to double, threatening access to safe water and sanitation, and urgent medical care. Far too many hospitals are short of fuel for the generators that allow them to stay open. Water pumping stations serving over 3 million people are quickly running out of the fuel they need to operate, while the price of commercially trucked water has increased up to six-fold. Safe water is now completely unaffordable for more than two thirds of Yemenis living in extreme poverty. All of this threatens to undermine efforts to contain the ongoing, deadly outbreaks of diphtheria, cholera and acute watery diarrhea.



We remain committed to helping the people of Yemen. We have reached nearly 6 million people with clean water, distributed 3.7 million litres of fuel to public hospitals, treated more than 167,000 children for severe acute malnutrition, delivered more than 2,700 metric tons of medicines and medical supplies, and vaccinated 4.8 million children against polio, and deliver food assistance to around 7 million people a month.

In Yemen today, anyone sick with suspected cholera who is able to access health services has an almost 100 per cent chance of surviving.



Yet worsening conditions on the ground threaten to overwhelm our capacity to respond.



If we cannot gain greater access and the violence does not subside, the cost in lives will be incalculable. That is why we once again appeal to parties to the conflict to immediately allow full humanitarian access in Yemen and to stop the fighting.



Yemens families should not have to withstand another day of war, let alone another 1,000.



Joint statement attributable to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,WFP Executive Director David Beasley, and UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake




Join Tom DeFrank of the National Journal as he discusses the week's top stories with Michael Williams, CBS Radio Contributor, and Dan Raviv of i24 News. Among the stories covered this week are the latest bombing in Kabul, Afghanistan and U.S. politicians gearing up for midterm elections. Listen to Issues in the News Saturday and Sunday on the Voice of America!
A powerful Afghanistan governor returned to his office Saturday and chaired an official meeting in violation of a presidential decree that ousted him from his post earlier this month.

The escalating political uncertainty comes as the United States and its allies step up military efforts in support of Afghan forces as they try to counter the Taliban insurgency and the Islamic State group plots fresh deadly suicide bombings in the war-torn country.

Atta Muhammad Noor, who governed northern Balkh province for 13 years, has from the outset rejected his dismissal as illegal, questioning whether President Ashraf Ghani had the power to do so unilaterally.

Ghanis office announced two weeks ago that the president had accepted Noors resignation and named a replacement. But the ousted governor swiftly rejected the move, saying he had submitted his resignation months back and linked it to acceptance of a list of demands.

While chairing Saturdays meeting of government officials at the governors office in Mazar-i-Sharif, the provincial capital, the powerful politician from the ethnic Tajik minority community again defended his position.

Noor insisted that nominating his successor and appointment to certain provincial posts in Balkh were among his demands. He went on to assert he would not quit until his Jamiat-i-Islami party and its allies negotiate a resolution with the Ghani camp in the coalition government.

And if an agreement is not reached I will remain as governor of Balkh for as long as the National Unity Government is in power, Noor told the meeting. His political party has also urged the president to review his decision and vowed to use all options in support of Noor.

The ousted governor claimed he has transferred some authority to his deputy to ensure smooth functioning of the provincial government but vowed I will come every day to the office.

The United States brokered a political deal between Ghani and his election rival Abdullah Abdullah after the 2014 presidential election ended in a deadlock that had brought Afghanistan to the brink of ethnic-driven chaos.

The deal made ethnic Pashtun Ghani president and created a new post, similar to prime minister, for Abdullah, a central leader of Noors party, which represents mostly Afghan Tajiks.

But the political standoff has apparently refueled the ethnic-based divisions, worrying Afghanistans Western partners.

Most secure Afghan province

Balkh has been the most secure of all 34 Afghan provinces under his leadership, claimed Noor, while defending his long tenure. Using the Arabic acronym for Islamic State, he tried to give credence to allegations officials in Ghanis camp have links to the terrorist group.

They want to bring Daesh here. I will never allow Daesh to come here, I have suppressed Daesh and will continue to suppress them, Noor said in a speech Afghan television stations broadcast live.

The presidential office has repeatedly and vehemently denied the allegations as politically motivated.

The Afghan parliament has also been divided over the governors dismissal, with some fearing the deepening political strife is helping insurgents and IS terrorists to further their extremist agendas in Afghanistan.

In a recent speech, Noor also accused Abdullah of plotting his removal and condemned him as a snake up our own sleeve, charges the Afghan chief executive has rejected.

Analysts see the deepening crisis, stemming from traditional tensions between Tajiks and majority Pashtuns, as detrimental to political and security gains Afghanistan has achieved with the support of international community over the past 16 years.

The political standoff is also undermining efforts to organize parliamentary elections, officially scheduled for next year, and the 2019 presidential poll, amid criticism the Afghan government has not taken enough steps to introduce key electoral reforms to ensure there is no repeat of the crisis of the 2014 presidential election.

Noor supported Abdullah during the presidential election campaign but has since criticized him for not pressing Ghani to deliver on his commitments under the U.S.-brokered deal and give Jamiat-i-Islami its due share in the coalition government. Other party officials have also made similar complaints against Abdullah.

On Thursday, an IS suicide bomber struck a big gathering of members of the Afghan Shiite Muslim community in Kabul, killing more than 41 people and wounding around 100 more.

This was the seventh suicide attack IS carried out in the city in just over two months, underscoring growing strength of the terrorist group in the Afghan capital.
Theres new hope for ailing parts of Australias Great Barrier Reef - assisted reproductive technology.

Researchers have been capturing coral spawn and rearing millions of larvae in large tanks.

The reef is arguably Australia's greatest natural treasure. It stretches more than 2,300 kilometers down north-eastern Australia, and faces many threats, including climate change and pollution.



Professor Peter Harrison from Southern Cross University has been collecting the coral spawn off Heron Island on Australias Great Barrier Reef. It is then placed into tanks, where it matures.



Millions of coral larvae are then placed back onto damaged areas of the reef that may not otherwise regenerate naturally. The larvae are put into large enclosures where their growth can be monitored. Early results are encouraging. It is estimated that 100 juvenile coral have survived, and are settling into their new home.



The mesh enclosures cover a hundred square meters of damaged coral, and the next challenge will be covering several kilometers of reef.



It is the first time the assisted breeding method has been used in Australia, and it follows a successful trial in the Philippines that rejuvenated reefs damaged by fishing.



Harrison says the trial on the Great Barrier Reef is going well.



What we are doing is capturing some of that coral spawn, growing millions of larvae, and then putting those larvae back into areas of the reef that do not have many living corals on them at the moment to rapidly increase the rate at which coral recovery can occur. These are the first experiments using this larval restoration technique on the Great Barrier Reef. The work is still experimental at the moment but the results from these last experiments will help us understand how we can scale up to hectare-scale reef patches in future, Harrison said.



The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is about the size of Japan and is so big it can be seen from outer space. It is home to more than 3,000 types of mollusks and 1,600 species of fish.



It is not only an environmental treasure, but an economic one as well, generating billions of dollars in revenue and sustaining tens of thousands of jobs, mostly in the Australian tourism industry.



In the past two years, two-thirds of the Great Barrier Reef has been devastated by severe coral bleaching caused by warmer ocean temperatures, according to Australian scientists.



The Australian government is contributing more than $310,000 to help advance Harrison's reproductive research.
Cameroon has begun giving out free computers to all university students in what the government says will boost education and research. But the distribution of what is said to be a gift from Paul Biya, one of the longest serving presidents in the world, months before presidential elections has generated criticism.

Thousands of students sang as they lined up at the University of Yaounde II in Soa, 15 kilometers northeast from Cameroon's capital city, to receive free laptops. Among them was Eric Ambe, a 21-year-old second-year law student, who says he can now do online research. He says he could not raise $150 to buy a used laptop sold near his university.

"We are very happy because it will help us to study well, it will help us to prepare our courses well. With this gift, the youths can now study well," said Ambe.

Professor Jacques Fame Ndongo, Cameroons minister of higher education, is distributing the laptops. He said all registered university students will have their own share of what is a gift from President Biya, who, said he, is helping young university students secure access to a modern-day digital economy.

"Students are very delighted because they receive a fantastic gift from their father, the head of state, who loves them and who knows that they are the future of our dear and beloved country. The university community thanks his excellency, Paul Biya, for this donation," Ndongo said.

The first 80,000 laptops being distributed on the campus are part of a promise of 500,000 Biya made in 2016. The government has promised to distribute all of them by April 2018.

The computers, manufactured in the Chinese city of Shenzhen in Guangdong province, are branded PB HEV, short for Paul Biya, Higher Education Vision.

First complaints

But at a computer repair shop at the student residential area of Bonamoussadi, three students have already sold their laptops, complaining that they are not of good quality. Pius Ayeneh, a hardware maintenance technician, says what is very frustrating to users is that the laptops are sluggish.

"The hard drive is too small. The capacity is 32 Gigabyte. The processing speed is just 1.44 Gigahertz. If you install like Microsoft Office and the operating system, you cannot run any other program," Ayeneh said.

The government announced it secured a loan of more than $133 million from China to buy the computers. The government says each costs about $550 and they will use the remainder of the loan to train information technology instructors.

But opposition political parties say the loan should have been better used to set up a computer assembly plant in the central African country. The main opposition party, the Social Democratic Front, (SDF) says Biya is using the computers as a campaign tool ahead of the September 2018 presidential election.

The SDF says Gambia invested $7.5 million to build a technology assembly plant and that Kenya also has one.

Cameroon government spokesperson Issa Tchiroma says the $133 million invested in the computer project includes a provision for high speed internet to all universities and institutions of higher learning. He refuted claims that Biya is using the laptops as a campaign tool.

"This project is a result of the head of state's initiative for Cameroonian students to give them the necessary boost and beyond, create the psychological trigger for their insertion in the digital world," Tchiroma said.

Cameroon will be organizing parliamentary and presidential elections in September 2018. There have been calls from within Biya's ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement for him to run again for president. He is one of the longest serving leaders in the world, already having been president for 35 years.
It's called the Crossroads of the World. New York City's Times Square is the location for one of the biggest parties of the year, marked by the dramatic descent of a crystal ball on a huge pole, from high above a crowd of about a million people celebrating New Year's in New York. Bob Leverone narrates this report by VOA's Evgeny Maslov.
Not much has changed for Emad Midleq and his family of eight since the Islamic State terror group was driven out of their hometown of Deir el-Zour in November.

The Syrian government forces in control of eastern Syria's largest city claim life is returning to normal, but Midleq and his family say the reality on the ground is otherwise. They say a sectarian war is in taking shape in their city.

"A sectarian retribution is taking place there. It is a sectarian cleansing against the Sunni population," said Midleq, 46.

The Sunni father of six looked drawn and exhausted as he described his family's living conditions and those of the thousands of other displaced residents now living in the Areesh refugee camp near al-Shaddadi, about 85 kilometers (53 miles) northeast of Deir el-Zour.

Midleq, along with his wife, children and his 71-year-old disabled father, left Deir el-Zour as intense clashes erupted between the Syrian army and rebel forces in 2013. Most of the city came under the control of IS fighters in mid-2014.

An estimated 210,000 people lived in the city before the Syrian civil war began in 2011, in the aftermath of the Arab Spring. Years of conflict forced tens of thousands out and damaged most of the city's infrastructure.

According to a World Bank report released in July, Deir el-Zour was among the most damaged cities in Syria. It is estimated that 36 percent of residential buildings in the city have been destroyed or damaged, while damage to structures in industrial areas is as high as 54 percent.

Several displacements

Describing his plight, Midleq told VOA that he was forced to relocate his family over a dozen times in search of shelter in northern Syria. Living sometimes in abandoned, badly damaged buildings and plastic tents, he said destitution and diseases have threatened his family no less than the brutal war.

"Over the last five years, we have witnessed things that no one can imagine. The human brain cannot process what we have endured," Midleq said.

He said he was relieved to know that IS was declared defeated in Deir el-Zour in early November, but deeply distressed about Shiite militants' dominance in his hometown.

"Militias close to Iran and [Lebanese] Hezbollah are systematically killing and arresting Sunni civilians," Midleq said. "They consider us supporters of IS."

The Syrian government claims it is doing its best to bring people back. It says its efforts to restore life to the city are already paying off as more and more people return, particularly to the enclave that remained under government control throughout the period in which IS ruled the rest of the city.

Earlier this month, the regime announced the allocation of about $4 million for the city's reconstruction, which it said would take place over four years. The government has also issued a decree urging public sector employees to return to their jobs by the end of the year.

Syrian state television reported earlier this month that landlines and cellphone networks have also been restored after many years.

But Midleq said his relatives who risked their lives to return to Deir el-Zour have a different story to tell. He said looting has become the norm in the city, and many houses belonging to Sunni residents have been given to people deemed loyal to the government of Bashar al-Assad.

"They will tell you, 'Come back and let's have a national reconciliation.' But when you go back to Deir el-Zour, they will accuse you of supporting IS and having no patriotism for the nation," he said.

Conscription fears

Midleq added most displaced residents are also afraid their sons will be conscripted into the government forces to fight the rebels. He said the government has told those who returned that anyone under age 45 needed to sign up for the military service.

The government is reportedly using some Sunni tribal figures to recruit people.

"We are farmers and have no interest in fighting," Midleq said. "As if what we have endured from killing and airstrikes is not enough."

The memories of Deir el-Zour battles and airstrikes are also haunting others in the family. Midleq said the health of his disabled father, Abu Emad, has dramatically deteriorated, while his wife, Khalida, is suffering from sleep deprivation.

"The thought of planes never leaves my mind," said Khalida as she tended to her 1-year-old son. "Sometimes when I'm sitting, I feel like I can hear planes flying over the tent. Planes slaughtered us."

Best friends killed

The two older children in the family, daughter Rawan, 18, and son Qusay, 12, have similar recollections of the airstrikes.

"My best friends, Amar and Osama, were both killed by airstrikes," Qusay said.

But despite the terrifying experience of the past, what comes next, particularly for the children, is what is most concerning to the family.

Neither Rawan nor Qusay has been able to go to school since they left Deir el-Zour five years ago. Rawan was forced to quit school when she was in the seventh grade, while Qusay finished only first grade.

"I started going back to school in Hasakah, but the situation prevented me from continuing. I was supposed to get ready for college by now," Rawan said while expressing her eagerness to resume her studying, despite the delay.

As for their mother, Khalida, all she wants is a place the family can call home.

"It doesn't matter where we move to as long as it's a place we can settle in and I see my children go to school," she said as tears started pouring down her face. "My son Qusay was supposed to be in the seventh grade by now, but he can't even write his name. All I can do is cry for him."
At least 81 reporters were killed doing their jobs this year, while violence and harassment against media staff has skyrocketed, the world's biggest journalists' organization says.



In its annual Kill Report, seen by The Associated Press, the International Federation of Journalists said the reporters lost their lives in targeted killings, car bomb attacks and crossfire incidents around the world.



More than 250 journalists were in prison in 2017.



The number of deaths as of December 29 was the lowest in a decade, down from 93 in 2016. The largest number were killed in Mexico, but many also died in conflict zones in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.



The IFJ suspected but could not officially confirm that at least one other journalist was killed Thursday in an attack by an Islamic State suicide bomber on a Shiite cultural center in Kabul, in which at least 41 people died.



IFJ President Philippe Leruth said that while the drop in deaths represents a downward trend, the levels of violence in journalism remain unacceptably high.

He said the IFJ finds it most disturbing that this decrease cannot be linked to any measure by governments to tackle the impunity for these crimes.



Eight women journalists were killed, two in European democracies - Kim Wall in Denmark, who died on the submarine of an inventor she was writing about, and Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia who was blown up by a bomb placed in her car.



Beyond the deaths, the IFJ warned that unprecedented numbers of journalists were jailed, forced to flee, that self-censorship was widespread and that impunity for the killings, harassment, attacks and threats against independent journalism was running at epidemic levels.



Turkey, where official pressure on the media has been ramped up since a failed coup attempt in July 2016, is becoming notorious for putting reporters behind bars. Some 160 journalists are jailed in Turkey - two-thirds of the global total - the report said.

The organization also expressed concern about India, the world's largest democracy, where it said that attacks on journalists are being motivated by violent populism.



Countries with the highest numbers of media killings:



Mexico: 13



Afghanistan: 11



Iraq: 11



Syria: 10



India: 6



Philippines: 4



Pakistan: 4



Nigeria: 3



Somalia: 3



Honduras: 3
Kim Jong Un wants to turn the art of kimchi-making into a science. And the North Korean leader is putting his money where his mouth is.

On the outskirts of Pyongyang, surrounded by snow-covered farms and greenhouses, stands one of Kims latest pet projects, the Ryugyong Kimchi Factory, which produces 4,200 tons of the iconic Korean pickled vegetable dish a year. The shiny new facility replaces an older factory and opened in June last year after getting Kims final seal of approval, according to manager Paek Mi Hye.

The factory is intended to showcase Kims efforts to boost North Koreas domestic economy and produce more, and better, consumer products. His strategy, known as byungjin, aims to simultaneously develop the national economy and North Koreas nuclear weapons program.

North Koreas repeated underground nuclear tests and launches of long-range missiles that could conceivably reach the U.S. mainland have brought more sanctions down on the North than ever before. But outside experts believe the country, while still struggling in many areas, is showing signs of modest economic growth and improved agricultural production. It could be just a year or two away from having an operational, nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile.

Transforming Pyongyang

Applied science, according to the Norths policymakers, is absolutely essential on all fronts.

Kim has transformed the Pyongyang skyline with high-rise apartments to house his prized rocket scientists and nuclear engineers, and Paek repeatedly stressed while giving a tour of the facility to The Associated Press how even an ancient delicacy like kimchi can benefit from scientific innovation.

Paek, who accompanied Kim on his on-the-spot guidance visits, said the factory has 150 workers but is for the most part automated.

She said the primary objective of the factory is to operate in a scientific manner at every stage. In kimchi-making, that means inspections all along the production line to ensure quality and hygiene. The factory boasts of a one-of-a-kind kimchi analyzer to maintain the proper levels of saltiness and lactic acid  its signature ingredient.

Age-old tradition

Koreans North and South have been making kimchi for generations, often passing family recipes down from mother to daughter or mother-in-law to daughter-in-law.

In 2015, UNESCO added kimchi to its intangible cultural heritage of humanity list, noting that the traditional sharing of know-how and materials to prepare large quantities of kimchi for the winter months boosts cooperation among families, villages and communities, contributing to social cohesion.

Paek acknowledged that some people might resist giving up the cherished tradition of communal kimchi-making. But they also recognize the quality and reliability of our factory-made product, she said.

The factory produces eight kimchi products, from the very spicy staple tong kimchi, which has a red tint and is made of whole cabbages, to a milder variety designed for children. Its kimchi products are distributed to restaurants and grocery stores around Pyongyang.

This is the model, Paek said. Other factories like ours are being planned in every province.
Not discreet when he drinks. Photo: LinkedIn

A juicy New York Times report published Saturday reveals that George Papadopoulos, the Trump foreign-policy adviser who was indicted in October, inadvertently set off the FBI investigation into Russian electoral interference that has become an existential threat to the president.

It all began, as so many memorable tales do, with a night of heavy drinking at an upscale London bar. It was May of 2016, and Papadopoulos was knocking back some Pimms cups (we can only imagine) with Australias top diplomat in the U.K. when he decided to divulge some very interesting information: Russia was in possession of damaging information about Hillary Clinton.

Exactly how much Mr. Papadopoulos said that night at the Kensington Wine Rooms with the Australian, Alexander Downer, is unclear. But two months later, when leaked Democratic emails began appearing online, Australian officials passed the information about Mr. Papadopoulos to their American counterparts, according to four current and former American and foreign officials with direct knowledge of the Australians role.

The hacking and the revelation that a member of the Trump campaign may have had inside information about it were driving factors that led the F.B.I. to open an investigation in July 2016 into Russias attempts to disrupt the election and whether any of President Trumps associates conspired.

Together with more information about the Trump/Russia connection from the British and Dutch governments, plus a suspicious trip to Moscow by Trump adviser Carter Page, the FBI decided it had enough to open an investigation, which it kept quiet throughout the election  too quiet, Democrats charge. The probe eventually developed into the ongoing effort headed by special counsel Robert Mueller. Papadopouloss indictment, for lying to the FBI, was seen as a particularly worrying sign for the Trump administration because of his direct involvement with Russians who had offered the campaign the dirt on Clinton in the form of hacked emails.

The timing of Papadopouloss ill-fated remarks at the London bar are key. In an effort to discredit the Russia investigation, Republican commentators have been pushing the notion that the FBI began its inquiry on the basis of the now-infamous Steele Dossier, the document put together by exBritish spy Christopher Steele, which alleged that Russia interfered in the election and had possible kompromat on President Trump. Republicans claim that the dossier is full of misinformation, and that, since the Democratic National Committee paid the firm that employed Steele, the document  and thus Muellers investigation  was tainted from the start

But the Times article makes it clear that it was Papadopoulos, not Steele, who drove the investigation, at least in the beginning. This blows up an important line of attack for Republicans looking to tar Mueller  though undoubtedly theyll find other ways to do it.

The Times article also provides more detail about the labryinthine path through which Papadopoulos attempted to set up a meeting between Trump and Vladimir Putin. And it puts to bed the notion, advanced by the Trump team, that the previously inexperienced Papadopoulos was an inconsequential figure on the campaign, or a coffee boy, in the words of ex-adviser Michael Caputo. Papadopoulos was actually a mainstay among the ragtag group of advisers that helped propel Trump to the Republican nomination. And he helped edit Trumps first major foreign-policy speech, in April of 2016, in which the president expressed his wish for warmer relations with Russia.
The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a bomb attack earlier this week in a Russian supermarket in St. Petersburg.

The militants said the explosion was carried out by an Islamic State-linked group, according to a statement made Friday by its Amaq news agency.

The group did not provide any evidence for its claim.

At least 13 people were injured when a homemade bomb detonated in a branch of the Perekrestok supermarket chain on Wednesday.

Health officials said none of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries.

Russian investigators initially said they were treating the case as an act of attempted murder.

However, on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the explosion was an act of terrorism. He made the assertion at the Kremlin during an awards ceremony for Russian servicemen who had served in Syria.
Pakistan says that almost 92 percent of its 2,611-kilometer largely porous frontier with Afghanistan will be fenced by end of 2018, hoping the massive unilateral undertaking will effectively address mutual complaints of militant incursions.

The military-led construction effort went into action earlier this year. It has already fenced off about a 150-kilometer portion of the border identified as highly prone to terrorist infiltration.

The pair of nine-foot wire fences, with a six-foot gap, and topped with barbed wire, runs along rugged terrain and snow-capped mountains as high as 12,000 feet. Officials estimate the project will cost about $550 million.

Our target is to complete it [the fence] by end of 2018, Major-General Asif Ghafoor tells VOA. He explained the plan intends to cover up to 2,400 kilometers of the entire Afghan border because the rest cannot possibly be fenced.

Additional outposts and small forts are also being built and being equipped with high-tech surveillance systems to enable soldiers to monitor and detect intrusions around the clock.

And on the average, every 1.5 to 2 kilometers will have physical presence [of our soldiers], Ghafoor said, adding the army has also recruited tens of thousands of new troops for the deployment.

Afghanistan takes issue

Afghanistan opposes the fencing project because it historically disputed the colonial-era demarcation drawn up by the British in 1893. Kabul insists the barrier would add to problems of divided families on both sides.

Islamabad rejects Afghan objections and is pressing ahead with the border fencing, insisting the project is critical for national security and for promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Afghans have long accused Pakistani security institutions for sheltering Taliban insurgents and the Haqqani Network of terrorists staging deadly attacks in Afghanistan to allegedly prevent rival India from increasing its influence in the war-torn country.

For their part, Pakistani officials say anti-state militants after fleeing security operations, have taken refuge in Afghan border areas and plot terrorist attacks against the country from those sanctuaries.

Steps toward mending ties

Relations have deteriorated between Afghanistan and Pakistan over terrorism allegations against each other. Ghafoor said that military-to-military coordination has improved since the Pakistani army chief visited Kabul in October and held detailed talks with President Ashraf Ghani.

We have shared through [our] Foreign Office a comprehensive action plan document with Afghanistan and subsequent action on this plan will lead to further improvement, Ghafoor added.

Islamabad shared with Kabul last month what it called an Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Solidarity" (APAPS) for a constructive and meaningful engagement between the two countries. The proposed plan would create working groups in politics, economics, the military, intelligence sharing, and issues related to Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

Ghafoor said no anti-Afghanistan sanctuaries are present in Pakistan following major counterterrorism operations in the past three years. But he complained that a large number of Afghan refugees in the country are blocking efforts to completely eliminate the threat.

I can assure you the day these 2.7-million Afghan refugees go back to their country, our liberty of action will expand to trace the left-over facilitators and abettors, Ghafoor said while responding to U.S. criticism of Islamabads inaction against insurgents using Pakistani soil for attacks inside Afghanistan.

The army spokesman said investigations in connection with recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan have led officials to conclude that planners were located on the Afghan side of the border. Many of the would-be suicide bombers authorities have recently arrested in Pakistan are Afghans, he added, without giving any figures.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law ratifying an agreement enabling Russia to expand operations at its naval facility in the Syrian port of Tartus.

The document was posted on the official website for Russian legislation after Putin signed it Friday.

It could help cement what Putin has said would be a "permanent" Russian presence at the Tartus facility and the Hmeimim air base, key platforms for Russia's campaign backing Syria's government in the nearly seven-year war in the Middle Eastern country.

The agreement, signed in Damascus in January 2017, allows for the Russian navy to expand the technical support and logistics facility at Tartus, which is Moscow's only naval foothold in the Mediterranean.

It allows Russia to keep up to 11 warships, including nuclear-powered vessels, at Tartus at any time for the next 49 years. The deal is to be prolonged automatically for 25-year periods upon its expiration.

It also allows Russian ships to enter Syria's territorial waters, internal waters and ports, to use the Tartus facility free of charge.

The agreement also provides Russian military personnel at the facility with immunity and regulates the status of the military personnel and members of their families there.

Critical Russian support

Russia has given President Bashar al-Assad's government crucial support throughout the war, which began with a crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 and has resulted in hundreds of thousands of people killed and millions driven from their homes.

Moscow helped Assad avoid possible defeat by starting a campaign of airstrikes in September 2015, in many cases using Hmeimim as a base. It has also launched strikes from warships in the Mediterranean.

During a visit to the air base on December 11, Putin declared victory over "the most combat-capable international terrorist group"  a reference to the extremist group Islamic State  and announced a partial withdrawal of Russian troops.

Western officials say that the Russian campaign, particularly in its earlier stages, has focused heavily on targeting rebels seeking Assad's ouster rather than IS militants.

Putin said on Thursday that more than 48,000 Russian military personnel have served in the operation in Syria, and that the facilities at Hmeimim and Tartus would continue to operate "on a permanent basis."

With IS in retreat and diplomats pressing ahead with efforts to forge a political solution, analysts say Russia is eager to make its position in Syria as strong as possible in order to wield influence on future developments.
Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea at least three times in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, according to two senior Western European security sources, providing an economic lifeline to the secretive communist state.

The sales of oil or oil products from Russia, the world's second-biggest oil exporter and a veto-wielding member of the U.N. Security Council, breach U.N. sanctions, the security sources said.

The transfers in October and November indicate that smuggling from Russia to North Korea has evolved to loading cargoes at sea since Reuters reported in September that North Korean ships were sailing directly from Russia to their homeland.

"Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions," the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters.

A second source, who independently confirmed the existence of the Russian ship-to-ship fuel trade with North Korea, said there was no evidence of Russian state involvement in the latest transfers.

"There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state, but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans," the second European security source said.

The two security sources cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific but declined to disclose further details to Reuters, saying it was classified.

Russia's Foreign Ministry and the Russian Customs Service both declined to comment when asked Wednesday whether Russian ships had supplied fuel to North Korean vessels. The owner of one ship accused of smuggling oil to North Korea denied any such activity.

The U.S. State Department, in a statement, called on Russia and other U.N. members to strictly implement sanctions on North Korea and to work more closely together to shut down U.N.-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea.

The latest report came as China, responding Friday to criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, denied it had illicitly shipped oil products to North Korea.

North Korea relies on imported fuel to keep its struggling economy functioning. It also requires oil for its intercontinental ballistic missile and nuclear program that the United States says threatens the peace in Asia.

"The vessels are smuggling Russian fuel from Russian Far Eastern ports to North Korea," said the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Satellite positioning data

Reuters was unable to independently verify that the vessels had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels, whether the Russian state knew about the sales or how many Russian vessels were involved in the transfers. It was also unclear how much fuel may have been smuggled.

Ship satellite positioning data consulted by Reuters and available on Reuters Eikon shows unusual movements by some of the Russian vessels named by the security sources, including switching off the transponders, which give a precise location.

The security sources said the Russian-flagged tanker Vityaz was one vessel that had transferred fuel to North Korean vessels.

The Vityaz left the port of Slavyanka near Vladivostok in Russia on October 15 with 1,600 tons of oil, according to Russian port control documents.

Documents submitted by the vessel's agent to the Russian State Port Control authority showed its destination as a fishing fleet in the Japan Sea. Shipping data showed the vessel switched off its transponder for a few days as it sailed into open waters.

According to the European security sources, the Vityaz conducted a ship-to-ship transfer with the North Korean-flagged Sam Ma 2 tanker in open seas during October.

Reuters could not independently verify the transfer as ship tracking data showed that the Sam Ma 2 had turned off its transponder from the start of August.

The owner of the Russian vessel denied any contact with North Korean vessels but also said it was unaware that the vessel was fueling fishing boats.

Yaroslav Guk, deputy director of the tanker's owner, Vladivostok-based Alisa Ltd., said the vessel had no contacts with North Korean vessels.

"Absolutely no, this is very dangerous," Guk told Reuters by telephone. "It would be complete madness."

When contacted a second time, Guk said the vessel did not have any contacts with North Korean ships and that he would not answer further questions.

An official at East Coast Ltd., the vessel's transport agent, declined to comment.

Two other Russian-flagged tankers made similar journeys between the middle of October and November, leaving from the ports of Slavyanka and Nakhodka into open seas, where they switched off their transponders, shipping data showed.

In September, Reuters reported that at least eight North Korean ships that left Russia loaded with fuel this year headed for their homeland despite declaring other destinations, a ploy that U.S. officials say is often used to undermine sanctions.

A Russian shipping source with knowledge of Far Eastern marine practices said North Korean vessels had stopped loading fuel in Russia's Far Eastern ports but that fuel is delivered at sea by tankers using ship-to-ship transfers, or even by fishing vessels.

Accusations against China

China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of U.N. sanctions, after Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

China's denial came a day after it blocked a U.S. effort at the United Nations to blacklist six ships Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a U.N. Security Council diplomat said.

According to documents seen by Reuters this month, the United States had proposed that the U.N. Security Council blacklist 10 ships for illicit trade with North Korea.

It accused the vessels of "conducting illegal ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum products to North Korean vessels or illegally transporting North Korean coal to other countries for exports."

Three North Korean ships among the 10 were blacklisted, along with a Panama-registered vessel.
Serbian officials say they have uncovered a stockpile of highly toxic waste materials illegally buried in containers at a private property near the capital, Belgrade.

The Serbian Environment Ministry said Friday that a cache of 25 tons of chemical waste, including benzene and toluene, was buried in poorly sealed barrels in a storage area in Obrenovac, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Belgrade.

An environmental official told reporters that the police action helped avert "an environmental catastrophe."

Officials said tests were being conducted to determine whether the waste had contaminated nearby soil and wells.

Police said they detained the property owner, who could face charges of endangering public safety.

Pollution is a major problem in Serbia after years of environmental mismanagement and the continued operation of inefficient industrial plants.

As part of the Balkan countrys efforts to become eligible for European Union membership, Belgrade is in talks with the bloc regarding its environmental situation.

Experts have said it will take at least $18 billion to bring conditions up to EU standards.
The Trump administration has fired the remaining members of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, also known as PACHA.

Council members received a letter this week saying that their appointments to the panel were terminated, effective immediately, according to a report in The Washington Post.

PACHA was established in 1995, during the Clinton administration, to advise the White House on HIV strategies and policies.

Six of the members of the council, upset by White House actions on health policy, resigned in June. Scott Schoettes, a lawyer with Lambda Legal, a LGBT rights organization, was one of them.

He wrote in Newsweek at the time that U.S. President Donald Trump simply does not care about people living with HIV. Schoettes said the Trump administration pushes legislation that will harm people living with HIV and halt or reverse important gains made in the fight against this disease.

He told The Washington Post Friday, The tipping point for me was the presidents approach to the Affordable Care Act, which he said is of great importance for people living with HIV like myself.

Schoettes said in Newsweek that much of the public is unaware that only about 40 percent of people living with HIV in the United States are able to access the life-saving medications that have been available for more than 20 years. It is not acceptable for the U.S. president to be unaware of these realities, to setup a government that deprioritizes fighting the epidemic and its causes or to implement policies and support legislation that will reverse the gains made in recent years.

B. Kaye Hayes, PACHAs executive director, said in a statement that the dismissals were part of the White Houses effort to bring in new voices.

Dr. David Kilmnick, CEO of the New York LGBT Network, saw the move differently. The firing of the council members is another outlandish and despicable move by the Trump administration in his year-long effort to erase the LGBT community and the issues that disproportionately affect us, he said in a statement Friday.

From ending protections against bullying for trans youth in our schools to his attempt to ban the transgender community from the military to no mention of Gay Pride month during June to leaving out the LGBT community on World AIDS Day to banning words such as transgender, diversity and other, this president has been nothing but a complete train wreck that is a danger to the safety and lives of all Americans, Kilmnick continued.

A notice on the Federal Register says the Department of Health and Human Services is seeking nominations for new council members. Nominations must be submitted by Tuesday.
The Associated Press reported early Saturday that in the first month of U.S. President Donald Trump's term in office, he sent "an American scholar" to meet with North Korean officials and to relay a message.

The message was that the new administration was appreciative of a nearly four-month freeze of the North's nuclear and ballistic missile tests - and thought it "might just offer a ray of hope," the news agency said in its account.

However, the AP reported North Korean officials said the lack of testing wasn't a sign of conciliation and insisted Kim Jong Un would order tests whenever he wanted. Two days later, the North launched a new medium-range missile, ushering in a year of escalating tensions.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported late Friday that "Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea." Reuters attributed the information to two senior Western European security sources.

Russia is a member of the United Nations Security Council. The sale of oil and oil products to North Korea would be a breach of U.N. sanctions

One security source told Reuters "Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions."

Another security source told the news agency, "There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state, but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans."

Reuters said both sources "cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific."



Denials from China



The new reports come as China has denied facilitating oil shipments to North Korea in violation of United Nations Security Council sanctions, one day after Trump accused Beijing of doing so.

"China has been completely and strictly implementing Security Council resolutions and fulfilling our international obligations,'' foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters Friday at a media briefing. "We will never allow Chinese citizens and enterprises to engage in activities that violate Security Council resolutions."

Despite China's insistence the sanctions are being enforced, doubts persist in the U.S., South Korea and Japan that loopholes continue to exist. And China's repeated denials did not preclude Trump from tweeting Thursday he was "very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea."

The U.N. Security Council last week imposed new sanctions designed to limit North Korea access to oil in response to the country's recent long-range missile test. In November, it test-launched its latest intercontinental ballistic missile, which many U.S. experts have warned would be capable of striking anywhere on U.S. soil. The sanctions seek to bar 90-percent of refined oil exports to North Korea by capping them at 500,000 barrels a year and limit crude oil exports at 4 million barrels annually.

Ship seized

South Korea's Foreign Ministry said earlier Friday the country had seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship that transferred oil to a North Korean vessel in international waters despite the sanctions.

Yonhap, the South Korean news agency, reported South Korean officials said the Lighthouse Winmore vessel transferred "600 tons of refined petroleum" to a North Korean ship on October 19 and that the ship was seized on November 24 after it sailed into South Korea's Yeosu Port.

Yonhap reported the vessel was chartered by the Billions Bunker Group, a Taiwanese company. The ship's "claimed destination" was reportedly Taiwan, but the ship instead "transferred oil to a North Korean ship, Sam Jong 2, and three other non-North Korean vessels in international waters in the East China Sea."

Yonhap said South Korea informed the U.S. about its "detection of the illegal transaction" involving the Lighthouse Winmore, which is reportedly on the list of ships the U.S. has proposed blacklisting for prohibited trade with North Korea.

Hua, China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, said authorities investigated a report that an unnamed Chinese ship transferred oil to a North Korean vessel at sea on October 19 and determined it was erroneous. Hua also said she did not have any information about the Hong Kong-flagged vessel.

Satellite images

In November, the U.S. Treasury Department disclosed satellite images that displayed what it said was a North Korean ship receiving oil from an unidentified vessel on October 19. It was not immediately clear if the Lighthouse Winmore was involved in the transaction.

The photos received broader public scrutiny this week when the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo reprinted them along with the report that suspected Chinese ships transferred oil to North Korean vessels about 30 times since October.

In an interview with the New York Times Thursday, Trump linked his trade policy with China to its cooperation in resolving the North Korean nuclear crisis.

"If they're helping North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And that's what I've been doing. But when oil is going in, I'm not happy about that."

During a briefing Friday with reporters at the Pentagon, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis was asked if the U.S. Navy could begin seizing ships suspected of providing oil to North Korea.

Mattis declined to speculate but said, "Obviously if a government finds that there is a ship in their port conducting trade that was forbidden under the U.N. Security Council resolution, then they have an obligation and so far we have seen nations take that obligation seriously."

Mattis also predicted the global community will increase pressure on Pyongyang and said physical approaches are among the options under consideration.

"What form that pressure takes in terms of physical operations is something that will be determined by the cognizant governments," he said.

China is North Korea's primary trading partner, energy supplier and main diplomatic protector. But Beijing has expressed increasing frustration with North Korea's nuclear and missile tests. And while China supports the latest sanctions against Pyongyang, it has argued against actions that may be harmful to North Korean citizens or destabilize its government.
Kidnappers in Ukraine have released an employee at a United Kingdom-registered cryptocurrency exchange after getting more than $1 million in bitcoins as ransom, an adviser to the Ukrainian interior minister told Reuters on Friday.

Pavel Lerner, a leading analyst and expert in blockchains, or decentralized public ledgers, was abducted by unknown masked people on December 26, according to a statement by his company, EXMO Finance, on its website.

"This is the first such case in Ukraine linked to bitcoins," Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to Interior Minister Arsen Avakov, said in a phone text message.

It was unclear who paid the ransom. Lerner's work at EXMO did not involve access to the financial assets of its users, the company said, adding that the platform was operating normally.

"At the moment, he is safe, and there was no physical harm inflicted on him," the statement said. "Nevertheless, Pavel is currently in a state of major stress. Therefore, he will not provide any official comments in the coming days."

News of the release came as bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rebounded after two days of losses partly related to regulators toughening rules on digital currencies in an effort to curb excessive speculation. Many digital currencies surged in value this year.

Balaclavas

Strana.ua, a local news website, had earlier reported that six gun-toting men in dark clothing and balaclavas had snatched Lerner and pushed him into a minibus with stolen number plates.

Police have begun a criminal investigation after a man was kidnapped in the Obolon district of Kyiv, Oksana Blyshchyk, the Kyiv police spokeswoman, said by phone without revealing the name of the victim.

EXMO has 900,000 users as of December 2017, according to its website.

"We would like to note that the story of Pavel's abduction has overgrown with rumors that might tamper with the official investigation," EXMO said in its statement. "That said, EXMO currently refrains from any comments or suggestions of own versions of the possible scenario, in the nearest future."

Separately, the company announced Thursday that it had been hit by a denial-of-service attack.
We have passed the grim milestone of 1,000 days of war in Yemen, begins a joint statement from the World Health Program, the World Food Program and UNICEF, appealing for humanitarian access and an end to the conflict.

The conflict in Yemen has created the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, a crisis which has engulfed the entire country, the groups said.

About 75 percent of Yemens population is in need of humanitarian assistance, the statement said, including 11.3 million children who cannot survive without it. At least 60 percent of Yemenis don't have enough to eat, and 16 million people do not have safe water and proper sanitation. Many more lack can't get basic health services.

The unrest in Yemen has been ongoing since 2015 between the supporters of the internationally recognized government of President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi and the Houthi rebels.

Stalemate

With a Saudi-led Arab coalition backing President Hadi, and Iran supporting the Houthi rebels, the brutal conflict has stood at a stalemate, leaving thousands killed and injured, and leading to a humanitarian crisis that the United Nations has called the worlds worst.

Meanwhile, the al-Qaida branch in Yemen, more commonly known as al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), and its rival, IS, have exploited the turmoil to establish safe havens in the south and carry out deadly attacks throughout the country.

The statement from the three United Nations organization said the horrific tally of the conflicts devastation reflects only what we know. In reality, the situation is likely to be worse. U.N. agencies do not have full humanitarian access to some of the hardest hit communities. In many, we cannot even assess their needs.

But this we do know: Yemen has passed the tipping point into a rapid decline from crisis to deepening catastrophe.

Some progress

The international agencies, however, said there has been some progress recently with the arrival of the first commercial fuel imports into Hudaydah port, following recent commercial food imports.

It is critical that these supplies are maintained, as restrictions on fuel imports have caused the price of diesel fuel to double, threatening access to safe water and sanitation, and urgent medical care, the statement said.

The agencies say that while delivering humanitarian assistance has been difficult, the groups have persevered.

We have reached nearly 6 million people with clean water, distributed 3.7 million liters of fuel to public hospitals, treated more than 167,000 children for severe acute malnutrition, delivered more than 2,700 metric tons of medicines and medical supplies and vaccinated 4.8 million children against polio, and delivered food assistance to around 7 million people a month.

The U.N. organizations warned, however, that if we cannot gain greater access and the violence does not subside, the cost in lives will be incalculable.
Every attorney general leaves his imprint on the U.S. Justice Department. Jeff Sessions is no exception.

Since being sworn in as the nations 84th attorney general in February, the former Republican senator and federal prosecutor has moved to radically overhaul the Justice Department and its approach to law enforcement.

From scrapping civil rights protections for transgender people to ending leniency in sentencing criminal defendants, Sessions has rolled back a host of policies his two immediate predecessors  Loretta Lynch and Eric Holder, both chosen by former President Barack Obama  enacted to promote civil rights and social justice.

The policy reversals have not been without their critics.

While Sessions and his supporters say the attorney general is restoring the rule of law and ending Obama-era policies that amounted to executive overreach, critics say hes returning to criminal justice policies that led to mass incarceration and undermined civil rights.

Blistering criticism

Sessions singular success in remolding the Justice Department is widely acknowledged. The irony is that it has come in the face of sometimes blistering personal criticism of the attorney general by his boss, President Donald Trump.

An early and ardent supporter of Trumps 2016 presidential bid, Sessions was rewarded with one of the most coveted positions in the administration.

But his relationship with Trump soured after Sessions recused himself from the Russia investigation in March, following revelations that Sessions had not disclosed meetings with Russias former ambassador to Washington during the presidential campaign.

Trump is said to have become so frustrated with his attorney general over the summer that he said he would not have picked Sessions for the job, had he known Sessions would have recused himself from the Russia probe.

But the attorney general largely shrugged off the criticism, saying at a news conference in July that he was confident that we can continue to run this office in an effective way, and later traveling around the country to sell Trumps tough on crime and immigration policies.

Here is a look at seven major Obama-era policies Sessions has rolled back, or attempted to, since taking office:

Keeping private prisons

In his first act as attorney general in February, Sessions scrapped an Obama administration plan to phase out the use of private prisons for federal inmates. The 2016 direction to the Bureau of Prisons was sent after a harshly critical report about private prisons by the Justice Departments inspector general. But Sessions said the Obama policy impaired the bureaus ability to meet the future needs of the federal correctional system.

Dropping transgender protections

Also in February, Sessions directed the Justice Department to withdraw a guidance issued in 2016, requiring public schools to allow transgender students to use bathrooms corresponding to their gender identity.

In October, Sessions rescinded another policy memo issued by the Obama administration that said the 1964 Civil Rights Acts employment discrimination prohibitions applied to transgender people. Rights group Human Rights Campaign called the move discriminatory against the transgender community and a dangerous change of course.

Targeting sanctuary cities

With the Trump administration vowing to crack down on illegal immigration, it has fallen to Sessions to enforce one of the administrations most controversial policies: cutting off federal funding to so-called sanctuary jurisdictions, cities and counties that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

In April, Sessions sent letters to nine sanctuary jurisdictions requiring proof of compliance. In July, he announced that sanctuary cities would not be eligible for millions of dollars in funds for policing.

Chicago and Philadelphia later sued Sessions and the Justice Department over the sanctuary plan. In November, a federal judge permanently blocked Trumps executive order on sanctuary cities.

Reviewing consent decrees

In April, Sessions ordered a review of Obama-era reform agreements between the Justice Department and police agencies, saying, It is not the responsibility of the federal government to manage non-federal law enforcement agencies.

Known as consent decrees, a dozen such court-enforced agreements were struck between the Obama Justice Department and local police departments. Sessions has said the agreements have demoralized police departments, but civil rights advocates say they have helped produce necessary reforms.

Charging and sentencing policy

In a departure from the Obama administrations policy of leniency in sentencing low-level, nonviolent offenders, Sessions directed federal prosecutors in May to pursue the most serious, readily provable offense with the lengthiest sentences in all criminal cases.

The guideline rescinded a 2013 memo by then-Attorney General Eric Holder directing prosecutors to avoid triggering mandatory-minimum sentences for certain nonviolent, low-level drug offenders.

Sessions said the new charging policy affirms our responsibility to enforce the law, is moral and just, and produces consistency. But critics, such as former Obama-appointed U.S. Attorney Joyce Vance, have slammed it as a failed one-size-fits-all policy that has swelled Americas prison population.

Affirmative action

In October, the Department of Justice announced it had reopened an investigation into Harvard Universitys use of race in its admissions policy, raising fears the administration will target affirmative action policies widely practiced by American universities and colleges.

The Justice Department probe was triggered by a 2015 complaint against Harvard filed by a coalition of 64 Asian-American groups. The Justice Department said the investigation is limited to the complaint against Harvard, but civil rights activists fear the probe is part of a broader effort to undermine affirmative action policies that date back decades and that supporters say have leveled the playing field for otherwise disadvantaged students.

Return to debtors prison?

On Dec. 21, Sessions rescinded a 2016 Justice Department letter advising local courts against hitting indigent defendants with stiff fines and fees.

The 2016 letter said the changes were needed to guarantee equal justice under law to everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Sessions said he was rescinding the letter and 25 other so-called guidance documents because they were unnecessary, inconsistent with existing law or otherwise improper. The move provoked a firestorm, leading critics to decry it as a criminalization of poverty and a return to debtors prisons.
Iranian students protest at the University of Tehran during a demonstration driven by anger over economic problems. Students were outnumbered by counterdemonstrators, however, as videos on social media showed. Photo: Stringer/AFP/Getty Images

Anti-government protests continued across multiple cities in Iran for a fourth day on Sunday, the most widespread unrest in the country since the pro-democracy Green Movement in 2009  though nowhere near the same scale thus far. Two protesters were killed overnight Saturday, the first deaths attributed to the unrest. On Sunday, authorities reportedly blocked Instagram and the popular messaging app Telegram, which Iranians have been using to spread news about the protests. The countrys powerful Revolutionary Guard has threatened a violent crackdown if the demonstrations continue.

President Hassan Rouhani, in remarks which were aired on state television on Sunday night, supported Iranians right to protest and criticize the government, and indicated that some of the protesters had legitimate demands but that protests should not include violence or anti-regime slogans.

The unrest began with a protest in Irans second-largest city, Mashhad, on Thursday, apparently led by hard-liners who wanted to voice their opposition to the reformist policies of President Rouhani. Protests dont always go as planned in Iran, however, since people sometimes take advantage of the rare opportunity to express dissent publicly, regardless of the original organizers intentions. That seems to be what happened in Mashhad, as an anti-Rouhani protest morphed into a broader anti-regime one, decrying rising prices, corruption, and Irans foreign-policy expenditures in places like Syria and Lebanon.

            # .                      "  "   . pic.twitter.com/xQPMOolyA0  BBC NEWS  (@bbcpersian) December 28, 2017

The protests, publicized on the popular messaging app Telegram and subsequently reported on by foreign-based satellite news networks, then quickly spread to other cities across the country on Friday, including Tehran, other major cities, and a surprising number of smaller cities that dont typically see such demonstrations. As the protests spread, many took on an even harsher anti-regime tone, with slogans calling for the downfall of the countrys supreme leader and Islamic government. The seemingly spontaneous, often provincial, protests varied in size, with some resulting in violent clashes with police. Scores have reportedly been arrested throughout the country.

Chants in the holy city of Qom tonight, the spiritual center of #Iran: We dont want an Islamic Republic! pic.twitter.com/ilawigFGej  Holly Dagres (@hdagres) December 29, 2017

The apparently leaderless protests continued on Saturday, despite the governments warning against participating in illegal gatherings. Violence was reported at rallies in several cities as police and plainclothes security officers continued to try to suppress the unrest. Two protesters were killed by gunfire in the western city of Dorud, but local officials denied that security forces were responsible for the deaths, characteristically blaming Sunni Muslim extremists and foreign powers instead.

3rd day of #IranProtests, Sat night, #Shiraz: protestors taking down picture of #IRGC Quds Firce commander Gen Soleimani, chanting "rockets, tanks, machine guns, are not working anymore" pic.twitter.com/ziIIRuTAjt  Hadi Nili (@HadiNili) December 31, 2017

Also on Saturday, pro-government protesters took to the streets in Tehran and other cities to participate in a preplanned celebration of the anniversary of the crackdown on the Green Movement. So far, there has not been a similar crackdown in response to this new outbreak, but that could change fast. One of the leaders of Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard told state media on Saturday that protesters would face the nations iron fist if the unrest continued, and internet access to Instagram and Telegram were blocked on Sunday in an attempt to cut off information about the protests.

This is becoming ridiculous. No access to Whatsapp on my mobile (Irancell). No Telegram since noon. Instagram blocked as well. #Iran  Ghazal Golshiri (@GhazalGolshiri) December 31, 2017

Other reports indicate that the internet was also throttled in Tehran and cut off entirely in Mashhad.

Regardless, more protests were reported on Sunday:

#IranProtests Day 4: Crowds out in cities but security forces dispersing them with force. videos trickling in. #Ilam # pic.twitter.com/flqY1YMuab  Farnaz Fassihi (@farnazfassihi) December 31, 2017

Photos via @FarsNewsInt of police deploying water cannon during #IranProtests tonight (Sunday) in #Tehran around Enghelab and Vali Asr junction pic.twitter.com/3X5uzgcbFN  Golnar Motevalli (@golnarM) December 31, 2017

In Irans Kurdish city of Sanandaj. Chants demanding freedom of political prisoners. #IranProtests https://t.co/a5J7IswcbQ  Bahman Kalbasi (@BahmanKalbasi) December 31, 2017

As The Guardian and New York Times point out, small protests focused on economic issues are normal in Iran, but politically charged protests across the country where people feel safe chanting death to the dictator  a knock on Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei  are not. The protests will undoubtedly be an important test for the relatively moderate Rouhani, who has not been spared as a subject of chanting at the rallies; in his remarks on Sunday, Rouhani was clearly trying to walk a delicate line. There is also apparently suspicion among members of his administration and other reformers about what forces may be behind the unrest.

Some experts arent surprised at the sudden wave of protests, however, noting the economic discontent created by the ongoing rise of the cost of living and the unemployment rate in the country.

The Trump administration, which has sought to undo President Obamas diplomatic progress with Iran and has even flirted with fantasies of promoting regime change, criticized Irans government on Friday and urged it to allow the protests to continue. Calling for restraint against peaceful protests is the standard response to unrest in Iran from any administration, though this White House has added some Trumpian flare.

Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 30, 2017

President Trump then revisited the subject in more tweets on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, but such support is probably more useful to the regime than it ever is to protesters, particularly since Trump has already made it easier for the regime to use the U.S. as a scapegoat for its internal problems by threatening to cancel the Iran nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions. Indeed, nothing Trump has done since taking office has indicated he or his administration has any real concern for the citizens of Iran.

(The Brookings Centers Suzanne Maloney has collected some ideas for how the U.S. could actually help the protesters and activists, including using its influence to keep channels of communication open for Iranians, helping to provide satellite internet access to the country, and ending the ban on Iranian citizens entering the U.S.)

Regarding what will happen next in Iran, most experts arent sure, especially since this new movement, if thats what it is, does not appear to have any leaders to guide it. As The Wall Street Journals Farnaz Fassihi points out, the lack of leadership, structure, and goals is exactly why previous uprisings have typically failed.

The Iranian government, as it has in the past, is working to block social-media platforms used by protesters, but there are still more ways than ever before for reports and videos about the protests  as well as any subsequent crackdown  to spread. In addition, if the regime cuts off or drastically slows down internet access as it did in 2009, that would likely have a much more dramatic effect on the countrys businesses and citizens now that the internet is more widely used and relied upon.

And, as analyst Ali Reza Eshraghi reminded in a Twitter thread on Saturday, the Iranian regime has been afraid of public protests over economic malaise for decades, and while this new unrest comes nowhere near the magnitude of the 2009 Green Movement protests  which were in response to the likely fraudulent outcome of that years presidential election  the new demonstrations also mark the first time that protests of this nature have occurred simultaneously throughout both provincial capitals and small towns. Bloombergs Golnar Motevalli adds that its unclear what the overarching objective of the protests is, there is no clear, single concern that can be distilled like in 2009, but says she sees the motivation as broad discontent over disparities in wealth, fairness of access to wealth, expectations on economic recovery not being realized and the countrys approach to social rules and norms.

There has also been some tentative support for the protests from hard-liners, who seem to want the unrest to tarnish Rouhani, and that has caused some Iranians to worry the protests are being encouraged as a regime plot to draw out and capture opposition activists. Many anti-regime protesters faced long and brutal imprisonment after being arrested during the Green Movement, and a few hundred may have been killed.

As always, regime-change cheerleaders in the West should probably temper their expectations and refrain from projecting their views onto the protesters. But if the unrest continues, spreads, and increases in size  possibly prompting a violent crackdown by regime security forces  it could quickly lead to a new political crisis in the country at a time when it already faces a resurgent regional rival in Saudi Arabia and a U.S. administration that seems reflexively anti-Iran.

Maziar Bahari, the editor of IranWire and a former political prisoner in Iran, doesnt think the protests will topple the government but are still a sign of what eventually might:

Is it a revolution? Not yet. Irans government is its own worst enemy and the Iranian people know it. Economic woes leading to infighting can bring down this corrupt and brutal system. Different factions within the government will, most probably, and just the same as always, choose to dismiss the genuine economic grievances of the Iranian people and blame the protests on foreign agents and an international imperialist-Zionist conspiracy.

The Iranian people have learned, after living almost 40 years under the Islamic Republic, to gradually and intelligently raise their voices in peaceful protests that will provoke the government to tear itself apart. Irans rulers may choose to blame foreigners and Zionists  but they hardly realize that the true danger to their power is right at home.

Along similar lines, NIAC research director Reza Marashi, who worked in the Office of Iranian Affairs for the State Department under the Obama administration, adds that the current political climate in Iran does not appear conducive to massive change, but that the gap between state and society will remain  making protest waves like the present one possible  so long as the political, economic, and social aspirations of the Iranian people remain unmet.

This post has been updated throughout to reflect new developments and commentary.
The U.S. is urging Kosovo leaders to leave unchanged a war crimes court established to hear serious cases arising from the countrys war for independence.

The United States is deeply concerned by recent attempts of Kosovo lawmakers to abrogate the law on the Specialist Chambers, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement Friday. We call on political leaders in the Republic of Kosovo to maintain their commitment to the work of the Chambers and to leave the authorities and jurisdiction of the court unchanged.

The U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on December 21 that the pursuit of justice in the Balkans is not over, and the U.S. remains committed to supporting justice for the victims, the statement said.

The Kosovo political leaders enacted the law and constitutional amendment in 2015 to establish the Specialist Chambers, a court that would hear cases of alleged crimes against humanity, war crimes, and other serious crimes committed during the 1998-2000 conflict in the former Yugoslavia.

Last week, however, lawmakers from the governing coalition, who hold a majority, pressed for a vote to abolish the court, but they failed twice because of opposition from other parties.

The U.S. and other Western countries swiftly condemned the move, warning that if successful, it would hamper efforts for Euro-Atlantic integration.

The U.S. has been a key ally and financial backer of Kosovo since it broke away from Serbia and declared independence in 2008.
Transgender people will be allowed for the first time to enlist in the U.S. military starting Monday as ordered by federal courts, the Pentagon said on Friday, after President Donald Trumps administration decided not to appeal rulings that blocked his transgender ban.

Two federal appeals courts, one in Washington and one in Virginia, last week rejected the administrations request to put on hold orders by lower court judges requiring the military to begin accepting transgender recruits Jan. 1.

A Justice Department official said the administration will not challenge those rulings.

The Department of Defense has announced that it will be releasing an independent study of these issues in the coming weeks. So rather than litigate this interim appeal before that occurs, the administration has decided to wait for DODs study and will continue to defend the presidents lawful authority in District Court in the meantime, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Pentagon study, not court appeal

In September, the Pentagon said it had created a panel of senior officials to study how to implement a directive by Trump to prohibit transgender individuals from serving. The Defense Department has until Feb. 21 to submit a plan to Trump.

Lawyers representing currently serving transgender service members and aspiring recruits said they had expected the administration to appeal the rulings to the conservative-majority Supreme Court, but were hoping that would not happen.

Pentagon spokeswoman Heather Babb said in a statement: As mandated by court order, the Department of Defense is prepared to begin accessing transgender applicants for military service Jan. 1. All applicants must meet all accession standards.

Jennifer Levi, a lawyer with gay, lesbian and transgender advocacy group GLAD, called the decision not to appeal great news.

Im hoping it means the government has come to see that there is no way to justify a ban and that its not good for the military or our country, Levi said. Both GLAD and the American Civil Liberties Union represent plaintiffs in the lawsuits filed against the administration.

Costs and disruption

In a move that appealed to his hard-line conservative supporters, Trump announced in July that he would prohibit transgender people from serving in the military, reversing Democratic President Barack Obamas policy of accepting them.

Trump said on Twitter at the time that the military cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.

Four federal judges  in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Seattle and Riverside, California  have issued rulings blocking Trumps ban while legal challenges to the Republican presidents policy proceed. The judges said the ban would likely violate the right under the U.S. Constitution to equal protection under the law.

Pentagon memo

The Pentagon on Dec. 8 issued guidelines to recruitment personnel in order to enlist transgender applicants by Jan. 1.

The memo outlined medical requirements and specified how the applicants sex would be identified and even which undergarments they would wear.

The Trump administration previously said in legal papers that the armed forces were not prepared to train thousands of personnel on the medical standards needed to process transgender applicants and might have to accept some individuals who are not medically fit for service.

The Obama administration had set a deadline of July 1, 2017, to begin accepting transgender recruits. But Trumps defense secretary, James Mattis, postponed that date to Jan. 1, 2018, which the presidents ban then put off indefinitely.

Rolling back Obama era

Trump has taken other steps aimed at rolling back transgender rights. In October, his administration said a federal law banning gender-based workplace discrimination does not protect transgender employees, reversing another Obama-era position.

In February, Trump rescinded guidance issued by the Obama administration saying that public schools should allow transgender students to use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity.
In the first month of Donald Trumps presidency, an American scholar quietly met with North Korean officials and relayed a message: The new administration in Washington appreciated an extended halt in the Norths nuclear and ballistic missile tests. It might just offer a ray of hope.

North Korean officials responded defiantly. The nearly four-month period of quiet wasnt a sign of conciliation, they retorted, insisting supreme leader Kim Jong Un would order tests whenever he wanted. As if to ram the point home, North Korea only two days later launched a new type of medium-range missile that ended Trumps brief honeymoon.



The February launch heralded a year of escalating tensions that have left the U.S. and North Korea closer to hostilities than at any time since the Korean War ended in 1953. The North is now at the brink of realizing its decades-old goal of being able to strike anywhere in America with a nuclear weapon. And two leaders untested in the delicate diplomacy of deterrence have exchanged personal insults and warned of the other nations annihilation.

Vicious cycle



Pyongyang and Washington are caught in a vicious cycle of action and reaction, Korea expert Duyeon Kim wrote in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists. If nothing happens to break the cycle, it will continue until one side either stands down, which is very unlikely, or, far worse, takes military action.



The exchanges at the unofficial U.S.-North Korean talks 10 months ago hadnt been reported before. They were recounted to The Associated Press by a participant who requested anonymity to describe them. No U.S. government officials took part.



Although North Korea at that time signaled interest in talks with Washington, its uncompromising position made plain the challenges Trump faced as he entered the White House, promising to sort out the North Korean mess he inherited. It also underscored how much difficulty the U.S. has experienced gauging the Norths thinking.



Muddled strategy

Before his inauguration, Trump blithely tweeted about the prospect of Kim having a nuclear-tipped missile that could strike America: It wont happen! Almost a year later, and after an onslaught of new economic sanctions and U.S. military threats, the nuclear menace from Pyongyang is far worse.



And U.S. strategy is muddled. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson recently offered unconditional talks with North Korea only to be quickly shot down by the White House, where not only Trump has talked up the possibility of military confrontation. National security adviser H.R. McMaster also has warned the potential for war is increasing every day.



Shortly before Christmas, the administration unveiled a new security strategy that offered few answers. It vaguely spoke of improving options to get the inscrutable North to abandon its nuclear weapons.



By the administrations own admission, its official North Korea policy of maximum pressure and engagement hasnt to date included significant engagement.



The White House and the secretary of state seem unable to coordinate on even the most basic elements of a common strategy, wrote Stephan Haggard, a North Korea expert at the University of California, San Diego.

The U.S. has scored successes in its international pressure on North Korea. It has won cooperation from the Norths traditional backers such as China and Russia on restrictions that have put new strains on an economy Kim has promised to modernize in his half-decade as leader. The U.S. also says more than 20 countries have curtailed diplomatic ties with Pyongyang.

But Trump this past week strongly criticized China for still allowing oil supplies to North Korea, highlighting the likely limits on Beijings willingness to put the squeeze on its unpredictable neighbor. So far, pressure hasnt accomplished the stated goal: forcing the North to abandon its nuclear weapons program or, at least, to enter negotiations over such a possibility. Kim has remained focused on developing a nuclear arsenal he views as guaranteeing regime survival. And his program advanced leaps and bounds during 2017.

Sense of alarm

After a rash of failed missile tests last year, North Korea has conducted more than 20 missile launches since Trump came to office. It also tested what it described as a hydrogen bomb  an underground blast so big it registered as a 6.3 magnitude earthquake. Then in late November, it test-fired a new intercontinental missile in the clearest demonstration yet that all of America was within its striking range.



Trump has compounded the worlds sense of alarm. While he has presented his own threats as proof of an America that wont be intimidated, critics at home and abroad have argued that he has elevated the risk of nuclear conflict through his personal insults to Kim.



Trump has called Kim short and fat and a sick puppy. At the U.N. in September, he lampooned Kim as Rocket Man ... on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime. Kim replied by calling Trump mentally deranged and a dotard. North Koreas foreign minister then warned of a possible atmospheric nuclear test  done by no nation since 1980.



Back channels open

Diplomacy isnt dead, however. The Trump administration was quick to restore a back channel for talks between the State Department and North Korea that disappeared in President Barack Obamas final months. The U.S. envoy on North Korea, Joseph Yun, secretly met North Korean officials in Oslo in May to press for the release of Americans imprisoned in Pyongyang.



Various officials have said that meeting could have augured more substantive U.S.-North Korean talks.



But the only release was college student Otto Warmbier, who had suffered brain damage in detention and died days after his return. Warmbiers shocking condition ended any hopes of a thaw. Trump tweeted angrily and Pyongyang promptly stepped up its weapons tests.



As 2018 beckons, the question now is whether the North will conduct more tests until it can confidently deploy its new long-range missile, and whether it will detonate a nuclear weapon over the Pacific to demonstrate once and for all its capabilities. That would dramatically increase the chances of war.



The Trump administration sees the time for diplomacy shrinking. Tillerson said in December he hopes sanctions get North Korea to negotiate.



Otherwise, we wouldnt need to do this, Tillerson said of all the pressure. Wed just go straight to the military option.
The White House said on Friday it was set to kick off talks next week with Republican and Democratic congressional leaders on immigration policy, government spending and other issues that need to be wrapped up early in the new year.

The expected flurry of legislative activity comes as Republicans and Democrats begin to set the stage for midterm congressional elections in November. President Donald Trump's Republican Party is eager to maintain control of Congress while Democrats look for openings to wrest seats away in the Senate and the House of Representatives.

On Wednesday, Trump's budget chief Mick Mulvaney and legislative affairs director Marc Short will meet with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Paul Ryan  both Republicans  and their Democratic counterparts, Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Nancy Pelosi, the White House said.

That will be followed up with a weekend of strategy sessions for Trump, McConnell and Ryan on Jan. 6 and 7 at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, according to the White House.

The Senate returns to work on Jan. 3 and the House on Jan. 8. Congress passed a short-term government funding bill last week before taking its Christmas break, but needs to come to an agreement on defense spending and various domestic programs by Jan. 19, or the government will shut down.

Also on the agenda for lawmakers is disaster aid for people hit by hurricanes in Puerto Rico, Texas and Florida, and by wildfires in California. The House passed an $81 billion package in December, which the Senate did not take up. The White House has asked for a smaller figure, $44 billion.

Immigration

Deadlines also loom for soon-to-expire protections for young adult immigrants who entered the country illegally as children, known as "Dreamers."

In September, Trump ended Democratic former President Barack Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which protected Dreamers from deportation and provided work permits, effective in March, giving Congress until then to devise a long-term solution.

Democrats, some Republicans and a number of large companies have pushed for DACA protections to continue. Trump and other Republicans have said that will not happen without Congress approving broader immigration policy changes and tougher border security. Democrats oppose funding for a wall promised by Trump along the U.S.-Mexican border.

"The Democrats have been told, and fully understand, that there can be no DACA without the desperately needed WALL at the Southern Border and an END to the horrible Chain Migration & ridiculous Lottery System of Immigration etc," Trump said in a Twitter post Friday.

Trump wants to overhaul immigration rules for extended families and others seeking to live in the United States.

Republican U.S. Senator Jeff Flake, a frequent critic of the president, said he would work with Trump to protect Dreamers.

"We can fix DACA in a way that beefs up border security, stops chain migration for the DREAMers, and addresses the unfairness of the diversity lottery. If POTUS [Trump] wants to protect these kids, we want to help him keep that promise," Flake wrote on Twitter.

Debt ceiling

Congress in early 2018 also must raise the U.S. debt ceiling to avoid a government default. The U.S. Treasury would exhaust all of its borrowing options and run dry of cash to pay its bills by late March or early April if Congress does not raise the debt ceiling before then, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

Trump, who won his first major legislative victory with the passage of a major tax overhaul this month, has also promised a major infrastructure plan.
Hundreds of thousands of law enforcement, military and security officials will be deployed in cities around the world to keep New Year's Eve revelers safe as they gather to welcome 2018.

In the United States, New York City officials announced they would use two-step screening, snipers, street closures and specially trained dogs to secure Times Square, where an estimated 2 million people will gather to watch the annual ball drop at midnight.

In Las Vegas, 300 National Guard troops will join more than 1,500 police officers to keep safe the city's famed Strip, home to a number of casinos, resorts and hotels. The security precautions to protect the expected crowd of more than 300,000 will include snipers positioned on rooftops and double the number of emergency response teams from previous years.

In South America, Rio de Janeiro police plan a security force of 12,000, nearly 20 percent more officers than last year, for New Year's events. Military police say they are suspending vacations for security personnel to ensure there are enough police officers on duty.

Patrols in London

In London, a record number of armed officers and canine units will patrol celebrations and the city's Underground subway system, although Metropolitan Police said they had received no specific threat. Steel and concrete barricades will ring main events that will be attended by an estimated 500,000 people, police said.

In Germany, all major cities, including Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne, announced there would be enhanced police presence at all celebrations. They declined to reveal details.

In Africa, after at least nine people were killed Friday outside a church in suburban Cairo by a gunman on a motorcycle, Egyptian authorities have beefed up security for New Year's Eve and Orthodox Christmas.

In an attempt to prevent further terrorist attacks, the Interior Ministry has raised the security alert to the maximum level throughout the country. The ministry has ordered heightened security near vital institutions such as churches and embassies.

More security patrols will be deployed to streets, squares and other areas where celebrations will be held.

In Istanbul, police have arrested 120 people with suspected links to Islamic State militants ahead of the New Year's celebrations. The city also plans to more than double the number of police officers on the streets to prevent a repeat of last year, when a man armed with an assault rifle killed 39 Turks and foreigners at a nightclub. Police have also canceled some public celebrations in key districts of Turkey's largest city.

Preparations in India

In India, more than 30,000 security personnel will guard the popular gathering sites across Mumbai. In the southern tech hub of Bengaluru, officials plan to deploy more than 15,000 officers, as well as use drones, security cameras and canine units. A 500-member, all-female police squad will also be deployed to ensure there is no repeat of last year, when several women were harassed and molested in the streets by male revelers.

In Australia, one of the first places to ring in the new year, security officials are guarding against any kind of terror attack on New Year's Eve. Officials said police officers would be out in force on the ground, in the air and on the sea as part of the largest security operation in the country.

More than 1 million people are expected to gather in the center of Sydney and at least half that number in Melbourne to watch fireworks displays. Police said Melbourne's city center would be on lockdown and remain closed until 6 a.m. New Year's Day to protect the crowd.

Police in Melbourne last month arrested a man for allegedly planning to shoot revelers on New Year's Eve.
In Zimbabwe, some residents in the capital, Harare, want the mayor to step down because of chronic bad tap water. He had urged citizens to use "caution" as water in Zimbabwe's capital was not safe to drink.

Residents directed their anger at Mayor Benard Manyenyeni during a public meeting, where they complained about muddy, colored and smelly drinking water. Some parts of the capital city have gone for weeks or months with dry taps, despite above normal rain in Zimbabwe last season.

"Water is a basic fundamental right. Water is life. When we have no water, people die and people are dying," said Linda Masarira, a resident who attended the meeting, which lasted close to two hours, said



"Our health department is in shambles," she continued. "A lot of people are suffering from diseases that they do not understand because of consuming this dirt water. Everyone should get clean, safe water coming out of their taps."

Masarira added that from here on, residents will "make an appointment with the local government minister since the mayor said his hands are tied."

If that effort is unsuccessful, she said they will go "to the president's office. We will go all the way until clean water is coming out of Harare taps."



Most parts of Zimbabwe do not have access to clean water, forcing residents to rely on open sources that expose them to waterborne disease.

A cholera outbreak in 2008 and 2009 claimed close to 5,000 lives, according to U.N. statistics. The situation could have been worse had international organizations such as USAID not helped, providing water treatment chemicals, among other interventions to ensure proper sanitation in Zimbabwe.



Sharon Mumbula fears the situation in Harare might escalate to 2008 and 2009 levels unless Mayor Manyenyeni steps down.

"I am wondering why he is even sitting there; why he was hired," she said. "Clearly he can't execute his duties. Some of the answers he gave us are not even relevant to the problem. Clearly he can't say he does not know where the unclean water is coming from. Yet it is the whole of Harare which is affected. So it is time for him to go."

At the meeting Friday, the mayor said he would not step down but would not seek re-election in 2018. After the meeting, Manyenyeni told VOA he was hopeful Harare's water problems would end one day.



"We think we are providing you with water that is good for you and your family to drink," he said. "We have seen experiences of water that does not look good, water that looks greenish and brownish, water that froths or foams. Let's share the responsibility. While we assume and claim that our water is clean and safe to drink; we ask you to exercise caution wherever you are and make your own personal decisions about what you see, what you smell. Is it good enough for you to drink?

The mayor added that if residents are not satisfied while authorities fix the problem, then "please avoid drinking water which you consider suspect."

He said the time frame to fix the problem depends on the availability of funds. That, he noted, "is not a council problem. It is a national problem."



Zimbabwe's critical shortage of foreign currency is forcing businesses to source it on the black market. This has led to price increases on most commodities. The mayor ruled out getting foreign currency on the black market so that Harare can import water treatment chemicals.
If you find the website useful and would like to support us and help keep it alive and improve it, please consider making a small donation


Friends and relatives of Luz Margarita Ramirez Gallardo gather to mourn her in Guadalajara, Mexico. She survived a murder attempt in November only to be killed a month later. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

[This story has been optimized for offline reading on our apps. For a richer experience, you can find the full version of this story here. An Internet connection is required.]

One morning in this grim farming town, a Mexican judge who carries a rubber-bullet gun for protection strode into his courtroom to consider the matter of the 11-inch knife.

Slumped at the defendant's table was David Ramos, a day laborer charged with attempted homicide for participating in a drunken knife fight. Ramos had already spent 16 days in jail. But Judge Juan Antonio Rubio Gutierrez had discovered a glaring irregularity.

In the initial paperwork, no one mentioned where police found the plastic-handled blade. When the point had been raised, the missing information suddenly appeared in a new shade of blue ink. Rubio Gutierrez decided that the information was dubious and that the defendant could walk.

"Procedurally speaking, a knife no longer exists," the judge told Ramos in the courtroom earlier this month. "Today, you have recovered your freedom."

The scene playing out in this new one-room courthouse represents a radical departure from the old Mexican traditions of law and order.

Mexico is completing its first full year of a new accusatory justice system, following the most profound overhaul of its legal structure in a century. The most visible sign of the transformation is public trials instead of a secretive process involving written arguments. But the changes go far deeper. Both Mexican and U.S. officials have described the system as crucial to restoring order to a country torn apart by drug violence.

So far, the results have been chaos.



Aldo Monjardin, a police commander in Guadalajara, inspects a backpack. Some officials say the countrys new justice system has made security forces weaker, with criminals being set free because of paperwork errors. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

Bickering and confusion reign at each link in the legal chain. Police complain of hours lost on laborious forms; prosecutors blame judges for setting criminals free; judges accuse poorly trained police of botching crime scenes. Powerful drug cartels, meanwhile, are exploiting the weaknesses in the new system and strong-arming authorities with death threats and bribes.

The upheaval has come during the deadliest year in Mexico's modern history. Politicians here increasingly blame the judicial changes for emptying jails and fanning crime. Even those who embrace the new legal system worry about its first-year fiascos.

"The reform is going badly," Jose Ramon Cossio, a justice on Mexico's Supreme Court, said in an interview. "There are many small problems that, taken together, are causing what I believe to be an important crisis."

It is hard to overstate the significance of the restructuring. It seeks to turn the notoriously ineffective police into professional investigators. It strengthens the independence of judges. It provides more rights to defendants in a country where authorities have been known to demand bribes, extract confessions under torture and doctor evidence.

The U.S. government is deeply invested in the project, contributing more than $300 million since 2008 to equip courthouses and train police and legal personnel.

Even in rural outposts such as Ocotlan, the system has ushered in many trappings of high-tech justice: courthouses with surveillance cameras and fingerprint sensors; forensic investigators at crime scenes in latex gloves and protective footwear.

But the exacting new procedures have been grafted onto feeble, corruption-plagued institutions created decades ago by an authoritarian state.

Judges are demanding the kind of legal precision found in Washington or London, from police who sometimes can barely read and live in places that can feel like war zones.

"This is a baby that has just been born," Rubio Gutierrez said in an interview. "We are asking the system to run, and it is not possible."

'We are weak'

The western state of Jalisco is home to the most dangerous drug cartel in Mexico, a network of traffickers and assassins who have shot down an army helicopter, ambushed federal police and sent a pig's head to the former attorney general's home. Cartel Jalisco New Generation represents the ultimate test of the fledgling legal system.

This year, crime has been winning. The state has recorded 1,218 homicides through November, putting it on pace for its deadliest year in the past two decades of available statistics. In Ocotlan, home to many cartel gunmen, traffickers and police have clashed. Not far away, bodies have been discovered in mass graves.

It was in this unnerving atmosphere that Rubio Gutierrez began his job last year in the state's fourth judicial district.

A youthful jurist with a quick stride and confident air, Rubio Gutierrez, 37, was quick to embrace the new system. He wrote a 385-page book about it. He has opened an institute to teach lawyers about the big legal shift underway: from written proceedings to oral trials, with an explicit presumption of innocence.

The first person in his family to graduate from college, Rubio Gutierrez began as an unpaid courthouse aide. As he rose through the judicial ranks, he witnessed a system in meltdown. Crime was soaring, judicial backlogs were massive and only a tiny fraction of crimes ever resulted in convictions.



Birds fly near the town of La Calera in Jalisco state. Jalisco is home to the dangerous New Generation cartel. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

Judge Juan Antonio Rubio Gutierrez holds classes to help lawyers adjust to the legal shift underway. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

At the same time, penitentiaries were flooded with people caught carrying guns or small amounts of drugs. Their cases could drag on for years before they were sentenced.

"There were many injustices," Rubio Gutierrez said.

Now judges have far more leeway to release suspects pending trial. The new system provides alternatives such as mediation or plea bargaining to ease the congestion in the court system.

The result has been fewer people behind bars. Mexico has about 202,700 prisoners, down from nearly 235,900 when the changes went into effect in June 2016, according to prison authorities. Mexico City Mayor Miguel Angel Mancera said last month that there are 11,000 fewer inmates in the capital than in the year before the judicial revisions started  a decline of nearly 30 percent  a situation he called "very dangerous."

Judges now have greater power to toss out charges when a suspect's rights have been violated. Rubio Gutierrez and many other judges blame the high number of suspects released on errors by poorly trained police and prosecutors. Often these are paperwork mistakes by police unaccustomed to the new 22-page incident report that is required for every arrest or crime scene. The chain of custody for evidence is regularly violated.

One recent afternoon, Rubio Gutierrez drove to Ocotlan's neighboring town, Jamay, to lecture the local police force about how to avoid errors and document their cases.

"I'm not a mind reader. I'm a judge," he told them. "Help yourselves out."

The police listened respectfully. But a few days later, their police chief, Fidel Moreno Robledo, sat in his cramped office and laid out the reality of a small rural force.

Of the 16 officers theoretically available on any shift, several are detailed to guard government buildings, while others are often injured or on vacation, leaving fewer than five able to patrol a municipality of 25,000 people, he said. His men get paid $400 per month and receive no life insurance or social security. All this, in a town where last year police recovered 20 bodies floating down the Lerma River, one of the many drug-war front lines in Mexico.

"We are weak," Moreno said.

And the new system, he said, has made them weaker.

About 20 policemen have been fired for failing the national background tests intended to weed out corruption. Now, police can't enter houses as easily without a warrant, which are often hard to get. Suspects have the right to remain silent; police must justify stops and searches. If there is the "smallest error" in paperwork or a delay getting a detainee before a judge, Moreno said, a "criminal, a kidnapper, a killer, gets set free."

A period

of 'great confusion'



Guadalajara police speak with residents. In the latter half of this year, the citys crime rate has more than doubled over the rate in the first half of 2016, before the new judicial system was launched, says Police Chief Salvador Caro Cabrera. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

The push to overhaul Mexico's legal system began a decade ago as violence flared across the country. Former Mexican president Felipe Calderon had declared war on drug cartels in 2006, and the death toll began to mount.

The old legal structure couldn't cope with the bloodshed. It was based on the inquisitorial system, also used in other parts of Latin America, but it was shaped by the authoritarian, one-party system that defined Mexico for most of the 20th century. Police were often seen as an instrument of control  not investigation. Judicial appointees, meanwhile, were expected to be loyal to the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party. Judges rarely disagreed with the written cases put together by prosecutors.

The deadline to adopt the accusatory system was June 2016. Many states waited until just months out to start the shift. Federal and state governments spent a fraction of what was required, according to Hector Diaz Santana, the former head of the organization in charge of implementing the changes.

"We have poorly trained, unprofessional police, poorly paid prosecutors accustomed to the old ways, judges that were very comfortable before because you never saw them," he said. "They created a very demanding system when we practically don't have the tools."



A man who was shot is led to an ambulance. Guadalajaras police chief says there are 1,300 crimes here per month. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

An investigator looks for spent casings. Before the new system was introduced, police in Mexico were often seen as an instrument of control. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

When Salvador Caro Cabrera took over as Guadalajara police chief in October 2015, only 80 of his 2,600 policemen had received any training on the new protocols for collecting evidence, writing up crime scenes or interacting with prosecutors.

"We have had a period of great confusion," he said.

In the latter half of this year, the Guadalajara crime rate has more than doubled over the rate in the first half of 2016, before the new judicial system began, Caro Cabrera said. Under the old system, he said, more than 100 people arrested each month went to prison; now only 10 to 15 end up in jail.

The chief said only 50 arrest warrants have been issued in Guadalajara, the state capital, in the past year and a half  while there are 1,300 crimes per month.

"The judges are a disaster," Caro Cabrera said.

The judges have their own concerns. The accusatory system is far more transparent, with prosecutors and defense attorneys arguing in public hearings, as in the United States. But that can be unsettling, even to defenders of the changes, like Rubio Gutierrez.

Unlike the old system, in which judges signed off on mountains of paperwork behind closed doors, Rubio Gutiererez sits behind a blond-wood bench at hearings and looks the suspects  and the public  in the face.

"It's much more dangerous. You are in front of the criminals," he said.

One day last month in Guadalajara, a cooler containing body parts was placed outside a courthouse. A note warned a judge: "You're next."

Because it's difficult to get a weapons permit, Rubio Gutierrez bought an "Angel Guardian" rubber bullet pistol. Earlier this year, someone hurled from the street a wrapped-up knife that bounced off his office window.

"We don't have protection, guns, nothing," he said.

Calls for revisions



Bus passengers look at the crime scene where Luz Margarita Ramirez Gallardo was shot to death in Guadalajara on Dec. 5. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

In many ways, the crime scene seemed like something out of an American cop show. A woman slumped dead in her white van. Municipal police strung up yellow tape and filled out paperwork. State forensic staff in white jumpsuits placed numbered placards next to shell casings. State prosecutor staff questioned neighbors about the afternoon's shooting.

"This is the same process as the United States," said Jose Luis Estrada, a Guadalajara police spokesman on the scene. "This is all new for Mexico."

Under the old system, most Mexican police had little role in investigations and were supposed to focus on preventing crime. The new protocols require them to rigorously process crime scenes.

But follow-up remains a glaring weakness as the system takes hold. And impunity remains high.

"The problem is not that people are getting out of prison," said Guillermo Zepeda Lecuona, a law professor at the University of Guadalajara who is an expert on the judicial revisions. "It's that they are not going in."

The case of Luz Margarita Ramirez Gallardo, the 35-year-old woman found dead in her van, shows how the new system still isn't stopping crime.

Early on Nov. 2, just over a month before Ramirez was killed, two gunmen approached her as she was backing her van out of the garage in the working-class Olimpica neighborhood of Guadalajara. They told her to hand over the keys and then "they shot her," according to her 18-year-old son, Jonatan Ramirez.

Ramirez was hit twice in the face and lost her right eye but somehow survived.

The police appeared to handle the crime scene professionally. But Ramirez's family says that after the first day, police and prosecutors never asked them for more information about the shooting. No arrests were made.

Aldo Monjardin, a police commander in southern Guadalajara, questioned Ramirez in the hospital. He found her story of a robbery suspicious, he recalled; nothing had been stolen, including the van.

Monjardin noticed what he believed were breast implants, as Ramirez lay supine in the hospital bed. He assumed she was the girlfriend of some cartel figure and had crossed the wrong narco.

"Women love to go out with these guys," he said.

Authorities denied they had shrugged off the investigation. An official from the attorney general's office in Jalisco said the Ramirez family had not been forthcoming. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly, refused to answer further questions about the case. Prosecutors say witnesses are often too afraid to talk, even more so now that proceedings are in open court.

Many prosecutors are also not used to assembling complex cases. In the past, they often relied on confessions from suspects  sometimes criminals caught in the act, sometimes people who admitted to a crime under torture.

"The new system is totally opposite" to the old, said Alejandro Torres Ramirez, 32, a prosecutor in Jalisco. "First you have to investigate and get proof together to be able to arrest someone, something that we're not used to, culturally."

Within a couple weeks, Ramirez was back home and working again. On the afternoon of Dec. 5, a man got out of a gray BMW, walked up to the passenger window of her van and shot her dead.



A resident watches an officer. Police must rigorously process crime scenes under the new protocols. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

Relatives of Ramirez place photos of her at a shrine. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

A neighbor, who identified himself only as Hugo, said he had called the city's emergency number at least four times about suspicious vehicles on the street in the two weeks leading up to the murder. "The police never arrived," he said. The police said a patrol passed by the scene about 10 minutes before the killing but saw nothing suspicious.

The chaos in the new judicial system and rising crime rates in Mexico have prompted politicians to call for major revisions in the protocols; some even openly yearn for the old procedures.

Many judicial officials insist regressing would be disaster. They say the changes will eventually encourage more rigorous investigations and make Mexico's legal system more transparent and effective.

Those future benefits are of little consolation to the Ramirez family.

Some of her relatives assume the police who investigated her case were bought off by criminals, but Enrique Ramirez Gallardo, her eldest brother, doesn't agree.

"I think they are just overwhelmed by all they have to do," he said. "Unfortunately, what happened to my sister happens every day."



Relatives of Ramirez comfort each other. Judicial officials say the new legal system will eventually be more effective and more democratic. But the future benefits are of little consolation to the Ramirez family. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

Gabriela Martinez in Mexico City contributed to this report.

Read more

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
Dear Miss Manners: My daughter was accepted into a small, prestigious performing arts program in New York City, instead of a traditional college. From the time she was a small child, she has never wanted to do anything else with her life other than pursue her art.

She received wide recognition locally and at her high school, and all of her teachers and mentors have told us that she has the passion and the talent to be successful. We proudly provide the financial support she needs to take this next step, and we are all well aware of how difficult it is to make it in the performing arts.

How do we deal with people who seem to view all of this as amusing folly? People constantly ask her what she will do to support herself if she cant find work in her field. They advise us to make her switch to a real school. When they ask about an alternative career path, we say there is no Plan B. And then they say things like well be supporting her forever, be ready for her to boomerang back home, etc.

The arts elevate us in good times and soothe our souls in bad times. Everyone wants to live in a place with good culture. So why arent people more supportive of the artists who are striving to bring beauty into the world? Not everyone can be an accountant or a software engineer!

Indeed. And that would be a charming and deflective response to nosy dissenters. But while Miss Manners commends your passion, she urges you to focus your energies on your daughter's contribution to the arts, rather than efforts to convince the world of its significance. With any luck, your daughter will eventually be able to do that by example.

Dear Miss Manners: A young woman I know is six months pregnant and wants to announce it to the family when attending her uncles wedding. This will be the first great-grandchild, and is a big deal in this family of five siblings. Do you think the pregnant niece should tell the bride?

At six months, she likely will not have to. As the family is already gathered, it seems a good time to give out family news.

Miss Manners suspects that your real question is whether it will upstage the bride. But if everyone cannot figure out which of the two women is the bride, there is clearly a greater problem.

Dear Miss Manners: My neighbor at work files her nails fairly often. It is a truly intolerable noise to me, and I have asked her to refrain. She obliges, but then forgets and starts again.

Is there anything I can do besides repeatedly asking her to stop? I am sometimes reduced to running to the supply closet to look for paper clips I dont need in order to avoid hounding her on the issue. Does that sound really not bother anyone else?

Very likely it does. But for maximum result, Miss Manners suggests that you act as though it is your problem, not your colleague's: "I am so sorry, but I have extremely sensitive ears. I wonder if you might be able to do that in another room.''

New Miss Manners columns are posted Monday through Saturday on washingtonpost.com/advice. You can send questions to Miss Manners at her website, missmanners.com.
Photo: Getty Images/EyeEm/Jaromir Chalabala

Andrew Finch died earlier this week from injuries sustained when Kansas police shot him after he opened his front door. The police involved were responding to a call that there had been a homicide and ongoing hostage crisis at Finchs home, the Wichita Eagle reports. This turned out to be false  and now authorities are investigating whether or not the mans death was a result of a swatting prank related to Call of Duty.

Swatting, in case you live in a nice corner of this internet where this kind of dumb thing doesnt happen, is when somebody calls the police and reports a bogus crime so that officers will swarm a targets house. Wichitas deputy police chief, Troy Livingston, said they are currently looking into the possibility of swatting leading to Finchs death. On Twitter, a user whose account has been suspended, claimed credit for making the swatting call, writing that kids house I swatted is on the news and later I DIDNT GET ANYONE KILLED BECAUSE I DIDNT DISCHARGE A WEAPON AND BEING A SWAT MEMBER ISNT MY PROFESSION. The user who made the call was fighting with another COD player who gave him a fake address  Finchs  which was how the police wound up at the wrong house. Someone tried to swat me and got an innocent man killed, tweeted a user claiming to be the other person involved. The fight between the two users was reportedly over a small bet between $1 and $2, Dexerto reports. Kansas police did not comment on whether or not Finch was armed when he opened the door or why the officer fired his weapon. The officer involved has been placed on paid leave, the Wichita Eagle also reports.
To avoid a penalty (typically the cost of the room for one night) Hyatt guests soon must cancel at least 48  not 24  hours in advance. (Hyatt)

Are you to prone to changing your overnight accommodations on the fly? Will you cancel a hotel reservation if you suddenly find a lower rate or a swankier rooftop pool? If this describes you, then you might need to curb your impetuous behavior, because spontaneity is becoming an expensive habit.

Starting on Jan. 1, Hyatt will no longer allow last-minute cancellations without a penalty (typically the cost of the room for one night). To avoid the charge, guests must cancel at least 48  not 24  hours in advance. (Cancellation policies vary by property and travel period, so check the fine print before booking.) Guests enrolled in loyalty programs, however, can still cancel a day before arrival at all but three brands: Hyatt Residence Club, Miraval and M life resort destinations. The exemption applies to members of the World of Hyatt Explorist, Globalist or Lifetime Globalist programs.

[Hilton experiments with the future of hospitality at its new Innovation Gallery]

Hyatt is not a wolf but a sheep, following the lead of other hotels. In June, Marriott announced its 48-hour cancellation policy for new bookings at most Marriott and Starwood brands in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America. (The exceptions: Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Design Hotels.) Hilton followed a month later for its lodgings in the United States and Canada. In addition, hotels in high-demand destinations, such as Hawaii, can require guests to cancel three days in advance, if not more.

InterContinental Hotels Group also tightened its requirements last year, but the company is still more lenient than the other majors: Now, guests must give a days notice instead of canceling on the day of a stay. The change affects bookings at Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, InterContinental, Staybridge Suites, Hotel Indigo, Crowne Plaza, Even and Candlewood Suites in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Some savvy travelers offer a strategy to avoiding cancellation fees, but consult with your conscience before proceeding. They recommend changing the date of your reservation. Though you might have to pay a difference in rate, most hotels dont penalize guests for switching dates  yet.

More from Travel:

'Do you have guests asking about ghosts?': Behind the scenes with a New Orleans hotel reviewer

The future of travel is A.I.; the present is alt-lodgings, tours and beach reviews
Sue Grafton, a best-selling crime novelist whose popular alphabet mysteries featuring Southern California detective Kinsey Millhone sold millions of copies worldwide, died Dec. 28 in Santa Barbara, Calif. She was 77.

She had cancer, her daughter Jamie Clark wrote on the authors website.

Ms. Grafton published the first of her alphabetical series of novels  each title began with a different letter  with A Is for Alibi in 1982. She reached the 25th letter of the alphabet with her final book, Y Is for Yesterday, which was published in August.

After publishing two novels in the 1960s, Ms. Grafton later wrote screenplays before breaking through in the 1980s with her mystery books, which became instant bestsellers. Her experience as a screenwriter and studio office worker gave her such a strong distaste for the ways of Hollywood that she refused to allow any of her Kinsey Millhone books to be made into films or television productions.

My goal in life, Ms. Grafton once said, is to write one perfect mystery.



Sue Grafton in 2001. (Jonathan Alcorn/For The Washington Post)

Her heroine, Kinsey Millhone, is a witty, tough-talking detective who was orphaned at 5 and whose emotional vulnerabilities are sometimes woven into the plot. Ms. Grafton considered Kinsey her alter ego  well, not even very alter, she added.

The books, published in dozens of languages, earned Ms. Grafton a large and devoted readership, particularly among women.

Ive come to believe, critic Patrick Anderson wrote in The Washington Post in 2005, that she is not only the most talented woman writing crime fiction today but also that, regardless of gender, her Millhone books are among the five or six best series any American has ever written.

During the 35 years that Ms. Grafton wrote about Kinsey Millhone, the character aged only seven years, from 32 to 39. At the beginning of many of the books, Kinsey provides a revealing self-assessment that, over the course of 25 novels, adds up to one of the most endearing, vivid and memorable characters in modern crime fiction.

In G Is for Gumshoe (1990), she notes: My usual practice is to crop my own mop every six weeks or so with a pair of nail scissors. This I do because Im too cheap to pay twenty-eight bucks in a beauty salon. I have hazel eyes, a nose thats been busted twice, but still manages to function pretty well, I think. If I were asked to rate my looks on a scale of one to ten, I wouldnt.

In P Is for Peril, from 2001, she tells a little more about herself:

Im female, 36, twice divorced, childless and otherwise unencumbered . . . . I was a cop for two years early in my twenties, and through personal machinations too tedious to explain, I realized law enforcement didnt suit me. I was way too crabby and uncooperative to adjust to department regulations . . . . Plus, the shoes were clunky and the uniform and the belt made my ass look too wide.

1 of 66 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Notable deaths in 2017 View Photos Remembering those who died in 2017. Caption Remembering those who died in 2017. Katherine Frey Buy Photo Wait 1 second to continue.

Kinsey drives a VW, likes junk food and carries a gun.

Ms. Grafton studied the works of earlier mystery writers, including Raymond Chandler, Dashiell Hammett and especially Ross Macdonald, and considered herself a direct descendant of mystery-writing royalty.

I want to be the king of American mysteries, Ms. Grafton told the Chicago Tribune in 1992. Not the queen, please. I want to be the king.

By the time she got halfway through the alphabet, Ms. Grafton may have earned her crown. Her publishing advances were in the millions of dollars, and each new novel had a hardcover print run of 500,000 copies or more. She lived on a multimillion-dollar California estate, in far more lavish surroundings than the garage apartment her heroine could afford.

Most of Ms. Graftons books are set in California in the 1980s  Kinsey lived in Santa Teresa, a fictional California town that Macdonald created for his Lew Archer series of detective novels  but at times they range deep into the past. Ms. Grafton examines human character as deeply as any clues that might solve a crime. Critics noted that the stories often had an undercurrent of tender observation seldom found in the hard-boiled fiction of male writers.

In U Is for Undertow (2010), a chubby boy, mourning the death of his mother, eats a cold grilled cheese sandwich: Because of his braces, he couldnt bite down on a sandwich without getting bread sludge stuck in the wires, so he broke off bites one at a time, thinking of her.

Sooner or later, however, Kinsey Millhone straightens her shoulders and gazes at her world with a clear, hard look of fatalism. While snooping around nursing homes in G Is for Gumshoe, and encountering too many dead-end lives, she says, Maybe Id get lucky and be struck down by a beer truck before I was forced into such ignominy.

Sue Taylor Grafton was born April 24, 1940, in Louisville. Her father was a lawyer who wrote mystery novels, her mother a chemistry teacher. Both were alcoholics.

Every morning, Ms. Grafton wrote in her autobiographical 2013 book, Kinsey and Me, my father downed two jiggers of whiskey and went to the office. My mother, similarly fortified, went to sleep on the couch. From the age of five onward, I was left to raise myself, which I did as well as I could, having had no formal training in parenthood.

Ms. Grafton first married at 18. She had two children and was divorced before she graduated from the University of Louisville in 1961.

Her first two novels were set in Appalachia, and one of them, The Lolly-Madonna War, was made into a 1973 film starring Rod Steiger and Jeff Bridges. She moved to Hollywood, wrote screenplays and held secretarial jobs in film studios.

Ms. Graftons second marriage ended in protracted divorce and custody proceedings that, she later said, led her to imagine methods of murder for her novels.

We all think about murdering another person on occasions, she told the Guardian in 2013. What matters is not acting on that impulse. Im lucky to have fictional characters to do it for me.

Survivors include her husband of more than 40 years, philosophy professor Steve Humphrey of Santa Barbara; two children from her first marriage; a daughter from her second marriage; a sister; four granddaughters; and a great-grandson.

Ms. Grafton was one book away from completing the final Kinsey Millhone installment, which would have been called Z Is for Zero.

As far as we in the family are concerned, her daughter Jamie Clark wrote on Ms. Graftons official website, the alphabet now ends at Y.
THE DISTRICT

Woman found in burning car was shot

A woman found dead in the trunk of a burning car Thursday in Southeast had been fatally shot, D.C. police said Friday. Her death has been ruled a homicide, and she remained unidentified.

A police report says the car was found ablaze in an alley behind the 800 block of Adrian Place SE, near Fort Davis Drive. Police said they went there after shots were reported.

 Peter Hermann

Pizza boxes must be recycled in New Year

You must remember this: On Jan. 1, mandatory recycling of pizza boxes starts at District locations served by the D.C. Department of Public Works.

Newly recyclable items will also include plastic plates, cups, lids, and to-go containers, but not plastic bags, films or wraps, which clog equipment, DPW said.

 Martin Weil

MARYLAND

2-alarm fire displaces families in Aspen Hill

A two-alarm fire Thursday forced about 60 residents, half of them children, from an apartment complex in Aspen Hill, Md., according to the Montgomery County Fire Department.

Pete Piringer, a spokesman for the fire department, said no injuries were reported but rescues were made at the Crystal Spring Apartments in the 14000 block of Georgia Avenue.

The American Red Cross aided displaced residents. Fire officials said most people were relocated in the complex.

Piringer said a faulty furnace in a terrace-level apartment caused the fire, which raced through the duct system. He said the building has sprinklers, but the fire was in the roof above the water system.

A damage estimate was not complete Friday morning, but Piringer said it could reach $500,000.

 Peter Hermann

Man shot and pushed from car is identified

Authorities have identified the man who died after he was found with gunshot wounds in a Capitol Heights roadway as Armani Coles, 27.

Coles, of Northwest Washington, was found Thursday at Kenilworth and Eastern avenues after he was shot and pushed out of a car, according to Prince George's County police.

Coles was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Detectives are trying to determine where Coles was shot, a motive and a suspect in the case, police said.

 Lynh Bui

VIRGINIA

Driver in police chase on I-95 has died

A man who fatally shot his wife in Virginia on Thursday before leading police on a chase on Interstate 95 fatally shot himself, authorities said.

About 11:25 a.m., officers went to an apartment house on Heron Drive in Stafford County after a report of a shooting, Stafford County police said. They found Melissa Dee Lee, 36, of Stafford, dead. She had been shot. A man, later identified as Gregory Lee, 42, fled the scene in a black SUV, police said.

On I-95, Lee shot at police, causing a three-car collision and sideswiping a vehicle before crashing into a guardrail and overturning, state police said.

Officers found he had shot himself in the head, according to Stafford County police.

"During the pursuit, the suspect fired at the trooper and deputy," Amanda Vicinanzo, a spokeswoman for the Stafford County Sheriff's Office, wrote in an email. "Neither of them fired back. Shortly thereafter, the suspect crashed the vehicle and they observed the self-inflicted gunshot wound when they pulled him out. So while the investigation is still pending, it does seem he must have shot himself while driving the vehicle."

No authorities or other motorists were seriously injured in the incident, according to police.

 Justin Wm. Moyer
Eileen Spickler awoke at 4:30 a.m. Saturday and thought she smelled smoke. At first she saw nothing amiss, but a few minutes later, she again got out of bed, ran to her apartment door and opened it.

The hallway was filled with smoke.

"Fire! Fire!" she screamed to her husband, Barry. "We need to go!"

Eileen, 50, grabbed her wedding ring and wedding album, and Barry, 56, found one of the couple's two cats, and they ran through smoke toward the exit. Once outside, the couple could see the towering, two-alarm fire just two floors above their condominium unit in Gaithersburg.

"The flames were leaping 10 to 15 feet or maybe more," Barry said.

It was the second time in a week that a two-alarm fire had displaced dozens in Montgomery County. A blaze Thursday night that began in a utility closet in an apartment complex in Aspen Hill left about 60 residents temporarily without shelter.

The county Fire and Rescue Service responded to a call about smoke at 4:45 a.m. Saturday in the Potomac Oaks condominium complex on the 800 block of Quince Orchard Boulevard.

Arriving firefighters found a blaze that had engulfed the roof of the complex. It took about 100 firefighters working for about 20 minutes to extinguish the bulk of the fire, according to department spokesman Pete Piringer.

A police officer was taken to the hospital for evaluation but was treated and released, Piringer said, and no other injuries have been reported.

About 60 residents were displaced.

Piringer said that the exact cause is unknown but that it was thought to be accidental. About 24 of the complex's 150 units were affected, said Earl Stoddard, the director of the county Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

"This is the busy season for fires," said Candice Covin, a disaster program manager for the American Red Cross. "People are not as attentive during the holidays when it's cold outside. They may be using space heaters, or they're entertaining guests and they're not as safety-conscious."

Covin led a group that helped displaced residents, who were taken to shelter at nearby Brown Station Elementary School. About 55 residents checked in through the day, seeking food, clothes and a warm place to stay while pondering the future.

Hailing Chen, 42, moved to the complex two years ago with her daughters, 17-year-old Ziqi Yang and 7-year-old YuXuan Zhang.

When she heard someone outside banging on her door early Saturday, she thought she was dreaming. Then, she sprinted outside with her children into the below-freezing weather.

Chen, who emigrated from China to the United States in 2011, was able to return briefly to her apartment to retrieve clothes for herself and her children.

"Our living room, kitchen, the carpet  it's all wet," she said in Mandarin. "I'm not sure if the furniture is okay or not."

County authorities have told her and others that some units will be uninhabitable for up to 90 days.

Jose Reyes, who lives near the unit that burned, considers his family lucky. Their corner unit suffered no damage.

But the ordeal terrified Reyes, 50. When he heard banging on the door, he thought at first it was shotgun blasts. So did his nephew, Fernando Reyes, 20.

As Fernando's mother, Denny Galvez, went for the door, Fernando screamed at her to stop.

"I told her, 'I don't want to see you die,' " recalled Fernando, who was visiting for the holidays. "But then my mom said, 'No, there's an actual fire.' "

As of Saturday afternoon, the Spicklers had not found their other cat, said Eileen, who has lived in the unit for seven years. Barry moved in three years ago. The fire damaged their home severely.

Eileen was diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago, had a partial mastectomy, and underwent chemotherapy and radiation. The couple pushed up their wedding date last year because of the cancer complications, she said.

Eileen said friends and family are trying to help them, but she and Barry were still moving things out of their flooded basement unit in the afternoon.

"I got through [cancer]," Eileen said, her voice breaking. "And now this, just a year later. It's like . . . it's just a lot. I'm numb. It's sort of starting to sink in a little bit right now."


The Hotel at the University of Maryland, the four-month-old, four-star hotel, is among the new developments changing the look of Route 1 in College Park. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

The four-star hotel with sleek gas fireplaces and modern chandeliers where Patrick Killion and his University of Maryland colleagues gathered for happy hour recently would hardly draw a second glance in much of the Washington region.

But Killion and his group were thrilled  and a bit amazed  because they were on College Park's Route 1, a strip of the Maryland suburbs better known for college bars and fast-food joints than a place where grown-ups can chat quietly over a glass of wine.

"One of the challenges of adult life at the University of Maryland is finding a place to go that feels like it's for you and not for students," said Killion, as the rest of his group nodded in agreement.

Killion and his colleagues are the very people whom university officials, Prince George's County leaders and developers are working to impress in a coordinated effort to spruce up the Route 1 corridor, creating a place where more professionals will want to eat out, shop, enjoy cultural events and live. University officials say they want more graduates, faculty and staff members to be able to live and start research-related businesses near campus, while local officials say they want to better tap into the area's potential to attract new jobs and make the city more livable.

At the glitzy, four-month-old Hotel at the University of Maryland, the happy-hour group remarked on the MilkBoy ArtHouse, a hip new restaurant and music venue down Route 1. Just beyond it, in Riverdale Park, luxury townhouses with rooftop decks are selling near a new Whole Foods.

"It seems promising when you look at where College Park is," Killion said. "There are a lot of cool things happening here."

[Whole Foods opening in Riverdale Park is sweet victory for Prince Georges]

The Route 1 (Baltimore Avenue) corridor has seen gradual new development over the past five to 10 years, but it has visibly accelerated recently. In addition to the Hotel's high-end restaurants and coming spa, new apartment high-rises with restaurants and ground-floor stores are dotting the landscape. Office buildings are under construction as part of the university's Discovery District business and research park, and another hotel is being built.

On the horizon are nearly 400 more apartments and 70,000 square feet of retail planned at the site of the closed Plato's Diner and a Quality Inn, two well-known businesses that sat along Route 1. North of the university's main entrance, a Lidl, the European grocery giant, is in the works, and a Vigilante Coffee shop is scheduled to open early this year.

Humming in the background is construction starting on the light-rail Purple Line, which will have five stations on or near the campus.



Two men enjoy dinner at the bar located inside the Hotel at the University of Maryland. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

Many credit the rejuvenation to improved relations between a university that, until recently, viewed itself as an island and local governments that had not harnessed the full potential of 38,000 students and about 17,000 university-related jobs in their midst.

Ken Ulman, the university's chief strategy officer for economic development, counted 31 university-related projects under construction, about to break ground or recently completed. The university is courting new businesses, buying land near the campus edges and partnering with developers for additional projects.

"People are huge fans of the university, but they go and visit other college towns, and they come back and say, 'Why can't we do this?' " said Ulman, a former executive of neighboring Howard County. "We can no longer be a university in a bubble hidden behind the brick wall. We're part of the fabric of the surrounding community. Changing the way we think about that was really, really important."

[Can College Park ever become a good college town?]

Developers, meanwhile, see potential opportunities among millennials and downsizing empty-nesters seeking lower rents and home prices than in the District and more expensive suburbs. The Route 1 corridor, they say, has relatively affordable land near the College Park Metro station and coming Purple Line  a key selling point.

"It's become a lot buzzier in the past year," said Robert V. Gilbane Jr., vice president of the Gilbane Development Co. The Rhode Island-based firm is planning to break ground this summer on 440 apartments with ground-floor retail on a parking lot at the College Park Metro station.



"I think the wave [of new development] is continuing to build," Gilbane said, "and by no means close to cresting."

Route 1 is still dominated by fast-food restaurants and tired-looking strip malls, however. Even boosters say it will take years for the corridor to shed its auto-centric suburban sprawl and take on the more vibrant feel of a walkable college town.

But the redevelopment, observers say, follows two powerful trends: older inner suburbs nationwide are looking to public transit, walking and biking to reduce traffic congestion as they grow, and universities are investing in their surrounding communities to attract faculty and staff members.

Eric Olson, executive director of the College Park City-University Partnership, said university officials and local leaders are eyeing thriving college towns such as Chapel Hill, N.C.; Ann Arbor, Mich.; and Madison, Wis. Getting more University of Maryland faculty and staff to live near the campus will be key, he said.



The view from the Hotel at the University of Maryland. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

David Iannucci, who also oversees economic development for Prince George's, noted that the county has pitched the area as part of its bid for Amazon's second headquarters.

"Ten years ago," Iannucci said, "that might have been a laughable notion."

[Little unity within D.C.-area effort to woo Amazon]

Developers and local officials credit the closer town-gown relationship to the university's president, Wallace D. Loh, taking the helm in 2010. The university recently launched a Greater College Park effort to revitalize the Route 1 corridor, and this summer, it formed the Terrapin Development Co. to buy, develop and manage real estate. Loh also parted with his predecessor, C.D. Mote Jr., by championing state plans to run Purple Line trains through the campus.

Before Loh, local officials said, the university isolated itself.

"He recognized that to be a high-class university, it's critical the university be located in a high-class college town," said College Park Mayor Patrick Wojahn.

In an interview, Loh called the university's redevelopment efforts "very strategic and intentional." Upon taking the job, he said, he was troubled that only 3 percent of faculty and staff lived in College Park, meaning they would have increasingly long commutes as traffic continued to worsen. That number is now up to about 5 percent, with another 6 percent living nearby.

He said he also was struck by the number of young alumni, including those starting high-tech firms, taking their college educations and businesses to more livable cities.

[Suburbs rethink transit to court millennials]

"We're not doing this because we're in the real estate development business," Loh said. "We can't compete if our students, faculty and staff can't live in College Park."



Fast-food business and strip malls still dot the landscape along Route 1 in College Park. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

Challenges remain. Loh said. "We're far from being where we want to be."

Route 1, a heavily congested five-lane road lined with driveways, is intimidating for pedestrians and cyclists. The state is scheduled to begin installing medians and tree-lined sidewalks on part of it this spring, but retrofitting the area with a grid of more walkable streets will take years.

Another big problem: Some local professionals say it will be hard to convince them to live near campus until the reputation of the county's public schools catches up with those in nearby Montgomery and Howard counties. Many families, they said, also want affordable single-family houses, not the luxury townhouses and apartments coming down the pike.

Mike Franklin, owner of the upscale Old Maryland Grill at the Hotel at the University of Maryland, said he needs customers who can live nearby  and not just in apartment buildings catering to college students.

"You have to have the residents to have the retail and restaurants be truly successful," Franklin said. "You can't survive if everyone who works in College Park goes home to somewhere else."
Police and the FBI are investigating whether an argument over an online game prompted a prank call that led police to a house where an officer shot and killed a Kansas man who apparently wasn't involved in the dispute.

Police and industry officials say the death Thursday in Wichita may have been the result of a practice called swatting, in which a person makes a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said an officer responded to a report that a father had been shot in the head and that a shooter was holding his mother, brother and sister hostage, the Wichita Eagle reported.

When police arrived at the house, a 28-year-old man who came to the front door was shot and killed, Livingston said. The man hasnt been identified by police, but Lisa Finch told the newspaper that he was her son, Andrew Finch. She said he was unarmed and was not a gamer.

But Livingston told reporters at the scene that police were called to the home after being given some misinformation.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a Call of Duty game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving Call of Duty.

We woke this morning to horrible news about an innocent man losing his life, Shannon Gerritzen, a UMG vice president, said in an email to the Associated Press. We are doing everything we can to assist the authorities in this matter.

The FBI estimates that about 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. An FBI supervisor in Kansas City, Mo., which covers all of Kansas, said the agency joined the probe at the request of local police.

Finch told the newspaper that her son was slain by police. She said he went to the door after hearing something, then screamed and was shot. She said the family was ordered outside barefoot in freezing cold and handcuffed. She said her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns were found in the home.

The officer who fired the shot  a seven-year veteran of the police department  will be placed on administrative paid leave, which is department policy.

Rep. Katherine M. Clark (D-Mass.) introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming that an active shooter was at Clarks home.
A new innovation, the Kampala Sightseeing bus was launched last week to promote domestic tourism by taking people on tour around Kampalas historic and beautiful sights. NICHOLAS BAMULANZEKI was on board.

I didnt know what to expect last Thursday when I was invited to tag along with a team of selected personalities on the maiden tour of Kampala aboard a double-decker bus.

For starters, I didnt feel any urge to tour Kampala, a city I have grown up in and convinced I know the main corners. Besides, the endless traffic jams and potholes have made me shy away from passing through the city centre during daytime.

However, David Nsubuga, CEO Promote Uganda Safaris, persuaded me it would be worthwhile.

We have started this initiative to boost domestic tourism because there are several attractions in the outskirts of Kampala that people miss due to lack of information or the inconvenience associated with manoeuvring around the city, he told me.

And this is not an entirely new concept because it is offered in several other countries.

It was fun aboard the bus

Indeed, the sight of the double-decker bus at BMK house, the departure venue, convinced me this could be memorable. The bus is painted in colours of the Uganda flag and my first impression was the free high-speed Wi-Fi on board.

Dubbed Kampala Sightseeing bus, this maiden tour attracted several high-profile personalities such as Tourism state minister Godfrey Kiwanda, Quality Chemicals boss Emmanuel Katongole, plus several diplomats.

By 10am when we set off, the bus was almost full as the passengers exchanged pleasantries. The top of this double-decker offers a unique view of the city and for once, the traffic jam is not an issue because the bus moves quite slowly to allow everyone get the feel of the city and also take photos.

There are also guides who are ready to answer any queries. Our first sight on the route was Kampala Serena hotel, then Speke hotel before joining Kampala road at the junction of Bank of Uganda headquarters.

The beautiful guides

Some people on board seemed a bit perplexed by the sight of beggars on the streets. A few notes were handed over and in return were endless praises at the generosity. Ironically, whereas many on board spent a great deal of time on their phone cameras snapping away, people on the streets were also capturing the images of the unique double-decker.

When we approached Clock Tower, the slow traffic prompted one person to wonder whether there was a major accident or interruption but one of the female guides pointed out it is business as usual.

Going up to the Ring road was refreshing from the hustle and bustle of the city. We were able to enter the Lubiri and some seized the opportunity to take selfies against the Twekobe. After a brief visit to Bulange, the seat of the Buganda kingdom, we stopped over at Cafe Javas in Bakuli for refreshments.

Next stop was the Kasubi tombs, where we found the Katikkiro and some Buganda kingdom ministers waiting for the team. The Katikkiro commended the initiative and expressed hope that sightseeing will boost local tourism.

From then on it was a stroll through Makerere Kikoni, where many onboard got perplexed at the slum dwellers. A run through Wandegeya, Mulago hospital and the Uganda museum brought us to Acacia mall, where we stopped for some onboard to do some quick shopping.

What was now left was visiting the Kololo Ceremonial grounds before our return to BMK house. This was indeed a worthwhile journey and offered me first-hand information, a hands-on feel and unlimited access to these treasured sites, not to mention the VIP treatment at all the locations we toured.

All in all, this journey was quite refreshing even for a city born like me. The ambiance on board the bus is overwhelming and the tour guides also did their best to ensure no one was left out.

Nsubuga later intimated that this is just a start of a big project aimed to involve at least a dozen buses.

We are still experimenting but we are overwhelmed by the feedback, he said.

In fact, we have already got requests to have night bus rides as many tourists have been told Kampala has the best nightlife in the region, he says. But that will greatly depend on how the day tours go.

Facts about sightseeing bus

The Kampala Sightseeing bus has a designated route with more than a dozen sites to visit as well as designated stopovers along the way.

It starts at BMK house off Colville street, to Serena hotel, Speke hotel and Bank of Uganda where it joins Kampala road.

Thereafter, it moves around the Constitution square, Kampala Boulevard, and Post Office building.

On joining Entebbe road, it branches off to Nakasero market, then Clock Tower, Kibuye market before connecting to Ring road.

From there, the tour goes to the Kabakas lake, then the Lubiri and goes through the Royal mile to Bulange. From there, the bus goes to Lubaga cathedral, and then Namirembe cathedral before it stops over at Cafe Javas in Bakuli for refreshments.

Thereafter, the journey continues to Kasubi tombs, Makerere Kikoni, Makerere University, Wandegeya and Mulago.

From there, the journey goes to the museum, Acacia mall, then the Independence grounds before returning to BMK house.

The double-decker accommodates 64 people and the journey takes between three-and-half hours and four hours.

Ugandans and East Africans pay Shs 100,000 while foreign tourists pay $30 (Shs 108,000). This includes soft drinks and light snacks.

The double-decker does two tours a day; first between 9am-1pm and 2pm-5:30pm. Official tours started on Christmas day and will be daily.

Kampala Sightseeing bus fleet so far includes three double-decker.
Ask Edith Smith, a proud 103-year-old, about her friends, and shell give you an earful.

Theres Johnetta, 101, whom shes known for 70 years and who has Alzheimers disease. I call her every day and just say, Hi, how are you doing? She never knows, but she says hi back, and I tease her, Smith said.

Theres Katie, 93, whom Smith met during a long teaching career with Chicago Public Schools. Every day we have a good conversation. Shes still driving and lives in her own house, and she tells me whats going on.

Then theres Rhea, 90, whom Smith visits regularly at a retirement facility. And Mary, 95, who doesnt leave her house anymore, so I fix her a basket about once a month of jelly and little things I make and send it over by cab. And there are Smiths fellow residents at a Chicago seniors community, whom she recognizes with a card and a treat on their birthdays.

Im a very friendly person, Smith said, when asked to describe herself.

That may be one reason this lively centenarian has an extraordinary memory for someone her age, suggests a recent study highlighting a notable link between brain health and positive relationships.

For nine years, these experts at Northwestern University have been examining SuperAgers  men and women older than 80 whose memories are as good as or better than people 20 to 30 years younger. Every couple of years, the group fills out surveys about their lives and gets a battery of neuropsychological tests, brain scans and a neurological examination, among other evaluations.

When we started this project, we werent really sure we could find these individuals, said Emily Rogalski, an associate professor at the Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimers Disease Center at Northwesterns Feinberg School of Medicine.

But find them they did: Thirty-one older men and women with exceptional memories, mostly from Illinois and surrounding states, are participating in the project. Part of the goal is to characterize them  who are they, what are they like, Rogalski said.

Previous research by the Northwestern group provided tantalizing clues, showing that SuperAgers have distinctive brain features: thicker cortexes, a resistance to age-related atrophy and a larger left anterior cingulate (a part of the brain important to attention and working memory).

But brain structure alone doesnt fully account for SuperAgers unusual mental acuity, Rogalski suggested. Its likely there are a number of critical factors that are implicated, she said.

For their new study, the researchers asked 31 SuperAgers and 19 cognitively normal older adults to fill out a 42-item questionnaire about their psychological well-being. The SuperAgers stood out in one area: the degree to which they reported having satisfying, warm, trusting relationships. (In other areas, such as having a purpose in life or retaining autonomy, they were much like their normal peers.)

Social relationships are really important to this group and might play a significant role in preserving their cognition, Rogalski said.

That finding is consistent with other research linking positive relationships to a reduced risk of cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Still, researchers havent examined how SuperAgers sustain these relationships and whether their experiences might include lessons for others.

Smith, one of the SuperAgers, has plenty of thoughts about that. At her retirement community, shes one of nine people who welcome new residents and try to help make them feel at home. I have a smile for everybody, she said. I try to learn someones name as soon as they come in, and if I see them, its Good morning, how do you do? 

Many old people, all they do is tell you the same story over and over, she said. And sometimes all they do is complain and not show any interest in what you have to say. Thats terrible. You have to listen to what people have to say.

Brian Fenwick, administrator of the Bethany Retirement Community, where Smith lives, calls Smith a leader in the community and explains that shes very involved. She keeps us in line. She notices whats going on and isnt afraid to speak out.

Fifteen years ago, Smith became a caregiver for her husband, who passed away in 2013. All the time he was ill, I was still doing things for me, she recalls. You cannot drop everything and expect to be able to pick it up. You cant drop your friends and expect them to be there when youre ready.

What she does every day, she said, is show people I care.

William Bill Gurolnick, 86, another SuperAger in the study, realized the value of becoming more demonstrative after he retired from a sales and marketing position in 1999. Men arent usually inclined to talk about their feelings, and I was a keep-things-inside kind of person, he explained. But opening up to other people is one of the things that I learned to do.

With a small group of other men whod left the work world behind, Gurolnick helped found a mens group, Men Enjoying Leisure, which now has nearly 150 members and has spawned four similar groups in the Chicago suburbs. Every month, the group meets for two hours, including one hour they spend discussing personal issues  divorce, illness, children who cant find jobs, and more.

We learn people arent alone in the problems theyre dealing with, Gurolnick said, adding that a dozen or so of the men have become good friends.

Bill is the glue that holds the whole group together, said Buddy Kalish, 80, a member of the group in Northbrook, a Chicago suburb. Hes very, very caring  the first one to send out a thank-you note, the first one to send out a notice when theres been a death in the family.

Activities are another way of cultivating relationships for Gurolnick. On Mondays, he bikes 20 to 30 miles with more than a dozen older men  many of them from his mens group  followed by lunch. On Tuesdays, hes part of a walking group, followed by coffee. On Wednesdays, he goes to the Wenger Jewish Community Center in Northbrook for two hours of water volleyball. On Thursdays, its back to the JCC for pickleball, a racket sport.

You really get a sense of still being alive, Gurolnick said, when asked what he takes away from these interactions. You get a sense of not being alone.

Without her best friend, Grayce, whom shes known since high school, and friends who live in her condominium complex, Evelyn Finegan, 88, might have become isolated. Another SuperAger, Finegan is hard of hearing and has macular degeneration in both eyes but otherwise is astonishingly healthy.

Its very important to keep up with your friends  to pick up the phone and call, said Finegan, who talks to Grayce almost daily and chats with four other friends from high school on a regular basis.

Today, the staples of Finegans life are her church; a monthly book club; volunteering at a resale shop; socializing with a few people in her building; attending a club of Welsh women; and seeing her daughter, her son-in-law and grandchildren, who live in Oregon, whenever she can.

Its so nice to spend time with Evelyn, said her upstairs neighbor, June Witzl, 91, who often drives Finegan to doctors appointments. Shes very kind and very generous. And she tells you what she believes so you really feel like you know her, instead of wondering whats on her mind.

Graham is a columnist for Kaiser Health News. KHN's coverage related to aging and improving care of older adults is supported in part by the John A. Hartford Foundation.
Like an astronomical action movie, January is packed with planetary conjunctions, two supermoons with the second one blue, a lunar eclipse, meteors and increasing sunlight.

The new year's night sky starts with a full moon on Monday that rises at 4:52 p.m. and officially becomes full at 9:24 p.m., according to the U.S. Naval Observatory. Since the moon is at perigee  its closest point to Earth in the lunar cycle  it appears closer and people call it a supermoon. This is the closest perigee for 2018.

As a bonus, the lunar cycle brings a second full moon Jan. 31 at 8:27 a.m. In folk terms, the second one is nicknamed a blue moon. It's also a full moon close to perigee (Jan. 30), making it another supermoon.

But wait  there's more about this moon: The western United States also will enjoy an early morning total lunar eclipse on Jan. 31. The Eastern states won't see much as they catch only the penumbral and partial phase before the moon sets (Washington moonset is 7:15 a.m., concurrent with sunrise.) States in the Mountain (6:30 a.m., mid-eclipse) and Pacific (5:30 a.m., mid-eclipse) time zones can witness the copper-toned totality.

Jupiter and Mars loiter together in the morning heavens. Early risers can see both planets high in the southeastern sky before sunrise. The giant Jupiter, at -1.8 magnitude (bright) now, and our red neighbor Mars, at 1.5 magnitude (dim), huddle close for their pre-dawn conjunction on Saturday and Jan. 7. They remain close for a few days, then slowly break apart, and the waning crescent moon joins the pair Jan. 11.

Closer to the horizon, the fleet Mercury (-0.3 magnitude, bright) and the ringed Saturn (0.5 magnitude, dimmer) conjunct just above the treetops before dawn in the southeast on Jan. 13.

Venus can't be seen, as the planet hides in the sun's glare for January and into February. Earth's charming neighbor effectively returns in March.

The Quadrantid meteors peak on Wednesday night into Thursday, and this cosmic show usually features a strong 120 meteors each hour during a short peak, according to the American Meteor Society. But because of the bright, waning gibbous moon, sky gazers face a virtual wipeout and will be lucky to see a few shooting stars.

Earth gets closest to the sun  an event called perihelion  on Wednesday at 12:35 a.m. Eastern time, the Naval Observatory said. On our blue planet's annual tour around the sun, we will be a mere 91.4 million miles from it. So, why must we endure cold?

Earths Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, creating winter. Earth reaches aphelion (farthest from the sun) in July.

Good news: The Northern Hemisphere gradually emerges from winters darkness. On New Years Day, Washington collects nine hours and 30 minutes of daylight, but on Jan. 31, the city luxuriates in 10 hours and 13 minutes of light, according to the observatory.

Down-to-Earth events:

Friday  The Analemma Society holds public sky viewing every Friday at its roll-top observatory, Turner Farm Park in Great Falls. 7:30 p.m. Other dates: Jan. 12, 19 and 26. Ana lemm a.org . Twitter: @AnalemmaSociety Map: goo.gl/ALVk6H.

Friday  "2018 Observing Highlights," a talk by astronomer Elizabeth Warner, at the University of Maryland's Observatory, College Park. Afterward, enjoy winter's spectacular night skies, weather permitting. 8 p.m. Astro.umd.edu.

Jan. 8  Witness winter's wonders during "Stars Tonight" at the David M. Brown Planetarium, 1426 N. Quincy St., Arlington, adjacent to Washington-Lee High School. 7:30 p.m. $3.FriendsOfthePlanetarium.org.

Jan. 9  "Astronomy Picture of the Day" (apod.nasa.gov) editors Robert J. Nemiroff and Jerry Bonnell will discuss cosmic images and field questions in a free public lecture at the American Astronomical Society's winter meeting. 7 p.m. Potomac Ballroom D, Gaylord Convention Center at 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor.

Jan. 13  "An Evening with Isaac Newton and Catherine Barton Conduitt." Physics teacher Dean Howarth as Isaac and performer Rachel O'Connell as Catherine (Newton's niece), bring history to life and share their astronomical memories from centuries long ago. At the National Capital Astronomers' regular meeting, held at the University of Maryland Observatory, College Park. 7:30 p.m. CapitalAstronomers.org.

Jan. 14  Brother Guy Consolmagno S.J., director of the Vatican Observatory and co-author of "Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?" and "Turn Left at Orion," speaks at the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club's regular meeting, 163 Research Hall, George Mason University. 7 p.m. novac.com.

Jan. 20  "How Massive Can Stars Be?" is a talk by Mike Corcoran, NASA senior research scientist, at the University of Maryland's Observatory, College Park. View the night sky afterward, weather permitting. 8 p.m. astro.umd.edu.

Jan. 27  "How Stars Are Born," a program at the Montgomery College Planetarium, Takoma Park. 7 p.m. goo.gl/q9iwrS.

Blaine Friedlander can be reached at SkyWatchPost@gmail.com.
Brian Tracy first heard about Bikram yoga in 2005, when a graduate student approached the exercise scientist with an idea for studying the classes, which last for 90 minutes in a room heated to about 105 degrees.

To investigate, Tracy tried it. More than a decade later, the researcher still practices Bikram yoga sometimes  and not always for science. "It's one of the things I do for exercise, and it makes me feel really good," says Tracy, who studies neuromuscular physiology at Colorado State University in Fort Collins.

Casey Mace Firebaugh had the opposite reaction. A public health researcher at Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Mace Firebaugh has long practiced more-traditional forms of yoga. Although she gave hot yoga a chance, it often made her feel lightheaded.

"I'm a relatively fit and active person," Mace Firebaugh says. "But hot yoga made me feel terrible when I did it."

More than 36 million Americans practice yoga, according to a 2016 survey. And although there are no firm statistics on how many do their poses in heated spaces, anecdotal evidence suggests that hot yoga has grown in popularity since it was introduced to the United States in the 1970s.

The health claims

Franchises that offer hot yoga say its benefits include strengthening the heart, cleaning out the veins, cleansing impurities from the body and regulating metabolism and the immune system, and they often suggest that those benefits are greater than from unheated yoga. But most studies have been small, short or limited in other ways: relying on people's perceptions, for instance, or including only people who were healthy to begin with. Most studies lack control groups, making it hard to detect or explain effects.

Overall research suggests that hot yoga is probably safe for most people and might help improve balance, strength and other health measures, experts say. But risks exist, particularly for people with certain conditions. And plenty of questions remain.

"I'm a yoga lover by heart," Mace Firebaugh says. "But my skeptical scientific self says, 'Let's put some data on this.' "

The project that Tracy did with his graduate student turned into one of the earliest studies of hot yoga. Published in 2008, the study randomly assigned 21 healthy young adults to attend three Bikram classes a week for eight weeks or to do whatever activities they normally did. Overall, most participants were only minimally active before the study, and none had a history of yoga practice. After two months, the yoga group showed improvements in flexibility, leg strength and the ability to balance on one leg, with the biggest gains in people who had been most unsteady and least flexible at the beginning.

Since then, according to a 2015 review by Australian researchers, a few studies of healthy young adults have suggested that hot yoga may be good for the heart. That review turned up evidence that arterial stiffness decreased in one small group of young adults and that insulin resistance declined among a small group of older participants who did Bikram yoga. In a 2011 study of 51 adults, people reported less stress after doing Bikram classes for eight weeks.

People who like hot yoga say they feel better after doing it, though the benefits they report vary among people, who have differing motivations for taking the classes. Among 700 people whom Mace Firebaugh has surveyed in an ongoing study, 48 percent say that hot yoga improves their mood. Forty-seven percent report better flexibility, 34 percent feel less anxiety and 33 percent report clearer skin. Some have reported negative effects such as nausea, dizziness and dehydration, but those symptoms are usually mild.

Does it burn calories?

The survey found another intriguing result: 43 percent of participants reported losing weight as a result of doing hot yoga, but that linkage might be a coincidence. Studies have yet to connect hot yoga with weight loss, the 2015 review found. And as sweaty as a hot-yoga session can be, it may not burn as many calories as people think.

In a 2014 study of 19 experienced Bikram practitioners during a single 90-minute session, Tracy and colleagues found that men burned an average of about 460 calories and women burned about 330. It's about the same number of calories you'd burn during a brisk walk for the same amount of time, Tracy says. And even though that's about 50 percent more than what people burn in a typical yoga class, it was much less than what people thought they had burned. (Heart rates peaked above 150 beats per minute during the toughest parts of class  a sign more of the body's response to heat than of a boost in calorie-burning.)

Even as research begins to point to some potential pluses of hot yoga, it's not clear whether heat has anything to do with those benefits. Studies on other types of yoga have shown good outcomes, too, including improvements in heart health, range of motion and balance.

Heat's effects on the body, meanwhile, are complicated. Exercising in the heat carries risks, including heatstroke and dehydration. But emerging evidence, including a long-term study published last year by Finnish researchers, suggests that regular sauna use can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. A 2016 review found that raising body temperature might ease symptoms of depression. And applying heat directly to muscles can increase range of motion.

Concerns, for some

Whether hot yoga is dangerous remains a contentious question. There have been a few alarming incidents reported during and after hot-yoga classes, including the 2016 case of a 35-year-old woman who experienced sudden cardiac arrest during a session. And a 2015 study reported that people's core temperatures during Bikram classes could rise above 104 degrees. But that research was flawed, says Tracy, whose 2014 study showed a maximum core temperate of 101.6, with an average rise to 100.3. The danger zone, he says, begins at 102 degrees.

Tracy recommends lying down if you feel lightheaded during a class and giving your body several sessions to acclimate to the heat.

"My big piece of advice for people who want to try hot yoga is to take it slowly," Tracy says. "If you don't feel right, take it easy. If a yoga instructor starts yelling at you, remember you're a human being. You're not being held hostage."

People with preexisting conditions  such as cardiovascular disease, back pain, asthma and diabetes  should consult a doctor before beginning a hot-yoga practice, adds Mace Firebaugh. Her own low blood pressure, she suspects, explains why hot yoga doesn't suit her.

Pregnancy is another time to be cautious, she says. In her survey, she found that nearly a quarter of women who had been pregnant continued practicing hot yoga during their pregnancies. But increased core temperatures in a pregnant mom can be dangerous to a fetus.

"In general, hot yoga is likely safe, and the risks are minimal and mild," Mace Firebaugh says. "If you love it, do it. If it doesn't work for you, there's probably going to be another type of yoga that is going to be fine. Hot yoga might not be for everybody."

Read More

Heart problems can lurk even among dedicated exercisers

Maybe you dont really need to drink so much water every day

Why leg and froot cramps drive you crazy in the middle of the night, and what to do
DEFENSE DEPARTMENT

Transgender people can enlist in military

Transgender people will be allowed for the first time to enlist in the U.S. military starting Monday as ordered by federal courts, the Pentagon said Friday, after President Trumps administration decided not to appeal rulings that blocked his transgender ban.

Two federal appeals courts, one in Washington and one in Virginia, last week rejected the administrations request to put on hold orders by lower court judges requiring the military to begin accepting transgender recruits on Jan. 1.

A Justice Department official said the administration will not challenge those rulings.

In September, the Pentagon said it had created a panel of senior officials to study how to implement a directive by Trump to prohibit transgender individuals from serving. The Defense Department has until Feb. 21 to submit a plan to Trump.

Pentagon spokeswoman Heather Babb said in a statement: As mandated by court order, the Department of Defense is prepared to begin accessing transgender applicants for military service Jan. 1. All applicants must meet all accession standards.

In a move that appealed to his hard-line conservative supporters, Trump announced in July that he would prohibit transgender people from serving in the military, reversing Democratic President Barack Obamas policy of accepting them.

Four federal judges have issued rulings blocking Trumps ban while legal challenges to the presidents policy proceed. The Pentagon on Dec. 8 issued guidelines to recruitment personnel in order to enlist transgender applicants by Jan. 1.

The Obama administration had set a deadline of July 1, 2017, to begin accepting transgender recruits. But Trumps defense secretary, Jim Mattis, postponed that date to Jan. 1, 2018.

 Reuters

CALIFORNIA

Man kills 1 co-worker, injures another

A man walked into the Southern California law firm where he worked and shot two men Friday before turning the gun on himself, police said.

Police arrived to find the gunman and one victim dead and learned that the second victim had driven himself to a hospital, Long Beach police Sgt. Brad Johnson said at a news conference. The injured man was in stable condition.

Police didnt fire any shots, Johnson said. A SWAT team searched the rest of the building, and no other victims were found.

The gunmans motive had not been determined, but authorities emphasized it was not a case of a shooter targeting as many people as possible.

The building in a well-to-do neighborhood in Long Beach is home to three law firms, but police did not reveal the office where the shooting occurred.

 Associated Press
RUSSIA

Strained ties with U.S. disappoint Putin

The Kremlin views the continued strain in Russias relations with the United States as a major disappointment of the year, President Vladimir Putins spokesman said Friday.

Asked about the Kremlins biggest disappointments of 2017, Dmitry Peskov told reporters that worsening U.S.-Russian relations were certainly on the list.

Relations between Moscow and Washington sank to a post-Cold War low after Russias annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the allegations of Moscows meddling in the U.S. presidential election last year. Russia has denied any interference in the election, and Peskov said the Kremlin is watching the related U.S. probe with bewilderment.

Its the U.S. internal business, but it certainly hurts bilateral relations, and we regret that, he said. He reiterated that Russia seeks good relations with the United States based on mutual trust and mutual respect.

 Associated Press

SYRIA

Hundreds of patients left behind in siege

More than 400 patients on a U.N. list waiting for evacuation from a siege in Syria were left behind Friday as the Red Cross said it had transferred just 29 people and their families for medical care.

It took the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent three days to evacuate the patients and their family members from the eastern Ghouta suburbs of Damascus to hospitals just minutes away.

The United Nations submitted to the Syrian government six months ago a list of names of patients requiring evacuation from the governments siege of Ghouta. In November, the United Nations said the list had reached 494 names.

The government of President Bashar al-Assad has besieged the eastern Ghouta suburbs with varying degrees of severity since 2013, refusing to allow any evacuations until this week.

 Associated Press

Turkey and Russia finalize deal on antiaircraft missiles: Turkey and Russia signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to-air missile batteries, Turkish authorities said, finalizing a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin. The S-400 deal, reportedly worth about $2.5 billion and in the works for more than a year, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO's military architecture.

Iranian police disperse protesters: Iranian police dispersed anti-government protesters in the western city of Kermanshah, the Fars semiofficial news agency said, as protests spread to Tehran and apparently several other cities a day after rallies in the northeast. The outbreak of regional unrest reflects growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption, as well as concern over the country's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as the civil war in Syria.

Mayor shot dead in southern Mexico: A masked gunman killed the mayor of a town in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero. Mayor Arturo Gomez Perez of Petatlan was shot three times as he ate at a restaurant in the city. At least 54 mayors or mayors-elect have been killed in Mexico since 2006, often by drug gangs or corrupt police. Guerrero was one of the most violent states in Mexico in the first 11 months of 2017, with a homicide rate of 58.6 per 100,000 people.

Drug-gang rivalry suspected in club bombing in Colombia: Officials say the bombing of a crowded nightclub in northern Colombia, in which 31 people were wounded, stemmed from a battle among local drug gangs. About 70 people were at the Bora Bora nightclub in Caucasia when a device was thrown from a motorcycle and set off a stampede among club patrons. Mayor Oscar Anibal Suarez says a man and woman were arrested as suspects in the attack.

Spain's prime minister intends to convene Catalan parliament: Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy says he intends to convene Catalonia's new parliament Jan. 17 and hopes the restive region's next government will not renew the push for independence that fueled a political crisis. Rajoy set the date just over a week after a regional parliamentary election resulted in the separatist parties he had hoped to keep out of power again winning the most seats and in turn a good chance to lead the next Catalan government.

 From news services
Columnist

Wisconsin's Supreme Court can soon right a flagrant wrong stemming from events set in motion in 2014 at Milwaukee's Marquette University by Cheryl Abbate. Although just a graduate student, she already had a precocious aptitude for academic nastiness.

On Oct. 28, in an undergraduate course she was teaching on ethics, when the subject of same-sex marriage arose, there was no debate, because, a student said, Abbate insisted that there could be no defensible opposition to this. (Marquette is a Jesuit school.) After class, the student told her that he opposed same-sex marriage and her discouraging of debate about it. She replied (he recorded their interaction) that there are some opinions that are not appropriate that are harmful. . . . Do you know whether anyone in the class is homosexual? . . . In this class homophobic comments . . . will not be tolerated. The students appeals to Abbates superiors were unavailing (the chairman of her philosophy department referred to the student as an insulin [sic] little twerp), so he gave John C. McAdams his recording of Abbate rebuffing him.

McAdams, a tenured professor then in his 41st year at Marquette and a conservative who blogs about the schools news, emailed Abbate seeking her version of the episode. Without responding to him, she immediately forwarded his email to some professors. She has called McAdams the ringleader of extreme white [sic] wing, hateful people, a moron, a flaming bigot, sexist and homophobic idiot and a creepy homophobic person with bad argumentation skills. This aspiring philosophers argumentation skills can be inferred from her reliance on epithets.

Before McAdams had written a syllable, she claimed for herself the coveted status of victim, branding as "harassment" his request for her side of the story. Striking a pose of bravery, she accused him of trying "to scare me into silence." When, on Nov. 9, 2014, McAdams blogged, his post took no position on same-sex marriage but said this should be a debatable issue. The next day, Abbate drafted a letter asking that McAdams be disciplined. He was.

After this matter earned national media attention, she received some critical emails, some of them vile, and Marquette rightly branded them "hate mail." However, for these, and for the unspecified "harm" they supposedly caused Abbate, McAdams was held to be somehow blameworthy. Marquette, however, offered no evidence that he had anything to do with the emails. After a committee drawn from the university's monochrome culture recommended suspending McAdams without pay for two semesters, Marquette's president insisted that McAdams also express in writing "deep regret" and confess that his blog post was "reckless and incompatible" with Marquette's mission and values. McAdams refused and has been unemployed ever since.

Being a private institution, Marquette had a right to be as hostile as it obviously is to the First Amendment  except for this: Its contract with tenured faculty says no one shall be disciplined for exercising legitimate personal or academic freedoms of thought, doctrine, discourse, association, advocacy, or action and that the threat of dismissal shall not be used to restrain constitutional rights. A circuit court, ignoring Marquettes ignoring of a Wisconsin contract, refused to adjudicate this dispute. Deferring to Marquette, the court essentially held that a professors academic freedom exists only until some other professors and university administrators say it does not. So, the deferential court allowed Marquette an unconstrained right to settle a contract dispute in which it was an interested party.

Because there is almost no Wisconsin case law concerning academic freedom that could have guided the circuit court, McAdams is asking the state supreme court to bypass the appeals court and perform its function as the state's "law-developing court." He is also asking the court to be cognizant of the cultural context: Nationwide, colleges and universities "are under pressure"  all of it from within the institutions  "to enact or implement speech codes or otherwise restrict speech in various ways."

This episode, now in its fourth year, began because McAdams tried to assist a student who suffered unprofessional behavior by a bullying instructor. Abbate has moved on. Now at the University of Colorado, she is still a (perhaps career) graduate student, writing a doctoral dissertation on the importance of the rights of . . . animals.

The wreckage she left in her wake illustrates how rights are imperiled when judicial deference becomes dereliction of judicial duty. Prospective Marquette students, and Marquette alumni, must decide whether this school, awash with the current academic hysteria and corruption, merits their confidence and support. Wisconsins Supreme Court must lay down the law that can stop some of the rot this case illustrates.

Read more from George F. Will's archive or follow him on Facebook.
THE DEMOCRATIC revolution that swept across Central Europe following the collapse of the Soviet empire is in danger of being reversed. Hungary in recent years pioneered the construction of a de facto autocracy behind a shell of hollowed-out democratic institutions. Poland is now pursuing the same course. The European Union, to which both belong, appears unable to deter them. Perhaps because of that, a third post-communist country, Romania, is rushing to reverse anti-corruption reforms it adopted under pressure from Brussels.

Last week, the Romanian Parliament passed, with scant debate, three new laws that would curtail the powers of an anti-corruption agency and compromise the independence of judges and prosecutors. The attack on the National Anti-Corruption Directorate is particularly significant, as it has been responsible for hundreds of prosecutions of senior officials in the past decade, including 72 members of Parliament.

That neutering of the judiciary is not enough for members of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD), which has been at the center of Romania's endemic corruption. Its leaders are now proposing dozens of amendments to the criminal code and the code of criminal procedure that would shield political leaders from prosecution for offenses ranging from bribery to sexual harassment. In their zeal to protect themselves, legislators are proposing measures to strip police and prosecutors of vital powers, such as the ability to use evidence from surveillance cameras. They would ban public statements about investigations and trials and require that criminal suspects be allowed to witness police interviews with their accusers.

One of the biggest beneficiaries would be the PSD's most powerful figure, Liviu Dragnea, who has been convicted of vote-rigging and is under investigation for other crimes, including the misuse of $25 million in E.U. funds. The big loser is Laura Codruta Kovesi, the courageous head of the anti-corruption authority; the word in Bucharest is that the government will follow up its "reforms" by seeking her dismissal.

Fortunately, there is significant resistance from Romanians to this corrupt counterrevolution. President Klaus Iohannis has been strongly critical of the legislation passed last week. He can slow it down, though not ultimately block it, by returning it to Parliament, and he can prevent the dismissal of Ms. Kovesi. Romania's supreme court has already asked the Constitutional Court to nullify the new laws. Perhaps most importantly, tens of thousands of Romanians have taken to the streets of major cities in recent weeks to protest what is being called a "parliamentary coup."

Unfortunately, Mr. Dragnea and his clique are not easily deterred. After mass demonstrations earlier this year, they retreated from an effort to rewrite the criminal code. Now they have returned to it, evidently calculating that reaction from Romanians, or from abroad, will be less overpowering this time.

That's why honest Romanians need help from Western governments. The U.S. Embassy in Bucharest has spoken out strongly in favor of the rule of law, as have seven E.U. ambassadors. But Romania's Parliament should be hearing directly from leaders such as Germany's Angela Merkel and President Trump. It's not yet too late to stop the retrogression of democracy in Central Europe, but doing so will require urgent and concerted action at the highest levels.
Columnist

Mitt Romney: Your country needs you.

The 2012 Republican presidential nominee has been reluctant to announce a primary challenge to Sen. Orrin G. Hatch of Utah, the longest-serving Republican senator in history. But America needs Romney to step up, to restore dignity to the Senate  and to save the country from the embarrassment Hatch has become.

Hatch, long the picture of conservative rectitude, was once a conscientious legislator, even partnering with Ted Kennedy when he thought poor kids were getting a raw deal. But Hatch, the Senate president pro tempore, has undergone a grotesque transformation this year, his 84th on earth and 42nd in the Senate. He has become chief enabler of and cheerleader for President Trump.

"You're one heck of a leader," Hatch gushed to Trump on the White House lawn this month, hailing "all the things that he's been able to get done  by sheer will, in many ways." Hatch, declaring Trump a man "I love and appreciate so much," urged his colleagues to "get behind him every way we can" and vowed: "We're going to make this the greatest presidency that we've seen, not only in generations, but maybe ever."

Yep, that's Trump: topping not just Ronald Reagan but Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.

And Hatch wants colleagues to "get behind him in every way we can." That would include backing Trump's defense of white supremacists, his vulgar tweets, his endless attacks on the rule of law and the institutions of democracy, and, yes, his embrace of a credibly accused child molester for the Senate. Hatch, after enjoying a ride on Air Force One this month, excused Trump's endorsement of Roy Moore and said the alleged offenses "were decades ago."

Trump will be Trump, and that won't change. The nation's fate depends on previously upstanding public servants such as Hatch insisting on some semblance of decency.

Hatch's hometown Salt Lake Tribune called last this week for Hatch to step aside, citing "his utter lack of integrity that rises from his unquenchable thirst for power." Hatch, who saw that the paper had named him "Utahn of the Year" but apparently missed the explanatory editorial, tweeted that he was "grateful for this great Christmas honor."

The paper's editorial-page editor, George Pyle, cited the tax cut Hatch authored and other policy differences. But his problem with Hatch was more one of character. Romney would vote the way Hatch does most of the time, Pyle told MSNBC, but with Romney, "we would be spared the embarrassment of his sucking up to the president."

Exactly. This isn't about ideology. The trouble is Hatch's slavish devotion to Trump, kowtowing even when the likes of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) express misgivings. Yes, Romney briefly had kind words for Trump when Trump was considering him for secretary of state. But Hatch's nonstop adulation of Trump legitimizes the president's vulgarity and attacks on democratic institutions.

Consider Hatch's applause for Matthew Petersen, one of three Trump judicial nominees who withdrew this month amid doubts about their credentials. The patently unqualified Petersen, who has never prosecuted or defended a case, was humiliated during questioning by Sen. John Neely Kennedy (R-La.), who exposed his ignorance of basic courtroom procedures. And Hatch? He scolded his fellow Judiciary Committee members for being "unfair."

Contrast that with Hatch's silence last year when Todd Edelman, nominated to the same seat as Petersen in the U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia, waited eight months without even getting a hearing  an insult endured by many nominees, right on up to Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland. Edelman, whom I first met in college years ago, had spent six years presiding over some 400 cases as a judge on the D.C. Superior Court, served eight years as a public defender and taught law at Georgetown.

Hatch for many years has been the compassionate champion of the CHIP health-care program for poor kids and the importance of legislating protections for the "dreamers," immigrants brought to the country illegally as children. But those sensibilities faded in the Trump era.

The lapsed CHIP program now hangs by a thread, and while Hatch says he favors renewing the program, he frets that "we don't have money anymore." This as he helped push through a $1.5 trillion tax cut paid for with debt. And the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program for dreamers? He urged Trump not to end the program, and when the administration set in motion plans to do just that, Hatch didn't join GOP Sen. Lindsey O. Graham's (S.C.) bipartisan effort to codify it, instead signing on to a GOP-only alternative.

Hatch was preparing to retire, but Trump pushed him to go back on his promise not to seek another term. Trump obviously prefers the obsequious Hatch to Romney, who, though as conservative as Hatch, would be no puppet. That's why Mitt must run.

Read more from Dana Milbank's archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
From the extreme end of St Marys Kiruuli primary school in Kifamba, Rakai district, Dominic Matovu watched as the pupils ran about in the school compound during lunch break.

From his strategic position, he could easily monitor what was going on at the schools makeshift kitchen where pupils were being served porridge, and, groups of others seated under tree shades enjoying a combination of porridge and sweet potatoes for lunch.

Matovu is one of the pioneer community workers who volunteered to associate with people suffering at a time when almost none, except close family members, would stand with those afflicted with HIV/Aids.

I started working with Kitovu Mobile Aids Organisation [KMO] in 1987; I had a friend, John Kakonge, who introduced me to Sister Ursula Sharpe who was leading a team of nurses that visited and treated the sick from their homes, Matovu told The Observer on November 22.

Joyce Naggayi (with blue headscarf) weaves a basket alongside other women

Sharpe, an Irish nun working with the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM), pioneered the care and treatment for Aids patients in Rakai district after being touched by the suffering the patients admitted at Kitovu hospital went through.

With two young nurses, Robina Nakasirye Ssentongo (now Kyotera Woman MP) and Cotilda Nanteza, she travelled the length and breadth of Rakai to offer relief care for the sick.

We were driven by the urge to serve humanity; we knew we could prolong their lives, and we wanted them to die with dignity without the diarrhoea and wounds all over their bodies, says Ssentongo.

They were, however, confronted by negativity from the community and the families of the sick. Many wondered what this mzungu (Sharpe) wanted to do with the blood samples she took from patients.

The act of taking a blood sample seemed strange to many; it was unheard of and many questioned why and where she was taking the blood, Matovu says.

Soon, the community became suspicious even of the drugs Sharpe and her team were giving to patients. Word was that the drugs were meant to quicken a patients death.

I took them to treat my elder brother Michael Lubega, but the moment the team left, the family members threw away the drugs on grounds that if he took them, he would die faster, Matovu says.

Instead, as the patients continued to waste away, some families moved them out of the house to the banana plantation, based on the belief that the disease was airborne and more contagious indoors.



WITCHCRAFT

Others believed it was a form of witchcraft by Tanzanian fishermen on Ukerewe island, who were retaliating for their mukene (silver cyprinid) that was stolen by their Ugandan counterparts at Kasensesero landing site in present-day Kyotera district.

On the advice of traditional medicine men, many threw away movable properties they had acquired out of the sale of the stolen mukene in an earnest hope of reversing the witchcraft.

One man at Kannabulemu stashed cash in ekikapu [local palm leaves bag], tied it to a sheep and dumped it in a forest [near the Uganda-Tanzania border], Matovu says.

Owing to lack of information and the mysteries that surrounded the disease, families were wiped out, and villages were deserted as the disease continued to spread.

On average, we would report about five to ten new cases in a village every week. The numbers could have been higher but due to the fear that associating with the mzungu would lead to the disease eliminating the entire family, very few agreed to be registered, Matovu says.

The fears were exacerbated when Matovus colleague, Kakonge, with whom he had been working, got sick and eventually died. Kyotera Woman MP Sentongo recalls: Kakonge had been one of the instrumental community workers that made our work easy, because before going to a patient, the community workers would first go and convince the patients to allow us treat them, and, they would keep monitoring them and encourage them to take the medicine.

Matovu too lost a daughter before his wife, Restatuta Namata, got sickly until she died at Kalisizo hospital where she had gone to deliver their would-be third child. It had not crossed Matovus mind that he had HIV/Aids until he saw his wife struck with herpes zoster (kisipi), and himself having on-and-off episodes of ill-health.



NEW LEASE OF LIFE

Following the death of his wife, Matovu married Joyce Naggayi.

That is when I understood the entire village knew that I had Aids, because wherever I was away, they would come home and tell her that she had come to die, Matovu says.

Strangely, his first child with Naggayi tested negative but the two that followed died in infancy as the couple also got sicklier. In 2002, Matovu tested positive for HIV at KMO and was introduced to antiretroviral (ARV) treatment at Uganda Cares clinic in Masaka hospital.

Since it was just starting in Uganda, the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF)-funded Uganda Cares was enrolling patients resident in Masaka district. This was part of the initial arrangement between AHF and then Masaka LCV chairman, Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, the current minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, having visited their headquarters in Los Angeles, USA.

Ssentongo was not about to see another of her pioneer community workers die. She thus advised Matovu not to make any mention of his Rakai residence while at Uganda Cares, but claim that he was a resident of Ssenyange in Masaka municipality.

Since that day, [Ssentongo] got a special place in my heart because all hope was gone since the available ARV treatment was for the rich, Matovu says.

A year later, Naggayi was also started on ARVs and has since given birth to four HIV-negative children.

When she got sick, her relatives came to take her away, but I told them that unless they were taking her to die, it was better to leave her with me because there was a chance of her getting treatment, Matovu remembers.

AHF has since been renamed Uganda Cares and spread its services beyond Masaka hospital to cover the entire country.

While Matovu goes to Kiruuli primary school to teach, Naggayi remains at home tending to their plantations and family.

She is also a member of a womens group that weaves crafts for sale. Last week, I found her with other women weaving baskets. Death is not something she dwells on, thanks to ARVs.

We are now living a hopeful life; we are engaged in productive activities to ensure a better future for our children, she says.

The survival of orphaned children was one of the major problems that the early caregivers were confronted with.

As we treated the patients, they would ask us, I am going to die anyway, but what will happen to my children? It was a challenge we had to find an immediate intervention for, Ssentongo says.

At the time, you could find an entire village with child-headed households. Without means of survival, the orphans became a source of cheap labour on plantations, while some of the girls ended up in sex work in small townships and landing sites, ending up with HIV too.

By the early 1990s, other organisations such as The Aids Support Organisation (TASO), World Vision, Rakai Health Sciences Program and InterAid International, among others, had come with interventions on child and school support.

As InterAid, we basically went in to do a needs assessment survey but the situation on ground forced us to come in with interventions such as education support, building houses for the orphaned children, community empowerment and support for the caregivers, says former Kakuuto MP Mathias Kasamba, who was once a field officer with InterAid International.

At one point, the entire enrolment at St Nicholas Manya primary school in Kifamba sub-county was comprised of children orphaned by Aids, supported mainly by Kitovu Mobile Aids Organisation and World Vision.

That was before the introduction of Universal Primary Education [UPE], but many of them could not continue with school after P7, which offered another challenge that we had to think of an intervention that would give them practical skills; that is how we introduced the mobile farm schools, Ssentongo said.

The greater Masaka sub-region remains inspirational with how a disease that started there was eventually tamed and pilot programmes first used in the districts of Rakai and Masaka eventually became models embraced by government and sub-Saharan Africa.



sadabkk@observer.ug
Deputy editorial page editor

As this appalling year limps to a close, with President Trump consistently underperforming even the lowest of expectations, a note of holiday cheer: Our countrys institutions and values have, so far, proven remarkably resilient.

This outcome was not a given; complacency that it will continue would be dangerous. And yet, after nearly a year of Trump, the warnings about incipient fascism and the insidious ways strongmen acquire power feel overblown. I suspected so from the start, but I wasnt sure  nor should we be cocky about the future.

Still, for now, there are reasons for optimism in the performance of the media, the courts and, yes, even the Republican-dominated Congress  undergirded and reinforced by the American people.

On the media: How scary it is to have a president who derides us as "the enemy of the American people." To have a cable news network that inflames his worst instincts and recklessly flings suggestions of a "coup" by special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. To have nearly half the public, egged on by Trump's bellowing about "fake news," believing that reporters simply invent negative stories about the president.

But while Trump & Co. went to war against the press, we went to work, to paraphrase Post Executive Editor Martin Baron. Without that work, the public would probably not know about: former national security adviser Michael Flynn's contacts with the Russians; Donald Trump Jr.'s "I love it" meeting with a Russian lawyer peddling dirt on Hillary Clinton, and the president's efforts to mislead people about the event; Trump's description of fired FBI director James B. Comey as a "nut job" in a meeting with Russian officials in which he also divulged highly classified information. The list goes on.

And for all the Trump-fomented anger at and distrust of the media, the president has stirred up something else. For the first time in my career, people are thanking me and my colleagues for what we do, a development that is at once gratifying and unsettling. (Its our job.) Digital subscriptions are soaring at The Post and the New York Times, which helps provide the resources for more rigorous reporting.

The courts have also stood their institutional ground  notwithstanding, and perhaps in response to, Trump's demonstrated contempt for an independent judiciary. All three versions of Trump's misguided effort to ban entry of citizens from certain Muslim-majority nations have been struck down by courts, although the Supreme Court has allowed the latest one to take effect while the litigation continues. So was his attempt to deny federal funding to so-called sanctuary cities. So was his cruel, ignorant effort to ban transgender people from serving in the military. So was his bid to prevent undocumented teenagers from exercising their right to abortion.

All of this could be ephemeral. The ideological balance of the Supreme Court is precarious, and the seat that was denied to President Barack Obama (and Merrick Garland) and occupied by Justice Neil M. Gorsuch will matter long after we are rid of Trump. In contrast to Trumps incompetence in staffing up the executive branch, and with the exception of a few jaw-droppingly unqualified lower-court nominees, the Trump team has been diligent in filling the judicial vacancies Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) maneuvered to leave for him.

It is beyond naive to think that these changes wont matter. But I am not  not yet?  disillusioned enough to believe that this transformation will leave the separation of powers and the rule of law defenseless. A Trump-infused judiciary will not always rule the way I would like, but I remain confident that even conservative judges and justices would resist his most authoritarian, unconstitutional impulses.

And speaking of separation of powers, there is Congress. It may strain optimism to consider congressional Republicans, with their rammed-through tax bill and fawning obeisance to Trump, as any kind of bulwark against his excesses.

Yet we have seen repeated episodes of congressional resistance, enough of it to make a difference, whether to manifestly unqualified judicial nominees or to ill-intentioned efforts to dismantle the health-care law. Even this Congress, even before the changes that 2018 may bring, has pursued investigations into Trumps Russia ties and would rebel at any effort to fire Mueller or obstruct his probe, despite the current outcry.

I am not saying this has been a good year. Indeed, it was dreadful. But if Trump was even worse than we expected, our system, imperfect and battered as it is, withstood the onslaught. This is a terrible moment in our nations history, but I am betting it is just that  a moment, not a death knell.

Read more from Ruth Marcus's archive, follow her on Twitter or subscribe to her updates on Facebook.
Thanks mostly to President Trump, Democrats believe they are poised for good things in 2018: the possibility of taking control of the House and gains elsewhere in the midterm elections. But planning victory laps would be premature. Whatever their prospects for the fall campaigns, the Democrats are still in need of renovation and renewal.

Many current indicators point to rough days ahead for the Republicans, unless passage of the tax bill somehow changes their fortunes. From the presidents low approval ratings to the high energy among rank-and-file Democrats, as well as recent polls showing that the public prefers Democratic candidates for the House by a sizable margin, there is ample evidence that the GOP faces a typically bad midterm election year, or possibly worse. One caveat to all that: In the era of Trump, traditional metrics should not be taken for granted.

The Democrats need a net gain of 24 seats to take control of the House and a net of two to secure the majority in the Senate. The Cook Political Report lists 17 Republican-held seats as toss-ups and one as leaning to the Democrats. Another 22 GOP seats are in the lean Republican category, meaning they are at risk next year. In contrast, Cooks team lists just four Democratic seats as toss-ups and five as lean Democrat.

The Senate remains a heavier lift, largely because Democrats are defending far more seats and have only a few opportunities to take away GOP-held seats.

The ample availability of competitive House districts is one reason there is a growing consensus, or at least a rising chorus among the political class, proclaiming a tsunami-in-the-making across America. If that turns out to be the case, Democrats would have the power to frustrate Trumps and the GOPs agenda while putting the president himself under a microscope. Many Democrats salivate at the prospect.

A Democratic takeover of the House would transform the politics of Washington. But would it necessarily represent a transformation of the Democratic Party? As with all midterm elections, particularly those that take place in a presidents first term, such a result would say much more about perceptions of Trump and his party than being an affirmation of the Democratic Party.

Despite the positive indicators about the midterms, Democrats face questions about their future as a party that now controls nothing in Washington and far less in the states than they did at the beginning of Barack Obamas presidency. Among those questions are such basics as their agenda, their geographic limitations and their leadership.

Democrats could assume they can push those vulnerabilities to the sidelines during a midterm election year with a campaign message that is almost exclusively anti-Trump. But as even many Democrats acknowledge, something more than that will be needed to regain widespread trust of voters across the country and begin the process of rebuilding the party in places where it suffered losses over the past decade.

Democrats stand for many things that are popular with a majority of Americans. They oppose cutting tax rates for the wealthiest taxpayers. They oppose changes to Medicare and Social Security that would reduce future benefits or notably alter the eligibility requirements. And they want some immigrants, known as dreamers, to be able to stay in this country and not face the threat of deportation over the fact that they were brought to the United States illegally by their parents.

But there are hard questions for the Democrats. What exactly is their health-care policy likely to be in the future? Stand pat with the 2010 Affordable Care Act after some modifications? Move toward a single-payer plan, as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and others now advocate?

What is their economic policy, other than rhetoric about helping working families? What is their response to concerns among many workers about the impact of globalization  more free trade or a rollback? What about cultural issues that are vitally important to a substantial portion of the partys base but that play less well with others who have defected to the Republican Party?

Hillary Clinton learned in 2016 that a laundry list of programs does not necessarily translate into a compelling message. Democrats recoil at Trumps Make America Great Again slogan as one that would take the country back to a time when women and minorities had fewer rights and opportunities, but Democrats also continue to struggle to enunciate a new America message that resonates powerfully, especially between the East and West coasts.



Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer D-N.Y.), left, accompanied by Sen. Bernie Sanders I-Vt.), second from right, and Sen. Ron Wyden D-Ore.), right, speaks at a news conference Dec. 19 following a Senate policy luncheon on Capitol Hill. (Andrew Harnik/AP)

The partys geographical challenges will be put to the test starting in 2018. One reason for Democrats optimism is that there are more than a dozen vulnerable House seats in blue states and several others in suburban areas in states Trump won but that have gone Democratic in the past. A fuller test of the partys ability to rebuild will come in gubernatorial races in the Midwest.

Among states in that region with contests in 2018, Republicans hold the governorships in Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa. The Democrats best opportunity will be in Illinois, their worst in Iowa. Democrats also must defend governorships in Pennsylvania and Minnesota. Those results, along with the outcome of legislative races in those industrial and Midwestern battlegrounds, will offer clues about the rebirth of the party.

The partys leadership also is an issue of concern. In the House, the top three Democratic leaders are in their late 70s. In the Senate, the two top leaders are in their late 60s or early 70s. None shows signs of stepping back.

Among the partys prospective presidential candidates, Sanders is 76, former vice president Joe Biden is 75, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) is 68. Who among them will run in 2020 isnt known, but one issue for Democratic voters that year will be whether they are prepared to look to a different generation.

Howard Dean, the former governor of Vermont and former chair of the Democratic National Committee, has been a one-person chorus calling for a generational change in leadership for his party in 2020. He has said he would like to see his party nominate someone age 55 or younger, preferably 50 or younger. His argument is that the party needs a new-generation leader who can speak to the future more authentically than someone a decade or two older.

Dean noted that younger Americans  say, under 35  are one of the most important constituencies for Democrats (those younger than 30 voted better than 2-to-1 for Virginia Gov.-elect Ralph Northam in November). But Dean recognizes that these younger voters are more loosely aligned to political parties than older generations, and organize and mobilize differently than past generations.

He believes it will be essential to find a presidential candidate who both reflects those attitudes and can energize those younger voters. Youve got to have a candidate who really turns people on, and I think somebody much closer to this generation would be this person, Dean said in a telephone interview on Friday.

Democrats see a divided Republican Party led by Trump as an easy target for criticism. For now, that will remain the principal focus heading into the midterm elections. But as they begin what amounts to a three-year campaign cycle of midterm elections followed by a critically important 2020 presidential race, will Democrats be forthright in assessing and dealing with their own vulnerabilities?


Noah Kunin, the former infrastructure director of 18F, a digital services agency within the General Services Administration, left the government this summer. (Tim Gruber/For The Washington Post)

Nearly a year into his takeover of Washington, President Trump has made a significant down payment on his campaign pledge to shrink the federal bureaucracy, a shift long sought by conservatives that could eventually bring the workforce down to levels not seen in decades.

By the end of September, all Cabinet departments except Homeland Security, Veterans Affairs and Interior had fewer permanent staff than when Trump took office in January  with most shedding many hundreds of employees, according to an analysis of federal personnel data by The Washington Post.

The diminishing federal footprint comes after Trump promised in last years campaign to cut so much your head will spin, and it reverses a boost in hiring under President Barack Obama. The falloff has been driven by an exodus of civil servants, a diminished corps of political appointees and an effective hiring freeze.

Even though Congress did not pass a new budget in his first year, the drastic spending cuts Trump laid out in the spring  which would slash more than 30 percent of funding at some agencies  also has triggered a spending slowdown, according to officials at multiple departments.

The White House is now warning agencies to brace for even deeper cuts in the 2019 budget it will announce early next year, part of an effort to lower the federal deficit to pay for the new tax law, according to officials briefed on the budgets for their agencies. One possible casualty: a pay raise that federal employees historically have received when the economy is humming.

The administrations effort so far to reshape the workforce of nearly 2 million civil servants that serves as the backbone of the government already has provoked a contentious culture shift.

Federal workers fret that their jobs could be zeroed out amid buyouts and early retirement offers that already have prompted hundreds of their colleagues to leave, according to interviews with three dozen employees across the government. Many chafed as supervisors laid down new rules they said are aimed at holding poor performers and problem workers to account.

A hiring freeze technically lifted in the spring has been kept in practice at most agencies, hollowing out many offices. And the slow pace of political appointments has left a number of departments with a leadership vacuum in their upper ranks.

Morale has never been lower, said Tony Reardon, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, which represents 150,000 federal workers at more than 30 agencies. Government is making itself a lot less attractive as an employer.

[Trumps priorities in funding and cutting are keenly felt by federal workforce]

Administration officials said that Trump has actually improved employee morale, citing an annual survey of federal workers taken in the spring that showed a slight uptick across most agencies. They said they are streamlining the government to make it leaner and more effective.

In a statement, White House spokesman Raj Shah said Trump is committed to streamlining government for the 21st century, reducing bloat, duplication and waste, and focusing resources on key priorities like public safety and protecting our nations homeland.

Conservatives who have long pushed for smaller government are cheered by the developments.

This is going very well, said anti-tax activist Grover Norquist, who famously once quipped that he wanted to shrink government small enough so he could drown it in the bathtub.

Slow and steady  for all the bluster, this is how you downsize government without engendering blowback, Norquist added.

And some civil servants said they welcome the focus on rooting out waste and holding federal workers to high standards.

Oftentimes we run on autopilot and continue to fund programs that dont produce the results that were intended, said Stephanie Valentine, a program analyst at the Education Department. You cant keep blindly spending because thats what weve always done.

Trump already has begun to reverse the growth of the Obama era, when the government added a total of 188,000 permanent employees, according to Office of Personnel Management data.

By the end of September, the federal government had 1.94 million permanent workers, down nearly 16,000 overall since the beginning of the year, according to the most recent OPM data. In the first nine months of 2009, Obamas first year in office, the government added 68,000 permanent employees, growing to 1.84 million.

The last time federal employment dropped during a presidents first year, President Bill Clinton was in the White House.

The relatively small net decrease under Trump so far masks what has been a substantial drop-off in staffing at certain agencies.

One of the biggest reductions has been at the Bureau of Prisons, which lost 2,320 permanent workers at a time when the Justice Department plans to return to using private prisons to house some federal inmates. (A spokesman said the staffing decline was largely due to attrition and hiring delays.) The Census Bureau, which has not received its full budget request from Congress for multiple years, fell by more than 1,000 employees. The Environmental Protection Agency, where Administrator Scott Pruitt has moved quickly to reverse a generation of environmental protections and rules, was down 508 employees.

The shrinking federal workforce could end up undercutting some of Trumps priorities. Employment within the Defense Department, which Trump has promised to beef up, dropped by 1 percent, or 7,811 civilian workers across all branches of the military.

And the Internal Revenue Service, which is charged with the complex task of implementing Trumps tax overhaul plan, lost 6,801 permanent staffers in the first nine months of this year, a drop of nearly 9 percent, personnel data shows.





To the exits

There are signs that Trumps polarizing presidency has helped drive more civil servants to the exits this year  voluntary departures that have contributed to the shrinking workforce.

During the first six months of the administration, 71,285 career employees quit or retired. Thats up from 50,000 who left during the same period in 2009, according to the most recent OPM data.

Among them is Noah Kunin, the former infrastructure director for 18F, the high-profile office created in the General Services Administration in 2014 to boost the governments digital services.

Kunin said he lost staff who did not want to work for the new administration  and then was unable to replace them because of the early hiring freeze. He said he grew frustrated with what he called a slow start by the White House on bringing private-sector solutions to the government.

I was involved in several major initiatives, and they were all stalled, he recalled.

When he heard former FBI director James B. Comey tell Congress in June that Trump had asked him for his personal loyalty, Kunin said his red line was crossed.

Now working in Minneapolis as a software consultant, Kunin says the decision was the most personal choice Ive ever made: to stay engaged or leave.

In some agencies, the number of people leaving has been crippling, according to former officials. At the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a wave of recent retirements has depleted the managerial staff at the enforcement agencys 70 field offices, said Jordan Barab, who was a top OSHA official in the Obama administration. In all, the agency shed 119 permanent workers by the end of September, a 6 percent drop, personnel data shows.

Its starting to create major problems, Barab said. Enforcement actions must be reviewed by supervisors in multiple offices, he said, and if too many months pass, they can be thrown out. You cant run an enforcement agency with no managers.

A spokesman for the Labor Department declined to comment on the current number of OSHA managers but said that new inspectors have been hired in recent months, helping increase the number of safety and health inspections in 2017  the first such boost in five years.

Across the government, roughly a third of workers who were hired in 2015 will be eligible to retire by 2020, according to the Government Accountability Office. But one of the best pipelines for getting young talent into the government has languished this year.

The Presidential Management Fellows program, a prestigious internship for top graduate students, has been unable to place many recruits because of a lingering hiring freeze at many agencies, according to a half-dozen current fellows.

Meanwhile, other federal workers are in limbo because their jobs could cease to exist. Thats the precarious state right now of the tiny Chemical Safety Board, one of 19 small agencies Trump has marked for elimination.

The $11 million office investigates the causes of major chemical accidents and makes recommendations for safety improvements. In early December, a White House budget official told Chairperson Vanessa Allen Sutherland that because the deficit has grown, the safety board must do its part and prepare to shut down, she said.



Vanessa Allen Sutherland, chairperson of the Chemical Safety Board, sits at her desk . President Trump has marked her agency for elimination, but no members of Congress have yet concurred. (T.J. Kirkpatrick/The Washington Post)

So far, no members of Congress have called for the board to be eliminated. But Sutherland is still busy bolstering the spirits of her 43 employees while formulating a shutdown plan. I think Ill definitely be there to turn out the light switches and take the Styrofoam cups with me, she said.

Slow to appoint

Trump has also moved slowly in appointing the most important personnel in his government: the political leaders who are supposed to be the architects of his vision.

View Graphic Tracking how many key positions Trump has filled so far

Of 624 key political positions requiring Senate confirmation, just 240 were confirmed as of Friday, according to data tracked by The Washington Post and the nonprofit Partnership for Public Service.

A slow recruitment and vetting process, combined with drawn-out Senate confirmation schedules, stalled the process. As of last week, 79 nominees across the government had waited more than 100 days for a Senate hearing.

But the president has also expressed skepticism that such appointees are valuable.

I tell my people, Where you dont need to fill slots, dont fill them,  Trump told conservative radio host Laura Ingraham in November.

In the meantime, many agencies have relied heavily on career employees in acting leadership roles. But their leadership can be tentative.

Some careerists feel paralyzed, said Reginald Wells, who recently retired from the Social Security Administration as human resources chief. They dont want to make a mistake.

At the Labor Department, most top political posts still lack Trump appointees. For months, Secretary Alexander Acostas chief of staff doubled up jobs, serving as the departments chief lawyer in an acting capacity until the Senate confirmed Trumps nominee late this month.

The clock ran out for hundreds of acting officials in November when a little-known law called the Vacancies Act  designed to spur presidents to staff their government  kicked in, limiting them from making official decisions.

The law allows acting officials to serve for up to 300 days, at which point they must yield their authority to the agency head, unless the president has nominated someone to the job. An official action taken in violation of the law could face a legal challenge.

That forced a complicated workaround at Immigration and Customs Enforcement, where Deputy Director Thomas Homan has been serving as acting director while he awaits confirmation.

For now, to continue to act as ICE chief, he has been signing his name with this title: deputy director and senior official performing the duties of the director.

Other agencies have been virtually paralyzed without political appointees.

The small Merit Systems Protection Board, which considers appeals from federal employees who believe they were unfairly fired or demoted, has not heard a case in 11 months.

One of Obamas appointees to the three-member board left in January, leaving two vacancies. Trump has yet to nominate anyone to the panel. With no quorum, the lone board member, Republican Mark Robbins, cannot take action on a backlog of more than 700 cases dating to early 2015.

His father jokes that he is a highly paid bureaucrat with nothing to do. But Robbins said he keeps busy reading cases and writing his opinion of each one. Then he carries each file across the hall to two empty offices piled high with legal accordion files, where they await review by future board members.

Robbins insisted that the administration hasnt been ignoring us, adding that he hopes for a quorum by spring.

Even key White House posts have gone unfilled.



Boxes of case files are stored in the offices of the Merit Systems Protection Board. (T.J. Kirkpatrick/The Washington Post)

The president still has no science adviser. And the Office of Management and Budget is waiting for the Senate to confirm its nominees for deputy director and controller  vital positions tasked with restructuring the government.

Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-Va.), an advocate for modernizing federal technology systems, said that eight of 24 agencies are without chief information officers.

Were losing momentum in the fight against cyberattacks, he said.

Federal contractors, including defense giant General Dynamics, have complained in earnings calls that leadership vacancies have slowed contract awards and delayed getting money authorized and appropriated.

Its very important to have senior leaders in place to make those long-term commitments, said Alan Chvotkin, executive vice president of the Professional Services Council, a trade group that represents federal contractors.





Culture shift

For those inside the bureaucracy, a new Trump-era focus on accountability has meant working under greater oversight  and in some cases, fear of reprisals.

Agencies have told employees that they should no longer count on getting glowing reviews in their performance appraisals, according to staff in multiple offices, as has been the case for years.

Housing and Urban Development managers, for example, are being evaluated for the first time on how effectively they address poor performers, according to Ashaki Robinson Johns, president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 476, which represents HUD employees.

Telework  a popular Obama-era policy that expanded work from home  has come under scrutiny as Trump officials have questioned whether it is a license to goof off. The Agriculture and Commerce departments are now moving to restrict the flexible work policy, in some offices by half the amount of time previously permitted, according to documents and employees.

A spokesman for Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said that while he recognizes that telework is widely used in the public and private sectors, he has asked agency heads to make sure that they have systems in place to assure that managements objectives are met.

[Trump has a plan for government workers. Theyre not going to like it.]

There are also tensions over forced reassignments for employees whom Trump officials view as out of sync with their agencys priorities.

Matthew Allen, a former Pentagon spokesman and onetime communications chief for the Bureau of Land Management, said he found himself quickly marginalized after he suggested that the bureau should share more public information about its activities.

In late September, he was abruptly transferred to another office and demoted  among dozens of senior executives whom Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke reassigned in the fall. The Interior Department's inspector general is investigating the reassignments.

Allen said he witnessed a level of paranoia about whistleblowing and information that Ive never encountered in all my years of federal service. A spokeswoman for the Interior Department declined to comment, noting that Allen has a pending lawsuit against the agency.

The administration has made its biggest push for employee accountability at Veterans Affairs, which was found in 2014 to have covered up excessive wait times for patients. In June, the president signed a law allowing the agency to fire or demote poor performers or employees accused of misconduct with 15 days notice.

In a Veterans Day speech at Arlington National Cemetery, Vice President Pence drew applause from the crowd when he said that VA had fired or suspended more than 1,500 employees for negligent behavior.

In a letter to the White House, House Republicans recently asked if other agencies should have the same firing powers.

The mood is different, said Debra DAgostino, founding partner of the Federal Practice Group, a law firm representing federal employees. In October alone, the firm took on 30 new clients facing proposed removals  up from the usual one or two a month, she said.

Theres a feeling out there that theyre not going to get as much pushback for trying to fire someone, she said.

Some civil servants have sought to stay as a bulwark against changes at their agency.

At Veterans Affairs, John Fuller wrestled with leaving for months. A retired Army major, hes a lifelong Republican who voted for Trump. He has played a pioneering role in the federal government as VAs chief race relations and culture educator, traveling the country to meet with employees in small groups to heal racial divisions.

I have so much passion for the job left, the 65-year-old said in early December. But Fuller said he was told his travel budget would be shifted to other priorities.

Days before Christmas. Fuller put in his retirement papers. In a letter to VA, he blamed officials for pulling support from what he called a genuine race relations dialogue that drew acclaim across the government.

His retirement is effective Jan. 15.

Juliet Eilperin contributed to this report. The files and methodology used in the data analysis for this story can be found at wapo.st/trump-bureaucracy.
Protests broke out Dec. 28 in the northern city of Mashhad and now include more than two dozen towns.

Jan. 3, 2018 A pro-government demonstrator stands under an Iranian flag during a march in Irans southwestern city of Ahvaz. Morteza Jaberian/AFP/Getty Images
Saudi Arabia's King Salman welcomes President Trump to dance with a sword during a ceremony in Riyadh in May 2017. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

President Trumps public rebuke of Saudi Arabia this month for its role in the conflict in Yemen was an impromptu move quickly set in motion after intelligence officials presented him with images of the deepening humanitarian crisis there, officials said.

In a strongly worded statement that surprised foreign diplomats and even key figures in his administration, Trump called on Saudi Arabia to allow food and supplies to reach the Yemeni people who desperately need it.

This must be done for humanitarian reasons immediately, he said.

The Dec. 6 statement marked a striking departure for a president who has shown unflinching support for the kingdom's leadership. Administration officials say it was instrumental in Saudi Arabia's decision to temporarily suspend its blockade of the Red Sea port of Hodeida, though critics question how much the move will ease the suffering in Yemen's nearly three-year-old war.

The episode also highlights the powerful role that depictions of civilian suffering overseas have had in stirring a president who took office with a clear domestic focus and little foreign policy experience. Sometimes they have triggered sudden, consequential responses from the president.



A girl displaced by the war in the northwestern areas of Yemen stands outside her family's makeshift hut on a street in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Dec. 25, 2017. (Abduljabbar Zeyad/Reuters)

In April, Trump decided to launch Tomahawk missiles at a Syrian air base after televised images of victims of a chemical weapons attack, including lifeless children, had what he said was a big impact on him. It was the first direct U.S. assault on the government of President Bashar al-Assad in that countrys civil war, a seeming break with the administrations policy on the Syrian leader.

[Horrible pictures of suffering moved Trump to action on Syria]

Trump's public critique of Saudi Arabia capped a weeks-long behind-the-scenes effort as U.S. officials sought to persuade Saudi leaders to fully lift the blockade, which it imposed on Yemeni ports, airports and land crossings after Houthi rebels fired a missile toward Riyadh's international airport Nov. 4. But the private entreaties from diplomats and White House aides lacked the impact of Trump's action.

When the criticism comes from State, they can discount it because thats just the bureaucracy talking, said Gerald M. Feierstein, an expert on Persian Gulf nations and a former U.S. ambassador to Yemen. But if theyre losing Donald Trump, they have to be concerned about the state of the relationship.

Intelligence officials highlighted deteriorating conditions in Yemen as part of the Presidents Daily Brief (PDB) the morning of Dec. 6, as Trump prepared to meet with Cabinet officials, according to officials familiar with the days events. Hours after the briefing, which included imagery related to the crisis, the White House issued Trumps terse, first-person statement.

Officials said the president previously had been briefed on the humanitarian crisis, but one official with knowledge of the Dec. 6 briefing said it had prompted him to push the United States to take a harder stance. Since then, the president has asked periodically about Yemen, the official said.

While it was a relatively spontaneous decision, it also brought to a climax many months of discussions and wrangling on the issue of how to ease the humanitarian plight in Yemen, a senior U.S. official said of Trumps statement that day. Like others interviewed for this report, he spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly about the issue.

As they have for other presidents, intelligence briefers frequently have employed imagery and graphics to illustrate complex conditions overseas for Trump in the PDB and other briefings. Officials close to Trump say the former reality-TV star has been particularly drawn to photos and images used in those presentations.

He doesnt have the attention span or the patience to sit and comb through books or briefing materials, said Tim OBrien, a Trump biographer and longtime observer. Trump also has made a habit, OBrien said, of making instinctive decisions based on what he sees.

He makes snap judgments because he thinks his instincts are unerring, OBrien said.

[U.S. plan to help Yemenis obtain humanitarian aid falters, amid growing food crisis]

David Priess, a former CIA officer and intelligence briefer, said content presented in the PDB has the potential to shape presidential perceptions. Something that is emotional, that is heartbreaking, has the ability to change policy, he said.

A spokesman for the National Security Council said Trumps statement was entirely consistent with and a natural progression from earlier statements from the White House, State Department and other agencies.

We have a very strong partnership with Saudi Arabia and engage regularly on a broad range of issues, including Yemen, the spokesman said.

The conflict in Yemen has presented a dilemma for the United States since gulf countries led by Saudi Arabia intervened in 2015 to contain a rebellion that they said was stoked by regional rival Iran.

U.S. officials have been eager to demonstrate their support for Saudi Arabia, which has faced multiple missile attacks by the Houthi rebel movement. But they also have sought to distance themselves from the kingdoms management of the conflict, which critics say has been characterized by indiscriminate Saudi airstrikes and inaction in the face of civilian suffering.

The United States has provided military support, mostly in the form of weapons sales and aircraft refueling assistance, to Saudi Arabia since the beginning of the conflict.

President Barack Obama's administration was sharply critical of Saudi Arabia's humanitarian stance, but there was a sense that such pressure might subside after Trump took office, as the new president embraced the gulf nation's leaders and vowed to help them push back against Iran. Trump has repeatedly defended the kingdom's ruling family, including after a controversial internal purge.

But U.S. officials have grown increasingly concerned as the conflict  driven by the rebels and the Saudi-led coalition  has caused needless civilian casualties, led to as many as 1 million cases of cholera and pushed millions to the brink of famine.

[Yemen is on the brink of a horrible famine. Heres how things got so bad.]

Saudi Arabia, which blames the Houthis for the crisis, identified Hodeida as a priority because, it says, weaponry used to attack Saudi interests is smuggled through the port.

Initially, U.S. officials made their appeals privately. At the State Department, Deputy Secretary John J. Sullivan met with aid groups. White House aides engaged with Saudi diplomats.

But many officials say it was Trumps public pressure that led the Saudi government to announce later in December that it would permit both humanitarian and commercial shipments, including desperately needed fuel, into Hodeida for 30 days.

Aid groups remain concerned that it will take longer than that to unload supplies and are skeptical that the port will be handed over to the United Nations as planned, raising the likelihood that the blockade may be reimposed in short order.

As long as imports through Hodeida are threatened, the worst mass atrocity in decades remains scarily on the horizon, said Scott Paul, senior humanitarian policy adviser at Oxfam America.

Perry Cammack, who was an Obama administration official and is now at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said the Trump administration must signal to Saudi Arabia that it is willing to withhold military support.

President Trump now has Saudi Arabias attention, he said. But to meaningfully ameliorate the catastrophic conditions in Yemen, hell need to signal that his December 6 statement constitutes not just a rhetorical flourish but a real change in policy.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 29/12/2017 (1785 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

After a lifetime dedicated to Franco-Manitoban theatre, a former Winnipeg director will be appointed to the Order of Canada.

Roland Mahe, who was the artistic director of Cercle Moliere in St. Boniface for 44 years, is being recognized for developing francophone theatre and drama.

On Friday, Gov. Gen. Julie Payette announced the names of 124 Canadians to be inducted into the Order of Canada.

Roland Mahe

Its exciting for me but its also exciting for the whole company, Mahe said. Its recognizing the importance of French theatre in Manitoba and its accomplishments here.

Such achievements include evolving the Cercle Moliere to professional status from an amateur theatre. Founded in 1925, it is the oldest permanent theatre company in Canada.

Mahe has also directed plays that both English and French speaking Manitobans could enjoy. Cercle Moliere stages its productions in French, but offers tablets that provide English subtitles.

This widened the scope of their audience and eliminated barriers between the two groups, Mahe said.

I was passionate for my work and the people that I worked with. We did so many innovative things throughout the years with authors from (Winnipeg) in the French community, said Mahe, who has directed around 200 plays.

Mahe remembered attending his first play when he was about seven years old, almost 70 years ago.

He recalled being on the edge of his seat throughout the play, enticed by the set, the costumes and the actors.

As much as he loved the spectacle, he never anticipated a career in theatre. He attended the University of Manitoba and graduated with a fine arts degree with the goal of being a teacher.

Teaching wasnt good for me, so I thought, maybe theatre will be for me. I was doing amateur theatre at the time and I really enjoyed it, he said.

It started as a family affair, directing his brother, sister and parents in family plays and it soon morphed into an overwhelming passion for theatre.

While attending theatre school in 1967 in Strasbourg, France, Mahe received a call offering him the job as the artistic director at Cercle Moliere.

I love discovering new things and new ideas and learning from human nature, from our experiences in life, the tragic and the comic and the ordinary, he said.

Its really exciting when you can share this with the public, and when you know the public is with you. And they were with me for all my years (as a director).

Since retiring, Mahe visits the Cercle Moliere often, but instead of being backstage, hes front row, once again on the edge of his seat.

He will receive his honour at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in 2018.

kiera.kowalski@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 29/12/2017 (1785 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

CHURCHILL  There are two signs outside Churchills medical centre: one uses its title of health centre while the other brands it a hospital in capital letters.

The centre is at a crossroads. Residents hope it will expand to take pressure off Winnipegs crowded waiting rooms. But they fear it will turn into a nursing station that relies on flights down south, a phenomenon thats already stressing pregnant women.

This is an opportunity, Churchill Mayor Mike Spence said.

Dylan Robertson / Winnipeg Free Press Files The hospital includes a 24-7 emergency room, an operating room, a morgue, and wards for both primary care and long-term patients needing palliative and respite care.

He sees the hospital as a key economic driver for the subarctic port town, which lost its rail link to the south in May. Were looking at a re-emergence.

The hospital has declined since its 1975 opening, when the town housed thousands of troops stationed at a rocket base during the Cold War. A decade later, as the military largely pulled out, the hospital focused on serving communities north on Hudson Bay, in what is now Nunavut.

By 1998, the centre served 6,000 people between the town and points north, hospital records show. But since the territory was founded a year later, Nunavut has ramped up its own local health services, dropping demand for Churchill.

Those who do come stay in whats called a transient centre, where the territory pays room and board. The 26-bed boarding homes eastern wall is painted with the Nunavut flag, whose red Inukshuk can be seen when driving in from the airport.

The hospital holds a 24-7 emergency room, an operating room, a morgue, and wards for both primary care and long-term patients needing palliative and respite care. It can accommodate visiting dentists, gynecologists and physiotherapists.

The hospitals become the largest employer in this town of roughly 850, with 130 full-time jobs, including the hospital cafeteria which doubles as a lunchroom for the school and daycare.

The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority has been the hospital administrator since 2012. Laura Wessman, its chief operating officer, says that reflects how patients will often be sent to Winnipeg to see specialists or go for surgeries.

I try to get people to think of the Churchill hospital as just another hospital in the WRHA, she said. Its very integrated and I think having the support and the help of the WRHA has been incredibly beneficial.

She says the hospital plays a pivotal role in the town, where shes lived for three years.

Its certainly designed for a greater population. I think you could say its underused, she says. Theres a sort of consensus that we could accommodate a higher volume.

Dylan Robertson / Winnipeg Free Press files Two signs are seen outside the Churchill Health Centre. One sign indicates its a hospital, while the other doesnt.

The WRHA did not authorize the Free Press to tour the hospital, as Wessman was out of town. But a stroll through its wards shows a good amount of space, and some rooms appear empty.

The hospital lost its birthing unit after Nunavut launched one in Rankin Inlet, drastically reducing the number of people who flew south to give birth.

Thats now resulted in the same problem in Churchill, where there arent enough pregnancies to sustain a birthing unit. For years, parents have taken a plane down to Winnipeg or Thompson on the provinces dime, while most have had to pay their own hotel expenses.

Some opted to take the train down to Thompson, to keep their families close by, and even managed to negotiate an extra passenger for the trip.

Churchill resident Echo Finlay runs programming for new parents in the town. She says that travelling south puts so much of a burden on families that its leading to the children developing trust issues.

We are stressing our parents out so much that were instigating detachment disorders, Finlay said. Thats setting them up for failure.

Finlay, who sits on the provincial board of Michif Child and Family Services, has even heard of parents temporarily surrendering their children to CFS care to give birth in Winnipeg and then reuniting with the children before foster proceedings.

We have to find a more permanent solution than what weve got now.

Some residents have heard of neighbours timing their pregnancies around the shipping and tourism seasons, though the Free Press could not find someone who had made that choice, nor someone who had temporarily surrendered their children to CFS.

Dylan Robertson / Winnipeg Free Press files Churchill resident Echo Finlay, who runs programs for new parents, says travelling south to have a baby disrupts family ties. The hospital lost its birthing unit years ago.

In a statement, the WRHA said it moved births after setting up a centre in Thompson that accommodates mothers from across the north. It confirmed the move was made because of the decline in Churchills population and Nunavut patients.

While the travel from Churchill is not ideal, having access to care providers who regularly perform deliveries and have more access to, and experience with, deliveries does provide a better, safer patient experience, which is why the decision was made to divert delivery services to Thompson or Winnipeg, Bronwyn Penner-Holigroski wrote.

To stave off further losses, the mayor is pushing the Manitoba government to beef up Churchills role.

Spence says locals have tried to shore up mental-health services, with limited progress. He feels the towns stunning views and wildlife can help patients and their families as they work through trauma, in a better way than a large city like Winnipeg.

Provincial officials said no one could speak this month about how Churchill fits into the continuing health reform.

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
Between Monday and Wednesday last week, Members of parliament debated and eventually voted to pass the controversial Constitution Amendment (No2) Bill 2017, which essentially removed age limits for presidential candidates.

It also extended the tenure of MPs and local government leaders to seven years and reinstated presidential term limits.

JOSEPH KIMBOWA, ARTHUR MATSIKO & JOSEPHINE NAMULOKI recorded proceedings and presents the first of our two-part series. Excerpts:-



RWEMULIKYA IBANDA, (NTOROKO), NRM

When I went to Ntoroko, they told me to support the motion to lift the age limit. If I know a person of 30 years can make a good leader; why not vote that person? If someone of 80 years can vote, why not be voted?

People who made the 1995 constitution knew that time will come for Ugandans to amend the Constitution. So, the time has come for our people to amend.

ADOLF MWESIGE (BUNYANGABU), NRM

In 1995, life expectancy of a Ugandan was 48 years. According to the bureau of statistics, it is now 78 years.

Perhaps, Madam Speaker, it made sense for the Constituent Assembly to provide an age for which to stand at 75 years; it is now time for this parliament to review that provision and remove the upper limit.

As long as there are regular, free and fair elections, the question of life presidency cannot arise.



FRED MWESIGYE (NYABUSHOZI), NRM

I congratulate the committee for a perfect report. The constitution must be flexible and the article we are talking about is amendable and changeableThis constitution provides for amendment in order to accommodate movement of time.

Time has moved. The situation has changed in Uganda and it calls for changing this constitution. This constitution is not cast in stone.



ROBERT SSEKITOLEKO KAFEERO, NAKIFUMA, (NRM)

Article 21 (1) of the Constitution provides for equality and freedom from discrimination. All persons are equal before and under the law.

I find Article 102 (b) discriminatory. It even becomes worse to say that a person over 75 years has a right to vote but cannot be voted for president. We shall not allow that.



JOY ATIM ONGOM (LIRA WOMAN), UPC

My people said I should not touch it. Term limits were not tested and they were scrapped. Now age limits!

What we are about to do is the one thing that is too discriminative. Civil servants retire at 60 and judges at 70. Who are we to extend the office of the president?



EVELYN ANITE (KOBOKO MUNICIPALITY), NRM

I moved in the three divisions and all the villages of Koboko municipality. I am going to touch the constitution.

The people of Koboko said they cannot imagine going to 2021 and dont see the name of Museveni on the ballot. We are enjoying peace and stability in Northern Uganda because of President Museveni.



MUSA ECWERU (AMURIA), NRM

People of Amuria authorized me to come and support the removal of Article 102 (b). In Amuria, age is synonymous with wisdom.

We are convinced that at 76-79, the people would have accumulated enough wisdom that they can be useful in the management of the country. I support the amendments.



ROBERT KYAGULANYI SSENTAMU (KYADONDO EAST), INDEPENDENT

I rise in defence of the minority report which I believe, and in light of majority Ugandans, is the majority report.

Ladies and gentlemen, President Idi Amin suspended this parliament and no single Ugandan came out to defend this parliament. Why? It had become irrelevant to them.

It had become a club of politicians who come here to seek their personal interests. We are back to square one. One man is trying to persuade this parliament so we can do what he wants.

If that single person does not care what happens to our country after he goes, at least we can think about the future of our country. Eriya Kategaya said stupid people repeat history.



FREDERICK GUME NGOBI (BULAMOGI NORTH WEST), NRM

The people in Bulamogi comprehensively said the constitution is not static. It must change with circumstances of the day.

Give us freedom of whom to choose. Why do you limit the people? People should be given the opportunity to choose.



HENRY KIBALYA, BUGABULA, SOUTH (NRM)

When I was in the constituency, I carried out four consultations in the four sub-counties. There is no sub-county where I had an attendance of less than 1,500 people. The biggest number that said you go and touch it were 53.

About 1,500 people said dont touch. As the 10th Parliament, we can stand here and succeed in amending Article 102 (b), but we shall never succeed in amending the hearts of Ugandans which have been broken by this act.



LATIF SEBAGGALA (KAWEMPE NORTH), INDEPENDENT

The spirit in which term limits were amended is the same spirit in which age limits are about to be amended.

At that time, it was amended to favour President Museveni. I have no doubt that this new amendment is not creating room for Gen Moses Ali, who is about 77 years, to come in. Neither is it creating room for Honourable Muganwa Kajura to come in; it is only creating room for one person.



ROBINAH SSENTONGO (KYOTERA WOMAN), DP

I went to all 12 sub-counties of Kyotera. I was the only MP who conducted public consultations in Kyotera. The rest went into hotels and invited NRM supporters.

I consulted over 20,000 people in different places and only three people, and these were chairpersons for NRM at village level, said that they want Article 102 (b) amended. That is 0.016 per cent of the number I consulted. The other 99.98 said there should be no amendment of Article 102 (b).



ALEX RUHUNDA (FORT PORTAL MUNICIPALITY), NRM

I covered 11 parishes. The people of Fort Portal asked me not to touch Article 102 (b). I have to respect them. I love my president; he is one of the great men we have had.

It will take us another century to get a man like him. I do not expect us to see our leader go down badly after building a long-lasting legacy for Uganda. We need to constitute a team to negotiate with the president about a peaceful transition.



IBRAHIM KASOZI (MAKINDYE EAST), FDC

Framers of the Constitution put up parameters for a reason. Cultural leaders are Ugandans but are not allowed to indulge in politics.

That is discriminatory as well. But the framers of the constitution put it wisely that if we bring cultural leaders into the politics, this country would go back where they got it from. People of Makindye East ordered me not to remove age limits and also ordered me to appeal to you to reinstate term limits.



HELLEN ASAMO (PWDs), INDEPENDENT

When I left parliament for consultations, I did not know which side to take. I carried out about five consultations with people with disabilities.

They told me if you are a voter, is there a law which stops you from being voted? They even told me that parliament should be given seven years.



MOSES KIZIGE (BUGABULA NORTH), NRM

I thank Honourable Magyezi for having moved a bill which gives us an opportunity to remove the age limits. The law is very clear on processes followed to amend the constitution. We are not breaking any law by amending the constitution. That is why I support the bill and the main report.



CHRIS BARYOMUNSI (KINKIZI EAST) NRM

I thank Honourable Magyezi for using his right to bring a private members bill. I thank the framers of the constitution who in chapter 18 provided for amendment of the constitution.

When I went to Kinkizi East, they told me that as long as we continue to improve services, they have no problem. So, they okayed the amendment.



FRANK TUMWEBAZE (KIBALE EAST), NRM

My people told me that Article 102 continues not only to impose limitations on the aspirants, but also it limits voter choices.

Literature is available to prove that limitations in the constitution cause voter apathy because if I am a voter and my candidate is not eligible because they are young or on account of being old, I will stay home.

When I came to parliament in 2006, I was 30 years old but unfortunately the constitution could not allow me to aspire for president.



MATIA KASAIJA (BUYANJA), NRM

Madam Speaker, you know it is nice to live long. I first entered the House in 1990. I am approaching 75, I dont use glasses to read, I speak before you for two and a half hours without pain, without drinking any water.

I challenge anyone of you to challenge me in any human activity. The talk that at 75 we are tired is not true. Of course there are a few individuals with an exception. People of Buyanja county told me to come and touch the constitution and I am here to touch it.



MARY KAROORO OKURUT (WOMAN BUSHENYI), NRM

There are 54 countries in Africa and it is only Uganda, Mauritania and Djibouti with the upper age limitThe people of Bushenyi whom I represent said they are agreeable to touching this article.



MARY BABIRYE KABANDA, MASAKA WOMAN (DP)



I do oppose the [committee] report, the bill and the motion because in our constitution, article one gives power to the people.

We were given money to go and seek our peoples views; unfortunately, in the report presented by the committee, such views are not seen anywhere. Therefore, I see the report as incomplete.

Secondly, we noted here as members of parliament that the constitution needs to be reviewed and we agreed that all issues that need to be reviewed should go to the constitutional review commission.

I am wondering why this age limit was pulled out from those issues that are supposed to be handled together. I, therefore, recommend that all issues including the age limit should go to the constitution review commission to be handled together.



SANTA ALUM, OYAM WOMAN (UPC)

I went and consulted and my people said no. Away from that, the committees report is saying that this article 102(b) is discriminatory. I want to ask if the committee is really truthful in saying that article 102 is discriminatory.

Even if we open article 102(b), many old people will still be locked out. I interacted with so many old people and many do not have the advanced level qualification to qualify to run for president. Those people will still be discriminated.



MUHAMMAD MUWANGA KIVUMBI, BUTAMBALA (DP)



Museveni has never lost in my constituency but the people of Butambala said enough is enough. They simply said what they have not seen is a peaceful transfer of power from one president to another and thats what they want to see.



ODONGA OTTO, ARUU SOUTH (FDC)

Those who think age is discriminatory, why cant we have Moses Ali contest for the presidency? They [old people] are struggling to stay alive.

NRM MPs are committing treason; you are not representing the views of your people. We should not be intimidated. We are going to ask for a referendum to decide whether we [Acholi] should remain in Uganda or not.

These NRMs sold Nytil, Uganda Railways, Shimoni land, and CMI. You old people, what do you want to leave for Uganda because you are selling everything?



MARGARET BABA DIRI, WOMAN KOBOKO (NRM)

About 10 per cent of the people I consulted did not support the removal [of age limits], and asked me to represent their view, but 90 per cent supported the removal.

They said it is good we remove the lower and the upper age presidential limits. They said old people have wisdom and can lead this country. They specifically mentioned President Museveni who has been leading us for 30 years.



REAGAN OKUMU, ASWA (FDC)

Today we define the destiny of this country and we define the future of the corporation called Uganda. I have four points; one, you cannot just amend a constitution provision when you have not even tested it.

On that basis, I dont support this amendment. Secondly, you cannot amend the constitution perennially for an individual to benefit from it

Today we need federal power so that we own certain responsibilities ourselves or we secede. I want to assure you there is no way you are going to continue sitting on a population whose interests are different from yours simply because you have the majority; never...never



MOSES KASIBANTE, LUBAGA NORTH (INDEPENDENT)

History has not helped some of us here to understand. We have a duty to save Uganda. [In the past] Politicians manipulated not only parliaments of the day but also courts.

That is what we dont want to be repeated, as said in the preamble of the constitution. Debating the ability and/or inability of an elderly person [to lead] is pretense.



JOHN BAPTIST NAMBESHE, MANJINYA (NRM)

Article 102 (b) is the only remaining guarantee for a peaceful transition of power. What I see is that we are legislating to entrench one mans rule.

Uganda is not short of alternative manpower to lead this country. How will seven years build institutions, which 31 years have failed to do?



MORRIS OGENGA LATIGO, AGAGO NORTH (FDC)



I rise to guide the house. First of all, when I went through the petition, the motion and the bill of Hon Raphael Magyezi, three things came up.

First, I recognized that Hon Magyezis bill was introduced based on article 54 of the constitution. That article does not give Hon Magyezi the mandate; it only instructs parliament to include the private members bill in our rules of procedure. Secondly, when I looked at this committee report, there are two key justifications.

The first one was that the executive had delayed to submit the constitution amendment bill. The second one was that article 102 was discriminatory.When a member comes and says that the provision of the constitution is discriminatory, which is that basis [to bring a bill]?

Because the constitution itself in article 21 makes provision for discrimination and specifies what is discriminatory. When I read the submissions of Hon Magyezi, there is nothing to do with that provision of the constitution.



DENIS LEE OGUZU, MARACHA (FDC)

The people of Maracha I represent think this bill is immoral. Whatever we are doing now will either give a blank cheque  usher in everlasting peace or suffering.

This has been the most expensive regime to maintain. Do you want to allow them to continue?



FRANCIS ZAAKE, MITYANA MUNICIPALITY (INDEPENDENT)

Most people here have been saying that age is wisdom. As Zaake, a youth, I feel insulted that I do not have wisdom. When someone is old, it is so true he or she cannot reason right. That is why there is the retirement age. The people of Mityana said they will not allow anything that favors the president.



FLORENCE NAMAYANJA, BUKOTO EAST (DP)

The people of Bukoto East are saying that we should not amend article 102 (b) of the constitution. Even article 26 should remain untouched.

Therefore, it is important that what we need to be amended is the responsibility of the government to set up a constitutional review commission.



BRIGHT RWAMIRAMA, ISINGIRO NORTH (NRM)

I support the amendments and I thank Hon Magyezi for trying to cure the inconsistencies in the constitution. Articles 102 and 86 give with one hand and take away with the other. The people of Isingiro empowered me to support the amendments.



LOY KATALI, WOMAN JINJA (NRM)

Four of seven sub-counties I visited said no. They complained of poor service delivery. The elderly from Jinja do not benefit from Sage (Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment). They said the constitution cannot be amended.



HERBERT ARIKO, SOROTI MINICIPALITY (FDC)

I consulted and I have got evidence. Each of the wards in Soroti municipality has got a return. Some 3,867 people responded and out of these groups; 3,792 said do not touch it and 75 said touch it. I will not debate the legalities of this bill.

The preamble of the constitution of Uganda enumerates where we come from. In 1966, there was the Milton Obote and Sir Edward Mutesa crisis, the 1971 overthrow [of government by Idi Amin].

The return of the UNLA, the overthrow of [Godfrey] Binaisa by the Military Commission, the war between President Museveni and Obote, the overthrow of Obote by Tito Okello and the war, which led to Museveni taking over power. In all these we lost blood.

We lost our people. Our country was broken down. I want to request honourable. members that we as the leaders of Uganda should give the people of Uganda an opportunity of peaceful transfer of power.



JACKSON MBAJU, BUSONGORA SOUTH (FDC)

The people of Busongola South told me that I should come and say no touching the constitution. We should debate with reason because this amendment determines the destiny of this country. If we are not careful, this country might plunge into turmoil.



ROSE MUTONYI MASAABA, BUBULO WEST (NRM)

I support the amendments. My people told me they have no problem with lifting the age limit. They do not see any reason why a man would divorce a wife who is cooking well.

There is a mechanism of removing a leader who is not performing and that is through elections.



BETTY AMONGI OYAM SOUTH (UPC)

My people have said I should come and touch it. In the US elections, I was supporting Hillary Clinton and my husband [James Akena] was supporting Bernie Sanders, who is 74 years [old].
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/12/2017 (1784 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The world will not soon forget Nov. 8, 2016. It was the day billionaire and former reality-TV star Donald J. Trump was elected president of the United States.

To the dismay of many, Trumps divisive politics won the hearts and minds of millions of American voters.

North of the border, Canadians scratched their heads and wondered how someone with such a hateful political platform  rife with overtly racist, xenophobic and sexist sentiment  could have been elected leader of the free world.

Evan Vucci / The Associated Press Files Donald Trumps election as U.S. president may have provided enthusiasm to hate groups in Canada, but it didnt create them.

The general consensus was that such rhetoric could not  and would not  resonate with Canadians. Yet during his first year in the Oval Office, Trumps hateful sentiments not only resonated with American citizens, but with some Canadians as well.

Canada saw a rise in right-wing extremism in 2017, from anti-Muslim flyer campaigns on university campuses to the presence of extreme right-wing groups such as Proud Boys, La Meute and the Three Percenters, as well as the slaying of six worshippers at a Quebec City mosque.

It should come as no surprise that Trump has had an impact on right-wing extremism in Canada. Significant media attention, both nationallyand internationally, has been given to The Trump Effect in Canada. This has left Canadians with the impression that the current wave of hate is a direct consequence of Trumps election victory.

Based on my experience as an academic studying Canadas right-wing extremist movement for the past six years, I agree with most media claims. Trumps right-wing populist and white nationalist political campaign has galvanized Canadian-based white supremacist ideologies, identities, movements and practices.

However, as Canadians, we must not place too much blame on a fear-monger south of our border; we should refrain from making sweeping claims that Trump is the reason why hatred is on the rise in Canada.

Instead, in reflecting on Trumps impact on right-wing extremism in Canada, we must reflect on Canadas social and political context in which radical right-wing ideologies reside, both prior to and during Trumps first year in office.

Trickle-down effect in Canada

In the days following Trumps surprising win, communities across the U.S. experienced an uptick in activity by the radical right. This wave of hatred and bigotry had a trickle-down effect on our nation  Canada was not immune to Trumps hateful political rhetoric.

Canadian cities experienced an uptake in targeted hatred against visible minorities coinciding with the outcome of the U.S. election in the days, weeks and months following the vote: Racist graffiti and flyering campaigns, far-right patrols and rallies in city streets, and protests at border crossings, all in the name of protecting Canadian citizens from the Islamic threat  a sentiment that has also been expressed by Trump.

We also saw Canadians attend the Unite the Right rally  an event whose deadly turn was blamed on both sides by Trump  in Charlottesville, Va., and subsequent marches in Quebec City and Vancouver, hosted by Canadas radical right in support of the Virginia rally.

But the most alarming act of racist violence in Canada following Trumps win occurred on Jan. 29, 2017, when a 27-year-old white male entered a mosque in Quebec City determined to kill Muslims.

Equipped with a long gun, he murdered six Muslim men and injured 19 others while they prayed. The suspect was described by his friends as a moderate conservative who, over about a years time, became an apparent xenophobe and racist, one who overtly supported Donald Trump and far-right French politician Marine Le Pen.

For those who have not paid attention to right-wing extremism in Canada before Trumps presidency, it would be easy to assume this wave of hatred started with Trump.

That would be a false assumption.

Right-wing extremism in Canada pre-Trump

In 2015, Barbara Perry and I completed a three-year study exploring the internal and external factors that were most likely to give rise to  or minimize  right-wing extremist groups and associated violence.

We conducted extensive field work across the country, interviewing law enforcement officials, community groups and adherents of the right-wing extremist movement. We also gathered open-source intelligence to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the movement in Canada.

Overall, the results suggest that despite a lack of attention from law enforcement, policy-makers, mainstream media and the public, the movement was alive and well, with more than 100 active groups and well over 100 reported incidents of right-wing extremist violence in the country between 1980 and 2015.

In other words, the radical right had been gaining momentum in Canada for years prior to Trump.

A key turning point, in fact, was during the latter months of 2015. Two important events created a perfect storm for the movement.

First was Justin Trudeaus pledge, as part of the Liberal partys election platform, to welcome 25,000 Syrian refugees to Canada by the end of 2015. The second was the terrorist attack on concert-goers in Paris, inspired by the so-called Islamic State, on Nov. 13, 2015.

Each of these events were distinct in nature, yet Canadas radical right wing treated them as interconnected, arguing that Canadas newly elected prime minister was not only allowing Muslims into the country who would impose Shariah law on Canadian citizens, but that they too could be radical Islamic terrorists.

It all sparked a flurry of anti-Muslim discourse in Canada.

The day after the Paris attack, a mosque in Peterborough, Ont., was deliberately set ablaze, causing significant damage to the interior of the building.

The next day, a Muslim woman picking up her children from a Toronto school was robbed and her hijab torn off. The perpetrators called her a terrorist and told her to go back to your country.

Days later, an anti-Muslim video was posted on YouTube in which a man from Montreal, wearing a Joker mask and wielding a firearm, threatened to kill one Muslim or Arab each week.

Similar events continued to unfold in 2016  all, of course, well before Trumps election victory. A school in Calgary, for example, was spray-painted with hate messages against Syrians and Trudeau: Syrians go home and die and Kill the traitor Trudeau.

Edmonton residents were also faced with a series of anti-Islamic flyer campaigns, hateful messages were spray-painted on a Muslim elementary school in Ottawa and man in Abbotsford, B.C. went on a racist tirade and was caught on video.

Canadian chapters of Soldiers of Odin first made their presence known in the early part of 2016 by patrolling communities and protecting Canadians from the threat of Islam, and the Patriotic Europeans Against the Islamization of the West (PEGIDA), an anti-Islam group who first appeared in Canada in 2015, continued to rally in Montreal and Torontoin 2016.

And so it would be impulsive and short-sighted for us to attribute our spike in hatred solely to Trump and his divisive politics.

Instead, the instances listed above serve as an important reminder that prior to Trumps election victory Canada was experiencing a rise in hatred.

In responding to hatred in Canada, we must first acknowledge that it exists in Canada, and it becomes ever more present during times of social and economic uncertainty. We must also acknowledge that the foundations of hatred are complex and multi-faceted, grounded in both individual and social conditions.

So too, then, must counter-extremist initiatives be multi-dimensional, building on the strengths and expertise of diverse sectors, including but not limited to community organizations, police officers, policy-makers and the media. Multi-agency efforts are needed to coordinate the acknowledgement and response to right-wing extremism in Canada.

I see signs of us moving in the right direction in building resilience against hatred in Canada. But in the months and years ahead, theres still much to do.

Ryan Scrivens is a Horizon postdoctoral research fellow with Project SOMEONE at Concordia University.

This article was first published at The Conversation Canada: theconversation.com/ca.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/12/2017 (1784 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Our newsroom and our industry were far different places 43 years ago when Wayne Glowacki first joined the Free Press.

It was a time when every newsroom had a dark room instead of worries about newspapers going dark. There always seemed to be plenty of new faces being hired to cover the news, unlike today when more and more people rely on faceless distribution algorithms for their newsfeed. And there were copy boys such as Glowacki rushing to deliver typed stories from one section of the newspaper to another, eager to move up from the lowest rung in the newsroom.

Carl Bernstein was a copy boy, long before Watergate. So too was Hunter S. Thompson long before gonzo journalism and Andy Rooney, long before 60 Minutes.

From copy boy to photographer: Wayne Glowacki is retiring after 43 years at the Free Press.

Much like Underwood typewriters, copy boys have long since disappeared from newsrooms. And on Friday, we marked the end of an era as Glowacki, the last Free Press copy boy, finished his breaking news shift as a photographer and began his retirement.

In his nearly five decades of photojournalism, Glowacki captured images in a way that was always real and meaningful. There were Grey Cup triumphs and highway tragedies. There were election night victories and the drama of political scandals. In between, there were oh so many slices of life to make readers smile, and maybe even earn likes on Facebook pages.

But never was there anything fake about the news upon which Glowacki focused. Never did his depth of field trump veracity in order for something to go viral. Glowacki cared about his craft. He cared about the community he lived in and served with the journalism he first learned as a copy boy.

Im sharing this tribute with you because its important that everyone understands Facebook will not fill Glowackis shoes. Nor will Google. Or Netflix.

Fortunately, the support from readers like you means the Free Press can do what most papers no longer can afford. Starting next week, we will begin interviewing candidates to find Glowacki 2.0, a photojournalist with the skill-set needed to tell visual stories about our community both in print and online.

One hire might not seem like a big deal. But on the heels of nearly 300 newspaper jobs being wiped out as Canadas two largest newspaper chains announced plans to close 36 papers, its much bigger.

Its about the Free Press saying we wont give up on the mission that has distinguished our brand for 145 years. Its about a commitment to this city and province to respond to what Taylor Owen, a senior fellow at the Columbia Journalism School, called one of the greatest challenges to democracy happening right under our noses.

Far from the decentralized web imagined by its founders, the internet of today is mediated by four global platforms companies: Facebook, Google, Amazon and Apple, Taylor wrote in December.

These companies shape our digital lives, and increasingly what we know, how we know it, and ultimately who we are. They determine our public sphere, the character of our civic discourse, and the nature of our democratic society.

The Free Press is betting that our readers will put more faith in a watercooler based here in the Red River Valley than one controlled in Silicon Valley. Our business plans for 2018 include an ambitious goal of doubling paid online readership. Its an objective that will generate about $1.5 million in new revenue at a time when Facebook continues to eat into the advertising revenue of the Free Press and newspapers everywhere.

To reward that faith, we will roll out two major initiatives in the coming months. The first is the launch of daily digital editions that will ensure our best journalism is packaged and presented in a way that makes it easy for everyone to see and experience. The second is a new approach to breaking news that ensures we dont fall into the same repackage-posing-as-journalism practice that is all too common among our competition.

Well have more to say on both as we get closer to launch.

In the meantime, Ive got some photographers resumes to review as we need to hire someone with Glowackis focus and perspective because thats what you deserve and expect from your Free Press.

Happy New Year and all the best in 2018!

 Paul Samyn is the Free Press editor

paul.samyn@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @paulsamyn
The Sri Lanka government formally handed over Hambantota Port to China Merchant Port Holdings (CMPH) on December 9, after almost two years of negotiations. The port is located on the countrys southern coast, close to some of the worlds busiest sea lanes.

Addressing the ceremonial hand-over, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe declared that Sri Lanka was on its way to being the hub of the Indian Ocean. Its port facilitiesin Colombo, Hambantota and Trincomaleewere part of the modern maritime silk route.

Chinas Xinhua news agency reported that Sri Lanka had joined Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through the Hambantota Port joint venture.

The US and India, its strategic regional ally, are hostile to Beijings growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The BRI is aimed at connecting more than 60 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe via land and sea, ensuring Chinas ongoing access to oil and other energy supplies (see: China hosts international launch of One Belt, One Road initiative).

Under the Hambantota deal, Sri Lanka has sold a 70 percent stake in the port to CMPH via a 99-year lease, while retaining a 30 percent share under the state-owned Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

Two Chinese companies established to manage Hambantota Port operations were given a 32-year tax holiday. Prior to the deal, the government retrenched 435 port workers. Colombo is also handing over 15,000 acres of land near the port for Chinese companies to build an industrial zone.

After coming to power in January 2015, President Maithripala Sirisena suspended various Chinese-funded ventures, including the multi-million dollar Port City of Colombo project. Sirisena and his allies said the projects were initiated under former President Mahinda Rajapakse, accusing him of corruption.

The real reason for the suspensions, however, was fierce opposition from the US and India to Rajapakses close economic and political relations with China. Beijing provided loans and investments as well as arms to Colombo for its war against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

Mounting government debt and falling national export earnings, however, have forced the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government to turn back to China for financial help. The government revived talks with Beijing and, after modifications to the terms of the China-funded ventures, the projects resumed. This included the Hambantota Port deal, which has been used to reduce Colombos debts to Beijing, recently estimated at more than $US8 billion.

At the Hambantota Port ceremony, Wickremesinghe enthusiastically held up a large replica of a $292 million chequethe first instalment of the $1.12 billon CMPH is paying for its share of the port. With this agreement, he declared, we have started to pay back the loans.

The US and India oppose the port deal and are stepping up their political pressure on Sri Lanka. Asked about the joint venture on December 14, Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar declared: We continue to take up with Sri Lanka issues related to security concerns in the region and expect that our Sri Lankan friends will keep in mind our security concerns and sensitivities.

In other words, New Delhi regards Colombos move as a threat to Indian security and will respond accordingly.

Colombo attempted to appease Indian concerns during the Hambantota Port negotiations by offering India a 70 percent stake in Mattala Mahinda Rajapakse International Airport, which is located close to Hambantota, and a share in the development work at Trincomalees deep sea port.

Wickremesinghe visited India last month and met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss these deals. The Indian press reported that talks were also held on Indian investments in the Colombo Ports eastern terminal.

The Western press has published concerned reports on Colombo-Beijing relations and the Hambantota Port deal. A New York Times article on December 12 quoted Constantino Xavier, a fellow at Carnegie India, who said: India has been overwhelmed by Chinas offensive in its strategic backyard.

On December 20, Project Syndicate published a hostile critique on the port deal by Professor Brahma Chellaney from the pro-US Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi. Headlined, Chinas Creditor Imperialism, the article accused China of using state loans to take control of other countries. [A]s Sri Lankas experience starkly illustrates, Chinese financing can shackle its partner countries, Chellaney wrote.

Chellaney ludicrously claimed that Beijing was playing the role of 19th century Britain, which occupied Hong Kong via a 99-year lease, following the Opium Wars. Now, China is applying the imperial 99-year lease concept in distant lands.

Referencing a Chinese companys acquisition of the Mediterranean port of Piraeus from the cash-strapped Greek government for $436 million, he declared: China has encouraged its companies to bid for outright purchase of strategic ports, where possible.

Chellaney also noted Chinas leasing of the Darwin port in Australia, a military installation in Djibouti, a few miles away from a US naval base, and its activities in Turkmenistan, Kenya and other countries. These countries, he claimed, have been ensnared in a Chinese debt trap, forcing them to confront agonising choices in order to stave off default.

In September, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice Wells told a congressional committee: China is providing non-concessional loans that promote unsustainable debt burdens, which I think are increasingly now of concern to the Sri Lankan people in the government.

The US and Indian response to growing Chinese influence in the region has been to step up their threats. When the Maldives government expressed its support for Chinas BRI and signed a Free Trade Agreement with China, Indias Raveesh Kumar declared that New Delhi expected the island nation to be sensitive to our concerns in keeping with its India first policy. This was also a warning to the Sri Lankan government, which is currently negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with China.

At the same time as seeking financial assistance from Beijing, the Sri Lankan government is integrating the country into the US-led military build-up against China. The bitter reaction of the US and India to the Hambantota Port deal is a warning to Colombo that it must not deviate from a pro-US strategic agenda.
A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications, titled Quenching protein dynamics interferes with HIV capsid maturation, details a newly discovered mechanism that can interfere with the maturation of the human immunodeficiency virus, preventing its ability to be infective. The research involves preventing the maturation of the protein shell called the capsid surrounding the virus.

Currently, there are more than 25 antiretroviral medications from six major classes available for treating HIV. None, however, inhibit maturation, a mechanism in a potentially new class of drugs which could benefit patients with multidrug-resistant infections. If this new approach continues to prove fruitful, and is developed into a treatment and distributed, it would give a great deal of relief to the 36.7 million men, women and children currently living with HIV.

The study was made possible through collaboration by the University of Delaware, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, the University of Illinois and Vanderbilt University Medical center. A significant part of the research was funded by DFH Pharma, a privately held specialty pharmaceutical company focused exclusively in the treatment of HIV, which began to work with the National Cancer Institute to continue development on the next generation HIV maturation inhibitor drugs and identify new drugs in this class for clinical trials.

Initial work in the early 2000s by Dr. Eric Freed, a well-known scientist in the field of HIV assembly and release, in collaboration with Panacos Pharmaceuticals, discovered and produced the first class of maturation inhibitor drugs, Bevirimat. In 2009 Myriad Genetics bought the rights to the drug for $7 million. However, due to problems with Bevirimats formulation, they halted further development in 2010.

The focus of the present study is on deducing the mechanism of this new class of anti-retroviral drugs which interfere with the development of the HIV-1 virus inside a live body. It took seven years to complete, using complex instrumentation and multi-disciplinary expertise to study the dynamic nature of the viruss early and late life cycle.

According to a statement by Professor Tatyana Polenova of the University of Delawares Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, People used to fixate on the static structures of viruses, but they are not rock solid. Viruses like HIV and their constituent protein and nucleic acid molecules are dynamic entities that are constantly expanding and shrinking. Their motions are like breathing.

The molecules created by the HIV viruss RNA operate within the host in concert, but deducing these complex synchronized motions requires expertise in quantitative biophysics using supercomputers to model and simulate the moving parts of the HIV virus. The research also integrated technology to image cells and molecules directly, known as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), to view how the virus actual reacts to different treatments.

A major focus of this work is studying the genetic material that codes the core structural proteins of retroviruses, known as Glycosaminoglycan (abbreviated, for obvious reasons, as GAG).

It is one of the essential polyproteins of HIV, which also include the matrix, capsid and spacer peptides (chains of amino acids). Capsid is particularly important because it is the protective protein shell of the virus.

Maturation inhibitors such as Bevirimat are thought to prevent the formation of a mature shell by entering the budding virus and binding to the cleavage site that would lead to maturation, thereby preventing this process, creating a vulnerability that the researchers are looking to exploit. The non-mature virus particle is non-infective.

Cyclophilin A, a common human protein commandeered by the virus in the assembly of the capsid protein, is essential for its life cycle and infectivity. Using NMR imaging techniques to reveal nano-second to micro-second timescales of the virus formation, the research revealed that the Cyclophilin A loop is highly flexible in the assembled capsid. Modulation of the dynamics in this loop plays a role in HIVs infectivity. In HIV, viruses that have mutations mimicking those similar to Bevirimat binding demonstrated dramatic attenuation as well as decreased infectivity suggesting this interplay as the mechanism of action for this novel class of anti-retroviral drugs.

HIV research began in 1985, four years after the first cases of an unusual type of pneumonia described among groups of men having sex with other men in the United States and two years after HIV was first identified. The first anti-retroviral drugs were introduced in 1987, followed by combination retroviral therapy in 1996 which led to decreased AIDS-defining diagnosis and mortality by 60 to 80 percent. Despite these efforts, however, HIV became and has remained a worldwide epidemic that has so far claimed 35 million lives, comparable to the number of casualties, military and civilian, in World War I.

And while 69 countries saw a decline in their population infected with HIV (or with its more advanced stage, AIDS), UNAIDS has warned that progress in preventing new infections is not occurring fast enough to meet global targets. It predicts that some regions of the worldsuch as Eastern Europe and Central Asiahave seen new infections rise by 60 percent since 2010. Of the world's population, 0.8 percent of adults have the virus and 30 percent of these are not aware they are infected.

Nearly 4 million new cases were reported in the past two years and 1 million have died from AIDS-related illnesses. No country is unaffected, though eastern and southern Africa suffer the majority of current cases, where 19.4 million people are infected. In countries such as Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland HIV/AIDS infection rates among adults exceed 20 percent.
Italian President Sergio Matarella dissolved parliament on Thursday, officially opening the election campaign. The election will take place on March 4.

The decision came as no surprise. When the then Prime Minister Matteo Renzi (PD) resigned a year ago, after losing the constitutional referendum, an election date was already being discussed. Matarella insisted that a new valid electoral law and budget for the coming year be passed beforehand. Both have since happened. The budget was passed by the Senate, the second chamber of parliament, on the Saturday before Christmas.

Nevertheless, the announcement of the election has caused concern in European capitals. As the EU tries to regain cohesion after the shock of the UKs Brexit vote and speed up its economic recovery, the looming Italian election arguably represents the biggest political obstacle, wrote the Financial Times.

The likely scenarios after the vote are a hung parliament, a grand coalition or a populist government with a much more confrontational attitude towards Brusselsincluding plans to question Italys membership of the single currency. With this, Italy will remain the weak link in the European Union.

Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni, who, like his predecessor Matteo Renzi and his predecessor before him Enrico Letta, comes from the Democratic Party (PD), tried to spread optimism at his press conference at the end of the year. Italy was doing much better now than at the beginning of the 2013 legislature, he said. The economic situation was pleasing as Italy is no longer the famous tail light of Europe.

However, from the viewpoint of the mass of the population, the situation looks completely different. The generation of 18-year-olds who can vote for the first time has never experienced anything but social and political decline throughout their lives. Since Italy joined the eurozone in 1999 it has not experienced any real economic growth. Industry produces less today than it did nearly two decades ago.

The unemployment rate is officially 11.1 percent, well above the EU average, and the real figure is likely to be much higher. Among young people, the official unemployment rate is 34.7 percent. A national debt of 130 percent of gross domestic product, more than twice as much as the EU allows, ensures that social decline will continue.

In the 18 years since the introduction of the euro, Italy has had 11 governments. Right-wing and centre-left governments followed one after the other; their politics hardly differed. While the right-wingers under Silvio Berlusconi were lining their own pockets, the centre-left governments under the leadership of the PD sought to put the public finances back in order at the expense of the working class.

The result is a deep alienation of the population from all political parties, which has led to a complete fragmentation of the party system.

According to the current polls, the strongest party is the Five Star Movement. Founded in 2009 by comedian Beppe Grillo, it had experienced a meteoric rise through its denunciation of the corruption of the ruling elites.

Meanwhile, the Five Star Movement has passed its zenith. Wherever it is in power in municipalities, such as the capital Rome, it has proved to be as corrupt as the old parties it denounced.

Politically, the Five Star Movement has moved sharply to the right. It represents a nationalist, anti-refugee course and sits in the same parliamentary group in the European Parliament as UKIP, which led the campaign for the Brexit referendum.

The 31-year-old Luigi Di Maio is the Five Star Movements lead candidate in the parliamentary election. However, it is far from having a government majority, with its current support running at 26 percent. In contrast to the old election law, the strongest party will no longer receive a bonus following the election, awarding it additional seats. The Five Star Movement has so far rejected forming a coalition with any other party.

According to the current polls, the strongest force could be a right-wing alliance, with 35 percent, in which former head of government Silvio Berlusconi pulls the strings. After his removal from office in 2011, at the height of the debt crisis and involvement in numerous sex and bribery scandals, the now 81-year-old billionaire was politically isolated. Even now he is not allowed to hold political office due to a tax evasion conviction. Nevertheless, he could play the key role in forming the next government.

The right-wing alliance is extremely unstable. Berlusconis Forza Italia and right-wing Lega Nord, under 44-year-old Matteo Salvini, are competing for its leadership. They are currently polling with 16 percent and 14 percent respectively. The Lega Nord has developed from a northern Italian separatist movement into a national party and bases itself on the French National Front. Berlusconi is credited with concluding a coalition with the PD after the election, while some observers see a coming together of the Lega Nord with the Five Star Movement as possible.

In current surveys the former ruling PD is running at only 23 percent. It is campaigning with its leader Matteo Renzi as lead candidate, who hopes to return to the post of prime minister. However, current incumbent Paolo Gentiloni has far higher popularity ratings than Renzi.

The 42-year-old Renzi, who set out to scrap the elites in 2014, is hated by workers for his labour market reforms. The PD, like many other social democratic parties in Europe, is in disarray. In the past year, two groups split off and together with Sinistra Italiana (SI, Italian Left) founded the Liberi e Uguali (LeU, Free and Equal). The former ruling PS is campaigning with Pietro Grasso as lead candidate, who has made a name for himself as a prosecutor and judge against the Sicilian mafia. Currently, they are polling 6.5 percent.

The upcoming election campaign threatens to become one of the dirtiest in Italian history. Since no party has an answer to the burning social issues, they strive to outdo each other in their anti-refugee rhetoric and right-wing demagogy.

While the Lega Nord and the Five Star Movement would no longer allow any refugees into the country and want to deport as many as possible, the Democrats boast that they have drastically reduced the inflow across the Mediterranean. Interior Minister Marco Minniti has agreed a dirty deal with Islamist militias and smugglers in Libya who are paid and armed by the Italian government to intercept, detain and torture refugees.

The social opposition of the Italian working class finds no political expression in the current political system. It will look for other, more militant ways to catch its breath.
A general strike brought the eastern Moroccan city of Jerada to a standstill yesterday after two men died in an accident in an abandoned coal mine there. Houcine and Jedouane Daioui, aged 30 and 23, were two of thousands of unemployed workers in Jerada who are forced by poverty and the lack of jobs to risk their lives every day, independently mining coal in unsafe conditions for a pittance. Both were married; Houcine leaves behind two children and Jedouane one.

In 2011, protests erupted in the former phosphate mining basin of southern Tunisia that ultimately led to revolutionary struggles that brought down President Zine El Abedine Bin Ali. Six years later, the ruling elite in North Africa and its imperialist allies in America and Europe have proved unable to resolve any of the problems that provoked the Tunisian uprising and the subsequent revolutionary mobilization of the working class in Egypt.

Houcine, Jedaouine and their surviving brother Abderrazak, age 22, all went on December 22 to gather coal to sell to local traders. Abderrazak, who was with his two brothers when they were killed, recounted the story of their deaths.

We went down to 85 meters underground, he told AFP. Houcine and Jedouane were just under me. One of them was digging horizontally and hit a well of water. We were totally flooded. I held on very tight to the rope and I managed to come back up to the surface. Tragically, his two brothers did not.

Abderrazak added that after the deaths of his two brothers, he will be alone in facing the financial burden of supporting his 80-year-old father, a former miner, together with his six brothers, his wife and his daughter. Abderrazak said that poverty and the lack of jobs and a future in Jerada, which force thousands to scrounge for coal in abandoned mines, were to blame for the deaths of his two brothers.

There is no alternative, there is no work. That is why I risk my life. I earn between 100 and 150 dirhams [US$10.70-13.90] per day. He added that he had been going down into abandoned mines to look for coal for three or four years.

During the deregulation of Moroccan electricity markets in the 1990s, authorities shut down the Jerada coal mine, the economic lifeline of the town, employing 9,000 of its 60,000 inhabitants. Jerada's population has since fallen to 43,000, as thousands left to find work elsewhere. Moroccan authorities claimed that the mine was too expensive to operate. Effectively, they washed their hands of any attempt to ensure workers' safety in the mine, which continued to operate unofficially, at prices set by private traders linked to multinational energy firms operating in the area.

So the money from coal goes into the pockets of foreign corporations, leaving the youth to risk their lives in unofficial mines, one inhabitant of Jerada told Morocco's La Depeche. These corporations include French firms GDF-Suez and Lafarge, JLEC, the electricity operator of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates whose Moroccan operations are linked to France's Societe Generale bank, and several Chinese firms including Sepco III.

The unofficial mines in Jerada are known as the mines of death, because of the steady flow of preventable accidents that kill those forced to work there. Fatal accidents are frequent, Abderrazak said, adding that he has now seen his uncle and two young men of the family die.

After the accident, Moroccan authorities acted with unconcealed contempt for the working population of Jerada. Civil protection units who arrived on the scene refused to help find the bodies, saying that the mine is too dangerous and that they refused even to enter it.

Jerada residents had to organize the search for the bodies inside the mine themselves. Once they found them, they demanded that the authorities guarantee pensions for the wives and children of Houcine and Jedouane before the burial of the two men. This demand was refused.

Instead, the authorities tried to secretly bury the two bodies on the night of December 23, without notifying the Daioui family. Someone from the neighborhood alerted the family after seeing that two graves were being dug in the cemetery, right across from the morgue, said Ahmed Bousmaha, of the Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH).

On December 24, most of the town mobilized in a protest march attended by tens of thousands of people. Protesters shouted slogans not only over the miners' deaths, but unaffordable prices for electricity and water that have led authorities to carry out a wave of utility shut-offs in the region, and demanding jobs and industrial development in the region.

That night, heavily reinforced police detachments assaulted youth who were guarding the Jerada cemetery against any new attempt by authorities to illicitly bury the two Dairoui brothers.

The Moroccan central government has turned a cold shoulder to protesters' demands. Asked about Jerada on December 25, Prime Minister Saad Eddine El Othmani said that a judicial investigation was underway and that he refused to comment until it had produced a ruling. He added that he would meet with parliamentarians of the Eastern region to discuss this tragedy that cost the lives of some of our citizens.

Energy and Mines Minister Aziz Rebbah raised hopes of building a coal-fired power station near Jerada that could employ 500 people; in partnership with China's Qingdao Huafengweiye Electric Power Technology Engineering Co. This would only be a drop in the bucket, however: official statistics in Morocco show that in rural areas, fully half the population 15 years or older who have previously worked are now unemployed

The tragedy in Jerada underscores the bankrupt and criminal character not only of Morocco's monarchy, a long-time stooge of the imperialist powers, but of the entire international capitalist order. The combined efforts of European, Chinese, and Arab capital are incapable of providing decent jobs to North African workers. They are rather left to rot in unemployment or perish in unregulated workplaces like Jerada's mines of death.

The central lesson of these events, as of the Tunisian and Egyptian uprisings of 2011, is that the only way forward is an international revolutionary struggle of the working class that consciously sets out to expropriate the capitalist class, take state power, and run economic life on the basis of social need. In this, the construction of an international revolutionary leadership in the working class is the main strategic question. Without this, the old Ben Ali regime and the Egyptian military regime were able to take back power and help impose redoubled exploitation on the region's workers.

With none of the issues that provoked the Tunisian uprising resolved, however, class tensions across the Maghreb have reached explosive levels. Last year, mass protests against unemployment exploded again in Tunisia.

Moroccan authorities are already facing recurring waves of protests in the nearby Rif region, after police crushed fish salesman Mouhcine Fikri to death last year in the compactor of a garbage truck, where they had dumped a catch of swordfish they claimed he had illegally purchased. Protests over the police murder of Fikri spread to the country's major cities including Casablanca, Rabat, Agadir, and Marrakesh. Now, protests are set to continue in Jerada and the surrounding region.
Asia

South Korea: Hyundai Motor workers reject pay deal

Hyundai Motor workers on December 22 voted down a tentative pay deal negotiated by the union. Some 88.4 percent of Hyundais 51,000 unionised workers participated in the vote, with 50.4 percent rejecting the offer.

Hyundai Motor had offered to increase workers basic monthly salary by 58,000 won ($53) and give bonuses worth 300 percent of basic pay plus 3 million won in extra compensation. The unions initial demand was for workers basic monthly salary to be increased by 154,883 won and a bonus payment of 30 percent of the companys 2016 net profit of 5.72 trillion won.

A union spokesman said the deal was rejected because the increases offered were lower than last year. Last year, the base pay was lifted by 72,000 won, together with bonuses worth 350 percent of basic pay and 3.3 million won in extra compensation.

The tentative deal with management followed 39 rounds of negotiations and several weeks of strike action at the companys assembly plants in Ulsan. The union is considering whether to immediately resume negotiations or hold them over until after leadership elections in January.

Chinese optical technology factory workers strike

Around 2,000 workers from the US-owned Sanmina-SCI Optical Technology factory in Shenzhen have been on strike since December 16 demanding a decent compensation package before the plant closes and moves to Thailand next year.

Workers want the company to announce a specific contract termination date and compensation package before anything is removed from the premises. In an attempt to get workers to end the strike management offered compensation to remain at the Shenzhen plant for the transitional period. Most workers did not accept the offer, which expired on December 20, deciding instead to hold out for a better offer, expected on January 15.

Taiwan workers rally against new industrial laws

Over 10,000 workers and students rallied outside the Democratic Progressive Partys headquarters in Taiwan on December 23 to oppose the Tsai administration's latest amendment to the Labor Standards Act. After three hours of speeches, protesters attempted to march to the Legislative Yuan but were blocked by police.

Workers condemned the draft amendment which would allow some industries to raise the maximum number of consecutive working days from six to 12 and lower rest time between shifts from 11 hours to eight hours. The proposed changes would increase the maximum number of overtime hours from 46 to 54 per month, but cap it at 138 hours over three months.

A recent survey by 1111 Online Job Bank found that 75 percent of workers were against the labour amendments with many fearing they would become physically and mentally exhausted if employers were allowed to set longer overtime hours.

Cambodian shoe factory workers locked out

Around 2,000 workers from the Pou Yuen shoe factory in Phnom Penhs Sen Sok district were stopped from entering the factory by security guards last Saturday. Workers said management had not made any announcement but suspected that the factory was closed because of reduced orders. A Cambodian Alliance of Trade Unions spokesman said workers intended to continue protesting outside the plant until they received severance pay.

Following a two-day protest inside the factory in October, workers walked out over managements offer to extend their 12-month contracts by only three months. They suspected then that the factory was preparing to close at the end of December.

India: Sanmina factory strike in Chennai enters sixth week

About 230 workers from the US-owned Sanmina electronics factory in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, have been on strike since November 21 for a pay rise, union recognition and reinstatement of 30 workers on compulsory rest and other suspensions following a sit-in protest in March.

The electronics workers, affiliated with the All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), want their current 12,000-rupee ($US186) monthly pay increased to 21,000 rupees in line with workers at the neighbouring Foxconn and Nokia Siemens factories.

Sanminas facility, which has around 400 permanent and another 400 contract workers, has maintained production using contract labour and workers affiliated with the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), which is not supporting the strike.

Bengaluru sanitation workers protest

Hundreds of sanitation workers protested at the Bengaluru municipal office in Mahadevapura on Tuesday because garbage contractors had not released their salaries for over three months. Workers also accused the contractors of misusing their ATM cards and bank accounts.

The municipal council claims that the arrears of 30,000 rupees for each worker were paid to the contractor but workers said the contractor was withholding the money.

Pakistan: Karachi police attack protesting school teachers

Police used batons, tear gas and water cannon against more than 1,500 protesting school teachers when they tried to march from the Karachi Press Club to the chief ministers house on Monday. Several teachers were severely injured while 200 were detained. The attack was the third by Karachi police against protesting teachers since September.

All Sindh Primary Teachers Association (ASPTA) and the New Teachers Action Committee (NTAC) members had gathered from all parts of Sindh province to rally in Karachi over several demands.

ASPTA members want permanency for contract teachers and teachers who have been evaluated prior to being appointed to primary, secondary and high schools. They have rejected the governments offer to re-evaluate these teachers by National Testing Service (NTS) saying they are already qualified. Primary school teachers also want the government to honour a promise given in 2014 to grant promotions into scale 16.

NTAC members want payment of overdue wages for teachers appointed in 2012. These teachers said they received their appointments in 2012 but salary payments ceased after 16 months. The teachers, who are still working, alleged that they were told by the treasury department that there were discrepancies in their appointments that had to be resolved before salary payments were resumed.

The protests were called off on Wednesday after government representatives arrived at the demonstration and claimed they would free all arrested teachers and address their demands.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa paramedics begin industrial action

Paramedical Association Khyber Pakhtunkhwa members began wearing black armbands in all government hospitals on Tuesday, leading up to a provincial strike on January 3 if the government continued to ignore their demands. Stop-work meetings involved 15,000 paramedics were planned for Thursday.

The paramedics action is part of a long-running campaign for better wages and facilities. They want a new service structure that elevates pay grades and increases the promotions quota, as well as a health professional allowance for all Class IV employees.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa doctors strike

Doctors at the government-run Bacha Khan Medical Complex in Swabi boycotted duties on December 20 to demand payment of a health professional allowance. Outpatient departments and classes in adjoining Gajju Khan Medical College were affected. Teachers and students want the college to be affiliated with the Medical and Dental Council.

Doctors said they would continue the protests and threatened to expand their action to other hospitals if authorities failed to resolve the issues.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa hydro workers demand permanency

Malakand hydropower project workers demonstrated outside the Peshawar Press Club on December 13 demanding job permanency. Over 230 workers are affected, including engineers. The Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organisation refuses to make them permanent.

Workers have accused the government of outsourcing construction and maintenance duties in order to avoid creating permanent jobs.

Bangladeshi primary assistant teachers end protest

Thousands of assistant teachers from government primary schools across the country gathered in Dhaka on December 23 and began a protest hunger strike. They want the government to reduce the difference in wages between trained head teachers and trained assistant teachers. By the third day of the protest at least 40 fell sick and four were sent for treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

The Primary Assistant Teachers Greater Alliance called off the hunger strike on Tuesday after the government gave an assurance that their demands would be met if they are found to be logical.

Teachers want their pay to be upgraded to 11th grade with a basic salary of $155 (Taka 12,500) from the existing 14th grade with a basic salary of $118. They claimed that the pay scale discriminated against 350,000 primary assistant teachers.

Australia and the Pacific

Fiji: Lockout at Nadi international airport in second week

About 250 Air Terminal Services (ATS) workers at Fijis main international airport in Nadi have been locked out since December 16. Management is refusing to allow them to return to work until they agree to sign a declaration saying that a walkout to attend a shareholders meeting was wrong, apologise and accept disciplinary action. ATS provides catering, baggage-handling and engineering services at the airport. ATS has a workforce of 640.

The dispute was triggered when 70 ATS workers walked out to attend an Air Terminal Services Employees Trust (ATSET) beneficiaries meeting. They were not allowed to return to work and were joined by other ATS workers who also refused to sign the declaration.

Mediation talks involving the Fiji employment minister, ATS management, the Federated Airline Staff Association, the Fiji Trades Union Congress and the Confederation of Public Sector Unions began on Wednesday.

Australia: Spanish diplomatic staff in Sydney on strike

Five workers at the Spanish consulate-general in Sydney walked off the job in November on an indefinite strike to demand a pay increase and improved working conditions. They said theyve been paid below the Australian minimum wage for more than six months due to an ongoing wage freeze by the Spanish government.

Workers want pay parity with Australian public servants and their professional classification moved to the Australian Public Service Work Level Standards.

Consulate-general workers in Sydney walked off the job in June after the Spanish government refused to pass on a 3.3 percent pay increase ordered by the Fair Work Commission as an increase to Australias minimum wage. Workers claimed their wages were frozen for nine years.

Similar strikes were held by 7,000 staff around the world working in Spanish embassies, consulates and trade commissions, including in the US, Argentina, Brazil, Sweden, Finland, Canada, Uruguay, El Salvador and the Spanish embassy to the EU in Brussels.
US President Donald Trump has lashed out at China for supposedly failing to implement United Nations sanctions on North Korea. South Korea announced yesterday it had seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship, the Lighthouse Winmore, which allegedly transferred oil to a North Korean vessel in contravention of UN bans.

Trump provocatively tweeted: Caught RED HANDEDvery disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea. There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!

The Trump administration has ratcheted up UN sanctions, and unilateral US bans, on the Pyongyang regime in a campaign of maximum pressure to compel North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile programs. In contrast to this supposedly friendly solution, the president has threatened again and again to take military action against Pyongyang if it does not fall into line.

Trumps denunciation of Beijing again demonstrates that the targeting of North Korea over its nuclear arsenal is aimed more broadly against China. The latest US National Security Strategy identifies China, along with Russia, as a major threat to American global dominance. The US military build-up in Asia against North Korea is also in preparation for war against China.

The latest Trump tweet smacks of a contrived provocation aimed at further ramping up tensions with China and North Korea. While South Korean officials announced the seizure of the Lighthouse Winmore, the information is more than a month old, and its release was clearly orchestrated in collaboration with Washington.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying flatly denied that China had anything to do with the alleged transfer of goods from the Lighthouse Winmore to a North Korean ship, saying it did not accord with the facts.

Hua pointed out: In reality, the ship in question has, since August, not docked at a Chinese port and there is no record of it entering or leaving a Chinese port. She insisted that China had always implemented UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to North Korea in their entirety and fulfills its international obligations.

Neither the US nor South Korea has provided any evidence of Chinese involvement. South Korean authorities stated yesterday that the Lighthouse Winmore was seized in South Koreas Yeosu Port on November 24, claiming the ship had transferred 600 tonnes of refined petroleum to a North Korean vessel.

The Hong Kong-flagged ship was chartered by the Taiwanese company Billions Bunker Group. It had previously visited Yeosu Port on October 11 to load Japanese-refined petroleum and left four days later, supposedly for Taiwan. However, according to South Korean officials, it transferred the oil to a North Korean ship, the Sam Jong 2, and three other non-North Korean vessels in international waters in the East China Sea.

The officials noted that South Korea had shared intelligence with the US for the detection of the illegal transaction. The US previously released satellite imagery showing a ship-to-ship transfer allegedly with a North Korean vessel.

UN sanctions limit, but do not ban, the export of oil to North Korea. However, a UN resolution in September prohibits the transfer of goods at sea to a North Korean ship. The US has called on the UN to blacklist 10 ships, including the Lighthouse Winmore, for allegedly carrying out illicit trade with North Korea.

Despite the lack of evidence of Chinese involvement, Trump threatened Beijing with trade war measures if it did not take stronger action against North Korea. In an interview yesterday with the New York Times, he said: Chinas hurting us very badly on trade, but I have been soft on China because the only thing more important to me than trade is war.

In the interview, Trump repeated that he was disappointed with China for allowing oil to go to North Korea. He lashed out against China, saying on trade [it] has ripped off this country more than any other element of the world in history has ripped off anything. He pointed out that during last years presidential election he threatened to brand China as a currency manipulator, paving the way for trade war retaliation.

Trump then warned: I can be different if theyre helping us with North Korea. If they dont help us with North Korea, then I do what Ive always said I want to do. China can help us much more, and they have to help us much more.

Trumps menacing threats against China and North Korea foreshadow a further escalation of tensions in the New Year. White House officials have repeatedly warned that time is running out for a peaceful end to the confrontation with Pyongyang.

Trumps comments are a further indication that he wants nothing less than a total economic embargo on North Korea in order to bring it to its knees. Both China and Russia have been reluctant to support measures that would create an economic and political crisis in Pyongyang that would allow the US and its allies to intervene and fashion a pro-American puppet regime.

Yet the imposition of a naval blockade on North Korea appears to be among the options under consideration by the Trump administration as it prepares for war against Pyongyang. Asked yesterday whether the US navy would become involved in seizing vessels suspected of transferring oil to North Korea, US Defence Secretary James Mattis declared he would not speculate on future military operations, but did not rule out such action.

Any forcible boarding by the US navy of a North Korean ship would violate international law and greatly inflame an already extremely tense situation. Such an incident could trigger North Korean retaliation and rapidly escalate into a full-scale conflict that would drag in other major powers, such as China and Russia.
A dramatic chain of political events has unfolded in Peru over the last three weeks, culminating in President Pedro Pablo Kuczynskis (PKK) December 24 pardon of former president Alberto Fujimori, who was sentenced in 2009 to 25 years in jail for human rights violations, among other crimes perpetrated by his government.

Despite the assurances of the Kuczynki government that the pardon was not negotiated, the main Peruvian newspapers are confirming what the pardon really represents in political terms:

In mid-November, as part of the investigation into the ramifications in Peru of Brazils ever-widening Lava Jato corruption scandal, Brazilian construction magnate Marcelo Odebrecht revealed to Peruvian attorneys that he had hired Kuczynski as an advisor after his term as prime minister under the government of President Alejandro Toledo (2001-2006). Earlier, Odebrecht had confirmed he had paid bribes to Toledo for the right to lucrative infrastructure projects, prompting the former president to flee Peru and seek refuge in California.

Kuczynski denied any involvement in corrupt deals with Odebrecht, but on December 13, Rosa Bartra, the chairwoman of Congressional Lava Jato Committeeand member of the Fujimorista Fuerza Popular party (FP)presented at a press conference details of payments by Odebrecht to two companies that had been established by Kuczynski and his Chilean associate, millionaire businessman Gerardo Sepulveda, in the United States while PKK had served as a minister under Toledo. These two companies served as consultants to Odebrecht and were awarded more than half a million US dollars.

Kuczynski admitted his co-ownership of these companies but still denied any wrongdoing, claiming everything was directed by Sepulveda. Then, he also admitted that he had worked in another company established by Sepulveda through which he directly received some money working as a private consultant to Odebrecht.

This triggered the call for the presidents impeachment. On December 15, a vote to initiate impeachment proceedings was passed with 93 votes in the 130-seat Congress. The main charge leveled against the president was moral inabilitya grounds established in the countrys constitutionfor having lied to the people about his real links to Odebrecht corruption.

The fujimorista FP, the main proponent of the impeachment, has, of course, other reasons to implement a restructuring of the government. Its leader Keiko Fujimoridaughter of the jailed former presidentis herself implicated in the Odebrecht scandal, but definite proofs have yet to appear. Lawyers from the Justice System and the attorney generals office who have been investigating Fujimoris daughter over supposed payments by Odebrecht and a drug-related scandal have been harassed and threatened by FP members and congressmen.

As an expert on Latin America told the New York Times: As in Brazil [with Dilma Rousseffs impeachment], theyre not pursuing corruption charges to clean Peru of corruption, theyre using the charges to remove their enemies from power.

However, as every caucus in Congressexcept for the one comprised of Kuczynskis partyvoted for the impeachment debate, it seemed that there was a general consensus to bring a premature end to Kuczynskis government. His approval rating27 percentis alarming for a president who just have ended his first year in office, and now the Odebrecht revelations have further discredited his administration.

A day before the impeachment vote, Kuczynski appeared with his two vice presidents, Martin Vizcarra and Mercedes Araoz, in a televised message and once again claimed no wrongdoings in relation to his work with Odebrecht and called the move toward impeachment a constitutional coup. He added that neither Vizcarra nor Araoz wanted to take part in a government that is born out of an unfair and undemocratic maneuver.

The pre-recorded message served as a warning that if the impeachment went through, no vice-president would take the presidency, and the post would then fall to the president of the Congress, Luis Galarreta, a staunch fujimorista .

The warning seems to have had an effect on the pseudo left caucus of Nuevo Peru. Days before the impeachment vote they began to campaign against it. They argued that the impeachment procedures were too fast and pointed out that Dilma Rousseff in Brazil had far more time to prepare her defense before the vote. Their battle cry against the impeachment vote was the hashtag #NiGolpismoNiLobismo (Neither Putschism nor Lobbysim), with Lobbyism intended to indicate the presidents supposed corruption.

In fact, the pseudo-left congressional caucuses of Nuevo Peru and Frente Amplio have been defenders of the stability of the bourgeois order even since before Kuczynski took power. The leaders of both caucuses (Veronika Mendoza and Marco Arana, respectively) called for a vote for Kuczynskia multimillionaire former Wall Street bankerin last years general election in order to stop Keiko Fujimori from coming to power. Since then, in Congress, they promised not to be an obstructionist opposition and defended Kuczynski from the FPs political attacks on his government.

While Aranas Frente Amplio initially was one of the main proponents of the impeachment, Nuevo Peru declared the impeachment to be a plot to carry out a hostile takeover of the government by the fujimoristas. They dubbed it the Fujigolpe (fujicoup).

On December 21, the impeachment vote took place, and during the speeches by members of Congress preceding it, the media reported that someone had leaked a medical report on Alberto Fujimoris health which proposed a pardon.

When the vote came, 10 congress members from the FP abstained, while all 10 members of the Nuevo Peru caucus stood up and walked out of the hall in order to exclude themselves from the vote. TV cameras showed that as they walked away, members from other caucuses began to applaud them.

In the end, the impeachment was defeated as it only got 79 of the needed 87 votes.

The 10 fujimorista rebels, who didnt follow the party line and abstained, were led by Kenji Fujimori, brother of Keiko and Albertos son who, according to many reports, has been trying for years to topple his sister and become the new party leader and the next presidential candidate for the fujimoristas .

Kenji has also been advocating for his fathers pardon more than his sister. It is reported that Alberto Fujimori favors him, and that both father and son are more supportive of the Kuczynskis government.

Kenjis involvement led to speculation that Kuczynskis government had negotiated a pardon for Alberto Fujimori, but this was denied by government spokesmen.

Two days after the failed impeachment, El Comercio, the right-wing corporative voice of the Peruvian ruling class, published an op-ed criticizing both Kuczynski and the opposition FP.

The op-ed argued that Kuczynski had no reasons to celebrate, since his position is now more precarious than before due to the Odebrecht revelations. It lamented the fact that the president, who comes entirely from the business world, hasnt managed to implement economic reforms (anti-working class policies) and that the still failing economy hasnt improved, despite the rising price of minerals, Perus main export.

As for the FP, El Comercio declared that it is time for the party to abandon its aggressive stance towards the government, pointing to a poll showing that 61 percent of Peruvians favor the dissolution of Congress, the one institution under the FPs thumb.

Then, the following day, as most Peruvians families were gathering to celebrate Christmas Eve, came the official announcement of Fujimoris pardon.

As far back as 2011, Kuczynski had declared that if he came to power he would pardon Fujimori. He went so far as to support Keiko Fujimori in the 2011 elections when the Peruvian ruling class was concerned about the rise of the nationalist Ollanta Humala, now also jailed and awaiting trial for having received bribes from Odebrecht.

However, during the 2016 elections, as he was being supported by the pseudo-left against Keiko Fujimori, Kuczynski pledged not to pardon him. Once in power, he declared that he was revising this pledge due to concerns about Fujimoris health, which have been proven a fabricated pretext. Fujimori until now had been living in a golden jail on the outskirts of Lima, and the only real health issues doctors could find were non-life-threatening hypertension and depression.

Fujimori received not only a pardon, but also a derecho de gracia (prerogative of mercy), the suspension of all existing legal proceedings against him.

In the aftermath of the pardon, the mediaeven amongst the governments supporters confirmed in reports that the pardon had been negotiated behind the scenes during the impeachment vote. Journalists showed how certain moments during the impeachment debate gave away what was happening, such as when Kenji Fujimori engaged in a heated debate with other high-ranking FP members, and when FP congressmen were called by cellphone by Alberto Fujimori himself who asked them to abstain from voting.

On Christmas, the president himself gave a thoroughly pathetic TV message supporting his decision to pardon Fujimori citing the false ill-health claims of the former president and claiming that despite the excesses and mistakes of his government he also did good things. Finally he told young people to leave the hate behind and turn the page.

Fujimoris pardon has unleashed a wave of protests, mostly by young people, in the capital and other main cities. The relatives of the victims of those killed and disappeared during Fujimoris government have asked international human rights organizations to condemn Kuczynskis actions, and even the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the UN have voiced concern over the pardon.

On top of this, Kuczynkis government has been shaken by the resignation of congressmen, ministers and even journalists and artists working in state television in the wake of the pardon.

Its difficult to predict whether the pardon will finally cement an alliance between the government and the fujimorista right. If that is the case, then the ruling class will finally have a united government for its program of a frontal assault on the working class in order to prop up capitalism in Peru.
The Ohio River -- on it, in it, over it, beside it. No politics.
Download BT Podcast



Reliance Jio to buy RCom's wireless assets

Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio Infocomm is ready to bail out younger brother Anil Ambani's debt-ridden telecom business by buying the wireless assets of Reliance Communications, having signed an accord that was announced on Dhirubhai Ambani's 85th birth anniversary. Jio signed a definitive agreement to acquire specified assets of RCom and its affiliates in an all-cash deal . The deal is being pegged at about Rs 24,000 crore.

E-commerce industry to grow at 60% in 2018

India's online shopping industry is estimated to grow at 60 per cent to about $28.5 billion in terms of gross merchandise value (GMV) in 2018, according to a report. The e-commerce industry is expected to return to high growth next year as large players such as Amazon, Flipkart and Paytm Mall begin to look beyond the 20 million customers who shop online on a monthly basis. Industry analyst RedSeer Consulting pegs the online shopping industry's growth at 23 per cent to $17.8 billion in 2017.

Gems & jewellery exports up 50%

In a sharp turnaround in global consumer sentiment, gems and jewellery exports from India jumped 56 per cent in November after a sustained decline over the previous months. Gems and jewellery exports from India are down by over 13 per cent, year on year, between April and October 2017. Data compiled by the Gems and Jewellery Exports Promotion Council (GJEPC), show net exports of gems and jewellery shot up to $2.78 billion (Rs 18,002 crore) in November 2017 from $1.77 billion (Rs 12,001 crore) during the same month last year. The sudden spurt in jewellery demand, especially from the US, has brought cheer to Indian exporters.

SEBI relaxes entry norms for foreign portfolio investors

Securities and Exchange Board of India has decided to relax the entry norms for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) willing to invest in the Indian markets. The SEBI board has decided to ease some rules, including expanding the eligible jurisdictions for registration by including countries with diplomatic tie-ups with India. Besides, the regulator may rationalise "fit and proper" criteria for FPIs as well as simplify the broad-based requirements for such investors. The moves are aimed at easing direct registration for FPIs and avoiding participatory notes



Insolvency Bill in Lok Sabha: Defaulters get a month to clear dues

Defaulting promoters who had already submitted resolution plans for insolvent companies before an ordinance in November made them ineligible to do so without clearing dues first will get up to a month to come clean to be eligible to bid for the stressed firms. A Bill introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday to replace the ordinance on the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, however, suggests this relaxation will be applicable only to defaulters in those cases where the resolution period has not exceeded the stipulated time frame



India ranked fifth among nations with most NPAs

At 9.9 percent ratio, India has been ranked fifth on the list of countries with highest Non-Performing Assets (NPAs), and is on top spot among the BRICS nations, a recent report by CARE Ratings revealed. The country is reeling under a huge NPA burden of over Rs 7.33 lakh crore as of June 2017. To address the crisis, the government has announced the recapitalisation of these public sector banks by infusing around Rs 2.11 lakh crore, besides pumping in Rs 1.35 lakh crore through recapitalisation bonds.

Whatsapp gets legal notice for middle finger emoji

An emoji has got the mobile messaging app Whatsapp into trouble with the law.Whatsapp received a legal notice from a Delhi-based advocate. The app has been asked to remove the said emoji in less than 15 days or he would file civil or criminal cases against the company if it is not removed. He said the middle finger emoji on WhatsApp is an obscene and lewd gesture, an offence in India. "By offering to use middle finger emoji in your app, you (WhatsApp) are directly abetting the use of offensive, lewd, obscene gesture," the notice said.

Download BT Podcast
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) disbursed reward money worth Rs 50 lakhs amongst winners and their respective trainers for their participation in WorldSkills International Competition, that was held in Abu Dhabi in October this year. The contingent from India had 28 participants across 26 skills at the skills competition. From these, team India won nine awards: one Silver for Patisserie and Confectionary, One Bronze for Prototype Modelling and Nine Medallions of Excellence.

WorldSkills India, an initiative of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry, to create aspiration around skills training in our country and benchmark the skillsets of the trained personnel against their counterparts from other parts of the world.

Organised by Amsterdam-based not-for-profit WorldSkills International, the competition had drawn 1,300 millenials from 59 WorldSkills' member countries and regions, showcasing their talent across 51 skills competitions.

China bagged the most awards with 15 gold medals, 7 silvers and 8 bronzes. Close second is Korea with 8 golds, 8 silvers, and 8 bronzes followed by Switzerland that won 11 golds, 6 silver, and 3 bronze.

Driving the youth to take up skill training programs and encouraging their participation at global platforms such as WorldSkills International Competition, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) felicitated the winners from the Indian team. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship said, "Such competitions not only give opportunities to candidates to represent the country at global platforms, but also raise the benchmarks of skilling in India."

He further added, "It is heartening to note that non-conventional skills such as Patisserie and Confectionary, Bricklaying, Mechatronics, Jewellery Designing are the new mainstream."
Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved

From Esquire

On Thursday, El Caudillo del Mar-A-Lago sat down with Michael Schmidt of The New York Times for what apparently was an open-ended, one-on-one interview. Since then, the electric Twitter machineand most of the rest of the Intertoobzhas been alive with criticism of Schmidt for having not pushed back sufficiently against some of the more obvious barefaced non-facts presented by the president* in their chat. Some critics have been unkind enough to point out that Schmidt was the conveyor belt for some of the worst attacks on Hillary Rodham Clinton emanating from both the New York FBI office and the various congressional committees staffed by people in kangaroo suits. For example, Schmidts name was on a shabby story the Times ran on July 23, 2015 in which it was alleged that a criminal investigation into HRC's famous use of a private email server was being discussed within the Department of Justice. It wasnt, and the Times public editor at the time, the great Margaret Sullivan, later torched the story in a brutal column.

Other people were unkind enough to point out that the interview was brokered by one Christopher Ruddy, a Trump intimate and the CEO of NewsMax, and that Ruddy made his bones as a political journalist by peddling the fiction that Clinton White House counsel Vince Foster had been murdered, one of the more distasteful slanders that got a shameful public airing during the Clinton frenzy of the 1990s. Neither of those will concern us here. What Schmidt actually got out of this interview is a far more serious problem for the country. In my view, the interview is a clinical study of a man in severe cognitive decline, if not the early stages of outright dementia.

Over the past 30 years, Ive seen my father and all of his siblings slide into the shadows and fog of Alzheimers Disease. (the president's father developed Alzheimer's in his 80s.) In 1984, Ronald Reagan debated Walter Mondale in Louisville and plainly had no idea where he was. (Would that someone on the panel had asked him. Hed have been stumped.) Not long afterwards, I was interviewing a prominent Alzheimers researcher for a book I was doing, and he said, I saw the look on his face that I see every day in my clinic. In the transcript of this interview, I hear in the president*s words my late aunts story about how we all walked home from church in the snow one Christmas morning, an event I dont recall, but that she remembered so vividly that she told the story every time I saw her for the last three years of her life.

Story continues

The president* exhibits the kind of stubbornness you see in patients when you try to relieve them of their car keys.

In this interview, the president* is only intermittently coherent. He talks in semi-sentences and is always groping for something that sounds familiar, even if it makes no sense whatsoever and even if it blatantly contradicts something he said two minutes earlier. To my ears, anyway, this is more than the president*s well-known allergy to the truth. This is a classic coping mechanism employed when language skills are coming apart. (My father used to give a thumbs up when someone asked him a question. That was one of the strategies he used to make sense of a world that was becoming quite foreign to him.) My guess? Thats part of the reason why its always the failing New York Times, and his 2016 opponent is Crooked Hillary."

In addition, the president* exhibits the kind of stubbornness you see in patients when you try to relieve them of their car keysor, as one social worker in rural North Carolina told me, their shotguns. For example, a discussion on health-care goes completely off the rails when the president* suddenly recalls that there is a widely held opinion that he knows very little about the issues confronting the nation. So we get this.

But Michael, I know the details of taxes better than anybody. Better than the greatest C.P.A. I know the details of health care better than most, better than most. And if I didnt, I couldnt have talked all these people into doing ultimately only to be rejected.

This is more than simple grandiosity. This is someone fighting something happening to him that he is losing the capacity to understand. So is this.

Were going to win another four years for a lot of reasons, most importantly because our country is starting to do well again and were being respected again. But another reason that Im going to win another four years is because newspapers, television, all forms of media will tank if Im not there because without me, their ratings are going down the tubes. Without me, The New York Times will indeed be not the failing New York Times, but the failed New York Times. So they basically have to let me win. And eventually, probably six months before the election, theyll be loving me because theyre saying, Please, please, dont lose Donald Trump. O.K.

In Ronald Reagans second term, we ducked a bullet. Ive always suspected he was propped up by a lot of people who a) didnt trust vice-president George H.W. Bush, b) found it convenient to have a forgetful president when the subpoenas began to fly, and c) found it helpful to have a detached president when they started running their own agendas  like, say, selling missiles to mullahs. Youre seeing much the same thing with the congressional Republicans. Theyre operating an ongoing smash-and-grab on all the policy wishes theyve fondly cultivated since 1981. Having a president* who may not be all there and, as such, is susceptible to flattery because it reassures him that he actually is makes the heist that much easier.

So, no, I dont particularly care whether Michael Schmidt was tough enough, or asked enough follow-up questions. I care about this.

Im always moving. Im moving in both directions. We have to get rid of chainlike immigration, we have to get rid of the chain. The chain is the last guy that killed. ... [Talking with guests.]  The last guy that killed the eight people.  [Inaudible.]  So badly wounded people.  Twenty-two people came in through chain migration. Chain migration and the lottery system. They have a lottery in these countries. They take the worst people in the country, they put em into the lottery, then they have a handful of bad, worse ones, and they put them out. Oh, these are the people the United States.   Were gonna get rid of the lottery, and by the way, the Democrats agree with me on that. On chain migration, they pretty much agree with me.

Weve got bigger problems.

Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page.

Related Video:

Watch news, TV and more on Yahoo View.



You Might Also Like
American Girl has released some pretty amazing dolls over the last year, including Melody Ellison (a civil rights-era doll), Suzie Z Yang (the first Korean-American doll), Nanea Mitchell (a doll from Pearl Harbor-era Hawaii), and even Logan Everett (the first American Boy). Now its time to say hello to Luciana Vega, American Girls 16th Girl of the Year, whos both an aspiring astronaut and a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) role model.

Introduced on Good Morning America along with a group of girls who looked like they were ready to take on some stellar space travel, Luciana is a creative, confident 11-year-old girl who dreams of being an astronaut and the first person to go to Mars. She also hopes to inspire others to defy stereotypes and follow their dreams. Ah-maz-ing!

Luciana is our first character thats really immersed in STEM, said American Girl designer Rebecca Dekuiper. Weve had STEM products before, but we really wanted to do a whole character to show girls that STEM is cool.

Luciana has her very own space suit, NASA uniform, and even part of a space station  a girl needs a place to work on those interstellar calculations, after all! And all of her gear got a seal of approval from actual experts who helped to create both Luciana and her backstory.

I was able to follow Lucy through all of her story and adventures, and provide feedback from an astronauts perspective on the authenticity of her story and the activities that she participated in, NASA astronaut Dr. Megan McArthur Behnken told ABC News. Ive been in space and fixed the Hubble space telescope, so I have some perspective on how we use robotics, how we train for robotics.

Behnken  along with former NASA chief scientist Dr. Ellen Stofan; manager of strategic alliances at NASA, Maureen OBrien; and the CEO of the US Space and Rocket Center, Dr. Deborah Barnhart  helped shape Lucianas story in a three-book series that follows her during a summer at Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.

Story continues

Were sure youre as eager as we are to order Luciana for the little one in your life ASAP, but she wont go on sale until January 1. And while that might seem like an eternity, it will be totally worth the wait.

Are you thrilled that American Girl chose an aspiring astronaut and STEM role model as their 2018 Girl of the Year? Let us know @BritandCo!

(photo via GMA/YouTube)
Donald Trump unexpectedly fired everyone on his HIV/AIDS council, and heres why we should be worried

The White House sent termination letters this week to all members of the HIV/AIDS council, officially known as the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, The Washington Blade reported Friday, December 29th. The firings came six months after a half-dozen members resigned in protest over the Trump administrations commitment  or lack thereof  to HIV/AIDS policy.

Kay Hayes, the HIV/AIDS councils executive director, confirmed the terminations in a statement to The Washington Post.

Changing the makeup of federal advisory committee members is a common occurrence during administration changes, Hayes said. The Obama administration dismissed the George W. Bush administration appointees to PACHA in order to bring in new voices. All PACHA members are eligible to apply to serve on the new council that will be convened in 2018.

However, HIV experts and advocates remain worried about the future of HIV/AIDS policy, and for good reason. The Trump administration has yet to appoint a director of the Office of National AIDS Policy, according to NBC News. Further, proposed U.S. budget cuts to HIV/AIDS funding could curtail progress in ending the diseases spread. A report from the ONE Campaign estimated the budget cuts would lead to a rise in HIV diagnoses for the first time since 1995.

Unsurprisingly, the Twitterverse was none too pleased with the news.

Trump fires his HIV/AIDS council without warning & wont explain why he did it https://t.co/aSs3uD6VlZ  LGBTQ Nation (@lgbtqnation) December 29, 2017

More extreme cruelty and the rule of ignorance from @realDonaldTrump. administration fires all members of HIV/AIDS advisory council - The Washington Post https://t.co/VLpjchPurM  Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) December 30, 2017

My sister in law contracted HIV through a blood transfusion in the 1980s. She is alive today because of the advances made in treatment through research. We cannot give up on those who are fighting HIV/AIDS. We wouldnt abandon cancer patients  we cant abandon HIV patients.  Tracey Brabant (@tjb429) December 30, 2017

There are more than 1.2 million people in the United States living with HIV.

Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, theres still a lot we dont know about HIV and AIDS. For example, HIV is no longer the death sentence it once was. In fact, advances in antiretroviral treatment mean many people with HIV live long, healthy lives. Just one pill a day can result in undetectable viral loads and prevent an HIV patient from transmitting the virus to others.

Picture of HIV/AIDS Policy Trump

Regardless of the progress weve made in limiting the spread of HIV and AIDS, theres still more work to do. Lets hope the Trump administration will reaffirm its commitment to fighting the disease  its first step could be filling all those empty seats on the presidents HIV/AIDS council.
Kate Middleton, Prince William, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry on Christmas Day. (Photo: Getty Images)

A single mom who snapped a photo of Kate Middleton, Prince William, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry on the street is hoping to make enough bank from its sale to send her daughter to college.

On Monday, as the royals  dubbed The Fab Four on social media  headed to Christmas services at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the queens Sandringham estate, fans lined the streets to take photos.

A woman in the crowd named Karen Anvil, 39, of Norfolk, snapped a near-perfect image of the foursome on her iPhone 5. In the photo, Middleton and Will are holding hands and Markle, newly engaged to Harry, is holding his arm. Everyone is smiling and, with the exception of Will, making eye contact with the camera.

Waiting at Sandringham to see the Royals and got this photo!!! Anvil captioned the photo, which drew 15K retweets, 1K comments, and 79K likes. Many followers advised her to protect the rare image with a copyright or legal representation, and Anvil admitted she was overwhelmed by the attention.

I dont know what Im doing! Please help  Karen Anvil (@Anvilius) December 25, 2017

Thank you so much for having my back! I was a wee bit naive this morning! x  Karen Anvil (@Anvilius) December 25, 2017

Im just very bubbly by nature, and I was with my daughter and I got a bit excitable, I suppose, Anvil told the BBC when asked how she captured the moment. I was just sort of shouting, and I just went Merry Christmas! like an idiot. I was fan-girling. Thats all I said, and got them to look.

Story continues

It was a hard-earned achievement for Anvil who, last year while she was ill, promised her 17-year-old daughter, Rachel, that they would visit the church, which is famous for drawing the royal family on special occasions, including Christmas.

Since tweeting the photo, Anvil has been inundated with suggestions to sell it  a move she doesnt necessarily oppose. The thing is  and I hate to play the single mum card  Im a single parent; I work two jobs, which Im proud of, and Ive always worked, she told the publication. Now I want to save money for my daughter for uni, and if I can do that and can get that opportunity, thats amazing.

But according to celebrity photographer and media consultant Clinton H. Wallace, while the photo is valuable, the mom has a limited time to cash in. The image is good  its properly composed and the subjects are smiling and looking at the camera, Wallace tells Yahoo Lifestyle. But theres a specific protocol if the owner wants to be compensated.

For starters, to maximize the value of photos, amateur shutterbugs should keep them off social media. This woman posted it on Twitter, which makes it breaking news and fair game for any publication to use, as long as they credit her, says Wallace. Thats good for exposure, but the photo has less monetary value if its been published everywhere.

Ideally, Anvil would have registered the photo with a large newswire agency  such as Getty Images or Splash News which would archive it in a database, charge publications a fee for its use, and pay the owner a percentage of its earnings. In that case, the photographer would be in a very good financial position, especially since pictures of royals have long lifespans, Wallace said.

Wowza! What is happening?!? Im so happy you all like the photo. Can I please ask that anyone wishing to use the photo that they please contact Ken Goff at ken@goffphotos.com Thank you all so much for your support Karen & Rachel  Karen Anvil (@Anvilius) December 26, 2017

Anvil is now directing her Twitter followers to the photo agency GOFF Photos, a British-based company founded by royal photographer Ken Goff, who told Yahoo Lifestyle the company is acting as Anvils agent and syndicating the image.

Good luck to Anvil, who is clearly ending 2017 on a picture-perfect note.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




India was probably right when, a few years ago, it made a statement on foreign aid by closing down most of the bilateral aid programmes in the country. It is right in arguing that the developing world, including India, needs to be compensated for the developmental opportunities lost on account of excessive consumption by the now developed world. However, the developed world is unfortunately unwilling to accept this argument - especially in the context of rapidly emerging economies. As such, faced with necessarily ambitious goals on both climate change and sustainable development, and staring at huge growth needs of a young aspiring population, India largely has to chart its own sustainable development pathway.

The climate change challenge requires us to, sooner or later but within this century, move to a net zero carbon emission level. The more we lock ourselves in to a carbon intensive pathway, the more difficult it would be to transit out. As such, while we have made our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) going up to 2030, under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, it is important that such commitments are aligned to a long term vision going up to the end of the century. Such a long term vision would not only have to define and estimate the impacts of actions on the energy front, but would also have to delineate a clear vision for creating carbon sinks, and visualise the structure of the Indian economy and its infrastructure such that the demand for services by the Indian population are met.

At the same time, India has also ratified the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which defines the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) for the world. While achieving our obligations under both these agreements would require transformative changes in all aspects of life as we have known it, the major common focus area between these two global agreements is around energy and its use. While the Paris Agreement calls upon us to move to cleaner, more efficient energy consumption, the Agenda 2030 agreement requires us to also make energy accessible to all. Given our low levels of energy access and high poverty, the conundrum that we face is to see how we achieve both sets of goals.

The Government of India has announced an ambitious programme for renewable energy expansion and for reducing India's energy intensity. Driven by the promise of policy support that this announcement held, but supported largely by falling international prices, the growth in committed solar capacity has been impressive. But this growth has to continue. While celebrating the steep fall in utility scale solar energy prices, discovered through the reverse bidding processes adopted by India, we need to recognise the new challenges that are threatening to derail this progress. These include the re-negotiation of existing bids/contracts, the inability to reach financial closures due to a lack of confidence in financial institutions, among others. The policy corrections needed to address the above challenges do take place, sooner or later. However, the frequency of corrections needed and the delays in such corrective responses are costing the private sector in terms of the confidence in the sector, the ability to achieve financial closures and, therefore, their own viability. Additionally, beating down the price of renewable energy (wind energy prices too have declined sharply) cannot be the one silver bullet that will ensure the sustainable growth of renewable energy. Stable purchase obligations, facilitating net-metering, tariff support and other such mechanisms would need to be applied for some time till the sector achieves full maturity.

Renewable energy can also be a game changer in the rural energy situation in India. With all the definitional vagaries about rural electrification, we still have more than 200 million people without access to electricity in their homes. And maybe three times that number using traditional biomass fuels in traditional cook stoves. While we have run many experiments on rural electrification and on improved cook stoves over decades, the successes have been marginal albeit with a huge learning value. The technological progresses now made -- integrating IT solutions with energy solutions - opens up a new range of opportunities to meet the rural energy challenge in India. But a concerted effort in this direction requiring an encouragement of markets and market actors, facilitating financial flows and creating a knowledge platform is still not clearly visible.

Having said that, amongst the various measures to reduce India's carbon footprint, the large scale introduction of renewable energy is possibly the easiest as this lies largely in the domain of government policies. However, goals related to reducing India's energy intensity and emissions intensity will require the full-scale participation of multiple stakeholders - industry, the services sector, utilities and consumers at large. For bringing about a change in the behaviour of these diverse and dispersed stakeholders, the government has limited policy tools available to them. Historical experience with bringing about energy efficiency improvements have revealed the many barriers to success: Access to technologies/knowledge, opportunity value of capital, capabilities, etc.

The importance of taking a systemic approach to each of the SDG goals has also been highlighted within the Agenda 2030 document, which goes as far as to say that all SDGs "are integrated and indivisible and balance the three pillars of sustainable development...". These inter-linkages between the SDGs are recognised when we speak of the Food-energy-water nexus or the nexus between energy and health or energy and education etc. But, we are not organised administratively to exploit these inter-linked opportunities. The allocation of business rules and financial resources disempower government functionaries from taking an integrated approach to sustainable development - not to speak about the challenges of translating national policies to local action! If India wants to achieve its Paris Agreement and SDGs commitments, it would need to first and foremost, transform thinking at the highest levels. As Prime Minister Modi stated "The transformation of India cannot happen without a transformation of governance" and "A transformation of Governance cannot happen without a transformation of mindsets".

(The author is Vice Chancellor, TERI School of Advanced Studies)
Kevin Hart and Kenzo  aka Zo. (Photo: Kevin Hart via Instagram)

The year 2017 has been one of normal celebrity baby names. Well, normal by Hollywood standards.

Among the kids born, there were few shockers like the Apples and Pilot Inspektors of the past. (Fun fact: Apple Martin and Pilot Lee are now teenagers.) Even the more unusual creative names are right on trend, according to baby name expert Laura Wattenberg.

The vast majority of Hollywood parents name the same as everybody else, Wattenberg, whos behind Baby Name Wizard, tells Yahoo Lifestyle. All of America is naming far more creatively, so some of the names [where you think], Oh, these celebrities have done it again are actually pretty mainstream.

Even the unique names among Hollywood babes represent the top trends across the country  from rock n roll baby names to action-hero ones. Take a look at 10 of the most interesting celebrity baby names of 2017

1. Kenzo, son of Kevin Hart and Eniko Parrish: The Jumanji stars children with his first wife are named Hendrix and Heaven, so he made a conscious choice not to follow the H trend when he started a family this year with his second wife. Kenzo is a Japanese name, Wattenberg says. Its accessible, short, and zippy. So zippy, Hart often calls the baby Zo. The letter Z is hugely popular with parents right now. (See below for Lazlo, son of Jason Biggs.) But this isnt the first weve heard of the name Kenzo in the celeb world. Kimora Lee Simmons and Djimon Hounsou welcomed their son, Kenzo, in 2009.

2. Strummer, son of Julia Stiles and Preston J. Cook: Rocker homages are huge, says Wattenberg, and this one pays tribute to the late Joe Strummer from the Clash. (Stiles is a fan  their music makes her dance around her living room.) Other rocker names weve seen in recent years include Bowie, Jagger, Prince, and Lenon.

A post shared by Julia Stiles (@missjuliastiles) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

3. Sir, son of Beyonce and Jay-Z: This regal name fits right in with word names like Marvel or Supreme  or title names like Prince, which is also in the rock n category (see Strummer above). A name that you use in a form of address is aggressive because youre demanding respect, Wattenberg says. Imagine always saying Yes, Sir to your 3-year old?! While its not a surprising choice for the Carters, its interesting that out of three kids, only the boy gets the name that puts him on a pedestal. Which brings us to

Story continues

A post shared by Beyonce (@beyonce) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

4. Rumi, daughter of Beyonce and Jay-Z: Jay-Z shed some light on the twins names, explaining that Sir carries himself like that. He just came out, like, Sir, while Rumi is our favorite poet. Wattenberg describes Rumi as a raindrop name  or a short name thats smooth and glossy, like Noah, Liam or Mia, which are popular now.

5. Revel, son of Matthew and Renee Morrison: Revel is a celebratory word name that Wattenberg says exalts the child. Its another one of the names that puts the child on a pedestal  similar to Sir, Miracle, Royal, and Reign.

A post shared by Matthew Morrison (@_matthew.morrison_) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

6. Gunner, son of Spencer and Heidi Pratt: Gunnar is a traditional Norse name, but changing the ar ending to an er literally means someone who holds a gun. Firearm baby names are a huge trend according to Wattenberg. After all, we are in the Trump era. While the er ending became trendy with occupational names like Taylor and Carter, now names like Gunner, Riker, and Wilder are rising.

A post shared by Gunnar Pratt (@gunnerpratt) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

7. Bodhi, daughter of Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder: Jenna Elfman and Megan Fox are among celebrities who have chosen Bodhi for their baby, but Reed and Somerhalders little one is unusual because shes a girl and the other celebrity Bodhis are boys. Wattenberg says its not an uncommon name but is one of a kind because its gentler and more contemplative than a lot of current, aggressively male names.

A post shared by Ian Somerhalder (@iansomerhalder) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

8. Lyric, daughter of AJ and Rochelle McLean: This name has been popular since it was introduced in the 1994 film Jasons Lyric. Its a natural choice for a boy-bander, but whats odd is that even though its typically a feminine name, it sounds like the common male name Eric, which makes it stand out.

A post shared by AJ McLean (@skulleeroz) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

9. Montague, son of Geri Halliwell and Christian Horner: This very British name may sound strange to American parents, but Wattenberg explains that cute nicknames for boys like Frankie and Alfie are huge in England. The nickname Monty, which the former Spice Girl calls her son, is part of that trend.

A post shared by Geri Halliwell Horner (@therealgerihalliwell) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

10. Lazlo, son of Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen: Names ending in O are short and quirky, with Leo currently the most popular. Wattenberg calls Lazlo a romantic name from Spanish/Italian tradition. As we noted above when talking Kenzo, Z is also a hot letter. So look out for a spike in unique O-ending names that also feature a Z.

A post shared by Jason Biggs (@biggsjason) on Dec 13, 2017 at 5:27pm PST

And while we await the Kardashian baby boom  Kylie Jenner, Khloe Kardashian, and Kim Kardashian all have babies on the way  well leave you with a prediction about the kind of name North and Saint Wests sibling will get when the surrogate gives birth.

It would be really surprising if they didnt choose a word name, Wattenberg says. You can make a different impact with a word-based name because it comes with built-in meaning and yet nobodys heard it on a baby before.

As for general name trends in 2018? Wattenberg says, I dont see anything holding back the movement toward more creative names. Creative, but not totally out there. Sorry, Audio Science.





Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.
On Nov. 27, Prince Harry announced to the world that he asked American actress Meghan Markle to marry him. The two had been dating for more than a year, he is a prince, and they are in love, so it was no surprise she said yes.

In the whirlwind of engagement announcements, rings, and wedding planning, it can be hard to remember that Markle is not only a future royal but also a fellow human being, who was once upon a time a struggling 20-something just like the rest of us.

In an op-ed written for Darling Magazine years before shed become a member of the royal family, Markle wrote about her life and struggles as both an actress and a woman in incredibly candid fashion.

It wasnt that long ago that I was crawling into my car through the trunk after an audition for Girl #2. I had a beat up Ford Explorer Sport that rattled like a steamboat engine in the morning, and had decided it didnt want to open from the front doors anymore, Markle wrote. It was burning out. It had started to give up. It was tired and running on empty going from audition to audition, just as I was.

Related: Why Meghan Markle, Like Kate Middleton, Will Never Actually Be a Princess

She continued by explaining the depths of despair she experienced as a working actress, going from audition to audition, feeling as though she was never quite thin enough or pretty enough to make the cut, until finally, someone stepped in and said exactly the right thing.

You need to know that youre enough, a casting director named April Webster told a young Markle during an audition. "Less makeup, more Meghan.

Markle went on to explain that as an actress, you spend your days believably saying someone elses words for a living. Bringing life to someone elses thoughts.

But in all the years that she played Rachel on the hit show Suits, Markle said she learned who she was by living out her dreams and simply going after what she wanted. She closed the piece by saying:  I would discover that I am enough.

Related: Prince Harry Says Meghan Markle 'Really Enjoyed' Christmas With the Royal Family

Of course, this isnt Markle's first time giving women everywhere the words they need to hear. In 2015, Meghan spoke at the U.N. Womens conference, where she explained how at the age of 11 she fought against the patriarchy by helping change the way soap is advertised to women. Specifically, she saw a soap advertised with the tagline, "Women all over America are fighting greasy pots and pans."

"I remember feeling shocked and angry and also just feeling so hurt. It just wasn't right and something needed to be done," Markle said.

Instead of sitting idly by, she wrote letters to every powerful woman she could think of, including Hillary Clinton, civil rights lawyer Gloria Allred, and journalist Linda Ellerbee  and the soap manufacturer in question, Procter & Gamble.

And guess what? Markle won. Just one month after her campaign, the soap company changed its tagline from Women all over America" to "People all over America."

"It means that a wife is equal to her husband, a sister to her brother, Markle said. Not better, not worse  they are equal."
Earlier this month the world learned that Prince Harry scored a seriously coveted interview for his turn as guest editor for BBC Radio. The young prince and soon to be husband sat down for a 40-minute, one-on-one interview with none other than former U.S. president Barack Obama.

The lengthy interview is a rare one for Obama, who has remained active in world politics since leaving office, but has shied away from interviews and media appearances. But of course he made an exception for the prince, who happens to also be his beloved friend.

While we knew the interview would be funny based on the previews that Kensington Palace shared, we didnt know just how deep the conversation would get around the future of world leadership.

"Part of my role and part of my job is to shine a spotlight on issues that need that spotlight, whether it's people, whether it's causes, issues, whatever it is, Harry said. "So I will continue to play my part in society and do my job to the best of my abilities so that I can wake up in the morning and feel energized."

In the interview, which was taped in September during the Invictus Games in Toronto, Obama not only talked with Harry about the future, but also revealed a great deal about his present life as an average citizen.

"I didn't used to experience traffic," Obama said. "I used to cause traffic." He added, "The fact that I can wake up and if I want to spend an extra 45 minutes talking to Michelle and take a long breakfast  I can do it. That feels great."

And though he never mentions President Donald Trump by name, Obama did insinuate that hes concerned with the current state of American politics under the new administration.

"That [feeling of satisfaction] was mixed with all the work that was still undone, and concerns about how the country moves forward," Obama revealed. "But overall, there was a serenity there. More than I expected."

Story continues

While the pair certainly seemed like they could talk about anything, there was one subject that didnt come up  who would be invited to Harrys spring wedding to American actress Meghan Markle. As NPR speculated, inviting the Obamas may cause political strife between the British government and the Trump family.

"We haven't put the invites or the guest list together yet, so who knows whether he's going to be invited or not," Harry told BBC. "Wouldn't want to ruin that surprise."

Listen to the entire interview here.
Although frequent travelers may keep Do not disturb signs on their doors to avoid interruptions for turn-down service or unnecessary cleanings, several hotels are now modifying their procedures in the interest of increased security.

At Walt Disney World hotels like Disney's Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, and Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Do not disturb signs will be replaced with Room occupied signs.

Related: The Real Reason Why Hotels Use White Bedsheets

"The hotel and its staff reserve the right to enter your room for any purposes including, but not limited to, performing maintenance and repairs or checking on the safety and security of guests and property," Disneys new guest information pack reads. A hotel employee will be required to enter a room at least once every 24 hours, even if the Room occupied sign is on the door. Staff must knock and announce themselves before entering the room.

And, according to Loyalty Lobby, Hilton recently revamped its Do not disturb policy for its hotels worldwide. Going forward, hotel cleaning staff should slip unable to service cards under the doors of hotel rooms that have displayed Do not disturb signs for more than 24 hours straight.

We understand and respect your need for privacy, Hiltons new unable to service cards will read. The hotel reserves the right to visually inspect all guest rooms every 24 hours to ensure the well-being of our guests and confirm the condition of the room. If service is refused for this length of time, a member of hotel management will check on the guest room.

Cleaning staff are then supposed to alert management who, depending on the risk level of the guest, will perform a visual inspection of the room. Guests who are part of a flight crew or law enforcement will not be subject to searches.

Several outlets point to Octobers Las Vegas shooting, when a gunman opened fire from the window of his hotel suite, killing 58 people, as a catalyst for the security change.

Some Las Vegas hotels, including the Orleans Hotel and Casino, began changing their Do not disturb signs and procedures in November.

According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, typical hotel operating procedures dictate that someone from hotel staff must check on a room if a Do not disturb sign has been hanging for three days straight.
Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:

1. PRESIDENT TOUTS GLOBAL WARMING IN FACE OF COLD SPELL

President Trump says the East Coast "could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming" as bitterly cold temperatures are expected to freeze large swaths of the country this holiday weekend.

2. WHO NEEDS HELP AS COLD WEATHER PERSISTS

As a deep freeze sets in across half the country, officials are urging people to help those most vulnerable, especially the homeless and the elderly.

3. WHICH OIL-RICH KINGDOM IS SEEING UNPRECEDENTED DEVELOPMENTS

Saudi Arabia has laid the groundwork for momentous change next year, defying its conservative reputation for slow, cautious reforms.

4. GOLDEN STATE STORES STOCKING SHELVES WITH POT

Marijuana legalization arrives Monday in California with lots of hoopla, but only a handful of cities will initially have retail outlets ready to sell recreational pot.

5. RADICALIZATION THREATENS MUSLIM MINORITY FLEEING CHINA

As Uighurs flee a Chinese security crackdown in droves, they are often recruited with calls of jihad by militant Uighur members of Syria-based Islamic groups.

6. RETURNING MIGRANTS POSE CHALLENGE ACROSS AFRICA

Some of the migrants stranded in Libya are being sent home, where they face familiar conditions: high unemployment, often weak economies and an increasingly harsh climate.

7. PREPARING FOR BIG APPLE'S NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION

Police promise tighter security than ever at Times Square, after a year with several deadly attacks on innocent crowds, including at the very spot where revelers will ring in 2018.

8. WHERE THE FREE PRESS IS UNDER THREAT

Turkey, Poland and Hungary are among the young democracies where media freedoms are facing increasing attacks from governments.

9. HOW MESSAGING ICONS PASS MUSTER

The Unicode Consortium is tasked with setting the global standard for emojis, a heady responsibility with consequences for modern communication.

10. FAREWELL TO VERSATILE PERFORMER WITH 90-YEAR CAREER

Rose Marie, who played the wisecracking Sally Rogers on "The Dick Van Dyke Show," has died at 94.
A shooter opened fire at a southern California law firm Friday, killing one man and injuring another before fatally turning the gun on himself, police said.

Police found the two men dead inside the law offices in Long Beach. A handgun was recovered at the scene.

The shooter was an attorney who used to work at the firm, Long Beach City Councilman Al Austin, who was briefed by the police, told the Los Angeles Times.

The gunman, who was not identified by police, was recently fired, reported the Orange County Register. He shot two senior partners of the firm Perona, Langer, Beck, Serbin, Mendoza and Harrison, according to the newspaper.

One of the partners who was shot was driven to a nearby hospital. He was in stable condition, according to Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia.

Have been briefed on shooting in law offices in North Long Beach. Appears to be a workplace homicide. Both the shooter and a victim are dead. One other person was shot but is in hospital in stable condition. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families LBPD will update.  Robert Garcia (@RobertGarciaLB) December 30, 2017

The shooting occurred during an office holiday party, according to the OC Register. Video shows workers running out of the building during the mid-afternoon attack. Streets around the firm were soon blocked off as a SWAT team, fire trucks and ambulances rushed to the scene. No shots were fired by police.

Apparently there is mass shooting inside the building. Saw 3 people rushing outside screaming shooting inside. Police blocked the area. Shooter still inside. Nothing is clear yet. #LongBeach #California #shooting pic.twitter.com/WQ4X878GCn  Basileus Zeno (@BasileusZeno) December 29, 2017

Long Beach Police Sgt. Brad Johnson characterized the shooting as workplace violence. He identified the dead men as employees. CBS2-TV of Los Angeles reported that the shooter ordered people out of the offices except for his two targets.

Story continues

Video of police briefing on the shooting at a Long Beach law office. Shooter and one victim dead. Another victim in serious condition at the hospital. Shooter appears to have killer himself. pic.twitter.com/aGKovJhp3X  Jeremiah Dobruck (@jeremiahdobruck) December 30, 2017

UPDATE: Not an active shooter. This was a workplace violence incident, resulting in a homicide investigation, which remains ongoing.  Long Beach PD (CA) (@LBPD) December 30, 2017

Shooting in the building across the street from my workplace..... not sure how many were killed or injured yet pic.twitter.com/K9zR9Smbhd  SoulxFetcha  (@SFetcha) December 29, 2017

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
This year will be remembered for its immense cultural and social upheavals, both good and unbelievably, Earth-shatteringly bad. But what appears to have remained consistent, at least judging by the science stories that Inverse fans read, interacted with, and shared, is a healthy curiosity about the the weird and wonderful, the science of our own bodies and minds, and scientific discoveries that push the limits of what we currently consider reality. That, and an obsession with whatever Neil deGrasse Tyson has to say about anything.

To celebrate a strange and sensational year in science, here are the 25 science stories that Inverse readers loved the most.

25. Genetics Researchers Just Disproved a Long-Held Racist Assumption

As racial tensions escalated this year in America and around the world, scientists found hard evidence that many of the assumptions people make about people with dark skin are completely, utterly unfounded. Many people still act as if people born with dark skin are less human, a behavior inherited from Middle-Age Europeans who believed the African people they encountered were not the same species as them. In October, scientists revealed they  and the people who continue to promote those beliefs  were completely wrong, showing that the human genes for dark and light skin all originated in Africa.

Read more about the racist theory debunked by science.

24. Drake Equation Revision Hugely Ups Odds of Intelligent Alien Life

The Drake Equation, written in 1961 for the first meeting of SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence), is a seven-variable equation that calculates the odds that there are any active civilizations beyond Earth. In 2016, scientists decided it was a bit outdated, and so they updated it to include new data on exoplanets collected in the 50+ years since the equation was written. The new probability that there isnt any other intelligent life out there is 10 billion trillion  making it extremely likely that there is something else out there.

Story continues

Read more about your chances of meeting aliens in this lifetime.

23. Science Explains the Marijuana Hangover

The marijuana hangover  replete with headache, fatigue, fogginess, and dehydration,  has long confused pot users, who are more likely to associate the symptoms with alcohol. Scientists chalk the tired feeling up to the restless sleep that ensues when you get too high, and the dehydration you feel is caused by weed shutting down saliva production, which is what also causes the dreaded dry mouth while smoking.

Read more about the psychological and physical downside of a pot brownie binge.

22. Humans Have Been Having the Same Nightmare for Thousands of Years

Over the centuries, humans have come up with countless, often absurd, explanations for the phenomenon known as sleep paralysis. When it strikes, sleepers find themselves suddenly awake but unable to move, pinned to their bed as if a heavy weight is sitting on their chest. Scientists think the phenomenon has its roots in our brains, which actively paralyze us during REM sleep so that we dont act out our dreams. If were suddenly interrupted during that phase, our brains sometimes wake up before our bodies do, leading to the terrifying nightmare-like experience.

Read more about sleep paralysis, which led to the evolution of the Night Hag.

21. A Stolen Human Skeleton Might Be Americas Oldest

An investigation of the spoils from a plundered underwater cave in Tulum, Mexico, turned up an unlikely guest: the most ancient human skeleton ever found in the Americas. The Chan Hol II skeleton, which was first discovered in February 2012 and was actually stolen shortly after photos of it went public, was recovered by scientists who showed, using carbon dating, that it was 13,000 years old.

Read more about the very first Americans, who were actually in Mexico.

20. Diarrhea Is Evolutions Immune System Drain-O

Poop will never not be funny for readers. Itll also never not be interesting to scientists. This June, they discovered that diarrhea serves a critical purpose for animals, having evolved over millennia of evolution. As much as it sucks to get the runs while traveling or after eating an adventurous meal, having to rush to the can is much better than not getting diarrhea. The uncomfortable bowel movement, the scientists reported, is your bodys way of flushing out all of the potentially life-threatening toxins in your gut before they get into the rest of your body.

Read more about the biological reason diarrhea is good for you.

19. 20 Years After the Great Lego Spill, Theyre Still Washing Ashore

In 1997, a container ship called the Tokio Express bound for New York was hit by a wave so huge that it knocked an enormous container full of 4.8 million pieces of Lego into the water. While at the time it didnt seem like the miniature blocks would ever make it to their final destination, in July of this year residents of Cornwall, United Kingdom reported that the pieces are still washing up on the beach, suggesting theres still a chance they may float to the other side of the Atlantic.

Read more about Lego pieces posing a hazard to barefoot British beach-goers.

18. Reddit Study on Ideal Penis Size Consistent With Dick Science

Despite all the changes that took place this year, our fascination with penis size did not waver. In July, the results of a small Reddit survey on penis size were presented in graph form, showing an upside-down U-shaped curve spanning lengths from four to ten inches. While this survey only incorporated self-reported data from 761 users, the results actually matched up well with what scientists already know about average peen size: like Reddits dicks, most dongs are about six and seven inches long and five to six inches around.

Read more about the average penis size and girth, on Reddit and elsewhere.

17. Neuroscience Reveals How the Brain Changes as it Watches Porn

Were watching porn at record-breaking rates, and all that visual, er, stimulation has scientists wondering what its doing to us on an individual and a societal level. So far, weve learned that porn acts in many ways like a drug, causing our brains to release the pleasure-tr iggering neurotransmitter dopamine, and it may also activate the amygdala, the part of the brain linked to emotional behavior and motivation. Words still out on whether casual porn watching is problematic, but some scientists worry that very frequent porn viewing might be linked to certain psychological issues.

Read more about what all those late-night Pornhub visits do to your brain cells.

16. The Real Story Behind Roanoke Is Creepier Than AHS

The sixth season of American Horror Story, centered on the historical real-life tragedy of the lost American colony at Roanoke, premiered in 2016, but it continued to intrigue Inverse readers well into 2017. Scientists have used lasers, magnometers, and radar to uncover rare objects that survived the 400 years since the colony was founded, but these still havent cleared up whether the colonists succumbed to disease, a violent uprising, or something even more sinister.

Read more about American Horror Story and the even more horrific Roanoke legend behind it.

15. China Transmits Data Into Space Using Quantum Entanglement

Around the world, scientists are making huge leaps in the field of quantum teleportation, which could revolutionize quantum computer security. Chinas researchers are leading the pack, this year succeeding in transporting a quantum particle 870 miles into space  breaking the former distance record of 62 miles.

Read more about Chinas supremacy in the quantum teleportation race.

14. Human Mini-Brains Growing Inside Rat Bodies Are Integrating

Were living in the age of farmed organs, but scientists are still working out the kinks. These days, theyre growing human mini-organs inside animal bodies using stem cells that can be coerced into turning into livers, hearts, and brains. The brains are proving to be a bit problematic: in November, scientists reported that human brain cells grown inside rats are starting to transfer blood and nerve signals, giving the researchers pause: might these rat-brain hybrids become conscious?

Read more about whether hybrid rat-human brains will ever wake up.

13. Conspiracy Theorists Have a Basic Cognitive Issue, Say Scientists

Conspiracy theories abounded this year, which is perhaps not surprising, as previous studies have shown that increases in such beliefs tend to correlate with rising mistrust in authority structures. In October, scientists discovered whats different about the way that people with these beliefs actually think: people who tend to believe in conspiracy theories, they explained, see patterns that dont actually exist, and its this illusory pattern perception that causes them to believe in bizarre explanations for those imaginary patterns.

Read more about whats different about the brains of conspiracy theorists.

12. Heres Scientist Bill Richardss Playlist for Tripping on Mushrooms

Psychedelic researchers have had a big year, using mind-altering drugs to treat psychological illness and thereby mitigating decades of stigma against them. Studies on the effects of the drugs, however, must be meticulously designed so that they will be considered legitimate, and so Bill Richards, Ph.D., a Johns Hopkins University researcher, used science to create a seven-hour playlist to maximize the experience of a psychedelic trip.

Read more about how to listen to music during a mushroom trip like a psychedelic scientist.

11. The Crazy Flat Earthers Theory That Trees Dont Exist Isnt Completely Crazy

The Flat Earth Movement drew criticism from Bill Nye, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and pretty much every other rational mind out there, but one of their bizarre theories actually kind of made sense. Kind of. Some Flat Earthers believe that what we call trees are actually just the tiny remnants of a world where trees were as wide as mountains and were so tall they scraped the sky. In the no forests theory, the present-day world represents the sad, small remains of what the Earth once was  which, as Inverse argued, is not altogether untrue.

Read more about the flat-Earther no forest theory and its somewhat compelling argument.

10. Indonesia Sea Monster Has Been Identified (Its Not a Giant Squid)

In May, our appetite for the grotesque was satiated when news broke about a sea monster that had washed up on the shore of Indonesias Maluku Islands. This 50-foot-long blob of flesh was so badly decomposed that it was unidentifiable, and the giant bones that pierced through it only deepened its mystery. But about a week after it washed up, experts finally determined that it was the corpse of a type of baleen whale, misshapen because of the hot gases that bloated up inside it during decomposition.

Read more about the huge, dead sea animals mistaken for sea monsters.

9. Genetic Analysis Shows Early Humans Avoided Inbreeding, Incest

This year marked the penultimate season of Game of Thrones, which was as rife with incestuous themes as any other season. A study published in October echoed those themes, suggesting that our ancient human ancestors were a lot less genetically reckless than the inhabitants of Westeros. In the Science study, archaeologists showed evidence that humans buried together in Russia 34,000 years ago were no closer than second cousins, suggesting that even these humans knew not to bone their closest relations.

Read more about why incest is best left to the characters on Game of Thrones.

8. Scientists Discover Super-Massive Black Holes Just Outside Our Own Galaxy

Were comfortable making movies about black holes because theyve long seemed so far removed from real life, but a study published in January suggested that theyre a lot closer to us than we think. In an announcement from NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, scientists reported that theyd found evidence of two super-massive black holes in two of the Milky Ways neighboring galaxies, 39 million and 176 million light years away from us.

Read more about your friendly neighborhood super-massive black holes.

7. Long-Term Marijuana Use Changes Brain at the Cellular Level, say Scientists

Weed smokers have long noticed, anecdotally, that long-term marijuana use tends to change peoples behavior, but it wasnt until October of this year that scientists started to notice the cellular changes underlying those behavioral shifts. Using rats that were administered daily doses of marijuana, researchers publishing in JNeurosci showed that the GABA neurons in the brain were unable to properly regulate the amount of dopamine swimming around, causing abnormally drawn-out good feelings of reward  which is the mechanism thats thought to lead to addiction.

Read more about marijuanas long-term effects on your brain.

6. Upper Body Strength Is Biggest Factor in Male Attractiveness

Scientists behind a controversial study, published in December, used the results of a questionably designed experiment to argue that women, by and large, find strong-looking men attractive because those men look like they can fight. The ability to fight, in turn, is said to be appealing because ancient women needed men to protect them, and some vestige of that preference remains today. The researchers explanation, however, didnt take into account the fact that perhaps the women involved in the study were not necessarily hard-wired to find those men attractive and rather were subject to a number of other influences, including their own personal choice.

Read more about why male attractiveness isnt all about being swole.

5. Neil deGrasse Tyson Slams Flat Earth Theory With a Single Picture

Astrophysicist and notorious know-it-all Neil deGrasse Tyson could not resist sharing his thoughts on the rising Flat Earth conspiracy theorist movement, tweeting a sick eclipse-related riddle in November that was guaranteed to stump even the staunchest globalist truther.

Read more about Neil deGrasse Tysons admittedly clever addition to the flat Earth debate.

4. What Never Leaving Your Hometown Does to Your Brain

Written in 2015, this scientific investigation on the psychological effect of staying in ones hometown remains a perpetual Inverse Science favorite. Its not surprising, considering that migration rates among American youth are at a historic low and that more and more people are choosing to put down roots in the states where they were born.

Read more about the psychological effect of never leaving home.

3. Nanoparticle Scientists Warn Tattooed Folks: Ink Doesnt Stay Put

A report from nanoparticle scientists in September, published in Scientific Reports, cast doubt on the permanence of ink tattoos, revealing that tiny particles from certain kinds of inks actually swim away from the skin and wind up in the lymph nodes. In particular, they found elevated levels of titanium dioxide, a white compound thats often added to other pigments, in the lymph nodes of the four cadavers they used in their small study. Its not clear yet whether the escaped compounds pose any danger to people with tattoos, but its certainly something scientists must consider.

Read more about the troubling impermanence of seemingly permament tattoos.

2. Surgeons Remove Over 28 Pounds of Feces From a Constipated Man

It was hard for readers to resist the horrific photo of an enormous colon, clogged with nearly 29 pounds of feces, cradled like a small animal in the arms of a surgeon. It belonged to a 22-year-old Chinese man in Shanghai who, suffering from an ailment called Hirschsprungs disease, was unable to expel the majority of waste in his body for his entire life. Hes fine now, thanks to a team of surgeons who removed 30 inches of his swollen colon during a 3-hour operation.

Read more about what happens to a body when it never gets to poop.

1. Scientists Have Found the Holy Grail of Physics, Metallic Hydrogen

Kicking off the year, in January, was a monumental announcement by Harvard physicist Isaac Silvera, Ph.D., who claimed to have created metallic hydrogen  a theoretical state of matter that scientists never thought would be possible. Silvera reported in Science that he had forced elemental hydrogen into that state using immense amounts of pressure and extremely cold temperatures, noting that, if produced in large enough amounts, metallic hydrogen could be used as a form of fuel for deep space travel. Other scientists in the narrow field, however, did not mince words when the time came to publicly criticize Silveras work.

Read more about metallic hydrogen and its potential to revolutionize the space race.

Photos via Flickr / aeroman3

Photos via Flickr / aeroman3

Written by Yasmin Tayag

More articles by Yasmin  Follow Yasmin on Twitter

tweetshare

More From Inverse
Yesterday evening, a 28-year-old Kansas man was shot by police after the station received a call about a hostage situation taking place at the man's residence. "It was a shooting call involving hostages," Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said during a press conference last night. "The original call, we were told that someone had an argument with their mother and dad was accidentally shot. And that now that person was holding mother, brother and sister hostage. We learned through that call that a father was deceased, and had been shot in the head. That was the information we were working off of." But that information turned out to be wrong and shortly after the incident, reports began to surface online that the call was part of a "swatting" stunt -- a hoax wherein someone makes a false police report in order to fuel a large law enforcement response.

Here's what seems to have gone down. Two individuals were playing Call of Duty and got into an argument online over a game with a $1.50 wager. One of them, a person with the Twitter handle @SWauTistic, threatened to swat user @7aLeNT. The latter then provided an address that wasn't actually their own in response to the threat. Shortly thereafter, @SWauTistic allegedly called in the false report, which led to a police response at the provided address. Andrew Finch, who lived at the address, reportedly went to the front door in response to the commotion and was shot. "As he came to the front door, one of our officers discharged his weapon," said Livingston. The police haven't said whether Finch had a weapon at the time, but his family has said there were no guns in the house. The officer who fired the shot is a seven-year department veteran who will be put on paid administrative leave pending an investigation.

Once the story began attracting media coverage, @SWauTistic tweeted that the house he swatted was on the news, which was then followed by a tweet saying he didn't get anyone killed because he wasn't the person who shot Finch.

Story continues

KrebsOnSecurity reports that the individual then changed his Twitter handle to @GoredTutor36, but not before KrebsOnSecurity got its hands on weeks' worth of the original account's tweets. The person behind the account has claimed credit for a number of swatting hoaxes and other threats including one that led to the evacuation of the Dallas Convention Center earlier this month, a bomb threat at a Florida high school in November and the threat that caused the FCC to pause its net neutrality vote a couple of weeks ago.

In direct message conversations with KrebsOnSecurity, the person running @GoredTutor36 said that they had remorse over Finch's death but that they would not be turning themselves in. "People will eventually (most likely those who know me) tell me to turn myself in or something. I can't do that; though I know its [sic] morally right. I'm too scared admittedly," they wrote. They also said, "Bomb threats are more fun and cooler than swats in my opinion and I should have just stuck to that. But I began making $ doing some swat requests." The person also noted that the thrill of such hoaxes "comes from having to hide from police via net connections."

Finch was a father of two children -- a two-year-old and a seven-year-old -- and his family said he didn't play video games.

Update: The Wichita Police department has confirmed this is an incident of SWATting, and released material including audio of the phone call that sent officers to Finch's door and video of what happened when officers arrived. According to the police, their investigation is ongoing, however, they noted that the caller continued to contact 911 even after the police had arrived on the scene.

Update 2: Los Angeles police have arrested 25-year-old Tyler Barriss on a warrant from Wichita for making the hoax phone call.

Images: @mattcarries via KrebsOnSecurity
Sharif brothers always turn towards their foreign friends for support: Asif Ali Zardari

LAHORE: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari Friday said that Sharif brothers always turn towards their foreign friends for support when they are in trouble, expressing the hope that Saudi Arabia will not intervene to secure another National Reconciliation Order (NRO) to save Sharifs.



Addressing his second joint press conference of the month with Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Tahir ul Qadri, Zardari said, They want their foreign friends to help out them, but I dont think we will allow this joke to take place again.



When asked about Shehbaz Sharif abruptly leaving for Saudi Arabia and Nawaz Sharif set to fly on Saturday, the PPP leader said, Pakistan is an independent country and not bound to follow dictates of Saudi leadership.



PAT chief Tahirul Qadri while addressing the press conference also categorically rejected likely NRO drafted abroad, saying any decision taken abroad would not be acceptable. Sharif brothers should feel ashamed over going abroad to get support for themselves, he said, and hoped this time Saudi Arabia will not help them to secure an NRO.



We are not slaves  we are free people and take decisions on our own. Any decision taken in Saudi Arabia or any other country will not be acceptable to us, he said. Whole PML-N had been crying that political decisions should not be taken in court, then why they are now contacting foreign powers to save the Sharif family, asked Qadri.



When asked why he repeatedly turned down the PML-Ns overtures for reconciliation, Zardari said, They have indebted our future generation  so even if I stand with them, the nation will not accept them.



On Model Town incident, the former president said that ousted premier Nawaz Sharif should face murder trial over the tragedy which left at least 14 people dead.



Sharif should face trial for murder, while [Punjab chief minister] Shehbaz Sharif and [provincial law minister] Rana Sanaullah should resign and surrender themselves before the law, he said.



Zardari said his party will abide by all decisions taken at the PAT-sponsored all-parties conference scheduled for December 30 (today). We will abide by the decisions taken in the conference and follow a joint strategy, he said. Shehbaz Sharif will have to step down. Cases are registered against Rana Sanaullah and he will also need to step down, he added.



Zardari reassured Qadri of his full support on the matter, saying, We have been with him on the matter from the start. It was all on television how people were martyred. People say 14 were martyred but I say 100 were martyred because many ended up with permanent disabilities on that day. This happened in the age of media.



We have always struggled for justice. We demand again that Shehbaz Sharif and Rana Sanaullah should step down. They are influencing the inquiry, he said, adding, In my view, our struggle will pay off. If not today, then tomorrow  but justice will be served.



But while Zardari offered his partys full support to Qadri on the matter at hand, he discouraged speculation that it would lead to anything beyond. We are with him on this position, but everyone has their own politics, he said.



Zardari said Pervez Musharraf couldnt substantiate his claims as he always made his own decisions during his tenure. Musharraf should return to the country if he is as brave [as he claims], he added.



Khursheed Shah also echoed Zardaris sentiments on the Model Town incident, saying, Everyone should get justice. Only the rich get justice here. Now all eyes are on whether the poor get justice in this country or not.



At the start of the press conference, Qadri thanked Zardari and the PPP for supporting PAT in its quest for justice in the Model Town case.
Women take part in the "Ni una menos" (Not One Less) march against gender-based violence in Argentina: AFP/Getty

A man who repeatedly raped his daughter, fathering eight children with her, has been jailed in Argentina.

Domingo Bulacio, 56, was sentenced to 12 years and eight months by three judges at a court in the northern city of Santiago del Estero.

His daughter testified that he had turned her into his sex slave at seven-years-old, when her mother left their home.

The abuse continued over the next 22-years, during which time, she gave birth to eight of his children.

I was not the only one, there are relatives of his who do the same to their sisters and daughters, the victim, now aged 30, told El Liberal newspaper after the trial.

Some commentators have compared him to Austrias Josef Fritzl, 82, who imprisoned his daughter Elisabeth in the cellar of their home in the town Amstetten.

He fathered seven children with Elisabeth before she alerted authorities in 2008. Now 82, he was jailed for life the following year.

Bulacio was caught in January 2016 after his daughter took her youngest son, aged five, to the doctor when he became seriously ill.

The boy needed to stay in the local care centre for several weeks, during which time the daughter revealed to doctors who the boys father was.

It later emerged that they had all lived in a house with one room and Mr Bulacio raped his daughter in front of the children, newspaper reported.

When police went to arrest Bulacio, he had disappeared. He then spent 45 days on the run before being captured in a rural area around 25 miles south of the city of Loreto, according to local reports.

He underwent a DNA test to establish paternity and was subsequently charged with sex crimes.
It seems the Christmas gifts arent quite done being given out this year because we just got a hilarious one from the folks at Bad Lip Reading.

The group took on President Barack Obamas 2013 inauguration with a video featuring Obama swearing to do the space man boogie and that there were two different Einsteins. Now, their latest video features President Donald Trump singing about Christmas in a jingle entitled, Christmas Is Here.

Its deeply weird and unnerving ... which is also why its great.

(Photo: Youtube)

In addition to Trump, the video also features first lady Melania Trump asking for someone to please help. The scene is from Melania Trumps real Christmas address this week, where she actually says, At this time of year, we see the best of America and the soul of the American people.

Later, the video has the first lady saying I will live in silence and Hell freeze the diamond money.

The unhinged-looking animatronic Trump that lives in Disney World also makes an appearance, and asks why he cannot love.

Christmas isnt fun. At least when youre not a real human, it says. Oh, why can I not know love?

Were probably never going to sleep again.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

Also on HuffPost

Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of Puerto Rico residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan on Oct. 3.

Trump reacts as he sits in a truck on March 23 while welcoming truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting at the White House regarding health care.

Trump registers his surprise as he realizes other leaders, including Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, are crossing their arms for the traditional "ASEAN handshake" as he participates in the opening ceremony of the ASEAN Summit in Manila, Philippines, on Nov. 13.

Trump, along with first lady Melania Trump, Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, put their hands on an illuminated globe during the inauguration ceremony of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 21.

Trump looks up toward the solar eclipse while standing on the Truman Balcony at the White House on Aug. 21.

Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May are pictured ahead of a photo opportunity of leaders as they arrive for a NATO summit meeting in Brussels, Belgium, on May 25.

Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing, China, on Nov. 10.

Trump holds up a pen after signing the HBCU executive order in the Oval Office of the White House on Feb. 28.

Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel wait for reporters to enter the room before their meeting in the Oval Office on March 17.

Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7.

Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio to the White House on Sept. 15. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the White House lawn, was invited to work for a day along the National Park Service staff.

Trump and Putin shake hands as they take part in a family photo at the APEC summit in Danang, Vietnam, on Nov. 10.

Trump jokes with French President Emmanuel Macron about their handshakes at the start of the NATO summit at their new headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, on May 25.

Trump holds a mechanical tool as he attends a Made in America roundtable in the East Room of the White House on July 19.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
A christmas tree is illuminated in front of Germany's landmark Brandenburg Gate - AP

New Years Eve celebrations in central Berlin will include a womens safe zone for the first time, in the hope of preventing a repeat of mob attacks on female revellers during festivities in Cologne two years ago.

Up to a million guests are expected to attend the open-air event taking place around Berlins iconic Brandenburg Gate, featuring fireworks and pop acts such as Rednex and Whigfield this year.

The womens safety area is being established at the request of Berlin police. The tent will be set up near a plaza adjacent to the landmark tourist attraction, and manned by German Red Cross representatives.

"There will be three to four (German Red Cross) helpers who are specially trained and can look after women who feel harassed or threatened," a spokesperson for the celebrations, Anja Marx, told German national broadcaster rbb.

A police spokesperson told The Telegraph that patrolling authorities planned to check in regularly with staff at the womens safety tent and tend to instances of criminal offence.

A man holds up a sign reading "No violence against women" as he takes part in a demonstration in front of the cathedral in Cologne Credit: ROBERTO PFEIL/AFP

Hundreds of women reported sexual attacks and robberies by men outside the main train station at Colognes public New Years Eve gathering in 2016, where law enforcement was heavily outnumbered by dense crowds.

Suspects were largely of North African and Arab background. The incident happened after Germany had accepted a record influx of more than one million migrants in 2015, mostly people fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East and elsewhere.

A leaked police report concluded that more than 1,200 women were sexually assaulted in various German cities at the 2015/2016 New Years celebrations. More than 2,000 men were allegedly involved and around 120 suspects were identified, the bulk of which being foreign nationals who were also new arrivals to Germany.

Cologne officials set up a security point for its 2016 carnival street festival following the attacks, and took security measures such as installing additional street lighting. Herbert Reul, interior minister of North Rhine-Westphalia, the state where Cologne is located, told German news agency DPA that authorities had done everything this year to ensure that the events of 2015/2016 would not occur again.

In Berlin, strict safety precautions, including the banning of large bags, rucksacks, glass bottles and alcoholic beverages, will also be enforced. About 500 security personnel will be on the premises, as well as some 1,600 extra police officers deployed throughout the city.
You may recall the literary drama that unfolded about this time last year as Simon & Schuster granted, and later revoked, a book deal for a memoir by former Breitbart editor Milo Yiannopoulos.

The book, Dangerous, was to be produced by Threshold Editions, a conservative imprint of the publishing giant, but was dropped in late February following intense criticisms by other authors and the general public. (The same month, Yiannopoulos made comments seemingly defending pedophilia, in addition to his regularly scheduled promotion of racism, sexism and other forms of intolerance.)

Yiannopoulos subsequently released Dangerous independently and watched as reviewers yawned in unison. He also filed a lawsuit against the publisher that rejected him.

Now we owe Simon & Schusters legal defense team a small debt of gratitude. Last week, they pulled back the curtain on what went down between the alt-right agitator and his would-be publisher through a series of documents filed to the New York County Clerks office. Among them is Yiannopoulos first submitted manuscript  chock-full of criticisms by his editor, Mitchell Ivers, who serves as vice president and editorial director of Threshold. Through his own affidavit, Ivers presented among his qualifications a publishing career spanning more than 30 years and experience editing hundreds of books including many on controversial topics.

In short, Ivers determined Yiannopoulos book was a mess.

He doesnt exactly rebuke Yiannopoulos ideas on women, people of color, gay people, the political left and Muslims. Instead, as an editor, Ivers suggests ways to strengthen the writers arguments on those topics and make them palatable for a broad audience of all ages. Yet many of the hundreds of comments he made in Yiannopoulos first manuscript suggest the authors thinking to be unsubstantiated, simplistic and, in Ivers words, ridiculous, preposterous and phenomenally petty.

An email summarizing seven main problems with the manuscript stated that a chapter originally titled Why Other Gay People Hate Me needed a better central thesis than the notion that gay people should go back in the closet. Additionally, the feminist chapter needed a stronger argument against feminism than saying that they are ugly and sexless and have cats. While Yiannopoulos made passing reference to Leslie Jones, the comedian he harassed over Twitter until the platform banned him, Ivers told him a more complete explanation was necessary  sans jokes about her looks. A chapter called Why Ugly People Hate Me needed to be cut entirely.

Story continues

The most stinging edits, though, were contained in the first-draft manuscript itself.

This entire argument is ridiculous, Ivers wrote alongside a section about JCPenney marketing itself to women who think Cool Ranch Doritos are a food group.

Unsupportable charge, he stated next to a line about progressives importing minority voters.

Can you offer proof? he asked beside Yiannopoulos claim that he is privately loved by mischief-making musicians, actors and writers.

This entire paragraph is just repeating Fake News, Ivers noted alongside a bizarre section on witchcraft, blood, semen and Hillary Clintons presidential campaign.

This is what people say about you, Ivers said next to a line describing feminists as more desperate to be noticed than Kanye West at an awards show.

The list of criticisms goes on.

Alongside a headline Feminists Dont Hate Men, But It Wouldnt Matter If We Did that Yiannopoulos termed as hate speech: If that headline is hate speech, THIS WHOLE BOOK is hate speech.

Next to an argument that feminism is merely a money-grab designed to sell t-shirts to Taylor Swift and Beyonce fans with asinine slogans and feel-good girl power motifs: Um .. like your MILO SWAG?

Beside a claim that fake news is an invention of the mainstream media: No. You cant say this. It actually exists and is used on both sides of the political spectrum.

Some of Ivers most repeated complaints came back to Yiannopoulos insistence on writing for his base  the editor encouraged him to define terms such as rare Pepe and 4chan  and his all-too-frequently-irreverent tone. A chapter on Why Black Lives Matter Hates Me was apparently one of the more readable ones, but it, too, suffered from attempted humor, the editor noted.

Ivers wrote dumb joke several times throughout the text.

And still, the list continues:

Unclear, unfunny, delete. You construct this metaphor very badly. Lets not call South Africa white. Lets keep fecal waste analogies out of this chapter. Ego gets in the way in this paragraph. Delete. Doesnt land. Baseless charge. Autists sounds like a mental health slur. Superfluous joke. Do you have credible evidence for this? This rumor cannot appear in this book. No need to drag the lesbians into this! Three unfunny jokes in a row. DELETE. Ridiculously reductive. Absurd charge. Is this even true? This is definitely not the place for more of your narcissism. So much inappropriate humor is irritating. Can you really prove a causality between [Black Lives Matter] and crime rate? DELETE UGH. Too much ego. This paragraph doesnt make sense. Stop spreading fake news. Are you seriously telling the reader that you advocate SMEAR CAMPAIGNS? Attempts at humor here are too weak and too long. This is not the time or place for another black-dick joke. Dont make fun of school shooters  and certainly dont compare them to liberals. You MUST ACKNOWLEDGE that this is EXACTLY what people accuse you and Breitbart of being: a new age of partisan propaganda masquerading as journalism. I still want to know if trolling is really planning out these things in advance or just throwing stuff at the wall and seeing what sticks. NO MORE REFERENCES TO YOUR BOOK ADVANCE OR THE PUBLISHING PROCESS. This is a stupid way to end a terrible chapter. Not worth keeping in. DELETE.

Yiannopoulos submitted a revised copy of Dangerous around one month after receiving Ivers edits.

Lawyers for Simon & Schuster noted that among other issues, Yiannopoulos text remained riddled with what [he] labeled humor but actually constituted the incendiary speech that [Simon & Schuster CEO Carolyn Reidy] declared that Simon & Schuster would never publish.

Reidy released a statement in late January affirming that her company would not publish material intended to incite hatred in response to overwhelming criticism over the publishers decision to work with the alt-right figure in the first place.

Through a statement provided to HuffPost, Yiannopoulos said that Ivers had actually praised his work, with the editor telling him you done good in a text just two days before the publisher axed his book contract. HuffPost reached out to a representative for Threshold for comment on the alleged message and have not yet received a reply.

In the end, Yiannopoulos gets to keep his $80,000 advance.

But we get to keep this.

This story has been updated with comment from Milo Yiannopoulos.

Also on HuffPost

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
By J'na Jefferson

Another day, another possibly tall tale from Mr. Shad Moss, affectionately known as Bow Wow.

This time around, the actor and rapper spoke with Hollywood Unlocked about his alleged relationship with Kim Kardashian back in 2007. He said that they kicked it before her relationships with Reggie Bush, Kris Humphries and Kanye West. Kardashian would have been 27 in 2007, while Bow Wow would have been 20.

With KimI never told this storyI used to always see Kim and Paris [Hilton], he explains. [Kim] is super dopehow I got her information, I dont knowwe was cool, we remained friends, and this was right before Reggie Bush. The reason nobody knew is because of how I move. I can get low, and nobody will know sh*t.

Moss also said that he kept their relationship under wraps because he never dated outside of his race, and he was unsure of how his fans would have taken their relationship.

Im just so nervous because I never really dated outside my race before, this is different for a ni**a, he continues. I dont know how my fans going to look at it so I kept that sh*t low and nobody really knew. For the people that do know, its like damn.

When prompted with a question about if they were ever intimate, Moss says that he aint sayin nothin, because he respects Kanye West.

This wouldnt be the first time Moss has mentioned his possible relationship with Mrs. Kardashian West. On The Breakfast Club years ago, he discussed the list women hes been rumored to have slept with, and Kardashian was on the list.

I wanna know where you heard that one from, he said in the interview.

Check out his recent comments around the 49:10 mark.

This post Bow Wow Says He Kept Relationship With Kim Kardashian A Secret Because Of His Race first appeared on Vibe.
At least 12 people, including a one-year-old child, are dead and several more injured after a four-alarm fire broke out in a Bronx apartment building on Thursday evening.

"We may lose others as well," New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said as he briefed the media outside of the apartment building.



This is the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in a quarter century - it will rank as one of the worst losses in a fire in many years -@NYCMayor de Blasio  FDNY (@FDNY) December 29, 2017

The mayor announced on twitter that the New York City Fire Department was able to rescue at least 12 people from the building, all of whom are expected to survive. Four others are seriously injured and fighting for their lives.

Over 150 firefighters were on the scene battling the blaze amid frigid conditions with temperatures in the teens and AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures below zero. Nearby observations from LaGuardia Airport reported wind gusts close to 30 mph during the time of the blaze.

The fire ignited shortly before 7:00 p.m. EST on the first floor before quickly spreading throughout the building, which is located close to the Bronx Zoo. The fire was brought under control a few hours later.

Over 160 #FDNY members are operating on scene of a 4-alarm fire, 2363 Prospect Ave #Bronx pic.twitter.com/wjN9mMqCHU  FDNY (@FDNY) December 29, 2017

The cause of the blaze remains undetermined at this time.

Crews investigating the cause of the blaze and those who have been left homeless by the fire will face brutally cold conditions over the next few days.

Temperatures will remain sub-freezing in the city into the beginning of the new year.
Montreal (AFP) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promises a "progressive agenda" for Canada's G7 presidency in 2018, but talks may once again hit a snag over climate change after the US withdrawal from the Paris agreement.

For Justin Trudeau, this presidency comes at a time when his government has been struggling with a difficult renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the United States and Mexico, which was demanded by US President Donald Trump amid rising American protectionism.

Gender equality, climate change and economic growth "that works for everyone" are among Ottawa's top priorities for the meeting of the world's largest advanced economies -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.

Trudeau said in a statement that he wants the talks to focus on "finding real, concrete solutions" to these issues.

The leaders of the Group of Seven industrialized nations will meet June 8 and 9 at Le Manoir Richelieu in the Charlevoix region of Quebec, a popular tourist destination 150 kilometers (93 miles) northeast of Quebec City.

In this idyllic setting between the sea and the mountains, at the mouth of the Saint Lawrence River, global warming once again promises to be a bone of contention, as it was at the last summit in Italy, according to John Kirton, director of the G7 Research Group at the University of Toronto.

Trump was a climate pariah at the talks in Taormina, announcing days later Washington's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on climate change.

In an attempt to avoid fresh tensions, Canada has proposed lumping climate change in to a broader discussion that would also include "oceans and clean energy," according to the prime minister's office.

Canada "quite properly" framed this segment of the talks around oceans, Kirton told AFP, noting the rise in sea levels and major recent storm damage in the United States and the Caribbean.

Story continues

"Every big city in the United States, except for Chicago, is on a coast," making them "vulnerable" to climate impacts, he said.

"The mood (in regards to climate) in the United States is changing at the state level and that will quickly move up into Congress as the (2018) midterm elections approach," Kirton predicted.

"So, (that battle) is not over yet."

- 'Trump really likes Trudeau' -

"Trump really likes Trudeau," added Kirton, suggesting Trudeau has an opening to "find a way to change Trump's mind" on the Paris Agreement.

Most hope a deal on a new North American Free Trade Agreement will be reached before the G7 summit, which would allow Trudeau to focus the discussion on gender and environmental issues while also seeking to sway Trump on climate.

"The only globalization that Trump has been able to stop is by not doing anything more for the United States," Kirton said, noting the Canada-EU free trade agreement came into force this year.

"The rest of the world is just going on and doing a lot."

North Korea, which he called the "second-greatest global extinction threat after climate change," will also be a hot topic for the leaders.

Canada and the United States will co-host North Korea crisis talks in Vancouver with foreign ministers from 16 countries in January.

Kirton is also "optimistic" that Canada's push to include gender parity clauses in trade pacts and security arrangements will bear fruit.

"Ivanka Trump sold her dad on that," he said.
Net neutrality. Tax cuts for the rich. The cost of Medicare and billing mistakes  those are some of the deep dives our finance team took this past year. We looked into the ways economic policy affects CEOs, the agriculture industry and the taxpayer.

Read on for our biggest investigations in 2017, and how they could impact your money.





Carolyn Kaster/AP

Now that Donald Trump is president, the banking industry is well on its way to accomplishing what has been its top priority goal for years: upending Dodd-Frank, the massive regulatory law that emerged from the financial crisis.

The Trump transition team website said it will be working to dismantle the Dodd-Frank Act and replace it with new policies to encourage growth and job creation. President Trump, while signing an executive order earlier this year to limit new regulations, told reporters he planned to do a big number on Dodd-Frank.

>>Keep reading





In re Facebook Biometric Information Privacy Litigation

Facebook faced a lawsuit in Illinois for storing digitized faces in its growing database. The suit is ongoing, but behind the scenes, the social network giant is working feverishly to prevent other states from enacting a law like the one in Illinois.

Tech companies, whose business model is based on collecting data about its users and using it to sell ads, frequently oppose consumer privacy legislation. But privacy advocates say Facebook is uniquely aggressive in opposing all forms of regulation on its technology.

>>Keep reading





Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call

Federal health officials made more than $16 billion in improper payments to private Medicare Advantage health plans last year. Adding in the overpayments for standard Medicare programs, the tally for last year approaches $60 billion  which is almost twice as much as the National Institutes of Health spends on medical research each year.

Story continues

James Cosgrove, who directs health care reviews for the Government Accountability Office, told Congress in July that "fundamental changes are necessary to improve how the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ferrets out billing mistakes and recoups overpayments from health insurers.

>>Keep reading





Joy Pruitt/Center for Public Integrity

Idaho's Magic Valleys dairy boom is a contemporary rural American success story  the kind that President Donald Trump railed as a candidate is too often missing across the country. Unemployment here was less than 3 percent this summer, about as good as it gets, and optimism should be high. Yet on dairy farms, among both owners and workers, a sense of dread hangs in the dry southern Idaho air.

Why?

In a word: Immigrants.

Dairy farmers lean heavily Republican in this deeply red state of only 1.7 million people, where 88 percent of the voting-age population are non-Hispanic whites. But in the age of Donald Trump  who won Idaho handily  even the farmers who supported the new president fear the fate of their businesses is about to run headlong into a harsh political reality.

>>Keep reading

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.

Don't miss another Inside Publici investigation: Sign up for the Center for Public Integrity's Watchdog email.





Lateshia Beachum/Center for Public Integrity

A group of conservative think tanks wants the nations tax system to look more like North Carolinas. But so far, for the working poor, that hasnt been a great deal.

Experts from think tanks heavily subsidized by anti-tax, free-market groups such as the Charles Koch Foundation have descended on state capitals armed with scholarly research arguing that tax cuts for the well-to-do lead to economic growth.

>>Keep reading





Susan Ferriss/Center for Public Integrity

In a five-county region surrounding Dalton, Ga., three-fourths of voters cast their ballots for Donald Trump. And yet, if the president follows through on one of his frequent campaign promises  to get tougher with our trading partners  some economists believe that Northwest Georgia wouldnt become a beneficiary, but a victim.

Big time.

>>Keep reading





Blake Dodge/Center for Public Integrity

The FCC loaded its 30-member advisory panel with corporate executives, trade groups and free-market scholars. More than three out of four seats are filled by business-friendly representatives from the biggest wireless and cable companies such as AT&T Inc., Comcast Corp., Sprint Corp., and TDS Telecom. Crown Castle International Corp., the nations largest wireless infrastructure company, and Southern Co., the nations second-largest utility firm, have representatives on the panel. Also appointed to the panel were broadband experts from conservative think tanks who have been critical of FCC regulations such as the International Center for Law and Economics and the Mercatus Center at George Mason University.

The FCC says the makeup of the BDAC and its subgroups represents a diversity of views and those who best understand the issues. But local officials say their exclusion from the committee reflects a not-so-hidden agenda  one pushed by Pai himself with help from his allies in Big Telecom: to create a set of rules that lets the telecom more easily put their equipment in neighborhoods with far less local oversight.

>>Keep reading





Andrew Harnik/AP

Our report from earlier this year on FCC chair Ajit Pai's road to repealing net neutrality.

>>Keep reading

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.

Related stories

Copyright 2018 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.
BEIJING (Reuters) - A court in southern China has sentenced 36 people to prison terms of up to 25 years for gang crimes including homicide, assault and setting up illegal casinos, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Sunday. Hainan gang leader Huang Tuwang was sentenced to 25 years for gang activity dating back to 2005, while other members were sentenced to terms between 12 months and 23 years for a range of crimes, Xinhua said. Chinese courts have sentenced several large mafia-style criminal gangs this year, often for offences involving gambling which is illegal in China. Huang Tuwang oversaw a range of illegal businesses including massage parlors, unlicensed lending outfits and casinos, forming "unlawful control" over certain regions and industries, said the report. The gang, which went by the name "Moon Help", was made up of more than 40 members and frequently recruited students and school drop outs, it said. Last month 27 gang members were jailed for up to 25 years for assault, robbery and extortion in northwest Shaanxi province. In January a court in Anhui province sentenced 67 people in a similar case for offences including gambling and extortion. (Reporting by Cate Cadell; editing by Richard Pullin)
Beijing (AFP) - China on Friday rejected accusations that it had helped Pyongyang skirt sanctions after US President Donald Trump claimed on Twitter that Beijing was turning a blind eye to oil transfers to North Korea.

Trump's tweet was the latest salvo in his battle to persuade China to tighten the economic screws on Pyongyang over its missile and nuclear programme, in a campaign that has seen him heap both praise and criticism on Beijing.

"Caught RED HANDED - very disappointed that China is allowing oil to go into North Korea," Trump wrote Thursday. "There will never be a friendly solution to the North Korea problem if this continues to happen!"

The United Nations -- at the urging of the US -- has imposed a series of sanctions against North Korea aimed at getting it to halt its weapons development.

China has supported the moves, but critics claim it is not rigidly enforcing the sanctions, fearful that too much pressure will cause the unpredictable regime to collapse.

South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, citing government sources in Seoul, reported earlier this week that US satellites had spotted Chinese ships selling oil to North Korean vessels at sea dozens of times since October.

"The recent series of reports on this situation do not conform with the facts", Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said, adding that Beijing did not allow its "citizens or companies to engage in any activities that violate" UN resolutions.

Hua said China had looked into the report of a Chinese ship transferring oil to a North Korean vessel and found it to be inaccurate.

"There is no record of the (Chinese) vessel visiting a Chinese port" since August, she said.

"I think making pointless hype through the media is not conducive to enhancing mutual trust and cooperation."

A defiant Pyongyang has said there is no possibility of its weapons programmes being rolled back, and that they have been developed to defend against what it terms aggression by the US and its allies.

Story continues

Washington insists a resolution of the crisis on the Korean peninsula depends on the North's denuclearisation.

- 'Shrewd' breaches -

The United Nations Security Council last week imposed new sanctions on Pyongyang further restricting oil supplies, and ordering North Korean nationals working abroad to be sent back by the end of 2019.

It was not immediately clear what prompted Trump's tweet, or if he was accusing China -- the North's main ally -- of directly violating sanctions targeting Pyongyang.

A State Department official later said the US was aware that "certain vessels have engaged in UN-prohibited activities, including ship-to-ship transfers of refined petroleum and the transport of coal from North Korea."

"We have evidence that some of the vessels engaged in these activities are owned by companies in several countries, including China," the senior official said.

Separately, a foreign ministry official in Seoul said Friday that a Hong Kong-registered vessel was seized and inspected in November for transferring oil products to a North Korean ship in breach of UN sanctions.

The official described the incident as Pyongyang "shrewdly circumventing" sanctions, adding that South Korea had shared intelligence on the case with the US.

- 'No good for China' -

In recent months, the White House has praised Beijing for its efforts to tame North Korea, and China has voted in favour of three UN Security Council resolutions strengthening sanctions against the North.

But Washington, convinced that only Chinese pressure will persuade North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to back down, has demanded that Beijing do more.

"China has a tremendous power over North Korea. Far greater than anyone knows," Trump told the New York Times in an interview Thursday.

The US president hinted at the possibility of trade action against China over the matter.

"Oil is going into North Korea. That wasn't my deal!" he said. "If they don't help us with North Korea, then I do what I've always said I want to do."

Describing Kim regime as a "nuclear menace" that is "no good for China", Trump added that Chinese President Xi Jinping's government has to "help us much more."

The UN Security Council on Thursday meanwhile denied international port access to four ships -- three registered in North Korea and a fourth in Palau -- suspected of carrying or having transported goods banned by international sanctions targeting Pyongyang, according to the final list adopted by the world body.

Diplomats had said on Thursday that all four were North Korean vessels.

The ban of the four vessels brings the UN's total number of blocked ships to eight.
BEIJING (Reuters) - The United States should take action to reduce demand for the drugs fuelling its deadly opioid crisis rather than simply accusing China of being the major source, a top Chinese drug control official said. "The biggest difficulty China faces in opioid control is that such drugs are in enormous demand in the U.S.," Yu Haibin of the China National Narcotics Control Commission said at a news briefing, the China Daily reported on Friday. U.S. President Donald Trump declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency in October and said he discussed with Chinese President Xi Jinping how to "stop the lethal flow" of the drugs during his visit to China last month. Opioids include prescription painkillers, heroin and fentanyl, a highly addictive synthetic drug 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. American law enforcement agencies and drug control experts say most of the fentanyl distributed in the United States, as well as its precursor chemicals, come from China. While Chinese officials dispute that assertion, the government has taken steps to crack down on the production and export of them, and has placed fentanyl and other related compounds on its list of controlled substances. Yu said the United States should intensify law enforcement and share more police intelligence with Chinese authorities to combat the problem. China's drug control agency said on Thursday that five more precursor chemicals that can be used to produce fentanyl and methamphetamines had been added to its list of controlled substances, the China Daily reported. Wei Xiaojun, the deputy secretary-general of China's National Narcotics Commission, said last month that China did not "deny or reject" that some fentanyl produced in China had made its way to the United States but there was not enough evidence to say most of it originated from China. The U.S. Department of Justice indicted two major Chinese drug traffickers in October on charges of making illegal versions of fentanyl and selling the highly addictive drug to Americans over the internet and through the international mail. (Reporting by Philip Wen; Editing by Robert Birsel)
Hong Kong (AFP) - A Chinese aircraft leasing company said on Thursday it will buy 50 Airbus A320neo jets for $5.42 billion as part of a drive to capitalise on ever-growing demand for air travel in China.

Hong Kong-listed China Aircraft Leasing Group (CALC) will take delivery of the airliners in stages through to 2023, it said in a statement.

The move comes as airlines in China benefit from a boom in domestic and international air trips as the country's middle class spends more on travel and leisure.

It will also come as a boost to European giant Airbus, which is competing heavily with US rival Boeing in China, the world's second aircraft market.

The US company has forecast China needs more than 7,200 commercial aircraft in the next 20 years, while the International Air Transport Association predicts the country will overtake the US as the world's largest air-travel market by 2024.

The country's three biggest carriers -- Air China, China Eastern and China Southern intend to increase their fleets by more than 600 aircraft in total within the next three years.

CALC chief executive Mike Poon said: "We are proud to augment our fleet by adding 50 in-demand A320neo jetliners that have outstanding fuel efficiency, and are reliable and comfortable.

"Since CALCs inception, we have maintained a close and dynamic relationship with Airbus, and the commitment marks yet another endorsement of our mutual trust.

"This bulk purchase will significantly expand CALCs fleet portfolio and further solidify our position as a full value-chain aircraft solutions provider."

The statement from CALC said the announcement takes its total orders with Airbus to 202 aircraft, adding it would "purchase 15 additional Airbus A320neo aircraft in January 2018 subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions".

The firm, which also has 50 jets on order from US giant Boeing, currently has 102 aircraft.

The firm's shares were up 2.0 percent at HK$8.17 by the break in Hong Kong trade.

-- Bloomberg News contributed to this story --
A restaurant has apologized to a black man for refusing him entry due to his footwear. (Photo: Getty Images)

A restaurant has fired a bouncer and reversed its dress code policy after allegations that a customer was racially discriminated against for wearing sneakers.

Earlier this week, Ayyaz Rashid the managing partner of El Centro D.F., a Washington, D.C., restaurant told the Root that the bouncer who tried to prevent Brian Gordon, a black man, from entering because of his leather Converse high-tops had been terminated.

The security in question has been relieved of his duties and will no longer be working at the venue, Rashid told the publication. Furthermore, there will be no dress code applied anymore at all. Not to stop there, I am scheduling a training workshop for the rest of the team to make sure such incidents may never happen again.

According to the Root, which broke the story, Gordon was initially refused entry to the restaurant because the bouncer objected to his footwear.

Theyre not like ratty, dirty sneakers, Gordon later told the Washington Post. Theyre brand new; theyre leather. They were clean, fresh, white. Its not like I showed up in five-year-old Chucks.

Outside, Gordon texted his friend Yesha Callahan, a deputy managing editor at the Root, who was inside the venue and who noted a detail about the other patrons. right before my very own eyes, was a group of white men wearing  you guessed it  sneakers, she wrote. Not only were the three white guys posted at the bar in sneakers, but there were also three other men on the dance floor wearing various styles of sneakers. Since it was still early in the night, there was a total of about nine people in the basement bar area, not including the bartenders, and it was pretty easy to assess everyones footwear.

Callahan and her friends knew the bartender who intervened on Gordons behalf and he was ultimately allowed entry.

Restaurant and bar dress codes have long been perceived as discriminatory. In 2009, six black students from St. Louis accused the Original Mothers, a nightclub in Chicago, of discrimination after they were refused entry due to a baggy jeans policy despite white patrons who wore similar pants.

Story continues

Alarm bells went off in my mind automatically, one of the men told NPR. A lot of times, baggy-jeans policies are used, in my opinion, to reject a certain demographic, mostly black men, from being allowed entry into certain places.

In May, the Bottled Blonde, a Chicago pizzeria, posted a sign listing banned clothing items such as Nike Air Max, camouflage, or long tees, evoking anger online for its racist and classist undertones.

And a Dallas bar called the Trophy Room is currently under a city investigation for refusing entry to three women of color wearing skirts, blouses, and heels, based on their so-called casual outfits. According to the Dallas Morning News, one of the women claimed nonminorities wearing T-shirts and sneakers were allowed inside.

We knew then this was not about clothing, said Traci Burst, one of the women, who recounted the incident on Facebook Live. It was about the color of our skin.

Business owners might say dress codes play up an atmosphere or promote a certain image. In 2016, when Town and Country asked John Winterman, a maitre d at New York Citys Daniel, whether dressing for dinner is important, he answered: Absolutely. I break it down into self-respect and respect for others, adding that people who dress well are better seated.

If someone comes in making an effort and looking fabulous and glamorous and they know theyre in for a premium experience at a premium price, you give them a fabulous table in the middle of the room. And people react to that, when they see a crowd thats well-dressed and beautiful and sparkling.

And while fine dining has generally faded into hipper, Instagram-worthy experiences, many bars and restaurants still uphold wardrobe rules. Sometimes dress codes have practical implications to avoid safety issues that customers arent always aware of, but it can be problematic when a banned look is associated with a marker of identity or a particular movement, Vickie M. Mays, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, tells Yahoo Lifestyle. Then what youre saying is, That look doesnt fit.'

She adds, We need to ask, What is the purpose of the rule and does it achieve the outcome that you fear? If an establishment is trying to prevent people from committing a crime, for example, banning baggy pants wont achieve that.

Gordon insists that hes not opposed to a no-sneakers rule, but if its not being applied universally, then its a problem. He also received an apology from El Centro D.F. but he told the Post, I dont really have any interest in returning to a restaurant that clearly doesnt want me or anyone who looks like me.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




(WICHITA, Kan.)  Authorities are investigating whether a deadly police shooting in Wichita stemmed from someone making up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend upon a home in a prank common in the online gaming industry known as swatting.

Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said the shooting happened Thursday while an officer was responding to a report that a father had been shot in the head and that the shooter was holding his mother, brother and sister hostage, The Wichita Eagle reports. Livingston said a 28-year-old man was shot as he came to the front door. Livingston said that when officers got inside the house, they didnt find anyone with gunshot wounds.

Livingston didnt say what caused the officer to shoot the man or whether he was armed. Police dont think the man fired at officers, but the incident is still under investigation, he said. The man died at a hospital.

The man hasnt been identified by police. But Madeline Finch identified the victim as her nephew, Andrew Finch. She said the family was saddened but declined to comment further.

Livingston says police are investigating whether the call that led to the shooting was a prank. Officer Paul Cruz told The Associated Press that more information would be released at a news conference, which has been moved to 4 p.m., and that he couldnt comment.

The officer who fired the shot  a seven-year veteran of the police department  will be placed on administrative paid leave, which is department policy. Several people inside the home are being interviewed.

Swatting is believed to be more common among the online gaming community. The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number.

In January, three families in Florida had to evacuate their homes in Florida after a detective received an anonymous email claiming bombs had been placed at the address.

A 20-year-old Maryland man was shot in the face with rubber bullets by police in 2015 after a fake hostage situation was reported at his home.

Rep. Katherine Clark, a Massachusetts Democrat, introduced an anti-swatting bill in 2015  then was herself the victim of swatting. Armed officers in 2016 responded to an anonymous call claiming an active shooter was at Clarks home.
After a presidential campaign in which Donald Trump and his surrogates regularly claimed law enforcement was under assault from an increasingly lawless public, the first year of Trumps presidency is shaping up to be among the safest ever for police.

A total of 45 officers have been feloniously killed in the line of duty in 2017, according to unofficial FBI data updated earlier this month. That number tracks closely to other counts from independent sites and marks a significant downturn from 2016, when a total of 66 officers were feloniously killed. Barring a catastrophe in the final days of the year, the annual total will be well below the average seen over the last 20 years.

These figures follow a year in which Trump and other administration officials have sought to build on the presidents self-described law and order campaign by speaking out against a perceived uptick in attacks on police and pushing back against police reform efforts.

One of Trumps first official acts as president was to sign an executive order Preventing Violence Against Federal, State, Tribal, and Local Law Enforcement Officers, a largely symbolic gesture that dovetailed with his campaign rhetoric.

At a ceremony for fallen officers in May, Trump cited violence against police in 2016 as evidence of an emerging crisis for law enforcement.

We are living through an era in which our police have been subject to unfair defamation and vilification, and even worse  hostility and violence, Trump said. More officers were slain last year in ambushes than in any year in more than two decades.

Although more officers were killed in 2016 than in the preceding few years, that total was largely driven by two high-profile ambush incidents in Texas, in which five officers were killed, and Louisiana, in which three were killed. Four officers were killed in ambush attacks in 2017, according to the FBI.

While the 2016 increase in police killings was a cause for concern, it came after years of record-low numbers in 2013 and 2015. A closer look at historical counts also shows that although the 2016 total was above average for recent years, it was less than half of the peak total in 1973, when 134 officers were feloniously killed.

Story continues

(Photo: Alissa Scheller/HuffPost)

Despite the lack of clear data, Attorney General Jeff Sessions has eagerly pushed the narrative of a mounting assault on police. In August, he held up the officers killed in 2016 as evidence of rising levels of violence against law enforcement. He attributed this in part to critics of police brutality, whom he accused of slandering all of the honorable men and women of the profession.

Last year, 66 law enforcement officers made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty  a 61 percent increase compared to 2015, said Sessions. And FBI data shows that about a third of those deaths were the result of premeditated or unprovoked attacks. This deadly trend seems to be getting worse. Preliminary data shows that officer deaths for the first six months of 2017 are up 18 percent.

Its unclear which figure Sessions was prematurely referring to, but the year-end data shows that felonious killings of police officers declined in 2017. Still, Sessions has moved quickly to roll back Obama-era police reform efforts, in part over his concerns that theyve helped foster an environment of hostility toward law enforcement.

Public officials and law enforcement groups have routinely politicized data on police killings over the past few years, using it as fuel in a contentious debate over police brutality and accountability. By doing so, they often take numbers out of context, said Philip Stinson, a criminologist at Ohios Bowling Green State University.

When you look at crime trends, you have to look at many data points over many years, said Stinson. When you look at things over the short term, I have trouble making sense of it in terms of: Does it mean anything? Is it statistically significant? Is it just that were paying more attention? Are they really on the rise?

Policing is a violent profession, and deaths tend to fluctuate up and down. Efforts to tie certain events or data points to broader social trends can often produce misleading conclusions, said Stinson.

I never did think it was open season on policing, he said. I think its business as usual.

But killings of police alone might not tell the whole story of violence against law enforcement, said Chuck Canterbury, president of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), which bills itself as the largest police union in the world.

We dont think its down at all, he said. Weve had the same amount of shootings that weve had last year, and were the only people tracking that.

The total number of officers shot in 2017, both fatally and non-fatally, is consistent with the previous year, Canterbury claimed. He declined to release FOPs data to HuffPost.

And while theres an ever-present fear among officers about violence, not all attacks on police are physical, said Canterbury. Police departments in many jurisdictions are also struggling with issues of pay and benefits, officer retention and staffing, which he hopes policymakers will be willing to address in the coming years.

What we cant have is a two-pronged attack, when the politicians are attacking our pay and benefits and the criminals are attacking our lives, he said. You get to a point where you say, Is this worth it anymore? They obviously dont care about me as an officer, Im not gonna go out there and put my life on the line anymore if they keep treating me this way.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
A guest at Disney World got very, er, animated while attending the Hall of Presidents attraction on Wednesday.

At the point in the proceedings where an animatronic version of Donald Trump takes the presidential oath, comedian and actor Jay Malsky decided to add some editorial commentary.

As heard at the 1:20 mark in the video above, Malsky began chanting Lock him up!

Over a loudspeaker, a Disney employee asked Malsky to sit down and be quiet. Another person yelled Hes not real!  presumably in reference to the Trump robot.

Later, Malsky told the blog Theme Park University that he didnt stop chanting until a few folks walked towards me and security came to make sure it didnt turn into a Trump rally.

Malsky had planned his actions in advance. Via Twitter, he explained the rationale for his rant:

I protested @realDonaldTrump at the #hallofpresidents cuz I'll never get this close in real life probs. #lockhimup pic.twitter.com/jKOQShIdz8  Earnest Gay Thoughts (@JayMalsky) December 27, 2017

Malsky further elaborated on his protest in a emailed statement to Splinter:

Donald Trump is a mad man with fascist tendancies [sic] who has persuaded millions of middle-class Americans to vote against their own interests. So I was worried Id be put on some sort of list (if Im not already) and probably incur the wrath of ignorant sheeple. But I figured a bunch of them would be at this ride and wanted to show their kids what a protest looks like before Trump murders democracy. If people are upset that I disrupted their family vacation, I hope theyll think about the thousands [of] children being taken away from their parents because of Trumps racist immigration policies, or the parents of the hundreds of trans people murdered each year by transphobic and homophobic people, or the negative impacts of the tax bill on poor and middle-income Americans. I encourage anyone outraged that I interrupted a ride at Disney to check their privelege [sic].

Story continues

Malsky also emphasized to Splinter that Disney Worlds security team was amazing and could not have been more professional and courteous to me once they made sure I wasnt a legitimate threat to anyone.

Malsky says he was so caught up in the moment, he isnt sure how the protest went over with other audience members.

The first two tweets that popped up were one of support and one of anger so I guess 50/50? he told HuffPost. Felt like I won the popular vote but the electoral college overrode the will of the people.

As might be expected, the video is getting a lot of reaction on Twitter, including conservative writer Ben Shapiro, who may have been joking with this tweet:

Not all heroes wear capes https://t.co/GB5GsgZq3H  Ben Shapiro (@benshapiro) December 28, 2017

Former Rep. Joe Walsh (R-Ill.) attempted to explain the difference between protesting the real president and yelling at a robot.

.@JayMalsky You didn't protest Trump. You just screamed at an animatronic and probably ruined quite a few family vacations.



That's just pathetic. https://t.co/7jeFLXqdJA  Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom) December 28, 2017

Malsky wasnt having any of it.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

I wish u were as upset about the thousands children being taken from their parents because of Trump's racist immigration policies, or the hundreds of trans people murdered each year, or the negative impacts of the tax bill on poor Americans as u r about me ruining someone's vacay  Earnest Gay Thoughts (@JayMalsky) December 28, 2017

The snark came from all directions, some of it directed at Malsky, some of it apparently in support of him...

BREAKING: After seeing the video of some dude yelling at a robot trump, Trump has announced that he is stepping down so Hillary Clinton can become president.  Joseph Machado (@TravelByDoom) December 28, 2017

I wonder if that guy knows he really shouted at the Hillary robot they made to look like Trump.  Chad Felix Greene (@chadfelixg) December 28, 2017

I still think the crowd should just bum rush the stage, drag the Trump robot out onto Main Street, and set it on fire. https://t.co/OOne0YtghS  Ron Hogan (@RonHogan) December 28, 2017

Malsky responded to many commenters, including one woman who brought up that age-old question, What about the children?

Awful. I can't imagine how scared and confused some of those children were.  M.B. (@hulahulababy) December 28, 2017

Probably more scared than the children being taken away from their parents due to @realDonaldTrump's inhumane immigration policies. Or more scared than a trans kid who fears getting murdered for being who they are. Or a sick child who has just lost access to healthcare.  Earnest Gay Thoughts (@JayMalsky) December 28, 2017

The Daily Caller noted that Malsky has performed as Hillary Clinton in drag and called him the saddest person in America.

Malsky seemed unbothered:

.@TuckerCarlson @DailyCaller you idiots have no idea how happy you've made me. https://t.co/u2Ued4MMVk  Earnest Gay Thoughts (@JayMalsky) December 29, 2017

The animatronic Trump officially joined the Hall of Presidents cast on Dec. 19. On Thursday, Orlando Weekly pointed out perhaps the most notable thing about Malskys protest: Were honestly a bit surprised it took this long to happen.

Also on HuffPost

Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of Puerto Rico residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan on Oct. 3.

Trump reacts as he sits in a truck on March 23 while welcoming truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting at the White House regarding health care.

Trump registers his surprise as he realizes other leaders, including Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, are crossing their arms for the traditional "ASEAN handshake" as he participates in the opening ceremony of the ASEAN Summit in Manila, Philippines, on Nov. 13.

Trump, along with first lady Melania Trump, Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, put their hands on an illuminated globe during the inauguration ceremony of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 21.

Trump looks up toward the solar eclipse while standing on the Truman Balcony at the White House on Aug. 21.

Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May are pictured ahead of a photo opportunity of leaders as they arrive for a NATO summit meeting in Brussels, Belgium, on May 25.

Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing, China, on Nov. 10.

Trump holds up a pen after signing the HBCU executive order in the Oval Office of the White House on Feb. 28.

Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel wait for reporters to enter the room before their meeting in the Oval Office on March 17.

Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7.

Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio to the White House on Sept. 15. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the White House lawn, was invited to work for a day along the National Park Service staff.

Trump and Putin shake hands as they take part in a family photo at the APEC summit in Danang, Vietnam, on Nov. 10.

Trump jokes with French President Emmanuel Macron about their handshakes at the start of the NATO summit at their new headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, on May 25.

Trump holds a mechanical tool as he attends a Made in America roundtable in the East Room of the White House on July 19.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
- REUTERS

Donald Trump mocked climate change saying that the US east coast "could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming" as temperatures plunged to levels that froze sharks to death.

Mr Trump used the arctic conditions gripping the country to vindicate his decision to pull out of the Paris climate accord earlier this year.

Writing on Twitter, from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, he said: "In the East, it could be the COLDEST New Year's Eve on record. "Perhaps we could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming that our Country, but not other countries, was going to pay TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS to protect against. Bundle up!"

Democrats slammed the comments as "embarrassing". Senator Elizabeth Warren, a leading contender to take on Mr Trump for the White House in 2020, said: "Im going to say something really crazy. I believe in science. Climate change is real and we have a moral obligation to protect this Earth for our children and grandchildren."

In the East, it could be the COLDEST New Years Eve on record. Perhaps we could use a little bit of that good old Global Warming that our Country, but not other countries, was going to pay TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS to protect against. Bundle up!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 29, 2017

Parts of the US have been hit by record snowfall over Christmas.

Freezing conditions were blamed for the deaths of three thresher sharks that washed up on the shores of Cape Cod after suffering "cold shock".

Greg Skomal, a marine scientist with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, told The New York Times: If youve got cold air that will freeze their gills up very quickly. Those gill filaments are very sensitive and it wouldnt take long for the shark to die."

In Toledo, Ohio the Humane Society was looking into the death of a dog found "frozen solid" on a porch. The city of Erie, Pennsylvania, saw 5ft in 48 hours. Minneapolis was expected to see a temperature of -17C on Saturday.

Story continues

In June Mr Trump, who once described climate change as a "Chinese hoax," announced the US would withdraw from the Paris agreement which aims to cut global greenhouse gas emissions, drawing criticism from other world leaders including Theresa May.

Last year set a record for Earth's average global temperature, and the United Nations said last month that 2017 was on track to break that.

Thomas Berry removes snow from the sidewalk in front of his home in Erie, Pennsylvania Credit: Reuters

Mr Trump's comments came as White House insiders suggested to Axios he was preparing to become even more outspoken in 2018, and that he would go "full Trump" on issues he believes strongly in.

That would include pressing for trade tariffs on Chinese goods, enthusiasm for a military strike against North Korea, and pushing ahead with his promised wall on the Mexico border.

Mr Trump warned Democrats he would not consider allowing the "Dreamers" - illegal immigrants brought to the US as children - to stay unless the Democrats agreed to help with funding for the wall.

He also slammed the loss-making "dumb and poor" US Postal Service for "charging Amazon and others so little to deliver their packages". He added: "Should be charging MUCH MORE!"

Bryant Park Fountain Freezes in NYC

Speaking in Florida, Mr Trump also said the investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into whether his 2016 election campaign colluded with Russia was "making the US look bad".

He told the New York Times: "It makes the country look very bad, and it puts the country in a very bad position. So the sooner its worked out, the better it is for the country.

"There is no collusion, and even if there was, its not a crime. There's been no collusion. But I think he (Mr Mueller) is going to be fair."

Mr Mueller has so far charged four Trump associates in his investigation, while Russia has denied interfering in the US election.

Mr Trump said the "real stories" should be about Democrat ties to Russia during the campaign.

Asked if he would order the US Justice Department to reopen an investigation into Hillary Clinton's handling of emails while she was Secretary of State, Mr. Trump added: "I have absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department."
From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As...
Back in March, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson defended his proposed slashing of the Foreign Operations Budget by 31 percent on the grounds that, As time goes by, there will be fewer military conflicts that the U.S. will be directly engaged in. A few weeks ago, he made an even more expansive claim, saying that, Bringing the budget numbers back down is reflective of an expectation that were going to have success in some of these conflict areas, getting these conflicts resolved.

Needless to say, Tillersons aspirations  that the United States will be involved in fewer wars and deliver greater peace  have not been achieved. In reality, the Donald Trump administration has demonstrated no interest in reducing Americas military commitments and interventions, nor committed itself in any meaningful way to preventing conflicts or resolving them. Moreover, as 2017 wraps up, the trend lines are actually running in the opposite direction, with no indication that the Trump administration has the right membership or motivation to turn things around.

President Trump has maintained or expanded the wars that he inherited from his predecessor.

As Jennifer Wilson and I pointed out in an appropriately titled column in August, Donald Trump Is Dropping Bombs at Unprecedented Levels. Within eight months of assuming office, Trump  with the announcement of six precision aistrikes in Libya  had bombed every country that former President Barack Obama had in eight years. One month after that, the United States surpassed the 26,172 bombs that had been dropped in 2016. Through the end of December 2017, Trump had authorized more airstrikes in Somalia in one year (33), than George W. Bush and Obama had since the United States first began intervening there in early 2007 (30).

The growth in airstrikes was accompanied by a more than proportional increase in civilian deaths, which Azmat Khan and Anand Gopal documented in the most impressive work of investigative journalism that I read this year, as well as the killing of militant fighters. In July, Gen. Tony Thomas, head of U.S. Special Operations Command, claimed in conservative estimates 60,000 to 70,000 Islamic State fighters had been killed in Iraq and Syria. In 2014, just after the war began, the CIA claimed that the Islamic State could muster between 20,000 and 31,500 fighters. The fact that the United States more than doubled the size of its enemy in pursuit of defeating it on the battlefield  for the time being  should lead to a re-examination of U.S. counterterrorism strategies.

Story continues

But as the volume of airstrikes and deaths increased, the Trump administration has subsequently made no progress in winding down Americas wars. Moreover, it doesnt even pretend that the United States should play any role in supporting diplomatic outcomes. For example, in the U.S.-backed air war in Yemen, Secretary of Defense James Mattis has stated, Our aim is that this crisis can be handed to a team of negotiators under the aegis of the United Nations. Of all parties to the conflict, the United States has the greatest leverage in brokering an end to the 33-month civil war, but American diplomats have been nowhere to be seen.

Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, Gen. John Nicholson, commander of the longest-running war in American history, has adapted a time-tested tactic of several of his predecessors: repeating that the United States is winning (or will win) and that the Taliban is not (or cannot). He also appears uninterested in supporting any political settlement involving the Taliban, pledging instead to achieve an undefined end state of We will be here until the job is done  whatever that means.

President Trump has also repeatedly threatened pre-emptive strikes against nuclear-armed North Korea (a terrible idea), as well as threatened to terminate the Iran nuclear agreement, which he calls the worst deal ever. He can do so in mid-January by refusing to certify that Iran is meeting its obligations under the deal, even though the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has certified that Iran has, in fact, been doing so for nine straight quarters. If Trump abandons the agreement, Iran will kick the IAEA inspectors out. This will vastly decrease what the United States knows about Iran and increase the probability of attacks on any suspected nuclear sites  as well as concurrent attacks on Irans air defense system, command and control networks, and other military facilities. The United States spent more than one trillion dollars (so far) to disarm Iraq of its nonexistent weapons of mass destruction. The IAEA monitors and verifies Irans nuclear-related commitments for the low price of $11 million a year.

In May, Trump declared, Im getting As and A+s on foreign policy. And nobody thought about it. No nonpartisan grader would assign the president such high marks. The reasons are simple: He has achieved none of his major foreign-policy initiatives and has further destabilized already unstable conflict zones by increasing Americas military footprints, intensifying military operations, and generally abandoning conflict prevention activities. As Tillerson acknowledged most recently, We dont have any wins on the board yet. As things stand, there will not be any wins on the board in 2018, though there may be one or two more wars.
Kinshasa (AFP) - A planned demonstration against Democratic Republic of Congo's President Joseph Kabila organised by Catholics has been banned a day before it was to take place in the capital, Kinshasa's governor said Saturday.

"The city does not have sufficient numbers of police officers to supervise this march," Governor Andre Kimbuta said. "Therefore, I do not recognise the authorisation requested."

About 150 Catholic churches had planned to protest in Kinshasa to call on the country to implement a compromise deal signed a year ago aimed at bringing about President Joseph Kabila's belated departure and restore stability in the crisis-hit country.

In a letter to the governor, a secular coordinating committee said the agreement signed last New Year's Eve is "the only viable road map" to achieve credible elections in DR Congo.

In power since 2001 when he took over from his assassinated father Laurent Kabila, Kabila refused to step down at the end of his second and final term in office in December 2016.

He is banned by the constitution from running for a third term, but under the deal with the opposition can remain in office until the next elections, which had been due to take place by the end of 2017.

But the date has since been pushed back until December 23, 2018, further heightening tensions.

A protest campaign led by the country's opposition has been met with a police crackdown that has led to fatalities and arrests.
Yamethin (Myanmar) (AFP) - Foreign and local journalists jailed for flying a drone near Myanmar's parliament were released Friday after spending two months in prison, in a case that spiked alarm over an increasingly dangerous climate for reporters in the country.

Lau Hon Meng from Singapore and Mok Choy Lin from Malaysia were on assignment for Turkish state broadcaster TRT when they were detained in late October along with Myanmar journalist Aung Naing Soe and driver Hla Tin.

The crew was shooting a documentary in Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw.

Expecting to receive a fine, they confessed to flying the drone but were instead sentenced to two months in jail under Myanmar's aircraft act.

On Friday morning the group was released from a jail north of the capital after a court dropped additional charges that carried between three and five more years in prison.

"They were all released this morning at 7:00 am from Yamethin prison," lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told AFP.

He added that the two foreign journalists were being taken directly to Yangon international airport for flights out of the country, while the two Myanmar nationals have already been reunited with their families.

Aung Naing Soe, the local reporter who spent his 27th birthday behind bars, said he hoped other detained journalists in Myanmar would soon be released too.

At least 11 reporters have been arrested in the former junta-run country in 2017.

- Press freedom concerns -

Several have been released but two Reuters journalists remain in custody and are facing up to 14 years in prison under the draconian colonial-era Official Secrets Act for allegedly possessing classified documents.

Wa Lone, 31, and Kyaw Soe Oo, 27 -- Myanmar nationals who had been reporting for the news agency on a military-led crackdown on Rohingya Muslims -- were arrested a fortnight ago after they were invited to meet police for dinner.

They were remanded in custody for a further two weeks after an emotional reunion with family members at a brief court hearing on Wednesday -- the first time the pair had been allowed access to relatives, colleagues or lawyers.

Story continues

"I also hope and demand that the other similar cases like us ... will be set free," Aung Naing Soe told AFP, adding that authorities have not returned his crew's phones, computers or drone.

The TRT crew's arrest came with ties more strained than ever between Myanmar and Turkey, whose president has lambasted the mainly Buddhist nation over its persecution of Rohingya Muslims.

The UN has also accused Myanmar's army of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against the minority, some 655,000 of whom have fled an army crackdown for Bangladesh since late August.

In September Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Myanmar was incubating "Buddhist terror" that amounted to genocide.

TRT has not confirmed the subject of the documentary but said the reporters told Myanmar's Ministry of Information about their filming plans in advance.

Their arrests deepened concerns about shrinking press freedoms under civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who came to power in 2016 after decades of outright military rule.
Paris (AFP) - French President Emmanuel Macron will raise human rights issues with Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan when they meet next Friday, the Elysee said on Saturday.

Erdogan's visit to France comes as he faces widespread criticism over a far-reaching crackdown against opponents linked to last year's failed coup attempt, which has seen the arrest of opposition politicians, journalists and activists, and led to accusations of human rights abuses.

The meeting "will be an opportunity to discuss issues related to bilateral relations between our two countries, as well as regional issues including a particular focus on the Syria issue... but also the on the Palestinian issue," said the Elysee, adding that "the issue of human rights" would be discussed.

Earlier on Saturday, Erdogan announced he would travel to France to discuss bilateral relations in a televised speech to members of his ruling AKP party.

After a year of particularly strained ties with European countries, Erdogan has recently expressed hope for a better relationship with the EU, telling Turkish journalists on Thursday: "I always say this. We must reduce the number of enemies and increase the number of friends."

Erdogan launched a huge purge of state institutions after the attempted coup in July 2016; more than 55,000 people have been arrested since then and human rights groups have regularly reported accusations of torture and abuse.

A French journalist, Loup Bureau, who was detained in a Turkish prison for more than seven weeks on "terror" charges, returned to France in September after Macron appealed to Erdogan for his release.

Also in September, Macron said that "Turkey has objectively moved away from the European Union in recent months, with disturbing drifts that can not remain without consequence," in an interview with Greek daily Kathimerini.
Stories about Facebook's advertising business tend to focus on the big numbers  its billions of users, millions of advertisers or its enormous lead over any competitor that's not named Google.

But Facebook says that one of its success stories in recent years involves a relatively small group of engineers  in fact, originally it was just one engineer, Vastal Mehta, who serves as Facebook's director of solutions engineering and now leads a team of more than 100 people. That team works with advertisers to build the technology and infrastructure needed to run more effective campaigns on Facebook, often on top of Facebook's APIs.

Mehta said that when he first started working on this in 2010, it was a very different landscape, both for mobile (where BlackBerry was still a major player) and for Facebook (which hadn't even introduced advertising into the News Feed). This was right as the company was trying to shift in a big way towards mobile, and advertisers were still trying to wrap their heads around the change: "For example, travel companies didn't have teams set up to reach consumers with mobile advertising."

"We knew that we needed to invest in helping businesses build infrastructure to power their mobile advertising, so I started a team that could help businesses in this sort of bespoke way," Mehta added.

You'd expect any digital media business to offer some degree of technical support to its biggest advertisers, but the solutions engineering team is actually building products.

For example, it was involved in creating Facebook's dynamic ads format (where ads show different products to different users based on their activities and interests). Mehta said dynamic ads were first inspired by the complaints of an advertiser he was meeting with in Hamburg, Germany, and he then worked with the Facebook Ads team to create a prototype, eventually leading to a more polished product and broader availability.

Story continues

It's probably safe to say that not every client meeting leads to a new ad format  sometimes Mehta's team is just helping advertisers understand how to use their existing tools in a more effective way. But that other option, working with the rest of Facebook to build something new, is also on the table.

To give me a better sense of what the team actually does, Facebook connected me with Anthony Marino, chief marketing officer at online thrift store thredUP. Marino said that when his company started talking with Facebook's solution engineering team in 2016, there was a big challenge: How to use ads to highlight thredUP's constantly changing inventory.

"On thredUP, the site is practiclaly remade every hour as thousands and thousands of new items are added," he said. "We looked at that flow of product, of apparel, and it was like being a news site ... We had to figure out a way to automate the process of, okay, once we capture and the attributes and qualities of different items of clothing, how do we get them in front of the right person?"

To enable that, Facebook worked with thredUP to launch dynamic ads that were connected to thredUP's real-time product catalogue. The system uses machine learning to further improve the targeting, for example showing users different types of ads at different times of day.

"The first thing is, Facebook puts the right people in the room," Marino said. He recounted working with Facebook to create "new ad products, new data pipelines" between the two systems, and he said, "There were product people, there were operations people in the room. We were able to really integrate at the data integration, at the business process level."

Did this actually lead thredUP to buy more ads on Facebook? The companies didn't share numbers about the company's ad spending, but part of the process involved shifting thredUP from Criteo retargeting to Facebook dynamic ads, and Marino told me, "Working with the solutions engineering team at Facebook enabled us to spend our dollars more efficiently, so that we could amp our marketing budget and drive more new customers to thredUP.com."

The team has worked with other customers including Michael Kors, Edmunds, The New York Times, Gilt and Zynga. It also works with the companies that offer ad-buying tools on top of Facebook, like Smartly, Kenshoo, Marin Software, Adobe, Social Code and Nanigans  and mobile gaming company Machine Zone said the Facebook ad-buying platform it built with the solution engineering team's help was so successful that it's launching a new business called Cognant.

Facebook says that on average, clients working with the solutions engineering team see their return on ad spend improve by 100 percent.

Of course, while Facebook continues to do extraordinarily well financially, it's taken a been battered in public perception as the government scrutinizes the role it may have played in spreading misinformation as part of Russia's election interference efforts. On the ad side, Facebook has announced new transparency features like the ability to see every ad campaign from a given advertiser, and an archive of ads related to federal elections.

When I brought this up, the company said these changes, and the broader political environment, haven't really affected the the day-to-day work of the solutions engineering team, which is much more in the trenches, helping advertisers do new things.

As for what they'll be up to in 2018, Mehta said:

One area were increasingly spending time helping clients with is incorporating more machine learning into solutions and driving efficiency through technology. This includes building better optimization tools that help the client without them needing to adjust and turn nobs in the interface. We see this as a huge area of investment across our business over the next year.

This article originally appeared on TechCrunch.

Related Video:

Watch Today Show on Yahoo View.
The following statements were posted to the verified Twitter accounts of U.S. President Donald Trump, @realDonaldTrump and @POTUS. The opinions expressed are his own. Reuters has not edited the statements or confirmed their accuracy. @realDonaldTrump : - While the Fake News loves to talk about my so-called low approval rating, @foxandfriends just showed that my rating on Dec. 28, 2017, was approximately the same as President Obama on Dec. 28, 2009, which was 47%...and this despite massive negative Trump coverage & Russia hoax! [0746 EST] - Why is the United States Post Office, which is losing many billions of dollars a year, while charging Amazon and others so little to deliver their packages, making Amazon richer and the Post Office dumber and poorer? Should be charging MUCH MORE! [0804 EST] -- Source link: (http://bit.ly/2jBh4LU) (http://bit.ly/2jpEXYR) (Compiled by Bengaluru bureau)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos told an Australian diplomat in May 2016 that Russia had political dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, the New York Times reported on Saturday.

The conversation between Papadopoulos and the diplomat, Alexander Downer, in London was a driving factor behind the FBI's decision to open a counter-intelligence investigation of Moscow's contacts with the Trump campaign, the Times reported.

Two months after the meeting, Australian officials passed the information that came from Papadopoulos to their American counterparts when leaked Democratic emails began appearing online, according to the newspaper, which cited four current and former U.S. and foreign officials.

Besides the information from the Australians, the probe by the Federal Bureau of Investigation was also propelled by intelligence from other friendly governments, including the British and Dutch, the Times said.

Papadopoulos, a Chicago-based international energy lawyer, pleaded guilty on Oct. 30 to lying to FBI agents about contacts with people who claimed to have ties to top Russian officials. It was the first criminal charge alleging links between the Trump campaign and Russia.

The White House has played down the former aide's campaign role, saying it was "extremely limited" and that any actions he took would have been on his own. The New York Times, however, reported that Papadopoulos helped set up a meeting between then-candidate Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and edited the outline of Trump's first major foreign policy speech in April 2016.

The federal investigation, which is now being led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, has hung over Trump's White House since he took office almost a year ago. Some Trump allies have recently accused Mueller's team of being biased against the Republican president.

Lawyers for Papadopoulos did not immediately respond to requests by Reuters for comment. Mueller's office declined to comment.

Story continues

Trump's White House attorney, Ty Cobb, declined to comment on the New York Times report. "Out of respect for the special counsel and his process, we are not commenting on matters such as this," he said in a statement.

Mueller has charged four Trump associates, including Papadopoulos, in his investigation. Russia has denied interfering in the U.S. election and Trump has said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow.

(Reporting by Lesley Wroughton in Washington and Roberta Rampton in West Palm Beach, Fla.; Editing by Tim Ahmann and Matthew Lewis)
Beirut (AFP) - Clashes pitting mainly jihadist and rebel fighters against regime forces backed by Russian warplanes killed at 66 people on the edge of Syria's northwestern Idlib province, a monitor said Friday.

Among the victims were at least 19 civilians killed by air strikes, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that the casualties were over 24 hours of fighting in an area straddling Idlib and Hama provinces.

The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said seven children were among the civilian victims.

He said 27 soldiers and members of allied paramilitary units were killed in the fighting as well as 20 anti-regime combatants, from Islamist rebel groups the former Al-Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham.

The fresh violence in the area appeared to signal the initial phase of a major government operation against Idlib, the only province in the country that completely escapes regime control.

An AFP correspondent near the fighting said aerial activity was intense and the entire area rocked by frequent air strikes.

Rebel leaders issued warnings through loudspeakers informing remaining civilians in the area that Friday prayers were cancelled and that all residents should stay home.

Hundreds of civilians fled the scattering of villages in the area, creating queues of cars and pickup trucks heading towards the city of Idlib loaded with bags and furniture.
One of the so-called 'Hot Cops' whose photo brought them viral fame during Hurricane Irma has resigned.

Michael Hamill, formerly of the Gainesville Police Department in Florida, was the focus of an internal investigation that began when years-old, anti-Semitic comments were discovered on his Facebook page.

The Gainesville PD Internal Affairs investigators said in a statement they'd opened two separate investigations into Hamill. One concerned the anti-Semitic statements he allegedly made on his personal Facebook account and the other concerned sexual relations he allegedly had while on duty.

The department said in a statement that both allegations come with "a possible recommendation of... termination."



Hamill tendered his resignation on Dec. 6, the day he was scheduled to appear for an Internal Affairs Interview for both matters.

"The Gainesville Police Department continues to demand a culture of understanding and respect for all persons that we serve," the department's statement continued.

All new Gainesville Police recruits will tour the Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg before being sworn in, it added.

Hamill, along with Officer Dan Rengering, 27, and Officer John Nordman, 39, uploaded a selfie to the Gainesville Police Department Facebook page in September, and the trio quickly went viral for their good looks.

One of the screenshots from Hamill's Facebook page, posted in 2011, read: So I find it funny that people will talk about how our government needs to do something about our economy and in reality its YOU who needs to stop taking advantage of our system and get a life and do something with your life. Gotta love reality when it hits you in the face. Stupid people annoy me. put them in an oven and deal with them the hitler way. haha

Another screenshot of a 2013 post reads: "Who knew that reading jewish jokes before I go to bed would not only make me feel better about myself but also help me sleep better as well. here is one for everybody whats the difference between boy scouts and jews? anybody know? well it is because Boy scouts come back from their camps.

Story continues

Hamill joined the force in 2016, three years after he made the alleged comments.

RELATED STORIES

San Francisco's 'Hot Cop of Castro' Arrested After Allegedly Driving Into Two Men, Fleeing the Scene

Watch Out 'Hot Cops'! Police Parody Stephen King's 'It' in Viral Photo

Man Accused of Stealing Car Wears 'Trust Me' T-Shirt In Mugshot

Related Articles:
Gaza City (Palestinian Territories) (AFP) - A Gazan died on Saturday after being wounded by Israeli fire during a protest on the border over US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a Palestinian health official said.

Jamal Muslih, 20, of Al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, had been seriously wounded by live fire on Friday, health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

He was buried on Saturday afternoon.

Muslih's death brings to 13 the number of Palestinians killed since US President Donald Trump announced on December 6 that he would recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital and move the US embassy there from Tel Aviv.

Eleven protesters died after clashes with Israeli troops, and two others were killed in an Israeli air strike on Gaza earlier in the month.

More than 50 Palestinians were wounded in the Friday clashes on the Gaza-Israel border as part of a "day of rage" over the US declaration, called for by both Gaza rulers Hamas and fellow militant group Islamic Jihad.

In the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said at least 16 people were wounded when Israeli troops fired live rounds during demonstrations, while others were hit with rubber-coated bullets.

Earlier on Friday, militants in Gaza fired three rockets at southern Israel, two of which were intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defence system, with the third hitting a village near the border, causing damage but no casualties.

Israeli aircraft and tanks targeted two Hamas positions near the border on Friday afternoon in response, again causing damage but no casualties.

Late Saturday, the Israeli army carried out a second attack, with fighter jets "targeted an observation post belonging to the Hamas terror organisation in the southern Gaza Strip," a statement read.

According to the army, the Friday projectile attack on Israel proved that "Iran, through radical and rogue terror organisations, is operating to deteriorate the situation," risking lives in Gaza and threatening to cause "an escalation".

Story continues

The Israeli defence ministry has in recent weeks been increasingly highlighting the ties between Hamas and Iran, most notably in a series of Facebook posts by COGAT, the unit responsible for activities in the Palestinian territories.

Speaking on Channel 2 television Saturday night, Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman claimed that the projectiles fired from Gaza at Israel on Friday were made and supplied by Iran.

Rockets from Gaza are often fired by fringe Islamist groups but Israel holds Hamas responsible for all attacks from the territory.
Giancarlo Stanton is all smiles, even if New York state tax is going to hit him hard. (AP Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr., File)

Former Miami Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton had about 30 million reasons to decline a trade to the New York Yankees. Due to the state tax in New York, Stanton may wind up paying close to $30 million over the course of his remaining contract, according to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports.

Heyman spoke to tax expert Josh Rossman, who came up with that estimate. Rossman came in a little lower, actually, saying Stanton would likely pay $29 million in taxes. Heyman does note that number is not exact.

Stanton can avoid some of that penalty, but that depends on whether he is willing to live outside the city, as Heyman explains.

Rossman estimated he could save about $11 million of the $29 million loss by living in the suburbs rather than New York City. But assuming hes in any of the five boroughs, hell be slammed.

We often hear about tax any time a prominent player is ready to sign a contract, though its unclear whether that plays a role in that players decision. In Stantons case, giving up roughly $30 million dollars seems significant, but how much does he care when his contract is worth $325 million?

Until he comments on that, we cant be sure. But we do feel confident saying this: Winning a World Series appears to be worth a heck of a lot more than $30 million to Stanton.

And you cant put a price on getting away from the Marlins and their new ownership group.

More coverage from Yahoo Sports:

      

Chris Cwik is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik
Egyptian security members and forensic police inspect the site of the gun attack - AFP

A gunman opened fire on worshippers outside a church in the Egyptian capital of Cairo on Friday, killing at least nine people, in the latest of a string of deadly attacks on the Christian minority.

The masked assailant had first fired at a Christian-owned electronics shop three miles away, killing brothers Romani and Attia Shaker, before proceeding to the Mar Mina church in the southern suburb of Helwan, where he began shooting and tried to throw an explosive device.

He shot two police guards - who had been assigned to guard the church ahead of Coptic Christmas next week - killing one and injuring another.

The churchs Father Boules told the Telegraph that 10 mins after Fridays service ended the congregation heard a burst of gunfire outside. I was taking confession at that moment and I rushed out my office and told all those who were left to get into the room and then locked everyone inside, he said.

He said the gunman exchanged fire with the guards outside until they ran out of bullets. He then tried to enter the church but a member of the congregation had managed to close the door.

A priest reacts at the site of the attack on a church in the Helwan district south of Cairo Credit: AMR ABDALLAH DALSH/ REUTERS

Thank God for the big iron door, otherwise he would have got inside and there would have been a massacre, Father Boules said. "There were lots of children inside waiting for Bible studies to start."

Yussuf Mohammed, a high school student, said he saw the gunman from his balcony which overlooks the church.

He was shooting only Christians and avoiding killing Muslims on the street, he told the Telegraph outside his home. He shot the guards and then I saw him carrying a machine gun trying to run away.

He stopped a man with a motorcycle and tried to take it off him, but the guy didn't let it go and the gunman just walked away.

Bullets holes are seen on the police booth outside the Mar Mina church Credit: Amr Nabil/ AP

He said there was then shoot-out when police arrived on the scene. They shot him in the shoulder and the leg and he kept shooting at him after he fell down injured, he said.

The suspect was handcuffed and taken for questioning.

Story continues

A video was posted on Facebook, taken from a window of one of the people in the area showing the terrorist walking down the street as he tried to make his escape.

Some eyewitnesses said that the police shot him and other said that it was one of the civilians.

Police announced plans earlier this week to protect festivities around the New Year and, on January 7, Coptic Christmas, with checkpoints around the city, but they were not yet in place.

There was no immediate claim of the attack, but Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) and other Islamist groups have previously targeted security personnel and the Christian minority.

Egypt's government has been struggling to contain an insurgency by Islamic militants led by an Isil affiliate that is centered in the turbulent northern Sinai peninsula but has also carried out attacks in the mainland.

People gather at the site of the attack as armed police patrol Credit: AMR ABDALLAH DALSH/ REUTERS

More than 100 Coptic Christians have been killed in the past year, including in two bombings on Palm Sunday in April and a blast at Cairo's largest Coptic cathedral in last December that killed 28 people.

The country has been under a state of emergency since April.

Christians, who make up about 10 percent of Egypt's population, have long complained of discrimination in the Muslim-majority nation, and say authorities have often failed to protect them from sectarian attacks.

Just last week, hundreds of Muslim demonstrators stormed a church south of Cairo, wounding three people. The demonstrators destroyed the church's fittings and assaulted Christians inside before security personnel arrived and dispersed them.
Amy Winehouse Amy Winehouse, London, 2005 (Photograph from Harry Benson: Persons of Interest by Harry Benson, published by powerHouse Books)

With its unique access to the most intriguing and enduring legends of our time, Harry Benson: Persons of Interest is a compelling document of photojournalism and portraiture.

Benson, an award-winning Scottish photojournalist, spent decades deliberately choosing the right place to be at just the right time. His photographs and accounts of his encounters and adventures capture the lives of the rich, powerful and famous, ranging from Queen Elizabeth II to Amy Winehouse, from Frank Sinatra to Brad Pitt, from Greta Garbo to Kate Moss, from Winston Churchill to Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.

As the film critic Leonard Maltin put it, Harry Benson has been witness to the key events of the past half-century and has never failed to capture their most telling moments with his camera.

Benson marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement, photographed the Watts riots, was embedded with troops during the Gulf War, and was at Sen. Robert Kennedys side when he was assassinated. He photographed Muhammad Ali, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, President Charles de Gaulle, Michael Jackson, the Rolling Stones, Elizabeth Taylor, Jack Nicholson, Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon and the British royal family. He is the only photographer to have photographed the last 12 U.S. presidents  from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Donald J. Trump.

Benson began his career at the weekly Hamilton Advertiser newspaper and moved to the Scottish Daily Sketch after securing exclusive prison interviews with the Scottish mass murderer Peter Manuel. By 1959, he was working on Londons Fleet Street for Lord Beaverbrooks Daily Express. He traveled to the United States with the Beatles in 1964, and never looked back.

Under contract to Life magazine for 30 years, Harry has photographed for other major magazines, including Time, Vanity Fair, Newsweek, French Vogue, Quest, Paris Match, Forbes, Town & Country, Architectural Digest, People, and the London Sunday Times Magazine.

Story continues

The documentary Harry Benson: Shoot First, which chronicles Bensons 65-year career, was released in December 2016 by Magnolia Pictures.

In 2009, Benson was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for service to photography. Harry has received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from St. Andrews University, Glasgow School of Art, Glasgow University, and Glasgow Caledonian University. An Honorary Fellow of Londons Royal Photographic Society, he has twice been named the National Press Photographers Associations Magazine Photographer of the Year. In 2017, he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Center of Photography.

Benson has had 40 gallery/museum solo exhibitions of his work, and is the author of 16 books, including Harry Benson: Photographs (powerHouse Books, 2009), Bobby Fischer (powerHouse Books, 2011), and, with Hilary Geary Ross, New York, New York (powerHouse Books, 2011) and Palm Beach People (powerHouse Books, 2014).

Harry Benson: Persons of Interest by Harry Benson is available from powerHouse Books.

See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo, Twitter and Tumblr.
(Photo: alexeys via Getty Images)

Years of risky hedge fund investments helped plunge Kentuckys public pension system billions of dollars into the red, making it one of the worst-funded state pension systems in the country.

Now, eight current and former state employees are suing a trio of hedge fund operators and current and former members of Kentuckys pension board, alleging that they breached their fiduciary duties to the state and its taxpayers by sinking millions of dollars into exotic hedge fund bets.

The lawsuit, filed in Kentucky circuit court on Wednesday, takes aim at three hedge fund firms  KKR/Prisma, Blackstone and Pacific Alternative Asset Management Company  and their executives, as well as seven current and former members of the Kentucky pension board, the pension systems former chief investment officer, and a consulting firm that advised the board.

Together, the defendants chose to cover up the true extent of the pension plans financial shortfalls and to take longshot imprudent risks in an effort to make up for the funding problems, the suit contends.

They misled, misrepresented and obfuscated the true state of affairs ... from at least 2009 forward, the suit alleges.

Kentuckys pension plans, collectively known as Kentucky Retirement Systems, hold savings for more than 350,000 current and former state workers. At the turn of the 21st century, the suit states, the system held enough money to cover all its obligations with $2 billion in surplus.

But over the ensuing decade, it lost more than $6 billion in assets. Today, it holds enough cash to cover just 37 percent of its obligations. The largest of the states plans, the Kentucky Employee Retirement System, has enough in assets to pay only 17 percent of its future obligations. The system as a whole is facing a nearly $27 billion shortfall, according to official figures. The lawsuit estimates the actual funding gap could be as large as $50 billion.

A major cause of those problems, the suit asserts, is the pension systems investments in so-called hedge funds of funds  that is, hedge funds composed of other hedge funds. As HuffPost laid out in a deep dive into Kentuckys pension mess in June, such funds of funds feature little to no transparency when it comes to fees paid to investment managers and firms or their performance. They tend to offer higher costs and lower returns than traditional investments, all while potentially greasing the wheels for corruption inside public pension plans.

Story continues

The three hedge fund operators named as defendants created special funds for the state of Kentucky  the suit refers to such funds as black boxes, for their notable lack of transparency. The operators allegedly promoted the funds to Kentucky Retirement Systems as safe and virtually guaranteed investments. Instead, they helped generate excessive fees for the hedge fund managers while producing poor returns and ultimately losses for the pension plans, damaging [Kentucky Retirement Systems] and Kentucky taxpayers in the process.

Most of the assertions in the lawsuit involve decisions made during the administration of then-Gov. Steve Beshear (D), who held office from 2008 to 2016. The suit also references at least one decision the Kentucky Retirement Systems board made after Gov. Matt Bevin (R) took office in January 2016. In May 2016, after Bevin had drastically reshaped the board, the systems investment committee plunged $300 million into the hedge fund of funds created by KKR/Prisma.

At the time, the state was supposedly making some effort to reduce the pensions overall involvement in hedge funds. The KKR/Prisma fund was the worst performing of the black box funds: It had a negative 8 percent return in 2016, even as the stock market rose 15 percent.

Bevin had previously appointed William Cook, a former KKR/Prisma employee, to the pension board as part of the reshuffling. Cook said upon his appointment that he would recuse himself from any decisions involving his former company. But the lawsuit alleges that he was among the investment committee members who permitted Kentucky Retirement Systems to enter into the deal, in which KKR/Prisma was also able to place one of its current employees inside the pension system on a part-time basis.

That deal, the suit claims, was not done solely in the interest of the members and the beneficiaries  as required by Kentucky law  but to help KKR/Prisma and Pacific Alternative Asset Management Company.

Investments in hedge funds of funds have created legal scandals for state pensions across the country, including in California and New York. Amid more scrutiny, California, New York and other states have pledged to rid their pension systems of hedge fund investments. Although Kentucky has attempted to reduce its reliance as well, Kentucky Retirement Systems still held 8.4 percent of its assets in hedge funds as of March 2017.

The lawsuit does not allege any federal crimes. It seeks an undisclosed sum in damages on behalf of the state, the taxpayers and Kentucky Retirement Systems. Any damages the eight plaintiffs themselves received would go to Kentucky Retirement Systems, the suit says, to help shore up the pensions.

Blackstone and KKR/Prisma both denied the allegations in statements to the Louisville Courier-Journal.

Kentuckys state legislature returns to work next week, and pension reform is expected to be near the top of its 2018 agenda. Last year Bevin released a proposal to transition from a traditional, defined contribution-style pension program to one featuring plans that resemble 401(k)s. That idea has met with widespread opposition from public employees, who, along with economic analysts, say it would reduce benefits for future retirees and could even exacerbate some of Kentuckys current pension woes.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story said the lawsuit both names and doesnt name current members of the pension board. The lawsuit, in fact, names current and former board members.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
In the wake of terror attacks across the U.S. this year, security at New Year's Eve celebrations is going to be tighter than ever.

In New York City, up to two million people are expected to brave bitterly cold temperatures and cram into Times Square to welcome 2018 but recent deadly terror attacks are changing the way police are handling security.

After a gunman opened fire from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, killing 58 people in October, reflective markers are being placed on the skyscrapers in Times Square so the location of a potential sniper may be quickly identified.

"We learned a lot from the Las Vegas incident. We learned how to engage and respond. The Las Vegas Police handled that excellently. Now we learn how to do it better," security expert Nicholas Casale told Inside Edition.

After a terrorist set off a pipe bomb in a pedestrian passageway close to Times Square earlier this month, the city is using vapor wake dogs which are trained to sniff out explosives.

In a demonstration, police put fake explosives in a backpack and showed how the dogs can pick out the scent of an explosive and follow its vapor trail.

We can scan thousands of people without stopping the flow of traffic, one NYPD officer told Inside Edition. They are the best bomb-detecting tool that we have.

Eight people were killed on Halloween when a terrorist drove a truck into bikers in Manhattan. To stop that happening on New Years Eve, sanitation trucks filled with sand will cordon off a security zone a mile long and a quarter mile wide.

Similar security operations are underway in cities across America. In Pasadena, Calif., there is tighter security than ever around the Rose Parade.

Starting at 10 oclock Dec. 31 we are actually shutting down the entire parade route, one official told Inside Edition. We have not left any stone unturned.

The New York City Police Commissioner said New Year's Eve will be one of the best and most protected events in the world.

Story continues

RELATED STORIES

How the NYC Terrorist Turned Scenic Bike Path Into a War Zone

'If You See Something, Say Something': Authorities Step Up Security Globally After Manchester Bombing

Counterterrorism Experts Call For More Security Around Airports in Wake of Attacks

Related Articles:
By James Mackenzie and Abdul Aziz Ibrahimi KABUL (Reuters) - Hours after the explosion that tore through a Shi'ite cultural center in the Afghan capital Kabul on Thursday, desperate families were still searching for news, as burned bodies were brought in and wards at the nearby Istiqlal hospital filled up. The explosion that tore through a cramped basement conference room killed at least 41 people and wounded more than 80 and there were hours of confusion as victims were rushed to nearby hospitals. "Everyone was at the hospital but at first nobody knew where they were, they were lost," said Hasan Jan, whose nephews, Abdul Saboor Maqsoudi, 24, and brother Ali Paiman, 18, were among the dead. "We couldn't recognize him he was so burned and disfigured by smoke. We had to go back to the morgue three or four times," he said after the two brothers were buried side by side in the Karte Sakhi cemetery in western Kabul. "Finally they recognized him because of a ring on his finger and his shirt and belt and his watch." The attack, claimed by Islamic State, was the latest in at least two dozen bombings on Shi'ite targets in the Sunni-majority country over the past two years in a brutal campaign by the movement that has killed and wounded hundreds. According to some witnesses, the bomber in Thursday's attack was a 10-year-old boy. At the Tabian Social and Cultural Centre, in a large house down a lane in a mainly Shi'ite area of the city which also houses the Afghan Voice news agency, the windows are shattered and the floor is still stained with blood. Heaped neatly in the courtyard, stands a pile of shoes belonging to victims, all that remains of the dead, many of them students attending a conference. "They were just there for this discussion," Hasan Jan said of his two nephews. "They wanted to learn about culture, the Quran and religion." "WHAT GOVERNMENT?" In many ways, the short lives of the two brothers and the way they ended are emblematic of the lack of hope that has driven thousands of Afghans of their age to leave their country and try for a better life in Europe. Abdul Saboor had studied civil engineering but like many young Afghans, he struggled to find work after graduation and had taken a job teaching English. His father died five years ago in another suicide attack and now that he and his brother are gone, his mother and sister are alone. "He was the breadwinner," Hasan Jan said. "Now the family has no support, there's no man in the family." Although the government of President Ashraf Ghani and its NATO allies have claimed some success against Taliban insurgents since the United States announced a more robust military strategy this year, high-profile attacks in the cities have continued. The government itself is chronically divided, often appearing more concerned with personal rivalries between its leaders and maneuvering ahead of presidential elections in 2019 than in confronting Afghanistan's many problems. Asked what more the government could be doing to ensure security and stability, Hasan Jan was scornful. "What government?" he said. "There are several governments in Afghanistan, what government do you mean? "We've lost our way. What government is going to provide help? There is nothing. All we want is security forces for our country." But he was equally dismissive of the militants who carried out the attack, which Islamic State said was ordered because of what it said were the cultural center's links to Iran. "Why are they doing it here? If America is the enemy, they should find Americans. If they want to attack English, they should find English. If they want to attack Iran, they should attack Iran," he said. "These people are innocent. People haven't taken up arms. People being killed in mosques, in different places. No human could accept that. If they had even a small bit of humanity in them, they couldn't accept that." (Editing by Nick Macfie)
GAZA (Reuters) - Thousands of Palestinians took to the streets of Gaza and the occupied West Bank for the fourth Friday in a row in protests against U.S. President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Palestinian health officials said at least 50 protesters had been wounded by live fire, mostly along the Gaza border. An Israeli military spokeswoman said soldiers had shot at the "main instigators" who she said posed a direct threat to the troops and who were trying to damage the border security fence. The spokeswoman said about 4,000 Palestinians across the West Bank and Gaza, some throwing rocks and fire bombs and setting tires alight, confronted Israeli soldiers who responded mainly by firing tear gas. In Gaza, demonstrators chanted "Death to America, death to Israel, and death to Trump" and militants fired rockets into Israel, drawing strikes by Israeli tanks and aircraft. The military said it targeted posts that belonged to Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Palestinian enclave, after intercepting two of the three rockets fired into Israel. Police said the third struck a building, causing damage. No casualties were reported in those incidents. Trump outraged Palestinians and sparked anger in the Middle East and among world powers with his Jerusalem declaration on Dec. 6, which reversed decades of U.S. policy on one of the most sensitive issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel considers Jerusalem its eternal and indivisible capital. Palestinians want the capital of an independent Palestinian state to be in the city's eastern sector, which Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East War and annexed in a move never recognized internationally. Most countries regard the status of Jerusalem as a matter to be settled in an eventual Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement, although that process is now stalled. A U.N. General Assembly resolution passed on Dec. 21 rejected Trump's Jerusalem declaration. A total of 128 countries voted for the U.N. resolution. Nine opposed it and 35 abstained. Twenty-one countries did not cast a vote. (Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi and Maayan Lubell; Editing by Catherine Evans)
New Delhi (AFP) - India warned Friday against investing in cryptocurrencies including bitcoin, likening them to "Ponzi schemes", as it became the latest country to urge caution.

Despite a boom in trade that has seen prices soar, cryptocurrencies "don't have intrinsic value and are not backed by any kind of assets," the Indian finance ministry said in a statement.

"There is a real and heightened risk of investment bubble of the type seen in Ponzi schemes which can result in sudden and prolonged crash," it said.

Bitcoin prices plunged by almost 40 percent from its record high of $19,500 this month as investors cashed out following the wildly volatile currency's stratospheric rise.

Analysts and governments have repeatedly warned about a bubble that could burst at any moment as investors, many inexperienced, piled into the currency.

India's government said consumers needed to be "extremely cautious as to avoid getting trapped in such Ponzi schemes".

Its warning came a day after South Korea, a hotbed for cryptocurrency trading, said it would ban anonymous trading of virtual currencies.

On Tuesday Israel announced a move to ban trading in cryptocurrency-based companies on the Tel Aviv market until it can regulate transactions involving digital coins.

The vice-president of the European Central Bank has also expressed concern about the relentless rise in the value of bitcoin.

US Federal Reserve boss Janet Yellen has said bitcoin is not money and called on banks to be certain their digital currency transactions adhere to anti-money laundering statutes
A man has been arrested after a father-of-two was killed in a swatting prank in Kansas.

A Wichita police officer shot and killed Andrew Finch after a prank caller  suspected to be 25-year-old Tyler Barriss  reportedly told authorities Mr Finch had killed his father and was holding hostages inside the mans home.

Authorities later learned that the call was a hoax, known as swatting, in which people falsely report an emergency to authorities that requires a police response, usually by Special Weapons and Tactics, or SWAT, teams.

A law enforcement official who earlier confirmed Mr Barriss arrest said the shooting stemmed from a dispute over the Call of Duty video game. The official was not authorised to discuss the investigation publicly, however.

Mr Finch, 28, was killed during a standoff with police minutes after they received the hoax call, Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston said during a news conference.

Online gamers have been previously been accused of wasting police time and endangering the public with prank calls, and authorities are now searching for the caller who was responsible for instigating the deadly callout, Mr Livingston said.

Shortly after 6pm on 27 December a call was made from a man who claimed he had just shot his father in the head and that he was holding his mother and little brother hostage.

Here is the 911 call that lead to the deadly swatting in Kansas. https://t.co/nXG1WUKKsa  Candi Bolden (@CandiBolds) December 30, 2017

I already poured gasoline all over the house, I might just set it on fire, he told the dispatcher, according to a recording of the call published by The Wichita Eagle.

Wichita police officers responded, surrounding a house on the citys west side, Mr Livingston said.

As the incident unfolded, a 28-year-old male opened the front screen door and stood in the doorway or just outside that doorway, he said.

Story continues

Officers gave him several verbal commands to put his hands up and walk towards them.

Mr Finch was unarmed and followed commands to raise his hands but then failed to keep them raised as instructed by police, Mr Livingston said, and an officer feared he was drawing a gun. An officer opened fire and shot once.

Police entered the house and found no one dead or injured and no hostages inside, Mr Livingston said.

Mr Finchs mother, Lisa Finch, told The Wichita Eagle her son had heard movement outside and was shot by officers when he opened the door to investigate.

The shooting is a tragic and senseless act. The irresponsible actions of a prankster put peoples lives at risk, Mr Livingston said. The incident is a nightmare for everyone involved.

The person who made the phone call took my nephew ... two kids father, Mr Finchs aunt, Lorrie Hernandez-Caballero, told the Eagle.

How does it feel to be a murderer? I cant believe people do this on purpose.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise money to go towards Mr Finchs funeral costs.

The FBI estimated that 400 such cases of swatting occur annually with many of the prank callers using some sort of caller identification spoofing software to disguise their phone numbers.

Agencies contributed to this report
The Peoples National Convention (PNC), has condemned its National Chairman, Bernard Mornah, over his calls for the expulsion of Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Ami Mehl, saying that is not a party position.



Mr. Mornah made the call following statements from the Ambassador describing Ghanas vote against the US on making Jerusalem the capital of Israel as a regrettable mistake.



According to Mr. Mornah, the Israeli Ambassador had shown gross disrespect to the integrity of the President Akufo-Addo and the people of Ghana by his comments.



In a statement issued shortly after the UN vote, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana expressed his countrys disappointment over the vote. The statement said it was hopeful that Ghana will not repeat such mistake in subsequent motions before the General Assembly.



Speaking to Citi News, Vice Chairman of the PNC, Henry Asante, reprimanded Mr. Mornah and dissociated the party from the call.



So long as the party is concerned, the party has not made any statement or come together to think of anything of that nature, so for the Chairman to go out to make that statement is a surprise to some of us. We can assume that he was making it out of his personal conviction, and with that we have no qualms with it. But the party will not take kindly to him being associated with it he said



He noted that any statement that comes from the party must be well-thought through and must be approved by the leader.

Source: Citifmonline









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
Benghazi (Libya) (AFP) - Libyan strongman Khalifa Haftar has said he will support 2018 elections in the war-torn country but also implied he would seize power if the polls did not occur.

Late Thursday, Haftar said presidential and parliamentary elections were "a fundamental solution" to Libya's crisis and should be held "without delay or fraud".

Oil-rich Libya has been wracked by chaos since a 2011 uprising that toppled longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

A UN-backed unity government in Tripoli has failed to impose its authority nationwide, and has been rejected by a rival administration backed by Haftar in the east of the country.

This month, Haftar said the unity government had definitively lost all legitimacy after the expiry of the December 2015 UN-brokered agreement that gave rise to it.

"But the accord is one thing and the UN mission's work (towards holding elections) is another," he told the Al-Hadath television channel Thursday.

Haftar's opponents accuse him of wanting to seize power and establish a military dictatorship, while his supporters have called for him to take control by "popular mandate".

Haftar said this "mandate" could be a possibility "if all classic mechanisms allowing a peaceful power transition via free and democratic elections were exhausted".

The UN Security Council has insisted the December 2015 deal remains the "only viable framework to end the Libyan political crisis" and prepare for elections.
Bamako (AFP) - Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita named a new prime minister Saturday, a day after the government resigned in a surprise move just months ahead of presidential polls.

A public decree disseminated on Twitter said Keita named former defence minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga to replace Abdoulaye Idrissa Maiga, who resigned unexpectedly on Friday.

Boubeye Maiga is considered close to Keita despite his having to resign as defence minister in 2014 after the Malian army suffered a string of setbacks against Tuareg rebel groups in the country's restive northern region.

The north is still a theatre of unrest almost six years after a French-led military operation chased Islamic extremists linked to Al-Qaeda from a region they had taken control of in early 2012.

Mali's army, French soldiers and a UN mission (MINUSMA) still have little control over large tracts of the country, which regularly come under attack in spite of a peace accord signed with Tuareg leaders in May and June 2015 with the aim of isolating the jihadists.

The spread of the unrest this year prompted the G5 regional forum, which also includes Mauritania and Chad, to step up peace efforts with French support.

Mali's presidential election is set to take place next year with Keita seeking re-election.
Melania Trump outranks Beyonce and Kate Middleton in a new poll. (Photo: Getty Images)

Despite Hillary Clinton topping Gallups Most Admired Woman list, first lady Melania Trump has also earned a spot, outranking Kate Middleton and Beyonce.

Earlier this week, the national consulting company released the results of its Most Admired Man and Woman poll for the 71st time since 1946, when World War II Gen. Douglas MacArthur took first place and women were not asked. This year, Michelle Obama earned second place, ahead of Oprah Winfrey and Elizabeth Warren. In the mens category, Barack Obama was voted most admired, one place ahead of Donald Trump.

Results were based on phone calls with 1,049 people during the month of December and interviewees were asked the questions, What woman that you have heard or read about, living today in any part of the world, do you admire most? And who is your second choice?

Despite Melanias modest profile (she moved into the White House only five months after the president took office, and shes been criticized for a vague antibullying platform), her popularity is indisputable.

Melania Trumps favorable rating has risen 17 percentage points since January to 54 percent as she has become better known in her role as first lady, Gallops press release stated. In contrast, a majority of Americans continue to view President Donald Trump unfavorably  his current unfavorable rating of 56 percent is nearly identical to Januarys rating of 55 percent.

According to a new poll, Melania Trump is more admired than Kate Middleton, shown above. (Photo: Getty Images)

The press release also notes that in January, 37 percent of Americans disapproved of Melania, while 37 percent held her in favor and 26 percent had no opinion. Now, in Gallups first measure of Melania Trump since she became first lady, the percentage with no opinion of her is down to 13 percent, while her favorable rating is up and her unfavorable rating has dipped slightly to 33 percent.

Gallup adds one caveat to explain why Melania is more popular than the president. This is likely because a first ladys role is more ceremonial and generally much less divisive than that of the president.

Story continues

However, unlike Michelle Obama, whose love for affordable brands such as J.Crew made her seem relatable and her famous biceps signaled her devotion to combating Americas obesity epidemic, Melania Trump has been controversial as a fashion figure .

Designers Thom Browne and Tommy Hilfiger have defended the first lady, while others, like Marc Jacobs, have rejected the idea of working with her.

Melania has also made waves for appearing unrelatable  during multiple trips to Texas and Puerto Rico to assess hurricane damage, she was slammed for wearing stilettos that were deemed inappropriate for the occasion. And in September, she was ridiculed on social media for wearing a hot-pink Delpozo dress to give an antibullying speech at the U.N.

A new survey finds that Beyonce, pictured here with daughter Blue Ivy and husband Jay-Z, is less popular than Melania Trump. (Photo: Getty Images)

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.




A recent poll revealed that the approval rating of Melania Trump, has soared 17 points, to 54%,since Donald Trump took office. Perhaps its the accessibly fallible side she exposed when she tweeted a remembrance of Pearl Harbor with the wrong date. Maybe its the playfully cheeky choice she made with her White House Christmas decor: a long hallway populated by Tim Burton-esque white skeletons of trees, uplit to provide maximum ceiling drama. Or perhaps she just seems charming by contrast with her husband, the person who enjoys the lowest approval rating of any modern president this early in his presidency. Next to the Walking Dont, Melania becomes a Do. Maybe thats why she rarely holds First Hands.

Its easy to approve of Melania Trump. Its easy to approve of women who dont say too much.

While La FLOTUS appears to be riding high in comparison to POTUS, its worth noting that she doesnt approach the heights of approbation reached by First Lady Laura Bush at the same time her husband hit his low: Mrs. Bush won a 76% approval rating while (the retrospectively avuncular and benign) George W. Bush plummeted to 22%. While Melanias standing at 54% thumbs-up doesnt point to overwhelming support, it does confirm shes won over some folks on the left. Of all the Trumps, Democrats seem to tolerate the Trump who carries the name but not the DNA.

Its fitting that the American people are basically split on their feelings about Melania. Shes a circumspect, soignee woman about whom questions arise: is she style or substance? Is her silence classy or complicit? Is she PDA-averse or is she repulsed by her husband? Is she loyal or self-serving?

Back in November 2016, Mrs. Trump announced that her platform as First Lady would be taking on cyberbullying, because Our culture has gotten too mean and too rough. We have to find a better way to talk to each other, to disagree with each other, to respect each other. We must find better ways to honor and support the basic goodness of our children, especially in social media.

Story continues

It would be almost a year before she made her first public appearance officially tied to this issue, telling an audience of Michigan kids, I think its important that we choose kindness and compassion. Unassailable words, unanchored to any policy agenda or explicit program or even a bullet-pointed list of ways parents and children can create a more respectful culture. Perhaps Melania is exercising some savvy genius by simply allowing her husbands relentlessly baleful and aggressively petty attacks to do the speaking for her, by way of telegraphing exactly how not to behave. Ever. As a child, as an adult, as a leader of the free world, as a human.

It is a curious irony that the reticent Mrs. Trump floats on positive approval ratings at the end of a year which has heard a clamorous chorus of womens voices demanding justice for the mistreatment theyve suffered at the literal hands of bad men. The First Lady is fluent in five languages but has remained deafeningly mute in all of them when it comes to supporting the #MeToo movement, or recognizing any specific accusations against any prominent man, including those from Roy Moores accusers, even when her stepdaughter Ivanka Trump supported them. And shes delivered no recent comments on the 19 women who have spoken out against the President (in 2016, she proclaimed those women liars, hewing to her husbands account). Last year, after footage was released of then-candidate Trump profanely bragging on camera about violently assaulting women, Mrs. Trump excused him, declaring he was egged on into boy talk.

Late in Donald Trumps presidential run, Melania gave an interview in which she described her family life: We have the same conversations with my son that many of you have with your sons and daughters and nieces and nephews, grandchildren and godchildren. I wonder. Due to behavior of allegedly predatory men like her childs father, I have had several conversations with my 5-year-old son this year in which I have had to introduce into his vocabulary a new sparkle word: consent. (Lessons of 2017 abound; I came home one day to find our caregiver trying to teach our boy about the Electoral College, using construction paper, magic markers and scissors. It was futile.)

President Trump is effluent with his words  he vomits them, forgets them, denies them. Since his wife so rarely speaks publicly, hers ought to carry weight. At the UN last fall, Mrs. Trump declared, We must remember that they [children] are watching and listening, so we must never miss an opportunity to teach lifes many ethical lessons along the way. As adults, we are not merely responsible, we are accountable. I hope you will join me in committing ourselves to teaching the next generation to lead by and honor the golden rulewhich ismy focus as first lady.

The best way for the First Lady to be responsible and accountable, to teach children an ethical lesson, would be to decry the most prominent bully in the world: her husband. That would send a message to children that recklessly narcissistic and cruel behavior is intolerable. That we shouldnt lie and demean. That men should not assault women. That everyone deserves respect.

Or Melania Trump could just walk out of the White House forever, saying everything and still not uttering a word. Id approve.
Following months of investigations into allegations of conflict of interest in the recent US $2.25 billion bond issued by the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Finance, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has emerged with a 140-paged report, stating their position on the matter.



A known NDC Member, Yaw Brogya Genfi petitioned CHRAJ to investigate conflict of interest in the recent US$2.25 billion bond issued by the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Finance.



He among other things alleged that the minister had placed himself in a conflict of interest position, and thus, in breach of constitutional provisions.



According to Mr. Genfi, Ken Ofori-Atta, secured 95 percent of the bond for his family and friends.



Mr. Ofori-Atta has attempted to promote a private or personal interest for himself or for some family members and business associates, and the promotion of the private interest has resulted in, or was intended to result in, or appears to have resulted in, or has the potential to result in an interference with the objective exercise of his duties and an improper benefit or an advantage by virtue of his position.



He argued that the bonds were not on the issuance calendar, and that the transaction seemed to have been shrouded in secrecy with the bond processes being limited to one day compared to past processes that were open.



Mr. Genfi further alleged that one single investor, Franklin Templeton Investment Limited, an American global investment management organisation founded in 1947 purchased 95 percent of the bond issued.



CHRAJ however after 5 months of investigating the issue has produced a report that clears the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta of any wrong doing. The report stated:



On the basis of the evidence available to the Commission, it has come to the conclusion and therefore holds that, the allegations by the complainant that the respondent has contravened Article 284 of the 1992 Constitution by putting himself in a conflict of interest situation in relation to the issuance of the 5-year, 7-year, 10-year and 15-year bonds, have not been substantiated



there was also no evidence before the Commission that there was a personal benefit to the Respondent or his private businesses and other relations, the report further said.



Below is the full report on CHRAJs verdict on Governments US $2.25 billion bond:



Full Document Here >>















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 pair of Russian comedians appear to have successfully tricked the US Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, into commenting on a fictional Asian country.

The two comedians Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexei Stolyarov, known as Vovan and Lexus, posted a 22 minute audio clip of their conversation with the ambassador where they get her to comment on the situation in Binomo  a fictional country in the South China Sea.

Posing as the Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, they spoke to Ms Haley in the days after Poland was one of 35 countries to abstain on a UN vote to reject Donald Trumps declaration of Jerusalem as Israels capital as null and void.

The UN General Assembly voted 128-9, excluding the abstentions, in favour of the motion.

She said: Let me start with very much thanking you for the support we received on the vote today. We will never forget it.

Previous Mr Trump suggested he would cut off financial aid to those who voted for the motion.

The pranksters then moved the discussion to the situation in Binomo.

Mr Stolyarov, who was posing as Mr Morawiecki, said: You know Binomo to which Ms Haley replied yes, yes.

They had elections and we suppose Russia had its intervention, he continued.

Ms Haley then replied: Yes, of course they did, absolutely.

Weve been watching that very closely, and I think we will continue to watch that as we deal with the issues that keep coming up about the South China Sea.

He then asked her what the US was planning to do about the island to which Ms Haley responded that she needed to find out exactly what our stance is on that and get back to them.

The comedians also questioned her about Ukraine, with whom Russia has been engaging in a proxy war since 2014, and expressed support for the former President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, who was arrested in Kiev earlier this month.

Mr Saakashvili has been accused of taking money from a Russia-based oligarch to destabilise the political situation in Ukraine but has dismissed the allegations as "lies".

Story continues

Poland and Ukraine have traditionally been allies but relations have soured in recent months due in part to a spat over the wartime killing of Poles in Ukraine.

A spokesperson for Ms Haley, John Degory, told The Post and Courier he would not confirm or deny the authenticity of the video. "We have nothing to share on that at this time," he said.

The Russian pranksters are known for impersonating Eastern European officials to mock and undermine Western leaders.

Earlier this year, US Energy Secretary Rick Perry was tricked into thinking he was talking to Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman where he reportedly discussed a new fuel made from manure and alcohol.

A spokeswoman for the department told Bloomberg at the time: These individuals are known for pranking high-level officials and celebrities, particularly those who are supportive of an agenda that is not in line with their governments. In this case, the energy security of Ukraine.
Former Trump campaign official Rick Gates leaves Federal Court on 11 December 2017 in Washington, DC: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

A former member of President Donald Trumps 2016 campaign team has had his house arrest lifted so he can attend a New Years Eve party.

Rick Gates, a business associate of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, asked to be allowed to attend the event with his family, according to court documents.

The party is less than 60 miles from his home. Judge Amy Berman Jackson had previously denied another request by Mr Gates to attend a similar New Years party further afield, but felt this request showed good cause.

Ms Jackson also denied a request last month in which Mr Gates asked permission to drive his children to and from school.

Mr Gates has been under house arrest in Virginia since October 2017 when he and Mr Manafort were charged with 12 counts of conspiracy against the US, conspiracy to launder money, various charges regarding being a foreign agent for Ukraine without properly reporting their work to the US government, and seven counts of failing to report foreign bank and financial accounts.

The document stated that $75m went in and out of offshore accounts controlled by the pair, who both pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The indictment was filed by special prosecutor Robert Mueller as part of the overall FBI investigation into alleged collusion between Trump campaign team members and Russian officials.

Experts have said the charges against Mr Gates and Mr Manafort are meant to elicit a plea deal in which they share more pertinent information to the Russia case in exchange for lighter sentencing.

In October Mieke Eoyang, Vice President for the National Security Programme at DC-based think tank Third Way, told The Independent, that the nature of the charges means that [Mr Manafort] isnt the ultimate big fish that they intend to get.

However, charging together suggests that [Mr] Gates cant seek a better deal by flipping on [Mr] Manafort, Ms Eoyang said.

[Mr] Manafort can try to negotiate better terms by implicating someone higher  Trump or Pence. But were still at the beginning of this thing. This is like the capture of the burglars in Watergate  its the start of the unwinding, she explained.

Story continues

Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and former campaign aide George Papadopoulos have pleaded guilty in the same case to lying to the FBI about their contacts with Russian officials ahead of Mr Trumps inauguration.

The FBI and Congressional investigations into the alleged collusion continue as Mr Gates waits for trial.
NextShark

A 19-year-old TikTok user has gone viral after sharing a video of their eulogy to their deceased father at his funeral, in which they call him a racist, misogynistic, xenophobic, Trump-loving man. The user, identified as Saga, goes by the handle @saginthesunforever and has self-described themselves as a Black supremacist on their TikTok bio. Saga, who uses the pronouns they/them, has received widespread backlash after their viral video was re-posted to Twitter by controversial conservative account Libs of TIkTok on Tuesday.
By Andrew Osborn and Denis Pinchuk MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said a bomb blast in a St. Petersburg supermarket on Wednesday was an act of terrorism, and that security forces whose lives were threatened by terrorist suspects should shoot to kill if necessary. Putin, who is running for re-election in March, was speaking on Thursday at an awards ceremony in the Kremlin for Russian personnel who served in Russia's Syria campaign, which Moscow has framed as an anti-terrorism operation. "You know that yesterday in St. Petersburg a terrorist act was carried out," Putin told the audience, referring to the explosion that injured 13 shoppers in a branch of the Perekrestok supermarket chain. Investigators have opened a criminal case into Wednesday evening's blast, which they say was caused by a homemade bomb packed with pieces of metal. Russian media reports said the bomb was hidden inside a rucksack in a locker where shoppers leave their belongings and said the person who left the bomb, described as being of "non-Slavic appearance", had been caught on CCTV. No group has claimed responsibility. Russia has repeatedly been the target of attacks by Islamist militant groups, including an attack in April that killed 14 people when an explosion tore through a train carriage in a metro tunnel in St. Petersburg. That attack was claimed by a militant group which said the suicide bomber was acting on the orders of al Qaeda. Russian police detained several suspects in that attack from mainly Muslim states in ex-Soviet central Asia. "ACT DECISIVELY" Putin told the ceremony the FSB security service, which he used to run before he became president, had also prevented "another attempted terrorist act". A Kremlin spokesman said Putin was referring to a foiled attack on Kazansky Cathedral, in St. Petersburg, Russia's second city. The Kremlin said earlier this month that a U.S. tip-off had helped thwart the attack in a rare public show of cooperation despite deep strains between the two countries. Russian media reported earlier this month that the Federal Security Service had detained seven members of an Islamic State cell who had been planning the attack. Putin told the same awards ceremony that the security situation in Russia would be much worse if thousands of Russian citizens who fought with Islamic State in Syria had been allowed to return home. "What would have happened if those thousands of people ... returned to us (from Syria). If they returned with good weapons training ...," he said. Russian security officials have said that thousands of citizens from ex-Soviet Central Asia or from the Muslim-majority North Caucasus region of Russia, which includes Chechnya, traveled to Syria or Iraq to fight with Islamic State. Putin said security forces should take no chances with their own lives if confronted by terrorist suspects. "I yesterday ordered the FSB director to act within the framework of the law when detaining these bandits of course, but if there is a threat to the life and well-being of our employees ... to act decisively, not take any prisoners, and liquidate the bandits on the spot." (Additional reporting by Polina Devitt; Editing by Alison Williams)
Its been a tumultuous year for Luann de Lesseps. After her seven-month marriage came to a screeching halt this fall, the Real Housewives of New York star seemed to be moving on  but then December happened. Just a few days after her arrest in Florida, de Lesseps has checked herself into a rehab facility.

Speaking with People, the 52-year-old former countess said, After the events of last Saturday night in Palm Beach, I am truly embarrassed. I have decided to seek professional guidance and will be voluntarily checking into an alcohol treatment center.

She continued: I intend to turn this unfortunate incident into a positive life-changing event. Once again, I sincerely apologize for my actions. I have the greatest respect for police officers and the job they do. My actions alleged in the police report do not reflect my core values and my law-abiding character. I am so grateful for the love and support that I am receiving from my family, friends, and loyal supporters.

De Lesseps was arrested on Christmas Eve after drunkenly attempting to enter someone elses hotel room with an unnamed man while staying in Palm Beach. The pair allegedly refused to leave the room they were in, and when police arrived, the RHONY star reportedly shoved an officer, slammed a door on his forehead, and yelled, Ill kill you all!

In a tweet, the socialite blamed buried emotions for her outburst, as it was the first time shed been back in Palm Springs since the end of marriage to Tom DAgostino.

I want to offer my most sincere apologies to anyone that I might have offended with my behavior, she wrote. This was my first time in Palm Beach since my wedding and being here brought up buried emotions. I am committed to a transformative and hopeful 2018.

I want to offer my most sincere apologies to anyone that I might have offended with my behavior. This was my first time in Palm Beach since my wedding and being here brought up buried emotions. I am committed to a transformative and hopeful 2018  Luann de Lesseps (@CountessLuann) December 24, 2017

Story continues

De Lesseps is due back in Florida court on January 25.

What do you think of Luann de Lesseps statement? Tell us @BritandCo.

(photo via Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

You Might Also Like












Vistas de pagina en total

Precio del Brent To get the BRENT oil price, please enable Javascript.

Precio del WTI To get the oil price, please enable Javascript.

Precio del Oro To get the gold price, please enable Javascript.

Dolar USA Vs Euro

Archivo del blog





































PROHIBIDO OLVIDAR



OTAN = Asesinos



OTAN = NATO = Muerte



Mas temprano que tarde los derrotaremos



Hipocresia 3.0



El principe Carlos habla sobre el alto costo de la vida Es un chiste?



Las verdades son simples



Opinar es un peligro



Ejemplo de dignidad



El Nuevo Orden Mundial



Historica foto para el record Guinness







Se pegaron un tiro en el pie



Si palabras



Ya no enganan a nadie



No hacen falta palabras







Lo volvio a hacer



Capitalismo=embuste



Historico Bitcoin



La bateria mas grande de Holanda



El futuro es solar



Nec plus ultra, nec variatur



Fisica y culturalmente



Jamas nos callaran



Sin ellas, no seremos



Deja vu



Nada que celebrar



Hasta cuando?



Colombia Hoy



Para nunca olvidar



'Parasite' painted on a statue of Queen, Elizabeth in Kent, England



Sin palabras



La UE le apunta a la paz



Cada vez mas solo



LULA y su Pueblo



Bye Bye



Homenaje al genial Quino



Fueron ellos



Una imagen que resume



Tan bajo ha caido que se deja tocar el trasero?



Porky y el Nene (archiconocido narcotraficante)



Ladrones al poder



Asi mira el perrito a su amo



Crazy



Clamor popular



La nueva inquisicion



Bolivia



Chile Hoy



Eso es todo amigos!



Piensalo!



Pinerachet



No More Trump



Adios Macri, hasta nunca



La Marioneta se desinfla



Asi o mas cinico



Almugre



Mexico en 1794



Mas arrastrado imposible



Hasta cuando!



La pura verdad



Solidaridad con Palestina



Serie Capitalismo



Espejismos de la clase trabajadora



Asi es!



Comerciantes o delincuentes



No pasaran!



Asi es la vida



USA HOY



01/01/1959



La avaricia no tiene limites



AYUDA HUMANITARIA?



Chile Hoy



Asi son las cosas



Mapa Electoral de Venezuela



Patagonia argentina?



Un aniversario mas del mayor genocidio de la Humanidad



Retrato del franquismo en Espana



Visca Catalunya!



El Chulo de Madrid



Cuando la policia se roba la democracia



Una imagen dice mas que mil palabras



La purita verdad



Asi gobierna la maldita burguesia



Mi pobre clase media



Como Chavez nadie



Comparte La Colmena via twitter Twittear

Programa de la MUD



Asi o mas clarito



Por que Trump no ataco Corea del Norte?



Hace 15 anos Por que la OEA no se pronuncio?



Una verguenza nacional



La luz que nos guia



La Union Europea Premio Nobel de la Paz?



Feudalismo ayer y hoy



Obama, el mentiroso



Curiosa coincidencia



Un mundo de cerdos



No es extrano?



La Marioneta



Los ricos protestan, los pobres celebran



MARICORI Y OBAMA



Cuantas muertes este ano?



USA TODAY



USA HOY 6



USA HOY 5



USA HOY 4



USA HOY 3



USA HOY 2



USA HOY (1)



Insaciable



Cronologia de un agresor



Guarimbear en USA



Mexico hoy



Bolivar y Chavez



Primero Amargado



Dios los cria y ellos se juntan



USA hoy (III)



USA hoy (II)



USA hoy



Mexico hoy



Mexico hoy



Mexico hoy



Obama



La verdad sea dicha



Los ricos



Que no nos vea Obama



Pobre Obama



SOS PALESTINA



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



VICMAN



Archivo del blog Archivo del blog marzo (4) abril (9) mayo (8) junio (10) julio (11) agosto (10) septiembre (17) octubre (11) noviembre (15) diciembre (10) enero (9) febrero (10) marzo (8) abril (5) mayo (6) junio (8) julio (13) agosto (10) septiembre (7) octubre (12) noviembre (8) diciembre (15) enero (17) febrero (11) marzo (11) abril (12) junio (6) julio (11) agosto (15) septiembre (5) octubre (15) noviembre (14) diciembre (11) enero (13) febrero (9) marzo (10) abril (8) mayo (7) junio (12) julio (12) agosto (8) septiembre (8) octubre (4) diciembre (8) enero (35) febrero (20) marzo (29) abril (19) mayo (21) junio (27) julio (21) agosto (28) septiembre (40) octubre (47) noviembre (21) diciembre (34) enero (62) febrero (81) marzo (117) abril (141) mayo (114) junio (111) julio (126) agosto (98) septiembre (160) octubre (234) noviembre (493) diciembre (319) enero (219) febrero (267) marzo (230) abril (291) mayo (347) junio (223) julio (179) agosto (191) septiembre (239) octubre (350) noviembre (406) diciembre (353) enero (284) febrero (202) marzo (274) abril (250) mayo (232) junio (251) julio (188) agosto (249) septiembre (230) octubre (178) noviembre (141) diciembre (164) enero (187) febrero (147) marzo (211) abril (190) mayo (199) junio (164) julio (162) agosto (174) septiembre (182) octubre (225) noviembre (114) diciembre (132) enero (223) febrero (147) marzo (133) abril (108) mayo (387) junio (465) julio (785) agosto (748) septiembre (485) octubre (681) noviembre (754) diciembre (805) enero (708) febrero (896) marzo (735) abril (831) mayo (723) junio (555) julio (658) agosto (619) septiembre (457) octubre (455) noviembre (295) diciembre (269) enero (534) febrero (556) marzo (205) abril (119) mayo (194) junio (255) julio (294) agosto (182) septiembre (207) octubre (340) noviembre (351) diciembre (281) enero (114) febrero (128) marzo (216) abril (195) mayo (116) junio (141) julio (182) agosto (181) septiembre (50) octubre (72) noviembre (104) diciembre (88) enero (168) febrero (102) marzo (151) abril (207) mayo (43) junio (72) julio (35) agosto (146) septiembre (54) octubre (46) noviembre (48) diciembre (57) enero (133) febrero (218) marzo (196) abril (177) mayo (156) junio (158) julio (264) agosto (456) septiembre (524) octubre (473) noviembre (450)

Chavez Cuanto te queremos!



Por culpa de Chavez



Cerveza Polar







Algun dia Colombia volvera a la ideologia de Bolivar







Translate













LOS REVOLUCIONARIOS NO TOMAN CACA-COLA No se trata solamente de un capricho, sino de una sana actitud en todos los sentidos. Desde la solidaridad con el pueblo colombiano donde la empresa Caca-Cola ha cometido los mas grandes abusos contra sus trabajadores incluyendo el presunto secuestro y asesinato de los dirigentes del sindicato, hasta la proteccion de la salud de nuestros hijos, enviciados por ese jarabe de cola y azucar, que les produce obesidad prematura. Pensemos tambien los revolucionarios, que ese dinero que gastamos en los refrescos es utilizado por esas empresas para financiar el terrorismo en nuestro pais. Es cierto, no se trata solo de la Caca-Cola, sino tambien de la cerveza, de los cigarrillos y todos esos articulos innecesarios y mas que eso, daninos para nuestra salud. Podriamos incluso pensar en un dia de parada para cada uno de ellos. Es cuestion de irnos organizando. Pero para empezar, que tal si dejamos de comprar Caca-Cola y sus similares?



























Cuando lo extraordinario se vuelve cotidiano...



Discurso del Acto de Grado en Barinas en 12 de Febrero del 2005 Queridos Graduandos:



Mas que un discurso, quiero dirigirles algunas palabras que escribi anoche, despues de visitar en las clinicas, a los estudiantes heridos, a consecuencia de los enfrentamientos con la policia de hace apenas dos dias.



Me ha tocado por razones del destino, ser la persona que les otorgue el titulo que bien merecieron con sus estudios. Y me siento sumamente orgulloso de serlo. Me consta que la Universidad de Los Llanos Occidentales Ezequiel Zamora, a pesar de lo dicho por los enemigos de esta universidad, es una universidad de primera.



No tendremos la mejor planta fisica, en los salones hace calor. En el comedor hace calor. Pero no es en lo material que las cosas deben valorarse. El mayor capital es el ser humano. Y en eso, nuestra UNELLEZ, lo digo con conocimiento de causa, esta sobrada. Los llaneros venezolanos son nobles, valientes, de coraje.



En la UNELLEZ hacen vida, en este momento, aproximadamente 67000 personas. El 97% de ellas son estudiantes. Jovenes que, como Ustedes hasta el dia de hoy, buscan ese titulo, que constata los anos de dedicacion y de estudio.



Los jovenes son el rio de la vida, ustedes graduados deben ser los capitanes de esos barcos que naveguen por el rio de la vida.



Nuestra Patria atraviesa momentos muy dificiles porque decidio dejar de ser esa matrona de edad vetusta y complaciente, para ser joven, rebelde y altanera. Nuestra imagen ya no es la de una acaudalada ricachona mayamera. En nuestro rostro brilla ahora la sonrisa del Che Guevara, con su diente delantero torcido, su pelo largo y su boina con la estrella.



Entender esto, a mi me ha tomado practicamente toda la vida. Tengo 53 anos, y ya perdi mi oportunidad de derramar sangre joven a causa de un ideal.



Ustedes son jovenes, estan en la flor de la vida. No cometan por favor el error de renunciar a su instinto de rebelion. El Che Guevara fue Ministro de a Economia en Cuba. Los billetes y las monedas se adornaban con su rostro. Nada de eso le importo. Primero fue a Angola donde paso un penoso ano de combate. Despues se fue a Bolivia, donde encontro la muerte. El Che era el ultimo que comia, el que cargaba la mochila mas pesada. Siempre se sacrificaba por los demas en un estoicismo que mas parecia fervor religioso que ideologia marxista.



Si quieren un modelo de vida. Ahi lo tienen.



Dije hace unos momentos que el 97% de la poblacion de la UNELLEZ es estudiante. Se imaginan Ustedes la Universidad que podriamos tener si todos los estudiantes tuvieran la abnegacion, la combatividad del Che?



Los momentos que se avecinan van a requerir de una gran unidad del pueblo venezolano. La alternativa de continuar siendo libres o regresar a la pobreza se nos planteara en los proximos dias de forma enmascarada, o quizas peor, desenmascarada, vestida con uniforme de soldado del Imperio.



Por nuestra parte podemos esperar lo mejor. La macroeconomia no podria ir mejor, la justicia social ha mejorado notablemente. Las misiones ocupan un papel muy importante en el pago de dicha justicia social. Aqui en Barinas ya hemos cumplido con dos de las misiones, la mision Robinson y la mision Sucre. No hay analfabetismo y no hay exclusion en la educacion superior, en estas tierras de Zamora.



Pero ay malhaya! Son precisamente estos exitos los que nos hacen mas antipaticos al Imperio. Para ellos, somos inclusive un mal ejemplo que se esta contagiando al resto del continente y cuidado sino al resto del mundo.



Nunca venceremos al Imperio. Estara siempre ahi, acechando. Por lo menos hasta que el mismo no se autodestruya. Porque, sepanlo senores, el neoliberalismo es canibal. Cuando le ataque el hambre, se devorara a si mismo.



Ustedes, queridos graduandos, a partir de hoy pasan a conformar la elite profesional que debe sostener este pais en los proximos cuarenta o cincuenta anos. Anos decisivos para el logro de nuestra libertad y del rescate de nuestra Soberania.



No se dejen comprar. No se dejen corromper. No se dejen gritar. No se dejen pisar. Que nadie les diga que comer, o que vestirse, o que leer. Sean siempre autenticos, rebeldes, contestatarios. Pero eso si, profundamente patriotas, dignos de ser hijos de Bolivar.



Muchas gracias y que Dios los bendiga.





Alguna duda?



Medio siglo de Holocausto Palestino



Oscar Zanartu Nacio en Caracas en 1960. Ha realizado exposiciones individuales en las galerias Minotauro, Clave y San Francisco, y en salas de Coro, estado Falcon, y Puerto Ordaz, estado Bolivar. En Paris su obra ha sido exhibida en el Centro Cultural Tanagra, en la Exposicion Cite Internationale des Arts, en las galerias De Mars y Arver Space, al igual que en la Galeria Municipal Levallois, en Levallois Perret (Francia). En muestras colectivas, su obra se ha expuesto en Belgica, Francia, Estados Unidos y Venezuela; en Caracas intervino en la exposicion "Del genesis a la memoria", 1995, organizada por la Fundacion La Previsora. En 1982 obtuvo el Premio Nacional Critven y en 1990 la Mencion de Honor Jose Antonio Paez, en la Embajada de Venezuela en Paris. En 1991 se le concedio el primer premio de Pintura Itinerante, en Levallois Perret, Francia.



OZ1



OZ2



OZ3



OZ4



Homenaje a Jason Galarraga



La Victoria de Samotracia



Odalisca



Mas fotos de la nevada del pasado agosto 2008



























La Sierra Nevada de Merida



Nuestro precioso Churum Meru



Homenaje a Picasso



Autoretrato



Sabes lo que bebes en una Coca-Cola?

La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.

Mi profesion?

Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.

Sal en la Coca Cola?

A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.

De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:

Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gusto

Acido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)

azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)

Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantas

Mucha Cafeina

Conservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o Potasio

Dioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebe

Sal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracion

El uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.

Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.

Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.

En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).

Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.

La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.

Bebidas Light?

Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el

Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.



Publicado por loretahur



En realidad, la formula secreta de la Coca-Cola se puede detallar en 18 segundos en cualquier espectrometro optico, y basicamente la conocen hasta los perros. Lo que ocurre es que no se puede fabricar igual, a no ser que uno disponga de unos cuantos millones de dolares para ganarle la demanda que te metera la Coca-Cola ante la justicia (ellos no perderian).La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gustoAcido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantasMucha CafeinaConservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o PotasioDioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebeSal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracionEl uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el aspartamo , despues de tres semanas mojado, pasa a tener gusto de trapo viejo sucio.Para evitar eso, se agregan una infinidad de otros productos quimicos, uno para alargar la vida del aspartamo, otro para neutralizar el color, otro para mantener el tercer quimico en suspension porque sino el fondo de la gaseosa quedaria oscuro, otro para evitar la cristalizacion del aspartamo, otro para realzar el sabor, dar mas intensidad al acido citrico o fosforito que perderia su sabor por el efecto de los cuatro productos quimicos iniciales... y asi sucesivamente.Un consejo final !!Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.Publicado por loretahur

MARGARINA o MANTEQUILLA La margarina fue producida originalmente para engordar a los pavos; cuandolo que hizo en realidad fue matarlos.Las personas que habian puesto el dinero para la investigacion quisieronrecobrarlo asi que empezaron a pensar en una forma de hacerlo.Tenian una sustancia blanca, que no tenia ningun atractivo como comestible,asi que le anadieron el color amarillo, para venderselo a lagente en lugar de la mantequilla.Que tal esa?... Ahora han sacado algunos nuevos sabores para vender mas alos incautos como usted y yo.CONOCE USTED la diferencia entre la margarina y la mantequilla?Siga leyendo hasta el final... porque se pone bastante interesante!Comparacion entre mantequilla y margarina:

1.- Ambas tienen la misma cantidad de calorias.

2.- La mantequilla es ligeramente mas alta en grasas saturadas: 8 gramos,comparada con los 5 gramos que tiene la margarina.

3.- Comer margarina en vez de mantequilla puede aumentar en 53% el riesgo deenfermedades coronarias en las mujeres, de acuerdo con un estudiomedico reciente de la Universidad de Harvard.

4.- Comer mantequilla aumenta la absorcion de gran cantidad de nutrientesque se encuentran en otros alimentos.

5.- La mantequilla provee beneficios nutricionales propios mientras lamargarina tiene solo los que le hayan sido anadidos al fabricarla.

6.- La mantequilla sabe mucho mejor que la margarina y mejora el sabor deotros alimentos.7.- La mantequilla ha existido durante siglos mientras que la margarinatiene menos de 100 anos.

Ahora... sobre la margarina:

1.- Es muy alta en acidos grasos trans. (Si, esos que recien ahora loscientificos descubrieron que son malisimos y los gobiernoscomenzaron a prohibirlos) .

2.- Triple riesgo de enfermedades coronarias.

3.- Aumenta el colesterol total y el LDL (el colesterol malo) y disminuye elHDL (el colesterol bueno).

4.- Aumenta en cinco veces el riesgo de cancer.

5.- Disminuye la calidad de la leche materna.

6.- Disminuye la reaccion inmunologica del organismo.

7.- Disminuye la reaccion a la insulina.

Y he aqui el factor mas inquietante (AQUI ESTA LA PARTE MAS INTERESANTE! ):A la margarina le falta UNA MOLECULA para ser PLASTICO...!!Solo este hecho es suficiente para evitar el uso de la margarina de porvida, y de cualquier otra cosa que sea hidrogenada (esto significaque se le anade hidrogeno, lo cual cambia la estructura molecular de lassubstancias).Usted puede ensayar lo siguiente:Compre un poco de margarina y dejela en el garaje o en un sitio sombreado.Dentro de unos dias notara dos cosas:

* No habra moscas; ni siquiera esos molestos bichos se le acercaran (esto yale debe decir a usted algo).

* No se pudre ni huele mal o diferente porque no tiene valor nutritivo; nadacrece en ella. Ni siquiera los diminutos microorganismos puedencrecer en ella.Por que? Porque es casi plastico!!



No a la guerra, Si a la Paz



Misterios de la ciencia...



Los costos de la guerra



medicos y capitalismo...



Capitalismo...



medicos (2)



Quien educa a nuestros hijos?



Los Medios...



Sin Palabras...



Chistes feministas

- Cual es el problema, Eva?

- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz...

- Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.

- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...

- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.

- Que es un hombre?

- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.

- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.

- Cual es el truco?.

- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.

- Cual?

- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.





Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Un dia, en el Paraiso, Eva llamo a Dios: Tengo un problema.- Cual es el problema, Eva?- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz... - Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.- Que es un hombre?- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.- Cual es el truco?.- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.- Cual?- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Ellas...



Ellas (2)...



Tres venganzas femeninas VENGANZA NUMERO 1

Hoy mi hija cumple 21 anos y estoy muy contento porque es el ultimo pago de pension alimenticia que le doy, asi que llame a mi hijita para que viniera a mi casa y cuando llego le dije:

-Hijita, quiero que lleves este cheque a casa de tu mama y que le digas que: Este es el ultimo maldito cheque que va recibir de mi en todo lo que le queda de su puta vida!!! Quiero que me digas la expresion que pone en su rostro.

Asi que mi hija fue a entregar el cheque. Yo estaba ansioso por saber lo que la bruja tenia que decir y que cara pondria.

Cuando mi hijita entro, le pregunte inmediatamente: -Que fue lo que te dijo tu madre?

-Me dijo que justamente estaba esperando este dia para decirte que no eres mi papa!



VENGANZA NUMERO 2

Un hombre que siempre molestaba a su mujer, paso un dia por la casa de unos amigos para que lo acompanaran al aeropuerto a dejar a su esposa que viajaba a Paris.

A la salida de inmigracion, frente a todo el mundo, el le desea buen viaje y en tono burlon le grita:

- Amor, no te olvides de traerme una hermosa francesita Ja ja ja!!

Ella bajo la cabeza y se embarco muy molesta.

La mujer paso quince dias en Francia.

El marido otra vez pidio a sus amigos que lo acompanasen al aeropuerto a recibirla.

Al verla llegar, lo primero que le grita a toda voz es:

- Y amor me trajiste mi francesita??

- Hice todo lo posible, - contesta ella - ahora solo tenemos que rezar para que nazca nina.



VENGANZA NUMERO 3

El marido, en su lecho de muerte, llama a su mujer. Con voz ronca y ya debil, le dice: - Muy bien, llego mi hora, pero antes quiero hacerte una confesion.

- No, no, tranquilo, tu no debes hacer ningun esfuerzo.

- Pero, mujer, es preciso - insiste el marido - Es preciso morir en paz.

Te quiero confesar algo.

- Esta bien, esta bien. Habla!

- He tenido relaciones con tu hermana, tu mama y tu mejor amiga.

- Lo se, lo se Por eso te envenene, hijo de puta!!!



machismo y cibernetica



Chiste machista La NASA ha enviado al espacio una mision experimental tripulada por dos monos y una mujer.Apenas abandona la atmosfera, se establece comunicacion con Houston.

-Atencion, simio 1, verifique sistemas hidraulicos, controle adecuada presion de los propulsores de arranque. A 60.000 pies disminuya un 25% la velocidad.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, simio 2, nivele al cruzar la estratosfera y active sistemas anticongelantes. No olvide monitorear sistemas de comunicacion e indicadores de presion. Comprendido?.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, Houston llamando a mujer: no se olvide.

-Mujer: Si, si, ya se! -interrumpe enojada- que no me olvide darles de comer a estos monos de mierda y que no se me vaya a ocurrir tocar nada!.



.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti.

Un abogado mantiene un romance con su secretaria.Al poco tiempo, esta queda embarazada y el abogado, que no quiere que su esposa se entere, le da a la secretaria una buena suma de dinero y le pide que se vaya a parir a Italia.Esta pregunta: Y como voy a hacerte saber cuando nazca el bebe ? El abogado responde: Para que mi mujer no se entere, tan solo enviame una postal y escribe por detras: Spaghetti. Y no te preocupes mas, que yo me encargare de todos los gastos.

Pasan los meses y una manana la esposa del abogado lo llama al bufete, algo exaltada: Querido, acabo de recibir el correo y hay una postal muy extrana viene desde Italia. La verdad, no entiendo que significa.El abogado, tratando de ocultar sus nervios, contesta:Espera a que llegue a casa, a ver si yo entiendoCuando el hombre llega a casa y lee la postal, cae al suelo fulminado por un infarto.Llega una ambulancia y se lo lleva. Ya en el hospital, el jefe de cardiologia se queda consolando a la esposa y le pregunta cual ha sido el evento que precipito tan masivo ataque cardiaco.

Entonces la esposa saca la postal y se la muestra diciendole: No me explico, doctor; el solamente leyo esta postal. Vea usted mismo lo que trae escrito.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti."Tres con salchicha y albondigas y dos con almejas



Gol !!!!



Chistes de Borrachos Entra un borracho a su casa todo manchado con lapiz labial por todos lados hecho un desastre, y la mujer le pregunta:-Hombre que te paso?Y el borracho le responde:-No me vas a creer, me pelee con un payaso!



Este es un borracho que entra en un bar y le dice al camarero:-Me da cinco copas de whisky?Al rato:-Me da cuatro?Al rato:-Me da tres copas?Despues:-Me da dos copas?Luego le dice:-Me da una copa?Y le dice al camarero:-Ves? Cuanto menos bebo, mas borracho estoy!


Former Donald Trump campaign aide Rick Gates asked a judge to get out of house arrest so he can attend events to celebrate the new year.

Gates, former lobbying partner and deputy of Trumps ex-campaign chairman Paul Manafort  whos also under house arrest  asked U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson on Thursday to get out of house arrest for the New Years holiday. He asked for the reprieve even while his attorneys are explaining in another court action why Gates appearance in a fundraising video didnt violate a gag order.

Gates pleaded not guilty in October to multiple charges  including money laundering and failing to register as an agent of a foreign government  brought as part of the investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller into Russian interference into the U.S. presidential election.

No details about Gates planned New Years activities were provided in the court documents. His attorneys simply requested court permission allowing Gates to accompany his family to events for the New Years holiday from Sunday, December 31, 2017 through Monday, January 1, 2018. They said he would stay in Virginia, within 60 miles of his home, and will continue to be monitored by a GPS device, according to the documents.

JUST IN: Rick Gates wants to be able to leave his house ... and go to a New Year's Eve party?

https://t.co/OSLXnmHyg3 pic.twitter.com/GHORKYOF7A  Chris Geidner (@chrisgeidner) December 28, 2017

Earlier, Gates had asked the court to let him travel with his family outside of Virginia, which the court denied.

Jackson also denied a request from Gates in November to leave his home to drive his children to school.

Gates attorneys appeared in court Wednesday explaining why a video that Gates appeared in earlier this month is not a violation of a gag order. Gates  and Manafort  had been ordered to refrain from making statements to the media or in public settings that pose a substantial likelihood of material prejudice to this case.

Story continues

In the video, Gates thanked those attending a fundraiser to help him with his legal fees. The fundraiser was hosted by conservative media personality Jack Burkman, who insisted that Gates was a victim of a very unfair prosecution. Burkman, who also works as a GOP lobbyist, has called for Mueller to be fired.

Attorneys argued that Burkman was not speaking on Gates behalf, Politico reported, even though he was raising funds for him.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this article incorrectly said that U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson had granted Rick Gates request on Thursday. Gates filed his request on Thursday, and Jackson did not make a decision on that day. Jackson denied the request on Friday.

Related Coverage

What You Need To Know About Paul Manafort And Rick Gates

Paul Manafort And Rick Gates Plead Not Guilty In Federal Court

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Vincent Asaro gets eight years for tracking down and burning motorists car

Asaro was cleared of 1978 Lufthansa robbery immortalised in 1990 film

In passing sentence on Vincent Asaro for the 2012 incident, the judge said: If he had not aged out of a life of crime at the age of 77, I have little hope that he will do so. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

New York may have recorded a dramatic fall in crime this year, including the lowest annual murder total since the 1950s, but a sentencing hearing in Brooklyn on Thursday revealed the persistence of some of the citys most famous criminal traditions.

Prosecutors allege that Vincent Asaro, 82, was inducted into the Bonanno crime syndicate more than 40 years ago and has held the position of captain and been a member of the familys ruling panel.

He was charged  and acquitted two years ago  over the infamous 1978 Lufthansa heist, which was immortalised in the Martin Scorsese gangster classic Goodfellas. He was also acquitted of the murder by strangulation of a suspected informant in 1969.

On Thursday, however, Asaro was sentenced to eight years in prison for his part in a road rage incident in the mob stronghold of Howard Beach, Queens.

Bridget Rohde, acting US attorney for the eastern district of New York, said the heavy sentence held Asaro accountable not only for using his power as a member of organized crime to address a perceived slight by another motorist, but for a lifetime of violent criminal activity.



Asaro pleaded guilty to the offence, which involved using a connection in the Gambino family with access to law enforcement databases to track down a motorist who cut him up at a traffic stop in 2012.

According to the court, Asaro then contacted two other associates, one of them John J Gotti, a relative of the late Dapper Don John Gotti, and ordered them to douse the motorists car with gasoline and set it alight.

That incident was observed, however, by a New York police officer sitting in an unmarked car.

The anger that propelled Asaro to action is reminiscent of so many scripted Hollywood dramas, said Rohde, but unlike the fame and fortune of the big screen, Asaros story ends on a different note.

Story continues

After passing sentence, Judge Allyne Ross ordered Asaro to pay $21,276 in restitution for the damages to the car.



If he had not aged out of a life of crime at the age of 77, I have little hope that he will do so, Ross said in announcing the decision.

In an unexpected moment of contrition, Asaro apologized and described the plot as a stupid thing I did.


Moscow (AFP) - Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday accused the United States of violating a key arms treaty by selling a missile defence system to Japan.

"The US is deploying them (missile defence systems) at their military bases in Romania and Poland, that is near our western borders, which goes against the 1987 INF Treaty banning the deployment of such systems on the ground," Ryabkov said in a statement published on the Russian Foreign Ministry website.

"The fact that such complexes could now appear on Russia's eastern borders creates a situation that we cannot ignore in our military planning," said Ryabkov.

On Thursday, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the deployment of the US missile defence system would have a negative impact on relations between Tokyo and Moscow.

"We consider the step made by the Japanese side as going against efforts of ensuring peace and stability in the region," Zakharova said, adding that Moscow has "deep regret and serious concern" over the move.

On December 19, the Japanese government approved the installation of two land-based US-made Aegis Ashore missile defence systems to defend the country against North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats.

Japan plans to increase its budget defence for the next fiscal year to strengthen its missile defence against the threat posed by its neighbour.

Earlier this month Japan's defence minister, Itsunori Onodera, said the country plans to purchase long-range cruise missiles with a range of some 900 kilometres (560 miles) from US firms.

The move is controversial as Japan's pacifist constitution bans the use of force as a means of settling international disputes.

After North Korea launched a missile over Japan's Hokkaido island in September, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he would "never tolerate" North Korea's "dangerous provocative action" and has urged the international community to ramp up pressure on Pyongyang.

Story continues

North Korea has threatened to "sink" Japan into the sea.

Global anxiety about North Korea has steadily risen this year, with Washington calling on other UN members to cut ties with Pyongyang in order to squeeze the secretive regime.

The call, however, has fallen short of persuading key North Korea backers China and Russia to take steps to isolate the regime.
Belgrade (AFP) - The mayor of a Belgrade suburb said Saturday that a large-scale investigation will be launched following the discovery of 25 tonnes of toxic waste found dumped in a private field.

"This is just the beginning of a major operation that will take place on our territory and in Serbia," Obrenovac mayor Miroslav Cuckovic told state television (RTS).

"We will check all the sites where toxic waste could be concealed."

The environment ministry announced Friday the dumped waste had been found, and analysis is under way to determine if the surrounding soil has been polluted.

Environment minister Goran Trivan said "an ecological disaster has been avoided," although he did not give details of the materials.

However, the N1 television channel reported that the substances contained benzene, which is widely used in a range of products like plastics, dyes, solvents, petrol and detergents.

N1 reported the investigation will aim to determine where the waste came from.

The owner of the field has been arrested and faces a five-year prison sentence if he is prosecuted.

Serbia, which is negotiating its entry into the European Union, faces serious pollution problems, particularly due to years of neglect and a precarious economic situation.
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen warned Friday against what she called China's "military expansion" as it ups drills around the island, but said she did not believe the two rivals would go to war.

Beijing has stepped up pressure on Taiwan and relations have become increasingly frosty since Tsai took office in May last year, as she refuses to acknowledge Taiwan is part of "one China".

China views self-ruling Taiwan as part of its territory, to be reunified at some point.

Tsai warned that China's frequent air and naval drills showed that "its intentions for military expansion in the region are getting more and more obvious".

According to Taiwan's defence ministry, Chinese warplanes conducted 25 drills around Taiwan between August 2016 and mid-December this year.

The latest known drill took place on December 20 when several Chinese planes, including fighters and bombers, passed through the Bashi Channel south of Taiwan to the Pacific and back.

Earlier this year, China sent its only aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, through the Taiwan Strait during a drill as a show of strength, but it did not enter Taiwanese waters.

Some military experts have warned the increased drills may suggest China is gearing up to take over Taiwan by force.

But Tsai said she believed Chinese leaders were "rational decision makers".

"I think the option of taking military action against Taiwan is not part of their decision-making thinking at this time," Tsai told an end-of-year press conference.

"Cross-strait issues definitely cannot be resolved by military force. (They) should rely on peaceful means to deal with different opinions and positions," she added.

Chinese jets flew over the Sea of Japan (East Sea) earlier this month, prompting South Korea and Japan to scramble jets.

China's air force said then it was the first time its aircraft had flown through the Tsushima Strait between South Korea and Japan.

Story continues

There has also been international concern over large-scale land reclamation by China around disputed reefs in the South China Sea.

Beijing claims nearly all of the sea and has been turning reefs in the Spratly and Paracel chains into islands, installing military facilities and equipment in the area where it has conflicting claims with neighbours.

Tsai pledged Friday to strengthen Taiwan's homegrown defence.

"Taiwan cannot rely on others to defend its sovereignty," she said.

"Taiwan is not big, but our determination to defend our country and home is resolute."

Tsai added Taiwan was still committed to maintaining the "status quo" with China.

Beijing cut off all official communication with her government shortly after she took office.
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - The health of 10 women prisoners in Turkey has deteriorated since they went on hunger strike to protest against a new security measure, a lawyers' association in the southeastern province of Diyarbakir said on Saturday. Six women in a jail in the eastern province of Elazig went on hunger strike on Nov. 10, to protest against a rule obliging them to wear an ID while outside their living quarters, the Bar association said. Four more women joined them on Dec. 10. The Diyarbakir Bar said the prisoners were losing weight and starting to have serious health problems. Prison officials were not available over the weekend to comment on the women's condition. The Bar association said women who did not comply with the rule that was recently implemented were "not allowed access to meetings outside the ward, hobby activities, communication, ventilation and meetings with their lawyers." A request by one of the hunger strikers to have the rule rescinded was rejected on the grounds that it "prevented escape and averted disorder". The Bar did not specify why the women had been imprisoned and it was not available to comment on Saturday. Diyarbakir, which borders Elazig to the south, is the biggest city in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast. Violence erupted between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in 2015, after the collapse of a ceasefire. The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the state since the 1980s, is considered a terrorist organization by the United States, Turkey and the European Union. (Writing by Ali Kucukgocmen; Editing by Stephen Powell)
The push and pull of economic development, energy production, tourism and resource protection around the Grand Canyon was the theme connecting much of the top environmental news of 2017.

In a decision that would have both environmental and economic ripple effects, the owners of the coal-fired Navajo Generating Station near Page announced in February they would end their stake in the facility at the end of 2019.

Economics drove the decision, the owners said, as natural gas and renewable energy have become cheaper than coal-fired power. Although the plant owners are planning for plant decommissioning at the end of 2019, the Navajo Nation and Peabody Energy, which owns the coal mine that supplies the plant, are still working to find a new owner that would keep the facility going.

Revenues from the power plant and the coal mine make up 30 percent of the Navajo Nations budget and 85 percent of the Hopi Tribes budget, according to the AP. An NAU analysis found the plant pumps $51 million into Pages economy and accounts for $6.3 million in property taxes and contributions to special districts in Coconino County as well as the county general fund.

While facing a loss of power plant-related jobs and revenues, the Navajo Nation Tribal Council voted against another major tourism development that promoters said would help replace fossil fuel-related revenues. The Grand Canyon Escalade plan included hotels, stores and a gondola that would shuttle visitors from Navajo land on the Grand Canyon's rim to the confluence of the Colorado and Little Colorado rivers. The tribe would have received a portion of annual revenues but would have had to put up $65 million to put in infrastructure at the site. The tribal council voted against the project 16-2.

Expanded development near the Grand Canyon got shut down again on Election Day when voters in Tusayan, just outside the park's South Rim entrance, defeated a ballot measure to increase building heights. The referendum would have increased the maximum building height in town to 65 feet, up from a current limit of between 35 feet and 40 feet.

In other Grand Canyon news:

Environmental groups cheered a U.S. appeals court decision in December that upheld a 20-year ban on new uranium mining around the Grand Canyon, though on the same day the court released a decision allowing operations to continue at a grandfathered uranium mine on the South Rim. Revising the Grand Canyon mining withdrawal also was among a list of recommendations released by the Forest Service in November in response to an executive order by President Trump related to the development of domestic energy resources.

Environmental groups were hoping President Obama would declare a monument on 1.7 million acres north and south of the Grand Canyon, which would prohibit new mining claims in the area, but the president decided against such a declaration before he left office.

Facing the prospect of uranium ore being hauled through Flagstaff to a processing mill in Utah, the Flagstaff City Council approved a resolution officially opposing the transport of uranium ore and other radioactive materials through the city and neighboring communities.

Concerns about the treatment of pack horses owned by members of the Havasupai Tribe were revived after the arrest of a second tribal member in two years on animal cruelty charges related to one of his horses.

The National Park Service released a plan to use nonlethal capture and removal as well as lethal shooting by trained volunteers to reduce the ballooning bison population that is damaging park resources on the North Rim.

FOREST FIRES, THINNING

Kendrick Mountain was ablaze during the month of June as the Boundary Fire burned through more than 17,700 acres and more than $9 million in federal cash. The Forest Service allowed the fire to burn in some places to ensure firefighter safety and clear out forest fuels. Smoke from the fire closed Highway 180 for several days and also led to poor air quality in places as far away as Cameron, Tuba City and Doney Park.

Mechanical thinning operations related to the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project began in forests around the Dry Lake Hills, requiring the closure of several trails.

The Four Forest Restoration Initiative continued to fall far short of its 50,000 acres-per-year tree thinning goal in 2017. In an effort to kickstart the logging work, the Forest Service promised a new large-scale contract. New managers also took over the struggling company that holds the first large-scale 4FRI contract with hopes of getting its work on track.
We buy RUF wood briquettes from spruce and pine in packing of 10 kg, 96 packets on Europalette, plastic filmed (Thermo), DINplus, FSC 100%

Specifications:

Quantity: 2000-3000 m3 Spot - 1 time

Price: absolutely DAP

For the ZIP-area 34/ 36/ 66/ 68/ 72/ 77 (free delivered)

Delivered period: July/August 2018 to February/March 2019

Price: On demand EUR per m3

Incoterm: DAP
"Dreamers" hug as they meet with relatives during the "Keep Our Dream Alive" binational meeting at a new section of the border wall on the U.S.-Mexico border on Dec. 10, 2017. (Photo: Jose Luis Gonzalez / Reuters)

President Donald Trump has again threatened the future status of a program that allowed children who were brought to or remained in the U.S. illegally to stay here, demanding he get a bigger border wall separating the U.S. and Mexico.

In a tweet Friday morning, Trump said Democrats understand there can be no DACA  or the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program  without a wall on the countrys southern border.

The Democrats have been told, and fully understand, that there can be no DACA without the desperately needed WALL at the Southern Border and an END to the horrible Chain Migration & ridiculous Lottery System of Immigration etc. We must protect our Country at all cost!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 29, 2017

DACA allowed people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children or overstayed visas to apply for two-year work permits and reprieves from deportation. Earlier this year, Trump reversed the policy, which was created during President Barack Obamas administration. The decision affected hundreds of thousands of undocumented young people, often referred to as Dreamers.

Trump has previously tied the future of DACA to getting his border wall. In September, Trump said that if theres not a wall, were doing nothing for Dreamers.

In October, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) accused Trump of going back on his word on a plan that would protect Dreamers.

The list includes the wall, which was explicitly ruled out of the negotiations, a statement released by Pelosi and Schumer said. If the president was serious about protecting the Dreamers, his staff has not made a good faith effort to do so.

Democratic leaders said they will not sign on to a bill next month to keep the government funded if Dreamers are not protected.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story mistakenly stated that DACA allowed Dreamers to apply for citizenship.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
By Philip Wen and David Brunnstrom

BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China on Friday denied reports it had been illicitly selling oil products to North Korea in violation of U.N. sanctions, after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was unhappy that China had allowed oil to reach the isolated nation.

China on Thursday blocked a U.S. effort at the United Nations to blacklist six foreign-flagged ships -- five of which were mainland-China- or Hong Kong-owned -- that Washington believes had engaged in illicit trade with North Korea, a U.N. Security Council diplomat said.

Trump said on Twitter on Thursday that China had been "caught RED HANDED" allowing oil into North Korea and that would prevent "a friendly solution" to the crisis over Pyongyang's development of nuclear-tipped missiles capable of hitting the United States.

In a subsequent New York Times interview, Trump explicitly tied his administration's trade policy with China, North Korea's neighbour and lone major ally, to cooperation in resolving the North Korea standoff.

"I have been soft on China because the only thing more important to me than trade is war," he said. "If they're helping me with North Korea, I can look at trade a little bit differently, at least for a period of time. And that's what I've been doing. But when oil is going in, I'm not happy about that."

South Korea's Chosun Ilbo newspaper this week quoted South Korean government sources as saying that U.S. spy satellites had detected Chinese ships transferring oil to North Korean vessels about 30 times since October.

U.S. officials have not confirmed details of this report but a U.S. State Department official said Washington had evidence that vessels from several countries, including China, had engaged in transhipping oil products and coal.

Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, two senior Western European security sources told Reuters, providing another economic lifeline to Pyongyang.

Story continues

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters she had noted recent media reports, including suggestions a Chinese vessel was suspected of transporting oil to a North Korean vessel on Oct. 19.

"In reality, the ship in question has, since August, not docked at a Chinese port and there is no record of it entering or leaving a Chinese port," Hua said, adding that the reports "did not accord with facts."

"China has always implemented U.N. Security Council resolutions pertaining to North Korea in their entirety and fulfils its international obligations. We never allow Chinese companies and citizens to violate the resolutions," Hua said.

"If, through investigation, it's confirmed there are violations of the U.N. Security Council resolutions, China will deal with them seriously in accordance with laws and regulations."

South Korea said on Friday that in late November it seized a Hong Kong-flagged ship, the Lighthouse Winmore, suspected of transferring oil to North Korea. The ship's registered manager, Lighthouse Ship Management, is in the Chinese port of Guangzhou.

A South Korean Foreign Ministry official said the ship transferred as much as 600 tons to the North Korea-flagged Sam Jong 2 on Oct. 19 in international waters between China and the Korean peninsula, on the order of its Taiwan-based charterer, Billions Bunker Group Corp.

Taiwan's presidential office said the firm was not incorporated in Taiwan and China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said she did not have any information about the matter.

U.S. SHIP-BAN PROPOSAL

Both ships were among 10 vessels the United States proposed that the U.N. Security Council should blacklist for illicit trade with North Korea, documents seen by Reuters this month showed.

Of those ships, three were listed earlier this month as Hong Kong-owned and two as mainland-China-owned, sailing under flags of convenience.

"China blocked six of the proposed vessels," a U.N. Security Council diplomat said. "Four of the vessels were designated yesterday."

Three of the ships designated were North Korean, while the other was the Panama-registered Billions No. 18. Earlier this month, the latter ship was listed as Taiwan-owned.

The other ships were the Xin Sheng Hai; the Yu Yuan; the Glory Hope 1 (also known as Orient Shenyu), and the Kai Xiang.

The Trump administration has led a drive to step up global sanctions on North Korea and the U.N. Security Council last week unanimously imposed new sanctions in response to Pyongyang's Nov. 29 test of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

Those sanctions seek to further limit North Korea's access to refined petroleum products and crude oil and Washington says the full cooperation of China, North Korea' main trading partner, is vital if this peaceful pressure campaign is to succeed.

It has warned that all options are on the table, including military ones, if sanctions fail.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis was asked by reporters on Friday whether the U.S. Navy might become involved in seizing vessels suspected of transferring oil to North Korea.

He said he would not speculate on future operations but added: "Obviously if a government finds that there is a ship in their port conducting trade that was forbidden under the U.N. Security Council resolution, then they have an obligation and so far we have seen nations take that obligation seriously."

In September, the Security Council put a cap of 2 million barrels a year on refined petroleum products exports to North Korea.

The latest U.N. resolution seeks to ban nearly 90 percent of refined petroleum exports to North Korea by capping them at 500,000 barrels a year.

It also caps crude oil supplies to North Korea at 4 million barrels a year and commits the Security Council to further cuts if North Korea conducts another nuclear or intercontinental ballistic missile test.

Ship tracking data in Thomson Reuters Eikon shows that the Lighthouse Winmore has mainly been doing supply runs between China and Taiwan since August.

Prior to that, it was active between India and the United Arab Emirates. In October, when it allegedly transferred petroleum products to the North Korean ship, the Lighthouse Winmore had its tracking transponder switched off.

South Korea's customs service concluded that the Lighthouse Winmore had loaded about 14,000 tons of Japanese refined petroleum products in South Korea on Oct. 11, reportedly bound for Taiwan, the South Korea official said.

"It's unclear how much oil the ship had transferred to North Korea for how long and on how many occasions, but it clearly showed North Korea is engaged in evading the sanctions," the official told Reuters.

It was not immediately possible to find contact information for the Taiwanese charter company.

The Hong Kong government said it was "liaising with the Korean parties concerned to obtain further information about the incident, and will take appropriate actions as necessary".

Employees at the office of Lighthouse Ship Management declined to comment and said they had no knowledge of the situation.

(Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin and Josh Smith in Seoul, Venus Wu and Tyrone Siu in Hong Kong, Brenda Goh in Shanghai, Idrees Ali in Washington and Rodrigo Campos at the United Nations; Writing by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Bill Trott, James Dalgleish and Sandra Maler)
President Donald Trump reportedly fired the sixteen remaining members of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) Wednesday via a letter FedExed from the White House.

According to Newsweek, the mass dismissal arrives months after six members from PACHA resigned in June and penned an open letter to Trump, saying that his administration was promoting legislation that would harm those living with HIV.

RELATED: AIDS Epidemic, 1980s



Gabriel Maldonado, a former PACHA adviser, reportedly confirmed the firings to the Washington Blade, but added that the explanation remains "unclear."

Like any administration, they want their own people there, Maldonado told the outlet. Many of us were Obama appointees. I was an Obama appointee and my term was continuing until 2018.

SEE ALSO: Trump reportedly said all Haitians have AIDS, Nigerians have huts

Scott Schoettes, a council member who quit PACHA in June, called the move a "purge" on Twitter Thursday said the White House was "eliminating few remaining people willing to push back against harmful policies, like abstinence-only sex ed. The President had also reportedly just renewed PACHAs brief for another year in September.

Remaining #HIV/AIDS council members booted by @realDonaldTrump. No respect for their service. Dangerous that #Trump and Co. (Pence esp.) are eliminating few remaining people willing to push back against harmful policies, like abstinence-only sex ed. #WeObject#PACHA6#Resist  Scott A. Schoettes (@PozAdvocate) December 28, 2017

However, as Newsweek noted, the move by an administrator to "purge" PACHA is not unprecedented as the Obama administration also eliminated all of former President George W. Bushs appointees in the same way once he assumed power.
Istanbul (AFP) - Turkish authorities on Friday rounded up 75 people in Istanbul and Ankara suspected of links to the Islamic State extremist group, state media said, ahead of high security celebrations to mark the New Year.

Turkey will see in the New Year under the shadow of the one-year anniversary of the gun attack on Istanbul's elite Reina nightclub that claimed 39 lives, mainly foreigners.

In Istanbul, police detained 46 people -- 43 of them foreigners -- in 10 different areas of the city, the state run Anadolu news agency said.

Without giving any details, it said they are suspected of planning attacks over the New Year period.

In Ankara, 500 police launched an operation to arrest 46 suspects, 29 of whom were ultimately detained.

Without giving numbers, it said most were foreigners. It said that some were suspected of carrying out reconnaissance for and planning New Year attacks.

One suspect sought to escape by jumping from the balcony but was detained, it said.

Turkish police have stepped up operations against suspected IS jihadists ahead of the New Year.

Anadolu said that even before the latest arrests, a total of 120 IS suspects had been detained in operations nationwide.

Istanbul's governor Vasip Shain said Thursday 37,000 police and 4,000 members of the gendarmerie and coastguard would be deployed on the night of December 31-January 1 in the city to ensure security.

The authorities have banned any New Year celebrations in Taksim Square in the heart of the European side of the city while a similar measure has been imposed for the lively district of Besiktas.

The district of Sisli -- home to Istanbul's most upmarket shopping and residential areas -- has also scrapped New Year celebrations on security grounds.

The Reina massacre was carried out by a single gunman, Uzbek citizen Abdulkadir Masharipov, who confessed to acting on behalf of IS.

Masharipov escaped the scene but was then captured after a 17-day manhunt and went on trial on December 11.

Since the attack, Turkish security forces have stepped up arrests of suspected jihadists, possibly using intelligence that came from capturing Masharipov alive.

Of the 39 people killed in the Reina attack -- which took place just 75 minutes into 2017 -- 27 were foreigners, including citizens from Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Iraq and Morocco.
Athens (AFP) - The Turkish foreign ministry on Saturday slammed a decision in Greece to grant asylum to a Turkish helicopter co-pilot, who fled the country after last year's failed coup, as "politically motivated" and warned of a negative impact on bilateral relations.

The co-pilot -- who flew seven other Turkish military officers to Greece -- was granted asylum after Greek authorities ruled that his human rights would be at risk, despite repeated requests for his extradition by Ankara.

The decision "once again reveals that Greece is a country that protects and embraces plotters," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding that the ruling was "politically motivated".

"Greece has not shown the support and cooperation we expect from an ally in the fight against terrorism," the statement added, warning of an impact on bilateral relations between the two countries.

The ruling is an embarrassment to Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who asked for the officers to be extradited during a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras in December, as part of the first official visit to Athens by a Turkish president in 65 years.

Late Saturday evening, Tsipras tried to contain any fallout from the asylum ruling by calling for the decision to be annulled.

"The Greek government filed on Saturday a request for annulment of the asylum decision taken the day before by the asylum authority," the office of the Greek Prime Minister said.

The co-pilot, who landed in the Greek city of Alexandroupoli hours after the putsch was defeated on July 15 2016, had denied being part of the coup attempt.

Despite Turkey's assertions, the asylum judges said there was no evidence to suggest the co-pilot had participated in a plot to unseat Erdogan.

According a judicial source, the ruling took into account reports from human rights groups and the Council of Europe that warned Turkey has regularly committed human rights abuses against coup suspects.

Story continues

A ruling on the seven other military officers is expected to be made in the coming weeks.

The decision follows a Greek Supreme Court ruling in January that blocked the extradition of the officers, saying that they would not have a fair trial in Turkey.

More than 140,000 people including judges, lawyers, journalists and academics have been sacked or suspended in Turkey since the failed coup, while some 55,000 people have been arrested over suspected links to US-based Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen.

Turkey claims Gulen ordered the attempted coup, something he denies.
GLENS FALLS  As New Years Eve revelers head out for partying at a local bar or with friends, catching an Uber ride home might be a good option despite increased rates for the two-day holiday.

Unlike taxis, Uber drivers use their own vehicles to drive people to short or long destinations. The drivers are registered with Uber as well as the state. They also undergo criminal background checks, are insured and are paid from ride fares by Uber.

On New Years Eve, people around the world will rely on Uber to get to and from the festivities so they dont need to get behind the wheel. We expect there to be millions of rides globally in just this one night, said Danielle Filson, Uber spokeswoman. On this busy night, we want to make sure anyone, anywhere can push a button and get a ride within minutes, so fares will be higher than usual.

Nonetheless, Filson said that there are no surprises.

We show you the price before you request your ride so you know how much youll pay, she said. And when fares are much higher than usual, well tell you in the app, and youll be asked to confirm the higher fare before request.

This ride-share alternative became available in Washington, Warren and Saratoga counties in late July, following the passage of a New York law to allows Uber and Lyft to operate in this area.

Filson said there are drivers all across Upstate New York, but she did not know how many are in this region. Glens Falls City Clerk Robert Curtis said drivers must register with DMV and the city does not have any records on those registrations.

The Warren County DMV office did not return calls to The Post-Star regarding the number of registered Uber drivers in the county.

Perhaps it will take some time for area residents to think hailing an Uber ride online. After calls to several area bars and taverns, it seems an Uber ride home is not yet a common choice for patrons. And bars like the Lawrence Street Tavern in Glens Falls said they have not gotten any requests for Uber rides so far.

The Queensbury Hotel gives out Uber Information if patrons ask about it and The Hyde Collection gets occasional inquiries.

Still, police say it is a safe alternative to drinking and driving.

The Police Department always encourages people to make alternative arrangements to getting behind the wheel after drinking, said Saratoga Springs Chief of Police Gregory Veitch Friday night. There are plenty of ways to get home on New Years Eve without driving while intoxicated.

To get an Uber ride, users first need to download the free Uber app on an iPhone or Android phone. It takes less than five minutes to download the app and request a ride.

After requesting a ride from point A to point B; the app gives the rate for an UberX ride or an UberXL ride.

UberX is your go-to ride for any occasion. When you request UberX, expect a ride in a mid-sized car like a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. Fits up to 4, said Filson. UberXL is your low-cost option for large groups, so you can head out with friends without breaking the bank. Expect rides in cars like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Odyssey and it fits up to 6.

A test of fares on Friday and again on Saturday afternoon showed that an UberX ride from The Post-Star to the Queensbury Hotel is $7.35 and an UberXL is $10.50; a ride from The Post-Star to Whitehall, was available in 16 minutes and the UberX fare is $32.70, the UberXL fare is $52.31.

For a riders safety, drivers have an Uber decal on the bottom right corner of the windshield. And when matched with an Uber driver, the name and photograph, as well as his or her car make/model/license plate appears in the app. Uber officials said its important to make sure everything matches before getting into the vehicle.

Uber drivers do not take cash and by law, cannot be hailed from the road. All rides must be requested and paid for online.

According to Saratoga Springs Chief Veitch, Other than some logistical issues around the track, I am not aware of any problems we have had with Uber drivers.
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - A substantial portion of the funds promised by the European Union (EU) to help Syrian refugees in Turkey is still not being used actively to meet their needs, Turkey's EU Ministry said on Saturday.

Of the 6 billion euros ($7.20 billion) agreed upon in two deals in 2015 and 2016, only 1.78 billion euros has been transferred to Turkish ministries and international organisations responsible for implementing the projects, the ministry said in a statement.

"While Turkey has used more than $30 billion of its national funds for the needs of Syrians who have been in Turkey for approximately seven years, a substantial amount of the 3 billion euros promised by the EU in Nov. 2015 has effectively not been used in the field."

Of the 1.78 billion euros transferred so far, it said 1.3 billion went to international organisations, 270 million to the Ministry of Education, 120 million to the Ministry of Health, and 12 million to the Ministry of the Interior.

Yet that did not equate to the funds being actively used to meet the needs of Syrian refugees, the ministry said.

"Unfortunately, the spending mechanism of the EU funds are not working fast," it said.

In the past, Turkey has argued it would be easier to give the money directly to the government - something the EU rejects, saying it always channels humanitarian aid through specialised agencies and non-governmental institutions so it goes directly to those in need.

In return for funds for Syrian refugees, visa-free travel and revitalised EU accession efforts, Turkey agreed to cooperate in stopping migrants crossing the Aegean Sea to Greece and take back those who do not qualify for asylum.

However, relations between Turkey and the West deteriorated in the past year. EU officials have said Turkey has a long path ahead of it before becoming a member of the bloc or being granted visa-free travel.

More recently, Turkey has expressed anger that Germany is granting asylum to Turks, more than 400 of them with diplomatic passports and government working permits, accused of participating in a failed coup in July.

Story continues

The failed putsch prompted a purge of the Turkish military, judiciary and civil service which Western countries have criticised as heavy-handed.

($1 = 0.8336 euros)

(Reporting by Tulay Karadeniz; writing by Ali Kucukgocmen; editing by Jason Neely)
PARIS (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will visit Paris on Jan. 5 to meet his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, with the conflict in Syria high on the agenda, a source in the French president's office said on Saturday. Among the regional crises the two leaders plan to discuss, there would be a particular focus on Syria as well as on the Palestinian situation, the source said, weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The move stirred concern among Western allies and outrage in the Arab World. Erdogan earlier this week made some of his harshest comments in weeks regarding Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, calling him a terrorist and saying it was impossible for peace efforts in Syria to continue if he did not leave power. Macron, meanwhile, said recently that France would push for peace talks involving all parties in the six-year-old Syrian conflict, including al-Assad, and promised "initiatives" early next year. The Elysee source said "the question of human rights will also be raised" when Erdogan and Macron meet. A security crackdown in Turkey after a failed coup in 2016 has drawn criticism from campaigners as well as the European Union, which is overseeing Ankara's halting bid to join the bloc. (Reporting by Jean-Baptiste Vey, writing Sarah White; editing by David Evans)
Philippine police have killed two people, including a woman on her way to hospital, after mistaking them for gunmen, authorities said Friday, the latest deaths at the hands of law enforcement under President Rodrigo Duterte.

The incident occurred on Thursday night when police were called to a Manila suburb following an earlier shooting during an argument between residents.

But they mistakenly opened fire on a van that they thought was carrying the shooter but which in fact was taking a woman injured in the incident to hospital, said Manila police chief Oscar Albayalde.

The wounded woman later died and one of her companions in the van was also killed while two others were wounded, he told reporters.

"I find no excuse (for) this unfortunate event that has caused the death of two individuals and the wounding of two others," he said in a statement.

He said village watchmen had been the first to open fire on the van but said police would investigate why they had firearms which are not normally issued to such personnel.

Albayalde said 36 shells from fired rounds had been recovered and that all the guns of the police and watchmen would be checked to see who had fired on the van.

"They said that practically all of them fired their guns. It was only some guys who arrived last who did not fire their guns," Albayalde said, referring to the responding policemen.

Videos of the incident, aired on local television, show policemen with guns drawn, surrounding the van as gunshots ring out.

"We are not hiding anything here. We are not discounting the fact that there is the possibility that there may have been overkill or violation of our POP (police operating procedure)," Albayalde said.

Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque released a statement saying "(the) matter will be investigated fully even if there appears to be excessive force utilised by police authorities".

He also stressed that the policemen involved have been disarmed and their movements restricted while the case is being investigated.

Story continues

Both the Justice Department and the official Commission on Human Rights said they would investigate the shooting as well.

The deadly shooting comes as Duterte wages a brutal war on drug-related crime, openly urging police to kill suspects and vowing to protect them from legal liability in such incidents.

Government figures show that almost 4,000 "drug personalities" have been killed by government forces as part of Duterte's anti-drug campaign since he took office in mid-2016.

Human rights groups charge that thousands more have been killed by shadowy vigilantes.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Interior Department on Thursday proposed eliminating some safety regulations for offshore oil and gas drilling that the Obama administration put in place after BP's massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill, a move it said would reduce "unnecessary burdens" on industry. Interior's Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), which regulates offshore drilling, said its proposal to scale back some of the Obama-era requirements was in line with the Trump's administration's goal of "encouraging increased domestic oil and gas production by removing regulatory hurdles." The 2010 Deepwater Horizon rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico resulted in the deaths of 11 workers and led to the largest oil spill in the history of U.S. marine oil drilling operations. BP paid out around $60 billion in fines and clean-up costs in the wake of the disaster. One of the safety provisions BSEE plans to remove is a requirement for operators to get a third party to certify that safety devices work under extreme conditions. During the BP spill, one of these devices, a blowout preventer, failed to work. The proposal would also revise some oil production safety system design requirements. Environmental groups warned that the proposal puts the United States at risk of another major offshore oil spill. "By tossing aside the lessons from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, Trump is putting our coasts and wildlife at risk of more deadly oil spills. Reversing offshore safety rules isnt just deregulation, its willful ignorance," said Miyoko Sakashita director of the oceans program at the Center for Biological Diversity. Industry groups welcomed the opportunity to give more input into how offshore drilling is regulated. Randall Luthi of the National Ocean Industries Association, an oil and gas industry lobby group, said the proposal presented an "opportunity for further dialogue, discussion and debate." The proposal will be published in the Federal Register on Friday and will be open for 30 days of public comment. (Reporting by Valerie Volcovici; Editing by Tom Brown)
Donald Trump warns Iran world is watching - AFP

Donald Trump condemned the arrest of protesters in Iran, telling Tehran that "the world is watching" as officials reported fresh demonstrations over the countrys struggling economy.

Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 30, 2017

Fifty-two people were arrested in Irans second city Mashhad on Thursday, the first day of the protests, which also took place in other areas and spread to the capital Tehran as well as Kermanshah the following day.

"There are many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with the regimes corruption and its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad," the White House added in a statement.

"The Iranian government should respect their peoples rights, including their right to express themselves. The world is watching," it said.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly taken aim at Iran, denouncing its government as a "fanatical regime" and accusing it of violating an international agreement aimed at curbing Tehrans nuclear program, refusing to certify its compliance with the deal.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert also addressed the protests.

"The United States strongly condemns the arrest of peaceful protesters. We urge all nations to publicly support the Iranian people and their demands for basic rights and an end to corruption," she said in a statement.

People in Iran chant at the clerics: clerics shame on you, let go of our country.

Today is the second day of anti-government protests happening in #Iran. What started as a protest against high prices has now turned into protests against the Islamic regime.#Iranprotests#Islampic.twitter.com/UjM51KH4As  Armin Navabi (@ArminNavabi) December 29, 2017

On Saturday morning tens of thousands of pro-government demonstrators took to the streets for pre-planned rallies marking the end of the 2009 unrest which followed disputed elections.

Story continues

Iranian First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri suggested hardline opponents of the government may be behind the anti-government demonstrations, which reportedly remained small on Friday.

"Some incidents in the country these days are on the pretext of economic problems, but it seems there is something else behind them," Jahangiri said in comments carried by state broadcaster IRIB.

"They think by doing this they harm the government," he said, but "it will be others who ride the wave."

Tehran's deputy provincial governor Mohsen Hamedani said "less than 50 people" had gathered in one of the city's squares and several had been arrested after refusing to move on, according to the reformist newspaper Etamad.

He said they were "under the influence of propaganda" and were "unaware that the majority of these calls to protest come from abroad."

The rally in Kermanshah appeared larger - with hundreds shown protesting in videos shared on social media - and was reportedly focused on those who lost money in the collapse of unauthorized lending institutions in recent years.

Much of the anger on the streets has been aimed at the government of President Hassan Rouhani Credit: AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File

"Protesters asked for clarifications on the fate of their accounts and police dealt with them with tolerance despite them having no permission to protest," the conservative Tasnim news agency reported.

It came a day after 52 people were arrested in Mashhad, an important pilgrimage site, for protesting high prices and the poor state of the economy under President Hassan Rouhani.

Videos published by reformist media group Nazar showed people chanting "Death to Rouhani," while others shouted "not Gaza, not Lebanon, my life for Iran," reflecting anger in some circles that the government is too focused on regional politics rather than tackling domestic problems.

One lawmaker said these protests were also rooted in the collapse of credit institutions and other financial scandals.

Unauthorized lending institutions mushroomed under former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad due to weak regulation of the banking sector.

An uncontrolled construction boom left many banks and credit companies stuck with toxic debts that, combined with soaring inflation and the chaos caused by international sanctions, pushed many to default on their debts.

Since coming to power in 2013, Rouhani has shut down three of the biggest new credit institutions - Mizan, Fereshtegan and Samen al-Hojaj.

He tasked the central bank with reimbursing lost deposits, but many are still waiting for compensation.

Mashhad was among the areas hardest hit by the closure of Mizan, which had around one million accounts, according to the official IRNA news agency.

Kermanshah was particularly affected by problems at another credit institution, Caspian, according to the Tasnim agency.
Hundreds of protesters clashed with armed police after their government-subsidized hams were not delivered in time for Christmas - AFP

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused Portugal of sabotaging Christmas as a shorage of pork led to anti-government protests spilling onto the streets.

According to Mr Maduro and his socialist government, the Portuguese authorities were pressured into preventing the delivery of two giant boats laden with government-subsidized ham, a favoured seasonal meat, due to an international conspiracy led by the United States.

So, what happened to the ham? Mr Maduro asked in a televised Christmas address on Wednesday after hundreds of people took to the streets in poor parts of Caracas on Wednesday night in protest at the shortage.

We were sabotaged. I can name one country: Portugal. Everything was ready because we bought up all the ham there was in Venezuela, but we had to import [more] so I gave the order and signed off on the payments.

Some pockets of protests continued on Thursday morning, in what some social media users dubbed the pork revolution.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro took to state television to denounce a US-led conspiracy Credit: REUTERS

Diosdado Cabello, the former speaker of parliament and a key figure in Venezuelas ruling party, placed ultimate blame for the ham shortage at the feet of the "gringo" US government.

And why didnt the ham arrive? Because of the blockage against us. The Portuguese made an agreement, then they were frightened by the gringos and they didnt send the hams.

But the Portuguese government has denied any involvement in the alleged Christmas sabotage.

I know that ham to Venezuelans is as important as cod is to us at Christmas, but the fact that distribution has been delayed has nothing to do with the Portuguese government, said Portugals foreign minister, Augusto Santos Silva.

A bemused Mr Santos Silva explained that the only restrictions on trade with Venezuela are sanctions against that country approved in the framework of the European Union, naming the freezing of certain assets if found in Europe and the sale of some military material.

As Venezuelans protest in Caracas demanding the government's prommised pork -the main dish of the Christmas and New Year's dinner-, President Nicolas Maduro attributes the shortage to international sabotage Credit: FEDERICO PARRA/ AFP

But on Thursday a statement by food company Raporal appeared to clarify the crux of the dispute, explaining that it and other Portuguese exporters had yet to be paid in full for last years consignment of meat products shipped to Venezuela.

According to Raporal, a contract of 63.5 million was signed in 2016 for the supply of 14,000 tons of meat, but "40 million remains unpaid".

Venezuelas acute economic crisis has led to shortages of many consumer products in recent months, including petrol, despite the country being a major oil producer. Street protests turned violent earlier this year after President Maduro stripped the powers of the opposition-controlled legislative, replacing it with a puppet assembly.
Caracas (AFP) - Venezuelan authorities said Friday they were opening a new investigation into Rafael Ramirez, the former head of state oil company PDVSA, who is already accused of graft.

The matter, announced by chief prosecutor Tarek William Saab in a statement, relates to a PDVSA subsidiary created in Austria in 2006 to bill for oil sales.

The subsidiary used a firm to help set prices, but they were allegedly lowballed to favor some clients.

The activity deprived the state of "at least $4.8 billion" between 2009 and 2015, Saab said.

Ramirez led PDVSA between 2004 and 2014 before becoming Venezuela's ambassador to the UN, a post from which he resigned in early December, saying he did so at President Nicolas Maduro's request.

His present whereabouts are unknown.

But he responded to the accusation on Twitter, calling it "false" and "revealing a tremendous ignorance" because, he asserted, the Austrian subsidiary only verified prices for oil sold and did not sell the oil itself.

One executive of the subsidiary has been arrested, and warrants have been issued against three others.

Saab opened his first criminal probe into Ramirez three weeks ago, accusing him of being part of a scheme to divert $1.5 billion in public funds to Andorra between 2011 and 2012.

Ramirez, 54, has said in interviews that he is a victim of political persecution for his criticism of Maduro's mismanagement of the economy. He denied being involved in corruption.

Venezuela is teetering on the brink of a full-blown default on its massive debt.

Although it sits atop the world's biggest proven reserves of oil, PDVSA's previous role as a government cash cow -- its exports bringing in 96 percent of Venezuela's hard-currency revenues -- has greatly diminished as production has slid and oil infrastructure falls apart.
You are the owner of this article.
Once, years ago, I studied at Rabbi Haim Druckmans Or Etzion Yeshiva. In his lessons, the rabbis would talk about values and ethics, and then about politics too.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



At the age of 15, I was impressed (and sometimes a bit scared) by his special image. For him, everything was mixed: The Land of Israel, the people of Israel the Torah of Israel and Israeli protests. Everything was mixed for us students too.

Last Saturday, after political messengers were sent over to him from an important bureau, the rabbi announced in a public letter that it is forbidden to protest in Jerusalem for stateliness and morality. Why? Because its political. And in general, it could lead to another Oslo Agreement and harm the world of Torah.

Last Saturday's right-wing anti-corruption protest in Jerusalem (Photo: Yoav Dudkevitch)

Twenty-four hours earlier, a rabbi from Safed declared that whoever shows up at Zion Square is stupid, and mentioned Yuval Cherlow as one of the rabbis who plans to attend the protest, claiming that he only represents himself. As we all know, a rabbis job is to call other people names so that they dont go out to protest for morality and to disparage other rabbis.

I feel required to address this issue after Netanyahu urgently invited a number of prominent rabbis from the Religious Zionism movement to his office and asked for their support in light of the expected police recommendations against him.

Speaking in favor of the presumption of innocence is permitted and desirable, but we cant expect rabbis to urge the public to turn a blind eye, regardless of the nature of the recommendations. What is the meaning of we mustnt allow the toppling of a prime minister, God forbid, as one of the rabbis wrote on the eve of the protest? How does this fit in with the term Torat Chaim (the Torah of lifeour truths and values)?

And if, like those who wrongly deemed a protest in favor of morality and stateliness dangerous, the honorable rabbis wrongly turn a debate on incorruption into something that is forbidden by the Torah for the sake of supporting the leader, I would ask them to hold a different debateto demonstrate the absurdity: A real debatehoping it is permitted and isnt seen as a threat to the government and to the Torahabout what it means to be right-wing in Israel.

Because despite my concerns, US President Donald Trump has turned out to be a unique opportunity to implement a serious Israeli policy concerning the Judea and Samaria settlements. He has recognized Jerusalem to be Israel's capital, and Guatemala is following in his footsteps and will move its embassy there (and we thank them for that). But what is happening in practice? What is the right-wing vision as an alternative to a dangerous agreement within the 1967 borders?

Are we allowed to discuss, lets say, the fact that all the promises to build thousands of housing units havent been implemented? Are we allowed to ask how is it possible that Gush Etzion has celebrated 50 years since the liberation, but that in official Israel it is still defined as an administered territory? And what about the fact that we are afraid to build military colleges on Mount Scopus because it used to be a demilitarized area? On Mount Scopus, our own flesh and blood, near the Mount of Olives, a national consensusabove the Old City. Are you familiar with any another capital where the state is afraid to build an officers college?

PM Netanyahu. The presumption of innocence is important, but we cant expect rabbis to urge the public to turn a blind eye, regardless of the nature of the recommendations (Photo: Yoav Dudkevich)

And while were on the subject of the Right, what about slogans against judicial activism? Has anything changed since the Right rose to power? Are the coalition members commentators or a political echelon with an influence on what is happening? And if they are, wheres the influence? Or is this government maneuvering diplomatically, and very successfully in my opinion, but only maneuvering? Neither more nor less, and not for the sake of a vision or for the sake of a supreme goal.

Take the Bennett plan , for examplethe most reasonable idea I am familiar with in the right-wing discourse as a basis for a discussion. Has anyone held a cabinet meeting about it? Forget about Bennett. What about other plans? And if the right-wing government is only maneuvering, what is the great threat the rabbis see in washing the dirty linen in publicdiscussing the odd attitude towards the law enforcement authorities and the limitations of power?

And in general, does a history of releasing some 1,000 terrorists in the Shalit deal, voting in favor of the disengagement from Gaza (three times), freezing construction and the Bar-Ilan speech make someone a more devout rightist than others? Does that authorize him to accuse others of leftism? Does that exempt him from a discussion of his morality?

Not to judge, not to sentencejust to think. And to talk. Gifts received by the prime minister, corruption, stateliness, policy and vision. There are enough brave rabbis. And if they dont talk, will it disappear? And most importantly, what is the job of intellectuals and religious leaders: To educate the public or to secretly discuss the number of Knesset seats here or there?
A gunman on a motorcycle opened fire Friday outside a church in a Cairo suburb and at a nearby store, sparking a shootout that killed at least nine people, including eight Coptic Christians, Egyptian authorities said. It was the latest attack targeting the country's embattled Christian minority.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The gunman was also killed, along with at least one police officer, officials said.

The attack began when the gunman tried to break through the security cordon outside the Coptic Church of Mar Mina. It was not clear how many assailants were involved. Egypt's Interior Ministry referred to only one, but the Coptic Orthodox church mentioned "gunmen."

The scene of the attack (Photo: EPA)

The attack came amid tightened security around churches and Christian facilities ahead of the Coptic Orthodox Christian celebrations of Christmas on Jan. 7. Police have been stationed outside churches and in nearby streets across Cairo. President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi has personally chaired meetings with his top security chiefs in recent days to discuss security during New Year's Eve and the Orthodox Christmas.

A video circulating on social media after Friday's attack apparently showed the gunman lying on the ground with his face covered in blood. Authorities closed off the area around the church.

The Interior Ministry identified the assailant as Ibrahim Ismail Mostafa, who, the agency said, was involved in several previous militant attacks. The Interior Ministry said he was wounded and arrested but made no mention of his death, which was reported by the Health Ministry.

The assailant had earlier opened fire at the nearby store owned by a Christian, the Interior Ministry said.

No group took immediate responsibility for the attack, which bore the hallmarks of Islamic militants, who have for years battled security forces in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula in an insurgency now led by a local affiliate of the extremist Islamic State group. It is centered in the turbulent northern part of Sinai but has also carried out attacks in the mainland.

The militants are targeting mainly security personnel and Egypt's Coptic Christian minority.

The latest attack, in the southern Cairo suburb of Helwan, showcases the difficulties faced by security forces in containing an insurgency that is growing in sophistication and brutality. The assault came a little more than a month after militants killed 311 worshippers inside a mosque in Sinai, the deadliest attack by militants on civilians in Egypt's modern history.

Last week, they fired a guided rocket that destroyed an army helicopter at the airport of the city of el-Arish in northern Sinai during an unannounced visit there by the defense and interior ministers. At least one senior officer was killed and two wounded in that attack, which pointed to an unusually high level of intelligence available to the militants.

Samir Gerges, a witness to Friday's church attack, said people inside the church closed the gates when the shooting began but that some bullets penetrated the building. Gerges said he was walking along a nearby street when the gunfire broke out. He saw people running and some taking cover in a nearby restaurant.

Another witness, 40-year-old Raouth Atta, was praying inside the church when the violence broke out.

"People were terrified and wanted to check on their families in other buildings of the church," she told The Associated Press by phone. "We stayed inside for 30 minutes before we were able to get out."

Once she was able to leave, Atta said, she saw blood everywhere.

"We kept praying," said Father Boules, who was teaching a class in the church complex. On hearing gunfire, he went to check on his students, who were panicking and terrified.

Egypt's government has been struggling to contain an insurgency by Islamic militants led by an Islamic State affiliate that is centered in the turbulent northern Sinai peninsula but has also carried out attacks in the mainland.

The extremist group is targeting mainly security personnel and Egypt's Coptic Christian minority.

Egypt's Christian minority has been targeted by Islamic militants in a series of attacks since December 2016 that left more than 100 dead and scores wounded. The country has been under a state of emergency since April after suicide bombings struck two Coptic Christian churches on Palm Sunday in an attack that was claimed by the local affiliate of the Islamic State group.

Christians, who make up about 10 percent of Egypt's population, have long complained of discrimination in the Muslim-majority nation, and say authorities have often failed to protect them from sectarian attacks

Just last week, hundreds of Muslim demonstrators stormed an unlicensed church south of Cairo wounding three people. The demonstrators shouted anti-Christian slogans and called for the church's demolition, the diocese in the area said at the time. The demonstrators destroyed the church's contents and assaulted Christians inside before security personnel arrived and dispersed them.
WASHINGTON  US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Friday that he expected to see a larger US civilian presence in Syria, including contractors and diplomats, as the fight against Islamic State militants nears its end and the focus turns toward rebuilding and ensuring the militants do not return.

The United States has about 2,000 troops in Syria fighting Islamic State. Mattis' comments are likely to anger Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who has previously called US troops "illegal invader" forces.

"What we will be doing is shifting from what I would call an offensive, shifting from an offensive terrain-seizing approach to a stabilizing ... you'll see more US diplomats on the ground," Mattis told reporters.

He has previously stated that US forces will stay in Syria as long as Islamic State fighters want to fight and prevent the return of an "ISIS 2.0," using an acronym for Islamic State.
Shin Bet Director Nadav Argaman assured members of the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that there was no concrete domestic threat to the life of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in the wake of the controversy surrounding a man carrying a guillotine in a Saturday night Tel Aviv anti-corruption protest.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Argaman attended the committee's meeting Sunday to provide a regular periodical security overview. During his remarks, however, he was roped into commenting on the guillotine model appearing in the previous day's protest, Yedioth Ahronoth learned.

During the protest, designer Amit Brin carried around a model of a guillotine made of cardboard. In response, he was severely denounced by several public figures, including President Reuven Rivlin.

The controversial guillotine carried during Saturday night's protest

Argaman, however, was not of the opinion it represented any real threat. His reply was prompted by being asked by MK Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin (Zionist Union) during the meeting whether there were "any concrete threats to the lives of the prime minister or other leaders", and was even requested by her fellow party member Maj.-Gen. (res.) MK Eyal Ben Reuven to "point out any domestic threats."

In response, the Shin Bet chief communicated a message of ease, saying, "As far as Israelis go there aren't any concrete threats. If we're examining domestic threats, we can see a significant drop in threat levels."

Argaman was referring to the overall threats dealt with his organization's Jewish division. "We can see a significant drop in all aspects of Jewish terrorism. The number of event clusters has dropped. This trend is the result of multiple actions we've undertaken, including widespread welfare and education-based handling of the teenagers involved in these activities," Argaman said.

Shin Bet chief Argaman said no concrete domestic threats existed on the PM's life (Photo: Hillel Meir/TPS)

Part of the actions the Shin Bet chief was referring to is the "Hebrew Shepherd" project, operated by Shin Bet and welfare agencies and intended to prevent teenagers residing in the West Bank from carrying out or participating in "price tag" attacks against Arabs.

"There has been a drop in Jewish terrorism in general and in the threat against the prime minister in particular, and I can say that at this point in time there are no concrete threats on his life," Argaman concluded.

The Shin Bet added no further details to the director's analysis, saying, "We do not comment on anything said during committee meetings."
The letter penned by 63 draft-age 12th graders proclaiming their refusal to serve in the IDF, unveiled in Yedioth Ahronoth Thursday, was the subject of raucous response from both sides of the political aisle, and received a counter from other 12th graders who opposed it.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



"The military carries out a racist government policy that violates basic human rights," the original letter calling for draft refusal said. "We therefore have decided not to participate in the occupation and oppression of the Palestinian people."

Upon learning of the letter, hundreds of 12th-graders decided to respond in kind, writing a counter-petition to Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in which they stated, "We will serve wherever Israel needs us."

The Sderot students behind the counter-letter denouncing IDF service refusal (Photo: Herzel Yosef)

"We wish to strengthen the IDF, strengthen the State of Israel, and declare we will continue serving in the army and national service to defend the people and our country," the letter's writers vowed.

Chai Levy, a Sderot resident and one of the letter's originators, said, "We felt we had to respond, because statements (like the ones expressed in the original draft refusal lettered) have no place in Israeli society. Refusal to serve in the IDF is a grave mistake."

His friend, Re'em Argov, added, "The vast majority of young people in Israel understand that without a strong army we won't have much of a country left to live in."

Students from the Nehalim Torah Technological School invited the refusal letter's writers to their school for debate

A second letter, penned by 12th-grade students of the Nehalim Torah Technologic School, said, "Refusing to serve in the army is not born of great ideals but rather a narrow worldview. We invite the draft-refusers to our school to express their stance with the hope of changing this distorted decision, which may affect our lives in particular and all of Israeli society in general."

Deputy Defense Minister Eli Ben-Dahan (Bayit Yehudi) blasted the 63 students in harsher terms. "Using military service to promote political opinions the vast majority of Israelis object to is hypocritical and contemptible. I call upon all left-wingers who regularly denounce calls to refuse (to serve in the IDF) to also denounce this letter," he demanded.

Head of the Tavor Leadership Academy military preparatory program in Nazareth Illit Maj. (res.) Amichai Shikli offered even more virulent criticism, calling to disenfranchise those who signed the letter from voting.

Head of the Tavor Leadership Academy Amichai Shikli said those who signed the refusal letter should be denied their voting rights

"Choosing refusal (to serve) is an anarchistic, anti-democratic act with non-recognition of election results at its core. Israeli society will not persevere if this phenomenon grows more common. Anyone who choose refusal has cut themselves off from the State of Israel and should be denied voting rights," Shikli opined.

Not all responses were negative, however. The 63 students' letter was lauded, for example, by Joint List Chairman MK Ayman Odeh , who congratulated its writers. "Brave boys and girls, it's so moving and meaningful to see these youths stand up to the entire society and proclaiming, in the loudest and proudest terms possible: we will not serve the occupation and oppression of the Palestinian people. One day, all of society will appreciate your work here as well," he assured.

Elior Levy, Tamar Trabelsi-Hadad, Amihai Attali, Yuval Karni and Israel Moskowitz contributed to this report.
MOSCOW  Russian President Vladimir Putin told his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad in a new year's greeting that Russia will continue supporting Syria's efforts to defend its sovereignty, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

Putin stressed that Russia would "continue to render every assistance to Syria in the protection of state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, in the promotion of a political settlement process, as well as in efforts to restore the national economy," the Kremlin said.

Earlier this month Putin ordered the Russian forces in Syria to start withdrawing from the country, but said Russia would keep its Hmeymim air base in Syria's Latakia Province as well as its naval facility at Tartous "on a permanent basis."
India harshly protested to the Palestinian Authority Friday, after the Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan shared a stage in a rally held in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi with leader of the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist organization and mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks Hafiz Muhammad Saeed.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Indian media outlets reported the country's government announced its displeasure to the Palestinians in no uncertain terms. Spokesman for the Indian Foreign Ministry Raveesh Kumar said, "We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities."

Palestinian ambassador Walid Abu Ali's photos from Pakistan were disseminated on social media after it was reported he had attended a rally organized by the Difa-e-Pakistan Council in a Rawalpindi park.

Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Abu Ali (R) and Lashkar-e-Taiba leader Saeed (Photo: Twitter)

The Difa-e-Pakistan Council, or Defense of Pakistan Council, is an umbrella organization for some 40 religious and extremists' group from Pakistan that regularly attacks India.

The organization's leader is Saeed, accused by India of masterminding the November 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai that claimed the lives of 173 people. Saeed is on the United Nations and United States' list of recognized terrorists, at India's request.

The rally was intended to exert pressure on Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to convene an Islamic summit meeting to "defend Jerusalem from Israel."

The Palestinian ambassador's presence at a rally organized by Lashkar-e-Taiba could be considered a slap in the face to India, who only last week voted in the UN in favor of a resolution disavowing President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Indian media reported New Delhi was "surprised and shocked" at Abu Ali's attendance of the rally.

India was one of the 128 countries voting in the UN to censure President Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as capital

India, along with 127 other nations, voted in favor of the resolution stating Jerusalem's final status will only be decided in negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. India's vote on the matter was considered a move aimed against Israel, the Asian juggernaut's close friend, as well as against strategic partner the US.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government was thus somewhat criticized by its own supporters, who considered the vote a letdown to the country's allies. Modi himself lauded the two countries' relations when he visited Israel this past July, marking the first time an Indian premier has journeyed to the Jewish state. Israel also protested the vote directly to India.

PM Netanyahu (L) embracing his Indian counterpart Modi during the latter's historic visit to Israel this past July (Photo: Reuters)

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas held a state visit to India earlier this year, while Indian Premier Modi is expected to reciprocate the visit in the coming months.

Nevertheless, Palestine has consistently voted against India in the UN and as part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation vis-a-vis its prolonged conflict with Pakistan and China surrounding control of the Kashmir region, and also protested the country's ever-tightening relations with Israel.
MOSCOW  The Russian Foreign Ministry is rejecting claims that Moscow has breached UN sanctions against North Korea.

The ministry said in a statement carried Saturday by the state RIA Novosti news agency that Russia has "fully and strictly observed the sanctions regime."

The statement came in response to a report claiming that Russian tankers had transferred fuel to North Korean tankers at sea over the past few months. Without mentioning any specifics, the Russian Foreign Ministry noted that resolutions by the United Nations Security Council have imposed limits on North Korea's refined oil imports but haven't banned it altogether.

The Council has unanimously approved several rounds of sanctions against North Korea over its missile tests and nuclear program, including a new tough UN resolution last weekend.
BEIRUT  Dozens of Syrian militants and their families have departed aboard buses from an area where they have been besieged by government forces near the Golan Heights.

The move is part of a deal to clear yet another district from insurgents.

The government-controlled Syrian Central Military Media said 153 people, including 106 fighters, left the village of Beit Jin early Saturday toward the southern province of Daraa.

The Ibaa news agency of the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee said six buses carrying fighters and their families arrived in rebel-held parts of Daraa province.
Iowa Pacific has been struggling to make money on its local rail line, but it may now have found the key to success: Hold tanker cars for ransom deep in the wilderness of the Adirondack High Peaks.

First, the company sought to make money just by storing the old tanker cars for companies that werent using them. About 80 tankers were brought north to the line owned by Saratoga & North Creek Railway (which is owned by Iowa Pacific) that runs from North Creek to Tahawus in the High Peaks.

After a lot of commotion, the owner of the tanker cars, Union Tank Car Co., agreed recently to remove them from the region. Environmental organizations and state leaders, including Gov. Andrew Cuomo, had expressed their unhappiness with the arrangement.

The Adirondack Park is home to some of the worlds most pristine forest lands, which powers its tourism economy, and we will not stand by and allow it to be used as a commercial dumping ground, Cuomo said.

He has a point. The problem is, the railway is within its rights to store cars on the line, and its executives intend to keep doing it.

SNCR will continue to store rail cars on its line and, in fact, has plans to bring in hundreds of more cars over the next few months, said Iowa Pacifics lawyer, David Michaud.

The only way that wont happen, the railways executives say, is if the state buys the companys freight easement on the line. The price tag would be several million dollars.

No word yet on how the railway wants the money delivered, but were guessing small, unmarked bills carried in a duffel bag and left on the porch of the Stony Creek Inn. Also, no cops.

This clever scheme is a twist on the usual kidnap-ransom scenario, since its the health of the forest that is at risk.

Give us the cash if you want your forest back in one piece: Thats the message the railway is delivering.

It seems wrong to give in to such a demand, but the state should consider paying. New York has spent many millions to acquire land in the Adirondack Park and add it to the Forest Preserve, where it can be kept forever wild. Part of the responsibility of owning this land is protecting it, and if state officials feel the rail line is a serious threat to the integrity of the wilderness, then buying the line is a solution.

Its not as if the right of way would be worthless. It would make a great walking trail through a beautiful wilderness area, and the state wouldnt have to spend money clearing or leveling it.

The state could meet the railways aggressive stance with aggression of its own by siccing the lawyers on Iowa Pacific. But legal action tends to be interminable and costly. It would be easier for everyone to skip directly to the settlement.

It has been hard for Iowa Pacific to figure out what to do with this line. Various freight plans have not worked. The company is probably in a mood to compromise, and we bet that if the state makes a reasonable offer, the railway will grab it.

Gov. Cuomo is right  the Adirondack wilderness is a jewel and using it as a rail-car dump is wrong. New York should buy the line.
The state of Israel's declaration of independence will be reenacted in full this coming Independence Day, marking the country's 70thor platinumjubilee, including actors portraying the original's ceremony's participants, Yedioth Ahronoth has learned.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



This undertaking marks the flagship project of the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage and the World Zionist Organization (WZO) for the country's 70th Independence Day. The plan as it stands is to reenact the independence declaration event, which took place May 14, 1948, in Independence Hallsituated in Tel Aviv's Rothschild Boulevard.

Therefore, exactly as it transpired during the actual event, an actor portraying future first prime minister David Ben Gurion will inaugurate the final meeting of the People's Council, soon to become the Provisional State Council.





Actors will reenact Israel's Declaration of Independence (Photo: GPO)

The ceremony will kick off with a rousing rendition of HaTikva, Israel's future national anthem, after which "Ben Gurion" will read from the Declaration of Independence itself.

When the declaration concludes, an actor playing Rabbi Yehuda Leib Maimon will recite the Shehecheyanu blessing, recited during momentous or special occasions.

The 25 members of the People's Council will then do the honors of signing their names to the bottom of the parchment containing the declarationfirst Ben Gurion and then the rest of the council's members alphabetically. In order to remain close to the historical script, the meeting will then conclude with another singing of HaTikva.

According to the planwhich has already been approved, budgeted and launchedthe Israeli public will be called to arrive en masse to Tel Aviv's Rothschild Street, which will be dressed up for the occasion.

The entire street will be closed to traffic, decked out in festive flags and affixed with enormous screens showing the reenactment. The identity of the actors portraying Ben Gurion and the rest of the council's members has yet to be decided.

Jerusalem and Heritage Minister Elkin (L) and PM Netanyahu will speak at the reenactment (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

In addition, Minister Ze'ev Elkin, whose ministry spearheaded the reenactment, will speak at the ceremony. The ministry also intends to invite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak.

Unlike the original event, however, this time Israelis will not have to remain glued to their radios to take in the announcement, as the entire reenactment will be streamed live on Facebook, so that not only Israelis may watch it but every supporter of Zionism anywhere in the world may do so as well.

The above was not the sole reenactment planned by the ministry and the WZO for Israel's 70th, however, as reenactments of the construction of a "Homa u'migdal" ("Wall and tower") community and the docking of an "immigrant ship", from which the British Mandate-era refugees will disembark.

"Reenactment is an immense tool allowing us to involve the public and allow it to share the experience, especially as it pertains to the younger generation," said Vice Chairman of the WZO Yaakov Hagoel.

Minister Elkin added, "We've created the event to allow Israel's citizens to experience the enormity of that historic event and the ambiance in the country on the day of the Jewish state's birth. Preserving and disseminating the legacy of Zionism is one of our generation's most important undertakings."
Dozens of Syrian militants and their families departed aboard buses from an area besieged by government forces near the Golan Heights early Saturday, part of a deal to clear yet another district from insurgents.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



The evacuations came as government-controlled media said two mass graves were discovered in the northern province of Raqqa where the Islamic State group held sway for more than three years.

Buses evacuating residents (Photo: AP)

The government-controlled Syrian Central Military Media said 153 people, including 106 fighters, left the village of Beit Jin early Saturday toward the southern province of Daraa.

The Ibaa news agency of the al-Qaida-linked Levant Liberation Committee said six buses carrying fighters and their families arrived in rebel-held parts of Daraa province.





On Friday, Syria's state news agency SANA said some 300 al-Qaida-linked militants and their families would be sent to Daraa and the northwestern province of Idlib.

The evacuation allows the government to reassert control over Beit Jin near the Golan Heights that were captured by Israel from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war.

Israel has publicly warned against the accumulation of Iranian and Iranian-backed forces at its border. Iran has arranged for thousands of militiamen from across the region to fight on behalf of Syrian President Bashar Assad's government and has sent top commanders to direct its own Revolutionary Guards in the country as well.





In northern Syria, SANA reported that "dozens of bodies" of civilians and troops killed by ISIS were discovered in two mass graves in the village of Wawi near the northern city of Raqqa, once the de facto capital of ISIS.

ISIS carried out public killings in its once self-declared caliphate, beheading, shooting and stoning perceived offenders to death, as well as drowning them in large pools while locked in metal cages.

SANA said that after residents returned to their village some of them received information about mass graves near the village and once a search began the two graves were discovered.

The agency quoted a local official as saying that work is ongoing to remove more bodies, adding they are trying to identify the dead in order to hand their remains over to their families.

SANA posted several photographs showing the remains being unearthed and placed on sheets.
A Sunni jihadist group has claimed to have blown up an oil pipeline in Iran's southern Khuzestan province, the scene of other attacks by Arab separatists. Iranian authorities have not acknowledged any such attack.

An online video posted by Ansar al-Furqan claimed the attack and showed what it described as a pipeline near Omidiyeh.

The US-based SITE Intelligence Group quoted the video on Saturday as saying: "This operation was conducted to inflict losses on the economy of criminal Iranian regime."

SITE says the attack by Ansar al-Furqan, if confirmed, would be their first in oil-rich southern Iran.

Iran has faced low-level separatist unrest from Kurds in its northwest, the Baluch in its east and Arabs in its south since the 1979 Islamic Revolution
Nine years after his parents were murdered in their Mumbai Chabad House, Moshe Holtzberg (11) will return to India accompanied by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Moshe's grandfather Rabbi Shimon Rosenberg.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



In the 2008 attack, six people, including Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivkawho ran the Mumbai Chabad Jewish outreach centerwere killed when four terrorists entered the premises and murdered any Jews they found inside. Their infant son, Moshe, escaped in the arms of his nanny, Sandra Samuel, who is currently living in Israel and remains in contact with Moshe.

Moshe Holtzberg

During a historic visit to Israel last July, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a heartfelt meeting with Moshe who said that he missed India and wished to go back. The Indian Premier replied by saying that the country was always open to him and Netanyahu then promised to bring Moshe along during a future visit.

On January 14th Netanyahu will make a state visit to India. Moshe's grandfather Shimon Rosenberg confirmed that they have received the invitation and that "Moshe is very excited to return to (his parents) Habad House.

PM Modi and Moshe (Photo: Haim Zach/GPO)

During the five day visit, Netanyahu and his wife Sara will also visit the Taj Mahal and the birthplace of PM Modi in Gujarat.

The Director General of the Foreign Ministry Yuval Rotem is visiting India this week preparing for Netanyahu's visit.

The innovative water purification vehicle that Netanyahu and Indian PM Modi used to drink from while visiting a Hadera beach will also be joining the Israeli delegation.

Israel was recently disappointed in India's vote at the UN last week against the American recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital; despite the fact that India only recently changed for the better its anti-Israel voting pattern at the UN. It is assumed however that India's considerably large Muslim population influenced is what the vote.
Hundreds of protesters have gathered on Tel Aviv's Rothschild Blvd. to protest government corruption. This is the 58th consecutive such protest and the fifth in Tel Aviv.

Calls of "Bibi Netanyahu to prison Maisyahu," Netanyahu go home!" and other slogans were heard.
For the 58th week in a row, a protest over government corruption was held in Tel Aviv Saturday night against what demonstrators say are delays in the investigation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Recent reports indicated the findings in one of the cases investigating Netanyahu for receiving bribes will be released in a month and a half, weeks later than previously expected.

Sign saying 'Greedy Bitan' (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

One of the protest's organizers, Attorney Eldad Yaniv, lashed out against several protesters he saw waving signs bearing the communist symbol.

"All the idiots who brought signs bearing the hammer and sickle should put them down!" he shouted, telling the other protesters to not let those fringe radicals tarnish what they were striving for.

Eldad Yaniv (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Thousands held signs saying "Corrupted, go home!" "The nation is boss," "Mandelblit, we will not forgive or forget the cover-up."

"Bibi Netanyahu to prison Masiyahu," "Capital and government equal underworld," "Netanyahu go home! You are a failure," protesters chanted.

PM draped in the ostensibly pro-Netanyahu newspaper Israel Hayom (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Former caretaker of the Prime Minister's Residence Meni Naftali distanced himself from a protester with a sign calling Netanyahu a traitor.

"This is not desirable, every week there is a new provocation and we are not responsible for it," Naftali said. "These are not our guys, there are people who try to sabotage the demonstration, we do not know who is waving these signs and we are condemning any sign that is out of line."

"I have seen tens of thousands of Israeli flags and tens of thousands of people and tens of thousands of Israeli patriots. Do not cherry pick signs calling the government traitors, because this place is not Zion Square," Yaniv added. "There will be no coffin being carried here and there will be no pictures of Bibi in SS uniform."

'The good life' of the Netanyahu couple (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Idit, a participant told Ynet: "We want all the corrupt (politicians) to learn a lesson, both Left and Right. There is not enough room for them in prison already. This protest is against corruption, not against the Right. I believe that with enough mass, we can succeed in bringing change."

Many participants said that they attended previous protests as well and are resolute to continue until "Bibi will be in prison," using the prime minister's nickname.

This is the 58th consecutive protest against corruption and the fifth held in Tel Aviv on Rothschild Blvd.

In the invitation to the protest, organizers wrote: "Together we will continue this struggle against the corruption that is threatening the state and against the mafia laws they are trying to pass in the Knesset in order to perpetuate the corruption. These protests are for a state free of corruption and every Saturday night participants from all over the political spectrum join us."





Protesting the PM's wife (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Similar but smaller protests were held in Kiryat Shmona, Rosh Pina, Haifa, Kfar Saba, Rehovot, Modi'in, Jerusalem, Beer Sheva and Afula, among others.

This is the first protest since the passing of the controversial Recommendations Law, which bars the police from releasing the findings of their investigations. The bill passed a 59 to 54 vote. Opponents are appealing the law to the High Court of Justice.

Satirizing PM's attorney David Shimron (Photo: Moti Kimchi)

Last Saturday night, in addition to the Tel Aviv protest, a right wing protest was held in Jerusalem "in support of the rule of law." About 1,000 participants held signs saying: "We deserve clean government" and "We want a personal example."

Protest organizer Yoaz Hendel spoke: "I'm here today not because I'm against Netanyahu, but because I'm in favor of the State of Israel. I'm here because this is how I was raised in the religious Zionist sector, with a mix of Jabotinsky and Rabbi Kook. I'm here because we cannot live with 'divide and conquer.' We cannot live while my leadership doesn't see the value of setting a personal example and walking humbly."
The Supermarkets Bill, which grants the Minister of the Interior the power to revoke municipal bylaws, effectively determining that supermarkets in city centers will remain closed on Shabbat, is expected to head for a second and third reading on Monday afternoon.

Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter



Earlier in the morning, the Internal Affairs and Environment Committee will discuss the final version of the bill.

PM Netanyahu (L) and Interior Min. Deri (Photo: Amit Shabi)

As early as Saturday, the coalition began working to secure a majority for approval of the bill. Coalition members were ordered to remain close to the plenum on the day of the vote, and were barred from offsetting their vote with that of someone from the opposition.

Meanwhile, the opposition is planning to filibuster the vote.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered that the bill be promoted as part of the package of Shabbat bills the coalition promised the ultra-Orthodox parties to mend the rift between them over the crisis surrounding Saturday construction works on the light rail, which they say desecrate Shabbat.

The bill was initiated at the request of the Minister of the Interior and Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri , and will force the government to consider Jewish tradition and heritage prior to the granting of a permit to work on Shabbat.

If the bill passes, Deri will be granted authority to nullify municipal bylaws with authorization to shut down supermarkets, mini local stores and convenience stores.

With the exception of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, the Minister may order the closure of supermarkets on Shabbat in every city nationwide.

Convenience store open on Shabbat, Tel Aviv (Photo: Avi Moalem)

With the latest legal opinion that gas station stores could fall within Deris remit, Yisrael Beytenu has launched a campaign to apply pressure on local authorities to oppose the bill by circulating a letter slamming it and urging support against it.

According to the letter, the bill "dramatically alters the status quo that has existed for years and will harm the fabric of life of the secular residents in many localities across the State of Israel and to force them to live under forced religion."
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will visit Paris on Jan. 5 to meet his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, with the conflict in Syria high on the agenda, a source in the French president's office said on Saturday.

Among the regional crises the two leaders plan to discuss, there would be a particular focus on Syria as well as on the Palestinian situation, the source said, weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The move stirred concern among Western allies and outrage in the Arab World.

Erdogan earlier this week made some of his harshest comments in weeks regarding Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, calling him a terrorist and saying it was impossible for peace efforts in Syria to continue if he did not leave power.

Macron, meanwhile, said recently that France would push for peace talks involving all parties in the six-year-old Syrian conflict, including al-Assad, and promised "initiatives" early next year.

The Elysee source said "the question of human rights will also be raised" when Erdogan and Macron meet.
The Greek government said on Saturday that it had filed a request for the cancellation of the asylum granted to a Turkish soldier accused of involvement in last year's coup attempt.

Greece's administrative court of appeal will now look into the case.

Eight Turkish soldiers fled to Greece following Turkey's abortive July 2016 coup. Seven of them applied for asylum and were rejected, but have been kept in preventive custody.

Angered by a decision to grant asylum to the eighth soldier by the Greek asylum service committee, a panel of judges and experts, Turkey said earlier in the day that the move would affect bilateral relations and cooperation.

Athens said it was following its standing position regarding the eight soldiers, "as it has been repeatedly expressed, also in public", a government official said.

The Greek government has said that it does not support coup plotters and that the country's justice system is independent.

A Greek police official said the soldier who was granted asylum would be released from custody.
President Donald Trump is upping his show of support for the economic protests in Tehran, saying the "entire world understands that the good people of Iran want change."

Trump tweeted Saturday that Iran's leaders fear their own people. He says "Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice." He adds: "The world is watching!" Trump says that apart from U.S. military power, the Iranian people are what Tehran fears the most.

Trump previously tweeted support for the protesters, drawing a condemnation from Iran's government.
Editor:

How big a thank you does it take to show how much the Christmas dinner provided by the Inn at Erlowest was appreciated by all those attending?

On Christmas Day, the staff at Erlowest cooked a delicious dinner and served it at the Courtyard Marriott, where 102 people enjoyed a delicious meal and others had dinner delivered to their homes. Caldwell Presbyterian Church volunteers have hosted a Christmas Day dinner for more than 18 years, but Erlowest has made it possible to provide a community gathering for many more. Most of those attending live alone or in small families and appreciate sharing Christmas spirit and conversation with others.

Besides the 102 served at the Courtyard, volunteers from Caldwell Church delivered 28 dinners to homebound individuals or families. Thank-yous are extended to volunteers, many of whom help each year, Ginny from Wilton, Mitch from Saratoga, Eric from Glens Falls, Garry from Dorset, plus those associated with Caldwell Church.

Laurie and her staff from Erlowest create a memorable Christmas for a group ranging from teenage to age 99. A joyful thank you is sent to all.

Helene Horn, Caldwell Presbyterian Church, Lake George
Editor:

Almost 25 years ago, President Reagan appointed a director of EPA. Funding was slashed; environmental laws went unenforced or postponed; recommendations of scientists were ignored; the director was charged with contempt of Congress. It was argued that these measures were taken to spare business from costly regulations. The president was forced to dismiss Director Anne Gorsuch, mother of the newly appointed justice. She was replaced by William Ruckelshaus, Nixons director.

Current Director Scott Pruitt has slashed EPA funding, postponed deadlines and reassigned scientists to other agencies. During his last term as governor, Oklahoma experienced 600 earthquakes attributed to fracking. Prior to this era, Oklahoma averaged two per year. An insecticide banned by President Obama was approved for use by Pruitt. It is a cocktail of ingredients, one of which is 2-4D, a chemical linked to neurological disorders in children. President Trump awarded the signing pen to the CEO of Dow Chemical, manufacturer of the insecticide.

In his 2015 Encyclical on Climate Change, Pope Francis stated: The violence in our hearts, wounded by sin, is also reflected in the symptoms of sickness evident in the soil, in the water, in the air, and in all forms of life. The presence of chemicals in drinking water, asthma attacks in children and violent and extreme swings in weather would seem to call for more, not less, environmental regulations.

A recent letter writer described climate change as an effort to redistribute wealth. The only plan to redistribute wealth recently occurred in the Trump tax plan, a massive redistribution upward. The window for action is closing rapidly, according to scientists, a group that is rightly celebrated for its successes in so many areas of our lives.

Thomas Smith, Argyle
Best Travel Apps For 2022

Finding Peace of Mind: Discover These Five Places in Europe to Unwind
PHOENIX -- The state's top education official wants to salvage at least some of a law banning "ethnic studies'' that was struck down as unconstitutional by a federal judge.

Diane Douglas is not directly contesting the ruling by Judge Wallace Tashima. Tashima declared that the 2010 law was approved by lawmakers out of "racial animus'' and that "no legitimate pedagogical objective motivated the enactment and enforcement''. The law targeted the Mexican American studies program in Tucson Unified School District.

On Thursday, Tashima formalized his ruling with an injunction barring the state from enforcing the law.

But Douglas said Friday she believes there are some provisions that legally fit within what is the legitimate interest of the state in restricting what can -- and cannot -- be taught in Arizona public schools. More to the point, she wants to preserve another section of the law, which allows her agency to withhold state funds from schools that ignore those standards.

The 2010 law that Tashima voided forbids schools from teaching classes that:

- Promote the overthrow of the United States government;

- Promote resentment toward a race or class of people;

- Are designed primarily for pupils of a particular ethnic group;

- Advocate ethnic solidarity instead of treatment of pupils as individuals.

"I am supportive of teaching history and cultural studies,'' Douglas said in a prepared statement. "But I don't understand why the judge felt he needed to strike down the entire law.''

Douglas said she will be meeting with legislative leaders this coming week to see if there is a legal way to resurrect at least the first two sections.

"The provisions ... just sound like common sense to me,'' she said. "Those should stay.''

Douglas declined through a spokesman to answer questions or explain her reasoning.

"The statement speaks for itself,'' said Dan Godzich.

It is unclear whether a revised version of the law would prove more acceptable to the judge.

In striking it down, Tashima focused less on what things the statute said are unacceptable and more on exactly how and why the measure became law in the first place.

The judge cited statements by proponents like Tom Horne who was the state school superintendent at the time. That included Horne telling lawmakers that the program teaches "ethnic chauvinism,'' how students who protested a speech by his deputy were taught to be rude by "Raza studies teachers who were radical.''

Horne also complained to legislators considering the measure that a librarian was wearing a "MEChA'' T-shirt -- short for Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlan -- a group that, among other things, promotes cultural identity among Mexican American students. And Horne denounced some of the textbooks being used, including "Pedagogy of the Oppressed'' by Paulo Friere, who Horne said was a "well-known Brazilian communist.''

Tashima also found fault with how, after the law was approved, Horne concluded the program was in violation. He said the superintendent "cherry-picked quotations from textbooks, his interpretations of which border on the illogical.''

All that could mean that if lawmakers chose to accede to Douglas' request and reenact the law, any legal challenge could focus less on the words and more on the "how'' and "why'' they put the provisions back into statute.

Even if a judge finds no flaw in the motives for legislators restoring the two sections Douglas wants, that still leaves the question of whether the prohibitions are overbroad.

"That's going to be a challenge,'' Godzich said. "That's why we need to meet with legislators and see what we can figure out.''

Take the ban on advocating the overthrow of the government. Then note that the Declaration of Independence says when government "becomes destructive'' to the unalienable rights'' of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, "it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government.''

Elsewhere, the document says when there is a "long train of abuses and usurpations'' it is the right and duty "to throw off such government.''
DALLAS  Jina Kim got dressed up for what her dad said would be a family lunch on a recent Saturday. Instead, she was surprised by a knock on the door from University of Texas officials carrying balloons and an oversized $48,000 check.

Jina, a Lewisville High School senior, was among a handful of Dallas-area students stunned by UT with the news that they had been accepted to the Austin campus and will receive Impact Scholarships that cover four years of tuition.

Ive been really nervous about paying for college, she said. I just felt good because thats going to put less of a burden on me and my parents. I just have a heart to help people. I know social work doesnt make a lot of money like the medical field, so this scholarship really helps me go after what Im passionate about.

While the Impact Scholarships are typically awarded in the spring, this year UT officials decided to surprise students at their homes in the fall semester to let them know early that they have a place on campus and to ease financial worries.

The university awards about 30 such scholarships each year to students based on financial need, leadership potential, merit and other factors. Students will still have to find aid or pay for other expenses like housing.

Others receiving the good news included Ayotelemi Telemi Ojo, a senior at Cedar Hill High School.

Her mother said the teen had been going to UT for summer programs in the past and knew she wanted to study computer science at the Austin campus.

This was her first choice, Funmi Ojo said. Going to college is a great milestone. Knowing that you have these expenses paid, its a big relief so that as she goes to school the burden will be less on us. Shes a very hard-working young lady who deserves this.
ROCK ISLAND  Friendship Manor has been transporting busloads of its residents to the county assessor's office in an effort to apply for the senior homestead exemption before the year ends.

Despite a court ruling stating Friendship Manor does not meet the requirements for an exemption, employees are busing them anyway. As many as 58 residents from the senior living facility were taken to the county building on Thursday and Friday to apply in person as snow fell and temperatures dropped into the single digits.

Friendship Manor development director Jeff Condit said the facility, 1209 21st Ave., had received the tax exemption until 2015, when officials were notified by chief county assessor Larry Wilson that residents no longer qualified. The savings of $500 per year was passed along to residents.

During the 10-year period Friendship Manor received the exemption, it submitted applications on behalf of its residents until Mr. Wilson "changed the rule," stating applicants must apply in person.

"We took three residents (older than) 100 years old, and many with walkers and scooters, who shouldn't be out in this weather," Mr. Condit said on Thursday. "It's now on record that they refused us."

Mr. Condit said he submitted 58 senior homestead applications for 2017 to the township assessor last week, and was instructed to take them to chief county assessor Larry Wilson at the county building, 1504 3rd Ave.

"We went down to the county and handed them to Larry Wilson, who said they were too late," Mr. Condit said. "(Mr. Wilson) changed the rules and said everyone has to present them in person. The statute permits him to make whatever rules he wants, and he made it as difficult as possible. That's when we made a plan.

"The tax bills haven't even been prepared yet. It's an arbitrary rule. Why it has to be done 10 months sooner, I don't know."

Mr. Wilson could not be reached for comment. Chief deputy assessor Amy Allman said the deadline to apply for 2017 homestead exemptions was in March.

"Homestead exemption applications have always had to be submitted in person," Ms. Allman said. "We have to see proof of their age and the document needs to be signed. Years ago, we took the applications to Friendship Manor, but it's a huge task staff-wise. Since the exemption was taken away, (rules) have to be followed."

Ms. Allman said Friendship Manor chief financial officer Rick Devinney chaperoned four busloads of residents to the assessor's office on Thursday and two more on Friday.

"Mr. Wilson had a conversation with (Mr. Devinney) that we were not accepting applications for the 2017 year, but we will accept applications for 2018 until August. Mr. Devinney was aware of that before he decided to bring his residents out on this very cold day to our office," Ms. Allman said.

"Our goal was to help them sign up for the 2018 exemption. They are insisting on signing up. After the applications are in, we will review them and notify them of our decision. By taking in these applications, we are not saying they are not approved."

According to the Rock Island County Assessor's site, to qualify for the senior homestead exemption, applicants must have reached the age of 65 during the assessment year, and have lived on the property on or before Jan. 1.

When the exemption was taken away from Friendship Manor, the facility sued the county. Mr. Wilson added Rock Island-Milan School District as an intervenor defendant in the suit since the district receives 60 percent of Friendship Manor's property taxes as revenue.

Circuit Court Judge Clarence Darrow ruled in favor of the county on June 10, 2016, stating Friendship Manor residents have no ownership claim in their apartments and are therefore not qualified for a homestead exemption. The ruling cites a residency agreement between Friendship Manor and residents that states, "resident understands and agrees that this residency agreement is for services and is not a lease and that resident is not acquiring any right or interest, possessory or otherwise in the real estate or property of the Manor Place."

The ruling further states, "there is no evidence that any of Friendship Manor's residents are owners of record."

Friendship Manor appealed the ruling, which was dismissed by Judge Darrow in October, who said the senior living facility was required to "exhaust the administrative remedies provided by statute, namely a tax objection with the board of review, before filing an action in circuit court."

Mr. Condit said Friendship Manor representatives went before the county board of review a few weeks ago, in early December, but the three-member panel was not aware of any court rulings.

Board of review members Richard Schroeder, Diane Overstreet and Bob Brown could not be reached for comment.

Mr. Condit said despite the court ruling, Friendship Manor continues to honor the $500 annual savings to its residents.

"The chief assessor is very uncooperative," Mr. Condit said. "There isn't another life care facility in the state of Illinois not getting the homestead exemption. We think the court didn't understand this was about the general homestead exemption, not the senior homestead exemption."

Mr. Condit alleged that Rock Island County is the only county that separates the homestead exemption from the senior homestead exemption.

"Larry is teaching the other counties how to tax non-profit life care facilities. We're feeling quite alone in this," Mr. Condit said. "We think the court was afraid to rule in our favor because it would open other non-profits to do the same. 2017 is not over; we should still be able to file."

Ms. Allman said county residents must qualify for the general homestead exemption before qualifying for the senior exemption.

"You have to have the general exemption to have the senior (exemption)," Ms. Allman said. "Friendship Manor was the only (facility) receiving this exemption."
Introduced to the Book of Common Prayer as a young girl, Michelle Crouch has found a faith home at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Davenport.

Crouch, 49, grew up in a faith-driven home in Canada, where her father taught her to make intentional choices when it came to religion. "That, to me, is a gift," she said during an interview in her office at Augustana College, Rock Island, where she is an adjunct assistant professor in music, voice and opera.

Crouch lives in Rock Island and can walk to her job at the college, and she enjoys the easy access. She has lived in the Quad-Cities for eight years.

In that time she joined Trinity Episcopal and is active in the choir, and in a women's Bible study group, among other activities.

Tell me about yourself?

Crouch's father, from Australia, moved to Canada for theological studies. Her mother, an American from Minneapolis, went to same college on the Canadian prairie. The two met in college, married and moved to Australia for one year before returning to Calgary.

Crouch grew up in Calgary with Australian traditions, including religious traditions. Her mother, from a Scandinavian background in the Twin Cities, had Lutheran and Baptist faiths in her life.

"I grew up with a lot of influences, a rich collection of perspectives, and I consider that a benefit," Crouch said.

She moved to the Midwest in 2006 to pursue a doctoral degree in voice and pedagogy, and graduated from the University of Iowa in 2010. The teaching job came open at Augustana later that year.

Why Trinity Episcopal Cathedral?

When Crouch moved to the Quad-Cities she noticed Trinity, the imposing Episcopal cathedral on the Brady Street hill in Davenport. She also attended a cousin's place of worship in the city while "church shopping."

But at Trinity, she went to the 8 a.m. service and got a warm welcome, with people inviting her to the 10:30 a.m. service, which features music. "So I came back at 10:30 a.m. and I found a place in the choir very quickly," she said. "I found myself at home here."

How did you approach the cathedral?

Crouch did not join Trinity Episcopal to be on the fringes of the congregation. "I went seeking involvement in church," she said.

If a person wants to be on the outskirts of a congregation, that's possible too. But it will be a different religious experience from those who are involved, she said.

She met with a church official, who suggested she be in the choir, as well as a Bible study group named Hildegard's, named after an 11th Century abbess. "That was mostly much older women but they welcomed me. I'm still in that group," she said.

What do you like about your faith?

Understanding the liturgy is key to Crouch's appreciation of the Episcopal church. It's a well-established, disciplined practice of worship. "For me, it feels like a gift I've inherited, from those who have gone before me," she said.

The fact that the liturgy can be celebrated every Sunday "is like Ground Zero" to me, she said. "That's life-giving to me."

The liturgy gives a shape and expression to the love of God, and is ancient and durable, she said. "It's something I can trust, and content I can depend on," she said.

How long have you practiced?

While Crouch grew up in a faith-filled home, she also learned to question religion. Her influential father died when Crouch was 24 years old, she misses speaking to him on the topic. "I do know he'd understand my return to the Anglican tradition, even as he stepped away from it," she said.

"My dad gave me the ability to treasure the heritage," she said, "but at the same time to not idealize a religion, but to see it as a whole."

What about about your family faith?

Crouch is single, and has three siblings. Her sister remains in Calgary while two brothers also live in the United States. She has dual citizenship.

"All my siblings are engaged in faith, but we don't label each other. We are all free to go our own ways, intentionally," she said.

Looking forward, what will you do at Trinity Episcopal?

Crouch has been involved musically in the church, and has taught adult education classes. She also was a leader in the recent celebration of Trinity Episcopal: 175 years as a congregation and 150 years in the cathedral.

The parish looks forward, as it looks back, too, she said. "To give to the next generation what the former generation gave to us."

There are exciting events on the horizon, "and I will be part of them," Crouch said.

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is located at 121 W. 12th St., Davenport. Online: qctrinity.org
With booming downtown development, a community quick to rally behind various causes and benefits, and citizens experiencing their own personal triumphs, Muscatine is a city on the rise. There were several highlights and promising developments over the past year, including this brief rundown of notable news.

Starting the year with an international flavor, in January, two dozen members of a Chinese delegation visited Muscatine, taking in the sights along the Mississippi River. Among their stops, they visited the Sino-US Friendship House at 2911 Bonnie Drive, made famous because Xi Jinping, now the president of China, stayed there during a 1985 agricultural research mission that is now legendary.

It is a landmark, said Zhang Hongbin, deputy director-general, International Affairs Bureau, The State Council Information Office in Beijing. You can see the friendship. The 1985 visit spawned a relationship between Xi and the community of Muscatine that has received international attention. A second Sino-US Friendship House is under construction in downtown Muscatine.

In September, Muscatine was center stage as team members from the Amazon series "Fireball Run" raced to complete missions based on the city's history. Their first mission involved counting pearl buttons at the Muscatine History and Industry Center.

Half of the show's 40 teams visited Muscatine, including one of the celebrity teams, which featured actor Brian O'Halloran from the movie "Clerks" and Jackie Siegel from "Queen of Versailles," who wore steam punk-inspired costumes.

The 11th season of "Fireball Run," which will be available on Amazon Prime, features cities from Wisconsin to South Dakota, including several stops in Iowa.

Jodi Hansen, director of the Muscatine Convention and Visitors Bureau, said a committee worked hard to prepare Muscatine for the show's arrival.

I'm really excited about the opportunity this brings to showcase our community and the excitement that we've created in town, I think, is awesome, Hansen said in September.

Speaking of downtown, the resurfacing of Mississippi Drive has been an ongoing project throughout the year. When completed, residents and businesses anticipate greater convenience and higher traffic downtown, in addition to potential new business growth. Accompanying the construction on the drive has been the raising of the Merrill Hotel and Conference Center, 119 Mississippi Drive, as well as related projects.

One of those related projects involves the Button Factory, a stones throw from the new boutique hotel. The building has been renovated and renewed, as students from Muscatine Community College and other surrounding schools are being taught the culinary arts and other aspects of hotel business culture within its walls.

This is a great space. When they decided to do the hotel, the Button Factory was sitting idle, so they decided to buy this property, two years ago, and start this up, said Chef Bradley Scott, Chefs Apprenticeship Facilitator and head of the program, as he looked around the clean, well-lit spot. Its an excellent location and opportunity for us to build these opportunities for our students. And, maybe down the road, who knows, it could become something more? Down the road could arrive in 2018 or soon after for a new restaurant and night spot tied to the hotel, Scott said, hopefully.

In May, plans were announced for another hot spot -- a 16-acre pollinator park on a plot of farmland on Houser Street. The park, said David Cooney of the Muscatine Pollinator Project, will be a place where people can walk or ride, enjoying the flowers and wildlife  and there will be a lot of wildlife to enjoy. Were looking at monarchs, were looking at honey bees, were looking at native bees, were looking at hummingbirds, he said. The city, Cooney said, will add signs identifying wildlife along the trails. The flowers and grasses will be fully established in three to four years, but visitors will be able to walk in the park as early as next fall.

Careers were also blooming around the area. Several area residents celebrated notable achievements this year.

Nicole Frisbie, 17, won the Girl Scouts highest honor -- the Gold Award, an earned achievement in which the Girl Scout has to create a project of impact and value and must put in a certain amount of time in bringing it to fruition. Frisbies award-winning project involved the creation of a buddy bench  a space where students who are feeling bullied or left out can go to sit on the playground that alerts teachers or other students that they need help or would like companionship. Frisbies project involved the construction of the bench at her grade school alma mater, McKinley, and a training program for students and administrators regarding use of the bench and its impact, backed up by various studies in education and social science.

Its felt awesome to be a part of this and earn this award, but its an even more amazing feeling to know that my work is going to help kids from being bullied, Frisbie said. I went to school at McKinley and I was bullied and it was terrible. My goal was to help the school and other kids so they dont have to go through what I did.

Muscatine magician David Casas celebrated his 20th anniversary in show business and, by the end of 2017, was celebrating his most successful year ever, having embarked upon a national tour that included stops in Las Vegas and Chicago, and having sold out several runs of his new magic kits and tour merchandise.

Casas, who was mentored by Las Vegas magic legend Jason Byrne, has performed at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino, and the Greek Isles Hotel & Casino in Vegas, and is currently making his way around various venues in Illinois and Iowa. His full itinerary and more can be found at www.davidcasasmagic.com.

Muscatine author Max Allan Collins was given the lifetime achievement award, the Grand Master, for his role as a maestro of mystery novels at the 71st annual Edgar Awards. The award represents the pinnacle of achievement in mystery writing and was established to acknowledge important contributions to this genre. Collins, the author of such classics as Road to Perdition, certainly fits that distinction. The Mystery Writers of America is the primary professional group of mystery and suspense writers, and getting its lifetime achievement award, the Grand Master 'Edgar,' is about as good as it gets, Collins said. The list of Grand Masters includes many of my personal favorites, Mickey Spillane, Rex Stout, Agatha Christie, Alfred Hitchcock, and Erle Stanley Gardner, among many others. Its a thrill to be in their presence.

Later in the year, former Muscatine resident and current New York dancer Ben Rivera returned to teach a master class to area dancers in November. And he brought some big news with him -- that hes being considered for a part in Hamilton.

That would be the dream, to be on Broadway, Rivera said. Ive been in callbacks for Hamilton and so well see what happens. But that would be a dream show, obviously. Rivera graduated from Muscatine High School and then Oklahoma City University in 2014 before taking a job with Disney Cruise Lines and then moving to New York City, where hes racked up an impressive array of credits, appearing in everything from Saturday Night Live to The Pirates Of Penzance to Dirty Dancing to his most recent gig in The Bodyguard.

Also, in November, the ongoing crisis of Fruitland Fire Departments aging automotive fleet was relieved somewhat by the recent donation of a vehicle by Monsanto. Monsanto donated its older ambulance, with 42,200 miles, to the department. We chose Fruitland Fire Department from a conversation we had with a current Monsanto employee that is Trustee in Fruitland and a member of our Plant Emergency team, said Shawn Schraeder, plant manager for Monsanto. He asked us to consider donating our older unit to the community. Knowing the need existed locally, it was a win for everyone.

Fruitland Fire Chief Don Briggs was grateful. We always appreciate any help we can get, he said.

Another fall win for the area was the awarding of a $500,000 Community Attractions and Tourism (CAT) grant from the Enhance Iowa Board, to bring in money to fund the "Pearls of Progress" projects: the new Musser Public Library, the Westside Trail, cabins at Deep Lakes Park and a Community Dog Park. The Enhance Iowa Board awarded the grant as long as Muscatine raised $500,000 to match, and fundraising hit the goal last month.

And, in December, lovers of the great outdoors got an early Christmas gift in the form of work on a new trail extension in Muscatine that will connect Kent Stein Park to Discovery Park and news that Muscatine County Conservation Board wants to start making use of new green space surrounding Discovery Park in Muscatine. The county plans to resurface roads around the park, plus add a connector road to the new area off Harmony Lane, which will include bathrooms, a shelter house and playground equipment. As for the proposed 1.75-mile Westside Trail, it will complete a 15-mile trail network through the city of Muscatine, connecting all of the major recreational amenities.

In all, it was a promising and productive year around Muscatine, one that leaves residents with hearts and eyes open to the developments sure to come in 2018.
DES MOINES  One of first issues greeting lawmakers when they gavel in their 2018 session one week from today will be addressing a projected shortfall in the current budget before they and Gov. Kim Reynolds can begin crafting a fiscal 2019 spending plan  which poses challenges, too.

Republicans who hold majorities of 58-41 in the Iowa House and 29-20-1 in the Iowa Senate left the Capitol last May having enacted a budget with a projected $107.3 million surplus. But once again tax collections failed to grow as predicted, leaving the current ledger at least $36 million out of balance.

Im expecting another tight year, said Sen. Charles Schneider, R-West Des Moines, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. He said work will begin this month on a de-appropriation package made up of savings from state agency belt-tightening, spending cuts and peeling back unobligated tax credits or other transfers available to help balance the budget by June 30.

Reynolds, who was sworn in as governor last May, already has indicated she wants to shield K-12 schools from any midyear cut. She plans to offer her first budget proposal  both for fiscal 2018 adjustments and fiscal 2019 spending priorities  when she delivers her Jan. 9 Condition of the State address.

To avoid getting hit with another downward adjustment to revenue growth projections in March, Schneider said he expects the GOP-run Legislature will have to make cuts that provide enough cushion in the fiscal 2018 ending balance to deal with economic volatility brought on partly by sluggish farm prices and sales tax receipts from online purchases going uncollected.

Turning to the upcoming fiscal 2019 budget, built-in commitments and anticipated expenditures  including $91.1 million to repay money previously borrowed from reserves to erase a past budget deficit  already outpace the projected growth in revenue.

Thats even without factoring in a boost in state aid for K-12 schools or other spending priorities identified by the governor and majority Republicans.

A key unknown is how much tax changes enacted at the federal level will positively impact Iowas revenue situation, given that Iowans will be deducting less federal tax liability on their state returns and wage withholdings beginning in February. Another unknown is whether legislators will use that money to address budget issues, or plow it all into state tax relief.

My personal preference would be to use that to lower Iowa income tax for people, Schneider said.

Reynolds, House Speaker Linda Upmeyer, R-Clear Lake, and Senate Majority Leader Bill Dix, R-Shell Rock, all place cutting and simplifying Iowas income tax system at the top of their priority lists, but say relief and reform must be within a sustainable framework that doesnt negatively impact government services that Iowans expect.

Iowans expect us to conduct like we have in the past, Dix said. They expect us, just like you would in a family budget  if money doesnt come in, you have to reanalyze it and make some choices on whats the most important. I feel like our caucus is prepared to do just that.

However, House Minority Leader Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown, described the state budget as in shambles and failing to provide the quality K-12 education, health care services and affordable college that have been the hallmark of past bipartisan efforts.

I will be interested to see what Republicans bring forward to try to balance our state budget, said Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen of Des Moines. I think our budget is in a horrible place right now. I think we need to focus on priorities Iowans count on  strong public schools, our economic development programs need to be more focused less on companies that dont need funding and more on some of our towns and communities across our state that could use some job infusion.

Reynolds and Upmeyer said it is too early to speculate on how much money the state might allot for K-12 schools, Medicaid and other major funding areas in fiscal 2019. But Schneider said he expects overall spending to rise by about 2 percent  shy of the 4 percent growth in tax collections the Revenue Estimating Conference forecast in December.

To me, the lesson (from recent budget problems) is the state has to do a better job of managing spending, Schneider said, making sure were not spending more than were taking in.

Schneider said school administrators he has met with are planning for zero percent growth in state aid and right now its looking like that is more likely than not. But even with no general aid increase, Legislative Service Agency officials project the K-12 funding formula still would generate about $56 million more money for school districts in fiscal 2019.

Reynolds said she still is formulating her agenda and spending proposal she plans to unveil next week, but she expects education will be a top priority.

We were in the top four states in the country that have increased funding to education, the governor said in an interview. And in fact it was almost a 21 percent increase, where a lot of other states  especially going through the recession  have decreased and continued to do that or have not been able to increase their funding at all.

I mean, $735 million in new money has gone into education since we took office in 2011, she added. Thats significant and its because we recognize the fact that thats our greatest asset, thats our future and we want to make sure that were educating them to be successful either in a postsecondary education or in a job.
North Dakota students will need an extra dose of the meningococcal vaccine as the state Health Department is changing its immunization requirements.

The Health Department announced Thursday several changes to immunization requirements, including an additional dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, or MCV4, in grades 11 and 12, starting in the 2018-19 school year.

The new state immunization requirements align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's immunization practices. The CDC currently recommends a booster dose of the MCV4 vaccine at age 16.

Lexie Barber, immunization surveillance coordinator with the Health Department, said the rates of that second dose for 16- and 17-year-olds in North Dakota were very low  only about 30 percent.

"So we decided to make that second dose a requirement to get those rates up," Barber said.

The North Dakota University System also requires a second dose of MCV4, but Barber said public health officials want to make sure students are "up-to-date as soon as they can be."

Other changes to immunization requirements include, starting Jan. 1, all children attending child care in North Dakota to be vaccinated for hepatitis B. Previously, only children entering schools were required to be vaccinated for hepatitis B, Barber said.

Vaccine rates for students in kindergarten have increased in recent years after the Health Department teamed up with North Dakota State Universitys Center for Immunization Research and Education to increase rates.

During the 2015-16 school year, about 91 percent of kindergartners had received all of the recommended vaccinations, according to the Health Department. The following year the rate increased to about 94 percent.

The Health Department is also expanding the requirement for the whooping cough vaccine, or Tdap. It previously was required in seventh grade, but, starting next school year, it will be required for grades 7-12.

"It was just an oversight leaving out the rest of the grades, so if a kid missed it in seventh grade or transferred to a different state after that, they werent included," Barber said.

For the 2016-17 school year, Barber said, 91.19 percent of seventh-graders had the Tdap vaccine, and 90.2 percent had MCV4.

"Wed like to see all of our rates at about 95 percent, so (there's) still room for improvement there," Barber said.

The exclusion date for students not in compliance with immunization requirements also has been modified. The rule previously stated children must be excluded from school if they are not compliant with these requirements within 30 days of enrollment. Now, the deadline is Oct. 1.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. | President Donald Trump's administration is rescinding proposed rules for hydraulic fracturing and other oil- and gas-drilling practices on government lands, government officials announced Thursday.

The rules developed under President Barack Obama would have applied mainly in the West, where most federal lands are located. Companies would have had to disclose the chemicals used in fracking, which pumps pressurized water underground to break open hydrocarbon deposits.

The rules to be rescinded Friday were supposed to take effect in 2015 but a federal judge in Wyoming blocked them at the last minute. In September, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver declined to rule in that case because the Trump administration intended to rescind the rules.

The long-awaited change drew praise from industry groups including the Washington, D.C.-based Independent Petroleum Association of America and Denver-based Western Energy Alliance, which sued to block the rules.

They claimed the federal rules would have duplicated state rules, putting unnecessary and expensive burdens on petroleum developers.

"States have an exemplary safety record regulating fracking, and that environmental protection will continue as before," Western Energy Alliance President Kathleen Sgamma said in a release.

Fracking has been so successful in boosting production over the past decade it has become almost synonymous with oil and gas drilling. In many areas, it would be rare nowadays for a gas or oil well to not be fracked.

The process requires several million gallons of water each time. Environmentalists say the potential risks to groundwater require regulation.

"Fracking is a toxic business, and that's why states and countries have banned it. Trump's reckless decision to repeal these common-sense protections will have serious consequences," Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said in an email.
South Dakota lawmakers were among the state's busiest newsmakers in 2017  as usual  with a range of moves that included rejecting and recasting some of the measures approved by voters just a few months earlier. The doings in Pierre were far from the only big story statewide, though: ABC settled a lawsuit brought by a South Dakota meat producer over so-called "pink slime," a jury acquitted a consultant who helped an Indian tribe try to develop a marijuana resort, and a fugitive polygamous leader was captured near Yankton.

Here's a look at some of the top stories of the year:

AT THE CAPITOL

The GOP-controlled Legislature wasn't entirely happy with a ballot measure approved by voters that created a public campaign finance system, established an ethics panel and tightened lobbying and campaign finance laws. Some argued that voters had been fooled by a deceptive campaign and that the measure had constitutional issues. They passed bills that covered some of the same ground, but supporters of the ethics overhaul said it wasn't enough  and vowed to be right back at the ballot box in 2018.

The Legislature passed a $1.59 billion budget that was a few million dollars below what Gov. Dennis Daugaard had envisioned with his first draft, after revenues fell a bit short. Lawmakers managed to approve a minor increase for education and added $1 million to the state employee health plan.

Early in the session, GOP Rep. Matthew Wollmann resigned after admitting sexual contact with two interns. Wollman's departure shined a light on the sometimes chummy ways that legislators and interns interact during the short but intense legislative sessions in Pierre.

Legislators came back briefly in June to create rules governing the use of lakes on private land for recreation, immediately re-opening many waters to outdoor enthusiasts.

DAKOTA ACCESS LINE OPENS UP, AND KEYSTONE LEAKS

The developers of the Dakota Access pipeline finally turned the spigot in March, completing a $3.8 billion project despite months of protests that at one point drew thousands of activists to the Standing Rock reservation on the North Dakota-South Dakota border. Though the pipe now carries oil, opponents continue to try to stop it via the courts.

In November, far away in South Dakota's Marshall County, an estimated 210,000 gallons of oil leaked from the Keystone oil pipeline. Federal regulators said a weight installed on the pipeline a decade earlier to stabilize it might have damaged the pipe and its coating. The leak, which didn't reach water, came shortly before a big vote in Nebraska on the proposed Keystone XL pipeline. Regulators in that state gave the OK to XL anyway.

SOUTH DAKOTA VS ONLINE RETAIL

South Dakota put itself on the leading edge of a move to collect sales taxes from out-of-state internet retailers. The state is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review whether retailers can be required to collect the taxes in states where they don't have a physical presence. It's a legal fight that has big implications for e-commerce, local retailers, and states that miss out on sales taxes. Thirty-five states and the District of Columbia lined up to support South Dakota, which estimates it loses $50 million annually to e-commerce.

PINK SLIME SETTLEMENT

Disney-owned ABC and South Dakota-based Beef Products Inc. locked horns in a South Dakota courtroom over the network's reports on a beef product that critics dubbed "pink slime." BPI argued that ABC's reports amounted to defamation that hurt its operations and cost employee jobs, and sought $1.9 billion. The two sides settled in June for a settlement of $177 million from Disney  and an unknown amount more from insurers.

POLYGAMY LEADER TRIPPED UP AT PAWN SHOP

Polygamous leader Lyle Jeffs, wanted in Utah for an alleged $11 million food stamp fraud, was captured after a year on the run thanks to sharp-eyed pawn shop workers in Yankton. Jeffs had been living out of his truck when he went to River City Treasures and Pawn to sell two pairs of Leatherman pliers  and gave his ID to do it. Though Jeffs had rearranged his name, one of the employees looked him up and realized he was a wanted man. In December, Jeffs was sentenced to nearly five years in prison.

DROUGHT HITS DAKOTAS

South Dakota wasn't quite as dry as North Dakota, but farmers and cattle producers in both states had to deal with parched conditions that forced some producers to sell off cattle. Some farmers lost winter wheat.

MARIJUANA CONSULTANT CLEARED BY JURY

When the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe wanted to develop a recreational marijuana resort, one of the consultants they brought in was Eric Hagen. While the tribe destroyed their crop and dropped the idea in 2015, Hagen was charged with several marijuana possession charges and faced years in prison. But a jury needed only a couple of hours to clear Hagen of the charges. A colleague who had pleaded guilty earlier wound up having his drug case dismissed after agreeing to pay a fine and court costs.

EAGLE CHOP SHOP

In April, federal officials in Rapid City announced they had busted 15 people for illegally trafficking eagles and other migratory birds after a two-year undercover operation. The indictments portrayed an illicit trade carried out through face-to-face meetings, emails, texts and personal introductions, with eagle heads or wings fetching hundreds of dollars and sellers also sometimes trading goods such as bear claws, buffalo horn caps or animal hides.
Guadalupe Lupe Martinez Gonzalez moved to Flagstaff under resident status when she was 18 to be with her mother and stepfather. She couldnt speak a word of English.

Her first job in Flagstaff as a housekeeper was challenging because she didnt know the language. She began to rectify that by taking English classes at The Literacy Center: Literacy Volunteers of Coconino County, now in its 23rd year of service to the community.

It was a slow process, to her, to become fluent in English, but she managed over the years, and she kept getting better jobs. She set her sights on becoming a citizen, and she got help again from the volunteers at The Literacy Center.

On Dec. 8, just a few days before her 24th birthday, she and more than 60 other people became U.S. Citizens during a ceremony at the U.S. District Court in Tucson.

It feels nice, Gonzalez said. It feels important. I feel like Im free.

IMPROVING LIVES

We offer individualized educational support for teens and adults in northern Arizona, said Dianna Sanchez, executive director of TLC.

Among the learners who come to TLC are English language learners, basic language learners (native English speakers), pre-GED and GED learners, and literacy rehabilitation learners at the county jail, Sanchez said. The learners are offered regularly scheduled classes, one-to-one tutor support and drop-in support.

The learners come from all over the globe, Sanchez said, but most of the learners are Spanish speaking. There is no average makeup of learners who come to TLC, but what they all have in common is a dedication to improving the quality of their lives. The learners range from people who want promotions at work to Chinese scholars visiting NAU wanting to improve their English skills.

We get to see so many people from so many walks of life, Sanchez said.

The volunteers also come from all walks of life  from a retired mail carrier to a physicist from NAU.

According to the TLCs annual report, the organization, with a budget of about $143,000, helped 381 people during the 2016-17 fiscal year. Those learners spent 4,700 hours improving literacy skills, and about 100 volunteers gave 5,000 hours of their time in instruction.

Angie Moline, who formerly taught environmental science at NAU for several years and speaks Spanish, has volunteered at TLC for the last year. Gonzalez was her first student, and they would meet once a week to prepare Gonzalez for the citizenship test.

Its been a really rewarding and fun process, Moline said. Shes become a good friend.

Moline, who has gotten to know Gonzalezs family, even went to the citizenship ceremony.

Moline added that she didnt know what to expect from the process of helping somebody prepare for the citizenship test. But Gonzalez was a good student, and the year, after a national election where the names in positions of government changed, offered plenty of opportunity to show the interrelations between past and present and among the three branches of the U.S. government.

It was a lot more fun than I expected, Moline said. It made me happier to be a citizen, too.

NEXT STEPS

Gonzalez said that she began taking English classes about six months after arriving in Flagstaff, and she has continued her learning, both at TLC and at Coconino Community College, to improve her English skills.

She realized, about four years into the process, that she had the potential to become a U.S. citizen and began researching what she needed to do. She applied for citizenship in February, and she had her interview not too long ago.

I was really nervous, Gonzalez said, but the nervousness went away when the person conducting the interview asked her questions she knew the answer to. The studying paid off.

She turned in her green card and received her certificate of citizenship on Dec. 8. Now, she has a passport and plans to visit family in Mexico during the holiday season. Most of her family still lives there.

And her future?

She plans on attending university in Mexico to study business management because the tuition is cheaper there than here in the United States.

The road to citizenship has been a long one, Gonzalez said. But the Moline was generous with her time, and she always had the patience to answer questions and work with Gonzalezs schedule to help her achieve her goal.

As to the help she received at TLC, Gonzalez touched her heart and said, It was amazing. Its a powerful community school.

To donate, to volunteer, or for more information about The Literacy Center, visit www.thinkliteracy.org.
Today, Castle Rock is a dried-up and blown-away town if there ever was one.

But this tiny town with a population of only 4 in the early 1900s had its 15 minutes of fame when it was the geographic center of America, even if it were only for a few months before that title was moved to Belle Fourche.

All that remains of the town are some dilapidated buildings along state highway 79 heading north out of Newell.

Located in Butte County, about 40 miles northeast of Belle Fourche, the town was named after the nearby Castle Rock Butte by Henry Jacobsen in 1910.

Unlike mining boom towns in the Black Hills, it was never a prospering economic area and the population stayed low throughout it's existence.

Industry in the small town came in the former for a local newspaper. In 1912, Jacobsen accepted a printing press as payment for a debt he was otherwise unable to collect from the editor of a nearby paper called The Homesteader. The Castle Rock Press and was edited and printed by Jacobsen and he eventually consolidated The Redig Press and The Moreau News from Hoover, Butte County after a fire burned down their office.

The new paper was called The Castle Rock Press and Moreau News, which was published for 15 years. Over those years, they grew the paper's circulation from 40 to 225 people before being sold to The Valley Irrigator in Newell.

Though the town and little business they still knew had to have a little fun. A rodeo was put on in Castle Rock by Jacobsen for a year featuring events like bucking horses, wild cow milking, horse races, calf roping, mule riding, catching a greased pig, and clowns.

Rodeos and newspaper's aside, it was 1959 when Castle Rock entered the history books. Alaska was awarded statehood, and the center of the nation shifted northwest roughly 400 miles from Kansas to Castle Rock near Two Top Butte.

The Lacrosse Tribune from Lacrosse, Wis., announced the change in their paper with a sharp tongue noting somewhere on these barren, rattlesnake-infested buttes near Castle Rock, S.D., is the spot which will become the new geographical center of the United States when Alaska becomes a state. Until now, Two Top has been known only as a guidepost for ranchers and a good place to hunt rattlers.

Unfortunately for the Castle Rock, its 15 minutes of fame was just that  short.

Just months later in August, Hawaii was granted statehood and the geographical center shifted to its current location outside of Belle Fourche.

It was in Kansas, but we had an issue in 1959 when they wanted to include Alaska and thats when the shift was made to Castle Rock, explained Jerry Penry, a land surveyor who researched the various places that have been named the center of the nation. When Hawaii was added, it moved a little further west. Castle Rock really only had it for less than a year and never had any sort of monument.

Lebanon, Kan. now has a plaque noting itself as the geographical center of the continental United States and Belle Fourche draws in tourists with the Center of the Nation Monument in town even though the actual center is 20 miles outside of town in a farmers field.

Unlike these two towns, Castle Rock was never able to capitalize on their claim to fame.

With the annexing of new states, the geographic center has sometimes been treated like a vagabond being shuffled from one area to another. It has been set in two locations in South Dakota. North Dakota may cast a disapproving eye on South Dakotas claim to the approximate center, but no one can quibble over the geographical center of the U.S. Unless, of course, we get state number 51, read The Wi-lyohi from 1969, the bulletin of the South Dakota State Historical Society.

A plaque placed in 1997 by the Butte County Historical Society marks the original site of the Castle Rock post office and store which operated from 1910 to 1972.
Investor-owned companies selling electricity or natural gas to customers in South Dakota should share the savings from federal tax reductions coming in 2018 so that consumers benefit, state Public Utilities Commission members decided Friday.

The three commissioners voted unanimously for a Feb. 1 deadline when companies must provide general information about estimated effects of Congress cutting the federal corporate-income tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent.

The commission's staff in turn would work with each company on applying reductions to rates, riders and federal transmission tariffs that South Dakota customers pay.

Chairwoman Kristie Fiegen said the tax changes overall were the largest in 31 years. We dont do this every day, she said.

The proceeding covers MidAmerican Energy, Black Hills Energy, Montana-Dakota Utilities, Otter Tail Power, NorthWestern Energy, Xcel Energy and South Dakota Intrastate Pipeline.

Their representatives agreed Friday the companies would be parties in the docket.

The commission held the special meeting specifically ahead of the Jan. 1, 2018, start of the new tax year. The meeting lasted about 45 minutes.

I think its really important we expedite this process, Fiegen said.

Commissioner Chris Nelson asked for a firm deadline. Commissioner Gary Hanson said that made sense, but suggested flexibility for each company to develop its plan.

I want to be certain they have enough time, Hanson said.

Commission analyst Brittany Mehlhaff suggested the scope cover more than basic rates charged by each company. I understand it may take a while to get all the numbers together, Mehlhaff said.

The commissioners emphasized they want customers to see savings.

It would appear this is going to be a significant amount of money that is going to be returned to customers, Hanson said. He added, I want the public to know the commission is not twisting arms here.

Fiegen said each company is in a separate financial and regulatory situation. In some instances, the tax savings might be applied to hold down future rate increases, she said.

It will look differently with every company, Fiegen said.
A Ravalli County Sheriffs drug sting allegedly turned up about 6 ounces of methamphetamine and resulted in the arrest of 41-year-old David James Slattery in Stevensville.

The sting began Nov. 1, when a confidential informant told Detective Jase Basnaw that a woman was being mailed methamphetamine from California for distribution in the Stevensville and Missoula areas.

The detective contacted a postal inspector, who agreed to assist in the investigation, and said that the woman was living in the 500 block of Mission Street in Stevensville.

On Dec. 4, the inspector told Basnaw the U.S. Postal Service received a package it deemed suspicious, with no return address, no name for delivery of the package, and it was an overnight delivery. A K-9 dog sniffed the package, but didnt alert for drugs and it was delivered to the address.

The informant advised Basnaw that the woman suspected someone was ratting on her and that her drug source instead had driven from California and was staying with the woman.

Det. Basnaw knew from training and experience that the package was likely a bait package to determine if there was an active law enforcement investigation, Deputy County Attorney Thorin Geist wrote in an affidavit.

On Dec. 23, Basnaw received another call from the postal inspector advising that a second suspicious package had been received that was addressed to the woman and Dave. It was sent from a fictitious California address.

This time, a K-9 dog indicated drugs were inside the package. It was sent out for a controlled delivery; meanwhile, Basnaw obtained a search warrant for the residence.

After the package was delivered, Det. Basnaw and the search warrant team approached the front door and announced themselves. Det. Basnaw heard movement inside the door, and entry was made in order to prevent the destruction of evidence, Geist wrote. A male and large agitated pit bull were located inside.

Along with the 6 ounces of methamphetamine, the officers allegedly found a Springfield XD 9 mm pistol, a rifle of unknown make, a black box containing rifle parts, and a safe with drug packaging materials and a red leather case with marijuana, scales and pipes.

Slattery was taken into custody and charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs with intent to distribute meth. He also was charged with misdemeanor criminal possession of marijuana and of drug paraphernalia.

The affidavit didnt report on whether the woman was arrested.

Slattery remains in the Ravalli County Detention Center in lieu of a $15,000 bond. His initial appearance is set for Jan. 10.
An avalanche has closed Highway 200 about a half-mile east of Helmville after sliding onto two vehicles.

The Missoula County Sheriff's Office said it had received no requests for assistance after the slide dumped six to seven feet of snow on the highway at mile marker 56 near the intersection with Highway 141 about 9 p.m. Friday.

A social media post from Lincoln Volunteer Fire Rescue urged people to "Stay home. It's bad. Very. No joke folks.''

Missoula County Undersheriff Rich Maricelli said one of the cars was traveling east, the other was heading west when the avalanche struck them but had no information on the conditions of the occupants or whether the vehicles had been damaged.

Powell County officials could not be reached for details Friday night.

The Montana Department of Transportation said westbound traffic on Highway 200 was being detoured at Lincoln and eastbound traffic will be detoured onto Highway 141.
sacw.net - 30 December 2017

Peoples Alliance for Democracy and Secularism

Press Statement

Peoples Alliance for Democracy and Secularism Condemns Casteist, Patriarchal and anti-Secular Comments of a BJP Minister

A minister in the Modi government has publicly attacked secularism and stated that his party is here to change the Constitution. At a public meeting of Brahman Yuva Parishad at the Koppal district of Karnataka on 25 December, Mr Ananta Kumar Hegde said that seculars aare like people without parentage, or who do not know their bloodlinea. He also said that he is happy if people identify themselves with their caste and religion, but gets suspicious about seculars who refuse to do so. Meanwhile, after public criticism the Minister has apologized in the parliament and said that for him aConstitution is supremea. This apology however should not fool anyone. Doublespeak is an old BJP/RSS tactic. Ministeras comments should be understood in the local context of Karnataka politics and the broader ideological beliefs in India which have lately helped Hindutva fascists expand their appeal.

Karnataka has recently seen widespread public demonstrations and outrage against murders of two well known rationalist public intellectuals, namely Prof Kalburgi, and Guari Lankesh. Both were against the Hindutva agenda of the BJP in Karnataka, and are widely believed to have been killed by extremist Hindu groups. Karnataka goes for assembly polls next year. Ministeras comments were clearly aimed at ridiculing opposition to Hindutva in Karnataka and galvanising its core support base. However, the actual politics of Hindutva and its reach goes much beyond this core.

Through his talk of ano parentagea and abloodlinea, the minister has shown a casteist, patriarchal and feudal mindset. The caste system is based upon strictly controlled patrilineal descent. It valorized savarna castes the only ones fit for learning, bearing arms and commerce, while the majority of Shudras and untouchables were forced into farming, and artisanal and other professions which were devalued. Savarna castes maintained and justified their privileges through their abloodlinea. It is obvious that the minister wanted to present his party as the defender of the most outrageous savarna caste prejudices.

Similarly, by ridiculing people of would not consider their caste or religion as their primary identity, he has shown a mentality that cannot have a place in a modern democracy. The primary identity of every Indian recognized by the constitution is that of a citizen, irrespective caste, gender, religion, or ethnicity. No identity can be forced upon a citizen, and if a citizen wishes, she/he can refuse to follow caste or religious diktats, or can even change their religious identity. Democracy gives citizens the freedom to be whatever they wish; but communalism, casteism and racism force into fixed identities and target them on that basis.

It is well known that Hindutva is against secularism. It considers secularism detrimental to the interests of the religious majority (which they falsely claim to represent); and a means of appeasing religious minorities. Many broad-minded people who oppose the anti-Muslim and anti-Christian politics of Hindutva also think that secularism is a doctrine concerned only with protecting minorities. This is a limited understanding of secularism. India needs to be secular not only for the security and protection of minorities, but because no true democracy can function without secular values, and a state which does not follow secularism will be against interests of every Indian.

Formally speaking, secularism require that that the state refrain from discriminating between citizens on the basis of their religion. At a time when Muslim Indians are being lynched on false accusations of alove jihada, and abeef eatinga, and when state governments appear more intent on vilifying the victims rather than punishing the murderers, no sane citizen can deny that the secular principle of equal protection of law to everyone is extremely important.

Modern democracy is premised upon two fundamental values: equality and freedom. The principle of secularism in this context implies that no religious belief, injunction or text, can be used to violate the equality and freedom of citizens. This is of extreme importance for a society like India, where the equality and freedom of many citizens are routinely violated under the garb of religion. For example, the untouchability sanctioned by the Hindu caste system which meant that untouchables were humiliated at public places was outlawed by the Constitution. Similarly, if ban on entry to public places of worship, or unequal property rights and divorce practices like Triple Talaq sanctioned by religion are found to be violating the right to equality and freedom of women, these too can be made illegal.

Secularism is also necessary for the protection of freedom of others who may not consider themselves oppressed. In a secular democracy the freedom to choose oneas profession, life partner, place of residence, food, dress, the right to express oneas ideas, etc. cannot be violated on the basis of religious demands. It is high time Indians realise that the anti-secular and anti-minority agenda of Hindutva is actually against all Indians.

A misunderstanding specifically spread by communal forces is that secularism is anti-religious. This is a completely bogus allegation. The overwhelming majority of statesmen who framed Indian constitution were religious persons, who believed that a secular state was best for the country. The majority of Indians who are religious regularly vote for parties which call themselves secular. Actually, secularism is essential to guarantee equal religious freedom to everybody. On the other hand, communalists of every denomination constantly attempt to enforce their own perception of religion on everybody, especially upon the community they claim to represent.

The Ministeras comments violate the secular and democratic foundations of the Constitution. It is a matter of shame that a person who holds his office by virtue of an oath under the Constitution has boasted about his partyas intention to demolish that very Constitution. Moreover he voiced them at a savarna caste gathering. This intention of the BJP/RSS is well-known and we should not be surprised. Rather we should call upon Indian citizens to take note of this sinister scheme of the Sangh Parivar and resist it by all possible democratic means.

The Peopleas Alliance for Democracy and Secularism demands that Mr Ananta Kumar Hegde be sacked from the council of ministers. People like him do not deserve to hold any constitutional office.

Contact number: Battini Rao, 9533975195,

Mail i d: battini.rao(at)gmail.com
Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.
SIOUX CITY | Siouxland spirit -- and dollars -- flowed rapidly Friday to the owners of a Sioux City honey business victimized by vandalism that killed their half million bees.

Justin Englehardt, who runs Wild Hill Honey with his wife, Tori, said Friday the couple "absolutely" plans to restock their hives as early as this spring in light of the public's generosity.

"We are salvaging what we can," Englehardt told the Journal.

How much honeycomb remains will be a major factor in the recovery process, he added, saying, "The wealth of a beekeeper is in his comb."

In an interview 24 hours earlier, Englehardt conceded the outlook "looked really hopeless" and doubted the business could survive such a large financial hit.

As police continued Friday to investigate the crime and pursue leads, the Englehardts rejoiced in the outpouring of community support they've received since The Journal first reported the vandalism. Justin Englehardt said he was amazed by the number of people who flooded his phone with calls and texts and donated to online Go Fund Me accounts established in the couple's names.

As of 7:30 p.m. Friday, a Go Fund Me account approved by the Englehardts had raised about $23,800 from 649 donors.

"Holy smokes," Englehardt said after a Journal reporter shared that $7,400 had been pledged as of noon Friday. "That is amazing. We are really, really grateful for all the support."

In setting up the Wild Hill-approved account, Todd LaCroix of Sioux City wrote, "Tori and Justin are wonderful people who have just suffered a terrible loss. The destruction of their bees and equipment is not only a financial hardship but has taken an emotional toll as well. Unfortunately, insurance will not cover the loss of the bees and equipment. Any help is appreciated."

A donor who posted a comment on the account said, "I hope that donations and support can get you back up and running."

"Yeah, we'll keep it going," Englehardt told the Journal. "(The donors) will keep us going, actually."

Two smaller Go Fund Me accounts set up in Wild Hill's name had raised $4,838 and $2,568, respectively as of 7:30 p.m., bringing the grand total to $31,200 in less than a day.

Wild Hill's losses were estimated Thursday at $50,000 to $60,000. The hives were not covered by insurance.

Justin Engelhardt discovered the damage after he went to dust snow off the 50 hives, located in a grove on an 18-acre property just south of West High School. The beekeepers' supply shed had been ransacked. Worse, the miscreants had knocked over every single hive, fatally exposing the 500,000 bees to the bitter cold conditions.

After hearing about the public generosity, Engelhardt first predicted the business could start selling honey again by July. After noticing his wife shaking her head, he walked that back a bit, saying sales definitely would resume by 2019.

Wild Hills, started six years ago, markets jars of pure, raw and creamed varieties of honey and other honey byproducts at Pierce Street Coffee Works, Sioux City Gifts, Palmers Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe, trade shows and other spaces.

The Engelhardts are among the rare beekeepers from a northern state who keep their hives at home during the winter. During cold weather months, most large commercial beekeepers transport their bees to California or Texas to gather nectar from crops there.

Since 2006, when scientists identified what's known as colony collapse disorder, many beekeepers have lost a third or more of their colonies each year. Government studies blame a combination of factors for the mysterious and dramatic losses, including increased use of pesticides, shrinking habitat, multiple viruses, poor nutrition and genetics.

The continuing losses threaten an estimated $30 billion worth of crops annually that depend on pollination.
SIOUX CITY | A former East High School teacher has been charged with taking nearly $3,000 out of school accounts for Special Olympics and at least one other program.

Melissa Dickerson, 48, of Sioux City, turned herself in last week and was arrested on a charge of second-degree theft. She was released from jail on bond.

According to court documents, Dickerson, an East High special education teacher, opened bank accounts in 2013 under the names of East High Special Olympics and the Friendship Connection in violation of Sioux City Community School District policies aimed at preventing financial abuse of those types of funds.

Earlier this month, district officials were contacted by Wells Fargo Bank and told that one of the accounts was overdrawn because of a MidAmerican Energy bill in Dickerson's name, court documents said. A subsequent district investigation discovered numerous previously unknown accounts, many in Dickerson's name, with suspicious charges and withdrawals, court documents said.

When confronted by district officials, court documents say, Dickerson admitted that she used money raised by East High Special Olympics and the Friendship Connection for her own benefit. She highlighted $2,960 in transactions from August 2016 through June that were made for her own personal use.

Dickerson has resigned from her teaching position, court documents said.
PRIMGHAR, Iowa | A Sheldon, Iowa, man was arrested Thursday on a pair of charges related to his role in a July 2016 all-terrain vehicle crash that resulted in the death of a female passenger.

O'Brien County authorities charged 27-year-old Garrett Richard Crowl with two counts of homicide by vehicle, one for operating while intoxicated and another for reckless driving.

According to a news release, Crowl was the driver of an ATV carrying one passenger, 25-year-old Shaleah Donavon, that crashed the evening of July 30, 2016, at a private recreation area approximately two miles north of Sheldon. The release said Crowl lost control of the ATV and collided with a tree. Neither Crowl nor Donavon were wearing helmets.

Crowl and Donavon were both transported by Sheldon Ambulance to Sanford Medical Center in Sheldon. Donavon was pronounced dead at the hospital. Crowl was later airlifted to Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Criminal complaints filed against Crowl earlier this month allege the accident occurred while he was operating the ATV recklessly while under the influence of a controlled substance. Crowl turned himself in Thursday and was booked into the O'Brien County Jail. He was released later that day on a recognizance bond and will be required to appear later in O'Brien County District Court on the charges.

The Iowa State Patrol and O'Brien County Sheriff investigated the case.
SIOUX CITY | Siouxlanders have likely seen their final positive thermometer readings of 2017.

As temperatures dipped below zero during the overnight hours Friday, they were expected to remain in the negative until Tuesday.

The result will be a brutally frigid New Year's weekend in Siouxland, with temperatures dropping dangerously low and wind chills bottoming out even lower -- to 30 to 40 below in some areas of the region.

The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls on Friday issued a Wind Chill Advisory extending through noon Saturday for the majority of Siouxland and a Wind Chill Warning for those farthest to the northeast: Osceola, Dickinson, Clay and Buena Vista.

Overnight wind chills will range from 15 below zero to 30 below zero for the advisory area and slightly colder temperatures ranging from 20 below zero to 35 below zero in the warning area.

NWS meteorologist Jim Murray said temperatures are expected to warm up just enough Saturday afternoon to escape an advisory, but as overnight temperatures continue to decrease throughout the weekend, more advisories and warnings will almost certainly be on the way.

The coldest night, he said, will be overnight Sunday.

"We're looking at a low of negative 23 on Sunday night in Sioux City," he said. "Wind chills are going to be down around 40 below. It's going to be really, really dangerous."

The weather service placed the Saturday morning overnight low at 6 degrees below zero, and the Saturday high is forecast for 4 degrees below zero. After that, the temperature is forecast to drop to 14 degrees below zero on Sunday morning, rise to only 7 degrees below zero in the daytime Sunday, and drop steeply to 24 degrees below zero by Monday morning.

The daytime Monday high is forecast for 3 degrees below zero. Then another big drop will occur overnight to 17 degrees below zero Tuesday morning, before warming follows, with the Sioux City high temperature to finally move above zero, at 17 degrees.

As Siouxlanders ring in 2018 on midnight New Year's Eve, the wind chill could be as low as 40 below zero in Sioux City and 42 below zero in Sheldon and Storm Lake, as well as in Beresford, South Dakota.

"We're not going to have a lot of wind through that period," Murray said. "It's just that the temperatures are so cold that even with a little bit of wind, it just drops it lower."

The coldest wind chills this weekend will be capable of causing frostbite in as little as 10 minutes to exposed skin, according to the NWS.

"Just protect yourself," Murray said. "Stay inside if you can. If you can't, dress warmly."

Siouxland saw a fresh blanket of snow Friday, and Murray said Sioux City could see an additional inch or so on Saturday evening.

The Woodbury County Sheriff's Office on Friday afternoon issued a news release encouraging caution for those traveling over the weekend, especially those driving in rural areas. The release recommended drivers allow plenty of time to reach their destinations, let someone else know where they are headed, keep their cellphones charged and have a winter weather emergency kit in their vehicles in case they become stranded.

The oncoming cold temperatures led the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Friday to cancel its annual First Day Hike Monday at state parks around the region, including Stone State Park. As of Friday afternoon, representatives at Ponca State Park in Nebraska said their 2 p.m. walk was still on.

The Journal's Bret Hayworth contributed to this report.
DES MOINES | Republicans who control the Iowa Statehouse arent debating whether they will reduce state income taxes this session, but rather by how much and just where changes will deliver the most bang for the buck.

Now that President Donald Trump has signed a major overhaul of the federal corporate and individual income tax system, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and the 29 GOP senators and 58 representatives who make up the legislative majorities are analyzing the numbers to determine how much tax relief the state can afford and how best to enhance the states competitive position equitably.

Its a once-in-a-generation opportunity, said Senate President Jack Whitver, R-Ankeny.

Frankly, we havent had income tax reform in 20 years. We havent had corporate reform in 30 years, and so its really a once-in-a-generation opportunity for us to take a new look at our tax code, added Whitver. I would like to see something that is fair across the board so that everyone is getting the same percentage decrease in their taxes and its beneficial for everybody in the state of Iowa.

In 1997, the Republican-led Legislature and Gov. Terry Branstad approved a 10 percent across-the-board cut in state income taxes, which put Iowas top rate for individuals at 8.98 percent and the top rate for corporations at 12 percent.

They left intact the politically popular option for Iowans to deduct their federal tax liability from their taxable state income. But the feature skews Iowas competitive position by placing it high in state-by-state comparisons that do not reflect the effective rates once the federal deductibility is factored in.

Business recruiters say companies do not conduct deep-dive research that would show Iowas top individual rate is really more like 6 percent after federal deductibility. Instead, Iowa ranks 40th in the Tax Foundations business climate index, they say, and Iowas current nine brackets are too cumbersome and complicated compared with other states that have streamlined their tax systems.

With Iowa facing a likely revenue windfall from the federal tax cuts  due to Iowans deducting less tax on their state returns  Reynolds and GOP legislative leaders say the time is right to do a comprehensive rewrite on the Iowa tax code. They say they are looking at reducing tax rates, compressing brackets, simplifying the state return while also examining credits, deductions and expanding the sales tax base to capture online sales that have given Internet-based operators an advantage over bricks-and-mortar businesses in the state.

The economy has changed in 20 years and its changing very rapidly. And so what do we need to do with our tax code to fit a 21st century economy  and for me its all about growth. The only reason to do tax reform is to encourage more growth in the state of Iowa, Whitver said. To fund our priorities long term, we need more people in the state of Iowa. We do need economic growth because our revenues have stalled out over the last three or four years. Without growth, there are a lot of priorities that arent going to get funded.

Sen. Randy Feenstra, R-Hull, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, said lawmakers have had to start over with simulated computer runs based on the game changer of the federal tax rewrite. He said he hopes to have state Department of Revenue data fairly early in the legislative session that can be used to craft a package of tax reforms for consideration.

I do think we are at a precipice to do something, said Feenstra. Maybe this is a watershed year that you can do some solid planning for years ahead if you do it right, if you create a plan of spending and reform or discounting.

Reynolds, in assembling her first legislative agenda, said improving Iowas competitive business climate and building a skilled workforce are at the top of her list.

While the tax discussion is in its formative stages, she said she hopes to convey some broad ideas of the direction that were headed to help Iowans keep more of their hard-earned money when she gives her Jan. 9 Condition of the State address.

We want to make sure that its financially sustainable and that we can continue to honor the commitments that weve made, she said in an interview. So I think we can give some broad senses about the direction that were heading but I just want to make sure that weve done the proper analysis, we feel comfortable in what were doing, it accomplishes what some of our goals are going forward.

Senate Majority Leader Bill Dix, R-Shell Rock, said his No. 1 priority is lowering the rates for Iowas income taxpayers and creating a competitive environment to attract new careers and more taxpayers.

In my opinion, this wont be a successful session unless we have a significant tax bill get accomplished, he said.

Minority Democrats worry that Iowans will be shut out of the process, given past GOP actions to revamp collective bargaining for public-sector employees, injured workers compensation and gun regulations, along with closing state mental health and other institutions and shifting to privately managed Medicaid.

Their tax packages that we have seen in the past have not been beneficial to everyday Iowans, said Senate Minority Leader Janet Petersen, D-Des Moines. With the budget our state is facing, knowing that all of us will be coming back and Republicans will have to fix the budget mess were in, it seems like this is not a wise time to be cutting taxes when theyre busy cutting essential services that Iowans count on and our public education system.

Tax overhaul has to be framed in the context of the existing budget mess, said Sen. Rob Hogg, D-Cedar Rapids. Tax reform that would take more revenue away from the state is unimaginable.

House Speaker Linda Upmeyer, R-Clear Lake, said majority House Republicans are pretty pragmatic when it comes to balancing the budget while improving tax competitiveness.

Were not going to do something that puts the state in a position where we have an entire mismatch there, Upmeyer said. Were not going to do that. But we are going to look for opportunities and, if for any reason the federal activity generates a windfall or an increase in resources here for Iowa, I think much of that is dollars that werent paid in taxes, we expect them to be able to keep it so were not just going to haul it in.

That struck a chord with John Stineman, executive director of the Iowa Chamber Alliance, which wants to see the Legislature address the sticker shock associated with Iowas top individual and corporate income tax rates  but not at the price of fiscal responsibility that fosters quality of life and other elements also important to business development.

We want to make sure that whatever we bite off is something were actually able to swallow, said Stineman. All that being said, we want to see lower rates, lower advertised rates in particular, and we want to see a move toward simplicity.

Mike Owen, executive director of the Iowa Policy Project, said Iowa has a regressive tax system that slants in favor of wealthy Iowans who pay a lower percentage of their income in state and local taxes than do the bottom 80 percent of the taxpaying population.

Any changes should be based upon fairness and generating the revenue needed for vital public services, he said, especially with indications coming from Congress that some safety-net programs may be cut.

I dont think theres an argument for cutting business taxes for competitiveness reasons, said Peter Fisher, an Iowa Policy Project economist. We dont need to be near the bottom, probably dont want to be near the bottom, because that probably means weve got potholes in our roads and our kids arent getting a good education, which are all things that matter to businesses.

Rather than flattening income tax rates, which would make sales and property taxes more regressive, Owen said, lawmakers should place a five-year sunset on existing tax credit programs and inject more accountability into the tax system while plugging loopholes.

Whitver said he expects everything will be on the table during the legislative tax policy examination, including more than 40 tax credits that carry an obligation ranging between $400 million and $500 million.

Some of those have been around for a long time, he said. Maybe at one point they served a great purpose and maybe today in this new economy its not as relevant.
With Iowa leaders saying everything is on the table for tax reform, the discussion likely will include debates about tax credits and economic incentive programs.

At its best, this session has the opportunity to have modernization, simplification and reform of what we consider to be an uncompetitive and complicated tax code and the preservation of tax credit programs and economic incentive programs that drive economic growth, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Executive Director Doug Neumann said. On the worst possible scenario on the spectrum of outcomes, we could have tax credit programs eliminated, reduced, capped, refundability changed (or) in some way negatively impact tax credit programs and get no tax reform.

With that in mind, business groups have made arguments for why certain programs should not be changed, even if Iowa reduces income tax rates.

If our M.O. in tax reform is to make Iowa more attractive, more competitive and to grow our economy, to raise incomes, to provide more opportunities for Iowa workers, then we absolutely still need the full suite of economic development tools that we utilize in those endeavors, said John Stineman, executive director of the Iowa Chamber Alliance, which represents 16 chambers of commerce.

Even so, others have called for a review of Iowas incentive programs. With the state facing a tight budget and needed reductions in spending, something has to give, they said.

The state has an obligation at this point to look at tax credits and the level of funding that goes to tax credits, primarily because it has grown so quickly comparatively to other parts of our budget, said Rep. Chris Hall, D-Sioux City, ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee.

What's a better investment?

Advocates for the tax credit programs argue eliminating the incentives would not guarantee more state revenue. Instead, they said the incentives act as a short-term investment for a long-term gain.

If you hamper, hinder, cut, reduce those programs, youre actually going to see less come back to the general fund because every one of them has a (return on investment), Stineman said.

But Iowa Policy Project economist Peter Fisher said money put toward education and health care would better bolster the states workforce.

Its kind of shortsighted to be giving away money to get 100 jobs here or there rather than what are we doing for our next generation of workers, Fisher said.

Iowa lawmakers should put sunsets on tax credit programs that would require them to reauthorize the incentives every few years, he said.

We have a system in place for evaluating their effectiveness, but the legislature is not going to take those evaluations seriously unless those credits sunset, unless theyve got to take legislative action to renew them, Fisher said.

Iowas contingent liability  the amount the state could be on the hook for if all awarded credits are claimed  is $547.2 million for the current fiscal year, according to the state Department of Revenue. Expected tax credit claim amounts are about $450 million, as not all awarded credits are claimed.

The state should really know what we are going to be on the hook for every year when it comes to tax credits, Grassley said last March.

He could not be reached for comment for this story.

Grassleys legislation did not make it out of a House subcommittee.

Both Fisher and Hall said the state should maintain tax credit programs for families and low-income Iowans.

The type of tax credits that exist for private citizens and working families primarily go toward things like child care, toward preschool education and toward a segment that is working below the poverty line, Hall said.

The way this world works

The Chamber Alliance, whose members include the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce, specifically has said it wants to protect tax incentive programs for angel investors, job training and historic preservation, among others. It also wants to preserve Iowas High Quality Jobs tax incentives, a main program used by the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Economic Development Authority Director Debi Durham said she would consider a pare down of the High Quality Jobs program as long as lawmakers make real tax reform.

It has to be substantive, it has to move the needle, and if it does, then absolutely we need to have a conversation on our incentive programs, Durham said.

She also said how Iowa calculates awards under High Quality Jobs should be re-evaluated to increase the requirements put on companies.

Certainly that is a conversation we should have at the same time were talking about incentives, is increasing the amount of capital investment, increasing the amount of jobs in that matrix, she said.

Iowa always will need incentive programs to be competitive, though, Durham said.

Its the way this world works, like it or not. There will still be incentives, but the incentives can be right-sized based on our competitive nature, she said.

Rep. Hall said any changes to tax credit programs need to give businesses time to adjust. Changes also need to be respectful to taxpayers, he said.

While we may want their business being done in the state, we cant allow taxpayers to be a crutch for their business model, he said.

Chambers: Don't touch R&D

One tax credit Durham, Stineman and Neumann dont want touched is Iowas Research Activities Credit, provided to companies who do research-and-development work in the state.

The credit is refundable, meaning Iowa will write a check to companies who claim more in the credit than they have in state income tax liability. Critics have called out the credit because its refundable and because most of the R&D credits are claimed by large companies, such as Rockwell and Moline, Ill.-based Deere and Co.

Supporters, though, said the credit encourages high-paying, high-quality work in Iowa. In addition, while companies who receive refunds may not have income tax liability, they pay taxes on property and payrolls they have in the state, Neumann said.

They still provide far more to the state of Iowa than the state of Iowa is providing to them, he said.

Iowa Policy Projects Fisher said it would be better if more of the research credit went to small businesses. The state could encourage that, he said, by capping the refundability level of the credit.

The total picture of job growth in this state and any state, its dominated by jobs in new and fast-growing entrepreneurial firms, Fisher said.

Durham called the program one of the best incentives we have.

These are highly paid positions and we know that where companies do their innovation  and theres no better example than Rockwell Collins  theyre more likely to do their manufacturing and processing in the same place, she said.

Durham did say Iowa could look at what type of work would qualify for the credit and whether there should be additional oversight of the program.

Hall also said programs such as the R&D credit should be reworked.

The Research Activities credit is not something that was put in place in order to become a crutch for certain companies or allow it to be a funding source of their business plan, he said.
They are the men and women who greet hikers at the start of Humphreys Trail, making sure they know the weather forecast and the supplies necessary to make the nearly 10-mile trip.

They are the workers building fences to protect sensitive aspen groves on the Coconino National Forest.

And they are the people who conveniently issue backcountry permits to hikers and skiers at Arizona Snowbowl on winter weekends.

All are volunteers and the common thread among them is their membership in the Friends of Northern Arizona Forests, or FoNAF. The 8-year-old organization works in partnership with the Coconino National Forest to accomplish work that the staff-and-budget-limited Forest Service doesnt have the time or resources to do on its own. In 2017 alone, FoNAF contributed more than 4,200 volunteer hours to Forest Service tasks.

For its dedication to this Forest Service support role, Friends of Northern Arizona Forests was chosen as the 2017 Arizona Daily Suns Organization of the Year.

The volunteer groups core focus is on building and maintaining exclosure fences around aspen stands in forests around the Flagstaff area. The 8-foot tall fences are designed to keep elk, deer and cattle from munching on young aspen, which prevents regeneration.

FoNAF will be the reason tourists visiting the Flagstaff area will be able to see aspen in the forest now and into the future, Dick Fleishman, a Forest Service coordinator on the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, wrote in a letter of support for the organization.

When it started in 2009, the organization spent nearly all of its time repairing aspen exclosure fences on the Flagstaff Ranger District, said Dave Downes, the groups treasurer. There are more than 60 exclosures on the district, and it took four or five years to repair and reconstruct the ones that had fallen into disrepair, he said. Now, each of the 20 or so members of FoNAF's aspen team is responsible for checking on a few exclosures each spring and reporting repairs that need to be made.

With that project mostly under control, the group has expanded to more projects on the Coconino as well as the Kaibab National Forest next door. In addition to building new aspen exclosures, volunteers modify old cattle fences to allow pronghorns to pass underneath and build fences to protect wet meadows, riparian areas and archaeological sites in the forest.

Over this year and last year, FoNAF volunteers stabilized the historic cabin near Big Leroux Spring and removed about half a ton of old wire and metal around Big and Little Leroux Springs, which made a marked environmental improvement, said Bruce Belman, the groups vice president.

Another of FoNAF's tasks involved rebuilding a wildlife watering tank north of the San Francisco Peaks using an improved engineering design. The Forest Service has about 150 of the water tanks across the Flagstaff Ranger District, but the logging money set aside to construct the tanks didnt account for continued operations and maintenance, so many have fallen into disrepair, said Tom Mackin, the groups president. The tank rebuild by FoNAF volunteers has been a success, though, remaining at least 85 percent full of water while in years past it wasnt more than 30 percent to 40 percent full, Mackin said.

In winter, a couple of the friends group's volunteers issue backcountry permits at Arizona Snowbowls Agassiz Lodge. The permits are required for people who ski, snowboard, snowshoe or alpine climb into the Kachina Peaks Wilderness outside of Arizona Snowbowl.

FoNAFs newest initiative is a preventive search and rescue program that involves sending volunteers to the Humphreys trailhead every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The volunteers talk to hikers about the weather forecast and lightning awareness, give alternative trail suggestions and provide information about proper gear, how much food and water to bring for the hike and the signs of altitude sickness.

With more than 10,000 visitor contacts per year, the program has had the highest contact numbers of any program on the Coconino and contributed to declines in rescues and injuries on the mountain, Mackin said.

The group works with the Forest Service on everything it does. Every January, FoNAF members sit down with agency staff and hear about projects that could use volunteer assistance, then decide which they might have capacity to do. More recently, FoNAF has started suggesting its own projects on the forest as well.

The friends group is a special asset to the Forest Service, Flagstaff Ranger District wildlife biologist Cary Thompson wrote in support of the groups nomination.

We have many partners and volunteers that help us accomplish our mission but FoNAF is unique in that they are a long-term partner. They have a consistent member base with the required Forest Service training and are well versed in our culture, Thompson wrote. They have an understanding of our challenges yet focus on solutions.

The group has 43 members and they are always looking for new volunteers, Downes said.

The organization provides an opportunity to get outdoors and do work that produces tangible results on the forest, said Bob Dyer, FoNAFs secretary.

Mackin echoed those thoughts.

Its very easy to see the problems with a lot of public lands and personally I view FoNAF as an opportunity to be part of the solution to correct those problems, Mackin said.

Their volunteer projects may not be flashy, but they matter quite a bit to people passionate about pronghorns, for example, or visitors interested in the areas aspen trees, Belman said.

We've become a tremendous multiplier for Forest Service efforts, he said.
Last week, Congress and President Donald Trump enacted permanent income tax cuts for corporations and other businesses. Then they belatedly gave the Childrens Health Insurance Program an extension that could run out in a matter of weeks.

In fiscal 2017, which ended Sept. 30, the federal government spent $16 billion to provide health coverage at low cost or no cost to the families of 9 million American children. Before leaving Washington, D.C., for their Christmas vacation, lawmakers approved a stopgap funding bill that includes $2.9 billion for CHIP. Some members of Congress said that will fund the childrens health program till March, but others on both sides of the aisle cautioned that the money will run out sooner.

Congress has known for more than two years that CHIP funding would end on Sept. 30, 2017, if the House and Senate failed to reauthorize it. Republicans and Democrats agree that it should be renewed for five years. However, the parties leaders disagree on how to pay for it.

There was no such pay for requirement on the massive tax cut bill, which is projected to add at least $1 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. In other words, the majority in Congress agreed to borrow $1 trillion to cover the tax cut, but it hasnt reached a compromise on funding $16 billion this year for childrens care.

In Montana, 24,000 children rely on CHIP. Over the past 20 years, federal CHIP funding has allowed Montana children in low income families to have health coverage, even when their parents couldnt afford insurance for themselves.

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock joined Republican and Democratic governors from other states in pleading for CHIP renewal. Fourteen states were expected to start cutting children out of their programs in January, if Congress failed to appropriate more money. Montana was projected to run out of CHIP funds as early as February.

Sens. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued a joint statement, promising to seek a five-year extension soon.

We will be vigilant to ensure this program isnt subject to repeated short-term fixes and constantly looming deadlines  families across the nation deserve better, Wyden and Hatch said. And yet CHIP has less than two months of funding when we are already three months into the fiscal year.

Among the funding sources proposed for CHIP is elimination of public health programs and higher costs for some Medicare beneficiaries.

A group of eight childrens advocacy organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, March of Dimes and National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, said in a news release: Right now, the greatest threat to childrens health care coverage is congressional inaction.

We agree. As the childrens health advocates said, What states and families need is stability. Instead, what they get from the House measure is a continuation of a dangerous trend: temporary, inadequate CHIP funding patches, delivered at the last possible moment with no comprehensive relief assurance.

This popular childrens program may be just the first casualty as Congress eventually pays for the massive income tax cut law by reducing spending on Medicaid, Medicare and other domestic programs as outlined in the GOP budget blueprint.

We urge Montanas delegation of Jon Tester, Steve Daines and Greg Gianforte to advocate for the children of Montana. Dont allow their health care to be used as a political bargaining chip.
WASHINGTON

(December 29, 2017)The U.S. Department of Defense recently announced the following contract awards that pertain to local Navy activities., is being awardedfor cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order N0001917F1011 against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00019-17-G-0002) in support of the V-22. This order provides for fleet software sustainment that includes engineering and technical support for the V-22 flight control system and on-aircraft avionics software; flight test planning and coordination of changed avionics and flight control configuration; upgrade planning of avionics and flight controls, including performance of qualification testing and integration testing on software products. Work will be performed at Ridley Park, Pennsylvania (89 percent); and Fort Worth, Texas (11 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2019. Fiscal 2016 aircraft procurement (Navy); fiscal 2018 operations and maintenance (Air Force); and fiscal 2018 budget program (Air Force) funds in the amount of $20,596,160 will be obligated at time of award, $18,265,529 of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor cost-plus- fixed-fee delivery order N0001917F1034 against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00019-17-G-0002) in support of the V-22. This order procures mission management and flight control software updates to cockpit displays that will provide aircrews with more situational awareness and improved flight control during brown-out conditions. This is one phase in a multi-phase effort to improve overall aircraft performance and crew situational awareness in a degraded visual environment. Work will be performed in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, and is expected to be completed in December 2019. Fiscal 2016 and 2017 budget program (Air Force); and fiscal 2016 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $12,797,722 will be obligated at time of award, $11,912,722 of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor modification P00040 to a previously awarded fixed-price-incentive-fee contract (N00019-15-C-0092) for the incorporation of the Block II plus engineering change proposal into 100 AIM-9X missiles that were purchased under Lot 17. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona. Work is expected to be completed in September 2020. Fiscal 2017 missile procurement (Air Force); and fiscal 2017 weapons procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $10,202,224 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor fixed-price-incentive modification P00003 to a previously awarded advanced acquisition contract (N00019-17-C-0018) for the Lot 3 low-rate initial production of three MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft, trade studies and tooling in support of the Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program Office. Work will be performed in San Diego, California (30.4 percent); Baltimore, Maryland (13.5 percent); Red Oak, Texas (13.4 percent); Palmdale, California (10.5 percent); Salt Lake City, Utah (6.1 percent); Bridgeport, West Virginia (5.3 percent); Moss Point, Mississippi (4.2 percent); Indianapolis, Indiana (3.9 percent); Newton, North Dakota (1percent); Quebec, Canada (.9 percent); and various locations within the continental U.S. (10.8 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2021. Fiscal 2018 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $255,309,325 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor modification P00027 to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-14-D-0001) to exercise an option for depot level maintenance support and sustainment for the F/A-18 A/B/C/D aircraft. This includes the performance of high flight hour (HFH) inspections, HFH recurring inspections, additional inspections, modifications and liaison engineering, and F/A-18E/F/G modifications and inspections required to correct deficiencies to achieve current design life limits. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Florida, and is expected to be completed in December 2018. No funds will be obligated at time of award; funds will be obligated on individual task orders as they are issued. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor modification P00023 to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N00421-15-C-0008) to exercise an option for engineering and technical services in support of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division's Ship and Air Integration Warfare Division (AD-4.11.3). Services to be provided include integrating communications and information systems radio communications into Navy ships. Work will be performed at St. Inigoes, Maryland, and is expected to be completed in October 2023. Fiscal 2018 working capital funds (Navy) in the amount of $4,800,000 are being obligated on this award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The, is the contracting activity., is being awardedfor modification 05 to previously issued firm-fixed-price delivery order 0011 placed against basic ordering agreement N00019-16-G-0001 for the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircraft automated maintenance environment (AME) in support of the Navy and the government of Australia. The AME is a suite of integrated software applications which provides unique automated maintenance management information and technical data via interactive electronic technical manuals (paper and digital) to optimize the maintenance of F/A-18 and E/A-18G aircraft. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, and is expected to be completed in December 2018. Fiscal 2018 aircraft procurement (Navy); and foreign military sales funds in the amount of $19,109,372 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the Navy ($16,850,104; 88 percent); and the government of Australia ($2,259,268; 12 percent), under the Foreign Military Sales program. The, is the contracting activity.No applicable data.
NASA Space Station On-Orbit Status 27 December 2017 - New Crew Settles In. NASA

The International Space Stations three newest crew members are beginning their second week familiarizing themselves with the orbital labs operations and systems. They and the other three Expedition 54 crew mates are also busy today with cargo operations, space science and station maintenance.

Also, a Russian cargo craft is departing the station tonight after a six-and-a-half month stay docked to the Zvezda service module. The Progress 67 cargo craft will undock from Zvezda tonight at 8:03 p.m. EST then re-enter Earths atmosphere to burn up over the south Pacific Ocean.

Veteran cosmonaut Anton Shkaplerov and first-time astronauts Scott Tingle of NASA and Norishige Kanai of JAXA are in their second week in Earth orbit and getting used to life in space. The new space residents, who arrived Dec. 19, have time set aside in their schedules to adjust to life and work in weightlessness.

Two-time station resident Joe Acaba from NASA worked throughout Wednesday gathering items for stowage inside the SpaceX Dragon resupply ship. Kanai assisted Acaba with the pre-packing duties readying the cargo for return to Earth inside Dragon on Jan. 13.

Tingle strapped himself into an exercise bike this morning breathing into a tube for a study measuring physical exertion in microgravity. In this long-running experiment, doctors are researching ways to ensure astronauts stay fit and healthy in space to maintain mission success.

On-Orbit Status Report

67 Progress (67P) Undock: This evening, 67P is scheduled to undock from the Service Module (SM) aft port at 7:03 PM CST.

Arthrospira-B (Batch Culture) Assembly: Four Arthrospira experiment containers were removed from the Biolab Incubator to exchange the reservoirs inside the Biolab. Following the exchange of the reservoirs, the ECs were reinstalled back onto Biolab Incubator. The Arthrospira B experiment is an important step in making improvements in the area of closed regenerative life support systems in space which will help in making future human exploration missions beyond low Earth orbit become a reality. The cyanobacterium Arthrospira sp. strain PCC8005 is a candidate for use in spacecraft biological life support systems, for CO2 and nitrate removal, and oxygen and biomass production. However, to ensure the reliability of such a biological life support system it is necessary to characterize the response of Arthrospira sp. PCC8005 to in situ spaceflight conditions.

Space Technology and Advanced Research Systems (STaARS) BioScience-2 Experiment Container (EC) Transfers: After being stowed in the STaARS facility for over 170 hours at 25 degrees Celsius, the crew transferred the STaARS BioScience-2 ECs from the facility into a +4 degrees Celsius Glacier. BioScience-2 encompasses two experiments, Experiment Grimm and Experiment Ulrich, which is performed by three investigation teams, all utilizing the same hardware, but processing different biological samples. The principle aim of Experiment Grimm is to investigate how thyroid carcinoma cells react, when they are exposed to real microgravity. The expected information may help to improve in vitro cancer studies such as antitumor drug or transendothelial migration tests. Experiment Ulrich will investigate microgravity-associated long-term alterations in primary human macrophages, the most important effector cells of the immune system, which are responsible for attacking and killing bacteria and other foreign and pathogenic intruders in the human body. The aim of the experiment is to analyze surface molecules, which are required for recognition of bacteria and cell-cell-communication, and to investigate the cytoskeletal architecture after several days in microgravity.

Amyloid Sample Transfer: The Amyloid samples were retrieved from the +2 degree Celsius Dewar of MELFI, installed in the measurement experiment unit and then attached to the Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF) where they were incubated for 6 hours. After the incubation was complete, the experiment units were detached from the CBEF and the samples were removed and stowed in the MELFI at -95 degrees Celsius. Amyloid fibril is the protein aggregation that is known to be associated with various diseases including Alzheimers disease and diabetes. To develop treatments for Alzheimers disease, it is important to elucidate the mechanism of amyloid fibril formation. In this study, aiming to elucidate the mechanism of amyloid fibril formation, we will prepare the high-quality homogeneous amyloid fibrils using microgravity environment, and bring back the samples to characterize the fibrillation process and intermediate structure by NMR and electron microscopic analyses.

Human Research Program (HRP) Collections (Biochemical Profile, Repository): A 53S subject completed his Flight Day (FD)-15 blood and urine sample collections to support the Biochemical Profile and Repository experiments. The samples were placed in the Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI).

The Biochemical Profile experiment tests blood and urine samples are obtained from astronauts before, during, and after spaceflight. Specific proteins and chemicals in the samples are used as biomarkers, or indicators of health. Post-flight analysis yields a database of samples and test results, which scientists can use to study the effects of spaceflight on the body.

Repository is a storage bank used to maintain biological specimens over extended periods of time and under well-controlled conditions. This repository supports scientific discovery that contributes to our fundamental knowledge in the area of human physiological changes and adaptation to a microgravity environment and provides unique opportunities to study longitudinal changes in human physiology spanning many missions.

Microbial Tracking-2: A 52S subject completed body and saliva sample collections in support of the Microbial Tracking-2 investigation. The Microbial Tracking series-2 continues the monitoring of the types of microbes that are present on the International Space Station (ISS). It seeks to catalog and characterize potential disease-causing microorganisms aboard the ISS. Crew samples from pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight times in addition to environmental samples from ISS surface and air locations will be collected to analyze any associations between the microbial content of the samples, as well as potential health effects.

APEX-05 Operations: The crew photographed the spare petri plates that are secured to the Advanced Biology Research Facility (ABRS) photo-grid on the maintenance work area. When plants are grown in the confines of the International Space Station (ISS), they do not seem to get enough air and as a result, exhibit a stress response in their genes and proteins. The Spaceflight-induced Hypoxic/ROS Signaling (APEX-05) experiment grows different wild and mutant varieties of Arabidopsis thaliana, in order to understand how their genetic and molecular stress response systems work in space. The plants grow from seeds in the Veggie plant growth facility aboard the ISS, are frozen, and returned to Earth for detailed laboratory analysis.

Radiation Dosimetry Inside ISS-Neutron (RaDI-N): After retrieving the RaDI-N hardware from a Russian crewmember, a USOS crewmember deployed eight Space Bubble Detectors around the ISS for the RaDI-N experiment. The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) RaDI-N investigation will be conducted by measuring neutron radiation levels while onboard the ISS. RaDI-N uses bubble detectors as neutron monitors which have been designed to only detect neutrons and ignore all other radiation.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: Using the RED camera, the crew took images of the New Guinea River Inlets. This investigation creates a series of videos, showcasing Earth from space. These videos are taken with cameras on the ISS in 6K hi-resolution and integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Camera Robot Activation: Today the crew relocated the JEM Camera Robot Target Marker. They also activated the JEM Camera Robot and set the position in the JEM before taking video using the camera.

Japanese Pressurized Module (JPM) Gas Trap Manual Valves Reconfiguration: The crew set the Thermal Control Assembly Low Temperature Loop (TCA L) Gas Trap Manual Valves for Gas Trap operations. They also activated the heater for Gas Trap.

Dragon Cargo Transfer: Today the crew completed the planned Dragon cargo operations. In the coming days, the crew will continue packing and loading the cargo that will be returned on Dragon.

Todays Planned Activities

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

Life On The Station Photo and Video

Application of Cyrillic keyboard stickers on RSE1 laptop

Preparation of Reports for Roscosmos Web Site and Social Media

SCENARIO. Observations and photography

URAGAN. Observation and photography

ECON-M. Observation and photography

Microbial Tracking-2 Body Sample Collection

Reminder HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male  Subject

Microbial Tracking-2 Sample MELFI Insert

Microbial Tracking-2 Reminder for Body Collection

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Insertion Operations

HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection 30 Minutes  Subject

HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection  Operator

Daily Planning Conference

Space Technology and Advanced Research Systems BioScience-2 Experiment Container Transfer into MELFI

HRF Generic Refrigerated Centrifuge Configuration

Rodent Research Access Unit Clean

STaARS BioScience-2 Glacier Sample Insertion

MORNING PREPARATION WORK

Postsleep

HRF Generic Refrigerated Centrifuge Spin Conclude

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Insertion

Crew time for ISS adaptation and orientation

Microbial Tracking-2 Body Sample Collection

Pressurization of Elektron-VM Liquid Unit before Activation

SSIPC Management Conference

Cargo Transfer to Dragon

Replacement of LF Data Receiver (??? ??). Tagup with specialists

JEM Camera Robot Activation

JAXA Video Taking Part 3

Max Cycle Ergometer w/Vibration Isolation & Stabilization (CEVIS) Portable PFS Power Up

Microbial Tracking-2 Sample MELFI Insert

Removal of [??] TV Cameras 1, 2 and ???-302 Light Units in Soyuz 737 [CA]

HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection Conclude And Stow

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male  Subject

MATRYOSHKA-R. Prep and Initialization of Bubble-Dosimeter Detectors

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Retrieval And Insertion Operations

Arthrosphira EC S/N2 and S/N3 Exchange 1

JEM Camera Robot Deactivation

Radiation Dosimetry Inside ISS-Neutrons Hardware Handover

MATRYOSHKA-R. Handover of BUBBLE-dosimeters to USOS

Radiation Dosimetry Inside ISS-Neutrons

MATRYOSHKA-R. BUBBLE-dosimeter initialization and deployment for exposure

Arthrosphira EC S/N2 and S/N3 Exchange 2

XF305 Camcorder Setup

Amyloid sample Retrieval from MELFI +2 degrees C.

Amyloid Sample Attachment

APEX-05 Spare Petri Plate Photo

Familiarization with Auxiliary Computer System [???]. Tagup with specialists as necessary

Replacement of RSE1 Laptop Shell. Tagup with specialists

JPM Thermal Control Assembly for Low Temperature Loop (TCA L) Gas Trap Manual Valves Reconfiguration

Public Affairs Office (PAO) Education Imagery

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male  Subject

Scheduled monthly maintenance of Central Post Laptop. Downlink Log-files from Laptop ?.5.2, ???.5-3 and 5-5 via ???- H/O

Scheduled monthly maintenance of Central Post Laptop. Laptop log-file downlink via OCA. Tagup with specialists as necessary

TangoLab-2 Card Cube Remove

ISS Crew Orientation

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Insertion Operations

TangoLab-2 MELFI Sample Insertion

Personal CO2 Monitor iPad Data Collect

ELECTRONIC NOSE. Preparation for the Experiment

PILOT-T. Preparation for the experiment. Tagup with specialists as necessary

ISS HAM Radio and Video Power Down in Columbus

ISS HAM Radio Power Down in Service Module

PILOT-T. Experiment Ops. Tagup with specialists as necessary

MELFI 1 Desiccant Remove

MELFI 1 Electronic Unit Swap

Cargo Transfer to Dragon

PILOT-T. Experiment Ops. Tagup with specialists as necessary

PILOT-T. Photography of the Experiment Ops

Cargo Transfer to Dragon

Handover of Increment XX Crew

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male  Subject

JPM Thermal Control Assembly for low temperature loop (TCA L) Gas Trap Manual Valves reconfiguration

PILOT-T. Closeout Ops Tagup with specialists as necessary

Amyloid Sample Detachment First

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Retrieval And Insertion Operations

??? Maintenance

Amyloid sample Insertion into MELFI -95 degrees C.

Environmental Health System (EHS)  Microbial Air Sampler (MAS) Analysis T+5

Dragon Cargo Operations Conference

Daily Planning Conference

Completed Task List Activities

None

Ground Activities

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

Standard commanding

Three-Day Look Ahead:

Thursday, 12/28: EVA SLE Rotation, IFM N2 Nadir Bolt 1-3 R&R, EVA Safer Swap, Cell Science Validation, APEX-5 Harvest, Marrow Air

Friday, 12/29: Dragon Cargo Ops, CIR Ops, NH3 Chip Replacement, HRF Collections, Synthetic Bone, Crew Handover, BRIC LED, Personal CO2 Sensor Cal, EIISS, Cell Science Validation

Saturday, 12/30: Cell Science Validation, Amyloid Experiment, Crew Off Duty

QUICK ISS Status  Environmental Control Group:

Component  Status

Elektron  On

Vozdukh  Manual

[???] 1  SM Air Conditioner System (SKV1)  Off

[???] 2  SM Air Conditioner System (SKV2)  On

Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Lab  Standby

Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Node 3  Operate

Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Lab  Idle

Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Node 3  Operate

Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA)  Process

Urine Processing Assembly (UPA)  Reprocess

Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Lab  Off

Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Node 3  Full Up
NASA Space Station On-Orbit Status 28 December 2017 - Progress 67P Leaves the Station NASA

Filled with trash, the unpiloted ISS Progress 67 Russian cargo ship undocked from the aft port of the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station at 8:03 p.m. EST.

Just after 11 p.m., Russian flight controllers will send commands to fire the Progress engines and deorbit the space freighter, sending it to a destructive entry over the unpopulated south Pacific Ocean.

On-Orbit Status Report

67 Progress (67P) Undock: 67P undocked from the Service Module (SM) aft port at 7:03 PM CST on Wednesday evening. The Deorbit burn was completed at 10:10 PM CST.

Spaceflight-induced Hypoxic/ROS Signaling (APEX-05): The crew harvested thale cress from all 20 Petri plates in which the plants have been growing in the Veggie facility for the APEX-05 experiment. They took close-up photos of each plate and inserted samples from the plants into fixation tubes, which were placed into cold stowage. The Spaceflight-induced Hypoxic/ROS Signaling (APEX-05) experiment grows different wild and mutant varieties of Arabidopsis thaliana, in order to understand how their genetic and molecular stress response systems work in space. The plants are grown from seeds in the Veggie plant growth facility aboard the ISS. They are harvested and frozen samples are returned to Earth for detailed laboratory analysis.

Amyloid: The crew retrieved the second set of Amyloid samples from the measurement experiment unit on the Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF) and placed them in a Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI). Amyloid fibrils prepared in the microgravity environment of the ISS are returned to Earth for analysis through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and electron microscopy. Amyloid fibrils are the peptide or protein aggregates known to be associated with various diseases, including Alzheimers disease and diabetes. It is expected that this study will provide additional insight into the mechanism of amyloid fibril formation.

MagVector: Today the crew set up a cable to transfer data from the 7-day MagVector #15 run #15 that was completed today. This European Space Agency investigation studies how Earths magnetic field interacts with an electrical conductor. Magnetic sensors placed around and above a conductor provide insight into ways that the Earths magnetic field influences how conductors work. This research may help improve future ISS experiments and offer insights into how magnetic fields influence electrical conductors in general.

Earth Imagery from ISS Target Operations: Using the RED camera, the crew took images of the Australian desert today. This investigation creates a series of videos showcasing Earth from space. These videos are taken with cameras on the ISS in 6K hi-resolution and are integrated into videos for screensavers for public enjoyment, exploration, and engagement.

Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Swap and Commercial Resupply Services (CRS)-2 Feasibility Assessment: The crew will review an overview of the EMU swap plan. EMU 3004 launched to ISS on Dragon in the Short EMU (SEMU) Launch Enclosure (SLE) and EMU 3010 will be returning. The crew will transfer the SLE with EMU 3004 to Node 1 and remove the EMU. They will swap the Vent Port and Battery Connector Covers between EMU 3004 and 3010. The SLE will be reinstalled into Dragon using new upper mounting pins and then EMU 3010 will be installed into the SLE in the Dragon cabin. The hatch for CRS-2 will be too small to allow the SLE to be transferred to Node 1, so EMU rotations will need to occur in the CRS-2 Dragon cabin. Performing the installation of EMU 3010 into the SLE in the Dragon cabin will build confidence and provide feedback for performing the swaps on CRS-2.

Simplified Aid for Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Rescue (SAFER) Swap: SAFER 1016, on orbit has expired and SAFER 1018 was delivered on Dragon. The crew will unpack SAFER 1018, install the battery, and perform a checkout. They will pack SAFER 1016 for return on Dragon.

Node 2 Nadir Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) Bolt R&R: The crew will removed the failed CBM Powered Bolt 1-3 on the Node 2 Nadir Bulkhead and will replace it with a new bolt. The bolt showed anomalous signature during SpaceX-12 berthing and was masked for the SpaceX-13 berthing.

Todays Planned Activities

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

Life On The Station Photo and Video

Preparation of Reports for Roscosmos Web Site and Social Media

ECON-M. Observation and photography

Reminder HRF Generic Urine Collection End

Reminder Max CEVIS Exercise

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male  Subject

Reminder 1A HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection

HRF Generic Sample MELFI Insertion Operations

Daily Planning Conference

Photo TV Standard Definition Node 2 Video Setup

Common Berthing Mechanism (CBM) Powered Bolt Assembly 1-3 Remove and Replace

Wanted Poster for EMU Arm Sizing Rings

ISS Crew Orientation

On MCC Go Switch ???-?? PEV to CLOSED position

Central post computer 2 (???2) new version software setup

Wanted Poster for EMU Thigh Ring Protective Covers

PROFILAKTIKA-2. Preparation for the experiment

PROFILAKTIKA-2. Operator Assistance in Preparation for the Experiment

APEX-05 Procedure Review #2

APEX-05 Hardware Gather #2

ISS HAM Radio and Video Power Up

PROFILAKTIKA-2. Experiment Ops on ??-2 Treadmill (Individual Strategy Test).

PROFILAKTIKA-2. Close-out ops (Operator)

PROFILAKTIKA-2. Closeout Ops

Lab PS-120 Junction Box Swap

XF305 Camcorder Setup for Recording

Amyloid Sample Detachment Second

Amyloid sample Insertion into MELFI -95 degrees C.

Amyloid Video Taking

Extra Vehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Compatible Water Container Iodine (CWC-I) Degas

SM Atmosphere analysis using Freon Leak Analyzer/Detector (???)

SM Atmosphere analysis using Freon Leak Analyzer/Detector (???) (Handover)

Photography of Plume Impingement and Deposit Monitoring Unit (????) position on MRM2 through SM window No.13  preparation

MATRYOSHKA-R. Monitoring Tritel Readings

Photography of Plume Impingement and Deposit Monitoring Unit (????) position on MRM2 from SM window No.13

USB Jumpdrive Return and PPS Reconfiguration

Photography of Plume Impingement and Deposit Monitoring Unit (????) position on MRM2 through SM window No.13, Closeout Ops

Soyuz 734 Kazbek Fit Check

Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) Simplified Aid For EVA Rescue (SAFER) Installation & Checkout

Health Maintenance System (HMS) ISS Food Intake Tracker (ISS FIT)

Personal CO2 Monitor iPad Data Termination

ELECTRONIC NOSE. Experiment Ops Part 1

Cleaning of TVS LIV voltage converter vent grille

APEX-05 Petri Plate Harvest

Inventory Management System (IMS) Conference

Vacuum Pressure Gauge Accuracy Check

Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Short Extravehicular Mobility Unit (SEMU) Launch Enclosure (SLE) Briefing

Marrow Breath And Ambient Air Sample Setup  Subject

ELECTRONIC NOSE. Experiment Ops Part 2

Maintenance Activation of Spare Vozdukh Atmosphere Purification System Emergency Vacuum Valves [??? ???]

Columbus Foam Bag Restow

Marrow Breath And Ambient Air Sample Setup Historical Photo

Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus Sample Insert/Retrieve

Cold Stowage Double Coldbag Icebrick Stow

HRF Hardware Locate

??? Maintenance

Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Short Extravehicular Mobility Unit (SEMU) Launch Enclosure (SLE) Rotation.

HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection Double Spin Overview

HRF Generic Frozen Blood Collection Setup

CONTROL. Switching Indicator-ISS P/L measuring modes

??-3? cradle pocket transfer

AIRWAY-MONITORING-PPFS-RECONFIG

Cell Science Validation Bag Change Out Ops Session1

Portable PFS Conclude

MSG Glove Swap

Microgravity Acceleration Measurement System Hardware Deactivation

Atmosphere Control and Supply (ACS) Nitrogen Manual Valve Open

Flight Director/ISS CREW CONFERENCE

Completed Task List Activities

None

Ground Activities

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

Cell Science Validation support

NORS N2 Repress

Standard commanding

Three-Day Look Ahead:

Friday, 12/29: Dragon Cargo Ops, CIR Ops, NH3 Chip Replacement, HRF Collections, Synthetic Bone, Crew Handover, BRIC LED, Personal CO2 Sensor Cal, EIISS, Cell Science Validation

Saturday, 12/30: Weekly Housekeeping, Crew Off Duty, Cell Science Validation, Amyloid Experiment, HRF Collections

Sunday, 12/31: Crew Off Duty, HRF Collections, APEX-5

QUICK ISS Status  Environmental Control Group:

Component  Status

Elektron  On

Vozdukh  Manual

[???] 1  SM Air Conditioner System (SKV1)  Off

[???] 2  SM Air Conditioner System (SKV2)  On

Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Lab  Standby

Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Node 3  Operate

Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Lab  Idle

Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Node 3  Operate

Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA)  Process

Urine Processing Assembly (UPA)  Reprocess

Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Lab  Off

Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Node 3  Full Up
One of the top Canadian trotters of the past decade, Ontario-sired and Quebec-owned Flanagan Memory, has been retired.

The millionaire son of Kadabra, who turns eight next week, will stand his first season at stud in 2018 at Ontarios Kendall Hills Farm, trainer and co-owner Rene Dion said. The fee is $4,500, reduced to $3,500 for bookings of two mares or more.

Flanagan Memory, who earned almost $1.7 million on the racetrack for Dion and co-owner Liette Flanagan of Repentigny, Quebec, ended an abbreviated five-race 2017 campaign in August with a third-place finish behind Resolve and Cufflink Hanover in the $170,000 Crawford Farms Trot at Tioga Downs.

He didnt come out of it 100 per cent and we did some thinking, said Dion. He was seven; he didnt owe us anything. Weve always been cautious with him, because hes an exceptional animal, and we didnt want to race him back and hurt him. We decided it was time.

Flanagan Memorys 20 career victories included the Breeders Crown (over Resolve) at six, the Cashman at five and the Goodtimes and Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final at three. He won two OBrien Awards, for top three-year-old trotter in 2013, and top older trotter last year. His fastest mile, 1:51.2, came at Mohawk as a six-year-old.

It was tough company he faced week after week, but he was always closing. He closed in :27 or better in 15 of his roughly 70 starts, Dion said.

The memories that will stand out for him were the Breeders Crown victory and the 2016 International Trot at Yonkers, where the son of Kadabra represented Canada and finished a gutsy third behind Resolve and Oasis Bi despite racing outside for a mile and a quarter.

Dion said the departure of Flanagan Memory, who was bred by Liette Flanagans late father Michel, will leave a large void in his barn.

Hes been in my barn since he was 18 months. I picked him up from the field. Hes been a great horse for us, racing against the best, and its going to be strange to go into the barn and not see him.

(A Trot Insider exclusive by Paul Delean)
Two people were arrested in separate instances while deputies and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force attempted to locate a fugitive in southern Gage County.

Gage County deputies assisted U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force to locate a fugitive with an active warrant.

Authorities learned the individual with an active warrant was associated with Jeremy D. Mick, 35, and contacted him at 116 W. Broad St. in Blue Springs.

A female answered the door and allowed authorities inside the residence, court documents state.

Mick said the fugitive was not there and authorities contacted the homeowner who granted permission to search the rest of the residence.

Court documents state that once they had permission, Mick quickly moved to the stairs and ignored orders to stop.

He was detained, and authorities searched the upstairs. Court documents state there was a large piece of glass on which suspected methamphetamine was sitting, in addition to two glass smoking devices.

Clear baggies and a scale were also found. Mick was also found to have drug paraphernalia in a front pocket.

While being escorted out of the residence, Mick allegedly kicked a U.S. Marshal. He was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and assaulting an officer.

Another arrest stemmed from a traffic stop earlier this month. Deputies pulled over a vehicle driven by Ashley Bartels, 19, and a passenger left the vehicle and fled on foot, evading authorities. The traffic stop occurred on Dec. 22.

Court documents state the deputy was informed that the U.S. Marshals questioned Bartels about the fugitive on Dec. 12, and she did not disclose this information to the deputy during the stop.

She was arrested for being an accessory to a class 3A felony.
Sunatimes:-

Djibouti has signed a preliminary deal for a $4bn gas project with Chinese firm POLY-GCL Petroleum Group Holdings Ltd.



The Horn of Africa nation has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chinese company for a large-scale energy project to be constructed in Damerjog, close to the countrys border with Somalia.





Djibouti sign $4bn MoM

The project includes a natural gas pipeline, a liquefication plant and an export terminal to be located in the eastern village. The gas pipeline will transport 12 billion cubic metres of natural gas from Ethiopia to Djibouti per year. the liquefication plant will start with a target of producing 3 million tonnes of liquefied gas per year, starting from 2020, but this target will eventually rise to 10 million tonnes.



POLY-GCL has already finished drilling appraisal wells for gas deposits in southwest Ethiopia  a project linked to the export terminal plans in Djibouti.Djiboutis energy minister Yonis Ali Guedi says further negotiations over concession agreements for the project will happen within the next six months with construction scheduled to start next year.
Mira Costa became the first team this season to win a set against Cathedral Catholic, but the Mustangs eventually fell in four sets in the CIF SoCal Regional final Tuesday night.
TACOMA  An eight-member jury failed to reach a verdict Friday in a federal lawsuit against the Longview School District.

After a full day of deliberating, jurors were still unable to reach a consensus on 12 different claims. Theyre due back in U.S. District Court Wednesday morning.

The families of five former Mint Valley Elementary School students are suing the district and Jerry Stein, a former special education teacher who ran the schools program for behaviorally challenged children from 2005 to 2016.

The five students in the suit have each made constitutional claims against Stein, alleging that he violated their right to freedom from unreasonable seizure under the Fourth Amendment by placing them in a 4-by-4-foot isolation booth between 2009 and 2012.

Plaintiffs have also made five different negligence claims against the district, which they argue should be held liable for Steins alleged actions.

Stein is facing two additional loss of consortium claims by parents who say his actions damaged their relationships with their children.

The district has denied all of the allegations. Throughout the trial, the defense team has argued that staff used the booth only once to control one of the children for emergency reasons.

Plaintiffs attorneys have suggested $17.6 million in damages for the five families to cover the value of lost wages, salaries, and employment opportunities  plus the value of medical care and non-medical services in the future. Parents are also seeking compensation for the loss of love and companionship in the parent-child relationship.

A forensic psychologist hired by the plaintiffs has diagnosed all five of the children with trauma-induced stress disorders related to their alleged experiences inside the booth. But a psychologist hired by the defense team says the plaintiffs expert failed to account for other sources of stress in the childrens lives.

Jurors need to consider each claim separately and arrive at a unanimous verdict. Although the standard of proof in civil lawsuits is lower than criminal cases, it could still take days to sift through hundreds of pages of evidence introduced during the three-week court proceedings.

School policy

At times, jurors appeared exhausted as attorneys argued over the finer details of the districts policy governing the use of restraint and isolation for special education students with individual education plans (IEPs) and general education students. But the difference between the use of isolation for kids with IEPs and general education students  like those in involved in the lawsuit  was central to the plaintiffs case.

Former Mint Valley Principal Patrick Kelley sent a letter home to parents a day after a viral Facebook post on Nov. 26, 2012, in which an angry parent claimed her son told her that the school was using the booth to discipline general education students.

(Kelley is still employed by the district as principal of the Broadway Learning Center.)

In response to an onslaught of negative media coverage, Kelley sought to reassure parents that the booth was only used for special education students whose parents had consented to isolation as part of their IEPs. However, the plaintiffs argued repeatedly that Stein would not have placed general education children in the isolation booth if they had never been sent to him in the first place.

Bookkeeping

Roger Davidheiser, attorney for the families, asked jurors to consider the logbook Stein used to document isolation incidents in his classroom.

For example, the logbook shows that on Sept. 12, 2012, a special education student was escorted to the booth and isolated for roughly an hour and a half for coming to class angry and cursing.

Came into room angry because he couldnt sit in the back of the bus in his personal seat. Home issues. Brother. And doesnt like getting up so early. Yelling the F word in every combination he could, Steins notes read, according to trial transcripts.

On another occasion, this time on Nov. 1, 2012, a child whom Stein suspected was autistic was sent to the booth for disagreeing with his teacher and refusing to wash up for lunch, according to transcripts.

I just want to get a flavor so the jury will have an opportunity to look at these back in the jury room, Davidheiser said last week while questioning Stein.

Jurors will be able to look through the entire logbook for the 2012-2013 school year during their deliberations.

Cover-up?

Throughout the trial, the defense team has denied allegations that the district engaged in a cover-up because it feared it was exposed to legal liability. But plaintiffs argued that the district realized it could be legally exposed immediately after images of the booth surfaced online in 2012.

Former Assistant Superintendent Chris Fritsch testified last week that he contacted a legal firm less than 24 hours after the images went viral.

And a subsequent email from Fritsch to former Superintendent Suzanne Cusick dated Nov. 29, 2012  two days after Kelleys letter to parents  illustrated how quickly the district decided to destroy the windowless structure.

I am meeting with (a maintenance employee) at 4:30 today at Mint Valley to go over the demolition project in the CLC room, Fritsch wrote, according to court records.

Ultimately the booth was destroyed just five days after the photos surfaced online.

Calming booths were removed from Mint Valley and Mount Solo this morning without incident. They are now part of the landfill, Fritsch emailed Cusick again on Dec. 2, 2012, according to court records.

Outside investigation

The report of a law firm the district hired to investigate use of the isolation booth never was made public. However, Judge Robert J. Bryan admitted the firms final report as evidence in the trial after previously siding with the defense teams argument that the documents were protected by attorney-client privilege.

Davidheiser successfully argued that Fritsch opened the door to waiving the privilege when he testified that its findings gave him no cause to discipline school employees responsible for the booth.

I was led to believe that (the booth)  met the legal requirements. And the people that were working that program were following all the rules and were keeping adequate records, Fritsch told John Safarli, a defense attorney, upon cross-examination.

But on Dec. 19, 2012  the same day the firm finished its report  Fritsch also emailed a new list of guidelines to Kelley, the former principal, and former Special Education Director Jill Diehl. One of the rules specified that general education students should not be sent to Steins classroom for discipline under any circumstances.

Another guideline stipulated that any new isolation area needs to have a window in the door, similar to the door in my office, with adequate ventilation and lighting, according to court records.

School and medical records

Over the course of the trial, the defense team introduced 27 medical records and 19 school records as evidence.

The districts attorneys argued that the school records show that each of the children had a history of behavior problems the predated their alleged placement in the booth. They also argued that the childrens medical records fail to demonstrate that the booth aggravated their pre-existing mental problems.

For example, defense attorney Francis Floyd introduced a medical record for a plaintiff identified as W.L. dated Nov. 28, 2012, which notes that the boy was experiencing family-related stress at the time but does not mention the booth.

So hes not talking at all about the booth or any problems that he had in the booth, hes talking about depression and emotional issues associated with the abuse (by a relative), right? he asked the boys mother, Tessa Green, according to transcripts.

Floyd made similar arguments for each of the other children.

Although the sides clashed in the courtroom at times, there was a palpable sense of relief when attorneys finished closing arguments Thursday.

Ill happily answer any questions you have after the verdict, Davidheiser told The Daily News.
WASHINGTON  Its time to recall absurd, bizarre and downright stupid things said by politicians this past year.

Were ignoring Trumpisms because he said something ridiculous daily. There would be no room for anybody else.

Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., topped all the profiles-in-courage lists for announcing he would not vote for the GOP tax bill because it adds $1.5 trillion to the national debt. Then an eleventh-hour provision gave real estate moguls a huge benefit, such as about $11 million to Donald Trump and roughly $7 million to Corker.

Corker said it was unnecessary and bordered on the ridiculous. But, voila! He voted for the bill, including the $1.5 trillion in new debt.

When it was pointed out that 83 percent of the tax breaks in said tax bill will benefit only the top 1 percent, Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fl., said defensively Trump never said he was running as Robin Hood.

When it was noted that the so-called carried-interest tax loophole, providing millions only to hedge funds and the rich, was not repealed as Trump repeatedly promised, House Ways and Means Committee chair Kevin Brady, R-Texas, said with a shrug, Oh, thats an ancillary issue. People dont care about that.

So go crazy with your extra six or 10 bucks or so a week, which Trump said is the greatest tax cut in history and also a middle-class miracle. But dont get used to it. It goes away in 2025 and your taxes will rise significantly. But the huge tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations are forever, although there are no requirements to reinvest in new jobs or higher wages and there are hidden incentives to move jobs and cash overseas.

This is going to cost me a fortune, Trump complained. No, it wont. Trump benefits big time. If he wasnt an actual billionaire when he took office, he will be when he leaves.

After Hillary Clinton published her book on her 2016 election debacle, What Happened, she reluctantly admitted she could have done a few things differently. (Such as campaign in Michigan and Wisconsin, which she lost.) She agreed her campaign lacked passion and a sense of urgency. But, ultimately, I wasnt just running against Donald Trump. I was up against the Russian intelligence apparatus, a misguided FBI director, and now the godforsaken Electoral College, she wrote. Her book also explained the benefits of something called alternate nostril breathing: This practice allows oxygen to activate both the right side of the brain, which is the source of your creativity and imagination, and the left side, which controls reason and logic. What? A record number of Trumps nominees for lifetime federal judgeships have been confirmed by the Senate, some with few credentials. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., had enough. He asked Matthew Petersen, nominated for the U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia, if he had ever tried a jury trial. No, said Petersen. A civil trial? No. Criminal? No. State or federal? No. Did Petersen know a number of basic legal terms? No. OK, then. Petersen later withdrew saying the whole process had been a big distraction.

When comedian Jimmy Kimmel pleaded with Congress not to kill the Affordable Health Care Act, mentioning his babys congenital heart condition, former Illinois Rep. Joe Walsh tweeted: Sorry Jimmy Kimmel: your sad story doesnt obligate me or anybody else to pay for somebody elses health care. Decrying Obamacare, Rep. Roger Marshall. R-Kansas, said, Just like Jesus said, The poor will always be with us.... Theres a group of people that just dont want health care and arent going to take care of themselves. (The tax bill ensures 13 million more will lose health insurance.) Roy Moore, pedophile and ousted ex-judge who rightly lost the Alabama Senate race, was a fountain of incredible statements. Attempting to explain the countrys greatness was one of his worst: I think it was great at the time when families were united  even though we had slavery  they cared for one another ... . Our families were strong, our country had a direction. And we have Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway with her penchant for alternative facts and her insistence, on TV from the White House, that Americans should run out and buy Ivanka Trumps clothing and accessories. Shucks. Were out of time. And we were just getting started. But theres always next year.
Seeing Jesus

Christians are supposed to be followers of Jesus Christ. White nationalists, who hate people of color, especially Jews, call themselves Christians. Some Christians businesses wont serve gays. Other Christians dont want anything to do with people of color, different religions, the homeless, the poor or immigrants. When Jesus was on Earth, he lived in more than one country, making him an immigrant. When Jesus was a toddler, his parents took him to Egypt to save his life, making him a refugee. Jesus was homeless and poor. Jesus spent most of his time on Earth with prostitutes and tax collectors, who in Jesus day were considered lowlifes. Jesus taught Peter in Acts 10:28 that no one he created is unclean. Meaning everyone is equal. John 13:34-35 says to love others. Jesus said help the poor and the sick. Matt 7:1-3, dont judge others. If you call yourself a Christian, Luke 18:9-14, can the world see Jesus in you?

K.D. Slade

Longview

Trickle down

It was so sickening to see the GOP congratulating each other for ripping off the middle class and poor to fatten their already filled wallets with this horror tax bill. Deep Medicare cuts (and cuts to other programs) due to PAYGO are delayed until 2019 because Trump is signing this in 2018. The GOP plan is that the public will not feel the pain from the PAYGO deep budget cuts until after the 2018 election. Trickle down economy has never worked. It crashes our economy.

Plan No. 2 is to gut social programs such as food stamps and Social Security that our veterans, low-income families and the elderly depend on to survive. Many are programs that American workers have paid into all of their working lives. Our current White House is on a mission of destruction with their cash flowing to tax free foreign banks. We all pay for that while the filthy rich laugh and pat each others backs.

Sherry Davis

Longview

Bad business

A while back, Ray (Van Tongeren) called the people a liar who spoke of coal dust at the railroad station (Nov. 22 Letters to the Editor). My memory is he backed the transfer of the water system from the Cowlitz to the industrial area well. May I say he quoted the water taste was excellent. I cant even drink it, it is full of excess chlorine. The smell is terrible and the rust and silica. The change has cost me well over $1,000 dollars, in replacement of my utilities that were destroyed by this water. I just want Ray to understand if the coal terminal is allowed, we will have coal piled as high as the Rainier bridge. The transfer back and forth through conveyors from rail cars to coal pile and then back to a ship. The wind through the CVG valley is at times fierce. The dust will be everywhere. That is bad for the river and this whole area. The EPA is gone by Trumps action so we will have a fight to stop it.

M.L. Colburn Sr.

Longview

Wasted

Regarding the Nov. 28 TDN article County joins methanol suit; it makes me sad and angry that our tax money is wasted by government agencies disputing among themselves, and/or private companies having to defend against arbitrary bureaucratic reversals of decisions and laws.

As the owner of an auto and truck towing company operating in King and Snohomish counties and towing for Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, Briar, Lynnwood, Woodway and Edmonds municipalities, each wanted some jurisdiction over my operation.

This also included several Washington state agencies. Eventually I threw in the towel and sold the operation because I was no longer running my company, it was the government! It is the bureaucratic craving for power that is driving our once wonderful economy into the ground.

Paul M. Shannon

Rainier
Dear Doctor: I'm so confused by the new blood pressure guidelines. Yesterday, my blood pressure was normal. With the new guidelines, though, I'm now considered to have high blood pressure. Is my doctor going to put me on medication?

Dear Reader: Ever since the new blood pressure guidelines were released by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association in November, we've been getting quite an earful. We're hearing not only from our patients, but from family and friends as well. People are surprised, upset, worried and, as you state in your letter, just plain confused.

The truth is that blood pressure goals have long been (and quite likely will always remain) controversial among the medical community. Back in 2014, when a panel of medical experts loosened blood pressure guidelines for some older Americans, there was an immediate backlash. Now, with guidelines being tightened, the debate has erupted again. Rather than focus on the history of blood pressure guidelines and the various schools of thought behind each iteration, we think it's more useful to talk about where things stand now, how the current guidelines affect us and what changes each of us can make to get better numbers.

Heart disease, which accounts for one quarter of all deaths in the United States, is the leading cause of death among both women and men. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is second only to smoking as a preventable cause of heart attack and stroke. At this time, guidelines state that normal blood pressure falls into a range below 120/80. The top number, known as systolic pressure, refers to the pressure in your arteries as your heart contracts. The bottom number is diastolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries between heartbeats. When taken together, the numbers offer a snapshot of your cardiac health.

People with a top number that falls between 120 and 129, and whose bottom number falls below 80, are considered to have "elevated" blood pressure. A top number of 130 to 139, and a bottom number of between 80 and 89, is considered to be stage 1 high blood pressure. Readings greater than 140/90 are stage 2 high blood pressure. Both stage 1 and 2 require medication.

Part of the uproar over these new guidelines is they are likely to push close to half of all Americans out of the normal range. However, this doesn't automatically mean blood pressure medication for everyone. In fact, the aim of the guidelines update is to give people ample warning of pending blood pressure problems. Because it has no obvious symptoms, high blood pressure is known as the silent killer. By catching changes early, people with elevated blood pressure can take steps to achieve healthier numbers through lifestyle changes and interventions, such as:

Losing weight.

Quitting a smoking habit altogether.

Exercising regularly.

Watching your diet.

Cutting back on salt.

Limiting alcohol.

Cutting back on caffeine.

Reducing stress.

Keeping regular track of your blood pressure.

We're sure you've heard this all before. But knowing what to do isn't the same as actually doing it. We believe this is an important discussion, so we'll be back next week with details about how and why each of these steps is important to your good health.
The Page You Are Looking For Couldnt Be Found.

You are experiencing technical issues. Please contact our support to get more information.
Russian military celebrates victory over US and West in Syria

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, toasts with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu after a ceremony to bestow state awards on military personnel who fought in Syria, at the Kremlin in Moscow on Thursday.

Newsweek :

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his top generals held an awards ceremony Thursday to honor military personnel returning from Syria, where Moscow claimed to have scored a decisive victory not only against militant groups, but against U.S. and Western interests.

Putin reportedly welcomed more than 600 soldiers and officers in the St. George Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace, thanking them for their service in Syria, where Russia recently declared victory over the Islamic State militant group (ISIS). Russia's 2015 entrance into the war came a year after the U.S. had already begun to scale down efforts to overthrow Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, an ally of Moscow facing a rebel and jihadi uprising, and had formed its own coalition to bomb ISIS. Russian officials and military leaders, however, have credited their aerial campaign with outpacing U.S.-led efforts to defeat the militants and thwarting Western plots to oust Assad.

Related: Christmas in Syria: Rebels attack Assad victory party in Aleppo, but win little as peace process begins

Trending: What the Bubbles in Your Champagne Can Tell You About the Quality of Your Beverage

"On seeing our Western coalition partners in the air, we always tailed them, as pilots say, which means a victory in real combat," Major Maxim Makolkin said at the event, indicating that the Russian air force had outperformed and outmaneuvered the aircraft of the U.S.-led coalition.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, toasts with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu after a ceremony to bestow state awards on military personnel who fought in Syria, at the Kremlin in Moscow on December 28. Not only did Russia claim victory in defeating ISIS, but also in outpacing Western efforts to beat the jihadis and oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

While Russia and the U.S.-led coalition both launched airstrikes against ISIS and affiliates of Al-Qaeda, they backed separate factions on the ground. Shortly after the rebellion against Assad first began in 2011, insurgents received support from the U.S., Turkey and Gulf Arab states.

As ISIS spread from Iraq into Syria and jihadi influence fractured rebel ranks, the U.S. increasingly focused on the Syrian Democratic Forces, a mostly Kurdish coalition of Arabs and ethnic minorities formed in 2015 by the Pentagon and tasked with beating ISIS. That same year, Russia intervened at the request of an embattled Assad, allowing his forces to retake most of the country in the years since.

Under former President Barack Obama, the U.S. was staunchly opposed to Assad, but the current administration has offered conflicting stances toward the Syrian leader, who the U.S. and its allies have long accused of human rights abuses. Before taking office, President Donald Trump was mostly opposed to Obama's assistance to rebel groups, some of which ended up in ISIS hands, and even considered entering into a military partnership with Russia.

He later switched his views and went as far as to attack the Syrian military after accusing Assad of a chemical weapons attack in April.

The State Department said earlier this month that, although the U.S. wanted Assad out, this was "up to the Syrian people and the Syrian voters to decide," similar to the Russian stance. Russia joined pro-Assad Iran and pro-opposition Turkey for new peace talks in the Kazakh capital of Astana and committed to Western talks in Geneva; however, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson wrote in an opinion piece published Wednesday by The New York Times that "we are confident that the fulfillment of these talks will produce a Syria that is free of Bashar al-Assad and his family."

In addition to calling the U.S.-led coalition inefficient, Russia also has frequently joined its Syrian and Iranian allies in accusing the West and its allies of actively helping ISIS and other groups Moscow considered to be terrorist organizations. The U.S. has routinely denied and criticized such allegations, but has admitted its local Syrian partners entered into deals with the jihadis and said Thursday it would not target ISIS fighters fleeing the last of their crumbling self-styled caliphate toward Syrian military frontlines. Even after ISIS's defeat, the Pentagon said it would stay in Syria as long as it needs to.




Youth drive progress in a rising economy

Aditya Sinha :

Recently at a niece's engagement party her dad was a bit sore over the expenses. Perhaps it would have mattered less to him had the party been less exclusive and had he been able to invite all his and his wife's innumerable relatives in their small town (in a distant state capital). The party was nice, filled with youngsters (including my daughters) doing choreographed dancing, and it was hard to believe that the five-star hotel we were at was a part of small-town India. (Not so hard, actually, according to economists who say that India's biggest growth is in its tier-2 and tier-3 cities.) People had splurged on clothes and shoes and jewellery and designer sunglasses, which bizarrely they did not remove even for official photographs.

On my previous trip there I was next to a young man who was flying for the first time. He asked me how it was that we would reach in two hours when by train it took nearly two days. He also wanted to know if he could catch a rickshaw from the airport to his village. He worked in a restaurant in Delhi, but it was not a restaurant that any newspaper would review, and his employer had got him a ticket online some months back so that it was dirt cheap. I was happy that he got the chance to look out the window and see the earth, which he had tilled as a sharecropper not too long back, far below him at this (literally) high point in his life.

After the wedding, when I returned home to Gurgaon I took my clothes to my local dry-cleaner. He was in a good mood. I asked, and he told me he was going to Bangkok, Thailand, for New Year's Eve. "With family?" I asked. He broke into laughter. "No, with friends," he said. "I've told my family I'm going to Mussoorie." His younger assistant chipped in: "They'll figure it out by your location on facebook. Your son will tell his mother that papa has gone to Bangkok." The fellow became sheepish and said he would deliberately leave his phone at home. I was reminded of a friend's high-society wife who some months back sniffed about how downmarket the flights to Bangkok had become, with all sorts of "paan-shop" passengers. More power to them, I told myself.

My cousin had a mini-stroke last weekend. He or his immediate family did not know it was a stroke, though he had no control over his limbs and was heavily slurring his words. His local doctor told him to get an MRI done. He has a choice of private hospitals, living in Gurgaon which is a medical destination whose superspecialty hospitals are popular with patients from West Asia, Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa, among other places.

Despite recent episodes where private healthcare has received adverse publicity, he decided to go to a local modest private hospital. Since the next day was Sunday, Christmas Eve, and the day after that was Christmas, so he did not go till the 26th.

Somehow late in the day I also rushed over to the hospital, and looked at the patients. When my children were born in the '90s, the private hospital my wife was admitted to made me cringe with its seemingly five-star atmosphere. Now it seems so downmarket in comparison to the chain hospitals or even to the fancy neighbourhood clinics, or even those labs which collect your specimen for analysis. I waited at the reception of the hospital for my cousin to get his MRI done, and I watched a lot of "socially mobile" small-town Indians who aspired to being "fancy", bustle about, getting their parents checked for various lifestyle ailments.

There may have been of late a hiccup in India's economic growth for a variety of reasons. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government likens his twin measures of demonetisation and the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to bitter medicine that the economy necessarily had to take to get on a higher growth path. A wealth manager recently tried to convince me that the recapitalisation of banks, which have heavy debts and non-performing assets on their books, was a part of this "joining of the dots" in which to take the economy to a higher trajectory. Perhaps they are right; perhaps those who criticise them for only servicing India's big industrialists are wrong. It seems to me, however, that India is growing nonetheless; that its growth is rooted in its massive population, its spread of small-town energy and initiative, and in the hunger of its "socially mobile" population. The government may try a slew of measures to hurry growth up, but I often wonder if it would be better for the government to merely get out of the way of its people.



(Aditya Sinha is a senior journalist based in India).


India`s friendly act: Bengalies are listed as Bangladeshis !

IN an attempt to detect and deport illegal immigrants, mainly Muslims, Indian authorities have mobilised around 60,000 police and paramilitary troops in the sensitive border state of Assam -- ahead of the publication of a list of citizens. Such ill-motivated scheme to 'detect and deport illegal immigrants' was in fact anticipated, the moment Indian PM Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took power in the eastern state of Assam for the first time last year. It vowed to act against illegal Muslim residents believed 'to have taken away jobs from local Hindus.'





However, the move will not only potentially lead to disrupt communal harmony in Assam, but it would also invite violence. It is estimated that there are more than 2 million Muslims in Assam with their roots in Bangladesh, most of whom - were either displaced from nearby places or settled in Assam in 1947 and 1971. The apparent fear for Bangladesh could be, another exodus of refugees -- forced to leave India for Bangladesh. Already the country is reeling from the unsettled and ongoing Rohingya crisis. Given the facts at hand, the risk of another influx of refugees cannot be right away cancelled out.





Needs be mentioned, when Modi's BJP swept to power in 2014, the election was marred by sectarian violence in Assam taking lives of more than 40 people. During that campaign, Modi told illegal immigrants in states bordering Bangladesh to have their 'bags packed' ready to be sent home - now he appears to be on the brink to realise it. It's clearly a bigoted and an organised scheme for destroying communal harmony and denying lawful citizen rights of Muslims in Assam. The international community must take serious note of this dangerous development in Assam and inform the Indian government - what its doing is unethical and unfair. We fear, Modi government's latest move to oust the Muslim minority from Assam will create another manmade communal crisis in the region. Modi and his men have deliberately and frequently caused friction between Hindus and Muslim minority in India on several issues over the past three and half years. He and his government still continues to reject the minorities rights in India and unfairly treat Bangladesh on many counts. It was also proved when India abstained from supporting Bangladesh at the UN on the Rohingya crisis. He must be stopped from exercising racial prejudice and preaching communal hatred - both in and out of India.






Merging public banks only to widen corruption, mismanagement

AMID mounting losses in the state-run banks, the Ministry of Finance is speculating as to whether mergers among public sector banks will be sufficient to get rid of pressure in the state coffers but would the merging enable the banks to get solvent when mismanagement is high and governmental interception rips against laws is the million dollar question.







The New Nation reported that Finance Division of the Ministry has started an internal exercise to ascertain the mergers among the state-owned banks. It is mysterious as to why the government does not initiate crackdowns against the loan defaulters instead of recapitalising the banks that struggle due to capital shortfall thereby giving loan defaulters default government protection for their impunity.





Officials of the Finance Ministry said the Ministry has initially moved forward to merge Bangladesh Krishi Bank (BKB), Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank (RAKUB), Bangladesh Development Bank Limited (BDBL) and BASIC Bank. Among them, BDBL and BASIC are specialised commercial banks and BKB and RAKUB are specialised banks. They are incurring huge losses every year due to operational inefficiency, loan irregularities and mismanagement.







The ministry said that the objective of the merger is to lessen the burden of the government which provides funds every year to tackle capital shortfall of the public sector banks. The Finance Division will suggest the setting up of an expert panel to consider and oversee bank mergers among public sector banks. State-run commercial banks have been losing money over the years, but the government did not opt to merge the banks as the banks have huge staff, lending exposure and client base.





A recent study conducted by Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management (BIBM) revealed that some 72 percent bankers are in favour of reducing the number of banks through merger or acquisition, as their number is high given the size of the economy. About 88 percent of the respondents said mergers, acquisitions or takeovers may be executed to trim the number of banks, particularly the weak ones.





Aggressive lending by banks in the competitive market has caused pileup of bad loans. As of June this year, total default loans stood at Tk 63,365 crore, accounting for 10.06 percent of the total outstanding loans. State-owned banks accounted for one-third of the total sour loans. The government had provided Tk 4,500 crore funds to the state-owned banks in the last five years to overcome their capital shortfall caused by soaring defaulted loans, financial irregularities and losses. The six public banks have been operating their activities through 3,710 branches across the country. Of them, about 533 branches are now running with losses.





Moreover, the new amendment to the Banking Companies Act to allow four members from a single family to become directors of the board will bring disaster for the sector. The family dominance will only increase the size of default loans. This amendment to the banking system will surge the numbers of default loans. We ask the government to conduct empirical research to reach a decision to merge the weak banks in the public sector.
Shakira cancels tour due to `injury`

Colombian pop star Shakira cancelled the remainder of her world tour because of a problem with her vocal chords and said she hoped to be back on stage in June of next year.

"Though I very much hoped to be able to recover my vocal chords in time to pick the tour back up in January, and after exploring many options to that effect, I have accepted that this is an injury that simply needs more time and care to heal," Shakira said in a statement on her website. The Hips Don't Lie star cancelled the European leg of her "El Dorado World Tour" in November.

She said she hoped to resume the tour in June 2018 with concerts in Europe, the United States and Latin America. It's currently due to conclude September 6 in San Jose, California.

"I feel for all of you who planned ahead to come to these shows and who have been so patient as I took the time needed to figure out the best course of action with my doctors," Shakira said.

"I really can't wait for June!" she added. "I promise to give you all of me and more from the minute I get on that stage and I am counting the days till showtime!"
2 including gunman killed in California shooting

Mail Online :

An attorney opened fire at a prominent law firm's holiday party in Southern California Friday afternoon, killing one and injuring another before turning the gun on himself.

The gunman, who hasn't yet been identified, shot dead Major A Langer, 75, at Bixby Knolls Law office in Long Beach around 2.25pm, according to the Press Telegram. He also injured Ronald Beck, who runs day-to-day operations at the firm. Beck is currently in serious but stable condition and was rushed to the hospital by his son after the shooting. The shooting reportedly happened just after the gunman was fired from the law firm, and during the company's holiday party where employees could spin a wheel to win prizes. Long Beach police responded to Bixby Knolls amid reports of an active shooter, but realized after it was actually a 'workplace violence incident'. Long Beach City Councilman Al Austin told the LA Times that the shooter was a former employee and that he shot and killed one person before turning the gun on himself. Austin represents the Bixby Knolls area and was briefed by police.

Langer's friends described the lawyer as 'the most caring, sincere man I probably ever met'.

'He just had a heart of gold and really cared for everybody who works at the firm and considers them members of his family,' Jim Hall said. 'He certainly didn't deserve this.'

A murder investigation is currently underway at the scene and a handgun was found in the office, according to the Long Beach Post. No officers were involved in the shooting. Sgt Brad Johnson said the shooter died from a self-inflicted gun would, and didn't engage with any officers. It's not clear if he was dead before they got to the scene. Video showed people running from an unmarked building shouting about a shooting inside.

The two-story building, with windows decorated with Christmas displays featuring candy canes and Santa Claus, is home to several law offices. Dozens of police officers, including members of a SWAT team, surrounded the building and blocked off surrounding streets. Multiple ambulances arrived to the scene.

Police later confirmed that it wasn't an active shooter situation, despite initial reports, but instead a 'workplace violence incident.' 'They did so with the understanding that the suspect was alive and lying in wait to shoot them inside,' a source told the Press Telegram about why the incident was first marked an active shooter.

Officers searched the firm room to room to be sure everyone was accounted for and there were no other gunmen, police said. Joy Wilson told the Times she heard police sirens near her home and walked outside to see nearly two dozen people running 'like they were trying to get away.'


Burdwan blast prime suspect held in Bogra

Staff Reporter :

A regional leader of the banned militant outfit Jamaa'tul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and also a key accused in the 2014 Burdwan blast case in India was detained by law enforcers The detained militant has been identified as Abu Syed, the Operational Chief of JMB's Southern Zone, said Sonaton Chakrabarty, Additional Superintendent of Police (sadar circle and media) of Bogra.

Abu Syed, known also as Karim, Talha and Shaymol, is a Shura member of JMB, the police official said.

"Syed, a prime suspect in the Burdwan blast case, is wanted by Indian police," Home Ministry sources said.

Sonaton Chakrabarty said, "A joint team of Bogra DB police and the intelligence department of the police headquarters raided Omarpur after being sure of the militant's presence there. Syed was detained around 1:00am."

He was produced in the court on Saturday afternoon, according to him.

A 9mm pistol, a magazine, bullets, a knife and an unregistered motorcycle were seized during the raid, he added. Earlier, two men were killed and another was injured in an explosion at a house in Khagragarh in West Bengal's Burdwan on October 2 in 2014. Two women were also arrested from the house.

Investigators said that they believed all the five were members of JMB. The militant group is believed to have been using West Bengal as a sanctuary. JMB is also suspected to have established ties with several madrasas in the bordering districts of Malda, Murshidabad and Nadia.
1242 killed in workplace accidents in 2017 in BD

Staff Reporter :

Workplace accidents in 2017 claimed 1,242 lives and injured 371 people in the country, according to a report on casualties prepared by Occupational Safety, Health and Environment (OSHE) Foundation.

The toll rose slightly in 2017, as 1,240 workers were killed in 2016, said Saki Rezwana, the chairperson of Bangladesh OSHE Foundation in a press briefing at Dhaka Reporters' Unity (DRU) on Saturday.

The report was prepared based on news published by 15 newspapers, and information gathered from spots by staff of the foundation.

According to the foundation's report, 270 workers were killed in formal sector, while 972 others in informal sector in the outgoing year.

The highest 488 workers died in transport sector, 179 in construction and 52 in apparel sector, the report said.

Besides, 99 death victims are farm workers, including those killed in lightning strikes, while 103 are day- labourers, 22 domestic workers, 28 fishermen, eight steel mills, and re- rolling mills and 18 shipbreaking workers.
Pass rate drops by 9.41pc

Viqarunnisa Noon School PEC and JSC students celebrating their victory after getting their results on Saturday.

Staff Reporter :

A total of 20,18,271 students out of 24,82,342 passed the Junior School Certificate (JSC) and Junior Dhakil Certificate (JDC) examinations-2017, which is 9.41 percent lower than that of the previous year.

The percentage of the pass rate is 83.65 percent which was 93.06 percent in the previous year.

The number of GPA-5 earning students reduced by 55,960 than the previous year as a total of 1,91,628 candidates achieved GPA-5 this year, which was 2,47,588 last year.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid briefed the media on several aspects of the JSC-JDC results at the Secretariat at 2:00pm on Saturday.

Secretary of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Division Md Sohrab Hossain, Secretary of Madrasah and Technical Education Board Md Alamgir and senior officials of the Education Ministry, among others, were present at the press conference.

Earlier in the morning, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced the results after Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid, accompanied by the chairpersons of the education boards, handed it over to her at the Ganabhaban around 12:00noon.

In JSC examinations, a total of 17,07,024 candidates out of 21,03,763 passed the examinations.

The pass rate hit a record low of 83.10 percent with 1,84,397 students securing GPA-5 under eight general education boards across the country, down by 50,662 from last year.

The pass rate in JDC examinations is 86.80 percent, 7.22 percent lower than in the last year

The number of GPA-5 achieving students also has come down to 7,231, decreasing by 5,298 students from last year.

A total of 5,279 educational institutions achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JSC and JDC examinations, while the number was 9,450 last year.

Of those, 529 institutions are from Dhaka, 1,035 from Rajshahi, 61 from Comilla, 281 from Jessore, 90 from Chittagong, 812 from Barisal, 171 from Sylhet, 580 from Dinajpur, while 1,720 are under Madrasa Education Board.

A total of 3,559 schools under eight general education boards achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JSC examinations, while the number was 6,247 last year.

A total of 1,720 madrasas achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JDC examinations, while the number was 3,203 previous year.

A total of 1,720 madrasas achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JDC examinations, while the number was 3,203 last year.

A total of 562 students from nine foreign centres have come out successful in the JSC examinations this year with 93.82 percent pass rate.

Meanwhile, no student passed in 59 educational institutions while it was 28 last year.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid said, "We have attached priority to improving quality of education to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). We have introduced modern and effective answer paper evaluation system aiming to evaluate answer scrip in an accurate manner."

The government is implementing various programmes to promote female education in the country. Advancement of female education is a great achievement, which has been attributed to sincere efforts and strong commitment of the government, he said.

The results are aviable on the websites of Ministry of Education: http:/www.educationboardresults.gov.bd. Besides, student can also get their results via short messaging service (SMS).

The JSC and JDC examinations were held between November 1 and 18. A total of 24, 68,820 students from 28,621 educational institutions appeared in this year's examinations. Of them, 11, 44,778 are male and 13, 24,042 female.

The number of JSC examinees is 20,90,277 while 3,78,543 examinees participated in the JDC examination this year.
2 AL leaders held with venison in Bagerhat

UNB, Bagerhat :

Two local Awami League (AL) leaders were arrested along with 10 kilograms of venison from Bakultala village in Sarankhola upazila early Saturday.

The arrestees were identified as Jafar Talukdar, 50, joint secretary of Southkhali Union Parishad unit of AL, and Shamsul Islam Ripon, 45, president

of Ward No. 4 unit of the ruling party of the same UP.

Tipped-off that three people were taking venison to the locality after killing a deer in the Sundarbans, a team of police set up a check post at Bakultala village to arrest them.

When the trio reached near the check post riding on a motorcycle, police waylaid them during their U-turn in the area. Following this, police chased down motorbike and managed to catch two pillion riders - Jafar and Shamsul - while its driver managed to flee, said Karirul Islam, officer-in-charge of Sarankhola Police Station.

A case was filed with Sarankhola Police Station under Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, said the OC.

The arrestees were produced before the court of Bagerhat Chief Judicial Magistrate on Saturday and the court sent the duo to jail.
JL man hacked to death in Satkhira

UNB, Satkhira :

A local activist of Jubo League was hacked to death in Ghoshpara Beel area of Shyamnagar upazila on Friday night.

The deceased was identified as Asadur Rahman, 35, son of Abdul Jabbar of Arangachha village in Kaliganj upazila and an activist of local Jubo League. He owned a fish

enclosure at Ghoshpara Beel. Syed Mannan Ali, officer-in-charge of Shyamnagar Police Station, said some miscreants swooped on Asad around 8:30pm and chopped him indiscriminately while he was going to the fish enclosure by a bicycle, leaving him dead on the spot.

Police visited the spot, he said.
Pass rate drops by 9.41pc

Staff Reporter :

A total of 20,18,271 students out of 24,82,342 passed the Junior School Certificate (JSC) and Junior Dhakil Certificate (JDC) examinations-2017, which is 9.41 percent lower than that of the previous year.

The percentage of the pass rate is 83.65 percent which was 93.06 percent in the previous year.

The number of GPA-5 earning students reduced by 55,960 than the previous year as a total of 1,91,628 candidates achieved GPA-5 this year, which was 2,47,588 last year.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid briefed the media on several aspects of the JSC-JDC results at the Secretariat at 2:00pm on Saturday.

Secretary of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Division Md Sohrab Hossain, Secretary of Madrasah and Technical Education Board Md Alamgir and senior officials of the Education Ministry, among others, were present at the press conference.

Earlier in the morning, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced the results after Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid, accompanied by the chairpersons of the education boards, handed it over to her at the Ganabhaban around 12:00noon.

In JSC examinations, a total of 17,07,024 candidates out of 21,03,763 passed the examinations.

The pass rate hit a record low of 83.10 percent with 1,84,397 students securing GPA-5 under eight general education boards across the country, down by 50,662 from last year.

The pass rate in JDC examinations is 86.80 percent, 7.22 percent lower than in the last year

The number of GPA-5 achieving students also has come down to 7,231, decreasing by 5,298 students from last year.

A total of 5,279 educational institutions achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JSC and JDC examinations, while the number was 9,450 last year.

Of those, 529 institutions are from Dhaka, 1,035 from Rajshahi, 61 from Comilla, 281 from Jessore, 90 from Chittagong, 812 from Barisal, 171 from Sylhet, 580 from Dinajpur, while 1,720 are under Madrasa Education Board.

A total of 3,559 schools under eight general education boards achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JSC examinations, while the number was 6,247 last year.

A total of 1,720 madrasas achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JDC examinations, while the number was 3,203 previous year.

A total of 1,720 madrasas achieved 100 percent pass rate in this year's JDC examinations, while the number was 3,203 last year.

A total of 562 students from nine foreign centres have come out successful in the JSC examinations this year with 93.82 percent pass rate.

Meanwhile, no student passed in 59 educational institutions while it was 28 last year.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid said, "We have attached priority to improving quality of education to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). We have introduced modern and effective answer paper evaluation system aiming to evaluate answer scrip in an accurate manner."

The government is implementing various programmes to promote female education in the country. Advancement of female education is a great achievement, which has been attributed to sincere efforts and strong commitment of the government, he said.

The results are aviable on the websites of Ministry of Education: http://www.educationboardresults.gov.bd. Besides, student can also get their results via short messaging service (SMS).

The JSC and JDC examinations were held between November 1 and 18. A total of 24, 68,820 students from 28,621 educational institutions appeared in this year's examinations. Of them, 11, 44,778 are male and 13, 24,042 female.

The number of JSC examinees is 20,90,277 while 3,78,543 examinees participated in the JDC examination this year.




Dr Kamal urges all to unite against misrule

Staff Reporter : Gano Forum leaders on Friday blamed the incumbent cabinet and parliament members for destabilising the country's economy and social security. They also urged people to get united against the misrule of the incumbent Awami League government at a discussion held at the Institute of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh auditorium in Dhaka. Presiding over the discussion the party chief Dr. Kamal Hossain said he would prefer peaceful dialogue with the concerned authorities in search of accountability and good governance. He said the finance minister should reveal the name of perpetrators who took away Bangladesh's reserve in New York and also looted other state-owned banks. The party's executive president, Subrata Chowdhury, came down heavily on the government for allowing loyal politicians and businessmen in looting public money by. Citing that the government was blocking every means of democratic practices, former Awami League organising secretary Sultan Mahmood Mansur said, 'The persons currently leading the ruling party do not carry the ideals of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.' Gano Forum general secretary Mostafa Mohsin Montu, treasurer Mohiudding Quader, labour affairs secretary Zan-e-Alam, joint-secretary AOM Shafiqullah, among others, also spoke at the discussion.
Tri-nation hydro power deal soon

Aniul Islam Noor : A three-nation hydrocarbon power deal between Bangladesh, India and Bhutan will be signed soon to set up 1,225MW hydropower generation on equal partnership rights, sources said. Power Cell Director General (DG) Mohammad Hossain told The New Nation, "The investment proposal for the hydropower generation project is in the final stage. Initially, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed between the three countries. Then, the three will form a joint-stock company and implement the project." "There are some complexities in the laws of India. It (India) has been asked to change its guidelines regarding this. Bangladesh is expecting that the laws will be changed. It will open new ways of power generation investment," the Power Cell DG said. According to Power Division sources, Bhutan has the opportunity to produce 25,000MW of hydroelectric power generation. It is possible to bring this electricity to Bangladesh as there is a seasonal difference between Bangladesh and Bhutan. The highest demand for electricity in Bangladesh is remained in summer. Since Bangladesh is still a power deficit country, it could bring in electricity round the year (both summer and winter seasons) from Bhutan. In view of this possibility, Bangladesh is interested to invest in Bhutan's hydroelectric project. Power Division hopes that the deal will be signed in early in the New Year, said a senior official in the division. Sources said that currently Bhutan has been producing 1,500MW electricity from hydroelectric power plants. Bhutan has made most of its power plants with the Indian grants and loans. That is why India imports electricity from Bhutan in lower price. Meanwhile, Bhutan is working with an aim of generating 10,000MW of hydropower by 2020. India has been implementing 10 hydroelectric power plant projects in Bhutan with 6,300MW capacity. The new power plant will start generation in 2019. Outside of this, that country has capacity of 15,000MW more hydropower generation, sources said.
Central bank losing control

Undue interference, leadership crisis blamed

Kazi Zahidul Hasan :

The central bank is losing regulatory control over the banks and financial institutions due to undue interference of the Ministry concerned.

The Banking Company Act, 1991 empowered the central bank to regulate banking sector as an autonomous body, but in reality the central bank fails to operate independently after the Ministry of Finance established its own Banking Division to interfere in the activities of the banks.

The central bank recently turned down proposals for setting up two new private commercial banks. In response, the Ministry of Finance instructed it to prepare primary courses to allow parties to get licences to set up new banks and it started the process.

Two private banks recently faced hostile takeovers by a powerful quarter and some managing directors were forced to resign. But the central bank was helpless to intervene in the situation.

"The central bank fails to function independently due to external political pressure, lack of accountability and honesty of its officials and leadership crisis," former BB Deputy Governor Dr Khondoker Ibrahim Khaled told The New Nation yesterday.

He said undue interference by the Finance Ministry is also hurting independence of the central bank. Referring to a recent instance, he said, "BB moved forward to issue license of two new banks under pressure from the ministry although it was against opening new banks citing present condition of the banking sector."

"Such interference may have profound implications on the whole banking sector," he warned.

Regarding the regulation of public banks, Dr Khondoker Ibrahim Khaled said, "BB has a legal limitation to regulate state-owned banks. Such a limitation has paved the way for rampant corruption in public banks. BB should be empowered to regulate both state-owned and private banks by abolishing the Section 46 of the Banking Company Act."

"BB is an autonomous body. But it cannot function independently due to the government's improper policy," former BB Governor Dr Salehuddin Ahmed told The New Nation. Criticizing the government to form a Banking Division, he said, "BB has lost independence and control over the banks with the establishment of the Division."

"Full autonomy of the BB is necessary for turning it into a dynamic regulator. On top of this, BB should also ensure accountability of their officials to address corruption and irregularities in the banking sector," added Dr Salehuddin Ahmed.

Asking not to be named, a former banker told The New Nation that the ministry has established the Division to implement the government's political agenda. "The government has sinister goals and it opened the Division to achieve the goals including issuing new bank licenses in favour of a powerful quarter."

"We need a strong central bank to have a vibrant banking sector. But strength of the bank has weakened due to discrepancy in the government's policy," Dr Toufic Ahmad Choudhury, Director General (DG) of BIBM told The New Nation.

BB incumbent Governor Dr Fazle Kabir could not be reached for comment despite several attempts on his cell phone.
The Undead Archives

I have finally salvaged my pre-Blogger TDR archives and added them into Blogger. They are almost totally in the form of one giant post for each month. And the formatting strayed from the originals. Sorry. But historians everywhere can rejoice that this treasure trove of my thoughts is restored to the world.
Our body is a perfect instrument for divine experience in human consciousness. Keep up on the field with thought-provoking pieces from Kylie Jenner. We focus mostly on the efficiency, effectiveness, the age, the beauty or ugliness of Korpers so-called. Enjoy and not enrich us, what would be really much more useful to its original functionality. The body has the ability to perceive very complex, to experience, to learn, to meet, to feel and to broaden our experience and thus our consciousness with and about the love. To ensure this,"We the body thus than that see, what he is as a sum of its comprehensive capabilities: perception organ of our higher, divine being; a highly talented assemblage of physischen and spiritual sense organs, which seen is a perceptual unity of our consciousness as a whole. As they recognized and appreciated, it follows, that a Review of functioning or effectiveness of thereof is irrelevant. Since the Wahrnehmung as such not with human categorizing scales to measure, and because one or information is tantamount to mapping an impression of always also a turbidity of its originality and thus a Verfalschung her immediately existing awareness and their knowledge, it is desirable, any bewertung thereof outside before to remind us of their inviolability. (Similarly see: everest capital). And this is just so important, because the experience of perception as such transportiert Yes always also basically valuable cargo. Perception is simply what it is: a combination of perceiving with the perceived, and it is as solches always absolutely and completely. Perception is therefore not objectively assessable or to classify and measure. "Our subjective rating, that is for example the assertion: A Wahrnehmender it can be good or bad, much or little perceive." the very komplexen process does not do justice determines. Other attempts to classify Wahrnehmung or classify are oppositional principle the whole opposite and only lead to a devaluation of the divine process. The vote as such also reduces our ability to consciously on the perceptual phenomenon to take part. Everything, what holds us back from the immediate merger of Wahrnehmenden it with the perceived, corresponds to an avoidance of original experience and whose information delivery. This bedeutet also that our bodies, no matter as he looks, what for a beSchaffenheit he has, in other words, no matter how beautiful or hassLich, even regardless of how intelligent or primitive it is that he has an inner psychische or physical disability, yet has all the requirements to the Wahrnehmung, and anything and everything, he takes it, is also perfect. What allows us the inference that Constitution their particular Sinnhaftigkeit is also our perception in a so-called disease. Every body is unique and individuell, and therefore also the it Wahrgenommene it is necessarily idiosyncratic and invaluable as a result, precious and absolut einmalig. And therein lies the special and valuable of our physical body and his perception of the whole, for the collective consciousness. From a human, to evaluate an animal, a creature in itself, after his appearance us so the awareness, that a physical existence is, what an untouchable, unique perception of the divine and its mannigfaltigen design has. We therefore dissociate ourselves from our pure experience of perceiving and of fusion with space and time, if we live in the rating and us not on the adventure can leave a, give to us all right now and his Innewohnenden held Offenbarung. The resulting also, that we need to change something from the perceptual nor what is approved it. That there is no need for direct influence and that we at the moment nothing really perfektionieren, remove anything or add anything or modifizieren must. That just about a perfect body is good, as it is, and just at that moment at the moment of perfect perception exists.
CARBONDALE  As a deep cold settled in the region and shows no signs of leaving at least for the next week, there are several factors to keep in mind in terms of safety.

According to Fridays National Weather Service six-day forecast, temperatures are not supposed to peak above freezing before Thursday and lows are forecast to dip as low as zero degrees.

According to a special weather statement from the National Weather Service office in Paducah, dangerously cold wind chill temperatures are forecast Saturday through Monday night, with wind chills from zero to 15 below zero will be common. However, in Southern Illinois, there was no precipitation expected to come with the frigid temperatures.

Terril Kaufmann, assistant fire chief for the Carbondale Fire Department, said as people try to heat their homes, there can be an added fire risk  especially with space heaters.

This time of the year, if they are using space heaters or anything, keeping them spaced away from ignitable materials and making sure they are plugged in to not extension cords, but outlets, so they dont overheat, he said. This includes things like bedding, blankets and furniture among other potentially combustible items. He said this goes for any type of heater, from those heated by a light bulb to those powered by natural gas.

Anything that puts off heat you definitely want to make sure theres room around it, Kaufmann said.

There were other methods of heating the house he warned against as well  namely using an open stove, as this can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

For those who may not have access to a warm space this next week  namely the housing insecure  Patty Mullen, executive director of Good Samaritan House in Carbondale, said they will be lifting some of their restrictions as the mercury drops.

When the weather dips down below freezing, we lift our policy on zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol, she said. She said they will do their best to help anyone who comes to the door.

Even if all our beds are full, we have cots and roll-away beds. We will put people where we can to make sure they are out of the weather, Mullen said.

For those who who must go outside for prolonged periods of time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends keeping in mind the body parts that are the most at risk for frostbite  the nose, ears, toes, cheeks, chin and fingers.

For those who must keep their animals outside, Jackson Countys Animal Control officer, Lloyd Nelson, said there are a few things that can be done to keep them safe. He said to make sure the animal has fresh water at least once, preferably twice, a day. Keep fresh straw in kennels and keep a shelter for the animal that is big enough for the animal, but not too big as it needs to be able to retain heat. Nelson also said creating a wind barrier on the north side of the pen is a good thing, too.

Nelson and Kaufmann both said ice is something to keep an eye on. Kaufmann said despite the recent cold temperatures, ponds still are not safe to walk on. Nelson said people should keep an eye on their pets  he said dogs can chase other animals out onto the ice and fall through. He said regularly animals are found under ice or during spring thaws, frozen.

Kaufmann said while they do not want to have to use it, the city is prepared with ice rescue training and equipment should the need arise.
The news staff at The Southern voted on the biggest stories of 2017 for Southern Illinois. Here are the top 10 stories that defined the year in our region.

1. Chaos in Cairo

Weve covered the plight of Cairo for more than two years, and in April, the situation in the states most southern city came to a head when HUD announced that residents of the run-down McBride and Elmwood housing complexes would have to move. HUD said the complexes would be destroyed.

The complexes, which have been a part of Cairo since World War II, house nearly 200 families.

This did not sit well with residents.

Until you feel our reality, you cant feel how we feel, Kevin McAllister, a resident of Elmwood, said in a heated April meeting where HUD announced its plan.

Since the announcement, about half of the complexes residents have found new housing. But confusion and anger have been an underlying feeling for residents.

Around Thanksgiving, residents received a letter stating they must relocate from Elmwood and McBride immediately even though they were previously told that there is not a deadline by which they must vacate the complexes slated for demolition.

In response to the letter, HUD spokesman Jereon Brown said, Ideally, wed like to relocate all the residents to better housing by the summer of 2018.

In late November, HUD filed a complaint against former Alexander County Housing Authority managers James Wilson and Martha Franklin, alleging the two used federal public housing dollars for travel and gifts and submitted false documentation to HUD. HUD took over the ACHA in 2016.

The situation also prompted an August visit from HUD Secretary Ben Carson. The former Republican candidate for president toured the city and spoke at an event at the high school. He said one of the things hes thought about is with more national exposure and a good marketing plan would it be possible to help the rest of the nation to recognize the opportunity that exists in this area.

Carson in Cairo: 'I think by the grace of God its possible to save this place' CAIRO  During a visit to Cairo on Tuesday, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson said that in his career as a physician, he ofte

2. Eclipse

On Monday, Aug. 21, the eyes of the world were upon Carbondale and Southern Illinois.

In Carbondale, the city had planned for a weekend full of activities before Mondays big event, but it started out slow. But, by Sunday night and Monday morning, people chasing the Great American Eclipse arrived.

Based on crowd counts, Carbondale city officials estimated that the eclipse brought as many as 50,000 people to the city proper. And according to the Illinois Office of Tourism, 200,000 people traveled to the 16-county region for precious extra seconds of totality.

Local officials said they took note for the next solar eclipse, which comes April 8, 2024.

The reality was, even though we had events going on, many people opted to arrive really late on Saturday, and so they didnt even start interacting in the activities until sometime on Sunday, and then many visitors opted to just come in sometime on Sunday and either sleep in their car or do overnight tent camping. And of course we know that many just came in on Monday all by themselves. So thats why I think that this is just a one-day event, possibly a one-day, one-night kind of thing, said Cinnamon Wheeles-Smith, executive director of Carbondale Tourism.

All in all, it was a great event for Southern Illinois  even if a few unlucky people had the nearly-three-minute event covered by a cloud.

In Carbondale, clouds block eclipse totality for some, clear out at magic moment for others CARBONDALE  It was a moment  or a little over two minutes  at least a year in the making for Carbondale.

We probably over-prepared a bit, and normally Im not an advocate for over-planning, but in this case I think we had to, just because we didnt know how many people were coming to Carbondale, said City Manager Gary Williams. But looking back, I wouldnt have done it any differently.

Thousands react with raw emotion to total solar eclipse at sold-out Saluki Stadium CARBONDALE  As a strange darkness blanketed Saluki Stadium just after 1 p.m. Aug. 21, the thousands of people who filled the bleachers grew q

3. State budget

In July, the Illinois House voted to override Gov. Bruce Rauner's veto of a budget package, giving the state its first state budget in more than two years. It ended the nation's longest fiscal stalemate since at least the Great Depression.

Rauner rejected the measures because, he said, he saw no indication that the Democratic-controlled Legislature would send him the "structural" changes he's demanded. Those include a statewide property tax freeze, cost-cutting restrictions on compensation for injured workers, changes to pension benefits for state employees, and reforms making it easier for voters to merge or eliminate local governing bodies.

Rauner described the override vote as "another step in Illinois' never-ending tragic trail of tax hikes."

The income tax increase means individuals will pay 4.95 percent instead of 3.75 percent. The corporate rate jumps to 7 percent from 5.25 percent.

After more than two years without a budget, the struggle began to show in 2017. Credit-rating houses threatened to downgrade the state's creditworthiness to "junk," signaling to investors that buying state debt is a highly speculative venture.

The standoff had other effects as well. Road construction work shut down. Public universities were cut to the bone and faced a loss of academic accreditation. The United Way predicted the demise of 36 percent of all human-services agencies in Illinois by year's end.

At the time the budget was done, Illinois had a $6.2 billion annual deficit and $14.7 billion in overdue bills. Since, that number has gone down, but theres still a lot of work to be done.

And, theres no guarantee that a budget agreement can be reached in 2018. The governor will make his budget address in February.

4. Butler to retire

On Dec. 1, Marion Mayor Robert Butler announced that he plans to retire Jan. 31. He has been the mayor since he was elected in April 1963, and is one of the longest serving mayors in both Illinois and the U.S. Among mayors still holding office, Butler is second to Charles E. Long of Booneville, Kentucky.

Marion Mayor Bob Butler says he will retire Jan. 31 MARION  Mayor Robert Butler announced today that he plans to retire Jan. 31. He will advise the corporate authorities of the city of his deci

Since Butler has taken office, there is no doubt that Marion has grown exponentially. He refers to Marion as The hub of the universe.

The population of Marion was 11,274 when Butler took office in 1963. According to 2015 figures, Marions population stands at 17,803.

I believe the structure and organization of the city and smooth manner in which city affairs are conducted is one of our greatest accomplishments, Butler said in a story earlier this month. The city was in complete and utter chaos when I became mayor.

When Butler took over, the city also was in a deep financial crisis. As an example, Butler said the street superintendent could not get $1.25 credit at a local lumber yard to buy stakes for the city.

Look at Marion now.

When Butler leaves office at the end of January, Commissioner Anthony Rinella will take over. It will be the first time since John F. Kennedy was our president that someone other than Butler will be the mayor of Marion.

I have thought of Marion as a special place. With that in mind, I have tried to help make that true, Butler said.

5. Morthland College

In September, officials from the Illinois Board of Higher Education visited Morthland College in West Frankfort after the U.S. Department of Education earlier this year revoked the school's ability to access federal student aid funds and fined the college for an alleged "breach of fiduciary duty."

Morthland College investigated by state, federal agencies; fined millions over alleged mishandling of federal funds Officials from the Illinois Board of Higher Education visited Morthland College on Monday after the U.S. Department of Education revoked the school's ability to access federal student aid funds and fined the college for an alleged "breach of fiduciary duty."

The visit meant that the college was to be the subject of an official institutional investigation based on a letter IBHE received from the U.S. Department of Education on Aug. 22.

Since then, the college has been subject to many issues including court decisions, tax sales, fines and liens.

Morthland Colleges accrediting body, Transnational Association of Christian Colleges, changed its status in November to accredited under probation.

Tim Eaton, president of Transnational Association of Christian Colleges, said the move basically is financial and was also in part due to potential compliance issues with federal agencies. We have a standard that requires that (those) participating in federal financial aid to be in compliance with the regulations, he said. What weve determined on putting the institution on probation is that there (is) possible noncompliance.

Morthland College is now 'accredited under probation'; has 1 year to remedy WEST FRANKFORT  The end result of a nearly yearlong review of Morthland College has resulted in the colleges accreditation status being chan

Eaton said the year probation period is designed to allow maximum fairness to students. He said allowing the college at least the next academic year  no decisions will be made until the commissions fall 2018 meeting  will let students nearing graduation to finish their coursework.

The college is still being investigated by the U.S. Department of Education as well as by the Illinois Board of Higher Education because of the recent emergency action.

6. Juan Carlos Hernandez Pacheco

In February, the national news world was in West Frankfort for the story of Juan Carlos Hernandez Pacheco.

Hernandez, 38, from Mexico, was arrested at his home in West Frankfort on Feb. 9 and held in a Missouri jail until the end of February. He was held over questions about his legal status in the U.S. Hernandez is the manager of La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant in West Frankfort.

While he was in jail, letters of support from neighbors and business associates flooded in. The letters will be presented as part of his plea to the court for him to remain in the U.S. with his family, and the long list of letter-writers in his support include West Frankfort Mayor Tom Jordan, Fire Chief Jody Allen and Assistant Chief of Police Shawn Talluto.

Pachecos case highlights an interesting wrinkle in political psychology, as we wrote in February. The immigration debate that is often spoken of in abstract about the faceless millions takes on another meaning when it becomes about the immigrant one knows and loves.

I would think that everybody has got to give a different thought to this, said Tim Grigsby, owner of Simple Solutions Printing in West Frankfort and a close friend of Hernandez. Theres good people and bad people all over the place. This guy here  hes one in a million. Hes the whole deal.

Many news outlets from throughout the United States picked up on the story  including the New York Times. In December, The Times came back to West Frankfort to host a forum about Pacheco and the many other issues that face Middle America.

Pachecos case is scheduled to be heard in 2021.

7. SIUC restructuring

For years, enrollment has been declining at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Because of this, new Chancellor Carlo Montemagno presented a reorganization plan after starting the job in mid-August. Montemagnos plan was met with skepticism and support.

Things arent getting better. And its quite scary, he said. Youll hear a lot of discussion about how we need to discuss this more, how changes are happening too fast, how theyre ill-conceived. What I want to point you to is some work thats been done in this university for a very, very long time.

The chancellors plan would trim the universitys eight academic colleges down to five. Those colleges would contain 15 schools, which would house programs. Montemagno argues that his plan to eliminate the universitys 42 departments will allow for more interdisciplinary work and elevate the status of the university. A key element of the plan is the elimination of department chairs, which he contends would save about $2.3 million in administrative costs.

SIUC chancellor presents academic reorganization plan, announces University Museum will reopen SIUC's chancellor sketched out a broad academic reorganizational intended to get the university back on track. He also announced that University Museum, which shuttered in July because of the state budget impasse, will reopen in January 2018.

Now, theres still a lot to be done as it comes to the chancellors plan. In fact, theres going to be a lot more done in 2018.

Board chair Randal Thomas said it would take some time to review the hefty documents pertaining to the plan. We have our homework to do, he said.

Since Montemagnos announcement outlining his plan, SIUCs Faculty Association, the Graduate and Professional Student Council, and the Undergraduate Student Council all passed resolutions opposing the unilateral elimination of departments.

The chancellor has said he hopes to implement the changes July 1, 2018.

8. Montemagno hired as chancellor

In July, for the first time in nearly three years, Southern Illinois University Carbondale finally had a full-time, permanent chancellor after the Board of Trustees approved Carlo Montemagno as chancellor. Montemagno took over the Carbondale campus on Aug. 15.

Montemagno, who was one of six candidates to be considered for the role, was a professor of engineering at the University of Alberta's Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering and founder of the Ingenuity Lab for the Province of Alberta.

SIU Carbondale is an institution that possesses the DNA of greatness. It is an institution with strong genes that enable opportunity, creativity and discovery, Montemagno said when he was hired. By engaging with the entire SIUC community  including faculty, staff, students, alumni, friends, the Southern Illinois community and industry  we will fully activate SIUCs DNA to realize the possible.

The jewel that is SIUC is bright, and I am confident that by working together we will make it brilliant.

Brad Colwell, who was one of the finalists under consideration, served in the interim role since September 2015. He remained at SIU, becoming vice president for academic affairs for the SIU system.

(Montemagno) is going to be a very strong champion for SIU Carbondale. Obviously, given his background, he wants to strengthen the roots of the university as a national research institution and is already talking about ways to do that, including bringing his own lab to the campus, or as much as we can, Dunn said.

9. Feb. 28 tornado

On Feb. 28  toward the end of winter  a tornado ripped through Elkville, Vergennes and other local communities, damaging property and tearing up homes.

A week later, the National Weather Service in Paducah rated the tornado an EF-4. NWS said the tornado had estimated peak wind speed of 180 miles per hour and a path 50.4 miles long. The tornado killed one person in Perry County, Missouri, and injured 12.

The tornado set down at 7:55 p.m., 4.8 miles west-northwest of Perryville, Missouri. It lifted at 8:57 p.m., 1.8 miles southwest of Christopher.

In Southern Illinois, the storm damaged 46 homes, 12 of which were a total loss, according to a report from the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and the Jackson County Emergency Management Agency. Four Jackson County residents were treated at local hospitals for minor injuries from flying debris.

In Franklin County, Sheriff Donnie Jones said three homes were destroyed in Six Mile Township, which is near Mulkeytown. The majority of the damage was on Yellow Bank Road in the township. Two of the homes of were occupied, but there were no known injuries.

10. Interstate 57 issues

2017 was full of issues and fatal crashes that happened on a stretch of Interstate 57 from Mount Vernon to Cairo. At times, it seemed like there were crashes daily.

In fact, during one four-day stretch in October, there were five reported crashes.

The headlines this past year were littered with crashes, fires and accidents that occurred on the stretch of road  a number of the issues happened at the interchange at Interstate 24.

3 fatal crashes in less than 2 hours claim 4 lives on Southern Illinois highways Sunday Three vehicle crashes that all took place within two hours of one another Sunday claimed the lives of four people.

Illinois State Police has beefed up its presence on the interstate, but it hasnt seemed to slow down the incidents. Just last week a fatal crash closed the interstate for a few hours.
More information has been released about the recently-stolen Harrisburg High School band trailer.

Harrisburg Police Chief David Morris said the van, which was found Thursday after it had gone missing, could have been stolen as early in the week as Tuesday evening  he said initially investigators thought it was taken Wednesday evening or Thursday morning. Morris said the trailer was found empty in Pope County around the intersection of the Eddyville Blacktop and Illinois 146.

The trailer contained about $10,000 to $15,000 in handmade props, Morris said, for the bands invitational trip to the Illinois High School Theater Festival at Illinois State University in Normal beginning Jan. 11.

The props were from the high schools production of Seussical the Musical.

Its something that should stick out, Morris said of the items.

There is a bright spot, though. Morris said Dianne Hardy, the Carlinville repertory theater president, commented on his Facebook post regarding the trailer theft, saying that her program also did Seussical and would be happy to loan set pieces for the competition.

Morris said he has investigators gathering video surveillance tape from businesses along Illinois 145 to Eddyville, the route it is suspected the perpetrators took. Morris said it is believed the trailer may have been used to steal other items, however, he said Pope County officials are handling that investigation.

Morris said investigators do have persons of interest in the case and that they are interviewing several individuals who were involved in the Harrisburg High Schools recent remodel.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Harrisburg Police Department at 618-252-8661.
When asked, What is the best way to learn about filmmaking and cinematic storytelling? the faculty in SIUs Department of Cinema and Photography will tell you that one of the best ways to do this is to watch a lot of films  long, short, documentary, experimental, and narrative, watching in classrooms, in theaters or streaming online.

In fact, one of the best ways to see a lot of different kinds of films, in a short amount of time, is a film festival. In fact, every February for the past 39 years, students have given themselves this opportunity through the The Big Muddy Film Festival. This is the oldest student-run film festival in the United States and in 2018, The Big Muddy Film Festival, known also as The Big Muddy, will be celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Kelechi Agwuncha, a junior from Chicago, is directing the 2018 festival, and has already been working with her peers on The Big Muddy Crew (the registered student organization that runs the festival) to make this years events more special than ever.

Were hoping to get alums of the cinema program back to help us celebrate, Agwuncha said. And were inviting filmmakers to the party, too. Not just the filmmakers in this years festival, but artists who have screened their work in any of the previous festivals.

The Big Muddy has a great reputation among film and video makers, said H.D. Motyl, interim chair of the department. When you look at the entries, youll find artists from around the country, and around the globe. Its a truly international film festival, and were very proud that its still run by students, who are filmmakers themselves, with only a little departmental oversight.

That departmental oversight is done by The Big Muddy Executive Director Hassan Pitts, who doubles as the technology coordinator for the college.

The festival is a great experience for the students, not just in terms of running it and seeing so many good films, but also in meeting the makers of those films when they come to present their work," Pitts said. "It fosters a community of mediamakers.

The first Big Muddy Film Festival was in 1978, founded by Professor Emeritus Mike Covell and his students. It is wonderful to have Covell attending this years festival and helping to welcome former students and filmmakers, as well as the community.

This is an event on campus, but we really want the Carbondale and Southern Illinois communities to come celebrate with us, and to see some great film by emerging artists, Agwuncha said. The festival is Feb. 19-25 in various locations on campus and in Carbondale. Check the website for more information: http://bigmuddyfilm.com

We look forward to sharing this wonderful campus event with all of you in the larger Southern Illinois community, and we hope you can attend.
CHICAGO  Starting in January, Illinois will bar a rare criminal defense allowing the use of a victim's sexual orientation as justification for violent crime, a ban gay rights advocates say they will attempt to replicate in about half a dozen states next year.

Defense attorneys will no longer be able to mount the so-called "gay panic defense" in Illinois, the second state after California to prohibit the tactic. It isn't common, but one study shows it has surfaced in about half of all U.S. states and has been used with some success. Advocates say bans are necessary because crimes against gay and transgender people are on the rise, but some attorneys remain skeptical, calling the ban politically motivated and unnecessary because the old-fashioned defense wouldn't hold up in court today.

After a lackluster attempt in 2016, the Illinois ban sailed through the Legislature in May with no opposition and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner signed it into law without comment. Supporters called it a major victory for LGBTQ rights  especially as advocacy groups including the Human Rights Campaign report spikes in murders of transgender people  that could provide momentum for change elsewhere.

"For us, it was important to eradicate (the defense), regardless of use," said Brian Johnson, the CEO of Equality Illinois, which backed the ban. "It makes our identity sufficient reason for murder. We never wanted it to be used going forward."

There are variations, but it generally goes like this: A person doesn't realize someone is gay or transgender and engages in a flirtation, then discovers that person's sexual orientation and that discovery triggers a passionate involuntary response such as murder.

Advocates point to the beating death of Islan Nettles, a transgender woman who died on a New York City street in 2013. James Dixon, who pleaded guilty and was sentenced last year, flirted with Nettles before realizing she was transgender. He punched her in the face and she fell and hit her head.

Legal experts including Anthony Michael Kreis, a Chicago-Kent College of Law professor who helped write the Illinois law, said Dixon got a lenient 12-year prison sentence in a plea deal because of the "trans panic" defense. Dixon has said he doesn't hate transgender people.

Supporters plan to revive legislative attempts to ban what's also known as the "trans panic" defense, in statehouses in Washington and New Jersey, where proposals haven't yet received committee votes. Advocates also hope to make inroads in New York, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota and Texas.

"The gay and trans 'panic' defenses are outdated relics reminiscent of a time when widespread antipathy was commonplace for LGBT individuals. It asks jurors to find that a victim's sexual orientation or gender identity excuses the actions of a violent criminal," said D'Arcy Kemnitz, the National LGBT Bar Association's executive director. "Our nation's courtrooms cannot truly be places where law rules supreme while these defenses are still allowed to persist."

Such "panic" defenses have come up in court opinions in about half of U.S. states since the 1960s, according to a 2016 study by the Williams Institute at the University of California Los Angeles' law school. But the defense is hard to track and identify. No state recognizes it as a free-standing defense in the criminal code and it's often used in conjunction with insanity or self-defense claims.

The American Bar Association called for a prohibition in 2013. California outlawed the defense in 2014.

Kreis called the Illinois law a "remarkable" win and perhaps the first unanimous roll-call vote in a statehouse on a gay and transgender issue. But while no one voted "no," over two dozen legislators  Democrats and Republicans  didn't vote. Their reasons varied from non-attendance to human error.

Chicago defense attorney Steve Greenberg, who represented former police officer and convicted killer Drew Peterson, said the ban wouldn't have much practical effect in courts where the defense is hardly used.

"That's just not a defense," he said. The legislation is "political pandering and window dressing."

The last time the defense came up in Illinois was in two suburban Chicago murder cases, but the 2009 court proceedings illustrate divided opinion on the tactic.

In one, Joseph Biedermann of Hoffman Estates admitted killing Terrance Hauser, who was stabbed over 50 times. Biedermann said Hauser threatened to sexually assault and kill him. He was acquitted. Advocates say the "gay panic" defense was in play, but Biedermann's attorney called it self-defense.

In another, Timothy Bailey-Woodson pleaded guilty in the murder of Bloomingdale mechanic David Coungeris, receiving a 25-year sentence. Prosecutors said Bailey-Woodson claimed he killed Coungeris after the mechanic made sexual advances toward him. Bailey-Woodson's public defender declined comment on that aspect, but argued at the time that his client was abused as a child.

Attorney Kathleen Zellner, who has won several high-profile wrongful conviction cases, supports the ban, but says the defense wouldn't survive in court.

"Most attorneys would find it very flawed," she said. "I would never stand in front of a jury and try to get somebody acquitted on a first-degree murder charge with that."
Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office

Two people remain on the run after robbing a store at gunpoint on Thursday night.

An employee of the Family Dollar at 2755 Old Edisto Drive called deputies moments after the robbery occurred at about 10 p.m.

Employees described the armed robbers as black males wearing masks. One of the robbers wore a black hoodie and the other wore camouflage clothing.

An incident report states the gunmen took a small amount of cash from the cash register and threatened to shoot employees while pointing guns at them.

If anyone has information about the two suspects, they are asked to call the sheriffs office at 803-534-3550 or Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME- SC.
Authorities continue to search for an Olar man they say broke out of the Lamar County Jail in Barnesville, Georgia, early Wednesday morning.

Bamberg County Sheriff Ed Darnell said Friday that hes optimistic Christopher Nicholas Carroll will soon be found.

Hell pop up somewhere and well take him into custody, Darnell said.

With temperatures hitting the 20s and 30s, Darnell said that someone is likely putting the 37-year-old man up somewhere.

Darnell said he believes Carroll is determined to return to Olar, where he most recently lived at 14854 Low Country Highway.

Authorities located Carrolls jail-issued orange jumpsuit in a vacant old structure near Ulmer on Thursday.

Authorities allege Carroll stole a Lamar County vehicle when he broke out of jail. It was also located near Ulmer.

If anyone comes into contact with Carroll, we hope theyre going to do the right thing, Darnell said.

He warned if anyone is caught harboring a fugitive or puts him up, they could face the felony charge of harboring a fugitive from justice.

If anyone has information about Carrolls whereabouts, they are asked to call 803-245-3000, 803-245-3018 or 911. Callers may remain anonymous.
A Chinese tire company set its sights on Orangeburg County in 2017, saying it plans to invest up to $1 billion and create up to 1,200 jobs over an eight-year period.

While there has been little public discussion about the project since the summer, officials say they still expect Wanli Tire Company will build its facility in the county.

"I am not fearful the project is not going to announce," Orangeburg County Development Commission Executive Director Gregg Robinson said.

"They have promised to me they are committed to us and the company has given us all indications they are moving forward with their plans and their design, he said.

The companys plans became public June 5, when South Carolinas Joint Bond Review Committee announced it would consider issuing $40.5 million in bonds to assist in site development, a rail line and roads.

The committee approved the package the next day.

The committees paperwork said Wanli plans to invest at least $400 million and create at least 400 jobs.

Wanli chose Orangeburg County for its newest manufacturing plant because of its central location on the East Coast and its available workforce, according to a company press release.

Vanlead Group Co., which is the parent company of Wanli Tire, cited the region's solid industrial foundations, strong scientific strength and highly efficient labor forces as the reason for locating here.

The company also cited the state's central location on the Atlantic Coast and its more than 200 auto parts makers as instrumental in its decision.

ChinaDaily.com reported that during the companys first phase, it will build the capacity to produce six million sedan tires annually. The second phase will be devoted to truck tires.

A planned location for the company has not yet been released. Local officials have provided few details about the project, citing confidentiality agreements.

As 2017 reached a close, Robinson said the company is going through the federal approval process, as well as marketing and an analysis of building designs and equipment.

Robinson also noted the company is going through the approval processes in light of recent governmental reorganization in China.

"This is a different business model than would be typical of our business models in the U.S.," Robinson said. "They have told us to bear with them as they go through this process."

"When you get a really big project of this type where there are investments over $300 million or half a billion ... the requirements from the federal government level become pretty big," Robinson continued. "This is a part of them releasing capital from China. It does not happen overnight."

Robinson said the county's only investment in the project thus far has been connected to land acquisition and site preparation.

"There has been no direct assistance to the company," he said. "If this project fails to materialize, we have property that we have done the due diligence on. We have the resources to re-purpose the project and market it again."

Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnny Wright said he heard from a Wanli representative about a month ago.

"They were still interested in Orangeburg and still moving along to get it done," Wright said. "It did not happen on the time frame that we initially thought."

Though hesitant to share any specific details, Wright said the project would be a real game changer for the county in terms of capital investment and jobs.

"That is a lot of capital investment that would help our tax base," he said. "That in turn would help the citizens because if the tax base grows, that means our millage rate would be worth more money. That would help us all the way around."

Sen. John Matthews, D-Bowman, said he understood there would be an announcement by the end of the year or early in the new year. But he says he has not heard much more.

Like Wright, Matthews said the investment would mark a transforming moment for the county's economy.

"It would be the largest investment weve ever had," he said. "It will ripple throughout the county and the region."

A project Wanlis size will take time to build. Money will be spent incrementally over the next decade.

After depreciation and incentives like a fee-in-lieu of taxes agreement, the property tax bill will most likely be based on a $400 million to $500 million investment.

A $500 million investment with a 6 percent assessment ratio would most likely be paying a fee based on an assessment of about $30 million.

Assuming the current millage rate of about 390 mills is in place five or six years from now when Wanli is operational, the company would generate almost $12 million for the county and the county school system.

About $7.1 million, or 60 percent, would go to schools and 40 percent, or $4.7 million, would go to the county operations each year.

Assuming the investment is valued at $1 billion, about $23.4 million would go to the county and schools. About $14 million would go to schools and $9.4 million would go toward county operations.
Poor Everton beaten by struggling Cherries

Saturday, 29 December, 2017



Bournemouth 2 - 1 Everton



A rare goal by Idrissa Gueye gave Everton the platform to end 2017 with a victory but it was Bournemouth who found a winner A rare goal by Idrissa Gueye gave Everton the platform to end 2017 with a victory but it was Bournemouth who found a winner

Everton finished 2017 with Sam Allardyce's first defeat as manager as Ryan Fraser's deflected winner handed Bournemouth their first win in nine games.

The Blues had been punished by the diminutive midfielder in the first half when James McCarthy's giveaway led to him scoring the opener and while Idrissa Gueye scored a well-taken equaliser 12 minutes into the second half, the visitors couldn't hold on to a point.

Gueye had been expected to sit out again after straining his hamstring against Chelsea last week but he was selected in a defensive midfield trio that was rounded out by Morgan Schneiderlin and James McCarthy, making his first appearance since returning from hamstring problems of his own.

The overtly defensive posture had predictable ramifications for Everton's ability to attack; while there was, on the whole, a good deal more passing and confident possession of the ball, Dominic Calvert-Lewin remained an isolated and ineffective presence up front.

Article continues below video content

Unsurprisingly, therefore, it was Bournemouth who had the better chances in the first period. Callum Wilson rolled Michael Keane easily and saw his half-volley beaten away by Jordan Pickford while Jordan Ibe was also foiled by the Blues' keeper who pushed his fierce drive behind.

The home side did take the lead in the 33rd minute, however, when McCarthy's back-pass was collected by Wilson, he fed Josh King and when the ball was squared across the box, Fraser was there to steer the ball past Pickford.

Allardyce made a much-needed change at the break, introducing Wayne Rooney, returning from a virus, withdrawing McCarthy and, combined with Oumar Niasse's introduction for Calvert-Lewin soon afterwards, the change in formation would contribute to Everton regaining parity within 12 minutes.

Rooney had dragged a left-footed shot narrowly wide and when Simon Francis gave the ball away to Gylfi Sigurdsson from the resulting goal kick, the Icelandic international picked out Niasse in the Bournemouth area. His lay-off found the advancing Gueye and he swept it home to make it 1-1.

Everton failed to push on from there, however. Instead, it was the Cherries who responded, with Francis exchanging a one-two pass and sliding it square to Wilson but Pickford was there again to make an excellent save.

Benick Afobe came very close to putting Eddie Howe's men back in front when he turned neatly past his marker but a heavy touch took it through to the keeper before Yannick Bolasie replaced Gueye with 20 minutes left.

The Congolese winger had one chance where he eschewed a decent shooting opportunity and chose to play it wide to Niasse and then ballooned over when the Senegalese striker's cross was headed out to him.

Then, three different episodes where Everton sloppily gave the ball away in their own half put them in danger of falling behind again. Pickford had to race off his line to avert danger on the first two occasions and then parry another effort from Ibe who then clipped the crossbar as Bournemouth continued to threaten.

After Sigurdsson had had a shot charged down at one end, the hosts made the breakthrough that they had been threatening after the protection afforded by Gueye had been lost in midfield at the other.

Fraser was played in on the edge of the Blues' box and with Keane backing off, he jinked his way into position before firing a shot off the defender's heel and over the stranded Pickford with just a couple of minutes left on the clock.

The loss ends Allardyce's seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions and keeps Everton's attacking deficiencies in sharp focus as the January transfer window approaches.

Everton end the year in ninth place but will rue having dropped five points from two winnable games against two teams struggling near the bottom of the table over the Christmas period.

Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer

About these ads
Indian speciality chemicals company Aarti Industries said it has secured a Rs100 billion ($1.56 billion) contract from global chemical conglomerate Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) for supply of for supply of speciality chemicals intermediate to its US affiliate.

As per the deal, the Mumbai-based company will supply a high value speciality chemical intermediate to Sabic Innovative Plastics US for 20 long years. The supplies are expected to commence from 2020.

Aarti Industries is Indias leading producer of Benzene-based basic and intermediate chemicals and also one of the leading suppliers of dyes, pigments, agro-chemicals, pharmaceuticals and rubber chemicals to global manufacturers.

The company ranks globally within the Top 4 for 75 per cent of its portfolio and is Partner of Choice for various major global and domestic customers, said the company in a statement.

Speciality chemicals segment contributed 81 per cent, Pharmaceuticals segment contributed 14 per cent and Home & Personal Care segment contributed 5 per cent to its total FY17 consolidated revenues.

With this deal, the Indian group is set to enter a new chemistry range, a first-of its-kind in India and its end product is amongst the major growth initiatives for the customer, said the statement.

Aarti unveiled plans to setup a dedicated large scale manufacturing facility for production of this speciality chemical intermediate at an investment of $35-$40 million.

The upcoming facility will be a 100 per cent export oriented unit in the Indian state of Gujarat, it added.

On the contract win, Rashesh C. Gogri, the vice-chairman and managing director, said this deal is testament to the increasing brand equity of AIL among targeted customers.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Sabic unit will be providing $42 million as an advance to the company in instalments, which shall be adjusted against the supplies in future,. he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Investments in digital transformation technologies are growing as businesses looking to compete in a digital world are forced to stay ahead of innovations in data, connectivity and operational systems that drive performance.

ManageEngine, a leading real-time IT management company with a major presence in the Middle East, predicts six trends that will shape how we do business in 2018.



1. Growing use of artificial intelligence, machine learning with data analytics, and business intelligence - Business applications continue to churn out large volumes of data, and users are trying to mine that data to determine patterns and predict user behaviour. In e-commerce, users want to know customers buying patterns, which will help market products better. Website designers want to understand how visitors move through their sites in order to improve conversion rates. And companies want to analyse their sales data to correlate marketing dollars spent with sales dollars generated. Business intelligence and data analytics activities are becoming easier to perform, and thats driving their adoption in mainstream businesses that are seeking to make better, faster decisions.



2. Rise of AI-powered chatbots in customer service and support- Over the past few years, chatbots  the automated, human-like chat responders  have been more an experiment, with limited adoption. Now, chatbots are becoming more mainstream as people see the benefits of those experiments, especially in customer service and support. Unlike human customer service and support reps, chatbots dont have the physical and mental inconsistencies that can degrade service levels. More, AI-powered chatbots are learning how to respond to customers and predict what they want. Based on customer history or questions customers ask during a chat session, AI-powered chatbots can ask users what they need and even ask leading questions, all to improve the support experience.



3. Use of natural language processing as a new form of human-computer interface- Star Trek fans arent the only ones whove been waiting for this prediction to manifest. Business users, too, are eager to have computers understand natural language. Take a sales manager who wants to generate a quarterly report. If the manager has to ask for it from an analytics specialist, the manager has to explain what shes looking for and hope the specialist accurately translates her request into something the computer can process in order to generate the information she wants. Natural language processing bypasses the analytics specialist and lets the manager work with a computer directly via speech. In response, the computer may generate a visual or auditory response, depending on the managers preference.



4. Tightening of data protection laws- Everything is heading towards digitisation- Every business process, every technology, everything done with information  from storing, transmitting, and processing it -its all in digital form. Now, a lot of countries are recognising that their citizens personal data needs to be protected. More, theyre recognising that users have to opt-in to these digital relationships; and they have to know the reason their personal data is being provided to a data process or data consumer and know what the consumer will do with their data. Tighter data protection laws are designed to secure their citizens privacy as well as prevent data abuse and outright criminal activity such as fraud or theft. Most recent example of this is Europes General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). While some countries like India are also coming up with data protection frameworks, others will enhance their current data protection framework.



5. Continuation of cloud adoption in mid-sized and larger enterprises- Cloud is a mindset. And governments and larger enterprises have been slower to adopt that mindset, preferring to a private cloud/private data center strategy as a starting point. Now, the biggest barriers to their cloud adoption  security and data privacy risks  are well understood and processes and mechanisms have been put in place to mitigate them. Enterprises now also recognize that most cloud companies invest heavily in the security of their cloud infrastructure, platforms and cloud applications. And they recognize that, in most cases, the security teams of the cloud companies are much larger and much more experienced than their own. Overall, the larger enterprises are finally becoming comfortable and confident with cloud security and the cloud itself. Governments are also taking the steps to putting out citizen-facing non-sensitive data and applications on the cloud.



6. Use of blockchain in enterprise security for identity management- Blockchain provides a distributed, secure, and unique system of records, so you can have a strongly encrypted authentication mechanism that prevents malicious users from breaking in. This makes it a great choice in terms of enterprise security, especially for identity access management system, which manages user logins and authentication. The year 2018 will see the start of blockchain adoption in areas such as banking, financial services, and health care. - TradeArabia News Service


Dubai Safari, the emirate's latest wildlife attraction, will be introducing an entrance fee for all visitors starting this Thursday (December 21).



Since opening its doors on December 12, visitor numbers to the park have crossed the 100,000 mark, with a record 14,000 visitors pouring in on the first two days.



Starting Thursday, Dubai Safari will introduce its entry fee for all visitors, having reached its goal of 100,000 visitors during the soft opening period. We expect to welcome two million visitors during the parks first year of operation, said Eng. Hussain Nasser Lootah, director general of Dubai Municipality.



He said: The response from the public was overwhelming and during this testing phase it gave us the opportunity to monitor and assess the overall operations of the park while also gathering valuable feedback from visitors about their experience. This will contribute immensely towards further enhancing the overall offering of Dubai Safari.



Dubai Safari is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm including all public holidays and is located in Al Warqaa 5 district across Dubais Dragon Mart off the Dubai-Hatta Highway.



There are different tickets available to the public at Dubai Safari, one of which is the Safari Park ticket; where visitors get access to Dubai safari Park including the Arabian village, African village, Asian village, and Alwadi except the Safari Village, and costs Dh20 ($5.4) for children and Dh50 ($13.6) for adults. The Combo Ticket gives visitors access to Dubai safari Park, Arabian Village, African Village, Asian Village, Alwadi and Safari Village, and costs Dh30 ($8) for children and Dh85 ($23) for adults. Furthermore, senior citizens and children under the age of three will enter Dubai Safari for free, while people of determination will also get free admission as well as have their own gate with wheelchairs available if needed. - TradeArabia News Service


Meet award-winning artisans and buy their products at Kerala Arts and Crafts Village
President Donald Trumps administration is rescinding proposed rules for hydraulic fracturing and other oil- and gas-drilling practices on federal lands, government officials announced Thursday.

The rules developed under President Barack Obama would have applied mainly to western states like Wyoming, where half of the states oil production and three-quarters of its gas comes from federal minerals.

Companies would have had to disclose the chemicals used in fracking, which pumps pressurized water underground to break open hydrocarbon deposits. They also would have been required to supply additional data to regulators, like providing verification before fracking that the wells could withstand the high pressure and post-ops reports detailing how the frac was done.

The rules to be rescinded Friday have never been in effect. A federal judge in Wyoming blocked them at the last minute in 2015. In September, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver declined to rule in that case because the Trump administration intended to rescind the rules.

The long-awaited change drew praise from industry groups including the Washington, D.C.-based Independent Petroleum Association of America and Denver-based Western Energy Alliance, which sued to block the rules.

They claimed the federal rules would have duplicated state rules, putting unnecessary and expensive burdens on petroleum developers.

States have an exemplary safety record regulating fracking, and that environmental protection will continue as before, Western Energy Alliance President Kathleen Sgamma said in a release.

Wyoming enforces its own fracking regulations, regardless of whether operators are dealing with federal, state or private minerals, said Mark Watson, supervisor of the Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. The Wyoming rules, some of the first developed in the country, are notably similar to what the federal agencies wanted to require, from disclosure of chemicals, to guidelines for well integrity and water protection.

Having two rules for the same operations creates confusion for operators, Watson said.

Wyoming believes that the states are best positioned to regulate hydraulic fracturing, he said in an email. The [federal] rule, if implemented, would provide a disincentive to develop production on federal minerals and encourage waste in Wyoming without increasing environmental protection or providing more public information.

Fracking has been so successful in boosting production over the past decade it has become almost synonymous with oil and gas drilling. In many areas, it would be rare for a gas or oil well to not be fracked.

The process requires several million gallons of water each time. Environmentalists say the potential risks to groundwater require oversight, and without a national standard, states regulators could compete in a race to the bottom on environmental rules in order to draw industry revenue and jobs within their borders.

Fracking is a toxic business, and thats why states and countries have banned it, Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said in an email. Trumps reckless decision to repeal these common-sense protections will have serious consequences.
The past 12 months were marked with a number of high-profile crimes and court cases in Casper, many of which included allegations of sexual assault.

While some of the accused were found guilty and sentenced, others have yet to have their day in court. An arrest is often just the beginning of the lengthy legal proceedings common in felony cases and many of the cases that began in 2017 wont be resolved until 2018.

Despite the attention some of these cases have attracted, the rate of reported violent crimes in Casper remained relatively steady between 2012 and 2016, the most recent year for which FBI crime statistics are available. In 2016, Casper residents reported 70 incidents of violent crime  the lowest number since 2012, according to the data. The number ranged from 84 to 88 in the preceding years.

Carnival worker convicted of sexually assaulting 5-year-old

After four days of trial and three hours of deliberation in May, a Natrona County jury found a carnival worker guilty of the July 2016 kidnapping and sexual assault of a 5-year-old boy.

The boy, now 6, took the stand during the trial and told a courtroom of adults what he remembered from that day last summer. The defendant, Joshua Winters, also took the stand and denied assaulting the child.

Winters was working for a contractor with the Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo at the time of his arrest.

According to police and prosecutors, Winters took the child from the arcade at the El Mark-O bowling alley, led him across the North Platte River and sexually assaulted him. A woman later found the boy standing alone and crying at an intersection and brought him to the Mills Police Station.

In September, a judge sentenced Winters, 34, to a total of 115 years in prison for the three felonies. After the sentencing hearing, the boys mother said justice had been served.

Casper man sentenced to life in prison for raping and attempting to murder 4-year-old girl

During a brief sentencing hearing in October, a Natrona County judge sentenced a Casper man to life imprisonment for crimes the judge called absolutely horrific.

Brandtly Bedsaul, 20, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder and first-degree sexual abuse of a minor in July. Police arrested him in October 2016 for raping a 4-year-old girl and attempting to strangle her to death in the front yard of a Casper home. The girl was unresponsive when police and first responders arrived at the home.

Tony Cercy charged with sexual assault

After weeks of investigation, prosecutors charged local businessman Tony Cercy in July with three felonies alleging he raped an unconscious 20-year-old woman.

The woman told investigators she had been asleep at a home near Alcova Lake after a party. She woke up during the night and found Cercy performing oral sex on her. Investigators interviewed more than 10 people who were at the party that night and examined the womans phone calls and text messages.

Prosecutors charged 55-year-old Cercy with first-, second- and third-degree sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty to all of the charges at his arraignment in September.

Cercys trial is scheduled to begin on Feb. 12. He remains free on $100,000 bond.

Trial postponed twice for former Casper doctor charged with sexually assaulting patients

The trial for a Casper doctor charged with sexually assaulting at least six of his patients was postponed twice in 2017 due to difficulties with attorneys.

Paul Harnetty faces eight counts of second-degree sexual assault and two counts of third-degree sexual assault for allegedly assaulting female patients during medical exams. Some of the women said he touched their vaginal area without gloves, and all said he rubbed them in ways that didnt seem to be part of a medical exam.

Harnetty pleaded not guilty to the charges in April and a trial was set for June 26. Ten days before the trial, however, his defense attorney requested that the trial be delayed by two months because Harnetty had switched attorneys and the new counsel needed time to review the case.

But when the rescheduled trial date approached in August, the defense again asked for a delay. Harnettys attorney had been hospitalized and unable to work in the case. The judge reluctantly granted a 90-day delay, to the disappointment of at least one of the women who said she had been assaulted by the doctor.

The case is now scheduled to go to trial Jan. 22.

Harnetty, who specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, previously worked at the Community Health Centers of Central Wyoming and had medical privileges with Wyoming Medical Center.

Casper police officers face child abuse charges

In February, two Casper police officers turned themselves in to the Natrona County Sheriffs Office on warrants for child abuse charges. Sgt. Todd Wells was later charged with child endangerment, a misdemeanor, and his wife, Officer Laura Starnes-Wells, was charged with felony child abuse.

Prosecutors later dropped the charge against Todd Wells and he continues to work for the Casper Police Department.

The charges against Starnes-Wells alleged she used extreme punishment to discipline her adopted son and failed to meet his mental health needs.

Starnes-Wells pleaded guilty in November to the felony charge and a misdemeanor charge of child endangerment. If the judge accepts the agreement at her sentencing hearing, she will serve up to five years of probation. If she successfully completes that probation the court will drop the felony charge and she will not be convicted on that count.

Starnes-Wells, who previously worked as a school resource office at Centennial Middle School, resigned in November. Both of her adopted children were removed from her custody early in the court proceedings.
A Laramie County judge on Friday recommended a Wyoming woman attend boot camp as part of her sentence, though it remains unclear whether she will have to travel to another state because Wyoming only offers the program to young male convicts.

In April, Samantha Taylor of Gillette agreed to plead guilty to felony methamphetamine possession, court documents show. In exchange for her plea, two other felony drug charges and a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge were dropped. The prosecution also agreed to limit its sentencing argument to three-to-five years imprisonment, according to the documents.

On Friday, Laramie County District Court Judge Thomas Campbell sentenced Taylor to two to four years imprisonment with a boot camp recommendation, Campbells clerk said Friday. Taylor is only the second woman that a Wyoming judge has recommended attend boot camp. Inmates who succeed in the months-long program in Newcastle can ask a judge to reduce their sentence, however it is only open to men.

A Sublette County judge recommended in May that Taylor Blanchard, a woman also convicted of a drug crime, attend boot camp after she violated probation. However, she could not attend the Newcastle program because its not open to women. Blanchard sued the state in July alleging her civil rights were violated because she had not been sent to boot camp and was not given the opportunity to reduce her six-year prison sentence.

Blanchard was eventually sent to a program in Florida. Her federal suit against the Department of Corrections is scheduled to go to trial in August.

A Department of Corrections spokesman on Friday said the department had not yet received a sentencing order and that he was unsure where Taylor would be serving her boot camp recommendation.

Taylors public defender, Robin Cooper, did not respond to a voicemail Friday requesting comment for this story.

John Robinson, who is representing Blanchard in the federal suit, said: Itll be interesting to see if Samantha Taylor is given the same opportunity as the men, or if shell be driven across the country in shackles.
Whether they be tragic or triumphant, some news stories capture the attention of the entire community. As 2018 begins, we paused to look back at those stories that resounded most strongly with our readers.

Heres a summary of the most-read stories at Trib.com over the past year.

1. Bull rider suffers massive injuries at CNFR

A routine night at the College National Finals Rodeo turned into a fight for survival when a bull stepped on Odessa College cowboy Bradie Gray, causing massive internal injuries.

The junior from Australia arrived at Wyoming Medical Center with no pulse, collapsed lungs, broken ribs and a bruised aorta. Doctors stabilized him and performed emergency surgery.

Gray spent about 10 days on life support and was released from the hospital three weeks after his injury. During his recovery, he received a visit from world champion bull rider Sage Kimzey who was passing through town on the way to a Cody rodeo.

The Casper community and rodeo fans across the country also showed their support. A GoFundMe campaign raised $27,000 to help cover medical bills, and the CNFR donated 25 percent of merchandise sales to the family.

As for Gray? He was already eager to get on his next bull.

2. Casper resident found guilty of sexually assaulting 10-year-old

Miguel Martinez faces up to 70 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of sexually assaulting a girl in the bathroom of a friends home. The girl immediately told her mother, who contacted police, and later described the assault to a forensic interviewer with the Childrens Advocacy Project.

Martinez quickly appealed the conviction, saying prosecutors withheld evidence that would have swayed the jury. A judge upheld the ruling.

Martinez has not yet been sentenced.

3. Three football players dismissed, five suspended by University of Wyoming

Disciplinary action was taken against eight University of Wyoming football players in April, although no explanation for the decision was ever made public.

Defensive tackle JaChai Baker, linebacker Drew Harvey and fullback Zach Taylor, all of whom redshirted in the 2016 season, were kicked off the team.

Taylor was a two-time Star-Tribune Super 25 selection during his high school career at Gillette.

Five other players were suspended: running back Mike Green II, cornerback Antonio Hull, free safety Tim Kamana, linebacker Adrian King and linebacker/nickel back Chavez Pownell.

Baker, Harvey and Taylor all tweeted following the dismissals that they would be leaving the university.

Coach Craig Bohl did not offer any further details about the cause. None of the eight players had been arrested, according to a review of local police records.

4. More than a million people may have visited Wyoming for the eclipse

The Wyoming Department of Transportation reported the total number of cars on the states highways was up 68 percent during Augusts total solar eclipse, an increase of 536,000 from the five-year average for that day.

Assuming that each car carried two people, the department estimated that more than a million visitors may have come to Wyoming to view the eclipse. That number would roughly have tripled the states population.

However, the exact numbers are not known. The state Office of Tourism conducted a comprehensive study that estimated about 197,000 out-of-state visitors came to Wyoming on eclipse-related trips. Based on those numbers, the departments director believed WYDOTs car count may have tallied some cars multiple times.

The impact of the eclipse also remains fuzzy. Almost half of visitors surveyed by the tourism office said they would have made a trip to Wyoming even if there hadnt been an eclipse.

What is clear is that, yes, one person landed a sea plane on Alcova Reservoir to take in the once-in-a-lifetime event.

5. Friends remember Kelly Walsh student killed in crash

Aurora Rohrer, a 16-year-old Kelly Walsh High School student and member of the schools dance team, was headed to Riverton to watch her boyfriends wrestling match. The driver lost control on the slick highway, spun into oncoming traffic and was hit by another vehicle. Aurora later died at a Casper hospital.

Her death was just one of several tragedies to strike Kelly Walsh and Natrona County high schools. At least three other students and two teachers died during the 2016-17 school year.

On the first day back at school following the accident, students, teachers and parents gathered on the Kelly Walsh soccer fields to release bright yellow balloons in Auroras memory. Just one month later, the KW dance team dedicated their state championship performance to her.

6. Former Casper doctor arrested on sexual assault charges

Paul Harnetty, who practiced obstetrics and gynecology at the Community Health Centers of Central Wyoming, was charged with a dozen counts of sexual assault. A total of six women told police the doctor touched them inappropriately during exams.

He was arrested in Minnesota, where he was living at the time, and extradited to Casper to face the charges. Harnetty had previously lost his privileges at Wyoming Medical Center after being arrested on suspicion of public intoxication while he was supposed to be the hospitals on-call OB-GYN. He voluntarily relinquished his Wyoming physicians license in October 2016.

Harnettys trial was postponed multiple times and expected to take place this winter. He also faces trial on a single drug charge for allegedly attempting to purchase synthetic steroids from a business in China.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Police and the FBI are investigating whether an argument over an online game prompted a hoax call that led to a house where an officer shot and killed a Kansas man who apparently wasnt involved in the dispute.

Wichita Deputy Police Chief Troy Livingston on Friday blamed a prankster who called 911 and made up a story about a shooting and kidnapping. He did not mention reports that an argument over online gaming was at the heart of the prank, although he said investigators had made good progress tracking online leads.

Police have not disclosed the name of the man who was killed Thursday evening, but relatives identified him as Andrew Finch, 28.

Livingston, speaking at a news conference, said the hoax call was a case of swatting, in which a person makes up a false report to get a SWAT team to descend on an address.

Due to the actions of a prankster we have an innocent victim, Livingston said. He said no one has been arrested in connection with the hoax.

Police played audio of the call to 911. A man said his father had been shot in the head. He said he was holding his mother and a sibling at gunpoint. The caller, speaking with relative calm, said he poured gasoline inside the home and I might just set it on fire.

Several officers arrived and surrounded the home, braced for a hostage situation. When Finch went to the door police told him to put his hands up and move slowly.

But Livingston said the man moved a hand toward the area of his waistband  a common place where guns are concealed. An officer, fearing the man was reaching for a gun, fired a single shot. Finch died a few minutes later at a hospital. Livingston said Finch was unarmed.

The officer, a seven-year veteran of the department, is on paid leave pending the investigation.

The Finch family on Friday allowed reporters inside their home. Lisa Finch told them her son was not a gamer.

What gives the cops the right to open fire? she asked. That cop murdered my son over a false report in the first place.

Lisa Finch said the family was forced outside barefoot in freezing cold and handcuffed after the shooting. She said her granddaughter was forced to step over her dying uncle and that no guns were found in the home.

Dexerto, an online news service focused on gaming, reported that the series of events began with an online argument over a $1 or $2 wager in a Call of Duty game on UMG Gaming, which operates online tournaments including one involving Call of Duty.

The FBI estimates that roughly 400 cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number.
PHOENIX  Arizonans at the bottom end of the income scale are going to be getting a bit more in their paychecks starting this week.

As of Monday, the new state minimum wage will be $10.50 an hour for most private-sector employees. Thats 50 cents more than the current figure  or a bit more than $1,000 a year before taxes.

It also will now be $2.45 an hour more than in 2016, the year voters approved a multi-step plan to eventually get the states minimum up to $12 an hour by 2020.

How many of the states 2.8 million workers will be affected remains unclear. The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity has no figures of the number of workers currently earning less than $10.50.

But doing some extrapolation of 2016 data, state economists said that, theoretically speaking, slightly more than 500,000 workers should be affected by the Jan. 1 change, a number they admit is probably an overestimate.

Theres also the fact that any bump to the bottom likely pushes up the wages of those are making $10.50 or more as employers must provide an incentive for existing workers to stay.

What is clear is that the first step, implemented at the beginning of 2017, did have an impact, particularly in the leisure and hospitality industry which, generally speaking, pays the least among all segments of the Arizona economy.

In November, the average hourly earnings for those in this sector was $15.06. That compares with $14.36 a year earlier, a 4.9 percent increase.

By contrast, average wages among both manufacturers and financial services employers are up just 1.7 percent in the past year.

There are, however, some exceptions to that. Wages paid in the states professional and business services are up year-over-year by 7.8 percent.

What also is clear that employment in bars and restaurants, the segment of the economy with the largest share of lower-wage workers, continues to increase.

An analysis by Capitol Media Services finds that the number of people working last month in bars and restaurants was 241,900.

Thats 5.3 percent higher than a year earlier. It also far exceeds the 1.9 percent year-over-year increase in all private sector employment.

But Steve Chucri, president of the Arizona Restaurant Association, argued that the higher wages have had an effect  and that the health of the industry overall does not reflect whats happening to individual establishments.

Dont mistake that because more restaurants are opening and that hiring might be up that that means everythings good and fine, he said.

He pointed to the announcement last week by Corner Bakery that it was closing three of its Phoenix-area locations and firing all the workers. Jim Long, CEO of parent company Blue Mountain Cafes said in a prepared statement that higher minimum wages in Arizona were a contributing factor.

But a fourth cafe in downtown Phoenix remains open, as does one in Tucson. And Chucri conceded that there may be other factors that have led to some restaurants closing their doors.

Competition is fierce in this industry, he said. It always has been, it always will be.

Chucri said, though, he believes that the higher wages are having a negative impact on the bottom line.

Glenn Hamer, president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, acknowledged that employment in the state continues to grow, even with the higher minimum wage his organization opposed.

But Hamer said even with an increase in the overall number of people working, he, like Chucri, remains convinced that the change has had an effect and that some people have lost their jobs.

For example, he said the garage where he parks no longer has any attendants.

Those jobs have been automated out of existence, Hamer said.

I cant say for a fact its because of the minimum wage, he said. But I would imagine its a contributing factor.

Chucri said the same thing is happening in his industry, pointing to fast-food and similar restaurants that have automated the ordering process, with patrons making their selections on computer screens  and even being able to pay  before picking up their meals at the counter. He said thats likely to spread to the back of the house, where theres no reason that a machine cant make french fries.

Having lost the battle with voters over a state minimum wage, Hamer said his organization is hoping to get legislators to make a change to the other provision in the 2016 measure: a requirement for employers to provide at least three days of paid time off each year  five days for companies with 15 or more workers. Hamer said companies need more flexibility to work around employee requests during times of the highest demand.

Whats significant is that Hamer is prepared to offer some concessions to workers to get what he wants.

The reason is politics: It takes a three-fourths vote in both the House and Senate to alter anything that has been approved at the ballot. And there simply arent enough Republicans to do that without Democrat support.

Does that mean boosting the number of mandated days off?

Im not going to give you any specifics, he said.
PHOENIX  The number of Latino-owned businesses in Arizona doubled from 2007 to 2015, according to recent data released by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And the group has more purchasing power than ever.

Chamber spokesman James Garcia credited increases in entrepreneurship and economic impact to the populations growth and rising education levels.

In 2007, Latinos owned 52,000 businesses in the state. By 2015, that figure had jumped to 123,000, according to DATOS: The State of Arizonas Hispanic Market. During the same period, businesses overall grew just 2 percent in the state.

The Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs have always been here, they just havent had an opportunity to get their voice out, said Jose Urteaga, who runs Fuerza Local, a business accelerator that educates Latinos on how to run a business.

The chamber releases the research yearly, and it examines trends in the local and national market.

Nationally, Hispanic-owned businesses account for 1 in 5 new businesses. Young Latinos are increasingly joining in business creation, with millennials making up nearly half of Latino business owners, according to the report.

Female business owners also have seen especially high gains. The report said that in Arizona, women own the majority of Latino-owned companies.

Silvana Salcido Esparza said shes not surprised.

Latina women put a little extra sauce on everything, said Esparza, a Phoenix-based entrepreneur and chef. Were leaders. We take care of our family. Something happens in the household, we take care of it. And we do the same thing in business.

Esparza, who grew up in California, said she has been a business owner since childhood. Her first business was selling marbles and penny candy in school, and she later sold carnitas in her dads bakery once she turned 15. Now, she owns several restaurants in Phoenix, including Barrio Cafe and Barrio Cafe Gran Reserva.

The popular James Beard-nominated chef said she has noticed more Spanish-speaking and female entrepreneurs in recent years, but she said it hasnt always been this way.

Ive been the solitary female chef thats running with the boys, Esparza said. She opened her first restaurant in Phoenix in 2002. In 2004, she was inducted into the the Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame. She said she was the first women of color to receive the award.

Today, women play a large role in growing business. Urteaga said women make up the majority  58 percent  of his Fuerza Local graduates.

Garcia said much of the overall growth in Latino entrepreneurship has to do with increases in population. Arizonas Latino population tripled between 1990 and 2015, although the growth has slowed some since 2007.

Garcia said the growing population means Arizonas Hispanic population has more of a voice to demand what they want.

For the entire state to advance, the Hispanic community has to advance. Garcia said. A generation from now, every other person in the state could be Hispanic.

Urteaga said programs like his offer resources and information that werent always available to Spanish speakers.

Traditionally, these resources have only been available in English, Urteaga said. People have put out these resources and say theyre here if you can read them.

During the Great Recession, Garcia said Latinos also faced higher-than-average unemployment, which may have actually helped boost entrepreneurship.

It leaves people in a situation where they go, Oh, Ive got to make a living. How do I do that? Garcia said. He said more Latinos turned to starting a business to try to make up for lost income.

The report found graduation rates for Latinos have increased both at the high school and college level overall.

From 2010 to 2015, Latino high school graduates increased by nearly 20 percent, and college graduates by about 40 percent. According to the report, 50 percent of business owners now have at least a bachelors degree.
We've collected a few front pages from newspapers.com to give you a look at some Dec. 30 papers in history. With a subscription to newspapers.com you can search the Arizona Daily Star and many other newspapers using keywords or dates, and download articles or pages.
PHOENIX  Changes among Arizona's congressional delegation in 2017 sent shockwaves across the nation and set the state for a political shake-up next year.

The brain cancer diagnosis of longtime Sen. John McCain riveted the nation, with the Republican acknowledging in July that the prognosis is poor but vowing to fight. As the year came to an end, McCain returned home for physical therapy after cancer treatment complications and did not vote on a historic Republican overhaul of the federal income tax system.

Fellow Republican and junior senator, Jeff Flake, decided in October not to seek re-election next year as his ongoing battle with President Donald Trump hurt his support in Arizona and he didn't see a path to victory. Democratic Rep. Kyrsten Sinema is running to replace him. On the Republican side, former state Sen. Kelli Ward is campaigning for the seat and Rep. Martha McSally has told colleagues she also plans to run, although she formally hasn't launched a campaign.

Republican Rep. Trent Franks resigned in early December amid reports he asked staffers to carry his baby and offered one $5 million, setting up a special election to fill his seat early next year that could add to the reshuffling of many other political offices.

Those changes in the state's delegation make Arizona's stormy politics the top story of 2017.

Here are the other top stories of 2017:

ARPAIO CONVICTION

Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio was convicted of criminal contempt of court on July 31 and faced jail time for the misdemeanor case until President Donald Trump stepped in with a full pardon less than a month later. Arpaio's conviction for defying a federal judge's order to stop traffic patrols targeting immigrants marked a final rebuke for a politician who once drew strong support from such crackdowns. Frustrated voters booted him from office in 2016 as his legal troubles deepened and amid headline-grabbing tactics, such as jailing inmates in tents during triple-degree summer heat and making them wear pink underwear. But the pardon resurrected his political capital.

___

FLASH FLOOD DEATHS

Ten members of an extended family vacationing in the mountains northeast of Phoenix died in a massive flash flood July 15. The flood was triggered by a thunderstorm over a recently burned mountain and swept into a canyon where Hector Miguel Garnica, his wife, three young children and other family members were gathered at a popular swimming hole in the Tonto National Forest. The victims had gathered to celebrate the birthday of Garnica's wife. Officials said they had no warning.

___

IMMIGRATION

An immigrant mother in Phoenix who was granted leniency during the Obama administration was deported to her native Mexico in February in an early example of President Donald Trump making good on his campaign vow to crack down on illegal immigration. The deportation of Guadalupe Garcia de Rayos became a rallying cry for advocacy groups who say Trump's policies will tear families apart. In addition to the crackdown on immigrants who weren't targeted by President Barack Obama, Trump ended a program called DACA that shielded people brought to the U.S. as children and pushed to made good on his pledge for a "big, beautiful wall" along the U.S.-Mexico border.

___

SERIAL SHOOTINGS

Phoenix police arrested a former city bus driver for a string of nighttime serial killings of people outside their homes or sitting in cars  slayings that kept residents of a Phoenix neighborhood afraid to venture outside after dark. Aaron Juan Saucedo, 23, dubbed the "Serial Street Shooter" by authorities, was charged with fatally shooting nine people and wounding two others during a nearly one-year period that ended in July 2016. He has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Police accuse Saucedo of carrying out 12 shootings beginning in August 2015.

___

POLYGAMIST TOWNS

Twin towns along the remote Arizona-Utah border slipped further from the grasp of a polygamous group after a judge ordered an overhaul of the police department and four people not tied to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were elected to a town council. The overhaul was a punishment for a civil jury verdict that concluded Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona, had discriminated against people who weren't members of the church. The towns long have been dominated by a polygamous sect overseen by imprisoned leader, Warren Jeffs. A food-stamp fraud case also exacerbated a leadership void in the church with 10 people pleading guilty.

___

MISSING TUCSON GIRL

Police found the remains of a 6-year-old Tucson girl who disappeared from her bedroom in Tucson in 2012, putting an end to an exhaustive search that roiled the community and beyond. Tucson police announced in March they located the remains of Isabel Celis in a rural area of Pima County. Police haven't made any arrests or said how they were led to Celis' remains. Celis last was seen April 20, 2012, in the home she shared with her parents and siblings. Her father reported her missing the next morning.

___

SCHOOL VOUCHERS

The Republican-led legislature and Gov. Doug Ducey enacted a new universal school voucher law allowing parents to use state money for private schools, but a citizen effort managed to put the program on hold pending an election next year. The voucher fight was one of the most contentious of the session as Democrats argued it siphons funding from the state's cash-strapped public schools. Ducey signed the law immediately after it passed April 6, calling it a win for parents who want school choice. The plan is backed by the school-choice group formerly led by U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and puts Arizona at the forefront of the voucher fight.

___

NAVAJO GENERATING STATION

The owners of a massive coal-fired power plant on the Navajo Nation voted in February to shut it down because cheaper power is available from other sources, part of a trend nationwide. The utilities later reached a deal with the Navajo Nation that would keep the Navajo Generating Station near Page operating through 2019. The 2,250-megawatt plant near the Arizona-Utah border helps send water through a series of canals to Phoenix and Tucson. But the closure will be felt most deeply on the Navajo and Hopi reservations, which rely on coal operations for 30 percent and 85 percent of their budget, respectively.

___

SEXUAL HARASSMENT
PHOENIX  The states top education official wants to salvage at least some of a law banning ethnic studies that was struck down as unconstitutional by a federal judge.

Diane Douglas is not directly contesting the ruling by Judge Wallace Tashima that the 2010 law was approved by lawmakers out of racial animus and that no legitimate pedagogical objective motivated the enactment and enforcement of the law targeting the Mexican American studies program in Tucson Unified School District.

On Thursday, Tashima formalized his ruling with an injunction barring the state from enforcing the law.

But Douglas said Friday she believes there are some provisions that legally fit within what is the legitimate interest of the state in restricting what can  and cannot  be taught in Arizona public schools. More to the point, she wants to preserve another section of the law that allows her agency to withhold state funds from schools that ignore those standards.

The law that Tashima voided forbids schools from teaching classes that:

Promote the overthrow of the U.S. government;

Promote resentment toward a race or class of people;

Are designed primarily for pupils of a particular ethnic group;

Advocate ethnic solidarity instead of treatment of pupils as individuals.

I am supportive of teaching history and cultural studies, Douglas said in a prepared statement. But I dont understand why the judge felt he needed to strike down the entire law.

Douglas said she will be meeting with legislative leaders this coming week to see if there is a legal way to resurrect at least the first two sections.

The provisions ... just sound like common sense to me, she said. Those should stay.

Douglas declined through a spokesman to answer questions or explain her reasoning.

The statement speaks for itself, said spokesman Dan Godzich.

It is unclear whether a revised version of the law would prove more acceptable to the judge.

In striking it down, Tashima focused less on what things the statute said are unacceptable and more on exactly how and why the measure became law in the first place.

The judge cited statements by proponents like Tom Horne who was the state school superintendent at the time. That included Horne telling lawmakers that the program teaches ethnic chauvinism, how students who protested a speech by his deputy were taught to be rude by Raza studies teachers who were radical.

Horne also complained to legislators considering the measure that a librarian was wearing a MEChA T-shirt  short for Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlan  a group that, among other things, promotes cultural identity among Mexican-American students. And Horne described some of the textbooks being used, including Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo Friere, who Horne said was a well-known Brazilian communist.

Tashima also found fault with how, after the law was approved, Horne concluded the program was in violation. He said the superintendent cherry-picked quotations from textbooks, his interpretations of which border on the illogical.

All that could mean that if lawmakers chose to accede to Douglas request and re-enact the law, any legal challenge could focus less on the words and more on the how and why they put the provisions back into statute.

Even if a judge finds no flaw in the motives for legislators restoring the two sections Douglas wants, that still leaves the question of whether the prohibitions are over-broad.

Thats going to be a challenge, Godzich said. Thats why we need to meet with legislators and see what we can figure out.

Take the ban on advocating the overthrow of the government. Yet the Declaration of Independence said when government becomes destructive to the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government.

Elsewhere, the document said when there is a long train of abuses and usurpations it is the right and duty to throw off such government.
The sight of 16-year-old Palestinian girl Ahed Tamimi standing up to Israeli soldiers two weeks ago has gone viral. The girl slapped and ranted at two IDF men (Israeli Defence Force) who trespassed on her property. Her brother Nariman Tamimi was also arrested in a dawn raid on suspicion of rallying resistance to IDF forces.

This is not the first time Ahed Tamimi has got herself into trouble with Israeli soldiers. A few years ago she famously bit the hand of an Israeli soldier when the soldier became involved in a scuffle with Palestinian protesters.

The Israeli soldier on this occasion did not respond to the teenager's slaps and probably in the circumstances acted professionally in not striking back at a young girl. This stance by the soldier concerned has won him praise and condemnation in equal amounts.

Weekly protests occur in Ahed Tamimi's home village Nabi Saleh by Palestinians against the Israeli Occupation. Yesterday at a military court Ahed Tamimi appeared in handcuffs to await possible charges of assault and insult on IDF forces.

Brave Ahed Tamimi

Ahed Tamimi is becoming a symbol of resistance for her people. A young Palestinian girl of 16 years of age confronting armed Israeli soldiers on the West Bank is an inspiration to her people.

Her image along with other Palestinian heroes of the struggle is seen everywhere from flags to drawings on the barrier wall.

In many ways, this girl's actions reflect that of Pakistani girl Malala Yousafi who refused to be silenced by the Taliban. Yet for some reason, the brave antics of this girl do not seem to be carried by the main news outlets.

It is possible as this girl grows up living under Israeli settlement policy she may become an important political leader in the struggle against occupation. She may seek office in the Palestinian capital of Ramallah. She may become a powerful figure both for the Palestinian cause and for Palestinian womanhood. Again echoing the work of Malala Yousafai.

All this, however, is speculation. For now, she is doing enough to keep the world's attention on the plight of her people.

Does Palestine exist?

Some would argue that Palestine as an independent nation has never existed in world history. They may be right and certainly, Zionist Christians use this as a weapon against Palestinian self-government.

The land was called Palestine by the Romans and then much later by the British when they tried to keep the peace between Arabs and Jews.

The Arab people who do not wish to be part of Israel have the right to self-determination just as the Jews did with Israel. If they wish to call themselves Palestinians in their struggle then I for one will not condemn them.
After the retweeting of the Britain First videos showing Muslims attacking a disabled Dutch boy and other alleged horrors, Labour MP's went on the offensive. To get John Bercow to make Home Secretary Amber Rudd and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson make statements on the issue.

Yvette Cooper and Stephen Doughty raised a point of order in the House of Commons to make sure Ms Rudd and Mr Johnson would stand up and condemn Trump and his Britain First postings. However, when push came to shove Amber Rudd did not stand up and would not be drawn on the issue.

Meanwhile on a tour of the Middle East Theresa May stood at a podium roundly condemning Donald Trump. When asked by a reporter did this alter the relationship between the UK and US May replied even friends have differences of opinion?

Should Trump still come to the UK?

There is a growing movement from MP's of all colours to take back the invitation May made to Trump when she visited the White House. That movement also encompasses people from outside of Parliament and a little while ago there was even a petition on the Parliamentary website saying Trump should not come to the UK.

Not everyone, however, is against Trump visiting the UK. For example, Nigel Farage and the rest of UK feel that the current occupant of the White House they have a bosom buddy.

New UKIP leader Henry Bolton on BBC1's 'Question Time' said Trump retweeting the Britain First videos was wrong but would say no more. No doubt when Trump does arrive in the UK at some point as he must security will be tight.

Trump's enemies will be out to get him one way or another and both British and American security forces will know this and be out in force.

There are arguments for Trump to come to the UK and not and whichever political side of the fence you sit that is how you will judge it.

Trump doesn't care!

Donald Trump responded to Theresa May on Twitter when she rebuked him basically saying don't point the finger at me get your own house in order. Whether Trump knew what he was doing when he retweeted those Britain First videos is up for debate.

.@Theresa_May, dont focus on me, focus on the destructive Radical Islamic Terrorism that is taking place within the United Kingdom. We are doing just fine!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) 30 November 2017

On the one hand, some have described Donald Trump as being thin-skinned when he takes to Twitter and responds to insults or statements about him. It seems though The Donald doesn't care what people think about him or what he believes.

Whether you like it or not Donald Trump is the democratically elected head of state of the USA. People voted for him because they saw him as straight talking and against the establishment of Washington.

Trump has been called the Punk politician because he shocks everyone in this prudish politically correct age.

Even Punk stalwart John Lydon raised a glass to Trump also giving him this monicker.

It seems every President since Geroge W Bush and Barack Obama has been loved and hated by those for and against them. But it seems no one divides people and their opinions like Donald John Trump.
On December 25, 2012, in a defence colony of Karachi, a 20-year-old young man, Shahzeb Khan was gunned down by a teenager belonging to a local wealthy family. On December 23, 2017, Shahrukh Jatoi, the murderer, was released on bail, thereby making the five-year legal struggle of the bereaved family worthless.

The court ordered the defendants to submit a surety bond of Rs. 0.5 Million ($4000) prior to their release, which according to sources was quite affordable for Jatois father, a well-known and influential feudal of Karachi.

The court pardons the murderer

Now, Jatoi freely walks the streets of Karachi showing no fear or remorse, due to a sense of security provided by the corrupt feudalists in the area.

According to sources, the late Shahzeb Khans father submitted an affidavit supporting Jatois bail application.

The fear of the bereaved family

In 2013, the victims family appeared on a private news channel and pardoned the killer saying it was best for their own peace of mind and security. We may not have forgiven them in our hearts, but we have pardoned our sons killers in the name of Allah. We cannot spend our entire lives in fear  we took the decision considering the circumstances, said Ambreen Aurangzaib, the victims mother.

Recently, an MPA (Minister of Provincial Assembly) in Quetta, Majeed Khan Achakzai, ran over a police warden and was set free by the court, despite the evidence provided by the CCTV camera footage of that day. What a victory!

Financial compensation to resolve murder

Diyat, or financial compensation to resolve Murder conflicts in Islam, was introduced in 1990, and it replaced the laws of murder and bodily harm, originally set by the British.

This law has been considered quite controversial by various scholars, as it is being misused by the wealthy.

Pakistan, amidst terrorism and sectarian violence, has lately had a plethora of criminal activity, including murder. In rural areas, many murder cases are not reported to the local police because the victims fear a backlash from their perpetrators.

Feudalistic mindset of the wealthy

Pakistani feudalism most commonly refers to the power and influence of families that own large amounts of land in remote areas. Such families are very active in the country's politics and are becoming increasingly influential to the rural population. Therefore, any criminal offences committed by them are generally pardoned by the law.

The murder of Shahzaib Khan is a special case because it was actually reported on national television. There are still plenty of cases involving murder that have yet to be discovered, as they have failed to grab the attention of the local media.
New York and Berlin are expected to be among a number of major cities that will be looking to tighten up on their security controls as 2017 comes to a close and the world celebrates the beginning of the New Year. With many revellers looking to beckon in 2018 in style at iconic landmarks such as Times Square and the Brandenburg Gate concerns have mounted as to how best to ensure the safety of those attending the planned events.

'Safe zone' for women to be introduced

Organisers of Berlins festive celebrations are keen to support women who want to attend their events by introducing a safe zone for the first time specifically for them.

The decision marks a determined move by those behind the Brandenburg Gate party, in the wake of concerns around several assaults that have occurred in recent years in Germany.

Shocking incidents in Germany

Many law-abiding Germans were shocked to hear that Colognes friendly new years Eve festivities two years ago were disrupted by many assaults and robberies, as authorities investigating the worrying incidents believed that women were being specifically targeted. Hundreds of women reported that attacks on them had been made by gangs comprised of men from migrant backgrounds.

Heightened security in America

New Yorkers also have their own reasons for flagging up potential security concerns ahead of the New Year party season.

Police there have made it clear they intend to increase their presence with a larger security detail than seen previously in Times Square expected to be in evidence, a traditionally popular venue at this time of year.

Americans will be wary after a year that has seen several deadly attacks on crowds of civilians, including one such incident at the very spot where the New Years Eve events will ring in the dawn of 2018.

Extra security protocols

Revellers already have to contend with a plethora of existing measures such as snipers, metal detectors and a multitude of officers tasked with inspecting bags brought to the event. This year the police department intends to go further in terms of their security protocols, as they utilise the skills of vapor wake dogs that have been trained to sniff out traces from explosives that would be emitted by people carrying bombs.

According to police spokespeople, the chances of car bombs being used to disrupt the celebrations will be mitigated against by emptying the 125 parking garages near Times Square and sealing them off before events begin. Officers will also benefit from the eyes of around a thousand security cameras that have been installed both in and around the square.

Worrying attacks in 2017

The extra security has been deemed necessary as the citys inhabitants cast their minds back on a number of recent terrorist attacks in the area. On December 11 a bomb was detonated in the citys subway system that thankfully injured only the perpetrator himself. That followed on from a truck being driven on to a cycle path and killing eight people on Halloween before the attacker was shot by police officers.

Times Square itself witnessed a tragic incident back in May, as a man subsequently believed to have been under the influence of drugs drove through crowds of people and killed a young American tourist.
There are two more days left until New Year's Day and another tragedy has occurred. Erica Garner was pronounced dead Saturday morning (Dec. 30), at the age of 27, from a Heart Attack. She was the daughter of Eric Garner, a police brutality victim, who died when a New York Police officer held him in an illegal chokehold back in July 2014.

Heart attack a few days before Christmas

According to the New York Daily News, Erica experienced a heart attack a week ago. Then, on Dec. 23, she had an asthma attack, which put her in a coma. A family member from Erica's Twitter account, posted that this led to brain damage due to lack of oxygen while in cardiac arrest. Erica went through a heart attack twice this year.

The first one occurred after she gave birth to her second child in August of this year, whom she named after her father, Eric. The doctor discovered that Erica had an enlarged heart at that moment.

Her death was confirmed on her Twitter account by a family member with a post that said, She passed away this morning. The reports are real. We didnt deserve her.

She passed away this morning. The reports are real. We didn't deserve her.  officialERICA GARNER (@es_snipes) December 30, 2017

Erica becomes a civil rights activist

Erica became an activist after her fathers death. She led various marches, held countless of community meetings, and even reached out to the mayor to get justice for her fathers wrongful death from police brutality.

Unfortunately, there was no luck with Mayor Bill de Blasio. Erica frequently spoke about him refusing to release disciplinary records on NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo, the man who killed her father. The New York Daily News reported that De Blasio mentioned he couldn't release the records because of the state civil rights law referenced in Section 50-A.

Erica fought for years and still, no justice has yet been served. She was a strong supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and was never afraid to speak out against anything that was wrong. She was also a powerful leader that always strived for a change within her community.

Eric Garner leaves a legacy

Ericas father died saying the last words, I cant breathe. His last words continued ongoing protests among black communities and across the world - to seek justice and stop police brutality.

Erica led protests that would have her followers perform Die-ins, which resulted in protesters lying on the floor, at the exact location where her father died in Staten Island, NY. This idea was created to protest and exemplify what happened to her father and many other victims that were in a similar situation to Eric Garner. Die-ins started to trend massively in many states to send a message to the officials, administration, government, and judicial system.

To name a few other known victims, they include Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Freddie Gray, and many more.
On at least three occasions in recent months, Russian cargo ships have been spotted transferring oil shipments to North Korean ships out at sea. This is a major violation of the sanctions imposed by the United Nations. A report by Yahoo! provided many of the facts used in this article.

Russia is also a voting member of the UN with veto powers, further complicating the issue with trying to control North Korea.

This comes on the heels of a report showing that China has also been skirting the sanctions meant to reign in the North Korean nuclear program.

While Chinese vessels were caught red-handed in ports making oil sales, the Russians aimed to move the transfers to international waters in an attempt to avoid scrutiny.

This can contribute to war

The manner in which both Russia and China have disregarded any sanctions or policy desires of the UN is leading the world closer to war. Their veto voting power also makes any hard-line decision making nearly impossible as they continue to bail out their delinquent allies.

The United States has long acted in good faith in dealing with the North Korean crisis. The wait and see policy was long adopted due to the thinking that the reclusive nation was at best decades away from developing the technology to strike the mainland US.

However, due to their ability to work around the crippling sanctions, North Korea has managed to develop both the nuclear weapons and the ICBM's needed to strike nearly anywhere in the US. This somewhat sudden rapid advancement of technology has led to many calling for military intervention before they strike first.

Nothing happens without Russia and China

While publicly denying that they are helping keep the Kim regime alive, both Russia and China are the keys to ending this crisis without conflict. They are needed to act as a mediator to North Korea.

More importantly, they need to abide by any sanctions and show that the regime can truly be cut off.

Every time they are able to get the supplies needed through back channels, it makes the policy of sanctions useless. While they vote down any real effective measures by claiming some frivolous excuse, their support for the North Koreans cannot be denied.

If war were to break out, we could see a repeat of the last Korean war. Ideally, the US would like to see the South win and unify the country, China and Russia will silently support the North to prevent that from happening. If the North were to gain too much of an advantage, the US would likely intervene heavily.

There are numerous proxy wars being fought by major world powers around the world. Yemen and Syria are two that come to mind.

This one, however, has all the potential to drag the major world powers into another world war, just as were the risks 60 years ago.
A small victory was achieved for Women In Iran who have fought against repressive Dress Code laws. The police in Tehran announced that they will no longer arrest women who are not wearing their hijabs in public. This comes after protesters took to the streets and the internet to have their voices heard. Women in Iran have been subject to strict dress code laws since the 1979 revolution. That revolution saw hard-line, conservative Muslims take power and a set of repressive laws were put into place. This is the first major rollback of those laws.

It is not the end of the Iranian dress code

The police in Tehran made their announcement earlier this week. Although the changes are significant, the hijab for women will still be required. The real change that has been made is that offenders will no longer be arrested and held in jail. Instead, they will be required to attend a class that will be held by the police. According to Radio Free Europe the announcement was made by Tansim, a semi-official news agency in the country.

Protests have grown

Protests have been going on for a long time in the conservative Islamic nation. As there were women marching here in America earlier this year, women have been marching in Iran as well. They have been staging weekly protests known as #WhiteWednesdays.

Men and women dress in white to show solidarity with the women that have been repressed under the compulsory hijab laws. These were started by the exiled journalist, Masih Alinejad. In her campaign under the name of My Stealthy Freedom she has encouraged women to throw off their hijabs and wear their hair down in public.

The campaign has gained international attention.

Iran is seeing a change

The country has now elected Hassan Rouhani as president twice. He ran as a reformer and since then, Iran has seen policy changes that follow a reformist trend. From the nuclear deal with the United States to these recent changes in the dress code for Tehran, reform is slowly gaining a foothold within the country.

This is after decades of repressive policies which took particular aim at women. They were required to follow a strict dress code after the 1979 revolution and have since been punished when in violation of that code. Even though the new policy is only applicable in the capital city of Tehran it still represents a larger change overall. It remains to be seen if more reforms will be made after this policy change.
 Olde English District



South Carolina's Olde English District is made up of seven countries in the north central area where some of Americas earliest events took place. The district got its name because it was settled by English settlers very early on, in the mid-1770s. The area saw a number of Revolutionary War battles, and it is a history buffs heaven with historical sites, parks, markers, buildings, and monuments. As you get off the interstate and drive down the scenic back roads, you will see old family farms that still flourish, old plantation homes, museums, parks, and outdoor attractions that revive the past and provide fun for everyone. As you drive through the old woodlands, along river banks and through parks, visit some of the most notable spots such as Historic Brattonsville, Historic Camden, the Catawba Cultural Center, Landsford Canal State Park, and the South Carolina Railroad Museum. If you have more time, there is much more to see and visit. The past is alive all around you.





-- You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in South Carolina" 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.
The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is demanding more than VN1.9 trillion (US$85 million) in tax arrears from Electricity of Viet Nam (EVN) after uncovering that the group had failed to declare its costs accurately. Photo vnexpress.net

HA NOI  The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is demanding more than VN1.9 trillion (US$85 million) in tax arrears from Electricity of Viet Nam (EVN) after uncovering that the group had failed to declare its costs accurately.

The finance ministry asked EVN to pay to the State budget VN88.2 billion worth of corporate income tax and VN877.46 billion worth of post-tax profit for 2015.

The tax arrears for 2015 were due to EVN listing a VN1.34 trillion gas pipeline project connecting Phu My - HCM City into its expenses in 2015.

The ministry determined the listing did not follow the instructions of Deputy Prime Minister Trinh inh Dung.

EVN was also asked to make an additional payment of VN969.56 billion worth of corporate income tax that should have been paid for the firms result in 2016.

The figure was extracted from the firms financial income of more than VN4.8 trillion thanks to foreign exchange rate differences, which EVN should have included in its 2016 financial report.

Earlier, the Ministry of Industry and Trade asked the Prime Minister to allocate the costs into EVNs expenses in the years after 2016.

The Prime Minister approved the proposal and required EVN to divide the costs into two years of 2016-17. However, EVN allocated the costs in 2015 and 2016, reducing its profits by VN1.34 trillion.

The ministry claimed the cost allocation affected power prices.

It also asked the General Department of Taxation to collect the tax arrears.

In response to the MoFs decision, the State-owned group on Thursday sent a press release to media about the issue.

EVN said it allocated more than VN1 trillion into costs in 2015 instead of 2017. The foreign exchange difference profit of VN4.87 trillion mainly came from Nghi Son 1 Thermopower Plant. This was one of the power plants with its accounting done by the Power Generation Corporation 1 (Genco 1).

However, the project borrowed capital from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). According to JICAs requirement, EVN must continue to be the projects investor. After it completes the construction, it could transfer management to Genco 1.

EVN said it reported the situation to MoIT. The ministry in 2013 allowed EVN to be the investor of the project.

EVN thought that the profit of the foreign exchange difference must be transferred to Genco 1. This is why it has been completing procedures to hand over Son 1 Thermopower Plant to Genco 3 by the end of this year.

It added that the cost allocation in 2015 instead of 2017 was an effort to save costs to reduce pressure on power retail tariffs.

EVN is continuing to communicate with the Finance Ministry to resolve the issue.

EVN will strictly follow the decision of the PM and MoF, the firm added.

On December 1, the group raised retail power prices by 6 per cent to VN1,720 (7.6 US cents) per kWh from the VN1,622 (7.1 cents) per kWh.  VNS
The end of the year is a busy time for the blacksmiths of Phuc Sen Village in the northern mountainous province of Cao Bang. Nobody knows how long the tradition has distinguished the village, but the elders believe blacksmithing has been their communitys trade for almost a thousand years.

Detailed: Workers finish a batch of knives. Knives are among the most popular products made by the villages blacksmiths.

There are forges and anvils at almost every house in the village. Demand for their products, which mostly consist of agricultural tools and household items such as scythes, hoes, shovels, scissors and knives, usually peaks before Tet (Lunar New Year) holidays. During this time, the villages women also roll up their sleeves and join their husbands and sons at the fire.

Take it home: The villages products are popular souvenirs among tourists and visitors to the region.

The majority of the locals are of Tay and Nung ethnicity, two of the countrys 54 ethnic groups with a population of nearly 2.7 million. Blacksmithing has been passed down from generation to generation among local households. Seasoned blacksmiths, in the absence of technologically advanced tools, draw from their decades of experience and strictly follow their ancient techniques to produce some of the finest products that can be found on the market.

Bang bang: Workers hammer a hoe blade at the anvil.

Customers come from far away to buy our products, said Nong Van Luyen, a master blacksmith with more than 60 years of experience under his belt. Our products may look ordinary but the more they are used, the sharper they become.

Blazing: A blacksmith works with a coal forge.  VNA/VNS Photos oan Tung

Many villagers believe the trade is a gift from their ancestors. Not only the main source of income for the village, blacksmithing is a way to honour and preserve their cultural identity and heritage.  VNS
Professor Nguyen Xuan Thu

Professor Nguyen Xuan Thu, co-founder of the RMIT International University Viet Nam and the Australia-Viet Nam Education Promotion Association (AVEPA), tells giaoduc.net.vn that traditional universities can collaborate with online teaching establishments to meet the needs of Industry 4.0.

What do students need for the fourth industrial revolution era?

Although there are various opinions on the reality of the fourth industrial revolution, we have to be aware that with the rapid development of modern technologies and sciences, workers have to prepare themselves by acquiring necessary skills and knowledge.

According to statistics by Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), in 2011 there were 16 to 18 million people taking part in open online courses.

Four years later, the number reached 35 million people who registered for 4,200 online courses provided by 500 training hubs that issue certificates from college to post-graduate levels.

The 11 most-attended courses in the MOOCs system are business and management, science, social science, computer science, human sciences, education, health and medicine, coding, arts and design, English and Math.

Apart from these, MOOCs offers courses in more than 100 fields with new ones aimed at meeting demand of the fourth industrial revolution, and these are not available yet in developing countries.

What are the kinds of skills and knowledge needed?

There is no clear indication on which phase Viet Nam is at in the second or third or fourth industrial revolution.

Some people are proud that a few Vietnamese firms or corporations like Vietjet Air, Zalo, FPT or Viettel have been able to reach foreign markets.

With about 400,000 firms, even if we have less than ten firms reaching foreign markets, its a good thing at this time. But we need to know what phase of the fourth industrial revolution those firms are at. How much of their operation or business content is at the third or the fourth industrial revolution stage? Only by knowing which stage we are at can we know what type of workers and skills are needed. And only then, based on such facts, can we devise a proper training plan.

Viet Nam is a developing, middle-low income country. We cant waste money on training people for jobs and occupations that the country doesnt need at this moment.

Apart from the achievements that successful Vietnamese firms have recorded, there is one thing that needs to be improved: enterprise culture. For instance, the restroom on the airplane needs to be kept clean all the time. Stewards should always be smiling and friendly to passengers. Construction sites need to be tidy and neat after working hours.

The way a staff member behaves with a customer at anytime, anywhere should be standardised. These basics cant be ignored.

So, which direction should Viet Nam head in at the moment?

We need to really consolidate all education and training units/agencies, whether they are vocational training centres or universities, whether they are private or public, because all of these education units will contribute to the countrys development.

The Ministry of Education and Trainings responsibility is to build an education and training policy, provide State Budget funds to education and training units so that they can implement the policy, and make these units accountable to it. Educational quality assessment is essential and should be made compulsory.

However, the Ministry shouldnt interfere too much in the functioning of autonomous schools. New education majors for which there is actual demand need to be introduced. Many training programmes running now are outdated.

The skills and knowledge outcome for each training programme should be clearly defined.

For instance, an Australian graduate student would spend three years in college with six semesters. He or she will take four subjects each semester. Each subject requires a reading of four to five specialised books and a certain number of relevant journals, articles.

That means in three college years a student will have to read around 120 books, take two exams and write an essay of four to six pages each semester. Other skills like writing, presentation, communication, team work, group discussion, debating and community activities, are also required.

A national skills and knowledge framework would mean nothing if Vietnamese universities do not combine theory and practice in their training programmes.

Will traditional education and training units have a role in the fourth industrial revolution?

Traditional universities can help education and training partners like MOOCs develop comprehensively and continuously.

Online courses can help provide a huge human resource pool for the fourth industrial revolution. But, generally, the public do not always trust the quality of such courses. Traditional universities can help examine and review the quality of these courses.

Besides, MOOCs, with the support from traditional universities, can also open courses that are quite rare at the moment, courses that encourage invention.

This co-operation between MOOCs and traditional universities will change the society.  VNS
President Tran ai Quang urged the procuracy sector to focus on developing itself and creating a stronger Party organisation while attending the sectors conference yesterday to launch plans for 2018. VNA/VNS Photo Nhan Sang

HA NOI  President Tran ai Quang urged the procuracy sector to focus on developing itself and creating a stronger Party organisation while attending the sectors conference yesterday to launch plans for 2018.

Quang asked the sector to carry out the resolution of the fourth Party Central Committee (12th tenure) on strengthening Party building and rectification and a Politburo directive on studying and following President Ho Chi Minhs ideology, morality and style.

As new regulations on legislative reform will take effect in 2018, he asked the sector to study and recommend to the Party, Government and relevant authorities measures against violations, particularly economic crimes and corruption.

The sector should work with relevant organisations to inspect, prosecute and try key corruption cases and reclaim stolen assets for the State, Quang said.

The sector should also complete co-operation mechanisms with the Party Central Committees Commission for Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Public Security, Supreme Peoples Court, the Ministry of Justice, the Government Inspectorate, branches and localities in the fight against crimes and the building of institutional mechanisms, he said.

The sector should pay heed to international co-operation in the prevention of crimes, he stressed.

In 2017, the Peoples Procuracy at all levels prosecuted 69,481 criminal cases. The sector strictly adjudicated serious economic violation and corruption cases.

In addition, many solutions have been carried out to improve examinations into criminal cases. Enhancing inspection quality in other judicial activities and strengthening the Party organisation within the sector have been prioritised as well.  VNS
HA NOI  Some 6.6 million people have received better medical treatment as a result of a project which rotates doctors from high-level to lower-level hospitals, implemented in Viet Nam since 2008.

After completing a three-month training course on diagnosing osteo-arthritis and giving peripheral joint injections at the E General Hospital in Ha Noi, Dr Pham Thi Lien from the northern province of Lai Chau is much more confident.

Lien is now adept at combining traditional and modern medicinal disciplines at Tam uong District clinics Department of Traditional Medicine.

We are now able to help lots of patients get treatment for musculo-skeletal disorders, Lien said. We no longer have to transfer them to higher-level hospitals, and they give us lots of compliments.

Lien went to the E General Hospital under a project known as Project 1816 that started in 2008.

In an effort to motivate medical graduates to help out in rural areas and take the pressure off urban hospitals, where patients flock for treatment, the system rotates doctors from higher-level to lower-level hospitals.

Launched by the Ministry of Health, it aims to improve health treatment at lower-level hospitals, reduce patient overload at higher-level hospitals; and transfer medical techniques to lower-level hospitals through on-the-job training for medical staff.

In 10 years of operation, about 10,000 doctors have moved for three months or so from higher-level to lower-level hospitals, providing far better treatment for about 6.6 million patients.

As part of efforts to reduce patient overload at higher-level hospitals, a medical collaboration project known as satellite hospitals was launched in 2013.

Considered a part of Project 1816, the project establishes and strengthens connections between higher-level and lower-level hospitals through training activities, technology transfer, improvement of facilities, and upgrading of medical equipment.

Twenty-two higher-level hospitals are participating in the project to support 117 satellite hospitals.

Taking part in the project in 2014, the Binh inh Traditional Medicine Hospital in the central province of Binh inh became a satellite hospital of the Central Acupuncture Hospital in Ha Noi. It received medical equipment from the Central Acupuncture Hospital for their two units: spinal pain management and special care for people with paralysis.

The equipment has improved Binh inh Traditional Medicine Hospitals treatment quality and helped them attract more patients, the online newspaper baobinhdinh.com.vn reported.

The number of patients at the spinal pain management unit rose from 407 in 2014 (before the equipment transfer) to 803 in 2016, according to Dr Le Phuoc Nin, the hospitals director. The number of patients at the special care unit for people with paralysis rose from 418 in 2014 to 871 in 2016, he added.

The average treatment duration has decreased from 22.2 days in 2015 to 21.2 in the first half of 2017, reducing costs for patients, he said.

The higher-level hospitals and their satellite hospitals are connected through information technology (IT) systems. The use of telecommunication and IT to provide clinical health care from a distance (telemedicine) - is frequently applied at higher-level hospitals to conduct training, conferences, and group consultation with their satellite hospitals.

Having focused on reducing patient overload at the departments of cardiology, orthopaedics, obstetrics, pediatrics, and oncology at higher-level hospitals in the 2013-16 period, the "satellite hospitals" project will do the same for the endocrine, hematology and blood transfusion departments at these hospitals in the 2016-20 period.  VNS
HCM CITY  The HCM City Peoples Committee plans to kick off a Tet Flower Festival on February 10 in Tao an Park in District 1 and will open 130 Tet flower markets around the city.

The 12-day festival will feature an exhibition area (fish, tableaux and others), various activities (such as musical performances, calligraphy and activities for kids), and shopping areas, consisting of 40 stalls selling traditional goods and souvenirs.

Tickets are VN30,000 (US$1.32) per adult. Kids under 12 year have free entry.

Around 1,000 free bus tickets and festival tickets will be given free to workers who cannot go home for Tet.

In addition, around 130 Tet flower markets will be held all over the city during Tet, such as District 1s 23-9 Park, Phu Nhuan Districts Gia inh Park and many other areas.

The city is considering new policies to aid flower markets, such as allowing large flower trucks to enter the city centre more freely, or allocating more spaces for Tet flower markets.

Farmers have been told to not allow their business activities to obstruct traffic.  VNS
Delegates attend a meeting to mark the 50th anniversary of the General Offensive and Uprising in the spring of 1968 in HCM City yesterday. Photo qdnd.vn

HCM CITY  The General Offensive and Uprising in the spring of 1968 (Tet Offensive) gave the Vietnamese people valuable lessons, confirmed the creative leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh and its determination to defeat American invaders, liberated the South, and unified the country and the Party, the army and people, a senior Party official said at a meeting to mark the 50th anniversary of the historic event in HCM City yesterday.

Speaking at the national workshop The General Offensive and Uprising in the Spring of 1968: Significant Milestones and Historical Lessons, General Ngo Xuan Lich, member of the Politburo and Minister of Defence, said: The general offensive was a strategic victory for the Vietnamese revolutionary, a symbol of unyielding will and the aspiration of peace of the whole nation, which expressed the art of the Viet Nam Revolutionary War. It was a heavy defeat for the Americans and their henchmen.

This workshop is a chance to remind everyone about the heroic history and the determination of our peoples struggle for peace, independence and unity in the resistance war against the American invaders. At the same time, it helps to deepen historical and practical value as well as lessons learned in the cause of national construction and defence in the new situation, he added.

Senior Lieutenant General Le Chiem, Deputy Minister of Defence, said: "The victories of the General Offensive and Uprising in the Mau Than Lunar New Year in 1968 became a symbol of a fighting and winning determination and fierce bravery and desire for peace and independence of the entire nation, expressing the great creativity of the Vietnamese people in the Ho Chi Minh era.

This victory shook the American imperialists, forcing the US to scale down the war, opening opportunities for the next attack, culminating in the Great Victory in the Spring of 1975, ending the war against the Americans, rescuing the country, liberating the South and reuniting the country, he added.

Speaking at the seminar, Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Trong Nghia, Deputy Head of the Political General Department of the Viet Nam Peoples Army, said: Speeches and presentations at the workshop have clarified and deepened theoretical and practical issues from the General Offensive and Uprising in the Spring of 1968.

Secretary of the HCM Citys Party Committee, Nguyen Thien Nhan, emphasised that the offensive created a "revolution of the people of the South and a period of attack and uprising to win the decisive victory.

Through this event, the necessity and effectiveness of the Sai Gon commandos, an innovative method of combating the military in the city, were confirmed along with the patriotism of the Southern people and Sai Gon - Gia inh residents.

Patriotism, the strength of great national unity, and the strength of the Vietnamese people should be promoted in every stage of national development, he added.

Nhan affirmed that following the heroic tradition of the offensive, todays generation is determined to promote historical values and good qualities of the Vietnamese people as well as dynamic creativity and take responsibility for promoting comprehensive reform.

The seminar received over 100 presentations on the main themes, including the general offensive as a creative initiative of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh; the determination to win the war; the spirit of great sacrifice; the aspiration for peace and reunification of the whole Party and the whole army and all the people.

The victory of the general offensive in spring 1968 was of decisive significance, leaving lessons of theoretical and practical value and promoting the construction and protection of the country today.

During the general offensive, under a plan adopted by the Politburo and the Party Central Committee, Sai Gon - Gia inh was the major focus because it was the headquarters of the command post, and the entire war administration of the United States and the South Vietnamese regime.

During the attacks, the forces simultaneously attacked the Independence Palace, Radio Station, General Staff and the Command Post, Naval Forces, Tan Son Nhat Airport, US Embassy, Tan Cang, Naval Command, General Police Department, and the metropolitan area.

In the general offensive in 1968, the liberation armed forces attacked six major cities, 37 of the total 44 provincial towns and hundreds of district towns, four army corps, eight of the 11 divisions of the Saigon army, two special regions, two US field combat and many brigades, regiments and sub-region high commands, and hundreds of enemy military bases.

They wiped out and destroyed 150,000 enemy troops including 40,000 US troops, and destroyed 600 strategic hamlets and liberated another 100 communes with a population of 1.6 million.

The sudden attack of our troops and people won a great victory, both politically and militarily and diplomatically, with important strategic significance: turning the war; destroying the "local war" strategy; forcing the American imperialists to change their military strategy and to stop bombing the North and accept negotiations at the Paris Conference on the restoration of peace in Viet Nam.  VNS
IT has been applied in health examinations and treatment in all hospitals and clinics nationwide, in accordance with National Assembly Resolution No.68 . Photo Saint Paul Hospital

HA NOI  Information Technology applications in health exams and treatment have improved information flow and storage in the healthcare sector, a year-end review found yesterday.

The review conference held in Ha Noi also identified improvements that need to be made in the coming year to overcome challenges and difficulties faced this year.

Pham Le Tuan, Deputy Minister of Health, noted that 2017 was the 4th year in a row that IT has been applied in health examinations and treatment in all hospitals and clinics nationwide, in accordance with National Assembly Resolution No.68.

Tuan said notable achievements have been recorded over the past four years, particularly in 2017, thanks to the application of the Mediware Hospital Information System (HIS) for maintaining electronic medical records, contributing to laying a foundation for national health information infrastructure.

However, Tuan said, the health sector faced a lot of difficulties and challenges in 2017 due to both objective and subjective reasons. He asked participants to share their lists of problems and suggest ways to address them so that the health sector performs better in 2018.

Speaking in the conference, ang Hong Nam, deputy director of the Health Insurance Department under the Ministry of Health, said that by late December data sharing nationwide had reached 98.3 per cent, meaning that almost all hospitals and healthcare centres across Viet Nam have joined the data sharing network.

However, the information flow on health examinations and treatment has not been uniform. On average, only 79 per cent of the hospitals and healthcare centres sent their data to the Health Ministrys database, with the figures reaching 83.82 per cent of central hospitals, 81 per cent of provincial hospitals, 74.4 per cent of district-level healthcare centres and 80.38 per cent of commune-level healthcare centres. Only 42-54 per cent of private hospitals and healthcare centres, or those based within agencies, sent their data to the ministrys database.

Under the data sharing programme, the ministrys database is to be shared with Viet Nam Social Security so that it can better manage information about health insurance card holders, their health exams and treatment.

These figures indicate that information flow is still facing some challenges that need to be addressed in 2018, particularly the need to have more medical staff get trained in IT or the need to equip proper IT infrastructure incluiding machines, internet connection, especially at the grassroots level. In cases, patients testing results could not be loaded in the databases because testing equipment is not compatible.

Two kids, still

Also on Friday, the Ministry of Communication and Information organised a conference on communication of public healthcare and population issues.

Nguyen Minh Hong, Deputy Minister of Communication and Information, said a key mission of his ministry was to disseminate the Partys and Governments policy on healthcare, and encouraging the whole society to join hands in protecting and improving peoples health.

Hong said the mass media should carry more timely stories about healthcare activities and population. He said media workers should hold high their work ethic and improve their knowledge of the field so that their stories will help the general public learn more about key health issues and know how to respond to emergencies.

Nguyen Thanh Lam, Director of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, said reporters in charge of population issues should have wide knowledge about the topic they focus on as well as related fields.

Nguyen Van Tan, deputy director of the General Department of Population and Family Planning, said that Viet Nam still continues with its policy of encouraging each couple to have two children.

He asked the media workers nationwide to write more on gender equality and the need to minimise the sex imbalance at birth.  VNS
CEDAR FALLS  When Wanida Thomas relocated her family from Bangkok, Thailand, to Cedar Falls in 2009, she brought with her the culture and flavors of her home and is sharing them with the Cedar Valley.

With some help from her husband, Leland Thomas, her daughter, Weerada Wechakij, 17, and her son, Evaron Con, 28, she launched Ginger Thai at 111 W. Second St. in 2012. Now shes adding some sweet and savory flavors with Crepes by Nida.

The cafe is set to open Monday, the first day of 2018, at 602 State St.

Food is very important to Thai culture. Thats how people socialize, thats how people get together, Thomas said.

Her daughter added, Some people go to the movies or bowling, we dont do that. We eat, Weerada said.

Thomas grew up in Bangkok, where street food vendors are common. The oldest of four children, Thomas began helping her grandmother and mother in the kitchen at the age of 11, cooking food to sell. She also worked at an academy for children and was an accountant.

She just kind of branched out a lot, but then we ended up at a restaurant or anything that involves food because thats just our passion, Weerada said. My mom is a very hardworking woman, and she kind of built all the businesses alone. She just has such a passion for working and making people happy.

She describes her mom as the grandmother type, always smiling with open arms and looking to feed others.

She is very talented. She would just surprise me with her abilities to do things sometimes, like I didnt even know she could do crepes, and here she is opening her own crepe place. Shes really good at a lot of things.

For Thomas, a healthy dose of family, smiles and food are the fundamental ingredients for life.

For her crepes, flour, eggs and milk are the essential ingredients, which are fried to produce a thin pastry, almost like a flattened pancake.

While crepes are consumed in many parts of the world, France is perhaps best known for their crepes, which tend to be more sweet, with fruit and cream. Weerada describes her mothers crepes as more of a savory Japanese style, to include meat, cheese or eggs, with a vast selection of the sweet varieties as well.

Named after songs or movies, menu items include Bangkok Dangerous, made with Panang curry, mushrooms and bell peppers. Kind of resembles the spice and hotness of the movie itself and Bangkok itself, because its really hot there, Weerada said.

My Girl, a song by the Temptations, is the name for a crepe with brownies and chocolate. The song is really sweet, and so is the crepe, Weerada said.

Other items include Frozen, Safe Haven, Big Hero, Hulk and Drive to Hawaii. Im Yours, one of Weeradas favorite songs by Jason Mraz, is a build-your-own crepe.

Introducing the Cedar Valley to new tastes was a bit tricky for the family at first.

Im not going to lie, at first they werent too prone to new foods ... but now, theyre just loving it, Weerada said. We try to change up the dishes at Ginger Thai, but they want to keep the same. I cant blame them because theyre so good.

Thomas said her favorite way of advertising is standing outside the store and giving away samples of her food, including her fried crab rangoons. After that? Oh, yes, they come back, she said.

Weerada said her family relocated to the United States for a better life and a better education. She said her family left the blazing hot temperatures of Thailand for the freezing cold winters in Iowa. She was nine years old when they arrived in Iowa, and they did not know any English.

When I got here, I was like, I need to step up my game because thats the main language here, and if I want to communicate and make friends, I need to learn that, she said. It was actually very difficult for us because of the language barriers.

During her freshman and sophomore years, Weerada kept up with her schoolwork while maintaining about 24 hours a week working at Ginger Thai.

Now a junior at Cedar Falls High School and fluent in English, Weerada is busy keeping up her grades and enjoying time with friends. She said she would like to major in business and most likely work in the family restaurants.

As much as I want to be independent, I love my family, and I want to be as close with my mom as I can, she said.

Con also stays near family while pursuing his own passions. He helps with the marketing side of the businesses and uses the latest technology to make promotional videos for the restaurants.

Thomas stays busy working about 12 to 14 hour days.

Shes doing all this for basically everyone else, she wants to make her kids happy and also her customers, Weerada said.

When Weerada serves new customers, Thomas likes to know right away if they like their meal.

She says, How are they doing? How are they doing? Mom, they just got their food, Weerada said with a smile.

This is me. This is my home. You come like my guest, you come to visit me, I have many things for you to try, I want you to be comfortable, I like to make people laugh and smile, I like to see people, Thomas said.
CHARLES CITY -- Two juveniles were hurt in a single-vehicle rollover Thursday afternoon near Charles City on the Avenue of the Saints.

Skylar Knabe, 16, of Bettendorf, was northbound in a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix when she lost control of the car about 1:08 p.m. near mile marker 214, the Floyd County Sheriff's Office said in a news release.

Two juveniles were transported by AMR to Floyd County Medical Center with minor injuries, according to law enforcement.

Knabe's vehicle is considered a total loss, the sheriff's office said.

The Charles City Fire Department also assisted at the scene.
WATERLOO  Five people were sent to area hospitals following a multiple-vehicle accident on Interstate 380 westbound during snowy conditions Friday.

The crash was reported about 12:25 p.m. on Interstate 380 westbound west of the 67 mile marker, according to the Iowa State Patrol.

Chad Chase, 46, a Black Hawk County sheriffs deputy, was in the process of diverting traffic from a minor accident on I-380 westbound at the bridge with Gilbertville Road when two separate vehicles hit the patrol car. Troopers said he was parked on the inside shoulder with his emergency lights activated.

The deputy was not inside the car but the K-9 officer was. The K-9 officer was not injured.

A car being driven by Leander Martin, 23, of Holland, Iowa, started sliding sideways and struck the patrol car. Then an SUV pulling a fifth-wheel camper being driven by Peter Delaney, 34, of Cedar Rapids, was unable to stop and took evasive action and also struck the patrol vehicle, the Iowa State Patrol states.

That set off a chain reaction of vehicles rear-ending each other in an attempt to avoid the crash on the slippery, snow-covered roadway, according to Capt. Mark Herbst with the sheriffs office.

At least 11 separate vehicles were involved, not including a semi tractor-trailer that drove into the north ditch to avoid the crash.

The injured were identified as John Baus, 55, of Milwaukee, who was transported to Covenant Medical Center; Ian Buck, 25, of St. Paul, Minn., taken to UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital; Amy Buck, 53, of St. Paul, Minn., taken to Covenant Medical Center; Marshal Buck, 14, of St. Paul, Minn., flown by air ambulance to University Hospitals in Iowa City; and Jonas Buck, 20, of St. Paul, Minn., taken to Covenant.

I-380 was shut down in both directions for hours in order to clean up from the crash, and Herbst advised motorists to avoid driving Friday as several inches of snow fell in eastern Iowa. Two to four inches was expected to fall in the Cedar Valley on Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

People need to slow down, Herbst said, adding on his way to the accident he was passed by speeding pickup trucks. We need people to exercise caution, slow down, and if its not necessary to just stay home.

A neighbor of the Buck family shared that she had a Go Fund Me account for the family. That link is here: https://www.gofundme.com/buck-family-fund. The Courier cannot verify any Go Fund Me accounts and encourages people to do their research before donating to any online fundraisers.

This article was updated Jan. 2 to correct the age of Marshal Buck.
After a whirlwind two years with nearly two dozen presidential hopefuls traipsing through the state, 2017 proved Iowa politics are intriguing even when the caucuses are not front and center.

The previous years momentous elections brought sweeping change to the political landscape in 2017, both in Iowa and nationally.

That led to a year of significant political interest and consequence.

As is the easy way out  I mean, tradition  at this time of year, lets take a look back at the biggest stories in Iowa politics in 2017, and a look ahead to what may come in the next year.

Republican dominance

For the first time in three decades, Iowa Republicans had complete lawmaking control at the state Capitol.

They did not squander the opportunity.

With majorities in the Iowa House and Senate and a Republican in the governors office, the GOP enacted several pieces of conservative reforms. Republicans overhauled the states collective bargaining system for public employees, dramatically reducing the benefits for which public worker unions can negotiate. They restricted abortion access by making them illegal after 20 weeks and halting state family planning funding to providers that perform abortions. They loosened gun regulations by, among other provisions, creating a stand your ground law, allowing children to use guns when observed by a parent, and strengthening the state law that allows guns in public buildings, such as courthouses.

The one big-ticket item remaining on statehouse Republicans legislative to-do list is tax reform. Now that the federal GOP has passed its package of tax cuts, expect Iowa Republicans to do the same during the upcoming legislative session.

The Resistance

Naturally, not everyone was thrilled with the new political power structure in Congress or at the Iowa Capitol. Many made sure their displeasure was known.

More than 20,000 people marched on the state Capitol in March as part of a nationwide series of events called the Womens March, which were organized to protest myriad policies under consideration by Republican federal and state lawmakers. Thousands more flooded the Statehouse during the legislative session to protest many of the aforementioned proposals. And residents flooded forums that featured state and federal elected government officials.

The events showed that people were not only upset by the various new policies being proposed and implemented, they were willing to mobilize. Thats what excites Democrats, whose goal is to harness that passion for the 2018 elections.

Transition of power

For all the significant implications of the 2016 elections, perhaps most significant in Iowa was that the election of Republican President Donald Trump led to the appointment of Terry Branstad as U.S. ambassador to China. That move did what no Democrat could in six elections: move Branstad out of Terrace Hill.

Branstad left office as the longest-serving governor in the nations history, totaling more than 22 years over two tenures.

Kim Reynolds, who had served as Branstads lieutenant since his return to the governors office in 2011, became governor and will be on the ballot in 2018, assuming she survives a primary challenge. Reynolds is popular among the Republican base, but is a somewhat unknown quantity among the larger electorate. That, along with the previously mentioned reaction to some of the new GOP policies, has emboldened Democrats in their hopes of retaking the governors mansion in the 2018 election.

Power grab

And there has been no shortage of candidates seeking to lead Democrats to that gubernatorial prize; a vast field of seven candidates emerged to seek the Democratic nomination for governor.

Most who follow Iowa politics closely agree the early stages of the race have developed a pair of front-runners: businessman Fred Hubbell and state Sen. Nate Boulton, both from Des Moines.

Former state party Chairwoman and retired physician Andy McGuire, nurse and union leader Cathy Glasson, and former Tom Vilsack and Barack Obama aide John Norris are in the next tier, still with a chance to challenge for the nomination.

Former Iowa City mayor Ross Wilburn and party activist Jon Neiderbach round out the field.

The gubernatorial election presents Iowa Democrats with their best opportunity to retain one of the three legs of power at the Capitol. If they are to defeat Reynolds, assuming she survives her primary, they will require the right candidate from this field.

Happy New Year

The legislative session starts Jan. 8.

The primary elections are in June.

The general election is in November.

Happy New Year, readers. Here we go again.
The shooting of Allu Arjuns new film Na Peru Surya is fast completing its shoot. The latest we hear is that Bunny has taken a break for four days and will be back on the sets on the 4th of January.

The star hero will be heading to an unknown destination to celebrate the new year with his family. Na Peru Surya is being directed by Vakkantam Vamsi and Lagadapati Sreedhar is the producer.

Vishal Sekhar is composing the music and Anu Emanuel is the female lead.

Articles that might interest you:
Until recently, the makers of Mahesh Babus Bharath Ane Nenu and Allu Arjuns Naa Peru Surya were at loggerheads due to a clash regarding the release date. Both the movie were slated for April 27 release. Things got more intense with the postponement of Rajinikanths 2.0 from January 26 to April 27, sending shockwaves across the trade.

But in a major relief for BAN and NPS, Rajini today announced during the fans meeting in Chennai that 2.0 will be hitting the screens on April 14, as a Tamil New Year treat. It will now be interesting to see if both Bharath Ane Nenu and Naa Peru Surya will clash with each other on April 27 or if one of the two biggies will postpone to a later date.

Articles that might interest you:
Still not sure what you're going to do for NYE? Press pause on your RSVP to a typical party and check out these events instead.

Feast at Namu Gaji's All-You-Can-Eat KBBQ Dinner Party (Courtesy of Crazy Korean Cooking)

Finish 2017 Strong With Killer Calves @ Tour de Equator



When: 8am to 12:30pm

Where: 2 Marina Blvd. (Marina District), eventbrite.com

Why: Cyclists, rejoice! Spin your NYE celebrations into a high gear at Equators Coffee & Tea's first Tour De Equator, put on in tandem with Team Mike's Bikes. Admission to the ride is free, and even includes free breakfast tacos and wine samplings. Just show up with your bike and gear.





Toast to the Start of Your NYE Plans @ New Year's Eve Sunset Sail

When: 12pm to 3:30pm

Where: Pier 3 (Embarcadero), hornblower.com

Why: Cheers to the start of an eventful day of New Year's Eve activities with family and friends atop one of SF's most beloved sailboats. Over the course of three or so hours, you'll be dotting in and around the San Francisco Bay, taking in the glorious, last ocean-side views of 2017bubbly in hand. // Tickets ($87) are available at hornblower.com and include brunch and bottomless champagne.





Eat All The Meats @ Namu Gaji All-You-Can-Eat KBBQ Dinner Party

When: 6pm to 8:30pm

Where: 499 Dolores St. (Mission), namusf.com

Why: Ring in this New Year's Eve with a delicious, seemingly endless spread of flavorful side dishes, hot stew, and sweet, succulent, binchotan charcoal-kissed grilled meats courtesy of Namu Gaji. The whole dining room will be yours to explore and, maybe, make new friends from as you indulge in an all-you-can eat experience worth its weight in wagyu beef. // Tickets ($125+) are available at brownpapertickets.com.





Welcome 2018 With Good Vibes @ The Brahma Kumari Meditation Center

When: 8:30 pm to 12:30am

Where: 401 Baker St. (NoPa), bksanfrancisco.org

Why: Center yourself with grounding vibes as you come into the New Year with Brahma Kumari's NYE Mediation Party. After enjoying an introspective, rectory mediation opening, those in attendance are more than welcome to let their feet and minds wander through the on-site meditation games, live music, refreshments, and more. // Admission is free, but an RSVP on bksanfrancisco.org is highly recommended.





Cap-off the 2017 With the Pub Crawl of the Year @ San Francisco Crawl 'Til The Ball Drops Bar Crawl

When: 9pm to 2am

Where: Bar San Pancho (3196 16th St.), The Dubliner (3838 24th St.), Ho's Tavern (2360 Van Ness Ave.), and Blackbird (2124 Market Street), barcrawls.com

Why: Crawl into the New Year with an epic night of bar hopping between some of San Francisco's finest watering holes. And safely, mind you; an on-site shuttle service will safely transport participating parties to and from each bar. // Tickets ($30-$50) are available at eventbrite.com.





Embrace Electro-beats Before the Ball Drops @ Tycho's Concert at The Fillmore

When: 9pm to TBD

Where: 1805 Geary Blvd. (Japantown), facebook.com

Why: Fancy yourself a multi-sensory DJ set from a Grammy-nominated gaggle of producers to help you ring in the New Year? Swing by The Fillmore this New Year's Eve to experience just that, courtesy of the live-sets spun by Tycho, showcasing their laudable numbers from Awake and Echo. // Tickets ($95+) are available on ticketmaster.com.





Jam Out to Indie Rock Chords for Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven's Set @ Great American Music Hall

When: 9 pm to TBD

Where: 859 O'Farrell St. (Tenderloin), campervanbeethoven.com

: If you prefer guitar strumming over synthesized bass drops, then mosey on over to the Great American Music Hall to listen to Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven play their well-celebrated catalogs of new-age rock. But strike fast; tickets are selling out like hotcakes. // Tickets ($26-$28) are available at the door or eventbrite.com





Send Off 2017 With a Fireworks Show @ The Ferry Building in the Embarcadero

When: 11:59pm to 12:30am

Where: Pier 14 (Embarcadero)

Why: What better way is there to start a new year than with a display of brilliant lights? We'd recommend you arrive by 11:30pm to secure a spot, and head south of the Ferry Building for the best view.
Nigerian broadcaster and actor, Sadiq Daba, is back home. He had revealed earlier that his leukemia is in remission, and prostate cancer is not spreading.

A friend to the actor and President of Women Arise, Joe Okei Odumakin shared photos of the actor on her Instagram page.

The caption was written by the actor, who said it was so good to be home.

He thanked Nigerians for all of the help rendered, with a special mention to Soni Irabor.





He wrote: Its soooo good to be back home!! Who else will be there? Who has always been there ? Yes , the indefatigable woman of esteem and high standards, sincerity, honesty ,love, care ,adoration and an AngelDr.Joe Odumakin!! I am back stronger, healthier and well.all thanks to the goodwill and kindness of thousands and thousands of Nigerians both home and abroad. Special mention and lots of love to Soni Irabor, who kick started it all !! I am ever so grateful..





See more photos and post below:




Three men have been charged in a shooting that left a Birmingham police officer injured.

Authorities on Saturday announced the arrests of Montrell Towns, 24, Duane Jones, a juvenile, and Lilbrian Ladd, 19. All three are charged with attempted murder and discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle in Thursday night's wounding of the officer.

Towns and Jones were caught within hours after the shooting by Birmingham police K-9 teams and patrol officers. Towns, a local rapper, was captured hiding under a vehicle. Ladd later surrendered, said Sgt. Bryan Shelton.

All three will be transferred to the Jefferson County Jail where they will be held on $400,00 bond each.

Court records show Towns is no stranger to the law. He pleaded guilty in November to the felony drug possession, and received a 13-month suspended sentence. He also pleaded guilty in 2015 to unlawful distribution of heroin - also a felony - and received a 24-month suspended sentence.

In 2013, Towns was arrested on three counts of attempted murder and discharging a gun into an occupied building or vehicle, however those charges were dismissed.

Court records do not reflect any prior adult arrests for Ladd, and Jones is a juvenile so his age and other information is not public.

The officer, whose name is not being released, is part of the department's Neighborhood Enforcement Team (N.E.T.), a task force implemented four years ago to help control crime in the city's neighborhoods. He took a bullet to the arm Thursday night on West End's Princeton Avenue, and then got on the police radio to call for help, saying "I've been hit."

More details emerged Friday as the probe continued. Authorities said the N.E.T. officer was on Princeton Avenue about 11:30 p.m. as part of an investigation into a person or people who are believed to be involved in violent crimes in the city. Initially police said the officer was a part of a follow-up investigation into a drug house complaint, but said as the investigation progressed, they learned that wasn't necessarily the case.

The officer was wearing the N.E.T. uniform which is an army-green t-shirt and matching pants, or camouflage pants. He was in an unmarked vehicle when he saw the men approach his vehicle. Authorities said he saw what was happening, and began to drive off. That's when shots peppered his vehicle.

"It's unknown how many individuals were shooting or how many times they shot,'' said Sgt. Bryan Shelton.

The officer got on his radio and called for help. Other N.E.T. team members were in the area, as well as patrol officers, and they flocked to the scene. Authorities said the assailants jumped into a white SUV and fled, but because so many officers were in the area, they were able to get in behind the fleeing suspects.

After a brief chase, an undisclosed number of suspects bailed from the SUV and took off on foot. Birmingham police called in all five of its K-9 tracking teams to hunt for the suspects. Several high-capacity weapons were recovered.

The wounded officer, Shelton said, is doing well. "He actually was able to walk out of the hospital on his own strength and his own accord and we're very thankful for that,'' he said. "It could have been much worse. Thankfully he is alive, he is well, he is in good spirits."

"I've known him personally and he works hard for us. He cares, and when you find an officer or public servant who cares about people, about what they go through, it's a real gem,'' Shelton said. "We are highly fortunate that it did not turn out worse than what it was."

The investigation is ongoing.
The next generation of Kwanzaa participants are being trained inside a small church right outside the city of Birmingham.

For two years, Black Star Academy Homeschool Collective has hosted the Kwanzaa camp for children between the ages of 3-18 at First United Presbyterian Church of Forestdale. During the cultural celebration, which starts on Dec. 26 and ends Jan. 1, the place is buzzing with energy from dancing to African instruments to making crafts with red, black and green paper.

The academy's co-founder April Muhammad believes she is witnessing a resurgence of a celebration that has experienced ups and down in participation throughout the decades, a resurgence fueled in part by cultural unrest and activism such as the Black Lives Matter movement.

Since participating in the festivities herself during the 90s, Muhammad said she has noticed more of an interest in Kwanzaa. She was shocked by the number of kids and teens who were enrolled in the camp last year. The first day, only 18 showed up, but then it increased to about 27 throughout the week. Forty were enrolled by the last day of camp. Muhammad said participation this year looks about the same.

Muhammad said participants at the academy first become familiar with all aspects of the holiday

.

"Kwanzaa is reinforced by the time they get to the family celebration and they get to do it with their peers," Muhammad said. "It's not just with their parents in a community setting where you have to sit down and listen and it's just like, 'Why can't I do something to stimulate your brain to remember this.'"

They know Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase which means "first fruits". They can recite all the Kwanzaa's seven principles --- in English and Swahili - and state which day represents which principle. The first night is for unity, or umoja, the kids will say. The second is self-determination (kujichagulia), followed by collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani). When a candle is lit each night, those who attended the camp know it's part of the ceremony.

Kwanzaa was invented by black studies professor Maulana Karenga a year following the Watts Riots of 1965, which occurred in California after an incident of police brutality. Professor Keith Mayes at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, who wrote a book about Kwanzaa, stated the holiday's popularity mirrored the political climate at the time.

After researching African harvest rituals, Karenga created Kwanzaa to bring the African American community together. It became a regular winter celebration as black nationalist groups, such as the Black Panther Party, began to form, but Mayes said Kwanzaa peaked in the 80s and early 90s. When the political energy that fueled the holiday started to dissipate, participation dwindled.

But history seems to be repeating itself, Muhammad believes.

The increase awareness of black individuals fatally shot by law enforcement spurred the creation of the Black Lives Matter movement. Grassroot organizations started to form and take responsibility for their own neighborhoods. Muhammad said it's a trend now to be more conscious about the black community and Kwanzaa's seven principles can connect people with their culture.

By teaching the youth about the celebration, the community is taking steps to make sure the trend becomes more of a tradition in the future. During the camp, each age group does an activity centered around the principle of the day. The 3- and 4-year-olds learned unity as they built with blocks together. On self-determination day, those who were between the ages of 10 to 18 had to face their fear of public speaking and talk about themselves for one minute without taking their eyes off the audience or interrupting their speeches "uh" and "like".

"I think it's only right that we go back and revisit Kwanzaa into our daily lives not because we are tired of Christmas and making it trendy," Muhammad said. "I don't really care how adults do their thing. We trend and then we are out. But once we give it to a child, it's locked in them."

Several organizations and activists are trying to keep Kwanzaa's presence in Alabama in several ways. There are week-long programs and camps in Tuscaloosa and Dothan. One-night, unity-focused celebrations happened in Huntsville on Friday and Anniston on Thursday. The North Mobile County Food Market is kicking off its first monthly Community Unity Potluck in correlation with Kwanzaa on Sunday.

Birmingham's Kwanzaa Committee has been organizing activities for almost 40 years, according to committee co-chair Clarence Muhammad. Each of the seven principles are celebrated at different locations and a different set of panelists try to spark inspiration through their stories. Every night of the holiday, the committee creates spaces to have discussions concerning the African American community. Black business owners network with each other during potlucks. Chefs stress healthy eating habits to prevent diseases like diabetes.

At the Forestdale church, about 30 people came dressed in colorful African attire to listen to five women talk about how they used self-determination to uplift themselves and others. Sonovia Muhammad talked about the strength it took to climb Africa's tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, at the age of 69 and what self-determination looks like.

"Self-determination talks about naming ourselves, owning who we are," said Sonovia Muhammad. "Self-determination is looking at where we came from and not being ashamed of that and honoring that. It is affirming that we are an African people. That our lives matter."

When Clarence Muhammad joined the committee about a decade ago, he was the youngest participant in the room during Kwanzaa events. Most of the audience back then was composed of people who may have been in their teens or early 20s when Kwanzaa first began. Now 42, Clarence said people in their 20s and 30s are beginning to trickle in or facilitating discussions at their own homes.

He said a younger generation of black people are exploring their cultural curiosities in different ways, such as DNA tests to discover their African lineage. Social media allows them to expand their boundaries without leaving their homes, he said. They can learn about African culture through Facebook groups and YouTube videos.

"I think it's a natural progression after a while of being in American culture," Clarence said. "Just like a child who may have been an orphan, eventually they want to know what their family is about. Who is my father? Who is my mother?"

After listening to the women-led panel during self-determination day, Lathia Banks thought about the first Kwanzaa he attended in 1968 while going to Morehouse College in Atlanta. He was 19 at the time and was trying to find a way to redefine himself since Martin Luther King Jr. - the leader of the Civil Rights Movement - was assassinated in April of the same year.

It was an event similar to the one held at the church on Tuesday, he said. Where people young and old learned about the principles and how to use those values to pull them together and move forward in life.

"We knew that with civil rights, there needed to be some type of modification of it if we're going to survive because they killed our leader," Banks said. "They killed the head, so what does the body do? The body forms other heads and it was nationalism and it is cultural nationalism."

He started to see a change in attitude and appearance of himself and others after that event, he said. He saw it as he looked through his college yearbooks recently. In 1967, his classmates' hair was straightened. The next year, afros crowned their heads. It became cool to shout sayings such as, "I'm black and I'm proud." He hears that same rhetoric and thinking today and hopes those younger than him will carry on a tradition that made him.

"Kwanzaa may have peaked out during the 80s, but its constantly reoccurring all the time through the younger generation," he said. "That's what's important - how the young people are brought into it and how they accept it and then go on."
A suspect was shot by police after leading officers on a high-speed chase through St. Clair County and trying to run over a cop, an Alabama investigator said.

The suspect, an Anniston man named Nicholas Powers, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg, said Lt. John Riley, a spokesman for the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation. Powers was treated at a local hospital for treatment of the injury that was not life-threatening, authorities said.

The chase began around 2:40 a.m. today in Steele, a small town in northeastern St. Clair County. Police said they tried to pull over Powers' vehicle for reckless driving, attempting to elude and a slew of other traffic violations. The chase spanned several back roads around the county and into Ashville, another small town, before continuing onto Interstate 59 South, Riley told AL.com.

When Powers pulled off the interstate at Exit 156 into Springville, he crashed into a guard rail, Riley said.

"He hit the guard rail pretty hard," Riley told AL.com by phone. "The officers thought it was over and approached the vehicle. But he threw it in reverse and backed up at a high rate of speed. He came very close to striking one of the officers."

Riley said police fired at Powers, with one of the bullets hitting the suspect's leg. Riley said he isn't sure how many officers fired their guns or which police department the involved officers work for.

"It's still being investigated," he said.

Powers is in custody with the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office. A sergeant said his mugshot will be released as soon as charges are formalized. Riley said in addition to a slew of traffic violations, Powers could be charged with attempted murder of a police officer.
By Kyle Whitmire

I have a New Year resolution for 2018. I want to be a bit nicer. I want to look at the silver linings, and not just the supercells headed for the trailer parks. I want to eat my eggs sunny side up, and not worry so much about food poisoning. I want to leave as much bitterness and snark behind me when the clock strikes twelve on Dec. 31.

All that being said, we still have some 2017 left to burn.

Smoke that carton of cigarettes. Binge on some crap food you bought from the corner gas station. Stare at your phone as much as you like. Because theres nothing positive past this point.

Its time to name Alabamas 2017 Scumbag of the Year.

Don't Edit

~)^

Don't Edit

Robert Bentley

To give you some sense of just how nasty a year this has been, consider this. A year ago, if Robert Bentley wanted, he could have ordered the National Guard to shoot somebody. Now, hes giving away something called CoolSculpting as a promotion for his Tuscaloosa dermatology practice.

Bentley carried on an affair with his senior political advisor, covered it up using state resources, was an unforgivable jerk to Dianne Bentley  until state lawmakers said enough. He was forced from office under the threat of impeachment. He pleaded guilty to a couple of misdemeanors, and packed his crap up and left town.

And he almost didnt make this years list. Thats the kind of year we had.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Ana Franklin

Morgan County Sheriff Ana Franklin made headlines this year, but few of them good.

Money shes raised for nonprofits cant be accounted for. She used $150,000 from her prisoner food fund to invest in a now-failed get-rich-quick scheme involving title pawns, used car lots and a felon convicted of bank fraud. And her office appears to have hired the grandson of an unfriendly blogger to install spyware on that bloggers computer  all without a warrant.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Kay Ivey and Jim Zeigler

When nine women and numerous supporting witnesses came forward to accuse Roy Moore of inappropriate conduct, many of Moores supporters refused to believe them.

Well, OK.

But there was a whole different class of Moore supporters who took things in a completely different direction  those who believed the accusers but supported Moore, anyway.

Chief among those is Gov. Kay Ivey, who said she had no reason to disbelieve any of the women but said she intended to vote for Moore because he was a Republican.

If thats bad, State Auditor Jim Zeigler took things even lower, comparing Roy Moores alleged teen-courtship/mall-trawling/attempted-statutory-rape to Mary and Joseph. In the Bible.

Take Joseph and Mary. Mary was a teenager and Joseph was an adult carpenter. They became parents of Jesus, Zeigler told The Washington Examiner. Theres just nothing immoral or illegal here.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Larry Stutts, Shay Shelnutt, Randall Shedd and Jim Carns

HB277 should have been a no-brainer  a bill to require church-affiliated daycares to be regulated and licensed just like other daycares. The bill, which received strong bipartisan support, would have brought Alabama in line with most other states in the country.

But the Eagle Forum rang their alarm bells of hysteria and Rep. Jim Carns and Rep. Randall Shedd responded like the trained dogs they are. They did their best to water the bill down in the House.

But it was Sen. Shay Shelnutt and Sen. Larry Stutts that finished off the bill in the Alabama Senate. There, they used procedural rules to kill the bill in the late hours of the session.

Alabama needed that bill badly to ensure the safety of children throughout the state  something made all the more evident when 5-year-old Kamden Johnson died in the care of an unlicensed daycare in Mobile.

Don't Edit

Brynn Anderson

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

Roy Moore

What is there to say about Roy Moore that hasnt been said already? In his 20-year-career in Alabama politics, we thought we knew everything there was to know about him. His vicious homophobia, his contempt for the rule of law, his desire to turn America into a theocracy. His record in Alabama has been one of self-aggrandizement and repeated moral and ethical failures.

But then came the Washington Posts revelation. Multiple women came forward to accuse Moore of inappropriate sexual behavior  when they were but teenagers and he a deputy district attorney in his early 30s.

Moore should have dropped out of the race, but instead, he fought a Trumpian campaign to smear his accusers, delegitimize the press, weaken his political party and embarrass Alabama.

But despite all that, Moore is not Alabamas Scumbag of the Year, and that should tell you most of what you need to know about the man who won this years lowest dishonor.

Don't Edit

Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

Don't Edit

Oliver Robinson

There are places in north Birmingham where it is not safe for children to play in the dirt in their yards or for families to grow vegetables in a garden. Nearly a hundred years of heavy industry has left the soil in some neighborhoods toxic to human life.

But when the Environmental Protection Agency considered fast-tracking a testing and remediation program there, Rep. Oliver Robinson pushed back. He spoke at public meetings, questioning why the EPA wanted to expand its existing Superfund site. He went into those neighborhoods and warned the people living there against cooperating with the EPA. He said to them that if they tested their soil, their property values could plummet. He told them that the people trying to help them were the enemy and that the place they lived was safe.

But Robinson wasn't fighting the EPA out of genuine belief or a misunderstanding of the facts. He did it because he was getting paid  paid by Drummond Co., which owned a nearby coke mill and paid by lawyers from Balch & Bingham, who represented Drummond among other polluters.

Robinson pleaded guilty to corruption charges earlier this year, and his lawyer has said that the former NBA player will be a hero again, redeeming himself by cooperating with federal authorities.

Well see.

For now, hes still the worst of the worst  Alabamas 2017 Scumbag of the Year.

Don't Edit
The photo of 16-year-old Fawzi al-Junaidi blindfolded, bruised and surrounded by a dozen Israeli soldiers went viral on social media. It was touted as the emblem of Israeli oppression.

But for Western mainstream media, it was difficult to accommodate this photo, amid all the talk about anger, rage, violence, and the regularly recycled imagery of burning tyres and young men with hidden faces hurling stones.

Fawzis arrest was presented as a singular case, an exception, and what happened to him after the photo was snapped did not interest mainstream media. There was little mention of the thousands of children currently imprisoned or the fact that they are the fifth generation of Palestinians living under a military occupation.

Likewise, while many foreign correspondents were saying that US President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel had thrown gasoline in the fire, there was little mention of the fact that that same city has been systematically ethnically cleansed for the past 70 years.

In Western mainstream reporting, Palestinians yet again were presented as irrational angry actors, their oppression yet again denied the coverage it deserves.

Palestinians usually make it into mainstream coverage only when they are protesting or physically confronting Israeli aggression. Their outcry is referred to as an escalation of violence in the region. There is no escalation of violence when Israel steps up its night raids on Palestinian homes or settlers attack Palestinian farmers.

Israel has also managed to mask the Palestinian question as a religious issue between Muslims/Arabs and Jews. by

The mainstream media focus is always on Palestinian reaction and not on Israeli action and it insinuates that Palestinians are on the offence when in fact they are on the defence.

It is within the contours of this defensive discourse that Israel has built itself and that mainstream media reports from in the region. That is why, Palestinians riot and Israeli forces disperse, as Israeli government spokesmen are always quoted as saying. That is why, we see articles referring to the apartheid wall as a separation wall or correspondents reporting from Jerusalem never saying occupied Jerusalem, which it very much is according to international law.

The general media narrative will have you believe that Gilo, the Israeli settlement in East Jerusalem, and other illegal colonies in Palestine are simply neighbourhoods and that the West Bank is not occupied, but contested or disputed.

Palestinians with Israeli citizenship are simply Israeli Arabs. The West Bank is where Palestinians seek to establish a state rather than a territory that belongs to the indigenous Palestinians. Gaza is portrayed as its own sovereign entity rather than a besieged Palestinian city.

What was different about the latest media extravaganza on Palestine, however, was that the fraught relationship between mainstream media outlets and Trump pushed for the reporting angle to change. Trumps attacks on major news organisations and the public fixation on his scandal-prone administration made media coverage of the latest assault on Palestinian rights a bit more critical, but not in the right direction.

Mainstream media presented Trumps December 6 announcement as his latest blunder, further obscuring what was really going on. There was little mention of the daily struggle of Palestinians living under occupation or the history of land annexation and the Zionisation of Jerusalem.

Nor was there much discussion about the fact that Trump merely chose not to sign a waiver on a declaration that the US Congress had already made two decades ago. Nor was there any reflection on how the US has enabled and funded the Israeli colonial project in Palestine. Nor was there a reference to the fact that Israel built its entire state on the premise of another declaration made a hundred years ago by another man in power  Lord Arthur Balfour.

{articleGUID}

At the time when Balfour was occupying the post of British foreign secretary, the British colonial project had already produced a solid narrative presenting the Palestinian people as backward savages, justifying occupation and encouraging brutal colonial practices.

That narrative gave Balfour the confidence he needed to declare in 1917 a Jewish homeland in the region with complete disregard for the population that lived there. It also helped Zionists push the ideas that Jewish Zionists are a people without land for a land without people and that they are making the desert bloom  completely erasing the existence of a native population there.

When the Palestinians revolted in 1936 against the British Mandate and the Zionist movement, the image of the angry irrational Arab emerged. Lord William Peel, who headed the Palestine Royal Commission, was tasked with investigating the unrest and disorder in the region. The report which the commission produced barely mentioned British oppression, and much like todays mainstream media reporting, focused on the Palestinian reaction to the presence of English soldiers and the expanding Zionist endeavour.

Today, as we are supposedly in the post-colonial age, settler colonialism is considered a thing of the past. Yet, colonial bias still dominates mainstream portrayal of Palestinians. In the past few decades, Israel has been quite successful in maintaining a grip on the general narrative and ensuring that the bias persists.

The Israeli authorities have meticulously pieced together the images of the angry, violent and irrational Arabs and the civilisation force that the Israeli state is. They have sold it to the world in an attempt to legitimise its violations of human rights.

Israel has also managed to mask the Palestinian question as a religious issue between Muslims/Arabs and Jews. This narrative aims to erase the Palestinian identity and portray the occupation as a religious conflict. It also makes it easier for Zionists to throw accusations of anti-Semitism at anyone that opposes and criticises Israeli colonialism.

And for decades now, the Palestinian question has been presented as a conflict between two equal sides. The context of colonisation, apartheid, illegal settlements, extrajudicial killings, home demolitions, arbitrary arrests and administrative detentions are mere footnotes in this general narrative. The word colonialism is avoided altogether because it conjures memories of the crimes of an era that Western powers would rather conveniently forget.

Nothing will change in Palestine until these colonial narratives are challenged and defeated in mainstream media. A critical mass of people around the world need to be made aware of what is really going on so that there is real and sustained pressure on governments to change their position on Palestine and stop supporting Israels colonial project.

Maintaining this media narrative is not only a form of complicity in Israeli oppression against Palestinians, but also helps sustain it.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Navalny had filed the appeal after the election committee decided last week he was barred from running for president.

Russias top court has upheld a decision barring opposition leader Alexei Navalny from running for president in March.

The 41-year-old lawyer announced his candidacy last week, but Russias Central Election Commission later ruled that he could not take part in the elections due to an earlier conviction of fraud.

Navalny responded by filing an appeal, which was, however, dismissed by the Supreme Court on Saturday.

Shortly after the upholding of the ban, Navalny used Twitter to call on his supporters to boycott the March 18 vote.

A staunch critic of President Vladimir Putin, Navalny rose to prominence in Russian politics in 2008.

{articleGUID}

He was the driving force behind massive anti-Putin protests in 2011 and 2012, rallying tens of thousands of people across the country.

In 2013, he was first sentenced on embezzlement charges, after being accused of defrauding the Kirov regional budget of about $270,000.

The European Court of Human Rights last year quashed the ruling.

As a result, Russias Supreme Court ordered a retrial.

Last February, in a retrial of the 2013 case, Kirov city court handed down a five-year suspended prison sentence and a fine of about $8,500 to Navalny.

Navalny has always maintained that the conviction was politically motivated.

Earlier this month, Putin announced that he plans to run for another six-year term.

Putin, 65, was president from 1999 until 2008. He then served as prime minister from 2008 until 2012, before becoming president again.

Polls show Putin is favoured to win the elections.
ISIL has claimed responsibility for an attack on a Coptic church and a Christian-owned shop in Egypt. At least 9 people were killed and five others wounded in the shooting on Friday, just south of the capital, Cairo.

ISIL has claimed responsibility for an attack on a Coptic church and a Christian-owned shop in Egypt.

At least 9 people were killed and five others wounded in the shooting on Friday, just south of the capital, Cairo.

The suspected gunman was injured before being arrested by police.

US President Donald Trump offered his condolences, saying he stands united with Egypt against terrorism.

Al Jazeeras Charlotte Bellis has more.
A Turkish officer who fled Turkey after a failed 2016 coup has been granted asylum in Greece, despite extradition calls.

Greeces government has filed a request to cancel the granting of asylum to one of eight Turkish soldiers who fled their country during last years failed coup attempt.

The move on Saturday came hours after a Greek administrative committee ruled in favour of the mans appeal against his earlier application for asylum.

The committees ruling angered neighbouring Turkey, which has repeatedly called for the soldiers extradition, accusing them of having a hand in the putsch bid.

In a statement, Turkeys ministry of foreign affairs called the decision politically motivated and warned that it would affect ties between the two countries.

Greece failed to show the support and cooperation we expect from an ally in the fight against terrorism by preventing criminals who took part in killing hundreds of Turkish people and targeting the democratic order, the statement said, according to a translation in Turkish newspaper Daily Sabah.

Later on Saturday, the Greek government said that it had filed an appeal against the decision by the administrative committee for asylum requests.

Athens said in a statement that its move was in line with its standing position regarding the eight soldiers, as it has been repeatedly and publicly expressed.

Greeces administrative court of appeal will now look into the case.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has previously said his country does not support coup plotters and that its justice system is independent.

The decision on Saturday was not taken by a judicial committee, but an administrative one. It is comprised by two administrative judges of the Greek justice and one representative of the UNs refugee agency, according to Stavroula Tomara, one of the soldiers lawyers in Greece.

The eight soldiers fled Turkey in a military helicopter and landed in the Greek northeast town of Alexandroupolis during the failed coup on July 15, 2016.

{articleGUID}

The attempted coup against Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans government left more than 240 people dead.

In its ruling on Saturday, the Greek asylum committee ruled that there was no evidence to prove the officer had participated in the attempted putsch, media in Greece reported.

The tribunal is still considering the cases of the other seven fugitive soldiers.

Tomara, the lawyer, welcomed the excellent, unbiased, impartial Greek judges for their courage and their [bravery] to take such a decision without being driven by any political interests.

Speaking to Al Jazeera from Athens, Tomara said the grounds for this decision [is] that the soldiers have not participated in any kind of coup.

She said she expected the other seven soldiers to be granted asylum in their cases, as well, which are still pending.

{articleGUID}

Turkey has repeatedly called on Greece to extradite the officers, but the countrys Supreme Court rejected Ankaras extradition request in January.

Up until now, the Greek government had said it could not intervene in the case and must respect the will of the judiciary.

The issue has led to increased tension between Athens and Ankara.

Erdogan himself made a request for the officers extradition earlier this month during a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

The Turkish government has accused Fethullah Gulen, a US-based Muslim cleric, of orchestrating the coup. Gulen denies the charges.
Controversial decision to relocate the countrys embassy in Israel to Jerusalem follows in US footsteps.

Guatemalas foreign minister says her countrys decision to move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem is final, urging the international community to respect this commitment.

Its a decision that has been made  It is not going to be reversed, Sandra Jovel told journalists on Friday, according to a report from the AFP news agency.

The Guatemalan government is very respectful of the positions that other countries have taken, and as we are respectful of those decisions, we believe others should respect decisions made by Guatemala.

Earlier this week, Guatemala announced plans to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem, following a controversial US decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israels capital.

President Jimmy Morales confirmed the move just days after Guatemala voted with the US against a non-binding United Nations General Assembly resolution that declared Washingtons move to be null and void.

US President Donald Trumps announcement on Jerusalem has prompted international condemnation and widespread protests around the world.

The status of Jerusalem is extremely sensitive, comprising one of the key sticking points in the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestinian leaders view occupied East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state, while Israel says the city cannot be divided.
More than two-thirds of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children experience discrimination in some aspect of their education.

London  Ben Bennett remembers sitting in the back of his familys car at the age of four, on his way home from primary school, feeling utterly bewildered.

It would be the last day that he would wear his school uniform, and he would never again share the same classroom with his friends. Ben was expelled from his school in Doncaster a decade ago, after trying to defend himself from a physical attack that his family believes was racially charged.

The incident sent Ben, who is an English Romany Gypsy, down a path of educational instability and discontent. In the ensuing years, he passed through 11 different schools, facing harassment and a second expulsion at the age of 12. Eventually, Bens parents decided to home-school him after a group of boys attacked him earlier this year, leaving him with a broken hand.

Id always get racial backlash for being who I am and Id always get punished for being myself, Ben, who lives in Nottinghamshire, told Al Jazeera. People would call me a dirty, filthy gyppo and say, My mummy and daddy said I cant play with you because youre a pikey and youll rob my bike. Teachers would also say they dont feel comfortable teaching me.

His 15-year-old sister, Anastasia, was also expelled twice  at the ages of four and six  and endured persistent racist bullying.

I was left wondering, at just four years old, what was wrong with me, she said, noting that her first expulsion was triggered by an incorrect claim that she had stolen a toy from school. It laid the foundations of an unhappy few years. I felt very low in myself. It was really painful.

Anastasia also attended 11 different schools, but is now doing well in an alternative education programme at college.

Trend of discrimination

The siblings experiences are by no means isolated cases. More than two-thirds of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) children experience discrimination in some aspect of their education, and they are more likely to be suspended or expelled from school in the UK than children of any other ethnicity.

In its Race Disparity Audit, published in October, the UK government highlighted the scale of the problem, noting that Gypsy or Roma schoolchildren are more than four times as likely  and Irish Traveller pupils more than three times as likely  as their white British peers to receive suspensions. In addition, Gypsy or Roma children are more than three times as likely as white British children to be expelled, and Irish Traveller children nearly five times as likely.

The UK government has announced an external review to improve the way in which schools execute suspensions and expulsions, with a spokesperson noting that any decision to exclude should be lawful, reasonable and fair and citing the need to focus on the experiences of those groups who are disproportionately likely to be excluded.

Quick facts  Seventy percent of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) children experience discrimination in some aspect of education.  GRT pupils are more likely to be suspended or expelled from school in the UK than children of any other ethnicity.  Gypsy or Roma children are more than four times as likely, and Irish Traveller children more than three times as likely, as white British children to receive suspensions.  Gypsy or Roma children are more than three times as likely, and Irish Traveller children nearly five times as likely, as white British children to be expelled.  GRT pupils have the lowest educational attainment and progress of all ethnic groups throughout their school years, and are least likely to stay in education after the age of 16.

Some observers contend that the high rate of suspensions and expulsions among GRT pupils is not just a result of challenging behaviour by the affected students, but outright discrimination.

Rosie Toohey, a 19-year-old Irish Traveller living in London, remembers spending a lot of time in isolation and completing five-day suspensions on numerous occasions.

The exclusions are more down to racism and bullying than a child wanting to leave school, said Toohey, who is now studying at university and working as a volunteer with GRT children facing the possibility of expulsion. Its more down to them not being able to go to school because of who they are.

Sarah Mann, co-director of the charity Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT), told Al Jazeera that the reasons behind the shocking and unacceptable expulsion and suspension rates are complex.

Every child has the right to an education, but in many cases, the environment in the classroom can mean that GRT children are unsafe and unprotected from racist bullying, Mann said.

Many schools are failing to address this bullying, leaving GRT children with an appalling choice to make: either defend themselves or stop going to school. But when they do stick up for themselves, they are labelled as the problem and get the blame.

Made to feel unworthy

Geetha Marcus, an educational sociologist at the University of Glasgow and author of the book Gypsy and Traveller Girls in the UK: Silence, Agency and Power, said there was also evidence of GRT parents removing their children from school because they feared for their safety.

A strong theme that came through is that the Traveller girls did not feel safe, Marcus told Al Jazeera. Why would you go to a space over and over again where you knew you were going to be persecuted, made to feel unworthy? And their parents want to protect their children; they dont want them to be beaten up, called nasty names, treated badly by teachers in the classroom. It is a legitimate parental concern. What parent wouldnt want to prevent that?

The UKs education department has said it is working with schools to continue to tackle bullying and has produced guidance to help them ensure pupils from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are properly supported.

Nevertheless, Ben and Anastasias mother, Nathalie, says more is needed to ensure other GRT parents will not be forced to choose between a traditional education and their childrens safety.

Im happy Ben is in a safe environment at home now, but what is absolutely heartbreaking and devastating is that hes lost the social aspect of being at school when he has every right to that, she told Al Jazeera. But if he was at school, nobody could guarantee his safety. Ive lost complete faith in the school system. They say every child matters, but I think it should be rephrased to every child matters unless theyre from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller background. That would be more honest.
Israels withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2018, the same date that the US ends its membership.

Israel has filed notice to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) alongside the United States.

Israel has blasted UNESCO in recent years over the organisations criticism of Israels occupation of East Jerusalem and its decision to grant full membership to Palestine in 2011.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said on Friday that she deeply regretted Israels decision to withdraw.

A member of UNESCO since 1949, Israel has a rightful place inside the United Nations agency that is dedicated to education, culture and science, Azoulay noted.

Both Israel and the US  which filed its own withdrawal notice in October, noting that it would instead seek to establish a permanent observer mission to UNESCO  will officially cease membership as of December 31, 2018.

In announcing its withdrawal, the US Department of State noted anti-Israel bias and the need for fundamental reform within the organisation. Shortly afterwards, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel would pull out of UNESCO on the grounds that the body had become a theatre of the absurd.

Ongoing disagreements

UNESCO is best known for its work to preserve heritage, including maintaining a list of World Heritage sites, and programmes to promote education in developing countries.

In May, a UNESCO resolution on Jerusalem strongly criticised Israels occupation of the eastern part of the city.

In July, the UN body declared the Old City of Hebron in the occupied West Bank to be an endangered World Heritage site, prompting Netanyahu to announce a $1m funding cut to the UN, saying the UNESCO vote ignored Jewish ties to the site.

Such disagreements were best dealt with from inside UNESCO and not outside it, Azoulay said.

In the face of disagreements among Member States, which lead to votes for which they are responsible, engaging fully in the work of UNESCO makes possible sustained dialogue, cooperation and partnerships that are more necessary than ever, she said.

Israel has nine sites on UNESCOs World Heritage List, including the White City of Tel Aviv, the Incense Route along desert cities in the Negev, and the sites of human evolution at Mount Carmel.
Libyas internationally recognised government is allowing people displaced during the 2011 revolution to return to their homes. They were forced from the town of Tawergha after fighters there supported former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Libyas internationally recognised government is allowing people displaced during the 2011 revolution to return to their homes.

They were forced from the town of Tawergha after fighters there supported former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Al Jazeeras Mahmoud Abdelwahed reports from Tripoli.
US vows to work with Saudi-led coalition to limit civilian casualties, after more than 100 deaths in the last 10 days.

US Defence Secretary James Mattis has defended his countrys involvement in Yemens war, saying Washington will do anything we can to limit civilian casualties.

More than 10,000 people have been killed in Yemen since a Saudi-led military coalition began bombing the country in March 2015, aiming to curb the advances of Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.

The US is showing the Saudi-led coalition how to use intelligence so that you very precisely try to miss killing civilians while attacking Houthi forces, Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon on Friday.

Were going to try to make that army, that military of the Saudis, more capable of carrying out what they find to be their military necessity, without killing innocents, he said.

Absurd war

A statement released on Thursday by the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, Jamie McGoldrick, noted that Saudi-led air strikes have killed more than 100 civilians in Yemen in the last 10 days.

This absurd war  has only resulted in the destruction of the country and the incommensurate suffering of its people, who are being punished as part of a futile military campaign by both sides, he noted.

On December 26 alone, an air strike on a market in Yemens central Taiz governorate killed 54 people, including eight children, while a separate attack in the western governorate of al-Hudaydah resulted in 14 deaths, according to UN estimates.

I remind all parties to the conflict, including the Saudi-led coalition, of their obligations under International Humanitarian Law to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure and to always distinguish between civilian and military objects, McGoldrick noted.





Mattis, meanwhile, criticised Houthi forces for storing weapons in residential areas, saying this doesnt help if theyre concerned about civilian casualties.

Diplomatic solution

The US will continue to pursue a diplomatic solution to the war, Mattis told reporters.

Yemen has been decimated by conflict since Houthi rebels, allied with troops loyal to late President Ali Abdullah Saleh, captured large expanses of the country, including Sanaa.

In response, Saudi Arabia launched a massive aerial campaign against the rebels in March 2015, aimed at restoring the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

Since then, the Houthis have been dislodged from most of the south, but remain in control of the capital and much of the north.

The war has left at least 5,000 children dead or injured, and more than 11 million in need of humanitarian assistance, according to the UN childrens agency (UNICEF).

The country is also facing a deadly cholera outbreak, a direct consequence of the war, that has claimed about 2,000 lives and affected more than one million people since April.
Far-right provocateur who made his name by attacking feminists and refugees slated to speak at Visegrad group meeting.

Far-right commentator Milo Yiannopoulos is slated to speak at an event funded by the Hungarian government in January.

A website promoting Hungarys presidency of the Visegrad group, comprising the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary, has published the agenda of The Future of Europe meeting.

{articleGUID}

Yiannopoulos, the keynote speaker, is expected to address the challenges of the Western World in Budapest on January 23.

{articleGUID}

A former technology editor at the far-right Breitbart news outlet, Yiannopoulos achieved notoriety in 2015 after making a series of statements supporting anti-feminists.

{articleGUID}

{articleGUID}

The conservative provocateur adheres to a West is best mantra, taking a stance against immigration and refugees.

He once told a radio host that if Australians allowed 12,000 Syrian refugees to stay in their country, it would result in their daughters being raped.

Hungarys Fidesz government, led by President Viktor Orban, also takes a hardline stance against refugees. The country is being sued by the European Union for refusing the blocs mandatory quota to accept asylum seekers, as part of efforts to resettle arriving refugees more equally across the continent.

For Zoltan Pogatsa, a Hungarian political economist and expert on European integration, Yiannopoulos is a clear choice, due to his anti-refugee rhetoric.In the last two or three years [Fidesz has] basically been running this kind of ideology. [It is] critical of refugees coming from Islamic countries.

The EU is also suing Poland and the Czech Republic for low refugee resettlement.

Along with Slovakia, the countries have been protesting against the EU refugee resettlement scheme. In September, the European Court of Justice dismissed their challenge.

Yiannopoulos anti-refugee rhetoric fits into the ideas of the entire region, Pogatsa said.

The inclusion of Milo is impossible to understand, as he is a flamboyant, openly gay internet troll, whereas Fidesz tries to sell itself as a conservative, pro-family values party. by Cas Mudde, expert in European far-right movements

The origins of the Visegrad group, or V4, lie in a 1991 summit after the fall of the Soviet Union. The summit took place in Visegrad, a Hungarian city on the border with Slovakia.

The countries, three at the time due to still-unified Czechoslovakia, agreed to military, cultural, economic and energy cooperation.

All four nations joined the EU in May 2004.

The choice of Yiannopoulos did surprise some, however, including Cas Mudde, an expert in European far-right movements and professor at the University of Georgia.

The inclusion of Milo is impossible to understand, as he is a flamboyant, openly gay internet troll, whereas Fidesz tries to sell itself as a conservative, pro-family values party, Mudde told Al Jazeera.

Yiannopoulos is a homosexual who married his long-time partner, a black man. In spite of this, he has frequently spoken out against LGBTQ rights, including same-sex marriage.

Scott Long, an activist focused on LGBTQ rights, tweeted: Neofascist Viktor Orban enlists gay fascist Milo Yiannopoulos to keynote a conference of the Visegrad Group  The horrors never stop.

Will other V4 nations welcome speakers?

Yiannopoulos lost a book deal with a reported $250,000 advance after a video surfaced in which he appears to endorse child sexual abuse.

Gotz Kubitschek, a German philosopher, nationalist and member of the ethnocentrist European Identitarian movement, with ties to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, will also speak at the January event.

Mudde was unsure Yiannopoulos and Kubitschek would be well-received by the other three V4 members.

The Czech Republic and Slovakia are not so closely related to the ethnocentric far-right.

The Polish government is ruled by the conservative Catholic Law and Justice party, whose members have a history of anti-LGBTQ statements.

They will despise [Yiannopoulos] and be wary about a German nationalist as Poland was invaded by Nazi Germany in 1939, Mudde said.

Al Jazeera contacted the Hungarian government for comment but it did not immediately respond.
Egyptian court sentences ex-president Mohamed Morsi to three years in prison on charges of insulting the judiciary.

An Egyptian court has sentenced former president Mohamed Morsi and 19 others to three years in prison on charges of insulting the judiciary.

Morsi, democratically elected after Egypts 2011 revolution, was deposed following mass protests and a military coup in July 2013.

He served just one year of a four-year term, while the organisation to which he belonged, the Muslim Brotherhood, has since been outlawed.

A government crackdown on the movement, as well as other groups, has since resulted in tens of thousands of arrests and mass trials.

On Saturday, the Cairo Criminal Court convicted Morsi of defaming the judiciary in a speech he made while in office with the aim of spreading hate, according to state television.

The court ordered Morsi to pay one million Egyptian pounds ($56,270) as compensation to a judge, whom Morsi had accused of overseeing fraud in a previous election.

Read a profile on Morsi here.

Five other accused, including prominent pro-democracy campaigner Alaa Abdel-Fatah, were ordered to pay a fine of 30,000 Egyptian pounds ($1,700) each.

All the rulings can be appealed.

Since his removal, Morsi has been tried in several different cases.

He is already serving a 20-year sentence in another case, on charges of inciting attacks on protesters in 2012.

In September, the top appeals court upheld a separate 25-year term, on charges of harming national security by leaking state documents to Qatar.
The end of the year is a traditional time to party  especially for workers to socialise with colleagues, for a change. Thats also the norm in South Korea  but a video of nurses dancing at a hospital talent show has sparked debate about abuse.

The end of the year is a traditional time to party  especially for workers to socialise with colleagues, for a change.

Thats also the norm in South Korea  but a video of nurses dancing at a hospital talent show has sparked debate about abuse of women in the workplace.

Al Jazeeras Kathy Novak reports from the capital, Seoul.
As thousands demonstrate against economic policies in various cities, Al Jazeera speaks to analyst Mohammad Marandi.

Tensions are high in Iran as hundreds of people protest in multiple cities against the governments economic policies.

About 300 people protested in Kermanshah, a city in western Iran, on Friday, according to the semi-state news agency Fars. Police there used water cannon and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.

Protests also broke out in the capital, Tehran, according to social media.

The demonstrations are said to be the biggest display of public dissent since pro-reform rallies swept the country in 2009.

US President Donald Trump has warned Irans government to respect the peoples right to protest.

Relations between Washington and Tehran have been particularly tense since Trump decertified the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)  agreed to by the US, China, Russia, Germany, France, and the UK  imposes restrictions on Irans stockpiles of uranium and the capacity to enrich it, in exchange for sanctions relief.

Al Jazeera spoke to Mohammad Marandi, professor at Tehran University, about the reasons behind the recent anti-government rallies.

Al Jazeera: Why have people been protesting over the past few days?

Mohammad Marandi: There are economic difficulties in the country.

After the JCPOA, many of the Iranian people had expectations that the economic situation would improve, but, as we saw, both [former President Barack] Obama and Trump repeatedly violated the JCPOA by passing new laws, such as the Iran sanctions act and the visa restriction laws.

The treasury and other arms of the government, both under Obama and Trump, have basically weakened the JCPOA extensively, which has kept a lot of the sanctions regime intact.

Al Jazeera: There have been small protests over economic conditions in Iran. But whats special about these ones is that they have spread to numerous cities and have been picked up on social media. Is some sort of movement emerging?

Marandi: Its difficult to say, because, on the one hand, the economic situation is something that exists across the board.

Iranians, I think, while they are upset with mismanagement, they also recognise that the administration is being prevented from doing a lot of what its trying to do because of the United States and its allies, and the sanctions that I mentioned.

And, of course, social media makes things easier, so people have information.

But also, there is a fact that has to be kept in mind, that, while some people have been protesting economic problems, we do see a very distinct effort on behalf of foreign governments.

For example, BBC Persian, which belongs to the British government, VOA which is owned by the US government, and media outlets that are directly or indirectly funded by the West  they are showing an effort to expand the protests.

They are trying to intensify them in order to politicise them.

While Iranians are upset with mismanagement, they also recognise that the administration is being prevented from doing a lot of what it's trying to do because of the US and its allies. by Mohammad Marandi, University of Tehran professor

Al Jazeera: The government recognises that these protests are about more than the economics of the country. Were hearing anti-government slogans  Death to Rouhani, Forget Palestine, No to Gaza, No to Lebanon  deriding Irans foreign policies. How concerned is the government about this?

Marandi: Well, the protesters  are not large in number. You have to keep in mind that these protesters are not all chanting the same slogans.

Some of them have been chanting anti-government slogans or slogans against Iranian foreign policy.

But when you look at the clips, you see that in some cases there is unity in the slogans and in other cases, when there are radical voices, then you see a lot of the crowd not repeating the slogans. So its not so simple.

But there is a concerted effort, I think, on behalf of the Western media outlets.

In Iran, whenever there is any sign of discontent, you will always have the think tanks and Western media saying that the regime is about to implode and the regime is unpopular. We have been hearing that for 39 years now, and I dont expect anything like it to happen in the future.

Al Jazeera: It is quite interesting to see how quickly the Trump administration jumped on these protests, warning the government not to react with a heavy hand

Marandi: Yes, it is ironic, especially with Trump being such a divisive figure inside the United States with the protests and counter-protests.

In Charlottesville, we had a person killed. On the other hand, we see that the US is supporting Saudi Arabia in the destruction of Yemen in mass genocide through starvation.

We see the United States, both under Obama and Trump, supporting extremist groups in Syria, so its not really for the US to talk about human rights when it comes to Iran.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Palestinians take action against graffiti wall tourism blamed for turning occupation realities into tourist recreation.

Bethlehem, Occupied West Bank  Tourists trickle in and out of The Walled Off Hotel in this Palestinian city, crowding around Israels separation wall to spray graffiti slogans, murals and their names onto a chain of concrete slabs.

To many Palestinians, a structure that has brought pain and suffering to their lives has become, for all practical purposes, a source of excitement and fantasy for tourists staying at the hotel.

When the sun sets and the hotel guests turn in their spray paint for the night, some Palestinians tiptoe around the area to add their own touches to the wall by defacing the art on the concrete.

The hotel was established earlier this year by the British street artist Banksy, who reportedly said at the time that it was the worlds only visitor attraction dedicated to the biography of a single concrete structure.

The hotels website boasts ceiling views of graffiti-strewn concrete and proximity to an Israeli army watchtower.

The rooms overlook Israels separation wall and are decorated with objects meant to represent Israels violence against Palestinians.

The central activity for the hotels guests is decorating the wall with art and graffiti.

Beside the hotel is a shop called Wall Mart that sells graffiti products to tourists eager to scribble their names on the most visual component of Israels more-than-half-century occupation of the West Bank.

However, many Palestinians express disappointment with what they see as the hotels role in occupation tourism in Bethlehem, which they believe has transformed Palestinian realities into recreation for tourists.

Exotic and sexy

Amany Khalifa, a prominent Palestinian activist based in Jerusalem, told Al Jazeera, The wall has become a product. It has become exotic and sexy for internationals.

For some Palestinians, words are clearly no longer enough; it is time for action.

A particular target has been Melbourne-based street artist Lushsux, accused by many Palestinians of profiteering during his stays at The Walled Off Hotel and creating images that speak to the alt-right.

During a recent defacing campaign, 25-year-old Palestinian activist Soud Hefawi sprayed the lines I do not need a colonialist to teach me how to fight colonialists and Some people like to benefit from other peoples misery across Lushsuxs meme-style murals on Israels separation wall.

A mural by Lushsux of Joe Rogan, an American comedian, had featured a text bubble asking: Can you pull up that picture of me on the illegal border wall?

Hefawi swiftly defaced it by writing This is not a border wall. Its an apartheid wall and Palestine is on both sides of the wall.

The wall, which was declared illegal by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) more than a decade ago, divides Palestinian communities, splits families and separates residents from their lands.

The structures total length is expected to be 712km on completion.

According to the Israeli rights group BTselem, 85 percent of the wall is being built inside the occupied Palestinian territory, leading many Palestinians and rights groups to conclude that the walls construction is aimed at annexing more Palestinian lands.

Welcome to the shopping mall

Khalifa told Al Jazeera The Walled Off Hotel has taken wall tourism to an altogether new level by exoticising Palestinian trauma.

At the Walled Off Hotels shop, you can find small, souvenir recreations of the separation wall, in which Lushsux painted Make Kebabs, Not Hummus.

The price of one of these limited-edition souvenirs is $341.

This tourism is minimising the whole occupation and making it into a product for internationals to buy, Khalifa said.

Issa, a local Palestinian artist who told Al Jazeera he was behind the Make Hummus, Not Walls graffiti and asked to use a pseudonym to protect his identity, began creatively poking fun at The Walled off Hotel from its inception.

He began with defacing his own art, and scribbled Welcome to the shopping mall over his own graffiti.

His Make Hummus, Not Walls graffiti was supposed to be a stupid pun and a stupid joke  but then the image began being reproduced by others, he said.

But the popularity of the graffiti contributed to the fetishisation of Palestine, Issa says with evident regret.

A few days later, Issa and his friends wrote, Wanksy will save the world and #Mam7onE7tilal (Horny for the occupation) in front of the hotels window.

While the former was quickly covered up by the hotel, the hashtag remained for two months.

We wrote the hashtag in Latin letters so that Arabs wouldnt read it and the foreigners wouldnt understand it, Issa said with a chuckle.

Issa said the hashtag alluded to the hotels promotion of conflict fetishisation, in which Palestinians and their suffering are reduced to celebrated symbols, devoid of the larger political realities shaping their lives.

Alt-right propaganda?

While a long line of graffiti artists did come before Lushsux to take advantage of the international spotlight on Israels separation wall, Hefawi, the Palestinian activist, told Al Jazeera, Lushsuxs artworks went too far.

He saw them as racist and anti-Semitic.

I just felt like enough was enough, Hefawi said, explaining why he decided to deface Lushsuxs murals.

For her part, Khalifa told Al Jazeera the artwork of Lushsux and the activities of The Walled Off Hotel escaped criticism due to a long-standing process of internationals disempowering Palestinians, referring to international control over what is deemed legitimate Palestinian resistance.

Palestinians have been put into a position where we have to make internationals understand the situation, without making them feel uncomfortable, Khalifa said.

Hefawi agreed, saying that for years, foreigners have not been challenged about their activities here.

Its not very surprising that now we have a tourist promoting racism on the wall and thinking he will go unquestioned, he said.

Issa pointed out that Lushsux has created images of the Swedish YouTuber PewDiePie  who has in the past been accused of racism and anti-Semitism.

Lushsuxs social media posts suggest he had considered painting wealthy Jewish investor George Soros, whose image is often used by far-right groups to promote anti-Semitic conspiracy theories.

In response, Issa and some friends defaced the artists memes on the separation wall by daubing the words Alt-Right Propaganda over them.

I wanted to make sure [Lushsux] knows that Palestinians are not stupid, Issa said.

Robert Andrews, an activist and advocate for Palestinian rights from the US who took part in the defacing campaign, wrote Palestine is not your drawing board in Arabic over some of Lushsuxs murals and almost entirely covered up two of the artists pieces with a pink paint-roller.

Lushsux did not respond to Al Jazeeras requests for comment. He has referred to the defacement of his artwork as Israeli modern art masterpieces, despite being informed on multiple occasions that Palestinians and US activists had problems with his work.

A man presumed to be Lushsux reportedly told Reuters news agency in October that he hoped his artwork on the Israeli separation wall would draw attention to Palestinians stuck in an indoor prison.

Solidarity or tourism?

Wissam Salsa, the Palestinian owner of The Walled Off Hotel, said the hotel has little to do with solidarity.

Most people who come to the hotel are not coming in solidarity. They are mostly Banksy fans, so they have no idea whats going on here, he told Al Jazeera.

Still, he acknowledged that the hotel was established to communicate with people and raise awareness of the realities in Palestine.

A central aspect of this is the hotels emphasis on its guests painting graffiti on Israels separation wall in order to create a physical attachment between the internationals and the wall, Salsa says.

Its a way for them to express their protest against the wall and the injustices behind it.





Several guests at the hotel agreed with Salsas sentiments, telling Al Jazeera they believed they were contributing to the local Palestinian economy by spending money in Bethlehem.

However, locals, who did not want to give their names, told Al Jazeera most tourists seldom leave the hotel.

One guest at the hotel told Al Jazeera he had been working on a project with Lushsux to create an inflatable bouncy castle for children, designed to resemble the separation wall complete with Israeli observation towers.

They had planned to take it around the West Bank for use by children in refugee camps, and then transport it to the UK for a tour of music festivals to raise awareness about the occupation.

Khalifa, the Jerusalem-based Palestinian activist, said purported awareness campaigns run the risk of dehumanising Palestinians.

This is our life. This is not an exotic game, Khalifa told Al Jazeera.

We dont have the privilege of writing on the wall, and then going home and never having to see this wall again. We are forced to see it every day.

To benefit the occupier

Issa, the Palestinian artist, considers the normalisation of the walls image as the most dangerous side effect of foreign tourism and the Walled Off Hotel.

The more we reproduce images of the wall, the more the wall becomes normal in peoples imagination, he told Al Jazeera.

Then our imaginary stops at the wall. It becomes the first subconscious image of Palestine.

He said the proliferation of the walls image has also created illusions of a border, something that he claimed Lushsux specifically attempted to promote.

Israel wants to show the world that there is a wall, as a border. It perpetuates other narratives that are to the benefit of the occupier, and the occupiers quest to downgrade the occupied as sub-humans, he said.

Palestinians have also expressed concern over the potential for wall tourism to create a vested interest in the structures permanence.

Referring to the famous list of international sites deemed by UNESCO as having special cultural and physical significance, Issa said: Soon, we wont even be able to take this wall down because someone will tell us its World Heritage.

Follow Jaclynn Ashly on Twitter @jaclynnashly
Students clash with police at Tehran University on third day of rallies as public is told to avoid illegal gatherings.

Anti-government protests have continued for a third consecutive day in a number of cities across Iran, despite officials calling on citizens to avoid illegal gatherings.

Sparked by anger over Irans ailing economy, the rallies have gained momentum and are described as the largest in nearly a decade.

In the capital, dozens of students on Saturday chanted anti-government slogans outside Tehran University, before being dispersed by riot police and large crowds of pro-government demonstrators.

Videos posted on Twitter by the New-York based Center for Human Rights in Iran appeared to show police in riot gear clashing with protesters outside the gates to the Tehran University. A second video showed smoke-shrouded streets, purportedly from tear gas, in the same area.

Al Jazeera could not authenticate the footage, but semi-state news agency Fars also reported confrontations between police and protesters at Tehran University.

#IranianProtests: The crowd shouts "Shame on you!" as security forces beat protestors at Tehran University earlier today in #Iran. pic.twitter.com/UucJEFi8qG  IranHumanRights.org (@ICHRI) December 30, 2017

Small crowds of protesters also rallied in Shahr-e Khord and Kermanshah, according to photos and videos posted on social media on Saturday.

The rallies appeared to take place despite Interior Minister Abdolrahman Rahmani Fazli calling on people earlier in the day not to participate in what he called illegal gatherings.

The protests first broke out on Thursday in Masshad, Irans second-largest city, with people taking to the streets to denounce a surge in the prices of basic foods, the sluggish economy and unemployment.

The rallies spread to Tehran and other major cities on Friday. Dozens of arrests were also reported.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people across Iran attended preplanned pro-government rallies on Saturday to mark the end of unrest following the countrys 2009 election.

State TV aired footage showing people in several cities waving flags and carrying banners bearing the image of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The large demonstrations, which were organised weeks ago, are held every year.

This year, however, they took on new significance, offering a show of support for Irans leadership in the wake of the anti-government protests.

Also on Saturday, Iran hit back at the US after President Donald Trump said Tehran should respect its peoples right to express themselves.

The world is watching! Trump wrote in a Twitter post late on Friday, while also accussing Irans government of corruption and funding terrorism abroad.

Many reports of peaceful protests by Iranian citizens fed up with regimes corruption & its squandering of the nations wealth to fund terrorism abroad. Iranian govt should respect their peoples rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching! #IranProtests  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 30, 2017

In response, Bahram Qassemi, spokesman for Irans foreign ministry, called the US presidents warnings cheap, worthless and invalid, according to the semi-state news agency Fars.

Iranian people feel no value for the opportunistic claims of the US officials and Mr. Trump, himself, Qassemi was quoted as saying.

Iranians will reject US statements

Under Trumps administration, Washington and Tehran have grown further apart, clashing on foreign policy issues such as the wars in Syria and Yemen and over the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Some analysts rejected the US comments as simply driven by politics.

Trita Parsi, founder and president of the Washington, DC-based National Iranian American Council, said: The fastest way to discredit these legitimate grievances expressed by the Iranian people, is for Trump to throw himself into the mix.

{articleGUID}

Amir Handjani, a New York-based fellow at the Atlantic Council think-tank, said: Anything the Trump administration says about Iran (even if it may be remotely credible) will be rejected by the vast majority of Iranians, given his position on a whole host of issues that touch on Iranian prestige and national interests.

Iranian officials have long blamed US sanctions for the countrys sluggish economy. While many of these economic measures were lifted after the 2015 nuclear deal, some unilateral US sanctions remain.

Eshaq Jahangiri, first vice president of Iran, said that while some protesters were rallying against high prices, others were set on derailing the government.

All economic indications in the country are good. Yes, there is an increase in the prices of some products and the government is working on fixing causes of high prices, he said.

The people behind what is taking place think they will be able to harm the government. But when social movements and protests start in the street, those who have ignited them are not always able to control them.

Commenting on the anti-government rallies, Nader Hashemi, who heads Middle East studies at the University of Denver, said Iranians were frustrated about the lack of accountability from their leaders.

Its really the linking of Irans regional foreign policy  in Syria in particular  with the economic grievances that many people are feeling, he told Al Jazeera.

Many Iranians  do not understand why Iran has invested so heavily in regional foreign policy adventurism to the detriment of Irans own internal economic problems.

A large section of society believes there is no accountability over where money is being spent, he said.

The hardline elements of the regime are probably going to blame protests on foreign conspiracies. The real question is what will the Iranian government do and say in the coming days in response [to the protests]?
President Edgar Lungu directs military to help fight a cholera outbreak that has claimed 41 lives since late September.

Zambias President Edgar Lungu has dispatched the military to help fight a cholera outbreak, which has killed 41 people in the capital, Lusaka, and affected more than 1,500 others since September.

In a Facebook post late on Friday, Lungu said all three wings of the Defence Force had been deployed to escalate efforts to minimise the spread of the disease.

Lusaka has been recording an average of 60 new cases every day. Ive noted with great sadness that a total of 41 people have died of the disease since its outbreak, he said.

{articleGUID}

The outbreak began in two densely populated areas in Lusaka on September 28, but appeared to die down by October 20, the World Health Organization said.

However, the number of cases increased the following month, with a total of 136 cases reported in the week beginning November 26.

The intial outbreak was linked to contaminated water and unsanitary conditions in the affected areas, said Lungu.

But the resurgence in cases was due to consuming contaminated food, mostly from street vendors and markets, he added.

I am deeply concerned at the rampaging advance of the outbreak, said Lungu, noting that markets, street stalls and other public places that pose risks could be closed for cleaning and garbage collection.

Cholera is a water-borne disease that causes acute watery diarrhea. The infection is easy to treat with oral rehydration salts, but can kill within hours if unaddressed.

About 100,000 people die every year from cholera.
A look at the future of global aviation in 2018 after a turbulent year in the Middle East; plus, arms sales on the rise.

Blockbuster aviation deal ahead?

As 2018 gets under way, a couple of multi-billion dollar deals are in play that could change the face of entire industries.

One blockbuster deal could reshape the global aerospace industry: Aircraft maker Boeing has held talks about a multi-billion dollar takeover of Brazils Embraer.

The deal, should it go ahead, would combine the worlds largest aerospace company with the third-largest passenger jet maker.

The Brazilian government would have to sign off on it, and the two players have only confirmed theyve had private talks. But the move is being viewed as significant within the industry.

In October, European rival Airbus secured a controlling stake in the C-series jet from Canadas Bombardier.

Is there more consolidation ahead for the aerospace industry?

Aviation in the Middle East

Tunisia is demanding an apology from the United Arab Emirates after the UAE banned Tunisian women from flying to the Gulf state or transiting its airports. In retaliation, Dubai-based Emirates Airlines is banned from operating flights to and from Tunisia. Charlotte Bellis reports.

How have the Tunisia travel ban, Trumps travel ban, the US laptop ban, and the Qatar-Gulf diplomatic crisis impacted the Gulf region as a travel hub?

The global [aviation] industry has done really well overall  In the Middle East  theres pretty much been a handbrake stop on the kind of levels of growths that you have from 2012 to 2016, which were around 10 to 15 percent or so for Etihad, for Qatar and for Emirates. Those have dropped to pretty much one to two percent or so, year on year. And its even going to be less in 2018, says Peter Morris, chief economist at Global Flight.

Flying taxis and aviation automation

Decades ago, perhaps the general public thought we might all be travelling in flying cars by 2018.

But flying taxis are no futuristic fantasy today.

Airbus is looking to put its flying taxi in the air next year. Its a vertical take-off and landing, electric-powered aircraft that will carry four passengers through urban areas.

Meanwhile, Embraer and NASA are teaming up with Uber on its flying taxi project. Ubers deadline for testing flying taxis is the 2020s.

Theres a lot of psychological barriers  Aviation is the safest form of public transport, but, nonetheless, you will see an intense focus before those pilotless aircraft are going to be permitted  Its not that the problems are really technical, the problems are almost certainly psychological and regulatory, says Morris.

Arms sales on the rise

Global arms sales are up, according to the latest report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

The report shows that US group Lockheed Martin is now the worlds top arms producer.

And Brexit did not seem to have an effect on the arms sales of British companies, with BAE ranking fourth on the top-100 list of global arms producers.

Russia has been getting more aggressive in the past few years, and Chinese companies, too, are engaging in more defence sales abroad.

Meanwhile, the report said, South Korea is becoming a bigger player among so-called emerging producers.

So what does the size of the global arms market tell us about the state of the global economy?

Pieter Wezeman, senior researcher of the arms and military expenditure programme at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, shares his views.

Also on this episode of Counting the Cost:

Driverless cars: 2017 was the year that driverless car and trucks became a reality. Laurence Lee reports.

River Nile and water rights: We look at the ongoing struggle over the Nile and ask why Egypt is calling on the World Bank to help settle a dispute on the longest river in Africa.

Made in Greece: The plight of refugees is something thats likely to remain a focus in the year ahead, and one country on the front line of the refugee crisis is Greece. Jonah Hull reports from Athens on how entrepreneurship is an important key to integration.
I remember that painful election night in 2012. Against reason, Americans chose to give Obama four more years in the White House.

As a Christian, all I knew to do was trust God. Little did I know that Obama's re-election was setting the stage for long-shot dark-horse presidential candidate Donald J. Trump.

Over eight years, the shine wore off electing the first black president. Americans knew that Obama was driving our country in the wrong direction. We subconsciously felt the tyranny of political correctness. Obama led leftists' war on Christianity. Obama's agenda was founded upon punishing America first. Thus, Americans were ready for real change. Enough with empty promises from fancy-talkin' professional politicians.

When businessman extraordinaire, regular-guy candidate Trump said he wanted to "make America great again," We, the People immediately connected with Trump's clear and simple decree.

Political elites thought Trump running for president was hilarious. It amazes me that political so-called experts are still puzzled as to why Trump won the White House. Establishment elites are finally backing away from the narrative that Trump stole the election via collusion with Russia or other dirty tricks.

This tells me that these people (establishment elites) in their Washington, D.C. towers of power are sheltered from everyday Americans. It is only common sense that a majority of Americans would desire a leader who loves his homeland and wants to make it the best it can be. Only liberalism-indoctrinated anti-American zealots have a problem with Trump's positive agenda for America.

Purposely unreported by fake news media, Trump has used his will and true grit to amass a substantial list of wins for America in his first year. Trump has been rolling back Obama's messes in spite of NeverTrumps and Congress.

I remember presidential candidate Ted Cruz promising to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. To the shock and horror of haters of Israel in America and around the world, Trump picked up Cruz's baton, deciding to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. God said He will bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel (Genesis 12:3). Thank you, President Trump.

Remarkably, Trump is fulfilling his campaign promises, despite fake news media dominating the airwaves with distortions, negative spin, and actual lies about everything Trump says and does.

Trump successfully getting his tax cuts through Congress has sparked an economic boom for We, the People. Do you see the pattern, folks? Thankfully, unlike most pro politicians, Trump presses forward, not giving a rat's derriere about what fake news media, Democrats, the American left, and establishment elites think or say about him.

By the way, I wish to thank the American left for pushing Trump farther to conservatism. Trump is not ideological, not viewing himself as liberal or conservative. But when Trump saw leftists' vitriolic response to him doing anything good for America, it opened his eyes, pushing him farther to our side.

Despicably, evil leftists have sought to falsely brand Trump-supporters as hateful white supremacists. We Trump-supporters are decent, hardworking Americans who love our country and desire the best for all Americans regardless of race, color, or creed. I am a black guy, proud and grateful to be an American. I even wrote and recorded the "Trump Train" song.

Despite the American left daily launching every weapon in its arsenal at Trump, he remains laser-focused on dismantling Obama's Punish America legacy. Thank you, fellow Christians for your prayers.

I do not believe that any other 2016 Republican presidential candidate would have been able to endure or match Trump's remarkable list of restored freedoms in his first year.

Entering 2018, I am most grateful to God that Donald J. Trump is in the White House. Folks, last November, we dodged a bullet big-time. Hillary Clinton would have marked the end of America as we know it for Lord knows how long.

The same way the American left exploited Obama's skin color, using it as a bludgeon against anyone who opposed Obama behaving as our dictatorial king, leftists would have used Hillary's gender.

Queen Hillary supported mass murdering of the unborn. Hillary defended the horrifically evil practice of partial-birth abortion. Partial-birth abortion is the abortionist delivering the entire baby's body except for the head. The abortionist then shoves scissors into the full-term baby's head to kill him.

Hillary would triple down on Obama's persecution of Christians. Hillary would dictatorially use government to cram various forms of sexual deviancy down mainstream Americans' throats. Hillary would celebrate trifling, lazy dependency on big government as the new American normal. As I said, anyone daring to oppose Hillary infecting Americans with leftists' socialist-progressive virus would be taken out  high-tech gang-lynched or thrown into jail.

In essence, Obama regarded the U.S. Constitution as toilet paper, overruling many of our constitutional and God-given freedoms and liberty. Trump has dramatically put the brakes on Obama transforming America into a socialist, progressive, and anti-Christian nation. And for that, I am extremely grateful to God and Trump.

Mary and I will spend much of 2018 traveling America, fighting to keep Republicans in control of the House and Senate, which will help Trump reverse Obama's crimes against us. If we stay firm in our support of Trump, together we will make our country great again. Quoting the Pointer Sisters' hit song, "I'm so excited!"
Some are aware of the terrorist bombing in a St. Petersburg, Russia shopping center December 27. The subsequent comment by Russian president Vladimir Putin, that terrorists should be "liquidated on the spot" if they pose "an immediate danger to others," underscores the different attitude with which Russians pursue their "war on terror," at least until Donald Trump took office. Trump has followed through with his promise to "bomb the [s---] out of ISIS," leaving ISIS with only 2 percent of the territory it once held in its so-called "caliphate," and its fighters left in Syria and Iraq number now only about 1,000. Trump effected this set of circumstances by changing "rules of engagement," saving American lives and costing more enemy lives. While American forces can now engage the enemy with greater latitude, not having to wait for approval from Washington bureaucrats, the United States can still learn from the ruthless ways in which Russia conducts war.

A case in point is the September 2004 hostage-taking at a school in Beslan, Republic of South Ossetia, located in the long troubled north Caucasus region. The attack, by 32 armed terrorists linked to separatists in the nearby republic of Chechnya, resulted in the taking of over 1,000 hostages, including family members attending a celebration of the opening day at the primary and secondary school. The attack resulted in the deaths of more than 330 people, mostly children. Following reports of explosions within the explosives-rigged gymnasium, Russian forces responded with heavy machine guns, antitank rockets, and T-72 main battle tanks, as well as flame throwers and small arms.

The Beslan attack was one of many terrorist activities by a Chechen liberation group led by a notorious warlord, Shamil Basayev, that included the takeover of a Moscow theater in 2002 that ended in the deaths of 130 hostages; the 2004 assassination of Akhmad Kadyrov, the pro-Russian president of Chechnya; two suicide bombings on Russian airliners; and countless other acts of terrorism.

Besides the seemingly heavy-handed immediate response to the Beslan school hostage-taking, a number of political changes were made as measures of counterterrorism. Most importantly, regional governors were to no longer be popularly elected, but appointed by the Russian president. Ramzan Kadyrov, the son of the assassinated Akhmad Kadyrov, was appointed president of the Chechen republic in February 2007, a post he still holds. That Kadyrov has ruled Chechnya ruthlessly would be an understatement, but he has popularized himself on social media, posing with kittens small and large, with nearly one million followers on Instagram. Abductions and killings have been routine, even of relatives of known terrorists. At minimum, relatives have their property destroyed or are banned from Chechnya.

In a January 2015 video, Kadyrov describes an anti-terror operation on December 4, 2014 in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, in which he delayed the operation for three hours so he could personally lead it, as well as his thoughts on terrorism, the terrorists as individuals, the role of families in watching their children, and what the families can expect if they do not turn in their children as terrorism suspects (beginning at the six-minute mark).

This is to recommend not such tactics in the United States, but a revaluation of current policy. Perhaps debate should commence on the internment and mass deportation of selected Muslims, as had been conducted by France since 2012 and Norway since 2014. Crime in Norway dropped 31 percent in less than a year after deportations began. Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic have restricted immigration so completely that the E.U. has opened legal cases against them, as reported June 12, 2017 by Reuters.

In the United States and most of the rest of Europe, immigration continues, unabated in Europe and slowed by evolving legal requirements in the United States. No action has been taken against the families of terrorists, however, even in the case where the June 26, 2016 Pulse Nightclub shooter's wife admitted to the FBI prior knowledge of the impending attack, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel on December 21, 2017. Noor Salman was not arrested for seven months after the shooting, despite admitting prior knowledge of the planned attack to the FBI the day after the killing of 49 people at the gay nightclub. She does now face charges of aiding a foreign terrorist organization and obstruction of justice. Her attorneys argue that her admission should not be admitted as evidence. In Russia, she would already most likely have been convicted and in Chechnya probably killed, as would be members of her family, and their property destroyed. That kind of policy makes would-be terrorists think twice and their families more likely to alert authorities of suspicions regarding their children.

Trump's policies are a good first start in realism in the war against what amounts to a Muslim invasion, with a few violent and the majority passive supporters or enablers in their silence. More thinking and debate appear needed, however.
Just six months ago, the Trump administration was attacked for its "slow start." It was said to be "in disarray," in "chaos," "at war" with itself, and incapable of governing. Now the list of successes has piled up, making it clear that, if the trend continues, President Trump will become one of our more important presidents. Far from being a do-nothing administration, the Trump team is a White House on steroids.

One of the president's major successes is in the area of energy policy. Along with energy secretary Rick Perry, the president is overseeing the recovery of the American energy sector from the low point it hit under the Obama administration. By a combination of executive orders totally restrictiong drilling on federal lands and EPA assaults on fracking and coal-mining, including a total ban on mountaintop-mining, Obama prosecuted a "war" not just on coal, but on fossil fuels generally.

Now America has become the largest producer of oil and gas and a major exporter of natural gas. The U.S. now produces significantly more hydrocarbons than second-place Russia and twice as much as Saudi Arabia. As coal-mining is restored, pipelines are laid, and new wells are drilled, hundreds of thousands of jobs are being created across the economy, not just in drilling and mining, but in support services.

The effect on the economy is already being felt. According to Monster.com, a leading employment recruitment site, oil jobs are making a "huge comeback," with "100,000 new jobs by 2018." And these are high paying jobs: "the average pay of the oil and gas industry is 85% higher than the national average." Each new job in the energy field creates others in areas like steel production, rig technology, transportation, and general services. And the money earned in these high paying fields circulates through the economy.

With the passage of a provision in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act allowing oil exploration in ANWR, the president has another success. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge contains vast reserves of recoverable oil currently estimated at 10.4 billion barrels. Development has been blocked by misguided and ill informed opposition from environmental groups. Now, with great care for the environment, oil companies will have the opportunity to produce vast amounts of energy while drilling only 3% of ANWR.

According to a report from the House Committee on Natural Resources, "total governmental revenue" from ANWR drilling will run $440 billion. ANWR alone will create between 55,000 and 130,000 new high paying jobs.

It is not just ANWR. By removing unnecessary restrictions on fracking and by opening other federal lands to drilling, President Trump is promoting energy independence rather than standing in its way. He has opened federal lands for drilling, including land in two national monuments in southern Utah. Vast federal lands in the Western U.S. offer other opportunities.

In April, the president signed an executive order reversing Obama's ban on new offshore drilling in the Arctic and Atlantic. Current estimates show that almost 90 billion barrels of oil and 327 trillion cubic feet of natural gas lie under the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. Those estimates have a way of being revised upward, especially for regions such as these that have not been explored with modern technology due to past restrictions. Offshore drilling has the potential to produce ten times the number of jobs and government revenue projected for ANWR. At the high end, that would be 1,300,000 high paying jobs and $4.4 trillion in state and federal revenue.

Under President Obama, American coal-mining suffered a near-death experience. Now, under EPA director Scott Pruitt, the Trump administration is taking steps to restore coal to its rightful place in America's energy supply mix. Though it will take years to complete, the reversal of Obama's Clean Power Plan that began back in October will take government out of the frame of "picking winners and losers." Coal will still have to compete with natural gas, but at least it will be allowed to compete.

The president's accomplishments in the field of energy policy are not limited to fossil fuels. His Energy Department recently committed $100 million to promoting Transformative Energy Projects intended to spur early-stage innovators. The department continues to promote alternative energy sources and energy conservation, important contributors to energy independence. Energy conservation in particular can go a long way toward making America energy-independent.

With the opening of new lands to fracking and conventional drilling and the restoration of mining in the Appalachian region, the energy sector has gone from moribund to robust practically overnight. One of the president's first actions was the elimination of the Steam Protection Rule, which imposed crippling burdens of regulation on the industry. As a result, production has begun to increase.

As the U.S. Energy Information Agency's annual "Outlook" makes clear, the future for American energy production is bright. The Outlook models future production across a wide range of different scenarios, and it concludes that the U.S. "is projected to become a net energy exporter by 2026" in its Reference Case projections but that it may do so earlier under three side cases. After 2026, the scale of exports expands rapidly in all cases.

Perhaps the most consequential of the president's actions in the field of energy is his decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord. While withdrawal from the accord does not have significant immediate consequences, its long-term effect is great. Its most important effect will be to reduce the possibility of a deluge of environmental lawsuits based largely on the agreement signed by President Obama. These lawsuits would have blocked American energy production to gratify a self-appointed global environmental elite  at the expense of the American people.

The president's accomplishments are many, but energy stands out. America is now the world's premiere producer of fossil fuels. In just one year, we have gone from a dismal future, in which the government planned to shut down fossil fuels almost entirely by mid-century, to a nation on the cusp of total energy independence. "Make America Great Again" was not just a clever campaign slogan; it is a reality in the field of energy production, as in so many other areas under President Trump.

Jeffrey Folks is the author of many books and articles on American culture including Heartland of the Imagination (2011).
Senator Lindsey Graham may have spilled the beans in saying the Russian-sourced Steele dossier, with its lascivious tales about a pre-presidential Donald Trump, was used by the leftist leadership at the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a pretext to get a 2016 FISA warrant against the presidential candidate.

Conservative Treehouse reports:

Senator Lindsey Graham just confirmed [that] the sketchy Steele Dossier was used to get the wiretap and surveillance warrant from the FISA court. Brian Kilmead understood [that] what he was hearing was serious, but didn't quite catch the specific gravity of it.

...and...

The 2016 FBI counterintelligence operation was surveillance on the Trump Campaign and was thinly disguised under the fraudulent auspices of a FISA warrant, sold as a defense of U.S. democracy from Russia, which permitted the wiretaps and surveillance[,] etc. The DOJ involvement surrounds legal arguments, processing of FISA applications, and use of the legal system to support the FBI operation with actionable legal framing (against Trump). The DOJ National Security Division carried out that collaboration with the FBI.

With the Steele dossier exposed as a load of hooey, it shows that the FBI had political motivations all along, or else they fell for a classic Russian disinformation operation, neither of which makes the agency look good.

Having political motivations should be enough to get some of them fired. So to defend themselves, they are claiming that the dossier was real. This makes them look colossally incompetent.

Scott Johnson at Powerline, in an excellent summary of the entire affair, notes that FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe still considers the dossier credible despite the FBI's not being able to prove any of it, not even with its formidable investigative powers.

One expects the press to fall for such things, as these left-wing press organs are doing  it was not for nothing that Lenin called them "useful idiots."

"A lot of the Steele dossier has since been corroborated," wrote Slate on Sept. 11, 2017.

"The Trump-Russia dossier: Why its findings grow more significant by the day," wrote The Guardian on Oct. 7, 2017.

"How Putin's Twilight Zone Tipped the Election for Trump," wrote Newsweek, republishing from The Verdict, on Dec. 23, 2017

Same with Glenn Simpson of Fusion GPS, who commissioned the assemblage with money, big money, from the Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton campaign and got paid. Simpson said as much during his congressional testimony.

But not the FBI, which is supposed to consider not only the source at the buying end of such concoctions, as much of the attention is focused on, but the one at the selling end, which was from what Christopher Steele himself said was three senior Kremlin sources in Moscow.

As reporters attempt to beaver away to show that the dossier's facts are true and authentic, they unwittingly expose that it was really a Russian disinformation or "dezinformatsiya" operation that the FBI should have caught quickly if it was any good at doing its job.

The really interesting one, by Michael Weiss at the Daily Beast, claims to have a copy of the old KGB training manual for operations, provided by "a Western intelligence service," that is meant to suggest that the Trump dossier is just more of the same from Russian intelligence doing what it always does.

It's a remarkably detailed three-part series, and it does seem to be largely based on facts. It also seems to have impressed former CIA honcho John McLaughlin, who tweeted his approval.

This is classic spycraft from Sun Tzu (6th century BC) till today. A shadowy mosaic of cut-outs, access agents, plausible denial, gossamer webs. Whether or not Mueller proves collusion, Russia clearly took its best shot. https://t.co/f0JoaBKiLL  john mclaughlin (@jmclaughlinSAIS) December 28, 2017

Part one describes how old KGB recruitment and disinformation operations were done through chains of cutout agents (sound like the Steele dossier case?) in a bid to conceal Kremlin puppetry. It's a long and interesting piece on how the term "wilderness of mirrors" came to describe espionage. The chains and chains of agentry from seemingly innocuous sources such as academia to conceal who was really getting the information inevitably led to the apex of the Kremlin masters in these described operations. They were all about cutouts; sowing disinformation; and creating chaos, uncertainty, and confusion

This sounds a lot like what Scott Johnson at Powerline described at Fusion GPS:

Things are not as they seem. The claim of Trump/Putin collusion lies at the heart of the controversy leading to the investigation, yet the only substantial collusion that we know of is the Clinton presidential campaign's with the friends of Vladimir Putin. Now we know that the dossier was bought and paid for by the Clinton presidential campaign through the campaign's general counsel at the Perkins Coie law firm, which contracted GPS Fusion [sic], which contracted former British MI-6 officer Christopher Steele at Orbis Business Intelligence, Ltd. Why the cutouts? One might get the impression that the dossier was not to be traced to the Clinton campaign.

That isn't absolute proof of anything, but it shows the ends to which deception, even passive deception, was employed to keep eyes off the origin of the file and look only to the claims in it. The buyers of the file didn't want anyone to know any of these things described above in Scott's summary. Even if the Kremlin didn't engineer this, the cutouts certainly help protect the Kremlin.

Part three is where it really gets interesting, because it starts to look at the sellers of this information. Weiss describes how the dossier itself included information about Russian intelligence-linked front groups participating in the Steele dossier doings.

Like this:

For instance, the cultural organization Rossotrudnichestvo, run by Sergei Lavrov's Foreign Ministry, has financed any number of European governmental nongovernmental organizations  "GONGOs"  dealing with this mythical double-headed beast of resurgent Nazism and Russian persecution, from Tallinn to Tbilisi. In some inspired cases, Russian neo-Nazis have stolen across the border to appear as Estonian neo-Nazis, for the purpose of furnishing fresh "evidence" for these GONGOs where little or none may naturally exist. If Christopher Steele is to be believed, Rossotrudnichestvo also served another underhanded function in the 2016 election: [i]ts facilities in Prague were used to host a secret liaison between Trump attorney Michael Cohen and Kremlin officials in August 2016, a dossier allegation that Cohen has vehemently denied and has never been proven.

So here we have a known manufacturer of Nazis, now inserted by Steele as a platform of meetings with Trump attorney Michael Cohen, by presumably one of its overlords in the Kremlin, and we're supposed to focus on deception? Secret liaison?

The whole story is fake. It was credibly discredited by Cohen himself, who had never set foot in Prague and had the passport to prove it. Yet someone in the Kremlin used that organization, which has been caught creating fake Nazis, to create a story it knew that the FBI would believe in a place like the Steele dossier.

Does none of these people imagine that maybe the trickster front group planted the story? Or one of its Kremlin overlords? Why did the Russian source use "Rossotrudnichestvo" instead of some other group? The Kremlin knew that the FBI knew all about Rossotrudnichestvo, and it also knew from undoubtedly intercepted cell phone calls that the FBI was out to get Trump, so it had the perfect con for the FBI to sow the confusion it wanted.

It goes to show that the FBI would be better off disavowing the Steele dossier as tainted sourcing and wash its hands of the matter. Since it won't, its aims can only be political.
Once upon a time, people who applied for asylum in America came from communist dictatorships in Eastern Europe or the Soviet Union and often had legitimate reasons for fleeing. If they expressed political opposition to the regime in power, they often faced torture, imprisonment, and even execution. That's why America allowed anyone coming into the country to apply for asylum, even if he entered illegally, delaying deportation until a hearing could be held.

Unfortunately, asylum means something very different today. Today, everyone and anyone who is caught crossing the border illegally is claiming asylum, knowing he will be released by the Border Patrol pending a hearing, one that many will never show up for.

So many people fleeing persecution in their home countries have asked for help in San Ysidro in recent weeks that federal officials have not been able to process all of them. "We can't give up. We don't have option [sic]," said Mesfin Tesfaldet, a 33-year-old man from Eritrea seeking asylum in the U.S., who has been waiting to be processed for at least a week. Tesfaldet said he fled Eritrea to Sudan after he was jailed for his political views. In Sudan, he said, he couldn't go to a refugee camp because the two governments were working together to send Eritreans back to their home country.

Before Mr. T. came all the way to the U.S., why didn't he try to go to seek asylum in another neighboring country, like Egypt or Chad? What about Ethiopia? Ethiopia is a historic enemy of Eritrea. Mr. T. would almost certainly be safe there. If he were really looking for political asylum, it would be much easier to get to Ethiopia than America from Eritrea.

He hid for several years before finding a way to fly to Brazil. From there, he followed a grueling and potentially fatal migrant trail up to Tijuana.

What? Wait. Mr. T went next to Brazil? Why then didn't he seek asylum in Brazil? Or, while he's on the continent, any of the other countries in South America? Why didn't he seek asylum in Mexico?

It seems that Mr. T feels that there is only one country in the world that can grant him asylum: America. That raises the natural suspicion that Mr. T's hopscotching around the globe had less to do with politics and more to do with economics.

America sees the same kind of suspicious asylum claims from large influxes of people from Central America. It seems that all refugees from there have memorized the same script: "Gangs have threatened [insert family member here], so we had to leave the country." Really? When asylum-seekers say that, you have to wonder why they couldn't move to a different part of their country. You also have to wonder why they simply didn't move to a neighboring country.

Costa Rica, for example, has quite a peaceful reputation. But Hondurans and El Salvadorans, for some reason, don't care to claim asylum in the much easier to reach Costa Rica. They want to come to the U.S., because they want to be a burden on the U.S. taxpayer.

Aside, possibly, from a subset of Cuban refugees and a handful of escapees from Russia, it's hard to think of any asylum-seekers who come to America out of genuine fear of political persecution.

Asylum has just become another door for economic migrants to step through in search of American taxpayer-funded education, health care, food stamps, and all the rest.

Ed Straker is the senior writer at Newsmachete.com.
The New York Times has a tenuous relationship with the truth.

The paper blasted off, losing touch with reality, a long time ago. When ten million Ukrainians were killed under the communist boot, they published Walter Duranty's piece, "Russians Hungry, but Not Starving." Such terrible reporting was a good opportunity to learn and correct the Times' distorting leftist ideology. Unfortunately, the paper is content to remain in orbit.

Mark Landler's recent front-page story on the NYT could be written only by someone who doesn't live here on Planet Earth among us humans. He claimed that President Trump, "breaks with 70 years of American foreign policy." Now, there are plenty of legitimate ways to critique Trump's foreign policy, but claiming Trump is a radical "insurgent" is not one of them.

Almost every move Trump has taken has been to moderate Obama's actions. Obama was a dilettante who took America far off course. Trump is a return to center.

One of Landler's first pieces of evidence is Trump's removal of America from the Paris Accords. Really? When did Eisenhower say America should submit to a supranational organization to control the world's climate? If the NYT wants to argue that Americans must subordinate domestic policy to communists in Beijing, please do so, but it is illogical to claim that Trump is an "insurgent" because he ended Obama's singular policy of linking global warming to national security.

Landler brings up Trump's role in denouncing the Iran deal as further evidence that Trump is out of line. In fact, Trump hasn't even ended the deal yet.

But okay, let's assume Trump does end the Iran deal at some point in the future. By ending a deal that "paves Iran's path to the bomb," Trump would be reaffirming long-term American policy of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.

Incidentally, as long as Landler is writing about "insurgent" actions, it is hard to imagine a policy change more radical than one where America helps Iran  the world's number-one state sponsor of terrorism, a country with a policy of killing Americans and who had a major roll in 9/11  obtain nuclear bombs.

No leftist NYT hit piece on Trump would be complete without a mention of his tweeting habits, which Landler feels are "fanning fears of war" with North Korea. If Kim Jong-un is so volatile that a tweet could cause Kim to start a war, then Obama made an unforgivable mistake by standing around with his hands in his pocket while North Korea obtained nukes and ICBMs.

It was American policy, dating all the way back to Truman, to contain China and North Korea. Trump is doing nothing more than stating the truth, recognizing adversarial powers, and taking steps to stop their expansion when he tweets that China was caught "RED HANDED" letting oil through to North Korea.

Incidentally, Trump called out China and North Korea the morning Landler released his article, where he quoted a NeverTrump saying "[t]he Chinese are playing" Trump. When one's framework of understanding is contradicted the exact same day it's spammed to the entire world, perhaps it's a good time to re-evaluate.

Perhaps most telling of all is Landler's complaints about Trump's "strange" relationship with Vladimir Putin.

Left unstated is that if Russia is such a problem, why did Obama change century-old American policy and grant the Russians permanent normal trade relations? Obama's move is reminiscent of fellow leftist Franklin Roosevelt's decision to recognize the USSR in 1933 (that worked out well, didn't it?), the same year the NYT published Duranty's piece.

Now, once again, the NYT wants to lecture people about Ukraine, stating that Trump has "little idea of Ukraine's importance." However, Trump recently approved the sale of sniper rifles and anti-tank Javelins to Ukraine. This is a tough decision for Ukrainians: do they prefer leftists who cover up the Holodomor and normalize trade relations with Putin? Or the president who sells them arms to defend their sovereignty?

Notwithstanding leftist gaslighting, Trump is putting America back on a path to be proud of, a policy that Truman, JFK, and Reagan would recognize, standing against adversaries, supporting friends, and putting the security of Americans first.
President Trump offered a deal to Democrats on Twitter: if they agree to a border wall, an end to chain migration, and an end to "lottery visas," which lets in unskilled people nearly at random, he will agree to legalize the so-called "DREAMers."

Democrats seeking a deal to protect so-called [DREAMers] from deportation must be prepared to agree to a package that includes several White House priorities, including a border wall and reforms to the U.S. immigration system, President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter Friday morning. "The Democrats have been told, and fully understand, that there can be no DACA without the desperately needed WALL at the Southern Border and an END to the horrible Chain Migration & ridiculous Lottery System of Immigration etc. We must protect our Country at all cost!" Trump tweeted.

What do you think of Trump's offer? I have some concerns about it.

What President Trump seems to be offering is legalization for the DREAMers now and building of the wall to come. This has a number of potential pitfalls:

1) Since a border wall cannot be built in one year, it cannot be funded all in one year. Democrats could agree to fund it for a year as part of a deal to legalize DREAMers but next year prevent further funding for continued construction. For those of you who remember the last amnesty, given by President Reagan, it was supposed to be accompanied by the construction of a border wall, but Democrats simply never funded it.

2) President Trump wants an end to chain migration. Does this mean that while legalizing the DREAMers, he is going to deport their parents? I think that politically, that is very, very unlikely to happen, in which case what we are really talking about is amnesty not just for DREAMers, but for all illegals, which is a much higher price.

3) Obama approved DREAMer status for nearly all those who applied with all the vigorous vetting of a Democratic hack working in a passport office in Kabul. Will these DREAMers be more closely scrutinized? Will the ones who have committed crimes (other than illegal entry) be denied legal status? Will there be some sort of distinction made concerning the crimes that are "acceptable" and those that aren't, and what will those lines be? How long will DREAMers have to wait to become citizens?

4) In his tweet, the president makes no mention of mandatory E-Verify to keep illegals from taking American jobs. I think a mandatory, enforceable E-Verify is as important as a border wall.

5) President Trump talks about ending lottery visas, which is a good step, but he didn't mention the much bigger issue of revamping our legal immigration system to (a) reduce the number of immigrants admitted yearly and (b) prioritize those with high-level skills.

6) What about ending birthright citizenship? President Trump talked about this repeatedly on the campaign trail but hasn't said a word about it since being elected. I think this alone is more important than a border wall...though it would be nice to have both.

Conservatives have always operated from the presumption that the border should be secured before any talk of amnesty for those within our borders illegally. To do otherwise creates another perverse incentive for people to flood across the border before we have secured it. That's why I think a proposal to restore legal status for the DREAMers now and to build a wall later is not such a good deal.

Ed Straker is the senior writer at Newsmachete.com.
A friend from Chicago lamented recently that his city is going to the Devil, and the local leadership just wants to talk about Trump's tweets!

My friend is right, according to news reports:

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel had a good year at the expense of city residents  and for that he might want to thank President Donald Trump. Despite presiding over a city with rampant money and crime problems, Democrat Emanuel has bolstered his approval ratings and become the rising star of the left by placing himself front and center in the anti-Trump "resistance movement." Emanuel declared the Windy City a "Trump-free zone," prevailed in a legal battle against the White House over threats to cut funding from sanctuary cities, and came out in strong support of combatting climate change  an apparent dig at Trump for pulling out of the Paris Agreement. Most importantly for Emanuel, his profile has risen  with political pundits floating his name as a possible Democratic 2020 presidential candidate, even as he openly says he is not interested.

It's a lot of nonsense, but it keeps the mayor alive politically.

From coast to coast, we see more and more Democrats avoiding the tough issues by simply activating their TDS. It is not helping their constituents, who are voting with their feet by leaving and taking their taxable income with them. Nearly 450,000 people fled these three deep blue states in 2017!

Emanuel in 2020? I don't see it, but stranger things have happened. At the same time, my guess is that a large chunk of the aforementioned 450,000 are not going to vote for the policies they are rejecting!

PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter.
Reuters is reporting Western European security sources saying Russian vessels are selling oil products to North Korea via ship-to-ship transfers. The news comes after senior U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that Chinese ships are also selling oil in international waters to the Kim regime.

Both China and Russia are permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and voted to sanction North Korea by shutting off its access to oil.

The sales of oil or oil products from Russia, the world's second biggest oil exporter and a veto-wielding member of the United Nations Security Council, breach U.N. sanctions, the security sources said. The transfers in October and November indicate that smuggling from Russia to North Korea has evolved to loading cargoes at sea since Reuters reported in September that North Korean ships were sailing directly from Russia to their homeland. "Russian vessels have made ship-to-ship transfers of petrochemicals to North Korean vessels on several occasions this year in breach of sanctions," the first security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters. A second source, who independently confirmed the existence of the Russian ship-to-ship fuel trade with North Korea, said there was no evidence of Russian state involvement in the latest transfers. "There is no evidence that this is backed by the Russian state[,] but these Russian vessels are giving a lifeline to the North Koreans," the second European security source said. The two security sources cited naval intelligence and satellite imagery of the vessels operating out of Russian Far Eastern ports on the Pacific but declined to disclose further details to Reuters, saying [they are] classified. Russia's Foreign Ministry and the Russian Customs Service both declined to comment when asked on Wednesday if Russian ships had supplied fuel to North Korean vessels. The owner of one ship accused of smuggling oil to North Korea denied any such activity. The latest report came as China, responding on Friday to criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, denied [that] it had illicitly shipped oil products to North Korea.

It's hard to accept Russian and Chinese government denials at face value. The economies of both countries  one communist, the other authoritarian  are tightly controlled. The idea that trade involving millions of dollars would go unnoticed by both regimes is difficult to believe.

More likely, the governments of China and Russia are turning a blind eye to the transactions. They are given plausible deniability while enriching themselves and their cronies by selling oil  no doubt at a premium price.

Meanwhile, our sanctions regime is being undermined by the two nations who could, if they chose, help us the most in causing pain to the Kim regime. Since the North Korean government doesn't care about sanctions impact on its citizen, the only thing that matters is that the regime  and its top leadership  survive. As long as there is enough oil to power their limos, heat their residences, and feed the top echelons of North Korean society, Kim will be impervious to sanctions, making war more and more inevitable.
The State Department released hundreds of emails from top Clinton aide Huma Abedin found on the laptop of her ex-husband, Anthony Weiner. The release was the result of a FOIA suit brought by Judicial Watch.

At least four of the emails were marked "classified."

Fox News:

One November 2010 document that was released shows Abedin forwarding an email to an address titled "Anthony Campaign." Former FBI [d]irector James Comey said during a congressional hearing earlier this year that he believed [that] Abedin regularly forwarded emails to Weiner for him to print out so she could give them to Clinton. Comey famously said in July 2016 that Clinton was "extremely careless" in her handling of classified emails on a private server. That 2010 email was a "callsheet" to Clinton about her upcoming call to Saudi [f]oreign [m]inister Prince Saud al-Faisal to warn about an imminent leak of U.S. diplomatic cables  so-called Cablegate  from WikiLeaks. The rest of the document is redacted and marked classified as of August 2015. Abedin is a longtime aide to Clinton who worked at the State Department and on Clinton's campaign. The emails indicate that Clinton was still invested in party politics despite her [C]abinet position. In one April 2011 email, Abedin informs her that Florida [r]ep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz had been selected as chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee. "Is she leaving the Congress?" Clinton replied. It also shows Abedin in her role as Clinton's gatekeeper. "Love when people send her schedule stuff direct," Abedin sarcastically wrote in an email to a colleague in December 2011, after someone emailed Clinton directly to ask her to speak at a conference. At the time of the emails, Abedin was married to Weiner, a onetime Democratic congressman who began a 21-month prison sentence last month after being convicted of sexting a 15-year-old girl. Abedin has since filed for divorce. The Abedin emails jolted the 2016 presidential race after Comey told Congress just days before the election that FBI agents had found more of Clinton's messages.

More evidence of "extremely careless" handling of classified emails.

No one seems very interested. The N.Y. Times and WaPo are not covering the release, nor are other major news organizations. It's a non-story that's part of a non-scandal involving an FBI person of non-interest  a perfect metaphor for how the entire email episode disappears down the rabbit hole.

The Justice Department is interested, of course, but the decision to fully investigate the matter will be handled by career prosecutors  all of whom have demonstrated a reluctance to get to the bottom of the scandal.

Unless something completely surprising and unexpected happens, Hillary Clinton will have gotten away with crimes that have sent others to jail. But can't the same be said of almost every Clinton scandal of the last 25 years?
Donald Trump drew a line in the sand on immigration, tweeting that there will be no deal on legislation to protect Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) participants without Congress funding a wall along the southern border.

Democrats are already hearing it from their base because they helped pass a temporary funding bill earlier this month without any action on DACA. Democrats had said they would not vote for funding unless DACA legislation is included.

But with a promise from the White House that DACA would be addressed early in 2018, Democrats caved and voted for funding for the government through the middle of January.

CNN:

Trump's declaration casts doubt [on] how Democrats and Republicans will come together to protect Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) participants  of which there are nearly 800,000 who were brought to the United States illegal as children  from deportation because it is unlikely that Democrats will agree to substantial funding for Trump's border wall in exchange for DACA protections. Drew Hammill, House [m]inority [l]eader Nancy Pelosi's spokesman, responded to Trump's tweet by stating [that] Democrats are "not going to negotiate through the press and look forward to a serious negotiation at Wednesday's meeting when we come back." Pelosi, Senate [m]inority [l]eader Chuck Schumer, House [s]peaker Paul Ryan, Senate [m]ajority [l]eader Mitch McConnell[,] and White House chief of staff John Kelly will meet on Wednesday, according to two sources familiar with the meeting. The top discussion topic will be renewed government spending talks, the sources said.

So the battle lines are drawn, and Congress has its work cut out for it. What makes the situation particularly dicey is that the Democrats appear willing to shut down the government rather than fund a border wall. It's unclear how that will play politically, but Democrats will rely on their friends in the media to make sure that Republicans appear to be at fault.

That could pose a problem for Trump. There is only lukewarm support for the wall in Congress, especially in the Senate. Conversely, there is some GOP support for legalizing the children of illegal aliens. While it's doubtful that Republicans would abandon the wall in favor of DACA, there may be room for a deal.

A possible compromise could include funding for "border security" that would include portions of the wall in exchange for a more limited DACA program. In truth, neither side wants to test the political popularity of the issues it has chosen to make a stand on. There is risk for both sides in failing to come to a deal.

At this point, an agreement to fund the government and deal with DACA appears far away. Congressional leaders will have to get creative to satisfy the president and the base of the Democratic Party.
The Trump administration has issued notice that it intends to repeal the 2015 Obama administration rule governing hydraulic fracturing on federal lands. The rule was issued by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

The fracking rule never went into effect because the jurisdiction of BLM was challenged in court. Now that it's coming off the books, court challenges will almost certainly be dropped.

The Hill:

The BLM's notice does not take a position on whether the agency ever had legal authority to enforce the law. Republicans and the oil industry say that it did not, as did a federal judge in Wyoming who overturned the rule, only to be later overruled on appeal. The 2015 rule came after years of deliberations within the Obama administration over how to deal with fracking. The practice, in which fluids are forced underground at high pressure to recover oil and natural gas, has grown dramatically in recent years, leading to a massive domestic oil and gas boom. Environmentalists argue that fracking can be dangerous for groundwater, soil[,] and air. Federal research, including a major Environmental Protection Agency study, found that such contamination can happen, but is far from common. The Obama rule focused mainly on three areas: mandating that companies disclose the chemicals they use to frack, requiring them to cover surface ponds that house fracking fluids[,] and setting standards for the construction of the wells. The regulation never took effect. Wyoming federal [j]udge Scott Skavdahl put it on hold in 2015, before overturning it in 2016. The oil and gas industry applauded the repeal. "The rescinding of this burdensome rule, which was never enacted due to IPAA and Western Energy Alliance's ongoing legal challenge, will save our member companies and those operating on federal lands hundreds of millions of dollars in compliance costs without any corresponding safety benefits," Barry Russell, president of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, said in a statement. "It was clear from the start that the federal rule was redundant with state regulation and politically motivated, as the prior administration could not point to one incident or regulatory gap that justified the rule," said Kathleen Sgamma, president of the Western Energy Alliance.

Fracking has made the United States the number-one fossil fuel-producing nation in the world. That millions of acres of federal land will now be open to fracking companies will only cement our position.

The rule represented typical bureaucratic overreach. Environmentalists couldn't convince the EPA to limit fracking so they tried to use the BLM to advance their agenda. The BLM had no business sticking its nose into an environmental issue that was already being regulated under federal and state law. Now fracking on federal lands will be treated the same as drilling on private land.

This is great news for states like Wyoming and North Dakota that are already heavily involved in fracking. And fees paid by drilling companies will fill the coffers of the government. It's a win-win situation and another blow to the Obama-era regulatory regime.
Arsenal balls: the Sun spins Wengers words to annoy Liverpool fans

Forget circumspection. When opining about Alex Oxlade-Champberlain, the player Arsenal sold to Liverpool for the best part of 40m, Arsene Wenger was scathing. The Sun and Mirror heard Wenger accuse the former Arsenal player of laziness and made it their lead sport story.

The Sun thunders: OX LAZE  Arsene Wenger accuses Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain of sitting in a rocking chair and refusing to fight for Arsenal spot. Wenger gave Oxlade-Chamberlaie a verbal battering.

The Mirror says Wenger aimed a dig at Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The Sun quotes Wenger. Its much the same in the Mirror:

What do you want to be, a big player and not have to fight? You cant be a big player, sit in your rocking chair and say I do not want to fight. It doesnt work like that. Every player has to fight. In a big club you have big competition with some good players. That is absolutely normal I offered him a contract to stay but in the end he decided to go and we just had to try and get the best possible price.Sometimes it happens when one player who we dont want to go, goes. We respect his decision and I have no problem with that. Whats important is that the players make a good career, preferably in your club. If it doesnt happen, you still want them to have a good career. I personally think he will be an important player for England and will continue to develop.

What neither paper finds room to note is what Wenger also said. This in the Guardian:

What do you want? To be a big player and not have to fight? What do you want on top of that  sitting in your rocking chair and saying: Im a big player? I dont need to fight? No. It doesnt work like that. Every player can do that and Chamberlain does it. I am convinced its part of being a top player.

If thats a verbal battering, the mind boggles as to what praise looks like?

Mike Kritharis

Posted: 30th, December 2017 | In: Arsenal, Back pages, Liverpool, Sports, Tabloids Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
(ANSA) - Rome, December 29 - Italy's top animal rights group LAV on Friday urged Italian mayors to ban New Year fireworks because of the effect they have on animals.

LAV said this should be done so that "the New Year's celebrations do not become a tragedy for animals" as well as averting harm to humans.

Firework bans have helped the number of people injured on New Year's Eve drop from 361 in 2013 to 184 in 2017, it said.

Animals are so spooked by fireworks, especially the massive bangers favoured in Italy, that they risk "losing their bearings and being run over," LAV said.

If the bangers go off close by then they are often burned or sometimes killed, said LAV, the Italian Anti-Vivisection League.


The 'Baahubali' actor is getting ready for a month long schedule to happen in Abu Dhabi.

Mumbai: South star Prabhas has given a special treat to his fans on his birthday this year as the 'Baahubali' actor unveiled the first look poster of his much-awaited film 'Saaho'. Prabhas is all set to welcome New Year with a tiresome schedule of his upcoming film 'Saaho'.

The superstar is getting ready for a month long schedule to happen in Abu Dhabi. The Baahubali actor is going to perform death defying stunts and the makers had sought permission for shooting the stunts on Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Before the schedule commences, Prabhas is stationed in Los Angeles.

Prabhas will be starting the next shoot by January 5 for a month-long schedule. The team has so far shot for 40-45 days. We will start shooting for the major action sequence soon. We plan to release the film next year. But we will be able to finalise the exact date depending on the progress of the film, says Prabhas.

He is going through intense physical training with different techniques like jogging, cardiovascular training, weight training and plyometric obstacle races so that he can be flexible enough to master his moves.

His physical preparation involves jogging, cardiovascular training, weight training, and Plyometrics obstacle races, all of which will help him pick up the moves easily. He trained six to seven hours daily to master his moves, adds the source.

Prabhas is also working on his Hindi as the film is trilingual - Telugu, Tamil and Hindi.

Directed by Sujeeth Reddy, 'Saaho' also features Shraddha Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Chunky Pandey and Mandira Bedi.
The actor said the superstar will always be a son for him, and even shared a picture from their interaction.

Mumbai: Superstar Salman Khan paid a surprise visit to Dharmendra, and the veteran actor was deeply touched by the gesture.

Dharmendra, who has worked with Salman, 52, in 'Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya', took to Twitter to share a picture the duo clicked during the meeting.

"Deeply touched by your surprise visit to the farm today... You will always be a son to me Salman Khan," he captioned the picture.

Deeply touched by your surprise visit to the farm today... you will always be a son to me @BeingSalmanKhan pic.twitter.com/2DSEObQYSR  Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) December 29, 2017

The 82-year-old actor's son Bobby Deol, who will be starring alongside Salman in action thriller 'Race 3', also shared the picture on Instagram.
Anushka will return in January for the shooting of the next schedule of Aanand L. Rais untitled film.

Mumbai: Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma hosted their wedding reception in Mumbai on 26th December, but have you seen their hamper yet? Consisting of fit items, heres a picture of it:

Hamper at Virushka's Mumbai reception (Courtesy: Twitter)

The newly-married couple is now in South Africa, where they will ring in their New Year along with Virat playing his match.

They were spotted in Cape Town, where Virat is seen carrying all the luggages while Anushka walks behind him. Heres the video:

Love how like a caring hubby @imVkohli is holding both their trolleys & the rest of the bags after their long flight to SA  @AnushkaSharma #Virushka pic.twitter.com/jmOeHI0zo0   (@jugheadjasoos) December 28, 2017

Anushka will return in January as she has to start shooting for the next schedule of Aanand L. Rais untitled film with Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. She also has to prep for her next film Sui Dhaaga with Varun Dhawan and start with promotions for her upcoming production movie Pari.
Esha Gupta posted some bold pictures from her photo shoot, which didnt go down well with few trolls.

Fatima Sana Shaikh posted pictures of herself in a swimsuit where she was seen chilling on the beach in Maldives in a black halter swimsuit.

1. Priyanka Chopra, who is extremely sharp with her quotes and actions, was was slammed for meeting the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, wearing a dress. However she had a fair amount of people supporting her but some people choose to pull her down with their derogatory comments.

2. Fatima Sana Shaikh posted pictures of herself in a swimsuit where she was seen chilling on the beach in Maldives in a black halter swimsuit. Soon after that some people slut shamed her for dressing inappropriately during the holy month of Ramadan.

3. Esha Gupta posted some bold pictures from her photo shoot, which didnt go down well with few trolls. The trolls soon enough started trolling her on social media platform and also didnt spare her, from calling her sultry to non-Indian.
The five Congress MLAs who resigned on Friday had earlier rebelled against chief minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership.

Guwahati: In a major setback for the ruling Congress Party in the frontier state of Meghalaya, five of their MLAs resigned their membership of the state Assembly to join National Peoples Party (NPP) just a few months before the state goes to polls. Three other MLAs, including one from UDP and two independents, also resigned from the state legislature to join NPP.

The NPP, led by Conrad K. Sangma, son of former Lok Sabha Speaker P.A. Sangma, has two MLAs in Meghalaya at present. NPP is an alliance partner of the BJP in the Manipur government.

The five Congress MLAs who resigned on Friday had earlier rebelled against chief minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership. Four of the five MLAs were part of the state Cabinet and were sacked by the chief minister on grounds of incompetence.

The eight legislators who resigned their membership in the state Assembly included Siaw-bhalang Dhar (Nartiang), Comingone Ymbon (Rali-ang), Hopeful Bamon (Sutnga Saipung), Steph-anson Mukhim (Amla-rem), Prestone Tynsong (Pynursula), Remington Pyngrope (Mawkynriew), Rowell Lyngdoh (Mawky-rwat) and Ngaitlang Dhar (Umroi).

Veteran Congress leader and former deputy chief minister Rowell Lyngdoh, who is amongst the five MLAs who quit the Congress, announced that all the eight MLAs would join the NPP at a rally on January 4.

The setback follows speculation that the Congress, led by chief minister Mukul Sangma, was contemplating major changes in the selection of candidates for state elections.

Though the chief minister downplayed the desertion, claiming that it wouldnt affect the prospects of the Congress in the upcoming Assembly elections, sources in the party admitted that it is certainly going to dampen the mood of party workers.

With Fridays resignations, which come days after another MLA, P.N. Syiem, had quit the Congress, the number of party MLAs in the 60-member Meghalaya Assembly has come down to 24 from 30. However, there is no immediate threat to the Congress government as it has support of nine Independents, which takes its tally to 33.

The term of the current House expires on March 6. Elections in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura are due early next year.

Mr Conard K. Sangma, NPP chief and MP from Tura Lok Sabha constituency, exuded confidence about winning the forthcoming Assembly elections in Meghalaya.

Referring to how his party has succeeded in making its presence felt in Manipur elections by winning four seats and bagging the post of deputy chief minister with BJP, he said, We are confident of forming the government by winning maximum number of seats for the party from the Khasi and Jaintia hills region of the state. He, however, remained tight-lipped about legislators resigning from the Congress to join NPP.
Congress President Rahul Gandhi for the first time tweeted in Marathi expressing condolences.

A massive fire in Kamala Mills has proved to be a wake-up call for patrons who didnt bother much about safety regulations, but now aim to be more aware.

New Delhi: The Mumbai fire tragedy found a mention in both Houses of Parliament on Friday.

In Rajya Sabha, during Zero Hour, Congress MP from Maharashtra Rajani Patil raised the issue. She wanted to know if the Mumbai Corporation undertakes any security checks before granting licences to pubs, eateries, and restaurants, while Husain Dalwai demanded a full probe into the fire incident. He claimed that fire extinguishers in the pubs located in Kamla Mills compound, where the tragedy took place, were not working.

While in the Lok Sabha, BJP MP from Mumbai North East Kirit Somaiya also raised the issue. Claiming that the complex had been constructed by flouting norms, he went on to say that Mumbai witnessed many such tragedies this year. Joining him, Arvind Sawant, the South Mumbai MP, too raised the issue.

The incident has now taken a political turn with the Congress blaming the ruling BJP for not ensuring that fire safety norms in the premises were met.



The BJP is in power both in the Maharashtra government and the state government. The Maharashtra Congress has also demanded a CBI probe into the alleged corrupt practices and functioning of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Congress President Mr. Rahul Gandhi for the first time tweeted in Marathi expressing condolences. He tweeted I share the grief of the families of the victims. There should an immediate probe into the incident and the guilty should be punished sternly
For the amiable chief secretary Rajive Kumar, who returned from central deputation to take over the top job, the title was - Aaap aaye bahaar aayi.

Though the titles relied almost completely on Bollywood songs, they effectively managed to convey the message about the latest development related to a bureaucrat's posting and responsibility.

Lucknow: Tangy titles served with mouth-watering kebabs and delicious desserts, set aside hostilities and tensions in the bureaucracy as the annual service dinner earlier this month renewed the camaraderie in the cadre.

The political differences, one-upmanship and bitterness melted away as the officers opened the menu card in which, besides the dishes, "fun titles" bestowed on senior officials were also printed to spice up the dinner on December 15 that was a part of the IAS week activities.

Though the titles relied almost completely on Bollywood songs, they effectively managed to convey the message about the latest development related to a bureaucrat's posting and responsibility.

For the amiable chief secretary Rajive Kumar, who returned from central deputation to take over the top job, the title said it all - Aaap aaye bahaar aayi.

Additional chief secretary R.K. Tiwari and Commissioner commercial tax Mukesh Meshram were jointly given the title -Gabbar Singh Tax - since the two were responsible for implementing GST in the state.

Three senior IAS officers, R.P. Singh, Anup Chandra Pandey and Sanjay Agarwal, got the title Hum bhi khade hain raahon mein, an obvious reference to the fact that they are strong claimants for the chief secretary's post after the present incumbent retires.

Raat baki, baat baki, file, meeting ho jaane do was the title given to S.P. Goyal , principal secretary to chief minister, while Rigzian Sampheal, the officer who was secretary in Akhilesh Yadav's secretariat and has continued in the same post in the present regime, was given the title Badal jaye agar mali, chaman hota nahin khali.

The ever busy Awanish Awasthi, principal secretary information and tourism, got Subho sham kaam hi kaam, kyon nahin lete piya pray ka naam.

Pilibhit district magistrate Sheetal Varma who was recently seen wearing a saffron sari during chief minister Yogi Adityanath's visit to the district, was aptly given the title Rang de tu mohe gerua.

Five senior officers who returned from central deputation - Sanjay Bhoosreddy, Prashant Trivedi, Alok Kumar, Alok Tandon and Manoj Kumar Singh - were welcomed with Tum aa gaye ho noor aa gaya hai, Nahin to chiragon se lau jaa rahi thi. Three officers who have come to UP from other state cadres - Himanshu Kumar, Kalpana Awasthi and T. Venkatesh - were conferred the title Mein to chhod aayi babul ka desh, piya ka ghar pyara lage.

Meanwhile, much to the delight of the bureaucrats, the dinner included non-vegetarian fare. The official dinner and lunch hosted by the governor and chief minister a day earlier had only vegetarian dishes which had disappointed several officers.
Palestinian envoy to India said, 'The Palestine government has told Walid Abu Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan.'

Palestinian ambassador to Pakistan Waleed Abu Ali reportedly attended a rally organized by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council, headed by Hafiz Saeed in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday. (Photo: AFP)

New Delhi: Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan Walid Abu Ali has been recalled for attending a rally organised by JuD chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Palestinian envoy to India Adnan Abu Al Haija said on Saturday.

Asserting that Ali's action was not "acceptable" given the close and friendly ties between India and Palestine, the top envoy said that Ali has been given couple of days to pack and return from Islamabad.

"The Palestine government has told Ali that he was not anymore its envoy to Pakistan," Haija said.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday said Palestine has conveyed "deep regrets" after India strongly expressed its resentment over the presence of its ambassador to Pakistan at an event of JuD chief and 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, Hafiz Saeed.

The Palestinian side had also assured India that they would take serious cognisance of their ambassador's presence at the event.

It also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with the country in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India.

Walid Abu Ali reportedly attended the rally organised by the Difah-e-Pakistan Council in Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Friday following which India issued a strong demarche on the matter.

Difah-e-Pakistan Council is an association of religious and extremist groups in Pakistan headed by Hafiz Saeed.
The Certificate will be issued once required and agreed modifications are made.

The special panel of the CBFC examining committee consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of Jaipur University. (Photo: File)

Mumbai: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to give the UA certificate along with some modifications and likely change the title to 'Padmavat'.

The CBFC examining committee met on December 28 to review 'Padmavati'.

The Certificate will be issued once required and agreed modifications are made.

The film was approached with balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and society. Considering complexities and concerns around the film the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC to add perspective to the final decision, said CBFC.

The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of Jaipur University.

Panel member had insights and also some reservations regarding claimed historical events and socio-cultural aspects which were duly discussed at length, said CBFC.

'Padmavati', the 190-crore film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has drawn angry protests in Rajasthan where fringe groups like the Karni Sena said the movie "distorts history".

Even before the release of the film, leaders of the Karni Sena and several politicians said the 13th-century queen, Padmini, has been disrespected by Bhansali.

They said the film portrayed romantic involvement with Muslim invader Alauddin Khilji.

The film was scheduled to be released on December 1.

Padmini, according to legend, was a Rajput warrior queen from Chittor in Rajasthan who set herself on fire to save her honour after Khilji defeated her husband in battle.

The Karni Sena has threatened Bhansali and the protagonist Deepika Padukone repeatedly.

The Supreme Court has so far refused to ban the film.

The Karni Sena assaulted Bhansali and vandalised his set while he was shooting for the film in Jaipur in January this year; large groups of Rajputs including the ones in Chittor have held demonstrations against the film.
On Sept 10, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad released 1st list of 14 self-styled godmen in the wake of controversies surrounding them.

The second list released consists of three names- Virendra Dixit Kalnemi (Delhi), Sachidanand Saraswati (Basti, UP) and Trikal Bhawant (Allahabad). (Photo: Manish Swarup | AP | Representational)

New Delhi: The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, the top body of Hindu sadhus, on Friday released a second list of "fake babas".

The list consists of three names- Virendra Dixit Kalnemi (Delhi), Sachidanand Saraswati (Basti, UP) and Trikal Bhawant (Allahabad).

Releasing the list, the parishad's president Swami Narendra Giri said, "We even appeal to the common people to beware of such charlatans who belong to no tradition and by their questionable acts, bring disrepute to sadhus and sanyasis."

The parishad is a council of akharas, which are monastic orders drawing their spiritual lineage from 8th-century seer Adi Shankara, who is said to have established orders of martial monks with the aim of defending the Hindu Dharma.

On September 10, it released the first list of 14 such self-styled godmen which included names such as Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, Radhey Ma, Nirmal Baba, Rampal, Asaram Bapu and his son Narayan Sai.

The parishad took the move in the wake of controversies surrounding self-styled godmen.

"We have passed a resolution that the Uttar Pradesh government should set up a monitoring committee which would keep a close eye on the work being done for Kumbh Mela, 2019 and this committee should consist of a member from each akhara," Giri said.
The ruling BJD alleges EC delaying Bijepur bypoll in Odisha under pressure from the Centre.

The ECI had on Thursday announced dates for bypoll to three Lok Sabha and two Assembly constituencies in Rajasthan and West Bengal.

BHUBANESWAR: An intense war of words has started between the ruling BJD and Opposition parties in Odisha as there was no mention of the Bijepur bypoll in the dates announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday.

The ECI had on Thursday announced dates for bypoll to three Lok Sabha and two Assembly constituencies in Rajasthan and West Bengal.

While the BJD criticised the BJP government, alleging that the EC is delaying the Bijepur bypoll due to pressure from the Centre, the BJP termed the allegations as baseless.

The continuous delay in byelection to Bijepur constituency has raised many eyebrows. The BJP is putting pressure on the EC to delay the bypoll as it is not yet prepared and knows that they will have to bite the dust in the bypoll, said BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra.

Fearing defeat in Bijepur, the BJP is trying its best to delay the bypoll, alleged Mr Patra.

However, the BJP said that the party has nothing to do with the delay.

The Election Commission will decide the dates for the bypoll at right time, we are not the authority to decide on it, said BJP general secretary Prithviraj Harichandan.

Taking a jibe at the BJD over claims that the party is ready for the bypoll, Mr Harichandan said holding back elections to Bijepur will help those who are not ready.

The BJD leaders have been claiming that they are all prepared for the byelection. In such case, the party should not be worried about the delay, he added.

The Congress lashed out at both the BJD and the BJP over the incessant delay in the Bijepur bypoll.
While a person may have required skills, knowledge, capability and experience for job, many times they fail to sell these to recruiter.

Despite any amount of rehearsals, one cannot anticipate what actually would happen inside an interview chamber.

We have all been there -- the nervousness, the dreaded anticipation, each second that passes feels like a million hours. Here we thought that the days of dread in school examinations were over, and behold, interviews for jobs sneak in.

Most times people leave interviews with more questions in their minds than those they answered.

They might think of whether they dressed properly or did they answer all questions. Despite any amount of rehearsals, one cannot anticipate what actually would happen within the hallowed halls of an interview chamber.

And while a person may have everything they need to succeed  skills, knowledge, capability and experience  on many occasions they fail to sell these to the recruiter/ hiring manager.

Here are a few tips to help interview candidates succeed:

Avoiding eye contact: A lot of time one blunder that interview candidates make is in avoiding eye contact. Avoiding eye contact is perceived to indicate lack of confidence and honesty in a candidate. This is why more than 70 per cent employees reject a candidate. Candidates should actually practice and make conscious effort to maintain eye contact during an interview.

Maligning previous job/ job role: A lot of times candidates end up leaving negative remarks about their previous organisations. It is important not to make negative remarks about past managers and companies. Even if the concerned individuals or companies have a bad reputation, maintaining a neutral stance is better. Speak diplomatically about former employers. Criticising past managers or colleagues not only makes you look bad, but also creates a negative impression of you in the hiring managers mind.

Not asking any questions: Asking no questions about the job description or job roles could be looked at as lack of interest in the available opportunity. It is always recommended to read through the job profile carefully and be ready with questions related to various aspects of the job.

Making-up stories and giving dicey replies: Job-seekers should avoid framing stories while answering questions about their personal and professional life. Most hiring managers actually look for integrity and honesty when assessing candidates.

Not being attentive: Good listening skills are an integral part of good communication. Not listening attentively in an interview is a mistake that often impacts performance. Job-seekers should listen more during an interview. This will not only help in answering questions better but also help in getting a better understanding of role and organisation.
Babulal, an assistant sub-inspector was near a desolate spot near Najafgarh drain, when a car stopped in front of him and robbed him.

In police complaint, Babulal has alleged that two cars were following his motorcycle while he was returning home. (Photo: Representational | PTI)

New Delhi: A traffic police personnel was robbed off his service weapon by a group of men while he was returning from duty in southwest Delhi's Uttam Nagar, police said on Friday.

Babulal, an assistant sub-inspector, was going home in Vikas Nagar in his motorcycle on Friday. When he was near a desolate spot near Najafgarh drain, a car stopped in front of him, they said.

A few men alighted from the car, snatched money and valuables from Babulal and also took his pistol, police said, adding that he was in civvies when the incident took place.

In his complaint, he has alleged that two cars were following his motorcycle while he was returning home.

On the basis of the description given by him of the accused, the police are trying to identify them. Babulal is posted in the Burari traffic circle.
Heroic duo went back to fetch elderly aunt but none of them made it back unfortunately.

Fire fighters rush to douse the flames that engulfed three rooftop pubs inside the Kamala Mills Compound at Lower Parel early on Friday.

Mumbai: Dinner at the plush 1 Above pub proved fatal for Pramila Kenia (68) and her nephews, Dhairya Lalani (26) and Vishwa Lalani (23), who succumbed to asphyxiation after having taken refuge in its washroom after a fire broke out early on Friday at the Kamala Mills compound in Lower Parel.

The Lalani brothers helped rescue many survivors from the pub, but unfortunately could not save themselves and their aunt.

The brothers had flown down from Michigan, USA two weeks ago to attend weddings and ring in the New Year with their family. According to relatives, the brothers ran back to the washroom after realising that Kenia was trapped inside, but failed to make it back alive.

Dhairya had quit his job, and Vishwa had come to India on a holiday. The trio was sitting at a table near the exit door; and when the fire broke out, Kenia was in the washroom. A relative told this paper, The brothers had rushed down from the staircase, but soon realised that their aunt was nowhere to be seen. The duo then went back up, and never made it back. The brothers father, Jayant Lalani was extremely dispirited after this incident.

Among the 14 deceased victims of the fire was Sarbjit Parida, a senior employee at Mojos Bistro pub. An Odisha native, he had come to the city in search of work, according to his acquaintances. His uncle Raju Parida said the family was made aware of his death by a news broadcast on television.

We came here to take the death body for the last rites, he told The Asian Age.

Another victim, Yasha Thakkar (22), a student from Ahmedabad, had come to visit her cousin in the city three days ago ahead of New Year.

The girl, who was visiting the city for the first time, asphyxiated from the smoke that emanated 1 Above pub early on Friday. She had taken refuge in a washroom with two of her cousins. Her cousins survived the fire and escaped with minor injuries.
The report that was released on December 27 relied on air pollution data from the Central Pollution Control Board and Environment Ministry.

Mumbai: Thane and Navi Mumbai are among the four cities of Maharashtra that figure in the top-10 hot-spot list for Nitrogen Oxide (NO2) gas pollution, according to a recent report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India, which was released in Delhi on Wednesday. The other cities in the list are Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.

Nitrogen Oxides (NO2) gases are usually produced by combustion of fuels in air at high temperatures, such as in car engines. These gases contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain. Among the four cities, Thane saw an alarmingly high increase of 386% in the annual average NO2 between 2007 and 2016. Its 2016 annual average level is 68 microgram per cubic meter (mg/cbm), which is 1.7 times more than the standard and therefore critical.

While the nitrogen oxide level exceeded annual average standards in 17 per cent of the cities in 2007 in India, it has increased to 29 per cent in 2016. In 2007, not a single Indian city had critical NOx levels, but in 2016, 12 per cent of cities are in the critical category, said the report. NOx pollution emerges from vehicular and industrial pollution. Nitrogen oxide is very toxic and also contributes to formation of very harmful ozone.

The report that was released on December 27 relied on air pollution data from the Central Pollution Control Board and Environment Ministry. For Navi Mumbai, the annual average NO2 levels have increased by 23% between 2010 and 2016, with the levels at 48 mg/cbm last year. The 2016 annual average NO2 levels for Pune were 85 mg/cbm in 2016, double of the prescribed limit of 40 mg/cbm. In good news for Mumbai, the levels show a decline of 37% since 2007.

Although the 2015 NOx emission norms issued by the Environment Ministry has not met this years December deadline, Maharashtra needs to be proactive in regulating it. NOx also needs to be addressed critically, said Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director- Research, CSE.

Navi Mumbai has seen a significant increase in fuel conversions, with several units switching to natural gas. A provision has been made so that power plants, will come with low NOx burners, said Mr P. K. Mirashe, Assistant Secretary (Technical), MPCB.
Nashik showed the highest rise in PM10 concentration trend with 260% rise since 2007.

Mumbai: Although the concentration of PM10 was recorded as stable in Mumbai over the years, experts have asserted that its trend is high in the city. In Mumbai the annual average PM10 in 2016 was 130 microgram per cubic meter (mg/cbm), which is about 2 times higher than the standard (prescribed ambient air limit) of 60 mg/cbm. Same period, Navi Mumbai recorded 151 microgram per cubic meter which is about 3 times higher than the standard.

PM10 is particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter. Exposure to such particles can lead to decreased lung function and increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing or difficulty breathing.

The last three years annual average PM10 concentration of Mumbai was recorded 111, which is 1.8 times higher than the safe limit. Cities that cross the annual PM10 level more than 1.5 times are considered to be critically polluted.

As such, Mumbai needs to reduce pollution by 85% in terms of PM10 pollutant to meet up with the annual standard limit, said Anumita Roychowdhary, Executive Director- Research, CSE. The same holds true for Navi Mumbai and Thane with 137% and 132% reduction respectively.

The Indias Health of Nations State Report, 2017 done by Indian Council of Medical Research and Public Health Foundation of India has stated that air pollution ranked 4th in the risk factors that drive deaths and disabilities in 2016.

Take-away from the CSE report
Modi has publicly praised Swaraj for giving a human face to her ministry and for her strong speech at the UN General Assembly.

Ever since the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj cared to maintain a low profile. She kept away from the media and never spoke publicly on any issue unless she had no choice in the matter. This was put down to the fact that Ms Swaraj was close to veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani and that she was not very comfortable with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There was also a perception that she had a limited role in her own ministry, which was actually being run by the Prime Ministers Office. Ms Swaraj was, at best, the go to minister for any Indian in distress who needed help from the external affairs ministry. However, a lot has changed in the last few months. Mr Modi has publicly praised Ms Swaraj for giving a human face to her ministry and for her strong speech at the UN General Assembly. Consequently, Ms Swaraj is more relaxed and approachable now. The minister was at her charming best at the annual lunch she hosted recently for mediapersons. Not only did she make it a point to chat with her guests at each table, she also assured them that she will meet them more regularly in the coming days. To begin with, Ms Swaraj spent an hour in the Central Hall of Parliament last week, the first time in the last three years.

Given the differences in their political affiliation, personalities and ages, it is difficult to imagine that junior parliamentary affairs minister Vijay Goel and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh could possibly have anything in common. But apparently the two have a very good equation, which dates back to the time when Mr Goel was a minister of state in the Atal Behari Vajpayee-headed Prime Ministers Office. As Prime Minister, Dr Singh had surprised everyone when he attended the wedding reception of Mr Goels daughter even though relations between the Congress and the BJP were not known to be cordial. Mr Goel, therefore, took advantage of this personal relationship and went to Dr Singhs residence to persuade him to break the logjam in the Rajya Sabha over the remarks made against the former Prime Minister by his successor Narendra Modi in his election speech in Gujarat. Mr Goel told Dr Singh that he should not allow the stalemate to continue, especially since he had always kept himself away from controversies. It was Mr Goel who went to obtain Dr Singhs approval to the draft of the statement, which eventually broke the ice between the two parties and allowed the Upper House to resume normal business last Wednesday.

With all its senior leaders like Shaktisinh Gohil, Tushar Chaudhary, Siddharth Patel and Arjun Modhwadia losing in the recent Gujarat Assembly polls, the Congress has to find a new leader to head its legislative party in the Assembly. Since the BJP has given wide representation to the disgruntled Patidar community in its council of ministers, the Congress is under pressure to name a Patel for this post. As the Patidar community has never supported the Congress, the party is worried about an adverse reaction from other communities, which have reposed faith in it. At the same time, the Congress also has to contend with demands from other contenders. The newly-inducted first-time MLA Alpesh Thakor is said to be pressing the leadership for his own candidature as a reward for his tireless campaign among the backward classes. Unable to hand over the reins of its legislative party to a newcomer to politics, the Congress is secretly relieved that another young leader  Jignesh Mewani  did not join the party or else it would have had to deal with his demands. For the moment the 41-year-old Paresh Dhanani has emerged as the front-runner for this position. Not only is he young and feisty, he also belongs to the Patidar community and a three-time MLA, having defeated the BJP in the Amreli district of Saurashtra, one region where the Congress made maximum gains in the recent elections.

The BJPs list of candidates for governors is growing with the tally of hopefuls going up further with the inclusion of Prem Kumar Dhumal and Anandiben Patel, former chief ministers of Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat. Of the two, Ms Patel is on a stronger wicket. Faced with angry protests from the Patidars over the past year, the BJP is now going all out to placate them. Among other things, the Patidars were upset that the BJP first removed Ms Patel from her post last year and then chose not to replace her with another Patel. As far as they were concerned deputy chief minister Nitin Patel was a more suitable chief ministerial candidate than Vijay Rupani. While Ms Patel did not contest the recent polls, Mr Dhumal was plain unlucky. Though he was declared the BJPs chief ministerial face, he failed to make it past the finishing line even though his party swept the hill state and went on to form the government. Mr Dhumal is now seen as a legitimate claimant for a gubernatorial posting.
From 2013 to 2014, Sea Star Wasting Syndrome hit sea stars from British Columbia to Mexico.

The file photo, shows a starfish clings to a rock near Haystack Rock during low tide in Cannon Beach, Ore. Starfish are making a comeback on the West Coast, four years after a mysterious syndrome killed millions of them. From 2013 to 2014, Sea Star Wasting Syndrome hit sea stars from British Columbia to Mexico. Now the species is rebounding with sea stars being spotted in Southern California tide pools and elsewhere, the Orange County Register reported. (Photo: AP)

Starfish are making a comeback on the West Coast, four years after a mysterious syndrome killed millions of them.

From 2013 to 2014, Sea Star Wasting Syndrome hit sea stars from British Columbia to Mexico. The starfish would develop lesions and then disintegrate, their arms turning into blobs of goo. The cause is unclear but researchers say it may be a virus. But now, the species is rebounding. Sea stars are being spotted in Southern California tide pools and elsewhere, the Orange County Register reported on December 26.

They are coming back, big time, Darryl Deleske, aquarist for the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in Los Angeles, told the newspaper.

Its a huge difference, Deleske said. A couple of years ago, you wouldnt find any. I dove all the way as far as Canada, specifically looking for sea stars, and found not a single one.

Similar die-offs of starfish on the West Coast were reported in the 1970s, 80s and 90s, but the latest outbreak was far larger and more widespread, according to a report by researchers at the University of Santa Cruz. Beginning with ochre stars off Washington state, the disease spread, killing off mottled stars, leather stars, sunflower stars, rainbows and six-armed stars. It hit Southern California by December 2013.

When it did (arrive), you just started to see them melt everywhere, said Deleske. Youd see an arm here, an arm there.

The recovery has been promising. Four adult sea stars, each about 7 to 8 inches long, were spotted this month at Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach.

Its a treasure we always hope to find, said Kaitlin Magliano, education coordinator at the Crystal Cove Conservancy.

We lost all of them, she said. Its good to see we have some surviving and thriving. Maybe the next generation will be more resilient.

The stars arent out of danger yet. The wasting syndrome never completely disappeared in Northern and Central California and it has reappeared in the Salish Sea region of Washington state, according to a November report by the University of Santa Cruz.
More than half a million dollars in personal property went missing in Billings during 2017 in the form of 118 stolen cars that were never recovered.

Montana outpaces the nation in auto thefts, and while a special police unit dedicated to property crimes will soon be launched in the Billings Police Department, investigators acknowledge there are limits to what they can do when a car is reported stolen.

The unrecovered stolen cars in Billings this year were worth a total of $646,233, an average of about $5,476 per car. The value of a stolen car is stated by the car's owner, not police.

Car thefts have plummeted nationwide since the 1990s, according to the FBIs Uniform Crime Reporting Program. In 1993, for instance, there were 606 vehicle thefts per 100,000 people in the U.S. That number dropped to 222 by 2016. (In Montana last year, it was 263.)

But in Billings, car thefts have been on the rise, from 616 in 2014, to 792 in 2015, to 820 in 2016. And, this year is outpacing last, with 795 cars reported stolen through Nov. 30. That means that in Billings this year, a car was stolen roughly every 10 hours.

Yellowstone County is also seeing a general increase in car thefts, from 67 in 2014, to 93 in 2015, to 83 in 2016, to 93 so far in 2017.

And while most of stolen cars are eventually recovered  85 percent of the cars stolen in Billings in 2017 and 78 percent of those in the county  it can still get expensive for victims.

Van gone in 10 minutes

Ivy Moore had her van for one week when it was stolen, crashed and totaled.

The van was taken by two men who had earlier escaped a Butte pre-release center, stealing a pickup in Big Timber and driving it to Billings where they ditched it for Moores van.

Moore doesnt know how they got in. She thought shed locked it, but she isnt certain.

Moore learned her van was stolen as she was getting her son ready for errands. Shed been in her front yard, had gone inside for about 10 minutes, and returned to find the van gone. While she was giving her statement to police, the officer got a call saying the van had been in a wreck.

Moores boyfriend had bought the van for her for $1,000 so shed have a way to get groceries and take their infant son to the doctor.

The towing company wanted $400 for returning the crashed van, after police requested it be towed from the crash site.

Moore is a stay-at-home mother and student at the Lincoln Center studying medical billing and coding. She couldnt afford the bill, and asked the tow company employee to set up a payment plan.

And he said, Absolutely not, Moore recounted. 'You either pay me now or I take it and send you to collections.

Moore also had to buy a new car seat, since the first was involved in a wreck and could be unsafe.

West, the man charged with stealing the van, was ordered to pay $4,613.98 in restitution to Moore.

But I mean, well probably never see a dime of that, Moore said.

Same car stolen twice

One September night, a month and a half after Katie Reinke moved back to Billings from Wyoming, her car was stolen from her driveway. The next morning she called police and an officer took a statement. The car turned up hours later, a block away, damaged but drivable.

A side mirror was shattered and dangling by a few cables, and two panels had been kicked in. She wasnt sure if her insurance company would total it.

That was a Tuesday. On Sunday, the car was stolen again.

Reinkes car, a 2013 Toyota Corolla, had the valet key in it the first time it was taken. Shed just gotten back from the grocery store, her hands were full and it slipped her mind  she forgot to lock the car.

The second time the car was locked, but it didnt matter. Reinke said her car showed no signs of the lock being picked or the car being hot-wired. Instead, she thinks someone made a copy of the valet key after it was first stolen.

Reinke had made steady payments on the car since buying it three years ago. Shed kept up with insurance payments and maintenance. It was in good condition.

The cars Kelly Blue Book value was $7,000, but it sustained about $6,000 in damage, American Auto Body estimated. In addition to the body damage, the inside of the car had a strange, sweet, alcoholic odor, mixed with stale cigarette smoke that Reinke has had trouble getting rid of.

It smells like a frat party, Reinke said. It stinks.

Whoever took the car the first time kept Reinkes husbands tools, worth about $800. Reinke is also out $500 for her insurance deductible, and she missed a few hours of work to make the police report.

She wishes more could be done about car thefts, but said she isnt holding her breath, saying crimes like domestic violence, child abuse and drugs need to be dealt with first.

On the grander scale of things going on in this town, I think the cops are probably like, Well, that little fish is not worth frying, I guess, Reinke said. Theyve got bigger, really scary things to deal with."

When a car is stolen

Whenever a car is reported stolen, an officer records the Vehicle Identification Number, license plate, make and model of the car. The officer enters the information into the National Crime Information Center, a national database for law enforcement, and into the Billings Police Departments own database. The cars are listed for a week or two in the daily briefing that officers receive at the beginning of their shift.

If the owner believes they know who took the car, or if surveillance of the theft exists, officers try to track down the suspect, sharing photos with probation and parole officers as well as jail staff to see if anyone recognizes the person.

But without a suspect, police say all they can do is wait for the car to turn up on its own. That might be during a traffic stop or as a reported suspicious vehicle or a wreck.

Other times, cars stolen in Billings are dumped in the county, or vise versa, said Sheriff Mike Linder. That's often after thieves strip the car of its parts, leaving the owner with extra costs.

"And then you have an owner with a wrecker bill, on top of a possible storage bill," Linder said.

If the owner gets lucky, an officer might simply recognize a car from the briefing list and run the plates.

Even when were going to other calls, were still keeping an eye out for those stolen vehicles that are on briefing, said Billings Police Lt. Neil Lawrence.

Lawrence said the chances a person will get their stolen car back are better if they report the theft early, although stolen cars will always rank below violent crimes for police priority.

But again, were a very busy city, Lawrence said. We cant focus all of our efforts onto one stolen vehicle.

Property crime unit

The police department does hope to see the growing number of car thefts level off, starting in 2018, with the re-establishment of a new property crime unit.

After an almost two-decade hiatus, the BPD will re-launch its property crimes unit in mid-January in an effort to crack down on vandalism, burglaries, vehicle break-ins and thefts. The group will have three patrol officers, a detective and a detectives sergeant.

The unit disbanded in 1998 due to a staffing shortage. Thered been talk of reconvening the unit since, and with the BPD now fully staffed, it can.

But the department admits there are limits to what police can do about car thefts, with the sheer quantity of cases and a lack of suspect information standing as the biggest challenges.

Lawrence said the department would know more about the new unit's impact after it had a few months of data to review.
Back in 1998, Stanford students Sergey Brin and Larry Page envisioned a new way to search information on the web.

The restructuring enabled them to put those risky ventures under a new umbrella company Alphabet.

We all board the ship called Google to explore the vast and often dark Internet. But, the most popular Internet company in the world had humble beginnings. Back in 1998, Stanford students Sergey Brin and Larry Page envisioned a new way to search information on the web. At that time, most Internet engines ranked the results based on how many times the search term appeared on the webpage. On the other hand, Google relied on factors such as website relevance and backlinks to assign a value to each domain.

The website was initially set to be named Googol, which denotes ten raised to the power of a hundred. It was chosen to signify the number of results or information offered by the search engine. In no time, it started gaining a lead on Yahoo and the rest is history. By 2015, it grew so much that it had to undergo restructuring. The founders claim that the restricting helped the company streamline its processes. They claim that the company had too many moonshot projects. The restructuring enabled them to put those risky ventures under a new umbrella company Alphabet. In effect, Google could then focus on its core businesses.

It had other benefits too. Google subsidiaries can now compete with startups to attract talent by offering shares in some of its smaller companies. The restructuring may also help Google distance its name from some wacky ideas executed by its experimental off-shoots. If anything goes wrong, Alphabet can shut down a division without causing any bad PR for Google. Now lets have a look at Alphabet's company structure.

Parent

Alphabet

Subsidiaries

Google, Fiber, Calico, Next, Life Sciences, Ventures, Capital, X lab.

Google retains Ads, Search, YouTube, Apps, Android, and Maps under its umbrella.

Calico

Calico focuses on solving healthcare problems. It is known for its research on ageing and associated diseases. Under the leadership of Founder & CEO, Arthur Levinson, the company aims to enable people to lead longer and healthier lives.

Fiber

It is an experiment to help make faster Internet more accessible. Collaborating with the US government, Fiber has so far provided 1,000 Mbps connections at thousands of public houses in Kansas, Austin, Charlotte, Salt Lake City, Nashville, California, and San Antonio. The company currently lacks a CEO after Gregory McCray resigned this year.

Life Sciences

Dubbed as Verily Life Sciences, the organization develops tools to collect and organize health data. It is also testing smart lens for glucose sensing and accommodative vision correction. Its other test case includes Liftware stabilising handles meant to help people with hand tremor, mostly related to cerebral palsy or spinal cord injury.

Waymo

Waymo is Alphabet's autonomous car programme. Started in 2009, the company completed the worlds first fully self-driving trip on public roads in a car without a steering wheel, pedals, and driver. The company working to change the future transport is headed by CEO John Krafcik.

Nest

Nest's claim to fame was 'smart' Wi-Fi connected thermostats. The company was founded by former Apple engineer Tony Fadell. Alphabet acquired Nest in 2014 for $3.2 billion. Under Alphabet, Nest expanded to Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Mexico. It added cameras, doorbells, and alarm system to its product portfolio. Nest products are now compatible with Google voice assistant.

X lab

This is Alphabet's lab where all the wacky projects come to life. Before coming to fruition, Life Sciences and Waymo projects were fostered here. Other upcoming projects include Wing, which focuses on the development of drones for delivery. And project Loon, which uses weather balloons rigged with powerful wireless routers above stratosphere to provide Internet. Recently, when the Hurricane hit Puerto Rico in November, Alphabet provided Internet to around 100,000 people.

Google

Google is Alphabet's biggest and most important subsidiary. In fact, it was Google that had created its parent company. It is currently headed by CEO Sundar Pichai.

Search

Google's flagship product, its search engine continues to dominate the market. According to the latest numbers from StatsCounter.com, Google search has a global market share of over 90 per cent with all platforms taken into consideration. Currently, Google is the most visited website in the world.

AMP

The AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) project showed strong growth in 2017. It was Google's open web standard initiative to offer faster and lighter version of websites to save time and data. By May 2017, over 900,000 web domains were publishing AMP pages.

Android

Smartphones are the hottest consumer product category. And as per the Q1, 2017 stats, Android dominates this segment with a market share of over 86 percent. Apple's iOS comes a distant second with 13.7 percent. The operating system also holds a commanding position in smart TV, smartwatch, and tablet market. Google had acquired this open operating system platform in 2005. Come 2017, and Android is the most used OS with over 2 billion monthly users.

Chrome

Chrome browser has also left the competition far behind. As per NetMarketShare.com, by November 2017, Chrome controls over 60 percent of the browser market. Internet Explorer is down to mere 12 per cent.

YouTube

Founded by former PayPal employees, YouTube launched in February 2005. Seeing the rise of this user-generated video sharing site, Google acquired it in 2006. Under Alphabet, it is now headed by Susan Wojcicki. YouTube is the second most visited website after Google. With the recent rise in the popularity of Instagram and Snapchat, last week YouTube launched stories feature called Reels.

AdWords and AdSense

Ads remain Google's cash cow. Google has plenty of consumer and business products. Yet, till now, over 70 percent of its revenue comes from ads.

Maps

Google Maps need no introduction. It started off as a computer program at a mapping start-up in Australia. The company was acquired by Google in 2004. Later, the search-giant turned into a cross-platform service available on smartphones, tablets, TVs, smartwatches, and desktop computers. As of 2017, it has over a billion monthly users. This year, the company improved features such as traffic data, local places, and recommendations. In addition to Earth, Google has also mapped other celestial bodies such as Moon, Mars, Mercury, and Venus.

Google's hardware division

Google has a wide range of consumer products. It includes media streaming device Chromecast, Pixel phones, Google Home, Daydream View Virtual Reality headset, Chromebooks, and Google Wifi (smart Wi-Fi router). Devices launched this year:

Phones: Google Pixel 2 in collaboration with HTC; Pixel 2 XL with hardware expertise from LG.

Laptops: PixelBook. Company's premium laptop that runs Chrome OS.

AI Assistant Speaker: Google Home Mini and Google Home Max.

Camera: Google Clips AI-powered tiny camera that syncs with your phone.

Earphones: Pixel Buds Bluetooth earphones.

Virtual Reality Headset: Daydream View.

(source)
The phones are slated to become grander, lighter and smarter in 2018 with features that they would seem straight out of a sci-fi flick.

If 2017 was about dual cameras and longer battery life, the year 2018 is expected to churn out smartphones with larger screens packed with features like facial recognition and augmented/virtual reality. Put simply, the phones are slated to become grander, lighter and smarter in 2018 with features so advanced that they would seem straight out of a sci-fi flick. And 2017 has already set the tone for such new age innovations.

The handset in 2017 was less about calling, more an extension of the owners' personality  a high-resolution camera, an on-demand movie screen, a portable music system, apps for just about anything  and all these tech wonders in one device that fit snugly into the palm of your hand.

Handset makers kept the momentum high through the year, refreshing their portfolio with new models across multiple price points. Companies like Samsung, Micromax and Vivo introduced devices with 18:9 aspect ratio display that promises a better viewing experience to users.

The devices became an instant hit with Indian users, who, incidentally, are now the biggest consumers of mobile data. Facial recognition and artificial intelligence  through virtual assistants  are slated to reach more hands as Chinese and domestic players bring such features onto more affordable devices.

These AI-based features are also making their way into wearables like fitness trackers and smartwatches that help people improve their health and lifestyles. Interestingly, Chinese players  Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo and Lenovo  continued to dominate the Indian market, taking up 4 spots in the top 5 tally (in terms of shipment).

While Samsung held onto the pole position in the market for the most part of the year, Xiaomi emerged as a strong challenger and at the end of September quarter, both companies ended up in a photo finish, sharing the top honours.

"It will be interesting to see the two compete. Xiaomi's challenge is the offline market where Samsung has a stronghold. Samsung will have to ramp up its online presence and Xiaomi is a leader there," an industry executive said. That said, the going was not easy for the Chinese players.

In August, in a move that coincided with the stand-off between India and China over Dokalam, New Delhi asked smartphone makers  majority Chinese  to report procedures adopted by them to ensure security and privacy of users' data.

The year also saw US-based Apple commencing manufacturing of iPhone SE in India in partnership with Wistron, underlining the importance of the domestic smartphone market that is among the largest in the world and growing at a scorching pace.

Whether or not Apple manufactures more premium devices here remains to be seen, but the Cupertino-based tech giant has been engaged in talks with the government over incentives like duty exemption on manufacturing and repair units.

As per research firm Counterpoint, about 134 million smartphones are expected to be sold in the country this year, with the number growing to 155 million next year. While the growth of smartphones has been phenomenal, it has not dampened the sale of feature phones significantly. Of the 298 million phones expected to be sold in 2018, 143 million are likely to be feature phones.

"There is still a large segment of people that have not either experienced a smartphone or are more comfortable with feature phone's form factor. The transition to smartphones has been slower than anticipated," Counterpoint Research Associate Director Tarun Pathak said.

Reliance Jio, which changed the telecom sector's landscape in 2016 with free calls and data plans at throwaway prices, shook the market once again this year with "4G-enabled feature phone" at an effective price of zero. The device allows users to access data and even watch videos. The user can use the JioPhone for 36 months and get a full refund of the security deposit of Rs 1,500 by returning the device.

Jio's masterstroke forced telcos like Airtel and Vodafone to team up with handset makers like Micromax and Intex to offer handsets bundled with offers at subsidised rates. The year 2017 also saw handset makers placing their bets on 'hero' models like Galaxy Note 8 (Samsung) and Redmi 4A (Xiaomi) to not just woo new customers but also convert them into brand loyalists.

Lenovo India Mobile Business Group (MBG) Country Head Sudhin Mathur says the focus for mobile phone makers is on enhancing customer experience.

"Specification, pricing is just one part. There are other aspects. It's about how one feels holding the handset, the experience of using it," he adds.

Experts feel the focus will be on enhancing the software of the phone, allowing users to do more with their devices. While the affordable segment  handsets priced under Rs 8,000  continued to be the sweet spot for the market, customers seem to be warming up to the idea of shelling out more for additional features.

Interestingly, the refresh cycles also continue to decrease with some consumers replacing their devices within a year of purchase. He added that the sub-Rs 5,000 categories would account for about 23 per cent share of the market, Rs 8,000-20,000 segment 43 per cent and the premium category (above Rs 30,000) 3 per cent share in 2018.

The mushrooming of smartphones has claimed its victims. Sales of desktops and laptops have been impacted, but analysts feel PCs will remain a prime medium for content creation. Mobile phones and tablets will be consumption devices.
Sharifs comments came a day after Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto accused Musharraf of killing his mother Benazir Bhutto.

Lahore: Pakistans ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday called former military dictator Pervez Musharraf a big coward and asked the countrys judiciary to bring him back from self-exile and make him accountable for his crimes.

Mr Musharraf is facing treason charges in Pakistan for imposing emergency rule in November 2007, arresting judges and limiting their powers. He could face the death penalty, if convicted.

Musharraf, 75, who came to power in a bloodless coup in 1999, has been living in Dubai since last year when he was allowed to leave Pakistan on the pretext of medical treatment.

Mr Sharif, 68, called Musharraf a big coward and said he should be brought to justice.

Musharraf is a big coward who is hiding abroad. If any courage is left in him he should return and face cases against him, Mr Sharif said, adding Musharraf had abrogated the Constitution and he must be punished for that.

We will soon bring this traitor to justice, Mr Sharif pledged and demanded the judiciary to bring Musharraf back and make him accountable for his sins.

This coward man is making excuses of his bad health to extend his stay abroad. Time is not far away to bring such traitors to justice, Mr Sharif said.

Mr Musharraf had toppled Sharifs government in 1999. He remained in power till 2008. Mr Sharif who returned to power in 2013 instituted a treason case against Musharraf who left the country in 2016 when the apex court allowed him to travel abroad on medical grounds.

Mr Sharifs comments came a day after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto accused Musharraf of killing his mother Benazir Bhutto.
The North Korea lashes out at the annual military drills between the US and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests in 2017. (Photo: AFP)

Seoul: North Korea said Saturday that it will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the United States and its allies continue their "blackmail and war drills" at its doorstep.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance as it reviewed the country's major nuclear weapons and missile tests in 2017.

North Korea conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November, indicating that it is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the mainland United States.

The aggressive tests have led to more international sanctions and pressure on North Korea amid concerns that the window for stopping or rolling back its nuclear program is closing rapidly. The US and South Korea have maintained that they won't negotiate with the North unless it is willing to discuss curbing its nuclear weapons and missile program.

In its report Saturday, KCNA said North Korea had taken steps for "bolstering the capabilities for self-defense and preemptive attacks with nuclear force" in the face of a continued "nuclear threat and blackmail and war drills" by the United States and its "vassal forces."

The North often lashes out at the annual military drills between the United States and South Korea, which the allies describe as defensive in nature.

KCNA accused President Donald Trump of employing unprecedented hostile policies against North Korea and threatening it with talks of preemptive strikes. It described North Korea as an "undeniable new strategic state and nuclear power."

"Do not expect any change in its policy. Its entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out," KCNA said.

"The DPRK, as a responsible nuclear weapons state, will lead the trend of history to the only road of independence," it added, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Polls indicate that President Vladimir Putin is on course to be comfortably re-elected.

Navalny, who has organised some of the biggest anti-government demonstrations in years, has been jailed three times in 2017 and charged with breaking the law for organising public meetings and rallies. (Photo: File)

Russias Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed an appeal by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny against a decision by the countrys central election commission to bar him from taking part in 2018s presidential election.

The commission this week barred Navalny from taking part in the March 18 vote because of a suspended prison sentence he says was trumped up.

Navalny, who did not attend the Supreme Court hearing, wrote on Twitter that he and his supporters will not recognise elections without competition and renewed calls for a boycott of the vote.

Polls indicate that President Vladimir Putin, who has dominated Russias political landscape for 18 years, is on course to be comfortably re-elected, but Navalny says his own exclusion from the vote makes a farce of the ballot.

Navalny, who has organised some of the biggest anti-government demonstrations in years, has been jailed three times in 2017 and charged with breaking the law for organising public meetings and rallies.
According to the statement, Putin said that mutual respect should be a base to develop relations between the two countries.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad. (Photo: File)

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin called for "pragmatic cooperation" in his New Year wishes to US President Donald Trump, the Kremlin said Saturday.

In a statement on the Russian president's New Year wishes to world leaders, the Kremlin said Putin told Trump that "a constructive Russian-American dialogue is especially needed to strengthen strategic stability in the world".

According to the statement, Putin said that "mutual respect" should be "a base to develop relations" between the two countries.

"This would allow us to move towards building pragmatic cooperation, orientated on the long term," the statement quoted Putin as saying.

The Russian president also sent messages to other heads of state, including the leaders of former Soviet countries, France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Angela Merkel and Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad.

In his wishes to the Syrian leader, with whom he met with during a surprise visit to Russia's Syrian air base Hmeimim earlier in December, Putin "expressed sincere hope that key changes for the better will continue in Syria in the new year".

The statement added that Putin told Assad "Russia will continue to show all kind of support to the Syrian Arab Republic in order to protect its state sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity".

Russia became involved in the Syrian conflict in September 2015, when it began an aerial campaign in support of Assad's military. Putin ordered a partial withdrawal of the Russian army from Syria earlier in December.
by Paul H. Quoc

Arrested January 25, 2017, she is found guilty of "propaganda against the state". The sentence and trial have aroused harsh criticism. The prayers of the Vietnamese Catholics and the appeal of Human Rights Watch for her release are unheard by the government.

Hanoi (AsiaNews) - The appeal trial of Maria Tran Thi Nga (photo), a well-known Catholic human rights activist, ended with a sentence of nine years in prison and five years of house arrest. On December 22nd, the Supreme Court of Hanoi opened the proceedings at the People's Court in the province of Ha Nam, after which the judges confirmed the sentence commuted in July at the first instance for the activist, arrested on January 25, 2017 and found guilty of "propaganda against the state". This is a provision that the Vietnamese authorities frequently use to silence bloggers and other dissident activists.

Nga is the mother of two children of three and five years and is famous for her defence of the rights of Vietnamese migrant workers and victims of land dispossession by the government, a recurrent measure in the country. Through the social networks, the activist has repeatedly denounced liberticide policies and corruption among the leaders of the Communist Party. In May 2014 she was seriously injured by a group of thugs armed with metal tubes, leaving her with a broken leg.

Maria Tran Thi Ngas appeal took place in a climate of tension, since only her three lawyers were able to attend the hearing. Nga's husband and family members were detained by a massive police deployment outside the courtroom, where her supporters had gathered and were beaten while trying to record videos. At least nine people were arrested on the spot and taken to the Tran Hung Dao People's Committee office in the city of Phu Ly, including Phan Van Phong, her husband.

The sentence and the conduct of the trial have aroused harsh criticism. "The evidence has not been collected in accordance with the legal process," says defense lawyer Ha Huy Son. "There is no legal evidence to support the charges against Ms. Tran Thi Nga. The court has listened to our defense, but has not taken into account any of the information we have provided. " The lawyer complains that the judging panel limited itself to sending written statements, without participating in the hearing. Even the defense's requests for the postponement of the hearing were rejected, in order to listen to the assessments delivered in person.

From Sunday 17 December, Catholics from the north and central Vietnam gathered in several churches and prayed for justice and peace, recalling the prisoner of conscience. Two days before the trial on December 22nd, the international organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) has asked the Vietnamese government to immediately release Maria Tran Thi Nga and to drop all charges against her.

Maria Tran Thi Nga is one of the many women still held today in Vietnamese prisons for demonstrating in defense of freedom, civil rights and the environment. Vietnam occupies one of the lowest rungs in the world for freedom of the press: according to the index published this year by the NGO Reporters Without Borders, it is ranked 175 out of 180 countries. In recent months, other bloggers and activists have been convicted: the Catholic Nguyen Ngoc Quynh, 37, known as Me Nam or "Mother Mushroom", will have to serve a 10-year prison sentence; while Peter Pham Minh Hoang, a French-Vietnamese blogger also a Catholic and already tried in 2011, was deprived of citizenship and expelled from the country.
by Loula Lahham

Eight Copts were shot to death at the entrance of the church during an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. Two police officers also died. Lives were saved thanks to the quick response by Muslim worshippers to an appeal by the imam of the neighbouring mosque to rescue 'Coptic brothers. Since 2011, the Copts have been targeted by Islamists.

Cairo (AsiaNews)  An crowd of hundreds of angry and sobbing men and women with dozens of bishops, priests and men and women religious accompanied the burial of some of the victims of the latest terror attack against Egypts Coptic community. Cries of sorrow stopped several times the recitation of prayers and the reading of the Gospel in what has become an all too familiar sight this year in Egypt.

Yesterday evening, the Coptic Orthodox Bishop of Helwan buried eight members of his congregation gunned down at the entrance of the Mar Mina (Saint Menas) Church, in the homonymous area, about 30 km south of the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

The attack claimed by the Islamic State group was launched Friday morning, when hooded men opened fire with automatic weapons against worshippers making their way to the church for the usual Friday Mass.*

The gunmen began their operation by first attacking a business owned by two Coptic brothers who were killed, then headed for the church entrance, where they killed six more people, including three women. When two police officers in charge of church security spotted them, they tried to stop them, but they, too, were killed. As a whole, the shooting caused the deaths of the two merchants, six worshippers and two policemen. Five other peoples were seriously wounded. In front of the church, two explosive devices were defused by security experts.

According to Father Andraos Azmi, parish priest of the Mar Mina Church, the attackers first killed the police officers who were in charge of church security, as is usually the case at Christmas and end-of-year celebrations. They then tried to get inside the church "but we quickly shut the doors. However, they were able to kill some worshippers at the entrance." Another priest, Father Antonio Daniel, praised the role of the imam of the mosque opposite the church, who announced on his loudspeaker that the church was under attack and that it was necessary to save it, urging Muslim worshippers to leave the mosque to rescue their Coptic brothers. These two facts are significant since, had they not occurred, the number of victims would have been much higher.

Since the revolutions of the so-called Arab Spring in 2011, the Copts, Egypts Christians, have been the target of deadly attacks by the various supporters of political Islam like the Muslim Brotherhood, Salafists, the Islamic State (Daesh) and members of Wilayet Sinai, the Egyptian branch of Daesh, located in the Sinai Peninsula.

In addition to today's shooting, on 22December, some five thousand Muslim protesters shouting anti-Christian slogans headed for a small church in the suburbs of Giza in order to demolish it. They profaned it before security forces dispersed them.

On 26 May of this year, a bus carrying Christian pilgrims visiting the Amba Samuel Monastery, in the Western Desert, was attacked by terrorists who killed at least 28 people and wounded 22 others.

On Palm Sunday, two churches in two cities in northern Egypt, Alexandria and Tanta, were bombed and 43 people were killed.

Last February, hundreds of Copts fled Al-El- Arish, capital of North Sinai Governorate, abandoning their homes and belongings after the members of Wilayet Sinai killed seven of them in the space of three weeks.

The year 2016 was no better. Thirty people died in the explosion at the Boutrossiya Church, in the heart of Cairo near the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate.

The overall picture also includes abductions, discrimination and marginalisation, violence and forced marriages of young Christian women and girls.

All said, the official celebration of the Coptic Christmas Mass, led by Pope Tawadros II, will take place in a new cathedral built in Egypts future administrative capital in the presence of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi. The area, which 63,000 m2, will hold some 8,000 people, divided into two large chapels. Dozens of activity rooms are included in the compound.

What follows are some of the reactions to yesterdays tragic events.

I woke up the day of my weekly day off startled by the sound of the automatic weapons used in the attack.

(Abdel-Fattah, witness)

Madam, do you see how happy people are? This is the gift they give us every year on the same date.

(unknown pedestrian to Caroline Kamel, Coptic journalist)

Muslims are not all terrorists. Security agents lost their lives defending the church. The sheikh of the mosque called on the residents of the neighbourhood to rescue their Coptic brothers. Muslims actually detained one of the perpetrators, and many of them donated blood to hospitals that treated the wounded. There is still hope in this country.

(John Abdel-Messih, Coptic witness)

The video of the attacker walking with his gun calmly down an empty street is shocking. Is there a security expert who can explain it?

(Gamal Sultan, Islamist journalist)

Is killing more acceptable to God than telling my Christian neighbour "Merry Christmas"? Where did our values and humanity go?

(Dr. Twitter, alias of a net surfer)

The state considers that each attack is a success in its fight against members of the so-called Islamic State. However, there is no evidence that terrorism against the Copts, Muslims, police and the army will end. On the contrary, their number is increasing.

(Chadi Al-Ghazali Harb, political activist)

* Mass is held on Friday mornings in lieu of Sunday Mass because the latter is a work day in Muslim countries.
by Santosh Digal

The Blessed Virgin is the countrys main patroness. To allow Filipinos to celebrate Marys Immaculate Conception, the government will give schools and offices the day off. Some of the faithful react.

Manila (AsiaNews)  Catholics in the Philippines welcomed President Rodrigo Dutertes new law making the feast day of the Immaculate Conception of Mary on 8 December a new national holiday. Schools and offices will be closed throughout the country.

The bill, signed by the Majority Leader in the House of Representatives Rodolfo Farinas (Ilocos Norte), was approved by the House of Representatives on 2 May and by the Senate on 11 December. The law takes effect 15 days after its publication on the Official Gazette.

"I believe that this is good because the patroness of the Philippines is our Blessed Mother Mary," said Ramon F Santiago of the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, speaking to AsiaNews.

Bambi Suguitan Lozano agrees. "I am glad the president considered the love of the Filipinos for Mother Mary," said the lay Catholic leader from San Roque Parish, Sampaloc, Archdiocese of Manila.

"It should have been done long time ago, noted SLym Villegas, an orthopedic implant specialist. If we celebrate All Soul's Day and Hero's Day as national holidays, why not Mother Mary's Immaculate Conception day? It is right that now it is a national holiday. It is our way to give thanks and praise to Mother Mary.

For the Philippines, where Catholic represent 80 per cent of the population, Mary is the main patroness.

Even before the law was adopted, and 8 December was still a regular working day, the Church invited the faithful to participate in religious services and schools suspended classes.
U.S. Highway 191 was closed Saturday afternoon from Harlowton to Eddie's Corner due to "zero visibility" caused by high winds blowing snow, according to an announcement from the Montana Department of Transportation.

Snow in the area was blowing and drifting, according to MDT, which announced the closure shortly before 3 p.m.

Earlier in the day the road had been closed from Garneill to Eddie's Corner.

Conditions on Montana Highway 3 from Harlowton to Shawmut were designated "severe" at about 3:20 p.m. If road conditions are evaluated to be worse than severe, MDT will close down a roadway.
Hi there guys, sorry if this is a frequent question, but I was wondering how many times you can apply for the bridging visa B? I am currently waiting for a partner visa for 6 months now and got my first BVB for July 2017 and need another one for this coming March. Please let me know any experiences or if anyone knows the answer to this! Cheers
Harold Pierce covers education and health for The Californian. He can be reached at 661-395-7404. Follow him on Twitter @RoldyPierce
The Montana Supreme Court has disbarred Hamilton attorney Robert Myers after finding clear and convincing evidence that he violated numerous provisions of the Montana Code of Judicial Conduct during his 2016 judicial campaign.

In the three orders handed down late Thursday, which were signed by all seven justices, the court also suspended Myers license to practice law in Montana, writing that he violated his ethical duties in handling post-trial motions in a marital dissolution case, and made false and reckless statements during his judicial campaign.

Myers insists that there is no evidence that his statements are false, and he's convinced that the Supreme Court justices are protecting one of their own by not looking into his allegations about Ravalli County District Court Judge Jeff Langton.

"There's no evidence I did anything wrong," Myers said on Friday. "They're getting rid of me because I brought this up. How can you talk about knowingly making false statements where there's no evidence that it's false?

"I'm a scapegoat. They didn't prove a single thing. They didn't say what was reckless, how it was reckless or when it was reckless. Nothing. Those opinions are completely devoid of any facts except for the ones made up by the Supreme Court."

The disbarment is effective in 30 days, and Myers was directed to give notice of his disbarment and suspensions to all clients he represents in pending matters and in all courts in which he appears as the counsel of record. He also was ordered to pay the costs of disciplinary proceedings against him.

Myers said he will fight the disbarment first by filing for a petition for a rehearing, and asking the justices to recuse themselves. He also plans on petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court to hear his case, and said he'll contact the American Civil Liberties Union and the Cato Institute to see if they'll help him in what he says is a violation of his First Amendment right to free speech.

"I'm also going to send this to D.C., to the Department of Justice, because Montana has no interest in looking into this," Myers said. "They're covering it up and doing so intentionally."

Ravalli County Attorney Bill Fulbright, who was a party to several lawsuits brought by Myers, said justice was served with his suspension and disbarment.

Were pleased to have this matter concluded, Fulbright said.

The case comes after the Office of Disciplinary Counsel filed complaints against Myers earlier this year, and the Commission on Practice held hearings and recommended sanctions be taken.

Two of the complaints involved Myers conduct during his 2016 campaign for district judge in Ravalli County. The commission found that Myers sent a mailer to Ravalli County residents and placed advertisements against Langton, all of which included knowingly false and reckless statements, including unsubstantiated claims that the judge had presided in a case against the ex-boyfriend of a cocaine and sex partner and that he had purchased illegal drugs from a 13-year-old.

The commission concluded that Myers violated the Montana Rules of Professional Conduct by making the false statements concerning the integrity of a judge, and by engaging in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.

Myers insists that his claims are true.

"People have a right to know this stuff and to know they have a corrupt, ineffective government," Myers said.

Along with disbarring Myers due to his conduct in the judicial race, the Montana Supreme Court suspended his law license in Montana for three years.

The suspension is to run consecutively with a seven-month suspension handed down by the Supreme Court for Myers conduct in the marital dissolution case. Myers already was fined $10,000 in that case  a sum he has paid  for displaying a disturbing lack of judgment and disrespect for the judiciary, opposing counsel, opposing parties, and the rule of law as a whole.

The commission found that Myers was making legal arguments without a sound basis in law or fact, by defaming and denigrating witnesses and other participants in the court proceedings, and by squandering his clients appeal by failing to file an opening brief.

The commission found clear and convincing evidence that Myers violated his ethical duties and that his conduct was unrelated to his judicial candidacy, the justices wrote.

The disbarment and suspensions mean that Myers will not be able to petition for reinstatement for eight years and seven months from the effective date of disbarment, which is Jan. 27, 2018.

In a federal court lawsuit filed by Myers, he claimed that the rules involving the disciplinary actions were unconstitutional because they violated his right to free speech, and that his allegations of abuse of power by Langton were true. Montana Attorney General Tim Fox filed a motion in November seeking to have that case dismissed.
As Florida's opioid addiction epidemic continues to rage, some state legislators are proposing stemming unauthorized use of prescription painkillers by requiring pharmacies to sell drug lock boxes.

Lock boxes use combination or key locks

Hope to prevent patient's friends or family from stealing drugs

Independent pharmacies could struggle to stock lock boxes

The boxes, which take the form of plastic containers and canvas bags, have combination or key locks that can make it difficult for a patient's friends or relatives to easily swipe their medications. Under recently-filed Democratic legislation (SB 1372/HB 605), every pharmacy in the state would have to stock the devices.

The proposal amounts to another potential weapon in the state's war on the opioid crisis, which claimed the lives of 6,000 Floridians in 2016.

"I think I can speak for all of us," Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi said at a recent meeting of the White House's Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and Opioid Crisis. "We don't sleep at night over this issue, to this day, and when we start sleeping well at night we're not doing our jobs."

But while the requirement might not amount to much of a burden for chain pharmacies, many independent pharmacies could be hard-pressed to stock drug lock boxes without compromising their bottom lines.

"If the state wants to pay for it, if they want to mandate it, fine, but I don't think that's going to happen," predicted Danny Jackson, who owns Stewart's Pharmacy in Tallahassee.

"To be mandated to stock something like that under the profit margin that we're working on - that's controlled by the PBMs (pharmacy benefit managers), we have very little control over our profit margin - and it just throws something on independent pharmacies to have to inventory like that, I think they really haven't thought that through," he said, referring to the legislation's sponsors.

Jackson added that, in his view, relatively few opioid addicts who illegally use prescription painkillers are stealing from friends and family. Drug dealers have increasingly expanded their offerings to include pills like Vicodin, OxyContin and Fentanyl, satisfying a growing public appetite.

The legislation will be considered during Florida's 2018 legislative session, which begins Jan. 9.
It is Winter and now much of the country is freezing.

So, why waste a good opportunity to hype something that wont happen?

That seems to be what has been flying around social media the last 2 or 3 days. "Here comes snow in Florida", "Could it snow in Tampa?", "Snow possible next week in Central Florida."

Those are just a few of the silly headlines I saw floating around on Facebook and Twitter this past week.

So, then you click on the articles and they offer a wide range of nonsense. From a complete lack of meteorological understanding to simply then announcing that it probably wont happen anyway. But, now the hysteria has begun.

Sure, no one reading those articles actually believes that if it snows here in Tampa Bay, it would be a lot, but I have taken calls, emails, messages and posts on social media asking me if it is really going to snow next week.

Ugh. Now I have to undo someone elses poor weather forecast.

Lets get into the nuts and bolts of it right now.I saw 2 different media outlets here in Tampa Bay showing one run of a computer model forecast from the 28th of December indicating the possibility of snow in Tampa on the 3rd or 4th of January.

Before I delve into how they completely misinterpreted the data, let me first say this.forecasting anything off of one run of one computer model several days out is irresponsible, let alone forecasting something that hasnt happened in almost 30 years. But, here is where the other folks really dropped the ball.

Both media outlets showed the models prediction of precipitation combined with where the 540 line was going to be. Without getting too scientific, the 540 line is one of a few guidelines used in forecasting a rain/snow line in climates that dont have a significant maritime influence. Last I checked, the peninsula of Florida was surrounded by water.



540 line with 6 hour past precip at 2 pm Jan 3

To give you an understanding without getting too detailed, the 540 line represents a thickness of the air between 2 pressure heights in the atmosphere. The lower the number, the shorter the distance between those 2 layers.

This represents colder air. The higher the number, the greater the distance, the warmer the layer of air. 540 decameters is often used to make that distinction for precip type.



540 line with 6 hour past precip at 8 pm Jan 3

But, in order for the precipitation to fall as snow, the atmosphere has to be below freeing for most of that layer. Snow can fall if the surface is above freezing if the precipitation is falling hard enough.

So, on that same computer model for Jan 3rd, the temperature aloft in the middle of that layer described above is about 10 degrees too warm for frozen precipitation.



850 mb temp at 2 pm Jan 3

This is represented by these images showing 850 mb temperature. You can notice in the images that that computer model has temperatures about 3 to 6 degrees Celsius.



850 mb temp at 8 pm Jan 3

Any knowledgeable meteorologist should know that it cant snow in that environment. Because it means, that if it was snowing several thousand feet in the air, it would melt long before it even comes close to the ground. Looking at these images, it seems like snow would be possible around Savannah, GA or maybe Jacksonville, FL but that would be about as close as it would come to Tampa Bay.

Then, issue number 2 is there is the understanding of what the computer model is showing from a precipitation standpoint. Both media outlets that I saw, showed an image that had the thickness  lines (that 540 line I was talking about) overlaid on top of the precip.



But, the problem is with that, is that the precipitation is a total 6 hour precipitation. Which when you dive deeper into the model actually ends BEFORE the colder air begins to come in.

Next is the mere fact that the wind at that time will be west to northwest.

That means air will be moderating quickly over Gulf of Mexico water temps in the 60s. This isnt Lake Erie folks! It is the Gulf of Mexico following a warm December. So, even if an Artic airmass was coming across the Gulf in this environment, it would certainly be falling as rain near the coast. Perhaps if the airmass were cold enough, it could support wintry precip on the East Coast of Florida.

Here is the bottom line, there is a reason why it can snow somewhat regularly (once every other year or so) in North Florida and not in Central and South Florida. That is because in order for it to snow,m there must be moisture AND freezing air at the same time.

Our coldest air occurs in the mornings of cold air masses, when there is dry air and the sky has cleared. I know it is fun to think about the prospect of snow in the Tampa Bay Area, and believe me, I think it would be very cool and exciting to forecast, but conditions have to be just perfect for something to happen that hasnt happened in 3 decades.

And sadly for those of you that wanted snow, this week isnt your time.

Happy New Year.
In this season, as Christians celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, The Gazette published an op-ed on Dec. 23 under the headline Fossil Fuels Lift People From Poverty. The author identified himself as a lifelong Catholic and a petroleum engineer. He praised oil and gas for having served our country with low-cost energy, and went on to say, "Fossil fuels have been instrumental in making the USA into the greatest country in the world." The main thesis of Roy Brown's essay was that it makes no sense for Catholics to divest from fossil fuels when the potential investment earnings could be used to support poor people.

On the surface, his arguments hold a certain appeal. Industrial society has reaped benefits from fossil fuels. However, there is a whole other way of looking at things from a Christian and Catholic perspective. Catholic means universal, embracing all that we can know. Our Catholic view is always expanding, as we learn more about the expanse and variety of creation, its total interconnectedness, and the intrinsic value of each aspect of the universe.

Jesus taught that whatever we do to the least, that we do to our God. Pope Francis has devoted his life to Jesus teachings. At the age of 81, Francis continues to travel to places such as Myanmar, where the people are suffering from devastating poverty and unspeakable violence. Loss of home and livelihood threatens many millions of peoples around the world. Pope Francis is a beloved spiritual leader because of how he cares and teaches us to care for all in Gods creation.

The principles of Catholic social teaching offer us wisdom on human dignity, human rights and responsibilities, care for creation and solidarity with the poor. These principles call us to see beyond our own interests, and to inquire into the well-being of our brothers and sisters around the world. Our spirituality brings us face-to-face with the needs of other people and Earths life support system, our common home.

Despite the benefits that have come from fossil fuels, do we actually believe that we can continue indefinitely? Can we ignore the warming of the planet, the more extreme wildfires, droughts, floods and hurricanes? What about oil spills and the ways in which mining and deforestation devastate the land, water and air?

Our profligate use of fossil energy is actually hurting Earth and especially the poor, who are the most vulnerable. If we open our eyes, we see the temporary benefits going to the wealthy countries and individuals, while indigenous peoples land is devastated. The future has arrived: human and animal migration, unending wars, floods and droughts, heat waves, melting of polar ice caps and rising sea levels. Our energy future is arriving as well: renewable distributed generation is already less expensive in many places than fossil energy, and is improving rapidly. Poor and rich alike will be better served without the vulnerabilities of centralized fossil power generation.

The goods of fossil fuels are unraveling; our lasting wealth is a healthy Earth. That is why Pope Francis has spoken out for our common home, which we share interdependently with all people and all species. One of the main themes in Laudato Si, (his letter to all people living on the Earth), is the love that St. Francis spread in the 13th century, love for every part of the intricate universal system wherein the sun, water, air, and all beings, support and change one another. This love is what lights our hearts in this Christmas season. Lets talk honestly about what love means, as we enter the transition to clean energy.
N. Oregon Coast Biz Named Best Fan Favorite Destination

Published 12/28/2017 at 4:45 PM PDT

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Wheeler, Oregon)  A host of accolades for the north Oregon coast's region of Tillamook County lately, as well as for a handful of others on or near the beaches. Wheeler on the Bay Lodge and Marina in Wheeler snagged the number one spot in the 100 Best Fan Favorite Destinations in Oregon List for 2018, which was compiled by MEDIAmerica, the publishers of Oregon Businesses Magazine and the well-known 100 Best Companies to Work for in Oregon survey.

The company also named Tillamook County's Kellys Brighton Marina, Inn at Cape Kiwanda, and Blue Heron French Cheese Company in the top 100.

Also in the mix was River Inn at Seaside, the Tolovana Inn at Cannon Beach, and ground-breaking Oregon wine business Sokkol Blosser Winery near the Oregon Coast Range, which helped open up the state's wine-making industry back in the '70s.

The awards were based on more than 38,000 customer reviews found on TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp and other review sites. Scores were tallied and combined to determine the level of travelers overall satisfaction. The scores were then ranked to create the 100 Best Fan-Favorites Destinations list. (See the whole list).

To have one of the countys lodging properties earn number one status in just the second year of this ranking is terrific, said Nan Devlin, tourism director for Visit Tillamook Coast, the countys tourism organization. Martha Taylor, co-owner and innkeeper, who purchased the lodge this last spring, deserves a big round of applause for creating a wonderful visitor experience in Wheeler.

The top 100 destinations will be charted on a map for visitors and residents to use as a guide for traveling the state. A total of 75,000 statewide maps will be distributed in 2018 at most of the states entry points and visitor centers.

Online reviews are the new word of mouth, said Devlin. Studies show that 85% percent of travelers will first read up to 10 online reviews before making a choice for dining, lodging and even shopping.

Thats why paying attention to online reviews is so important for tourism businesses, said Devlin.

Visit Tillamook Coast was also on the receiving end of a prestigious accolade. The north Oregon coast tourism entity was recently awarded Outstanding Oregon Visitor Guide by the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon) at the recent 2017 Governors Conference on Tourism in Salem. The annual awards ceremony recognizes people and organizations across the state that go the extra mile to enhance the travel and tourism industry in Oregon. Order your copy at www.tillamookcoast.com/gettheguide.

More about these areas below:









Tolovana Inn, Cannon Beach



Inn at Cape Kiwanda



River Inn at Seaside









More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

Coastal Spotlight



LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net

All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted
This letter is a point-by-point rebuttal to Rep. Jessica Karjala's Dec. 20 guest opinion in The Billings Gazette.

1. The $227 million is not a "Republican budget shortfall." Gov. Steve Bullock's fiscal mismanagement, which started in late 2015 when he first became aware of budget shortfalls, was a big factor in the fiscal problems addressed in the 2017 special session. He chose not to act and even boasted in his campaign ads that there was still a $300 million "rainy day fund," meanwhile knowing revenues were coming in lower than expected. When we started session on Jan. 2, 2017, there was not only no $300 million "rainy day fund," but there was a deficit of over $100 million. Where did the money go? What happened to the $500 million "rainy day fund" that the governor inherited when he took office?

2. When Bullock called us back to Helena in November, he proposed to fill the $227 million shortfall with one-third cuts, one-third transfers, and one-third new taxes. The Republicans did not propose the $76 million in cuts, nor did we decide what should be cut  the governor did.

3. The Republicans did not "refuse to keep their word," as Rep. Karjala falsely states. The governor called legislators to Helena knowing that no deal was in place. Instead, refusing the steep tax increases proposed by the governor, the Republicans came up with additional options to cover the shortfall  additional transfers, a bill by Rep. Barry Usher that would have used furloughs to reduce employee hours when needed, and acceptance of the $30 million offer from the owners of the Shelby prison.

4. The "sweetheart deal" to renew the Shelby prison contract is up to the governor. The Shelby prison, run by CoreCivic, is by far the most efficiently run prison in the state. The $30 million that was offered by CoreCivic is money that has been paid by the state. The current contract expires in 2019. At that time, the state can choose to renew the contract (and lose the $30-plus million) or buy the prison. If the state chooses to buy the prison, the $30-plus million would be a down payment. If we are in a budget shortfall now, how can the governor think that we are going to have the money to buy a prison in a little over a year? Accept the $30 million now or lose it in a year  it was an easy decision for me.

5. Due to the uncertainty of the future of the Affordable Care Act, Republicans proposed a bill that would have allowed the state auditor's office to study the options for those in a high-risk pool  nothing was said about creating them or raising premiums on those with pre-existing conditions.

6. I don't know what is meant by the accusation that the Republicans attempted to "remove protections that help ensure all Montanans are guaranteed equal rights under the law." Rep. Karjala should explain what she means by this.

7. There were no "giveaways" to a Tennessee private prison corporation. Again, all decisions having to do with the Shelby prison are ultimately up to the governor. All we agreed to do was to accept the $30 million that we stand to lose in 2019. Once again, I have no idea what is meant by giveaways to the health insurance industry.

8. The "staunch and almost universal opposition" came from the Democrats. They refused to consider the Republican solutions, instead lining up lock-step behind the governor.

9. The governor/Democrat solutions that were tabled in committee were not mentioned in the Guest Opinion. They proposed to add an additional 3 percent bed tax and an additional 6 percent car rental tax. Yes, our neighbors would have paid some of this tax, but in Billings, 60 percent of those staying in hotels are from Montana. It was also brought to our attention that at least one major car rental company in Montana reports that departments of the state of Montana represent 60 percent of their business  I guess the governor wants to tax ourselves. Knowing these statistics, these taxes didn't make much sense to me. Our citizens are struggling enough already to make ends meet. Let's not tax them more because we have a spending problem. Also, it's not right to choose two industries to create income for our state.

10. What is the definition of "fair share" as the Democrats' talking point states? Why should millionaires be punished for being successful? Shouldn't we all pay our "fair share?" We don't need to tax our citizens out of existence. We don't have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem. Since 2012, revenues have increased 14 percent, while spending has increased 32 percent. This unbalanced increase in spending cannot be sustained. It's time for the state of Montana to prioritize spending, cut waste and live within its means. That should be something we all can agree on.

Rep. Peggy Webb

HD43
Shutterstock.com

Melding modern science with the ancient beliefs found in faith is a problem that adherents of many different religions face. Some people turn to science to prove their faith is correct. For example, there are some Buddhist groups who focus on using neuroscience to prove the existence of reincarnation. Others reject science in favor of faith, such as Christian New Earth Creationists. Still others take up science as their new religion. Most people, however, try and find ways to make science and faith mesh. Muslims are no different in this regard. Bloggers, Muslim religious scholars, every day Muslims and authors have written extensively on the compatibility of Islam and evolution, and they have taken a variety of different stances.

Incompatible

One commonly referenced story that argues for the incompatibility of Islam and evolution is the story of Adam. According to the Quran, Adam had no parents and was a fully formed human being. Quran 3:58 states that [Allah] created [Adam] from dust, then said to him: Be. And he was. When this passage is interpreted literally, it is completely incompatible with modern evolutionary theory. It is creationism.

A literal interpretation of the Quranic creation story is also incompatible with the wider theory of evolution, not just human evolution. Like many creation myths, the Quran describes Allah as separating the conjoined heaven and earth and creating a variety of living creatures which walk on their bellyupon two legs andupon four in Quran 24:45. The sudden creation of complete modern organisms is naturally incompatible with Darwins theory of evolution.

In holding with the idea of incompatibility, some Muslims go as far as to claim that the theory of evolution is a religion in and of itself. Dr. Oktar Babuna in particular has been quoted as claiming that evolution is a false religion, not a theory. Muslims who believe that evolution is a religion would, naturally, be unable or unwilling to find ways to mesh the two religions as doing so would contradict some of the basic underpinnings of Islam and be seen as apostatizing.

Partially Compatible

Some Muslims hold that evolution is partially compatible with Islam. At Have Muslims Misunderstood Evolution, a London event organized by the Deen Institute in 2013, Shaykh Yasir Qadhi argued that Islam is compatible with all of Darwins theory of evolution except in the case of humans. He claimed that, from an Islamic theological perspective, a Muslim can say that Allah inserted a created Adam into the natural order. This would be, he explained, as if Adam were the last domino placed in a line by Allah. Non-believers would see Adams domino as a casual connection or continuation from all the previous dominos, but faithful Muslims would see Adams existence for the miracle it was. This position allows for a person to accept most of modern science but also preserves the miracle of Adams creation from a theological perspective.

At the same event, Ehab Abouheif took a slightly different stance, but did argue for at least the partial compatibility of Islam and Darwinian evolution. He claimed that the facts of evolution cannot be disputed. There is, after all, ample evidence of evolutionary processes. Abouheif did say, however, that which processes took place during an organisms evolution and how those processes took place are up for debate.

Agreeing in part with both the tenets of faith and the laws of science is a common way for people of many faiths to reconcile potential conflicts between science and religion. Many Muslims, Christians and Jews agree with modern scientific theories but with the understanding that Gods will underwrites the laws of physics and is the ultimate creator and sustainer of those laws. From this position, He can allow the miraculous to occur.

Compatible

Fatimah Jackson, a Muslim convert and professor of biological anthropology at the University of North Carolina, also spoke at Have Muslims Misunderstood Evolution. She took a stance that can be argued as claiming at least partial compatibility, if not complete compatibility, between Islam and evolution. Jackson claimed that science only explains how things happen, not why.

Jackson argued that modern day humans can trace the human genome back to the genetic Adam and the genetic Eve who lived in modern day Africa. These individuals, Jackson pointed out, could be identified as the Adam and Eve from the Quran.

Jackson also showed several diagrams that illustrated the expansion of the forehead in the homo genus over time. The increased area, she noted, is filled with the brains frontal lobe which controls a modern humans emotions and houses their personality. She also pointed out that verse 16 of Surah al-Alaq focuses on a mans lying, sinning forelock, and she claims this references the unique skull- and brain-shape found in modern humans.

In addition to highly educated experts speaking at widely attended events, everyday Muslims have taken to the internet to make their case for the compatibility of Islam and evolution. Some Muslims reference the verse Quran 71:14 which states that Allah created you in diverse stages and claim that these diverse stages are the various stages of evolution. Similarly Quran 71:17, And Allah has caused you to grow from the earth a [progressive] growth, is interpreted as accepting the progressive growth of organisms through evolution. The Quranic verses Quran 64:3, [Allah] designed you then made your design better, and Quran 40:64, [Allah] formed you then made your forms better, are also referenced when it comes to proving that Islam and human evolution are compatible. If humans were already perfect, some argue, there would have been no need for Allah to improve mankind. These betterments would then have come about through evolution.

In Islam, just as in many religions, the debate over the compatibility of faith and science has raged for decades. Some Muslims reject evolution entirely. Others accept it wholeheartedly. Given the size of the worldwide Islamic community and the diversity of Muslims everywhere, there is unlikely to be a consensus on the issue anytime soon. Instead, every Muslim will have to decide for themselves: can they believe in both Islam and Darwins most famous theory?

Stephanie Hertzenberg is a former writer and editor at Beliefnet. She is a graduate of the College of William and Mary where she majored in Religious Studies and minored in Creative Writing. She maintains an avid interest in health, history and science.
During this time of year, we talk of peace on earth and goodwill towards our neighbors. I wish those beliefs applied universally. Instead, there are groups waging campaigns of intimidation and fear against certain members of our communities. Frequent targets include Muslims and refugees, and there is an entire movement behind the attacks.

We recently released ACTing for Islamophobia, a report examining Montanas anti-Muslim movement. Even though our state has a small immigrant/Muslin population, it hasnt bypassed the national trend of increased hostility towards Muslims. The Southern Poverty Law Center reports that anti-Muslim groups have increased by almost 200 percent since 2015. Not coincidentally, Pew Research notes that crimes against Muslim people hit an all-time high in 2016. We also live in a time when the current president normalizes and legitimizes anti-Muslim rhetoric at an alarming rate.

Our report illustrates how the central driving force of Montanas anti-Muslim movement is Flathead ACT, which is a county-level chapter of the national organization ACT for America. Civil rights organizations frequently call ACT for America the leading anti-Muslim hate group in the country. ACT promotes a false and dangerous narrative about a diverse religious group by claiming that all Muslims are extremists, and Islam is trying to destroy Western (a code word for white) civilization.

Think for a minute about ACTs discriminatory message that all Muslims are extremists. Lets apply it to a different religion. Does that mean that the Ku Klux Klan and Aryan Nations represent all Christians? After all, they call themselves Christian and carry out their campaigns of terror in the name of God. The answer, of course, is an emphatic, No! Thats why this example rings hollow for most Christians, just like ACTs message does for the majority of the 1.8 billion followers of Islam.

These anti-Muslim groups arent interested in having legitimate policy discussions about national security, how people become radicalized and join violent extremist groups, or anything else for that matter. Instead, their only purpose is peddling conspiracy theories steeped in fear and trying to get people to believe that Jihadists lurk around every corner. Flathead ACT leads this misinformation campaign in Montana.

Our report examines the leadership of Flathead ACT and the speakers it has sponsored in Montana. Lets be clear that the speakers havent been religious scholars or academics relaying fact-based information. Instead, Flathead ACT has sponsored a slate of propagandists representing anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant, and white supremacist groups. One characteristic all the speakers share is reinforcing the false Jihadist around every corner message. Studies show that, if anyone is around every corner, its far-right extremists. The federal government reports that far-right extremists have perpetrated 74 percent of the attacks in the U.S. by violent extremists between 2001 and 2016. Instead of adding valuable knowledge to the community, Flathead ACT and its allies have contributed anti-Muslim vitriol and misinformation.

Despite this, Flathead ACT and its allies have migrated from the political fringe to the mainstream. The county level ACT chapters in Montana share leadership with entities within the state GOP. They used this influence to get the Republican majority during the 2017 legislative session to pass a bill banning Sharia Law, which had questionable constitutional footing and merely served as a vehicle to push anti-Muslim messages. During its legislative journey, the bills supporters spewed angry and derogatory testimony that dehumanized and targeted Muslims and refugees. Gov. Steve Bullock vetoed the measure, recognizing it could be seen as an endorsement for anti-Muslim sentiment and activity.

We encourage you to read our report at the link with this guest opinion at billingsgazette.com. We think youll find yourself agreeing with the majority of Montanans and Bullock, who wrote in his veto note for the Sharia Law Ban that Montanans should recommit ourselves to protecting the religious and cultural diversity that makes our state and nation strong.
BILD-Interview with the leader of the pro-Kurdish HDP, Selahattin Demirtas

BILD-Interview with the leader of the pro-Kurdish HDP, Selahattin Demirtas |

Von: SINAN SENYURT

He is one of the greatest enemies of the Turkish president Erdogan and in custody for more than a year now.

Selahattin Demirtas, leader of the pro-Kurdish opposition party HDP, spoke with BILD. About the conditions of imprisonment, the foreign and domestic policy situation of Turkey and the presidential election 2019.

The politician was arrested by the Turkish police in the night of the 4th of November. More than one year later, right at the start of the legal proceedings, the Turkish prosecution presented a 600 pages long bill of indictment.

The prosecution demands 142 years in jail!

Accusation: Among other things, the founding and lead of a terror organization, terror propaganda and mass instigation.

BILD: First, I would like to ask how youre feeling? Are you healthy, and how is your mood?

Selahattin Demirtas: I feel like a nurse of Selahattin Demirtas here. I take good care of him and try to keep his mood up.

Why are you in provisional detention?

Demirtas: Because I have attracted the anger of the [government party] AKP and its leader  a party and leader who have stopped the process of democratisation in Turkey and who illegally remove all obstacles in order to realize their own Islamist project. We are in provisional detention, because my party and my fellow party members managed to remove the AKP from government after the election of 7 June 2015.

Auch interessant

Can you tell us about the conditions of your detention? What is your situation like?

Demirtas: This correctional facility is a high-security prison with the category designation F. I share a 12 metre square cell with my fellow MP Abdullah Zeydan. Since the laws of emergency rule have been in force for the last one and a half years, the conditions of detention have become more difficult than they usually are. But we read many books, or write, and try to strengthen our wills this way. Unfortunately, the Council of Europe does nothing about the conditions of detention in Turkey. This is also a sad matter.

Did you ever lose hope?

Demirtas: I never lost my hope  the hope for a free and honourable future is what keeps me going.

Despite everything, the peace process [concerning the Kurdish question] has enjoyed great support from different social groups. What has suddenly happened in Turkey to stop this development?

Demirtas: Erdogan himself has stopped the process. When he saw that the peace process would not gain him any votes in the elections, he stopped the process in its final phase and turned towards a policy of war. We probably had some shortcomings in this process. We were not able to sufficiently integrate the peace process into society. We did not explain everything well enough and did not make it sufficiently transparent. However, it was certainly not us who stopped the process.

What do you think would be the solution of the Kurdish question in Turkey?

Demirtas: The right of the Kurdish people  and all other ethnic and religious groups  to their own language, culture, education, way of life, and type of organisation should be supported by the constitution. A model of communal administration should be established so that citizens can actively take part in the administration. While implementing all of this, the PKK and Mr Ocalan should participate in the process through negotiations, and the problem of violence should finally be settled. Implementing all of this requires enormous political will and effective support from the public.

The law and human rights have suffered severely in Turkey. How do you assess the fact that you were not even put before a judge?

Demirtas: The judiciary in Turkey has completely broken down. A small number of judges behave like political militants in order to curry favour with the government. A large number of judges are afraid of the governments anger and can therefore not conduct a just trial in our case. I have been imprisoned for 14 months now and 34 different proceedings are pending against me. Including the one for which I am detained, I have so far not been put in front of a judge in any of the proceedings. They want to factually turn my detention into a punishment. They are worried that, in a public trial, it will not be me who is accused, but rather me who will accuse and expose the government party AKP.

Lesen Sie auch

How do you assess the attempted coup of 15 July?

Demirtas: There is no doubt that it was an attempted coup. We opposed it from the very beginning and condemned it with disgust. We know that many aspects of the events of July 15 have been kept in the dark. An investigation into these dark aspects by parliament was prevented by the government party AKP and Erdogan. It would have made sense for the AKP and Erdogan to want to uncover the whole truth. But they didnt. They preferred to put a blanket over it. This has led to a situation in which many doubts remain. Unfortunately, Erdogan has utilized the atmosphere of fear, panic, and chaos that arose after the attempted coup in order to consolidate his one-man-regime. This process currently persists.

Is the problem solely the government party AKP? Do you, for instance, think that the opposition party CHP could develop a solution in this respect?

Demirtas: All parties of the Turkish centre  including the CHP  pursue a policy of not acknowledging the Kurdish people. Unfortunately, this is one of the aspects that make a solution [of the Kurdish question] more difficult. If the CHP were a social democratic party that could decisively defend universal democracy, it would be much easier to solve Turkeys many problems.

What do the 2019 elections mean for you? Which direction will the Kurds prefer?

Demirtas: All of the three elections that will take place in 2019 will belong to the most crucial elections in the history of the Republic of Turkey. Currently, there are no free and independent election conditions in Turkey. First the emergency rule would have to be lifted and the pressure on the judiciary would have to be stopped. The freedom of the press, the right to organize, and the freedom of assembly would have to be guaranteed. Any election without the guarantee of these conditions only contributes to legitimizing the AKPs fascism by means of elections and suppression. Large numbers of Kurds are in favour of democracy. They will decidedly resist fascism.

Do you think you will be released for the elections in 2019 and will be able to run for office?

Demirtas: As a human being, Im a fighter. It is not important whether I can run for office or not. Regardless of my conditions, I will continue to fight for human rights, democracy, and peace. Currently I have no plans of running for any office.

Turkey is among the countries with the highest number of journalists under arrest. My German colleague Deniz Yucel has been in prison for more than 300 days now. Whats your view on that?

Demirtas: Thats of course a very sad and embarrassing matter. The authoritarian orientation of our country includes the detention of journalists and their unemployment. I hope that all of them will be released as soon as possible.

We know there are unexpected developments in the global economy. The AKPs strategy of zero problems with the neighbours has reached a phase in which no country can be called a friend any more. How do you assess Turkeys situation with respect to its foreign policy?

Demirtas: The government party AKP shows no vision or strategic plan in its foreign policy. Their ideological and religious domestic line is also reflected in the foreign policy. Instead of a balanced, multi-layered, and flexible foreign policy based on negotiations, it has made many mistakes and caused destruction with its conflict-laden, conquest-hungry imperialistic policy that is based on imperial aims and religious confessions. Erdogan thinks that whoever screams the loudest and threatens the most will win most in diplomacy and international relations. Unfortunately, this short-sighted understanding, which doesnt even see the tip of its own nose, inflicts great harm on Turkey and its neighbours. Within a short period of time, Turkey has moved from its foreign policy aim of zero problems to zero friends. As an opposition leader, I am suffering from this. We as the HDP are in an opposition that follows principles in order to correct these mistakes.

What is your view of the developments in Syria?

Demirtas: In Syria, the Kurds and their allies have the most combat power. However, since these groups are not sitting at the table when it comes to Syria peace talks (in Astana and Geneva), a political solution is hardly possible at all. All of the groups who are in favour of democracy and coexistence in Syria, should  for the sake of fairness  be invited to the talks about a solution. None of these groups should be excluded. As we can see, one has not even reached this point in Syria.

What do you expect from Germany in terms of Turkeys democratisation?

Demirtas: Support for the development of rights and freedoms in Turkey in terms of EU values is required. The policy of opposing a full EU membership for Turkey is not right. Turkey does not solely consist of the AKP. For years, several tens of millions of compatriots have been resolutely fighting for our country to become a full-blown democracy. The entire society of Turkey deserves a humane life. We do not support democracy in order to gain membership of the EU, but because we deserve a humane life. However, both the EU and Germany should remain open and clear towards Turkey. They should conduct determined negotiations about an accession and then make their final decision instead of giving Turkey the runaround.

Lesen Sie auch

What are you longing for the most while in detention?

Demirtas: My daughters.

Your wife and your daughters visit you while you are in detention. What effect do these visits have on you and your family?

Demirtas: We are doing all we can in order to avoid any negative effects of these visits. We try to be as happy and in as good a mood as possible.

Are you allowed to play baglama [a long-necked lute, a string instrument] while in detention?

Demirtas: Here I can play the baglama and compose much more than on the outside. Out there, I wouldnt have so much time for it.

You said that you would like to write a novel. Have you started yet? And what will be the topic of your novel?

Demirtas: I am currently writing down small notes. I dont know if Ill write a novel. That will depend on my time and the surrounding conditions. I will not make the effort simply to have written a novel. If it will be possible to write the novel, I will probably do my best. At the moment, I am more interested in my lawsuits and my defence. 102 judicial inquiries were opened against me and 34 lawsuits, with jail sentences of several hundred years. All of this because of speeches I made. I am therefore currently focused more on my defences instead of my novel.

PS: Sind Sie bei Facebook? Werden Sie Fan von BILD.de-Politik!
For Immediate Release, December 29, 2017 Contacts: Kassie Siegel, Center for Biological Diversity, (951) 961-7972, ksiegel@biologicaldiversity.org

Dr. Laura Solorio, Protect Monterey County, (831) 229-5284, lmsolorio9@gmail.com Protect Monterey County to Appeal Decision on Measure Z's Ban on Harmful Oil Industry Practices MONTEREY, Calif. Protect Monterey County and its attorneys announced that they will appeal yesterdays Monterey County Superior Court decision that overturns portions of Measure Z. Last year Monterey County voters passed Measure Z, an initiative that bans hydraulic fracturing (fracking), prohibits new oil wells and phases out oil-industry wastewater injection wells. The courts decision leaves the fracking ban in place, holding that oil-industry plaintiffs lack standing to challenge it. However, the decision strikes down the ban on new oil and gas wells and wastewater injection, finding these portions are preempted, or disallowed, by state and federal law. We will appeal this decision, said Dr. Laura Solorio, president of Protect Monterey County. Were confident that a higher court will uphold Measure Z in full and affirm the right of communities to protect themselves from risky oil operations. California law provides local governments with broad authority to protect our air, water and health. Measure Z is a citizens initiative Protect Monterey Countys volunteers placed on the November 2016 ballot. Oil companies launched a $5.4 million multimedia campaign to stop Measure Z. Despite being outspent 18 to 1, the thousands of Protect Monterey County volunteers prevailed, and Measure Z won with 56 percent of the vote. After the election, Chevron, Aera Energy (owned by ExxonMobil and Shell), some small oil companies and royalty owners filed six lawsuits challenging Measure Z. Monterey County Superior Court Judge Thomas Wills consolidated the six lawsuits into one trial, which took place from Nov. 13 to Nov. 16. The oil companies were represented by a team of about two dozen lawyers fighting to overturn the voter-approved measure. Protect Monterey County is represented by Robins Kaplan LLP, the Stanford Environmental Law Clinic and the Center for Biological Diversity. Measure Z gained new urgency among residents earlier this year when California regulators proposed allowing oil producers to continue pumping oil-waste fluid into protected aquifers near San Ardo. In addition to drinking water contamination, oil-industry wastewater injection has been linked to induced earthquakes. Moreover, according to a Center analysis, oil produced in the San Ardo oilfield is even more climate-damaging than Canadian tar sands crude. The oil industry deployed an army of lawyers to attack Measure Zs health and environmental safeguards, said Kassie Siegel, director of the Centers Climate Law Institute and an attorney on the case. But the law is on our side and, even if its a long battle, well win these long-overdue protections for the people of Monterey.
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.




When it comes to fossilized remains, plesiosaurs dont grow on trees.

These animals are exceedingly rare, said paleontologist Jeff Person, of the North Dakota Geological Survey. You never find these things.

Three separate, single vertebrae were all that existed for examples of the ancient marine reptile in North Dakota, until a find in the 1990s during road construction on federal land in Bowman County. About 10 percent to 20 percent of the animal's skeletal remains came to be recovered, including vertebrae, flipper knuckles and a tooth.

With a bulbous body, short tail and flippers, plesiosaurs are most recognized for their elongated neck, similar to the legendary Loch Ness monster.

This is the type of animal people usually relate that animal to, is these big, long-necked plesiosaurs, said Clint Boyd, paleontologist and curator of the states paleontology collection.

Cleaned and prepared by the Pioneer Trails Museum in Bowman, the 80 million-year-old remains came to the states paleontology collection in the past year. The specimen is undergoing prep work in the weeks ahead for a cast and mural display in the North Dakota Heritage Centers underwater world exhibit. Installation could come in the first half of 2018, perhaps as a kickoff exhibit to summer.

In a jacket on a table downstairs of the museum are 15 neck vertebrae still in original life position, representing about a quarter of the neck of the 50- to 60-foot elasmosaur, an extreme variety of plesiosaur.

Youre talking about a very large animal, Boyd said.

Existing in a warm, shallow seaway between todays Rocky and Appalachian mountains, plesiosaurs lived alongside mosasaurs, the apex predator of their day, resembling a type of watery Komodo dragon.

Plesiosaurs had interlocking, X-patterned teeth similar to a Venus fly trap, Person said.

(Plesiosaurs) are big predators, but compared to their body size, you can see how small their head is, and they have very spindly, pointy teeth that arent like the big, robust teeth that mosasaurs have that are designed more for capturing bigger prey and disarticulating the specimens and eating them, Boyd said. So these guys are eating a lot of fish and things like that, but they probably werent attacking other plesiosaurs or attacking mosasaurs.

Mosasaurs and ocean fish are more common marine fossils, Boyd said. The plesiosaur to be displayed will be positioned by a mosasaur specimen.

Person said the plesiosaur was identified by its morphology. It could be a styxosaurus, or maybe something entirely new based on its measurements, but the paleontologists dont have enough of the creature to confirm.

"Down the road, maybe someone will find a more complete specimen and compare it to this and come up with something better," Boyd said. "And for having only a portion of the neck, plus the material collected off the surface, to be able to get it even down to that fine of detail, we got really lucky."

Across the hall in a gleaming storage facility, additional material from the plesiosaur is stored with other fossils from around the state, such as the Pembina Gorge. The facility is controlled on a number of levels, including temperature, humidity, security and pests.

The plesiosaur's other remains, such as paddle knuckles and various fragmentary materials, wont be for exhibition, Boyd said.

Theyre not as display-y, he said.
The National Weather Service in Bismarck has issued a wind chill warning effective through noon Monday.

Temperatures will not rise above minus 8 degrees through Monday with wind chills reaching as low as minus 50 degrees in some areas. Less than than an inch of snow is expected to accumulate today.

Most locations today will be within a couple degrees of setting new record low daily maximum temperatures. This means high temperatures could rank as the coldest on record for Dec 30. An example is Jamestown, where a forecast high of minus 15 degrees, is colder than the record of minus 14 degrees set back in 1968.

Here are some other Dec. 30 records worth watching, according to the National Weather Service in Bismarck:

 Bismarck: The forecast for a high of minus 13 degrees could tie the record set in 1874.

 Dickinson: The forecast for a high of minus 11 degrees would come close to beating the record of minus 14 degrees set in 1911.

 Jamestown: The forecast for a high of minus 15 degrees could beat the record of minus 14 degrees set in 1968.

 Minot: The forecast for a high of minus 16 degrees could tie the record set in 1968.

 Williston: The forecast for a high of minus 13 degrees would come close to beating the record of minus 16 degrees set in 1911.
The government has announced 6m in funding to get more students from disadvantaged backgrounds into higher education.

The 1916 Bursary Fund will support 600 students over the course of three years.
Marking another delay, Gov. Doug Burgum isnt expected to move into the new North Dakota governors residence for at least two months as crews put the finishing touches on the project.

But state officials arent worried about pushing back previously announced timelines.

Meanwhile, a committee raising $1 million for the residence remains short of that goal, but Facility Management Director John Boyle said any fundraising delays wont hold up Burgums move.

Its going to be sometime in the month of March, I just dont know if itll be in the first couple weeks of March or the latter part of March, he said.

Boyle previously said the governor and first lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum would move into the new residence this fall, and the Bismarck Tribune recently reported movers were tentatively scheduled for this week. But the weather suddenly took a turn for the worse, Boyle said, and high-end interior finishes are still taking some time.

And its difficult sometimes to get those exactly correct, he said. Boyle said he wasnt concerned at all about the project and the contractor is doing the best they can.

Tom Todd of Northwest Contracting, the projects general contractor, said they are finishing the punch list on the private side of the building. He said there was a change on the public portion of the project dealing with the reconfiguring of a stairway.

Were working through that with the architect and the owner, Todd said.

Boyle said the first family has been patient with the construction process. In a statement, the governor and first lady said they are honored to be living in the current residence and look forward with gratitude and anticipation to be the inaugural first family to serve from the new residence.

State lawmakers approved the $5 million project in 2015, requiring that $1 million come from private donations. Jim Poolman, vice chairman of the state Republican Party who co-chairs the committee raising funds, estimated this week that theyre less than $100,000 short.

There are outstanding commitments, they havent come in yet, he said. It may be a week after the new year, it may be two weeks after the new year, but the bottom line is were going to fulfill the commitment that we set out to do.

Poolman previously said they were working under a Thanksgiving deadline to raise the full amount. Boyle said they have enough funds to pay the contracted amount, and additional money has been earmarked for new furniture and enhanced landscaping.

The current residence, located next door to the new one on the southwest corner of the Capitol grounds, will be demolished after the state received no formal offers to move the structure nearly 60 years after it was built. The current building has numerous issues, lawmakers have said, including asbestos, security and a lack of handicapped accessibility.
Pakistan's supreme court has exonerated a man convicted of blasphemy after he served nine years of a life sentence in prison.

A two-judge panel of the court ruled yesterday that Mohammad Mansha was falsely accused, citing lack of evidence,

According to court records, the 58-year-old was arrested in September 2008 after the imam of a mosque in the Bahawalnagar district in Punjab province told authorities that he had desecrated a copy of the Koran.

A Punjab judge convicted Mansha of blasphemy and sentenced him to life in prison in 2009. His conviction was upheld in 2014 and the supreme court took up the case the same year.

Mansha's defence lawyer, who asked not to be named for fear of retribution, said his client was arrested on a complaint from a man who was suffering from hearing and speech impairments. He said evidence from such a witness has no legal value under the Evidence Act.

Mansha's lawyer said that, following the complaint, his client was presented before a village council where he was badly beaten and then handed over to police.

The police registered the case under the country's harsh blasphemy law based on the complaint of the Imam Hafiz Muhammad Munir. The hearing and speech-impaired Akhtar Mohammad became the star witness.

Abdul Waheed, the prosecutor in the case, said there was no "scientific evidence" against Mansha and that the police investigation was "faulty" which led to his acquittal. Mr Waheed said Mansha, a poor villager, could not hire a lawyer so the court appointed him one.

Rights groups say Pakistan's harsh blasphemy law is often exploited to settle personal scores.

Blasphemy is a very sensitive issue in Pakistan's conservative society.

In 2011, a liberal governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by his official guard because he spoke in support of a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, languishing in a jail after being convicted in a blasphemy case.

Mr Taseer said at the time that the blasphemy law was being exploited.

Zia Awan, head of Lawyers for Human Rights and Legal Assistance, praised the supreme court's verdict in Mansha's case but said the court should have compensated him for his years behind bars on "false" charges.

Mr Awan added that it is time for Pakistan's parliament to "carefully look into" the country's blasphemy law and finds the means to curb its misuse or exploitation.

- AP
Andrew Adonis has urged other senior figures to speak out against Brexit after quitting as Theresa May's infrastructure tsar in protest at her policy on Europe.

The Labour peer resigned as chairman of the National Infrastructure Commission, claiming the Prime Minister had sided with Ukip and the "Tory hard right".

The former transport secretary also lashed out at the Government's handling of the East Coast rail franchise, claiming a taxpayer-funded "bailout" was evidence that Whitehall was too distracted by Brexit to focus on running the country.

In his resignation letter, seen by the Press Association, he told Mrs May: "Brexit is a populist and nationalist spasm worthy of Donald Trump.

"We all have a duty to give our view," says Lord Adonis after the senior adviser to Theresa May quit over Gov't Brexit plans. He added "the British people are in charge" https://t.co/XZR1t8wWjx pic.twitter.com/IpQ7l6hokT  Sky News (@SkyNews) December 30, 2017

"After the narrow referendum vote, a form of associate membership of the EU might have been attempted without rupturing Britain's key trading and political alliances.

"Instead, by allying with Ukip and the Tory hard right to wrench Britain out of the key economic and political institutions of modern Europe, you are pursuing a course fraught with danger. Even within Ireland, there are set to be barriers between people and trade."

Whitehall sources indicated that Adonis, whose frequent criticism of Brexit had caused outrage among Tory Eurosceptics, had "jumped before he was pushed".

But the peer insisted it was his decision to quit, accusing Downing Street insiders of "dirty tricks".

He urged others to follow his example in speaking out.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I don't believe the Brexit policy is sustainable and I believe that people like me who have a leadership position should be out there next year arguing passionately with the British people as to why staying in the EU is the right thing to do, alongside sorting out the deep social crisis which Britain is now in the midst of, which I think is a good part of the reason why Brexit started in the first place."

Adonis said the 17.4 million voters who backed Brexit in the referendum were "absolutely entitled to their view" but "I'm absolutely entitled, indeed I believe it's my duty, to say why I think that was wrong".

"Very few of the people who voted for Brexit voted, I believe, to make themselves poorer," he said.

"Wrenching Britain out of our key trading and international alliances is likely to make us poorer."

He hit out at Transport Secretary Chris Grayling - a key Leave supporter at the referendum - over the "indefensible" East Coast franchise decision.

Adonis said: "What we are seeing at the moment is a nervous breakdown across Whitehall. Almost the entire government machine is spending its time seeking to wrench us out of the key economic and political institutions of the EU and everything else is going by the board.

"Part of the reason I resigned was because of the - I believe extremely unwise - bailout of the East Coast rail franchise which will cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds.

"I simply do not believe that would have happened pre-Brexit, when senior Whitehall civil servants were on the ball and not being preoccupied as they are at the moment with having to negotiate Brexit and making the best of a bad deal."

Allies of the Prime Minister appeared unconcerned by Adonis's decision to quit.

A Government source said: "He's been moving closer towards the exit door with each new onslaught he makes against Brexit.

"He's now walked through the door before he was pushed."

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said: "Lord Adonis's departure is long overdue.

"It's a bit rich for him to pontificate on what he calls populism, but what most would refer to as democracy, when he himself has never been elected by a public vote. He has instead relied on preferment from others."
A 24-year-old man is facing a slew of felony charges for illegal straw purchase of 21 guns at gun stores, almost exclusively in Bucks County. Leonard Truesdale was arraigned on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022, on 21 counts each of making false statements on firearm purchase forms, criminal conspiracy to make false statements on firearm purchase forms and selling or transferring...
The aftermath of demonetisation and implementation of Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act or Rera and goods and services tax (GST) turned 2017 into one of the worst years for developers and a mixed bag for homebuyers.
IPhone sales in India may not be affected by the revelation that released software to slow down previous generation smartphones as buyers continue to look at it as an aspirational brand.
The formation of a BJP government in Gujarat is being seen as a positive for the Adani and Tata power projects at Mundra. The negotiations for a bail-out of the two plants could see continuity though a weakened BJP majority is a cause of concern among analysts.
India has mobilised around 60,000 police and paramilitary troops in a sensitive border state ahead of the publication of a list of citizens it says will be used to detect and deport - mainly Muslims - from neighbouring Bangladesh.
WILLISTON  Behind the Washington curtains  but in not-so-secret media-leaked fashion  senior members of the Republican party are romancing Congressman Kevin Cramer into a 2018 run for Sen. Heidi Heitkamps seat.

This week, Cramer admitted he is not just flirting with that idea, but giving it serious consideration. He anticipates announcing a decision in January or February, he said Wednesday, Dec. 27, to allow people with an interest in either race to have enough lead time to make decisions themselves.

A number of factors are among those the congressman is weighing as he mulls a run for Heitkamps Senate seat. The seat is one of 10 highlighted nationally as potentially ripe for changing parties in 2018.

Heitkamps only opponent so far is a state lawmaker and potato farmer, Tom Campbell. Despite spending $500,000 of mostly his own money on media ads, however, he still has little name recognition outside his own district.

Attempts to woo Tioga-based oil field consultant and State Board of Higher Education member Kathy Neset were unsuccessful. And Fargo-based businesswoman Tammy Miller also declined to run for the seat, a week or so after Neset decided against it. Rick Berg, a former congressman who narrowly lost the Senate race to Heitkamp in 2012, hasnt ruled out another run.

Nationally, Republicans have admitted that 2018 could be a difficult election cycle for their party. Thats somewhat typical for a mid-term, as voters generally tend to become disenchanted with their candidate.

National polling has shown Trumps approval rating dropping among well-educated voters and high-income earners. He is not doing well, in general, with female voters in particular, and his numbers have cratered in most swing states. Which ups the stakes for a seat in a state Trump carries so readily, where he appears to have retained at least some popularity, depending on which polls are consulted.

Cramer said the impact on his family of entering such a high-profile campaign will be first and foremost among the considerations he weighs. By family, he said, he means all the extended family, from their two widowed mothers down to all of the adult children and their grandchildren.

Other considerations

A campaign like this will not only attract widespread national attention, he added, but money from super PACs.

And its also likely to attract so-called dark money from nonprofits, which are now allowed to receive unlimited donations from unidentified corporations, individuals and unions to spend on influencing elections since the Supreme Courts Citizens United decision.

With the super PACs and whatnot, you not only dont coordinate campaigns with them but by law cannot, Cramer said. So you dont always know whats flying at you or your opponent. You have no control over it. So that is something we have to think about.

Another big factor hes weighing is the good he could do, first for his state, and secondly, for his country from each position.

I have a lot to lose on behalf of North Dakota, because I hold the only House seat, Cramer said. A lot of people who dont come from or are not familiar with at-large house seats dont understand, or at least its not intuitive to them that when a state has just one member in the House, that has a multiplying factor.

Cramer serves on the Energy and Commerce committee.

I would be giving up six years of seniority on what I would argue is the most important committee assignment in the House, he said. In the Energy and Commerce Committee, you have a lot of influence over energy, environment and agriculture policy, particularly via the subcommittee I am on. The technology committee I serve on has a lot of ag-related issues. Thats a lot of influence that a freshman would no doubt not have.

Three senior committee members wont be back next year, Cramer said, so he sees greater opportunity for upward mobility, especially in the energy sphere.

Health care is under Energy and Commerce as well, Cramer said. And that is all part of the factors I am thinking about when it comes to what is good for North Dakota.

This is being weighed against the potential good he could do in a Senate seat, for the country as a whole.

So when I think about what is in the plus column if Heidi hadnt been senator the last six years  We would have repealed Obamacare, Cramer said. Thats a big patriotic consideration. If she wasnt a senator we would have repealed the venting and flaring rule that is so important to North Dakota. We were one vote short to do that. So when you start thinking about the influence of a single senator, where one person has the ability to obstruct, even in a minority party, that is a very heavy weight, and it weighs very heavily in my consideration. How can we do better for America with one more North Dakota Republican?

Cramers confidence

If he decides to run, Cramer said he is confident of a win and dismisses the size of his war chest compared to Heitkamps as an indication of who might best whom in the 2018 race.

Heitkamp has $3.76 million in cash on hand, significantly more than the $869,000 Cramer has, but the congressman contends he has enough statewide name recognition to raise money quickly, if he decided to enter the race.

Mediawise, North Dakota is a cheap state, Cramer pointed out. It will cost tens of millions of dollars less than in states like Florida to run a successful campaign. That should be attractive to conservatives looking to help the Republican party pick up a seat to retain control of the Senate, where the party recently lost a seat in Alabama.

I lead in every poll Ive seen, Cramer said. National pollsters, too, so theres a good chance Id win. Donald Trumps popularity has grown in North Dakota. Its very high. We are one of four, five states where that is the case.

Internal Republican polls have shown Heitkamp down in a Cramer matchup; however, public polls from non-partisan groups have consistently shown her with high approval ratings. Morning Consult, for example, showed her approval ratings at 55 percent statewide.

Trumps polling numbers have dropped among women voters, according to national polls, and have all but cratered in many swing states. In North Dakota, they have dropped 21 percent, according to a FiveThirtyEight.com survey and 16 percent according to a Morning Consult report.

However popular he may or may not be in North Dakota, however, a Trump alignment is no guarantee of a win, Cramer acknowledged.

North Dakotans are notoriously fiercely independent voters, he said. The best evidence of that is that both Heitkamp and I won our first terms with the same voters. That has perplexed pundits in Washington for five and six years.
A week after appointing a panel of historians to watch "Padmavati", the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on Saturday decided to give the film a UA certificate along with some modifications.
Women with a common form of are at an increased risk of developing uterine tumours, a study has found.

For the research published in the journal JAMA Dermatology, scientists examined thousands of African-American women.

Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) predominantly affects black women and is the most common form of permanent alopecia in this population, the researchers said.

The excess scar tissue that forms as a result of this type of may also explain the higher risk for uterine fibroids, which are characterised by fibrous growths in the lining of the womb.

Crystal Aguh from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the US said the scarring associated with CCCA is similar to the scarring associated with excess fibrous tissue elsewhere in the body, a situation that may explain why women with this type of are at a higher risk for fibroids.

During a four-year period from 2013 to 2017, the researchers analysed data of 487,104 black women. The prevalence of those with fibroids was compared in patients with and without CCCA.

Overall, the researchers found that 13.9 per cent of women with CCCA also had a history of uterine fibroids compared to only 3.3 per cent of black women without the condition.

In absolute numbers, out of the 486,000 women who were reviewed, 16,212 had fibroids.

Within that population, 447 had CCCA, of which 62 had fibroids.

The findings translate to a five-fold increased risk of uterine fibroids in women with CCCA, compared to age, sex, and race matched controls.

Women with this type of scarring alopecia should be screened not only for fibroids, but also for other disorders associated with excess fibrous tissue, Aguh said.
Abha Adams, is an institution by herself in the field of school . The former principal of The Shri Ram School and current advisor to Step By Step school in Noida, spoke to Anjuli Bhargava about Indias schooling system in a no-holds barred interview. Edited exerpts:



What is your view on the comprehensive and continuous evaluation (CCE)?



A huge change was brought in with so much speed and so little time to plan the roll out. For anything to work, you need to prepare the soil. You have to get schools, parents, teachers, students, all stakeholders involved. That didnt happen. There were brain-storming sessions at the centre level, material was published but it needed more time to be understood and internalised by the stakeholders. The CCE works the world over. As a method of evaluation, it is preferred in most countries. The schools that took it seriously had a very tough time; trying to understand it, absorb it, bring everyone on board. In the ultimate analysis, it was a good idea that was botched up in implementation.
Unlock 30+ premium stories daily hand-picked by our editors, across devices on browser and app.

Full access to our intuitive epaper - clip, save, share articles from any device; newspaper archives from 2006.

Curated newsletters on markets, personal finance, policy & politics, start-ups, technology, and more.

Pick your 5 favourite companies, get a daily email with all news updates on them.

26 years of website archives.
The has issued a notification banning public display of weapons in the city, to be effective from January 2, 2018, to January 1, 2019.

The notification issued by the Commissioner of Police, Rajeev Kumar prohibits "carrying of swords, spears, bludgeons, or other offensive weapons in any public place in the 'Town of Calcutta' or in the suburbs of the 'Town of Calcutta'."

The prohibition does not extend to persons exempted from certain provisions of the Arms Act and Rules, or to a holder of a permit granted by the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, in a prescribed form or to weapons covered by licenses under the Arms Act, 1959.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to give Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati a U/A certificate and has suggested the director to change the film's title to Padmavat. The movie has been embroiled in one controversy after another and the former royals of Jaipur are calling for a complete ban on the movie, stating that Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film shows Rani Padmini in a bad light. According to a release issued by the CBFC, the board had a meeting of their examining committee on December 28 which decided to give the film a U/A certification along with some modifications and likely change of the film's title on the basis the attributed material/creative source". The meeting took place in the presence of CBFC Chairman Prasoon Joshi and was also attended by regular examining committee members, along with other censor board officials.
India reacted sharply on Friday after the picture of Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan attending a rally organised by JuD chief and mastermind of Mumbai terror attack Hafiz Saeed surfaced.

Expressing rage over the photographs, India is issuing a strongly worded demarche to the Palestine government.

"We have seen reports in this regard. We are taking up the matter strongly with the Palestinian Ambassador in New Delhi and with the Palestinian authorities," the spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

A photograph of Palestine's Pakistan envoy Waleed Abu Ali sharing a platform with JuD chief at a rally in Rawalpindi is doing the rounds on the social media.

Saeed is designated as a global terrorist by the UN and is accused as the mastermind of the Mumbai 26/11 attacks that claimed 166 lives.

The global terrorist carries a bounty of 10 million USD (approx. Rs 66 crore) and continues to exercise a lot of influence in religious circles.

He has recently been released from house arrest after a Pakistani court cited lack of evidence against him in Mumbai attack case.

India has protested against Pakistan time and again for 'harbouring a terrorist' like Saeed.
Nepal has banned solo climbers from scaling its mountains, including Mount Everest, in a bid to reduce accidents, an official said on Saturday.

The cabinet late Friday endorsed a revision to the Himalayan nation's mountaineering regulations, banning solo climbers from its mountains -- one of a string of measures being flagged ahead of the 2018 spring climbing season.

"The changes have barred solo expeditions, which were allowed before," Maheshwor Neupane, secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, told AFP.

Neupane said that the law was revised to make mountaineering safer and decrease deaths.

Experienced Swiss climber Ueli Steck lost his life in April this year when he slipped and fell from a steep ridge during a solo acclimatisation climb to Nuptse, a peak neighbouring Everest.

The ban is likely to anger elite solo mountaineers, who enjoy the challenge of climbing alone, even eschewing bottled oxygen, and who blame a huge influx of commercial expeditions for creating potentially deadly bottlenecks on the world's tallest peak.

The cabinet also endorsed a ban on double amputee and blind climbers, although Everest has drawn multitudes of mountaineers wanting to overcome their disabilities and achieve the formidable feat.

New Zealander Mark Inglis, who lost both his legs to frostbite, became the first double amputee to reach the top of the 8,848-metre (29,029-foot) peak in 2006.

Blind American Erik Weihenmayer scaled Everest in May 2001 and later became the only visually-impaired person to summit the highest peaks on all seven continents.

Aspiring Everest climber Hari Budha Magar, a former Gurkha soldier who lost both his legs when he was deployed in Afghanistan, said the ban was discriminatory.

"If the cabinet passes, this is #Discrimination against disable people, breaking #HumanRights," Magar said in a Facebook post after the decision was proposed early this month.

Thousands of mountaineers flock to Nepal -- home to eight of the world's 14 peaks over 8,000 metres -- each spring and autumn when clear weather provides good climbing conditions.

Almost 450 climbers -- 190 foreigners and 259 Nepalis -- reached the summit of Everest from the south side in Nepal last year.
Children born to women who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy, especially when mothers are heavy smokers, are at an increased risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a new review of medical studies confirms.
President of india in karnataka; Addresses 22nd convocation of nimhans, bengaluru; says meeting mental health challenge must be a national mission

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, graced and addressed the 22nd convocation of NIMHANS, Bengaluru, today (December 30, 2017).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that NIMHANS is a national asset. It has integrated education and research in medical sciences with clinical services and treatment. Each year it treats about 700,000 patients, including many from abroad. Two of every three patients belong to the poorer sections. They obtain free or highly subsidised care. This is a very commendable record.

The President said that the biggest obstacle that patients of mental and neurological problems face is stigma and denial. This leads to the issue being ignored or simply not discussed. In some cases it leads to self-diagnosis that could worsen the situation. Our society has to fight this culture of stigma.

We need to talk about mental health issues and treat ailments such as depression and stress as diseases that can be cured  not as guilty secrets to be pushed under the carpet.

The President said that in 2022, India will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of Independence. We need to ensure that by then at least those who are suffering from severe mental disorders have been diagnosed and have access to treatment facilities. He called for taking this up as a national mission. He stated that the government and the non-government sector  and all related public and private institutions  will need to contribute to this effort. It is for NIMHANS, as Indias premier mental health institute, to draw a road map and to be the navigator. He added that other than conventional treatment, the role of counselling services and of practices such as yoga and vipassana meditation in helping those with mental health problems should also be explored with greater vigour.

In Bengaluru, the President also inaugurated Seva Utsav 2018, organised by the Adamya Chetana Foundation, and the 100th anniversary of the National Education Society of Karnataka as well as of the National High School that the Society runs.

Speaking on the occasion, the President praised the Adamya Chetana Foundation for performing a very noble task in providing fresh and nutritious food to school children through its Annapurna project. He stated that the Foundations initiative is in keeping with its philosophy of Seva  and its focus on Anna-Akshara-Arogya or food, education and health.

Later in the day, the President travelled to Bidadi (Ramanagara district) where he visited the new campus of the Amruta Institute of Engineering and Management Sciences as well as inaugurated the 111th year celebrations of Basaveshwar Veerashaiva Vidyavardhaka (BVV) Sangha.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the BVV Sangha for its commendable work in the field of education. He noted that Sangha today runs over 150 educational institutions in Karnataka and Maharashtra. Over 50,000 students study in these institutions, and that half of them are women. He stated that this emphasis on girls education  which is so vital for our society and our country  and on the poor is in keeping with the idealism of the Sanghas founders.

Texts of speeches of the President on these three occasions are attached.
An Egyptian court sentenced ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi to three years in prison along with 19 other defendants today for "insulting the judiciary," his lawyer said.

The other defendants include former members of parliament, activists and three journalists.

Morsi had already been sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison in two other trials after the military ousted him in 2013.

The defendants had all been charged with making statements deemed insulting to the judiciary.

Five other defendants, including jailed activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, were fined 30,000 pounds each.

Morsi was also ordered to pay two million pounds to the head of the judges' syndicate and another judge, while 22 other defendants were ordered to pay one million pounds to the head of the syndicate.

Morsi's lawyer Abdel Moneim Abdel Maqsud told AFP that he would appeal the verdict.

Thousands of Islamists have been arrested and put on trial since the military ousted the divisive Morsi following mass protests demanding his resignation.

The crackdown extended to other opponents of then army chief now President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who was elected a year after Morsi's overthrow.
When Pakistani forces freed a Canadian-American family this fall held captive by militants, they also captured one of the abductors. United States officials saw a potential windfall: He was a member of the Taliban-linked Haqqani network who could perhaps provide valuable information about at least one other American hostage.
A provision in the new tax law, intended to prevent American companies from shifting profits abroad to benefit from a lower overseas rate, might also hit the largest foreign banks with significant US operations.
Russian tankers have supplied fuel to North Korea on at least three occasions in recent months by transferring cargoes at sea, according to two senior Western European security sources, providing an economic lifeline to the secretive Communist state.
The list of the worlds largest was once dominated by household names like Ford Motor Co., J.C. Penney Co., and General Electric Co., companies that made and sold things.
At least, three people were reportedly shot dead by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the ongoing protests against the government in Iran.

According to Al-Arabiya, the incident occurred in Doroud, Loerstan province in central Iran.

Some videos surfaced in the social media that the people were protesting peacefully when masked men opened fire suddenly at the protesters.

Protesters in Iran have raised anti-government slogans, over alleged corruption and rising prices that have plagued the people of the country earlier in this week. Scores of protesters have been arrested in the last few days.

The outbreak of unrest reflects the growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption by the government, as well as concern over the country's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as Syria and Iraq.

In the third day, the wave of protests spread to Qom, around 80 km from the Iranian capital, Tehran, protesters in Qom and Tehran raised anti-government slogans against Iranian president Hassan Rouhani and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei such as- "Death to Hezbollah" and "Aren't you ashamed Khamenei? Leave the country."

The Iranian president's biggest achievement, a deal with major powers, including the United States (US) in 2015, that curbed the country's disputed nuclear programme in return, for the lifting of most international sanctions, is yet to bring the broad economic benefits to the people, despite the government's claims of bringing benefits to them.

Iran backs Syria's embattled president, Bashar al-Assad, in his country's civil war, the Shia militants in Iraq, the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah group in Lebanon.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An Australian military base in Darwin was put on high-alert after Russian strategic bombers conducted navigation exercises close to the country, flying out of an Indonesian military base, earlier this month.

The base in Darwin was briefly put on a state of "increased readiness" in early December during the exercises, as Russian strategic bombers - including two nuclear capable Tu-95s - stopped over at Indonesia's Biak Airbase for five days from December 4, the local media reported.

According to reports, the "short period" of heightened alert followed concerns that the Russian aircraft may have been collecting valuable Australian intelligence during the military exercises.

Strategic bombers "carried out air alert mission over neutral waters of south Pacific Ocean" in a flight lasting more than eight hours, the Russian Ministry of Defence said.

This is reportedly the first patrol mission the Russian strategic bombers have carried out in this area.

Not referring to the Russian activity, in specific, Australia's Defence Department, in a statement to the ABC, said that "the ADF maintains appropriate levels of readiness and posture to respond to evolving circumstances."

The executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Peter Jennings, said, "For the Russians to send a couple of aircraft this far down south I think is really proving it's got the capacity for that long-range reach."

"I'm sure there would have been concerns about Russian intelligence gathering because they wouldn't have come this far south without wanting to look at the one significant [United States] allied presence in this part of the world, which operates out of [RAAF Base] Darwin and RAAF Base Tindall a little further south," ABC quoted Jennings, as saying.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
"The Suite Life of Zack & Cody" star Dylan Sprouse recently confessed that being called 'former child star' was insulting.

Sprouse told Vulture, "That term is so derogatory".

"Isn't it always derogatory? Even 'young actor' sounds better. You're already in a box. But they put you in a smaller box inside that box," said the 'Big Daddy' star.

"It also implies past tense. It implies you've already failed, right? I was actually naive enough to think that people wouldn't think of it in that way," he added.

The 25-year-old actor, who also has a twin brother, Cole, appeared together in movies like 'Big Daddy'.

After leaving the Disney Channel at age 18, Sprouse attended the New York University and worked in a restaurant in New York City.

On the work front, Sprouse is shooting for upcoming movie 'Banana Split' and is opening a brewery soon.

However, Cole Sprouse is currently a main cast member on the hit CW show 'Riverdale'.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A study has recently found that combining radiation therapy with blueberry extracts can help to boost the effectiveness of cervical cancer treatment.

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix - the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Researchers from the University Of Missouri-Columbia, United States explained that one of the most common treatments for cervical cancer is radiation therapy and that it not only destroys the cancer cells, but also the nearby healthy cells, which proves to be a hazard.

"For some cancers, such as late-stage cervical cancer, radiation is a good treatment option. However, collateral damage to healthy cells always occurs. Based on previous research, we studied blueberry extract to verify it could be used as a radiosensitiser," Fang added.

Radiosensitisers are non-toxic chemicals that make cancer cells more responsive to radiation therapy.

Previously, the team showed that resveratrol, a compound in red grapes, could be used as a radiosensitiser for treating prostate cancer. Blueberries also contain resveratrol.

In addition to resveratrol, the blueberries also contain flavonoids - chemicals that may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, they explained.

The team used human cervical cancer cell lines to mimic clinical treatment.

The cell lines were divided into four groups -a control group, a group that received only radiation, a group that received only blueberry extract and a group that received both radiation and the extract.

The results indicated that radiation therapy decreased cancer cells by approximately 20 per cent; the cell group that received only blueberry extract had a 25 per cent decrease in cancer and the biggest decline in cancer cells occurred in the radiation and extract group, with a decrease of about 70 per cent.

Fang explained that the mechanism that makes blueberry extract a radiosensitiser also reduces the abnormal explosion of cell growth.

Blueberries are readily accessible and inexpensive and can be used as a natural treatment option for boosting the effectiveness of existing therapies, the researchers noted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Saturday lodged a complaint against two Kamala Mills pubs - 1Above and Mojo's Bistro - in connection with the midnight blaze that killed 14 and injured many.

The complaint has been registered under the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning (MRTP) Act at NM Joshi Marg police station.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Police also registered the second FIR in fire tragedy based on the BMC's complaint about several violations by Kamla Mills owners and others.

The BMC launched an anti-encroachment drive against the illegal structures in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound as well as at Kamala Mills. The BMC ward officers and workers reached the spot with cranes to continue the demolition drive.

The Mumbai police, earlier in the day, also issued a lookout notice against all the accused in the case.

The massive fire reportedly had broken out from the '1 Above' rooftop restaurant and later spread to the entire area, on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday took a stock of the situation and ordered a BMC commissioner to conduct an inquiry.

Five BMC officials were suspended and the Mumbai Police booked the owner of the pub for negligence, besides other charges.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has suggested few modifications in the controversial movie 'Padmavati', which include changing of the film's title to 'Padmavat', after which it would be given a UA certificate.

The decision came after an examining committee meeting by CBFC was held on December 28. It consisted of the regular committee members, along with CBFC officials and a special advisory panel in presence of Chairman Prasoon Joshi.

The other key modifications suggested in the meeting include those of the disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed.

"Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the requirement for a special panel was felt by CBFC to add perspective to the final decision of the official committee," a statement by CBFC said.

The statement added that the modification details and the corresponding decision was shared with the producers and filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who attended the feedback session post the screening.

"They are in agreement with the modifications," the CBFC said.

The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of the Jaipur University.

Bhansali Productions, in a written communication to the CBFC, had earlier requested that a panel of historians/academicians and members of the Rajput community should watch the film.

"The certificate, as per procedure, will be issued once the required and agreed modifications are carried out and the final material is submitted by the team," the statement concluded.

This is not the first time a specialist panel at CBFC was appointed to solve a dispute.

For Amitabh Bachchan's 'Aarakshan', an eminent panel representing a concerned group was created and for Hrithik Roshan-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starrer 'Jodhaa Akbar', various historical experts were called in.

The movie, based on the legend of Rani Padmini, a Hindu Rajput queen, mentioned in Padmavat, an Avadhi poem written by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi in 1540, has been facing protests from various groups, including Shri Rajput Karni Sena, for allegedly tampering with historical facts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The advent of technology has triggered a wave of transformation in the Indian sector. Technology is being adopted quickly and content is being rewritten and redesigned to adapt to the emerging media.

The advent of digitally enabled classrooms, cloud-based content, e-books and online assessments among others has enabled our system to reach an inflection point.

Here are some trends in the EdTech segment that are being perceived as game changers for the educational landscape, as per V Sivaramakrishnan, Managing Director, Oxford University Press India:

Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR and AR): A key trend in the sector is the emergence of Virtual and Augmented Reality. VR immerses the user in a virtual or imaginary environment. Immersive educational environments are already being used to provide learners a life-like experience in subjects as diverse as history and chemistry.

Augmented Reality, on the other hand, is a technology used to present an enhanced version of reality where elements of physical real-world environment are augmented with digital learning experiences. AR/VR technologies help learners experience and interact with digital learning objects to support their learning.

Adaptive learning through Artificial Intelligence: Adaptive learning has the potential to solve a crucial challenge in classroom learning - how to engage learners of different abilities in the same classroom. Adaptive learning systems use machine learning and to help personalise the presentation of learning material based on their learning speed, interest and problem areas.

In the hands of teachers, this can become an important tool to ensure more uniform learning. Machine learning, along with natural processing and speech recognition technologies, are also facilitating the development of conversational programs, also called chatbots. The bots can be programmed to provide a wide variety of services such as tutoring.

Learning Analytics: Little data is personal activity data which when analysed by intelligent systems, is able to provide key insights into the way students learn. It may become an important source of information and insight for decision-making for educators. It may also unlock new potential for personalisation of tools and content.

By adding the right information capture mechanisms and real-time insight capabilities, traditional Learning Management Systems (LMS) can now vastly enhance the teaching-learning experience. The implications of a data-driven approach will be far reaching and will permeate not just teaching and learning but other areas including guidance on career choices.

Online Assessments: New forms of technology mediated assessments have enabled a big shift from fixed-in-point summative assessments, which are today at the core of the learning process, to more continuous and adaptive formative assessments. Online assessment solutions are clearly more customisable, interactive, secure and quick to deliver. They work across multiple platforms (mobile included) and offer detailed interactive dashboards to analyse performance from various aspects.

The ability to store historical assessment data and compare progress over time can be used to establish a trend and also draw inferences on the learners' progress in the context of learning. Online testing also brings in the benefits of anytime testing, remote proctoring, real-time audio-video integration and also more personalised testing.

With the above trends in place, Sivaramakrishnan said, "2018 will be an interesting year for Education, clearly with EdTech disrupting traditional methods, pedagogies and mindsets. Its seamless integration with print and classroom practices will be central to its success in the Indian context, and wider acceptance by stakeholders the key to its longevity."

However, he opined that it is important not to lose sight of the evolving needs of the educator in the context of the fast-paced EdTech developments.

"Teacher training programmes, offered online, offline or in a combination, are key to up skilling our educators who are often the primary consumers of these EdTech solutions and play a pivotal role in seeding and growing adoption among learners," said Sivaramakrishnan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A major fire broke out at a chemical factory in Anand Parbat area of Delhi on Saturday.

At least eight fire tenders are present at the spot to douse the flames.

No injury or casualty has been reported yet and the reason behind the fire is yet to be ascertained.

The police has reached the spot.

More details are awaited.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested three men with an illegal consignment of 10.459 kg gold valued at more than Rs 3 crore.

The intelligence agency stopped two people when they were loading packages consisting of car air conditioning compressors into their vehicle at Nungambakkam, on Friday.

When quizzed, they admitted that the compressors had foreign-origin gold concealed within them.

As per the documentation, the consignment was imported from Malaysia through Bengaluru Air Cargo and was brought to Chennai by a domestic courier van.

Simultaneously, another team of officers searched the address where the two were taking the recovered gold and arrested the third person from there.

All the three people admitted their involvement in the smuggling and removal of gold through similar such consignments arriving by air from Malaysia on several prior occasions.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Seven people were killed while eight others injured after a trailer rammed into the autorickshaw they were travelling in on Ahmedabad-Viramgam Road on Saturday.

The seven people died on the spot, said police, adding that the injured were immediately rushed to the nearby hospital.

Police have reached the spot and the matter is under investigation.

More details are awaited.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Four-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has hit the abort button on his Instagram account after recently receiving backlash for shouting on his nephew for wearing a princess dress.

It seems that Mercedes driver Hamilton has had his fill of social media who has deleted each and every post from his account, the Daily Express reported.

The Briton Formula One champion was heavily criticized after he posted a video on his Instagram account wherein he could be seen lambasting his nephew online and making inappropriate comments on his relative's choice of Christmas attire.

In the video, Hamilton asked his nephew as to why he was wearing a princess dress before insisting that boys don't do such stuff.

"I'm so sad right now. Look at my nephew," Hamilton said as the camera focuses on the boy.

"Why are you wearing a princess dress? Is this what you got for Christmas? Why did you ask for a princess dress for Christmas?" he asked, as the boy nodded delightedly.

"Because it's pretty," the boy replied while waving the pink wand, to which Hamilton said, "Boys don't wear princess dresses!"

However, Hamilton had later deleted the post, in which his nephew was seen donning a purple and pink dress and carrying a pink wand with a heart on it.

Issuing an apology for his 'lapse of judgment', Hamilton had told his 5.2 million followers on Twitter that he regretted his "unacceptable" post and was sorry for negatively stereotyping his nephew on the basis of gender.

Hamilton had said that he had realized that his words were 'inappropriate' and, therefore, had decided to remove his post.

"Yesterday I was playing around with my nephew and realised that my words were inappropriate so I removed the post. I meant no harm and did not mean to offend anyone at all. I love that my nephew feels free to express himself as we all should," he had tweeted.

"My deepest apologies for my behaviour as I realise it is really not acceptable for anyone, no matter where you are from, to marginalise or stereotype anyone.I have always been in support of anyone living their life exactly how they wish and I hope I can be forgiven for this lapse in judgement," Hamilton had added.

Hamilton became a four-time world champion following a ninth-place finish at the Mexican Grand Prix, the race which was eventually won by the Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

The Mercedes driver, however, failed to continue the momentum after clinching the title and finished at the fourth and second spot respectively in the final two races of his spectacular 2017 season.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Jitendra Singh on Saturday said the fire at Mumbai's Kamala Mills was an unfortunate incident.

Jitendra Singh told ANI, "Certainly, this is an unfortunate happening and I think each one of us who have learnt about it is feeling the tragedy and loss of lives."

Singh further said he was sure the concerned authorities would launch an investigation in the case.

"I am sure the concerned authorities will go into the reasons which led to this and also make sure that such things do not happen again," said Singh.

He added, "Not only in Mumbai, but in many other parts of the country, the authorities should take up proper measures because India is a rapidly growing country."

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched an anti-encroachment drive against illegal structures in Lower Parel's Raghuvanshi Mill compound as well as at Kamala Mills.

The Mumbai police, earlier in the day, also issued a lookout notice against all the accused in the case.

The massive fire, which claimed 14 lives, reportedly had broken out from the '1 Above' rooftop restaurant and later spread to the entire area, on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday.

Five BMC officials were suspended and the Mumbai Police booked the owner of the pub for negligence, besides other charges.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The northern belt of India continues to face the fury of cold wave and fog, and the labourers are hit the hardest.

As the fog engulfed the cities of Delhi, Lucknow, Moradabad and the likes, people on Saturday morning were seen walking covered in woollens, while the labourers and daily wage earners sat huddled around a fire.

"We are facing a lot of problems. Our hands get cold but we don't even have blankets. A blanket provided to us will be enough at this stage," Mohammad Jamaal in Lucknow told ANI.

A rickshaw-puller also told that the problem escalates during the night as the night shelter for homeless people, 'Rain Basera', denies entry without an identity card.

"We have been sitting since night warming ourselves with fire. We have no other facility. Food and money are already a problem and now the cold has added to it. At Rain Basera, they ask for an ID, otherwise they don't let you sleep. If we sleep on the footpath, the police bother us and tell us to go somewhere else, but where else can we go?" he said.

The cold wave along with poor air quality has added to the inconvenience and health issues, as the air quality index in Delhi was recorded at a 'very poor' level today.

With delay and cancellation of trains practically every day, normal life is disrupted as well.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India's Sumit Nagal and Prajnesh Gunneswaran advanced into the second round of qualifiers of the Maharashtra Open after winning their respective matches here at the Mhalunge Balewadi Stadium on Saturday.

It was the Indian duo - Jayesh Pungliya and Gunneswaran - who started off the qualifiers as they faced each other in the opening game.

Gunneswaran outclassed Pungliya to win the match in straight sets 6-4, 6-1.

The match saw Gunneswaran take advantage of his experience to secure the first set by winning points on his first service. In the second set, Gunneswaran did not give the youngster any chance of making a comeback as the former wrapped up the match in straight sets.

Meanwhile, Spain's Adrian Menendez-Maceiras also advanced to the second round of Qualifiers as he beat India's Shahbaaz Khan 6-2, 6-0 in straight sets.

In the second all-Indian match of the qualifiers, 20-year-old Sumit Nagal secured a victory in straight sets 6-2, 6-3 against the experienced Divij Sharan.

Nagal started the match well and won the first set comfortably by 6-2 and wrapped up in the second set with a score line of 6-3.

In another men's singles match, Brazil's 29-year-old Joao Souza also started on a winning note as he beat South Korean Soonwoo Kwon in a match that went into three sets.

The last and deciding set saw both the players not giving an inch but it was the Brazilian who survived off a 7-6 to wrap up the match 4-6, 6-3, 7-6.

Spain's Ricardo Ojeda Lara beat an inexperienced Sasi Kumar Mukund in straight sets 6-2, 6-1.

Carlos Taberner continued a good day for the Spanish players as he beat India's Vishnu Vardhan in three sets 5-7, 6-2, 7-6.

It was the 30-year-old Indian who started the match well as he won the first set 7-5. However, Taberner showed his quality to make a comeback into the match by winning the second and third sets.

Ilya Ivashka from Belarus also made his way through to the next round of Qualifiers as he beat the experienced Franko Skugor in straight sets 6-3, 6-3.

In the last match of the day, India's N Sriram Balaji was up against Brazil's Thiago Monteiro.

Balaji took the first set 6-3 but Monteiro returned the favour in the second set by winning 6-3. In the last and deciding set, both the players kept fighting until the end but it was the Brazilian Monteiro who won on the tie-break to take the match 3-6, 6-3, 7-5.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
MoS Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey on Saturday declared that a probe would be conducted by the health ministry into the death of a Kargil martyr's wife, who died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat.

He added that all states were asked to implement the 'Clinical Establishments Act' to avoid such incidents in future.

"The state government should take this matter seriously. Our ministry will conduct a probe into it. The Centre has also asked all states to implement 'Clinical Establishments Act' which will help us reduce such incidents," Ashwini Kumar Choubey told ANI.

A wife of a Kargil braveheart died at a private hospital in Haryana's Sonipat after allegedly being denied treatment due to non-availability of Aadhaar Card, on Friday.

The hospital authority, however, has denied the allegations levelled by the victim's son saying that the patient never got to the hospital, and that Aadhaar card was mandatory only for the documentation process and not for treatment.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Pahalaj Nihalani has raised questions about the censor board's role in the controversy surrounding 'Padmavati', claiming that the film was sidelined by it.

Nihalani, on Saturday, was commenting on the recent developments, wherein the CBFC suggested few modifications in the controversial movie, including changing of the film's title to 'Padmavat', after which it would be given a UA certificate.

"The film faced so many controversies even before people saw it. This decision could have been taken before the film was opposed by the people and the political parties in several states", Nihalani told ANI.

"This film was sidelined by the CBFC and it raises the question on the Censor Board. Producers suffered such huge losses because of the cuts. Vote bank politics has obviously been done, the film is being seen after elections. Chairman Prasoon Joshi faced pressure from the ministry", he added.

Speaking on the development, former Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) chief Gajendra Chauhan has expressed delight that the controversy is about to get resolved.

"I would like to congratulate the censor board and Bhansali who amicably tried to solve the matter. And I think the issue should now finally end", Chauhan told ANI.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit said that it will be a great day for the entire film industry and film lovers when the film will be on the screens.

"I congratulate and compliment Sanjay Leela Bhansali that finally after so much of uproar, the film will see the light of the day," Pandit told ANI.

For those unversed, the decision came after an examining committee meeting by the CBFC was held on December 28. It consisted of the regular committee members, along with the CBFC officials and a special advisory panel in the presence of Chairman Prasoon Joshi.

The other key modifications suggested in the meeting include those of the disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed.
Regarding the participation of the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan in a public meeting held in support of Palestinians, a foreign ministry of Pakistan spokesperson said that the country's unambiguous and steadfast support to the Palestinian cause was well known.

It also said that Pakistan has always supported the two-state solution, with East Jerusalem being the capital of the Palestinian State. Pakistan's unequivocal position was demonstrated in the rejection of the United States (US) decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Since then, a number of public rallies and meetings have been held in Pakistan. The Ambassador of Palestine has participated in many of these meetings. The public meeting held yesterday was yet another demonstration of the Pakistani strong sentiments in support of the Palestinian cause. The rally was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life. More than 50 speakers addressed the rally, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder chief Hafiz Saeed.

The spokesperson added that: "Contrary to the impression being created, United Nations (UN) proscription does not place any restrictions on the freedom of expression. The people and Government of Pakistan respect the Palestinian Ambassador's active participation in events organized to express solidarity with the people of Palestine."

Palestine on Saturday called back its Ambassador in Pakistan after he was seen in the company of Saeed.

"We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home and not to be a Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore," Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija told ANI.

His statement has come after a photograph of Palestine's Pakistan envoy Waleed Abu Ali sharing a platform with Saeed at a rally in Rawalpindi had appeared earlier on the social media.

The Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Saeed is "unacceptable".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has conveyed the concerns to Haija as well as to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Ramallah, State of Palestine. Palestine has also assured India that it will deal with this matter appropriately.

The MEA earlier said: "It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India."

Saeed is accused of masterminding the Mumbai 26/11 attacks that claimed 166 lives. He carries a bounty of 10 million US dollars (approx. Rs 66 crore) and continues to exercise a lot of influence in religious circles of Pakistan. Also, he has recently been released from the house arrest after a Pakistani court cited lack of evidence against him in the Mumbai attack case.

India has protested against Pakistan time and again for 'harbouring a terrorist' like Saeed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan's opposition has interpreted the embattled Sharifs' Saudi trip as a move to win the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO).

Pakistan's former prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, who, along with his family, is facing multiple cases in courts, is likely to leave for Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

According to the Dawn, the leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Khursheed Shah of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), said, "If Saudi Arabia intervenes [for reconciliation between the Sharifs and the establishment] it will be shameful that Pakistan - a nuclear power - cannot make its own decisions."

Moreover, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman Imran Khan has vowed to resist the Sharifs' move.

However, rejecting the opposition's objections, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, in a statement, argued, "None, including Khursheed Shah, has the right to object to the Sharifs' visit to the kingdom."

Despite the reluctance of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to officially state anything about the former premier's departure, a seat has been booked in Sharif's name for a Jeddah-bound flight for Saturday, reported the Dawn.

Sharif will be meeting the top Saudi leadership, including King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, and will "discuss with them various aspects of friendly relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia", the report added, quoting a family friend, as saying.

A public meeting which he was to address in Sargodha on Sunday has been rescheduled for January 6 because of his unavailability.

This comes in the backdrop of when the chief minister of Pakistan's Punjab province and his brother Shahbaz Sharif and Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique are already there.

Shahbaz Sharif is reportedly believed to have been preparing the premise for the visit of his elder brother.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Pakistani man, accused of blasphemy, has been absolved of the charges against him after having spent over nine years in jail.

Pakistan's Supreme Court absolved the 58-year-old of the blasphemy charges for want of evidence, reported the Dawn.

The star witness in the case was a person suffering from hearing and speech impairment and, therefore, could not even be termed a witness under the Evidence Act, argued the defence counsel.

After hearing the arguments, a Supreme Court bench absolved the accused of the charges with the observation that the person, who misleadingly alleged others of desecration of the Holy Quran, in fact committed blasphemy.

The man was arrested for allegedly desecrating pages of the Holy Quran in a mosque in 2008.

The man was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009.

The Lahore High Court upheld the sentence in 2014. Pakistan's Supreme Court took up the case the same year and provided the accused a state counsel, the report said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With the advent of the new year, Pakistan's Supreme Court will hear as many as 13 petitions challenging the Elections Act, 2017.

The three-member bench of the apex court, comprising Chief Justice Nisar, Justice Faisal Arab and Justice Ijazul Ahsan will hear the petitions on Monday.

The Elections Act, 2017, passed in October amid a strong protest from the opposition parties, permitted a disqualified parliamentarian to hold party office and thus enabled former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to re-emerge as president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), reported the Dawn.

The former premier, who resigned as the prime minister in July after the Supreme Court disqualified him over unclaimed salary from the company of his own son, was also forced to step down as the president of PML-N. However, after the promulgation of Elections Act, 2017, Sharif was re-elected as the PML-N president.

Petitioners, by large, are political opponents of Sharif, including Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Sheikh Rashid Ahmed of the Awami Muslim League, Jamshed Dasti and a few small political parties.

Rashid, in his plea, pleaded that the Sharif-specific amendment to the law was mala fide and unconstitutional since it was introduced to accommodate only one person, the report said.

Meanwhile, the PPP, through its secretary general Sardar Latif Khosa, has sought a declaration from Pakistan's SC that the PML-N government should be restrained from governance until the removal and replacement of Sharif with an eligible person.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Palestine has expressed deep regret over its ambassador in Pakistan being seen in the company of global designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

This came after India took up the matter with the Palestinian authorities.

"Palestine has conveyed has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their ambassador's presence at this event," said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement on Saturday.

"Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is proscribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on 29.12.2017, is unacceptable," the statement added.

The MEA conveyed the concerns to Palestinian Ambassador in India as well as to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Ramallah.

"The concerns were conveyed both in New Delhi to the Palestinian Ambassador and in Ramallah to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, State of Palestine," the statement said.

Palestine has assured India that it will deal with this matter appropriately.

"It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," the statement said.

"We take note of the assurances given by the Palestine side," it added.

Yesterday, India reacted sharply after the picture of Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan attending a rally organised by JuD chief and mastermind of Mumbai terror attack Hafiz Saeed surfaced on the social media platforms.

A photograph of Palestine's Pakistan envoy Waleed Abu Ali sharing a platform with JuD chief at a rally in Rawalpindi is doing the rounds on the social media.

Saeed is designated as a global terrorist by the UN and is accused as the mastermind of the Mumbai 26/11 attacks that claimed 166 lives.

The global terrorist carries a bounty of 10 million USD (approx. Rs 66 crore) and continues to exercise a lot of influence in religious circles.

He has recently been released from house arrest after a Pakistani court cited lack of evidence against him in Mumbai attack case.

India has protested against Pakistan time and again for 'harbouring a terrorist' like Saeed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Palestine on Friday called back its Ambassador in Pakistan after he was seen in the company of Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed.

"We are supporting India in its fight against terrorism and because of that my government decided to directly call our Ambassador to go back home and not to be a Palestine ambassador to Pakistan anymore," Palestinian Ambassador to India Adnan Abu Al Haija told ANI.

His statement has come after a photograph of Palestine's Pakistan envoy Waleed Abu Ali sharing a platform with Saeed, who is designated as a global terrorist by the United Nations, at a rally in Rawalpindi is doing the rounds on the social media.

"Our Ambassador does not know this person. When he starts speaking, he asks who is this person? Our Ambassador's speech was after him, he made his speech and left. For us, even with that, it is not accepted and a decision has been taken," he clarified.

Saeed is accused of masterminding the Mumbai 26/11 attacks that claimed 166 lives.

Speaking on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the country, Haija said, "Mr Modi is a great guest to Palestine, we welcome him there. I hope soon he will visit Palestine, waiting for his visit,"

Earlier today, Palestine expressed deep regret after India took up the matter with its authorities.

"Palestine has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their ambassador's presence at this event," said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement.

The Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Saeed is "unacceptable", it added.

The MEA has conveyed the concerns to Haija as well as to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Ramallah, State of Palestine.

Palestine has also assured India that it will deal with this matter appropriately.

"It was also conveyed that Palestine highly values its relationship with India and stands with us in the war against terrorism, and will not engage with those who commit acts of terror against India," the MEA said.

Saeed carries a bounty of 10 million USD (approx. Rs 66 crore) and continues to exercise a lot of influence in religious circles.

He has recently been released from house arrest after a Pakistani court cited lack of evidence against him in the Mumbai attack case.

India has protested against Pakistan time and again for 'harbouring a terrorist' like Saeed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Panama on Friday announced that they would extradite a former Mexican governor to Mexico on charges of corruption next week.

According to the Panama foreign ministry, as quoted by local media reports, Governor Roberto Borge would be flown back to Mexico City by next Thursday, which was confirmed by the Mexican embassy. The Mexican authorities will come to Panama and escort him back to the country in an official plane under heavy security.

The Government of Panama approved Borges' extradition on December 15, allowing Mexico to pick him up within 30 days. Borges had earlier tried to slow the extradition process through legal challenges but lost his last appeal in Panama's Supreme Court on December 11.

The former Mexican governor was arrested in June this year in Panama when he tried to board a flight to Paris. He is accused of selling state-owned real estate at one percent of its market value in Mexico. The charges against him include corruption, fraud, money laundering and involvement in organized crime.

Borge was the governor of Quintana Roo province of Mexico from 2011 to 2016, under the country's ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uma Sharma, the director of Saharanpur's Public School, whose lower body is paralyzed, has become a source of inspiration for the people of the city.

The 64-year-old Sharma is bedridden for the past 10 years, but that did not stop her from working for her school and carrying out her duties towards the children.

Overcoming all the adversity, Sharma has been instructing authorities from her home with the help of tablet, mobile phone and even takes virtual classes.

Narrating her story, Sharma said that she started working in 1994 and was paralysed in 2007 since then she is active in the administration work from home.

"I had the passion to teach the students and make them capable enough to live a better life. I was paralyzed in 2007 and during that time I lost both my daughter and son. Still, I did not give up. I tried to carry out my responsibility towards the children of the school," she told ANI.

Crediting her mother for being her source of inspiration, Sharma said her only motive is to give the children a better environment and so that they can excel in future.

"In spite of being on the bed from past 10 years, she takes care of all the activities of the school. Her support and guide help us a lot," said her colleague.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The daughter of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shireen Mazari once again targeted the Army, but this time Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor was on her radar.

Imaan Mazari, daughter of the pro-military Pakistani leader, on Saturday tweeted, "Our Prime Minister resigned. Our Law Minister resigned. You know who really SHOULD resign? @OfficialDGISPR. He has brought immense disgrace to his office & cast doubt on the role of the armed forces as non-political. He is a liability not only for the armed forces but 4 Pakistan."

Earlier this month, Imaan held the Army responsible for the capitulation of the Pakistani government to the demands of Islamists protesting against a perceived "blasphemy".

The protests brought the government to its knees after blocking the highway between Islamabad and Rawalpindi for 22 days.

The eventual surrender of the government led to the Pakistani law minister's resignation.

She roasted the Pakistan Army in a self-recorded video that went viral after she uploaded it on Twitter.

Since Pakistan's army is capable of understanding only the language of terror and religious fanatics like Khadim Rizvi, I decided using their language to get their attention," Imaan said in the video.

"Shame on the army that finances the activities of the terrorists, who have burnt down Islamabad and have plans to burn the entire country," she added.

However, reacting to Imaan's video, Shireen said she does not share the view her daughter had expressed.

(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.)
Hours after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approved the release of the movie 'Padmavati' with some changes, Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi on Saturday threatened to vandalise all the cinema halls showing the flick.

Claiming that the release of the movie is against the interest of the country, Gogamedi said that the CBFC, under the pressure of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, agreed to certify it.

"The release of 'Padmavati' is only going to create chaos in the country. The government would be responsible for any loss of life and property following the release of this movie. Every theatre, where this movie would be released would be vandalised", the Rajput Karni Sena chief told ANI.

"The censor board is taking this decision under the pressure of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and are destroying Hindutva from the country," he added.

Earlier in the day, the CBFC suggested few modifications in the controversial movie 'Padmavati', which include changing of the film's title to 'Padmavat', after which it would be given a UA certificate.

The decision came after an examining committee meeting by the CBFC was held on December 28. It consisted of the regular committee members, along with CBFC officials and a special advisory panel in the presence of Chairman Prasoon Joshi.

The other key modifications suggested in the meeting include those of the disclaimers, pertinently adding one regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song 'Ghoomar' to befit the character portrayed.

The special panel consisted of Arvind Singh from Udaipur, Dr Chandramani Singh and Prof KK Singh of the Jaipur University.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Pakistani man, who had taken at least 20 members of his own family hostage in Rawalpindi, has been arrested by the authorities on Saturday.

According to the police, 35-year-old Abdul Rahim, who shot dead his father-in-law after he returned from the mosque on Saturday morning, had taken his family members hostage at gunpoint late last night, the Dawn reported.

Rahim opened fire as the police stormed the house, but was injured as police retaliated.

"Other members of the family are safe, although one elderly woman had lost consciousness because of the tear gas. She has been shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital," the report said, quoting DSP Cantt Raja Taifoor Khan, as saying.

The police has discovered that Rahim was an addict, contrary to the preliminary reports which suggested that the suspect was of unstable mind.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Patiala House Court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of all three accused in connection with the gang-rape of an aspiring actress in Delhi's Sarojini Nagar.

Yesterday, the victim recorded her statement under Section 164 of the CrPC Act, before the duty magistrate at the court.

On December 25, the victim was gang-raped by three people on the pretext of providing jobs in television and films when she, a model by profession, met one of the accused belonging to Mumbai.

A complaint was later filed at the Sarojini Nagar Police Station.

According to police, the accused were known to her.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An elaborate security arrangements will be there in place for the New Year to prevent any untoward incidents in the capital, Delhi Police said on Friday.

"There will be an adequate deployment of traffic police, local police and PCR in Delhi in order to contain hooliganism and revelry in the name of New Year's celebration, 435 check-points will also be made to check traffic violations. Police personnel will be keeping a close eye on people's movement in the city," Delhi Police chief spokesperson Deepender Pathak told ANI.

He said specific passes will be issued in congested areas for parking.

"There will be 125 check-points established to check drunken driving. We will also be issuing an advisory. Unauthorized amusement activity should not be performed in pubs or club," Pathak added.

He said there will be no compromises with security and safety of people.

Pathak also urged people to follow and maintain law and order.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Main photo: Maj. Michael Ruehs (left) and his co-pilot, Lt. Col. Rob Magnuson (center) with Vice President Mike Pence in the cockpit of Air Force 2. Insert: Ruehs escorts Vice President Pence off of the Marine 2 helicopter after it landed at Andrews Air Force Base.

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Maryland -- Michael Ruehs has piloted aircraft with the U.S. Vice President, First Lady, Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff aboard.

He has flown to locations ranging from Asia to Israel to South America. He has sat in the cockpit of his plane and chatted with the Vice President. He has flown his aircraft to foreign locations to perform advance scouting ahead of visits by the President.

Pretty heady stuff for a kid from Vancleave, Miss.

Ruehs was in his first year as a pilot for the U.S. Air Force when he attended a regional seminar for USAF flyers.

It was at that seminar he met several of the commanders from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland who were in charge of operations which included the iconic Air Force 1 and Air Force 2 aircraft which carry the president, vice president and other top-ranking government officials.

"I was thinking `Wow, what an amazing job, career, if you could get there,'" Ruehs recalls. "At the time it seemed so far away, a pipe dream."

Dreams do, indeed, come true.

Eight years later, Maj. Michael Ruehs finds himself one of the pilots for Air Force 2, the designation given to the Boeing 757 which carries the "Big Five," as they are called, the top-ranking officials other than the President.

Ruehs was born in Biloxi and raised in Vancleave, where he was a 12-year student of the Jackson County School District, graduating from Vancleave High School in 1995.

Coming from what he describes as a "not so well-to-do family," Ruehs was looking for an avenue through which he could work as well as pursue as college education. His father, Gary Ruehs, had served in the USAF for a time, and his older sister, Donita, had joined the Air Force only about a year earlier.

"The Air Force Reserve was a good avenue," Ruehs told The Mississippi Press. "It gave me a job to go to and it also provided the Montgomery GI Bill to pay for college."

So Ruehs joined the USAF as an enlisted man and enrolled in Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. After a year at MGCCC, he went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Science and Psychology at the University of Southern Mississippi and then a Masters from William Carey University.

It was about halfway through earning his Masters that Ruehs began to consider his long term job aspirations.

"I was initially trained for an office job, but I knew I wasn't quite ready for that," he said. "I wanted a little more adventure. Because I knew about the Air Force and had put myself through flying lessons in Ocean Springs, I decided to pursue that avenue. Luckily, it worked out."

Worked out, indeed. After graduating from William Carey, Ruehs applied for officers training and was selected for pilot training. He did a six-month stint training at Columbus (Miss.) Air Force Base and then graduated to training to fly C-130s, which he was familiar with from his early days at Keesler.

After assignments in Little Rock, Ark., and as an instructor at an air station in Corpus Christi, Texas, Ruehs was chosen for a special assignment -- a year in Afghanistan training Afghan pilots to fly their own aircraft.

It was a challenging assignment in more ways than one, involving a lot of language training as well as mastering a new aircraft.

"I spent about a year with the Afghans," Ruehs said. "I think that was probably one of the things that set me up for this job."

Meanwhile, back home, his mother -- as mother's do -- worried.

"You get scared when he's over there and you worry to death," said Vickie Hurst. "At the same time, though, you're in awe of what he's doing. Michael has all his life been one of those who, if he's going to do something and sets his mind to it, he's going all in.

"But it's very scary when he's in place where you have no idea what could be happening."

Ruehs returned home safely in early 2013, going back to Little Rock as an evaluator pilot for C-130s.

It was at that point Ruehs learned of the opportunity of a lifetime -- an assignment to Andrews flying one of the planes which carry those in the top levels of government.

He had all the prerequisites: at least 2,500 flying hours, time as an instructor, and training with multiple aircraft. So he threw his hat in the ring.

"You put your application in, along with letters of recommendation, to Andrews and then they look at all the applicants, of which there are only about 60-70 who have the qualifications," he said. "Then they pare it down to about 12 who are invited to Andrews for the interview process."

That interview process involves three days of being grilled by an interview board comprised of senior USAF officers, including squadron commanders, chief pilots, the wing commander, group commander, etc.

"It's a high-pressure, high-stress type environment," Ruehs said. "They can't put you in the aircraft to see how you handle stress, so they put you in an environment to test your ability to handle stress. They give you a lot of complex discussion questions that won't have a right or wrong answer and you just have to find the best solution."

For example, he said, they might ask how he would handle a situation in which the aircraft is on fire and the only available landing spots are a pile of rocks or a minefield.

"That's generalized, but it's like that," he said.

Ruehs said he felt good about his interview. He went home and waited.

About a week later, he got the call: he had been selected to fly Air Force 2.

"I was surprised and shocked, but it was a very high moment in my life," he said.

Ruehs explained there are three different types of aircraft which fly out of Andrews with government officials aboard: a Gulfstream executive jet, a Boeing 737 and the Boeing 757.

"I had originally put in to fly the Gulfstream," he said, "but I got my second choice, which is the 757. It's the largest aircraft we have here and primarily carries the Air Force 2 call sign.

"That was super exciting, because it's not ever day you get to fly the vice president around the county."

Naturally, his family burst with pride when he shared the news.

"We were so proud," Hurst said. "Me and his stepfather were running around telling everyone. I can't even describe it. We were just so, so proud of him."

She said Michael has sent photos of himself with the vice president.

"I have a wall where I put pictures of family and those went right in the center," she said, laughing.

Ruehs' sister, meanwhile, who had proceeded him into the Air Force by a year and retired as a Major after 20 years, says she wasn't the least surprised as the success her little brother has achieved.

"I was just surprised it wasn't Air Force 1," Donita Hines said. "I've always expected great things from him, because he's got a strong work ethic. He's very driven. He's not afraid of hard work and the bonus part of that is he's easy to get along with. He's a really nice guy."

Ruehs was officially hired as an Air Force 2 pilot in January 2016, but had to go through months of additional training before beginning to fly. Since he began flying Air Force 2, he's had officials from both the Obama and Trump administrations aboard. One of his very first flights was with then-Vice President Joe Biden aboard.

But the administration changed shortly after Ruehs began flying AF2 and since then he has flown Vice President Mike Pence around the county and across the globe. He says Pence makes it a point to always visit with the crew before and after each flight.

"It's not unusual for Vice President Pence to come up to the cockpit to talk to us," Ruehs said. "He's a very personable individual. Almost any time he comes aboard the aircraft, he makes a beeline for the crew compartment and says hello to everyone, then sits down and chats with us (pilots) for a little bit. He does the same thing on the way out."

He has also piloted the aircraft with each of the "Big Five" aboard on multiple missions.

Ruehs' job has taken him to locations around the world of which a kid from Vancleave could only dream, including a 12-day trip to Asia, including stops in Japan, Korea, China, Vietnam and the Philippines. That trip, in fact, was a scouting mission of sorts in advance of President Trump's visit to Asia.

"It was to look ahead and make sure there were no issues to be addressed before the President's visit," Ruehs explained.

Other flights have taken Ruehs to Israel and South America, as well as throughout the U.S. -- "a lot of places I otherwise would probably have never touched," he said.

Ruehs, 40, admits that at the start of his career he could never have imagined the heights to which his military career would take him -- literally and figuratively.

"No way," he said. "I would never have thought, back in the beginning, that I'd be where I'm at today. I've been fortunate to have had some great opportunities -- including this one, of course."
Awami National Party (ANP) President Asfandyar Wali Khan has accused former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif of making false promises to the people of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) for the merger with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

"Nawaz Sharif is a liar. I have never seen such a person in my whole life. He has forgotten all those promises he made with the people of Fata," The Express Tribune quoted Asfandyar, as saying while addressing a party worker's convention in PK-17, Charsadda on Friday.

He further accused the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government of ignoring the FATA and KP under the China-Pakistan-Economic-Corridor (CPEC).

The ANP president said Fata and K-P had been ignored in the CPEC despite tall claims, adding, "Sharif promised me that only the people of Fata will have right over their resources but like his other promises, it has also been ignored."

"At the behest of only two persons - Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mehmood Khan Achakzai - the PML-N government is delaying giving the people of Fata their basic rights," he added.

Asfandyar also announced that his party will be contesting the general elections 2018 alone.

Earlier in October, Balochistan president of Awami National Party (ANP), Asghar Khan Achakzai, alleged the Pakistan Government of ignoring the province under the CPEC, saying the development process and all resources were being diverted towards Punjab.

He further alleged that the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was giving all of its attention to Punjab for the electoral benefit.

The CPEC project comprises a network of railways, roads and pipelines that would connect Pakistan's port city of Gwadar in the province of Balochistan, with the Chinese city of Kashgar in landlocked Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR).

The human rights activists have, time and again, spoken about and highlighted the growing atrocities of Pakistan on the indigenous people of Balochistan and deteriorating human rights situation as a result of the CPEC.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao laid the foundation stone for the construction of Golla and Kurma Welfare Bhavans on Friday at Kokapet in Rangareddy district.

The Chief Minister said the state government had allocated five acres of land to each community for the construction of the buildings. The government also released Rs 5 crore to each building for the construction.

The Bhavan will be built for Golla and Kuruma communities to bring them on a single platform and inspire them for the development in all the sectors.

"We will complete the construction within a year. Poor people of the community can solemnise their marriages in the Bhavan. Let's gather some fund. This fund can be utilised for the education of poor Yadavs and support for the medical expenditure," Rao said.

"I visited Delhi to meet home Minister Rajnath Singh, he asked me that you are going to give 8000 to farmers, what is your agenda. I said some farmers have in loss that is why our government is giving money to farmers, then he asked me are you interested in centre politics, I said no I am not having any interest in central ."

Talasani Srinivas Yadav, Animal Husbandry Minister, Telangana said that it was a happy moment for Golla-Kurma communities as government has given Rs .10 crores to both the communities.

"We will build hostels and skill development centres in the land which is allocated for us. The Telangana government is working hard for poor people," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least 10 militants, belonging to the Taliban insurgent group, were killed and eight others injured in a clash with the security forces in Uruzgan province of Afghanistan.

The Tolo News quoted the district police chief for Khas Uruzgan district, Mullah Abdul Samad, as saying on Saturday, that the security forces thwarted a Taliban attack on security check posts in the district.

He further said dozens of Taliban militants attacked security check posts in the Shikha area of the district.

One Afghan soldier was also killed and several others injured during the attack.

The insurgent group has not commented on the incident so far.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A study has recently found that taking a higher dose of Carfilzomib, which is used for treating cancer, can increase the risk of hypertension, heart failure, and heart attacks in multiple myeloma patients.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a bone marrow cancer that affects plasma cells.

The proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib has taken on an increasing role in the treatment of multiple myeloma

According to the University of Pennsylvania researchers, higher doses of Carfilzomib are associated with higher rates of cardiovascular adverse events (CVAE).

The results showed that 18 per cent of multiple myeloma patients receiving Carfilzomib experienced cardiovascular adverse events (CVAE) such as hypertension, heart failure, heart attacks, or arrhythmia.

Lead author Adam J Waxman from the University of Pennsylvania said that like any cancer therapy, the concern with this approach was that it might have an effect on an otherwise healthy part of the body - in this case, the heart.

The team gathered data from 24 studies reported from 2007 through 2017, which included information on 2,594 MM patients.

They found 18.1 per cent of patients who took Carfilzomib experienced CVAE, with 8.2 per cent of those cases being grade three or higher, meaning they are categorised as severe.

The most common CVAEs were hypertension (12.2 per cent) and heart failure (4.1 per cent). Arrhythmias (2.4 per cent) and ischemic events (1.8 per cent) - in which there isn't enough blood flow to the heart leading to the death of heart muscle.

"Taken together, these findings argue that carfilzomib is responsible for an elevated risk, and anyone who is treating patients with this drug needs to be aware that this is a common event," Waxman stated.

The researchers noted that these findings were particularly important since there were already overlapping risk factors for both MM and cardiovascular disease, such as older age and obesity.

The research appeared in JAMA Oncology journal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
United States President Donald Trump on Saturday condemned the arrests of the protesters in the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran.

In a series of tweets, Trump warned Iran that the ' is watching' and the people of Iran wanted a change in its regime.

He tweeted, "Oppressive regimes cannot endure forever, and the day will come when the Iranian people will face a choice. The is watching!"

"The entire understands that the good people of Iran want change, and, other than the vast military power of the United States, that Iran's people are what their leaders fear the most....", tweeted Trump, on the oppressive regime of President Hassan Rouhani's government in Iran.

According to the Independent, Trump has repeatedly taken aim at Iran, denouncing its government as a 'fanatical regime' and accusing it of violating an international agreement aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program, refusing to certify its compliance with the 2015 deal.

Protesters in different cities of Iran have raised anti-government slogans, over alleged corruption and rising prices that have plagued the people of the country earlier in this week. Scores of protesters have been arrested. Also, three protesters were reportedly shot dead by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in central Iran.

The outbreak of unrest reflects the growing discontent over rising prices and alleged corruption by the government, as well as concern over the country's costly involvement in regional conflicts such as Syria and Iraq.

Iran backs Syria's embattled president, Bashar al-Assad, in his country's civil war, the Shia militants in Iraq, the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah group in Lebanon.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The United States is considering withholding a USD 255-million aid to Islamabad due to Pakistan's inability to destroy terror safe havens.

According to a New York Times report, the growing disagreement between the two countries and Pakistan's inability to neutralise the terrorist networks operating from its soil could possibly affect the decision in providing financial aid to the Islamabad.

The US administration will take the final call in a meeting in coming weeks.

"The United States, which has provided Pakistan more than $33 billion in aid since 2002, said in August that it was withholding the $255 million until Pakistan did more to crack down on internal terrorist groups. Senior administration officials met this month to decide what to do about the money, and American officials said a final decision could be made in the coming weeks," the report said.

The report cited the major disappointment for the US was Pakistan's rejection of its demand of access to one of the abductors involved in the kidnapping of the Canadian-American family.

"When Pakistani forces freed a Canadian-American family this fall held captive by militants, they also captured one of the abductors. United States officials saw a potential windfall: He was a member of the Taliban-linked Haqqani network who could perhaps provide valuable information about at least one other American hostage," the report said.

"The Americans demanded access to the man, but Pakistani officials rejected those requests, the latest disagreement in the increasingly dysfunctional relationship between the countries," it added.

Earlier in July, the Pentagon said it would withhold USD 50 million in military reimbursements for Pakistan because the country had not taken "sufficient action" against the Haqqani network.

The Trump administration had agreed to provide the USD 255 million military aid to Pakistan, with conditions attached - the US State Department said that Islamabad could access the funds only if it acts against terror groups based in the tribal areas and stop cross-border attacks in Afghanistan.

The $255 million in military assistance was the largest portion of an estimated $1.1 billion of US aid Congress had authorised in 2016.

The US claims that more than $33 billion in aid has been provided to Pakistan since 2002.

Although the volume of annual US assistance to Pakistan stands at $1.1 billion, hundreds of millions of dollars are withheld every year under different restrictions imposed since 2011, when relations between the two countries began to deteriorate after Osama bin Laden was found in Abbottabad.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Kremlin has stated that the poor bilateral relationship between the United States and Russia is one of the biggest disappointments of the year.

"Russian-American relations, let's say, the position Washington takes toward our country can only cause regret," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a conference call of international reporters.

The worsening ties between the US and Russia are "certainly" on the list of biggest disappointments, he said, according to Sputnik International.

Underscoring Russia's desire of seeking "mutually beneficial relations," Peskov added, "We want and are seeking good mutually beneficial relations based on mutual respect, mutual trust with all countries, primarily with European ones, including the United States. But it takes two to tango."

Peskov's remarks come a day after US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson penned down, in a New York Times op-ed, that the US and Russia have "poor relationship."

"On Russia, we have no illusions about the regime we are dealing with. The United States today has a poor relationship with a resurgent Russia that has invaded its neighbours Georgia and Ukraine in the last decade and undermined the sovereignty of western nations by meddling in our election and other," Tillerson wrote.

According to the several media reports, in response to the query on US President Trump's remarks to the New York Times, about special counsel Robert Mueller's ongoing probe into the alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential polls, Peskov stated that the Kremlin was "still perplexed."

"We have repeatedly stated our opinion on the anti-Russian hysteria that is fomented and maintained in the US. We are still perplexed in connection with all ongoing investigations," Peskov responded.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
For purpose of business expansion

Indo Amines has acquired an industrial Land situated at Plot Number E-6 MIDC Mahad District Raigad - 422 309, Maharashtra for further business expansion by signing the ('MOU') between RKG Lifescince and Indo Amines.

Powered by Capital Market - Live News

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The British police chief in charge of child protection says an estimated 20,000 men have shown an interest in sexually abusing children, the media reported.

Officer Simon Bailey, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead on child protection, on Friday said investigators monitoring a single online chatroom in 2017 identified 4,000 men using it from the UK alone, the Guardian reported.

Bailey estimated the number of men interested in sexually abusing children at more than 20,000.

He added that limited resources meant not all perpetrators could be tackled, with the police forced to focus on the most dangerous offenders.

"We are having to prioritise the threat... Some lower-level offenders cannot be arrested and taken to court. There is just not the capacity."

Bailey warned that a growing threat to children came from live streaming and said the police wanted a fresh crackdown from tech companies on the use of platforms including Periscope, which is owned by Twitter, and Facebook Live.

His warning follows reports that abusive behaviour is on the rise.

Earlier this month, the NSPCC child protection charity said there had been a 31 per cent increase in the number of reported cases of child sexual abuse in the UK in the previous year.

In the first 11 months of 2017, the National Crime Agency received 72,000 referrals about online child sexual abuse imagery, up from 6,000 in 2010, the Guardian reported.

The police chief said the children being targeted were not just those from homes where the parents or the adults in charge were neglectful.

"The victims have included children of very capable and very caring parents. It does not recognise social status. The victims include children of middle-class, educated parents who think they are internet-savvy," he said.

On the emerging issue of live streaming, Bailey urged tech companies to do more.

"Software providers have a critical role in policing the environment they create... They have a social and moral responsibility to make their platforms safe for children to use."

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least 20 civilians were killed on Saturday when Saudi-led coalition fighter jets hit Yemen's Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, witnesses and a medical source told Xinhua.

The warplanes struck three taxis full of travellers near a crowded restaurant in the city, killing a number of people, including women and children. Dozens of clients inside the restaurant were also killed or injured, according to witnesses.

Medical source in the Hodeidah hospital told Xinhua by phone that at least 20 were killed and 10 others wounded.

The attack took place around noon at the al-Jarrahi district.

The attack was the latest in a series of airstrikes conducted by the US-backed Saudi-led coalition air force since the start of the war in Yemen three years ago.

Last Tuesday, the coalition's warplanes targeted a crowded popular market in the southwestern province of Taiz, killing over 40 people, according to local media and witnesses.

A day earlier, a family of nine members, including five children, were killed when the coalition struck the family's house five times in Yemen's capital Sanaa, local residents and a Xinhua photographer at the scene witnessed.

The Saudi-led coalition has intervened in the Yemeni conflict since March 2015 to roll back the Houthi militants and support the internationally-recognized President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, who was forced into exile by the Houthis.

The war has killed over 10,000 Yemenis, mostly children, and displaced 3 million others, creating one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.

--IANS

ahm/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Three persons, including the gunman, have been killed in a shooting incident in Houston in the US state of Texas, police said.

Houston Police Department Executive Assistant Chief Troy Finner told reporters on Friday in a briefing that the shooter, who was a former employee of an auto repair shop, shot and killed two employees at the shop, Xinhua news agency reported.

The shooter then walked out to the yard and shot himself dead, said the police officer.

Finner said there were multiple people inside the shop when the shooting happened. He said police have contacted the family of the shooter, but declined to confirm the gender of the shooter.

No other injuries have been reported. The motive for the shooting is unknown at this time. Police said more detailed information would be released after investigation.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The AIIMS Resident Doctors Association (RDA) has accused the hospital's administration of delaying the counselling for a fresh batch of resident doctors despite the contract agreement of many existing resident doctors coming to an end on December 31.

Resident doctors are the main workforce at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, which witnesses over 10,000 footfall daily in all of its outpatient departments. The delay in induction of new resident doctors is likely to affect patient care.

According to the RDA, every year counselling usually happens around December 20 and the date of joining for the doctors is January 1, but as of now, there is no notification issued on the issue.

"The counselling should have been done much earlier, but there is no update on the issue yet by the AIIMS administration," Vijay Gujjar, former RDA president and a senior resident, told IANS.

The counselling is conducted for the PG students who have qualified for MD/MS course at the AIIMS here.

--IANS

rup/nir/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
State-run Allahabad Bank on Saturday signed an MoU with the government owned National E-Governance Services Ltd (NeSL) for a the tie-up that could help in minimising the resolution period in NCLT (National Company Law Tribunal) referred cases.

NeSL is the first Information Utility entity registered by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India under the aegis of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

"With mounting NPAs and resolution being the need of the hour especially in the high value loan accounts, NeSL can play a great role in minimizing the resolution period in NCLT referred cases," the lender said in a statement.

Allahabad Bank's MD and CEO Usha Ananthasubramanian said that the MoU signed with NeSL was the first agreement signed by a lender in the public sector bank space.

This MoU signifies core functions of NeSL, like accepting electronic submission of financial information, safe and accurate recording, verifying and authenticating the financial information submitted and providing access to information stored and services incidental to the aforesaid services would be available to the city headquartered lender.

NeSL's MD and CEO S. Ramann said that the information utility services would serve as a storehouse of authenticated financial information which can be accessed by any concerned parties to specific accounts as well as by resolution professionals and NCLT.

He also said that the system would lead to early and quick solutions for frivolous litigation created by defaulters to delay the process.

--IANS

bdc/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah will visit Karnataka on Sunday to take stock of the party's preparations in the poll-bound state and interact with the party's MPs, MLAs and office-bearers, a party official said here on Saturday.

During the day-long visit, he will have one meeting with the legislators and MPs and a separate meeting with office-bearers of the party's legislature wing.

In another meeting, he would interact with the state office-bearers, district chiefs and district office-bearers, a BJP statement said.

His last meeting will be with the members of the party's core group in the state.

Karnataka is one of the two major states ruled by the Congress and assembly polls are expected to take place in the first-half of next year. The BJP is keen to wrest the state from the Congress.

Shah's visit comes in the backdrop of BJP's Karnataka unit and the ruling Congress blaming each other on the deadlock over getting Mahadayi river water from neighbouring Goa to the four drought-hit districts in the state's northern region. Goa has a BJP-led government.

The 77-km-long Mahadayi or Mandovi river originates at Bhimgad in the Western Ghats in Belagavi district of north-west Karnataka and flows into the neighbouring Goa and eventually joins the Arabian Sea.

Karnataka has been asking Goa since 2001 to release 7.6 thousand million cubic feet of the river water to meet the drinking needs of its people in Hubballi-Dharwad, Gadag, Bagalkote and Belagavi districts and irrigating their farmlands.

--IANS

ps/nir/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
One of British Prime Minister Theresa May's key advisers, Lord Andrew Adonis, has announced he is quitting his role, describing Brexit as a "populist and nationalist spasm".

Adonis, who was appointed as her infrastructure adviser in 2015, said May was "pursuing a course fraught with danger" over the UK's EU departure, the BBC reported.

The one-time Secretary of State in Tony Blair's Labour government resigned as chair of the National Infrastructure Commission. He was already a high-profile campaigner against Brexit.

A government source said: "He's been moving closer towards the exit door with each new onslaught he makes against Brexit. He's now walked through the door before he was pushed."

Adonis later insisted it had been his decision to leave, as his "differences with the government had become too great".

In his letter to 10 Downing Street, Adonis, who would now sit in the unelected House of Lords, told May: "The European Union Withdrawal Bill is the worst legislation of my lifetime.

"It arrives soon in the House of Lords and I feel duty-bound to oppose it relentlessly from the Labour benches."

He told May her government "is hurtling towards the EU's emergency exit with no credible plan for the future of British trade and European cooperation".

He also claimed that Brexit was causing a nervous breakdown across Whitehall, Xinhua news agency reported.

He said: "If Brexit happens, taking us back into Europe will become the mission of our children's generation, who will marvel at your acts of destruction."

There was no immediate official response from 10, Downing Street.

Leading Brexiteer, Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith said the departure of Adonis was "long overdue".

--IANS

in/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has decided to give a U/A certificate subject to no cuts, but five "modifications" -- including a title change -- to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's controversial film "Padmavati". The decision has not been welcomed by the Karni Sena, a Mewar royal and some members of the film fraternity.

Uncertainty has been looming large over the movie's release since a few months, but on Saturday, the CBFC -- following a examining committee meeting -- said it has decided to give a U/A certificate to the movie subject to modifications.

"There are no cuts suggested in this film by CBFC, only five modifications," CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi told IANS via email, refuting reports that 26 cuts were ordered in the movie.

"Padmavati", backed by Viacom18 Motion Pictures, is directed by Bhansali and features Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapur in lead roles.

The film, which was to release on December 1, has been embroiled in controversy over alleged distortion of facts regarding Rajput history, with Rajput outfits and some backed by the BJP, actively protesting its release.

Joshi said the CBFC asked the makers to change the disclaimer "clearly to one that does not claim historical accuracy".

Regarding the film's title "Padmavati", Joshi said the discussed change is to "Padmavat" as the filmmakers have attributed their material/creative source as the fictional poem "Padmavat" and not history.

CBFC has demanded modifications in the song "Ghoomar" to "befit" the character of Rajput queen Padmavati being portrayed by Deepika, and changes in the "incorrect/misleading reference to historical places".

The censor board also wants the makers to add a disclaimer which clarifies that the "film in no manner subscribes to the practice of Sati or seeks to glorify it".

Once the required modifications are carried out and final material submitted, the certificate will be issued, CBFC said.

According to Joshi, these suggested changes "are completely in agreement with the filmmakers -- the producers and director of the film".

The decision was taken after an examining committee meeting was held on Thursday in the presence of Joshi, along with a special panel comprising Arvind Singh from Udaipur, historian Chandramani Singh and Professor K.K. Singh of Jaipur University.

As per CBFC, the film was approached with a "balanced view keeping in mind both the filmmakers and the society".

"Considering the complexities and concerns around the film, the requirement for a special panel was felt "to add perspective to the final decision of the official committee," Joshi said.

Despite the go-ahead, Karni Sena, an organisation of the Rajput community, which has been protesting the movie's release on Saturday again urged a complete ban on "Padmavati" alleging "distortion of historical facts".

"We will station our people outside cinema theatres and each hall showing the film will be vandalised," Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, president, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, told media in Jaipur.

Members of the organisation had earlier this year physically assaulted Bhansali during the film's shooting in Jaipur earlier this year, vandalised the sets of the movie on the outskirts of Mumbai, and then issued threats against Bhansali and Deepika.

The CBFC's suggestions were also slammed by a Mewar royal, who expressed his disappointment in a letter to Joshi.

Maharajkumar Vishvaraj Singh, son of Mahendra Singh Mewar -- the 76th Maharana of the Mewar dynasty and a former Lok Sabha member -- said he was supposed to be a part of the committee on Thursday. But he couldn't make it in the end and the decision was taken by the censor board without his consent.

Popular Bollywood celebrities like Anubhav Sinha, Renuka Shahane and Apurva Asrani, among others also slammed CBFC's decision on Twitter, where some people edited Deepika's photograph with her co-star Ranveer Singh, referring to the new title, "Padmavat".

"So Bhansali can now actually throw a party. Just that whisky will be called 'whiska', vodka will be called 'vodki' and so on," Sinha tweeted.

Renuka wrote: "The 'I' of the storm has passed. CBFC changes the name of "Padmavati" to "Padmavat" and passes the film with a U/A certificate. Thereby, nobody will have any issue and nobody's sentiments will be hurt. Name changing is game changing I must say!"

Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia was "disgusted" by CBFC's decision.

"Disgusted by the open and blatant use of political muscle to screw filmmakers during elections. Now that Gujarat and Himachal are won, 'Padmavati' has got its U/A, it will be praised. Rajputs' heroism will be talked about by the same people who slammed it. Thank God we have not made a film called Gandhi! Can you imagine what title CBFC would suggest," he tweeted.

Asrani said: "If 'Pad Man' picks up the 'I' that 'Padmavat' drops, they'll have to call it 'Padmani'. From the frying pan into the pyre."

Actor Rahul Dev tweeted: "'Padmavati' turns 'Padmavat', smart move, yet wonder why is the 'I' so large in our country? CBFC gives U/A certificate for the film."

--IANS

sas-arc-rb/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The fire that ripped through an apartment building here, killing 12 people, appears to have been caused by a youngster who was playing with a stove, New York's mayor has said.

"What we think at this point is that it unfortunately emanated from an accident, a young child playing with a stove on the first floor of the building," Bill de Blasio said on Friday during his weekly radio show on WNYC, Efe news reported.

The blaze at the five-storey building in the Bronx began at around 6.50 p.m. on Thursday and spread rapidly.

De Blasio said the toll could rise.

"We've lost 12 people. We could lose more. There are some still fighting for their lives," the mayor said of what he had earlier described as "the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in a quarter century."

Four children were among the victims, the youngest just a year old.

"Our hearts go out to every family who lost a loved one here and everyone fighting for their lives," fire commissioner Daniel Nigro said.

More than 160 firefighters battled the flames, according to the Fire Department of New York.

Questions arose about possible shortcomings in fire-safety measures at the building, which was built more than a century ago, but De Blasio said that authorities had found no evidence of a problem.

"It does not appear that there was anything problematic about the building or the fire safety in the building. It seems like a horrible, tragic accident," he said.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA), a global body of practitioners working under the umbrella of the Commonwealth, on Saturday voiced concern over the death threats issued to Shyamal Dutta, one of its Vice Presidents and Editor of Bengali language daily published from Dhaka, Bhorer Kagaj.

The CJA in a statement expressed shock and extreme concern that one of its Vice Presidents and Bangladesh chapter General Secretary Shyamal Dutta is facing threats of violence from Islamist fundamentalists who have publicly called for his hanging.

The issue raised by those who have spoken out against Shyamal Dutta is a report carried by the newspaper about 'vulgarities' contained in a book on the Hadith published by the Madrassah Education Board, an official body of the Bangladesh government.

The article in question was a factual report on a matter of public interest but it has been misinterpreted as if the newspaper report had called the Hadith vulgar. That is categorically not the case. Public marches and a demonstration in front of the Press Club in Dhaka took place on December 23, at which protesters demanded punishment for Dutta and the concerned reporter.

A string of legal notices have been served on him and an apology has been demanded. The newspaper has issued a clarification that it merely reported, quoting sources, and had not passed any comment on the Hadith.

It said Dutta has also been the target of an aggressive, derogatory and threatening campaign against him on social . Some of the comments have a sectarian character, focussed on the fact that he and the reporter who wrote the article are members of the Hindu minority community.

In view of the incidents over the past months when a number of bloggers and journalists have been attacked and killed in broad daylight in Dhaka and other cities, the CJA is extremely worried for the safety of Dutta, his team and the newspaper itself.

This has been conveyed in a formal letter to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh is a secular democracy. The CJA expects the Government of Bangladesh to ensure adequate protection to all concerned and to send out a stern message to those responsible to desist from any further threats, incitements and false accusations," it said.

--IANS

rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
"Politically aware" Kayzo, Los Angeles-based DJ and producer, doesnt want to advocate his political ideas through his music. He says he wants his music to be an outlet through which people escape reality.

A lot of musicians in the US want to use their music for political activism. But Kayzo, known for his versatility, doesn't want to follow the same path.

"I don't want to advocate my political ideas in my music or on my social media. I am politically aware in terms of what is going around in my country and what is going on in the world, but I see my music as an outlet for people to get an escape from all that," Kayzo, whose real name is Hayden Capuozzo, told IANS here.

The DJ, who was excited to perform in India for the first time at the 11th edition of Ola Sunburn here, added: "For me, my music is like speaking to my everyday life. I try to stay away creatively from all that (political issues)."

Kayzo has made a place for himself in the world of music by remixing songs and infusing trap and hardstyle genres into his remixes. He got noticed with "Wake up" in collaboration with DJ Riot. Later, he officially remixed DJ Snake's "A different way".

He will be coming out with his debut album "Overload" in January next year.

"'Overload' album will be the stamp on what sound I will be pushing forward. Past the album, I am starting my north American bus tour in February. I am also working on a lot of collaborations. I can't name the artistes. They haven't said anything yet so I don't want to spoil it yet," said the bass artiste.

Talking about his musical influences, he said: "The number one thing as an artiste you do is to be able to stay willing to adapt and be creatively forward thinking. For me, as an artiste I have just been in-tune with music as a whole and not just electronic music but all types of music."

"I am a big fan of other types of music like pop, funk and rock. For me, to be able to evolve is to be able to find ways to combine my liking and my passion for rock, pop and funk with other types of electronic music."

"That is what 2017 has been for me. It has been about finding ways to combine my electronic side with other sides like rock style. That's what I have done in my album. In 2018, I am going to find new ways to push the envelope."

He mentions that he likes to explore different genres, but Indian music is still a mystery to him.

"I haven't had much of a chance to dive into it yet, but I would like to dive more into the local artiste and see what the scene is out here versus the scene back home," he said.

Talking about the music scene in Asia, Kayzo said: "In parts of Asia like China and Japan, bass music scene and culture in general have grown so much, especially this year. So, it is so exciting to see India take off with this music and it is exciting to see all the hype behind it and finally to be here and experience it."

(The writer's trip is at the invitation of Ola Sunburn organisers. Sugandha Rawal can be contacted at sugandha.r@ians.in)

--IANS

sug/nn/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Dubai, Dec 30 (IANS/WAM) The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a digital kiosk intended to facilitate the processing of transactions and services offered to taxi drivers in the country.

It also avails them access to efficient and speedy services through using smart technologies that nurture an advanced and interactive business environment, the report said on Friday.

"The digital kiosk is operated through a smart app on smartphones. It enables the taxi driver to apply for leave, salary certificate, insurance details, test results, and Dubai map in addition to reporting a traffic accident and other applications related to travel or driving licence," said Ammar Al Buraiki, Director of Resources and Support, DTC.

The applications can be retrieved from the digital kiosk in the head office of the DTC. The app has an early distress call feature linking the cab driver with the Control Centre during emergencies and crises, and enabling the positioning of the vehicle in order to deliver the required assistance," Al Buraiki said.

He further said that the launch of the digital kiosk "is part of the efforts in support of the Smart City initiative of our government to rank Dubai as the smartest and happiest city worldwide".

--IANS/WAM

soni/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
J. L. BELL is a Massachusetts writer who specializes in (among other things) the start of the American Revolution in and around Boston. He is particularly interested in the experiences of children in 1765-75. He has published scholarly papers and popular articles for both children and adults. He was consultant for an episode of History Detectives, and contributed to a display at Minute Man National Historic Park.
An Egyptian court on Saturday sentenced ousted President Mohamed Morsi to three years in jail for insulting the judiciary.

Eighteen members of Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood group received the same verdict on the same charges, reports Xinhua news agency.

The defendants were accused of insulting the judiciary system, offending judges and inciting hatred against them, according to court documents.

Morsi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence over inciting deadly clashes between his supporters and opponents in 2012 and a 25-year jail term over leaking classified documents to Qatar.

Most Brotherhood leaders also are currently detained and many of them have been handed death sentences and lengthy jail terms over various charges varying from inciting violence and murder to espionage and jailbreak.

--IANS

ksk/vm

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
France has tightened security and deployed additional security forces across the country to ensure safety at the peak of holiday season, the Interior Ministry said.

"In a context of high terrorist threat, guaranteeing the safety of both the French and tourists and allowing the smooth running of this popular and festive moment in a calm atmosphere, is a top priority," the ministry said in a statement on Friday, Xinhua reported.

With that aim, the government will mobilise on December 31 a total of 139,400 security forces into French cities, with a major focus on the capital Paris where perimeters of security would be set up. This includes the iconic avenue of the Champs Elysees where thousands of nationals and tourists are expected to flock into to celebrate the new year.

Earlier this month, police arrested in Paris a 19-year-old radicalized woman who planned to attack soldiers. A 21-year-old man was also detained in Lyon on charges of planning terrorist assault, according to local media.

France, a major target of frequent terrorist attacks, had imposed emergency security rules following the November 2015 attacks.

In October, French President Emmanuel Macron signed an anti-terrorism law which he said was necessary to muscle security at home to combat high terrorism menace.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actor-director Richard E. Grant says he was robbed at an ATM here.

Grant visited his hometown Swaziland in Africa to celebrate Christmas and later headed to Cape Town.

The 60-year-old said on Twitter that the incident happened on Friday, reports dailymail.co.uk.

He documented his ordeal on the micro-blogging site, but appeared to brush off the encounter as he headed to the beach later that day to spend time with his daughter Olivia during their getaway.

Showcasing a beach of Cape Town, Grant wrote: "Feel like a right mug having been mugged at an ATM in Cape Town."

The "Game of Thrones" star didn't reveal any details about the incident.

--IANS

sas/nn/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Even as Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel on Saturday continued to sulk over not being given key portfolios in the new Council of Ministers, Patidar quota leader Hardik Patel asserted that he should leave the BJP and join the Congress party.

"I and my supporters are prepared to talk to the Congress leadership to welcome Nitin Patel in the party if he and 10 other MLAs are willing to resign and come," Hardik Patel told reporters in Ahmedabad.

"If the BJP can't take care of a senior leader like Nitin Patel who has spent many years in building the party, and must be respected, if they can't, Nitin Patel should leave the party," the firebrand leader, whose reservation movement caused a major dent in the ruling party's electoral prospects in the just concluded assembly elections, said.

He claimed he was willing to recommend to the Congress leadership to "accommodate Nitinbhai in a senior position" in the party and that he should come with "at least 10 MLAs".

The Patidar leader also exhorted BJP's Patel leaders to back the Deputy Chief Minister.

"If the BJP is not respecting Patels, then they should leave the party and should accompany Nitin Patel," Hardik Patel said.

The Deputy Chief Minister has been sulking after the key Finance, Urban Development and Petrochemicals portfolios were snatched away from him to accommodate Saurabh Patel, who was dropped in the previous Vijay Rupani government. Rupani has retained Urban Development with himself, while giving away Finance and Petrochemicals to Saurabh Patel.

Miffed over this, Nitin Patel kept away from office in the Sachivalaya in Gandhinagar on Friday while all his newly-inducted colleagues took charge. Amid speculation that he may even resign from the party, the Deputy Chief Minister did not even use his official vehicle and escort.

--IANS

desai/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The first maiden voyage of Heritage Palace on Wheels (HPOW) reached here on Saturday from Delhi with 28 tourists on board.

The HPOW, on its first tour, has 27 domestic tourists and 1 foreign (from South Africa).

This train will be running in two itineraries - 3 Nights on the "Golden Tringle" - Delhi-Jaipur-Sawai Madhopur-Agra-Delhi and 4 nights on the "Desert Triangle" - Delhi-Churu-Bikaner-Jaipur-Agra-Dholpur-Delhi.

General Manager, HPOW, Pradeep Bohra, who was accompanying the tourists, said that the train arrived at Jaipur's Gandhinagar Station on the last leg of its 'olden Triangle Circuit Tour'.

The passengers were given a warm reception, being welcomed by a music band and traditional garlands in a gala celebration by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Department of Tourism, on their arrival.

This is the third luxury train in Rajasthan which is being run by RTDC.

According to railway officials, the HPOW is meant for those who want luxury but may not have much time or don't want to spend too much, especially weekend holidayers, corporate executives etc.

The train can also be booked for conferences, board meetings and even pre-wedding ceremonies. The tariff is now $300 or Rs 19,000 per night per person.--IANS

arc/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The India-Palestine Solidarity Front (IPSF) on Saturday strongly condemned the Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Waleed Abu Ali, for sharing the dais with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed and welcomed his recall.

"We appreciate the prompt action by President Mahmoud Abbas, the Government of Palestine, to recall (Ali) for having attended a meeting convened by LeT Chief Hafeez Saeed, an internationally reviled and known hardcore terrorist," said IPSF.

"This prompt action by the Palestinian government will go a long way in improving India-Palestine ties and further cooperation", and "the immediate dialogue and resolution of the crisis is truly appreciated by both the people of India and Palestine", it said.

The rich historical legacy bequeathed upon our nation by Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh and the stalwarts of our freedom struggle, the respect and adulation for the great Yasser Arafat, lives on in our collective memory.

"The Indian people will continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their epic quest for freedom from the Zionist Israeli occupation and the creation of a sovereign and an independent state of Palestine," the IPSF added.

Earlier in the day, in a statement, the IPSF National Committee members Suresh Khairnar, Kishor Jagtap, Jatin Desai and Feroze Mithiborwalal had demanded that President Mahmoud Abbas condemn and sack the envoy (Ali).

Desai told IANS that after its statement, the IPSF has been barraged with calls/messages from all over India, including the Palestinian authorities, and they had assured remedial action.

"The fact that this reprehensible act comes soon after the historic UNGA vote where the Government of India stood by Palestine and negated President Trump's declaration on Jerusalem is even more shocking," the IPSF said.

It pointed out that "India has consistently voted in favour of Palestine and stood by all UN Resolutions and the overwhelming international consensus favouring an independent and sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital."

"On the other hand the global solidarity movement for the cause of Palestine continues to gather momentum. Thus any such unprincipled actions on the part of the Palestinian representatives, will only damage the cause of the liberation of Palestine in their courageous struggle against the colonial occupation by apartheid Israel," the signatories said.

On Friday, Waleed Abu Ali courted controversy by sharing stage with terror outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Saeed at a gathering organised by Difa-e-Pakistan Council, an umbrella organization of hardline right-wing groups.

India termed the action "unacceptable" and took up the matter strongly with the Palestinian authorities.

--IANS

qn/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Iran on Saturday condemned US "interference" in the country's internal affairs.

In a statement, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qasemi said that "meddling" remarks of the US President Donald Trump and his support for recent protests in some Iranian cities are "opportunistic and deceitful".

On Friday, protests erupted in some Iranian major cities over the government's potential move to raise the prices of some basic commodities including fuel and bread, Xinhua reported.

In the capital Tehran, holy cities of Mashhad and Qom as well as Isfahan and Qazvin, people took to the streets to protest the mishandling of economy by President Hassan Rouhani's administration.

The videos posted on social media showed police trying to disperse the crowd by using tear gas and water cannons.

"The great Iranian nation regards the opportunist and duplicitous support of the US officials for certain gatherings in some Iranian cities as nothing but the deceit and hypocrisy of the US administration," Press TV quoted Qasemi as saying.

In a tweet on Friday, Trump made remarks about the recent gatherings in protest against economic conditions in Iran and said the Iranian government should "respect their people's rights, including right to express themselves. The world is watching!"

--IANS

ahm/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Iranian government has told people to avoid "illegal gatherings" in the wake of two days of angry anti-establishment protests over corruption and living standards in the country.

Despite scores of arrests, several small groups continued demonstrations in Tehran and elsewhere. Interior Minister Abdolrahman Rahmani Fazli urged people "not to participate in these illegal gatherings".

"We urge all those who receive these calls to protest not to participate in these illegal gatherings as they will create problems for themselves and other citizens," he was quoted as saying by the semi-official ISNA news agency.

"People who want to hold a rally must file a request... The Interior Ministry and the provincial governor's office will review it," Fazli said.

The Iranian authorities blamed "anti-revolutionaries" and "agents of foreign powers" for the outbreak of anti-establishment protest.

In the US, the Trump administration warned Iran overnight that "the world was watching" its response, the BBC reported.

In videos on the social media, demonstrators were seen shouting slogans demanding Iran's supreme leader and the clerical regime go.

The protests started in the north-eastern city of Mashhad -- the country's second most-populous -- on Thursday.

People there took to the streets to express anger at the government over high prices and vented their fury against President Hassan Rouhani.

Fifty-two people were arrested for chanting "harsh slogans". The protests spread to at least half a dozen cities on Friday. In some cities police in riot gear and on motorbikes clashed with demonstrators.

Some protests developed into broader demonstrations against the authorities, calling for the release of political prisoners and an end to police beatings. It was the biggest display of public dissent since huge pro-reform rallies in 2009.

Meanwhile, thousands of pro-government demonstrators attended rallies on Saturday. These official rallies were organised in advance of the anti-government protests, to mark the eighth anniversary of the suppression of major street protests.

--IANS

soni/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Terrorist group Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack outside an Egyptian church that left at least 10 people dead.

A team "belonging to Islamic State carried out an attack against Mar Mina Church in Helwan, south of Cairo," Efe news reported citing the IS-linked Amaq news agency.

Egypt's Interior Ministry said earlier that the shooting at the church was the work of a single assailant riding a motorcycle.

Prior to targeting the church, the same attacker fatally shot two people at a nearby shop, the ministry said.

Members of the security detail assigned to Mar Mina detained the attacker, confiscating an assault weapon, five ammunition cartridges and an explosive device.

"The terrorist was shooting as he sought to cross the security cordon in order to detonate the explosive device close to the church with the aim of causing the maximum number of casualties," the Interior Ministry said.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA), an umbrella group of journalists in the Commonwealth nations, on Saturday expressed its "shock and extreme concern" that its Bangladesh chapter General Secretary Shyamal Dutta is facing threats of violence from Islamist fundamentalists who have publicly called for his hanging.

"The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) expresses its shock and extreme concern that one of its Vice Presidents and Bangladesh chapter General Secretary Shyamal Dutta is facing threats of violence from Islamist fundamentalists who have publicly called for his hanging," the CJA said in a statement.

"Dutta is Editor of Bengali language daily published from Dhaka, Bhorer Kagaj," it stated.

"The issue raised by those who have spoken out against Shyamal Dutta is a report carried by the newspaper about 'vulgarities' contained in a book on the Hadith published by the Madrassah Education Board, an official body of the Bangladesh Government."

According to the statement, Dutta's article was a factual report on a matter of public interest but it has been misinterpreted as if the newspaper report had called the Hadith vulgar.

"That is categorically not the case. Public marches and a demonstration in front of the Press Club in Dhaka took place on December 23, at which protestors demanded punishment for Dutta and the reporter concerned.

The CJA statement said a string of legal notices have been served on Dutta and apology demanded.

The newspaper has issued a clarification that it merely reported the matter, quoting sources, and had not passed any comment on the Hadith.

"Dutta has also been the target of an aggressive, derogatory and threatening campaign against him on social . Some of the comments have a sectarian character, focussed on the fact that he and the reporter who wrote the article are members of the Hindu minority community," the statement said.

"In view of the incidents over the past months when a number of bloggers and journalists have been attacked and killed in broad daylight in Dhaka and other cities, the CJA is extremely worried for the safety of Dutta, his team and the newspaper itself."

The CJA has also sent a formal letter to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"Bangladesh is a secular democracy. The CJA expects the government of Bangladesh to ensure adequate protection to all concerned and to send out a stern message to those responsible to desist from any further threats, incitements and false accusations." the CJA statement added.

--IANS

ab/ahm/dg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)